COMMUNITY hello hello hello
COMMUNITY hello hello hello
MAY 2025 | ISSUE 17
Welcome to the May edition of Hello Community!
Feeling stressed? Unless you're tucked under a weighted blanket with your notifications off, chances are...you may be feeling it.
The bright side? May is Mindfulness Month. If you’re curious about how meditation can help, we’ve rounded up our top 3 apps to get you started.
It’s also National Volunteer Week, from 19-25 May. shines a spotlight on the vital contributions volunteers make to our communities and encourages those who haven't yet volunteered to get involved.
We hope you enjoy this issue with local stories, upcoming events, and community updates.
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Got a story or event to share? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at info@hellocommunity.com.au
Kitchen open 5pm-7.45pm. Bar open to 9pm. Seasonal menu may vary.
BUSINESS FEATURE
This month’s business spotlight is on local business
Gray’s Pro Painting
We’re proud Sunshine Coast locals. I originally moved here from England with my family in my early teens, and we’ve called it home ever since.
We started this business with one goal in mind – helping people. It might sound cliché, but it’s the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s going the extra mile for our customers or supporting our team to chase their dreams, we want this business to be a blessing to everyone involved. We all need a leg up sometimes, and we’re here to offer that where we can.
Our industry can feel pretty divided – some businesses overcharge and underdeliver, while others cut corners and aren’t qualified. We enjoy bridging that gap, offering highquality, trade-standard work at a fair and affordable price, all backed with the right insurance and qualifications so our customers have peace of mind.
We love supporting local businesses and one of my go-to dining choices is Pedas Malaysia and Chinese Restaurant in Coolum
Weekends are usually spent trying to balance relaxation and adventure. That could mean riding motorbikes, hitting the gym, exploring the outdoors, or just chilling out. And of course, spending quality time with my wife
Ryan - Owner Gray’s Pro Painting
Refreshing Homes on the Sunshine Coast
Local, Licensed & Insured
Interior&Exterior
Ryanandhisteamcompletedajob forustoday,paintingour3bedroom unit,andwecouldnotbehappier. Frombeginningtocompletionhis customerservice,professionalism andthequalityofhisworkwere exceptional.Weare100%happyto recommendGray’sProPainting. Richard
RoofPainting
Driveway
GarageDoors
DeckRestoration+ more
ART PRIZE 2025
Exhibition highlights regions best
Forty local artists at the forefront of contemporary visual art are on show at Caloundra Regional Gallery as the Local Contemporary Art Prize 2025 exhibition opens to the public.
The $10,000 Best in Show acquisitive prize was awarded to Sam Vatovey from Sunshine Beach, for her work Mount Emu Walk, a traditional oil paint, oil stick and spray paint work.
Sunshine Coast Council Strong Portfolio Councillor David Law said the prestigious Local Contemporary Art Prize, now in its eleventh year, celebrated the diversity and talent of visual artists from across the region.
“This year, we received more than 200 entries, posing a challenging task to the selection committee to narrow this down to the final 40 pieces now on display in the gallery.
“The region’s talented student artists are also on show, with a second exhibition, the Local Student Art Prize.
“Here, our budding young artists and emerging next generation talent are proving the growth potential of our region.
“I urge you to visit both exhibitions at the gallery to view this outstanding show case of our local artists.”
The exhibition is on show at Caloundra Regional Gallery and online at gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au from now until June 8, 2025.
VATOVEY_Sam_Mount Emu Walk_2025_oil paint, oil stick, spray paint_120 x 150cm
Caloundra Regional Gallery is located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra and the accessible space is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, and Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 2pm. The exhibition is closed on public holidays.
GOVERNMENT UPDATE
$1 million Noosa Coastal Walk upgrades complete
The Queensland Government has paved the way for a new era of ecotourism in Noosa National Park, with the completion of $1.1 million in upgrades to the iconic Coastal Walk.
The upgrades have revitalised several sections of the popular track, from Dolphin Point to the Fairy Pools, and include track resurfacing for better durability, constructing new rock retaining walls, and enhancing accessibility.
Additional works to the Coastal Walk include upgrades to beach access points at Tea Tree Bay and Alexandria Bay, a new rock retaining wall at Tanglewood Link, and upgraded interpretive signage.
Extensive consultation with key stakeholders was undertaken prior to the project’s implementation, ensuring the preservation of this cherished natural asset while enhancing accessibility and sustainability
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said Noosa National Park’s headland section is widely recognised as a major economic and tourism asset for the Sunshine Coast.
“Queensland is the perfect holiday destination and this incredible coastal walk should be on your to do list when you visit the Sunshine Coast.
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel welcomed the latest upgrades to the Noosa National Park Coastal Walk.
“We commend the efforts of all involved in this project and look forward to seeing locals and visitors alike benefit from the enhanced pathways and facilities that make Noosa National Park a must-visit destination on the Sunshine Coast.”
Local Business Takes Out Top National Business Award
Long-time locals Jay and Nicky Turner secured a prestigious win for their business, Laguna Pest Control, at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.
The Noosaville-based company – which has proudly serviced hundreds of homes and businesses across Peregian Springs – was named the national winner in the Pest Control category, standing out from more than 5,500 businesses Australia-wide.
The prestigious awards program, now in its 27th year, is often described as the “Oscars of Small Business,” with a glittering gala held at The Star Sydney in late March 2025
Many Peregian residents may remember Jay and Nicky from when they first launched Peregian Pest Control back in 2015. While the brand has since merged into their wider Laguna Pest Control identity, the heart of their service remains local. Today, their close-knit team of 10 continues to provide expert pest solutions to Peregian homes, businesses, and community facilities –always with the same friendly, professional touch.
Jay and Nicky were in Sydney to personally accept their trophy and official certificate, a moment they described as “a huge honour and a proud moment for our whole team – and our community ”
Laguna Pest Control is no stranger to awards, having already claimed multiple Sunshine Coast Business Awards and the national title of Australian Pest Manager of the Year. But this recent recognition places them firmly among Australia’s best, and it’s a win that shines a light on the quality of service we have right here in our backyard.
Congratulations to Jay, Nicky, and the entire Laguna team – a true Peregian success story!
Nicky and Jay Turner accepting their trophy
COMMUNITY UPDATE
Join the Sunshine Coast Volunteers in Policing (ViP) team and make a difference!
Would you like to be apart of a service which works to reduce crime and enhance community safety?
Do you have great communication and computer skills and enjoy the Sunshine Coast lifestyle and community? If so, consider applying to become a Volunteer in Police (ViP).
Sergeant Yvette Tarrier, from the Sunshine Coast District Crime Prevention Unit (DCPU), who plays a co-ordination role with the local ViP’s, emphasises the importance of the role of a ViP in our community
“The Sunshine Coast Police are looking for passionate volunteers to help with building safer communities,” said Sergeant Tarrier.
“Volunteering with local police officers is a unique opportunity to directly contribute to crime prevention efforts, engage with local communities, and supporting the delivery of essential police services.
“We’re currently seeking individuals with skills in office administration, project management, marketing/graphic design, and community engagement. We recognise the important role the community plays in crime prevention ”
Applications for this year are currently open with a closing date of May 31.
If you are interested visit https://www.police.qld.gov.au/careers-with-theqps/volunteers-in-policing and submit your application today at dcpc.sunshinecoast@police.qld.gov.au.
COUNCIL UPDATE
Help create a more connected heart for Coolum
The connection between Coolum’s foreshore and a popular park will be strengthened by a Sunshine Coast Council project.
You’re invited to have your say on the Coolum Connections project, that will deliver charming streetscape improvements to strengthen the local character and heart of Coolum.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said the project aimed to improve access to, and use of, important links between the foreshore and main street, through to Jack Morgan Park.
Park Street has been identified as a key priority for improvement, and Council will deliver refreshed pavement, new landscaped areas with native and coastal planting, seating nooks, improved street trees with irrigation, and renewed street lighting with overhead festoon lights
“As part of the improvements, the new concrete pavement will be etched with a distinctive Coolum pattern and we are seeking your input on the artwork style,” Cr Suarez said.
“We’re inviting our community to review and provide feedback on the Draft Coolum Connections Ideas Plan and the Park Street Streetscape Refresh before May 12,” Cr Suarez said
Construction is proposed for July 2025, with a project budget of $400,000 as part of Council’s Capital Works Program and Minor Capital Works Program.
Visit the Have your Say Sunshine Coast website and search the Neighbourhood and Targeted Community Projects Page to find the Coolum Connections link and have your say.
Park Street, Coolum
COOLUM BUSINESS
Sunshine Coast-built catamaran surges into global spotlight
The Sunshine Coast’s boat-building industry is making waves globally with the launch of the first Cure 55 production catamaran built locally using advanced carbon fibre and 3D printing technologies.
Built entirely at Cure Marine’s Coolum Beach headquarters, the lightweight high-performance vessel was designed by renowned Australian naval architect Paul Bury and crafted by Cure Marine’s skilled team.
Miyu, which means “beautiful moon’’, will soon set sail from Mooloolaba to her Gold Coast owners and make her international debut at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in May.
Cure Marine is rapidly expanding its global footprint with five Cure 55 catamarans already in construction and orders received from Australia, Europe and the United States
Using the largest 3D printer in the southern hemisphere, each catamaran will feature over 1,000 3D printed parts and extensive use of carbon fibre, setting a new global standard for lightweight performance cruising catamarans.
The Cure Marine Coolum Beach facility, built in 2022, is anticipated to realise a total economic impact in the region of $63.06 million and 215 local jobs (direct and indirect)*.
*Source National Economics (NIEIR) modelled by economy.ID
L to R Cure Marine crew Dave Biggar, Carl Bird and Ed Penn
COUNCIL NEWS
THOUSANDS OF LOCAL PHOTOS PRESERVED FOREVER
If you’ve ever wanted to step back in time and explore the Sunshine Coast from the 1950s to 1980s, this is your chance
Local photographer Bill Robinson’s collection of 26,000 photos has been added to the Sunshine Coast Heritage Library for all to enjoy.
Visit Picture Sunshine Coast (search Bill Robinson) to view the collection spanning from Coolum in the north to Caloundra in the south and in hinterland towns of Nambour, Eumundi and Maleny.
Bill Robinson with Studio Camera 1952
CARE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND CREATE
NEW FRIENDSHIPS
A heart-warming connection to a picturesque lake is helping protect the water wonder and create many friendships and memories.
Beautiful Lake Weyba, north of Peregian Springs and just west of Marcus and Sunrise Beach, spans 9.6 square kilometres.
It is home to diverse wildlife and many endangered species, as well as being an important fish breeding habitat.
On the last Friday of each month between 8am and 10am, you will find a group of passionate BushCare volunteers working together to improve the surrounding bushland for the lake’s overall health.
The Lake Weyba Bushcare Group welcomes you to join them at a working bee whenever suits you.
Jabiru - Lake Weyba
Photo by Jane Powell
COUNCIL NEWS
THE ‘ACTION-PACKED’ ATTRACTION COMING TO POPULAR PARK IN COOLUM
Construction of a new pump track at Coolum’s Lions and Norrie Job Memorial Park is expected to start later this year
This project follows extensive community engagement, which demonstrated strong community and youth support for the thrill-seeking addition.
A pump track is one where you generate momentum on your bike by up and down body movements, instead of pedalling or pushing.
Rider at Sugar Bag Road pump track
COMMUNITY AWARENESS
SCAMS TO SCARE AUSTRALIANS AND STEAL THEIR MONEY OR CRYPTOCURRENCY
The National Anti-Scam Centre has seen a significant rise in financial criminals targeting Australians in phishing scams that scare people to believe that their bank accounts or cryptocurrency wallets have been hacked or compromised
These scams use a sense of urgency and fear to make people act quickly and use phrases such as ‘account compromised’, ‘unauthorised’ or ‘suspicious transactions’, or ‘you’ve been hacked’ to deceive individuals into granting access to their accounts to steal money or cryptocurrency.
From 1 January to 23 March 2025, the National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch service received over 16,700 reports of phishing scams, resulting in losses of $11 1 million. This is an increase of over 200 per cent in financial loss compared to the same period in 2024.
Notably, over 75 per cent of these losses relate to cryptocurrency phishing scams with criminals targeting the six million Australians who own cryptocurrency
Major cryptocurrency platforms Swyftx and CoinSpot, who have a combined Australian customer base of 2.8 million, are helping combat scammers by newly partnering with the National Anti-Scam Centre to share data on scams.
“Scammers often impersonate cryptocurrency platforms and warn people about suspicious activity on their accounts. They then pressure people to transfer their holdings to fraudulent cryptocurrency wallets.”
Phishing scams are typically received via phone call, text message or email The most common way people were contacted was when they were sent a text message alerting them to ‘suspicious activity’ or ‘account compromise’ which prompted them to log in via a malicious link or to call a number
Some messages copy the SMS SenderID of a trusted organisation to add legitimacy to the scam, meaning the scam message would appear with other legitimate messages in the thread.
“We urge consumers to stop and check when they receive messages claiming to be from trusted authorities, especially if they relate to a crypto, superannuation or a bank account,” Ms Lowe said.
“It is important consumers never click on links in text or email message that asks for login or password details and only log into accounts directly through the official website or app.”
Help others stay safe and report scams to Scamwatch.
HORIZON FESTIVAL
What's your Horizon flavour?
Horizon is just around the corner bringing with it over 50 free and ticketed events across more than 10 Sunshine Coast locations from May 2-11
Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said the Horizon festival was a beacon of creativity and community spirit for the Sunshine Coast “This Festival not only showcases the incredible artistic and creative talent within our region and beyond, it also brings people together to celebrate art, culture and innovation,” Cr Law said.
“With diverse events spread across multiple locations, Horizon offers something for everyone, making it a truly unmissable experience.”
“It’s a festival that enriches our community and highlights the Sunshine Coast as a vibrant cultural destination."
“Horizon Creative Director Megan Rowland said the festival was bookended by two enormous weekends, with plenty in between to inspire you whatever your taste and budget.
“The festival lights up Ocean Street, Maroochydore on Friday May 2 from 5pm with a free Opening Night Street Party - an irresistible first taste of Horizon 25,” Megan said.
“Get ready for a vibrant evening of art, performance and street culture that sets the tone for 10 unforgettable days and nights across the festival precinct and the Sunshine Coast.
Explore the program, buy tickets and register for free events at horizonfestival.com.au
PROPERTY hello
Calendar MAY
Lifeline Cooroy Denim & CountryFest, 3-5 May
Prepare yourself for a denim paradise with racks upon racks of jeans, jackets, vintage tops, dresses, shorts, skirts you name it, we've got it.
Antiques & Collectables Show Caloundra, 3-4 May
This long running, iconic event always has an enormous and diverse cross section of Antiques and Collectables to browse and buy
Presented by the Sunshine Coast Antiques & Collectables Club Inc, Caloundra Indoor Stadium.
Father & Sons “Live Show” Coolum-Peregian RSL, 15 May
BRISBANE LIONS FANS! Lions Premiership Stars, Will Ashcroft & Jaspa Fletcher along with their respective Fathers & Past Brisbane Lions/Bears Champions, Marcus Ashcroft & Adrian Fletcher LIVE at Coolum-Peregian RSL.
Mother’s Day Picnic on the Green, Doonan 11 May
Celebrate Mum this Mother's Day with a relaxed, family-friendly afternoon on The Doonan lawns complete with a packed picnic basket, live music, and sunny vibes.
Gourmet Grazing
Noosa Hinterland, 11 May
On Sunday May 11th, we’re teaming up with legendary chef Matt Golinski and the amazing crew at Belli Beef for a one-of-a-kind beer & food experience on Belli Beef and Wild Barrel’s home ground (that’s right, we’re opening the farm doors!) - as part of the GourMay Mary Valley Festival.
Mother’s Day Lunch, 11 May Dacelo Distilling, Coolum
Here’s to the mums the makers of mischief, masters of multitasking, and magicians who somehow always know where your keys are. Don’t lift a finger on the 11th except to raise a glass. Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at Dacelo.
Mother’s Day Races, Caloundra, 11 May
Experience the ultimate day out for mum at Mother's Day Races! Opt for General Admission or Members Enclosure access, or elevate your outing and reserve your table in Atrium Dining where mum will receive a complimentary glass of prosecco!
Sunshine Coast’s Biggest Fashion Market, Sun 25 May
Explore over 100 unique stalls offering a curated selection of vintage and preloved fashion, including menswear, women’s, unisex, plus-size attire, designer pieces, handmade clothing, footwear, accessories, home décor, and more.
Animal Rescue Fundraiser
Sat 31 May, 11.30am - 2pm
This year 4 Paws is celebrating it’s 20th anniversary. We are a 100% volunteer run, not for profit organisation dedicated to saving, supporting and rehoming dogs and cats in need across the Sunshine Coast. We’re hosting a special fundraising lunch, come and join us for a delicious 3 course meal.
Magic Day for Kids, Maroochy Botanic Garden, Sun 25 May
his is a day for kids (ages 4–10) and their grown-ups to co-create, connect, and play side by side tuning into the elements, remembering our soul gifts, and celebrating the beauty of Earth and each other.
Sewing Destash Market, Nambour Showgrounds, 31 May
The Sewing Destash Market has been running in Brisbane since 2019bringing together sellers and buyers of fabric, craft & sewing items to find them new homes & to save items from going to landfill.
5471 5472
HEARING CLINIC
Coolum Hearing co offers hearing solutions for locals by locals, including f hearing assessments for adults, wax removal, and hearing aid fittings from al leading manufacturers.
We also provide hearing aid repairs, batteries, accessories, DVA hearing assessments, custom ear plugs and mo
0412 570 484
hello@coolumhearing.com.au coolumhearing.com.au
Mount Coolum Plumbing is your experienced local plumber, offering a real No Call Out fee service.
Servicing only the Coolum area suburbs, including Peregian Springs and Peregian Breeze means I can offer great customer service and fast response times to all of your plumbing jobs!
0493 027 027
pete@mtcplumbing.com.au mtcplumbing.com.au
Editor: Email: Web: Krys Stedman - 0427 707 333
info@hellocommunity.com.au hellocommunity.com.au
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COMMUNITY DIRECTORY
ARTS AND CRAFTS
Coolum Harmonies Choir 0403 013 555
The Coolum Women’s Shed thewomensshed.org
Coolum Men’s Shed 5319 3755
Coolum Theatre Players 0415 421 045
CHURCHES
Coolum Beach Baptist Church 5446 1957
Coolum Beach Uniting Church 5446 1815
St Peter’s Catholic Church Coolum 5443 3488
Anglican Church - Peregian 5449 8009
Coolum Christian Family Church 5446 1295
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Peregian Beach Community Assoc. pbcai.org
Coolum & Northshore Coast Care 0478 435 377
Coolum-Peregian RSL Sub Branch 0401 181 016
Coolum Civic Centre 5413 1416 Coolum Meals on Wheels 5446 1000 Quota Coolum Beach 0421 440 058
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
Library (Wed 9am-12noon) 5475 8989
Noosa Civic (Tue 1pm-4pm) & 5440 7900 (Thurs/Fri 9.30am-12.30pm)
SPORT AND RECREATION
086
Beach Surf Club 0491 640 129
Boardriders coolumboardriders.com.au
Colts Rugby Leage coolumcolts.com.au
Cricket Club 0417 584 875
Tennis Club 0421 391 505
Beach Bowls 5446 1153