COMMUNITY A WELCOME NOTE
FEBRUARY
2025 | ISSUE 14
This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the upcoming annual Clean Up Australia Day and the importance of keeping our beautiful waterways, parks, and bushland litter-free.
Many locals have made it a habit to pick up rubbish during their walks on the beach or in the park, often sharing photos of their collections on social media It’s an inspiring practice that keeps the message front and centre for everyone.
To find a clean-up event near you, simply click on the pink Let’s Clean Up Australia banner on the right. Then, hover over Clean Up Events in the menu, click Join A Clean Up, and enter your postcode.
We hope you enjoy this issue, along with the stories and local updates we’ve included.
We’d love to hear from you, too! If you have a story to share or an upcoming event to promote, feel free to email us at: info@hellocommunity.com.au.
Have a Fantastic February!
Krys Krys Stedman Hello Community Manager
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COMMUNITY FEATURE STORY
INTRODUCING PEREGIAN SPRINGS GOLF CLUB’S NEW CHEF
Introducing Chris Fotheringham, the new head chef at Peregian Springs Golf Club. Chris grew up in the small town of Dunblane in Scotland. His passion for cooking was sparked during his time working at The Hilton, which led him to pursue a career in the kitchen. After qualifying as a chef, he began his journey at a small country hotel on the shores of Loch Lomond, where he met his now-wife. From there, the couple moved to Newquay, then Bournemouth, working at a large hotel by the sea. Their adventures eventually took them to London before they made the leap to Australia, his wife’s home country.
With 15 years of experience in the culinary world, Chris has worked across both the UK and Australia. He’s called Australia home for the past 12 years and, despite the challenges of the heat, he loves life down under. Having been the head chef at Peregian Springs Golf Club for about four months, Chris is relishing the opportunity to make changes to the menu and focus on fresh, local produce. He believes that the true stars of the culinary experience are the farmers, producers, and suppliers. The club sources its bread from the local Peregian Beach Bakery, with their exceptional sourdough, as well as quality meats from Cotton Tree Meats and fresh fish from Mooloolaba Fisheries.
Over the years, Chris’s cooking style has evolved, and he now enjoys creating sharestyle dishes that bring people together. One of his favourites is a braised lamb shoulder served with homemade flatbreads, pickles, and tzatziki—perfect for sharing. Chris is also passionate about pizza and runs his own pizza dough business, Angel Dough. His longterm goal is to continue growing Angel Dough and see where it evolves. He’s excited about the future and looks forward to expanding the functions at the golf club.
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COMMUNITY AWARENESS
AUSTRALIANS URGED TO ‘STOP. CHECK. PROTECT.’ TO STAY SCAM SAFE
The National Anti-Scam Centre says a new awareness campaign will make Australia a tougher target for scammers by arming Australians with the tools they need to put a stop to fraudsters.
The ‘Stop. Check. Protect.’ campaign, launched recently by the Federal Government, seeks to tackle the threat of scams by educating the community about sophisticated scam tactics, reminding people that anyone can be vulnerable to scams, and empowering victims to report scams to Scamwatch.
ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said there are three steps to staying safe from scams, which are becoming more and more difficult to spot
“This campaign is about inspiring the behavioural change in every Australian –ensuring we stop and check before acting on that suspicious email, phone call, text message or social media post –that will stop scammers in their tracks.”
STOP Stop and think before you act Don't give money or personal information to anyone if unsure.
CHECK. Consider who you're dealing with and ask yourself, could the message or call be fake?
Never click a link in a message. Only contact businesses or government using contact information that you find yourself from their official website or app. If you’re not sure, say ‘no’, hang up or delete.
PROTECT. Act quickly to protect yourself if something feels wrong
Contact your bank immediately if you notice unusual activity or if a scammer gets your money or information. Seek help and report the scam or any suspicious contact or activity to Scamwatch. Your report will help us protect others.
Scammers will pretend to be from organisations you know and trust like businesses, the police, your bank or government services. They will offer to help you or ask you to verify your identity with them Source: ACCC
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RESTAURANT FEATURE
Elevate Your Japanese Dining Experience with SOKA
When it comes to redefining dining experiences, few chefs command the respect and admiration of the culinary world like Head Chef Kenji. Head Chef Kenji, hailing from Tokyo, brings over 20 years of culinary expertise honed in Japan. Known for his exquisite tenure at Sydney's iconic Merivale venues serving as the opening chef at New Port Hotel and the creative force behind the hatted restaurant Sushi E —Kenji’s mastery of Japanese cuisine has left an indelible mark on Australia’s dining scene.
Now, this celebrated chef brings his expertise to the Sunshine Coast, helming the kitchen at SOKA, a Japanese charcoal restaurant that’s turning heads in Maroochydore
Kenji’s signature touch can be found throughout SOKA’s menu, from the delicate interplay of flavours in their sashimi to the smoky perfection of Kushiyaki’s grilled over premium Binchotan charcoal.
Behind every great chef is a team of dedicated professionals working seamlessly to elevate the dining experience. At SOKA, Sous Chef Joyce plays a pivotal role in bringing the restaurant’s culinary vision to life alongside Head Chef Kenji.
Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a desire to indulge in world-class cuisine, SOKA offers an experience that transports diners straight to the heart of Japan.
Don’t miss your chance to taste the artistry of a master at SOKA, where passion meets precision in every bite.
Head Chef Kenji
EMBRACING WISDOM AND
ADAPTABILITY
As we bid farewell to the Year of the Dragon, the cosmic energy takes a bold and majestic turn with the arrival of the 2025 Chinese Year of the Snake, specifically, the Wood Snake
The Year of the Snake officially began on January 29, 2025, and lasts until February 16, 2026. This year’s element is Wood, adding a layer of growth, flexibility, and creativity to the Snake’s natural qualities.
In Chinese astrology, the Snake is a symbol of wisdom, elegance, and mystery
The Snake’s energy is also associated with transformation, making 2025 a year for shedding old skins and embracing new beginnings!
HAVEAGREATSUNSHINE
COUNCIL UPDATE
Ready to make a difference in our community?
Calling all local community groups – are you ready make a difference in our vibrant community?
Sunshine Coast Council is here to help you continue making our region the best place to live, work, and play!
The combined Major and Minor Grant round is now open for community organisations to apply for funding to deliver one-off projects, events and activities. This will be this financial year’s final grant round
Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said in this combined round Council was empowering not-for-profit organisations to bring amazing projects, activities and events to life - big and small.
“Community groups can apply for major grants up to $15,000 for projects, activities and events, as well as up to $30,000 for infrastructure projects or minor grants up to $2,000.”
Grant applications can be submitted in one of six categories: Community Development, Community Facilities, Creative Development, Cultural Heritage, Economic Development or Sport and Recreation Grant applications close on March 10
Visit Council’s website to apply.
Council funding supported the 2024 Shed Festival of Music held by Coolum Men’s Shed
Opening Hours:
- Thursday: 4pm - 8pm
- Friday: 4pm - 8pm
- Saturday: 12pm - 5pm
W FIRE ANT BREAK ON HINE COAST COMMUNITY
The Invasive Species Council has issued an urgent call to boost funding in the fire ant suppression zone, following the alarming discovery of fire ants on a housing development site in North Arm, Sunshine Coast.
On 17 January 2025, a vigilant community member reported suspicious nests at the site. The nests were destroyed the same day using liquid insecticide, and broadscale treatment and surveillance activities are now underway.
“Fire ants recently infiltrated northern New South Wales through a simple turf delivery, and now new nests have been found on a construction site. This is a stark reminder of how easily these destructive pests can spread,” said Reece Pianta, Advocacy Manager at the Invasive Species Council.
“If fire ants continue to breach containment, we risk losing any chance of eradicating them altogether.
"Fire ants rank among the world’s most dangerous invasive pests, and their uncontrolled spread could cause more economic damage than cane toads, rabbits, feral cats, and foxes combined,” Pianta warned.
The Council is calling on the Queensland government to strengthen fire ant suppression measures to prevent further outbreaks and reduce the risk of spread.
“We also urge Peter Dutton and Anthony Albanese to commit to an urgent surge in fire ant eradication efforts and secure long-term funding. This is not just a Queensland issue if eradication fails, fire ants could spread to every part of Australia.”
Investing in increased funding now, Pianta explained, could save Australia billions annually in fire ant-related costs while protecting the environment, wildlife, and everyday lifestyles.
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COMMUNITY
Y 4 HOURS PARKING IN OLOOLABA
Early works are starting on the highly anticipated Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation
Stage Two of the transformation includes improved beachfront parkland with more plants and shade trees, new accessible pathways and viewing deck, better access to the beach and foreshore, enhanced community spaces, new modern public amenities including facilities for people with high support needs and a terraced seawall.
To enhance the experience for visitors and our community, and support Mooloolaba businesses during the construction period, Council is offering the first four hours of undercover parking free at the PARKnGO Mooloolaba Central which is conveniently located less than 300 metres to the foreshore.
Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Tim Burns said this would give our community more time to enjoy everything Mooloolaba had to offer with more than 700 car parking spaces, 13 accessible parking bays and free bicycle parking available
This four hour free parking initiative started on January 28 and is linked to construction timing of Stage 2 Central Meeting Place and the Southern Seawall stages. All parking arrangements within the PARKnGO Mooloolaba Central will return to Council’s standard fees and charges arrangements once construction is complete.
Car park users staying longer than four hours will pay $5 per hour, capped at $20 per day
PARKnGO Mooloolaba Central
COUNCIL UPDATE
Cool down energy bills with these hot tips
Sunshine Coast design experts are offering up cost savings and inspiring tips on how to make your home comfortable all year round.
Our region enjoys a sub-tropical climate that is hot and humid in summer, and mostly cool and mild in winter.
Whether your home is on the coast or in the hinterland, you can enjoy a healthy and comfortable indoor/outdoor lifestyle all year round Implementing even a few of the following tips will make a difference to how your home feels, improve comfort levels and help lower energy bills.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she encouraged locals looking to build, buy or renovate to get their hands on the Cool Homes for the Sunshine Coast booklet, to help make smarter design decisions.
“Now is the time to think about the winter season that lies ahead, as good design can help you save on electricity costs – especially if you don’t need to rely on heating,” Mayor Natoli said.
Council’s free online course will give you the knowledge and confidence to buy, build or renovate a home that is best suited and most comfortable for the Sunshine Coast climate and lifestyle.
COMMUNITY UPDATE
Help shape future of our dog exercise areas
Did you know there are more than 54,000 registered dogs across the Sunshine Coast? That’s a lot of wagging tails and active paws exploring our parks, beaches and open spaces every day
With so many furry companions living in our region, Sunshine Coast Council has prepared a draft plan on how we can create a balanced network of dog exercise areas that meet the needs of all residents, while protecting our region’s natural beauty, now and into the future.
Council’s draft Dog Exercise Area Plan and Network Blueprint is now open for community feedback, and this is your chance to help shape the future of how we share our region’s open spaces with our dogs.
Currently, there are 47 formal off leash dog exercise areas across the region, including recreation parks, beaches, and foreshores.
Everyone is encouraged to participate in the online survey or attend one of several pop-up sessions being held across the region.
The draft plan is open for feedback until February 28, with final recommendations set to be presented to Council later this year.
POLICE UPDATE
SUNSHINE COAST WE NEED YOU!
The Queensland Police Service are inviting all Sunshine Coast community members to share their views on local crime and safety issues.
By participating in an anonymous 10minute survey you will help them to better understand local concerns and identify ways to work together to keep our community safe.
The information you provide will be used to inform the development of future crime prevention responses in the region.
FEBRUARY
Calendar
Get it Together Noosa Thurs 13 Feb, 9.30am-11am, Noosaville Library, 7 Wallace Drive, Noosaville
Come join us for a coffee or tea at our Sunshine Coast Get-it-together meeting for new and existing members.
Full Moon Dance, Verrierdale Hall, 8 February
The first Full Moon Dance of 2025 is set for Saturday, 8th of February with Hussy Hicks, CC the Cat, Dojo Rise and DJ Outlook bringing a BIG night of LIVE MUSIC to Verrierdale Hall! Expect some dubalicious keys, some big blues and roots and some dancefloor mayhem!
Mexican & Margaritas at Dacelo Distilling, Coolum Beach, Sat 22 Feb
Celebrate International Margarita Day. Throw on your Sombrero and Chido Rebozo to win the 'best dressed' door prize
Terella Brewing -
Valentine’s Day, Fri 14 Feb
Grab your partner, your besties, or fly solo for the ultimate movie date under the stars. Movie starts at 6:30pm
Food & Drinks: We’ve got the goods strictly no BYO.
Coolum Beach Hotel
Couple’s Valentine’s Dinner
Fri 14 Feb
It's the day for lovers and we would love you to join us for your special day!!
$140 per couple
The Bar Nickels & Dimes, Villainous Valentine’s Day
Fri 14 Feb
This Valentine’s Day, leave the love songs & clichés behind.
Bar Nickels & Dimes is the setting for an evening of rock ‘n’ roll that doesn’t try to fix your broken heart but instead, understands it
Sunshine Beach Surf Club, Valentine’s Dinner & Elvis Show, Fri 14 Feb
This will be the full Elvis Show with Glitzy Jumpsuits, Lights, Razzamatazz and Dual Big Cinema Screens. We will have the stage and room setup in a romantic Valentines day theme for you to enjoy
PROPERTY hello
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CONTACTS
Editor:
Email:
Web: Krys Stedman - 0427 707 333 info@hellocommunity.com.au hellocommunity.com.au facebook.com/hellocommunitymagazine instagram.com/hellocommunitymagazine
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