The Maryborough Sun - March 7th, 2024

Mr McLean was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December and lost his fight with the disease on Friday, February 24, a month before his 83rd birthday.

The father of six owned and operated the homestead, one of the region’s signature tourism attractions, for four decades.

The McLeans moved to Hervey Bay in the late 70s and, along with his father Norm E. McLean, they built the homestead.

An Aussie Rules diehard, he played with the Hervey Bay Sea Hawks, continuing when the team became the Bombers.

He was the team’s senior coach in 1988 and 89, and all five of his sons played for the team.

One of the proudest moments of his life was when the Bay oval his family helped build was named NE McLean Oval, where he loved to watch some of his 10 grandkids play for the Bombers.

In his time at Susan River, he

met thousands of locals, many of whom paid tribute following news of his death.

Among them was Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour.

“Norm McLean was a unique individual, a character, a gentleman and a friend to many,” Cr Seymour said.

“He will be missed.”

Hervey Bay businessman

Glen Winney said he had been privileged to know Mr McLean since the 80s.

“Norm has been a leader in this community for decades and a great person,” Mr Winney said.

Son Guy, a renowned horseman entertainer, said he couldn’t have chosen a better father.

“He left this world where he ruled as king of the McLean Clan with no words unsaid and a heart full of joy for his loved ones,” he said.

“In a sense, we were lucky to know that his time was near, so that we all could share with him just how much he meant to every one of us who loved him so.”

Mr McLean’s funeral is being held at the Brolga Theatre today Thursday 7th from 11am.

CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC IN APRIL Reopen 9am Monday May 13

Susan River’s Norm Mclean wll be missed by many on the Fraser Coast. (Facebook)

Abuse of council staff needs to stop

“EVERYONE has the right to feel safe at work” says Council, after another case of staff being assaulted, threatened and abused for doing their job.

A Council Parks employee was recently assaulted in Hervey Bay by a member of the public in what has been described as an “unacceptable threat”.

Council CEO Ken Diehm said there had been a recent spate of incidents of physical, verbal and online abuse of Council staff, with the Esplanade assault the most extreme example.

“We acknowledge the right of individuals to provide feedback about Council services and decisions, both positive and negative, and to lodge an official complaint if they wish.

“However, our employees shouldn’t be getting abused simply because they work for Council. Our staff are members of the community too and they deserve to be treated with respect.”

Mr Diehm said while the

vast majority of Council staff’s interactions with customers were positive, he was hearing and seeing more and more examples of staff being subjected to verbal and online abuse.

“It is just appalling that Council staff are being yelled at, threatened, and physically and verbally abused when trying to do their jobs, while both frontline and senior officers are being tagged and targeted personally on social media with threats and abuse,” he said.

“Enough is enough.

Everyone has the right to feel safe at work, and Council will take all necessary action, including legal action, to protect our employees.”

In June 2021, a local resident was fined $300 in the Hervey Bay Magistrates Court for a “persistent attack” of verbal abuse and threatening behaviour towards a Council community ranger, while in December 2020, a resident was fined $750 for threatening a ranger.

According to the Fraser Coast Regional Council’s 2021/22 Annual Report, they employ more than 1,000 locals, which equates to almost 1% of our regional population, making the Council one of our largest employers.

Councillor aims at Hervey Bay airport upgrades

operations, to investigate the reintroduction of free airport parking for the first 30 minutes.

“I’m advocating for this to significantly ease traffic congestion and provide a much improved experience for residents and visitors.”

“Some

the lengthy waiting time to proceed through the security screening process.”

Division 7 Councillor Hegge is advocating for the planned expansion and reconfiguration of the

and security screening areas to be fast tracked prior to the commencement of direct flights to Melbourne in June this year.

She has also commenced discussions with the Council’s Department of Strategy, Community & Development, that manages the airport

“You would be able to park at no cost for the first 30 minutes in the allocated parking area while awaiting the arrival of family and friends. The current pick up and drop off zone is extremely congested at busy times with many cars parked along Don Adams Drive to avoid pay a fee.”

A dedicated zone for Uber drivers will also be established, which will also ease congestion at the busiest times.

“Airport governance is a top priority for me, and I’m keen to develop and implement strategies that will ensure the efficient management of this Fraser Coast resource now and well into the future.” she added.

STATE ELECTION

As an immigrant, proud Australian, business owner, husband and father, I have always believed that actions speak louder than words.

The same cannot be said for Labor’s Maryborough MP.

Media reports on Sunday 18 February revealed Bruce Saunders is considering defecting from Labor to Katter’s Australia Party (KAP), blaming his Government’s handling of the crime crisis.

If he’s so fed up with it,

LETTERS

why did he vote in favour of watering down youth justice laws?

He says one thing and does another.

The timing suggests it was more likely a case of self-preservation.

He was considering abandoning ship just as there was a hostile change of Premier.

Premier Miles secured Saunders’ support by reappointing him to the outer Ministry.

Saunders admits he has “not made friends easily” in the Labor Party, but

has “a good relationship” with the Katters.

Too busy fighting amongst themselves; Labor is soft on crime.

Minor party candidates can say and do whatever they like, because they don’t have the numbers to form government. They aren’t held to account. Hung parliaments only lead to chaos.

Maryborough locals deserve stability and unity - and that’s what they’ll get from an Liberal National Party (LNP) Government.

The only way to fix the

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crime crisis and guarantee a change of Government is to Vote 1 for the LNP in Maryborough.

An LNP Government will introduce consequences for actions and put the rights of victims ahead of offenders.

We’ll remove detention as a last resort from the Youth Justice Act and introduce gold standard early-intervention and rehabilitations programs to turn kids lives around before it’s too late.

As your LNP candidate for Maryborough, I have the right priorities for our community’s future.

My actions are my word.

- John Barounis LNP for Maryborough

LOCAL ELECTION

Thank you to the Sun and Business Chamber (sic) for the recent “Meet the Candidates” evening.

Surprisingly there were no real ‘stirrers’ in the crowd, and every one was most respectful.

That’s a first for me.

The candidates really

gave a good account of themselves, including the first timers, each of whom we were greatly impressed by.

The young fellow Darcy (not my Division) really gave the impression that we’ll be seeing a lot more of him in the future.

I know not many people get excited about local elections, but it’s gratifying to see those who are prepared to give it a go for the sake of their communities.

- Alice Knocklofty

ELECTIONS

What’s the bet that as soon as the Council elections are over, we’ll be inundated with State election messages?

I can’t wait.

- Tony Williams

PUBLIC AGGRESSION

Why are people so angry now?

Everywhere we go, we see aggression and angst towards shopkeepers, waitresses, pretty much anyone who has a job it seems.

There’s no solution of

course unless they make it physical, it makes me want to just stay inside with my TV.

I can see why youngsters just want to spend their time on their phones... much better than actually risking abuse for talking to anyone.

Or maybe the phones are to blame for preventing them from learning how to speak civilly to others and deal with disappointment on a personal level?

- J. Wellcamp

Editor but cannot guarantee that they'll all be used.

We may sometimes edit them to fit, provided we can do so without detracting from the author's intended message.

All submissions to editorial@marysun.com.au

Alleged arsonist given bail after terrifying crime

JAY FIELDING

A MARYBOROUGH woman says she was terrified when a stranger stormed into her home, locked himself in a bathroom and started a fire.

The man who has been charged with committing the bizarre crime about 9pm on February 22 on Saltwater Creek Rd has been given bail.

Timothy McDowell, 41, appeared in Maryborough Magistrates Court facing one count each of entering premises with intent and endangering

Music Day at today’s Maryborough markets

is back for 2024 at St Paul’s Anglican church on Thursday 7th March at 9:30 am.

What happens when you combine the vibrant and exciting sounds of a ukelele with a pipe organ?

“Come along and find out!” say organisers.

This enthusiastic group of musicians regularly perform around Maryborough and this time they are teaming with one of St Paul’s organists to bring a unique

property by fire.

Police objected to the application for bail.

Defence lawyer Warren Hunter proceeded with the application even though he could not provide a bail address for Mr McDowell.

Mr Hunter said any risk his client posed could be reduced by ordering he report to police and not have contact with the victims.

Magistrate John Milburn said the conditions of the bail he set meant an ankle monitoring device

was unnecessary and the police had not established McDowell was an unacceptable risk.

Mr Milburn ordered McDowell report to police twice a week.

The case returns to court next month.

experience of varied music.

“And don’t forget the famous Devonshire teas on offer in the St Paul’s hall on your way to the church.”

Maryborough Markets, are held in Adelaide Street.

112 112

Local Government Elections 2024

MAYOR DIVISION 1

As the Mayor I have ensured that we have a stable and productive council that is focused on the community.

Working together with other levels of government, we are helping to make our region a great place to live with good facilities and infrastructure.

For example, improvements to parks like the pump track and splashside at ANZAC Park help to keep our young people active, and we are now putting together plans for the green space opposite City Hall on Kent Street.

I have the experience needed for the role and am seeking your support to continue to serve our community.

“Local Government in its present form was one of the finest institutions in Australia and should be kept beyond sectional interests and party politics.”

Cr. H. V. Reynolds said this in his final address to Sebastopol Borough Council before his retirement in August 1963.

Cr Reynolds had been six times Mayor and said that he regretted to see any slackening of the effects of local government brought about by neglect and factions.

“If the selfless service aspect of municipal service is destroyed, a deplorable situation will arise in this country.”

Grant Reynolds, the grandson of H. V. Reynolds is contesting the position of FCRC Mayor.

I am the best person for the position for three reasons; Background, experience and track record.

30 years in agriculture, used to hard work and adversity, with a commonsense background.

12 years as a Councillor, 4 years as a Woocoo Councillor, working with all the community groups.

I vote for what is right for my constituents, against what’s bad for my consumers, push basic needed infrastructure not pie in the sky projects, I voted against the new admin centre, I voted against the dump closures, fight for fair rates, and delivery of better roads etc.

I will continue to fight for the people I work for and be your commonsense voice.

We need people to step up, show up and work hard for the entire Fraser Coast.

As a small business owner, hairdresser and volunteer, I am not afraid of long hours, hard work, listening to others and taking action

While sometimes, decisions are tough, I will listen to all sides of the proposal.

I want improved facilities including upgrades to intersections and increased links to public facilities, exercise and sports.

I also support the return of waste transfer stations.

We need our small towns to be hubs for families and visitors, to encourage growth for small business and investors.

I’m Darcy Wain, your division one candidate in the Fraser Coast Council elections on March 16 and I’m seeking your support.

I’ll be your strong and committed voice in council. I will be assessable, approachable and dedicated.

With your support, we can build a better community. Darcy Wain for division 1.

Representing my community will be my full time job and I will fight for the needs of all residents in Division 1.

As Councillor I will be out everyday in the community so that I know what is happening and what the community is needing from the Fraser Coast Council.

It’s almost time to vote in local elections

Voting is compulsory, and there are three ways you can vote.

Postal, in person, or assisted.

EARLY VOTING

Early voting has already begun, and ends Friday, 15 March at 6pm.

Applications for postal voting has now closed, but for those who applied, postal votes must be received by the

ECQ by 5pm, 26 March to be eligible.

ASSISTED VOTING

Assisted voting is for electors in some hospitals or nursing homes that have nominated as a ‘declared institution’. In this case, an ECQ official will visit to help voting take place.

If you have a disability, can’t get a postal vote and are not in a declared institution, you may be

able to telephone vote.

CHECK YOUR DIVISION

Fraser Coast Council CEO Ken Diem recently said “The Fraser Coast has about 87,000 voters divided into 10 singlemember divisions represented by a Councillor, plus a Mayor,” he said.

“With our region growing significantly in recent years, some divisions now

have more voters than others.

“As a result, the Electoral Commission of Queensland has changed the boundaries to ensure a reasonable proportion of voters across all divisions in the March 2024 and 2028 elections.

“For some divisions, there will be no changes at all, with the changes affecting about 4400 voters across

the Fraser Coast – about five per cent of voters.

“However, there are several changes including the entire locality of Aldershot being transferred from Division 1 to Division 3, while several areas in Division 7 will move into Division 9, to name just two examples.”

Mr Diehm said the Local Government Change Commission’s final report and maps of the Divisions

George Seymour*

Grant Reynolds

Michelle Byrne

Darcy Wain

James Hansen*

I live in Tinana with my wife and have 6 kids.

Our family has been in the Fraser Coast running businesses since 1912. (Boys store and Foley Truscott). Council is big ‘business’ so this background has come in very handy.

I have had the opportunity of contributing to Council on behalf of Division 2 residents.

Fraser Coast is the fastest growing region in Queensland and there are more great times ahead.

There is great momentum over these last 4 years and there is still work to be done.

I am committed to continuing to drive further progress.

I bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise and want to champion our community voice.

I am dedicated to community service. With a ‘can do’ attitude, I am focused to build trusting connections to raise my awareness, participate in and achieve community outcomes and bring a strong voice.

I will work to improve transparency, minimise wasteful spending, safeguard rates, find solutions for social challenges like homelessness, domestic violence and youth crime, support regional healthcare, local and NFP business growth and provide road upgrade and drainage projects where prioritised.

Community matters.

I am grateful to be able to continue serving as a Councillor for the Fraser Coast.

This is a commitment I take seriously and proud to serve.

I commit to being transparent, available, and having open communication.

Being a representative is about listening to the community, ensuring their voices are heard and concerns appropriately represented and addressed.

I want to continue working with our community members to continuously make a better Fraser Coast for everyone.

For the past nearly twelve years, I’ve worked progressively and passionately representing Division 4 as a Regional Councillor.

I’d be immensely grateful to continue as your elected Councillor for Division 4.

I believe I’m still the right person for the job and have the experience required to lead our City and Region strongly into the future.

We‘re seeing some excellent changes happening across our great city and wider region right now with a lot more to come.

I want to continue the real vision I have for this regional community to progress and hope that you’ll allow me to continue in this role.

I decided to run after the floods when I saw the under-engineered flood gate and wondered who would sign that off! You don’t need to be a engineer to see this wouldn’t work and as we all know, it didn’t!

Common sense and saving money is what I’m all about and as a multi rate payer in the Fraser Coast region, I firmly believe our money could be better spent.

More inner city residences will help bring money into the town and make way for more opportunities for new vendors to open and thrive.

We also need to move away from the lower socio economic style accommodation that is bringing this town down which, as a CBD resident I see every day!

Candidates face the public at City Hall

OVER

In conjunction with the Maryborough Chamber of Commerce, The Sun gave Councillors and hopefuls the chance to speak to locals about what they see for the

Mayor George Seymour spoke about his plan for giving each Councillor specific responsibilities for water, infrastructure, public spaces etc which was met by enthusiastic agreement from the crowd.

Similar enthusiasm greeted new Mayoral candidate Grant Reynolds statement about the need for more sincere public consultation and residents’ input into future projects and plans.

Cr Paul Truscott attended and thanked the public for their support over the past four years and said he was looking forward to serving once again.

Cr Truscott is elected unopposed for Division 3.

In all, nine of the ten candidates answered questions ranging from the traditional roads, rates and rubbish, through to the new administration centre in Hervey Bay

and the closure of Maryborough tips.

Division 4 hopeful Daniel Beattie was the only candidate that couldn’t attend.

First timers Michelle Byrne, Giselle O’Keefe, Darcy Wain and Grant Reynolds all spoke on subjects of interest to onlookers, providing some new ideas on the local economy, small business and housing.

Phil Truscott*

Giselle O’Keefe

Paul Truscott*

Daniel Sanderson*

Daniel Beattie

Mayor George Seymour addresses voters last week. (Craig Winter)

More Queensland, for more Queenslanders

Let’s grow a better Queensland together

Let’s face it, life in Queensland is pretty sweet. We’ve got the great outdoors, and that famous sunshine-state-of-mind. And we’re not the only ones who think so, because Queensland is growing. In fact, over the next 10 years our state is expected to grow with over a million more people through both interstate and international migration, as well as natural increase. That’s great news for our economy and communities. But with all those extra Queenslanders, it’s important that government, industry and communities work together to plan and build for this growth.

There’s no place like Queensland

A million extra Queenslanders means we’ll need more homes. And because household dynamics are changing, the types of homes we’re planning and building for need to change too. People want different things depending on their personal circumstances. There are more single person and single parent households than ever before and there will be more in the future. Not everyone wants a big block with an equally big mortgage,

or lawn they need to care for. So now and into the future there is going to be more demand for attached housing and smaller homes.

We call this housing diversity and we’re baking it into our future long-term strategic plans. From duplexes and granny flats to townhouses, terrace housing and units, we’re planning for more housing types so that more people can find homes to suit their needs and budgets. A bigger range of housing gives people more options about where they live, such as being able to live closer to family, friends or places of work. Ultimately our goal of well-planned growth is to provide people with a better quality of life and more time to connect - because what’s good for Queensland, should be good for every Queenslander too.

More people means more benefits

But it’s not just more homes in the pipeline.

As Queensland’s population grows, so will its vibrant communities, and it’s our job to plan ahead - to meet current and future needs of a changing population. More homes and people means more community benefits, like improving transport infrastructure, with more public transport services. It means more hospitals and more upgraded schools. And with all those extra people, we’re going to need somewhere for us all to hangout, practise some of that famous Queensland sociability and maybe kick a footy around (go Maroons!). So it means more parks and places to meet too.

Of course none of this exciting growth would be sustainable without proper planning. Queensland’s planning framework continues to evolve as the state grows and changes, but how it works is actually pretty simple. The state government’s planning framework is there to help development succeed - by encouraging the development of more walkable neighbourhoods for instance, streamlining planning approvals, increasing transparency and giving every community a voice. Which is where you come in.

Take a closer look

In Queensland, planning is a joint effort between the councils and the Queensland Government. The Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works is the custodian of the overarching planning framework; working with Queensland’s 77 councils to ensure state and local interests are integrated into planning schemes to guide the future shape of our communities. Industry and the community also play a role in planning for the future, by getting involved when there is a new state or local government policy or plan, or when these instruments are being amended. The community can also have their say on certain proposed developments, when a development application is assessed.

So if you are interested in learning more about the planning process, what’s planned for your area, or how you can get involved, visit qld.gov.au/GrowingTogether and let’s grow a better Queensland together.

Have your say on design for Maryborough CBD space

FRASER Coast residents are encouraged to have their say on a draft design for the Maryborough CBD’s newest community space.

Fraser Coast Regional Council CEO Ken Diehm said a draft masterplan had been prepared to guide the future development of the old Council administration building site in Maryborough that is now green space.

“Council endorsed the draft masterplan to go out for community engagement, and now is the opportunity for local residents to let us know what they think about the designs and ideas proposed for this area in Kent Street,” he said.

“At the same time, Council is also now seeking expressions of interest from groups or individuals wanting to lease the former Maryborough Baby Clinic.

“Both this building and the green space beside

it provide a fantastic opportunity to create a vibrant community space in a strategic Maryborough CBD location.

“The overarching vision is to create an integrated civic precinct that respects the historical significance of the site while also providing a connected, functional and flexible community space.”

A copy of the draft masterplan and an online survey is available on Council’s Engagement Hub website at https://frasercoast. engagementhub.com.au/ mb-admin-site-masterplan

Community consultation is open today (Monday 4 March) through to Monday 1 April 2024.

Council staff will have a pop-up engagement stall outside Maryborough City Hall during the Maryborough Markets on Thursdays throughout March with hard copies of the draft masterplan and survey forms. Please note that printed surveys are due in by Thursday 28

March 2024.

Groups or individuals wanting more information about leasing the former Maryborough Baby Clinic site and lodging an expression of interest should contact Council’s Customer Service team on 1300 79 49 29 or email enquiry@frasercoast.qld. gov.au

Mr Diehm said there were a range of interesting ideas put forward in the draft master plan including using the exposed brick wall on the School of Arts building as a movie screening wall or large projection surface.

“Custom-designed pergolas are proposed over sections of a walkway to provide protection from the weather, and this would be supplemented with the planting of native vines and shade trees such as Maryborough’s iconic tree – the scarlet bottlebrush,” he said.

“There are also proposals for art and sculpture

within the site to reflect the history and importance of the space and surrounding buildings.

“Recognition of the former baby clinic could be celebrated with a statue of a nurse, mother and baby or with sculptural bicycle racks.

“There has been a lot of work carried out in recent years to revitalise the Maryborough CBD and this new masterplan provides an opportunity to build on that good work to ensure this is an active and attractive area.

“Council is keen to create connected, inclusive communities and spaces and that’s what this draft masterplan seeks to achieve.”

A report outlining the feedback from the community engagement process will be prepared in the coming months for Council’s consideration.

The green space was created after an independent engineering report found that the former Fraser Coast Regional Council building at 431 Kent Street had

reached the end of its working life and had to be demolished.

The former Maryborough Baby Clinic was built in 1924 and continued to serve the community until its closure in the 1990s. It was bought by Council in 2020 and listed on the Queensland State Heritage Register that year.

It is currently vacant with an estimated $500,000 in interior remediation work required to make the building suitable for public activation.

Share the Dignity by donating bags for women in crisis

SHARE the Dignity’s biannual Dignity Drive is on this month.

Charity Share the Dignity says that menstruating isn’t a choice, but those experiencing poverty often have to choose between purchasing period products or other essential items just to get by.

“We’d rather they didn’t have to choose.” said local coordinator Clare Winter.

“We’re on a mission to ensure all who menstruate have access to period products when they need them.”

That’s why twice a year in March and August, they call on Australians to donate period products through our Dignity Drive, to be distributed to our

registered charities across the country.

“We accept all products in original packaging, including pads, tampons, maternity pads, period undies, menstrual cups and incontinence products.” Mrs Winter said.

Since Share the Dignity was founded in 2015, they have donated over 3.8 million period products to those who menstruate, through our Dignity Drives and #ItsInTheBag campaign - thanks to your generosity.

Donations can be made at Woolies and Australian Hearing in Maryborough.

For more information www.sharethedignity.org. au/dignity-drives

Shave for a Cure

THE Australian Leukaemia Foundation will be hosting a ‘Shave for a Cure’ on Saturday, 23rd March 2024 from 9 am to 1pm at the Stockland Shopping Centre.

“Each day 53 Australians are diagnosed with leukaemia or a blood related disorder. That’s 1 person diagnosed every 27 minutes. However, behind those statistics are people and families grappling with a life threatening disease,” said Cr David Lee.

Cr Lee said, “There are currently 135,000 Australians living with

leukaemia or a blood related cancer.”

“The Australian Leukaemia Foundation provides a range of support services including accommodation and counselling. The online Blood Cancer Support Service can be contacted on phone 1800 620 420.”

“Our hard working local Leukaemia Foundation volunteers will be raises funds to find a cure for blood cancer,” said Cr Lee.

Donations can be made at: https://www.leukaemia. org.au/make-a-donation/ donate/

IMPROV, play readings, drama games, murder mystery lunches could be a fun way to spend your Thursday mornings, with Maryborough Arts & Garden Club Inc, at The Hut, corner of Raglan and Banana St, Granville.

Never thought you had what it takes, to take to the ‘boards’ but wanted to try?

Now is the time to give it a go.

“There is something wonderful about taking on a character and being someone else for a moment.

“To step outside the normal ‘you’ develops confidence, which shows through in your everyday life.”

Club Secretary Suzanne

Bushell is a teacher and director of theatre with twenty years’ experience and the Cinderella director which was performed at the Brolga a couple of years back.

“I love directing, particularly serious plays, where the dramatic situation has to be believable in every move, or the audience loses interested.”

“This is an opportunity for people to have a go, in a very safe environment and most importantly, have fun doing it.”

Information is on the Facebook page, at www. maryboroughgardenclub. weebly.com or call 0497 122 649.

Cost $20 club membership and $2 per session.

Maryborough Arts & Garden Club get their ‘Bollywood’ on at a recent drama session. (Supplied)

Cr David Lee is shaving for a cure this year. (Supplied)

CRAIG WINTER

MARYBOROUGH

MP Bruce Saunders has spoken out about rumours of his possible defection to the Katter Party.

Queensland media has been rife with stories that the local member is considering a political move after Mr Saunders meeting with Katter representatives last month, with many surmising that it might even be a good professional move for him.

“I have had a long association with the Katter Australian Party and Nick Dametto MP and I have been discussing the relocation sentencing policy.

“This policy is to take kids out of town and

onto country and away from the triggers of their offending.” Mr Saunders said in an exclusive interview with The Sun.

“I am interested in the policies from the Katter Australian Party and I have a great relationship with them, and I have known their family for a very long time. I cannot re-iterate enough that I am not defecting.”

Bruce says that he’s with Labor all the way. “It’s very sad when you cannot talk to other parties without the media making a beat out of it.

“The Premier is doing a great job, and I am a big supporter of the Premier.” he said.

The State election is 26th October.

Victory Village opens for medieval fayre

VICTORY Village at Riverbend is opening its gates to visitors once again on Sunday 17 March for their first Village Fayre and Market Day for 2024.

The Village will be filled with medieval merriment, markets and entertainment for everyone.

Lady Tonya OsborneBlake said that much work has been undertaken during closure and members of Riverbend Medieval Society Inc. are looking forward to returning to regular re-enactment fayres.

The first Village Fayre will give returning guests and first-time visitors opportunity to see knights and swordplay, historical re-enactment displays, arts and crafts for sale, games, tours of the Village as well as food stalls hosted local Tiaro QCWA.

“Opening our property to the wider public allows people to have a break away from the busy, fastforward lifestyles that many people endure in the twenty first Century.” said property owner, Lord Terence Blake.

The public will be able to visit Victory Village at

Riverbend on Sunday, 17 March from 10am until 3pm.

Be sure to take cash as no ATM or Eftpos facilities are at the Village.

Victory Village at Riverbend is located at 19 Riverbend Drive, St Mary. Follow the signs along Glenbar Road.

For more information about Riverbend Medieval Society Inc please email treasurer. riverbendmedieval@gmail. com

St Paul’s provides a seat, to make a stand

family violence is a serious concern within our society.” said a spokesperson.

It is estimated that over 2 million Australian have experienced violence at the hands of their partner.

“The presence of the Red Bench aims to raise public awareness and ensure that this critical issue

That’s more than 11% of our population, or just over one-in-nine people, according to the Australian Institute of

Health & Welfare.

The Maryborough community was shocked last month when doting mother Alana Martin was allegedly murdered by her partner.

QPS sources have estimated that some officers can spend up to 70% of their shift just on domestic violence duties.

MP Bruce Saunders denies being lured by the Katter Party. (Craig Winter)

Photos: Glenn Morris

Rose Gardens revamp gets underway

A REVAMP of the Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens in Maryborough gets underway from today.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Parks Coordinator South Dario De Simone said the upgrades to the gardens would include new public toilets, increased storage and garden bed improvements.

“The Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens are one of the most beautiful locations in Maryborough with the area a much-loved community space,” he said.

“The upgrade will begin with the demolition of the current public toilets block, making way for a modern facility with new toilets, expanded operational storage, and a new car park on Wood Street.

“The increased storage space will allow our Parks team to store equipment required to service the gardens and nearby sites.

“The project also includes the renewal of the existing rose garden bed

edging to improve the growing conditions for the roses.

“The gardens already have a stunning display of colours and fragrances that are a drawcard for many residents and visitors, with these upgrades to add to the park’s aesthetics and accessibility.”

Council will provide a temporary toilet for the duration of the works to minimise inconvenience to park visitors.

“The Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens has a history

dating back more than a century and has long been a focal point for the city,” Mr De Simone said.

“Council is committed to effectively managing and maintaining our assets, and creating connected communities through our places, spaces and people, and that’s what we are seeking to achieve with these upgrades of the Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens.”

The works have already started and will be completed by the end of April.

India insights roadshow comes to Maryborough

INDIA is one of the world’s fastest growing economies, and Queensland businesses have a golden opportunity to learn from some of Queensland’s most experienced exporters who have successfully entered the market.

The Indian market has proven robust through economic headwinds and new Australia-India trade agreements have reduced tariffs and duties on Queensland exports.

Our relationship with India is already flourishing and Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) can help you navigate the complexities of this exciting market.

TIQ is the Queensland Government’s dedicated global business agency, helping Queensland exporters take their products to the world.

We are here to support Queensland businesses with practical advice, strong networks and powerful insights.

TIQ has trusted advisors across Queensland offering tailored advice as well as boots on the ground in Mumbai and Bengaluru, so we can help you target the opportunities that offer the best returns for your business.

The two-week India Roadshow regional program will deliver insights into TIQ’s India market strategy and provide additional support for Queensland exporters considering India as an export market.

At the workshops you will learn how to identify the real export opportunities in India plus:

• Hear directly from TIQ’s India team members, sector experts and experienced Queensland exporters who are successfully exporting to India.

• Learn common market entry business models for India, for the following sectors:

- food & agriculture

- health, innovation and technology

- mining, resources and energy.

• Understand the export

supply chain from Queensland to India, via existing and emerging routes.

• Decipher what the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) offers Australian exporters and how to navigate the ECTA for your Industry.

Program Schedule

Each FREE 2-hour workshop will feature dynamic guest speakers, presentations, Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities.

Registration is essential as places are limited.

Register at www.tiq.qld. gov.au

Wednesday, 13 March, 7:30am start - 9:30am

The Conference Room, Brolga Theatre and Convention Centre

Array of local art showcased in Gatakers Artspace

WATERCOLOUR

paintings, timber creations, a diverse range of prints and a Toogoominspired art exhibition will all be on display at Gatakers Artspace in Maryborough throughout March and April.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Senior Arts Development Coordinator Trevor Spohr said the four exhibitions opening at Gatakers Artspace this week (Friday 1 March) would offer something for everyone and shine the spotlight on some of our fantastic local artists.

“Gatakers Artspace is a community gallery committed to supporting the professional development of our local artists and providing them with opportunities to display newly created work,” he said.

“Our latest displays will include a collection of watercolour paintings by Zela Bissett, an exhibition showcasing the talents of the Maryborough Woodturners and Woodcraftsmen Guild, a

focus on printmaking, and paintings and sculptures inspired by the Toogoom area.

“Entry to Gatakers Artspace is free so we encourage everyone to take the opportunity to check out the new exhibitions while they are on display from 1 March to 21 April.”

An official opening will be held this Friday night from 6pm. Entry is free but registration is essential with more details about the openings and the exhibitions available here - https://gatakers. ourfrasercoast.com. au/events/event/1463/ exhibition-opening-01march-2024

The four exhibitions include:

• Behind the Shine, a collection of watercolour works by Zela Bissett reflecting her emotive connection with her homelands of Mary River Valley and the wallum healthlands of coastal Queensland, as well as diverse places from her travels including

Tasmania, Portugal and Italy.

• Timber Revelations, showcasing creations from the Maryborough Woodturners and Woodcraftsmen Guild Inc.

• Sense of Place –Toogoom – Place of Rest, an exhibition by Rosemary Anderson reflecting the Toogoom area and the diversity of its beaches, creeks, bushlands and lakes using both paintings and sculptures.

• Impressed 4, an exhibition hosted by the Maryborough Printmakers focusing on contemporary printmaking processes using a variety of materials.

To coincide with the exhibitions, there will be ‘Artist in Conversation’ events with Zela Bissett on Saturday 2 March at 11am in Gallery 1 and with Rosemary Anderson on Saturday 9 March from 10am in Gallery 3. Both events are free, but registration is required. Fraser Coast residents

are also reminded that Maryborough Printmakers host an introduction to printmaking every second Saturday of the month from 9.30am to 2pm in the Gatakers Creative Space.

In addition, the Maryborough Woodturners will be doing demonstrations between 10am and 1pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the exhibition period.

Mr Spohr said Gatakers Artspace would also be showcasing the works of internationally renowned artist Marc Clark from 8 March to 7 April.

“Marc lived a rich and varied life before he passed away last year, serving in the Second World War and teaching at numerous art institutions including The Hervey Bay Senior College when it first opened in 1986,” he said.

“This exhibition will showcase Marc’s experimentations with colour and form from his student days at the Royal College of Art in

London, to his productive retirement in Deception Bay, with the sculptural forms created from reclaimed timber sourced from Hyne and Sons in Maryborough.”

Gatakers Artspace is located at 311 Kent Street

in Maryborough and is open 9.30am to 3.30pm Tuesdays to Fridays and 9.30am to 2pm weekends including public holidays.

More information is available at https:// gatakers.ourfrasercoast. com.au/

Doon Villa bowls celebrates 130 years of success

CRAIG WINTER

THE Doon Villa Bowls Club was inaugurated way back in 1893 with the Hr. A Heron Wilson the first President.

Bowls was first introduced to the area by Scottsman James Fairly in 1870, who installed two rinks behind his home which was situated on the western corner of Queens and March Streets.

However, fellow Scottish national Mr Wilson was patron, President and supporter of many societies in Maryborough and it was he who invited guests to join him in games at his home, Doon Villa at 335 Lennox Street.

Wilson was Captain of the first Maryborough cricket club, and was involved in several football and other sporting associations.

In July 1900, the Governor of Queensland Lord Lammington visited Maryborough and found time to indulge in a game

of pairs on the relatively new Doon Villa green.

He teamed up with Wilson against G Stupart and John Young and won by 6 points.

The Club grew, and in 1911 found a new location where it currently resides.

“Its great to be a part of a Club with such a long history behind it,” said Chairman Wayne Raguse.

“There’s great camaraderie between all of our members.”

“I hope the Club will still be here in another 130 years.” he said.

“The Doon Villa green is considered one of the best playing surfaces in the state,” reads an article from 1893.

“The green is open for play...and though the popular President Mr Wilson is a seasoned traveller and frequently away from home, the green is always generously left open to

players from the Club.”

The current-day Club features both mens and ladies teams.

The ladies have been prominent Champions of Champions over the last few years and have often made the state finals.

The men have achieved success at district, state and premier league levels.

The Doon Villa Club currently has around 150 active players.

K Pieper, S Jensen, K Turnbull, L Hannaford, B Weinheimer, G Kruger, W Raguse, G Birch and T Buckley. (Supplied)

What we are, and aren’t

From THE MARYBOROUGH ANIMAL REFUGE

WHO are we NOT and who we ARE?

Natalie Tkaczynski, Maryborough Animal Refuge President: “We are NOT “the Pound”.

We are located on a block of land next door to the unused Maryborough Pound on Bright Street, but we are not part of it. We are NOT run by the

Fraser Coast Regional Council. We are NOT part of the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League or any other pet rescue organisation.

“We ARE a completely independent not-for-profit charity, established over 45 years ago to rescue and rehome abandoned dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.

“We rely completely upon support from our local community in

order to survive. We run a pet boarding facility, the income from which goes directly to pay the operating costs of the rescue.

“We have several parttime casual staff, but the majority of our work is carried out by dedicated, hard-working and passionate volunteers.

“We appreciate all those in our district who support us in any way. Thank you

from the animals.”

Some of the beautiful pets available at the moment:

Anna Miss Anna is a 12-monthold sweet-natured cat. She loves attention from everyone and is great with kids.

Anna was surrendered with her brother who has already been adopted. She is an inside cat only and loves being in an enclosure.

Anna has previously lived with men, women, and children. She is toilet trained. Anna is extremely kind and just wants a family to love and spoil her.

Anna has been desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and vet-checked. Her adoption fee is $200.

Ripper This little Foxie-cross fellow is always smiling for the camera and will laugh at the dad jokes.

At 10-months-old, he is still young and has a lot of energy.

He loves toys, especially squeaky ones.

Ripper had previously been an inside and outside dog. He is good with other dogs but untested with cats.

He is happy to play on his own or with other dogs. Ripper’s breed is lively and intelligent so he is best suited to an active family that can keep him busy and take him on adventures with them.

He walks well on a lead and knows how to sit. He was only with his previous owner for a month, so is still in the process of being toilettrained. He is so smart that he will pick it up quickly once there is some stability in his life.

Ripper has been microchipped, registered, vaccinated and vetchecked, and is booked in for desexing. His adoption

fee is available upon enquiry.

Chevy This beautiful 12-monthold Staffy/Cattle dog loves to be with her humans.

She walks well on a lead and sits on request.

She enjoys sitting on your lap and looking into your eyes but also loves a swim and adventures.

Chevy is child-friendly and in the process of being toilet-trained.

She was only with her previous owner for 3 days, but she will smash all her training once she has a forever loving home.

Chevy has been desexed, microchipped, registered, vaccinated and vet-checked.

Her adoption fee is $350

From CANEGROWERS CHAIRMAN OWEN MENKENS

IT’S hard to believe we’re almost into March.

It seems like only yesterday we finished the 2023 sugarcane harvest, yet here we are, just 13 weeks out from the 2024 crush.

While officially a quiet period in the industry, there is still plenty of work underway.

Maintenance is the primary activity, with machinery being stripped down and tuned up in farm sheds and sugar mills across the industry.

Meanwhile, out in the paddocks the cane is looking excellent.

In fact, if the sunny, humid conditions continue, we may well be looking at a bumper crop.

Add to that the high world sugar price, and there is

Worker shortage threatens season success HISTORY & NATURE

reason to be optimistic about the year ahead.

However, as is often the case, it’s not all good news.

As the clock rapidly winds down to harvest, many districts are once again experiencing workforce shortages.

Truck drivers, haul out drivers, harvester drivers, farm hands, and even mill workers are all in short supply.

Some districts are more severely affected than others, with the problem ranging from a minor inconvenience in some regions, to a serious risk to the season in others.

It’s a real problem for the sugarcane industry, and for agriculture more generally, but it’s also an opportunity.

Australia has just recorded its highest unemployment rate in two years, but in sugarcane regions we’re crying out

for workers, both skilled and unskilled.

Harvester and haul out drivers require no specific qualifications.

If you can drive a car and have an open licence, you can learn to drive a haul out or harvester.

If you’re handy and like to work in the outdoors, a farm hand might be the perfect job for you.

No qualifications required.

Truck drivers require an MR licence, but there is a wealth of training courses

out there and, with qualified drivers in such short supply, the rates of pay are usually attractive.

In short, if you are unemployed and from a cane-growing region, or you would like to travel to one, there is no reason

you shouldn’t be able to take on a role in the sugarcane industry.

I would encourage anyone looking for employment, or who knows someone who needs a job, to consider a career in sugarcane this season.

Bandicoot Island survey

THREE of the large, forested islands, which form part of the combined estuary of the Mary and Susan Rivers, were surveyed and used for some purpose at least a century ago.

Not so for Bandicoot Island, which is situated between the Mary River and Great Sandy Strait.

It was not until 1974, that local cattleman, Sam Whitaker, bought the island from the Department of Agriculture and Stock, requiring it to be surveyed.

In those days, prior to electronic satellite technology which is used today to determine where one is on the planet, surveying was done visually.

All new work had to be started at a point previously documented and measured.

When Maryborough surveyor, the late Don Matheson, got the job to survey and to draw up a legal title for Bandicoot

Island, he knew there was no registered starting point on the remote island which was surrounded by a dense mangrove scrub.

To start the job, a tree with a benchmark (shield shaped blaze) was located at the bottom end of nearby Beaver Rock paddock.

This was the only suitable place to start the survey as from that point Bandicoot Island was just over a kilometre away.

All that was required was to shoot a bearing across to the island and they were in business.

On paper that looked easy but in reality, the area separating the two landmasses grew a mangrove scrub as dense as they get.

Don and his men knew the only way to get a line of sight to the island was to hack a track through the mangroves.

It must be remembered if a direct line of sight only a few inches wide could have been cut, it would have been adequate; however, it was not possible to do that.

The majority of the mangroves through which the track was to be cut were of the Rhizophora species.

This is the type with long aerial stabilizing roots extending down from their branches.

Getting a track wide enough to walk along required a width with enough space on one side to pile up the mass of cut material.

I estimate a minimal width of three metres would have been needed.

The physical properties of the job were not the only problem the men were to face; they were going to have other company, and plenty of it.

Breeding on the numerous sand and mud flats of the area, sandflies just seem to come from everywhere when a delicious blood meal is on offer.

They can form a

miniature swarm around a victim, and if they get ‘thick’ enough in the air a faint buzzing sound emanates from their

thousands of delicate wings.

Nobody can say that the ‘sandies’ are bad unless they are hearing their signature song.

Maryborough resident, Dave Morris, who worked for Don Matheson at that time, still comments on that one job he will never forget.

Those were the days when men were ‘men’.

The old track from fifty years ago would have grown over many years previously if it were not for migrating kangaroos and wild pigs on their way to South Head.

A few years ago, friends Darby O’Brien and Shane Jeffrey joined me on a walk (maybe struggle) along the old track.

It is hard to imagine how kangaroos negotiate that very boggy obstacle

course with its numerous protruding mangrove roots, but they do.

We, as well as the sandies, had a very enjoyable day.

I have often wondered what sandflies live on in dense mangrove scrubs that humans and animals cannot negotiate – yet they are always there.

Almost no birds live in that jungle either.

LINDSAY TITMARSH

(Main) The old 1974 track, ‘Sandfly Alley’, which connects Beaver Rock paddock (top of photo) to Bandicoot Island can still be seen; and (inset) Darby O’Brien (left) and Shane Jeffrey, have that “we’re really enjoying this” look, as they explore the old muddy track. (Lindsay Titmarsh)

What’s on in local arts

Maryborough Regional Art Society Gallery

March 2024

Exhibitions by Rachel Greig and Lesley Perk, Elizabeth Dau, Jenny Ogden, Kerri Dixon, Jacquie Boyle, Ellie Todd and Jo Williams.

April 2024

Exhibitions by The Fab Four: Linda Radloff, Helen Strachan, Deanna Bennett and Pammy Mac in gallery two. Danute Ruzgus in gallery one.

Entries now open for the 77th Annual Acquisitive Art Exhibition from 14 June to 28 July 2024 which will be exhibited at Gatakers Artspace. Entry forms available at the gallery.

Gatakers Artspace exhibitions 1 March – 21 April:

• Maryborough Woodturners and Woodcraftsmen Guild Inc: Timber Revelations

• Printmakers: Impressed 4

• Rosemary Anderson: Sense of Place - Toogoom - Place of Rest

• Zela Bissett: Behind the Shine

Exhibitions at Hervey Bay Regional Gallery until 21 April:

• Cane

• Wilhelmus Breikers: Eat the Moon (This is not a dystopian parable)

Marc Clark: Selected Works

8 March – 7 April | Gatakers Creative Space

Printspace - Introduction to printmaking Sat 9 March, 9.30am, Gatakers Creative Space

Rosemary Anderson: Artist in conversation Sat 9 March,10am, Gatakers Artspace

Rosemary Anderson: Artist workshop Sat 9 March, 11am, Gatakers Creative Space

Keep up to date with what’s on at www.ourfrasercoast.com.au/what-s-on

FOR Kids BY Kids

Hello Maryborough!

My name is Phoebe Lee and I am twelve years old.

For Kids By Kids tells kids what’s going on in Maryborough from their point of view.

A long, long, loooooong time ago, a man named Karl Benz invented the first car. The world has changed since then, and people have been using his invention as a much quicker way to get from A to B.

However, sometimes these journeys seem to drag on for a millennium, and it can get very upsetting indeed when you check your watch and see that there are still four more hours of sitting in the back of a cramped metal box with your sibling.

So I thought to myself, what can you do to keep yourself entertained in the car? Well, lucky for you, I made a list:

1. Checklist: If you are going on a long road trip,

take this checklist with you and try to spot all these things.

You can play this game with others or by yourself. It’s entirely up to you!

● A baby horse

● Tractor

● A pink car

● The number 42 A Bottle Brush Tree

● A dog-shaped cloud

● A picture of a koala

● The word farm

● A rock the size of your fist

● A bat on a powerline

● A tree stump

● Rainbow

● A Statue

● Motorbike

2. The Game of Snores: This game can be played solo or with others. The aim is to sleep. Whoever sleeps the longest wins. Please note that the driver should not participate in this game under any circumstances.

3. The Number Plate Game: With this game, all you need to do is find another car. When you do, have a look at its number plate and see how creative you can get with making up a story about the person

who might be inside. For example, the number plate 33HSO might be: 33 year old Herbert Sings Opera.

4. Listen To Music: Listening to music or the radio can be a very good way to keep yourself entertained, even though it’s not a game. You could even do karaoke!

For other ideas for games, I decided to go to other people with more experience on road trips. Imogen and Heath, ages 10 and 12, are siblings - And they have had quite a bit of experience.

“To keep myself entertained in the car, I like to look out the window and imagine a little man

running as fast as the car, jumping onto vehicles and doing backflips. I also like to convince my parents to do i-spy with me.” said Heath.

“I like to colour in,” explained Imogen, “But I always love the trivia signs that come up on the side of the road. If I could, though, I would eat heaps of lollies and parachute on the back of the car for the whole journey.”

With road trips, it’s always good to use your imagination to keep yourself entertained.

If you’re struggling to find something to do, feel free to look back on this article for some ideas.

New womens’ clinics may ease waiting

QUEENSLAND women and girls have been calling for easy to access healthcare that is tailored to their specific health needs.

There are a number of barriers women and girls face to accessing healthcare such as financial and transport barriers.

That’s why the State Government has said they’ll establish four new nurse-led clinics that will offer women and girls more choice about their healthcare and easier access to care where they can feel safe, heard and supported.

Each clinic will be open for extended hours (8am to 10pm) seven days a week to accommodate work and school schedules.

No booking or referral will be required, and they will be placed in easy to access locations, such as shopping centres, with nearby public transport and parking options.

While the clinics aim to provide ease for women and girls, anyone over the age of one can access care at the clinics.

Importantly, the nurse practitioner level care will be free of charge, regardless of whether they have a Medicare card or not.

Queenslanders will be able to receive care for a range of health issues including colds, flus, cuts and burns, minor infections and wounds.

There will also be women focused healthcare such as access to contraception, maternal health, treatment for sexually transmissible infections, advice on period and menopause matters as well as support and referrals for women experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence.

The clinics will complement – not replace – existing models of general practitioner care, given the Government knows how important it is

for people to have a strong relationship with their local doctor.

If anyone presents at the clinics with health needs that are beyond the scope of the clinic, they will be directed or supported to the right level of care.

Queensland Health will look to communities across Queensland where there is a high need, ensuring that gaps in access are filled.

HELP MAKE YOUR WORK OR HOME SAFE

enrol in HLTAID0ll PROVIDE FIRST AID COURSE or CCWHSl00l WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY COURSE (WHITE CARD) today!

CHIROPRACTORS

Farmer Chiropractic

Dr James Farmer Chiropractor (B. App. Sci Chiropractic) Over 30 years experience. Onsite X rays with a Medicare rebate, EFTPOS and HI CAPS. DVA and NDIS, and Enhanced Primary Care patients welcome. Professional, Caring, Chiropractic for the Whole Family.

Phone: 07 41217600

2/98 Bazaar Street Maryborough farmerchiropractic.com.au

HAIR SALON

Hart of Hair

Locally owned and run hair salon.

ins are always welcome for mens haircuts. Our staff are all local and well versed in all types and styles of hair design. Find us across the road from the Cenotaph.

Call in for a chat every day except Monday.

Phone: 0459 728 016

3/264 Bazaar Street Maryborough

Anne’s

Ph

NATURAL HEALTH

Alpha Natural Health Centre

Let us help you find natural ways to improve your health and vitality.

Deborah Hannam- Naturopath, Herbalist, Colon irrigation and Iridolgy.

Carolyn Wynd - NST Bowen Therapy. “Pamper Body Treatments” and gift vouchers available. Book online at www.naturalhealthcentre.com.au or phone 41236699. (By Appointment Only)

Fairfield House 200 Walker Street, Maryborough.

Kia EV9 named as one of top three

THE 2024 Kia EV9 has been named as a Top Three in the World finalist in two categories for the upcoming 2024 World Car Awards.

The selection places the all-electric EV9 as a contender in the final round of judging for the World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle titles.

Inaugurated in 2003, the World Car Awards are renowned globally as a benchmark for excellence, celebrating outstanding achievements in the

automotive industry. Recognition for the Kia EV9 in this year’s competition comes from a jury of more than 100 accomplished global automotive journalists.

The 2024 Kia EV9, named as a Top Three in the World finalist in the World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle categories, is Kia’s first dedicated three-row EV SUV. Embodying bold and modern design, the flagship SUV offers the latest in EV technology as well as exceptional

versatility and generous space for all occupants.

A potential double victory for the EV9 this year would mark yet another significant milestone for Kia, following wins at the World Car Awards with the Kia Telluride in 2020 and the Kia EV6 GT in 2023.

The final winners will be announced live at the World Car Awards ceremony during the 2024 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) on March 27, 2024.

Renault takes top award for 2024

SCENIC E-Tech electric has been voted The Car of the Year 2024.

After the first round of voting last November, Scenic was chosen as one of seven finalists alongside: BMW 5-series, BYD Seal, Kia EV9, Peugeot E-3008/3008, Toyota C-HR, and Volvo EX30.

The trophy winner has been chosen by a jury of 59 motoring journalists from 22 countries. Scenic came

in first place with 329 points and now becomes the seventh Renault vehicle to be awarded the prestigious ‘The Car of the Year’ title. Previous winners include the Renault 16 (1966), Renault 9 (1982), Clio (1991), Scenic (1997), Megane (2003), and Clio (2006).

“Winning the prestigious ‘The Car of the Year’ award is a great source of pride for everyone at Renault Group and

the Renault brand. This recognition demonstrates that we have made the right choices: recordbreaking range, generous and inviting roominess, all with a closely managed environmental footprint! When you add in the driving pleasure and ‘voiture à vivre’ equipment such as the new Solarbay panoramic sunroof or the latest generation OpenR Link system with integrated Google systems, Scenic has all

the right features to shore up its position on the European EV market.” Fabrice Cambolive, CEO of Renault.

A full-electric vehicle developed on the medium AmpR platform (formerly CMF-EV), Scenic E-Tech electric is designed for customers looking for versatility. Zero emission, agile, light (1,890 kg) and compact (4.47 m long), Scenic is in its element on city roads.

Maserati’s new GranCabrio

FOREVER iconic – and now available as a spyder – Maserati presents GranCabrio, the Brand’s latest creation dedicated to driving enthusiasts who demand the greatest levels of comfort and style. GranCabrio is a brandnew and equally elegant open-top version of its coupe twin, the awardwinning GranTurismo.

At launch, the Maserati GranCabrio is available in the Trofeo trim level, featuring the 6-cylinder internal combustion Nettuno engine, a 3.0-litre twin-turbo with 542 hp that serves as the unmistakable roaring heart of the highestperformance cars in the Trident range.

On board the GranCabrio, the extraordinary performance of the Nettuno engine – the most powerful ever built for the Maserati GranTurismo – is once again combined with genuine, optimal comfort to travel long distances.

It is now enhanced by an open-air driving experience, to make the most of all the beauty of

the journey and the unique characteristics of a car that is exceptional from all points of view.

The Trident’s new convertible is 100% made in Italy and follows in the footsteps of the GranTurismo, offering a new and captivating version of the grand tourer par excellence, without sacrificing luxury, performance, driving comfort, and sportiness.

The roof is made of fabric, perfect to take up as little space as possible when automatically stored in the trunk space –where it is put away in 14 seconds even when moving at speeds up to 50 km/h. Ample space is also guaranteed for four passengers, as GranCabrio is ideal for traveling with company or alone with the wind in your hair, savouring all the emotions of an outstanding drive and breathing in the most authentic Italian style.

The elegance of the Maserati GranCabrio can be perceived and appreciated even more from the exterior, when the soft top is open and

the engine’s roar is all-encompassing.

The union with the road and landscape is an incomparable experience that can only be offered by the spyder version of a car that has been the protagonist of a success story spanning more than 60 years – the convertible variant of Maserati’s first road-going sports car, the 3500 GT, was unveiled at the 1959 Geneva Motor Show.

Maserati’s latest addition is a luxury car that in its new convertible guise enhances the stylistic details and fine materials Maserati is known for to further enhance a journey in the name of the most enveloping driving pleasure, in total harmony and fusion with the panorama and the spirit of travel typical of the GranCabrio customer.

The attention to design and the passion for exclusive details do not detract from performance and fun; likewise, technology is a hallmark and a disruptive element, which translates into the best infotainment and

driver assistance services, to guarantee safety and entertainment behind the wheel of a car that accepts no compromises. The ideal accomplice for infinite journeys marked by an optimal balance between aesthetic approach and unostentatious functionality.

The “open-air experience” is enhanced by remarkable thermal and acoustic comfort, with the soft top available in five colours that can be operated from the central display

via a touch button, for complete control and total autonomy.

For lovers of open-air driving, Maserati has thought of everything; the GranCabrio comes with an innovative neck warmer standard, to heat the driver and passenger’s necks at three different levels of intensity.

One of the optional extras is the wind stopper, which can be used with two passengers and folded manually. When the top

is open, it reduces the formation of turbulence inside the passenger compartment and makes it possible to enjoy the best of the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

Created in parallel with the GranTurismo, the new GranCabrio is the result of the encounter between impeccable efficiency and the natural beauty of a car that over time has remained faithful to its identity: a monarch of style with classic proportions.

MARYBOROUGH SUN CLASSIFIED INFORMATION

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Community &

Granville Football Club

50th Anniversary Gala Dinner

Date: Saturday March 16, 2024

Time: Doors open 6:00pm for 6:30pm start

Cost: $55 per person to include grazing tables, hot and cold canapes and a memento.

Dress: Semi-formal

Entertainment: Derek F. Smith

Ticket sales close March 2

Come along to the Brolga Theatre to share memories and celebrate the Granville Tigers

Tickets available on the Brolga Theatre Website

BOTTLEBRUSH CRAFTS CENTRE

*Classes Available*

Mon – Art & Pottery

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FRIENDSHIP GROUP

Come join our Friendship Group

Every Thursday at Granville Tavern - 11:00am

For more information phone

Sue 0456 356 751

Unlock your Full Potential!

Join Toastmasters!

YOU are Invited!

We meet every 2nd & 4th Friday of Every Month

Where: St Pauls Memorial Hall

Maryborough (Adelaide St Entrance)

Time: 12noon for 12.30pm start

Free to Attend and Observe

Contact: Marjory 0428 889 499

Maryborough Choral Society

Your community choir Welcoming, no audition

Minimal fees, music provided. Love singing?

Come and join us

Meeting Wednesday nights 7pm to 9pm (January 24th)

Canegrowers Hall, Bazaar Street

Contact director Ryan 0429 495 963 or President Paula 0414 546 473

Saturday,

Maryborough Heritage City Embroiderers Inc.

Are you interested in learning hand embroidery?

We meet every Wednesday between 1 & 3pm in the Uniting Church Hall in Russell Steet

All Welcome

Contact Helen on 0418 835 976

Maryborough

Indoor Bowls Club Inc

Cnr Woodstock & Ariadne Sts

Wednesdays: 9am – 12 noon Thursdays: 7pm – 10pm

Everyone Welcome

Enquiries ph Chris 0437 735 578 or Sharon 0419 793 226

Maryborough Pensioners Association Inc

Free Concert Day

First Thursday of the month 1pm start

Free Afternoon Tea

Market Tombola

Sundays at 1:30pm

Bingo – Thursdays

Eyes Down 6:30pm

Bingo – Saturdays

Eyes Down 6:30pm

All Welcome

Enquiries Lyn 0407 627 036 84 Adelaide Street

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Maryborough

Meets at 6:00 pm first Monday of each month (February to November)

Wesley Auditorium - Uniting Church Hall

21 Sussex St

Information Phone 0447 765 525

Supporting men

Tiaro

SPORT

Multi-million basketball facility set for Fraser Coast Sports Precinct

GLEN

PORTEOUS

BASKETBALL: Hervey

Bay basketball has scored a $2.8 million grant for the construction of a new multipurpose basketball facility at the Fraser Coast Sports Precinct.

Hervey Bay Basketball Association President Matt Baker said it was very exciting news to get the funding for multimillion dollar facility at Nikenbah.

“We have been working with the Fraser Coast Council to get this facility at the sports precinct and the Bendigo Bank has been given naming rights with it’s donation towards the facility,” Baker said.

“It’s a growing sport here in the region and will now continue to grow when this facility is completed.”

Bendigo Bank has acquired the naming rights to the stadium by contributing $50,000 to the project and the facility will be named the Bendigo Bank Stadium.

Baker also said there will be long term investments with the facility and not

just for the players.

“We will be able to host regional representative competitions and will bring money for businesses in the region,” he said.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Director of Strategy, Community and Development Gerard Carlyon said the formal approval and signing of the grant for the construction of a multipurpose basketball facility at the Fraser Coast Sports and Recreation Precinct will bring a new exciting dimension for both players and spectators.

“Hervey Bay Basketball is one of the fastestgrowing sporting associations on the Fraser Coast with close to 600 players being registered last season,” he said.

“This facility will address the current and future growth requirements of basketball in the region.

“It’s a much-needed investment for now and it’s an investment for the future of Fraser Coast sport, leisure and entertainment.”

The community will also be able to hire the basketball facility when the basketball association is not using it for practice and games.

The new multipurpose facility was a key element in the Fraser Coast Sport and Recreation Precinct Master Plan.

Construction of the new

facility is expected to start within months with completion of the new basketball facility expected in late 2025.

The new precinct will

include two indoor courts, all-ability change facilities, umpire services, club meeting rooms and health and fitness spaces.

High School sports academies continue pathways of excellence for students

GLEN PORTEOUS

SPORTS: Maryborough

State High School sports academies are continuing to reap rewards with representative honours for students Pearce Parsons and Trinity McPhie.

Parsons has recently returned from Thailand playing in the Bangkok International Rugby 10s competition and earned several accolades.

laying in preferred positions of Centre and Second Row, Parsons was voted First Nations Ultimate Warrior by management and organisers due to how he conducted himself both on and off the field.

He also recently won the Aunty Valda Coolwell - Memorial Advocacy Award.

“I grew up playing Rugby League and during Year Eight, I joined the Rugby Academy at school and it has helped to develop my playing skills,” Parsons said.

Training four or five times a week, Parsons has set himself the goals of playing for the Queensland Reds and Wallabies in the future.

“In 2023 I played in the Emerging Reds Rugby Player Pathway and when I finish high school, I want to study Sports Management and continue

playing Rugby,” he said.

Year 11 student Trinity McPhie has continued her rise to sporting excellence recently returning from a ParaMatildas Football (soccer) training camp.

“I learnt new skills and the coach said I went really well and I really hope I get selected in September,” McPhie said.

“If selected, I get to go to Spain in November for the World Championships.”

McPhie was accepted into the high school’s football academy and began a pathway to improve her playing skills.

McPhie has Right

Hemiplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy, however this has not impaired her desire for continued sporting and academic distinction.

Football is not the only the only talent McPhie is excelling at, she is also doing well at art and represented Queensland at Track and Field.

She also was awarded last year the Wide Bay Athletic Person with a Disability of the Year by Football Queensland.

“There are a few more training camps to go to and if I keep working hard, I should hopefully get selected,” she said.

FUTURE

Maryborough State High School students Pearce Parsons and Trinity McPhie are working hard on their next level of sporting success. (Glen Porteous)

MULTI-MILLION INVESTMENT: (Top and left) An artist’s impression of the new centre: Hervey Bay Basketball Association President Matt Baker (above), with Sponsorship Coordinator Simon Spash and Project Manager Kane Macready were inspecting the new site for the Bendigo Bank Stadium multipurpose basketball facility. (Photos supplied)

The weather gods are fickle

THE TEAM from FREEDOM FISHING SUPPLIES

NOTHING beats time spent on the water and a fresh feed of fish on the dinner table – and to be honest the Fraser Coast has so much to offer.

Let’s check out this fortnights fishing report and see what the locals

have been catching.

The notorious stretch between Beaver Rock and River Heads has been producing the goods with multiple fish being caught.

Threadfin salmon up to 10 and a half kilos have been caught on live baits such as herring or poddy mullet.

There are still quite a few blue salmon, grunter and some nice silver bream being landed.

Our Mary is still full

THIS WEEK'S BRAG BOARD

Lots of photos this week, lets have a look. First up is mates Luke and Luke had a great session chasing barramundi. Olivia with a nice mangrove jack. Mackenzie and Mackayla are happy to show off dad’s catch of a venus tusk fish and a coronation trout. Blair had a great trip out wide; this Spanish mackerel was one of the highlights. The smile says it all; Austin with a nice nannygai. Stewart also got into some nannygai.

DOON VILLA MEN

of sharks so you may struggle to keep that livey down long.

The Great Sandy Strait is living up to it’s name with some great catches over the past fortnight.

Mangrove jack, barra and odd threadfin and blue salmon are being landed around structures and ledges.

A wide range of reefies such as cod, blackall and scarlets being caught in the deeper water around the bommies.

Bowls Results

Wed 7/2 - Social

Jackpot Pairs : WinnersG.Kemp, T.Buckley d J.McCoombe, B.Stimpson 26-20. Runners up - K.Andersen, k.Johnson d N.Weinheimer, R.Dillon 37-12. S.Patch, A.Scholl d R.Andersen, I.Axelsen 3414. R.Whittaker, J.Demarco d G.Gambie, K.Paxton 28-14.

C,White, S.Jensen d S.Hyde, J.Devenish 22-17. J.Fraser, K.Pieper d J.Chilton, B.Spilsbury 19-16.

Championships : Open Pairs - W.Raguse, C.White d K.Pieper, T.Buckley 26-14. Open SinglesB.Houston d C.White 25-15.

Jackpot Pairs : Winners - K.Andersen, K,Johnson d B.Stimpson, J.McCoombe 24-11. Runners Up - J.Fraser, G.Kemp d N.Weinheimer, R.Dillon 29-15. J.Demarco, I.Axelsen d P.Newman, R.Whittaker 26-13. J.Chilton, B.Spilsbury d G.Gambie, K.Paxton 26-14. - C White, scribe

MARYBOROUGH

Ladies Wed 31/1 - Championship Pairs

N McDonald, P Matsen def K Roberts, S Natoli 27-13

Wed 31/1 - Social N Andreasen, C Murdoch, P Howard def V Jones, M McDonald, L Gundry 24-10

L Frivaldo, L Handley def J Nolan, A Blazely 26-11

Fri 2/2 - Championship Triples

L Frivaldo, C Murdoch, L Gundry def B Wakelin, K Roberts, B Cochrane 31-16

Fri 2/2 - Social N McDonald, S Nitz def A Blazely, D Blazely 17-9

A Dodd, N Andreasen, J English def J Nolan, A Francis, M Scott 20-9

C Jones, M McDonald/P Matsen, P Howard def T Jones, S Natoli, L Handley 16-6

Wed 7/2 - Championship Pairs

L Parsons, L Frivaldo def N McDonald, P Matsen 22-12

Wed 7/2 - Veteran Singles

M Scott def C Murdoch 26-15

P Howard def B Wakelin 25-18

J Nolan, S Natoli, A Blazely def N Andreasen, K Roberts, B Cochrane 26-5

Fri 9/2 - Championship Triples

N McDonald, J Nolan, P Matsen def L Parsons, N Andreasen, P Howard 28-7

Fri 9/2 - Consistency Singles

B Wakelin def S Natoli 136-84

C Murdoch def B Cochrane 138-72

Fri 9/2 - Social

J English, L Handley def A Francis, M Scott 20-11

Wed 14/2 - Final Veteran Singles

M Scott def P Howard 26-17

Wed 14/2 - Social

E Wakelin, J Nolan def M McDonald, B Cochrane 11-6

N McDonald, S Natoli, A Blazely def V Jones, N Andreasen, C Murdoch 10-3

Fri 16/2 - Consistency Singles

M Scott def M McDonald 130-81

L Gundry def L Parsons 136-114

J Nolan won on forfeit M Donohue

Fri 16/2 - Social

J Nolan, P Matsen def J Nolan, N Andreasen 27-17

Wed 21/2 - Consistency Singles

L Gundry def E Wakelin 131-79

P Howard won on forfeit A Faint

C Murdoch def P Howard 130-120

Wed 21/2 - Social E Osborne, A Blazely def H Relton, M Scott 18-14

K Roberts, L Handley def V Jones, N Andreasen 18-17

Fri 23/2 - Social

C Murdoch, E Wakelin def V Jones, P Matsen 20-5

A Blazely, P Howard def S Natoli, L Handley 25-1

Mens

Thur 1 Feb – Mens Jackpot Pairs

Anthony Aiello Bob Long def Steve

Jones Norm Gundry 28-14

Alan Pritchard Graham Hooper def

Rod McLeish Ken Milzewski 20-12

Steve Watson Brad Faint def Nick Stoneman Mike Stoneman 40-5

Warren Ashford Gordon Heselwood def Trevor Pike Ted Dillion 25-11

Bernie Dean Keith Campbell def

Ray Watts Peter Frawley 18-17

Bob Henningsen Greg Walker def

John Dawson Leanne Gundry 24-18

Trevor Lindeberg Cec Roberts def

Definitely worth soaking your pots as mud crab reports are coming in thick and fast.

The Burrum River system has been a hot spot for barramundi and mangrove jack.

Our inshore reefs have been turning it on with great reports coming in this fortnight.

Fishing the wrecks next to Woody, Moon Ledge and Sammies are all fishing well with nannygai, grass emperor, black spot tusk fish and

Mark Jensen Ross Jensen 21-16

Peter Nolan Col English def Earl

Kath Noel Johnson 26-16

Mike McDonald Nev Nitz def Chris

Clark Paul Bendall 18-16

Alan Blackwell Arthur Simpson def

Mike Walker Trevor Albright 13-10

Pat Davis Laurie Genrich def Terry

Jackson Paul Clarke 23-12

Cliff Lean Owen Maughan def

Bruce Fitzsimmons Roger Wilson 22-15

Thur 8 Feb – Mens Jackpot Pairs

Des Kohler Noel Johnson def Mark

Jensen Ross Jensen 24-11

Peter Nolan Ken Milzewski def

John Dawson Owen Maughan 22-15

Alan Blackwell Arthur Simpson def David McAnulty Alan Dennison

26-10

Mike Stoneman Gordon Clarke def

Anthony Aiello Bob Long 24-23

Mike Walker Trevor Albright def

Terry Jackson Paul Clarke 22-12

D Bretherton B Fitzsimmons L

Hamilton def G Hewson R Wilson J

Natoli 29-12

Pat Davis Laurie Genrich def

Trevor Pike Ted Dillion 29-18

Graham Hooper Alan Pritchard def

Gordon Heselwood Rod McLeish

29-15

Cliff Lean Marshall Anderson def

Steve Watson Peter Frawley 22-1

Bob Henningsen Greg Walker def

Stephen Hyde James Devenish

19-17

Trevor Lindeberg Cec Roberts def

Mike McDonald Nev Nitz 23-8

Steve Jones Norm Gundry def

Keith Campbell Bernie Dean 18-17

Thur 15 Feb - Mens Jackpot Pairs

Des Bretherton Les Hamilton def

Mike Walker Trevor Alwright 24-19

Mike McDonald Nev Nitz def Ross

Jensen Mark Jensen 25-12

Anthony Aiello Bob Long def Ray

Watts Peter Frawley 26-11

Peter Nolan Col English def Trevor

Lindeberg Cec Roberts 25-18

Steve Jones Norm Gundry def

Steve Watson Owen Maughan

20-18

Cliff Lean Marshall Anderson def

Terry Jackson Paul Clarke 34-10

Chris Clark Paul Bendall def

Warren Ashford Gordon Heselwood

31-4

Pat Davis Laurie Genrich def Des

Kohler Greg Hewson 23-9

Bernie Dean Keith Campbell def

Mike Stoneman Alan Dennison

30-6

Alan Blackwell Arthur Simpson def

Trevor Pike Ted Dillion 15-13

Bob Henningsen Greg Walker def

Rod McLeish Ken Milzewski 25-13

painted sweetlip all coming over the side.

Heading up the island spots fisho’s have been stretching their arms with a variety of pelagic fish.

Reports of golden trevally, giant trevally, queenies and tuna, with some fish coming in as close as the rock wall at Urangan and around the Pier in the deepest channel.

With the best weekend of weather we have had in a while, it was hard to find a park at most boat

ramps.

Every man and his dog was out.

Heading out over either bar was well worth the trip; ice boxes were full with a mix of quality reef fish, school red emperor up to 7kg, maori cod, scarlets and tasty Wrasse adding to the lot.

For our freshies, Lenthals Dam has been firing with the barra on the bite.

Tinana Creek is still producing lots of fun with bass up to 50cm.