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AUGUST
DOWNHILL SKATING DAD
Father of three represents Australia at World Skate Games
DANCING DELIGHT
Colleen Ahern pops on her pointe shoes at 80!
LOOK BEYOND THE LABEL
The richness and value of neurodiverse play
8 - 9
It’s been a ‘head down’ month for me. Along with the HT and family life, I have other jobs occasionally helping friends with marketing/PR and presentations for their businesses, but it means I find it hard to switch off.
To help me do that, and aware that my work can be quite sedentary, I recently bit the bullet and headed to a new fitness studio near me. Thanks to a good coach and great music, my mind focuses purely in the moment and I can feel my energy levels increasing, which is encouraging – I just need to keep it up, as I am known to leap into fitness with enthusiasm and then fizzle....anyone else relate?
Someone who needs no encouragement to keep fit is father of three, Greg Casey, who recently represented Australia in the World Skate Games in Argentina, his amazing story is on pages 10/11.
We also have stories on the hiking/karate-playing Bowen therapist, Katarina Heywood; the ballet dancing octogenarian, Colleen Ahern, and four awardwinning artists at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve.
In our Taste Trail pages we share the exciting new venture of Andrew Lancaster, who has created a delicious gin right here in the hinterland, at his own distillery.
As for things to do, you have four pages of events and shows to choose from this month in our Creative Cuts pages! How about the vibrant Rangebow Festival, the Black Square Quartet tour, or the upcoming Horizon Festival? I personally can’t wait to see IAGO, or the Horizon Festival Glambour launch party for two exhibitions at The Old Ambo, Nambour!
So, sit back with a cuppa, and have a browse through your August HT, I’m sure you will be moved and entertained by the wonderful people and groups filling these pages.
Enjoy.
INSIDE THIS MONTH FEATURES
Local people, local stories
4 – 11
TASTE TRAIL
There’s a new gin in town, plus market listings
12 – 14
LET’S TALK BUSINESS
Q&A with Roger Loughnan Real Estate
15
LOCAL MUSINGS
16
CREATIVE CUTS
Artist profiles, entertainment and news on the arts
18 – 21
LETTERS, LEUNIG AND LIGHT RELIEF
Letters, poetry, crosswords, Sudoku 22 – 23
COMMUNITY NEWS
Including HT Young Writer of the Year entry details 24 – 25
HOLISTIC Health and wellness, plus Look Beyond the Label 26 – 30
BACK TO NATURE
Savings joeys, stopping invasive vines, and adopting animals
34 – 35
REAL ESTATE 36 – 40
There’s something intensely pleasurable about entering a great bookshop. From the slow meditative spell that comes over you as you browse the shelves - the covers promising adventure, excitement, and knowledge; to the wonder of finding the perfect book, curling up with a coffee and turning the first page.
If this sounds like your idea of heaven, you’ll love Labyrinth, a dance theatre work, performed in three of the Sunshine Coast’s most beloved bookshops during Horizon Festival.
Two lonely booksellers find themselves standing on the edge of eternity hurtling towards the end of all things. Together in their isolation, they spend their days frantically unearthing and preserving the last remnants of the books that remain.
The story unfolds within three chapters taking you on a journey of the region:
Chapter 1: The Book Bucket, Maroochydore - Thursday August 31, 6pm
Chapter 2: Rosetta Books, Maleny – Friday September 1, 6pm
Chapter 3: Berkelouw Books, Eumundi - Saturday September 2, 6pm
Tickets can be purchased for each chapter and enjoyed as a stand-alone show, or you can view the full three-part story.
Tickets cost $9.95 per chapter or $24.95 for all three. Shows last 45 minutes leaving you plenty of time to grab a drink and find a new gem to take home.
The Horizon Festival runs from August 25 – September 3 this year, and promises a plethora of entertainment through free and tickets events to the region.
Horizon Festival Director, Hannah Clissold, said, “Labyrinth is one of our Homegrown projects, an initiative that supports local artists to create and perform works in the festival and is one of hundreds of unique arts experiences.
“There really is something for everyone in the program this year. We’ve added a heap of experiences to our kids and family’s program, introduced an even greater diversity of free and ticketed events, including live music, theatre and circus; comedy, family events and much more.”
Explore and book your Horizon Festival experience at horizonfestival.com.au
Katarina’s humility belies her extraordinary skills. Our association began in 2022 after I responded to an advertisement in the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre newsletter where she offered free Bowen Therapy sessions, an opportunity to contribute to the community and accumulate hours for her training.
The youngest of three children, born in the mid1960s, Katarina shared her thoughts about those formative years.
“Life was great as a child and I wanted to be a pilot or a princess. We had little money, but in summer we played games, went swimming and camping. We also had wonderful winters skiing and skating. When I was eight, I started playing basketball—a sport that had a great influence on my life.”
In line with the Swedish education system, Katarina finished school at Year 9, then attended college, but I was intrigued to know how she journeyed from skiing and skating in Stockholm to living in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
“By the time I was 18, I played basketball competitively and had reached the top level. After a few odd jobs, I landed a job at the hospital working as a physiotherapy assistant. Being a caring person, it really clicked with me—learning about the body, an interest from playing sports, and the healing process. So, I decided I wanted to be a physiotherapist.”
Katarina found she didn’t have the grades or had studied the right subjects, and a student counsellor advised her to ‘consider computers because that is
the future’ and directed the 20-year-old to a course at university to become a programmer.
“That was how I got into computers, and I’m still working in that area. It was not what I wanted, but there was so much work around and the money was good. Being a programmer also presented opportunities to travel.
“A friend and I went to the Caribbean on holidays then thought it would be pretty cool to live there on St Lucia. So, we went home, resigned our jobs and moved to St Lucia where we lived for about a year. When we finished there, we went to Chico in California for a few months, then back to Stockholm to get back to real life.”
Unbeknown to the 25-year-old, life was about to become even more ‘real’ when she met her husband-tobe, an Australian.
“The company I worked for bought Australian computer software, and he came over to do the training of that system. We married three months later and soon moved to London for a year and then back to Sweden. An unplanned pregnancy told us to expect twins.
“We lived in my parents' summer house, which didn’t have an indoor toilet, so there I was, eight months pregnant, running across the yard to get to the outhouse. We would place pieces of Styrofoam on the seat to make it warmer. The twins were born in November when it was about minus 11 degrees Celsius.”
A new path opened up for the young family when the company where Katarina’s husband worked closed down, and they received notification that a railway was
A gentle spirit and a force of nature is what came to mind to writer Gay Liddington, after speaking with Katarina Heywood at her Maleny home, far-removed from Sweden, her country of birth.Katarina hiking – Mt Barney 2021
going to be built through their house. “So, we thought we’d try Australia, and that was 31 years ago.”
The family lived in Brisbane, then Bridgeman Downs. Trips to the Hinterland led Katarina to Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and reignited her love of photography.
“On one of those occasions, I didn’t go straight home like I used to, but drove along Mountain View Road and thought, this is so beautiful. Then, I went into Maleny with all its cute cafes where I stopped, had a coffee, then rang my husband and said, ‘I think I know where we’re going to move to.’ That was six years ago.”
Katarina’s home is near to Mary Cairncross Reserve. We chatted about forest bathing and the healing energy of the forest.
“I’ve trained in karate for 22 years and when we have Japanese instructors over I have taken them to the reserve. It’s not a long walk or an extensive area, but when they are in the forest, they get it.”
I asked Katarina about her connection with martial arts.
“We moved to London with our three children in 2000 and karate was the sport close to where we lived,
so I got the kids to sign up and saw there were adults training as well. I thought, no one knows me here, so it doesn’t matter if I make a fool of myself.
“After two years, we returned to Australia, and I continued training, but not so much since we moved up here because my Dojo is in Brisbane, so I’ve gotten into hiking more.
Sitting opposite this unassuming woman in the tranquil outdoor setting, I reflected on how she began martial arts training plagued with self-doubt and noted Katarina’s current ranking: 4th dan (black belt) and, she has competed overseas and won several Australian championships in both Kata (form) and Kumite (fighting).
“Photography and karate for me is meditation, because you have to focus. You’re in the moment, and I really love that.”
Bowen Therapist, IT specialist, champion basketballer, hiker, photographer, and Yūdansha, Katarina says, “Don’t worry about where the path leads, just enjoy the walk.”
A r e c e n t a r c l e i n a e l l - k n o n n e s p a p e r disc ssed a s to spot a mortgagee sale With , loans across A stralia d e to change from lo fi ed rates to m ch higher ariable interest pa ments, it is an cipated some homeo ners ill decide to sell before banks force their hand. When lending ins t ons force mortgagee holders to sell, t h e i r p r i o r i t i s t o s i m p l e n s r e t h e d e b t i s repaid…obtaining the highest possible price for the seller is a distant second.
S o m e a ge nt s i l l a c t al l s e “ m o r t ga ge e ” o r “distressed sale” in their ad er sing. Le ng a b er kno a sellers’ me frame or deadline is one of the ke principles of nego a on to a oid.
A sa b er ill o�en ask an agent the seller ’s reason for selling or “are the mo ated”? Good agents ill NOT disclose the reason a propert o ner is selling. It pa s to “m ster shop” agents before lis ng b asking a fe q es ons rela ng to h a ho se is being sold and hat is the me frame? Kno ing a deadline or a reason s ch as “the sellers are ge ng di orced” or “the bank ants the ho se sold b ” gi es b ers a h ge ad antage and irt all g arantees that the home ill be sold belo its tr e al e.
Good agents ill do e er thing in their po er to protect their clients and their reasons for selling. Rising interest rates and cost of li ing increases ill p t more and more press re on mortgage holders. Real estate agents e perienced in nego a on and the sec rit of their clients’ personal and financial informa on are itall important.
For f rther informa on and ad ice please call or email, e are a ailable da s per eek.
We absol tel cannot recommend Monica and the team at Roger Lo ghnan highl eno gh! Both Monica and Roger ere brilliant to deal ith thro gho t the sale of o r propert in Fla ton. Their kno ledge of the local area and market as in al able. The kept s pdated and ere al a s a ailable to ans er o r q es ons or talk things thro gh hene er needed. To top it off, the 're both j st reall lo el people ho are ob io sl ell kno n and al ed in the local comm nit We are er gratef l for the onderf l e perience e had selling ith them!
Re ie s bmi ed b R & A West (Vendors) J ne
Tues, Wed, Fri 9am -
by JUDY FREDRIKSEN
Naturally art exhibition will showcase diverse pieces depicting environmental awareness through the art of woodcarver/sculptor - Gary Field; rainforest artist – Leisa Gunton; environmental artist – Jono Bateman, and multidisciplinary artist –Cholena Drew Hughes.
Multi-award winning woodcarver Gary Field has spent 50 years developing his unique style of
woodcarving. Many readers will know him from the Maleny Wood Expo where he has won the highly sought-after Wootha Prize and Design Excellence Award, while dozens of his delicate pieces now adorn collections all over the world.
Salvaging and recycling gnarled timber from places like ethical timber salvage operators, ancient river beds, hang-dog fences or dilapidated buildings, Gary gently moulds the pieces until unseen forms emerge, with the result being an exquisite carving inspired by his respect and love of nature.
In preserving our environment, Gary says, “I try to show (that) every single bit of the tree can be used, so I’m using roots, I’m using the main trunks of the trees, and I’m using all parts of the trees and waste products. I’m actually trying to show what can be made from what’s normally discarded”.
It was at the Maleny Wood Expo where Gary met Leisa, who also regularly exhibits at the event. Instantly, Gary became captivated by her work and the two became firm friends.
Inspired by the forest, even as a young girl, Leisa appreciates trees, their forms, and incorporates pieces
character. She feels a soulful connection to her home environment of Booloumba Creek, a pristine rainforest environment with which she has been interacting for the past 30 years.
“It’s quite a special place – it’s a 325-million-year-old valley – it’s one of the oldest parts of the Sunshine Coast,” Leisa says.
“I do ceramic art, as well as drawing and painting, and the ceramic parts of it contain pieces of the forest, like leaves or a bit of gravel or ash and slips of natural clays. I like to hone in on things; rather than a huge scene, it will be a tree – looking up into the canopy – or it will be like the junction of the ferns.”
Her earthy pieces charmingly capture the energy and essence of the valley.
Leisa has taken out many awards for her sculptures and ceramics, notably the best work overall at Kenilworth Art Prize in 2012 and in the same year, was a finalist in Sunshine Coast Art Prize.
An eclectic feast of original artworks – all inspired by our environment – and from four highly acclaimed and awardwinning artists, awaits the public at Mary Cairncross Reserve this August. L to R: Jono Bateman, Gary Field and Leisa Gunton with some of the ‘works in progress’ for the art exhibition
In her earlier years, while developing her creative talents at TAFE, Leisa attended the same classes as Cholena Drew Hughes, now a successful First Nations multidisciplinary artist here on the Sunshine Coast. In 2022, Cholena was a finalist in the prestigious Sunshine Coast Art Prize.
Born on Turrbal country and now living on Jinibara country, Cholena loves to spend time in the natural environment and connect with the spirit of Country.
“My work shares the feelings of that experience. If people are inspired to pay more attention to Country and connect with it themselves, they will feel more inspired to walk gently and preserve and cherish what we have.”
Cholena uses a large variety of materials and processes, cultivating her inspiration by wandering in the bush, listening, breathing in the air, allowing her senses to observe all the intimate details with a feeling of incalculable significance and importance with the connection to her environment.
Many of Cholena’s works now hang in galleries overseas.
As the connector between the four artists, Leisa also knew botanical artist – Jono Bateman – whom she met during the BioBlitz at Mary Cairncross in 2018. The BioBlitz was a unique exercise that saw scientists and artists come together to explore the forest canopy.
Jono’s art is a natural extension of his work as a bush regenerator, with his personal mantra being: The natural world needs a voice Let her stories reach you through my art.
“The artwork that I’ve been doing for the past 20 years is the way of articulating what I see and feel doing my work, and starting to observe those processes that occur in the natural environment, and the patterns they form, and the processes that inform us a little bit about ourselves.
“It’s those processes that I bring to the page, canvas, paper, inks, multitude of mediums and just turn those
will see it in a different light. Maybe they will experience a walk through Mary Cairncross quite differently after they’ve seen what we’ve seen … because what we’ve seen inspires us to create what we create,” says Gary.
Naturally will run at Mary Cairncross Reserve, 148 Mountain View Road, Maleny, 6–20 August. Entry is free.
of three, Greg Casey, who recently represented Australia in the World Skate Games.
by REBECCA MUGRIDGEunshine Coast father of three, Greg Casey, recently had the experience of a lifetime, representing Australia in the World Skate Games in
“I found out about six weeks before I left that I was on the team,” Greg said. “I have been downhill skating for 32 years, since I was ten years old, but I’d never thought anything of it. One of the other inline skaters on the Australian team asked me to go.”
And everything just lined up.
S“I spoke to my boss and said I need to save the money for my plane ticket and my boss said, ‘Look, you can’t miss this opportunity, it may never come up again,’ and he actually bought my ticket for me!
“I didn’t have a passport as I’d never travelled overseas or anything and the passport actually came through super quickly. All of a sudden, I found myself looking at my uniform the team sent me and then I was on the plane with the rest of the team on my way to the World Skate Games.”
Greg said the World Skate Games is like the Olympics of rollersports, and happens every two years ina different country with almost 60 countries represented.
“There was artistic skating, quad hockey skating, skateboarding, inline, luge, figure skating, ice skating, skate racing events and all these kinds of sports.”
The popularity of skating in Argentina is massive, explained Greg.
“In South America, inline and quad skating are the second biggest sports behind soccer. And in France, inline is one of the biggest sports there as well.
“On the last night, the Australian Team went out to dinner and in the restaurant and every TV in the city the Games was on, celebrating winning the quad hockey. There were car horns tooting and everyone was celebrating.” His first time competing ever, and
Greg said it was an incredible experience seeing all
“Whenever anyone placed, they were taken for drug testing straight away. I didn’t know what to expect. Even hemp seeds are fortified protein, so they are banned, and asthma puffers have very strict restrictions because they do actually contain a steroid. Asthmatics are only allowed so many puffs per day and they can test the amount in your blood.”
Bravery is clearly in Greg’s blood. While hurtling down hills at speeds of up to 100km sounds terrifying to most, Greg is no stranger to extreme sports and even has a dangerous job.
The Sunshine Coast is blessed with a choice of great hills, according to downhill skating athlete and fatherThe Australian Team that went to the World Skate Games Downhill racers like Greg (pictured) can reach 100km per hour racing Greg qualified 27th in the World at the World Skate Games and he is off to Rome in 2024
“I climb communication towers for a living and do work out of a helicopter” he said modestly, but explained that while both his job and sport are scary and exciting they also teach you to always really think about what you are doing, at all times. A skill that absolutely benefits downhill skaters.
“Because of the speeds, we are hitting 100kmph, you have got to know what to do to minimise any sort of damage.
“I’ve always said the best skaters are the best fallers. I’ve seen people stand up in a pair of skates and fall over and break bones, and I’ve seen big stacks and people just get up and keep going. It is about knowing your body and when to roll, when to stop or slow and what to do when you get in those situations, because it happens so quickly.”
This is where training is vital, said Greg. Not something always easy to do for those in this sport, as it does use public roads and you need to navigate cars and people.
“You’ve really got to pick your times,” Greg said, adding that they will usually train very early on a weekend to avoid traffic as much as possible.
In places like Townsville and Victoria, the local councils do close off roads for the athletes to train and hold events. Something Greg says the Sunshine Coast Council could look into, given the perfect conditions on the Coast.
“There is the opportunity to do something with these hills, as there are plenty of them that would be absolutely amazing to have closed off, just occasionally, for just a few hours. You could even have a special weekend that people from Brisbane and beyond from the inline community come up for.”
Beerwah-Peachester Road, Maintenance Road and Phillips Road are just a few that come to his mind when asked where the best hills are.
“Phillips Road is my favourite, because it is the fastest. It is an absolute monster!” Greg laughed and
It can be dangerous for both skaters and cars when they try to train, but it also affects how they use the road too, which can hamper their training. “There are some hills where you need to go over to the right hand side to be able to get back into the corner of the left hand side effectively at racing speeds and that is too dangerous on a ‘live road’,” Greg explained.
One of the greatest things about following his dreams is also knowing others are watching on, like his kids and his dad. “My kids got to take my leather racing suit from the Australian team into ‘show and tell’ at school, so they are quite stoked. It has been a passion of mine for years.
“Because both of my brothers have passed away, I do it for them as well because that is where I started, doing it with them. And it’s for my kids and for my dad, as well as for
Greg is looking forward to representing Australia again in Rome and is already in training for the next World Skate Games in two years time.
“Since I’ve been back from Argentina I have done more hills than I had in the last 15 years,” he said, as he increases his training and competitive side.
“The next race is actually at Mount Panorama in Bathurst, and I never thought I’d get that opportunity either.
“That will be exciting,” Greg said with a wide smile. You can follow Greg’s journey on Instagram at Greg.casey.7
If any businesses are interested in sponsoring Greg they can get in touch via his Instagram or email: gregorypcasey81@hotmail.com
Greg is very happy to share tips on equipment and how to get into the sport with other athletes and is looking at potentially coaching at some stage.
An easement is the right to use another person's l a n d f o r a s t a t e d p u r p o s e. I t c a n i nvo l v e a general or specific por tion of the proper ty.
An example of where an easement can benefit a proper ty is where John owns a tract of land that borders the a national park which is a popular area for bushwalk ing and fishing. Mar y lives nex t door to John, but her land does not adjoin the national park To avoid trespassing, she must access the national park by walk ing or driving to a public entr y p o i n t I n s te a d, J o h n gr a n t s M a r y a n e a s e m e n t a l l o w i n g p re s e n t a n d f u t u re o w n e r s o f M a r y ' s proper ty to cross John's land to access the national park
How does an easement effec t the person who grants it? The landowner who grants an easement usually cannot build struc tures within an easement area or use fencing that would hinder access Other ac tivities might also be prohibited I t is therefore impor tant that before you a purchase proper ty you k now where all easements are located and what restric tions are associated with them.
Easements can affect proper ty values - consider these examples:
Ÿ S e v e r a l e a s e m e n t s o n o n e l o t o f l a n d m i g h t seriously limit the choice of building sites
Ÿ H i g h te n s i o n p owe r l i n e s r u n n i n g t h ro ug h a n easement near an other wise great building site can be unsightly Resale values may be affected since many people feel that living too close to power lines is a health risk
Ÿ Buyers may simply not like the idea that others have a right to use the land in some way.
Don' t that because an easement is not will never be used As long as r e d o n t h e t i t l e o f t h e s a p o s s i b i l i t y t h a t t h e f ro m i t w i l l d e c i d e t o
Monday, Tuesday Thursday, Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm; Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm; Saturday by appointment
“I noticed Kim’s motor coordination took longer to kick in, and it informed my teaching, to realise that not all kids were the same. When Kim was three, I took him to a Musical Inspiration class, and that was where his path began really.
“I am musical like him. I remember when Kim started conducting the Cathedral Choir in Rocky, and I took over for him for a while. I love music, and if I can’t hear phrasing when I’m dancing, I can’t dance properly.”
In 2005 Colleen was living in Rockhampton and had Glandular Fever and Ross River Fever at the same time. She developed Chronic Fatigue as a result and needed to take long service leave.
“When I retired from teaching, I took up tap dancing in Rockhampton for three years, then when I moved to Maleny I did some more tap dancing for a few years.
By VICTORIA MCGUINColleen Ahern has just finished her ballet class, dancing en pointe under the guidance of her teacher, Fiona Jopp, at The Dance Academy in Maleny. Colleen was born in June 1943, and is a shining example of how you can relish new challenges and keep learning at any age.
“I grew up in Cairns, in a musical family, and all my siblings played a musical instrument,” said Colleen. “I danced until I was 11 years old when my teacher went to Sydney, and since then I managed to dance for a year in my early 20s and a couple of years of jazz in my 30s.”
Colleen’s two great loves have been ballet and mathematics. “I worked for a few years as a statistician, but desperately wanted a child, so I left and took up teaching for the hours and school holidays.”
Colleen had a little boy, who has grown to be a familiar name in the hinterland, musician/conductor Kim Kirkman.
“And then my luck changed as I met Dawn Thomas at the show in Maleny and she had just started her dance school, The Dance Academy. In August 2018 I began adult ballet with her and a lovely group of women and one man, although now we sometimes have two men.”
“We teach Colleen three times a week,” said Dawn, “in ballet and tap, along with about eight-to-twelve other regulars in her class. She is a great tapper!”
“Some of the group have been tapping for years, and we even have a lady come up from Glasshouse to dance with us,” shared Colleen. “They are all lovely. The class came out to help me celebrate my 80th birthday, and every Christmas Tabitha, who dances with me, organises a Christmas
As for the ballet, teacher Fiona is impressed with how far Colleen has come
“I can push Colleen quite hard, as she is very strong,” said Fiona.
Colleen Ahern pops on her pointe shoes, or tackles a timestep in tap class, every week – not bad for a woman who recently celebrated her 80th birthday!
Homegrown Cafe
A must visit for breakfast, lunch or to enjoy the home made baked goods. Serving locally sourced produce and small batch in-house roasted coffee. Café or garden seating. Seasonal dinner first Saturday of the month. FB: “HomeGrownPalmwoods”
4/6 Little Main St. Palmwoods
0458 270 368
HOURS:
Tue - Sat: 7:00am - 2:00pm Sunday and Monday Closed
MALENY
The Maleny Pie Guy
Treat. Your. Self. Real. 'Cos if you're going to treat yourself, do it properly. Real food, made with real local ingredients and real passion. Really!
13 Maple St. MALENY
0479 042 845
HOURS
Open 7 Days: 8:00am - 3:30pm
There is a new gin in town
- Twelve
“I found early on that my energy seemed limitless. At 12, I started a business refurbishing push-bikes, ran a paper round, and worked as a gamekeeper’s assistant until I joined the military at 18. These experiences taught me the value of hard work, initiative, and time management. Between that, long-distance cycling with my local group, kayaking, and staying physically active, I was in pursuit of adventure.
“The military was a natural progression and one which both friends, teachers and family could see was the obvious choice for me,” Andy shared.
“I was exceptionally lucky during my service to hold six command positions, fly on multiple types of aircraft, deploy on multiple operations, receive medals, and as a mountaineer, climb and ski in multiple countries.
“I was fortunate to have worked for and with some incredible people – watching people grow and prosper in particular was, and still is, an incredibly rewarding experience.”
“The military was not just about accolades and achievements though. It tested my mettle and taught me invaluable life lessons: commitment, loyalty, humility, dedication, and tenacity. I feel humbled to have seen these qualities in spades in the people I worked with so many times.”
Despite his obvious enjoyment and appreciation of military life, Andy came to a natural breakpoint, admitting he was both worn out and in need of a change.
“I needed a totally different direction to follow with challenges and experiences that I could control," he said.
“It’s taken me nearly two years to essentially decompress from the intensity of military life, and I still have some way to go, for sure. The challenge is to channel energy into something else, and my Twelve and a Half Acres gin is a very positive new venture.
By VICTORIA MCGUINAndy grew up in rural England in a pictureperfect village that was part of a vibrant farming community. His hard working and supportive parents gave him the encouragement and freedom within this tight-knit community environment that laid the foundation for where he is today.
“I had what you could describe as the ideal childhood – working on farms on a Saturday and during school holidays,” he said.
$25 per head includes a scrumptious assortment of sweets & savouries, tea or cappuccino OR $30 per head to include champagne.
“I feel that whilst this is my journey, my family and friends are there supporting me and encouraging me throughout. This is a collective journey.”
Andy's dream is to be sustainable, while producing a quality product that people really want to have in their drinks’ cabinet.
“I’m not interested in being a huge distillery, just a bloody good one that cares about what it does and the community. I’m passionate about producing the best product possible with native/local and my own ingredients in an ecologically sustainable manner – and being an integral part of the community.”
and a Half Acresand it’s produced by Andrew Lancaster, right here in the hills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.Andrew holding a bottle of his new gin, Twelve and a Half Acres
Andy feels a close connection to the land he owns in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland – hence the distillery name. “I am lucky enough to live in a beautiful part of the country – I see spectacular sunrises and sunsets looking over my 12.5 acres.
“I want to replant native trees, and I’ve just joined Care for Wildlife, an organisation which aims to clear the habitat of invasive species and plant native trees to encourage native local wildlife.
“I want to leave 12.5 acres in a better state than when I bought the property. I feel it sustains me and I need to sustain it …. that’s what I want my product to say and feel.”
I asked what Andy's day entails, now he is the owner, distiller, and operations manager of his business!
“After a morning run and local coffee, I start the distilling preparation at 8.30am. This begins with weighing the botanicals, charging the still with premium grade neutral spirit and preparing the equipment required to distil. At 9am I start distilling, ensuring all safety measures are in place.
“Between 9am and 6pm, I conduct 30-minute checks
and measurements, recording everything, and also prep bottles for shipment and do the bottling. Between 6 and 7pm I clean up the distillery and then finish any paperwork. Distilling days are long!
“As I mentioned earlier, my main vision is to be selfsustaining - that is, I use rainwater, solar electric to power the stills, grow as many of the botanicals as possible.”
Andy has served an internship at Sunshine & Sons under head distiller Adam Chapman and had the support of owners Matthew Hobson and Michael Conrad in learning how to distil.
“I have been very lucky to have the support of Adam Chapman, an award-winning Australian distiller and distilling educator, guide me throughout this journey –the support I have had has been invaluable and has led me to the point that we were all happy to go to market
“I really want people to enjoy the product they are drinking – for them to say ‘wow, that tastes good’ and then know the story behind the spirit.
“I’d like people to be inspired that you can change direction in life at any stage; you can do something different.”
Nearly two years later, market coordinators from Beerburrum, Beerwah, Maleny, Montville, Mooloolah and Mapleton continue to connect over common values and shared experiences, and explore ways to support each other in their volunteer roles.
At the beginning of 2022 the group obtained funding from the Sunshine Coast Council’s Economic Development Grants Program for a specific marketing push for the Trail. This let members of the Trail work with local marketing duo Lachie and Fynn from Marco Marketing to develop a new social media strategy.
Lachie visited each market and took photos and videos for use in promoting the Trail. Working with Marco enabled the markets to increase their connection with the community and strengthen the brand awareness of HMT.
Director of Marco, Lachie Finch said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the team at the Hinterland Market Trail to highlight the amazing people, businesses and communities of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland markets.
“I would recommend the Hinterland Market Trail to both visitors and locals. I encourage people to make a day out of their visit, as the markets are surrounded by other incredible natural landmarks and locations worth seeing.”
SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
Montville Growers and Makers Market 7:30am - 12pm
Piping hot pancakes, buskers, genuine locally grown food, handmade craft, barista made coffee, under historic fig trees, profits maintain our Village Hall. Stall holder enquires: Liz 0424 042 376
THIRD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
Witta Growers Markets 7:30am - 12pm
50+ stalls, this vibrant market has everything from fresh local produce to gourmet food, quality art and craft, live music, hot food and coffee. email: wittamarket@gmail.com
FOURTH SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
Mapleton Country Markets 8am - 12pm
Fresh fluffy waffles, sourdoughs, jams and chutneys, honey, pestos, plants, timber, jewellery, arts and crafts. Hot food, coffee van, live music. Ph 0419 726 603
The Hinterland Market Trail is more than just markets, the aim is to promote the whole experience of visiting a Hinterland Market Trail location; the community, the people, the makers and growers, the rich history of the townships, the local businesses, the amazing natural landmarks, and the world famous scenery.
When you visit a market on the Trail and talk to a stall holder, you can feel their passion for their product. When you buy these products, you are directly supporting the person you bought it from.
The Hinterland Market Trail is for the community, run by the community. The markets bring communities together socially, and have been for many years, introducing non-community members to the people and places of each location, to support their products and to hear their stories.
The Hinterland Market Trail was established in January 2021 when organisers from six Glasshouse Country and Hinterland markets met to share ideas to enhance and promote the wonderful markets on offer in the local area.
The group continues to meet every second month and is committed to work together, tackle any arising challenges, and stand united in offering the best possible market for their own local community. For other markets within the Hinterland interested in joining the trail please head to the Facebook page for further details, or make contact by emailing qcwabeerwah@gmail.com.
TO PROMOTE YOUR MARKET OR STALL HERE email sales@sunnycoastmedia.com.au
TO PROMOTE YOUR MARKET OR STALL HERE email sales@sunnycoastmedia.com.au
The purpose of the group was not just to promote the markets under the umbrella of the Hinterland Market Trail, but it was also an opportunity to share ideas, resources, and the challenges of running a community market.
Local. Flexible. Available. That’s our home lenders.
Whether you’re looking to buy, invest or refinance, I’m here to help you through every step.
Whether you’re looking to buy, invest or refinance, I’m here to help you through every step.
My name is Stephanie Thomas and I’m your local CommBank Home Lending Specialist. Book an appointment today. 0499 571 920 stephanie.thomas1@cba.com.au
My name is Stephanie Thomas and I’m your local CommBank Home Lending Specialist. Book an appointment today.
0499 571 920 stephanie.thomas1@cba.com.au
Monica – Reading, gardening, visiting local natural attractions, trying good food at local restaurants and cafes.
What do you enjoy the most about the Sunshine Coast Hinterland?
Roger – A wonderful sense of community combined with a fabulous climate.
Monica - The weather, the spectacular scenery, the mix of people, the eclectic flair, the warm embrace.
Do you have a favourite quote which inspires you?
Roger – Life is mostly froth and bubble; two things stand like stone; kindness in another’s trouble; courage in your own.
Monica – If it is to be, it’s up to me.
Roger Loughnan Real Estate, Corner of Post Office Road and Obi Obi Road, Mapleton, 4560 / Ph (07) 5478 5288 / Website: rogerloughnanrealestate.com.au
Where did you grow up?
Roger - Mitchell, South West Queensland
Monica – Mitchell, South West Queensland
What made you move to the hinterland and base your business here?
Roger – I fell in love with Maleny on the first visit. Monica – Lifestyle choice and it is far more rewarding than competing for business than in the rat race.
What does a 'typical' day entail for you?
Roger and Monica - Speaking with clients, listing properties and showing our gorgeous hinterland properties to prospective buyers. Making long-lasting
connections with new owners to the hinterland and endorsing our beautiful community.
Do you have any funny or fascinating stories/ anecdotes to share?
Roger - We have had potential buyers coming in wanting to buy but waiting on a family inheritance from Africa! Shows how convincing some internet scams have become, sadly.
Monica - I am amazed how many people turn up to look at rural properties with thongs on and no hat.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Roger – Reading true stories, riding my motorbike around the hinterland and catching up with friends.
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. Contact
This month for our Q&A profile we chat with Roger Loughnan and Monica McLaren from Roger Loughnan Real Estate in Mapleton. This welcoming and experienced real estate business has been helping people buy and sell homes in the hinterland for over 25 years.
The key foundation of the nation of Australia was laid in the nineteenth century with the nation-wide theft of land - officially practised and condoned – by British Imperial (and armed) power. That power was duly inherited by the Australian nation at federation.
“Power” is a key word. I am reminded of a phrase that the great American twentieth-century theologian Reinhold Niebuhr used as he reflected on the exercise of power.
He focussed on the most dominant power-holders in society, and he discerned a pattern of control and influence that was present but not obvious. There was a phase that went something like this: "Power is tempted to cloak itself." He expanded on that phase as follows: ...[those holding power], whether economic or political, will seek to hide thier real purposes and power from the scrutiny of their fellows.
In mind was the systemic power held by those who had established systems of power-exercising that not only protected their power, but also structured it so that it was never questioned.
Speaking of power, it is well to be reminded of the words if Thomas Buxton, an English evangelical parliamentarian and chairman of a House of Commons committe that in 1836-37 was examining the expansion of British Imperial power in Australia.
The words of its Report included the following:
It might be presumed that the native inhabitants of any land have an incontrovertible right to their own soil: a plain and sacred right....The land has been taken from them without the assertion of any other title than that of superior force'.
And that taking ‘by force’ continued for almost a century or more after 1837 in the ongoing violent dispossessing of Indigenous people.
I recalled both Buxton’s and Niebuhr’s words as I reflected on dimensions surrounding, and embedded, in the referendum process that we Australians will be going through later this year.
A consequence of the combined ‘force’ and overwhelming power of armed British troops and armed British settlers, was that the institutions of control thus set up in Australia were designed to perpetuate the power
As an illustration, consider the history of the establishment of democracy in Australia throughout the nineteenth century. Becuase of both white supremacy, and male supremacy, the state parliaments which governed Australia up to 1901, were entirely filled with white males.
Indeed, white male power reigned systemically throughout Australia in regards to the composition of parliaments, the judiciary and the police forces up until recent times.
What has this to do with the forthcoming referendum on a Voice to parliament? A good deal. It will witness the perpetuation of the exercise of white power over the destiny of Indigenous Australians.
The following factors reinforce that perpetuation. Firstly, the overwhelming numbers of officials, settlers and migrants who occupied Australia in the nineteenth century were white. Their descendants (including this writer) have been the majority ethnic group occupying this continent and its islands from the mid-to-late nineteenth century down to the present day.
Secondly, the Australian Constitution, adopted in 1901, provided a cover for the unquestioned exercising of the power by this distinctive majority in every referendum held since federation.
The wording of the relevant clause in the Constitution, Item 128 entitled Mode of altering the Constitution reads in part:
And if in a majority of the States a majority of the electors voting approve the proposed law, and if a majority of all the electors voting also approve the proposed law, it shall be presented to the Governor-General for the [monarch]'s assent.
Every referendum held in Australia since federation has resulted in the issue being decided by the white majority of those voting.
This will be the case in 2023 because white Australians make up the majority numbers across the electorate in every state and territory.
The systemic voting power arrangements mean that in any referendum touching on the destiny of Indigenous people, white Australians decide that destiny.
Ponder that.
This is a space for the wide community to submit their considered deliberations on news, life and the idiosyncrasies of our times. Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au
Indulge in the IAGO World Premiere on August 9 at 7pm, where you'll be welcomed with a sparkling flute of champagne and delectable canapés. Experience an exclusive opportunity to engage in a captivating Q&A session with the esteemed IAGO creative team including writer, director, designers, choreographer and talented actors.
Montville Village Hall, formerly the Montville School of Arts is a fitting venue for a glittering opening night of Douglas Hackett's new play before it goes on a national tour with ambitions for Broadway. Be one of the special few to experience this dream-like production before the world is woken to it.
Two actors gather in an apartment. One, a seasoned pro, is playing Othello. The other, an up-and-comer, is playing Iago. As their intimate rehearsals transform into consummated love, words, worlds and bodies collide. Will their relationship survive?
Directed by Michael Beh with dramaturgy by acclaimed Australian playwright Stephen Sewell, IAGO is a play; a modern reframing of William Shakespeare’s OTHELLO through the lens of its central relationship. Other performances on August 10 at 3pm and 7pm, visit therangebowfestival.org to book tickets for this incredible play.
Australia’s only authentic 1920s-30s singer is joined with his band and two great Queensland musicians for an exciting dinner and dance, jazz and swing show at Caloundra Power Boat Club, on August 19 and 20.
Presented by the Sunshine Coast Jazz Club, there are two shows to see Greg Poppleton who has been voted best 1920’s entertainer in Australia - the Saturday Dinner Show, 6pm - 9.30pm, and Sunday 1pm - 3.30pm.
Greg Poppleton caught the jazz bug at the age of three after seeing Louis Armstrong on TV. To his parent's despair he never had any interest in contemporary popular music and is totally uninfluenced by it. He has his own style, unschooled and uncompromised by the jazz academy.
Greg has over 20 years of live jazz performance, and according to US and Australian critics, he captures the essence of the Swing Era with “uncanny accuracy"and brings the era to life with a dazzling Hollywood experience.
The band consists of Greg Poppleton (1920s-1930s Vocals), Geoff Power (Trumpet), Damon Poppleton (Alto Sax), Tony Barnard (Guitar), Adam Barnard (Washboard and Snare), Will Sargisson (Keyboard) and Richard Stevens (Sousaphone). Bookings and payment, call Julie on 0427782960, tickets from $55 for the Saturday night Dinner Show or from $25 for the Sunday show.Further information: sunshinecoastjazzclub.net.au
Art lovers are invited to the Noosa Open Studios annual fundraiser auction on Friday September 1, from 5pm to 8pm at the Butter Factory Art Centre in Cooroy. Chef Matt Golinski, Noosa Open Studios’ patron, will cater the event with a special surprise: a canapé specifically designed for our local art event.
During the fundraising event you will meet with artists, art lovers, and public figures, amidst an art exhibition of over 100 artists participating in the Noosa Open Studios in 2023. The summit of the night will be the auction of 25 artistic aprons. The apron is the link between art and food, a combination promoting the quintessential experience of our picturesque Noosa region. These aprons are unique pieces of art and will certainly impress your friends at any dinner party.
The auction also includes five Experiences, which will give to the winners the opportunity to spend a day with their favourite artist making art together.
Come to this fantastic event where ‘Art will be Served’ with a diversity and intensity of flavours to satisfy all tastes! Tickets will be on sale soon. Keep an eye on the website: noosaopenstudios.com.au or follow them @ noosaopenstudios. (Pictured: Simone Lea, Noosa Open Studios President.)
Yandina welcomes guest artist Allan Reed to the ACMA (Australasian Country Music Association) concert on Sunday, August 20. Allan’s energy and great range of songs guarantee entertainment! You’ll also enjoy popular country music and other upbeat, crowd-pleasing favourites from local artists backed by a great house band. See you at the Hall of Fame, 24 Steggalls Road, Yandina for a 12 noon start. There is a raffle and door prizes, BYO lunch, plus free tea and coffee. Entry is $8, and for any enquiries call 0437 191004. This is a not-for-profit organisation and the proceeds will go towards the upkeep of the hall.
Presented as part of Horizon Festival in partnership with Anglican Parish of Maleny and Maleny Film Society, this LivingWaters:AShortFilmEvent is a celebration of interconnectedness and an exploration of belonging to each other and to the earth.
Friday September 1, 6.30pm, Main Hall, Maleny Community Centre, 23 Maple Street, Maleny, cost from $10. LivingWaters features a selection of short films from across the world and a panel conversation with local filmmaker John Harvey; Anglican Priest, Deb Bird; and international permaculture pioneer, leadership facilitator and author, Robin Clayfield. Visit horizonfestival.com.au to book tickets.
Innovative and boundary-pushing, the Black Square Quartet bring their hauntingly beautiful string music to Coolum, Eudlo and Maleny this August 19 - 25.
Inspired by the iconic and controversial artwork, TheBlackSquare, by Kasimir Malevich, one of the first true examples of artistic minimalism, the quartet is set to captivate and inspire audiences with their fresh perspective on classical music.
The Black Square Quartet brings together a fusion of musical genres, including Contemporary, Nordic Folk, Balkan Gypsy, and Renaissance music, weaving a tapestry of diverse sounds that redefine the boundaries of classical music.
Audiences will have the opportunity to experience a unique repertoire featuring captivating works of acclaimed composers such as Caroline Shaw, Thomas Green, Jessie Montgomery, Danish String Quartet, Michael Bacrncev, and the quartet's very own
HAUNTINGLY
Michael Patterson.
As violinist Camille Barry explains "We can't wait to bring this unique programme to audiences on the Sunshine Coast. This selection of works traverses time, cultures and genres - there's something in there for everyone. We're passionate about new music, so it's an honour to be able to perform several works by homegrown composers.”
The Black Square Quartet was founded in 2018 and is committed to promoting new and Australian music – they bring a fresh perspective to classical music that is both inspiring and unforgettable.
The Black Square Quartet Sunshine Coast tour is presented by local performing arts company Red Chair with the support of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland. (Photo by Thomas Green.) For full details, visit: redchair.com.au
LIVING WATERS: A SHORT FILM EVENT
Come and see Lior perform an intimate sunset concert on Saturday September 2, 5.30pm at Bankfoot House Heritage Precinct, 1998 Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains.
This is a chance to hear acclaimed singer-songwriter Lior in a manner harking back to archetypal ‘salon’ concerts; where the audience and performers share an evening enjoying the connection that only proximity can offer. (Not familiar with Lior? Take a listen lior. com.au)
Lior burst on to the Australian music scene in 2005 with his stunning debut album, Autumn Flow. Recorded and released entirely independently, the album became one of the most successful independent debuts in Australian history. Lior is known for his dynamic and moving performances, which have earned him a reputation as one of Australia’s finest live performers. He is part of a rare breed of artists who have achieved success and critical acclaim, while maintaining an independence and individuality in their craft. To book visit horizonfestival.com.au
Sunshine Coast writer Joanna Barrett’s memoir set in 1970s Tasmania was launched in Beerwah recently. The memoir is called They said we were isolated: my life at Top Farm on Tasmania’s west coast and is published under Joanna’s nom de plume, Joanna Talberg.
The memoir tells the story of Joanna’s and husband Peter’s unlikely adventures on a neglected cattle property on the wild west coast of Tasmania, north west of the town of Zeehan along a hazardous track.
“In 1974 Peter and I went to the west coast with the dream of turning Top Farm into a thriving cattle enterprise,” she said. “But with cattle prices falling, weather gods that decreed more rain than sun, and our savings shrinking, we faced a choice,” she said.
“Should we stay and try to survive through the cattle downturn, or should we drive away forever from the farm at the end of the track?”
Copies of Joanna’s memoir are available now at Beerwah Newsagency and at Rosetta Books in Maleny. They said we were isolated is also available at ginninderrapress.com.au, barnesandnoble.com, and Amazon Books.
The Jazz and Blues Collective presents Slips & the F.W.’s (Flamin’ Whippersnappers), an eclectic collection of musicians from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Toowoomba who love to reignite the spark and charm of early Blues, Traditional Jazz and Ragtime tunes from the 1900s to 1930s. Taking influences from Clarence Williams, Blind Boy Fuller and Spencer Williams to name a few, Slips & The F.W's thrive on performing classic numbers and originals in their own unique way bringing a taste of New Orleans wherever they may roam.
Sunday September 3, Millwell Road Community Centre, 11 Millwell Rd East, Maroochydore. Music from 1.30pm to 4pm (doors open 1pm).
A coffee van will be on site from 12.30pm, BYO liquor licence, you are welcome to bring your own food and drink. Enquiries: Graeme 0417 633 734, bookings: ticketebo.com.au/jazz-blues-collective
Dear reader: a celebration of readers, writers and libraries, is presented as part of the Horizon Festival by Sunshine Coast Libraries, on Saturday September 2, 9.30am – 4pm, at Beerwah Heart Precinct.
Meet and mingle with successful local authors, join exciting storytelling sessions, hear compelling First Nations stories, find your next great read, and immerse yourself in a range of fun activities for all ages.
If you are an aspiring author, come and get hands-on with a series of creative writing and publishing workshops which will inspire you to follow your literary dreams.
horizonfestival.com.au
Choose from contemporary character writing, historical non-fiction, memoir, self-help and wellness, authentic crime, screenwriting and more. Workshops from $22, Book Emporium – free, visit horizonfestival.com.au for details.
Iconic Australian jazz singer Monica Trapaga is coming to Maleny! Monica will be accompanied by a quartet of her favourite musicians – Tod Hardy (trumpet), Steve Russell (piano), Helen Russell (bass) and Dave Sanders (drums).
A consummate singer, actor and author Monica was also a beloved presenter on Playschool. Her warm and witty approach has brought her success as a jazz singer at major festivals across the world.
In July 1988 she founded Monica and the Moochers in Sydney, and their first studio album, Too Darn Hot, was released by August 1990. Their second studio album, Cotton on the Breeze, was nominated for Best Adult Contemporary Album at the Aria Music Awards 1992.
In an afternoon of fabulous jazz on August 6 from 2pm, Monica will share her favourite tunes and tales of a life well lived, then join us for wine on the deck. Bookings and further information malenyartscouncil.com
The Grand Marquee at Russell Family Park, 196 Main Street, Montville is the location for the Mumm Sparkling Symphony on Sunday 13 August from 6pm–8pm.
Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra plays popular classics and compositions from emerging youth artists performed, with The Rangebow Children’s Orchestra supported by world-renowned chamber orchestra Topology. Note:eachofTheRangebow Children'sOrchestrayoung musicianswhoareperforming with the Sunshine Coast SymphonyOrchestrareceive a free ticket for their own admission plus one free ticket foranaccompanyingparentor guardian. To book tickets, visit therangebowfestival.org
The Blak Laundry is a functional laundromat — and exhibition space — for conversation, collaboration and celebration of all things Blak.
Activated by Libby Harward and Dominique Chen, the concept is simple: bring your dirty linen, pop it on a warm wash, and engage in critical conversation whilst it cleans.
In The Blak Laundry, everything comes out in the wash. The exhibition and laundromat are open daily, 1/3 Panorama Place, Maleny. No bookings required. Pop–up performance pieces with invited guests that agitate ideas and discussion on various dates will cost $11. Visit horizonfestival.com.au for upcoming performance dates. (Image - Ketakii Jewson-Brown)
Legendary singer-songwriter Col Finley returns with another country rock banger, SingIt4U This new offering is an ode to say thank you for the stories, the people who share their stories and to celebrate Col Finley’s 30-year gift of writing songs. Songs that lift spirits in times of need, create joy in times of sadness and pave memories.
Col has always been grateful to his family, friends, and fans for allowing him to take their stories and create a lyrical journey, showing respect and integrity to those people and their narrative.
A huge tour is coming that will see Col out on the road for the remainder of 2023 and into 2024, and proves that he continues to be a strong live entertainer and a driving force in the Australian country music community. Col’s first show is August 4, 7pm, at the Maleny Hotel, followed by shows at the Back to Basics Music Muster, the Gympie Music Muster and many more!
Col Finley’s new single ‘SingIt4U’ is out on radio now, and on all digital platforms. Visit colfinleyofficial on Facebook for tour information and updates.
I cannot believe there is actually a ‘No’ campaign happening right now. It makes me think people possibly don’t know what the Voice is about, thanks to the smear campaign, scaremongering and misdirection by Murdoch, his followers and some of the LNP?
The Voice is simply a request to have the First Nations people of Australia included in the constitution. They are just asking to have a representative advisory, independent ‘voice’ to parliament. There are no veto powers involved, just advisory in matters that affect Indigenous peoples’ lives.
Isn’t it about time they had some say in their lives? Why should we (white settlers) have the monopoly on that? Would you like it if the situation was reversed, and your culture/people were excluded from the constitution in your own country?
Not only that, but taxpayers stand to benefit because there will be bottom-up consultation first with communities to find effective ways to help in housing, education, health, etc., rather than throwing money at projects in a top-down manner (which often fails/wastes money) by people who have no true idea or lived experience regarding Indigenous communities.
The Indigenous people have been under-represented and misunderstood because they are being governed by a
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.
government who do not understand their issues the way they do.
And no, there is not an independent voice in parliament in the form of the National Indigenous Australians Agency –the NIAA and its employees are accountable to the executive government and cannot not give fearless advice and suggestions.
Additionally, the NIAA could be abolished tomorrow by executive order, while the proposed Voice would be safely enshrined in the constitution.
It is such a basic right to be recognised in the constitution! It’s time the rest of us (who aren’t affected and won’t be affected, despite what Murdoch pretends) did the decent and fair thing.
I truly hope Australians on the fence (and those saying ‘no’) take the time to read the Statement of the Heart. It isn’t long, and essentially it invites Australians to ALL walk together to build a better future.
It is time for Indigenous people to take a rightful place in their own country. Please put yourself in their shoes… “When we have power over our own destiny our children will flourish.”
I hope with all my heart you vote ‘yes’.
Name and address supplied
1. What type of food is Limburger?
2. What is a real animal: chiselfish, sawfish, wrenchfish?
3. In The Flintstones cartoons, what type of creature is Dino?
22.
Oasis (5)
2. More than two or three but not many (7)
3. Of long duration (3)
4. Gaped (6)
5. Fruit (7)
6. Stage whisper (5)
7. Machines (7)
12. Piece of furniture (7)
13. Complaint (7)
15. Tooth (7)
16. Ravine formed by a river (6)
18. Racket (5)
20. Hex (5)
22. Toddler (3)
4. Introduced in the 1960s, how many wheels did a Flymo mower have on the ground?
5. In Australian financial circles, what is the RBA?
6. Name any of the chemicals known as halogens.
7. On an analogue clock with natural numbers, the tip of the minute hand is closest to which number at 2.36?
8. What is the first name of Italian tenor Bocelli?
9. What was the name of Mattel’s Barbie doll’s boyfriend?
10. What car manufacturer has a model called Prado?
It seems there is an application for a Coles in Palmwoods. The community is in two camps about this, and misinformation is rife on social media.
Could Councillor Winston Johnston please update us on what is happening? The developers seem to think it is almost a ‘done deal’.
Putting a statement out in the papers would help. Thank you.
J. Hayes, Palmwoods
We were so sad to read about the closure of the doctors’ surgery in Montville, and then the pharmacy. Visiting Montville today (Wednesday) we knew it would seem a bit quieter, but it was not good to see both cafes in the little square closed for the day! Surely it would be wise for at least one of them to be open?
Cafes attract people, and that means the IGA, secondhand bookshop and fudge shop will still get some custom. I am amazed that they haven’t arranged for one of them to be open each day to help the square as a whole and cater for tourists and locals. Not a good look and not helpful for the other businesses. Come on cafes, time to look at taking turns.
Dismayed from Nambour Heights
I asked my friend to explain what an acorn was, They said it’s an oak tree, in a nutshell.
I bought a friend an elephant for his room. He said, “Thanks.”
I said, “Don’t mention it.”
How do meteorologists go up a mountain? They climate.
“Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.”
Poetry is an arrangement of language, artistic word pictures that attempt to inspire imagination, evoke emotion and provoke humour. Poets are illustrators of words that create beauty and intensity, and the HT is proud to give them a platform. Please note, published poems may be read/recorded for our social pages.
Bury me not too deep on a high sun-swept ridge the soil a soft chocolate brown a slow breeze blending the grasses. Do not fence me in or set a polished stone use your bare hands the backs of which when caught in the light show clearly the swirling rivers of time etched on the skin to make a circular mound round like the top of a skull. When you are done wander below that tomb stone ridge until you find a bunya pinecone left high and dry after a summer of flood roll it back with your foot and set it like a candle in the middle of the mound. Slowly the cone will burn down into the soil and a young tree will break free
its roots will push down and find me below wormed and organic.
The molecular stain that shadows the soil will move and migrate like a microscopic river breaking its banks a storm cloud bruise in the flesh of the earth conveying me up through the roots along the branches into the leaves onwards to osmosis. Every spring the hollow boned birds will set and nest the children will come to play under outstretched limbs in a world of silly songs and talk of birthday parties.
Until one day the tree will refuse to live and fall silent while the rain and sun create the magic above of a multi-hued rainbow.
© John KoenigThe Schools Subsidy Scheme assists schools with the cost of projects that aim to enhance learning outcomes for students and the community. These are jobs that often fall outside of the scope of other infrastructure programs offered by the Department of Education.
All Queensland state schools are eligible to seek funding to initiate projects of $50,000$500,000 under the scheme.
“I would encourage all schools and their P&Cs to have a look at the scheme if they have a project in need of funding which isn’t fitting into the niche of existing infrastructure programs,” concluded Mr Powell.
The deadline is approaching for our HT Young Writer of the Year Award entries. August 31st is the time to have your entries in to win $500, plus a huge amount of prizes!
The subject is ‘I REALISED I WAS LOST…’
You can use these five words to create a story/scene or recount a real-life experience. The word limit is 600 words. Please add name, age, and contact details when submitting your story to editor@ hinterlandtimes.com.au
The entry age range is 10- 17 years. Due to the differing age ranges, the overriding criteria is how descriptive and evocative a story is – essentially, how a piece made us feel, rather than the grammar and punctuation.
So start writing - your front cover, published story and prizes await!
Member for Glass House Andrew Powell MP has celebrated with the students (and staff) of Montville State School following the announcement that they would be receiving significant funding to upgrade their playground.
The school has been granted $453,757 under the 2023-24 Schools Subsidy Scheme to renovate and improve their playground and outdoor area.
“I recently popped into the school and met grade three students Rosie and Danny to hear their thoughts on the news,” said Mr Powell.
“They were very excited about the possibilities and eagerly shared their dreams for bigger and better play equipment. Fortunately, I know Principal Mr Adam Montgomery is keen to hear from the students and the parents on their ideas for the area.”
“The school has been furiously fundraising and will be chipping in more than $100,000 themselves. Combined, the funds will also allow them to address some longstanding drainage issues on the site of the playground,” continued Mr Powell.
People living in tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) on rural land are allegedly being asked to relocate by Sunshine Coast Council. Steve, a Maleny landowner, claims he has been asked to remove a tiny home on his property after a neighbour complaint.
He wrote to Council asking them to review their decision. “Our THOW is part of the solution, and I encourage Council to prioritise more affordable housing options and solutions for more individuals,” said Steve. Caravans, buses, and tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are classed as temporary accommodation and managed by a local law. Without a permit, they can only be lived in for four weeks in a 52-week period; with a permit for a maximum of 18 months.
Concerned members of the hinterland community are asking the council to recognise that these forms of housing are permanent choices of housing and need to be in the town plan.
If you would like to help, start a petition today. A petition template is available on the regensunshinecoast.au website, along with up-to-date information on the Tiny Community Living Campaign.
Protecting our region’s natural assets and managing growth remain among the top priorities for residents, as the community continues to give valuable feedback to help create a healthy environment and liveable Sunshine Coast.
Sunshine Coast Council has released the phase one engagement findings as it works to refresh its Environment and Liveability Strategy, and now the community has another opportunity to learn more about the project and provide input.
Now in its sixth year, the Strategy provides long-term direction for guiding growth and shaping the future of the region to deliver a healthy environment and liveable Sunshine Coast to 2041.
Many of us retire on the Coast dreaming of throwing in a line, relaxing by the pool and kayaking in the calm waterways. Many care for grandchildren over holidays or frail family, or work from home. We all visit the beaches. But accidents can happen. Do we know what to do in an emergency? Do we know how to help someone?
This is where the Royal Life Saving Society award, the Grey Medallion® fits in.
“The Grey Medallion® is not a swimming award, and you don’t have to be able to swim or even be fit to do it,” explained Course Facilitator Patricia Barry.
It's August - which means Sunshine Coast bushfire season is here. Council is getting ready - are you? Learn how bushfires' behave and what you can do to prepare. Get to know Council’s Disaster Hub website at disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au - so when a disaster happens you know where to go and what to do.
It's time for a little sun, surf and soul
This year’s Caloundra Music Festival serves up six stages of live music over three days from 29 September at Kings Beach. Arrested Development (USA) join award-winning national artists including Kasey Chambers, Illy, Spiderbait, The Black Sorrows, The Temper Trap and Vera Blue. Head to caloundramusicfestival.com for tickets and more information.
CUSTOMER CONTACT
sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Council/Contact-Council
Major grants now open - don't miss out Council is proud to support not-for-profit groups through its Community Grants Program. Community groups can seek Major Grant funding for projects or events that meet an identified need and provide local community benefit. The current round closes on 28 August. Visit Council's website to apply.
Want to weed out the weeds?
Learn how to manage invasive species on your property, meet a conservation dog, find out the benefits of biodiversity and much more at Council’s Invasive Plants and Animals Workshop event at Obi Obi Hall on Saturday 2 September from 9am - 1pm. The event is free and registration is essential. Visit Council’s website and search “Biosecurity Education Program” to register.
One for the calendar
Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting online or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers – 24 August at 9am.
Environment Portfolio
Maria Suarez said the second phase of engagement would ask residents for feedback on proposed changes to Strategic Directions in the Strategy that strengthen its position, acknowledge emerging challenges and opportunities and include the latest available information.
“These proposed changes include steps like recognising the urgent action required around climate change, incorporating the UN Sustainable Development Goals and our designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and further highlighting the importance of greener neighbourhoods, affordable living, accessibility and active transport.”
Council will run a series of webinars on its Have Your Say website to answer community questions and provide an overview of the Strategy, the refresh project and the proposed changes.
Engagement is open until August 13 at haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ ELSrefresh
“The two-day course teaches people water wise skills, how to deal with emergency situations, undertake CPR, use a defibrillator, and undertake what we call ‘dry rescues’, where you don’t need to even get into the water. We also include a section on water familiarisation for those who look after littlies.
“The course covers some basic First Aid and how to deal with the marine stings that we can get on the beach here,” continued Patricia.
This course has been sponsored by BreakFree Resort in Caloundra and Accountants United and it’s run by the Life Savers of Ithaca Caloundra City Life Saving Club. In previous years the course has seen many hinterland residents attend, due to their local use of lakes, lagoons and freshwater areas.
The two-day weekend Grey Medallion ® course will be held on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August between 9am and 4pm, at Grand Pacific BreakFree Resort in Caloundra. It is free, but donations are much appreciated.
To book, fill in the on-line enrolment form at caloundracity.org.au This course has been very popular in previous years, places are limited, and pre-enrolment is essential.
Some native birds, like magpies, can act defensively to protect their territory, their nests and their young. On the Sunshine Coast, this usually happens between July and November each year. Please be tolerant of these protected and iconic native birds if you walk or ride near nests. Search “defensive birds” on Council’s website for tips on how to protect yourself.
Attention all art lovers and makers
Are you looking for a comprehensive guide to artist opportunities, events and news? Look no further than the Artscoast e-journal. This monthly newsletter has everything you need to stay up-to-date with the vibrant world of arts on the Sunshine Coast. Subscribe now on Council’s website!
Get
Our quarterly Look Beyond the Label page is all about sharing the experiences and challenges of the very many Sunny Coast locals who are neurodivergent, rather than neurotypical. It’s a space for support, and a space to celebrate those whose brain processes change the way they learn, and/or behave from what is considered "typical”.
We welcome content and suggestions from the neurodivergent community and their families/ friends. Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au
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Ÿ Bowen Therapy
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Ÿ Postural Alignment
Going through the diagnosis process for something like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or one of the other neurodevelopmental disorders that come under the neurodivergent umbrella, often focuses on the negatives. Things an individual can’t do, finds difficult, skills that are lacking or different to a neurotypically developing person.
The diagnosis journey for autism in particular is primarily centred around its negative aspects; the challenges, obstacles, and symptoms associated with being autistic.
This model, called a deficit model, is very different to what autistic voices are now championing. In a neuroaffirming approach, we instead recognise that instead of deficits, these are differences. For example, if you were in a room of autistic people, the neurotypicals would appear quirky or odd.
As blogger Kristen Hovet writes, “My way of being and communicating socially is odd, problematic, or deficient only from a neurotypical standpoint.”
So, what do we see as a deficit in autism, that is actually a non-deficit?
Repetitive playing and happy stimming: Children lining up their cars rather than pushing them around a track is often noticed as an early indicator of differently developing play skills, and a focus for early intervention. Flapping hands when feeling excited and having big body movements that we would call stimming can be another early sign. But these actions often provide enjoyment; repeatedly experiencing the same soothing or joyful emotions with safe and repetitive play.
From a neurotypical viewpoint, it may appear unusual or different, but they might not fully grasp the richness and beauty found in those seemingly simple things that can evoke complex and vivid experiences for an autistic person.
Playing alone: We sometimes see our children walking around the playground rather than getting involved in a large social group game or playing with an activity on their own. This alone time is not always lonely. Not only is it a great opportunity to rest and refill your battery, but being able to fully engage with a toy or a thought without interruptions allows you to immerse into a magical realm of your own creation.
Autistic interests: Birds, Thomas the Tank Engine, Pokémon, or one of the other numerous special interests that our children have a depth of knowledge about are often the opposite of narrow or restricted. They can be remarkably expansive, deep, boundless. Looking in from the outside, you can truly appreciate them only by learning about their intricacies, their nuances, and the joy they can offer.
Parallel play: Playing near but not playing with. Although it can appear to be isolating, being near someone brings the soothing presence of a loved one. Knowing that person is there, and with you, but without any social pressure or expectation can often convey profound meaning beyond the limitations of words.
I truly believe that autistic play and joy is valid, valuable, meaningful. Continuing to approach everyone with kindness and compassion will help the next generation of autistic children feel safe, included and thrive.
Tailor-made treatments especially for you.
Julie’s love of horses began in the 1960s growing up on acreage in Sydney, but it’s only since she acquired a disability in her 50s that she’s been able to reignite her passion for them.
“Horses saved me when I was younger and now they’re saving me again,” says Julie, who has lived with scleroderma for nearly 15 years. (People with scleroderma produce too much collagen, which makes their connective tissue, including skin, hard and tight.)
“These days I’m less concerned about what’s going to happen in the future and I’m living for today and feeling happy in myself.”
Julie said in her early 50s her health started deteriorating, with doctors assuming her symptoms were related to menopause.
“I was tired all the time and because some of my other symptoms mimicked multiple sclerosis, doctors thought I might have that,” Julie said.
“It was a frustrating and scary time, especially because I didn’t know what was wrong, but I knew something was.”
It took years for doctors to accurately diagnose Julie with scleroderma, a rare long-term condition that affects the connective tissue of the body.
Not long after her diagnosis, the Sunshine Coast resident became seriously ill and was hospitalised for six months. Following her discharge, she required the use of a wheelchair for 18 months.
“This was a very hard time because I had to relearn how to do everything, including how to walk,” Julie said.
Julie, a former teacher who also worked in the special education department, said she managed to get her health back on track with a combination of a good diet, nutrition and keeping active and getting the right support.
helped her regain some independence.
“Without my NDIS-funded support workers I would not be able to contribute to my household or to attend equine therapy. I also have a small budget for equipment that I require, such as a wheelie walker and medical seating.”
Julie uses her own money to pay for equine therapy, but the NDIS does fund some assistive equipment to
make horse riding a possibility for her. This includes a cushion and special reins for her to hold on to the horse.
“I'm so grateful to NDIS for helping me, because they provide the support for me to go out there and enjoy the horses, but I pay for my lessons and my riding equipment. My dream is actually to get my own horse, but they’re not cheap,” she said.
“Equine therapy has not only been great for me physically, but mentally and socially.”
Julie now wants to help others who live with disability to discover the therapeutic benefits of spending time with horses, and next on her list is writing a course and developing guidelines for equine therapy.
“My mindset and outlook on life is much more positive. I now have to think in a different way and I have to live in a different way.”
Her advice for those living with a disability is to not to delay speaking with their doctor or allied health professional about the application process.
“And don’t forget to value yourself, and importantly, don’t let others devalue you just because you live with a disability.”
You can contact Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636, or cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au,
Why did you decide to become a skin cancer doctor, and what do you love about it?
Like many people, I was acutely aware of how much skin cancer there is in Queensland, and the amount of people needing care.
I love sharing my understanding of skin cancer with my patients, empowering them to care for their own skin. I enjoy being available for them for regular skin checks and any time that a worrying spot appears or changes.
Is there a specific area you are passionate about?
Finding skin cancers! My best friend is my dermatoscope, it lets me look into the upper layers of skin to improve diagnosis. I regularly study and attend courses to keep up to date with the latest understanding.
Why did you choose to practice at SunLife?
SunLife offers a wonderful, supportive team so I can focus on providing thorough skin cancer care in fantastic new facilities.
I am also really excited to have access to the very latest skin imaging technology to help in the early detection of melanoma for at-risk patients.
Finally we has to ask, what do you love about the Sunshine Coast?
The outdoor atmosphere, with lots of safe running and cycling tracts. And yes, I work hard to be sunsafe too!
Dr. Bronnie Hautala is an experienced skin cancer doctor and has undertaken multiple postgraduate courses including advanced certification. She now practices at the new SunLife Skin Cancer Care Centre on Wise Road, Buderin/ Maroochydore. New patient bookings (and long-term care) available
ife is HARD. Surging levels of mental and physiological stress are testament to the immense rising of complexity and overwhelming pressures in
How do we become resilient, tough enough, and adaptable enough to endure life’s challenges? And then show, teach and educate our important people how to do the same?
Mange our mindset.
There’s a ‘secret’ that all great historical and present thinkers, philosophers, and high achievers have agreed to be a universal truth. This secret revolves around this simple idea: You are what you think.
- English philosopher James Allen wrote: “As a man thinks, so he is; as he continues to think, so he remains.”
- Stoic and Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius wrote: “A man’s life is what his thoughts make of it.”
- Poet and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emmerson wrote “A man is what he thinks about all day long.”
- Author Earl Nightingale said: “We become what we think about,” and
- Mark Twain wrote: “Life consists mainly of the storm of thoughts that is forever flowing through one's head.”
All these great minds discovered the secret to living a happy, purposeful and productive life, and it’s this: We live in a world of thought.
Our thoughts create our experiences, and thus, we experience what we think. It is the quality of our thoughts, then, that creates the quality of our life. When we’re unhappy where we are in life, we seek to create change.
This Manage UR Mindset workshop is FILLED with an enormous amount of value - empowering you to take more control of what is happening in between your ears. Because how we think directly affects how we feel, or our emotional response, and how we feel or emotionally respond directly impacts how we act, react, respond, physically, or verbally.
Come along on August 5, 8 – 11am, Jamie Milne Training 2/7 Premier Circuit Warana. Tickets are $199 per person (2-for-1 deal), just visit evetbrite.com.au to book, and search for manage ur mindset. Post workshop, the JMT Mind Gym will be releasing a Manage UR Mindset Short course online. jamiemilnemindgym.com.au
mind to all of the possibilities and don’t limit yourself. Give yourself the freedom to dream. Then begin to create your vision board by gathering your “dream” materials (magazines, glue, scissors, photo’s, a board, pins etc) and use them to start creating your unique collage. Now imagine and dream, and find the images to accompany them. And remember these can be created anytime of the year.
There’s a beautiful activity that I do regularly that helps bring about my dreams. It’s creating a vision board that helps you zoom out and imagine your life from a bigger picture. It allows you to dream big, bigger than you ever have before because of the power of envisioning that creates a visual realisation of what you want to achieve.
I love creating vision boards because they keep my focus on what I desire and it opens the door to dreaming. I encourage you to try it, and I believe once you have you’ll love it and look forward to doing it as much as I do - and you’ll be amazed at the results.
When you’re ready, open your
With the abundance of information available to us on the internet, it is often difficult to discern how best to treat our foot and ankle aches and pains. Varying levels of successful treatment can come down to finding the correct cause of why you are experiencing this pain in the first place, which is exactly the main role of a podiatrist – not Google, not your neighbour, and not any other health provider.
Other professionals may look at your symptoms, and perhaps give you general advice, but the role of a podiatrist is to look at both the symptoms and the cause and give you a diagnosis based on those two factors. By making your first step to recovery a Podiatry appointment, you reduce the potential financial cost of bouncing around to other health professionals, only to end up back at the podiatrist.
Now is the time to stop wasting your time and your money.
Podiatrists are experts at the foot and ankle, and diagnosing the cause of bone or muscular pain is their speciality. Podiatry is a four-year university degree focusing on the lower limb, and then yearly continued education to advance skill sets, relating to the most current forms of best practice treatments.
Think of it this way, if you have tooth pain would you see a dentist, or your GP? You don’t need a referral to a podiatrist, so if you have a foot or ankle problem, it makes sense to see a foot and ankle expert.
Many health professionals treat a few areas of the body, but only one health professional’s job is to master the foot and ankle – podiatrists. Your money is worth more to you than spending it on a general opinion, rather than an expert’s opinion.
Seeing a podiatrist first and receiving the correct treatment straight away can eliminate the inconvenience of debilitating foot pain, which can lead to time away from work, or prevent you returning to your normal exercise regime.
You might only need 1-3 treatments with a podiatrist, a cost-effective choice when considering the alternative of spending money on internet promises or sub-par quality products, only to then go back to a health professional and start all over again!
You don’t need to live with foot pain – you just need to visit Stepping Out Podiatry Ph: 1300 881 082 www.steppingoutpodiatry.com.au
I find they give me inspiration, so whenever I’m feeling uninspired I get creating a new one or add to my existing one. There are no rules; the only prerequisite is dreams are required! Find images that resemble what you see in your heart.
You can also use the back of a door, a computer layout or your phone for your dream board, as they all work. It’s your vision board, so choose the format that suits you but always make sure it’s somewhere you’ll see it often. Mine sits above my desk where I work.
After it’s complete “Let go and trust” and believe in the vision you’ve created. Embrace your images, goals and dreams knowing in your heart they will come to you in their perfect time. Vision board dreaming allows you to feel inspired about your life and they bring hope to the soul all through the influence of images.
Blessings
Kerrie www.KerrieFriend.com Aaron Pryor Dental Prosthe st and
RangeCare, one of the area’s longest running not-for-profit community care providers, is looking to recruit home visiting volunteers to support its work within the community.
Since its beginnings in 1986, RangeCare has relied on the generosity of local volunteers to support the organisation in its efforts to provide the community with an exceptional level of care. This generosity allows RangeCare to support clients and community members in living their best life by delivering a comprehensive range of services.
Cara Doherty, Volunteer Coordinator at RangeCare, shares that the benefits of facilitating these community connections is two-fold, "Volunteers often tell us that they get just as much out of volunteering as they give and we love the fact that the benefits are mutual.
“Through volunteering with us, many people make new connections in the community, feel a sense of meaning and purpose, and we know that volunteering increases people's overall wellbeing.”
Currently there are volunteer roles available across the Sunshine Coast region for people to visit clients in their homes for a social visit as a part of RangeCare’s Home Visiting Program. Depending on mutual interests you may enjoy having a cuppa, playing cards or board games or doing a bit of gardening together.
Home Visiting Volunteer, Marie, is grateful for the connections she has made through volunteering, “I started volunteering with RangeCare to get to know more people in the area and make new connections. It was important to me to connect with people who care.
“It’s giving me interesting things to do with my time. I don’t feel like the visits are part of volunteer work, it’s more like visiting a friend now.”
If you are interested in supporting your local community and helping to create new connections through volunteering please contact RangeCare’s Volunteer team on 07 5445 7044 or visit rangecare.com.au/ volunteer
R a n g e C a r e ' s T i m e C a p s u l e B u r i a l E v e n t
J o i n R a n g e C a r e f o r a m o r n i n g o f c e l e b r a t i n g h i s t o r y i n t h e m a k i n g
O n T h u r s d a y 1 4 t h S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 3 , R a n g e C a r e w i l l b e b u r y i n g a T i m e C a p s u l e f o r t h e f u t u r e
R a n g e C a r e c o m m u n i t y t o d i s c o v e r a n d c e l e b r a t e
W i t n e s s t h e b u r i a l o f u n i q u e i t e m s t h a t a r e u n i q u e t o o u r t i m e s a n d s o m e l i g h t r e f r e s h m e n t s a n d n e t w o r k i n g
E v e n t d e t a i l s
D a t e : T 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
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.
Emmanuelle’s Beauty
Now at - 62B Maple Street Maleny. For all your beauty needs, facials, lash extensions, lash lift, waxing and more contact Em on 0410 670 519. Monday-Friday, evening appointments also available.
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
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
Sunrise Chiropractic
Dr Damian Treacey Chiropractor & Applied Kinesiologist Gentle hands on Chiropractic using Applied Kinesiology. Over 30 years in private practice.
Mon and Wed 2-5pm, Fri 9am-12pm
19 Coral Street, Maleny. 0492 949 695
Josie Coco: MGestTherapy - Gestalt
Psychotherapist
Together we’ll explore obstacles to achieving, thriving and living well. In person, online, and in groups. Counselling therapy and personal development. Ph: 0498 065 306 www.josiecoco.com
Heartspace Artspace & Counselling
Liz Antcliff B. Psych; MA Coun; AThr ANZACATA ; ACA Sensorimotor Creative Arts Therapy and Counselling for individuals and groups. Creative Expression for wellness and health. www.heartspaceartspace.com
E: liz@heartspaceartspace.com P: 0438 163 255
Energy Enhancement System
The EE System combines body, mind, spirit and science to help you achieve peak performance and reach higher states of health. Bookings by appointment 5478 5438 www.elevata.com.au
Get Active!!!
Group Fitness & Personal Training
Join me for a fun affordable and social way to achieve a fit and healthy body. All fitness levels welcome, fully qualified trainer. ‘Your Goals Are My Goals’. Rachel Ph: 0423 618 945 Email: rachel.lockman@yahoo.com.au
Maleny Vibes Pilates & Spin
Boutique reformer pilates and spin cycle studio. Introductory offer 4 classes $50 to all new clients. Book online www.malenyvibespilates.com Studio 37 Coral St, Maleny. malenyvibespilates@gmail.com Insta @malenyvibespilates_and_spin
Maleny Rumble Room
Boutique Group Fitness Boxing & HIIT studio. Limited to 8 people per class. Introductory offer 4 classes for $50 to all new clients. Book online @ www.malenyrumbleroom.com.au 37 Coral Street, Maleny. Insta @maleny_rumbleroom
Nellies Creative Hair Design
Cut and Colour specialists. Nellie, Annette and Jenny offer you the opportunity to have exceptional hair using great product at fantastic prices.
21 Coral St Maleny – Ph: 0438 785 443
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
Christian Dunham
The New Leaf - Coaching and Kinesiology Stop feeling stuck and confidently get back on track! The New Leaf, est in 1997 offers sessions/ programs & FREE downloads.
Contact Zoe in Maleny on 0401 318 593 www.thenewleaf.blog
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
MEDICAL CENTRE
Ochre Health Medical Centre
Offering onsite Doctors, experienced nursing staff and Allied health services.
Ph Maleny: 5494 2388; Book online at www.ochrehealth.com.au
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.
Naturopath & Medical Herbalist
Linda Parker ND has over 20 yrs experience in holistic treatments for the skin and other chronic disease in Melbourne/Sydney, now practising in Montville.
Bookings by appointment: 5478 5438
Visit: www.lindparkcreations.com
Hammond Optometry
Deborah & Stephen Hammond are proud to be local, independent eye healthcare providers servicing the Hinterland since 1999. Focused on quality eyecare/eyewear for all the family, giving your eye health and vision the best personalised attention it deserves.
44 Lowe St Nambour Ph: 5476 2333
Wilson Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists
Local, independent optometrist passionate about exceptional eye care, individualised customer service, and impeccable frame design proudly serving the Hinterland since 1984. Come and see the difference!
40 Howard St, Nambour 5441 2277
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
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
CARPENTRY
Window Wizard - Timber Window Specialist Restoration, glazing, repairs, modifications, sash cords, spirals, Queenslander homes and more. Call Rommy 0404 757 552 www.window-wizard.com.au
CLOCK REPAIR
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
CONCRETE
Concrete Worx
We do it all! 35+yrs experience. Decorative stamp and stencil, coloured and exposed. Shed slabs and driveways, Bobcat and Tipper hire. QBCC 66649 Call Mick 0417 745 770
ELECTRICIAN
RAINBOW VISION -RV Electrical Lic. 72787
Local Sparky on the Range, 25 years exp. Safety Switches, Power Points, LED Lights, Smoke Alarms, Fans, Switchboard Upgrade, Solar System Service, DATA Pts hardwired. Call Zak 0413 885 504
JEWELLERY - COMMISSIONS AND
Wasshausen Gems + Jewels
LANDSCAPING & DESIG N continue
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
MOWING AND GARDENING
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 quote 0411 591 738.
PLANT NURSERIES
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
Barung Landcare Native Plant Nursery
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
GUTTER CLEANING
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
HANDY MAN AND HOME MAINTENANCE
Montville Handy Man 30 years building experience. Available now for carpentry, home maintenance and repairs, small concreting jobs. Prompt and reliable service. Call Wayne 0434 724 030.
LANDSCAPING & DESIGN
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
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
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
Fresh Look Pressure Washing Family business based in Maleny. For all pressure washing needs, roofs, driveways, solar panel, external walls. For both domestic and commercial. Contact Jay 0477 780 577 or jay@freshlookpressurewashing.com.au
Maleny Refrigeration
Specialized in domestic in-house servicing to most refrigerator makes and models, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux, Westinghouse etc. Recently moved to Maleny, with 35 yrs experience in the business. Gary 0428 455 866 malenyrefrigeration@gmail.com
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
PLASTERER
Walls Hand Crafted NEW SPECIALTY FINISHES PLASTERER Cement rendering-traditional/clay/Moroccan and Mediterranean finishes. Polished plaster/feature walls. Seamless micro cement bathrooms (no more grout) Phone Michael 0434 357 123 michael@wallshandcrafted.com.au www.wallshandcrafted.com
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 541 475
PLUMBINK
Your local, fully licenced, Sunshine Coast & Hinterland Plumber, Drainer and gas fitter. Blocked drain specialist. 24/7 service available for emergencies. Phone Luke on 0410 314 192
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
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
Megawatts Solar – Consulting, Design & Service
We recommend only Quality Components & Installations. On-Grid, Off-Grid, and Battery Storage. Ph. Gary Phillips 0407 760 838 info@megawatts.com.au www.megawatts.com.au
Solar Laser Productions
FREE DIY OFF-GRID SOLAR BOOKLET 15 years experience - 90 minutes read. See where to get the best Aussie products at discounts. Contact me for your copy. 07 5484 5963 serge@solarlaserproductions.com.au
Advertise
Book direct from our website.
Tony Wootton Tree Surgeon. Dip Hort(Arb) Operating locally since 1996. Tree assessments and advice. Trees and shrubs pruned and detailed. Hazardous trees removed. M: 0403 467 664 Ph: 54 944 917 www.twtreesurgeon.com
Skilled Tree Surgeon – Kevin Pampling
Born and raised in Maleny, offering reasonable rates for tree work. Insured,with years of wisdom and local knowledge. I climb, you clear = good value. Ph 0407 450 262
ADVERTISING
REAL ESTATE continue
REAL ESTATE continue
Karen Muir - Advertising Sales
To promote your business or event with an advertising campaign in the HT contact me at production@sunnycoastmedia.com.au or 0414 432 423. Print or digital opportunies available.
CHURCH NOTICES NEW
Church of Christ Sinners are welcome at the Church of Christ. Call Len 0432 617 107.
Visit YouTube Let the Bible Speak.com
LEGAL SERVICES
Baker Robinson Lawyers
Steve Robinson, 20 years experience.
Professional and friendly Legal Team. Suite 7, 43 Maple St Maleny. Ph: 5494 2665 E: maleny@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
REAL ESTATE
Lember and Williams Solicitors (the LAW team)
City Expertise, small town service. Contact Principal Penny McCreery Stirling on Bunya, 13 Bunya Street, Maleny. 5495 1499 penny@landw.com.au www.landw.com.au
ALORA REAL ESTATE & HOLIDAY HOMES (formerly Blackall Range Real Estate)
Looking to sell, rent or take the stress out of managing your holiday home? We can help you! Focused on integrity and delivering outstanding results. Call us for a free home appraisal. 5499 9966 1/5 Maple Street, Maleny
BOXSELLS REAL ESTATE - Est1947
Let our Real Estate family show your family the way home Kenilworth 5446 0222 Maleny 5494 2312 www.boxsells.com.au
Brant & Bernhardt Property
At Brant & Bernhardt Property we understand that it's all in the attention to detail, even the little things matter. Learn how ‘We Can Sell Yours Too!’ Dee 0423 259 931 Susan 0428 573 170
RE/MAX 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
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
SURVEYING & TOWN PLANNING
Hinterland Surveys
Consulting Surveyors & Town Planners servicing the Hinterland and beyond since 1993.
Anthony Gray – Survey Manager 5/17 Maple St, Maleny 07 5494 3800 manager@hinterlandsurveys.com hinterlandsurveys.com
VETERINARY CARE
District Vets Maleny
Veterinarian Susan Portas and her team provide professional, compassionate care for your pets. Hours Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 8am-6pm; Wed 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-12noon 7 Myrtle St Maleny Ph: 5499 9077
So many Australians care deeply about our native wildlife and wish there was more they could do to help. One of the most valuable services the public can provide to the wildlife care community is to check the pouch of a kangaroo that has been hit by a vehicle.
There’s no getting around the fact that using cars means that sometimes wildlife are going to get hit. What you might not think about when passing the body is that there can often still be life in there.
Young joeys can live for up to several days inside the pouch of a dead mother, depending on their size and development.
The first option here is to perform a pouch check yourself. A difficult task, but knowing there are lives you could save is a great motivator.
The second option is to get in touch with a wildlife carer and they will hopefully be able to
investigate. Wildlife carers can’t be everywhere, sadly, so they need your help spotting and checking or calling in whenever possible.
It’s something special to discover a little joey that still has a chance.
If you think you’d like to have a go at recovering animals, it’s a good idea to have a ‘Boot Buddy’ kit in your car – materials to safely rescue and transport animals.
Important considerations when attempting to help wildlife: Never put yourself in danger from animals or traffic; DO NOT EVER ATTEMPT TO PICK UP A BAT OR SNAKE. These animals must only be handled by experienced/vaccinated carers; do not offer food or water unless advised to do so by a vet or rehabilitator; do not remove an animal from the pouch of a live animal, and never remove a joey that is still attached to their deceased mother’s teat.
An animal may need help if it meets one of the following criteria:
• Can be approached more easily than expected, doesn’t startle or try to escape
• Appears lethargic, lazy and/or tired
• Species usually seen in trees observed on the ground (e.g. koalas, possums, gliders, flying foxes), and
• Nocturnal animals out during the daylight. A ‘Boot Buddy’ is a simple set of items that can be carried in cars to assist our wildlife:
• A towel: to capture the animal/bird and keep it wrapped up in the box
• Pillow case: to contain marsupials
• Elastic band to close the pillow case and keep the animal snug. Small animals like to be kept in small pouches so adjust the location of the band to suit the size of the animal
• Gardening gloves: to handle wildlife safely and hygienically
• Medium-sized cardboard box with air holes for ventilation, and
• A Wildlife Contact Card or number saved on your phone.
Spring is about to burst upon us, and with it the Sunshine Coast Wildflower Festival. Many of us love the blaze of purple and yellow and white that covers the coastal wallum heath when the weather warms. Much of it is due to flowers in the pea (Fabaceae) family, which can flower so profusely that they almost cover the plant.
Those of you who live on the sandier soils near the coast will find many of the native peas easy to grow, as they generally enjoy well drained, sandy soil, and flower best in a situation where they have plenty of light. However, for those who live on heavier volcanic soils on the Range, it can be harder to find heavily blooming natives that attract butterflies and other pollinators to your garden.
In the Barung seed forest at Maleny we decided to trial many of the coastal native peas, to see which ones are best suited to the heavier, red volcanic soil.
The ones that are looking particularly promising include Hairy Pea Bush (Pultanaea villosa), which is maintaining a dense growth habit, the Purple Pea Bush (Hovea acutifolia), which is a little taller and more open, and the Austral Indigo (Indigofera
Barung native Plant nursery
australis) which is covered in beautifully delicate sprays of mauve.
Many of the native peas are really fast growing, and can fill a space quickly, give great colour and even more importantly, provide shelter from predators for smaller birds. The flowers are also a great source of nectar for European bees, native stingless and solitary bees and butterflies.
As an example of the fast habitat they can create, pictured is a Meadow Argus foraging on a Purple Pea Bush in our Maleny garden, which, only two years ago was a grassy paddock, and now is teeming with pollinators.
If you are looking for colourful natives to attract these beautiful insects, call in to your nursery, and see what stock of native peas are available.
Phone 5494 3151
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With this rampant weedy vine’s flowers on full show, now is the time to defend our region’s natives from its smothering embrace.
Coastal morning glory (also known as mile-a-minute) and its hinterland cousin, blue morning glory, are now in full bloom: perfect targets for identification and management.
Both vines grow rapidly to smother our native trees, shrubs and groundcovers, depriving them of sunlight and nutrients.
The distinctive funnel-shaped flowers make both species easy to identify as they overrun trees across the region.
Thank goodness for 4 Paws Animal Rescue, who provide refuge for homeless cats and dogs. This not-for-profit organisation is run entirely by volunteers.
Most of their animals come from council pounds, some are surrendered or abandoned, others are saved from cruel living conditions. The team at 4 Paws aims to find loving homes for all animals who come into their care.
This month we introduce Buster! This darling boy
“When is the best time to plant in the hinterland?” is a question I often hear (and although It could be rightfully pointed out that I have a conflict of interest being in the nursery business), my answer is that in this place and with benign climate that we are blessed with, that there’s no time better than the present to plant, but as always, there are a few important factors to take into consideration.
Soil moisture is crucial for plant establishment, the roots of your planted stock need to quickly move from the confines of the potting mix that they have been established in and into the soil, and moist soil is crucial for this process.
For the bulk of the year when high temperatures are below 30 degrees and the soil that you’re planting into is mulched you may find that you don’t need
Both vines can be spread by plant parts and seeds.
To manage these vines in your area that are growing up trees and not along the ground, cut the stem at the base and remove all roots.
If they are growing along the ground, pull them out at the roots and remove the plant from the ground so it doesn’t regrow from broken stem fragments.
Find out more about managing invasive plants and animals in our region at sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au, and in the search bar, type ‘biosecurity action at home’.
is currently in foster care, but needs an urgent forever home.
After only one week, Buster has settled in really well. He is very well behaved with no bad habits.
Buster's previous family said that he is probably not suited to a home that has young children. He is a small, cute, house-trained cuddle buddy that doesn't really shed hair; he loves company, travels well in a car and is a perfect gentleman when he goes out! What more could you ask for?
Could you give Buster that loving and caring home that he desperately needs? If so please visit the website: 4pawsanimalrescue.org.au
to water after planting. I often time my ‘reveg’ plantings at home for rainy days and save having to water at all, with the added benefits of a mud bath by the end of the day.
In your garden you’ll probably have access to unlimited water for most of the year so maintaining soil moisture is not an issue, just make sure you don’t over water and drown your plants, you need moist not wet .
Back to reveg, the most risky time for soils drying out is spring and early summer, but we do generally get just enough rain, and mulching with hay keeps soils moist and cool even when temperatures get over the mid-thirties.
Beneficial supplements include water crystals to maintain soil moisture, anti-transpirants to reduce water loss
from your planted stock, mulch, mulch, mulch and tree guards for tubestock.
Frost is perhaps the biggest obstacle to establishing plants on the hinterland. Not all plants are frost sensitive and we have many frost hardy local natives that can be planted any time of year. Even frost-sensitive plants can be planted once the threat of frost has been beaten by the shade and protection of more frost hardy species.
Planting very frosty areas in spring after the last frost can be beneficial to establishing your stock as it allows the maximum growth period before the next frost hits.
In the garden, anytime is a good time to plant. For more advice of what’s best to plant and when, visit us at Forest Heart.
Coastal morning glory (Ipomoea cairica)
• Leaves are alternate, hairless, 3-10cm long, 3-10cm wide, divided into 5 or 7 narrow lobes like fingers of a hand, borne on stalks (i.e. petioles) 2-6cm long
• Flowers are funnel-shaped, pink-lavender with deepercoloured throat, 3.5-6cm long, 6-8cm wide
• Seeds are dark brown to black, 5-6mm long
• Habitat: prefers coastal areas and common along riverbanks and foreshore areas.
Blue morning glory (Ipomoea indica)
• Vine with slender stems up to 7m long
• Leaves are dark green, broadly heart-shaped, 3–5 lobes, 4–17cm long, 3–16cm wide, on leafstalk 2–18cm long
• Flowers are striking blue-mauve, funnel-shaped, with groups of 3–12 petals fused to 8cm size, short-lived, readily replaced as they die
• Seeds are angular, blackish, to 4mm long
• Habitat: common along roadsides and forest edges.
with Tree Surgeon Tony Wootton, our local arborist and author, meeting the Hinterland's tree needs since 1996
People often ask me “What’s the best time of year to prune your trees?“
Well, the answer is, right now!
Late winter is the optimum time to prune your trees, for several reasons.
Firstly, the trees are largely dormant. This means that their sap flow is at its lowest ebb. For example, you can bareroot transplant deciduous trees in winter. You simply dig up the tree you want to transplant, shake off most of the dirt and then put it in the new hole.
You can only do this because the tree is completely dormant. It is like it has gone into suspended animation. This same principle allows you to prune large limbs off trees at this time of year, without causing too much shock to the organism.
Having said that, we are lucky enough to live in a very forgiving climate , and we can prune most species all year round. I just find that we get the best results in terms of recovery when we do it at this time of year.
The reason late winter is better than the rest of winter is because spring is just around the corner, so while the tree is dormant when you carry out the pruning, the sap flow that will allow the recovery process to begin is just about to happen, so the tree is sitting with a large open wound for the minimum time possible before it begins to deal with the wounding.
From a tree health perspective, these are the two main reasons why this time of year is best for carrying out structural pruning of your trees, whether that be height reduction, lateral spread reduction, or limb removal.
Mobile: 0403 467 664
Mobile: 0403 467 664
Landline: 54 944 917
Landline: 54 944 917
www.twtreesurgeon.com
www.twtreesurgeon.com
“There is still a long way to go for Queensland’s rental market to reach healthy rates, but these results are a step in the right direction with a little more movement and increasing opportunity and choice for renters wanting to get into the market.
“Necessity is the mother of invention, and because people have been unable to find the type of rental property they are looking for, in the area they’re looking for, and something that works within their budget restraints, they are thinking outside of the box, adapting, and finding alternative solutions.
“These alternative arrangements include moving back in with parents where possible, moving in with other tenants in a co-tenancy instead of sole tenancy, and looking for units or townhouses instead of a freestanding home, or casting their net wider by looking at nearby localities with greater supply.”
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) says consecutive lifts in the state’s quarterly residential vacancy rate is a promising sign that rental conditions are improving.
The REIQ Residential Vacancy Rate Report for the June 2023 Quarter, covers 50 local government areas (LGAs) and sub regions in Queensland, and comes as the state-wide vacancy rate rose to 1.0% for the first time since December 2021.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the movement over the quarter showed that we are crawling towards healthier rates across most of the state.
“We’re starting to see some early signs of the rental market starting to soften just ever so slightly, with vacancy rates showing small increases in the majority of regions,” Ms Mercorella said.
Most improvements in vacancy rates were limited to a slight lift of 0.1-0.2 per cent which was the case across Greater Brisbane. Meanwhile in Queensland’s tourism centres, a substantial vacancies surge was seen on Maroochy Coast (1.9%), Sunshine Coast (1.6%), and Caloundra Coast (1.3%), while Noosa shot up to into the ‘healthy’ range with a rate of 3.1 per cent.
For these popular holiday markets, it is unlikely that the rapidly relaxing vacancy rate reflects reprieve for local renters, rather it may indicate that most homes remaining on this market are listing at a price point that is out of reach for many families.
In the picturesque Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a heartwarming love story has unfolded, intertwining with the world of real estate.
It all began when Steve Pery, a respected local real estate agent, crossed paths with Marcia Bultreys, a skilled property valuer, during one of Steve's property sales in Mapleton back in June 2021. Little did they know that fate had something special in store for them.
Months passed, and destiny brought them together again, this time at another property listed by Steve. As they conversed, they discovered a striking connection and realised that something extraordinary was happening. Steve, having lost his wife to cancer not long before, never expected to find someone who would captivate his attention as Marcia did.
Their romance started at a slow and steady pace, gradually revealing that they were meant to be together, walking side by side into the future. Fast forward to July 2023, and Marcia, with her 20 years of experience as a property valuer, has completed her real estate agent's licensing course, joining Steve at Pery Morrin Property.
Together, they form a dynamic duo, armed with a wealth of property knowledge and marketing expertise, ready to make their mark on the beautiful Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
"We both have extensive experience in the region and feel most at home here," shares Marcia with a warm smile. "Steve's background as a registered builder adds a unique and valuable perspective for both buyers and sellers," she adds with pride.
Steve echoes her sentiments, stating, "We are thrilled to work together, embracing the challenges and adventures that come with a career in real estate."
While their primary focus is assisting individuals in buying and selling properties, Steve and Marcia are passionate about delivering a personalised and professional level of care throughout the entire process. Their goal is to ensure that every client receives the utmost attention and guidance.
If you're looking to discuss your property needs, don't hesitate to reach out to Steve and Marcia. With their combined expertise and unwavering dedication, they are ready to help you navigate the exciting world of real estate while providing a friendly and personalised touch.
Together, Steve and Marcia are not only a testament to a blossoming love story, but also an unstoppable force in the realm of property sales, committed to serving the community they call home.
WLocal agents who live local and are passionate about where they live hy is it so important to choose a local agent over an out-of-town agent? Dee and Susan both live in and know their local areas inside out! They understand the local market prices and trends, and know what businesses and services to confidently recommend to those buying into our community or getting ready to sell.
If you are looking for a new home, Brant and Bernhardt Property have some lovely properties about to hit the market.
Wake up to ocean views, minutes to Montville, 4 bed, 2 bath, 915m2 block, offers over $1,250,000. Or a stunning large acreage with Obi Obi Creek access and income potential at Reesville,12 bed, 8 bath, 19.83Ha $3,850,000.
Maleny
A character Queenslander on a lovely 4,000m2 block in Reesville, 4 bed, 2 bath offers over $1,125,000. Perhaps a boutique small land development, walk to Maleny, 3 x 1,200m2 lots available, contact us for pricing, or a 4,035m2 block in Witta with permanent running creek, 3 bed, 1 bath, offers over $749,000.
Buying or selling call Susan 0428 573 170 or Dee 0423 259 931 today.
Agency: Brant and Bernhardt
Contact:
Susan Brant 0428 573 170
Dee Bernhardt 0423 259 931
2/20 Maple Street, Maleny
Used as a medical centre in recent years, this space includes multiple private practice rooms - perfect for professionals who require examination and consultation spaces. With adjoining offices with separate entryways, the opportunity exists to temporarily/permanently separate and create multiple tenancies.
Property features include:
• A huge 217sqm* across 2 office spaces with dedicated car parking.
• Situated in Banksia House, Maple Street in the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and the main business centre for the Blackall Range.
The commercial office also boasts:
• Duel/complimentary office spaces, administration/reception area and client waiting
area, kitchen, staff room, private bathroom facilities, off-street client parking, and a complementary neighbouring tenancy mix. A rare opportunity for investors or investor/ business operators looking to set up in a thriving location. Don’t miss out on the chance to make 5/66 Maple Street your next commercial venture.
Contact Elisha Jurgensen for a private inspection- 0401 680 195
Agency: ALORA Real Estate and Holiday Homes
Contact: Estelle, Elisha or Jen on 07 5499 9966
1/5 Maple Street, Maleny
RE/MAX Hinterland Real Estate are looking for an Office Administrator to join their team in Maleny.
This is a part-time position (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) and is best suited to someone local to the Hinterland.
Qualifications:
• Experience in office administration and providing administrative assistance
• Knowledge of the local area
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong customer service skills and ability to work with clients
• Attention to detail and ability to multitask
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software
• Current real estate certificate and previous real estate agency experience is strongly preferred and will be highly regarded
Please email your resume to admin@remaxhinterland.com.au
32 Maple Street, Maleny, Qld 4552
property … it’s a lifestyle choice!
