Publication date 1st Wednesday of each month
EDITOR
Victoria McGuin 5499 9049 editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au
OWNER/ADVERTISING
Neil Coningham 5499 9049 sales@sunnycoastmedia.com.au
Advertising can also be booked directly via our website www.sunnycoastmedia.com.au
accounts@hinterlandtimes.com.au
Ad booking deadline for the January issue - December 29th.
Well, it’s December and a time to reflect on the year that’s passed, way too fast for my liking. It feels like it’s been a year of immense challenges for many people I know, peppered with moments of joy and connection. This past week has been a condensed reflection of this.
A lovely local family I know lost their wonderful, funny and kind husband, father and grandfather, and this morning I attended his funeral. The vicar said some thoughtful words, but for me, it was the family’s speeches that hit home. The observations and anecdotes, the truthful recollections, the love for him felt through the church.
It highlighted to me the most important thing we do as human beings – genuinely care about each other. See the good and not-so-good, the ups and downs in someone’s life, and love them for it all, and through it all. Always try to choose compassion, kindness, humour and love, and resist the negative energy of cynicism, anger, envy and fear.
Be grateful for those in your life and be glad you have touched theirs, whether as a friend, a life teacher, a spiritual guide, family member, colleague, or a larrikin!
I suppose what I am trying to say is, the ‘Spirit of Christmas’ to me is those qualities that can exist all year round, qualities that can bring (as the carol says) ‘comfort and joy’, whether it’s December or July.
As ever, we have examples of such people through the pages of this HT, along with Christmas events and local gift ideas, plus plenty of entertainment from the many creative folk who bring their exceptional talents to our hinterland.
May I finish by saying a big thank you to all those in the community who have contributed to the HT over the year, you make this paper the special publication it is.
– 23
Rebecca Mugridge Judy Fredriksen Gay Liddington
I would like to single out Judy Fredriksen, who has been a regular writer for the HT for seven years, and is now retiring. Her eloquent and insightful writing has broadened minds and shone a light on many wonderful locals and groups across the hinterland. You will be immensely missed by me, and by the community who read your wonderful stories each month. Thank you, Jude.
On that note, I wish everyone a December filled with kindness, creativity and connection. See you in 2026!
Enjoy
We are looking for locals with great stories to share for future features
If you love writing and would like to write the story yourself, just email our editor with your idea for approval, and ask for our 'house style' guidelines. We can support you in creating a stand-out story.
If you would prefer us to write the story, please send as much information as possible and your contact details.
Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au
If the story is about a charity or group making a positive community impact, the HT would like to give a donation to the group/charity once the story is published.
The Maleny Chamber of Commerce is proud to present this year’s Christmas Street Festival, returning to Maple Street on Friday 12 December 2025 from 5pm to 9pm. Created as a festival for the community, by the community, this much-loved event brings Maleny together in a way that few others do.
The heart of the festival is its people, and this year’s program showcases local talent from across the range.
Goat Track Theatre will be out and about on the street as lively Christmas elves, popping up throughout the evening to bring a bit of character and charm to the festivities. Their roving antics are always a source of entertainment for families and add a touch of mischief to the night!
Music will carry through town thanks to the Salvation Army Brass Band, whose Christmas carols have become a familiar part of Maleny’s festive season. Their performance invites everyone to pause, listen, and take in the atmosphere.
Santa will be visiting from 6.30pm to 8pm, giving families the chance for a photo and a chat before he heads back to prepare for the big night. His appearance has long been a highlight for children and is a lovely moment for families to enjoy together.
Local markets will also take centre stage, with stallholders from the Witta Markets, Maleny Markets, and a range of artists and producers offering handmade goods, local produce, crafts, and festive gifts.
Maple Street shops will be open late, giving locals a chance to explore and support the businesses that keep the town thriving.
Throughout the evening, visitors can enjoy live music from local performers and energetic routines from the Dance Academy, adding colour and movement to different corners of the street. It’s the kind of night where neighbours bump into each other, families stroll together, and visitors get a genuine taste of Maleny hospitality.
The festival is made possible thanks to the generous support of local members, the APEX and Rotary groups, and many community sponsors who continue to back this event each year. The Maleny Chamber of Commerce would also like to thank Sunshine Coast Council for their support over the year.
This year’s Christmas Street Festival is a chance for Maleny to gather, reconnect, and enjoy a festive night in the heart of town. Everyone is warmly invited to come along and be part of a true celebration.
When Carolyn Ching unexpectedly collapsed at work one day, she realised her cherished nursing career was over. But instead of wallowing in self-pity, she saw a golden opportunity – one that has since floated her onto the world stage.
by JUDY FREDRIKSEN
Born of Dutch parents, Carolyn grew up in Colchester, England. A strong desire to help others saw her initially train in orthopaedic nursing before becoming a registered nurse at Stevenage, Hertfordshire.
Along the way she enjoyed the usual milestones of life and married before moving to Holland in the early 1980s. Carolyn continued to nurse, and her son was born in Holland, bringing much joy to the couple. However, life in Holland had its challenges, especially when her husband experienced a serious health issue.
“We’d been in Holland for nine years and it was difficult when you are in a non-English speaking country. I speak fluent Dutch, but my husband didn’t.”
to return to England, the couple considered moving to other countries.
“England was going through a recession, and we weren’t going to go back there. So Australia or the US were the two best places that we looked at going to.”
Australia won the toss and in 1994, the couple moved to Brisbane where Carolyn found nursing work.
Over many years, she worked in day surgeries, recovery rooms and operating theatres where she was always required to wear latex gloves. After some time, her skin developed an allergic reaction to the latex gloves, so she switched to wearing vinyl gloves instead, and soldiered on.
“Eventually I went to work in the chemotherapy unit at the Royal Brisbane Hospital. And you had to wear the latex gloves over the vinyl because otherwise the chemo fluids burn into your skin.
“Then one day, I went into a full-blown anaphylactic shock at work. So that was literally the end of my nursing career.”
That was in 1999, and the allergy from the latex gloves had taken its toll. Once she recovered from the initial shock, Carolyn found herself being optimistic.
“I say it’s my ‘kick’ from the universe because I had wanted to do hypnotherapy for years. But back in the ‘90s, you didn’t leave a good job to go and do something that’s quite ‘out there’. But that’s exactly what I ended up doing.”
While Carolyn set about studying counselling and hypnotherapy for her career change, she carried out administrative work in a day surgery on the Gold Coast to pay the bills.
Slowly she established her new career in hypnotherapy, but Fate had some more interesting twists and turns in store for her.
Sadly, her marriage had become a casualty of the move to Australia and her disrupted career, and she found herself single again.
Never-the-less, she enjoyed her new occupation and regularly travelled to Hawaii where she ran her own workshops and health retreats. On one of these visits, a friend introduced her to a Hawaiian native … and romance blossomed.
By now her son was an adult and Carolyn was ensconced in a career where she could call her own shots. It was time for more adventure … and curiosity was calling. After 20 years of living in Australia, she married her Hawaiian hunk and moved to Hawaii where she lived in an authentic Hawaiian community.
Slowly she built up her hypnotherapy business from scratch – for the second time in her life – and invitations to speak at conferences around the United States began to flow in.
Carolyn was content; it was what she loved doing, i.e. “helping people and seeing them go from wherever they’re at, to where they want to be”.
Carolyn has since returned to Australia and now lives at Sippy Downs where she can be closer to her treasured grandson.
In between helping clients, not just locally, but also from the United Kingdom and the United States via zoom, and being a keynote speaker at overseas conferences, Carolyn has found time to write and publish two books.
Anxiety the Book helps people to understand the root cause of their anxiety and what actions they can take to reduce it.
It’s Time to be Me is about being your authentic self.
A quick Google search of Amazon reviews shows that both books have been well received internationally, cementing Carolyn’s reputation as a helper and healer.
So … for anybody who may be fearful of their future or suffering from anxiety, Carolyn can draw on her own experiences and has this advice:
“It’s very important to stay in the present, because anyone who has anxiety is looking for something negative or unwanted that ‘might’ happen in the future. But they have no proof of whether it will happen, or it won’t happen.
“Our unconscious mind can’t tell the difference between what we’re thinking and what’s actually happening. So every time we do a ‘what if’ thought about the future that’s negative, our unconscious mind is dumping those stress chemicals in our system as if we were in that situation right now.
“So, it’s really important to stay in the present, stay focused on what you want, on what you can do, on what you have got, as opposed to getting sucked in the cycle of what you don’t want, can’t have, can’t do.”
What sage advice from someone who has lived an inspiring life example. Thank you for sharing, Carolyn!
These da s, man home sellers are pa ing t h o s a n d s o f d o l l a r s t o ‘ S TA G E ’ t h e i r homes.
B t i s t h i s m o n e n e c e s s a r ? D o e s i t increase the selling price? Well, some mes, perhaps. B t, before o consider handing o er a fe tho sand dollars to a staging compan , h not see if o can ‘stage’ o r o n home - at no e tra cost?
PRESENTATION IS VITAL
Yo can’t e pect the best price for o r home nless it looks its best. This does not m e a n a m a j o r re n o a o n J st a go o d spr ce- p and pa ing a en on to a fe details ma be all it takes to gi e o a fe e tra tho sand dollars - itho t spending tho sands of dollars. Foc s on ambiance and atmosphere. B ers ant a home that feels right.
CLEANLINESS IS VITAL
Clean o r home. Clean means h giene. Dirt or a hint of mo ld is a h ge t rn-off
Ens re the home is clean; b t be caref l, not sterile. Clean is not the same as d . If a home is too d , it loses its atmosphere. A home needs to look ‘lo ed-in’. A feeling of lo e and armth a racts b ers.
Homes reflect the mood of residents. We ha e all heard the e pression, ‘c t the air ith a knife’. It ’s tr e. If there is bad blood in o r home, b ers ill detect it.
A home m st be light and bright. Open the c rtains, let the light and fresh air in. Dogs and cats belong o tside hile o r home is for sale. Smell is so important.
Al a s remember that the best b ers b homes the lo e. Make o r home is as lo able as o can. Stand back and ask o rself: “Ho does this feel? ”
M a i m i s e t h e n a t ra l a t m o s p h e re a n d o ’ll ma imise the price.
FESTIVE MESSAGE
We o l d l i ke to t h a n k o r o n d e r f l clients for their b siness thro gho t . Wishing e er one a safe and happ fes e season and health, ealth and happiness in the Ne Year
Tucked away in the tranquil hills of Conondale, near Crystal Waters, is a place where hope is given form in the soft steps of Eastern Grey kangaroos and the gentle nuzzles of orphaned wallaby joeys.
by JENNY KEMP
Conondale is home to Dhil’um-bar Kangaroo Sanctuary - which includes Queensland’s first dedicated kangaroo hospital - and at its heart is the tireless and compassionate work of wildlife carer, Tabatha Needham.
Tabatha has been rescuing and rehabilitating macropods - kangaroos, wallabies and their kinfor nearly 25 years, but her connection to these animals stretches back to childhood.
“I rescued my first joey when I was just a kid,” she recalls.
“I learned early on that these animals need specialist care from trained and authorised carersand that they deserve it.”
After volunteering with Steve Irwin at Australia Zoo and gaining hands-on experience with a variety of native wildlife, Tabatha focused her energy and expertise solely on macropods. She has been caring for them at her Conondale property since 2008. In 2022, the dream of a dedicated kangaroo hospital became reality when Dhil’um-bar’s treatment facility opened - complete with climate control, intensive care units, fluid therapy stations, and patient warming systems.
The need is immense. At any one time, Dhil’umbar may have up to 70 macropods in care, ranging from fragile pinkie joeys to adult kangaroos recovering from vehicle collisions. Many others, having been successfully rehabilitated and released, return to the sanctuary grounds daily - a living testament to the quiet victories achieved here.
Among them is Lily, a young Eastern Grey with a heartbreaking story. After her mother was struck and killed by a car near Pomona, Lily sought shelter in a public toilet block - only to be horrifically sprayed with caustic soda. Her tiny face, ears, paws, and mouth were severely burned.
A vigilant local vet alerted Dhil’um-bar, and Lily was brought in for intensive treatment. Months of expert care saved her life. Though she has physically healed, Lily’s fear of people remains. Today, she is gaining confidence in a structured pre-release mob, where she is learning how to be a kangaroo again.
While the sanctuary’s medical capabilities are impressive, the work behind the scenes is staggering. Tabatha is supported by a team of eight volunteers, a network of carers who take in joeys once they’ve stabilised, and other helping hands who provide vital
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backup. Still, the burden is heavy. Tabatha works fulltime to personally fund 90% of the sanctuary’s running costs.
“Funding is our biggest challenge,” she says. “Every donation helps us keep the doors openespecially for animals who need surgery or long-term care.”
Dhil’um-bar Kangaroo Carers Association Inc., the registered charity formed to support the sanctuary’s work, channels donations directly toward urgent veterinary needs. Locals can also help by donating eligible containers at their nearest Containers for Change depot under scheme ID C11194970, or by donating clean linen (sheets, towels, and blankets) for use in hospital enclosures.
At Dhil’um-bar, no kangaroo is considered too small, too sick, or too difficult to save.
“If there’s a chance they can recover, they’ll be given that chance,” Tabatha says.
“These animals are a part of our country. They deserve a life in the wild - and we do everything we can to give that back to them.”
Months of intensive treatment and expert
In a time when so many wildlife stories begin with tragedy,
Dhil’um-bar is a rare beacon of resilience. Through compassion, science, and sheer determination, this sanctuary is giving Queensland’s kangaroos the future they deserve.
To see more of the incredible work happening at Dhil’um-bar Kangaroo Sanctuary - and to follow the stories of the animals whose lives are being transformed, follow the sanctuary on Facebook.
You will see a heartfelt and often inspiring glimpse into the day-to-day care of kangaroos and wallabies, along with updates on rescues, recoveries, and releases. It’s a wonderful way to stay connected, support the sanctuary’s mission, and witness the difference your help can make.
Recent storm damage has heavily impacted the sanctuary, so if you would like to donate, the details are as follows: Account Name: Dhil’um-bar Kangaroo Carers Association Inc / BSB: 064 473 / Account: 10470041 / Bank: CBA
“Having three close mates is one of the best things blokes can have to improve their health and well-being.” - Sam Parker
Ever y now and then you might want to return a par ticular purchase to the store for a refund or exchange but you might be confused about your legal rights. Your confusion is undoubtedly increased when you see stores displaying signage stating that the store will not give a refund for c e r t a i n i t e m s . I t e m s w h
sometimes seen ‘no refund’ signs are on produc ts such as sale items, swimwear, sunglasses, or opened produc ts
contrac t out of their obligation to provide you with a refund if the goods or ser vices that you purchased:
Ÿ Have a fault that you could not have k nown about at the time of purchase;
Ÿ Are not the same as the description p r o v i d e d b y t h e s a l e
adver tisement;
Ÿ Do not match the sample you were shown at the time of purchase; and/or
Ÿ Do not do the job as you were led to believe
Y You are not entitled to a refund if you:
Ÿ Simply change your mind or no longer want the goods;
Ÿ Realise you can' t afford the goods;
Ÿ Found the same item at a cheaper price elsewhere;
Ÿ Chose the wrong size or colour;
Ÿ K new about the par ticular fault prior to purchase; and/or
Ÿ Were responsible for causing the fault.
by REBECCA MUGRIDGE
“Burgers, bros and beers” was the plan when Sam Parker met with some mates one night in 2016. A night that turned out to be a fortuitous one. It was the night the concept behind Grab Life by The Balls was hatched. Sam didn’t know it then, but he was about to create something that would change and save lives.
“I grew up in country New South Wales, which probably speaks to what I do now. I was working as a chiropractor when I stumbled across statistics that really struck a chord with me,” he shared.
“One in four Aussie men have no close mates outside their immediate family. One in three Aussie men report feeling lonely. Loneliness and social isolation are as bad for your health as obesity or smoking 15 cigarettes a day.”
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm; ed 8:30am - 4:30pm; Sat by appointment Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm; Wed 8:30am - 4:30pm; Sat by appointment
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics of the 3,307 deaths by suicide in Australia in 2024, more than three-quarters (76.5%) were male.
Associate Professor Tim Moss from men’s health organisation, Healthy Male, states that “Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australian males aged 15 to 44 and is the third-leading cause of death for males aged 45 to 64. And almost one in three deaths of Australian males aged 15 to 24 are caused by suicide: for males aged 25-44 it’s one in four.”
And this is where the innovative passion project, Grab Life by The Balls (GLBTB) is stepping up to step in and make change.
“Grab Life by the Balls is redefining the way we talk about boys' and men’s overall health and well-being through simple, genuine moments that actually make a difference. No jargon or fluff. Just real talk about what
matters, and how connection and mateship can shift culture and change lives,” explained Sam.
GLBTB holds free, social gatherings for men, with Nambour now one of the locations. These popular events are an open invitation to any men to come down and have a chat and make some friendships and social connections with no pressure whatsoever.
“We’ve got 23 locations and around eight weekly catch ups across four states and one territory at the moment,” Sam said.
There are opportunities for men to get involved at a deeper level too, such as being a wingman [volunteer] at one of the many coffee events and they are also always looking to expand into more areas.
“We currently have Mooloolah and Nambour, and I’d love to branch out to Beerwah and Maleny and other places in the Hinterland.”
Sam said the reason these events have been so popular and effective is because it is kept simple and real.
“We try to focus on mateship.”
The whole thing – it’s practical, simple, it works, and it’s engaging. Trying to do something proactive for your health can often be so complicated but the statistics are in.
“If you have three or more close mates, that you confide in, you decrease your risk factors for anxiety, depression, suicide, mental health issues, and even stroke and heart attack.
“Even prostate cancer, although it is not prevented by having mates, having mates is shown to increase the recovery rates after having prostate cancer treatment,” said Sam.
“There is real evidence around mateship and connection, that the key to a healthier, happier life is social connection, which is part of the solution to a lot of issues.
“If men and boys have strong social connections with good people around them, they are less likely to choose a negative path. Having a strong male mentor outside the
family unit, especially in that 14-18 age group is key for boys to thrive – so we have also built a around that.”
Sam Parker and GLBTB spread a simple but important message
volunteers, like Brad and Bernie who run the Nambour events.”
There has been a great deal of support for GLBTB, such as Lucas, who “rode his bike from Adelaide to Darwin fundraising for us last year, and now he is at it again, riding around Australia,” smiled Sam.
The Chinchilla Bulldogs raised $19,000 for the notfor-profit. “I was at a wedding when I got the call, I almost fell in the fire!”
And it is the feedback from men who attend events that really hits home too.
Sam said the social events work because they are happening out in the community.
“We are out there, at grass roots, to show that it’s the social norm for men to get together and have social connection. The in-person catch ups are just about coming down and having a chat and they’re run with
“It’s great to talk, to get stuff off your chest, but it can be really hard for guys too. One bloke said, ‘I have better mates here than anywhere else in my life. I wasn’t even looking for this, and this is just bloody great’.
“Another guy told us he credits coming down for mates and bacon and eggs at Mooloolaba on a Friday morning [with GLBTB] as the thing that turned his life around.
Powerful stuff.
“Trying to do something proactive for your health can be so complicated, but ours is a simple message - three close mates. Whether it’s ones you already have, or new ones you meet through coming to our social catch-ups.
“Whatever it is you like doing, reconnect with mates, message mates and go do something.”
Grab Life By The Balls social events: grablifebytheballs.com.au/nambour Get involved with GLBTB: grablifebytheballs.com.au/wingman GLBTB on Facebook: grablifebytheballsmovement
Born with artist’s ink coursing through her veins and the determination to have a go at anything, Philippa Friend is just one of many women working the saws at the Blackall Range Woodcrafters Guild.
The team at Bald in La ers are a do n-to-earth, eas going, general la prac ce ho lo e assis ng people ith their legal req irements. Working from a Nambo r base ith an addi onal office in G mpie, e lo e to ncomplicate the legal jargon for o r clients.
Whether it is e plaining in simple lang age ho a Will orks or dissec ng a complicated famil la ma er. We also make con e ancing as simple as possible.
We're here to help and g ide o . O r fees are reasonable and fair. We do home isits on req est for clients ho cannot come into to n to meet s at the office.
We assist clients ith
Ÿ Wills, End ring Po er of A orne , and Ad ance Health Direc es
Ÿ Con e ancing
Ÿ Famil La
Ÿ Commercial la (leases, sale and p rchasing of b sinesses)
It is important to ha e o r Will c rrent and p-todate ith o r circ mstances. If o need help dra�ing o r Will to make s re it reflects o r ishes, contact s to assist o .
It is also er important to make s re o ha e a alid End ring Po er of A orne and o r appointment reflects o r ishes. We pro ide all o r clients ith a free Ad ance Health Direc e in hich o determine o r medical instr c ons hen o cannot erball pro ide them.
by JUDY FREDRIKSEN
No longer the exclusive domain of men, woodcrafting has become a popular pastime for women, with any misconceptions that a shed full of saws is no place for a woman being cast aside like sawdust onto the floor.
Although Philippa – originally from New Zealand –was a secondary school English teacher, she inherited an artistic flair from her father.
“My father was a dairy farmer and so I had a childhood on the farm. That was probably the beginning of all my creativity because my father built everything. He built their own house; he built the piggery … He was also very artistic; he was an excellent painter and drawer. His mother had been an artist in London.”
Philippa recalls her father teaching her to draw pictures in the dirt, using just a stick, when she was only four years old. That lesson provided a formative framework that led Philippa to becoming a gifted artist and art teacher.
Contact us at or admin@bald insla ers.com.a Visit us at Q een Street, Nambo r QLD Zasco Van Rooyen, Director .bald insla ers.com.a
As an adult, Philippa moved to Canberra in 1987 and joined an art group. It was also in Canberra where she experienced the frustration of not being able to find a suitable Australian-made toy for her niece in England. This event ended up steering her towards woodcraft.
“I went to buy a jigsaw puzzle in a toyshop in Canberra, and her mother said, ‘a kangaroo would be lovely … you know, with joey’.
After scouring the shops in Canberra, the only one Philippa could find was not made in Australia; it was made in Israel!
“I thought, well, if someone else can make it, I can make it for goodness sake! So I investigated a bit further and found that I needed a scroll saw … and that was basically it. A scroll saw. Sandpaper. Paints – I already had.
“The ideas – I already had them. So I got the scroll saw and made the jigsaw and sent it off to England. They were terribly pleased with it.”
That one homemade jigsaw puzzle eventually turned into hundreds, as word of Philippa’s talent spread around the pre-schools of Canberra.
On moving to Forest Glen in 2004, she continued to make children’s jigsaw puzzles for her grandchildren and their friends, as well as teaching art. Along the way, she learnt the technique of pyrography, which, she says, came naturally to her as an artist.
Then in 2013, through her art connections, she decided to expand her imaginative skills and join the Blackall Range Woodcrafters Guild (BRWG – fondly known as the ‘Woodies’). At that time, she was following in the wake of dozens of other women who had become members. At the inception of the Woodies in 1996, three women were inaugural members while around 170 have since joined.
Philippa instantly felt welcome and at home.
“The first reaction to any new member, by the older members here, is to help and to direct them to where the wood is; how to choose the good piece of timber to do whatever you’re doing; which machines are best; which member to go and see about something.
“I have never belonged to any group, at any stage of my life, which is so consistently friendly, helpful, constructive, and positive.”
Maybe that’s because the BRWG is a guild, not a club. BRWG is modelled on the medieval trade guilds which focused on teaching various building skills. Philippa is adamant it’s not a men’s shed.
“It doesn't have that sort of vibe at all.”
Under the tutelage of the Woodies, Philippa’s woodworking skills continued to grow to include practical items like jewellery and document boxes and bookshelves and this year, she decided to join the toy making team of six men and one woman.
Every year for the past 30 years, and in collaboration with the Mapleton Craft Group, the Woodies trademark has been to make and donate thousands of toys to the Salvation Army at Christmas.
“One of my observations with the toys was that there seemed to be a lot of wheeled items. Now wheeled items generally end up being boys’ toys. They are often little trucks and so on.”
This got Philippa thinking; she saw the need for a unisex toy and of course, the ideal choice was a jigsaw puzzle, and she set to work!
“I’ve made 100 of them, and I’ve made them suitable for 2–4-year-olds ... they’re little jigsaws – about 20cm square and they feature mostly birds and animals of various sorts. And I tried hard to include native creatures as well.”
As Christmas approaches, around 350–400 wooden toys will be placed in hampers for needy children in Western Queensland. Among them will be the jigsaw puzzles, trucks, racing cars, trinket boxes, trains, cots and cradles (occupied by dolls, teddies and bedding beautifully crafted by the Mapleton Craft Group).
So if the idea of becoming one of Santa’s helpers appeals, Philippa has this to say of the Woodies:
“It’s a very creative organisation, open to all … anybody, of any capability or age can make the toys. It’s a philanthropic, kind act; they’re going to needy people and families.”
The Woodies always welcome new members. blackallrangewoodies.org.au/home
A GOOD BOOK
- Where better to peruse than Rosetta Books, 30 Maple Street, Maleny or The Little Book Nook, Shop 5/4, 6 Little Main Street, Palmwoods. With children’s books a-plenty, and a decent selection of the latest releases for adults.
A FANTASTIC FACIAL - If you’re heading to the beach at all, treat yourself or someone else to a massage - Hot Stone, Indian Head, or Waterfall Nature massage. Or maybe a facial, beauty treatment or a hand or foot treatment - gift vouchers are available. Visit waterfalldayspamooloolaba.com.au for details.
7 Myrtle St, Maleny, phone: 5499 9077.
JEWELS GALORE - We have some fabulous jewellery shops around, including Maleny Jewellers and Queen Street Jewellers in Nambour, but when you visit the coast, stop in at Avenue J Jewellery. This sparkly store has an extensive range of exquisite antique, fine jewellery, modern, art deco pieces, and even a range of designer handmade jewellery.
Located at Shop 14, Zanzibar Resort, 47/51 Mooloolaba Espl, Mooloolaba
A SPRUCE UP – Tony the Montville Barber is ready to smarten you up for Christmas, no appointment needed, just pop in and come out turning heads! Shop 8, 168-170 Main Street, Montville
SOMETHING UNIQUE - Visit Illume Creations in Montville, and find a beautiful handmade gift no-one else will have, from stunning glass art and jewellery, to glass pens and handpainted cards, there is something special for every budget. Visit illumecreations.com.au or check out their Instagram page to see some of the colourful array of joy!
PRAWNS FOR THE BARBIE - Turning up to a Christmas lunch with these will certainly be appreciated! Sunny Coast family-owned Australian Caught Prawns are ready to take your order, in 3 or 5 kilogram boxes. Snap frozen at sea, cooked or green, call Tiff or Peter on: 0447 077 906. Visit the website for more details: australiancaughtprawns.com
WE All SCREAM FOR ICE-CREAM! - While you’re down by the beach, head to Yogurt and Gelato World for self-serve frozen yogurt, sorbet, acai and gelato, with vegan, nutfree, and gluten-free options available. Located at Zanzibar Resort 3, 47-51 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba
PICTURE PERFECT– Head to James Frames in Maleny to frame something special for a gift or buy some art supplies for the budding Picasso in your home. From Posca pens to oil paints to polychromos pencils, owners Gillian and Gavin have it all. And if they don’t have it, they’ll get it in for you! 38b Coral St, Maleny, phone: 5494 2100.
And don’t forget we have many fantastic markets (Maleny, Crystal Waters, Mapleton, Nambour, Eumundi, Witta, Yandina and Montville to name a few), with delicious produce, handmade gifts, pottery, clothes and much more on offer.
This Christmas, explore Noosa Junction — a vibrant village full of surprises. From the latest fashion finds, one-of-a-kind treasures and wellness havens, to gourmet treats and hidden gems, the Junction’s eclectic shops promise discoveries around every corner.
Make a day of it — fuel up on great coffee, linger over lunch, and soak up the street art and festive vibes that make
the Junction shine brighter than ever.
And while you’re exploring, you could win big! Every purchase gives you the chance to score a $2000 Noosa Junction shopping spree — drawn weekly.
So this festive season, discover what makes us sparkle — and celebrate the local businesses that give Noosa Junction its unmistakable spark.
4 & 11
Nambour Twilight Christmas Shopping Trail, Queen Street, 4–7pm, late trading, food trucks, live music. iamnambour.com
5 Mapleton Library Christmas Bingo, 9.30–11.30am, entry $12, to book, email mapletonlibrary@gmail.com
Mapleton Christmas Concert, Mapleton State School, details: madca.com.au.
Sundale Community Christmas Carols, 4-8pm, 35 Doolan Street, Nambour, 4-8pm with Santa at 5.30pm, book via Eventbrite
6 QCCC Mapleton Community Day, 12–8pm, pools, activities, BYO picnic
Bli Bli Parkrun Fundraiser Bootcamp, Bli Bli Soccer Oval, 2–4pm with after-party at The Local from 4pm, tickets by donation via Eventbrite
Montville Christmas Market, Village Hall, 4–7.30pm with Santa at 6.15pm
Yandina Art & Design Market, Stevens Street, 4–9pm Live at the Chapel, Ignite Church Auditorium, Nambour, 6pm, free entry
A Choral Christmas, Yandina School of Arts, 7–8pm, tickets $37
7 Yandina Community Christmas Carols, Yandina State School, 1pm onwards
Trio Solé Christmas Concert, Cooroy Memorial Hall, 3pm, tickets $45/$40
10
Book launch In the shadow of “The Shambles”, with afternoon tea in the gardens of 85 Western Ave Montville, 2pm, RSVP: 85shambles@gmail.com
11–14 A Christmas Carol, Suncoast Church Woombye, nightly 7pm; 1pm matinee on Dec 14, free tickets via Humanitix
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Nambour Chamber Christmas Party, Club Namba, from 5.30pm, register at nambourchamber.com.au
Maleny Christmas Street Party, 5-9pm, info via Facebook ‘MalenylatenightChristmas’
Candlelight: Tribute to ABBA, Flaxton Gardens, 313-327 Flaxton Dr, Flaxton, 8.30pm, tickets via events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Montville Growers & Makers Market, Montville Hall, 7.30am–noon
Mooloolah Valley Christmas lights + barbecue, 47 Bray Road, Mooloolah Valley, 3-7pm
Diddillibah Community Carols event with Santa and entertainment, Diddillibah Hall, 5pm
GATHAA First Nations Christmas Twilight Market, Forest Glen Village, First Nations market featuring local stalls and entertainment, 3-7pm
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Buderim Community Christmas Carols, with family entertainment, food stalls and local performers, Buderim Village Park , Buderim from 5.30pm
‘That special Christmas feeling’, Christmas music sung by the Inspiration Choir, Caloundra Community Choir and brilliant soloists, directed by Kim Kirkman, 2-3.30pm, 2 Walkers Drive, Maleny, book: events.humanitix.com/that-specialchristmas-feeling/tickets
Montville Carols on the Green with sausage sizzle, face painting and festive fun under the stars, 6-8pm
18 Celebrate Christmas at Nambour Museum, 6pm to 8pm, free entry, donations welcome, includes a visit from Santa (with photo opportunities on a historic cane train), Christmas lights display, entertainment from the Sunshine Brass Band, face painting and fun kids’ craft activities
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Christmas Community Lunch, Nambour Community Centre, 2 Shearer Street, Nambour, 12 - 2pm, free, all welcome
Community Christmas Breaky, Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, 17 Bicentenary Lane, 8am-10am, volunteers also needed from cooking/cleaning to entertainment, please call the centre on 5499 9345
Penguins from
Minutes from Montville, Secrets on the Lake is an iconic, unique destination by Lake Baroon, perfect for getaways, delicious dining and wedding celebrations. Lovingly brought to life by George and Aldy Johnston, the venue officially opened in 1997 and has flourished ever since. We caught up with Aldy recently to find out more about this special place.
What brought you to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
The short version is we purchased a farm in Baroon Pocket to be resumed in 1984, after which we purchased what was left of our neighbour’s property. They then designed and built Secrets on the Lake, which opened in 1997.
Please tell us what sets Secrets on the Lake apart as an accommodation/dining experience?
Simply put, it is situated in a rainforest and the air has an extraordinary effect on how people feel. We created treehouses in a design which is timeless, utilising artisans that are the best in their field. The impact when guests see them for the first time is highly emotional.
(HT Editor Victoria McGuin - I would like to add I had some family over from England who we surprised with a stay at Secrets, and one member of my family burst into tears as she was so overwhelmed by the unique beauty of this place. )
The service and food offered is high level and this is a family-owned business, not a corporate venue, so it feels more personal. Many extras are free, such as use of canoes, fishing, the billiard table, bushwalking, cabin tours, etc. Guests enjoy a range of packages and food choices. Secrets on the Lake wedding couples are very happy to be able to enjoy an extremely beautiful garden and deck setting, along with magical treehouse accommodation.
What are the challenges involved in running a business like this?
Firstly, one has to like it and be prepared to keep up! As often as possible you need to be ahead of the game with marketing and maintenance. Staffing and all the rules and regulations in relation to safety and food handling need constant attention.
What can a typical day entail for you?
Bookkeeping, paying bills, taking bookings, writing blogs, advertising and talking to guests, helping them to have a wonderful stay. Particularly keeping control of all the add-ons requested so nothing is missed. It’s a case of solving problems across the board!
When is the busiest time of year for you?
Winter months, in particular July and August when occupancy is high and the restaurant is buzzing.
Do you have any special festive menu coming up?
Yes! Our Christmas Celebration Menu until the end of December. Designed with favourites and a range of dietary conditions catered for. Perfect for families, friends, workmates and bus groups.
We heard you have created an E-Book about the history of Secrets on the Lake, please share a little about what this book means to you?
Over the years guests and diners have requested a copy of the article about us (George and Aldy) found in our menu. Taking into account the blogs I have written over the years and the requests that we should write a book about our history, I decided that it was time to create an E-Book.
I would like to acknowledge the hard work of our Office Manager, Cassie, who was the graphic artist.
Do you have a favourite quote or saying that inspires you?
“The world goes around on hard work and kindness.“ Secrets on the Lake, 207 Narrows Rd, Montville QLD 4560 / Phone: (07) 5478 5888 / Website: secretsonthelake.com.au To read the E-Book visit: online.flippingbook.com/view/195432563/
Entering is simple—shop at any Noosa Junction store, scan the QR code, and grab your chance to win $2,000 in local vouchers.
Competition starts: Monday 24 November
Follow @visitnoosajunction for winners: 1, 8, 15 and 22 December
Saturday Fun! Carollers • Street Performers
Balloon Art 29 Nov | 6, 13 & 20 Dec We’re giving away a
T&Cs & prizes (vouchers) at visitnoosajunction.com.au
The festive season is upon us, and everyone is planning their end of year get-togethers, group celebrations, and Christmas festivities.
One place that does this season so well is Kondalilla Eco Resort and Restaurant. The rainforest restaurant is set amongst the trees overlooking the Kondalilla National Park, and is lined with twinkling lights all along its outdoor deck, whilst inside is cosy and welcoming, and decorated for the festive season.
Lisa Jovic, who heads Kondalilla’s Marketing and Social Media, shares, “We have two- and three-course set menus complete with festive cocktails, which are available for group bookings during November and December, catering for small or large groups.”
Christmas Day Lunch will be a festive feast for the whole family!
“Our talented chefs have curated a four-course sharing banquet, starting with a Christmas cocktail or mocktail and freshly baked breads, followed by a selection of starters, including fresh seafood and other culinary delights.
Get ready to enjoy the spirit of Christmas at the Montville Growers and Makers Market on Saturday, December 13, from 7.30am to 12 noon at the Montville Village Hall.
This year’s market is a treasure trove of unique gifts to delight everyone on your list. Explore stalls filled with handcrafted pottery—ideal for adding both practicality and beauty to your Christmas festivities. Surprise a discerning relative with a bottle of local
“You can then feast on a choice of chicken, lamb or vegetarian loaf, served with all the festive trimmings plus some extra special accompaniments. And to finish, we have an assortment of decadent homemade desserts. It will be a Christmas meal to remember!”
For larger events for up to 80 guests all year round, the Picnic Creek Event Room is an ideal location for celebrations, birthdays, intimate weddings, corporate functions, workshops and wellbeing retreats.
“There are several catering options available from the restaurant team, and the resort can accommodate up to 62 guests in its rainforest cabins and rooms,” explains Lisa.
“The great thing about Kondalillia is that everything is in one place, with food, comfort, luxury, swims and walks all on your doorstep. Winter is especially magical with crackling fires and cosy cabins.”
artisan gin, or treat your foodie friends to jars of spicy homemade tomato relish from the MVA Stall.
If you’re searching for something stylish, you’ll find crocheted earrings in festive colours, handcrafted skin care to pamper loved ones, or perhaps the perfect pinny for the aspiring chef in the family.
The Montville Market is the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping and celebrations. Come join them for pancakes on the deck from 7.30 to 10.30am and discover festive community cheer around every corner!
For those appreciative of environmental values where they stay, the resort has a conservation vision designed to preserve the Kondalilla National Park’s rainforest environment and waterfalls, to maximise recycling and eliminate single-use plastic, and to conserve energy via Smart technologies such as LED lights and water-conserving bathroom fittings.
“We also have two service golf carts and a hybrid car for transferring our guests and picking up our local goods because we know every little bit counts,’ adds Lisa.
“We want you to relax and step away from the hustle and bustle of life when you visit, especially over Christmas! Take a dip in the magnesium-heated saltwater pool, while surrounded by lush rainforest; unwind in the sauna, or explore peaceful walking trails.
“Kondalilla Eco Resort is designed to help you reconnect with nature, yourself, and your loved ones.”
A bold new vision for a district level park in the hinterland is taking shape, thanks to the passionate input of the local community.
Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said the community’s ideas and feedback had been instrumental in shaping the concept plan for the new district recreation park which would complement the other recreation offerings in the Maleny Community Precinct.
“We received just under 2,300 views of the project site and almost 160 submissions – a fantastic result that shows how much people care about the future of this park,” Cr Johnston said.
The draft concept plan for Maleny District Park sets the blueprint for the park’s long-term multi-staged development which will be subject to future budget allocations.
It proposes four distinct areas, each offering a unique experience: The Lookout - a scenic picnic area along North Maleny Road, The Bails – a relaxed gathering space near the old Fairview Milking Bails, The Hill – a more adventurous zone next to Cloudwalk Estate, with a proposed mountain bike skills course, ‘mega’ slide and wetland views, and The Hub – the park’s activity heart, with a fenced dog area, youth zone, toilets, multi-sports courts and picnic facilities.
Cr Johnston said the four areas would be linked by an expanded trail network and supported by convenient parking.
Council is now refining the concept plan based on community feedback. Once finalised, the plan will be presented to Council for endorsement and shared with the community via the Have your Say Sunshine Coast website. (Pictured: Artist impression only - Maleny District Park)
The Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) is calling on the Queensland and Federal Governments to take urgent enforcement action against the explosion in unsafe and non-compliant e-mobility
devices being sold and used across the state, following two recent devastating incidents that claimed the lives of an 8-year-old and a 15-year-old boy.
“Enough is enough. Queenslanders are dying because unsafe and unregulated vehicles are being sold and ridden with no oversight,” said Rod Camm, Chief Executive Officer of MTA Queensland.
“Every day these high-powered machines find their way onto our roads, bikeways and parks is another day lives are on the line. The laws exist - the government just isn’t enforcing them.
“We have children riding high-powered, unregulated machines with no safety standards, no registration, no insurance, and no training. It’s reckless, it’s dangerous, and it’s killing people,” he added.
MTA Queensland says that while the exact details of the weekend’s incidents are still being investigated, the broader issue is clear - the current system is failing.
“We cleaned up the ‘Monkey Bike’ crisis in 2019 within months through targeted enforcement. The same approach must be taken now with e-bikes and other unsafe devices. Every day of inaction is another day Queenslanders are at risk,” said Mr Camm.
The solution is already within government reach - what’s missing is urgency. “With Christmas approaching, e-mobility devices will be a popular gift for children,” Mr Camm said.
“The government must act now - confiscate them, prosecute those selling them, and shut this trade down before more families are torn apart.”
Maleny Visitor Information Centre (MVIC) is a not for profit, long-standing, independent community service, run entirely by volunteers with support from the Sunshine Council and local businesses.
They support Maleny and surrounds, and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, with information about events, activities, community information, accommodation, places to eat and resources such as maps and brochures, plus merchandise relevant to the area, much produced by local artists and developers.
The team always welcomes visitors! Call in and see the green-shirted volunteers for help and advice.
The MVIC is currently recruiting for new volunteersplease pop in and they will happily explain their activities and provide you with an application form.
The MVIC also welcomes new business partners! They offer two levels of partnership and are always seeking your support. They provide a web presence, Facebook exposure, brochure space, over-the-counter information and a visual on-screen display in their centre for Platinum members.
Your support helps keep the MVIC functioning in serving the community, and they would love to have you on board!
After four years in the role at Maleny State High School, Chappy Donna Turner decided to finish duties and take a well-earned break. Paul Tarbuck, representing the Local Chaplaincy Committee, expressed his thanks and sincere appreciation to Donna and said that she symbolised the true spirit of chaplaincy with her devoted care and consideration towards students and staff. She was a person of exceptional faithfulness and integrity, a fine role model for all to emulate.
Donna is replaced by Chappy Jess Brumley. Jess has been a chaplain for two years and before that, she held positions of responsibility in business and administrative fields, interacting with the public in a variety of settings and situations. Her current community service includes
involvement with children and young adults in sports coaching and young people’s group activities.
Chappy Jess is warmly welcomed to the Maleny High School support team. She is eager to build up positive relationships with students and staff and also to connect with the community, which she sees as essential to the role.
Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast (HTSC) recently elected Wayne Parcell PSM as the association’s new President. Mr Parcell has been a hinterland resident for 20 years and established the pioneering Rangebow Festival in 2022, to celebrate the creative life and spirit of Sunshine Coast Hinterland communities of Maleny, Montville, Flaxton and Mapleton through a rich mix of culture, music, theatre, nature, film and the arts.
In addition to his role as director of the Rangebow Festival, Wayne is also a board member of Maleny Community Centre and of Montville’s Chamber of Commerce. Wayne is former President of the Montville Village Association and Montville Tennis Club. He received the Public Service Medal in 1996 in the Australian Honours List for his outstanding service to Australia.
Award-winning Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat’s co-owner Xochi Lindholm was elected Vice President) of HTSC. Other committee members elected were Lisa Brereton (Treasurer), Debi Latino (Secretary), Angela Brushe, Stuart Whitney, Carissa Maloney-Ronalds, Steve Koepenick, Michael Cross and Jason Weeks.
HTSC has a membership of 250 tourism businesses and works closely with regional tourism operator Visit Sunshine Coast to promote the unique landscape and attractions of the Hinterland region.
Mr Parcell said he was honoured to be elected as President as he has a strong affection for the hinterland. “Living on the hinterland, I appreciate the economic and cultural diversity of the entire region,” said Mr Parcell.
“It is fundamental to community engagement and delivery that there is recognition of the distinct communities, their differences and their contribution within our region.”
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO, Matt Stoeckel, said that Wayne’s establishment of the Rangebow Festival and his enviable record of volunteering made him an ideal leader for such a distinctive region.
Follow the sparkle: explore the festive lights
Get ready to see the parks and streets of the Sunshine Coast shine bright with a spectacular display of festive lights! Enjoy one or discover all 26 trees across the region adorned with eco-friendly LED lights and colourful decorations. Whether you stroll beneath the glowing branches in Mapleton, picnic under the twinkling lights in Montville or cruise past the dazzling display in Kenilworth, there’s a festive stop near you to explore this holiday season. Make the most of this enchanting time of year and plan your trail by visiting Council's website for all the details.
Get ready now: summer storm season is here!
Storms and flash flooding on the Sunshine Coast are not a matter of “if”, but “when”! Being prepared is everyone’s responsibility. These three simple steps will help prepare you, your family and your business for extreme events: know your risk; have an emergency plan; and pack your emergency and evacuation kits. Visit Council’s Disaster Hub website for resources, updates and what to do before, during and after an emergency.
Council support options for those in need
Council understands that cost-of-living pressures are affecting many in our community. That’s why Council offers a little extra support through a pensioner concession on rates for eligible residents. Plus, if you're 60 or over, or are living with a disability, you can enjoy door-to-door transport for just two dollars each way, thanks to Council Link.Weekly trips to your local shopping centre – safe, easy and reliable. See Council’s website for all the details.
Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting
View online on Council's website or at
11 December at 9am.
Ways to keep the kids busy these holidays
Dive into the fun with Sunshine Coast Council’s Summer School Holiday Guide. Brimming with free and low-cost activities, there’s something for every age and interest. Swap screen time for sunshine and create unforgettable memories outdoors or beat the heat with an indoor experience. Some events have limited spots, so book early to avoid missing out. For the full program and booking details, visit Council’s website.
Calling all artists
Entries are now open for the Sunshine Coast's Local Contemporary Art Prize, offering $17,000 in prize money and the chance to have your work acquired into the Sunshine Coast Art Collection. Young creatives can also enter the Local Student Art Prize, open to artists aged five and up. Visit Council's gallery website for details. Finish the year off with a colourful bang!
Fireworks will light up the Sunshine Coast this New Year’s Eve. Council is supporting four fireworks displays across three coastal locations – Coolum at 8.30pm, Caloundra at 9.30pm and Mooloolaba at 8.30pm and midnight. You’ll find a range of family friendly entertainment in all locations. For more details, visit Council’s website.
Catbird Theatre presents its newest original production, ‘Twas, which is a magical holiday story for families!
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse!
Mouse absolutely does not want anything to do with Christmas, but thanks to a magical adventure she may just change her mind. In this delightful all-ages Christmas show, we follow Mouse as she is visited by 3 Spirits as she is reminded what the season is all about.
Enter to win a Family Pass (4 Tickets) to the December 20, 1pm performance. Simply enter by emailing alice@ catbirdtheatre.com with the subject "Giveaway." The winner will be notified by Monday, December 15
The show runs on December 19, 5pm, 20 at 10am and 1pm, and 21 at 10am and 1pm at the Maleny Playhouse in the Maleny Showgrounds. Tickets are $25 per person and $80 for a family booking. Visit: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1455891
Join the Maleny Singers for a festive evening of Christmas cheer at the Maleny RSL on Friday, December 12 at 6.30pm. Enjoy a delightful mix of audience singalongs, beautiful choral works, solos and duets, all with piano accompaniment and a guest appearance from Sunshine Chimes to bring an extra festive feel.
Admission is free, with all donations supporting the Maleny Rural Fire Brigade. This family-friendly (from 2 to 92!) is a joyful event full of community spirit. Last year’s concert raised over $1,000 and the Singers aim to top that this year while celebrating the joy of the season together. More information on Facebook, just search under Maleny Singers.
Sunshine Coast artist, Emma Bosworth, crafts songs that live between intimacy and expanse — confessional storytelling threaded through the sonic landscapes of psych-folk. Backed by The Meeting Seasons (Rohin Jones, Reuben Schafer, Tony McCall), Bosworth leads with a voice that is warm and honest, inviting listeners in while anchoring the expansive sound of The Meeting Seasons
Emma has two new releases to share: Out of Mind is a drum-driven release of tension, letting go of old patterns and lingering shadows. Nightstand is a stormswept dreamscape, a meditation on fragility, resilience, and our place within nature. Written in collaboration with Victorian songwriter Camilla Rose Sullivan, the track was inspired by an encounter with a moth that sparked Bosworth’s deep dive into the endangered Southern Pink Underwing Moth — a rare species now central to conservation efforts led by Barung Landcare. “This song is me singing to a moth and it singing back,” says Emma. “It reminds us that our search for shelter and belonging isn’t just human. How can we live more harmoniously with the natural world?”
Recognised for her lyrical honesty and sonic range, Bosworth has previously been nominated for multiple Queensland Music Awards, with her work featured across film and television. instruments, and stories into something greater than the sum of its parts.
You can find these songs on Emma Bosworth’s Spotify page, and to find out more visit her website, emmabosworth.com
Formed in New York City in 2018, early music ensemble Fractio Modi, whose lineup includes Aaron Brown (rebec), Philip Griffin (oud and lute), Tunji Beier (hand percussion), Madeline Gibbs (soprano), and Anne Levitsky (soprano), moved to Brisbane in 2022 with Artistic Director Anne Levitsky.
Their mission is to perform rarely-heard music in programs that seek to transport our audiences back in time, juxtaposing works from different time periods or geographical locations alongside each other, and experimenting with different methods of historically-informed performance practices.
Please join them on December 13 at 7pm at White Eagle Lodge in Witta for a celebration of Christmas, featuring music from medieval England, Spain, and France, including some fifteenth-century English carols alongside some Occitan chant and Spanish dances! The concert concludes with a sing-along of some favourite medieval carols (don’t worry, you know them too!). Tickets are $35 adult, $20 concession, $10 for students, and free for 16 and under. They are available online at fractiomodi.com, and at the door (cash or card).
Having sung for two popes, the queen, a king, a king to be, and with concerts around the world, recording, television and stage star Jackie Love still calls Australia home, and is coming to the hinterland Lind for a Christmas celebration, with carols and festive music of the season! “It’s my favourite time of year when everyone comes together in joyful celebration! Beautiful voices singing the songs we all know, and having fun,” says Australia’s Queen of Hearts, Jackie Love A television household name from her many appearances on Hey HeyIt’sSaturday,TheMiddayShow,GoodMorningAustralia with Bert Newton… Jackie has also shone on stage in shows like Singing in the Rain, and her duet, My Friend, with Simon Gallaher, topped the charts, Jackie released her Trilogy of Recordings, critically received and sung around the world. Jackie has performed alongside such luminaries as John Denver, Olivia Newton-John, Sir Cliff Richard, Peter Allen and Sir Tim Rice. Noel – A celebration of Christmas with Jackie Love is on Sunday December 14 at 2pm at Lind Lane Theatre Nambour. Tickets via lindlane.com.au/whats-on, or www.trybooking.com.
Fresh from opening the main stage at Airlie Beach Festival of Music for Pete Murray and the Screaming Jets, Sunshine Coast’s own Tom Neilson is showing how music can take you places - on stage, across borders, and into people’s hearts.
A past Queensland Music Award recipient, Tom is releasing his new single, Fool’s Gold, which is about “letting go of the things that glitter and holding onto what truly matters,” Tom says.
“We all chase our own version of fool’s gold, but it’s the simple, honest moments that stick.”
Fool’s Gold pulses with bright trumpet and trombone, a new direction inspired by Tom’s love for the anthemic lift of bands like Of Monsters and Men.
Off stage, Tom draws on more than a decade of work in the First Nations and mentoring space, channelling his energy into EPIC Pathways, an organisation he helped establish with a small group of founders committed to inspiring and uplifting the next generation of resilient Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders.
Through mentoring, storytelling and community collaboration, EPIC Pathways supports First Nations students across the country to finish high school and step confidently into further study, training and meaningful careers.
Tom heads next to the Woodford Folk Festival, with shows on December 28 and January 1 at Bob’s Bar, bringing high energy performances and a message of authenticity.
“Don’t try to be anything other than you,” he says. “Lean into your voice, trust your instincts, and push the boundaries.”
Book review by Dr Nita C Lester: More Than One Page by Judith Ross-Smith (writing as Judith Lamb) offers a calm, thoughtful account of personal travels across a variety of destinations. The writing is steady and reflective, focusing on the moments that shaped each trip, sharing genuine observations—small details, simple highlights, and the everyday realities of traveling with loved ones—giving the book an approachable and honest tone.
Each story has a relevant historic, sometimes legendary, element, and numerous photos provide clear visual context, helping readers get a better sense of each place visited.
Where MoreThanOnePage succeeds most is in showing how travel can be meaningful, even when it’s not glamorous or extraordinary. It highlights how exploring new places—with a bit of unpredictability— can create lasting memories and broaden perspectives.
This is a sincere and understated collection that will appeal to readers who appreciate real experiences and a grounded approach to travel storytelling. Available from j.ross-smith@bigpond.com at $25 to readers, plus $5 towards postage. All proceeds donated to Zonta Blackall Range.
The Sunshine Coast is brimming with young musical talent, and four rising stars are joining forces for an afternoon that promises to be as inspiring as it is entertaining.
Take Us to Tamworth is a “writer in the round” event featuring emerging country artists Shanleigh Rose Phoebe Rose, Katie Daniels and Henry Catania, all performing live at the Little White Wedding Chapel in Maleny on December 7, 3-6pm, to help raise funds for their journey to the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January 2026.
Set against a backdrop of soaring vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and genuine storytelling, the event invites audiences to experience music in its purest form, stripped back, raw, and deeply personal. Guests can enjoy delicious woodfired pizza, a fully stocked bar, and a special guest Emcee and performance by Maleny’s own acclaimed troubadour, Kelly Cork.
Each performer brings something unique to the stage. Shanleigh Rose blends country folk, and pop influences into a moving tapestry of sound that reflects both vulnerability and strength. Phoebe Rose captivates with her soulful voice and authentic storytelling that connects on a deeply emotional level.
Katie Daniels delivers powerhouse vocals that resonate long after the final note, a voice that’s not just heard but felt. And Henry Catania, a gifted guitarist and singer praised for his expressive tone and artistry, rounds out the line-up with passion and skill that belie his years.
Live at the Maroochydore Jazz & Blues Collective on Sunday January 4, 1.30pm, one of Queensland’s most celebrated jazz vocalists, Renae Suttie, returns, with her acclaimed Jazzamatazz Quartet for a vibrant and engaging showcase: The A–Z of Jazz
A beloved figure in the Australian music scene, Renae is the voice behind numerous national television and radio campaigns, including Channel 7’s iconic Love You Queensland. In 2024, Renae reached a personal milestone, performing Mozart’s Requiem at Carnegie Hall in New York with the VMA Ensemble. Renae has appeared at major festivals including the Caloundra Music Festival, Horizon Festival, Broadbeach Blends of Jazz Festival, Noosa Jazz Festival, and many more. She has also shared the stage as a backing vocalist with some of Australia’s most respected artists — among them Ian Moss, Kate Miller-Heidke, Daryl Braithwaite, Wendy Matthews, Ross Wilson, Joe Camilleri, Richard Clapton and The Angels.
In this special Maroochydore performance, Renae and her exceptional Jazzamatazz Quartet take audiences on a unique alphabetical journey through some of the most beloved jazz songs of all time — from A through to Z, celebrating timeless standards and unforgettable classics. The A–Z of Jazz promises an uplifting afternoon of world-class performance, charm and nostalgia — a must-see event for jazz lovers of all ages. Tickets can be purchased through stickytickets.com.au/ jazzandbluescollective Patrons are welcome to BYO food and drinks and there will also be a coffee van on site.
But this show is about more than great music, it’s about supporting the next generation of artists as they take their craft to Australia’s biggest country music stage.
“Each year, the Tamworth Country Music Festival gives young artists like us an incredible opportunity to showcase our music,” the performers shared. “But between travel and accommodation, it’s tough to afford without our families helping out. This year, we want to give something back, by putting on a show that brings our community together.”
Adding to the fun will be a raffle with amazing prizes generously donated by local businesses, including The Little White Chapel and Pro Music, giving attendees another way to support these talented young performers on their journey.
Tickets for Take Us to Tamworth are available via Humanitix on the following link, events.humanitix.com/takeus-to-tamworth, with all proceeds going directly toward the artists’ travel and accommodation costs.
If you can’t make it to the Maleny session, but would still like to show your support, you’re welcome to donate online through the same Humanitix link.
So, grab your friends, enjoy a slice of pizza, and come along to support four incredible local talents chasing their country music dreams and let’s help to Take them to Tamworth!
Dear Victoria
I must say I loved your November editorial. I couldn’t agree more! I do my little bit by not succumbing at all to the AI alternatives offered/pushed on us everywhere! Everything you so succinctly said! Taking the heart out of our communication, making people lazy and dulling creativity. There’s such an onslaught to turn otherwise fertile minds into zombies. Now I’m ranting, haha. As I said I loved it. Gotta keep the ‘heart’ alive in my business and yours!
Best wishes
Jackie Love
Thank you for the thought provoking feature story about 'the dirty secret' tucked away in the centre of one of Australia's most famous natural icons: the Glasshouse Mountains.
Our region is fortunate to have brave Locals like Artist Dean Reilly, Megan and Brett Standring, and others who do whatever can be done to prevent the proposed expansion of this Quarry in that basically incompatible location.
It is one of our region’s most important natural assets, many folks in all lines of business, advertising, creative arts, etc 'utilise' this well-known skyline in their PR, etc., yet many are reluctant to step up to contribute more towards their proper management and long-term protection.
I wish to encourage anyone who wants to support community leaders like Dean to consider various options of doing so... For example if you happen to live in a location that
Relax, read a few letters, enjoy a crossword and cartoon, and maybe put pen to paper (finger to keyboard) yourself! We would love you to share your thoughts and experiences with us and HT readers. Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au, and please include your name, email/address and location. Letters may be edited a little if space is tight. As we are a monthly, please be aware we are unable to print date-sensitive letters.
gets a lot of traffic and pedestrians, you could host one of Dean's amazing pieces of artwork (available on corflute) for your fence/front yard or contact the group regarding other, generic signs on this topic.
Or if you happen to own a business you could consider having one of Dean's creation's on display there, the local action group also has free leaflets, stickers, etc for wider distribution.
A big shout out to Maleny’s Maple Street Co-op for being the first business in Maleny's main street to dedicate some space in their shop window for one of Dean's brilliant posters.
Please consider contacting our local State and Federal MPs about this matter by email or on their Facebook sites or drop in at MP Powell's Maleny office and have your say. And check the Save our Glasshouse Mountains group online to see what is coming up regarding fundraising events, council meetings, etc.
Regards,
Gaby Luft, Maleny
Dear
Editor
Australians know a good thing when they see it, and especially when they can see the long-term benefits, not only for themselves but for future generations and the environment.
As of October 2025, the number of homes and businesses switched on to solar reached 10.9 million or 38.68% according to the Australian Clean Energy Regulator. Over 100,000 households have taken advantage of the Albanese government’s $2.3 billion Cheaper Home Batteries Program. Crossword
1 Eg Plato (11)
9 Command (5)
10 Bristle-like appendage (3)
Faces (anag.) (5)
Common greeting (5)
Intrepid; courageous (8)
Coldly detached (8)
Decomposition (5)
Opposite of best (5)
Signal assent with the head (3) 23 Undo (5) 24 Group of islands (11)
Midpoint (7)
In a relaxed manner (7)
Marsh plants (6)
Object on which a bird roosts (5)
Electronic message (5) 7 Gathering information (4-7) 8 Not yet finished (11)
Writing fluid holder (7)
Frightening (7) 17 Portable computer (6)
Alcoholic beverage (5) 20 Period between childhood andadulthood (5)
“When one lives in a society where people can no longer rely on the institutions to tell them the truth, the truth must come from culture and art.”
— John Trudell
In the first six months of 2025, 12.1% of all new car sales were electric vehicles. Electric is the way of the future. So, why is the Liberal National Coalition making itself even more irrelevant since their drubbing at the election by walking away from their net zero policy?
Are they engaging in political maneuvering, trying to determine who will control the Coalition or just doing their fossil fuel donors bidding? Our local federal LNP representatives, Fisher’s Andrew Wallace and Fairfax’s Ted O’Brien, jumped on board the net zero bandwagon. Shame on them.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) says 91 percent of new renewable projects are less expensive than fossil fuel alternatives. Globally, energy transition investment reached a new record of USD 2.4 trillion in 2024 –a 20% increase from the average annual levels of 2022/23.
The majority of Australians accept the energy transition must happen now. Clean, sustainable renewables, of which we are fortunate to have in abundance, are the way to keep the planet liveable for future generations.
Sunny regards, Robyn Deane, Nambour
Dear Victoria,
I’ve been meaning to congratulate you on your editorial in the November issue. Sadly, the majority of the population are addicted to tech and can’t see the wood for the trees.
Keep up your great contribution to the public – your rewards are within!
Tony B, Montville
A man was driving down the road when a policeman stopped him. The officer looked in the back of the man’s truck and said, “Why are these penguins in your truck?”
The man replied, “These are my penguins. They belong to me.”
“You need to take them to the zoo,” the policeman said.
The next day, the officer saw the same guy driving down the road. He pulled him over again. He saw the penguins were still in the truck, but they were wearing sunglasses this time.
“I thought I told you to take these penguins to the zoo!” the officer said.
“I did,” the man replied, “and today I’m taking them to the beach."
Nor-westerlies have desiccated spring, the forest floor just tinder, primed for lightning strike. Days feel longer than they should, tanks near-empty.
El Nino threatens with squinty days and hovea seeds pop open in the heat, remembered sound of yesteryear when boys with air guns shot fat pigeons.
The morning springs wide open, hot as Hades.
Time to descend the rutted track, with fearful rear-vision farewell to weatherboard.
Speed down the twisty range and board the Gympie North heading southwards, rather slowly, but right on time.
Stark and ancient sentinels guard this thirsty land.
Tibrogargan looms ogre-like and careless remnants of orphaned scrub slide by to shade the snakey rails. Woombye, Eudlo, Mooloolah, Beerwah, Caboolture. old names for modern stations come rolling off our tongues like native plums that fall each year on forest floors.
Tourists in cool carriages bow like penitents over handheld screens as if in grateful prayer. Today they worshipped at altars of the slithery, furry and feathered, but social media has not abandoned them.
Somewhere south a steamy city lurks. Might cross half Europe in the time to reach that haven of biting insects, where girls parade in scant clothing and a languid python river curves and curls its way to the great Pacific.
Carriages slide on hot steel and the western sun belts down, scorching tender seasonal growth
Poets are illustrators of words that create beauty and intensity, and the HT is proud to give them a platform. Please send poems for possible publication to editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au
in remnant forests. Surprising, shocking now to witness the brutal assault as mean suburbs march north where fragile stands of melaleuca, casuarina and ancient pines are sacrificed to the gods of greed and need.
Shoulder to shoulder look-alike homes now rise from desecrated land like cohorts of battle-weary soldiers. Boxed-in families cohabit here with hungry air-cons and rooms festooned, ironically, with the sparkling trappings of a snowy yuletide.
The western sun probes snoozing passengers on the Gympie North, as it slows and the city skyline shimmers through the afternoon haze. Within reach now, the brown river and its steamy burbs.
Passion vines strangle back fences and chooks scratch in the dusty yards of humble weatherboards, with their peeling paint, tin roofs where, strangely dark, their alien solar panels rest. There’s graffiti on factory walls, a freewheeling urban kind of art, to help define the aspirations and the vigour of this Brissie. See Jacaranda’s fading purple, a sober signal of mass exodus when the carefree young feel free to play a dangerous game of Russian-style roulette
with melanoma, sand and sea throughout the blazing summer.
The river anticipates its final surge to the bay.
A hint of salty breeze ruffles the surface and lightly fingers mangroves along the muddied banks. Here a modern city cocks a snoot at the seasonal threat of floods, and dares its cultural heartland to thrive on the water’s edge. And at its beating heart, a concert hall, where champagne-sedated and greatly relieved to be cool and comfy the faithful give an approving nod to the efficacy of seasonal ritual.
The orchestra tunes to the oboe’s “A”, a call to action, while backstage, sopranos check straps on gorgeous gowns and a baritone fingers his neat moustache muttering a profound ‘behold and see’.
Choristers all in black now file onstage in sober mood and carefully climb the risers. Resplendent, the soloists stand poised and nod due respect to Maestro as he proudly makes his entrance.
Now…with baton raised
The Messiah! Hallelujah!
© Leila Meredith - remembering one very hot Christmas
Birds echoing throughout the trees
Moments whispering in time
A paradise of contentment
A soliloquy so divine
Beauty in elusive form
Enhancing one's reflection
His hand in hers
She held it tight
For he was always her selection
Wildlife roam in harmony
Creating jubilation
As bellbirds sing sweet tunes of love
Her heart fills with elation
Such intimacy she now did feel
Pure bliss enveloped her
Recalling him from deep within
And how in love they were
The day began to darken
With an everlasting peace
As she walked along the creek bed
Pure enchantment did not cease
The moon was slowly rising
Shining brightly through the trees
She smiled and came to realise It was herself she now should please
© Jan Hopkins
Sunshine Coast Council is taking action to protect our coastline and community from the impacts of coastal hazards and climate change – and everyone, from coast to hinterland, is invited to be involved.
Council is calling on the community to help shape the future of one of our most loved foreshores, with two key coastal resilience projects underway at Golden Beach.
Council is progressing two important projects in the Golden Beach and Diamond Head areas - and wants your input.
“We’re developing long-term coastal hazard adaptation options for the Golden Beach and Caloundra (Bulcock Beach) area,” said Sunshine Coast Division 2 Councillor Terry Landsberg.
“Building on feedback received during community engagement in late 2024, we’re now presenting options that demonstrate the balance between effective ways to manage coastal risks, and protecting the values that matter most to our community – such as access to nature, safe public spaces and opportunities for recreation.
“We’re also progressing detailed design for a new seawall and drainage renewals to protect the foreshore between Lamerough Canal and the June Street boat ramp at Diamond Head.
“We’re inviting our wide community to review the artist impressions for the foreshore improvements and to share your thoughts.
“The artist impressions suggest possible locations of a realigned and wider Coastal Pathway, beach access points, parkland shade trees, park furniture, barbecues, shelters and linking pathways.
“Your voice matters – please get involved and help us build a more resilient Sunshine Coast.”
The projects aim to reduce the risk of regular tidal inundation and erosion, protect public spaces and preserve the unique character of our coastal communities for generations to come.
Our local native raspberries (and there are quite a few of them) can sometimes cop a bad rap, because they are often confused as being weeds. There are five native raspberries - Rubus spp., all of which have red edible fruit and are a fantastic food source and important habitat for a whole host of small birds and ground dwelling fauna.
What is often confused for a weedy thicket between paddock and forest is in fact an incredibly important strip of habitat, providing cover and resources that are not available within the forest. All red-fruiting raspberries growing in our area are native.
We have at least one species of blackberry, although there appears to be confusion over which species it is. They are Class 3 weeds and control is required, although they do have yummy black fruit.
“We know how much our community treasures these coastal spaces, that’s why we’re asking residents to help shape the future of these areas,” Councillor Landsberg said.
“Your feedback will help us balance protection with the lifestyle and natural beauty we all enjoy.”
Proactive measures taken today will ensure that we are better equipped to face future climate challenges and extreme weather impacts, minimise damage and ensure a more resilient Sunshine Coast for everyone.
The Bribie Island breakthrough changed the dynamics of our coastline, and this seawall is being designed by coastal engineering firm JB Pacific to withstand future sea level rise - up to 0.5 metres by the year 2075.
The seawall will provide long-term protection for public spaces and infrastructure in the area between Lamerough Canal and the June Street boat ramp, Diamond Head.
You’re invited to provide feedback on long-term adaptation options for Golden Beach and Caloundra (Bulcock Beach), and the artist impressions for the foreshore improvements behind the new Diamond Head seawall.
Consultation is now open. Find out more and have your say on Council’s Have your Say Sunshine Coast website before December 12, 2025.
We also have another weed, the Yellow Berry - Rubus ellipticus, which has deliciousyou guessed it, yellow fruit. There’s no arguing that these weeds require management, however they do have a few pluses on the culinary and habitat fronts. If you’re unsure on whether your bramble is exotic or native, just remember red fruit native; black or yellow fruit – exotic.
All of our native raspberries are prickly, all have tasty fruit and all are important plants in a variety of ecosystems. From the delicate rambler Rubus parvifolius, with its pretty purple or pink flowers that grows in open woodlands, to the giant rainforest raspberry Rubus moorei that lives in the rainforests with stems up to 15 metres long.
My favourites are first the Rose-leaf Raspberry Rubus rosifolius. This is the short raspberry (rarely above 1.5metres) that we can commonly see in paddocks and forest edges
around the range. Fruit can be a bit dry but still good for jam, however if we get good spring rain, they can swell up and be juicy and delicious.
Second is the Large-Fruited Raspberry – Rubus probus, which has the benefit of a much longer fruiting period, in fact they can produce juicy and very tasty fruit throughout the year. You can actually grow our native raspberries for fruit, like the many the exotic raspberries, if you manage them accordingly, pruning, fertilising and watering increase the quality and quantity of fruit.
So, as the year draws to a close, we wish you all a Very Berry Christmas from the Forest Heart ecoNursery and Brush Turkey Enterprises Team. Now’s the time to plant a raspberry and give the gift of life to you, your garden and of course the wildlife. Berry Christmas!
Marine experts and trackers have uncovered a dramatic surge in turtle strandings and deaths in South East Queensland over recent weeks, raising alarm bells for the health of waterways and threatened species that federal nature laws are meant to protect.
At least 19 green turtles have washed up along beaches from Deception Bay across Redcliffe Peninsula and down to Sandgate since October, and dozens of young green turtles and even a deceased dugong on Bribie Island and surrounds in recent weeks.
The Queensland Conservation Council says that these strandings are very concerning and need to be urgently investigated. Climate change is the biggest threat facing marine species, and their decline is sending us a loud message about what’s happening in our oceans.
QCC urges the federal government to deliver strong new federal nature laws including national environmental standards that protect threatened species like green turtles, listed as vulnerable under the federal nature law.
Turtle tracker and conservationist, Diane Oxenford, of Bribe Island Turtle Trackers, said: “Marine volunteers around Bribie Island have been getting calls nearly every day to attend to very sick or dead juvenile green turtles. This is way more deaths than I’ve ever seen before, almost as if it is an epidemic.
“The young turtles are covered in moss and crustaceans, showing signs of starvation, and have been floating sick for so long that their whole condition deteriorates.
Sunshine Coast-founded agtech business Land Watch Australia has officially opened its new purpose-built headquarters in Yandina, celebrating 10 years of innovation, growth, and support for Australian farmers.
The opening event brought together staff, partners, clients and community members to mark a major
“I suspect their marine home has been contaminated by recent flood waters from the catchment area draining into Moreton Bay via rivers and creeks. Also their once nourishing sea grass beds have been suffocated by silt also washed down from the catchment.
“These are growing turtles that have not had the chance to gain the necessary condition and immunities to survive such an unhealthy environment.
“We’ve seen boat-struck turtles wash up on the beach. When sick they become lethargic which makes them vulnerable to boat strikes. Despite hearing a boat coming, they don’t have the energy to get out of the way in time.”
Marine researcher and Associate Professor Kathy Townsend, University of the Sunshine Coast, said: “Turtles are suffering from things we haven't seen before, with an increase in diseased and injured turtles in Moreton Bay.
“The elephant in the room is climate change. It’s not going to go away if we don’t take action urgently. We can’t ignore it and hope it fixes itself. Every year we delay, the pressure on marine life grows.
Land Watch’s first-ever customer, John Haselwood Jandowae, Federal Deputy Leader and member for Fairfax, The Hon Ted O’Brien, MP, Mr Marty Hunt, MP, Member for Nicklin, Mayor, Rosanna Natoli, Sunshine Coast Council, and John, James and Daniel Hill, Land Watch Australia
milestone for the family-owned business, which has grown from a backyard start-up to a national leader in on-farm security and connectivity solutions.
Fondly dubbed "The Shed," the brand new custom built Yandina office and workshop will facilitate the next generation of growth for the business.
Starting as an idea around the dinner table 10 years ago, Land Watch now proudly protects 600+ properties in Australia and 3,000 cameras keep Aussie farms safe. Land Watch has also recently expanded into the New Zealand market - the first of many planned outlets for the muchloved on-farm security and connectivity provider.
“It’s all connected, climate change, pollution and habitat loss. Sea turtles are telling us what’s happening in our oceans. Their decline is a reflection of the wider environmental crisis with water quality.”
Nature Campaigner Natalie Frost, Queensland Conservation Council, said: “Green turtles are protected under our federal nature law, but sadly these recent strandings highlight the urgent need for an overhaul of the failing laws.
“Green turtles have survived for millions of years — but they can’t survive poor policy and inaction on climate. Without strong national nature laws that actually protect habitat and water quality, these animals don’t stand a chance.
“Healthy seagrass meadows and clean coastal waters are critical for marine turtles, but both are being eroded by unchecked coastal development and weak federal nature laws that don’t address climate change.
Agarden never stops evolving. Plants die, defoliate, get eaten, dug up or blown over, providing essential habitat and cycles of renewal and transformation. Rather than viewing these things as failures, we can learn to appreciate not only the importance of succession and death in our gardens but also the beauty in these processes.
We often use Native Indigo (Indigophera australis) in gardens, a species of small shrub that fills space very quickly. They typically die in just a year or two after flowering profusely. The woody brown carcasses of these shrubs will stand for some months afterwards and provide perching spots for dragonflies, robber flies and
small birds, as well as adding a visually appealing contrast in the garden.
When they fall we’ll often chop them up into smaller pieces and make piles for habitat stacks or spread the pieces through the garden as a coarse mulch to cycle through the system.
The Chequered Swallowtail (Papilio demoleus) butterflies recently returned to a patch of Emu Foot (Cullen tenax) in the Barung garden. Before long we started to notice the
tiny black and white caterpillars which eventually grew into larger green caterpillars and proceeded to strip the Emu Foot completely bare of foliage.
At this point the plant certainly wasn’t the best example of species we’d be likely to present to anyone looking for display plants in their native garden. But we were delighted to see the bare stems of the Emu Foot and the system functioning as it should.
Barung native Plant nursery Phone 5494 3151
Parkland Drive Nursery opening times: Wednesday to Saturday 9am - 3pm
“Minister Watt needs to deliver strong new federal nature laws that crack down on big polluters that increase the risks of climate change and provide strong upfront protections for threatened species including marine turtles. Upfront protections can be achieved by creating bioregional plans with designated conservation zones that protect irreplaceable habitat and restore the health of riparian zones that feed into ramsar listed wetlands such as Moreton Bay.”
with Tree Surgeon Tony Wootton, our local arborist and author, meeting the Hinterland's tree needs since 1996
Firstly, I’d like to congratulate the youngest member of our team, Jayven Philp, who, at age 22, has just completed his training to become a qualified arborist!
Even though Jayven is the youngest member of our team of qualified arborists, he has more than six years' experience, and, along the way, has also qualified in horticulture, to his credit. Jayven is a fine young man, a beautiful soul, and is promising to be a first-class arborist. Well done!
We are coming to the end of spring, and have enjoyed a wonderful floral display from the trees of the plateau. One of my favourites has been Metrosideros queenslandica, Queensland Golden Myrtle. They are from North Queensland, and although they are not endemic, they do produce a stunning, rich golden blossom which will be finishing by the time this edition goes to print. There is a nice one towards the hospital end of Tamarind Street in Maleny.
We have already endured a couple of vicious storm cells crossing the plateau, along with the attendant tree failures, and with about five months of the storm season remaining, I would urge residents to check the large trees on their properties with a view to considering how hazardous they might be, and if you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us.
Mobile: 0403 467 664
Landline: 54 944 917
www.twtreesurgeon.com
In the meantime, please enjoy the multitude of benefits that these gigantic organisms offer us.
Touch trees.
Mobile: 0403 467 664 www.twtreesurgeon.com
Australian clinical consultant and trauma specialist
Dr Zoe Wyatt has published a new research article that explores how everyday settings like barbecues, workshops and shared walks can create safer ground for men to talk about their mental health.
Her paper, Beers, Barbecues and Biochemistry: Exploring Social Neuroscience in Men’s Mental Health Behavioral Health (Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2025).
The research article blends neuroscience and biochemistry to explain why many men communicate more easily during shared activity than in direct, faceto-face conversation. When a person feels evaluated or judged, the body shifts into a protective state that narrows attention and makes speech more effortful. Familiar, low pressure routines signal safety to the nervous system, supporting a calmer state in which thinking broadens and words are easier to find.
Dr Wyatt writes that “talking side by side, rather than face to face, helps regulate the nervous system and allows language and thought to flow more freely.”
Predictable sequences and small shared tasks, such as cooking or repairing something together, help men remain engaged and emotionally balanced, which increases the likelihood of more open conversation.
The research also connects biology to culture. Masculine identity, she explains, is learned and reinforced from childhood through family, peers and media. Many men are socialised to value toughness and control, which can make vulnerability feel risky.
In peer settings, reputation and belonging often depend on conforming to group expectations. As a result, many men prefer “doing” over “talking”, because activity preserves competence while still creating room for connection.
“Men do talk, but context is everything,” says Dr Wyatt. “When we design environments that feel familiar, purposeful and free from judgement, we make space for the kind of conversations that can save lives.”
Her work points to simple, practical interventions. In workplaces, community groups and homes, structured and familiar activities such as shared cooking, brief checkins after sport or team based projects can encourage men to speak more openly.
These settings lower stress responses, reduce the fear of evaluation and increase the likelihood of seeking help.
Drawing on the research and Dr Wyatt’s practical guidance, here are simple actions families, friends and
1. Use the two topic rule. Open with something concrete about the shared task, then pivot once with a specific check in. For example, “How has work been, really?”
2. Ask one hard thing. Try “What is one hard thing you are carrying this week?” Time bound and specific questions work better than broad prompts.
3. Practice the 90-second listen. No fixes, no jokes, no “at least”. Give uninterrupted attention for ninety seconds so performance mode can drop and honesty can rise.
4. Build connection streaks. Message three mates a day for a week with one specific question. Small, regular contact builds the network that carries people
5. Skill up everyday touchpoints. Barbers, gyms and worksites already see men. Offer simple prompts and a referral script so they can be effective bridges to support.
6. Know the red flags and words that help. Watch for sudden withdrawal, giving valued items away, reckless spikes or comments like “You would be better off without me”. Say, “I am not going anywhere. Let us get you through tonight. We can call together,” and connect to
The paper concludes that improving men’s mental health begins not with asking men to change, but with reshaping the environments around them. It calls for communities, workplaces and families to make time and space for simple, genuine connection, places where conversation feels natural, trust can grow and the first step toward support is easier to take.
Dr Wyatt’s research article reminds us that progress often begins with the smallest gestures: a shared task, a quiet chat or a moment of attention that helps a man feel seen and safe. Many men communicate more easily during shared activity - image Michael Proctor
Many of us (myself included) have been operating at full speed all year long, and this holiday season may be the first time you’ve had to really sit down and think. I know, within myself, I need to resist the urge to just overindulge and mentally check out. (Geez, it is tempting though.)
Let's continue to take care of our mind, body, and soul, ensuring that this season brings not just joy and celebration, but also a sense of deep personal fulfillment and connection.
So, I’m sharing some thoughts and reminders on how we can take care of ourselves, both physically and emotionally, whilst still embracing the festive season.
Holiday meals and celebrations - let's approach them with mindfulness and balance. Let's make conscious choices to nourish our bodies with wholesome foods, so we can maintain a sense of wellness throughout the holiday season.
And please remember to stay hydrated! Be creative, incorporate coconut water (natural electrolyte) into non-alcoholic christmas drinks/spritzers. Indulge in our beautiful in season water-rich fruits, watermelon, mangoes, grapes, strawberries - they provide natural hydration and festive colour too!
Exercise - Whilst it's tempting to become a festive Netflixing couch potato, remember even, just a little exercise can make a positive difference. Take a stroll,
reconnect with neighbours/community, walk the family fur kids, enjoy a beautiful beach or forest walk…be present in the moment.
Taking care of our mental wellbeing - Let's utilise the power of our sacred "no" and only say yes to things that will have a positive impact on our overall well-being. Taking a few moments each day to meditate, even if it's just three deep breaths in the morning and evening, can provide us with a sense of calm and clarity.
Practicing gratitude can help us maintain a positive mindset and focus on the blessings in our lives. And I personally know all too well that sometimes we have to dig a little deeper to pull the blessings out of what may seem like an unpleasant situation.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, it's essential to reconnect with the true essence and meaning of the holidays. Take a moment to breathe and reflect on what the holidays truly mean to you.
To our valued clients, thank you for your incredible trust in us and support throughout the year. At Bottoms Up Colonics - Nambour we cherish the connections we have built. Thank you for being a part of our small business journey, your support allows us to keep doing what we love.
We will be taking a short break over Christmas, but back in January with some exciting new health additions. Seasons greetings to all, and wishing you peace, health and happiness.
bottomsupcolonics.com.au
RangeCare, believes ageing should be celebrated with care and connection. That’s why they host Coffee Club Connect, a weekly café-style gathering every Thursday from 9.30am to 1pm at the Maleny RSL.
“Coffee Club Connect is more than coffee, tea, and lunch. It’s a place to belong,” shares RangeCare Marketing Manager, Rebecca Whitaker.
“Guests are welcomed with kindness and dignity, finding friendship, laughter, and meaningful conversation. Whether you’re stepping into retirement, seeking new connections, or simply looking for a warm space to spend your morning, you’ll find it here.”
At the heart of Coffee Club Connect is community - a space where people feel seen, heard, and valued. Laughter is shared, stories are exchanged, and friendships are formed. Whether you arrive with a friend or on your own, there’s always a seat at the table and a warm welcome waiting.
“We also know that relationships are the foundation of wellbeing,” continues Rebecca. “That’s why we focus on creating opportunities for meaningful connection not just small talk, but real conversations that nourish the soul. Whether through a shared meal, a creative activity, or a simple chat over coffee, these moments matter.”
Coffee Club Connect is also a place of empowerment, encouraging independence, informed choices, and confidence. Here, you can explore new interests, ask questions, and feel supported to shape your own journey.
So, if you’ve been thinking about getting more involved, meeting new people, or simply enjoying a good coffee in good company, they would love to welcome you.
“Come along, bring a friend, and be part of something special,” Rebecca says with a smile.
As we head into the final month of the year there is a general feeling of hanging out for time off. Most people look forward to having a break from work, study and just not having to keep up with all the usual commitments and activities.
As we head into the final month of the year there feeling hanging time off. people a break study just having to keep up with all the usual commitments and activities.
But is your end of year break actually a holiday?
But is your end-of-year break actually a holiday?
Do you really switch off or just fill your days with information and entertainment?
Do you really switch off or just fill your days with information and entertainment?
To really have a good rest, we have to make a conscious decision to turn down the stream of activities, both social and digital. We need to be discerning, both in the content and the time spent absorbing information and entertainment of any description.
To really have a good rest we have to make a conscious decision to turn down the stream of activities both social and digital. We need to be discerning both in the content and the time spent absorbing information and entertainment of any description.
It started with Google and has ramped up with AI, where we can take one question, emerging hours later from a rabbit hole of random facts completely unrelated to what we were initially investigating. Hours trawling social media can leave you feeling overloaded but dissatisfied. Spending time with family and friends is important and more emotionally satisfying, but filling your break with social events can also leave you feeling exhausted.
It started with google and has ramped up with AI, where we can take one question emerging hours later from a rabbit hole of random facts completely unrelated to what we were initially investigating. Hours trawling social media can leave you feeling overloaded but dissatisfied. Spending time with family and friends is important and more emotionally satisfying but filling your break with social events can also leave you feeling exhausted.
Just as we digest food, we must process our experiences. If we were to continually consume food, we would get indigestion. If we eat too much, our bodies cannot process the food efficiently, leaving us feeling sluggish and weighed down. Similarly, we need to give our minds and senses a break for them to process our experiences, thoughts and emotions.
Just as we digest food, we must process our experiences. If we were to continually consume food, we would get indigestion. If we eat too much, our bodies cannot process the food efficiently, leaving us feeling sluggish and weighed down. Similarly, we need to give our minds and senses a break for them to process our experiences, thoughts and emotions.
As you wind down for the year take time to reconnect with yourself, turn off the music or podcasts while driving, exercise without the pounding music in your ears, spend a quiet evening without the chatter from the television. Disconnect from social media to just spend some quiet time reading a book or doing something creative.
As you wind down for the year take time to reconnect with yourself, turn off the music or podcasts while driving, exercise without the pounding music in your ears, spend a quiet evening without the chatter from the television. Disconnect from social media to just spend some quiet time reading a book or doing something creative.
Or take the ultimate break from your busy life and learn to dive within to experience that level of the mind beyond all thinking. Transcendental Meditation® literally means to go beyond thinking and there is nowhere more restful than that.
Or take the ultimate break from your busy life and learn to dive within to experience that level of the mind beyond all thinking. Transcendental Meditation® literally means to go beyond thinking and there is nowhere more restful than that.
Information sessions on TM are offered in person and on zoom Contact wendy.rosenfeldt@tm.org.au
Transcendental Meditation information sessions are available both in-person and via Zoom. Contact Wendy.rosenfeldt@tm.org.au
Wendy Rosenfeldt wendy.rosenfeldt@tm.org.au
“Because your next chapter deserves more than just a quiet morning, it deserves connection, creativity, and community. And at RangeCare, we’re here to help you find it.”
by JAMIE MILNE
In a world that glorifies talent and romanticises chaos as the birthplace of genius, a quieter truth stands firm: Structure is king, discipline is queen. Without them, talent is erratic, emotion unstable, and potential unrealised.
It’s not brilliance that sustains success — it’s the scaffolding of structure and discipline. These unseen foundations turn ambition into consistent performance.
Structure: The king that rules all
Structure creates certainty in the face of chaos. It sets rhythm, expectation, and accountability. It’s not a bureaucratic burden — it’s a performance tool that answers: What does good look like, and how do we repeat it under pressure?
habits, and protocols. Think of structure as the architecture of consistent success — defining how we prepare, respond, and recover. It rules over chaos.
Discipline: The queen that enforces the king’s rule
Structure without discipline is just a plan without action. Discipline brings structure to life — it’s doing the right thing, especially when it’s inconvenient.
In elite environments, where margins between success and failure are razorthin, there’s no room for guesswork. Structure standardises excellence and removes ambiguity. When the storm hits — in sport, business, or life — those with structure don’t flinch. They revert to training, not emotion.
We don’t rise to the level of our goals; we fall to the level of our structure,
At JMT Mind Gym, we remind athletes that discipline is a choice, not a feeling.
You don’t wait for motivation; you decide to show up. You follow the process when no one’s watching — when it’s cold, repetitive, and hard.
Discipline is loyalty to structure. It prevents drift, shortcuts, and compromise. It’s not mere compliance — it’s commitment in action.
Together they create culture.
When structure and discipline intertwine, they form a self-sustaining culture where excellence is habitual and standards are owned, not imposed. This is the secret to lasting wellness — not just physical, but mental and emotional resilience.
Structure gives people something to believe in. Discipline gives them the means to live it out.
As the year draws to a close and the spirit of Christmas begins to flood our hearts, it certainly is a time unlike any other. Homes are filled with light, laughter, with simple acts of giving, bringing immense joy, and community get-togethers abound warming our hearts.
But we all know that Christmas is about much more than this. It’s about appreciating the season, slowing down where possible and showing those we love we are grateful for them and considering people we don’t even know.
And, if you’re reading this and thinking you don’t have time to embrace this lovely season this way because your life is already filled with so much connection and busyness, I say Christmas is a time to put the phone down and really pause and reconnect with our loved ones and our community and enjoy the real meaning of the season.
Christmas should be filled with love, not perfection, and can flourish in simple ways such as making donations to charities who help those in need, supplying ingredients for hampers, thoughtful notes, a hand of friendship and neighbourly love. During this glorious season when we’re wrapping gifts and enjoying festive activities, let’s also wrap our hearts in compassion and consider doing something for others.
The “Spirit of Christmas” is most certainly about the timeless message of joy, peace, and love, but those words mean nothing if we don’t put them into action. It’s the perfect time to be kind and considerate and bless others no matter how big or small.
Be sure not to let this magical season pass without embracing its true meaning, then you will experience carrying the light in your heart and you’ll want to carry it not just for Christmas but throughout the coming year.
Merry Christmas.
Blessings, Kerrie
RangeCare can support you
H
Heart Mind Astrology with Ruth Donnelly Explore your life with astrology, bringing you insight at times of turmoil, transition and transformation. Online consultations available. 0409 564 276 astrology@ruthdonnelly.com.au
Sunrise Chiropractic Dr Damian Treacey Chiropractor & Applied Kinesiologist Gentle hands on Chropractic using Applied Kinesiology. Over 30 years in private practice. Mon and Wed 2-5pm, Fri 9am-12pm 19 Coral Street, Maleny. 0492 949 695
Sunshine Coast Audiology
Emryn and Anita are experienced audiologists who have started a new independent audiology clinic to care for all your hearing needs. Conveniently located in Sippy Downs. Ph. 5378 2226. www.sunshinecoastaudiology.com.au
Eumundi Medicine Man
Knowledge is the greatest medicine. Potent Vedic remedies that give results when co-ordinated with diet and lifestyle wisdom. Order or email online at www.eumundimedicineman.com
Guaranteed Age Old Natural Remedies.
Hinterland Chiropractic
Dr Josephine Sexton. Using gentle, safe and effective techniques to maintain spinal health and wellbeing. Concession rates, Family discounts and HICAPS available. 2/70 Maple Street, Maleny. Ph: 5435 2987
Maple Chiropractic Maleny
Dr. Samuel Lowe, Dr. Catherine Metcalf, Dr. Rebel Hungerford & Nikki Duncan-Exercise Physiologist. Gentle, effective care for the whole family. Concession, family rates & HICAPS available 45 Maple St, Maleny 5494 3322 maplechiropractic.com.au
Sunrise Chiropractic
Dr Damian Treacey Chiropractor & Applied Kinesiologist Gentle hands on Chropractic using Applied Kinesiology. Over 30 years in private practice. Mon and Wed 2-5pm, Fri 9am-12pm 19 Coral Street, Maleny. 0492 949 695
Bottoms Up Colonics - Nambour Time to let your S##t go! We support the whole body assisting elimination pathways, allowing the body the opportunity to heal holistically. Book now on 5220 8859. www.bottomsupcolonics.com.au
Advertise your business in the HT from $63.58 ongoing per month. Book directly by scanning
Christian Dunham Specialising in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, a combination of clinical hypnotherapy and psychotherapy used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, phobias and other chronic conditions. Free initial consultation. Ph: 0448 303 013 www.christiandunham.net
Get Active Fitness & Personal Training Beautiful group fitness studio with a variety of classes to suit all ages/fitness levels. A fun supportive environment, fully qualified trainers. Book your first session FREE Ph. 0423 618 945 Bunya St, Maleny.
RangeCare
Offering in-home and respite care services to support independent living. Our tailor-made services are available to everyone in the community. We can deliver your home care package. Ph: 5445 7044 Visit: www.rangecare.com.au
Pauline Ashford - B.H.Sc, Complementary Med & Homeopathy Classical homeopathy; Lymphatic drainage; Dorn spinal, joint and headache therapy; EFT - Emotional Freedom Techniques; Reiki 130 Ansell Rd Witta – Ph: 5494 4101 E: malenyhomeopathy@gmail.com
Blue Zen Massage – Sensei Shayne Harris Dip.Remedial Massage & Dip.Reflexology An integrated therapist shares deep-tissue holistic massages, MET, joint mobilisation, myotherapy. Unwind with Shiatsu, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, hot stones/cupping. Diamond Valley Treehouse www.bluezenmassage.com 0407 002 567 HF Rebates
Jamie Milne Training
Jamie Milne is SEQ"S leading Mental Performance Coach. Finding your Mental Edge is Jamie's specialty. His approach is unique in delivery and the results speak for themselves. Contact: jamiemilnetraining.com or call 0431 339 975.
Range of Motion Physiotherapy Maleny, Mapleton and Imbil Russ, Karl, and Kathryn. Providing the highest quality care to restore & maintain optimal physical function & mobility. Ph: 5478 6600 www.rangeofmotion.com.au
Hinterland Float and Wellness Centre Maleny’s hidden gem for relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy float therapy, infrared saunas, salt therapy, and massage in a peaceful setting. Affordable, holistic wellness with five-star reviews. Visit Level 1, 74 Maple Street, Maleny / Website: hinterlandfloat.com.au / Phone: 07 2140 1752
Montville Clockshop
Repairs for Cuckoo, Grandfather, Mantle, Wall Clocks. Antique clock restoration. We can supply quartz movement and parts, and repair quartz clocks. P: 07 5442 9409. www.clockshop.com.au enquiries@clockshop.com.au
Buckle Earthmoving NEW
Newly established Sunshine Coast business. All types of Dozer work using a modern Cat D3K2 with LGP (low ground pressure) tracks to tackle all types of terrain with minimal impact. Driveways and access tracks, Clearing, Stick Raking, 6-way blade and rippers, Dams, Site preparation, Lantana removal, Civil, Horse arenas. contact: anthony_buckle@yahoo.com 0415 173 769
Gutter Sucker
Gutter Sucker specialises in cleaning your guttering. a unique portable vacuum system for the efficient and effective removal of leaves and rubbish from all types of gutters and roofs. Ph: 1800 558 745 or 0402 456 391
Montville Handy Man
30 years building experience. Available now for carpentry, home mainatenance and repairs, small concreting jobs, Propt and reliable service. CallWayne 0434 724 030.
MWasshausen Gems + Jewels
Fine individually designed and traditional handmade jewellery in a contemporary style with natural Gemstones, Pearls & Opals. Commision & redesign, alteration & repairs. Call Birgit in her Maleny workshop 0490 146 982
Amber Leaf Landscaping
Looking for a landscaper who can deliver?
Tohm Hajncl heads the team that offers you guaranteed quality. Choose from landscaping consultations, designs, construction and planting, pre-sale makeovers and specialised maintenance services. Ph: 5445 9801 www.amberleaf.com.au
Stone on the Range Landscapes
Looking for creative ideas from a professional craftsman-then call Jim! Thirty years experience designing/building all aspects of gardens/stonework. Combining skills that utilize timber/stone and steel, as a designer, landscaper, stonemason. It is my passion to exceed your expectations. 0401 308 824 jimrstoneart@gmail.com
Blueys Garden Services
For all your gardening needs. Jobs include but not limited to: Mowing, Whipping snipping, Clear outs, Hedging, Tip runs, Minor landscaping and Weed management give us a call-0481 106 839
Swede with Speed Slashing
For slashing and mowing, acres or house blocks, hedge trims, whipper snipping, rubbish removal and house maintenance call Birger for a free qoute 0411 591 738.
Forest Heart
Your Local Native Plant Nursery. Specialising is the native plants of SE QLD for Revegetation, Gardens, Habitat. 20 Coral Street, Maleny Ph: 07 5435 2193 – www.forestheart.com.au
SwimSafe
Mobile pool maintenance & repairs. Swimming pool safety inspections. FREE QUOTES
Proudly servicing the Sunshine Coast Ph: 0448 793 148 – www.swimsafeqld.com.au
QBCC #101629
Roof & Gutter Maintenance
Clean gutters, Blocked downpipes, New & repair downpipes, Roof repairs & leaks, Fix leaking gutters, New gutters & fascias, Install & service whirly birds, Skylights & Water Tanks. Free quotes, local bloke, over 20 yrs experience Phone Brad 0419 712 081
EcoSheen Exterior Cleaning Roofs, Solar Panels, Gutters, House Wash, Driveways, & Paths. Call Andy on 0406 641 919 Fully insured Servicing the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast
UltiMate
Handbuilt Stone QBCC 1235589
Licensed, range-based professional. Traditional rock walls, pillars, steps, paving, entrance walls and all garden features. Visit our website to see previous work for inspiration. Phone Chris on 0438 811 975 – www.handbuiltstone.com
Barung Landcare Native Plant Nursery
Your local community nursery stocks an extensive range of species indigenous to the Blackall Range and surrounds. Open to the public WednesdaySaturday 9am–3pm, Ph: 0429 943 152 E: nursery@barunglandcare.org.au
Anderson Plumbing & Roofing
QBSA1066328
Plumbing, drainage & roofing. New work, renos, maintenance specialists. Septic systems, blocked drains, high pressure ‘sewer jett’ drain cleaner, drain camera, cable locations, tank installations, roof & guttering. Ph: 5494 3340 or 0409 541 4757
Suncoast Liquid Waste Removal
Local owner/operator specialising in commercial / domestic waste water pump outs- septics, treatment plants, grey water, holding tanks, pond/ pool sludge, drains etc. Avoid costly blockages & system failure with prompt, reliable & expert service. Tank assessments available. EPA licensed and fully insured. Call 0439 646 707
Seedhead Design Consultancy
Need standout visuals and smarter online presence? Seedhead is a design studio specialising in userfocused brand creation, web design, web effectiveness reports and improvements. Function + Aesthetics + User Experience. Contact Paula on 0418 708 244 www.seedhead.com.au
Baker Robinson Lawyers
Sophie Paras - Professional, efficient, relaible and friendly. 5494 2665 Suite 7, 43 Maple St Maleny. Email: sophie@brlawyers.com.au www.brlawyers.com.au
Easton Lawyers
Tove Easton Principal Lawyer
Your Local Lawyers in Maleny 62 Maple St, Maleny. Ph: 5494 3511 Email: tove@eastonlawyers.com.au
Blake Gierke - Your Hinterland Property Expert. 10 years’ experience & multiple RMA awards. Innovative marketing strategies for maximum exposure. Get unmatched results. Blake 0412 266 719
REAL ESTATE continue
We dare to be different! Our results speak for themselves, so if you are looking to sell your property DON’T SIGN ANYTHING .. .Call us. Ph: 07 5478 5288 or check out www.rogerloughnanrealestate.com.au
REMAX Hinterland
Your property is worth more with us! 07 5408 4220, 0447 737 737 sales@remaxhinterland.com.au remaxhinterland.com.au 32 Maple Street, Maleny
Brant Property
At Brant Property we understand that it's all in the attention to detail, even the little things matter. Learn how ‘We Can Sell Yours Too!’
Contact Susan Brant on 0428 573 170
District Vets Maleny
Veterinarian Susan Portas and her team provide professional, compassionate care for your pets. Hours Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 8:30am – 5:30pm Wed 8:30am – 4:30pm Sat by appointment 7 Myrtle St Maleny Ph: 5499 9077
By What Authority - Rod Kyle
Jesus had just driven the moneychangers from the inner court of Herod's Temple in Jerusalem. Approached by the Chief Priests, He was asked, "By what authority are you doing these things?" (Mark 11:28). That really is a valid question. Authority makes life functional. We face it at every turn in our lives.
Let's be honest. How can we know if anyone's moral or religious authority is valid if it originates only from the heart of fallible man? Why should someone else's idea be any more valid than mine? Necessity demands an objective standard handed down to fallible man by an infallible God!
There is such a standard. The Bible states, "Even so the thoughts of God no one knows except the Spirit of God... which things we (inspired men) speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but those taught by the Spirit,..." (1 Corinthians 2:11,13.) This passage tells us that God's mind has been made known to us through the inspired writers of the Bible. Here are a few of the many other passages that teach this essential truth — 2 Timothy 3:15-17, Romans 10:17, Ephesians 3:3-4. Read them, because here is the standard you must follow.
Jesus put it this way in John 12:48, "He who rejects Me, and does not receive my sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day."
Is your authority God's authority? Rod Kyle preaches the Gospel in New Zealand.
With more than two in five Sunshine Coast residents now aged over 55, the region is at the forefront of a national trend revealed by new Stockland research – showing that purposebuilt communities are helping Australians live happier, healthier and more connected lives.
The findings could shape life for nearly 150,000 locals looking to downsize, with affordability, accessibility and lifestyle driving strong demand. Stockland’s newest Halcyon at Yandina has attracted nearly 1,000 enquiries
and sold 90 per cent of its first two stages within two months of launch and a waitlist is already forming ahead of November’s releases across three Sunshine Coast communities – Yandina, Coves in Banya, and Dales in Beerwah.
Yet, even as the region grows, many older Australians are feeling increasingly isolated – with nearly one in five reporting feeling lonely some or most of the time – a statistic that highlights connection and community matter just as much as convenience and location.
Here’s to a bright 2026!
As 2025 draws to a close, the entire REMAX Hinterland team would love to extend our warmest wishes to our incredible community. What a year it has been! We’ve had the privilege of working with so many wonderful clients, families and local businesses and we are truly grateful for the trust you continue to place in us.
This year, we’ve also welcomed a remarkable number of new residents to the Hinterland. It’s always a pleasure helping people discover what makes this region so special - the community spirit, the natural beauty and the lifestyle we are all so lucky to enjoy. To everyone who joined us in 2025: welcome home.
As we head into the festive season, we wish you and your loved ones a safe, joyful and relaxing break. May the holidays bring you peace, connection and a refreshing start to an exciting 2026 ahead.
Please note that our office will be closed from 25th December until 5th January, however calls and emails will continue to be monitored. If you need anything during this time, please contact us on 0447 737 737 or at sales@remaxhinterland.com.au.
Agency: RE/MAX Hinterland Contact: 0447 737 737 sales@remaxhinterland.com.au
32 Maple Street, Maleny, Qld 4552
Sunshine Coast Halcyon communities are bucking the trend, according to their 2025 Liveability and Wellbeing Survey, showing how life in a connected, purpose-built over-50s community can transform wellbeing in later life.
Halcyon residents, Jacqui and Rob Chappell (pictured), know first-hand how much community connection contributes to wellbeing. The former Army officers have found a renewed sense of belonging through an active lifestyle, even after facing health challenges.
“Community living like this has had such a positive impact on us – it’s one of the best decisions we’ve ever made,” Mrs Chappell said.
“Rob’s had a couple of strokes and is vision-impaired, but he still does plenty – bowls and swimming – and I play pickleball and mahjong and take part in gym exercise classes. There’s something on every day if you want to get involved, and it’s great for both the body and the brain.
“You have the privacy of your own home, but also the safety and comfort of a caring community – something traditional neighbourhoods don’t always offer.
“We’re not going anywhere now – we’re finally settled.”
Halcyon Yandina even partners with the local bowls and tennis clubs just across the road and supports community events like the Yandina Street Fair to help residents feel part of the wider community.
New land releases are planned for November at Halcyon Yandina, and first home owners anticipated to move in by mid-2026.
For more information, visit stockland.com.au/ halcyon-communities/qld
A huge THANK YOU from Brant Property!
sincere thank you to everyone in our community who has generously donated toys and non-perishable food items to our 7th Annual Food and Toy Drive, in support of families in need this Christmas. Your kindness and generosity are greatly appreciated and will bring joy to many who might otherwise go without this Christmas.
We extend our gratitude to the local school chaplains from Kenilworth, Maleny, Conondale, Montville and Mapleton, for their efforts in coordinating and distributing these meaningful Christmas hampers.
We are also proud to contribute to the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre through a donation toward their Christmas Emergency Relief Gift Bags, for local families in need.
Giving back to our community, particularly those experiencing hardship, remains an important part of our commitment to our community.
As we approach the end of 2025, we wish to express our appreciation for your continued support. On behalf of the Brant Property team, we extend our best wishes to you and your families for a joyful and safe Christmas and for a prosperous and healthy 2026.
Brant Property Team - Susan 0428 573 170, Craig 0411 554 880, Rebecca 0476 652 273 and Olivia 0447 302 997
Agency: Brant Property Contact: Susan Brant 0428 573 170
2/20 Maple Street, Maleny Qld 4552
