Hinterland Times November 2024

Sculpture ON THE EDGE

NVictoria McGuin 5499 9049 editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au

ovember is suddenly here and we’ve had a few hot hints, but be prepared, summer will be a scorcher. You may have a plan in place for any bushfire emergency, and have been doing the necessary prep around your home, but do you know what to do with your pets? Check out the advice from the RSPCA on page 16.

November is a slightly more settled month for me, having just finished some personal projects and gearing up for the next ones in February – a brief hiatus where I can focus on family and getting my ducks in a row for Christmas. Is it really that time already?

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I read an interesting scientific theory about time and why it seems to speed up when you’re older. Apparently it’s to do with ‘information processing’. The more information our minds process, the slower time passes. Therefore, as we age, those who have fewer new experiences and exist on ‘automatic pilot’ have less vivid perception. The key to slow down time is to bring new experiences into our lives, and to live mindfully.

There are plenty of people in the pages of this HT who are living varied, creative and interesting lives, so hopefully time is not zooming by for them. Our features share stories on two soldiers from different wars and different times; a unique artistic project with local Conondale artists, and the growth of the hugely positive, brand new Maleny Arts Cooperative, which you can join and support.

This month also brings one of my favourite events of the year, Sculpture on the Edge, to Flaxton Gardens for nine days, thanks to Arts Connect Inc. Our family visit every year and absolutely love the diverse display of art, and the stories behind each piece. I highly recommend you head up and make a morning of it, with a scrumptious breakfast/lunch and ocean views to complete the experience.

Well, I’m off to do some dull shopping (not good for the vivid perception), but perhaps if I do it mindfully, time will slow down a little? I’ll let you know if it works!

Enjoy.

COVER STORY

Artists Finn Cossar, Tina Cooper and Jodi Casey share their thoughts on the immense value of Sculpture on the Edge.

Photographer: Victoria McGuin

Judy Fredriksen

LEST WE FORGET

At 11am on November 11, 1918, after more than four years of continuous warfare, the guns on the Western Front fell silent. The allied armies had managed to drive the German invaders back, having inflicted heavy defeats upon them over the preceding four months.

The Germans called for an armistice in November to secure a peace settlement, and they accepted allied terms that amounted to unconditional surrender.

The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month has become a day to remember all those who served and all those who sacrificed in wars and conflicts since.

It is marked by a minute’s silence in solemn ceremonies in towns and cities across Queensland.

Monuments, memorials, honour boards, and gates honouring those who fought, can be found across the Sunshine Coast, as places to mark Remembrance Day.

Six trees were planted in Montville by the children from Montville State School in 1923, each bearing a plaque naming one of six soldiers lost during WWI.

Marble plaques mounted on the front pillars of Montville Memorial Gates record the names of members of the Montville district who enlisted during World War 1, those who fell and those who were not accepted for service.

Eumundi and Beerburrum also have similar tree-lined avenues, and Eumundi Memorial School of Arts has an honour board from 1917.

Maleny has the Soldiers Memorial Hospital built from timber used in the old Beerburrum Soldier Settlement Hospital and, just past Landsborough on the way to Maleny, the Landsborough Peace Memorial gates

can be seen.

The land for Landsborough Peace Memorial Park was donated by Arthur Bennett in 1919 and in 1922 the site was officially opened as the Landsborough Peace Memorial Park.

Gheerulla has an ornamentally designed honour board made of hammered copper with a silky oak background, which was erected by the residents of the Kenilworth District.

Yandina is home to the memorial for 2/14th Australian Infantry Battalion Memorial, which features an inscribed commemorative plaque, erected in 1995 to honour the Battalion members who were killed in action in World War II.

In Nambour, a cenotaph memorial was erected in Coronation Avenue in 1927 and while it was being built the names of all who had enlisted from the Maroochy Shire were recorded on parchment, then placed in a sealed cylinder inside the Obelisk, behind an inscribed marble slab. A second slab was added later, in memory of those who fought in WWII.

Remembering memorials and what they depict provides the Sunshine Coast community with a cultural understanding in a familiar landscape and identifies what our early communities experienced and endured.

Local RSL Services on November 11 can be found in Beerwah, Nambour, Maleny, Mapleton, Palmwoods, YandinaEumundi, Kenilworth, Woodford and Glasshouse.

For more details please contact your local RSL branch, or visit the RSL Australia website on rslaustralia. org/remembrance-day.

The Art Chain

An artistic game in the Conondale Valley has led to fascinating art showing how connected we are.

By ALLY BING

Ahumble game of artistic creation has gone on for the last four years in a valley of the Conondale Range: it’s played amongst a growing group of artists, in various mediums, in the 36-year-old community of Crystal Waters Eco Village. They call it, simply, ‘The Art Chain.’ You can start one in your neighborhood too, if you like.

Here’s how it goes: Pick a theme. This could be done by opening a book with your eyes closed and putting your finger down, or picking a favourite existential query that would benefit from some examination. Or, if you’d like to do it the way this collective has, hold an exhibit of your previous works, and ask the visiting public to submit theme ideas on pieces of paper.

Once all in, the theme is drawn randomly. The first artist in the chain should do this, so that no one but them knows what it is. The other artists down the line will only find out on the night of the grand reveal - a night that also brings camaraderie, appreciation, and the urge to start the whole project over again.

Start your artwork: in paint, glass, fibre, clay, words; whatever you like. As an artist in their fourth year of

participance out of as many art chains created, this author suggests going with your first intuitive instinct upon first seeing the theme or artwork to guide your creation. Second-guessing oneself, at least in the matter of creativity, is just no fun at all!

Pass your artwork onto the next artist. Or, if you have 30 artists contributing, as the Crystal Waters Chain has this year, pass it on to two artists so that two chains are created - why not!

The chain participants have three weeks to work on their piece before they must show it to the next in the queue, as in the old fashioned childhood game of “Telephone.” A good percentage of the art works are not finished at the time they are shared, but the bones are there.

The next artist in the chain squints at the bones they are given, and, depending on their personality traits, either joyously begins straight away whilst the neighbourhood animals cheerily tie on their painters’ smock for them, or closes the emailed photograph angrily, mutters to themselves and drinks a potion of something smoking and dark purple before getting started two and three quarters weeks later to, yet again, create something ingenious at the last minute.

The Art Chain brings together community creatives of all ages

Your art does not have to be created in a visual medium. This author has written and performed two songs for two of the four Art Chains - some of her favourite original works, she might add.

One of Crystal Waters’ chief dancers-in-residence, Lisa Cowan, has choreographed and filmed herself dancing for past contributions. Her live performance of her work was certainly a highlight of last year’s exhibition opening party.

Find a way to properly showcase them (this year, several hours have been put into repurposing old doors into an accordion folding display). Throw an opening night that involves dinner, champagne, laughing children, twinkly lights and several carefree performances. Make sure that everyone knows that all are welcome to come.

This will be the time to wonder, even though the theme was known to only one, at how it seems to show in each artwork, every step of the way. This is the time to appreciate the deep similarities in how our minds work, and to show respect for what is formed because of how they differ.

This year, in a way that gives “The Chain” additional meaningful symbolism, the two very last artists of each respective chain are Lisa’s eight year-old daughter, Ella, and Rhea Phelan’s (CW Art Chain founder) nine year-old son, Haiko.

When all the allocations of three weeks have passed, you’ll find to your surprise that a whole year has passed. At that time, the final step of the creation of art is to share it with others.

The fourth annual Art Chain project is brought to life by a Crystal Waters collective that includes surrounding Conondale artists. This year’s exhibit will commence on the Crystal Waters Community Deck with an Opening Party on the evening of Friday, December 6, where the public is invited to attend and enjoy the celebrations. Dinner will be for sale and the exhibit is a gold coin token entry fee.

The Exhibit will remain open for two weeks (and so will be open to the public during the Crystal Waters Market on Saturday, December 7) until December 15. All are welcome to come witness, partake, and then as the next step in the chain, become inspired to create something of their own.

WHAT ARE YOUR REFUND RIGHTS?

Ever y now and then you might want to return a par ticular purchase to the store for a refund or exchange but you might be confused about your legal rights.

Your confusion is undoubtedly increased when you see stores displaying signage stating that the store will not give a refund for cer tain items I tems where I have sometimes seen 'no refund'

swimwear, sunglasses, or opened produc ts

These signs are misleading. Although retailers do not have to exchange or refund per fec t g o o

obligation to provide you with a refund if the goods or ser vices that you purchased:

Have a fault that you could not have known about at the time of purchase; Ÿ

Ÿ A re

adver tisement;

shown at the time of purchase; and/or

Ÿ Do not do the job as you were led to believe

You are not entitled to a refund if you:

Ÿ Simply change your mind or no longer want the goods;

Ÿ Realise you can' t afford the goods;

Ÿ Found the same item at a cheaper price elsewhere;

Ÿ Chose the wrong size or colour;

Ÿ Knew about the par ticular fault prior to purchase; and/or

Ÿ Were responsible for causing the fault.

Surf Dreaming by Robert Kann

Lisa Cowan's performance contribution in 2023 

The Art Chain 2024 is coming this December 

Witta resident Hank Drent – fondly known as ‘Dutchie’ –was only six years old when he donned the Hitler Jugend (Hitler Youth) uniform to save his father from the Gestapo.

by JUDY FREDRIKSEN

Growing up in Heerlen, a Dutch town near the German border, the young Hank experienced a difficult and confusing time during WWII. His father was Dutch, his mother was German.

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info@jamesframes.com.au

Hank has clear memories of 10th May 1940, when soldiers invaded his town, prompting the family to move to Sittard, another Dutch town where his father worked building brick chimney stacks.

After moving to Sittard, and against Hank’s mother’s wishes, Hank went to a German school where he joined the Hitler Jugend

“Nothing we can do about it. They told you what to do. So that’s what we did. I had to join the Hitler Youth,” explains Hank.

To combat the food shortages of that era, the family grew their own vegetables. But this was in an environment of increasing paranoia, manifested through wartime propaganda machines. Trust was nonexistent. Neighbours spied on each other. Treachery was rampant.

When sparrows took a liking to the Drent’s snow peas, Hank’s father needed to protect the precious food source. He grabbed some newspaper to cover them and in doing so, unwittingly tore a photo of Hitler in two.

“But the neighbour next door, they were in the German party and they must have dobbed my old man in – that he did it,” says Hank. “So they came and

arrested him, and took him to the SS headquarters down the road in Sittard.”

After two days Hank’s mother became anxious, so she told her young son to put on his Hitler Jugend uniform. Ater briefing him on what to say and do, took him down to the SS Headquarters.

“I marched up there and I feel really big. I got the uniform on and big leather belt and a dolk (dagger) … We come to the front of the guards and they say, ‘Heil Hitler’. And I say ‘Heil Hitler’. And they asked me, ‘What do you want?’ I said, ‘I’ve come to get my father’.”

Young Hank bravely fronted up to “six or seven SS mob” and told them that he tore up the photo of Hitler, not his father. Thankfully, because he was wearing the Hitler Jugend uniform, they believed him and Hank’s father was released – unkempt but unharmed.

Hank in his signature hat, sitting in front of some of his many awards

(Image courtesy Hank Drent)

Now aged 88, Hank still has vivid memories of the remainder of the war: air raids; a bomb landing in their house that – unbelievably – didn’t explode; his father being part of the Dutch Resistance and hiding people in their cellar; soldiers being killed; and the Yankee tanks rolling into town to liberate them in 1944.

It was always confusing for the young boy whose parents were of different nationalities.

“It was hard. It was not easy for me. I was in two fights all the time.”

After the war, the family moved back to Heerlen and while attending bible classes, Hank met a beautiful girl – Christina (Tina) Kleijne – who would become his future wife. Hank was only 14 years old. Hank worked underground in the coal mines but grew tired of that, so when he saw an advertisement for miners in Mount Isa, he jumped at the opportunity. Even though it meant leaving Tina behind, the adventurous young man arrived in Australia in 1953, aged 17.

After surviving the hardships of war, it didn’t faze Hank to sleep rough when he first arrived in Mount Isa, though the police moved him on to the local pub.

and nous, he built his own dwelling using secondhand corrugated iron sheets for roofing and salvaged 44-gallon drums for walls.

All this time he stayed in touch with Tina and in 1959, he returned to Heerlen to marry her. The couple returned to Mount Isa where Tina volunteered at the Mount Isa Hospital.

He quickly settled into doing dangerous underground work in the Mount Isa mine – drilling, blasting and building underground rail lines.

Eventually, he managed to buy a block of land abundant with timber. Armed only with ingenuity

After forty years of living in “The Isa”, Hank and Tina retired to Witta, looking forward to enjoying life near the beaches and a big city. Unfortunately, that was not to be. As a result of her deteriorating health, Hank cared for Tina for many years before her days ended in Erowal Aged Care.

While visiting her at Erowal, Hank regularly demonstrated his signature kindness by helping other women paint their nails.

Over time, Hank has helped out at Erowal in a variety of ways: serving meals; cheering up residents with his visits; and fundraising for the installation of air conditioners, TVs and the establishment of an ANZAC Memorial monument outside the reception building.

He has also raised money for many other community organisations and has been recognised for this with numerous awards, including the Fisher Community Australia Day Award, 2006.

Sitting in the lounge of his quaint country house, the garden and verandah littered with quirky

memorabilia reflecting his travels and time in the mines, life is much more peaceful for Hank now than it was 80 years ago when his tranquillity was shattered by the reverberating sound of soldiers’ boots.

A special thank you to Hannah Eichhorn and David Courtney of Blackall Range Care for their help in transcribing and compiling this interview.

US tanks outside Tina's house which was flying the Dutch flag when Heerlen was liberated (Image: Limburgs Dagblad)

Tina (R) with US troops when Heerlen was liberated in 1944 (Image: Limburgs Dagblad)

ArtMaleny’s and Soul

Maleny is home to a pool of gifted and internationally renowned creators. With talents that range across countless artistic disciplines, Maleny punches well above its weight, says Steve McLeish, chairperson of the newly formed Maleny Arts Co-operative (MAC).

by JUDY FREDRIKSEN

As a lover of the arts, I was keen to know more about the newly established Maleny Arts Co-operative (MAC); so I recently tracked down MAC chairperson, Steve McLeish.

Sitting with Steve and Brett Campbell – also from MAC – in the enchanting Maleny Lane, I was in awe of their passion, vision and drive to create better opportunities for local artists.

Just as the fabled phoenix arose from the ashes, MAC has slowly germinated from the void left by the closure of the Upfront Club in 2016.

Since then, live streaming has caused a major downfall in the economy of the music world, while other artists are suffering from the rise of artificial intelligence and the high cost of living.

“The Upfront Club was a social club. But it was also a great supporter of the arts, and the Upfront Monday nights were a very big part of Maleny. They brought a lot of artists and a lot of musicians together,” explains Steve.

After the closure of the Upfront Club, artists would gather in Maleny Lane each week, simply to connect with each other.

“From those meetings, the ‘FrontUp’ chalkboard was born (Maleny Lane, Monday nights) … and a realisation that we wanted to do some good things for the artists in town.”

But one night a week was not enough to help the extensive number of local artists, so Steve, an accomplished saxophonist, and Brett, a renowned mosaic artist, asked themselves: ‘What are we going to do for the artists in Maleny? We need to help them be a bit more recognised in the town. Have opportunities to get paid. Have opportunities to showcase their work.’

Imbued with determination to help writers, visual artists, performing artists and any other creatives, MAC was born with one ambitious aim: To create a dynamic Arts Precinct in the heart of Maleny

“The co-op was originally to become an umbrella to hold the FrontUp Chalkboard and Arts Alive,” says Steve. “Arts Alive is a collaboration of all artists.”

In August 2023, the Arts Alive initiative saw Maple Street closed for an evening to host dancers, singers, puppeteers and other street entertainers. Under a clear starry night and festooned in fairy lights, the street was packed as people revelled in the vibrant carnival atmosphere. Maleny Lane, cafes and bookstores stayed open, their warm ambience enhanced by the presence of colourful musicians, poets and storytellers.

Another similar event is planned for 2025, but in the meantime, MAC plans to host smaller quarterly events where all artists are paid on an equitable and profit-share basis.

“We’re trying to create a system where, if we make money, it all goes to the artists. We’re not really a profitgenerating organisation,” explains Brett, a former bank manager and the treasurer of MAC.

Brett Campbell and Steve McLeish have a bold vision for the Maleny arts scene

As with any new venture though, MAC needs support.

“I would like to get the businesses involved,” says Steve. He goes on to speculate how the arts movement, environmental movement and the co-operative movement have affected real estate prices.

“The arts movement creates nightlife; creates an artistic environment with beautiful murals and art galleries that are full of incredible things; musicians on the street.”

This, together with an environment of the rolling green hills, coupled with Maleny being named one of Australia’s friendliest towns, attracts many newcomers.

“People see a town that has got beautiful greenery, incredible nightlife and musicians on the street, and are really, really friendly … and they come here, and the real estate prices go way up. Then those real estate prices outprice all of the artists …”

“The businesses all benefit from the amount of money in the tourism that comes through the place. But then, musicians don’t get paid. The artists are struggling … So I would really like the businesses to step up. I would like the real estate agents to step up. The lawyers to step

up. The Chamber of Commerce to step up, to support these things.”

As Steve explains, Maleny is already an arts precinct – it has the community centre, Maleny Lane, book shops, cafes, art galleries and artists’ cooperative, Peace of Green.

“But I would really like it recognised by the council as an arts precinct. Then it opens us up to more funding.”

That funding could help support events, upcoming artists, sponsor collaborations, develop youth activities and run school holiday workshops.

Another part of MAC’s vision is to create a Chamber of Arts which would be parallel to the Chamber of Commerce. The two organisations could inform each

other so both sectors –business and the arts – have a say in shaping the future of Maleny.

“If you love our arts community and want to see it develop, join up,” invites Brett. “Donate if you can. Help if you can. There are many ways you can help.” All artists are welcome, though you don’t have to be an artist. MAC is currently putting together small teams to assist with grants, social media and a newsletter.

“The more membership we have, the greater influence we have … If we have a massive membership, it indicates to Maleny that it’s a big part of Maleny,” says Steve.

For more details, check out the MAC website: malenyartscoop.org

Maple St Maleny became a colourful wonderland during Arts Alive - image Steve Swain

Niq Reefman lights up the street his music at Arts Alive - image Steve Swain

Hilary Brown, from Montville to Kokoda

In the hills of Montville, the story of Hilary York Seccombe Brown resonates as a testament to courage and sacrifice in the face of war's brutality.

HOW to be Happy

John 10:10

He’s still working on me, to make me what I ought to be. It took him just a week to make the moon and the stars, the sun and the earth, Jupiter and Mars.

How loving and patient he must be, cause he's still working on me.

In the mirror of his word, reflections that I see, make me wonder why he never gave up on me, but he loves me as I am and he helps me when I pray.

Remember he's the potter I’m the clay.

See You Tube, "Let the Bible Speak." Need help, call Len, 0432 617 107

By DOUG PATTERSON, Montville History Group

Hilary York Seccombe Brown, QX13960, was born on 16 September 1921 at the family home, Craglands, Montville, the third son of George Edward (G.E.) Brown and his wife Ruth. He was enrolled at Montville State School in 1927.

Hilary enlisted at Kelvin Grove Brisbane in July 1940 aged 20 years nine months. He was single and a fruit grower who had previously served as Corporal in the 9/49 Militia, 1939-40. After enlisting in the Second AIF, he was assigned to the 2/25th Infantry Battalion. Hilary’s brother John also enlisted in the AIF.

In August 1941, promoted as acting corporal, Hilary sailed for the Middle East. The 2/25th Battalion served in Syria and Lebanon in their campaign against the Vichy French. The aim was to occupy Vichy French held territory to prevent German bases being set up there. The Vichy French signed an armistice in July 1941.

The Australian forces stayed on in the Middle East until early 1942 when they returned to Australia in order to fight against the Japanese invasion of New Guinea where they took part in the fighting along the Kokoda track and around Buna-Gona.

Hilary spent his leave at the family home in Montville. A newspaper story in the Nambour Chronicle on May 8, 1942, page 5, reported on a complimentary social evening at the Montville School of Arts on May 5 provided for Corporal Hilary Brown and Private W Marsh.

“Both men saw service in the Syrian campaign. Corporal Brown had two narrow escapes. In the first case a bullet pierced his tin hat and just grazed his hair. Another bullet struck the webbing of his haversack and grazed his shoulder.”

The family believes this was probably at Merdjayoun against the Vichy French.

Members of D Company 225 Bn in Tripoli in December 1941. Hilary first from left, middle row. His friend Hugh Dornan is beside him with the Sergeant stripes (Brown/Barnett family album) 

Quarry Work Party, Syria (Dornan family album)

In August 1942 Hilary embarked at Brisbane and sailed to Port Moresby. The unit made a stop at Townsville en route to New Guinea where during a night of shore leave, Hilary was a guest of family friends for dinner, called home to Montville, and wrote his mother a letter. It would be the last time his family would hear from him.

Appointed Acting Lance Sergeant on September 21, he went into action with the Australian troops fighting the Japanese along the Kokoda Track in the Owen Stanley Ranges. Unbeknownst to Australian high command, the Japanese were not retreating in disarray as thought, and had erected a number of strong defensive positions astride the track to delay the Australian advance. It was at one of these positions near Templeton’s Crossing at Eora Creek that Hilary’s unit went into action, after having spent a period to the west of the Kokoda Track, shadowing the Japanese

withdrawal on an adjacent trail and covering the Australian flank.

On October 18, 1942, three companies of 2/25th Battalion, including D Company in which Hilary was a section leader, were attached to 3rd Battalion which was tasked with undertaking a flanking manoeuvre against the Japanese positions.

follow Hilary’s section but had been delayed by Japanese snipers. It was the last time Hilary would be seen.

Hilary’s platoon sergeant and friend Hugh Dornan, in a letter to the Brown family after his death, described how they located Hilary’s body two days later after the Australian advance passed through the area.

It appeared that Hilary had run into a Japanese ambush position and, on his own, had stood little chance. He was remembered by his fellow soldiers as a kind and thoughtful friend who was always able to bring a smile to their faces in even the most trying circumstances.

Hilary was buried in Soputa War Cemetery. His medals include the 1939/45 Star, African Star, Pacific Star, Defence Medal, War Medal and Australian Service Medal.

Hilary was very quiet and devout and family members thought he was destined to a higher calling had he lived. His young life was lost before he had really had a chance to live.

were to advance

towards Eora Creek to envelop the Japanese flank. However, on reaching their objective they were unable to locate the enemy positions, and during the advance D Company lost contact with A Company on its flank, and Hilary was ordered to take his section to find them.

They completed this task, and Hilary, leaving his section with A Company and with daylight fading, set off alone back through the jungle to report their location to D Company, who had intended to

Like so many others he never knew the joys of coming home to family and community, of having a wife or children. Today great nieces and nephews honour his memory, as do we.

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.

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) We assist clients ith

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 us at or admin@bald insla ers.com.a Visit us at / - Ho ard Street, Nambo r, QLD, Zasco Van Rooyen, Director .bald insla

the east Kokoda

Hilary Brown at his home Craglands, Montville (Brown/ Barnett family album)

Leave Day, Tripoli, with Hilary York Seccombe Brown, folder, Cpl HYS Brown, left, and Max Broom (Dornan family album)

Lovely Red and Granny

by Auraillia Von Dayme

Once upon a modern century in downtown Brisbane, there lived Miss Crimson Damaris with her witchy old grandmother. For Granny’s latest youth potion, she still needed the heart of a werewolf.

Recently Crimson had begun dating a handsome young fur coat critic named James C. Wolfheim, who owned a particularly special wolf-fur coat. He wore it once a month for nothing suspicious.

On Crimson’s twentieth birthday, whilst having dinner with Granny and James, they ran out of wine. Crimson was eager to escape the awkward vibe and offered go to the store. Upon leaving, she nearly tripped over Danny the electrician who had come to fix something in the basement.

As Crimson zoomed through the crisp night air on her red e-scooter, the full moon reminded her of how James had howled at it earlier, before transforming into a werewolf. Initially, she’d been frightened but he assured her with a sharp-toothed smile that he loved her with his monstrous heart.

Crimson ducked into the bottle shop and purchased some wine before zooming through the darkness again. Hopefully, Granny hadn’t seen James as a werewolf after she’d walked in unexpectedly. Never mind that. James would never hurt anyone.

Meanwhile, Granny peered at James and dished herself some stew, waiting for James to do the same. He dived in, smacking his lips, then dishing out some more. Granny was beaming when his eyes rolled back and he slid off his chair, heavily drugged. Granny dragged James to the basement where she tied him to a tabletop and retrieved her sharpest knife.

Crimson returned, feeling uneasy by the empty kitchen. She gasped when she felt something severe in her chest. A connection she did not know existed had just been cut, leaving her empty.

Granny’s ears pricked at Crimson’s footsteps, and she hastily washed her bloody hands. She glanced at the organ that gushed ruby blood, the mangled body of Mr. Wolfheim, and her fluorescent anti-ageing potion. She chucked the heart in, stirred it, and gulped some potion down. Granny rushed to her mirror and gasped, dropping her mug.

Crimson jumped at the sound, and

remembering Granny’s potion boiling away in the basement, flew downstairs.

Her now hairless grandmother stared as Crimson shrieked, “Granny! Where’s your hair?”

Granny puffed, “It didn’t work. Your boyfriend did this! Look at me!”

Crimson pushed past Granny and looked frantically around the basement.

In the shadowy corners she could see the outline of a human covered by a black sheet on a table. With shaking fingers, she ripped it back to find her lifeless beloved. Clearly Granny had killed James for his heart and the spell had backfired. Crimson recalled James saying that she had his monstrous heart, but she didn’t realise he meant it literally!

When Crimson spun around, now toothless Granny was holding a shiny knife, smiling. Granny exclaimed, “Yes, of course! He gave you his heart.” She then tossed the blade with surprising force, and it shot like an arrow into Crimson’s thigh. She seethed with pain.

Crimson lunged at Granny just as a Makita drill smashed into Granny’s face. Her slippers went flying as she stumbled backward into her boiling potion with a fizzle. Simultaneously, a muffled male voice yelled, “Oops, sorry!” Crimson remembered Danny the electrician. She stumbled over to James, and painfully regretted everything wordlessly.

James was drifting above them, watching Crimson cry over his corpse. He peered at her closer and noticed that her tears were running into his empty heart cavity. Each droplet urged him to stay, tugging on their past connection to renew once again. His heart began to grow with each tear drop, until his eyes flew open, he took a breath, and his new golden heart began to pump.

Crimson felt his chest tremor, and saw his eyes flick up, as he burst to life. With joy, she kissed him, feeling their connection alight once again. It was so terrifying to think that she could have lost James forever! From then on, Crimson trusted her heart and together they avoided strange old ladies for the rest of their lives.

Buying Now

Mike and Nate Cornish will be travelling the Sunshine Coast area for 6 days only from November 18th to 23rd. We want to buy your unwanted items listed below. Please visit us at one of the venues shown below for an ‘on the spot’ appraisal.

If you live outside the area, have too many items to bring in, or would like a home visit, phone Nate on 0426 820 646 NOW to arrange a time.

These events are often compared to the ‘Antiques Roadshow’ on TV, but without the long queues. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Fully Licensed Antique, Numismatic, and Precious Metal Buyers with over 45 years Industry Experience. Security Supplied by Security International Limited.

Are you moving or downsizing? Are you worried about security? Unwanted coins? Any jewellery, incl damaged? Do they sit in a drawer or cupboard? Are you no longer collecting? Are the family not interested? Would

MONDAY 18TH NOV

Maroochy RSL (Boardroom 3) 10:00am – 3:00pm 105 Memorial Ave, Maroochydore

Home Visits

3:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit

TUESDAY 19TH NOV

Caloundra RSL (Sub Branch Lounge) 10:00am – 3:00pm 19 West Terrace, Caloundra

Home Visits

3:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit

WEDNESDAY 20TH NOV

Pelican Waters Tavern (Function Area 1) 10:00am – 1:00pm 38 Pelican Waters Blvd, Caloundra

Club Kawana (Boardroom)

2:00pm – 4:30pm 476 Nicklin Way

Home Visits

4:30pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit

THURSDAY 21ST NOV FRIDAY 22ND NOV

Buderim Tavern (Function Room) 10:00am – 3:00pm 81 Burnett Street, Buderim

Home Visits

3:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit

Peregian Beach Community House (Room 3) 8:30am – 11:00am 5-7 Rufous Street

Coolum Surf Club (Conference Room) 12:00pm – 3:00pm 1775-1779 David Low Way

Home Visits

3:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit

Noosa Leisure Centre (The Lounge) 9:00am – 12:00pm 9 Wallace Dr, Noosaville SATURDAY 23RD NOV

Home Visits

12:00pm – 6:00pm Phone 0426 820 646 For a Home Visit

Sterling Silver: Tea Sets, Cutlery, Trophy Cups, Trays, Baskets, Vases, Jugs, Cigarette & Card Cases. Silver Bars of any size Jewellery

(Modern

All Jewellery, Rings, Diamond and other stones, Brooches, Pendants, Lockets, Bracelets & Bangles, Gold Cuff Links, Necklaces, All Broken or Worn Jewellery

Kondalilla Restaurant

Situated on the grounds of Kondalilla Eco Resort, Kondalilla Restaurant is a vegetarian and seafood restaurant with vegan options. Visit Kondalilla and enjoy a space of tranquility while you choose from our exquisite menu. Everyone's welcome.

Good food and Good vibes!

There’s nothing better for your tastebuds, and your community, than using local produce. Maple Street Co-op is a successful result of this ethos with their local, member-owned wholefood store, filled with good food and good (ethical) vibes!

We are very happy to partner with them bi-monthly and share details of some of the delicious local produce on offer in the store.

MARYDOWN’S HONEY

Joe Herron of Marydown’s Honey says, “I’m an old fella who’s lived at Conondale all my life and love it. Originally a dairy and pig farmer, I wasn’t prepared to continue after the dairy marketing arrangements were deregulated.

“I tried growing flowers and didn’t like it. Tried growing red claw crayfish but found it more demanding than dairying. Then my son bought a hive of bees and I helped him with them.

travelled internationally, coming home every year to work the Chai Tent. The distinctive blue packaging has stayed the same with minor tweaks.

"I love making it" says Annie. "and getting the grind just right for each spice. Every spice has its own level in the brew, from the base of bay leaf, the punch of cinnamon and ginger with the star anise sitting quietly among the rest. Start the brew with cold water, perhaps adding some fresh ginger and bring to a rolling boil then switch off. It's important not to over boil to keep the delicate flavours.”

PEPA'S BLACK GARLIC

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”

Homegrown Cafe 4/6 Little Main

HOURS: Tue - Sat: 7:00am - 2:00pm Sunday and Monday Closed

MARKET GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON

FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

Crystal Waters Markets 8am - 1pm

Located in the beautiful Conondale valley, this village market creates a unique atmosphere. Under shady trees you'll find delicious food, arts and craft, live music and a children's playground. Stalls available 5435 0111 cwmarkets@crystalwaters.org.au

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 Market 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. Located at the Mapleton School Carpark.

“As time went by it seemed that I had to do the work because he had too much other stuff to do. Somehow or another one hive grew to 40 and now I seem to have lots of honey.

“I grow more than we can eat. I find the Co-op an excellent avenue to shed my excess, such as pumpkins and watermelons. I love growing my own food.”

Joe’s Marydown’s Honey is available in bulk behind the counter, along with jars, honeycomb and creamed honey when in season.

SKYE CHAI

A perennial best-seller at the Co-op, Skye Chai has been hand-ground and created by Annie for decades.

"The chai is pretty much the same recipe from when the original Chai Tent team created it back in the 80s at the Maleny Folk Festival, now the Woodford Folk Festival" Annie shares. It was named after Skye who

Pepa Demasson is a long-time Co-op member from Maleny and is now producing a new local delicacy. "I have been creating black garlic for a while now and have also made black garlic salt to use in my kitchen. Then I thought, why not share it? Here it is…at Maple Street Coop! Your tastebuds will go crazy for this umami, salty explosion!"

Black garlic was of East Asian origin, made by placing garlic in a warm, moist, controlled environment over the course of several weeks, a process that ages the cloves to a deep brownish-black. A blend of premium quality Australian sea salt and organic black garlic is made into a powder you can use to pep up any meal.

Black garlic is used in a wide variety of culinary applications and is also high in antioxidants.

"It could quickly become your go-to seasoning," Pepa enthuses, "it creates a truly wowing flavour experience!"

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 Maple Street Co-op (maplestreet.coop) will be open for the Maleny Christmas Street Party on December 6, 2024.

HORIZON LEGAL GROUP

For over 60 years, Horizon Legal Group, formerly known as Lember and Williams, has been serving clients from Moreton Bay to the Sunshine Coast, providing quality and trusted legal services by their dedicated team.

Welcome to Horizon Legal Group, formerly known as Lember and Williams, in Maleny and Caboolture, offering conveyancing services across the Sunshine Coast and hinterland region.

Principal, Penny McCreery, brings extensive experience to the firm and has forged lasting relationships with valued clients across the Sunshine Coast for several years.

“Lember and Williams has been part of the Maleny community for many years, under the stewardship of Carolyn Williams,” shares Penny. “However, with Carolyn having retired last year, and Michele Lember moving onto the QCAT bench, we no longer have a ‘Lember’ or ‘Williams’ at the firm, so it was time to update our name!

“We realised both the Maleny and Caboolture communities share the same ‘horizon’ with the Glasshouse Mountains, so we settled on Horizon Legal Group.”

Penny prides herself and the firm on putting clients first in all they do. “I firmly believe in the value of taking the time to listen to truly understand a client’s goals. This ensures that our advice is not only responsive, but also proactive in meeting someone’s unique requirements.”

With Penny’s guidance, a dedicated team of legal professionals serves a diverse clientele, ranging from businesses and professionals to property developers and individuals.

“Our expertise spans a wide range of legal areas, including corporate law, property law, real estate conveyancing, wills and estate planning, wills and estate administration, disputes and litigation and more,” continues Penny.

“We have two dedicated solicitors at our Maleny office, Lisa Chesswas and Brianna Roe who are both hinterland locals, and I also attend our Maleny office as the need arises.”

Penny has previously worked as a solicitor in several firms in Chermside, Maryborough and Bundaberg, focusing mainly on wills and estates, property and conveyancing, commercial and business matters, family law, and criminal law.

“What sets us apart is our wealth of experience, our commitment to staying abreast of legal developments, and our solid reputation for delivering effective legal solutions,” says Penny.

As for time away from the office, Penny, Brianna and Lisa are all involved in sporting activities.

“I am a single mum of four children, and can often be spotted coaching netball on the weekends, or floating horses for my children to different events,” shares Penny.

“Brianna is an avid hiker, and also plays soccer socially in her team on the Sunny Coast. Lisa enjoys playing softball at Mooloolah Valley, drone photography around the local area, and is also on the P&C of Montville State School, which keeps her busy!”

Horizon Legal Group has recently acquired a new dedicated office space at Suite 3, Banksia House, 66 Maple Street, Maleny.

Horizon Legal Group Principal, Penny McCreery

Pet weather safety

RSPCA Queensland and Get Ready Queensland have partnered to raise awareness around animal welfare during extreme weather. Pet Ready is a joint initiative that provides Queensland pet owners with handy resources to help better protect their pets during storms, floods, cyclones and fires.

With summer arriving and Christmas seeing a spike in pet ownership, Queenslanders are being reminded about the risks that disaster events and severe heat pose to animals.

Pet owners are encouraged to visit getready.qld.gov. au/plan and download the RSPCA/Get Ready Queensland Pet Severe Weather Emergency Plan. On the website you’ll also find information and tips on preparing for disasters.

The Pet Severe Weather Emergency Plan steps you through everything you need to think about for your pet ahead of a significant weather event.

This includes capturing important information about your pet’s identity, preferences, behaviour, diet and medical requirements, evacuation plans, and what’s needed for their emergency kit.

"Put a plan in place early so you don't get caught out and speak with friends and family to have a back-up plan if you need to get your animals to safety," suggests Emma Lagoon, RSPCA Qld Spokesperson.

The devastating events experienced across Queensland last summer reminded us how quickly things can turn for the worse and why we need to Get Ready for the unexpected, and that includes keeping our pets safe.

For information on animal safety in extreme weather, please visit the RSPCA Queensland and Get Ready Queensland websites.

Regulated dog inspection program

Sunshine Coast Council will be undertaking a regulated dog inspection program between 14 November 2024 and 13 November 2025.

The purpose of this program is to conduct a compliance audit at premises within the region where dogs that have been regulated under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 are being kept. The Act requires local governments to manage regulated dogs within their boundaries. The program will work to ensure animal owners are adhering to the mandatory conditions for keeping a regulated dog to reduce the risk posed by these animals. A copy of the program is open to inspection at Council’s Customer Service Centres, or can be downloaded from Council’s website.

For more information contact Council on 07 5475 7272 or mail@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au 24086C

Spring Artisan Market

The Sunshine Coast Art Group will present its annual Spring Artisan Market fundraiser, taking place at 1 William Parker Place, Buderim at the bottom of Buderim Hill behind the basketball stadium on November 9 and 10. There will be a fabulous selection of unique handmade items to buy, with arts, crafts, pottery, sewing and an exciting club raffle, plus a coffee van onsite. All profits from the raffles will goes towards the running costs of this not-forprofit, community creative arts hub.

Organisations like SCArt are so important and helpful for enabling the community to participate and try out creative pursuits in a supportive, friendly environment, enabling people, whatever their means, to enjoy the arts.

So, get behind the artists by supporting this fun event, bring a friend to browse the artworks, grab unique and affordable Christmas gifts, chat to the artists and enjoy a coffee! EFTPOS is available , and its free entry with everyone welcome!

Chatty Cafe needs you

The Chatty Café Scheme Australia is at a critical juncture - there is significant demand for them to expand but they currently don't have the funding to support the growth.

Chatty Café advocate, Glenys, explained, “We need $160,000 to enable us to adequately support our current 230+ venues and volunteers and offer services to the significant increased social demand.

“We urgently need funding from corporate and philanthropic partners and/or donations to help keep us chatting in 2025.”

The need for meaningful social connection within our communities has never been greater. Loneliness is a silent epidemic tearing our communities apart, leaving countless individuals feeling isolated and invisible.

So how can we help? Spread the word with flyers, posters, social media platforms, and talking to friends and community members, and help find funding partners for the scheme.

“We would be delighted to discuss any potential partnership opportunity you may know of,” said Glenys. Corporate or philanthropic partnership opportunities start from as little as $25k per annum.

“We are also grateful for any donations, and any above $2 are tax deductible. Every dollar makes a difference!

“Please call (0412633304) or email me at connect@ chattycafeaustralia to discuss this further, or more information is also available on our website.”

To find out more, visit chattycafeaustralia.org.au

New law needed for Tiny Homes

Jacqueline Morton hosted a couple of tiny homes on wheels on her 32-acre Belli Park property, to be part of the solution to the housing crisis in her community, but it has resulted in a long battle to keep roofs over heads, with the Sunshine Coast Council issuing an Enforcement Notice ordering the decommissioning of the two dwellings on the property.

One of the residents, Judy, moved out of her caravan, hoping Council would leave the trio alone, but Ms Morton said that was not enough; they wanted a caravan in good working order made uninhabitable.

Jacqueline has been hosting grandmother Judy Stark and Angela Smith, a single mother of two young boys, during the housing crisis, providing them with some security and a sense of community.

“It’s beyond belief that this is going on a time when affordable housing options are almost non-existent in our region and when councils Australia-wide are trialling progressive solutions to land use and mobile dwellings,” Helen Andrew, a local housing advocate said.

“Long gone are the days when caravans and converted buses were only used temporarily; now they are the only option for many, and they need somewhere stable to park and live in them long-term,” she explained.

The proposed new local law Ms Andrew is campaigning for recommends a sliding scale on the number of mobile tiny homes or caravans a landowner can host depending on the land size. Watch this space for any news! (Pictured: Helen Andrew, Judy Stark, Jacqueline Morton and Angela Smith on Angela’s tiny home-onwheels deck.) sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

The Chatty Café mission is to combat this isolation by creating opportunities for people to connect, share, and find a sense of belonging.

Are you ready to lead?

Voices of Fisher, a community group formed in early 2024, is seeking a dedicated leader from the Sunshine Coast to run as an independent member of parliament for the electorate of Fisher at the next Federal election. Inspired by the successful community-led model in the Victorian seat of Indi, they aim to find an independent candidate who is truly committed to representing their community.

Spokesperson Keryn Jones, a former Sunshine Coast councillor, emphasises the need for a candidate who truly represents the Fisher electorate, rather than following party policies.

The group has built a strong volunteer movement to support and fundraise for the right candidate. Their community listening project revealed that residents want change in areas like infrastructure management and planning, climate and energy policy, housing affordability, addressing inequality, and supporting “doing democracy differently”.

Over 200 people recently attended a Voices of Fisher event featuring Zali Steggall MP for Warringah, who highlighted the importance of elected representatives listening to their constituents. Steggall shared her journey into politics, citing how she was inspired by a local newspaper ad seeking a strong, independent local candidate.

Voices of Fisher is now accepting nominations for candidates who embody the values outlined in theFisher Speaks: Community Voices Report, available on their website.

Potential candidates can nominate at voicesoffisher. org/candidate.

photo booth and enjoy a sausage sizzle and more.  Then settle on your BYO rug or chair to sing your favourite Christmas carols with music provided by The Salvation Army Band and others.

Park at the Maleny Pioneer Village (donation requested) across from the church. Please note the event will be held under cover if it rains.

This is a free event sponsored by Maleny churches. Donated goods for a Christmas hamper for the Neighbourhood Centre would be appreciated.

Christmas Carols

Christmas is near! Get into the festive spirit at the CCTC theatre with the Caloundra Chorale singing your favourite timeless Christmas carols and other beautiful arrangements. Conducted by the talented and energetic Mr Kim Kirkman (pictured) and joined by our lovely young singers, The Next Generation.

The CCTC Theatre, 3 Piringa St, Wurtulla, Wednesday December 4 and Friday December 6, 7.30pm; Saturday December 7 and Sunday December 8, 2pm. Tickets: Adults $28, Concessions $26, Groups $23, Members $23, FOC $23, Children $10, bookings essential on trybooking.com/CVKJH, or phone 0490 329 912.

Maleny Community Carols

The festive season is just around the corner and what better way to kick things off than with community carol singing on the lawn at Maleny Baptist Church, corner of Landsborough-Maleny and McCarthy Roads, on Saturday December 7 from 5.30pm!

Walk around the Bethlehem Market Place where kids can try activities at Joseph’s Carpentry Shop, the Pottery Shop, The Weavery, or the Bethlehem Bakery. Visit the

MACG Christmas Fair

The Maleny Arts and Crafts Group (MACG)will be holding its annual handmade Christmas fair at the Maleny Community Centre from Thursday, November 28 to Sunday December 1.

The hours are: Thursday, 5pm to 7pm, Friday and Saturday, 9am- 4pm, and Sunday, 9am – 3pm.

The fair offers a large range of beautifully made and unique items for sale produced by MACGr creative members in many different fields. These include; pottery, fine art, glass making, wood work and textile arts and more. Many local artisans have been MACG members for decades and are highly skilled.

The raffle is drawn on Sunday just before closing. The three prizes are a scarecrow, a coffee table and a painting made by members. Do your Christmas shopping early or find something that will grace your home, garden or wardrobe!

Community News

A one-stop solution to many of your day-to-day issues

What day is bin day? Spotted a pothole? Repairs required at your local playground? There’s an app for that! Council’s upgraded app makes it easier than ever for residents and visitors to request a service, report an issue and access local Council information. The free app allows users to have personalised reminders for bin days – become your street’s bin-fluencer! Available to download now from the App Store and Google Play store. Search ‘Sunshine Coast app’ today.

Active transport corridors: feedback wanted Council is planning two active transport corridors for people walking, riding and using personal mobility devices and we need your input. The Mooloolaba to University corridor will connect our communities of Mooloolaba, Mountain Creek, Sippy Downs and Buderim. The Caloundra to Currimundi corridor will connect our Currimundi, Dicky Beach, Moffat Beach and Caloundra communities. Visit Council’s Have Your Say website to give your thoughts on issues and opportunities by 29 November.

The Garage Sale Trail: cash in or grab a bargain This year, two weekends of Garage Sale TrailsAustralia’s festival of pre-loved stuff - will be held simultaneously around the nation on 9 and 10 November and 16 and 17 November. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to declutter and make some money and for shopping epic stuff at retro prices! Register for free at garagesaletrail.com/sunshinecoast.

Discover the ultimate resource for planning unforgettable events with EventsConnect!

Whether you're organising a community Christmas celebration, a wedding or a sporting event, this platform is your go-to hub for finding experienced Sunshine Coast event services, venues and suppliers. Connect with local experts and elevate your event to new heights. With this user-friendly directory, you can access the best resources to ensure your event's success. Local Connections. Successful Events. Make your vision a reality at eventsconnect.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting

View online on Council's website or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers on 21 November at 9am.

‘Give a sheet’ for the planet this National Recycling Week

Drop off your unwanted household linen so it can be recycled for ‘good’. Take your clean and sorted textiles linen to Chancellor State College, Sippy Downs on Saturday 16 November, between 8am and 2pm. Clean out your cupboard of all your worn out towels, bedsheets, doona covers, pillowcases, tea towels and more! Visit Council’s website for more details.

Get the latest Council news delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for the OurSC enewsletter.

sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

07 5475 7272



SCULPTURE ON THE EDGE

Arts Connect Inc proudly presents Sculpture on the Edge (SOTE) in its 15th celebratory year, set in Flaxton Gardens since 2022. Enjoy a nine-day feast of thought-provoking and entertaining art, delicious food, sculptor talks, and art workshops.

Pictured artists Finn Cossar, Tina Cooper and Jodi Casey are all thrilled to be involved once again.

“This is one of my favourite events,” said Finn. “Such a wide range of artists are involved, and the quality of work and the event is amazing. It does justice to your piece having it displayed in such a setting.”

“The diversity of sculptures and styles is so interesting,” added Jodi, “and I love learning about the artists’ back-stories, why they created their pieces. It’s also such a supportive environment.”

Tina Cooper agreed, “The diversity, the stories, the connection, it’s all so positive. This is a space for artists to connect and grow - the quality of the work pushes everyone to bring their A-game! Fot me personally in my eighth year exhibiting, it’s been a progression from using one medium to many, which is very rewarding.

“With over 7,000 people visiting last year, it’s also a huge opportunity for artists to connect with potential clients, and find their tribe!”

SOTE runs from Saturday November 23 to Sunday December 1, open 8am - 2pm, at Flaxton Gardens, 313-323 Flaxton Mill Drive, Flaxton, admission $10 adults, $5 seniors and concessions, under 18s free. Visit: sculptureontheedge.com.au

Oriana Choir presents...

The Sunshine Coast’s premiere vocal group, Oriana Choir launches the Christmas season with John Rutter’s Magnificat and Requiem, 16th November 2:00pm at Maleny State Primary School, and 17th November 2:00pm at Stella Maris Catholic Primary School Performance Hall, Maroochydore.

John Rutter's Magnificat is a radiant and joyful choral work that celebrates Mary, the mother of Jesus, with a vibrant blend of traditional and contemporary musical elements. Composed in 1990, this seven-movement piece draws inspiration from the rich traditions of Latin American and European sacred music, infusing it with Rutter's distinctive lyrical style.

Under the masterful direction of Kim Kirkman, the choir will be accompanied by Sinfonia of St Andrew’s with soprano Elisabeth Wallis Gaedtke lending her beautiful voice to the performance.

The Magnificat and Requiem are two contrasting yet equally inspiring works that allow the Oriana voices to explore the full range of emotion and expression. Visit oriana.org.au for all performance and booking details. ADVERTORIAL

PANTOMIME TIME AT THE MALENY PLAYHOUSE! 

The Maleny Playhouse pantomime, PussinThongs,basedonPussinBoots, has all the ingredients of a fun-filled Christmas show for all ages. It is packed full of traditional characters you will all recognise, along with others who add to its Australian flair.

If you’re expecting the hilarious antics of the traditional Dame, you will not be disappointed. There are three very funny op shop “ladies” who sell the pair of thongs to the cat.

Judith Prior has put an Australian twist in her adaptation of this classic with her PussinThongs fun pantomime. Rob Hobson has put his own twist on the show to suit the Maleny pantomime audience.

The Playhouse Maleny Showgrounds, December 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 2pm, tickets at trybooking. com, cash sales at Maleny Art Direct. Adults $25, concession $20, kids $15, and under 5 years free

THE

VILLAGE PUPPET FESTIVAL 

After 40 years of entertaining children, teaching drama and making puppets, Catherine SteerO’Neill, director of Little Big World Puppet Company, decided it was time for our region to have its own puppet festival.

During the 1980’s Catherine started making her own puppets from papier mache and developed a successful business with her band of folk tale glove puppet characters under the name Lucy Lollipops Puppet Theatre.

Puppetry is a lesser known art form here on the Sunshine Coast there are only a few puppeteers on the coast and it’s wonderful to get them all together in one place over a weekend to perform.

Everyone is performing for donation at Mapleton Hall 31 Obi Obi Road, Mapleton, November 9 and 10, from 10.30am – 4.30pm each day. There are 12 shows plus workshops and the whole weekend will be an array of small to large puppets roving in and around Mapleton Hall, plus busking and rock band, Led Angels, providing music!

CALLING ALL WOOD ARTISANS!

BAROQUE BRILLIANCE

The Pacific Chamber Players are presenting their ever-popular Baroque Brilliance concert, at 2.30pm on Saturday, November 23, at Eudlo Hall and Sunday, November 24 at Cooroy Memorial Hall.

This year’s programme showcases accomplished Daniel Kossov performing Bach’s Violin Concerto in A minor BWV 1041 Neil Heymink, a favourite of the Players’ patrons, will be featured in Vivaldi’s vital BassoonConcertoinAminor,RV497: a vigorous work played with aplomb.

Telemann is represented with his OvertureSuiteforOboe,Trumpetand Orchestra,TWV55:D1. This is an appealing work that highlights the regal nature of the solo instruments.

And for something light, movements from Purcell’s FairyQueen The programme’s wild card is CPE Bach’s SymphonyinC,H659: an energetic work of unusual inventions and abrupt changes of mood. Tickets are $35, concessions $32, school students $12, available online at pacifichcamberplayers.com or cash at the door.

Pictured is Janet Brewer (piano) performing with Daniel Kossov (violin) at the Players’ LighterShades concert in August.

A TWIST OF CHRISTMAS 

The Jazz and Blues Collective presents East Meets West with a Twist of Christmas on Sunday December 1

Join them for an unforgettable afternoon of music, stories, and pure entertainment as Mal Wood’s sophisticated, toe-tapping trumpet melodies captivate your soul. Let Leena Salim’s lively travel tales and uplifting tunes sweep you off your feet, while Peter Uppman’s soulful trumpet narrative and vocal brilliance leave you mesmerised. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind journey where East meets West, blending melodies from around the world in a celebration of music and the joy of wanderlust. Come and be part of this extraordinary global voyage! Get into the spirit of Christmas and turn up with bells on by dressing up for the occasion, at the Millwell Road Community Centre, 11 Millwell Rd East. Maroochydore. Music 1.30pm to 4pm (doors open 1pm), with a coffee van on site from 12.30pm - B.Y.O food and drinks. Tickets via ticketebo.com.au/jazz-blues-collective

Entries now open for the prestigious Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize! Brought to you by Barung Landcare and sponsored by Sunshine Coast Council, the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize invites woodworkers and artisans from across Australia to enter this prestigious woodworking competition with a sustainability conscience.  Woodworkers of all levels are encouraged to submit entries. Finalists will be in the running to win an overall cash prize of $10,000, as well as a share in a further prize pool of $6,500.  Finalist pieces of the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize go on to form the feature exhibition at the Maleny Wood Expo, which will be held May 3 - 5, 2025, at the Maleny Showgrounds.  The competition theme for the 2025 Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize is ‘Whimsy in Wood’ where creativity knows no bounds! Entrants are invited to explore this theme and create works under the categories of Furniture, Sculpture or Tiny Treasures in ways that captivate and delight the judges and audience alike.  Entries are now open until March 8, 2025. For more information and to submit your work, please visit malenywoodexpo.com (Pictured: 2025 Wootha Prize - 'Our Obi Obi' by Paul Chapman.)

KISSING THE COBRA

A new exhibition has arrived in Maleny entitled KissingtheCobra Come and see 24 new paintings by Jessica Ainsworth to that seek to express such topics as love and fear, death and renewal, humour and pathos. Jessica explores the mystery of things both serious and absurd. She asks such questions as…“Who cleaned up after the Last Supper?” “What if Adam ate the apple instead of Eve?”“What to do when home alone?” “Is snakes and ladders really just a board game?”

Inspired by a 1935 documentary filmed in Burma of a woman whose task it was to kiss a King Cobra on the mouth three times in order for there to be more male babies to be born in her village, Jessica has worked for a year, questioning, exploring and painting. So expect the unexpected, as Jessica’s latest enthralling exhibition promises to be one full of surprises, from November 16 – 19, 3-7pm at The Zone Gallery, 89 McCarthy Rd, Maleny. For more information, visit: thezonegallery.com.au

NOVEMBER

6-30 – NSC Annual Student Exhibition, incredible works from Nambour State College, experience the creativity and talent of young artists, musicians, filmmakers and performers, Old Ambulance Station, Nambour, visit their Facebook page for details.

10 - The Maroochy River Country Music Club, a tribute concert to The Eagles band, from 12 noon at ACMA Country Hall of Fame, Steggalls Road, Yandina, all welcome, $10, members $8, free tea and coffee, enquiries, phone Darryl: 0458 671 568.

23, 24 - Palmwoods Little Village Theatre presents Swinging at the Ritz with Frank Sinatra and Friends, Palmwoods Guide Hut, 2pm, bookings: call Moira 0409 026 145, tickets $25, includes afternoon tea, and bookings essential, as no tickets at the door.

17 - Mick Shipley comes to the mid-month ACMA concert as a guest artist, along with other popular country music from local artists backed by a great house band. Hall of Fame, 24 Steggalls Road, 12 noon, BYO lunch, free tea/coffee, enquiries 0437 191004.

30 -  How Sweet The Sound, choral excellence featuring highlights such as Sunrise Mass by the contemporary composer Ole Gjeilo, and Antonín Dvořák’s Stabat Mater, plus The Sound of Silence, arranged by Mark Hayes. Lakeshore Community Church of Christ, Buderim, 2pm, trybooking: suncoastchoral.org.au/ performances or pay at the door.

1-31 - Cooroy Butter Factory Centre, multiple exhibitions and affordable works featuring local artists, New Homes for Old Art, Think Big, Living Outside the Lines and The Space in Between. Visit: butterfactoryartscentre.com.au for more details, closes December 1.

12 – Outspoken Maleny, Steven Lang in conversation with author and Saturday Paper senior reporter Rick Morton about his new book Mean Streak, a compelling story about Robodebt, at the Maleny Community Centre, 6 for 6,30pm, tickets from outspokenmaleny. com

21 – Spring Roots, with songstress Demi Casha; alternative country and folk singer Jack Raymond; indie-folk artist Tom Harrington, and multiinstrumentalist Daryl James, at The Presynct Venue and Bar, 15 Ann Street, Nambour, tickets via events. humantix.com

DECEMBER

4,6,7,8 – The Caloundra Chorale sing timeless Christmas Carols and other beautiful arrangements, conducted by the talented Mr Kim Kirkman and with young singers, The Next Generation. CCTC Theatre, 3 Piringa St, Wurtulla, bookings essential, tickets via trybooking.com/CVKJH, 0490 329912.

13 - Maleny Christmas Street Party, Maple Street, Maleny will be closed for a for a fun-filled evening of live music, circus performers, community dinner spaces, face painting, and so much more.

Letters

The greatness of Gough

Thank you Trevor Sauer of Mapleton for giving me the opportunity to wax lyrical on the personage of Gough Whitlam. Reading your letter, it’s obvious you have never read any of the splendid biographies of Gough and/or Margaret. I have.

Gough was very unusual and not trusted in the Labor party, mainly due to his education and lofty way of speaking. As an after-dinner entertainment Gough’s father, Fred would lead family discussions on what they read in their encyclopaedias. As Gough’s mother, Martha, was profoundly deaf he learned to speak clearly and rather forcefully so she could lip read easily.

He was bought up a Baptist with strong values regarding looking after one’s neighbours but gave up being a church goer as he saw the hypocrisy of religion in general.

Australia did not have 25% inflation, we got as high as 17% but Britain had 23%, so Australia was part of a global downturn.

As to the scandals of the times….yes there were quite a few but they wouldn’t raise an eyebrow now. Not like family man Barnaby Joyce supporting two families. At least he legitimised his two sons by marrying his staffer. Not like Christian Porter’s alleged misconduct. Not like many-ministries-Morrison, who ran away to Hawaii when we needed a leader here. Morrison also ran away when the people of Cobargo confronted him.

I would also like to offer as proof…..if proof is needed, that Gough Whitlam was a decent human being; his lifelong love for his wife Margaret Dovey .No scandals there Trevor.

Cryptic Crossword

18) Opera solo

19) Egypt's capital

20) Painful thing to pull

23) Olympic powerhouse

24) "_ you sure?"

25) Crooked

29) Joke

31) Hardware for a bulletin board

LETTERS, LEUNIG AND LIGHT RELIEF

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.

May I recommend Susan Mitchell’s book, Margaret and Gough - ‘The love story that shaped a nation’.

Cheers, Leigh Childs, Woombye

Australia thanks Vietnam veterans

How true Colin Brewer’s words in October’s Hinterland Times. Please remember, Vietnam servicemen had no choice but to obey government dictates. On their return to Australia it was found some 30% suffered PTSD. There was also suffering, and adverse health issues to live with.

Inconsiderate protestors compounded problems. The politicians argued, the public really knew little and the servicemen’s state of mental health was hushed.

On Remembrance Day, as we pause to thank those who served our nation in conflicts, let us especially remember Vietnam, with some of those service personnel with us today. Thank you.

In 1964 the Australian Government introduced conscription, ending 1972. Over 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam, about one-third conscripted. Conscripts were born between 1/1/44 and 31/12/1950. Australia’s Prime Minister, Sir Robert Menzies, announced in April 1965 forces would be sent to the war in Vietnam. In August 1971 then Prime Minister Sir Billy McMahon ordered our troops return in stages.

Those who’d served in Vietnam were not supported by government, or public, when they returned. They were excluded from clubs and endured bad public reception, despite a large percentage being conscripted and without choice.

35) Disdain

36) Part of a TV feed

38) Couple thousand pounds

39) Sandwich feature, often

42) Nightfall, poetically

43) Fertile type of soil

44) About to go off

45) Branch headquarters?

47) Functioned as

48) Everyday or usual

49) Bitterly regret

51) Darjeeling, for one

52) Company picnic event

61) It's what's happening now

62) Artist Chagall

63) False god

64) Flower girl, often

65) About

66) Dice dots

67) Certain venomous snake

68) Put on weight

69) Eyelid affliction

Down

1) Flatfoot's lack

2) "Duchess of Alba" painter

3) Dutch dairy product

4) Shelters for some animals

5) The real Citizen Kane

6) Skylit lobbies

7) "Lie" form

8) It represents a country

9) Bring upon oneself

10) Child's dishes

Bad Jokes of the Month

A doctor walked in to find a patient sitting on his exam table, with carrots sticking out of his nose and broccoli coming out of his ears. The doctor took one look at him and said, “Well, I can tell right away you’re not eating properly.”

What do you call a warm, sunny day that come after two

I was employed by Radio Australia to broadcast a 15 minute daily “cheer” programme to our forces. I wrote my scripts using letters and messages from Australia, on air I conveyed messages “from home” and played music requests for “our boys in Vietnam”.

I felt personally involved because a few of my friends had been sent to Vietnam, and I was upset at the way many, my age and younger, were affected. In 1967 I won “RSL Princess”, triggering my continued support of the very necessary work our RSL do, and now also supporting Legacy which runs to assist families of war veterans in a variety of very essential ways.

Shame for Australia’s delay to give the care and consideration needed to these veterans. It took a long time for them to finally receive the same honouring as World War veterans before them. Today we respectfully offer you our most sincere thanks.

Jill Lillingstone

Encouraging young writers

Dear Victoria,

The new paper is just wonderful. I just wanted to say thank you so much for giving my son the opportunity to be a part of something so great. It’s given him the confidence to want to write more. I do appreciate it. He appreciates it. Have a beautiful week.

Warmest regards, Jess G.

The personal touch

11) Cast-of-thousands film

12) Loose, crumbly deposit

13) _ gin fizz

21) Kind of vision

22) David Blaine's art

25) Colorado resort

26) Debris of fallen rocks

27) Nutty birds?

28) Circle section

29) Take a wild stab

30) Does a bit of math

32) Mr. T's TV unit

33) _ del Sol

34) Prepare to propose

36) Between ports

37) Cleveland native

40) Scattered, as seed

41) "To_ is human ... "

46) Hypnotic state

48) Converted liberal, informally

50) Anesthetized

51) They show off abs of stone

52) Volcano in Sicily

53) Electrical power network

54) Turned right, on a horse

55) Bad air

56) "Legal" prefix

57) Tears violently

58) Mine entrance

59) Cheat, in a way

60) " ... or_!"

Dear Victoria,

I wanted to write and say thank you to you and your fellow judges for taking the time to write constructive and encouraging feedback to us (and I understand to all the top ten writers). Although my daughter didn’t ‘win’, your valuable advice and personal touch was very special, and she is already looking forward to next year’s competition!

Most importantly, thanks for keeping young people’s imagination alight. Reading the winning story and the runner up pieces, we were in awe of the talent and great storytelling in the hinterland. Well done to everyone involved!

Sophie Blake, Rosemount

Congratulations HT!

Well done Hinterland Times! Victoria and the HT team deserve our congratulations for organising the recent  "Young Writer of  the Year Awards".  I am sure there is little commercial gain in all the effort but this is the sort of project that gives our paper so much local and community value.

How exciting to see young, emerging, writers given the very real encouragement to have their creative voices heard.

Very well done to Brooke Wild (what a sad and moving tale) but also to all the entrants who took the time to put proverbial "pen to paper'. Please tell Riley that the evercheerful "Ziggy" tweeted his congratulations and best wishes!

Hinterland Times, so much more than just a newspaper!

Angus Richard, Glass House Mountains

“Support, encouragement and love. Three relatively simple acts of kindness that can change the course of a person’s life.”

- Dan Levy

Poets

SOLITUDE

(I wandered lonely as a cloud) Today that's probably not allowed. Who wants to be a misanthropist and shun all contact with fellow man?

These days it's important not to be missed So Tik Tok, Youtube, Instagram can make you popular, famous – yes they can! Keep bombarding people with inane messages and images: Post pictures of yourself, who cares how demeaning.

If you receive lots of “likes”, Well tell yourself you are seeming

To be famous, however so aimless. People are breathless to know where you go, What you had for breakfast, what your dog ate, When for work you were late; Your most ignorant, boring, useless opinion, The clothing worn by your children.

All these electronic images circulating in the ether for perpetuity. People in a distant galaxy, how excited they will be: Wow, look, someone's new toothbrush.

A selfie picture inside the bus, going to work, the sandwich they're going to eat.

These people we're going to meet, get ready the space ship for a long trip. Er, captain, can I make a suggestion, some extra cargo to put in the ship? When we arrive, to stop them clogging the airwaves, we have the means. Let's just blow them to absolute smithereens.

© Ian Pollock

SPIDER (A TEMPORARY VISITOR)

A spider took up lodgings near our front door He stayed a good two weeks, perhaps more, We’d see him every day, there in his web, And I’d have to say, he appeared extremely well fed. His web was always full of bugs and flies, Which I’m convinced had a positive effect on his size. Every day when going out: we’d observe then snigger, Then say to each other “I’m sure he’s getting bigger!”

Some days we’d actually catch him in the act of munching, Enjoying a late breakfast or perhaps lunching On some unlucky flying critter caught unaware, Now turned into our furry friend’s daily fare.

Then today as I went out the web was gone, Whether the rain took him out or he just moved on We’ll never know, but the driveway, it just looks so bare, Now that our resident arachnid is no longer there.

How thankful we are that he chose our place to dwell, I just hope his new hosts enjoy the experience as well.

© Bill Jackson

is

HOLISTIC HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Are you putting your health at risk?

ore than half of Australians could be putting their health at risk, with worrying new research from Compare the Market revealing that 51.1% of Aussies surveyed* admit to avoiding professional help for health issues.

The research found that around 1 in 5 people surveyed (19.5%) are taking matters into their own hands by Googling their symptoms or seeking advice from social media.

Compare the Market’s Executive General Manager of Health, Steven Spicer, encouraged anyone seeking health advice online to exercise caution.

“The reality is that while there are plenty of great resources available online, it’s becoming a little murky to decipher what’s legitimate health advice and what isn’t,” Mr Spicer said.

“While the internet can be a great starting point if you’re experiencing a symptom or health concerns, always ensure

the facts are accurate and current. And, if you’re suffering a medical emergency, head straight to your hospital or seek advice from your GP.

“Look for legitimate health professionals, Australian Government websites and trusted brands with a track record for providing authoritative health advice and information.

“We’ve heard of people in our own office being bamboozled by advice they’ve found on TikTok or social media that looked and sounded real but wasn’t, so always ensure you’re dotting your ‘I’s and crossing your ‘t’s when it comes to your health.”

The research also found that around 20% of respondents avoided seeking professional help for a health issue over fears a doctor would discover a serious issue, and that one in 10 people put off a doctor visit because they’re embarrassed to discuss their health issues.

Additionally, 6.3% avoided seeking medical

treatment because they didn’t think a health professional would take their issue seriously, and  5.6% believed they would be wasting their doctor’s time

Other barriers included fears of the cost (14.7%), lack of time (7.3%), and the preferred doctor not being available (9.6%).

“With bulk-billing doctors disappearing and healthcare costs rising, it’s alarming to see that so many Australians could be suffering in silence because they fear how much a visit to the doctor will cost,” Mr Spicer said. “We would encourage Australians to see if they’re eligible for any free tests or appointments or if any rebates are available to ease the financial burden.

“For example, we know that Medicare can cover eye tests performed by an optometrist. There are a number of free national cancer screening programs, and you may be eligible for other appointments if you’re a concession card holder or meet certain criteria.

“And, if you have health insurance, your policy may already contribute to things like dental visits, prescription eyewear, psychology and more. It’s worth checking before delaying or avoiding these types of appointments completely.”

*Survey of 1,001 Australian adults, conducted September 2024.

Use Your Mental Edge

Intentional intensity

by JAMIE MILNE

My post military career has seen me primarily involved in the fitness and high performance industry for 20 years. There is a rarely coached concept called “intentional intensity" and this serves as a powerful metaphor for achieving success in all areas of life, not just athleticism.

At the heart of this idea lies a simple yet profound truth: the quality and intensity of our efforts significantly impact the results we achieve. In the gym, many individuals struggle to see progress due to a lack of consistent, focused effort. Individuals often attend sporadically, ultimately failing to push themselves, believing that mere attendance equates to results. Ironically, this mindset hinders their potential, much like in various life endeavours.

To unlock true growth, intensity must be coupled with consistency, effort and reflection. The harder we work, the quicker we see results—not just in fitness, but across all aspects of our lives. Whether it’s advancing in our careers, mastering a musical instrument, nurturing relationships, or managing finances, the principle

However, it’s essential to understand that this doesn’t mean we should exert maximum effort every single day. Instead, we should strategically evaluate our weeks, balancing intensity with rest and reflection. This selective approach allows us to harness our energy effectively, ensuring we remain committed and engaged without burning

By applying this metaphorical lens of intense exercise to our daily lives, we can cultivate a mindset that prioritises intentionality and focus. Whether lifting weights or working towards personal goals, the path to success is paved with consistent, purposeful effort. Embracing this philosophy enables us to break through barriers, achieve our aspirations, and ultimately, transform not just our bodies, but our entire lives.

jmtfacility.com

IMAGE

by KERRIE FRIEND

Calm your mornings

Having a morning routine is very important, and while mine might be different from yours, there maybe parts of mine you’d like to adopt.

First, I start by using an alarm with a nice, gentle wake up sound not a jarring alarm. Then I begin my day with journaling as I sip my coffee, with appreciation for the simple things, being sure to write down three things that I’m grateful for as this shifts my perspective and helps me attract more of what I desire making me feel happy and thankful. Joy and miracles flow when you include these suggestions into your morning practice.

Becoming a connoisseur of your mornings has beautiful benefits and allows your first hours to be calm and blissful, not wasteful and hurried. I like to include exercise (rebounding, walking, gym, Pilates) and then a healthy breakfast. Being intentional about your morning routine has countless gifts. Learn with each new morning, focus on what brings you bliss (reading, writing, prayer, meditation, exercise) because this transforms your energy and attitude for the day ahead.

Most importantly, don’t get flustered when your morning routine is disrupted, instead go with the flow. The best way ultimately to live is to be like a river, fluid and adjustable to the things that can happen. Because how we cope with matters affects our life greatly and is what sets us apart. One of the best things to ensure our mornings go well is to plan the night before, creating calmness and more ease to our mornings.

And finally, don’t engage in social media in the mornings, it only distracts and leads us down a path we don’t need to travel. Instead value your mornings immensely as they are your new beginnings to start your days refreshed and renewed and, with some simple inclusions, you’ll be setting yourself up for an effective morning perfectly.

Blessings, Kerrie

KerrieFriend.com

Holistic rituals can achieve results!

Expand your social circle, have some fun, be creative and make new connections at our Day Respite Centres

Some of our activities include outings in the local area, entertainers, music, art & craft, theme days, armchair travel, games, trivia and so much more.

A delicious morning tea and lunch is provided

*We would welcome a gold coin donation for Day Centre trials, however, it is not essential.

We have Day Centre vacancies in all of our locations, Flaxton, Nambour, Gympie and Maleny (Mondays Only)

HOLISTIC - Health and Wellbeing

ASTROLOGY

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

AUDIOLOGIST

Sunshine Coast Audiology

COUNSELLING

& LIFE COACHING continued

Maleny Equine Assisted Therapy

Siobhan Way Gestalt Psychotherapist, EAP Practitioner, and EA coach . Our compassionate approach uses the gentle guidance of horses to foster emotional healing and mental wellbeing. info@malenyequineassistedtherapy.au Ph. 0438 454 703

FITNESS, PERSONAL TRAINER ,DANCE

HOMEOPATHY

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

HYPNOTHERAPY

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

AYURVEDIC HERBALS

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.

CHIROPRACTORS

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

COUNSELLING & LIFE COACHING

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

Get Active Fitness & Personal Training Beautiful group fitness studio with a variety of classes to suit all ages/fitness levels. A fun supportive environment, fully qualified trainers. Book your first session FREE Ph. 0423 618 945 Bunya St, Maleny.

Maleny Vibes Pilates

Boutique reformer pilates 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

Christian Dunham

Specialising in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, a combination of clinical hypnotherapy and psychotherapy used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, phobias and other chronic conditions. Free initial consultation. Ph: 0448 303 013 www.christiandunham.net

Advertise your business in the HT from $63.58 ongoing per month.

Book directly by scanning

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

Advertise your business in the HT from $63.58 ongoing per month. Book directly by scanning

HAIRDRESSERS AND BARBERS

Nellies Creative Hair Design

Cut and Colour specialists. Nellie's team offers you the opportunity to have exceptional hair using great product at fantastic prices. 21 Coral St Maleny – Ph: 0438 785 443

HOME CARE

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

MASSAGE

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

MENTAL PERFORMANCE

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.

Advertise your business in the HT from $63.58 ongoing per month.

Book directly by scanning

PHYSIOTHERAPY

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

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN continue

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

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

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

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

Advertise your business in the HT from $63.58 ongoing per month. Book directly by scanning

JEWELLERY - COMMISSIONS AND DESIGN

Wasshausen Gems + Jewels

Fine individually designed and traditional handmade jewellery in a contemporary style with natural Gemstones, Pearls & Opals. Commision & redesign, alteration & repairs.

Call Birgit in her Maleny workshop 0490 146 982

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

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

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

PLUMBING & WASTEWATER

Anderson Plumbing & Roofing QBSA1066328

Plumbing, drainage & roofing. New work, renos, maintenance specialists. Septic systems, blocked drains, high pressure ‘sewer jett’ drain cleaner, drain camera, cable locations, tank installations, roof & guttering. Ph: 5494 3340 or 0409 541 4757

TRADE AND SERVICES

PLUMBING & WASTEWATER

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

POOL MAINTENANCE

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

PRESSURE CLEANING

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

Advertise your business in the HT from $63.58 ongoing per month. Book directly by scanning

ROOFING

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

SOLAR

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

TREE SERVICES

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

ADVERTISING

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.

LEGAL SERVICES

Baker Robinson Lawyers

Sophie Paras - Professional, efficient, relaible and friendly. 5494 2665 Suite 7, 43 Maple St Maleny. Email: sophie@brlawyers.com.au www.brlawyers.com.au

Easton Lawyers

Tove Easton Principal Lawyer

Your Local Lawyers in Maleny 62 Maple St, Maleny. Ph: 5494 3511 Email: tove@eastonlawyers.com.au

Horizon Legal Group formerly Lember & Williams

Suite 3, Banksia House, 66 Maple Street, Maleny 07 5495 1499 hello@horizonlegalgroup.com.au www.horizonlegalgroup.com.au

Contact Principal, Penny McCreery

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Ottiam Real Estate

Elevate your investment property with our property management services. Ensure maximum returns and unparalleled care. Discover the difference we make. 1/1 Wilga Court, Mapleton Ph: 5445 7788

REAL ESTATE

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 Property

At Brant Property we understand that it's all in the attention to detail, even the little things matter. Learn how ‘We Can Sell Yours Too!’

Contact Susan Brant

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

Blake Gierke - Your Hinterland Property Expert. 10 years’ experience & multiple RMA awards. Innovative marketing strategies for maximum exposure. Get unmatched results. Blake 0412 266 719

VETERINARY CARE

District Vets Maleny

Veterinarian Susan Portas and her team provide professional, compassionate care for your pets. Hours Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 8:30am – 5:30pm Wed 8:30am – 4:30pm Sat by appointment 7 Myrtle St Maleny Ph: 5499 9077

131 McCarthy Road, Maleny

Prime East Side Privacy and Style

– Arrange a Tour to See More!

The charming single-level home features a bright and airy layout with French doors that create a seamless connection between indoor living and the captivating outdoor surroundings of stunning gardens and majestic trees. The open-plan, lightfilled kitchen, featuring stone benchtops, adds a touch of timeless elegance to this hidden gem.

This home boasts three bedrooms, a versatile multi-purpose room and study, as well as a pool area, complemented by a generous deck, ideal for hosting gatherings and soaking in the sunshine

• 3 bedrooms, a multi-purpose room (fourth bedroom) plus study

• Tranquil and private surroundings in a quiet location

• Ducted A/C and Solar Power (6.5kw)

• Carport plus 3-bay shed with ample storage

• Water tank plus bore

Bed: 4 Bath: 2 Car: 3

Land Size: 4,000 m2

Price: JUST LISTED!

Agency: RE/MAX Hinterland

Contact: 0447 737 737 sales@remaxhinterland.com.au

32 Maple Street, Maleny, Qld 4552

1 Cycad Place, Flaxton

Fully Renovated Contemporary Home - Your Private Oasis Awaits!

ffering a unique blend of comfort and tranquillity, this fully renovated contemporary home is designed for modern living while providing a serene escape from the busyness of life. Imagine starting your day with a warm cuppa on the expansive deck, greeted by a golden sunrise and being surrounded by the beauty of birdlife and your lush garden sanctuary.

• King-size Master suite with walk-in and built-in robes, fully renovated ensuite

• Two spacious guest bedrooms

• New kitchen with pyrolytic oven, induction cooktop and walk-in pantry

• Vaulted ceilings in the lounge/dining areas plus fireplace and study nook

• Huge entertainment area, double remote garage, caravan port, shed

• 6.6Kw Solar, 77,000 litres rainwater, covered vege patch, fully fenced yard

Call Susan 0428 573 170 or Marlene 0476 652 273 today to schedule your appointment today.

Agency: Brant Property Contact: Susan Brant 0428 573 170

2/20 Maple Street, Maleny Qld 4552

3 Obi Lane, North Maleny

et just 2 km from Maleny’s town centre, this home provides a perfect sanctuary, as well as easy access to the local community. Thoughtfully designed to ensure an effortless flow between spaces, the home benefits from excellent crossflow ventilation and an abundance of natural light.

• Open plan living spaces, high ceilings, timber floors, cosy fireplace

• Large outdoor entertaining area and coastal views

• Versatile downstairs studio with workshop space

• 60,000-litre water storage system, Fuji Clean waste treatment system and solar

• Expansive and productive yard featuring citrus and avocado trees

• Room for future additions, such as a large shed or a swimming pool

Bed: 3 Bath: 2 Car: 2

Land Size: 5,398 m2

Price: PRICE BY NEGOTIATION

Agency: RE/MAX Hinterland Contact: 0447 737 737 sales@remaxhinterland.com.au

32 Maple Street, Maleny, Qld 4552

8 Piccabeen Place, Maleny

Serene Country Living in The Heart of Maleny!

TNestled in an elevated and tranquil cul-desac, within a short walk to Maleny Village, this magnificent DJ Sommer character home was built in 2014 and boasts 9-foot ceilings creating a spacious, light filled and inviting ambience. Set on a generous 1261m² block, the property is enveloped by flourishing, vibrant gardens, attracting a symphony of birdlife.

• Open-plan living, dining and kitchen with access to covered outdoor entertaining

• King-size master suite complete with large walk-in robe, office and ensuite

• Country kitchen with induction cooktop, stone bench tops and quality appliances

• Double lock-up garage with internal access to the kitchen. Side access for trailer or mower, garden shed plus 7.6m x 3.8m powered shed

• All town services, 6.6KW Solar, Solar hot water

Call Susan 0428 573 170 or Marlene 0476 652 273 today to schedule your appointment today.

Agency: Brant Property Contact: Susan Brant 0428 573 170

2/20 Maple Street, Maleny Qld 4552

Tranquil Elegance in North Maleny

c abo t hat o tr l need and se, and don’t hold onto items o t of g ilt or obliga on. When it comes to f rnit re, foc s on keeping pieces that are space efficient - things like e tendable tables,

Once the home has been decl ered, o can foc s on preparing the propert for sale. Remodelling kitchens a n d b a t h r o o m s a r e n ’ t n e c e s s a r , b t r e p a i n n g interiors, replacing carpets and d ing gardens can make older proper es m ch more appealing. Foc s on clean, neat & d hen presen ng o r propert for s a l e a n d l e t o r b e r d e c i d e o n h a t n e e

People generall sell first to get the best price, so ask for a longer se lement on o r contract, then go looking. Some re rement li ing illages do accept deposits and allo people eno gh

ILandsborough nest boxes Preparing for bird flu

The looming arrival of a deadly strain of bird flu in Australia has prompted the federal government to set up a $95 million preparation fund as part of a swathe of biosecurity and environmental measures.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the H5N1 strain of avian influenza "presents a real and significant threat to Australia's agriculture sector".

t’s been just over six months since their installation a Landsborough environment reserve, and now 25 nest boxes are a home for sugar gliders, brushtail and short-eared possum, a peron’s tree frog and plenty more treeloving wildlife.

Ten habitat stacks and more than 6900 trees were also planted across 4.33 hectares within the Mellum Creek Environment Reserve to offset the removal of trees and vegetation required for Unitywater to deliver new water network connections to the growing Aura community.

glider, greater glider, possum, micro bats and antechinus – a small mouselike native marsupial.

“This greatly benefits our region’s biodiversity and supports the survival of these species for generations to come.

“The 40mm thick native timber should also help the temperature and humidity inside the box remain constant and habitable.

Ms Collins said the impacts already felt in Australia from other strains of bird flu highlight the need for continued funding in "national preparedness". Over 2 million chickens have been euthanised across the country this year as a result of the spread of three other strains of avian influenza.

Biosecurity responses, a public communication campaign and wild bird surveillance will be funded to the tune of $37 million as part of moves to protect agricultural industries in the event of more bird flu outbreaks.

Australia is the only continent that has so far escaped H5N1, but other strains such as the H7 group have hugely affected commercial egg production in multiple states and led to numerous warnings that H5N1 is not far from our shores.

In late 2023, Sunshine Coast Council fulfilled the offset in the Mellum Creek Environment Reserve in Landsborough. Council’s Natural Areas Offset Officer Steve Milner said the new nest boxes were expected to last for a minimum of 40 years.

“Council used native hardwood timber salvaged from other road development projects and milled it into 40mm rough sawn timber boards to construct the nest boxes,” Mr Milner said.

“The nest boxes were installed in the tree canopy in the Mellum Creek Environment Reserve to mimic hollows that would otherwise take hundreds of years to develop naturally, creating instant breeding habitat for our precious wildlife including the powerful owl, cockatoos, squirrel

“We are working with Unitywater to salvage any timbers that could be used for the course woody debris salvage program or Class A Durability timber for future nest boxes.”

Unitywater Executive Manager Strategic Engagement, Joshua Zugajev, said significant stakeholder engagement helped inform the pipeline route selection and construction methodology, and added that other trees that could be recycled would be reused through Council’s Course Woody Debris Salvage program to become habitat stacks in revegetation areas that are in need.

“Vegetation which does not meet the specification for either of these initiatives is being mulched and reused on the construction site for soil and erosion control,” Mr Zugajev said.

‘We are also working with the local Queensland Parks and Wildlife (QPWS) Ranger to re-use some of the tree root balls as deterrents for illegal 4WD access into Ferny Forest.

“The newly cleared corridor also creates a fire break assisting with the QPWS bushfire management of the forest.”

Biodiverse Environmental designed, built, installed and monitors the nest boxes.

WA further $35.9 million in the announcement has been set aside for environmental measures including protecting threatened species at the state and territory level, as well as the conservation of already captive vulnerable species (such as zoo populations).

The possible impact on native species already at risk of extinction is particularly concerning, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said, especially those "not well placed to cope with significant mortalities.

"While Australia remains free from HPAI H5N1, the awful reality of this disease is that — like the rest of the world — we will not be able to prevent its arrival.”

The Invasive Species Council has welcomed the funding, with advocacy director Jack Gough saying, "We will not be able to stop this disease from arriving, but we know that vaccination, carcass removal and stopping disturbance can reduce death rates and save species like Tassie devils, sea lions and black swans."

Mr Gough said the funding should be the first step "in a monumental change in the way that environment biosecurity threats are managed in Australia".

Flu vaccine stocks will be also replenished as part of a further $22.1 million package for the National Medical Stockpile, part of the public health response to bird flu.

In the Wild

It's the little things that count

hen it comes to thinking about planting native plants, we tend to only think about the trees such as gum tree or fig trees, and that can be a sticking point with regards planting natives, because not everyone has room for them - in fact I’d strongly recommend against this unless you have a really, really, really big yard!

However in South East Queensland where we have more than 3500 native plants to choose from, there have to be a few plants lower to the ground that are going to look great in your backyard and provide groundcover that won’t shade your solar system, block your view and, as a bonus, give you a lovely spot to sit and enjoy the winter sun.

For low-growing groundcovers you can’t beat the familiar Native Violets in the shade, we also have some remarkably hardy

groundcovers for full sun, that love hot gravel and jumping over retaining walls such the Fan Flowers - Scaevola spp., Guinea Flowers - Goodenia spp., Midyim - Austromyrtus dulcis Coleus spp., Yellow Buttons - Chrysocephalum spp. and Flax Lily’s - Dianella spp, just to name a few.

If you like perfume beneath your feet, we even have native Pennyroyals Mentha spp. that provide a delicious minty freshness alongside footpaths and tracks. We also have an array of native jasmines that can provide groundcover and even fruit for the birds!

Native grasses are much underrated and look great in dense plantings. Kangaroo Grass - Themeda triandra are just a few of our local clumping grasses that are relatively easy to get hold of and when planted in clumps at 30-50cm spacing’s provide rapid cover

and fantastic habitat for small birds such as Red Browed Finches. Some of our rainforest running grasses such as the Beard Grasses - Oplismenus spp and Slender Panic’s - Ottochloa spp. are great competitive grasses that love the shade and provide dense groundcover. And then there are the ferns, but let’s leave that for another column! But before we finish, let’s discuss establishing groundcovers. A lot of our exotic weeds are groundcovers competing with native plants, and they must be controlled before planting native groundcovers. This can be done by blanket mulching the planting area, with weed-free mulch such as sugar cane or bark or wood chip. Plant a complex, diverse mix of native groundcovers and not only do you get to enjoy them, but they are also crucial habitat for the survival of our native fauna.

with Spencer Shaw

Mellum Creek Environment Reserve nest box monitoring

four years. The new draft Shorebird Conservation Plan 2025-2030 will continue this work and inform future actions to protect our shorebirds.

Visit haveyoursay. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au before Monday, November 18, to provide feedback on the draft Shorebird Conservation Plan 2025-2030.

Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez said the Sunshine Coast provided important habitat for migratory and resident shorebirds, where they share coastal areas with our community.

“Migratory shorebirds are the world’s most threatened species of birds, flying more than 10,000km from Siberia and Alaska, all the way to our Sunshine Coast shoreline,” Cr Suarez said.

“These amazing birds spend most of their time feeding on the mudflats and sandbanks of the Pumicestone Passage and Maroochy River, as they need to more than double their body weight to store essential energy for their long journey back.

“Some local species prefer rocky shores, such as Point Cartwright, Mudjimba Island, Caloundra headland, and Point Arkwright.

“The Shorebird Conservation Plan is the Sunshine Coast’s contribution to the world-wide conservation efforts to protect these species.

“It proposes finding a balance so our community can enjoy our beautiful coastline while helping shorebirds survive here too.

“It suggests protecting local shorebird habitat, closing high value roost sites between October and April and creating more education and learning opportunities for our community and visitors to share ways co-exist with nature in our wildlife friendly biosphere.”

The current shorebird conservation action plan has guided Council’s actions to try and protect these threatened birds in the past

Small Bird Secrets

Here on the Blackall Range and surrounding area, there is a large diversity of beautiful small birds that make a living in bushland across our region. These include insectivores like Fairy Wrens, Fantails and Robins, Finches and Mannikins feeding on seeds and small nectar feeding species such as Scarlet and White-cheeked Honeyeaters.

Attracting these species to your garden can be quite challenging, this is especially so if your property is very removed from any bushland and/or the surrounding land is dominated by lawn. But there are some simple and effective ways to ensure that you have the best possible chance of having these small bird species visit or even nest in your backyard.

Very dense, layered plantings using local native species are the most

effective way to attract small birds to your yard. They simply will not feel safe in more sparsely planted areas where there is a higher chance of being predated on or bullied by larger aggressive birds such as Noisy Miners and Kookaburras.

Planting a high diversity of shrubs in the one-to-three metre tall range with less than one metre spacings between the plants will create the kind of density that smaller birds will feel safe in and provide a variety of food sources.

Within these layers it’s a good idea to include some spiky plants which provide extra protection from large aggressive birds.And don’t forget

the native grasses, such as Kangaroo Grass, Scented Top and Tussock Grass. Planted densely these grasses will provide great cover and food for small birds and will encourage ground dwelling species like Quail.

Habistacks (habitat stacks), are an important part of any wildlife garden but especially so for small insectivorous birds. Piles of sticks, leaves and rocks provide habitat for many invertebrates as well as providing nesting material.

We’d love to see you at the Barung Community Nursery to chat about creating habitat for small birds and hear about birds you’ve had visit your backyard!

Barung native Plant nursery Phone 5494 3151

Porters Lane Nursery opening times: Wednesday to Saturday 9am - 3pm

That Tree

with Tree Surgeon Tony Wootton, our local arborist and author, meeting the Hinterland's tree needs since 1996

Isuppose it falls on my shoulders to acknowledge the life and passing of two of the significant trees in our Maleny CBD. They were the large red cedar, Toona ciliata, and the large silky oak, Grevillea robusta, behind the Nepali shop on Maple Street.

I climbed both of these trees to carry out some remedial pruning, particularly on the silky oak, about 20 years ago, which increased the sense of fondness and attachment that I had for them. When you look behind that building now, you will just see empty sky. Vale dear friends, you will be missed.

Large trees like this in a built environment do require a degree of management. It must’ve been decided that the cost of the ongoing maintenance was prohibitive to the retention of the trees.

Before removing any significant tree I would urge people to consider the amenity and capital value that retaining large well maintained trees can add to your property.

A qualified arborist can help you in that decision making process..

When we lose large significant trees from our environment we are diminishing the uniqueness and the character of that environment, and the practical issues of retaining the tree needs to be weighed against that fact.

Fortunately trees in Maleny grow incredibly quickly, and I’m constantly meeting inspiring people and clients who are planting literally thousands of trees, extending Mary Cairncross park’s envelope and linking corridors of vegetation, to enrich the already beautiful plateau on which we are lucky enough to live. Touch trees!

Mobile: 0403 467 664

Mobile: 0403 467 664

Landline: 54 944 917

Landline: 54 944 917

www.twtreesurgeon.com

www.twtreesurgeon.com

Red-capped Plover male - Sunshine Coast

Melissa Chaddock