Sunny Coast Times December 2020

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SUNNY COAST TIMES

FROM CALOUNDRA TO NOOSA ISSUE #5 December 16, 2020 – January 19, 2021

The highs and lows of the Twinnies’ animal rescue efforts

PLUS

Keep it local Christmas gift guide Pages 29-32

Changing forms

A search for truth

Aiming high

How one woman is using clay to help people heal

Uncovering the long-lost pieces of family history

Young goalkeeper signs with A-League academy

6–7

10 – 11

58 – 59

Katie Noonan talks about her new album

Published third Wednesday of the month Booking and editorial deadline for our next edition is Monday, October 12

EDITORIAL

Published third Wednesday of the month 5499 9049 Editor

EDITORIAL / ADVERTISING Chris Gilmore

5499 9049 chris@sunnycoastmedia.com.au Editor

ADVERTISING Chris Gilmore 5499 9049

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expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the views held by the SCT. All content is copyright and may not be reproduced without permission. The production of this FREE newspaper DITOR is only made possible by you continuing to support ourEadvertisers.

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SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Healing through clay Artist gets creative in lockdown

6–7 10 – 11

Twinniesnews to the rescue Community

8–9 12 – 15

Food and wine Delving into history

16 –10 17– 11

Education Lawyer’s amazing journey

20 – 2112

What’s on these school holidays Turning rubbish to art

22– 23 14 – 15 Travel

Food, drink and dine 24 - 25

16Poet’s – 21 Letters, puzzle and Corner 26 – 27photos Social Creative Cuts 24 – 27 29 – 31

Christmas gift guide Business

29 – 32 32 – 33

Creative Cuts Nature

38 – 41 34

Health Community news

35 –42 40– 43

Classifieds Letters, puzzles and Poet’s Corner

41 44 – 45

Real estate Classifieds

42 - 45 50 Sport

46 -Real 47estate 52 – 57 Cover image: Sportsinger Coast-based Katie58 Noonan – 59 Image by Cybele Malinowski Cover image: Paula and Bridget Powers, aka the Twinnies, with Rob the pelican, who they’ve tenderly raised from an egg.

Image by Chris Taylor

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INSIDE THIS MONTH 8–9

How Coast company is coping with COVID

elcome to the second edition of the Sunny Coast Times.

The response we’ve had to the first edition has been overwhelmingly positive. The thing readers seem to have ard tois believe December, hey? in their hands. While it is appreciated most having ait’s printed newspaper Many among us willatbe to see the backfuture, of 2020.

And while undeniable the news media is looking anglad increasingly digital there year how certainly upthe its news. share You of challenges, is clearly still athis great demand for hardthrown copies of can read a it has also shown has resilient we are.

Onreceived top of all we have selection of the kind feedback we’ve inour the other lettersstresses, to the editor on faced lockdowns and economic uncertainty, and many of us have been kept page 26. apart from friends familyme for in long Yet we have on the The other thing thatand has struck theperiods. feedback we’ve had isemerged that side stronger than ever. peopleother love local news. They want to know what is happening up the road learnt to appreciate theinlittle for each from them, We or inhave the suburb over.

As a result, this things. editionTo welook haveout beefed up ourother. community news section with short, sharp snippets from the rightcommunity across To reconnect with those around us. We have seen the Coast. come together with acts of great kindness. It seems the more we’ve been You’ll also be glad know team us here at the Sunny Coast Times forced apart, the to more it’sthat brought together. is 100 per cent local. theto advertising staffmake to editorial andtake eventhe thetime to So as weFrom prepare see off 2020, sure you owners, we all live right here on the Coast. means wehas have our afinger congratulate yourself making it That through what been year on like the pulse when it comes to local news and events in your neck of the woods. no other.

This is In mythis firstmonth’s edition edition at the helm, but fortunately inaugural editorwe have an eclecticour bunch of stories that in-chief Michele Sternberg still be involved.

You can read herfrom cover story will hopefully strike awill chord.

There’s a fascinating piece beloved about journalist Coast-based singing sensation Noonan on page 6-7, plus she’s Shirley Sinclair aboutKatie her family history (pages 10-11); Chris reviewed someprofile delicious drops in her Wine Time columnPaula on page Taylor’s piece on iconic wildlife crusaders and16.

Bridget Powers Elsewhere, COVID is still dominating a lot of the headlines both locally (pages 8-9); and Rebecca Mugridge’s story about the incredible work of and around world, but wegroup feature one Sunny Coast travel company that a localthe environmental (pages 14-15).

There’s also our ‘keep it local’ has re-imagined its business model and is continuing to support its staff and Christmas gift guide, plus all our usual sections such as Creative Cuts, customers in new ways. Read Chris Taylor’s story on page 8-9. community news, letters, sport and more. We hope you enjoy the read.

Creative types have been hit hard by COVID, but Shirley Sinclair talks Don’t forget you can connect with us on Facebook and Instagram – to one Coast artist who has been continuing her fascinating work while in we love to hear your thoughts and ideas. lockdown in Victoria. Read the story on page 10-11.

From thefeaturing team here the Sunny Coast We also havemyself a traveland story theatdelightful town of Stanthorpe, wisha school all our readers and advertisers a new Times, recipeswe page, holiday what’s on guide, aanvery expanded Creative merry featuring Christmasthe and a happy We hope it’s a puzzles, Cuts section best of localnew artsyear. and entertainment, time of from love and peace for you all. sport and more. social photos recent business events, EDITOR Seeyou youenjoy all inthe 2021.

We hope read. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Instagram, and we would love While great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and to hear100% your independently thoughts andowned: ideas. contents of the publication, the SCT accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies. The views

@sunnycoasttimes

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6–7

KEEPING IT LOCAL FROM THE EDITOR WA YEAR LIKE NO OTHER

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Monday, January 11 The Sunny Coast Times is a P100 sponsor of SunnyKids

New mums share the love

Telia and Billie, Alicia and Olivia, Tami and Georgia, and Sam and Asher. Image by Chris Gilmore

by CHRIS GILMORE

I

t has been a difficult year for many because of the coronavirus pandemic, but for four Sunny Coast friends, 2020 will be memorable for a completely different reason.

The quartet, who have been friends since attending primary school together in Coolum, each welcomed new babies within the space of a few months.

Tami O’Neill and her partner Rohan Bruce, from Sunrise Beach, welcomed Georgia, a sister to four-year-old Cody, in March.

Then, just a week later, Telia McNamara and husband OUR SPECIALIST RUBBISHBeach, REMOVAL Andrew, from Coolum had SERVICE their firsttakes child,away, a girl redundant, dis-used, obsolete and worn out furniture and called Billie.

NextWe was Alicia and one her item husband Jack, from white goods. can takeRoffey away just or several items. whospace welcomed their first Olivia, in May. WeMaroochydore, also clear internal in readiness for baby, a property sale And in July, Sam McGowan and her partner Cam Trease, in respect of deceased estates. (Conditions apply). also from Maroochydore, had a boy called Asher. He is a brother We an active forare Winter, 8. enterprise engaged in recycling when condition allows.

The four mothers all attended Coolum State School and then Coolum State High School.

Hospital restrictions also meant some birth plans had to “We’re 31 now and we’ve known each other since we were be altered. about eight in Grade 2,” Tami says.

“Andy my husband wasn’t allowed to leave to even go and Telia says it was pure coincidence they all had kids within get food,” Telia says. “No one was even allowed to come visit at months of each other. the hospital.

“We were all kind of trying but it just wasn’t really I wasn’t allowed to have a water birth, which I wanted to happening for all of us and then all of a sudden it was Tam have, because of COVID. ” fell pregnant, I fell pregnant, Alicia fell pregnant and Sam fell Single Column - 80 x 75mm Tami-adds: were only a week apart and I could have a pregnant,” she says.

Business card 80 x“We 50mm water birth but she couldn’t – the rules changed very quickly.”

Becoming mothers during the COVID lockdown did come By the time Sam gave birth in July, the rules had been with its challenges, with family unable to visit. relaxed but some hurdles remained.

“It was probably just initially when our parents wanted to “I have an eight-year-old and when I gave birth I was only come over, we couldn’t have anyone in,” Tami says. “My in-laws came to our house and just saw the baby through the window. It allowed one person in the room, so my partner had to go get my daughter and then he had to leave,” she says. “His parents were was a number of weeks before they could get in to meet her.” there but they couldn’t come in until we actually got to the ward Sam says not being able to see her friends and their babies – and that was in July.” was also hard.

Despite the difficulties they’ve faced, the mums now have a “I was pregnant while they all had babies and wanted to go ready-made support group and usually catch up once a week. visit them but I couldn’t straight away,” she says. “I couldn’t pick “It’s like our own mothers’ group,” Tami says. their babies up or anything like that.”

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5

Finding new joy in clay

by SHIRLEY SINCLAIR

U

sing only her thumbs and index fingers, the potter masterly pinches the tennis ball-size clay into shape.

Within seconds, more of the malleable substance has been pushed asunder from the initial hole poked in the top.

A new cup in the collection is beginning to become discernible.

This quick yet precise early process is one she has undertaken perhaps thousands of times over the past six years but there is still a joy in her heart and concentration in her eyes.

The healing power of clay is one Bree-anne Jeffrey is intimately familiar with.

At the age of 30, she has already known great loss – all within four short years. An adopted grandfather she loved to spend time with. Her dad and one of her best friends who died a week earlier. An ex-partner. Another young friend. An old neighbour – “one of my favourite people”. The dog that she considered her best mate.

The tactile experience of working with clay gives Bree what she calls her “mental massage”.

“When you’re working with clay … it’s like a form of meditation without having to actively try to meditate because there’s a certain part of your brain that is already focused on the clay,” she says.

“So you can think while you’re doing it but it’s more of a relaxed thinking. You’re not stressed about your day. And a lot of people do go into a state of not thinking at all – just focusing on the clay.

Bree-anne Jeffrey at work at Syndicate Creative. Image by Shirley Sinclair

“In the healing aspect, I feel the biggest part of that is letting go. You kind of get one-third of your way into the pot and let go of any expectations of perfection and then you slowly start to accept what the clay wants to be.

“It does its own thing to a certain extent so you have to let go of this idea, especially with hand-building.”

Bree’s Maroochydore workshops at Syndicate Creative in Sugar Rd often help participants overcome the stresses of their daily lives and worries that lie menacingly at the back of their minds.

“Every workshop, at least one or two people say that it was very therapeutic or relaxing, or that they came in stressed and

then they’re not stressed when they leave – which is always good to hear,” Bree says.

“I have had some people walk in who seem pretty stressed from their work and when they leave, it’s like they float out the door.

“Everyone leaves with something that they’ve made and by the time you add the glaze and things like that you’ve got something that you can keep and use.

“I circle the table and I help a little. I’ve only had a few cups (of participants) turn into plant pots but they still get used.”

The pieces some of the participants make in these workshops may be flawed but Bree considers them nonetheless beautiful in their own way. Just like people.

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She believes imperfections should be cherished.

“Definitely. My friends reject pieces that they think aren’t good enough,” Bree laughs.

“I’ll love them. It’s just proof that someone can see the beauty in something you think is a fault. Every piece should have its own personality.”

Sunshine Coast audiences became more familiar with Bree and her uplifting story in a short film screened at the 2020 Caloundra Film Festival in July and August at Big Screen Cinemas.

The film festival supports and fosters the local film industry and Clay represented the directorial debut of Murray Power.

The man who established, curates and directs the Caloundra Film Festival, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane Surf Film Festivals, as well as the Sunshine Coast Italian Film Festival, met Bree by chance at a Horizon Festival workshop she was

running that one of his children attended.

“I’m interested in people’s stories and that’s why I want to tell it,” he says of Clay.

The beautifully and delicately shot film, with a $15,000 budget and including in-studio footage from well-respected cinematographer Harry Frith, focuses on life after the death of loved ones.

It illustrates how clay and hand-built pottery have helped Bree live with the loss of loved ones and grow into a strong woman now helping others in her workshops.

The Caloundra audiences applauded the work and Murray plans to enter Clay into the Melbourne and Sydney Short Film festivals.

While many would consider Bree brave to share her story on the big screen, she has developed a different perspective: “I’ve been pretty open about talking about people who passed

away because it helps to share my view on it all.

“I think that a big part of how I view death or people dying is, you are going to miss them so don’t try to let it all out at once and talk to people.

“If you can’t talk to your friends about it then find new … friends.”

Bree agrees grief has no timeline and is circular, creeping up on you when you least expect it. But her creative passion has been her lifeline, and her latest project is Mudita Ceramics.

Growing up in an artistic family in Ocean Grove, Victoria, and moving to the Sunshine Coast at age four, Bree’s love of the ocean and the beach – where her mother took her almost daily to collect shells and washed-up debris – is evident in her pottery designs.

She is especially fond of her black shell Seashore Incense Holders, the Sea Shape Vases inspired by pieces of seaweed, plus the one-off, all-white Barnacle Mangrove Vase (highlighting the importance of barnacle and mangrove ecosystems) that she has entered into an art competition.

Bree already has 11 stockists Australia-wide online and in shops, and she will launch her online store (www.muditaceramics.com.au) next year, selling her own designs in hand-painted dinnerware, homewares (jewellery dishes, vases and incense holders), plant pots and shop pieces such as jewellery displays.

“Mudita means vicarious joy in Sanskrit: finding delight in other people’s well-being,” she says.

“It was the thing that was the most applicable to how I feel when I give people my ceramics.”

Syndicate Creative at 6/100 Sugar Rd, Maroochydore, is shared by six creative souls. Bree hosts public workshops, with each of two sessions (making and then glazing) lasting 90 minutes. Inquiries about single 90-minute classes for hens’ parties, celebrations, corporate leadership and team-building events and other group sessions are welcome (Bree will do the glazing to complete the items). Contact her at muditaceramics@gmail.com. Check out Instagram to see Bree’s classes @syndicatecreativeqld and her work @muditaceramics. Bree working with cinematographer Harry Frith for the short film Clay. Image by Michelle Pash

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

7

How to choose the right sheets

The Twinnies releasing juvenile pelican Mason back to his Bells Creek home after recovering from swallowing a large lizard

Australia’s finest range of certified organic cotton and wool textile products since 2004

It really comes down to how it feels against the skin.

It is a common misconception that the higher the thread count the better the sheet. Thread counts are no indication of the quality of the sheet; they are purely a numerical measurement of the threads inserted into a 10 cm² of fabric. It all comes down to the quality of the cotton you start with.

In terms of what creates the difference in feel between certain styles of sheets is essentially the raw cotton and the method of weaving used.

SIMPLE LUXURY for example are the softest cotton we make, they are done in a sateen weave, the sheets end up feeling very soft against the skin and drapes over the body while you sleep. Our HOTEL RANGE is a crisper and smoother feel, crafted with a more even weave of cotton in percale.

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Twin powers of wildlife kindness

by CHRIS TAYLOR

T

hey are arguably the Coast’s most passionate and recognisable pelican and seabird rescuers. Seen a sick or injured feathered friend around the place? Chances are you called the Twinnies to come to its aid. And thanks to the tireless efforts of renowned duo Paula and Bridget Powers, in the past 20 years they have cared for and released back into the wild thousands of birds that could have otherwise perished.

Generous public donations keep their Landsboroughbased wildlife charity Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue afloat. But it hasn’t been easy, as the three-acre property they live and work from is leased and funds are stretched across life-saving avian medicines and mountains of fishy bird food sustenance.

The Twinnies keep thousands of supporters engaged and up-to-date with rescue efforts for birds of all sizes in a stream of inspirational stories shared on their Facebook page. One example is the aptly named Mr Percival who has lived with them for the past 18 years after they saved the now one-winged pelican from a severe fishing-line injury at Chambers Island in Maroochydore. Their followers have recently celebrated him becoming a father after six years of failed nesting.

Paula and Bridget have also documented the life of Rob the pelican, who they’ve lovingly raised from an egg after discovering it abandoned and perilously close to rolling into a dam. Most recently they’ve also nursed two juvenile southern giant petrels back to health after they washed up at Kawana and

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Mooloolaba sick, anaemic and a long way from their Antarctic home. They’ve also had a much smaller pied cormorant that was found covered in oil.

The inseparable 46-year-old twins’ life-changing inspiration for becoming the wildlife heroes they are today inadvertently came while their brother was in the process of saving a turtle floating off Military Jetty in the Pumicestone Passage. At the same time, they also spotted a woman rescuing a pelican nearby and say from that moment forward “that was it”. They promptly went home and converted a children’s cubby into a makeshift ICU for their first rescues at their Beerwah home where they initially lived after moving from Bowral in New South Wales.

The Twinnies were early proteges of Steve Irwin, starting at Australia Zoo as their 30th “employee”. The experience has stayed close to their hearts all these years.

“We loved Steve because he loved his animals,” they say.

“We were pretty close, and still are with his father Bob.”

Inside the Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue facility at Landsborough, where they treat about 180 bird species

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Incidentally, running legend Cliff Young – the unexpected potato farmer winner of the inaugural 1983 Sydney to Melbourne ultramarathon race at age 61 – was like a grandfather to the twins. He’d often declare before he died that he wouldn’t mind coming back as one of their pelicans as he knew he’d always be well fed by the girls.

Over the years, the softly spoken twins have gone on to become household names in their own right, staring in segments on Bondi Vet with Dr Chris Brown, Totally Wild and Outback Wildlife Rescue. They have also featured on Inside Story showcasing their unique twin characteristics and personality of one: dressing the same and thinking, talking or walking together.

Their uncanny twin connection has often been in the spotlight, culminating with their ability to speak in unison going viral four years ago when interviewed by popular TV host Piers Morgan on Good Morning Britain, leaving him in hysterics.

It was hoped their newfound fame could help with funding their wildlife conservation. So far, the publicity hasn’t translated into a Crocodile Hunter-style reality TV show with a lucrative contract.

The pair say they are not seeking fame or fortune for themselves but a means to promote and support their muchloved wildlife work, and their motto of “only kindness matters” remains at the heart of all that they do.

Giving the Twinnies’ public profile a further major boost, acclaimed ABC show Australian Story recently finished filming an episode with them and is set to air early next year.

“The story will focus on the incredible work they do rescuing and rehabilitating pelicans and seabirds, as well as the unique bond they share as sisters,” producer Rebecca Armstrong says'.

While the Twinnies dream of a day where they are no longer needed to rescue the estimated 2000-plus birds they currently save each year, sadly the pair say they have noticed a major decline in the pelican population around the Bells Creek-Golden Beach area since they started their wildlife work. Where there were once 100 waddling and gliding pelicans coming out to greet the twins, there are now only a dozen or so.

Even though their conservation message is finally getting through to some fishers to responsibly discard their unwanted fishing line and tackle, a multitude of pelicans have had to be euthanised over the years due to painful and needless injuries.

The Twinnies say we all need to responsibly share the waterways with our wildlife, especially now over summer with increased human activities.

The duo is now championing council to get fences put around fish-cleaning tables at the Golden Beach and Bells Creek boat ramps. They say cheeky pelicans trying to swipe a fish have been hit on the head by annoyed fishers cleaning their catch.

THE TWINNIES’ TIPS FOR ANGLERS

• Look both ways for low-flying pelicans when casting. The birds can see up to 6km in front of them but they can’t see the fishing line.

• Fishers who have something on the end of their line should throw a piece of bait in the opposite direction to distract any nearby pelicans when reeling it in.

• Cover up your fish bucket and tackle, and use the council fishing line and tackle bins.

Paula and Bridget appearing on Bondi Vet with Dr Chris Brown, releasing a pelican back into the wild at 1770. Image by Sharron Thomson

The Twinnies with their wildlife hero Steve Irwin at Australia Zoo

Bridget, Paula and volunteer Emily Walling from Ohio on the Twinnies’ Landsborough property

Two juvenile giant southern petrels getting ready to spread their wings after being nursed back to health by the Twinnies

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Delving deep into the past

by SHIRLEY SINCLAIR

H

er name was Kyanga and she was born about 1835 in Australia. That much I know.

She had only a short life – perhaps 13 or 14 years.

I stumbled upon her one Saturday morning last month on a whim to start chronicling my family tree.

Being a “change-of-life baby”, as my late mother would say, many of my relatives on both sides of the family had passed away long before I came along.

Of the few I did know while growing up, they were reluctant to keep telling their stories, or their memories had faded, and I was too young and stupid to care to ask anyway.

But with my own passing decades, I have a gnawing sensation inside me to discover who I am by understanding those long-gone strangers who came before me.

I don’t just want to know their names.

I want to visit the towns where they laid down roots and brought up families. I want to walk the streets they walked.

I want to see the places they called home and imagine the lives they led. I want to know the history of the eras in which they lived.

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I want to piece together the puzzle, though I know that puzzle can never be completed fully without the ability to commune with ghosts.

You open a Pandora’s box any time you play detective in your family’s history.

But I want to know the truth as best I can make it out. Warts and all.

Because without these ancestors, I would not exist. They helped make me, mould me, create the DNA that runs through me. In many ways, I look like I do, think like I do, feel like I do and act like I do because of them.

Within only a few hours of free internet searches, I already had dozens of names going back many centuries.

And there she was. Kyanga. In plain sight.

I took me a few moments for it all to sink in. Her name unlocked a firmly kept family secret that has been speculated about for generations and only spoken of in hushed tones and private messages.

Kyanga was an Aboriginal woman of New South Wales.

Only an hour into my search, I knew she must have existed.

That’s because I had received an earlier shock – that one pertaining to World War I. I’d always known that the paternal grandfather I never knew, Arthur Leslie Sinclair, landed at Gallipoli late on April 25, 1915. By May 2, he had received a gunshot wound to the head and left eye, courtesy of a Turkish soldier.

His life, thankfully, had been spared and he was on his way home to Australia … eventually to marry May Victoria Drake and father nine children, including my late father Vincent.

What I didn’t know was that Arthur’s father Joseph Dunbar Sinclair and two of his brothers, Eric and Robert (killed in action at Gallipoli in August 1915), also fought in the Great War. But it was this entry from the State Library of Queensland that stopped me in my tracks with the first words: “Indigenous Australian, Joseph Dunbar SINCLAIR 1871-1930 was one of eleven children born to James Sinclair and Jane Ryder. Joe volunteered in May 1917, age 46, and became one of 10 from his family to enlist in the first AIF.”

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So our Indigenous heritage was now confirmed. When did it begin?

My answer came within minutes, following the trail one generation earlier.

Joseph Dunbar Sinclair’s mother was Jane Ryder: the only daughter of Kyanga and Irish convict Patrick Ryder in 1850.

Ryder, a married Catholic labourer, had been tried in Mayo, Ireland, on March 14, 1837, for sheep stealing.

He was sentenced to transportation for life – arriving on the Third Fleet in New South Wales.

It seems he and Kyanga weren’t married.

This was an era when girls could marry at age 12 and boys at 14 with parental consent. But sanctioned inter-racial unions were rare and the first marriage between an Aboriginal woman and a convict only occurred in 1824.

It seems the teenage Kyanga may have died in childbirth in Shoalhaven.

After her death, Jane Ryder was fostered out and, aged about 2 years and 5 months, was baptised as a Catholic on June 14, 1852, in the Wollongong Parish.

In an entry shared by Geoff Layton on Ancestry.com, he says of Ryder: "He fathered a child (Jane Ryder) who was fostered out and baptised in the Catholic Church. The mother of Jane Ryder was a full-blood Aborigine called Kianga (or Kyanga). Kianga was herself a young

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child only 13 or 14. She died about when Jane Ryder was born (my belief is that it was giving birth that caused her death). Kianga has an Aboriginal meaning (to fish with light) but according to local Aboriginal elders, there was a group within the local tribes that lived in a community called Kianga."

The Creative Spirits website says that the British who invaded Australia were initially almost exclusively male and while some formed genuine relationships with Aboriginal women, most abused and raped them for their sexual gratification.

I’d like to think that, despite having been a convict, Patrick may have formed a deeper bond with Kyanga. They say opposites attract and I’m sure they would have appeared poles apart in looks, experiences and cultures – a yin and yang pairing.

At the age of 63, Patrick had died three years before Jane and James Adolphus Sinclair were married in 1867.

But his daughter and sonin-law still bestowed his name on their first born: Samuel Patrick Sinclair. Surely they wouldn’t have named their first son after him if he was a scoundrel. Or worse – a rapist?

So I am hoping in my heart that he was a good person – that his forbidden relationship with young Kyanga was more than mere sexual gratification.

Whatever the circumstances, they will be forever linked to the Sinclair name.

Their actions have reverberated through the generations of my branch of the family tree beyond me to my two sons who have always been asked about and wondered where their beautifully tanned skin came from.

Now we know.

And I will always hold a special place in my heart for the mysterious young girl called Kyanga: my great-great-great-grandmother.

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Simple lives Brutal acts Plainer wives Little facts.

Trying to research family connections Disconnections Fallen tree branches Long dead faces The ghosts of names and places.

Trying to make sense of pages in history Vikings, Irish, Scots Joining the dots Battles and lies Victories and goodbyes.

Trying to find my place in the world Time’s running out Need to find out Who I really am.

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11

Legal eagle’s career soars

by CHRIS GILMORE

F

rom prosecuting murder cases in Hong Kong to judging trials in tribal Papua New Guinea to running triathlons at 75, Bernie Ryan has certainly lived an extraordinary life.

The father-of-four has had a long and storied career as a barrister – and continues to run a private legal practice in Hong Kong.

Speaking from his Black Mountain home, Bernie says he still spends a lot of his time overseas.

“What I do, it’s sort of like a fly-in fly-out arrangement – when I’ve got a case I go in about two weeks before the case is heard,” he says. “I then deal with the case and when that’s finished I normally come back here. At the moment I usually spend about five months in Hong Kong each year, not all at once – three weeks here, four weeks there and so on.”

Bernie says COVID has hampered his ability to return to Hong Kong to continue his work.

“I was due to go back for a case in March but because of COVID I was stuck here when they closed the international borders,” he says. “I could’ve applied for an exemption – which I have now done and am going back on January 11 – but I didn’t apply for the exemption earlier in the hope things would improve and I wouldn’t have to go through the hotel quarantine, but it looks like I’m going to have to do that.”

Bernie grew up in rural Birchip in north-west Victoria and attended the University of Melbourne, going on to work in the legal profession in Australia for about four years. It was in 1972 he made the bold move to take up a role as a crown prosecutor in Port Moresby.

“I was in Papua New Guinea for selfgovernment (1973) and also independence (1975), and a couple of years after that,” he says.

“I was there for about six-and-a-half years all together.”

During that time Bernie travelled the country as a prosecutor, dealing with cases ranging from stealing and dangerous driving through to rape and murder. It was a time when PNG people struggled to adjust to the British-based legal system as disputes were often still settled with bows and arrows, and pigs were given as settlement.

“It was very interesting,” Bernie says. “I also went to PNG for about three months acting as a judge in about 1989 or ’90 and that was good fun too, very interesting.”

It was 1978 when Bernie made the move

to Hong Kong, continuing his career as a crown prosecutor.

“I’ve prosecuted all sorts of cases in Hong Kong,” he says. “I’ve done a lot of triad cases, a lot of ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption) cases. I was with the Department of Justice until 2006 I think it was, then I went into private practice, which I’m in now.

“There’s a lot of cases that stand out.

I prosecuted a conspiracy to murder once.

One of my key witnesses was murdered in Singapore in a cigarette-smuggling case.

The murderers were about four or five triads from Hong Kong who were engaged to kill this witness so he didn’t give evidence. That was very interesting. It took about six or eight weeks, and eventually they were convicted.”

Was he ever concerned for his own safety?

“As far as the triads are concerned, they seem to take the view that you’re only doing your job, you’re an expatriate, we’re not concerned about you,” he says. “No one’s ever tried to get me to throw a case or has offered me any bribes to not proceed with a case or anything of that nature.

So I never really did fear for my safety.

Bernie stayed in Hong Kong until 2010, which was when he moved to the Sunshine Coast.

“A good mate of mine was up here when Noosa really started to take off – he started a crane hire service and he reckoned it was a great place,” he says.

“So I went up to visit him and liked it and eventually bought a house in Sunshine Beach, which I sold for what I thought was a profit but it’s probably now worth $2.5 million, but that’s another story.”

A lifelong fitness fanatic, Bernie still competes in triathlons and trains regularly.

Most recently he took part in November’s Bribie Triathlon Series.

“I’ve done the Noosa Tri about five times,” he says. “My wife also does triathlons – she’s about 25 years younger than me, she’s my second wife – and she’s done about five Noosa Tris as well. Some Noosa Triathlons I haven’t been able to do because I’ve been doing cases in Hong Kong.

“I train all year just about. I try to keep my fitness up, even when there’s no triathlons on.

I probably do two or three bike rides a week, a couple of swims and two or three runs.”

Bernie is the subject of the biography A Barrister’s Brief by Michael Taylor, which is

As far as the triads are concerned, they seem to take the view that you’re only doing your job, you’re an expatriate, we’re not concerned about you.

12

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available from www.smashwords.com.

“My second daughter said ‘Dad, you’ve had a lot of interesting cases, you’ve had an interesting life, why don’t you put it in writing?’,” he says. “ Then about two weeks later I saw this ad from Michael saying ‘I’ll write your life story’ so I got in touch with him and then we met. We used to meet every Friday for about

six or eight weeks and he’d get all my information and eventually the book was done.”

With an eight-year-old daughter and 18-year-old son, plus elder two daughters from his first marriage, Bernie says he has no plans to slow down any time soon.

“I can’t afford to retire at the moment,” he says.

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Roslyn Uttleymoore with her completed creations

Rubbish into art The locally made, locally sourced pieces that are saving the ocean

by REBECCA MUGRIDGE

C

lear waters glisten in the sun with diamonds on their surface, sweeping down lines of canals and rivers. Birds walk the sand as trees sway in gentle breezes. Postcardperfect beaches hug the coastline. Even rainforest pockets among the bustle of city life hide majestic waterfalls that leave tourists and families in awe.

“Our waterways, wetlands and beaches are an important part of our lifestyle, our health and well-being, our livelihoods and our local economy,” says Sunshine Coast Council’s acting manager of environment operations Denise Lindon. “Locals and tourists enjoy swimming, boating and fishing, walking, cycling and meeting friends and family near the water.”

With more than 100km of beaches and 12,000km of waterways, ranging from small freshwater creeks to coastal rivers, Denise says the Sunshine Coast’s catchments are all connected and any litter dropped will end up in rivers, creeks and the ocean.

“Every year since 2017 the Sunshine Coast litter contractor has removed an average of 15 to 17 tonnes of litter from Sunshine Coast waterways,” she says. “It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of all waterway litter originates from land-based activities occurring in local catchments.”

That is where Night Eyes Water and Land Care Group comes in.

The dedicated group of Caloundra-based volunteers operates in two ways: a shore-based patrol that collects rubbish; and a pontoon operating five days a week from Coochin Creek to Bulcock Beach in Caloundra.

Night Eyes president Warren Crawshaw says the rubbish problem is significant “In 20 years we have collected approximately 62 tonnes of rubbish from those waterways,” he says. Ÿ

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The group is supported by Sunshine Coast Council, sponsored by local businesses and Centrelink-accredited, so people looking to fulfil their volunteering obligations or to do something positive for their community while looking for work also often take part.

“Most of us are retired,” Warren says. “We do have association with … Volunteering Sunshine Coast and there are people on Newstart that are looking for a job. A lot of them are older people that cannot get jobs, so they do voluntary work.”

Denise says that from 2016-20, the council and community Beach Clean Up Program collected 450,000 pieces of litter – almost 11 tonnes – from Sunshine Coast beaches. Litter collected is recorded into the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database, to identify the biggest impacts on local beaches.

“The main rubbish culprits on our beaches are Slurpee cups, cigarette butts and doggy poo bags,” she says. Single-use plastics are another concern because they break down into micro-plastics. Plastics made up 74 per cent of items collected in waterways.

“Sunshine Coast Council values our partnerships with volunteers, schools, businesses and community groups.

Together, we help protect our local waterways, beaches and coastal environments from litter and marine debris.”

Local artist Roslyn Uttleymoore became aware of the great work Night Eyes was doing and wanted to help. After participating in shore patrols, she decided to create art from rubbish.

Standing among a sea of colourful baskets, woven with charms, shells and symbolic plastic, Roslyn brought out a cheque at a Night Eyes meeting in December. The giant cheque, sponsored by local business Stickerman, is for $2240.

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Night Eyes president Warren Crawshaw, Stickerman office manager Zac Standel and artist Roslyn Uttleymoore

“This is a cheque for Night Eyes Water Care, our local volunteers who clean our beaches and keep our sea creatures safe,” she says proudly.

The impressive fundraising effort came from Roslyn’s creative genius. She realised rubbish, once collected, often ends up in landfill and she wanted to find a way to help reduce that and help Night Eyes’ work at the same time.

“All the rope that is in the baskets has come from the ocean, so it is saving the turtles and saving the fish … now it also being saved from landfill,” she says. “The guys here collect it, which is wonderful, they get it out of the ocean, but then it goes to landfill. So they are now saving the rope for me and then I turn it into baskets and sell those.

“Creating the baskets really has been a labour of love for me but the most important thing for me is that Night Eyes gets the recognition for what they do because collecting trash is a thankless job.”

Roslyn says she feels that when people buy the baskets, they are becoming involved.

“Whenever they buy these, like the little ones that are $10, it all goes to Night Eyes,” she says. “When they give them as a gift, it tells a story. An important story. It is helping create the awareness.”

As Warren and Roslyn so passionately show, we can all make a difference.

You can find Roslyn and her creations at @roslyn_uttleymoore on Instagram and ‘Roslyn Uttleymoore Living Life’ on Facebook.

Follow the work of Night Eyes at @night_eyes_water_care on Instagram and ‘Night Eyes Water and Land Care Group’ on Facebook, or visit www.nighteyeswaterandlandcare.com.au.

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Mushroom farming business blooming

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A

registered nurse and midwife is turning her passion for oyster mushrooms into a fledgling business.

Helen Sheppard, from Flaxton, took a mushroom-growing course two years ago and has started supplying restaurants and shops via her Farm Gate Fungi start-up. She is now seeking help from the public to enable her to continue its expansion.

After 45 years in nursing, Helen (pictured) was looking for another interest when she came across mushroom farming.

“I’m a very fond gardener as well, and there’s science in gardening but there’s also science in mushroom growing – a mixture of art and science, I suppose,” she says.

“Having the nursing background does help me to focus on those parts of mushroom growing that are very important, like sterilisation and incubating and all those sorts of processes.

“It was a bit of a challenge to make the decision but I’m just starting to get a few restaurants now and a couple of shops.”

Among the restaurants using her mushrooms are Spirit House at Yandina and The Hatted Chef at Moolooaba, as well as Jeffers Wholesome Foods at Yandina. She is also currently negotiating with other potential clients.

Helen says the growing process is “not for the faint-hearted”. At the moment she’s using her downstairs lounge room as as incubation room.

“They are labour intensive,” she says.

“Basically you do need some space and you do need a few different areas. You need a work area where you mix up the organic matter that you’re going to grow them on, for example sawdust or sugar cane mulch or something like that. That has to be either pasteurised or sterilised so that when you actually add the mycelium or spores into the substrate, it doesn’t have to compete with other bacteria or

mould or fungi.

“Most days I pick twice a day, because once they get to the fruiting stage they grow very quickly, so my week is divided into different tasks that keep that cycle going.

“It’s a bit like that wheel you get on and can’t get off because they’re an everyday job, which coincidentally arrived when coronavirus hit.”

She produces up to 30-40kg of mushrooms a week, which she says is a lot considering they don’t weigh much. It can be a challenge to distribute that quantity, so some are smoked with cherry and alder wood chip and dehydrated, and she says they are a “bombshell” in pizzas, pastas, risottos and more.

Helen, 62, who has been at Flaxton since 2006, says her oyster mushrooms are an excellent alternative source of protein as well as being high in fibre, folate, iron, vitamins B, C and D, and other minerals. They range from having a mild to meaty texture and nutty to mild savoury flavours.

They are adaptable to all mushroom receipes.

She is also interested in the medicinal uses of mushrooms, and has had visitors to her farm seeking the reishi and lion’s mane varieties for that purpose.

To help her continue to grow – and reclaim her lounge room – Helen has started a GoFundMe campaign so she can improve her infrastructure.

“The next step is to get a mushroom substrate steriliser – it’s called an atmospheric steam steriliser – whereby the substrate sits in a big drum and steam sterilises for 24 hours, so that way it kills all the bacteria and mould and microbes on the substrate so you have less contamination,” she says.

Mushrooms are available from the farm gate at 3 Range St, Flaxton. It is open most days because, as Helen says, “I’m always here working”.

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FOOD, DRINK AND DINE

Ever-popular brewery and farmers join forces

S

Brydie with Belvedere Farm chooks

Phil Kerkow checks out Nick and Brydie Holliday's Wessex saddleback pigs. Images by Aaron Shum

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Brouhaha's Belvedere Fam pork

Restaurant, Coffee Shop, Lounge 3 bars including Sports Bar Courtesy buses Largest gaming room in Noosa, TAB, Keno, Bingo & promotions Located in Belmondo’s Organic Market, Noosaville Free entertainmentinfo@bioshopnoosa.com School holiday programmePh: 0409 177 690 Kid's Room

unny Coast brewery Brouhaha is continuing to support local businesses and producers, adding another local farm as one of its suppliers.

Cedarton-based Belvedere Farm, operated by Nick and Brydie Holliday, will be supplying seasonal heritage-breed wessex saddleback pork for use by head chef ‘Spicy’ Phil Kerkow and his team in the Brouhaha restaurant.

It is part of Brouhaha’s efforts to build community and create a circular economy. The brewery prioritises producers, farms and businesses that are within a 20km radius of its Maleny premises.

Already on board are businesses such as Maleny Wagyu, The Falls Farm and Mountaintop Mushrooms.

“Phil can’t wait to create some dishes using our beer into the cooking to help showcase the pork,” says Brouhaha’s Toby Stodart.

“He already has some dishes in his sights with the Raspberry Saison and Hinterland Pale Ale playing the role as key ingredients.

“We will be receiving the whole animal and will be using our nose-to-tail and farm-to-food cooking philosophy to showcase the hard work and love that Nick and Brydie put in to create such amazing pasture-raised animals.”

Nick and Brydie say partnering with Brouhaha is in keeping with both businesses’ commitment to responsible environmental and social practices.

“We’re so proud to work with Brouhaha – not just the producers of our favourite beer and our Friday afternoon hangout, but a place with similar values to us, feeding locals and visitors amazing regional food in our rural community,” they say.

“We practice agroecology – the concept of applying ecological, social principles to the production of food. So mainly we farm soil, plants and community – and as a delicious byproduct we produce pastured eggs, pastured heritage-breed pork, grass-fed and finished beef and the occasional crop of garlic or sweet corn.

“Our methods aim to mimic ecosystem processes – cattle in a dense herd mowing down grass and moving on; chickens following them to scratch through the manure and peck out the insects; pigs moving through marginal areas, rooting through the soil and increasing fertility. The animals do the work – it’s our responsibility to make sure they’re in the right place at the right time. This careful management allows us to forgo conventional, chemical-heavy agricultural practices.

“We’re deeply committed to reducing waste at every level.

This includes travelling the countryside in our Kingswood picking up spent brewer’s grains and blemished fruit to feed the pigs.

“Of course, the food we produce is amazing. Ethically raised meat and eggs have an environmental, biodiversity and animal welfare benefit that are central to being able to truly enjoy a meal.

But beyond that, produce from heritage-breed animals raised outdoors in a natural environment has a flavour and texture that factory farms can never replicate.

“There’s a social and political dimension to our work too – Nick is the vice-president of the Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance, an organisation dedicated to helping small-scale producers and their eaters access good, local, ethical food.”

Brouhaha is at 6/39 Coral St, Maleny. Its new menu will feature Belvedere Farm pork as a daily special until sold out.

Visit www.brouhahabrewery.com.au.

FOOD, DRINK AND DINE

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19

FOOD, DRINK AND DINE JO ZAMPIERI’S CHRISTMAS FRUIT CAKE Serves: 15-20 Prep time: 10 minutes (+24 hours soaking time) Cook time: 60-90 minutes Fruit and veg: 1½ serves per portion Ingredients 1kg mixed dried fruit 500-750ml orange juice, no added sugar 1 cup wholemeal self-raising flour 1 cup self-raising flour 1 teaspoon allspice

TURKEY AND MANGO SALAD Serves: 6 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 5-10minutes Fruit and veg: 1 serve per portion Ingredients ½ cup sunflower and pumpkin seeds ¼ cup Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon honey ¼ cup apple cider vinegar ¼ cup olive oil ½ teaspoon black pepper 4-5 cups baby spinach 200g cherry tomatoes, halved ½ red onion, sliced 500g cooked turkey meat (preferably breast), sliced 1 large mango, sliced ½ cup dried cranberries

Method • Soak fruit overnight in 500mL of orange juice in the fridge.

• Preheat oven to 160C conventional/140C fan-forced.

• Add flours to the fruit and juice mixture and stir until combined.

• Pour in more orange juice if the mixture is too dry.

• Sprinkle in allspice and place mixture into a lined 20cm baking tin.

• Bake in oven for 1-1½ hours or until a skewer comes out clean.

What’s great about it?

This easy recipe shows that even Christmas cake can be health-a-sized! Making a few simple swaps such as half the flour for wholemeal flour, opting for a ‘no added sugar’ orange juice and removing any added refined sugar makes this cake the perfect treat this Christmas.

Recipe courtesy of the late Jo Zampieri, Tewantin-Noosa Branch

Method • Dry roast sunflower and pumpkin seeds in pan over medium heat for 5-10 minutes. Cool.

• Combine mustard, honey, vinegar, olive oil and pepper for dressing. Set aside.

• Combine baby spinach, tomatoes and red onion in large salad bowl.

• Sprinkle turkey meat, mango, cranberries and seeds on salad.

• Drizzle a small amount of dressing on salad and serve with remainder in small jug.

What’s great about it?

This salad is just what you need after all those festive celebrations. A great recipe to use up those turkey leftovers from Christmas dinner, and light and fresh enough to be enjoyed on a hot summer’s day.

Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens Team

The QCWA Country Kitchens program has been supporting members to run healthy eating and lifestyle initiatives in their communities since 2015. The recipes have been ‘health-a-sized’ to include more fruit and veg and achieve our Country Kitchens Stamp of Approval! If you would like to learn skills to improve the health of you, your family or your community, pop in to your local QCWA branch and see how easy it is to become a Country Kitchens Facilitator today. We are proudly funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland. https://qcwa.org.au/Find-Your-Closest-Branch https://www.qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/

Marvellours merlots are well worth a try WINE TIME

by MICHELE STERNBERG

I

t’s time to talk about the elephant in the room. And it’s a whopper.

The 2019 Elephant in the Room Whopping Merlot came as a complete surprise as the first aromas caught in my nostrils.

Then the first sip was smooth (much, much smoother than I expected for a $16 bottle of red), danced around my tastebuds and caressed my throat on its way down.

Why has no one mentioned this little gem to me before? It will be the perfect barbecue companion.

This bottle arrived in my shopping basket only because it was being offered at a discount price with a certain spend at my local bottle shop.

Would I have tried it otherwise? Possibly not because I’ve seen the same brand packaged into a cask and gimmicky mini bottles that the wine snob in me detests.

I’m the first to admit when I’m wrong, and in this instance, my pre-conceived judgments were very wrong.

The bottle boasts proudly that this merlot “embraces everything that was great about gargantuan wines before the style police took control. A monster of mouthfeel, it’s big, rich and smooth (oh so smooth)”.

Full of ripe red berries balanced by spice, there’s no harshness at all about this beast and it was the perfect dinner partner when roast lamb was on the table.

So it’s important we all start talking about the elephant in the room. I wonder how this will cellar and if a few years will enhance the flavours.

While we’re on the subject of catchy names, a bird in the hand is worth … well, it’s worth a try, that’s for sure.

The 2018 Bird in the Hand Merlot is a more expensive drop and well teamed with a juicy wagyu beef steak.

Aged in French oak for 20 months, this wine has complex fine-grained tannins that deliver a long and rich finish.

This, I’m confident, will cellar well.

Based in Woodside, in the Adelaide Hills, the winery is owned and run by the Nugent family. There are four awardwinning specialty tiers: Tribute Series, Nest Egg, Two in the Bush and Bird in the Hand.

So it’s not their top-of-the-line, and nor is it the base model.

A Bird in the Hand could be worth putting aside for Christmas eve drinks with those you love.

Have a very merry Christmas and if you discover a delicious drop during the holiday season, please feel free to share!

CALOUNDRA CAY

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

FOOD, DRINK AND DINE

Club recognised with travel award

SwimSafe QLD Mobile pool maintenance & repairs Swimming pool safety inspections and fence repairs

T

ewantin Noosa RSL has been named among the best in the region based on traveller and diner feedback.

The club picked up a Tripadvisor 2020 Travellers’ Choice Award, which places it in the top 10 per cent of hospitality businesses.

“We are very proud of this achievement and grateful for the recognition from our members and guests through their reviews of the club,” general manager Julie McLaws said. “Our aim is to be a great community club that gives consistent, friendly service and a great experience every visit. This award recognises that we are hitting that mark.”

Tripadvisor is the world's largest travel platform and includes more than 860 million reviews and opinions of 8.7 million accommodations, restaurants, experiences, airlines and cruises.

“Winners of the 2020 Travellers’ Choice Awards should be proud of this distinguished recognition,” said Tripadvisor chief commercial officer Kanika Soni. “Although it’s been a challenging year for travel and hospitality, we want to celebrate our partners' achievements.”

To celebrate the win, anyone who joins or renews their membership by December 31 will get a chance to share in $10,000 of cash prizes. Visit www.noosarsl.com.au.

0448 793 148 swimsafeqld.com.au

Julie McLaws with the award

Popular cafe releases new cookbook

T

he chef and owner of two popular Noosa cafes has just released a cookbook sharing some of her favourite dishes.

VanillaFood is the brainchild of Nilla Tomkins (pictured), whose food is based on simple, wholesome, organic produce that nourishes the body and mind.

This philosophy is reflected in VanillaFood The Cookbook, which was released to coincide with Noosa Eat and Drink.

“I eat, breath and live creating beautiful food to keep my family, friends and customers healthy and happy, so to share this collection of recipes feels like sharing a part of myself,” Nilla said.

“VanillaFood The Cookbook, much like my cafes, is an absolute reflection of me and my philosophy around wholesome, seasonal food – it reflects both my journey and that of VanillaFood.

“I moved to Australia from Denmark 25 years ago and love to combine what my mother taught me in our home kitchen with all I have learned throughout my career as a trained chef both in restaurants and the catering industry.

“I set out to share a collection of recipes that are simple and easy to create for those who love cooking at home and have really enjoyed including some interesting snippets about what inspired these recipes, tips and tricks to achieve the best outcome and how to get the best out of seasonal ingredients.”

VanillaFood is in Belmondos Organic Market in Noosaville, with a second location in Noosa Junction.

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Cooper Ellis and Claudia Parry from Beyond Honey

Couple tastes sweet success

by CHRIS GILMORE

A

young Peregian Springs couple are shaking up the beehive, as it were, with their new honey business.

Cooper Ellis and Claudia Parry, both 20, lost their jobs when the COVID pandemic hit but have turned to beekeeping, starting up their business Beyond Honey.

Claudia says they discovered they had a passion for bees and their importance in the natural environment when they lost their jobs.

“My partner’s a professional sailor and we used to do yacht

deliveries up and down the east coast of Australia,” she says. “We were just getting into that after school and then unfortunately with COVID we lost our job overnight like a lot of other people.

“We always had a passion for the environment, always had a passion for wanting to do something to help climate change and all those kinds of things, and so we found bees. We fell in love.”

But it hasn’t been easy for the couple. Cooper had the top of a finger amputated in November after fracturing the bone in three places while working with a saw to construct new boxes for their bees.

“The way that we’re looking at it, we’re keeping positive – it could have been so much worse and we’re so glad that he’s OK,” Claudia says. “We’re glad that we’re here in Australia on the Sunshine Coast (with a) fantastic healthcare system, so we’re keeping our spirits high, which is good.”

And Claudia has faced difficulties as well.

“Funny story – I actually found out I was allergic when I started this beekeeping,” she says. “My partner and I both take as many precautions measures as we can – we wear a full suit, boots tied up, gloves, so everything is covered up. On the odd occasion you do get stung but it’s not forever and we love our work so it’s worth it.”

Claudia and Cooper now have 55 hives around the Coast in four different locations – Verrierdale, North Arm, Black Mountain and Yandina – and are looking to expand to 150 by next Christmas. They don’t own the land but enter into agreements with the landowners to host the hives.

“We go out and look for suitable properties that don’t do sprays, don’t use chemicals that could hurt the bees, and have land that has a lot of natural eucalyptus, blue gum and wildflowers,” Claudia says. “We selected the properties that we thought were the best and then we just have a little contract, just to make sure legally everyone is protected in the situation – property owners and ourselves. So we put our hives on other people’s property, and for every harvest we get they get a certain percentage of honey as a gift to say thank you for having our bees on their property.

“We wanted to bring modern sustainable and ethical practices to the world of beekeeping because when we looked into it we found that there was not that many people that actually had these modern thought processes and practices.

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Collecting the honey

“We’re always willing to look for new properties because any opportunity we can get to expand we take, because we’re trying to get as many hives as we can to get our honey on people’s tables.”

To produce their honey the couple use a product called a Flow Hive, designed by a father and son duo in Byron Bay. “I believe from our research we are the first commercial people to use Flow Hive anywhere – it’s never been done before,” Claudia says. “That’s

Cooper with the bees

something we’re trying to achieve, to get our Flow Hive honey out there, because we believe it’s a far superior product.

“You turn a key and the honey flows straight from the frame straight into the jar. Nothing is done to it, no processing, no heating, no treating – nothing.

“We never sugar-feed our bees, we never will, we get everything from nature. That’s the path we’ve gone down, trying to change the beekeeping industry and bring a fresh set of eyes to it.”

The duo grew up in Sydney and moved to the Coast 18 months ago. They live with Cooper’s parents in Peregian Springs and use the garage of his grandparents next door for storage and construction.

“We’re absolutely loving it up here,” Claudia says. “The community here is fantastic in terms of starting a business and people getting behind locally made food.

“Also, being such a hot climate, there’s not a technical winter like there is in Sydney. We’re finding that beekeeping is such an amazing experience, having that honey all year round.

Now that we’re in the season bees are really starting to kick off.”

They are hoping their business will bring awareness of the importance of bees in the environment.

“Educating people is a massive thing for Cooper and I,” Claudia says. “A lot of people don’t know about bees and the massive role they play in our environment and the health of our world. Especially with climate change being such a massive threat to us and all flora and fauna, bees have a massive part in saving our planet so it’s something we’re really passionate about. Scientists have predicted that by 2080, if we keep going on the same track we’re on now, pollinators will all be extinct.

“We want to have a new generation of beekeepers. There’s a lot of people who have been doing it for many years and there hasn’t been a lot of change in the industry for such a long time, so that’s what we’re going for – trying to shake it up a little.”

The business sells honey and honeycomb, and a new gourmet range featuring honey infused with macadamia, goji berri and cinnamon is about to launch for Christmas. Hampers will also be available. Delivery is free for orders over $50. Visit www.beyondhoney.net or find ‘beyond_honey’ on Facebook and Instagram.

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

23

SOCIALS

Beryl, Antoinette and Jeanette

Gail and Mary

Claire, Pat and Helen

T

he Buderim VIEW Club held its Christmas lunch for 2020 at See Restaurant in Mooloolaba.

Members enjoyed the food, drinks, company and water views overlooking the marina, as well as extra Christmas raffles.

VIEW clubs raise funds for The Smith Family, which helps with the education of disadvantaged families.

If any women are interested, the monthly meeting is held on the first Wednesday of the month at the Buderim Tavern. Phone Pat Cooney on 5445 6329 to confirm.

Elizabeth, Adele and Jenny

Diana, Julie and Robyn

Sylvia and Nelleke

Carol and Jeanette

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Sunshine Coast councillors Joe Natoli and Maria Suarez

Property Council Queensland's Chris Mountford and Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Andrew Brodie

T

he region’s government and business leaders have come together to explore how the Sunshine Coast can play to its strengths in the post-COVID recovery phase.

The fifth annual Combined Government and Business Forum, hosted by the Sunshine Coast Business Council at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Innovation Centre, attracted more than 60 leaders from local, state and federal government and many of the largest employers in the region.

Sunshine Coast Business Council chair Sandy Zubrinich said the forum was of particular importance this year given the unexpected challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ray White Mooloolaba's Michael Shadforth, Will Shrapnel from HeliMods and federal MP Andrew Wallace

Caloundra Chamber of Commerce's Olivia Sainsbury and Sunshine Coast Business Council chair Sandy Zubrinich

Stockland's Matthew Byrne and Sunshine Coast mayor Mark Jamieson

Noosa mayor Clare Stewart and Sancus Property's Tony Riddle

Noosa councillors Joe Jurisevic and Amelia Lorentson

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SOCIALS Stacey Buckley from EventX and Adam Madill from Madill Motor Group

Lindell Gittoes and Simon Jago from Purpose Real Estate

Ashton Wood from IC3 Solutions and Brendon Murray from Bentleys

T

he Sunshine Coast’s chambers of commerce have come together for a Combined Chamber Christmas celebration at Birtinya’s new NightQuarter.

Members of the 4556 (Buderim), Caloundra Chamber, Coolum Business and Tourism, Glasshouse Country Chamber, Gympie Chamber, Kawana Chamber, Maroochydore Chamber, Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance and Sunshine Coast Young Chamber enjoyed an exclusive evening of networking, food, drinks and entertainment.

Images courtesy of Your Brand Crew.

Tracy Armitage from Pacific Law, Serenity Meredith from Skin Muk and Kelly Greenslade from Up Yourself Training

Mark Paddenburg from Legion Telecom

Ron Hill and Leanne Layfield Diana, Julie and Robyn

Elizabeth, Adele and Jenny

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CT TRAVEL Coolum Tours & Travel

July 29 – August 9, 2021 (12 Day Tour) QUEENSLAND OUTBACK TO COAST August 10 – 17, 2021 (8 Day Tour) TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

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SOCIALS Shan Bawden and Kyla Giuffre

Lewis Bunn, Ryan Atwill and Chris Sheehan

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T

he Eu-Bundy IPA – a unique creation by Eumundi Brewery and Bundaberg Rum Distillery – has been launched at the Imperial Hotel in Eumundi.

“While beer and rum are from very different drink spheres, we wanted to create some magic by bringing the two together,” Eumundi Brewery head brewer Chris Sheehan said.

The new beer is on tap at selected hotels and bars in Queensland, and a limited number of cans are available from the Imperial Hotel and the Bundaberg Rum Distillery.

Kylie and Gus Gillespie, Karlie Morrison and Matt Yates Nicky Thomas from the Imperial Hotel and Luisa Stewart from Bundaberg Rum Distillery

Musical duo Sophie and Nate entertained guests

Ed and Karen Rowlands

Cleve Holloway, Allan Tilden and Nick Finch

Will and Naomi Shearer

Ella Knott and Nathan Colls

Keiron Colony and Paul Marshall

Bob and Kate Wilson DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

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FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Keep it local this Christmas Need some last-minute gifts this festive season?

Check out these ideas that will impress your loved ones and support our Sunshine Coast region at the same time

A Tastes of our region

Nearly everyone indulges in a tipple or two – or more than a few – during the holidays. If you have a gin lover in your life, then look no further than Woombyebased distillers Sunshine & Sons who recently released small batches of their barrel-aged gin and tropical parfait gin.

You also can’t go wrong with their classic dry gin and volcanic rock-filtered vodka.

If you’re catering to a chocolate lover, then Noosa Chocolate Factory has been producing handcrafted treats – made within the last 72 hours – in their Noosaville factory for more than a decade. Their drool-worthy rocky road is made of fresh, soft marshmallow and strawberry jelly encased in small-batch chocolate.

For a broader taste of what the Coast has to offer, Creative Tours offers brewery, farm to fork, Edmund Markets and wine and cheese tours. Even if you’re a local, you’re guaranteed to discover a hidden gem or two on these small and personalised tours.

Give a gift of the finest food – and support local producers in the process – with the certified organic fresh range from Bioshop Noosa. The shop aims to make organic produce an affordable staple in every house. The range includes organic local seasonal produce, gourmet cheeses, delightful hampers and more. sunshineandsons.com.au noosachocolatefactory.com.au creativetours.com.au bioshopnoosa.com

by SEANNA CRONIN and CHRIS GILMORE

s our region begins to rebound from the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, the festive season is the perfect time to buy local and support small business.

From the decadent to the sustainable and the creative, the Coast has plenty of unique gift-giving options for every budget.

Kai Coffee

Gifts that give back

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Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

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It feels good to give, so why not be charitable when it comes to your holiday shopping? For every kilo of coffee beans you buy from Kai Coffee, the Warana-based specialty coffee roaster will donate on your behalf to feed four kids in poverty in Uganda. Founders Sean and Emily Naus’ aim is to provide more than one million meals a year.

You’ve probably been drinking their coffee at one of your favourite local cafes without even realising it.

Movemetica, founded by local health and fitness blogger Claudia Natasha, features ethically, sustainable and local activewear. The online retailer also donates $1 from every sale to charitable projects and has partnered with Upparel to allow customers to recycle their worn-out clothes.

Washing and sanitising our hands has been a key factor in combating the spread of coronavirus, and now you can help clean up our oceans at the same time.

Coolum-based Banana Hands collects and recycles 10 pieces of ocean plastic for every one of its products purchased. Featuring raw, certified organic, extra-extra virgin coconut ingredients, their soaps, oils and shampoos include an award-winning shower oil and an oil-to-milk rinse cleanser that removes makeup, sunscreen and mascara. kaicoffee.com movemetica.com bananahands.com.au

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FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE Looking good

Christmas is a time to show your love for those who matter most. What better way to do that for the special woman in your life than by making them feel comfortable and beautiful. Lady Bird Noosa specialises in lingerie for maximum comfort. From everyday bras to special occasions, sports and mastectomy, as well as underwear and sleepwear, the experienced team can help women feel special for any occasion.

Enjoy a shopping experience like no other at Uncle George. It has an extensive range of Christmas treasures including jewellery to die for, homewares to treasure for a lifetime, elm furniture, artwork and Australiana decorations to adorn your tree. Sourced from Australian and international artisans, Uncle George offers a range of gift and homewares that will compliment any decor or style. Visit the stores at 13 Hastings St, Noosa, or Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore.

Never underestimate the importance of comfy shoes. Feet First Footwear at Noosa offers a podiatrist-designed and orthotic-friendly range for men and women, so there will be something to suit everyone on your Christmas list. ladybirdnoosa.com.au unclegeorge.com.au feetfirstfootwear.com.au

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FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE Go all out

Get arty

Wild Craft Collective

Handmade gifts always tug at the heartstrings and thanks to some expert help, you can gift a loved one something they will actually use. Caloundra’s Wild Craft Collective offers a range of workshops where you’ll walk out of the studio with an Instagram-worthy creation such as an ocean-inspired resin cheese board or marbled coffee mugs. You can also give the classes and workshops as a gift for that creative friend or family member.

You can also get your hands dirty by booking into the RepairLab’s Nothing New for Christmas workshop series at Birtinya’s new NightQuarter precinct to learn how to reuse furniture, clothes, electronics and jewellery.

Cooroy’s Butter Factory Arts Centre holds workshops for both kids and adults across a range of mediums - such as clay and canapes – or you can shop the artisan store, in person or online, and buy directly from local artists.

Treat someone you love with something from Australia’s finest range of organic textiles thanks to Blessed Earth. The range includes carpets and rugs, mattresses, linen and clothing, as well as healthy lifestyle products. The Maleny business prides itself on the purity of its products and being as natural as possible, helping customers connect with their own nature. wildcraftcollective.com.au nightquarter.com.au/repairlab butterfactoryartscentre.com.au blessedearth.com.au

It’s been a tough year for many, so people are keen to celebrate the arrival 2021 in style. Why not really splurge this Christmas and make sure you’re feeling refreshed and relaxed ahead of the new year. For the ultimate in luxury, Noosa Springs Spa is offering five different Christmas packages.

Available treatments include the thermal suite experience, pedicure, facial, massage and more.

Plus you can add a cheese and fruit platter with a glass of sparkling, or a devonshire tea, for $15 a person, or a high tea for $37 a person to any of these packages.

Want to go all out to impress this Christmas?

Give someone the joy of owning a scooter or motorcycle thanks to Scooter Style and Noosa Motorcycles. They stock famous brands including Vespa, Piaggio, Royal Enfield and more, and can also provide logbook servicing and mechanical repairs. It’s a Christmas present that will never be forgotten. noosasprings.com.au/christmas-spa-packages scooterstyle.com.au

Butter Factory Arts Centre Noosa Springs Spa

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

31

FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE Out and about

Scuba World

During the COVID reset, many of us have come to value experiences over stuff. An activity is a great option for someone who ‘ has everything’ and they’re likely to talk about it for years to come. For the adventurous there’s scuba diving on the worldclass ex-HMAS Brisbane off Mooloolaba or snorkelling the reefs surrounding Old Woman Island with Scuba World. The ex-HMAS Brisbane is one of the country’s top wreck dives featuring a wealth of marine life including hard and soft corals, schooling fish, rays and turtles.

Indoor rock climbing is an all-weather activity suitable for the whole family. As well as being a low-impact form of exercise which increases strength, coordination and flexibility, rock climbing also builds self-confidence and problem-solving skills. Rockit Climbing Gym in Warana offers classes for both kids and adults.

For something more chilled out, try a kayak tour through the serene Noosa Everglades – one of only two everglades systems on Earth. Kanu Kapers, owned and operated by world champion kayaker Vivienne Goldin, offers both guided and self-guided tours using their locally handcrafted sea kayaks.

Make the most of the Coast’s enviable weather at Bli Bli Watersports. You can try the adrenaline-pumping rush of wakeboarding, make a splash with friends and family on the inflatable obstacles in the aqua park, or try your luck in the barra fishing park. There’s something for people of all ages and abilities, as well as a pro shop, kiosk, full service cafe and licensed bar.

A kids’ sewing class through Create Homemade Workshop is the gift that keeps on giving. Learning to sew gives children the confidence to create, repair and re-purpose in a colourful, social and creative way. Plus, the kids get to take home their own creations. Gift vouchers are available. scubaworld.com.au rockitclimbinggym.com.au kanukapersaustralia.com blibliwatersports.com.au createhandmadeworkshop.com.au

Create Homemade Workshop

Spa

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Purchased gift voucher packages are valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Golf & Spa Resort, Links Drive, Noosa Heads QLD

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Open to the public 7 days

Brewing up a storm on tours I

n 2014, the Sunshine Coast had one single brewery. Fast forward to 2020 and it now accommodates 17, from Caloundra to Noosa and west to Maleny in the hinterland.

It is a thriving sector that is creating a huge amount of jobs not just in the industry itself, but it is also providing opportunities for many other businesses on the Coast.

One of those businesses is Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours, which was founded in 2015

by Josh Donohoe.

After relocating to the Sunshine Coast from Sydney in 2014, Josh noticed the gap in the local tour market and formed Creative Tours, with the idea of showcasing the best the of the Sunshine Coast to visitors and locals.

Within 12 months of operating the business, three more breweries had opened, and more were rumoured to be setting up, so Josh then founded Sunshine Coast Craft Beer

Tours to focus on the growing craft beer scene, something he has always been passionate about.

While it has been a challenging five years, particularly the beginning of 2020, the business has since bounced back postCOVID and employs seven casual staff and operates three vehicles (with a fourth on the way).

“People thought I was a little crazy starting a brewery tour business when we only had three breweries, and for while I did as well,” he says.

“We have been advocating on behalf of the local beer industry through local promotion and through the domestic and international market with the plan to make the Sunshine Coast a craft beer capital.

“We have a very strong relationship with all the breweries in the region, and are hugely grateful for the opportunity to benefit from their success and growth.”

Another business that has a close relationship with local breweries is mobile catering company That Pizza Guy. Forming a relationship with one local brewery and serving pizzas every Friday night for the past two years has given owners Simon and Rebecca Jones the opportunity to reach a much wider audience. They have seen a similar growth in their business, employing 21 staff and now operating three pizza trucks.

They have also recently leased the old Daisy’s Place site in Glenview, which will become a pizza restaurant that also serves local craft beer.

“Our rationale for leasing Daisy’s Place is so we can set up our headquarters from here and have our office, restaurant and mobile catering business all operating from the same location,” Rebecca says. “We have a large commercial kitchen to utilise for both the catering side and restaurant, and it gives us a headquarters where we can train more staff to allow us to expand That Pizza Guy further.”

Visit www.creativetours.com.au and www.thatpizzaguy.com.au.

One of the That Pizza Guy trucks

Breweries Wineries Distilleries Private Tours www.sunshinecoastcraftbeertours.com.au 0438 823 377 DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

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Kenneth Chadwick with Amanda Marshall and Tina Larden from Carinity Home Care Sunshine Coast

Duo pays tribute to families’ service

R Scan to register your business

With the new Sunny Coast Media Mall Now accepting expressions of interest

emembrance Day was a special occasion for Kenneth Chadwick and his carer, Amanda Marshall.

They attended a Remembrance Day service at Buderim that paid tribute to Kenneth’s father, World War I veteran Bill Chadwick.

Bill was a Buderim farmer who volunteered for the Australian Army at 17 and served as a gunner in the 4th Division Artillery Battery in France. His wife Ivy played piano at the first ANZAC Day service in Buderim held in 1920. He died in 1962.

Kenneth wore his father’s military medals for the Remembrance Day commemorations.

Amanda’s great-great uncle Sgt Eric Joseph Foote was also a Buderim farmer. He

was killed in action in France in 1916. The war memorial sanctuary in Buderim is named in his honour.

Kenneth served as president of the Buderim War Memorial Community Association. He was awarded an Order of Australia in 2009 for his dedication to the community, including his involvement with the Sunshine Coast Concert Band.

Amanda, from Carinity Home Care Sunshine Coast, has been supporting Kenneth, 92, with domestic service around his home.

Carinity Home Care offers services to support seniors remain living independently at home including household support, nursing care, personal grooming and getting out in their local community. Visit carinityhomecare.org.au.

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

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our young Peregian dancers have played a starring role in the historic festive pantomime Christmas In Storyland at Brisbane’s City Hall.

The iconic show was a popular Christmas tradition from the 1960s until the 1990s for many families but had been on hiatus for two decades.

The four girls are part of Noosa pop-up dance studio Studio 4 Dance, operated by Karla Costanzo, who also performed in Christmas in Storyland in the ’80s and ’90s.

Karla’s daughter Ivy is one of the four dancers, along with Ivy’s friends Chloe, Ayla and Gemma.

“When I found out about this opportunity, I just had to get the girls to the audition,” Karla says.

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“Performing in Christmas in Storyland was such a highlight of my childhood and I’m so thrilled my daughter and her friends will have the same wonderful experience I did.

“It’s a magical show and a magical time of year and it’s nice to know the pantomime will be experienced by another generation.”

The four girls travelled to Brisbane for intensive rehearsals before the performances at the South Bank Piazza from December 11-13.

Studio 4 Dance runs holiday and term classes and workshops for boys and girls of all ages. It has a special one-day musical theatre dance workshop on January 20 from 11.30am4pm at Peregian Breeze with vocal coach Laura Jensen and dance instructor Molly Dennis. Cost is $120, inquiries to info@studio4dance.com.au.

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CREATIVE CUTS SUNNY COAST TIMES

Louie Shelton

Cheers to jazz W

performance. Combining a unique blend of violin, voice, piano accordion, guitar and double bass, this group of fiery musicians is sure to appeal to a diverse audience.

“The Horn Dawgs, Brisbane’s newest and most dynamic brass band, will bring a taste of New Orleans to the Sunny Coast with modern funk and a healthy dose of good-time shakeyour-booty shout chorus New Orleans soul.

“Then there’s Gus Fenwick and the Orvieto project. Some of the best musicians in Australia got together and recorded Orvieto, an amazing jazz-fusion project with original compositions by Gus Fenwick. This project features world-renowned guitarist Louie Shelton, who has played with Boz Scaggs, Neil Diamond, The Monkees, John Lennon, James Brown, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and many, many more incredible artists. Don’t miss this opportunity to catch him live.”

The Sunshine Coast Jazz and Brews Fest will be held on Sunday, January 24, from 3-9pm at the Glass House Brewery, Forest Glen.

The event is wheelchair-accessible. Tickets are limited and can be purchased through www. glasshousebrewery.com.au.

hat is it about craft beer and jazz that works so well?

Following the success of the Jazz Sessions, a regular jazz event born from a collaboration between Glass House Brewery and local jazz artist and event organiser Robyn Brown, the brewery is now launching the first ever Sunshine Coast Jazz and Brews Fest on January 24.

Jazz fans will be able to sit under the marquee or under the stars and sip on a cold brew while enjoying an amazing array of Australian jazz talent.

“Be treated to the toe-tapping music of Manouche Bop, who skilfully blend the sound of American bebop with the music of the Parisian pioneers of gypsy jazz,” Robyn says.

“Or maybe you’ll love the smooth sounds of Jess Spina, jazz vocalist and rising star in the Queensland jazz scene, singing beautiful jazz standards.

“We know you’ll love world folk jazz quartet Estampa. Evoking visions of Parisian laneways, South American sensuality and the unbridled joy of European folk music, Estampa delivers an energetic, internationally inspired

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

CREATIVE CUTS

Palmwoods

Pomona

Caloundra

Legends of jazz

Everyday focus

Police fans should head to the Palmwoods Hotel on December 27 for a tribute show with all the classics: Message In A Bottle, Roxanne, Walking On The Moon, Every Breath You Take, Can’t Stand Losing You and many more.

Synchronicity – The Police Experience re-creates the sonic magic of The Police and features George Lignos, one of the most talented and hardest-working musicians in the country.

All band members are world-class musicians and have had individually and collectively released singles, albums and successful tours in Australia and Europe.

Synchronicity takes to the stage from 3pm with free entry. Head on down, have some lunch and then work it off all afternoon.

Galapagos Duck will appear at the Sunshine Coast Jazz Club on Sunday, January 17, with shows at noon and 4pm.

The band began in the late ’60s while the members were engaged in a winter season at a New South Wales skiing resort.

Since then the ‘Duck’ has become the best-known jazz band in Australia, and continues to work in concert halls, nightclubs, jazz festivals, recording studios and on radio and television.

Although the membership has changed, the direction of the band has always been to create a performance experience that, while jazz-oriented, is able to be appreciated and enjoyed by everybody.

The lineup for the band is Dave Spicer (keyboard), Adam Thomas (sax), Rodney Ford (drums), Mal Wood (trumpet) and John Conley (bass).

The jazz club is held at the Caloundra Power Boat Club.

Visit www.sunshinecoastjazz.net.au or phone 0427 782 960.

The Pomona Railway Station Gallery is hosting an exhibition by local artist Dom Violi in the Carriage Room until December 30.

Called The Simple Things, the exhibition highlights the importance of the everyday objects in our lives that we may tend to overlook.

“I have focused on simple compositions, simple objects, simplified/abstracted landscapes and simple/limited use of colour on a small scale,” Dom says. “Each piece is perhaps a meditation in itself and, taken as a whole, perhaps a contemplative experience.”

Each work is painted with a refreshing naive simplicity.

The use of colour and texture engages the viewer to study and appreciate each subject.

The gallery has works of more than 80 artists from the Noosa region. It is open from 10am-4pm Monday to Friday, 9am2pm on Saturday and 10am-2pm on Sunday at 10 Station St, Pomona. Visit www.pomonartgallery.com.

Pictured is Still Life in Silver, Blue and Gold.

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39

CREATIVE CUTS

Tewantin

Buderim

Caloundra and Noosa

Smooth sounds

Beloved icon

Debut releases

Australian-Fijian singer-songwriter Andrea Kirwin will perform at the Tewantin Noosa RSL from 6-9pm on January 9.

Andrea recently toured with Katie Noonan and Louise King for Sunshine Sounds. She has previously played at the Woodford Folk Festival, Brisbane Festival and Caloundra Music Festival.

“Andrea weaves melodies and story telling lyrics together to create a rich tapestry much like the way her Fijian grandmother used to weave pandanus mats in the village,” her social media page says.

“Each song is crafted in a way that allows the listener to subtly enter into the space between words and really experience the story.”

Andrea writes, records, produces and performs original songs, and also runs her independent record label Peace Run Records. She is currently finishing her fifth album, Bloom.

Image by Chris Mattana.

A musical biography of a true Aussie legend is coming to the Sunny Coast in March.

Based on her bestselling autobiography, Margaret Fulton: The Musical will hit the Events Centre Caloundra on March 13-14 and The J Noosa on March 19.

Fulton reigned supreme on Australia’s cooking scene after the release of the Margaret Fulton Cookbook in 1968, going on to be awarded an OAM in 1983. Her cookbook encouraged Australian housewives to experiment with more interesting ingredients, straying from the old tradition of meat and three veg. She died in 2019 aged 94.

This delightful musical romp follows her journey from humble beginnings to super-stardom.

The cast includes Judith Hainsworth (pictured), Jessica Kate Ryan, Zoe Harlen, Paige McKay, Clancy Enchelmaier and Conor Ensor.

Children’s author and poet Gerard Traub has had a busy year, releasing his debut poetry collection and children’s book.

Reflections of Nature is Gerard’s first collection of poetry, capturing the essence of nature and delivering it to readers through words accompanied by artwork by Nelus Oana.

“It was composed to inspire the reader to seek and awaken a deeper connection with nature in all its diversity and splendour,” he says.

His other release is children’s book Lily the Lotus. In the story, Lily dreams of a beautiful world beyond her life in a pond and awakens to find beauty and light shining from inside herself. Her journey explores the themes of friendship and selfdiscovery, having faith in oneself and being kind to others. It was illustrated by award-winning artist Turine Tran.

Gerard resides in Buderim with his family.

Reflections of Nature is available from www.mmhpress.com and Lily the Lotus is available from www.serenitypress.org, or visit online retailers including Booktopia and Amazon.

GUS FENWICK

MANOUCHE BOP

JESS SPINA

ESTAMPA SUNDAY JAN 24, 2021 3PM - 9PM

HORN DAWGS

8/330 Mons Rd, Forest Glen Book: www.glasshousebrewer y.com.au

z z ja t o h d n a d o fo e n fi s, r ee Craft b 40

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

CREATIVE CUTS

Beerwah

Noosa

Eumundi

Classic Aussie rock

Legend on stage

Old-time theatre

Time to rock it up with the Powderfinger and Australian Crawl tribute show at the Beerwah Hotel on December 20 from 3pm.

Powderfinger became one of the country’s most iconic musical groups with a string of hits in the ’90s and ’00s. Their career spawned seven albums, a handful of EPs and live records, and countless singles such as the massive My Happiness, These Days, Pick You Up, On My Mind, Passenger and more.

Australian Crawl were one of the most iconic Aussie bands of the ’80s, with hits like Reckless, Beautiful People, The Boys Light Up and Downhearted.

If you feel like stepping back in time and hearing their music played live, then this tribute at the Beerwah Hotel is the place to be.

Australian music legend Russell Morris is returning to the Imperial Hotel at Eumundi on Saturday, January 2.

The ARIA Hall of Fame inductee shot to fame in the mid 1960s with Somebody’s Image, before a string of hits including Hush and the Bob Dylan classic Baby Blue. In1969 he and producer Molly Meldrum released The Real Thing, a song that is played regularly on commercial radio to this day.

He has worked alongside industry heavyweights like Cher, the Bee Gees, Linda Ronstadt and the Beach Boys, and toured Australia with the hugely successful Long Way To The Top in 2012.

His most recent album was 2019’s Black and Blue Heart, which was produced by Nick DiDia (Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam) alongside Bernard Fanning (Powderfinger).

Tickets are $40 (plus booking fee) from Oztix. No door sales.

Travel back to Victorian-era London for a hilarious melodrama courtesy of Noosa Arts Theatre.

Written and directed by Sue Sewell, A Turkey’s Tail features songs to make you laugh and cry, and the audience is encouraged to hiss the villains and cheer the heroes in the old music hall style.

Originally titled Paws for Thought, the play was performed at Noosa Arts in 1984 as part of an evening of theatre restaurant.

It has been updated to include music and a Christmas theme.

Established in 1970, the community-based Noosa Arts Theatre aims to encourage people to become involved in all aspects of theatrical work.

Shows are on January 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 7.30pm and January 9, 10, 16 and 17 at 2pm. Tickets are $28 for adults, $23 concession and $20 for members, group bookings of eight or more and under-18s. Visit www.noosaartstheatre.org.au.

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COMBINED ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS 0410 311 269 | COOLUM BEACH www.combinedelectricalsolutions.com.au License no. 69255 DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

41

COMMUNITY NEWS

Caloundra

Buderim

Special visit

Raising awareness

Gifts from Santa

Santa is coming to the Arthur Street Country Market on December 20 in his blue convertible Triumph car.

It follows a visit by the Caring Coastal Clowns (pictured) in November.

The market is open every Sunday from 7am-noon (closed December 27) at the Caloundra Rugby Union Club car park in Arthur St. It supports Dicky Beach Surf Life Saving Club, which will have a display of lifesaving gear at the December 20 event.

New stallholders are welcome, phone 0401 482 949 or email promotions@dickeybeachsurfclub.com.

COVID regulations have not dented the enthusiasm of the organiser of a sunscreen application awareness event, which launched last year at Mooloolaba.

Bakslap founder Raphael McGowan this year opted to make it a virtual event, held on December 12, with an interactive game allowing people to apply sunscreen and sun safety items to avatars.

“The sun safety message, creating awareness around it and the sun’s potential dangers, requires constant innovation,” he said.

The event started last year with more than 1000 people packing Mooloolaba Beach to apply sunscreen.

Pictured are Raphael with his brother Pud and mate Fletch.

Santa has made a surprise to give gifts to children of canceraffected families thanks to Bloomhill Cancer Care.

As part of Bloomhill’s Christmas Appeal, local business Jaz Realty teed up Santa to give presents to 22 children at a private festive event for families. Santa’s sleigh was mounted atop a classic Bentley.

“We want to be able to make sure children are part of this time of joy and celebration,” Bloomhill client services manager Trish Wilson said.

Donate to Bloomhill’s appeal at www.bloomhill.com.au/donate.

Buderim

Caloundra

Play for kids

Morning teas return

Plant eradication

A team of Sunshine Coast creative personalities are presenting Santa’s Christmas Chaos at the Buderim War Memorial Hall.

Written by 3bCreative principal Anne Grant with Julie Bray, the play for young children will feature original music by Marji Murray from the Palmwoods Little Village Choir.

Performances are on December 18 at 10am and 4pm, and December 20 at 10am and 4pm. Tickets are $10, under-2s free.

Bookings are essential, visit www.3bcreative.live.

Pictured are Anne Grant, Marji Murray, Ali Lambole, Joy Marshall, Errol J. Morrison and Kerryl Johnson as Snowballs the dog.

Caloundra Evening VIEW Club has returned to monthly indoor morning teas at the Caloundra Power Boat Club.

Calorie-counting was forgotten as members celebrated seeing their old friends all together in one place.

The club has 110 members who hold regular dinners and social functions with the aim of funding the education expenses of nine disadvantaged students in the area.

Visit www.view.org.au or call 0403 504 408.

Pictured are Heather Twigg, Enid Traill, president May Thomas and Janette Clarke.

Sunshine Coast Council is working to eradicate the invasive plant known as Dutchman’s pipe.

The exotic purple flowers of the plant are a lure for butterflies but the poisonous leaves can be deadly. It invades rainforests, riparian areas, roadsides, disturbed areas, bushland and even plantation crops.

Dutchman's pipe is listed as a high-priority invasive plant in the Sunshine Coast Biosecurity Plan 2017.

“It reduces habitat for our native wildlife by smothering native trees, shrubs and vines,” Cr Peter Cox said.

If you have seen Dutchman's pipe phone 5475 7272.

Maroochydore

42

Mooloolaba

Mapleton

Maroochydore

Foreshore upgrade

New children’s book

Boosting education

A $2.62 million upgrade of the Maroochy River foreshore along Bradman Avenue has been revealed.

The upgrade includes two sections: a 377m stretch east from the Chambers Island footbridge to the Ken Neil Bridge with a new undercover viewing deck, outdoor furniture, refurbished kayak ramp and widened pathway; and a 311m stretch around the Cod Hole Boat Ramp including a new toilet block, landscaping, pathway upgrade and car park reconfiguration.

The works were delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government, which contributed $700,000.

Pictured are Archer and Fraser at the improved foreshore.

Inspired by the natural beauty of Mapleton, writer Marg Gibbs has released a picture story with a cast of Aussie animal characters.

The retired teacher’s new book, A Very Mapleton Christmas, is a companion to Arriving Home, which was published last year and illustrated by eight artists from Mapleton Art. “My hope is that families will draw themselves out from the living rooms and kitchens into the spaces and places like parks and forests to enjoy an Aussie Christmas,” Marg says.

The book is available from the Mapleton Post Office and The Barn on Flaxton, or visit www.mjgibbs.com.au.

Maroochydore VIEW Club has had its last luncheon for 2020, celebrating with a festive theme and entertainment by Coastal Caring Clowns Candy and Rocco.

The club collected final donations for the annual stationery appeal for the Learning for Life program. The program helps with the education of disadvantaged children. The club has volunteers who assist with the homework club at Kuluin Primary School.

Meetings are on the fourth Friday of each month, resuming in January, at the Maroochydore Surf Club. Phone 1800 633 622.

Pictured are club members sorting out the donations.

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

COMMUNITY NEWS

Nambour

Mooloolaba

Meridan Plains

Splash park construction

Fundraising success

Refuge donations

Work has begun on the $2.65 million new splash park at the Nambour Aquatic Centre.

The upgrade includes two new waterslides and a children’s water play area that includes two toddler slides, plus 30 extra car parks.

“The construction project will support local business and trades while at the same time delivering facilities that reinforce our aspiration to be a healthy, smart and creative region,” mayor Mark Jamieson said.

It is expected to be finished in June 2021.

Pictured are Cr David Law and Dan Cullen from lessee Belgravia Leisure.

Organiser Ben Bischoff has heralded the success of this year’s Row for a Bro, which raised just over $4000 for Movember.

Thirty-two paddlers took part in the kayak from Mooloolaba to Old Woman Island and back to raise funds and awareness for men’s health and mental health issues.

“Looks like everyone is pumped for next year,” Ben said.

“I have a few mates that are very keen to help in 2021.”

Sam McMahon was there to capture some stunning drone photos of the group (pictured).

A real estate agency is doing its part to help a Coast-based animal refuge this Christmas.

First National Real Estate Parklands at Meridan Plains is seeking donations of pet food, toys, blankets and more to assist the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge.

“We have the Christmas tree up in the office and people can drop things off and put them under the tree and we will deliver to SCARS just before Christmas,” office manager/owner Marcia Smith says.

Donations will close at 5pm on December 21.

Pictured is Marcia with Jess Thomas.

Maroochydore

Support service

Call for helpers

Changed hours

A Sunshine Coast organisation that began almost 20 years ago to support people impacted by suicide is handing over the reins to UnitingCare Queensland.

StandBy Support After Suicide is ensuring the continuity of its postvention services with its long-term partner taking over from November.

“StandBy has been proudly supporting families, loved ones, witnesses, first responders and communities impacted by suicide for almost two decades,” general manager Karen Phillips (pictured) said.

Visit www.standbysupport.com.au or www.facebook.com/standbysupportaftersuicide.

Story Dogs, a reading support program where children read to an accredited dog and its handler at school, is in need of volunteers.

The program helps more than 2500 children a week in Australia through more than 500 volunteer dog teams, including ones based at Caloundra, Nambour, Buderim, Pacific Paradise and Noosa.

Story Dogs has lost some volunteers due to COVID and is looking to recruit new teams with well-behaved dogs.

Visit www.storydogs.org.au or phone Patricia on 0402 618 030.

The StrEATside Market within The MET at the new Maroochydore City Centre has new operating times of 2-8pm on Sundays.

The market has also teamed up with award-winning local artist Chony Bowden to host painting classes for children, plus a separate “paint and sip” class for adults.

The next classes are on December 20, with Ink and Experimental Art Play for kids over seven from 2-3.30pm ($35) and Grassy Fields for adults from 4.30-6.30pm ($45).

Entry to the markets is free. Visit www.streatside.com.au.

Bells Creek

Noosa

Tewantin

Powering on

Looking to future

Christmas appeal

Sunshine Coast Council has officially opened its Caloundra Renewable Energy Facility, which creates enough energy to power 1200 homes by converting waste to electricity.

The Bells Creek facility reduces greenhouse gas emissions by about 41,000 tonnes a year, the equivalent to removing about 9000 cars from the road.

Councillor Rick Baberowski (pictured) said plans were in place for more energy plants at other council facilities, including the Nambour landfill at Bli Bli. It comes after the Sunshine Coast became Australia’s first council to offset 100 per cent of its electricity consumption through its own solar farm.

Students from Good Shepherd Lutheran College, St Andrew’s and Sunshine Beach State High School have launched the Noosa Youth Advocacy Group.

The group was formed by the Noosa Environmental Education Hub to provide a platform for Noosa’s young people to present their views on community issues.

“They are all passionate about being involved in decisions that will affect their future, particularly in regard to issues concerning the environment and climate change,” Noosa EEHub co-director Dalia Mikhail said.

Pictured are Jacob Scrase, Olivia Hoger, Jemima Harman, Jolie Mau and Zoe Gralton.

Not-for-profit charity Youturn Youth Support is running a Christmas appeal to help offer some relief to families and young people in need.

You can help by donating a Memory Experience package, valued at $250, which includes a Christmas tree, gift, and dinner or day at a water or theme park; become a regular giver; or donate a gift pack as suggested on Youturn’s shopping list on its website.

Tewantin-based Youturn was started 30 years ago to help address youth homelessness in the Noosa region.

Visit www.youturn.org.au.

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

43

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Change is good Well done Rob Skelton for winning the Nicklin seat. Thanks to Marty Hunt for his work over the last few years, but it’s exciting to see Labor having a go.

For too long, this state has been about money, money, money more than anything with the LNP. We all know this is important, there are other things that voters are showing they care about as much – such as the environment, healthcare, connecting community – and they showed this with their votes.

Wishing you a successful term Rob and look forward to seeing what you can do for us.

J. Langford, Woombye

Report applauded I welcome the Disability Royal Commission’s interim report on its first 15 months of operations.

There are many lessons to be learnt from the evidence shared with the Royal Commission by people whose lives have been impacted by violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Abuse is not inevitable for people with disability and must not be tolerated under any circumstances.

The report makes special note of the difficulties of reaching all people with disability who have experienced abuse.

For this reason, Endeavour Foundation continues to encourage all people with disability to contact the commission or an advocacy organisation that can assist them in doing so, if they wish to speak out.

I acknowledge the courage of those who have already come forward and shared their experiences, and I applaud the commission’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and accessible environment for people who wish to disclose abuse.

The interim report highlights many of the far-reaching challenges people with disability experience, from policy and funding constraints, sector practices and interfaces with other mainstream services to a lack of understanding and undesirable community behaviour.

We all must listen to people with disability who are speaking out in the Royal Commission, so our nation can become a place where people with disability feel safe, valued, and free to live the lives of their choosing.

Andrew Donne Endeavour Foundation CEO

Christmas tree sparkles It’s easy to see why Christmas lights can lift spirits and make people happy. Our Wurtulla West Neighbourhood Watch wanted a happy beacon for our residents to promote a sense of togetherness and successfully applied for a grant to light up a tall fig tree in the park at the entrance to the suburb.

The tree is covered in bright sparkling lights and is visible to everyone driving in or out of Wurtulla West. It brings a happy festive tone to the community and many families now bring their children to the park to enjoy the tree of many colours.

The project was proudly supported by the Sunshine Coast Council Festive Funding grant and the Neighbourhood Watch plans to continue lighting the tree as an annual event.

To encourage more residents to brighten their homes over the festive season, a local real estate agent has donated meat trays from the local Wurtulla Meats and five Lions Christmas cakes as prizes. It’s all a matter of spreading the Christmas cheer.

Jenny Allan Secretary, Wurtulla West Neighbourhood Watch

We would love you to share your thoughts and experiences with us and our readers. Email editor@sunnycoastmedia.com.au.

Please include your name, location and contact details (for verification, not to be published). Letters may be edited.

As we are a monthly publication, we are unable to print time-sensitive letters.

44

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Across 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 20 22 24 26 27 28

Hair cleaner (7) German measles (7) Chatter (7) Anxious (7) Emphasize (9) Astonish (5) Decent (11) First prime minister of India (5) Chinese revolutionary leader (3,3-3) Type of chair (7) Poorly matched (7) Demolish (7) Cooking vessel (7)

Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 16 17 18 19 21 23 25

Trivia answers:

Crossword answers:

Across: 9 Shampoo, 10 Rubella, 11 Prattle, 12 Worried, 13 Italicize, 15 Amaze, 16 Respectable, 20 Nehru, 22 Sun Yat-Sen, 24 Beanbag, 26 Unequal, 27 Destroy, 28 Steamer.

1. Glenn Close 2. 11 3. 0 4. 0 5. Western Australia 6. y 7. Graham Quirk 8. Coast 9. Brisbane 10. 2022 11. TV 12. 30% 13. Pickleball 14. Aldi 15. Country Music Festival 16. Butter 17. Army (Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers) 18. Toenail 19. Rowing boat 20. BNE

1. Who starred in the movie Fatal Attraction opposite Michael Douglas?

2. How many points does an NRL team have after scoring two tries, one goal and one field goal?

3. On an old rotary phone dial, which digit travelled furthest when dialling?

4. How many states of the USA are crossed by the equator?

5. What was the first Australian state to have a Bunnings store?

6. What is the Spanish word for “and”?

7. Who was Brisbane Lord Mayor before Adrian Schrinner?

8. In the phonetic alphabet, what does “charlie, oscar, alpha, sierra, tango” spell out?

9. Which capital city is closest to Glen Innes?

10. In what year are the next Commonwealth Games scheduled?

11. Colloquially, what household item is referred to as “the box”?

12. What percentage of two million is 600,000?

13. The scoring of what popular court game starts off as “zero, zero, start”?

14. What retail stores use the slogan, “Good, different”?

15. What annual music festival in Tamworth is known as the “CMF”?

16. Which of these is a colloid: butter, mercury or rotten egg gas?

17. In what branch of the Australian Armed Forces do members of the RAEME serve?

18. What body part is an anagram of “elation”?

19. What kind of transport can use a rowlock?

20. What is the IATA code for Brisbane?

Crossword No. 306

Down: 1 Aseptic, 2 Sahara, 3 Upstairs, 4 Loneliness, 5 Brew, 6 Iberia, 7 Ultimate, 8 Waddled, 14 Extinguish, 16 Rehearse, 17 Bracelet, 18 Anybody, 19 Anglers, 21 Unborn, 23 Slummy, 25 Guys.

Trivia questions

Sterile (7) Largest desert (6) On an upper floor (8) Depression from lack of company (10) Make beer or ale (4) Spain and Portugal (6) Last (8) Walked like a duck (7) Put out (10) Practise (8) Wrist band (8) Indefinite person (7) Fishermen (7) Yet to arrive (6) Squalid (6) Supporting ropes (4)

POET'S CORNER

MY GIRL NEXT DOOR A girl moved in next door to me, They said she was pretty and sweet, So I organised my time next day, To make sure we would meet.

When I looked over the fence that day, I got a big surprise, What I saw was a beautiful girl, I could not believe my eyes.

I asked her for a date that day, To go and see a show, We've now been married for sixty three years, And my heart is still aglow.

The gift was mine when we were wed, A life of joy and love, A love that does not come from man, It comes from Heaven above.

If love could be touched, caressed or kissed, I know in this life, there is nothing I've missed.

The touch of her hands, the caress of her arms, The kiss of her lips, the soul of me calms.

If I could live a thousand years, And toil all through my life.

My one request from heaven above, Is that she would be my wife.

My darling you turned you know, Your beauty is mature, I'll love you dear forever, My girl who lived next door. © H. R. Buckpitt

WHO AM I? What is your name?

Which name shall I use?

But I have so many.

How do you pronounce your name?

Are you a migrant or a newly-arrived?

So where do you come from?

I can detect an accent.

Are you German?

No? Oh, so you must be Dutch!

I thought it might be a Dutch accent.

I do speak a little Dutch But I am not Dutch.

So where did you learn that language?

Oh, so your parents are Dutch.

No, both my parents are Australian I was brought up in Indonesia.

BLUE-BIRD A blue–bird never flies fast.

It soars on high winds, and glides on gentle breezes.

It always flies with the wind, never against it, and shelters from the storms.

It smiles at the moon, and talks to the blue-green waters.

A blue-bird flies carefully, knowing life, and absorbing the small beauties. © Wendy K

So do you speak Indonesian?

Yes, I had an Indonesian step-dad.

And so was brought up as Indonesian My culture, you ask?

Well, I always have to have my rice, We celebrate with yellow rice, But we also have a special cake as well.

I once confused mince pie with meat pie!

And you still have problems with English?

So where do you feel at home?

Oh! Wow! How interesting!??

It is all right for you to say.

Don’t know if I should say Grandma or Nana?

When I still prefer it to be Oma or Nenek And not much fun when I still have to explain.

So please, you tell me, who am I?

To submit your work for possible publication email editor@sunnycoastmedia.com.au.

Word limit per poem (due to space) is 300 words.

Leunig

When flowers fall, from the shadow of their departure comes a certainty more flowers will grow.

When the sun sets, its beauty pervades, but morning brings sunrise to show evening is but a small conclusion.

When love has gone, there is an aching, but from this sadness emerges the strength to love more.

© Lorraine Roberts, 2018

WHO PAYS?

© Wendy K

At first near-invisible rags clump near a home for priests

He shuffles to the nearest entrance no more than a church mouse

Green weeds intersect white cement The ground shrugs at an

In a town of no more than harm’s place that’s a monolith of worship of no more than a profit

Alien in unfamiliar soiled trappings who graces cardboard Red nose. Red eyes Beard bedraggled As a student of self-conscious I direct my gaze away Inside my skin I stiffen at the presence In his graveyard of dead hopes in his perpetual battlefield of …

What?

Poverty. Fate. The point of it all.

Send us your poems – we love receiving your creative work!

AND SO ON…..

In the face of futilitinarianism he has surrendered Left his youth. Walked the streets Experienced unfinished business Without surprise With a company of loss

He has long since given up any pretence that his own house is a birth right on earth The wonder is this church looks like a good cause A success story because unburied men’s carcasses pay the price McMansions of sloth prey on the public purse expensed against the homeless He has been there always but I have not seen An ineffable, my eye cannot lift Give us this day the bones of denial to wash © Donna Best

Maggie

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

45

Currency proves its worth

A

chance business opportunity has given Nicole Mase the freedom of escaping the corporate world – and avoiding the Victorian COVID lockdown.

Nicole became an independent agent for the digital currency Qoin in December last year, allowing her to move from Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast and to dodge the grind of 9-5 work hours.

“Late in 2019, I was approached by a friend asking me if I was looking for an opportunity. I wasn’t, however, she was a very trusted friend and I knew whatever she was doing would be good, so I said yes to hearing about it,” Nicole says.

“She told me about this Australian digital currency and that they were looking for agents to introduce it to businesses. As soon as she showed me the business model and the way the currency worked, I was in.

She says the new role has positively changed her life in many ways.

“My position as an independent agent has given me freedom and flexibility,” she says. “I am able to work my own hours and work from anywhere, which has allowed me to move to the Sunshine Coast from Melbourne in June and then live up in Cairns for a month as I can do my job from anywhere in Australia.

I love Melbourne, however I didn’t enjoy the winters so after my baby boy was born, I made the decision it was time to relocate to a warmer climate. Leaving Melbourne before the second wave of COVID hit was pure luck.

“Qoin has provided me with an additional income source and with so many businesses across Australia and New Zealand on board, I am using Qoin to cover a wide range of my expenses including my accommodation in Maroochydore, hair and beauty, my gym (F45 Mooloolaba), plus so much more.”

Qoin Australia’s CMO Andrew Barker says: “Qoin is a ‘utility’ coin. Put simply, a digital currency that can be used every day. The Qoin vision is to create a global community supporting local businesses and their customers”.

In 10 months, more than 11,000 businesses have joined the Qoin community across Australia and accept payment in Qoin for their products and services.

“We have seen more than 10,000 transactions occur already via the Qoin Blockchain and heard of everything from dinners to tradies, custom-made kitchens and cars being transacted using Qoin,” Mr Barker says. “It’s wonderful to see how the Australian public have embraced Qoin, but not surprising with the uncertainty people have in the current economy.”

Nicole says she loves being a pioneer of a new currency, and helping others discover its benefits for themselves and open new opportunities to businesses.

“Digital currency is here to stay, and I believe it’s only a matter of time before digital currency will become the norm, so why not get in early,” she says.

“Supporting small business is the cornerstone of Qoin. The Qoin model stands apart from other digital currencies in that the value of Qoin increases as the merchant ecosystem grows.

The more businesses that join the Qoin community, the more everyone benefits, providing a vital boost to local economies”.

Mr Barker adds: “We are not saying we will change the world, but we can give people a choice about their money and financial future.”

To find out more about Qoin simply scan the barcode and complete the form and Nicole will be in touch.

Qoin agent Nicole Mase and her son

• • •

oin 46

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

NATURE

Keep your pets safe at Christmas

by PENNY BRISCHKE Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge

I

t’s nearly Christmas time and what a wonderful time of the year. I am looking forward to spending time with family and friends – and my fur-kids of course!

Here are some quick tips to keep your fur-babies safe at this time and around the Christmas table.

• Human and party food can be disastrous for pets, causing tummy upsets or even pancreatitis. Play it safe and avoid sharing it with your pets.

• Grapes, chocolate, sultanas and raisins are all poisonous to dogs.

• Cooked bones are a no no.

• Don’t leave edible gifts under the Christmas tree where your pets can unwrap them and consume them.

• Make sure your Christmas tree is secure and can’t tip or fall over, especially if you have a cat that enjoys climbing.

• Be careful of low-hanging decorations such as tinsel and shiny things that could cause issues if ingested by your pets.

• Having loads of people in your (and your pet’s) home may make them anxious or unsettled. Ensure you have a safe place they can retreat to for quiet time if needed.

• Watch for firework notifications in your area and ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date. If your pet escapes your yard, at least with an up-to-date microchip the chances of getting them home is improved.

Also, please don’t buy pets as presents for people for Christmas without them knowing. It’s always good to include people and kids in choosing their own pets, that way they get what they want as well as knowing the new pet matches their lifestyle and needs.

We are currently running our All I Want for Christmas cats and dogs wishlist donation campaign. If you can’t adopt, foster or volunteer, how about donating to a SCARS cat or dog for Christmas. Either pop to our Facebook page and donate via the pinned post, pop into the office or call us and donate over the phone.

Bucky (pictured with Santa Paws), one of SCARS’ 100-plus dogs, has got his eye on a new dog bed cover ($15) and a Kong ($20) – he has been such a good boy so hopefully will get his wish! He is a bull arab cross who is just over a year old and looking for his forever home. Contact us to arrange to meet him.

Phone 5494 5275 from 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday.

On behalf of SCARS I’d like to wish you all a safe and happy holiday and festive season filled with many wonderful times that create lifelong memories to enjoy.

A spectacled monarch feeding the sole chick. Image by Vic Jakes

Quite the spectacle

by VIC JAKES

T

he relatively small patch of rainforest, probably less than two acres, on my property in the Sunshine Coast hinterland can hardly be described as ‘old growth’, but with its permanently flowing small creek it has, over the years, consistently attracted a whole range of interesting birds that regard it as an ideal nesting location. The young saplings of the shaded under-storey seem to be particular attractive to the spectacled monarch (Symposiachrus trivirgatus) and every year at least one pair calls this patch of forest home.

Usually arriving around September and staying until February, these colourful birds – which are found in a fairly narrow strip from the tip of Cape York, down eastern Australia to the northern half of New South Wales – are blue-grey above, rufous orange on their throat and chest, with white underparts.

A black ‘Zorro’ face mask, extending to behind their eyes and looking a bit like a pair of specs, gives rise to their common name.

As spring approaches I always keep an eye out for the birds’ arrival – or perhaps I should say keep an ear out – as, although the monarchs have a wide variety of more tuneful calls, a frequently repeated and distinctive harsh buzzing call is inevitably first sign of their presence, confirmation of which is my trigger to look for evidence of nest-building. Finding the nest can be a challenge as it may be anywhere from one to seven metres off the ground.

Fortunately, the choice of nesting site this time was extremely convenient for close observation, being situated about a metre and a half from the ground and in an easily visible fork of a young rainforest sapling. I was lucky enough to see the start of the construction in mid-September. As nest building progressed, it gradually revealed itself to be a delightful feat of construction and decoration. By early October it was time for the first of the two eggs to be laid. These were small and creamy pink, freckled with browny-purple blotches that were particularly prevalent at the broader end. Incubation duties continued for around 14 days. Sadly, only one of the eggs hatched. This did, however, ensure that the single chick was amply fed with an abundance of juicy insects and spiders for which, as can be seen in the image, it reached out from the nest in its eagerness to feed.

The next few days saw frenetic feeding continue and, well before the end of October, a young and still very vulnerable monarch left the relative safety of the nest. Parental duties were, however, by no means over, with continued feeding as the chick sheltered in nearby undergrowth and encouragement to develop essential skills to become totally self-sufficient.

Everything tells me our spectacular little bird will thrive and it would be wonderful to think that, one day, it might just return to this same patch of rainforest to raise its own family.

WHEN WAS YOUR LAST SKIN CANCER CHECK?

Skin Surveillance

Skin Cancer Centre

Skin cancer is often invisible to the naked eye, which is why professional skin cancer checks are so important.

See the Sunshine Coast's trusted Skin Cancer Doctors for peace of mind.

Dr Donal Kerrin

Dr Terry Harvey

Call 5438 8889 skincancercentres.com.au/birtinya 5 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

47

HEALTH, WELLNESS AND BEAUTY

Christmas cheer with a different feel IMAGE

by KERRIE FRIEND

W

ell I’m sure you’re probably like me and find it hard to believe with everything that’s been going on in our world (thanks COVID!) that the festive season has rolled around once again.

The good news is that the state borders are reopening and there’s a vaccine on its way so hopefully 2021 will be the year of reset. But even so most of us are still feeling somewhat discombobulated after this crazy year and understandably may have some of the 2020 funk on us.

I thought I’d give you a little extra help this month to help you spread the Christmas cheer and set yourself up for a happy new year.

Here’s my list of must dos to help enjoy this albeit perhaps different jolly season.

1. Make a joyful list. Be thankful and grateful for the good things you have. Joy journalling is so beneficial for our soul. Take the time to make your joy list full of all the things you love most about this season, and celebrate and indulge in them.

Enjoy all the things that nourish your spirit, soul and body, and commemorate the moments of the season with pure joy. Enjoy mangoes, beach walks, write Christmas cards, serve a community charity and so on.

2. Use wisdom and put a guard around your mouth and heart during this season as we generally spend extra time with family or friends and that sometimes can add stress. Stay aware of any possible situations and plan ahead if you need to. Do your best to keep gatherings peaceful and wonderful but adjust wisely if required.

3. Spend a leisurely moment writing out everything you need to do for Christmas What you need to purchase, decorate, bake, organise, tidy and so on, and remove anything that’s not important until after the season. Plan as much as you can because plans keep us focused, make the season much more pleasurable and help keep us present and not so overwhelmed.

4. Just because it’s the merry season doesn’t mean we have to throw away every good habit (exercise and health) we’ve put in place this year. Go ahead and have fun and spoil yourself during this time of year but also use some self-control.

You’ll be much happier you didn’t detour too far away when 2021 rolls around.

We’re at the end of a very difficult year and we should take this time to fully appreciate what we’ve achieved by coming together as a country throughout it.

While it hasn’t been perfect and it’s certainly something none of us ever considered we’d have to endure, it’s now time to celebrate this beautiful season with goodwill and cheer. Let’s keep the lessons we’ve learned during this year and keep hope alive for a brighter future.

I pray you all have a very merry Christmas and may we all have a happy 2021.

God bless, Kerrie

www.kerriefriend.com

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Full terms & conditions at mavendental.com.au/cdbs

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Private Renal Dialysis

IN HOME

REHABILITATION

Whether you’re a local or holidaying in the region, private patients can book renal dialysis services at our hospitals and avoid waiting around. Our nephrologists and expert nurses deliver care in a relaxed, friendly environment using the latest technology. There’s easy ground floor access.

WE COME TO YOU Function Plus Therapy is a new Allied Health (Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and other) service providing in home rehabilitation.

See our website under ‘Our services’.

Nambour Selangor Private Hospital nambourselangor.com.au Ph (07) 5459 7507

We are highly experienced, senior level therapists with 25 years combined experience between two directors, Emily and Carlicia.

Noosa Hospital (private & public) noosahospital.com.au Ph (07) 5455 9403 Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital sunshinecoastuniversityprivate.com.au Ph (07) 5390 6041

We provide assessment, rehabilitation, equipment prescription and home modification assessment for a wide range of conditions including but not limited to:

How can REFLEXOLOGY help you?

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Reflexology is a natural deeply relaxing pressure therapy designed to treat all areas of the body via the face, hands & ears. Whether you have a serious physical illness, injury ,emotional issue or simply need to de-stress, reflexology has proven benefits both physical & emotionally, and promotes deep relaxation. When used on a regular basis, it acts as a powerful preventative measure against illness.

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Norma Street, of Reflexology on Buderim, who is a fully qualified reflexologist has been practising reflexology on the Sunshine Coast for 20 years. Norma’s client base is very diverse, ranging from five-year -old children to seniors.

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McKenzie Aged Care is your local family owned & operated aged care provider on the Sunshine Coast. From Bribie Island to Buderim, McKenzie is here to support you and your loved ones

Call us today to learn more about our respite special

1300 899 222 | mckenzieacg.com

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Lymphoedema Stroke Progressive neurological disorders (Parkinson’s Disease, MS, MND etc) Chronic respiratory and other chronic disease Aged care (reduced mobility, falls, de-conditioning) Orthopaedic Amputation and prosthetic rehab Acquired brain injury Spinal cord injury

What funding is available?

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NDIS (Plan and Self-managed) Home Care Package / CHSP Enhanced Primary Care Plan (co-payment required) DVA Private Health (dependant on individual cover) Private payments “Emily has been very professional and focused on helping me recover from a spinal cord injury in which I was told I would never walk again. With Emily’s professional help, I am now walking again and I am even learning to run again! Emily has been a fantastic physio and I cannot recommend her highly enough.”

Andrew (36)

www.functionpl.us OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY carlicia@functionpl.us | 0455120077 PHYSIOTHERAPY emily@functionpl.us | 0414 898 516 DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

49

TRADE AND SERVICES ASPHALT DRIVEWAYS

TREE SERVICES

ELECTRICIAN

Roll Formed Driveways Roll Formed Driveways provides a range of asphalt, bitumen and road base to residential, commercial and civil customers. Trust us to complete your project. Call us for a free measure and quote. PHONE (07) 5446 7104

Terry Healion -Licensed Electrical Contractor Lic:36780 Locally owned, over 30 years experience.

Prompt & friendly, servicing Caloundra to Maroochy and Hinterland. Household Repairs, Installations, Fans, Switches, Power Points, Safety Switches.

Senior & pensioner card discounts. 0432 278 487, 5353 0417 www.electricianhealion.com.au

BRM Tree Services Locally owned and operated, qualified and insured. Tree to stump, we do it all. Tree removal and pruning, mulching, stump grinding.

Free quotes call Tim 0401 441 945

HEALTH, WELLNESS AND BEAUTY COUNSELLING Tracy Mellors – Social Worker, Counsellor, Art therapist, ACA Counsellor Supervisor.

Compassion-focussed care through Life transitions, Mental Health, Grief & Loss, and Post Trauma Thriving. NDIS #430874304 & Health Fund Registered 0407 499 846 www.yourwellnessmatters.com.au

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50

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

sales@sunnycoastmedia.com.au

BUSINESS

Graduates find success in graphite

C

ole Campbell and Cole Suter may have only just graduated from Good Shepherd Lutheran College, but they have already transformed a business idea into reality.

The duo have started an online business selling small quantities of graphite products, including graphite blocks, rods and flexible sheets, to businesses around Australia.

Last year both students engaged in work experience with Graphite Australia, a supplier of graphite and carbon products.

"The work experience placement was a fantastic opportunity to gain first-hand experience about what real international business looks like,” Cole Suter said. “The entire experience was extremely engaging and educational."

During their placement with Graphite Australia the students gained insight into international sales and marketing and received an explanation of various graphite products, their manufacturing processes and industry applications.

But their experience didn’t end there. Prior to COVID pandemic, they were able to make a trip to China to meet with multiple suppliers and the companies’ procurement partner.

“The visit to China reinforced the importance of personal interaction and the ability to understand and respect other cultures with a view to long-term business cooperation,” Cole Campbell said.

After cementing their understanding of the product and processes, the duo completed the necessary business setup, which included the development of a website, various business-related registrations and financial planning, before launching Speciality Graphite Australia in 2019.

The duo’s newest product is rigid graphite insulation. By utilising the insulating properties of graphite, combined with classic insulating techniques, they offer a range of industrialgrade insulating materials. Customers have included universities, glassblowers and even rocket manufacturers.

Cole and Cole’s school has been excited to watch their progress.

“We were thrilled to see how these students grabbed the opportunity to translate their experience into a concrete plan and resulting business venture,” Good Shepherd careers all“We wording under counsellorPlease Natasharemove Purcell said. are confident that the the 'we skills theyoffer' have gained through this venture will allow them and add the following: - (please to succeed in the future. swap in theis so blue the above “Work experience vitalcircle for students, it allows them a deeper wording exploration to intothe the world of work and '') insights into new wording how to apply their skills and abilities.”

Mending the mindset

W

hen MindBody Mechanics opened its doors in January 2020, it had a single client to its name.

Now, nearly 12 months on, it is a busy, successful wellness centre locals love and regularly return to.

Owner Mahogany Mount was living in Airlie Beach but her priorities were put in perspective by the harrowing Cyclone Debbie.

“Going through a series of tough life events really puts things into perspective and for me it is that life is short so make the most of it,” she says. “Make every minute count, spend quality time with family and friends, be grateful for all that is and do what makes you happy.”

So Mahogany moved back to the Sunshine Coast to be closer to family and started her business MindBody Mechanics.

“I strongly believe that to have a healthy body, we must have a healthy mind,” she says. “This begins with our mindset and our way of thinking. Therapies like Access Bars and kinesiology can gently work on unresolved emotions and mental blockages – self-limiting beliefs. This, combined with

physical health is the key to well-being.”

Mahogany says MindBody Mechanics can help with muscle pain, injuries and deep relaxation.

“We successfully treat headaches, muscular pain, sciatica, back and neck pain, and also specialise in deep relaxation to switch off mental chatter,” she says.

Mahogany has 19 years’ experience in mind and body therapies having trained under some of Australia’s best therapists, including directly under Ross Emmett. She also lived in Malaysia, training under a grand master healer. This knowledge is passed onto her employees to ensure high quality throughout the business.

The new treatment menu includes a detoxifying clay wrap, facials, remedial massage, kinesiology, Access Bars, the Healy, Chinese cupping and pranic healing.

“Sometimes when everything appears to be falling apart, it is actually clearing a path for something better,” Mahogany says.

“Be open to the possibilities. What else is possible?”

Phone 0423 146 869 or find MindBody Mechanics on Facebook.

Specialising in all aspects of kitchen and bathroom renovations

Celebrating 20 years

We offer; Ÿ free on site measure and quotes Ÿ showroom colour and design consultations Ÿ complete trade management service Ÿ our managing director has over 40 years experience

Phone 07 5491 6999 Email: admin@kitchenshop.com.au Cole Campbell and Cole Suter

7a Industrial Avenue Caloundra QLD 4551 BSA licence 723287 DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

51

REAL ESTATE SUNNY COAST TIMES

Navigating negotiations

by ANTONIA MERCORELLA CEO, Real Estate Institute of Queensland

S

elling property requires good preparation. That’s been the focus of my weekly columns over the past few months as I’ve reviewed each step in detail. So, with everything now said and done, you’ve finally received an offer. What now? It’s time to negotiate and achieve the best market price possible.

As with any offer received, your initial step is to assess it together with your agent. With this in mind, the following are just a few of the matters you’ll need to take into consideration.

Cash sale v financing: Some buyers will be in a position to present a full cash offer thus eliminating the need to make

Coolum

the offer subject to finance. Such offers can be highly attractive because they eliminate delays. Always discuss what’s in your best interests with your real estate agent in circumstances such as this.

Pest and building inspections: Buyers usually want to check that the building is structurally sound and confirm there are no pest infestation problems or other issues. If the contract does contain a pest and building inspection clause, make sure you understand the rights that both yourself and the buyer have under the relevant condition. If you want to avoid the stress and time delays associated with this process, you may wish to

Pelican Waters

Coolum

Sales rush

Industrial demand

Seven recently released vacant land blocks at Coolum have sold within just weeks.

The last 12 land lots within the exclusive Beachside Estate on the ocean side of David Low Way were released in midOctober and just five remain.

“The Beachside Estate is a premium location with direct beach access, immaculate landscaping and sweeping views of Mount Coolum,” said Sekisui House project director Evan Aldridge.

Just three opportunities remain for the upmarket The Signature Terrace Collection in Pelican Waters, following seven sales or contracts being taken for a combined $4.14 million in recent weeks.

The remaining terraces each offer dual living, a choice of three or four bedrooms, three bathrooms, stone benchtops, 2.7m high ceilings and double garage. Prices for the three remaining Signature Terraces range from $710,000 to $745,000.

Local small businesses have snapped up eight of the 12 available off-the-plan industrial units for between $1700 and $2000 a square metre at 44-48 Junction Drive in Coolum Beach.

They were marketed and sold by Ray White Commercial Noosa and Sunshine Coast North Property consultants Tracey Ryan and Tallon Pamenter in conjunction with Colliers property consultant Daniel Vella.

“Having an already completed development next door enabled off-the-plan buyers to see what they were going to get on,” Ms Ryan said.

Property

Property Styling Styling

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

R 4W FO for KkSs 4E

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SUNSHINE COAST BRISBANE GOLD COAST MELBOURNE GEELONG SURF COAST

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Rare blocks sold

we create beautiful spaces that sell

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consider arranging your own pest and building inspection to identify any issues that may be identified. This enables you to rectify any potential issues and/or better manage the process.

Special conditions: These may include the requirement that a buyer sells their own property before they can purchase yours, the need to acquire approved financing, the inclusion of certain furnishings or the need to move in right away. These conditions can all be negotiated but be sure to discuss these thoroughly with your real estate agent. In such cases, you may want to consider retaining the right to continue to market the property and invite offers to ensure that a ‘back-up’ plan exists.

Deposit: In Queensland, a deposit is not a legal requirement and there’s no set fee or percentage of sale price amount. As a general rule however, a deposit should be no greater than 10 per cent of the total purchase to avoid certain risks. A deposit is good potential security for you in the event of a breach of contract.

Handling an offer: If you receive an offer that’s not favourable, don’t panic. It’s a starting point. You can make a counter offer. It’s important to remember that counter offers amount to rejections of the initial offer. You should therefore be sure that you are prepared to reject the offer made to you.

Importantly, when it comes to achieving the property price you’ve set with your real estate agent, it’s advisable to set your limit when it comes to any sale negotiations. If you establish a limit and are clear on what your bottom line is, you have to be willing to walk away, and to demonstrate that. Of course this is easier said than done.

Finally, once you have negotiated an offer you’re content to accept, it’s then you can finalise the contract of sale. This is where your real estate agent will play a critical role.

CONTACT US TO BOOK CONTACT US TO BOOK YOUR STYLING FREE PROPERTY STYLING QUOTATION ON 5455 07 54555015 5015 YOUR FREE PROPERTY QUOTATION ON 07 w. b li n kl i vi n g . c o m . a u e . i n f o @b l i n kl i vi n g . c o m . a u w. blinkliving.com.au e. info@blinkliving.com.au

REAL ESTATE

SUNNY COAST TIMES

Exploring the positives of downsizing for retirement

W

hen we are young, many of us own a large home big enough to entertain friends and family while giving space for hobbies.

But as life goes on, it is normal to begin to understand that having a large home with many rooms and a lot of space becomes a burden, especially as children grow up and begin moving out.

Here are some of the positives of downsizing at or before retirement while living on the Sunshine Coast.

• Increased cashflow: Downsizing could reduce your mortgage debt, thereby allowing you to pay off the debt quicker, invest in other areas or just give you more disposable income.

• Lower insurance and utility costs: The fact you’re insuring a

smaller space and structure will incur much smaller insurance costs, as well as lowering electricity bills.

• Easier maintainence: When you move into a more modest home, it helps you to eliminate the mess. You may find downsizing will free up time from cleaning and help you declutter some useless items that have just been collecting dust.

• A home that suits your needs: As people age, things like stairs can become barriers while increasing the risk of falls and injuries.

By choosing to downsize, you can decide upon a home in a location that suits your specific needs.

• Time for yourself: With fewer rooms, more modest spaces and a location that suits your needs, you'll invest less time and energy in maintaining your home and increase your ability to pursue

other areas of interest.

There are some costs to consider when downsizing, such as buying and selling in the same market, real estate agent fees, stamp duty, legal fees and furniture removal.

TM Estate Agents can provide the assistance required to downsize properly so you can enjoy these benefits to their absolute fullest. Visit www.tmestateagents.com.au or phone 0488 443 239.

If you are curious to know the value of your home, call me for a no obligation appraisal.

Unique twist in development

H

onu at Moffat Beach is not for downsizers. The five luxury apartments are more like a home in terms of size, amenity and features.

The ground-floor unit is no different and offers a twist on apartment living. The developers, Holm Developments and Primo Property, wanted to create something truly special given its unique location on the headland. The natural fall across the site from east to west allows residents to enter at street level but also enjoy elevated views from their balcony across Moffat Beach, Dicky Beach and Currimindi.

And the unique twist: your own private swimming pool.

While other residents enjoy a pool to the

rear of the property, the ground floor at Honu Moffat Beach has its own private pool fronting the property. Landscaping and other elements provide complete privacy for users of the pool but the design still allows exceptional views from the courtyard and living areas.

With more than 300 sq m of living areas, direct secure access from the street and two private outdoor areas including a barbecue and your own pool, the ground floor at Honu is everything you could need and is more of the ultimate beach house than apartment.

With several apartments now sold, only a few opportunities remain to own a new property on famous Queen of Colonies Pde. Contact Holm Developments to find out more.

92 Cogill Road, Buderim

1 Brianna Close, Buderim Contact Carmel Fulton on 07 5373 5077 or 0488 443 239

“Carmel was well versed in our requirements. She achieved better than expected results, answered every question asked of her and obviously loves her job. We are extremely satis ed and it was a pleasure to work with her.”

“Carmel was a delight to deal with. Her dedication and commitment to getting our house sold was fantastic. We thank you for all your help a n d energy!” www.tmestateagents.com.au

tion ap

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

53

REAL ESTATE

8 BRAND NEW TOWN HOMES CENTRE OF TOWN From $435,000

Buyers may qualify for the Government Build Incentive $25,000 by buying off the plan before 31st Dec 2020!!!

PRICED FROM $435,000 3 BED | 2 BATH | 2 CAR | 2 LIVING | 1 STUDY

67 BEERWAH PDE, BEERWAH - 8 New Town Homes in the heart of Beerwah, Construction by the Developer of Millbrook Beerwah is due to commence Jan 2021 with completion approx mid 2021.

Each home has approx 170m2 under roof with low Body Corps of approx $2115pa or $40 per week.

Modern & oversized town homes designed to meet family/work living in comfort & style. Features include: • High ceilings, Tiled floors, aircon • Double Garage Plus Laundry • Open plan living area with kitchen flowing onto alfresco and courtyard • Kitchen with mirror splashback, ceaser stone benchtops, induction cooktop and dishwasher

DONNA GIRDLER 0417 357 167 donnag@gcfn.com.au

PETER KINCHIN 0418 736 424 projects@insiterealty.com.au

and ceiling fans throughout • Timber stair case, Ceiling fans throughout, Office/4th bedroom, Main Bathroom • 3 bedrooms - master with aircon, walk in robe and ensuite • Extra living area upstairs

Built by Ausmar Homes and all within easy walking distance to rail, town centre including cafes and supermarket, sport fields and schools.

30 mins to beaches at Caloundra and 1 hour by rail to Brisbane.

www.figtreelanebeerwah.com

IG_SCT_LAM213

30 years in the Buderim community

New units at a price you’ll love Available soon at Immanuel Gardens retirement village Introducing youfirst. New flexible pricing to make the most of your retirement with Lutheran Services. You can choose to pay less when you move in and focus more on the things you love to do. So why wait?

Village bus

Pet friendly

Heated pool

Co-located aged care

Discover more or book a tour by calling Meg on 1800 Immanuel Gardens 10 Magnetic Dr, Buderim Qld 4556 w. lutheranservices.org.au/immanuel-gardens

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

960 433

Pictures are for illustration purposes only.

Build yourself a lifestyle at Beerwah minutes from the best of the Sunshine Coast and beautiful place to call home

New flexible pricing 1 bed units from

$113,000

Representative image

H

O LU M $4 E X U 85 S F RY ,0 RO 00 M

REAL ESTATE

Your own private sanctuary surrounded by nature.

At the heart of Greenwood is Club Eden making it easy to keep active, socialise and make friends, while having the space and peace to wind down when you choose.

• Relax and socialise at Club Eden’s event space, function room, spaces for meetings, activities, parties and events.

• Keep active with a 25-metre pool, gym, tennis court and bowling green.

• Flex your green thumb in Greenwood’s community garden.

• Easy access to Sunshine Coast golf, fishing, boating, surfing and more.

Greenwood is a connected over 50s community with everything within reach.

Bonus offer $15,000 plus gift card available in stage 1 only and selling fast.

$15,000 BONUS PLUS BUNNINGS GIFT CARD

$

1000

Visit our sales display open 9.30am - 4pm Monday to Friday.

16 Grammar School Way Forest Glen. www.greenwoodforestglen.com.au

Freecall: 1800 80 90 20 DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

55

REAL ESTATE

HOUSE & LAND PACKAGES Available

QUALIFY FOR UP TO $30K IN GOVT GRANTS UNTIL 31ST MARCH 2021

FULL turn-key house and land packages on the Sunshine Coast from $469k Get in NOW to secure your home and land.

At EDGE Designer Homes we always pride ourselves on being completely transparent with our customers. We are a familyowned local business that have been building on the Sunshine Coast for over 25 years.

If our standard designs do not work for you then you can sit with one of our experienced design consultants to assist you with your new home design and experience the difference working with a quality MASTER BUILDER can make! We can build your dream home anywhere from North Brisbane to Gympie.

Have you heard of the newest boutique estate on the Sunshine Coast in Forest Glen “Azure” - Stage 3 just released and blocks selling fast!!

FOR SALES AND DESIGN ENQUIRIES CONTACT Tristan Allison on 0434 992 317 or alternatively email sales@edgedesignerhomes.com.au WE ALSO HAVE A DISPLAY HOME LOCATED AT 32 Tranquility way, Palmview 4553

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

57

SPORT

SUNNY COAST TIMES

Young goalkeeper eyes the top Goalkeeping Australia Academy coaches Damian Cox (left) and John Gorza (right) with Tyler Roche

by CHRIS GILMORE

Y

oung Noosa goalkeeper Tyler Roche is following in his dad’s footsteps as he sets his sights on the world of elite football.

The 14-year-old has accepted an offer to join the Melbourne City Football Academy and will be relocating to the Victorian capital to join the squad in January for pre-season training.

“I’m just excited really because it’s a big achievement, a big thing for my family, and Melbourne City are my favourite Australian club,” says Tyler, who’s known as ‘Turtle’ by almost all who know him.

“Playing for a professional club and the next-level quality that’s there and the club itself – it’s pretty big.”

Turtle currently plays with the Buderim-based Sunshine Coast Wanderers in the under-14 age group of the Queensland NPL (National Premier League). He was captain of the Queensland Metro team in 2019 and is in the squad again for 2020, but state games have been cancelled this year due to COVID. He has worked with renowned goalkeeping coach John Gorza for the past four or five years and trains four nights a week: two goalkeeping, one with his NPL team and one in Brisbane with his state team.

Don’t get fooled by coastal bars

by JOHN GASPAROTTO Caloundra Volunteer Coast Guard

B

oaties planning to enjoy our fine weather out on the open water are reminded to take care around Caloundra’s bar.

Commander Roger Pearce AFSM of the Coast Guard Caloundra said there were always risks in crossing coastal bars, and skippers must take care and precautions.

“Some people are drawn into crossing a bar in smooth conditions only to find conditions have changed before they return home,” he said.

“Always consider tides and weather forecasts before heading out.

“The rule is simple – if the weather or sea conditions aren’t favourable, don't risk it.

“Lives have been lost on Queensland's coastal bars and these tragedies can be avoided with smart skippering.”

Knowing the tides, local conditions and having the right boat are all important factors boaties should consider before crossing a bar, even in fine weather.

Maritime Safety Queensland has the following tips for

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DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Coast Guard Caloundra’s primary rescue vessel Caloundra Rescue crossing the bar to assist a boatie in trouble

venturing to sea from coastal rivers: • Try to cross a coastal bar on a making tide, as conditions are usually rougher at an ebb tide.

• Observe wave patterns and map a potential route through the breakers.

• Talk to experienced local boaters and volunteer marine rescue organisations to improve your knowledge of local conditions.

• Ensure your boat is capable of withstanding impacts from waves.

• Brief passengers and crew about safety equipment before beginning a crossing.

• Ensure all hatches, covers and loose items are secured.

Commander Pearce stressed it was compulsory for all occupants of boats less than 4.8m to wear a life jacket when crossing designated coastal bars.

“Responsible skippers should ensure everyone is wearing a life jacket whenever there’s a heightened risk,” he said.

“Enjoy your boating, but always be aware of the increased risk you place yourself and your passengers in when crossing a bar.

"Remember – you're the skipper, you're responsible."

“Him (Gorza) being in the Australian system, he knows a fair bit and is one of the highest-qualified coaches for goalkeeping in Australia, so it’s been pretty big for my development,” Turtle says.

Turtle’s father Chris was also an elite-level goalkeeper, playing for South Melbourne 20 years ago under future Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou.

“In 2000 South Melbourne qualified for the first ever Club World Championship in Brazil,” Chris says. “We actually played against Manchester United, Necaxa from Mexico and Corinthians from Brazil.”

Chris says it is a great opportunity for his son because the Melbourne City Football Academy is part of a group of large international clubs, which includes English Premier League giants Manchester City. Every year the City Football Group takes its kids on international trips to play teams of the same age group.

“For him it’s a wonderful opportunity,” says Chris, who drove Turtle 75,000km last year alone for games and training.

“We’re lucky we’re able to give him an opportunity to explore the next level – you can’t get that in Queensland … The City Group is already looking at the next group of players for the first team years in advance – no A-League club in Australia can offer that.”

Sunshine Coast-based Gorza has run the Goalkeeping Australia Academy for the past 20 years and has seen many of his students play professionally and for Australia. He is the current Matildas goalkeeping coach and counts Socceroo Mitch Langerak among his graduates.

Gorza says Turtle is deserving of his chance to play at the top level.

“It’s terrific for him, we’re really pleased and proud of him,” he says. “He’s one of the young ones that has come through the system and developed at the rate we’re looking for to push further in the game. He’s ticked all the boxes so far. He’s got a great attitude, works hard, talented, but he’s also got a lot of other strengths for his age – very mature, very composed – and he’s taken the most of his opportunities when they’ve come.

“He represented Queensland last year and he’s done well again this year. Obviously a great move for him now to go to Melbourne City. A really professional environment will be a great stepping stone for him for the next phase of his development, so we’re absolutely rapt that he’s got that opportunity.”

Turtle’s mum Fiona Mason is also delighted with her son’s development, putting it down to his work ethic.

Mooloolaba to host SUP festival

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he inaugural Mooloolaba SUP Fest will be held from July 23-25 next year, after the event planned for July 2020 was postponed because of the COVID pandemic.

Hosted by the Sunshine Coast SUP Club and World Surfaris, the stand-up paddleboard festival will include a technical race, a downwind event, a flatwater challenge and an overall paddle master category. Foils are also invited to compete.

The festival hub will be around The Spit at Mooloolaba.

It is the ideal location because of its easy access to flatwater canals and open and protected ocean. The area also boasts accommodation options, and cafes and restaurants.

The Sunshine Coast SUP Club is a not-for-profit association, with World Surfaris to act as the event manager.

It also manages the Byron Bay Surf Festival and the Noosa Festival of Surfing.

Stand-up paddleboarding has an international audience and an environmentally sustainable footprint. It is known as a healthy, friendly and community-orientated sport.

For more information visit www.mooloolabasupfestival.com.

SPORT

SUNNY COAST TIMES

No pressure for champ Tyler ‘Turtle’ Roche in action

“He’s worked incredibly hard,” she says. “He’s one of those kids who’s a quiet achiever and he’s been focused on this since he was little. He just basically plods along and achieves what he wants and tries really hard. It’s just rewards coming after quite a few years of doing what he loves and honing his skills.”

Turtle, who is in Year 9 at St Andrew’s Anglican College, will move into an apartment in Melbourne – with his parents, grandparents and family friends rolling through to watch over him – and Fiona is conscious of the impact of relocating.

“Being 14, new state, new club, new school, new everything – it’s just a really big move and so far away from home,” she says.

Fiona has also emphasised the need to focus on life outside football, and Turtle spends his spare time designing footwear and jerseys. He also buys and sells runners from overseas to earn spare cash.

“We’ve drummed into him from the beginning an injury and you’re out, and sometimes you’re not good enough to make the big league, so he’s always had a viewpoint that he’d do some kind of business or business marketing in the sport arena,” she says.

So what is Turtle’s ambition in football?

“To play for Australia and play for Manchester City in England, as that’s one of the City Football Group clubs, along with Melbourne City,” says Turtle, who says his idol is current Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson.

Gorza says it’s very early to say how far Turtle can go, but he’s showing good early signs.

“I think he’s a got a lot of qualities that will help him reach a high level – how high that will be will be determined over the next four or five years,” he says.

“From what I’ve seen I’m confident he’ll do well.”

by CHRIS GILMORE

S

he might be the reigning Nutri-Grain IronWoman champion but Sunny Coast athlete Lana Rogers is not feeling any pressure to defend her title.

The 24-year-old, who trains with the Alexandra Headland Surf Lifesaving Club, says she’s remaining calm in the lead-up to the opening races of the season on December 19-20 at Kingscliff.

“I’m trusting the process and whatever happens happens,” she says. “I believe in the work we’ve done. Last year tested me in a lot of ways but now I expect that work that I’ve given (to pay off). I’ve learnt to race smarter, and I’ve been educated in the last two years how to race these girls, so I’m going in calm, trusting the process, so we’ll see what happens.”

Rogers, who hails from Cronulla but moved to Noosa to pursue her ironwoman career, won three rounds to start last summer’s series to guarantee her the crown before the final round. This year she expects there will be several rivals to watch out for.

“Georgia Miller is one of them – we’ve known each other since we were nine years old – and Lizzie Welborn is always there, so I think they’re the hot two to watch out for in the upcoming Nutri-Grain series,” Rogers says.

This year’s series, which will return to free-to-air TV for the first time since 2013 thanks to Channel Nine, involves a gruelling format of six races over three weekends in December, January and February.

“We call ourselves elite athletes so we’ve got to be ready for back-to-back racing,” Rogers says.

Rogers made a surprise switch of clubs, from Noosa to Alexandra Headland, in October but says it has worked out well.

“It was a pretty easy transfer for me,” she says. “I was on a high last year in a lot of ways but I also went through a low point during the season. I was missing out on that team environment

Rip City star scores MVP award

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he University of Sunshine Coast Basketball Club has finished the challenging 2020 season on a high note with two top honours at Basketball Queensland’s 2020 QSL Awards.

Rip City point guard Maddison Rocci was named women’s division 1 most valuable player and Carlie Sward claimed the women’s division 2 coach of the year.

Rocci led the seventh-placed Rip City with 32.5 points and 10.3 rebounds per game, a win shy of the six-team finals series.

“An individual award is a massive honour to receive but it can’t be done without the support that you get on and off the court from your teammates,” Rocci said. “So, a massive shout-out goes to everyone at Rip City for the support they gave me this whole season. There were some highs and lows, but I am forever grateful to a club that has helped me on and off the court so much.”

The two-time WNBL champion and Australian Opal squad member, who has called the Sunshine Coast home for her past two off-seasons, used the QSL season to work on her game heading into the WNBL season and the start of a busy schedule for the national team in the lead-up to the Tokyo Olympics.

The 22-year-old is scoring 15.1 points per game for the WNBL ladder-leading Canberra Capitals and leads the league

Maddison Rocci

with 2.2 steals per game.

Sward led the Rip City women’s division 2 team to a semifinal berth.

“I really appreciate the acknowledgment, but everyone has done a fantastic job this year bringing a great competition to Queensland,” Sward said.

“Thank you to Basketball Queensland for making sure we could get our players back out on the floor as quickly as we did.

But as usual without our volunteers and sponsors, we wouldn’t be able to do what we love week in, week out, so a big thank you to everyone who helps basketball be great every week.”

quite a bit so I think it’s the balance I needed for myself to enjoy racing and training again. I love Alex so I’m looking forward to the future.”

The COVID shutdown also presented difficulties during the year, but Rogers – who is studying secondary teaching – saw a silver lining.

“We weren’t allowed in the swimming pool for quite some time and our Australian titles got cancelled, as well as the Coolangatta Gold that was supposed to kick off in October, so that was a little bump in the road, but I learnt a lot about myself in COVID,” she says.

“I picked up a lot of university work that I didn’t think I’d be able to do for quite a number of years. I went full-time there for a little bit, which was really good, took up surfing, took up a bit of cooking, so I think COVID definitely affected people in a negative way and a positive way, and for me it was very positive, so I’m really thankful for that.”

She says the return to free-to-air coverage will also be great for the sport.

“I think it’s fantastic, giving the sport that old-school vibe again,” she says. “Everybody gets to watch it, you don’t have to subscribe to anything. I think it’s going to be very exciting and it’s definitely a positive move for the sport going ahead into the future.”

The other rounds of the 2020-21 Nutri-Grain series will be at North Cronulla on January16-17 and Kurrawa on February 13-14. Men and women are competing for an equal $100,000 in prizemoney. All rounds will be broadcast live on Channel Nine from noon-2pm.

Among the other Sunshine Coast athletes set to compete in the series are Cooper Williams, Tiarrn Raymond, Tayla Halliday and Emma Woods.

Lifeguard among Australia’s best

C

aloundra-based lifeguard Corey Jones has been crowned Lifeguard of the Year at the Surf Life Saving Australia National Awards of Excellence.

The 34-year-old is based full-time at Kings Beach and is also a crewman for the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service.

Corey, who first became a lifeguard when he was 17, said he was thrilled to receive the award.

“It’s really nice to know all my hard work and helping out with the young guards has paid off,” he said.

Corey estimates he’s performed hundreds of thousands of preventative actions during his service.

“Every day is different, which is exciting, and it’s a great job to keep fit and healthy,” he said.

“The Caloundra bar is a common place for the bigger rescues and we get everything from kite surfers to boat rollovers.

“Working together as a team with all the emergency services is a good feeling and it’s great when everybody gets to safely go home at the end of the day.”

DECEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

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