Sunny Coast Times September 2020 by Sunny Coast Media

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SUNNY COAST TIMES

FROM CALOUNDRA TO NOOSA - WE'RE HERE FOR YOU

ISSUE #2

Back to the ’80s Katie Noonan gets daggy on her new album

Game on

Uncharted territory

Art in lockdown

Surf safari business out of its comfort zone

Coast artist’s residency goes remote

Pickleball making its mark on Coast

8-9

10 -11

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

FROM THE EDITOR

INSIDE THIS MONTH Katie Noonan talks about her new album

6–7

KEEPING IT LOCAL

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

EDITORIAL 5499 9049 Editor

Chris Gilmore chris@sunnycoastmedia.com.au

ADVERTISING 5499 9049 Manager

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ACCOUNTS accounts@sunnycoastmedia.com.au Please note: We are often out, writing stories and talking to local businesses – please leave us a message. Distribution: 50,000 printed copies

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Sunny Coast Times

10 – 11 Community news

12 – 15 Food and wine

16 – 17 Education

20 – 21 What’s on these school holidays

22– 23 Travel

24 - 25 Letters, puzzle and Poet’s Corner

26 – 27 Creative Cuts

29 – 31 Business

32 – 33 Nature

34 Health

35 – 40 Classifieds

41 42 - 45

100% independently owned: While great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and contents of the publication, the SCT accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies. The views 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 is only made possible by you continuing to support our advertisers.

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WRITERS Michele Sternberg

Real estate

EDITOR

@sunnycoasttimes

Phil Dillon

Artist gets creative in lockdown

Gilmore

Owners:

Chris Taylor

8–9

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 appreciated most is having a printed newspaper in their hands. While it is undeniable the news media is looking at an increasingly digital future, there is clearly still a great demand for hard copies of the news. You can read a selection of the kind feedback we’ve received in the letters to the editor on page 26. The other thing that has struck me in the feedback we’ve had is that people love local news. They want to know what is happening up the road from them, or in the suburb over. As a result, in this edition we have beefed up our community news section with short, sharp snippets from right across the Coast. You’ll also be glad to know that team here at the Sunny Coast Times is 100 per cent local. From the advertising staff to editorial and even the owners, we all live right here on the Coast. That means we have our finger on the pulse when it comes to local news and events in your neck of the woods. This is my first edition at the helm, but fortunately our inaugural editorin-chief Michele Sternberg will still be involved. You can read her cover story about Coast-based singing sensation Katie Noonan on page 6-7, plus she’s reviewed some delicious drops in her Wine Time column on page 16. Elsewhere, COVID is still dominating a lot of the headlines both locally and around the world, but we feature one Sunny Coast travel company that has re-imagined its business model and is continuing to support its staff and customers in new ways. Read Chris Taylor’s story on page 8-9. Creative types have been hit hard by COVID, but Shirley Sinclair talks to one Coast artist who has been continuing her fascinating work while in lockdown in Victoria. Read the story on page 10-11. We also have a travel story featuring the delightful town of Stanthorpe, a new recipes page, a school holiday what’s on guide, an expanded Creative Cuts section featuring the best of local arts and entertainment, puzzles, social photos from recent business events, sport and more. We hope you enjoy the read. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Instagram, and we would love to hear your thoughts and ideas.

Chris

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How Coast company is coping with COVID

Shirley Sinclair

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46 - 47 Cover image: Coast-based singer Katie Noonan Image by Cybele Malinowski

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Charity calls for support by CHRIS GILMORE

Sunny Coast charity that provides support for vulnerable children is urging the community to pitch in as demand for its services ramps up during the COVID crisis. Kathleen Hope, the general manager of SunnyKids, which provides emergency accommodation and counselling to local families in need, says now is the time for people to show their support. “In this moment, this moment right now, we have an opportunity,” she said. “We can be a part of changing lives. If you feel compelled to help, this is the time. Put up your hand and say ‘I will make a difference’. While the world fights for the ‘normal’ we have lost, let’s work together to create a new future where no one in our community feels alone. I truly believe on the Sunshine Coast, we can lead the way. We can break the cycle. There is nowhere else in the world I would rather be right now in this moment.” Kathleen said 2020 has been testing for SunnyKids with an increase in demand for its services. “At the beginning of COVID we did not see a large increase in requests for support,” she said. “Towards the beginning of May, however, we began to notice the sheer complexities within cases was escalating and many of the families we were supporting across all programs were experiencing domestic and family violence. At present, we are almost at capacity. There has been a large spike in referrals coming in from other community agencies, government departments and self-referrals. We are doing our very best to meet the need in the community but we do need help.” Kathleen said SunnyKids had been forced to adapt in response to the challenging times. “We have always been creative and innovative in how we engage and support families,” she said. “COVID has taught us to push the limits even further. We are using avenues we never would have considered previously and some of these changes will remain for many years to come. Human services requires human connection and the service delivery team are inspiring to watch as they develop relationships and advocate through strategic case co-ordination and collaboration.

“I love it!” she said. “I have never worked with such an inspiring team of individuals who just keep pushing for a better future. At the beginning I was nervous, however I have worked at the coalface of SunnyKids for nearly a decade and this has positioned me well. My focus never wavered and delivery of services to families has and always will be the priority. I have the support of many amazing people on the Coast and a committed and dedicated board of successful individuals contributing in such a meaningful way.” Kathleen said there were several ways members of the community could help SunnyKids. “If you are in a position to help, the best way you can support SunnyKids is to sponsor a child for $50 per month or become a P100 member for $100 per month. Head on over to sunnykids.org.au or give us a call on 5479 0394. We would love to talk with you about how we can work together to support vulnerable families on the Sunshine Coast.”

The forced cancellations of several major fundraising events have also made it a challenging year for the charity. “It’s the sad irony of a community needing more support at a time when fundraising and events are unable to go ahead,” Kathleen said. “We rely heavily on the Sunshine Coast community to work with us to protect families and now more than ever things are tight. We had some significant events cancelled due to the pandemic and have been looking at creative ways to fundraise. We are also acutely aware that many people are experiencing financial insecurity and may not be in a position to support organisations like SunnyKids. We have been incredibly privileged to witness the commitment of many SunnyKids financial supporters during this time.” Despite the challenges, Kathleen says she is enjoying her role as general manager after taking up the position earlier this year.

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Sweetest taboo By george, Katie Noonan delves into the 1980s by MICHELE STERNBERG

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

his year will go down in history for many reasons. For Aussie singer-songwriter Katie Noonan, she’s produced her 20th studio album in 2020. And, as she explained to the Sunny Coast Times, it’s been a chance to “go back to where it all began”. Decades have passed since I first saw Katie Noonan fronting the then-unknown george in a battle of the bands at a seedy little venue on the Gold Coast and, while she didn’t know I was in the audience at the time, our paths have crossed many times since. That was around 1996, but in this album Katie goes back even further to the 1980s. She’s 16 again. Full of teenage angst and dancing around her bedroom to daggy ’80s pop songs. That’s the inspiration for The Sweetest Taboo. “The whole album is about going back to fun, that’s really what I wanted to do,” Katie explains. “I’m 42 and went back 35 years to when I bought my first album in 1984. That’s when my love affair with pop songs began. “The ’80s were magical. There was suddenly this amazing person called Whitney Houston and this amazing band called Crowded House and Sting and Billy Joel, all these great songs that just shaped me as a young person and as a musician and set me on my path to be a songwriter.” Since those years of innocence, Katie has been busy writing music, recording albums, touring, raising a family and inspiring younger generations through the Eumundi School of Rock. She was also recently seen - or more accurately heard - on our television screens performing as the ‘Sloth’ on the latest season of Channel Ten's The Masked Singer. Did life get too complicated between the 1980s and now? “Yeah, it really did,” she replies without hesitation. “We’ve become human doings, rather than human beings, and we were too defined by our to-do lists. I think for me, I’ve always been someone who has relied on my achievements for my sense of worth and that’s a healthy thing to a certain degree but I became one of those people caught on the mouse wheel of life. “COVID forced us to just go back to the simple things in life - it’s a lesson that the world needed. “So this year has been amazing for me. It’s actually been a real blessing because I’m not someone who rests well. COVID forced me to rest.”

Katie said her entire world changed “in an instant” with the onset of the global pandemic. “I had my last show on Saturday the 14th of March at the Majestic Theatre in Pomona - so that was nice, a home show - and that was show four of an extensive 25-date national tour,” she says. “Then the crowd restrictions came in and everything stopped. My entire world just crumbled immediately. My entire income source stopped. “And, on top of that, I have just spent the last three or four years doing a lot of high-level stress stuff - the Commonwealth Games opening and closing ceremonies and the Queensland Festival - so this year the whole plan was to get back to gigging and do a solo tour.” That was cancelled. So too was a trip to Finland and an international residency for Katie and her musician husband Isaac Hurren at a chateau in Champagne, France.

"COVID forced us to just go back to the simple things in life - it’s a lesson that the world needed."

“We had all these artistically exciting things on the horizon,” she says. “As indie musos, we’re basically small business operators and don’t have superannuation, sick leave and all those wonderful constructs that are in place to support larger businesses … so I didn’t have anything to fall back on. It’s been a very challenging time. But as one German philosopher once said: In the wars of life what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. “This has been a wonderful time to take stock of life and what matters and what doesn’t. It’s been a huge time of learning and self-reflection and it’s actually been a beautiful time and I’ve been able to be at home with my kids. But the lack of uncertainty from my sector is debilitatingly worrying and I don’t think it will end for quite a while yet.” With a head for numbers, Katie made several calculated decisions. She’s applied for available arts grants, organised her tax return and successfully applied for JobKeeper. “Creatively, I have not really focused on new projects,” she says. “I have written some pieces but have really gone into homemaker mode and am doing the cooking and the cleaning, which is traditionally my husband’s role, and, in fact, he has received a couple of composition commissions in this time so he has actually been more creative than me. We were also very lucky to get an Australia Council resilience grant to turn our music room into a high-quality concert streaming venue. “Thankfully we finished the record and that was amazing. It was great to have something to keep me busy in those first few weeks (of COVID lockdown). It’s the first time in my life

that I’ve released an album and not done any promo. I couldn’t fly to Sydney to do Sunrise … it was a very strange time to be releasing a record. “But amazingly, it’s been in the top 10 for 11 weeks so that’s incredible that this album has connected to people at a time when they’ve needed it and needed to kind of return to the fun of daggy pop songs of the ’80s.” Katie is also preparing for her next performance at the Tivoli Theatre on September 19 and 20 as part of BrisFest. Joining her on stage is a talented southeast Queensland line-up including her husband Isaac, Owen Newcomb from Kiels Mountain who she met while studying at the conservatorium, his brother Steve Newcomb and Aaron Jansz from Brisbane. “It will be such an emotional thing being back on stage,” she says. “I think I’ll burst into tears in my first song.”

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Riding out the pandemic Surfing travel company in uncharted territory by CHRIS TAYLOR

John Finlay (centre), sporting his The Board Meeting charity tuxedo rashie, with his team of surf travel experts from World Surfaris

fter taking an early retirement and lapping up life on the Sunny Coast away from the fast lane in Brisbane, John Finlay was so impressed with the Mooloolaba-based surf travel company he used for trips to the Maldives and Indonesia that he bought the company. That was five years ago and the former high-flying corporate executive has since mentored a team and culture around him at World Surfaries that has continued to propel it as a leader in a niche global market. As its slogan “For wherever you dream of surfing” goes, John’s team of surf gurus facilitated

dream holidays for about 3500 of their mostly Australian customers a year to more than 90 destinations around the world. And as the travel industry went into freefall this year, his steadfast, selfless and magnetic management style has also helped steer the business through uncharted territory. When the initial unprecedented pandemic set in, plans were made with offshore suppliers and the team worked closely with customers to postpone trips until there is more clarity around international travel. They cleared out of their Brisbane Rd premises, relocating nearer The Esplanade, to make more room

for the Bundilla Clinic COVID testing site next door. As with many companies hit by the virus’ financial fallout, JobKeeper subsidies were taken up. There were glimmers of hope of the Maldives potentially opening in July, Indonesia in September and a possible trans-Tasman travel bubble, but they have all but burst as Queensland’s border remains closed for the foreseeable future. World Surfaries then took tentative steps to adapt its product offering. With the potential Pacific Islands and NZ travel bubble keenly anticipated, the team were aiming to offer holidays to destinations such as Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, along with cool-water trips to New Zealand. Marketing manager Josh Allen says the company had to step out of its comfort zone dealing with regions it hadn’t explored in the past. “Our customers are typically looking for a tropical postcard-perfect destination like the Maldives,” he says. “But with limits on where we can potentially travel, we’ve gone away from just offering tropics, we have been diversifying and also offering cold-water destinations.” If a travel bubble does eventuate in 2021, Josh says there are some amazing waves in New Zealand. “Gisborne is next level. And with NZ it’s not just about the surf,” he says. “But something we have to be a bit a weary about is not giving too much away on these locations and respecting the locals. We don’t want to crowd their breaks. It’s never about that. It’s about offering something when the world has turned upside-down.” With the travel industry still in crisis, John is steering the World Surfaries crew through the eye of the pandemic storm. Josh says his boss has really proven to be a true leader of people. “It just goes to show how selfless John is,” he says. “He could have easily gone ‘my business is struggling massively financially and I need to offload some staff and cut my losses’. But instead, it was the other way round. He wanted to keep everyone employed. Most have young families and he didn’t want to throw them into the deep end with no job or income at a very uncertain time. That was not in his interest at all. “To his credit I’ve worked alongside John for nearly five years and I’ve never met anyone as selfless as him. In a business sense, he’s always mentoring or promoting people around him and improving their people skills and skill set. Take someone with absolutely no confidence and low self-esteem, and a week later they’re the most confident person they can be. He rubs up on people very well and is a very good manager of people.” Under John’s leadership the company also has a history of giving back through their associated charity involvement. Among the groups he’s involved in are the Sunny Coast’s The Board Meeting and Surf For Life, which financially helps

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While Indonesia and the Maldives are a no-go at present, World Surfaries is booking epic six-night trips to a secret spot on the Great Barrier Reef

"I’ve worked alongside John for nearly five years and I’ve never met anyone as selfless as him."

families of children living with severe disabilities and kids from disadvantaged backgrounds; MS Queensland; Movember; and the Surfing Association of Papua New Guinea. Because of the lack of international and interstate travel, World Surfaries is currently focusing on the Queensland market, with trips to the Great Barrier Reef. Josh says it’s been known there are waves out there for a long time. “But because it’s one of those places that’s quite difficult to get to – and you normally have the option to pay the

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Artist working outside the box by SHIRLEY SINCLAIR

rying to be in two places at once is anything but child’s play for artist Meaghan Shelton. The thought of being in lockdown isolation in Victoria while also aiming to fulfil her Kia Sulc Artist in Residence commitments at Cooroy’s Butter Factory Arts Centre might have had her toying with the idea of teleporting if her organisational skills and help from loyal supporters hadn’t paid off. Artists, musicians and other creative types have been massive losers in the fun and games of COVID-19 restrictions. Gigs, exhibitions, projects and filming have been put on hold, postponed or cancelled. Staying focused, inspired and productive is a merry-go-round of frustration. Those who have thrived have had to think outside the box. For Meaghan, that meant thinking outside the toy box with her Assembly solo exhibition, which has just ended its run. The building blocks to creativity began in Victoria, which has since been the hardest-hit state for COVID cases in the nation. “Some life changes occurred that were definitely triggered by the very surreal first COVID warnings and subsequent lockdowns, which saw me head to home ground,” Meaghan says. “I was on my way to my parents’ that night from Queensland to Victoria. I had absolutely no idea how I was going to meet the residency requirements and give the Regional Arts Development Fund Grant from Noosa Council the justice I had planned. I had already postponed the dates twice due to pending major surgery, from which I am still recovering.”

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Meaghan made a pit stop on her journey and was amazed to see an op-shop open in a little country town just after the first lockdown. She decided to have a browse. “The first thing my eye settled on was the little old red suitcase, open, displaying an incredible range of old toy blocks,” she says. “It was like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. I had no idea why I was purchasing it, especially as my car was packed to overflowing.” It was while sitting at her parents’ kitchen table that night that the first sparks of creativity ignited for her Assembly exhibition. The works W-O-M-A-N and A is for Balance almost created themselves. Then came Kreep Club. “It was a very unconscious process – almost predestined was the feeling,” Meaghan says. “On the lid of the case is a partially worn name label: ‘Mark MacKinn…’ and ‘Barwon’, which refers to place. I have since traced the case and its contents back to Langi Willi: a 35-room homestead built in the early 1900s and known for its interior’s fine examples of the art and craft movement – most serendipitous when you consider my focus on traditional craft techniques and materials.” Meaghan says she felt a similar sense of wonder and joy with the blocks as she did when playing as a child. “I loved their wornness. Their faded muted colours seemed synonymous with memory: how life wears us down,

Kreep Club, 2020. Assemblage, found objects. 280mm h x 150mm w x 70mm

Meaghan Shelton

shapes us as we get older - there’s an honesty to that,” she says. “The old and worn discarded thing in exchange for the next bright shiny thing has been so much a part of our culture. This futile obsession with youthfulness, we all have our youth and we all grow old. The blocks themselves beckoned me to reimagine them. Now that they have become art, they will never die.” If nothing else, COVID-19 has proven that successful artists are those who are the most resourceful and resilient. COVID could have been a stumbling block for her but instead, Meaghan still can’t believe her luck in stumbling over those blocks that she probably wouldn’t have encountered had the pandemic never arrived.

“Necessity is the mother of invention: we will always find a way to survive as artists because we have no choice but to.” W-O-M-A-N 2020, Meaghan Shelton. 125mm w x 230mm h x 20mm d. Assemblage, found objects

“Artists’ livelihoods are so precarious at the best of times,” Meaghan says. “Some artists are making the best of it and are coping because they have JobKeeper. Some are only on JobSeeker as they have been employed contractually rather than self -employed. It’s not much to survive on. I don’t know how anyone could survive on it pre-COVID. “Necessity is the mother of invention: we will always find a way to survive as artists because we have no choice but to.” In the essay M.J. Clark wrote for the Assembly exhibition, she says Meaghan’s work “inspires us all to create our worlds anew, it is not time for us to give up on our hard-fought-for ideals. Artists will respond to the call and they will play”. Meaghan believes that’s an important message for artists to remember at a time when a global pandemic has brought a war on disease to our doorsteps. “We do need to have faith in ourselves that we can embrace change for survival – that’s the reality,” she says. “This time, for many in lockdown, is very tough. It takes a lot of discipline to get through every day. “People are suddenly confronted with themselves. We have the kind of time on our hands we’ve never had before. It’s a time to ‘own up’, to create our worlds anew, for the better. “The bottom line is we all crave and deserve to be cared for properly through self-care and the care of others. For those who have become ill, lost their lives or the lives of loved ones due to COVID-19, it is the toughest lesson of all.” Like any tough times, friends are crucial. Meaghan couldn’t have put together the exhibition without “Noosa RADF officer Belinda Simonsen’s unfailing support and gentle encouragement, the amazing staff at the Butter Factory especially director Alicia Sharples, and my wonderful friends and colleagues”. “I doubt I could have pulled it off without them,” she says. “It is so important to reach out for help. It doesn’t always come from where you might expect but it’s out there. You just have to ask.” Visit meaghanshelton.com and butterfactoryartscentre.com.au/studio-residency.

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

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Sippy Downs

New district governor

Emergency vet on move

David Watts has been appointed as district governor of Lions Zone of 201Q4 for 2020-21. The district covers from Mooloolaba in the south to Marlborough in the north and Winton in the west. It includes 63 Lions clubs, 9 Lioness clubs and 4 Leos clubs. David joined Lions in 1985 as a member of the Tewantin Noosa Lions Club. Due to employment transfers he has been a member of the Atherton and Cairns Barrier Reef Lions clubs before retiring and transferring back to the Tewantin Lions Club. He has held most executive positions in all clubs and has been a member of district cabinet for 11 years. His theme for the year is “Together we will achieve”. He believes that by working as a team Lions can assist local communities and individuals across a wider spectrum rather than working individually. His role has changed because of COVID-19 restrictions but he says he is more than encouraged by the way clubs have adapted and are now assisting their local communities. Lions currently has five world objectives: helping with diabetes, hunger, vision, environment and childhood cancer. David is married with two sons and a daughter, and seven grandchildren. When time permits loves walking, gardening and caravanning. Lions in Australia began at Lismore in 1947 and now has 30,000 members and 1250 clubs, which also includes Papa New Guinea.

The Sunshine Coast’s first purpose-built veterinary specialist and emergency centre will open in Sippy Downs later this month. North Coast Veterinary Specialist and Referral Centre is relocating from its current Tanawha location. The move includes the expansion of its specialist services and the launch of a 24/7 emergency vet, North Coast Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care. It will be the only 24/7 dedicated emergency vet available to Sunshine Coast pet owners. “We live in a dog-loving community and dog owners, in particular, often experience emergency events like snake bites, dog attacks, paralysis ticks or find a car has hit their much-loved pet,” business owner and small animal surgery specialist Dr Richard Mitchell said. “These accidents can be traumatic and often happen outside of standard business hours. Our team is here to serve 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with a driving passion for doing the best for our clients and patients.” The new facility has industry-leading technology and equipment including CT, fluoroscopy, ultrasound and X-ray machines. “With this new facility, we will continue to offer our current specialty services and plan to expand, we have exciting times ahead,” Dr Mitchell said. “I’m proud to say despite the unexpected complexity that everyone has experienced in 2020, our team has grown - we now have over 50 staff with a range of specialists, and all our vets have experience in providing emergency treatment.” The facility is expected to open at 5/30 Chancellor Park Blvd, Sippy Downs, on September 28.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Buderim

Caloundra

Noosa

Festival changes shape

Better beach access

Burst of creativity

The Noosa Eat and Drink Festival will next year become a series of events throughout the year, rather than the annual four-day event in May it is now. Tourism Noosa and the festival team have redesigned the event in response to the uncertainty created by COVID, with the health and safety of visitors coming first. “We believe this is the best option to take the festival forward during these uncertain times, allowing us to program positive COVID-safe events for smaller, more intimate groups,” Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson said. “One of the primary goals of hosting the festival is to bring visitors to our region in a traditionally quiet time and to showcase our incredible restaurants, breweries, distilleries and producers. By hosting several events throughout the year, we will have more opportunities to do this, getting visitors out and about across our region. “Planning for the annual event in May would normally be well and truly under way at this time of year for our festival team, but there is a very real reality that we may not be able to host our usual large-scale festival, which attracts over 10,000 visitors across the four days. “With this in mind we have re-imagined what the festival could look like and in collaboration with our festival partners and industry, have redesigned the festival into a series of smaller, more frequent events throughout the year, which will ultimately provide our visitors more opportunities to enjoy the Noosa Eat & Drink experience”. Festival manager Lee Huber said: “A series of events allows us to think differently about the festival and presents opportunities for different collaborations. We will be working with our existing festival partners, visiting chefs, our restaurants, our food and drinks industry groups and some charities to curate some really exciting experiences.” The first event is scheduled for late 2020. Visit www. noosaeatdrink.com.au.

Sunshine Coast Council and The Compass Institute Inc have combined to provide a new beach wheelchair and two lifejackets to Caloundra beachgoers. The free equipment will be available to hire on weekdays all year round from the Compass Institute at 2 Central Park Rd, opposite the Caloundra Aquatic Centre. Beach matting and beach wheelchairs are already available at Kings, Coolum, Mooloolaba and Alexandra Headland beaches on weekends and public holidays between September and May each year under council’s existing program, which started at Alexandra Headland in April 2017. Mayor Mark Jamieson said council supported initiatives to improve accessibility to beaches. “Our council is extremely pleased to partner with The Compass Institute to offer this new chair to residents and visitors to our region,” Cr Jamieson said. “Focusing on the ability within a disability is crucial to expanding opportunities for everyone in our community and to improving the liveability and accessibility of our region. “Our beaches are arguably one of the most popular, familyfriendly tourism destinations in Queensland and we want to ensure that they can be accessed by anyone looking to enjoy that experience.” To book a wheelchair visit www.compassinc.org.au or contact the respective Surf Life Saving Clubs. Pictured are Lachy Chapman from Spinal Life Australia, Mayor Mark Jamieson, Compass CEO David Dangerfield, Compass trainee Cole Kienzle (in wheelchair), Katie Hammond from Spinal Life Australia and Division 2 Councillor Terry Landsberg.

Do garden sculptures and handmade artworks sound intriguing? Then you are in for a treat at this year’s Sculptured Garden exhibition. The potters and sculptors from Buderim’s Craft Cottage invite you to join them for a showcase of their latest creations. The artists have dug deep this year and turned the challenges of 2020 into an opportunity for reflection and growth. Group leader Deidre Phipps said: “We have mounted a spring exhibition every year since 1997 but with the pandemic lockdown, this year’s exhibition was in doubt. However, recent events seemed to have brought about a great burst of creative energy. I think our artists have crafted some of their most inspired and beautiful work in these last few months.” Deidre said the Sculptured Garden title started as an exhibition of sculptural works created for outdoor spaces “In keeping with tradition, much of the work this year is designed for display in gardens and outdoors, with the addition of many unique functional and sculptural pieces for indoor décor,” she said. “This is a unique opportunity - indulge your artistic curiosity, support a talented local artist and find a special treasure by visiting the 2020 Sculptural Garden exhibition. “Complete the day with a visit to one of the many local eateries, take in the breathtaking views and remember Buderim in October.” The free exhibition takes place at the Atrium Gallery, 5 Main St, Buderim, from 9am-4pm from October 10-18. For more information visit www.buderimcraftcottage.com. au or find the Buderim Craft Cottage on Facebook. Pictured is Phoenix, an original work by Pam Thomas, an exhibition co-ordinator since 1997.

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COMMUNITY NEWS IN BRIEF

Cancer awareness ride

Next month’s Final Encore: Bras N Bikes Last Lap will see motorcycle riders don all things pink and dress up their bikes to support people living with breast cancer. The event, held in Breast Cancer Awareness Month for Bloomhill Cancer Care, will help raise awareness of the fact that breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer diagnosis for Sunshine Coast women. The ride departs Yandina Bowls Club on October 18. Pre-purchase tickets at www.bloomhill.com.au/events.

Contrast in styles

Cooroy’s Butter Factory Arts Centre is showcasing two new exhibitions featuring local artists from all walks of life. The exhibition Art After 70 will be on display in the Foyer and Creamery. It will feature local and regional artists over the age of 70. The exhibition in the Butterbox will be Young Creators and Makers from the Noosa District State High School. Both exhibitions are open until October 11.

Cooroibah

Caloundra

New animal care program

Artist adding flair

Disability support service Sunshine Butterflies is introducing a new animal education and care program named Farmability. The program teaches people living with a disability practical and fun farm animal care and environment skills through hands-on experience with farm chores and environmental activities. It provides a unique learning experience for people who would not otherwise have the opportunity or facilities to do so. “In this unique program, our members will learn all about permaculture, produce, animals and plants,” farmyard manager and educator Sally Clay said. Sunshine Butterflies offers an array of educational and recreational programs at its five-acre Cooroibah property Our Backyard. Farmability joins the Farmyard Cooking School, Chippies Corner, Rockability, Metal Heads and Motors, Kiss My Art, Tech Connect and Drama Queens programs. “Sunshine Butterflies are thrilled to be bringing this new program to their members and are also offering it up to those in the Sunshine Coast community who are of post-school age and living with a disability,” CEO Leanne Walsh said. “Farmability has been in the works for a long time now and we are beyond excited to finally be delivering this unique service to our members and their families. This is an incredible milestone for Sunshine Butterflies.” Farmability will run once a week over a 10-week period. If you think this program could benefit you or someone else you know living with a disability then phone Sunshine Butterflies on 5470 2830 or visit www.sunshinebutterflies.com.au.

Emerging artist Ebony Busk has been welcomed into the Caloundra Bus Interchange building’s creative hub, Sub Tropic Studio. Over the past year, the building has undergone a transformation to become a creative hive of artist studios, workshops and exhibition spaces, creating a home for a fabulous line-up of local artists. Ebony joins Sub Tropic as a part of Sunshine Coast Council’s Creative Spaces Artist in Residence program, which provides affordable space for artists to develop and showcase their work, experiment and collaborate. “I am very excited and grateful to have been invited to be an artist in residence at Sub Tropic Studio,” Ebony said. “This is an amazing opportunity that will give me space for artistic reflection, experimentation and creation. “I’m looking forward to welcoming the public into my studio and helping create a community based artistic initiative.” Sub Tropic Studio is also home to photographer Karina Jean Sharpe and illustrator Marni Stuart. The previously unused bus interchange building space was given the creative makeover thanks to a joint initiative between Sunshine Coast Council’s Creative Spaces program, the Place2 project and the Sunshine Coast Creative Alliance. “Supporting young and emerging artists so they can establish their careers here on the Sunshine Coast is incredibly important and with this space we can offer longer opportunities, such as Ebony’s 12-month residency, which is our longest residency to date,” Community Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said. “Sub Tropic Studio was the latest addition to our growing creative space network last year and it’s already thriving, and adding to what is becoming a really vibrant arts scene in Caloundra." For more information visit www.subtropicstudio.com.

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SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

COMMUNITY NEWS IN BRIEF

Bus service helps kids

Buderim

Caloundra

Book chronicles tramway

Top writers recognised

A new book about the Buderim-Palmwoods Heritage Tramway by Helene Cronin has been launched at Buderim War Memorial Hall. Helene, who is president of Buderim-Palmwoods Heritage Tramway Inc, wrote Timber Trains Turmoil - A History of Buderim and its Tramway thanks to a Buderim Foundation grant. Foundation chairman Dr Russell Stitz congratulated Helene for the passion she has displayed in putting together what he described as a comprehensive history of Buderim and its surrounds over the past 150 years. Pictured are Steve Chellingworth, Helene Cronin and Dr Russell Stitz.

The winners of the Caloundra Family History Group’s Lorrie Barzdo Writers Award for 2020 have been announced. Kay Middlemiss (pictured) was the winner of the advanced section with her story “Pure Velvet - Gentle on the Hands!”. The novice section, for members who have not previously entered the awards, was shared between Sue Rae with her story “Polesden Lacey Connection” and Christine Howard with her story “A Mother’s Day Gift”. For more details visit www.caloundrafamilyhistory.org.au.

Local volunteer organisation The Board Meeting Surf Charity has launched a new minibus service that will transfer children with disabilities to health appointments on the Sunshine Coast. The Board Meeting chairman Mark Skinner said he believed the free bus service was a first for the Sunshine Coast. “The Children’s Community Bus became a project for us following a survey of many of the people who use our services to find out what could be done to make their lives easier. The responses were overwhelmingly about the need for help with transport to therapy and medical appointments. Families wanting to book the minibus can visit www.theboardmeeting.org.au.

Beware of magpies

Coast residents are being asked to remain tolerant of magpies when they walk or ride near nests. “Swooping begins once the eggs are hatched and ends once the chicks have left the nest, which is about six to eight weeks,” Sunshine Coast Council natural areas conservation officer Tyron de Kauwe said. “When you see male magpies defending their territory, they are merely defending their young. Don’t act aggressively towards them as they have a very long memory and this will just encourage further defensive behaviour. “Move quickly through the area but do not run, wear a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses or use an umbrella, dismount and walk your bike and where possible, walk in groups – or avoid the area altogether if possible."

Business centre deal Golden Beach

Kawana

World-class renovation

Club back in action

Sunshine Coast Council has unveiled its $1.69 million renovations at the Kawana Aquatic Centre. The upgrades started ahead of schedule while the centre was forced to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s great that council was able to support local trades during this time while delivering a quality product that’s heated year-round for the entire community to enjoy,” Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox (pictured left) said. Works included new tiles and lane markings in the 50-metre pool, and replacement of the pool filtration system. Kawana Aquatic Centre director of coaching Michael Sage (pictured right) said the upgrade gave his swimmers a worldclass facility. “Having this facility will help our local swimmers, while further attracting athletes from outside the region, helping to increase the standard of training and competition,” he said.

The Probus Club of Currimundi Combined Inc has resumed meetings and activities, and is welcoming new members. The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Indoor Bowls Club, Burke St, Golden Beach. In addition to monthly meetings, which include a guest speaker, the club has barbecue breakfasts at the beach, lunch and dinner dine-outs, coffee and chat mornings, picnics, sporting groups, book and craft clubs, trips away and more. Some of the club’s activities this year have included an Australia Day picnic at Crummunda Park, a five-day bus tour to the Apple and Grape Festival in Stanthorpe, and a treasure hunt by car that went into the hinterland areas and concluded at Wappa Dam for picnic lunch. Pictured is the winning treasure hunt team receiving their prize. New members are welcome. Phone Ros on 0458753922.

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The Noosa Shire Business Centre is a step closer after Noosa Council and Stockwell Developments reached an agreement to enable the first stage to proceed. It paves the way for the ultimate layout of the large site, including new road connections – with the extension of Hofmann Drive through to Walter Hay Drive – plus creation of several large lots. Council will fund a koala offset planting required under the planning scheme and state legislation, while Stockwell will transfer a 4912sqm lot to council for a regional transit centre within the business centre precinct. “This is a first step in delivering the vision, as outlined in the Noosa Plan 2020, for this important precinct,” Mayor Clare Stewart said.

Heritage guide updated

Sunshine Coast Council has unveiled an updated Cultural Heritage Discovery Guide featuring more places to visit, including Traditional Custodian First Nation sites, museums and heritage precincts. Printed copies of the guide are available from museums, libraries, council administration buildings and visitor information centres, and an electronic version is available on the council app under ‘Things to Do’.

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FOOD DRINK AND DINE APPLE OAT AND COCONUT MUFFINS

WINE TIME

2020 visions

Serves: 12 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Fruit and veg: ½ serve per portion

by MICHELE STERNBERG

Ingredients 3 granny smith apples, grated 11/3 cups rolled oats 1 cup shredded coconut 1/3 cup honey 1 teaspoon vanilla 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 3 eggs, whisked 11/3 cups wholemeal self-raising flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 90 grams sultanas

o you’re heading out to a casual dinner with friends – a barbecue or curry night, perhaps – and need to take a bottle of red. Something that is going to make friends, not lose them. What can you buy for under $20 if you’re seeking a full-bodied Aussie red?

Method • Preheat oven to 180°C. • Mix apple, oats, coconut, honey and vanilla in a large bowl to combine. • Reserve one cup of apple mixture and set aside. • Add oil, eggs, flour, cinnamon and sultanas to the remaining apple mixture and mix until just combined. • Divide mixture into 12-hole muffin pan, lined with baking paper. • Sprinkle each muffin with reserved apple and oat mixture. • Cook for 20 minutes, allow to cool before turning out onto wire rack. • Serve with yoghurt. What’s great about it? These high-fibre muffins are great for morning tea and school or work lunchboxes. Any apple can be used in this recipe with the skin on for extra fibre. They can be served with a dollop of Greek yoghurt.

Recipe courtesy of Judy Stubbs, Maleny branch

PORK, SAGE AND APPLE BURGERS WITH MACADAMIA MUSTARD Serves: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Fruit and veg: 1½ serves per portion Ingredients 250g lean pork mince 1 granny smith apple, grated 1 teaspoon seeded mustard 1 small onion, finely diced ¼ cup wholemeal breadcrumbs 1 sage leaf, finely chopped 1 egg, beaten 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard ½ cup macadamia nuts, finely chopped 2 cups salad vegetables Method • Combine pork mince, apple, seeded mustard, onion, breadcrumbs, sage and egg in a bowl. • Divide mixture into 4 even patties. • Heat a large non-stick frypan over a medium-high heat. • Add patties to the pan and cook on each side for 6 minutes. • Combine the macadamia nuts and Dijon mustard in the separate bowl. • Spread macadamia mustard onto the bread rolls and topwith patty and ½ cup salad vegetables. What’s great about it? Pork is lean and has great flavour plus the addition of apple adds a touch of sweetness, which pairs well with the macadamia mustard. Enjoy at any meal with a salad, or steamed veggies.

Hardys Insignia 2018 Coonawarra Cab Sauv The Insignia from Hardys is a bit light on the palette for my liking but it’s easy to drink, with inoffensive flavours of berries – think mulberry and raspberry – so it’s a tad tart and there’s a long, dry finish. The promo guff declares notes of blackcurrant, cedar and herbs, a hint of mint and a whisper of menthol, making for a complex yet perfectly balanced wine. I agree with the cedar (oak) and earthiness, but couldn’t smell or taste the mint. Maybe I should have cleaned my teeth first. It’s good, not great, but leave this easy-drinking gem in the cellar for a few years and I think it will improve with age. Riddoch Coonawarra 2018 Cab Sauv I thought I’d found my forever love with the 2013 and 2014 Riddoch brothers, but then came the 2015 vintage and I was left disappointed to the point of heartbreak. It’s taken me a few years to recover, but perhaps it is time to forgive the swarthy moustached man on the label. The 2018 is not too bad, but is he a long-term prospect for my palette? It’s certainly a richer, warmer flavour than the Insignia, with spicy plum, chocolate and toasty vanilla aromas that are followed by blueberry for a sweet finish. Should I put him aside for a while? Methinks not. But he has earned a second date.

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-asized’ 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.

Recipe courtesy of Sara Faddy, Maleny branch

https://qcwa.org.au/Find-Your-Closest-Branch https://www.qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/

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EDUCATION

Year 7 students have their own space Y ear 7 students at Matthew Flinders Anglican College in Buderim have a new place to learn as the college’s $30 million Master Plan begins to take shape. The two-storey, state-of-the-art Year 7 Precinct is a technology-rich space for students to learn and develop the skills of collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, communication, citizenship and character. The precinct features three science laboratories and three general-purpose classrooms that can be opened into one large collaborative space. There is also the Hive, a space for students to brainstorm, present, discuss and relax; and the Bungaree Room, a space for staff to meet in professional learning teams. One of the interesting design aspects in the precinct is the giant courtyard artwork of the periodic table of elements set into the tiles on the ground floor. Principal Stuart Meade said Flinders had a 15-year Master Plan for the future. “Our vision is to ensure the college continues to strive for

Teacher Jane Martens with student William Lovely in the new Year 7 Precinct at Flinders

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excellence,” Mr Meade said. “We want to provide high quality, functional, expertly designed facilities that are richly integrated with the latest technology to support effective teaching and learning. “The new Year 7 Precinct is the first project to be completed as part of our college’s Master Plan and we are very proud to open its doors to our Year 7s as their very own space. “It is wonderful to see the students’ excitement as they settle in and explore the limitless opportunities for learning that this facility enables.” Head of Middle School Anita Gibson said the Year 7 Precinct was designed to support the development of the Flinders Learner Traits: Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication, Citizenship and Character. Mr Meade thanked all involved in the project, including architects Hayball; builders led by Justin Costanzo, Peter Peter Shilkin and site foreman Al Connors ; Flinders project manager Rocco Perugini, and the college leadership team.

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USC scientist has won one of the state’s top science prizes for her work with wildlife and detection dogs. Behavioural ecologist Associate Professor Celine Frere, who is co-leader of the USC Detection Dogs for Conservation unit, was awarded the Queensland Young Tall Poppy Science Award, which recognise excellence in research and enthusiasm for communicating science Dr Frere said she was honoured becauseit recognised her contributions to driving change and finding solutions. “Science is critical to our understanding of the world and, certainly in my field, how we manage our resources to protect our precious ecosystems,” she said. The awards are an initiative of the Australian Institute of Policy and Science. Dr Frere’s primary research interest is in animal behaviour and genetics, with the aim to better understand how animals adapt to environmental change. She has done studies on animals as diverse as lizards, giraffes, cetaceans, porpoises, koalas and kangaroos.

EDUCATION

Vital vaccine work

Professor Robert Elliot

s scientists race to develop the first vaccine to combat COVID-19, a Sunny Coast high school graduate is making his mark in the world of immunology. Lachlan Deimel, who graduated from Good Shepherd Lutheran College in 2016 as college dux, was awarded a prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship to attend the Australian National University in Canberra. He completed a Bachelor of Philosophy (Science) and quickly became involved in vaccine immunology. Now, as a member of the Molecular Mucosal Vaccine Immunology Group at the John Curtin School of Medical Research, Lachlan and his colleagues are developing a potential vaccination against HIV. This group is also affiliated with the Australian COVID-19 vaccination candidate led by the University of Queensland. “It was in senior biology where I first acquired a curiosity towards the living world,” Lachlan says. “In particular, I recall an assignment that discussed emerging strategies to reduce malaria rates. This made me acutely aware of the implications of infectious disease on human health and society. Ultimately, I decided to pursue immunology at university.” Lachlan was recently awarded the Brasenose College – Oxford Australia Clarendon Scholarship tocomplete his Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Oxford, where he aims to establish a novel vaccination platform against viral pathogens. “We at Good Shepherd are immensely proud to see how Lachlan has excelled since graduating,” college principal Anthony Dyer says. “We wish him all the success and are confident he will make a difference in the fast developing world of immunology.”

USC leader retires

Lachlan Deimel

he University of the Sunshine Coast’s longest-serving staff member and Foundation Dean of Arts has retired. Professor Robert Elliot was a senior executive who helped guide USC’s expansion, international profile and academic credibility for 25 years. As Pro Vice-Chancellor International since 2005, Prof Elliot helped turn a new university of about 500 students in 1996 into a globally recognised institution with more than 18,000 students today. Prof Elliot’s final five months at USC were as Acting ViceChancellor at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. His retirement comes after Professor Helen Bartlett commenced work as USC’s third Vice-Chancellor and President last month. Her appointment followed the retirement of Professor Greg Hill, who was Vice-Chancellor and President for 10 years. “I would like to thank Professor Elliot for his leadership as Acting Vice-Chancellor and President in the months before my arrival,” Prof Bartlett said. “I have appreciated his support over this period and wish him all the very best for his retirement.” USC Chancellor Sir Angus Houston paid tribute to Prof Elliot for his dedication and leadership. “It is testament to his drive and determination that Prof Elliot spent his final months at USC leading the University through its most historically significant upheaval,” he said. “The solid international partnerships that he established will hold USC in good stead as it works to rebuild international student enrolments and maintain USC’s internationalisation agenda.”

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= engaged kids Our flexible and collaborative learning spaces and inquiry-based teaching equips students for a future world where creativity, communication and critical thinking skills are essential.

Book a touR CALL 5451 3600

www.suncoastcc.qld.edu.au p. (07) 5451 3600 e. info@suncoastcc.qld.edu.au a. Cnr Schubert & Kiel Mtn Rds, Woombye

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Immersive experience

Train with Opals star

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is taking visitors on a Junior Penguin Keeper adventure these school holidays. The free program encourages children to learn more about penguins by filling out a worksheet of fascinating facts. Once complete, participants will receive a Junior Penguin Keeper certificate. Kids can also book a Penguin Encounter, allowing guests aged five and up to go inside the penguins’ habitat to feed them and discover how they are cared for. SEA LIFE also features the 80-metre ocean tunnel filled with sharks and rays, the ever-popular show at Seal Island and thousands of other amazing sea creatures.

Australian Opals basketball squad member Maddison Rocci is hosting junior clinics during the school holidays. The USC Rip City player and two-time Canberra Capitals WNBL champion will provide participants a great way to improve their skills in a fun, safe and exciting environment. Maddison, 22, has been a consistent top performer in the Queensland State League for USC Rip City, leading the league in scoring with 32.8 points per game and featuring in the league leaders for assists and rebounds. USC Rip City president Rob Bloom says the club is lucky to have someone the calibre of Maddison inspiring Coast juniors. "Maddi is a remarkable talent and we're privileged to have her representing Rip City," he says. "The juniors have a two-time WNBL player and Opal to look up to and now they have a great opportunity to train with her right here on the Coast." There are seven two-hour clinics available at USC Stadium on September 24 and 28 and October 1, with three girls-only Girls Got Game sessions and four Skills and Drills sessions open to girls and boys. Sessions cost $50 including a T-shirt and places are strictly limited. Register online at www.uscbasketball.com.au or visit the USC Rip City Facebook page.

Open daily from 9am-5pm during the Queensland school holidays, with last entry at 4pm. All visitors must pre-book their tickets online. Visit www.sealifesunshinecoast.com.au.

Learn to sew

Create Handmade Workshop is offering learn-to-sew classes for kids these holidays. The business initially began with a “pop-up” location at Noosa Civic during the Christmas holidays, but it was such a success it has relocated to a fixed studio in the Noosa hinterland. It has now taught more than 1000 kids to sew. Create Handmade Workshop brings the excitement and fun of sewing to kids aged eight and up. Classes are designed for boys and girls with age and skill level in mind. All students begin by taking a beginner’s class where they’ll learn the basics like how to use a sewing machine, then they graduate to a whole world of fun with customisable projects where they can really express their creativity. Visit www.createhandmadeworkshop.com.

Spot the Gruffalo at Ginger Factory

G  ! Board Spot STEAM MAN on your Mary Valley Rattler heritage rail journey these school holidays!

Bkings are required See www.maryvalleyrattler.com.au for schedules.

The much-loved children’s book character the Gruffalo will feature in a new augmented reality attraction at Yandina’s iconic Ginger Factory. Visitors can download the free Gruffalo Spotter 2 app and set off on a rainforest adventure to look for their favourite characters including Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and, of course, the Gruffalo. “As one of the most popular attractions on the Coast, we’re excited to bring this incredible free experience to visitors at the Ginger Factory,” says Ginger Factory tourism manager Brenda Bailey. “Kids and their families are going to have a blast as they follow the Gruffalo Trail through our rainforest and watch the characters come to life on their phone screen. “There will also be daily photo opportunities with our resident Gruffalo costume character.” The Gruffalo is a beloved children’s book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. The Ginger Factory also offers rides, tours, a retail precinct and cafe, surrounded by beautiful sub-tropical gardens. It is at 50 Pioneer Rd, Yandina. Admission is free. The Gruffalo Trail will be open daily from 9am-5pm, beginning on September 16.

See www.maryvalleyra ler.com.au for schedules.

Explore like never before! Discover the Sunshine Coast’s incredible cultural heritage. Collect your Museum VIP card and receive 10% discount at participating Sunshine Coast museums.

Discovery Guide available at museums, libraries, council offices and visitor information centres.

heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au 07 5420 8600

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

For maps, information and more see the new Discovery Guide or download council’s app.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Discover our outback Not-for-profit organisation Tribal Communities Inc is working hard to promote the Noosa Outback. The term “Noosa Outback” was coined by the organisation, which has been around for five years and is doing some very interesting things in the hinterland. It started off small by doing various fundraising activities for charitable causes in the area, and two years ago it took on the management of the Lake Borumba Camping and Caravan Grounds, going from strength to strength. “We’ve put a lot of effort into upgrading the campgrounds, building a camp kitchen, shade structures, fire pits, had a mural painted, a volleyball court and purchasing kayaks that guests can use for free,” president Peter Holliday says. “The toilets were also renovated and, while we were closed due to COVID-19, the facility is going strong again. We have so much space here, you get a great camping experience and it is also easy to social distance.” The revenue raised from the campgrounds has allowed the organisation to embark on new activities including sponsorship of local events and supporting charities and other community organisations. The campgrounds also present a fundraising opportunity that it provides to other not-for-profits. If you hold a group camping event at the campgrounds, it donates the booking funds from your event back to your not-for-profit organisation. More information is available at www.campborumba.com.au. Last year it also launched the Noosa Outback magazine, which is distributed across the Coast in cafes and accommodation places, as well as in information centres at the Sunshine Coast Airport, Noosa, Sunshine Coast hinterland and Brisbane. The magazine promotes the hinterland towns from Kin Kin to Maleny and out to Lake Borumba. There is a host of experiences to find and the magazine is aimed at highlighting a few for both locals and visitors. The fourth edition of the quarterly magazine just hit the streets and you can find a digital copy online at noosaoutback.com.au.

All aboard the Holiday Express Sunny Coast residents willing to venture north to Gympie these school holidays can board the famous Mary Valley Rattler and spot the railway’s very own superhero, Steam Man. The Rattler is offering extra services on September 21, 25 and 28 and October 2 just for the holidays. The Holiday Express trains depart Gympie Station at 10am and wind through the Mary Valley to Amamoor before returning at 1pm. Make sure you arrive early for a chance to meet the drivers and pop into the popular Rusty Rails Cafe for breakfast or lunch, or to buy treats to enjoy on board. There’s also a gift shop offering a selection of local goodies. Bookings are essential. Visit www.maryvalleyrattler.com.au.

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

TRAVEL

Noosa Outback magazine out now. Just a short drive from the beautiful beaches of Noosa and the Sunshine Coast is ‘Noosa Outback’, where the “Outback meets the Surf”.

noosaoutback.com.au A1

�

www.noosaoutback.com.au

www.noosaoutback.com.au March/April/May 2020

15 August/September/October 2020

Gympie

NOOSA OUTBACK

Kin Kin

Mary River

Country Life Hotel

Boreen Point

Lake Cootharaba

Kybong Cooran

Amamoor

Vintage Treasures

Noosa North Shore

Pomona

Mary Valley River Trails

Majestic Theatre

Kandanga

Tewantin

Paddock to Plate

Noosa Heads

Cooroy

Historic Mill Place Lake Macdonald

Imbil

Historic Village Mary River

Lake Borumba Lake Borumba Camping Ground in the heart of the Noosa Outback

Eumundi Eumundi Markets

Brooloo

Bellbird Reserve

Coolum Beach 51

Yandina

The Ginger Factory

Kenilworth Kenilworth Dairies

Mapleton

Nambour

Mapleton Tavern

Maroochydore

Flaxton Kondalilla Falls

Montville

Mooloolaba

Arts, Craft & Live Performers

70 6

Conondale Brisbane

Maleny Foodie Paradise

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

TRAVEL

Stanthorpe is good to go by JULIE BESWICK

Lookout over Stanthorpe

ith limited travel since COVID-19 hit, it feels like so long since we have really been away from home. So we were super-excited to be heading to Stanthorpe for a long weekend to celebrate a special friend’s birthday. We hit the road around midday on a beautiful winter’s day for the four-hour journey from the Sunny Coast. Thank goodness our destination was in the opposite direction to the massive stream of traffic heading for the Coast. Driving along the outskirts of Ipswich, I heard the sound first and looked up to see six military jets taking off from Amberley air force base, which got the heart racing. The scenery heading up to Cunninghams Gap was spectacular and once beyond the Great Dividing Range we stopped briefly in historic Warwick to take a few pics of historic buildings in the CBD.

Quart Pot Creek rest area

The first sign of Stanthorpe is the Big Apple, apparently a must for a photo stop. After a bit of a drive through the town we arrived at the Vines Motel to a warm country welcome, and as soon as we had unpacked we set out to explore the town. After a stroll through town we popped into the Central Hotel for a beer, where we received another warm welcome from the locals who were chatting about cricket legends around a magic woodfire place. Walking home we came across an amazing mural on the wall of a building in one of the side streets. It was of Angel Valiante, one of the first Italians to settle in Stanthorpe, who would have turned 100 in November 2016. The mural pays homage to the Italian community that have made the region what it is today. We had a great dinner at the local RSL on the Friday, but when we left it was pelting down so had to run through the rain to get home. The local farmers were really excited with the 40mm that fell overnight. We had a fabulous breakfast at Vixen’s Bakery and would highly recommend this cafe - the staff were so friendly and welcoming and the food was great. Due to many things being booked out on the long weekend, our friends from the Gold Coast hired a minibus so

we could organise our own sites and winery tour. One of the things brought about by the current climate is that you have to book for your wine tastings. Our first stop was Rumbalara Wines, where we drank our way through the Animal series under the guidance of Fred. First was the Buffalo, apparently for daytime drinking, then the Elephant for over lunch, followed by the Lion and the Tiger to take you into the evening. Next we headed for the Granite Belt Brewery where the atmosphere was warm and friendly. A tasting paddle, tapas platter and chips lined the stomach before heading for the next winery, Ballandean Estate. This is a well-established winery with its fabulous Barrelroom Restaurant, apparently well worth the visit but you need to book well in advance. Tobin Wines was the last stop of the day and we enjoyed a luxury table tasting of quality wine in crystal glasses with our personal wine and local area expert Phil, who regaled us with local history of both the wine and the area. Two options for the late afternoon were a nap or back to the local pub - we chose the latter and indulged in aperitifs and a couple rounds of pool, then moved on for a scrumptious dinner by the open fire at O’Mara’s Hotel. Saturday night was pumping with lots of local celebrations. Sunday morning started with a stroll up Mt Marlay to take in the magnificent view of Stanthorpe and surrounds. Breakfast was a bit harder to find in traditional country tradition it appears Sunday is still considered a day of rest - but we found a lovely takeaway from the friendly crew at Brinx Deli. Time to pack up and head home, but not before a musthave photo at the Big Apple. It was great to spend some time exploring our own backyard. Stanthorpe, we will be back.

CAN Y Ballandean Estate Barrelroom Restaurant

SINCLAIR TOUR & TRAVEL We’ve been keeping our travellers safe for over 15 years & will continue to do what it takes to keep you safe during these times:

• Temperature Checks • Hand Sanitising • Regular Bus Sanitising DAY TOURS - WITH PICK UPS

Historic buildings in Warwick

Angelo Valiante mural

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Gold Coast overnight & Cruise to Brisbane Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers – 3 days Mackay to Maroochy Monto’s Silo Art 3 Day Mystery Tour Lord Howe Island (postponed early 2021) Tangalooma 3 days O’Reilly’s 4 days Christmas in Tasmania Lady Elliott & Fraser Is. 5 days

www.sinclairtours.com SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Happy readers I wish to convey my appreciation and thanks to you and your team for your excellent publication Sunny Coast Times. I happened to see copies of the magazine in Bulcock St in Caloundra and I am so pleased to have the first copy of such a great magazine. It is full of interesting articles and provides its reader with quite a deal of informative material. It certainly fills a need for such publications now that so much media has been taken from the reading public. Not everyone is as computer literate as is required to read publications online. I still like to have a hard copy in my hands to gather information rather than a computer or iPad. I am grateful to all involved in the production of such a treasury of interesting articles and I look forward to obtaining the next and future issues of Sunny Coast Times. Richard Aylward Paying for my petrol in Coolum this morning, a happy young woman said “take a copy of the new free local newspaper”. The stories and articles resonate human interest for everyone: friendships forming while looking for love, lifethreatening accidents bringing hope and perseverance, locals protesting developments with grave concerns, learning to live sustainably by growing our own food while taking back power, a mother and son winning an award for helping to save the environment, and friends uniting after 25 years was my favourite as I have experienced this myself here in Noosa. I look forward to the next Sunny Coast Times. Margaret Monger How delighted I was to receive my first copy of the Sunny Coast Times. I was most disappointed when the other papers shut down. Thank you for stepping into the gap to fill a muchneeded space. I wish you and your team all the best. James Condon

Trivia questions

Thanks for the new Sunny Coast Times. I found the articles interesting and informative. Looking forward to September’s issue. Well done team! Ann Johnson

Is surf ranch a good fit? The article “Surf ranch development ‘comes with flood risks’ - say community groups” (Issue #1) raised many excellent points. When flooding events happen, they cause enormous damage to infrastructure and homes, the natural environment and wildlife, and sometimes loss of life. With today’s knowledge about global warming and the impact on sea levels, and extreme weather events increasing, it is imperative that our governments take every precaution and not allow developments in areas likely to be impacted. The previous benchmark of the 100-year flood is now outmoded. The Sunshine Coast Council survey mentioned in the article is to help plan for the next 80 years. We need to plan that far out and beyond as our earthly home undergoes change due to humankind’s influence on our environment. If the rumoured cost of $550 a wave is anywhere near the mark, does the surf ranch really fit in with the family-friendly destination image of the Sunshine Coast? Or is the surf ranch really a cover for the massive residential development component?

Robyn Deane, Bli Bli

A call for continuity At this time, we should be reassured that government leaders federal, state and local - are working together with their expert advisers to manage the ongoing COVID-19 viral pandemic. Without a guidebook for this unprecedented situation we have benefitted from co-operation and planning by decisionmakers, which has substantially reduced the prevalence and mortality of this virus emergency across Australia.

Crossword No. 303

By ALLAN BLACKBURN

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Ethical treatment It’s important to find the positive in every situation. So, what’s the silver lining in the case of an alleged scammer selling non-existent puppies to numerous Australian families, for thousands of dollars each? Well, fewer puppies born into a cruel industry that treats animals as commodities and robs animals in shelters of a chance at a loving home. Every time someone buys a dog from a breeder, they also take away a home from a dog waiting in a shelter. Each year, in Australia, over 200,000 healthy, adoptable dogs and cats in shelters are euthanised, because there are not enough good homes for them. If readers out there have space in their home and heart for a companion (or two), please, save a life and adopt from a shelter – and always desex and microchip them. Thank you. Mimi Bekhechi, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals

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

Across 1 3 10 11 12 13 14 15 19 21 24 27 28

Trivia answers:

Dr Michael Simpson, Montville

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.

1. David Hurley, 2. 1 point, 3. All won the Nobel Peace Prize, 4. Red deer, brolga, bull, ram, 5. Queensland, 6. Sydney Roosters, 7. Fourth decade of 20th Century, 1930s, (specifically 1932), 8. North America, 9. Nepal, 10. Crab, 11. Monday, 12. Whale, 13. Hamlet, 14. Tom Gleeson, 15. Iron, 16. Audi, 17. Poland, 18. Peru, 19. One quarter, 20. Nectar

1. Who is Australia’s Governor General? 2. In the board game Scrabble, what is the value of the letter “e”? 3. What do Barack Obama, Yasser Arafat, Nelson Mandela and the International Campaign to Ban Landmines have in common? 4. Name one animal on Queensland’s Coat of Arms. 5. In what state or territory is Yorkeys Knob? 6. Which team won the 2019 NRL grand final? 7. In what decade was the Sydney Harbour Bridge opened? 8. On what continent is Mount McKinley (Denali) the highest mountain? 9. What country has the only national flag that is not square or rectangular? 10. What is the astrological symbol for Cancer? 11. What day of the week was named after the moon? 12. What kind of living thing is a beluga? 13. What Shakespearean play is the longest? 14, Who won the Gold Logie in 2019? 15. What chemical element has the symbol Fe? 16. Which car company has four rings as its symbol? 17. Germany’s invasion of which country led to World War II? 18. With which modern-day country are the Incas most associated? 19. What is half of a half? 20. What is the sweet sugary liquid made inside a flower?

In Queensland, the Palaszczuk Government and our health officials have been especially successful in protecting the community from tragedy. The recent cluster at the Brisbane Youth Detention Centre demonstrates that this requires constant vigilance and action to manage the complexity of the crisis. As we head to a state election in October, the Palaszczuk Government continues to balance the benefits of stopping the viral pandemic, while planning for economic stability and recovery through infrastructure programs and accelerated capital works. In my opinion, the practical and sensible thing to do is to re-elect the Palaszczuk Labor Government. The state needs continuity of effective leadership to recover and grow through these times.

US space group (1,1,1,1) Court game (10) Consequently (9) Female sovereign (5) Survive (7) Bowling pin (7) Skin eruption (4) Pachyderms (9) Sue (9) German Mrs (4) Passage (7) Surrey commuter village (7) Trembling poplar (5)

29 Mouth organ (9) 30 Science of numbers (10) 31 Undiluted (4)

Down 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 16 17 18 20 22 23 25 26

Belonging to a country (8) Enticement (9) Papal (9) Leg joints (5) Mexican liquor (7) Proficient (5) Beam over a door (6) Started (5) Medley (3-6) Frighten, usually by violence (9) Take away (8) Squeeze together (7) Las Vegas setting (6) Racecourse (5) Island in the Bay of Naples (5) Resort lake in both California and 22 down (5)

POET'S CORNER

THE LUSTFUL ART OF THE BEE

YARIDNI (WALLABY) A place of morning mists and ruby sunsets,

A place of soil and hard endeavour

Warm mellow days and drying sun.

A place of peace and love and fun

A place of rain and transient floodings

A place where family work together

Of rich warm earth of brown and dun.

And share quiet joy when work is done.

A place where young can raise their offspring

A place where iron barks stand bold at sunset

In warmth and peace and human care.

Black sentinels to time long gone

A place where shade provides in summer

Their black trunks rigid and wrinkled,

And winter green provides rich fare.

Cold, timeless and iron strong.

A place where summer droughts burn up

A resting place for folk who need

Tender growths and leave soil bare,

A break from city noise and pace

Where dams dry up and crack and break

A place for friends to share together

And earth bowels open everywhere.

Love and joy and a sense of space.

They fly, they flute they crash from me caught in a dream foray all their parts and counter parts join me in the sway To feel them is to touch them to move them is to roll to wander where the path strays to drift beyond the whole To fly like the dream of a dragonfly to rise like a sigh entranced to whisper and to plunder the light of the gold moon’s dance to whisper and to plunder the light of the gold moon’s dance

Leunig

ON DAVE’S FATHER The old man now lives with his children, grown. He sits in measured silence without opinion of his own. Until, fortified with drink the old words flow. They label him “Old Fool!” and ask “How could he know?” His life ceased the day she died. He came to live with daughter and sons and wives; who resent his cluttering up their lives. © Kath Fisher

Together they can float here forever have they been the wonderful world of geraniums the lustful art of the bee the wonderful world of geraniums the lustful art of the bee The flowers of life transfix me in a cool breath summer morn we all shall be the healer we all shall be reborn we all shall be the healer we all shall be reborn © John Kerslake

SPIDERS Let’s face it - 99% of the spiders you meet are quite benign. Can we say the same of people?

Maggie

No fangs No claws No sucking parts No itchy bits or callous hearts A quiet guest who dines on flies Who seldom shouts and never lies A modest border Cowering in the window’s crack A ceiling creeper Leaving little in his track He weaves a web Both pale and tight To halt the flies and mossies’ flight How fearsome can a beastie be Who has eight legs and waves with three? © Sammy Ringer

Send us your poems – we love receiving your creative work! To submit your work for possible publication email editor@sunnycoastmedia.com.au. Word limit per poem (due to space) is 300 words. SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

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SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Reflecting on better times

Ed Hamill's artwork "a time before"

by CHRIS GILMORE

Sunny Coast artist is in the running for his second Queensland Regional Art Award with a creation that reflects on the current worldwide pandemic. Ed Hamill, 25, from Buderim, has entered his piece “a time before” into the awards, which this year have the theme “Decadence”. He says the artwork reflects on social interaction being a luxury people took for granted. “Following the theme of decadence, I didn’t want to create a work that was too cliched, such as riches, jewels, gluttony and so on,” he said. “I wanted to create a piece based on the current global situation and hopefully make people consider that things we once had such as freedom to interact with each other was a luxury we didn’t appreciate enough. Of course, the scene I painted was a little over-the-top luxurious to exaggerate my point, but the premise is basically that in these times of COVID-19, the gift of social interaction is a decadence we previously didn’t know.” Ed says the painting is a departure from his usual style and was a test of his patience. “I wanted to enter a painting that isn’t my usual style because for me this competition is a challenge for me and my creativity,” he said. “So the piece is a large-scale oil painting depicting semi-abstract figures created with thick glossy oil, which took a long time to dry. This exercised my patience as I usually like to paint quickly. The colours used are simplified but rich as well because I usually use a bright pastel pallet.” Ed’s painting is entered in the youth category for People’s Choice, which he also won in 2016. He says the awards, which are run by the Flying Arts Alliance, allow regional Queenslanders to receive greater exposure.

Artist Ed Hamill

“The Flying Arts Regional Awards allow artists from remote and regional areas to participate in a competition without needing to compete against denser populated areas such as Brisbane or Melbourne,” he said. “I specifically love these awards because it allows me to see and share the unique perspective of others living in regional Queensland. Winning the awards allows artists to tour their pieces around with fellow winners and gain exposure for their art. “Another reason I enjoy these awards is because each year they are based on a theme or word, so it challenges me to create something revolving around a theme that otherwise I wouldn’t have considered.” A graduate of Griffith University’s Queensland College of Art, Ed cites Ben Quilty and Jean Michel Basquiat as his biggest influences. He says his obsession with art began in high school, spending any free time – including lunch – creating pieces.

“I think what made me interested in art to begin with is its ability to represent something and make someone feel an emotion with the simplest of colours,” he said. “I like trying to portray the mundane world as something beautiful and art is the medium I’ve found that can help me achieve that. “Eventually my goal is to become a full-time practising artist. That will require a lot of work but I have my mind set on it. I also want to never have to stop painting.” Ed is urging members of the public to help young artists gain attention. “If people want to support local artists the best thing anyone can do is simply share their art around,” he said. “If you think someone’s art work is interesting or eye-catching I’m sure others will too, so share it with your friends and give someone out there some well-earned exposure.” Winners of the Queensland Regional Art Awards will be announced on September 28.

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LET’S GET SOCIAL SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

CREATIVE CUTS

Caloundra

Forest Glen

Art prize finalists named

Tunes and brews

Jazz and dinner night

The 40 finalists for the 2020 Sunshine Coast Art Prize have been announced. More than 700 entries were received from established and emerging artists across the country. The finalists’ works include oil and acrylic painting, charcoal, print, textile and photography. The awards prize pool totals more than $30,000 in cash and prizes, with the major prize winner taking home $25,000. The works will be showcased at Caloundra Regional Gallery and online from October 16 until December 6. The awards will be judged by Tracy Cooper-Lavery from the Gold Coast’s Home of the Arts, with the winners to be announced on November 19. Pictured is Pink, Green, Blue by Stefan Dunlop from Eumundi. From October 16, Caloundra Regional Gallery

Sunshine Coast singer-songwriter Dave Barrie had a hit earlier this year with his song, The Beer Garden, a catchy singalong about what makes the town of Eumundi so great. In a fiercely competitive songwriting competition run by Eumundi Brewery, Dave placed in the top five from more than 240 entries. Back playing live shows recently in Yandina and Eumundi, Dave will add North Arm to his list with a live gig at Terella Brewing on Saturday, September 19, from 1-4pm. Free entry and all ages welcome. Dave will play a mix of covers and originals, including the just-released second single The Things That I Could Do from his upcoming third EP. Check out Dave's music at davebarriemusic.com.

The world is certainly walking through interesting times, but the local jazz scene seems to be thriving under the current conditions. Local jazz artist and event organiser Robyn Brown has been working in collaboration with the Glass House Brewery in Forest Glen to run a regular jazz night, which features a twocourse dinner along with a show from world-class jazz artists. The combination of quality food, fine brews and classy jazz seems to be a winner, and next up is the Ingrid James Quartet on September 27 at 6pm. Coronavirus restrictions mean that seating is limited due to spacing requirements so book early. To find out more, go to The Jazz Sessions on Facebook, or to book go to stickytickets.com.au/TheJazzSessions.

Eumundi

North Arm

Cooroy

Bokarina

Martin performs Led Zep

Album release

Unique sounds on stage

Tea Party frontman Jeff Martin is coming to Eumundi’s Imperial Hotel to perform the songs of Led Zeppelin. The Canadian singer will perform songs from the legendary group solo and acoustic using a collection of his rarest instruments. Martin formed the Tea Party in the early 1990s and the band has gone on to release eight studios, as well as topping the Canadian charts with the song Heaven Coming Down. He has also worked extensively as a producer, solo artist and with numerous side projects. He now calls Australia home. The event has limited capacity to comply with COVID regulations and contact tracing will be in place. Seating is nonallocated, so it's first come, first served. September 25 and 26, Imperial Hotel Eumundi, $55 through Oztix, 18-plus event

Mark Porter, a blues musician from near Cooroy, is about to release his new album at the end of September. Mark has been working on Blues Road, featuring Tim Gaze and Doc Span, for the past two years. “It's an acoustic blues album with some folk influence consisting of 10 originals,” he says. “Most of the songs are about places that I've been to and people that I've met on tour, here and overseas.” To support the album he will be heading to Cunnamulla at the end of the month to play a five-week stint at the Club Boutique Hotel. Blues Road will be available on Spotify and iTunes, or for hard copies email shirley.mark@hotmail.com.

Multi-instrumental band Mzaza are bringing their worldly sound to Venue 114 at Bokarina next month. They were due to release album The Birth and Death of Stars in June but COVID-19 put a stop to plans to tour Europe, so they are instead embarking on a multi-stop regional tour. The two-time Queensland Music Award winners’ lead vocalist is former Sunny Coast resident Pauline Maudy. Among the instruments they use to create their unique sound are violin, shah kaman (violin-like Persian instrument), guitar, double bass, accordion, darabuka (Turkish hand percussion), cajon, tapan and bendir (frame drum), as well as multiple vocalists. “It is hard to describe our music. We write new music but we are very influenced by music and cultures from around the Mediterranean and the Balkans,” Pauline said. October 16, workshop 5pm, performance 7pm, venue114.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

CREATIVE CUTS IN BRIEF Palmwoods

One Crowded hour

Maroochydore

Noosa

Get your groove on

Art trail returns

To launch their new EP Awake, Gold Coast four-piece Peach Fur will rock Maroochydore’s Solbar. The band’s website describes their music as “1kg of rock 'n roll, 1 cup of funk, 2 tablespoons of blues and a sprinkle of reggae, stirred thoroughly in a litre of psychedelic juice and left to cure in a jazzy jar”, so what’s not to like. Awake is the third release for members Denny Hilder, Liam Ward, Ben Crichton and Mikey Woodworth, who formed the band in 2015, a year after graduating from high school. They will be supported by fellow Gold Coast groovers Greatest Hits. September 18, $15 through Oztix

The Noosa Open Studios Art Trail is on again this year. In the past it has been held in August, but this year’s committee made the call to plan for October instead. It will be held over 10 days from October 9-18. Visitors will undertake road trips to engage with a record 98 artists and galleries this year. This makes the Noosa Open Studios Art Trail the second largest art trail in Australia after only five years in operation. The 100-page printed and online artist trail guide will help visitors plan their preferred artist visits throughout Noosa and the hinterland. It is recommended that you start your trip at the historic Wallace House in Noosaville, where you can collect your guide and view an exhibition showing one example piece from every artist on the trail. The volunteers at Wallace House can advise you on your tailored road trip. Visit www.noosaopenstudios.com.au. Pictured is Noosa Open Studios president Trevor Purvis at his studio in Cooroy.

The songs of Crowded House and Split Enz are beloved by Australians and people the world over. Even those who weren’t lucky enough to be around in their heyday in the ’80s and ’90s would know at least a handful of their many hits: Weather With You, Don’t Dream It’s Over, Distant Sun, Fall At Your Feet, It’s Only Natural, Four Seasons In One Day, Something So Strong or Better Be Home Soon, as well as Split Enz classics like I Got You, History Never Repeats, I See Red and Message To My Girl. On Sunday, September 27, from 3pm, the Palmwoods Hotel will present The Crowdies Show, giving the audience the chance to experience the brilliant sound and genuine spontaneity of Crowded House and Split Enz. The Crowdies Show delivers a professional and totally live (no backing tracks) set, combining killer tunes with energy and spontaneity guaranteed to appeal not only to Crowded House die-hards, but to fans of live music everywhere. Entry is free but capacity is limited.

Buderim

Art on sale

Artists from the Buderim Craft Cottage are offering original artworks for sale at an exclusive off-the-shelf exhibition. On offer is a huge variety of work from the Mixed Media Group, including landscapes, abstracts, portraits and still life. Artists will also be available to talk about the works. A commission from each piece sold goes to the Buderim Craft Cottage to fund ongoing improvements, as well as towards supporting local artists. It takes place on September 25-27 from 10am-2pm at Buderim Craft Cottage, 5 Main St, Buderim. Whether you want to find something special for your family, home or office, or perhaps even pick up a memento of a holiday, you’re bound to find it for the right price, given everything is under $100.

Peregian Beach

Sun bear talk

Annie’s Books on Peregian is hosting an author talk with Saving Sun Bears writer Sarah Pye on September 16. Sarah takes the reader on the journey to Malaysia to meet Dr Wong Siew Te, a man who has dedicated his life to the preservation of sun bears in the wild. The author talk at Peregian Beach Community House costs $15 and includes wine and cheese. Bookings are essential, email anniesbooks@bigpond.com or phone 5448 2053.

Caloundra Beerwah

Tinbeerwah

Tribute to Police

Art for a cause

A highly anticipated Police tribute band will wow the Beerwah Hotel on Sunday, September 20, from 3pm. Synchronicity - The Police Experience will perform all the band’s greatest hits including Message In A Bottle, Roxanne, Walking On The Moon, Every Breath You Take, Can’t Stand Losing You and many more. 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.

The Tinbeerwah Art Group is holding its annual art show from September 18-20. Entry is by gold coin donation, with proceeds going to Katie Rose Cottage Hospice at Doonan. The show will be held at Tinbeerwah Hall, on the corner of Sunrise Rd and Noosa-Cooroy Rd. For more details visit Tinbeerwah Art Group on Facebook. Pictured is Tinbeerwah Art Group artist Sonia Border discussing her painting with guest tutor Dale Leach.

Jazz club returns

Sunshine Coast Jazz Club is back in action after a five-month COVID hiatus. Its return show, All That Jazz, at Caloundra Power Boat Club was a sell-out success, but more shows are planned. Hot Hot Hot from Mackay will perform two shows on September 20, and new local band Simon Drew and His Sextet will perform two shows on October 18. Bookings are in demand, so if you love fabulous live music phone Richard on 0427 782 960 or visit www. sunshinecoastjazzclub.net.au.

Montville

Woodies’ warm welcome

The Blackall Range Woodcrafters Guild is holding open days on October 3 and 4. ‘The Woodies’ were established in 1996 and over the years have been involved with many and varied community projects. There will be timber, old tools, woodcraft and food for sale, and demonstrations of wood carving, pyrography, turning, scroll saw work and milling. The club is at the Montville Sports Ground, 230 Balmoral Rd.

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Attie O'Rourke and Will Kemp

Michael Shadforth and Hannah Woods

Mandy Anderson and Sarah McIntosh

he Caloundra Chamber of Commerce held its Business After Hours function at Coastline BMW last month. Guests were treated to beverages supplied by Your Mates Brewing Co as they took the opportunity to network with other business leaders. Sunny Coast Times photographer Warren Lynam was there to capture the evening.

Robyn Watkins and Adela Skalicka

Natalie Ryan and Stevie Brown

Heidi Stranger, Brady Johannessen and Dianne Brown

Vivianne Dawalibi and Graham Adra

Michelle Christoe and Kerrie Chandler

Guy Wood and Beth Berghan

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Megan Gill, Martin Duncan and Ali Smith

Jonathan Allen and Patricia Vaquero

Cathy Dyson and Bianca Green from BOQ Buderim

Rachel and Fiona McNiff from Little Fig Cafe in Buderim

M Rick and Jaz Hoy from Jaz Realty in Buderim

Fiona McGovern (left) and Ashlee Taylor (right) from P Law Sunshine Coast with Bianca Green and Cathy Dyson from BOQ Buderim

embers and guests of the 4556 Chamber of Commerce met at Buderim Tavern last month for the Networking by the Fireside event. The focus of the event was on maximising networking so people could connect with each other, meet some new faces, catch up on what’s been happening these last few months and regroup. The next 4556 Chamber networking event is a joint one with Caloundra Chamber of Commerce at Strawberry Fields on September 23 at 5.30pm. For more details visit httpssunshinecoasttickets.com.auevent11787. Our appreciation goes to H2H Studios for supplying these great photos.

Sarah and Nathan Major from Intersect Bookkeeping

Prime Property Sunshine Coast partners Bevan Horsnell and Brenden Southey with Anna Southey from Sunshine Coast Rental Managers

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NATURE

Meet our cross-eyed frog by VIC JAKES

ach evening, after dark, I invariably take a short stroll around my garden and I always keep my eyes open for creatures that do not show themselves during daytime. Among the many interesting visitors I have encountered is an emerald-spotted tree-frog, Litoria peronii, which is also known as Peron’s tree-frog, the laughing tree-frog and even maniacal cackle frog due to its distinctive high-pitched cackle call, described by some as like a jackhammer. Although it is relatively widespread - from south-east Queensland through eastern New South Wales and parts of Victoria, and also in a small area close to the Murray River in South Australia - only in a few places, more particularly towards the south of its range, can it be regarded as common. This unusual frog has the ability to disguise itself so well that sightings can be infrequent, changing colour almost instantly to match its background, evidenced by the image here. During the daytime, the body is often a pale grey-green, but, at times, it can be almost white. At night the predominant colour is brown-grey with emerald green flecks. The armpits and groins are bright orange-yellow mottled with dark brown or black. Adult males have a length of 45mm-53mm while females are slightly larger at up to 65mm. A very uncommon and distinctive feature of these attractive frogs, easily seen in the image, are the pale grey eyes, which have a most unusual black cross-shaped pupil. This odd feature is shared only by the closely related Tyler’s tree-frog, which is found only in strictly coastal areas of southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. Emerald-spotted tree-frogs like to be up high climbing trees, where they hide in small hollows or cracks beneath flaking bark. They will also readily climb house walls,

An emerald-spotted tree-frog Image by Vic Jakes

drainpipes and windows, particularly where prey insects are attracted by any light. Indeed, during the spring breeding season, adult males often use house drainpipes to amplify their calls. Unlike most frogs, these do not particularly like water and spend only a short time there to bathe themselves,

although they do need to be in water to breed where the tadpoles can vary from pale golden yellow to iridescent bright green. So, if you hear someone drilling in your backyard after dark, have a look. It may well be our cross-eyed frog.

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SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

HEALTH, WELLNESS AND BEAUTY

Less stress during a pandemic

by KERRIE FRIEND

fter months of us all enduring this crazy COVID season it’s no surprise that a lot of people are much more stressed than usual. We must be vigilant to the attack that is raging within our minds and be steadfast with the idea and mandate that we are all in this together. I’m committed to doing my part to help us all pull through this anxious and extremely stressful time. It’s uncomfortable, uncertain and very unsettling, but when we come together and share helpful information about how we can successfully traverse these days we can come through this time victoriously and keep our hope alive. One of the best things we can do for ourselves now and always is stay grateful and appreciate what we do have, whether it’s our family, friends, health, home, technology, nature and so on. This has us stay more positive than negative and allows us to move from day to day without more difficulty. Keep a journal about what you’re thankful for every day and add to it daily. It doesn’t matter if they are small or big, it’s more important that you recognise them. We are living in an unimaginable, unprecedented time and to get through something as life-challenging as a global pandemic with as little fear, anxiety and suffering as possible we need to embrace our for-now “new normal” as much as possible knowing that “this too shall pass”. None of this is easy and we’d all like to go back to our “old normal” but that’s not going to happen anytime soon so it’s best to let go and stay strong and move towards tomorrow. We will get back to our beautiful, freer life in time but this virus is widespread for right now so we need to stay as steady as possible until things have changed. My other suggestion is to be more gracious and kind, especially to those we’re spending a lot more time with because of the pandemic. Being extra kind and considerate to yourself and others is the best thing we can do during this troubled time because no one is unaffected in one way or another. I’m sure like me you’ve all seen some very weird behaviour in these past few months because people handle stress and difficulty differently, but when we commit to being grateful and appreciative we can rise and shine with more ease. This period has certainly brought out the worst and the best in people and I know what side I’d rather be on. We’re counting on each other to get us through

this unparalleled time so let’s all do our part to help and not hinder our success. Appreciate the healthcare workers, teachers, law enforcement, essential workers and others and love more profoundly. Let’s come out on the other side of this season changed and wiser with more compassion for humanity. May your strength be your kindness and may your kindness be your strength. God bless, Kerrie

160x100 www.kerriefriend.com

Program offering free mental wellbeing support U

niversity of the Sunshine Coast’s Thompson Institute has launched a free program for people in Queensland wishing to support their mental wellbeing. In light of the ongoing COVID crisis, the eight-week preventative program called EMERALD is offering one-on-one telehealth appointments and online education for adults with mental wellbeing concerns. Neuroscientist Professor Jim Lagopoulos, who is the director of the institute, said the program supported people to implement healthy lifestyle strategies proven to help boost mental wellbeing. “EMERALD is designed to help people get on top of early signs of depression, anxiety or loneliness – before they worsen or become longer-term,” Prof Lagopoulos said. “This kind of proactive mental wellbeing care is vital to aid prevention, and it’s particularly important now as we all face the repercussions of COVID-19 and the resulting predicted rises in mental ill-health.” Prof Lagopoulos said strategies would be related to social connection, mindfulness, sleep, diet and exercise, which are selfcare habits that are backed by neuroscience. “Participants receive one-on-one telehealth support from our allied health professionals to make lifestyle changes that are realistic and right for them, but also have access to online education that helps them understand why and how these strategies improve the health of their brain and mind,” he said. “The program aims to give participants knowledge and strategies that they can use now and for life to proactively support their mental wellbeing.” The program is free to Queenslanders thanks to Queensland Health funding. Participants must be 18 or over. Eligibility criteria applies. Register at usc.edu.au/EMERALD.

Skin Surveillance

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ADVERTISING FEATURE - BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH: OCTOBER 1-31, 2020

Screening as vital as ever

inding breast cancer early can increase treatment options and save lives. During the COVID pandemic it is important that women keep up to date with screening to protect their health. “We understand that some women may have concerns about attending screening at this time,” BreastScreen Queensland clinical director Dr Alison Roper says. “However, the wellbeing of women and our staff is always our top priority. BreastScreen Queensland services are implementing a range of strategies to minimise and address risk from COVID-19 for women who attend for breast screening.”

Clinical director Alison Roper (right) and radiographer Marlis Newman in one of the sensory suites

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

A new state-of-the-art mammography system has recently been installed at BreastScreen Queensland Sunshine Coast service. The new system will provide higher-quality images and a more comfortable breast screen experience for women. Chief radiographer Shane Judd says: “The curved compression surface of the new machine mirrors the shape of the breast. This means that compression is more even, and the mammogram is more comfortable.” Breast screen images are reviewed by at least two specialist doctors. Women found to have an abnormal result are recalled and assessed by a multidisciplinary team and offered additional tests, all provided free of charge at BreastScreen Queensland. “About 5 per cent of women who attend BreastScreen Queensland services are recalled for further tests,” Dr Roper says. “Most of these women will be advised the changes found are nothing to worry about. In a very few cases breast cancer is found, but our aim is to pick it up as early as possible so it can be successfully treated.” BreastScreen Queensland Sunshine Coast has services at Nambour, Caloundra, Caboolture, Maroochydore, Noosa and Gympie. The BreastScreen Queensland program is provided free to women aged 40 years and over and no doctor’s referral is needed. Women aged 50 to 74 are strongly encouraged to have a breast screens every two years. To make an appointment call 13 20 50 or visit www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au.

Chief radiographer Shane Judd with the new mammography machine

ADVERTISING FEATURE - BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH: OCTOBER 1-31, 2020

Optimising quality of life I

n 2020, it is estimated there will be 19,974 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed in Australia. This is a sobering statistic, however, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is now 91 per cent and the 10-year survival rate is 83 per cent. In fact, Australia has one of the best survival rates from breast cancer in the world. What does this mean? It means we have a lot of survivors out there. This statement may be factual, but there is a hidden truth behind this story: due to the significant and numerous side effects of breast cancer treatment, quality of life for survivors can sometimes be worse than prior to their diagnosis. And what is the point in beating breast cancer if your quality of life is worse than before diagnosis? When a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, they usually undergo any combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and anti-hormone therapy. The side effects of these treatments can significantly impact quality of life. But who can help reduce the impact of these side effects? Your medical team (surgeons and oncologists) can save and extend your life. But it is the Allied Health team that will help optimise your life during and after breast cancer. Allied Health professionals can include physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, psychologists, counsellors and dietitians, to name a few. Jen McKenzie is a lymphoedema physiotherapist and exercise physiologist who specialises in looking after women following a breast cancer diagnosis. “Every single week I treat 40-50 women who are either going through or following breast cancer,” she said. “Historically, physiotherapists have assisted patients with lymphoedema (a side effect of breast cancer treatment due to lymph node removal), but our role is much bigger than just lymphoedema”. Every day in her private practice, The McKenzie Clinic, Jen is treating women with physical issues caused by side effects of breast cancer: restricted shoulder range of movement, scar tissue pain, breast pain from radiation scarring, cording, lymphoedema, fatigue, muscle weakness and osteoporosis. “There are so many issues that physiotherapists can prevent or reduce the impact of during and after breast cancer. We need a standard referral pathway to physiotherapy for anyone diagnosed with breast cancer – so that the side effects have less of an impact during and after treatment. Anyone diagnosed with breast cancer deserves to be empowered through current

education and treatment techniques – and this includes referral to a physiotherapist who specialises in breast cancer”. Jen has just launched her new website and YouTube channel The Breast Cancer Physio. This channel provides free education tutorials to people who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. For more information on Jen McKenzie’s breast cancer services visit www.thebreastcancerphysio.com. Jen McKenzie from The McKenzie Clinic

HAVE YOU BEEN AFFECTED BY BREAST CANCER?

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ADVERTISING FEATURE - BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH: OCTOBER 1-31, 2020

Life after mastectomy Look beautiful in your own clothes again

reast cancer. The words that no woman ever wants to hear but unfortunately so many do. The good news is survival rates are improving due to better screening procedures, community awareness and medical advances. Many breast cancer survivors choose the reconstruction path, but for those who don’t, there’s no reason why you can’t look and feel beautiful in your own clothes again. If you’ve had a mastectomy, you might be interested to know there are literally dozens of breast form shapes, weights and sizes to choose from, which will match as closely as possible to your remaining breast at your first fitting, which will occur about six weeks post-op. For women who have had a bilateral mastectomy, picking the breast size you’ve always wanted to be is now an option. There are also breast forms that can be used while swimming or exercising, so your lifestyle doesn’t have to change. The other good news is that the Federal Government will cover the cost of your breast form up to $400 per breast every two years for the rest of your life. Many private health funds also cover the cost of post-mastectomy bras, so it’s definitely worth giving them a call if you have extras cover. The key to enjoying a successful fitting and looking beautiful in your own clothes again is to have a professional fitting by a trained lingerie and prosthesis fitter. You don’t have to settle for second best. At Tracey G Prosthetics and Lingerie Maroochydore and now East Brisbane, the team are Amoena trained and certified fitters, and won’t be satisfied with your new look unless you are. Tracey G has fitted thousands of women with beautiful garments and the reason is because the whole store is there for you. If you’ve got a relative or family friend who can’t visit Tracey G’s world-class boutiques, then staff will come to you and fit you in the comfort of your own home. They also offer a hospital inservice where they’ll fit the correct recovery garments the day of your surgery to promote the best healing outcomes for you. Tracey G Prosthetics and Lingerie is at 9 First Ave, Maroochydore, and 967 Stanley St East, East Brisbane. Visit traceyg.com or phone 0466 828 144.

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To book a consultation with Jen McKenzie contact: +61 7 5443 9090 | jen@themckenzieclinic.com.au www.thebreastcancerphysio.com

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

The team at Noosa Radiology are there to ensure your peace of mind

ocally owned and operated, Noosa Radiology is one of the largest radiology clinics in the Sunshine Coast, Gympie and Fraser Coast regions. By merging advanced technology, uncompromising professional standards and a patient-focused approach, its team of specialised radiologists and imaging specialists are committed to providing patients with the highest standards in clinical care. Its Women’s Imaging Department has been architecturally designed for patient comfort and privacy. With state-of-the-art technology and highly skilled breast imaging technicians, it is the first choice for women’s imaging services in the Noosa area. On arrival, patients are guided into the private women’s imaging lounge with comfortable lounge chairs and soft lighting. Patients are provided with complimentary robes to wear during examinations. Noosa Radiology’s breast imaging specialists provide private consultations to ensure your needs are tailored to the highest quality of clinical care. Breast imaging specialist Lisa Parsons ensures the patient experience is as comfortable as possible. “Our practice aims to relieve the discomfort many women experience when undergoing breast screening,” she says. “We understand the this can be a stressful time and the patient is always our first consideration. Owner and managing radiologist Dr Drew McMenamin agreed, saying: “We have invested in the most advanced technology with digital tomosynthesis/3D mammography and MRI to provide our patients with the peace of mind of imaging accuracy.” With a full range of women’s imaging services including breast MRI, tomosynthesis with 3D mammography, ultrasound and interventional procedures including biopsies and FNAs, Noosa Radiology provides a complete breast imaging service in one location

Caloundra Private Clinic provides treatment for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, drug and alcohol use disorder – and more. Inpatient services and day programs are available, as well as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a noninvasive therapy for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety.

IN HOME

REHABILITATION We come to you

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

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HEALTH, WELLNESS AND BEAUTY

Stroke survivor inspires “N

o matter how overwhelming it seems, keep putting one foot in front of the other because progress and recovery are possible.” That’s the advice of Genevieve Archer, who is urging fellow stroke survivors to stay strong as they embark on their journey towards rehabilitation. The 46-year-old from the Sunny Coast suffered a large hemorrhagic stroke last September, which left her paralysed on the right side of her body and unable to speak. But almost 12 months on, and after an intensive rehabilitation admission at Nambour Selangor Private Hospital, Genevieve has dreams of getting back to work, running a half marathon and horse riding. “I want to be a good role model for my two kids, which gives me the motivation to continue with my rehabilitation,” she said. “Break down your journey into small achievable goals and never lose sight of where you want to go.

bloom™ hearing specialists Coolum has been located on Birtwill Street, Coolum Beach, for the last 15 years and visi ng close by at Twin Towers, Nambour & Bli Bli. Previously known as Clear Hearing, our Coolum clinic is nestled in a cosy spot on a busy shopping strip, a stone’s throw away from Coles and other local speciality shops. Pivotal to its success are our wonderful Coolum team members. Our clinicians, Rebecca Azzopardi and Chris Benne , look a�er the hearing health of local residents, supported by the lovely Cynthia Freeman who runs the front of house to ensure smooth opera ons. Originally from Brisbane, Rebecca se led on the coast 5 years ago with her husband and young family. Bringing with her over 8 years of experience as an Audiologist, she says “being a local is such a great thing - Customers know I will always be there for them and can hold their hand along their hearing journey. I have thoroughly been enjoying helping the locals in Coolum with their hearing needs and look forward to helping them in the future too.”

“I want to be a good role model for my two kids, which gives me the motivation to continue with my rehabilitation.” “I also think it’s important to connect with other stroke survivors to share their lived experience and be kind to yourself and where you’re at on your journey.”

another Coolum local - Chris Benne . A long- me Audiometrist who’s come from a family of Audiometrists, Chris was a director for his father’s Audiology clinic in New South Wales for 8 years. With li le ones of his own and wan ng to be close to his wife’s family who are located in Brisbane, Chris joined the bloom™ family a�er 20 years working extensively across various independent clinics, including his own. A welcomed addi on to the team, we’re thrilled to have him on board. Chris has shown a great passion for helping customers and oﬀers highly regarded knowledge of all the major hearing aid brands. With his diverse years of experience working as an independent provider in his audiology career, Chris reﬂected on seeing “hearing aids progress from analogue devices adjusted with screwdrivers to digitally programmable aids, to fully digital aids adjusted with cables and on to the wirelessly programmable devices that we see today.” It ’s incredible to witness the technological advancements in the hearing aid industry and there’s no ques on that there’ll be many more to come. Till then, the friendly team at bloom™hearing specialists Coolum looks forward to suppor ng you on your journey to be er hearing. Our clinic is open Monday - Friday 8.30am - 3pm

Manning the fort in Rebecca’s absence is

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

“Coolum beach for the past 15 years – adding in the highlighte

” and also :

“Chris joined the bloom™ family a�er years working extensivel

Can we add in the number “20”, so that it would read: Genevieve Archer

“Chris joined the bloom™ family a�er 20 years working extens clinics”

KNOW THE SIGNS Face

Check their face - has their mouth dropped?

Arms

Can they lift both arms?

Speech

Is their speech slurred? Can they understand you? Cynthia Freeman

Chris Benne

To book an appointment today please contact us on (07) 5471 7444 Unit 1/3 Birtwill St, Coolum Beach QLD 4573

In the introduc on, at the end of the ﬁrst paragraph where it s

FAST is an easy way for people to remember the signs of stroke:

While Rebecca’s currently on her 12-month maternity leave, wai ng on the arrival of twin boys, we’re eagerly awai ng her return, and have no doubt she’s dearly missed by her regular pa ents. Rebecca Azzopardi

Stroke physician and geriatrician Dr Tony Tampiyappa, from Nambour Selangor Private Hospital, said stroke rehabilitation gave patients an opportunity to improve soon after an acute stroke. “Inpatient rehabilitation is a first response for stroke patients to relearn daily function which can put them in good stead to return home,” Dr Tampiyappa said. “A multidisciplinary team works closely with each patient to understand their goals and adapt therapies to their needs. “Patients can continue to progress their rehabilitation goals beyond an inpatient hospital stay and attend day rehab programs long after their stroke. This helps them to continue their emotional, cognitive and physical recovery for the years ahead.”

Time

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Builder’s own home wins top award

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broad contrast of textures and finishes, such as random stone cladding combined with a stainless steel-clad garage door. Highlights include an outdoor kitchen, fire pit lounge with 180-degree canal views, stone-clad cabana, multiple private indoor and outdoor living spaces, a media room with raked ceilings and luxury guest suite with ensuite. The company has built more than 30 homes in Pelican Waters, from smaller villas and townhouses up to $1.5 million waterfront masterpieces, winning numerous state and regional awards along the way. “It’s about creating homes that maximise the Pelican Waters lifestyle,’’ Anthony says. pr community r tha egreat “It’s where we choose to live. fItohas s out for eachicother. It’s a feel and people are always looking destination, not a thoroughfare. There’s enough people to make it interesting, but it doesn’t feel crowded.” Property Styling

builder’s own Pelican Waters home has scored a major gong at the Master Builders Queensland Awards. Platinum Residential Designer Homes owner Anthony Stopka took out best individual home in the $651,000-$750,000 category for the waterfront residence. “One of the most pleasing things is that we are quite a small company doing approximately $5 million to $10 million in projects per year, up against some companies doing up to 10 times that amount,’’ Anthony says. “These awards are a chance for the little guys to rise up and show what they are capable of.” Designed to blend 1970s aesthetics with modern accents, North Point 48 is a C-shaped 440sqm single-level home wrapping around a fully tiled swimming pool. It features sleek and simplistic external lines with a

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REAL ESTATE

SUNNY COAST TIMES

Time to sell? Prep your property first by ANTONIA MERCORELLA CEO, Real Estate Institute of Queensland

espite the inevitable doom and gloom predictions due to COVID-19, Queensland property prices are holding firm and buyer demand in Queensland is as strong as ever, particularly along the Sunny Coast. Confidence is key when it comes to the property market so it’s good to see that consumer confidence continues to hold relatively steady albeit recent fluctuations. Despite an average of about 80 points, confidence is definitely on show at local open home inspections. So, is it the right time to sell? With growing stock availability around the greater Sunshine Coast at the moment, it’s still a seller’s market that’s definitely in need of a lot more listings. But before you engage an REIQ-accredited agent to sell your property and start mentally packing, there’s still some important work to be done – chiefly, your property presentation plan. How your property presents to prospective buyers is really one of those ‘make or break’ fundamentals towards securing a quick sale and achieving the best possible sale price. So, pay attention to these three key areas when prepping your property for the market. Firstly, tackle those simple repairs you’ve been putting off for too long. Wear and tear is inevitable. However, your interpretation of minor wear and tear may be viewed differently by a fastidious or cautious buyer. Broken door handles, chipped tiles, cracked windows, damaged walls, scuffed paintwork, stained carpets and other obvious signs of damage instantly alert buyers there’s work needed. It also alerts buyers as to the level of care you have for your property. The more minor issues, the more it says the property hasn’t been well maintained and this may cause suspicion of more serious hidden problems. If you’re handy with the tools, many of these small DIY jobs can be completed at little cost. If not, for a few dollars more, hire a local tradie to help – it’s still a low-cost option when you consider what’s at stake.

"If your budget doesn’t allow for professional property styling, it’s still possible to achieve affordable style that sells." Secondly, clean up. Then clean more. The best-presented properties are those free of any clutter. Sort out cupboards, clear off shelves, tidy up any general mess and remove any non-essential items so as to enhance the size of every space. A thorough clean of your property, including areas such as under the kitchen and laundry sinks and linen cupboards, provides a subliminal message that your property is well cared for. To gauge the level of decluttering required, check out local listings in your area to find out what you’re competing with. It’s important not to under-estimate the time required for decluttering either. After all, it took you a lifetime to accumulate most of what you have. Don’t be misguided by the idea it will only take a few hours. It’s simply not enough. There’s no need to dispose of your life’s possessions or sentimental items. Consider off-site storage or borrowing a friend’s spare room in the interim.

Moving onto the final stage of property styling and it’s become a booming industry across Australia in the past decade. As a rough guide, the current cost to professionally style a property starts at about $3000 to $5000 for a hire period of four to six weeks. Costs vary depending on the size of the property and the quality and quantity of the furniture and accessories. This might sound expensive but it’s widely reported that styling your property can contribute as much as 2.5 per cent to the sale price. But if your budget doesn’t allow for professional property styling, it’s still possible to achieve affordable style that sells. Select the best of what you already have to create feature statements and borrow what you can from family and friends to achieve an overall theme. You should also consider secondhand furniture and accessories that add value to the look of the property and that you can take with you when you move on. Be mindful to select simple accessories (a decorative vase, a presentation bowl, matching cushion covers and bedding linens that work within a set colour palette) that together enhance a space. Consider re-positioning your furniture to influence spatial perceptions too. Styling your property for sale is all about playing to the buyer’s mindset, which is why it’s important to target styling choices that showcase your property’s best selling points. If you don’t have any furniture in your property at the time of sale, you can still influence the perceptions of interested buyers without detracting interest. It’s all thanks to virtual staging. With more buyers happy to embrace property tech in today’s market, as evidenced during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s possible to create ‘virtual’ home staging with high-end design accents at a fraction of the cost. With a wide range of services and apps available starting from as little as $25 a room, it’s another innovative yet cost effective way to help prep your property for sale and maximise your sale price.

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

REAL ESTATE SUNNY COAST TIMES

Maintenance complaints soar

$1m facelift for resort

roperty maintenance has overtaken pets as the issue most complained about between residents and bodies corporate. Sunny Coast-based expert Grant Mifsud, from Archers the Strata Professionals, says disputes over animal by-laws have long been the dominate issue in strata communities, but the COVID pandemic has brought on the shift. “Maintenance disputes have this year become the single biggest issue for bodies corporate,” he says. “The lockdown imposed during COVID-19 meant residents in strata communities, particularly during the first half of 2020 in Queensland, have spent a lot more time at home. “People spending more time in their strata community has meant they may have been finding more maintenance issues around their own property, or with the complex itself. “This could be the need for repairs to intermittent leaks they are now noticing or getting cosmetic painting and garden maintenance to a higher standard, something they are observing more with the extra time at home.” Grant said that generally owners are responsible for maintaining the area within the boundary of their own lots in strata buildings. “The body corporate is responsible for maintaining the common areas shared by all residents and the structural elements,” he says. “However, there are a number of exceptions to the general position and it is these exceptions that lead to disputes.”

he Shearwater Resort at Kings Beach, Caloundra, has taken advantage of COVID restrictions and lockdowns to upgrade its facilities. The resort has spent $1 million on internal and external building works, providing economic stimulus to the region while visitor numbers remain low. All work on the building, which has 48 apartments and six commercial businesses - including three restaurants, a cafe, a massage centre and a conference venue - was carried out by tradies from the Sunny Coast or north Brisbane. Upgrades have included the foyer, lobby, new lobby toilets and mother’s room, a new pool deck bathroom, a new games room and extensive lift renovation, as well as a facade makeover. “The Shearwater Resort is a building in a premium location and to keep its desirability as the go-to place on the Sunshine Coast as a place to stay, dine, wine and unwind, it was imperative that we invested in the building’s future and the ongoing comfort of the guests who choose to stay at Shearwater,” body corporate chairman Lyle Dodwell said. Onsite manager Philip Payne from ULTIQA, which manages guest stays at the resort, said: “We have a refreshed building, improved facilities and many of our apartments are being upgraded with new furniture inclusions. We’re very excited with what Shearwater has to offer this spring and summer holiday season and going forwards to holiday makers coming to the Sunshine Coast.”

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SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

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REAL ESTATE

SUNNY COAST TIMES

Interest rates open door to buyers

ltra-low interest rates are creating an environment where buying a house in many areas is simply cheaper than paying rent on one. RiskWise Property Research findings show that in most areas of south-east Queensland, full repayments of principal and interest are lower than the annual rent. And nowhere in the region are interest-only loan repayments for owneroccupiers higher than the annual rent. The data shows that on the Sunny Coast, the median house price is $693,950. The median rental yield is 4.5 per cent

and the average annual rental cost is $30,934. For an owneroccupier, that means the average annual difference between owning and renting is $14,772 (interest-only), or $3130 (principal and interest). For an investor, it becomes $13,330 and $2986 respectively. CEO Doron Peleg said that, in general, rent money was dead money, and that renters with secure jobs were better off buying a house than continue paying someone else’s mortgage. “In most areas, except for three (all in Brisbane), the full mortgage repayments - i.e. principal and interest repayments -

are lower than the than the rental costs,” he said. “Also, interestonly loan repayments for owner-occupiers and investors in all south-east Queensland are below the annual rent. “This means it's cheaper to buy than rent, assuming you have 20 per cent deposit, so it makes no sense not to take advantage of the current ultra-low interest rates and continue to rent. “Areas such as the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast have enjoyed exceptional capital growth over the past 10 years, with further positive projections in the medium to long term, especially as more and more people work remotely and can enjoy a sea or tree-change without having to seek accommodation close to employment hubs, but rather move for lifestyle benefits.” Pete Wargent, co-founder of buyer’s agency services Buyers Buyers, said there had been a notable shift in the buyversus-rent equation in 2020. “We clearly seeing more interest from first home buyers this year, keen to buy at a time when there’s less competition from investors and taking advantage of the some of the incentives on offer from federal and state governments,” he said. “Record low mortgage rates have clearly also been a key factor.” Ultra-low interest rates have led some lenders to offer introductory home loan variable rates of 1.99 per cent, a move which follows the launch of the first fixed rate of less than 2 per cent. “No interest rate rises are expected in the foreseeable future and the intense competition between the banks is only going to further intensify, meaning buyers are in a very strong position to continue enjoying ultra-low interest rates,” Doron said. “If you buy a house you can start building equity, particularly when you take a long-term strategic view and are in an appropriate position to negotiate well and buy a ‘Grade A’ property that will serve your family to many years to come.”

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SPORT

SUNNY COAST TIMES

Whole new ball game by CHRIS GILMORE

ne of the world’s fastest-growing sports is making its mark on the Sunny Coast. Pickleball, a cross between tennis, table tennis and badminton, is being enjoyed by hundreds of players at clubs in Noosa and Caloundra - and it looks set to expand to other parts of the Coast soon. Bruce Winther, the Sunny Coast-based secretary of Pickleball Association Queensland, says the game appeals to all ages because it allows people to play competitively without putting too much strain on their body. “They love the ability to be competitive still but not putting so much strain on their bodies that they can’t walk the next day,” he says. Bruce, who was the head of primary at Matthew Flinders Anglican College for 19 years before retiring several years ago, says the game originated in the United States in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until about four years ago that it exploded in popularity

in Australia. There are now about 2500 registered players across the country – 1500 of them in Queensland – with 100 per cent growth in playing numbers every year for the past four years. The game was introduced to the Sunny Coast by American Keith Bing and his partner Sharon at Noosa Leisure Centre three or four years ago, before Bruce established a group at Caloundra Indoor Stadium with the assistance of U3A. “It’s a game that can be played by all ages and on the Sunshine Coast at the moment it’s mainly people over 50 who are playing,” Bruce says. “But it isn’t restricted to that at all – in America at the moment there are a lot of younger people playing. When I mean younger people, it can be from primary school age all the way through. In fact, there’s a professional league in America and one of the top players is an American female who’s only 14. She’s in the top five in the world in ladies.”

Tips for players Bruce Winther’s top three tips for pickleball players: • Enjoy yourself • Be patient • Be a good team player

The game is played either indoors or outdoors on a court the same size as a badminton court. Players use a solid paddle to hit a hollow ball with holes in it over a net that’s a similar height to tennis. Serving must be underarm and points are scored only on serve. It can be played as singles or doubles. And as for the name? “The funny name ‘pickleball’ came because the dog that was trying to steal the ball when they were inventing the game was called Pickles,” Bruce says. Dr Christine Murphy, the secretary of Noosa Pickleball Club, shares Bruce’s passion for the game. She says it’s a great way to stay active and make friends. “It’s social, it’s competitive, there’s quite a good mix of teams, fantastic people - people now have a social network that they never had before and they’re all like-minded people,” she says. “Many of us are retirees wanting to keep fit and healthy – my husband and I play four times a week.” Pickleball in Noosa is played indoors at Noosa Leisure Centre and outdoors at Noosa Tennis Club. The club has five sessions a week, mostly during the morning and day, but also a night and weekend session for those who might have commitments during the week. Peter Campbell is a pickleball tutor and ambassador with wife Jill at Caloundra Indoor Stadium. Sessions are played there on a Tuesday and Thursday morning, co-ordinated through U3A, with about 110 people a week taking part. Peter is another who loves the game for its social aspects. “We have a whole bunch of friends there now – we don’t just go and play pickleball, we all have a coffee and sit around the table and have a few good laughs,” he says. “It’s about having a good time, getting some exercise, using the brain matter and improving your co-ordination because the ball comes back at your pretty quick sometimes. Due to the growing popularity of the game, organisers are on the look-out for other pickleball venues on the Coast, as well as more people to run sessions. Bruce says they are looking for partnerships with tennis clubs in particular. Like all sports, pickleball had a COVID-enforced hiatus earlier in the year, but players have been gradually returning to the courts. Clubs are observing practices such as restricted numbers, online registrations, social distancing and hygiene measures like not sharing paddles in a bid to maintain safety World Pickleball Day will be celebrated on October 10, with both the Noosa and Caloundra clubs planning events on or around that date to mark the occasion, including come-and-try days For more information on the Noosa Pickleball Club visit http://www.noosapickleballclub.com/ or email info@ noosapickleballclub.com. For the Caloundra club visit the U3A website https://u3asunshine.org.au/ or phone Caloundra Indoor Stadium manager Steve Gurr on 5499 6000. Coolum Tennis Club also hosts pickleball on Mondays and Wednesdays, phone Andrew on 0421 391 505.

Spring is coming so it’s time to check your boat by JOHN GASPAROTTO Caloundra Volunteer Coast Guard

he first signs of warmer weather should be a reminder for boaties to check their vessels and gear thoroughly before heading out for another boating season.Caloundra Volunteer Coast Guard Commander Roger Pearce says to take the time to check all safety equipment, particularly life jackets and the expiry dates on items such as flares and EPIRBs. Check the trailer, the tow hitch, lights, overall trailer condition and wheel bearings. Begin on the boat with a close look at the hull for damage or deterioration, followed by the operation and security of the navigation lights, as you are more likely to be out on the water after sunset in the warmer weather. Simple things like checking that the bung for the bilge is in place - or at least located where it won’t be forgotten when launching - can make a huge difference to your day out.

SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES

Next check steering and throttle operation and check engine oil level and condition. The majority of calls to the Caloundra Coast Guard for breakdowns on the water are attributed to fuel problems. Pay close attention to the fuel system, particularly any rubber components and fuel lines that can be subject to deterioration, even when the boat is stored. If the fuel on board has been there for a while, drain it and refill with fresh fuel. Just by starting the motor at home you will have less chance of a failure to start when launching at the ramp. A regular service and check on the motor is critical to your safety. If you have a marine radio, check the connections and aerial and test it properly by calling the Caloundra Coast Guard from the ramp before backing the trailer in. These checks are vitally important particularly if your boat was in storage for the winter months as this could lead to a range of problems that, unchecked, may result in a tragedy on the water.

Coast Guard Caloundra comes to the assistance of a boatie in trouble

SPORT

SUNNY COAST TIMES

A-League history maker back on Coast by PHIL DILLON

Mitch Cooper with Wanderers coach Paul Arnison. Images by Warren Lynam

ith a middle name the same as an Italian footballing giant, the pressure was always on Mitch Steven Baggio Cooper to perform. Born in 1994, the same year Serie A superstar Roberto Baggio was one of the stars of the World Cup in America, Cooper was given the name by his uncle in his home town of Port Vila in Vanuatu. At 17 he also became the youngest captain in A-League history, when the owner of the now defunct Gold Coast United, Clive Palmer, dropped the bombshell on the teenager when handing him his debut for the struggling club in 2012 under coach Miron Bleiberg. Cooper handled both these apparent burdens with style and grace, which will stand him in good stead as he looks to help Sunshine Coast Wanderers away from the bottom of the National Premier League Queensland. The now 25-year-old began his football career on the Sunshine Coast when his family moved to Kawana when Cooper was 13. The family also spent five years in New Zealand after leaving Vanuatu. Speaking ahead of his debut with the Wanderers against Gold Coast Knights, Cooper recalled how his football journey began. “Kawana State High School had a soccer program and that’s where it all started in Australia,” he said. “So many players good players had come through from the Sunshine Coast - Matt Thurtell, Zac Anderson, Dylan Roberts and (new Wanderers teammate) Tyson Holmes. “I was lucky to get selected to go to the Queensland Academy of Sport. Gold Coast United formed and I went there, and the rest is history.” Cooper remembers his A-League debut for United in 2012 well, as would most A-League officianados.

The Palmer-owned team had struggled under Bleiberg and the billionaire businessman took it on himself to virtually take over the running of the team, which eventually led to the departure of the under-fire coach. Cooper remembers the lead-up to the game against the Melbourne Heart, and especially the way he was told about his historic moment. “That phone call I got on the Monday was pretty funny,” he remembered. “Clive Palmer called me up and he said, ‘Mitch, you are going to make your A-League debut’. “I was stoked and buzzing as I thought I deserved that, and he then ended the phone call by saying, ‘Also you are going to lead the boys out’.

“I did not know what he meant by that at all until I came in the next day and it meant I was going to be captain.” The teenage Cooper took all the media hype in his stride and led his team well, even though they went down 1-0. He said he was lucky to have had good people around him at the time, adding: “I proved myself as a leader. It was a wild story, but it opened a lot of doors for me too.” One of those doors was one that led to him leading out the country of his birth at senior level after 11 appearances for his adopted country for the under-17 and under-20 sides. “I think as soon as that happened that closed the chapter on that whole youngest in the A-League thing,” Cooper said. “I played in the Pacific Games in Samoa, which is pretty much the Olympics for Oceania countries. “It’s a big thing. I know some people might think it’s just Vanuatu, but when you play and you have the whole nation watching you, with little kids where I started looking up to you. It is a surreal experience and something you don’t take for granted. “Hopefully, I can bring some of that experience to the Sunshine Coast Wanderers.” After his memorable debut for the Gold Coast, Cooper played six times in south-east Queensland before moving on to the Newcastle Jets for five years. Two years in the Victorian NPL followed, with the Wanderers picking him up from Hume City when that league was postponed earlier this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cooper said he was delighted to have returned to his old stomping ground after months of inactivity in Victoria. He spent two weeks in isolation with his partner in Brisbane before training with his new teammates. Cooper said he Wanderers coach Paul Arnison had been the first to get in touch about kickstarting his career on the Sunshine Coast and was hoping his experience could lead the club to better results for the rest of this campaign. “Arnie showed great initiative and was the first one to speak to me about coming back,” he said. “I am so keen to learn so much on the Sunshine Coast. “I just don’t want to avoid relegation, I want us to get in finals this year. I do not know if that adds up mathematically but that is the goal. “Hopefully then we can attract boys who are playing in local teams. I know there are players in the Sunshine Coast league who are good enough to represent the Wanderers and put Sunshine Coast on the map.” Cooper struggled to cope with the pressure of the Baggio name in his early years, particularly after his namesake famously missed a penalty as Italy lost in a shootout in the World Cup final in 1994 to Brazil. “I was too scared to take a penalty before I was 13,” he recalled. Cooper manager to shoulder that burden eventually, as he did the pressure of the historic call to make him skipper at Gold Coast. Leading the Wanderers away from the bottom of the NPL should not, it seems, bring any added pressure. Sunshine Coast Wanderers recruit Mitch Cooper SEPTEMBER 2020 SUNNY COAST TIMES