The Maryborough Sun - March 21st, 2024

Youth Week events

Fraser Coast Youth Week events include:

• Weaving Workshop - Hervey Bay Regional Gallery - Sunday 7 April from 11am - 1pm

• The Basement Series - Brolga Theatre and Convention Centre - Daily from Monday 9:30am

• Burrum Heads Youth Week Fishing Competition -Burrum Heads Boat Ramp - Monday 8 April from 1pm - 4pm

• Youth Week Yoga Class - Hervey Bay Regional Gallery - Tuesday 9 April from 11:30am - 12:30pm

• Youth Fest by Headspace - Skateside on the Esplanade in Hervey Bay -Wednesday 10 April from 10am - 2pm

• Science Rules! STEM Workshop - The Bond Store - Thursday 11 April from 10am -11am

• Youth Week Yarns - The Story Bank - Friday 12 April from 10am - 11:30am (12 to 14 yrs) and 1pm to 2.30pm (15 to 18 yrs)

• Borough Beats - ANZAC Park, Maryborough - Friday 12 April from 3pm - 6pm

• The Basement Series Performance - The Bond Store - Saturday 13 April from 3:30pm - 5:30pm

• Youth Maker’s Market - Hervey Bay Regional Gallery - Saturday 13 April from 10am - 2pm

• Out and About - ANZAC Park, Maryborough - Saturday 13 April from 9am - 2pm

Great Easter Egg Hunt

See page 10 for details

Fraser

Youth Week - Sunday 7 April to Saturday 13 April.

“Youth Week is all about celebrating 12 to 25-year-

and the role they play in sustaining healthy, vibrant, inclusive and connected communities,” he said.

“This year’s activities on the Fraser Coast are a combination of exciting new events as well as popular events from previous years.

“For example, the Basement Series is a collaboration with the Macabre Theatre Company offering free performing arts

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

workshops, with those attending all five workshops given the chance to be part of a concluding performance.

“Other new events this year include a fishing competition in Burrum Heads, a science workshop and a yoga class.

“The activities have been organised through partnerships between Council’s Community Engagement and Cultural Services teams, along with a range of community service providers.

“By co-ordinating these activities, we show our youth that they are important to us, they are valued, and they make a valuable contribution to our communities.

“The events are also an opportunity to hear what they have to say about the world around them and their aspirations to ensure that the region is the place they want to live, work and play.”

Go to www.frasercoast.qld. gov.au/youth-week for more information and updates.

MAY GENERAL AUCTION 9am Saturday May 25

In our Maryborough Rooms

Try orienteering this weekend at Queen’s Park

Map

Ongoing

“Orienteering

orienteering events are planned to be conducted at various park and bush locations on a regular basis.

The history of orienteering begins in the late 19th

century in Sweden in 1886 as a military exercise.

‘Orienteering’ means the crossing of unknown land with the aid of a map and a compass.

It was not until 1919 that the modern version of orienteering was born in Sweden as a competitive sport by Ernst Killander, who is thought of as being the father of orienteering.

Orienteering Australia was founded in 1970, and joined the International Orienteering Federation the same year. Australia participated in the World Orienteering Championships first time in 1972.

Further details can be obtained from FROG convenor, Adrian Pitman, on 0481 115 464.

Crash teen’s case returned to Maryborough

THE case against a teenager accused of causing the death of three women in a crash in Maryborough has been moved back to the Fraser Coast.

The 13-year-old was allegedly driving a stolen car on Saltwater Creek Road on April 30 last year that crashed into another vehicle, pushing it into the path of a third vehicle.

The three-car crash would cause the deaths of three women, nurse Sheree Robertson, 52, occupational therapist Michale Chandler, 29, and student Kelsie Davies, 17, and left another, Kaylha Behrens, 23, fighting for life.

The case against the boy, whose charges include dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death, was due to proceed in the Brisbane District Court last week.

But it has now been sent back to local courts following a series of delays.

The court heard the

boy’s defence counsel was awaiting health records of their client.

The prosecution said the case would be ready for sentencing in Maryborough in July but it would need more time for a psychiatric report on the child regarding a brain

injury to be prepared.

The boy, who is being held in Brisbane, will now appear in Hervey Bay District Court on March 26.

He was remanded in custody.

Some new faces but few surprises in local election

CRAIG WINTER

MAYOR George Seymour has retained his position by a large percentage in last weekend’s local elections.

Mr Seymour said he was pleased with the result. “After serving in the role of mayor for the past six years, it is good to know that I have the community’s support.”

“The new council will have a lot of work to do and I am looking forward to the challenge” he said. “We need to make sure we are focused on serving the community.”

George was first elected as councillor for Division 10 in 2012, and for Mayor in 2018.

Grant Reynolds was contacted for comment.

There were few surprises in the Maryborough region, with just one major battle being fought over Division 1.

Michelle Byrne held a

10% lead (at the time of going to print) over rivals Darcy Wain and 13% over incumbent Councillor James Hansen.

Mr Hansen has experienced an embattled tenure in his latest term but easily lead in the Mungar booth by a significant margin.

The Brooweena, Torbanlea and Howard booths however told a different story with Ms Byrne leading from the early count on Sunday morning.

Mr Wain lead in Burrum Heads by almost 10% over Ms Byrne.

Division 2’s Cr Phil Truscott held the lead ahead of first time challenger Giselle O’Keefe from the outset.

Cr Paul Truscott of Division 3 was elected unopposed and Cr Danielle Sanderson lead comfortably in Division 4 against Daniel Beattie.

Interestingly, Division 4 showed the lowest number

of informal votes in the Maryborough area at just 3.5%.

Hervey Bay however saw a host of new faces enter Council for the first time.

Division 5 candidate

Michelle Govers held a significant lead over Oscar Suarez, both new challengers, after the resignation of elected Councillor Jade Wellings last year.

Past-councillor Robert Garland made a strong stand in Division 6 against a raft of newcomers including Lachlan Cosgrove who held the lead at the timeof going to press, Alicia Anne Wade, Kathryn Forgan-Flynn, Chris Pearce and Chris Mizzi.

Elected Councillor for Division 6 David Lewis decided not to stand for this election.

John Wieland led in Division 7 against incumbent Jan Hegge (empowered after the resignation of elected

Supported by:

Councillor Darren Everard in 2023).

Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Division 8 Denis Chapman led from challenger Phoenix Baker.

Councillor David Lee for Division 9 also chose not to run, opting instead to run as the LNP candidate in the October state election.

Newcomer Sarah Diana Faraj held out against Greg Watts for that Division.

Incumbent Zane O’Keefe held a narrow margin against another pastcouncillor Rolf Light and first timer Luke Strochnetter who was supported by a higher margin in the postal votes.

So with the loss of four Councillors last year creating vacancies, there will be at least five new faces out of eleven for the next four years, in what could become a very different Council environment.

FURTHER afield from Maryborough, the council elections have seen some voters opt for change.

In Bundaberg, former councillor Helen Blackburn has defeated incumbent Mayor Jack Dempsey, receiving just under 60 per cent of the vote.

She’ll be joined by at least four new councillors.

In Gympie, sitting Mayor Glen Hartwig has had a strong win with 55 per cent of the vote.

Dolly Jensen, the councillor for Division 2 which includes Theebine and Gunalda, has also been returned to council.

In the North Burnett, Mayor Les Hotz was in front at the latest count and Division 6, which includes Biggenden, looked set to be held by sitting councillor Moira Thompson.

Mayor George Seymour addresses the public at the recent Maryborough Sun/ Maryborough Chamber of Commerce candidates’ meeting. (Craig Winter)

HOMELESS

I am concerned about the homeless people in Maryborough.

It reminds me of the great depression (1929 - 1939) and the hardship during and following the second World War (1939 to 1945).

We were dairy farmers at Bells Bridge near Gympie and although we didn’t have much, we would feed the swagman that would travel by foot from town to town looking for work.

These men would be doctors, lawyers and come from all sorts of professions.

LETTERS

We would chop a mark into a tree at the front of the property, to let them know they were welcome to come and camp and have a meal.

They would not go where they were not welcome.

Sometimes we were not at home and they would come in, have a feed, and leave, leaving a note - had a feed and gone.

They wouldn’t touch anything else and there was no crime or robberies.

To see these people in Maryborough is heartbreaking and something needs to

be done.

The lack of community now, means people are marginalised.

They can’t get Centrelink* because they don’t have an address and shutting the inpatient mental health facility in Maryborough to the under 65s only compounds the problem.

- Shirley Shilvock

*The homeless can receive Centrelink payments and there are additional funds available to many in that situation including bond loans through Good Shepherd and other organisations. - Ed.

The Maryborough Sun Newspaper

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HOW TO WIN AN ELECTION

What’s with these first time candidates not bothering to get out into the public and be seen and heard before an election?

They bob up a few weeks prior to voting and expect that a few comments will get them over the line.

The only way you’re ever going to win a vote of - let’s face it - popularity, is for the people to know who you are before they make their decision.

It costs money to run for public office...why waste it by not even doing the basics required to score a seat at Council?

No wonder the incumbents always have the advantage...they’re always in the public eye.

I have nothing against most of our Councillors, but I do see some good up and coming candidates that only need to go to some effort to get their message across.

If they won’t put any effort into getting elected, they surely won’t put much effort into doing a

Councillor’s job.

- J. Kallaway

THANKS TO OUR POLICE

After being broken into last year, I assumed that the police wouldn’t be too interested.

Let’s face it, the chances of getting anything back is almost nil, and the penalties imposed on the thieves are minimal, if anything at all.

Our police have many more serious things to attend to, where people are injured or in danger.

I called them only because insurance demands that I do that, and they couldn’t have been better about it.

Two officers turned up within about 30 minutes and did a thorough inspection of the building with me, and gave me some good advice on security in the future.

They were honest in their assessment about getting items back, but left me with confidence that at least it would be followed up and acted on.

They made me feel much better about the situation

and I thank them for their help.

I felt bad at the time, taking them away from other duties, but they were very patient and understanding, which is what I needed.

Thank you to our police officers for the work you do, and the long hours you put in for the people of Maryborough.

It’s a job I certainly couldn’t do!

Local pilots receive safety updates

MARYBOROUGH

Aero Club last week hosted a flight safety seminar for local pilots.

Presented by Club President Craig Winter, the seminar covered fuel starvation, spin recovery and carbon monoxide hazards, along with updates on Australian regulations and video interviews with pilots.

Around a dozen aviators attended the meeting, part of a series offered by the Club this year sponsored by CASA.

“The Aero Club has evolved into a regional hub for information, education and

socialising.” said Mr Winter.

“With the addition of our SportStar aircraft, future installation of flight simulators and pilot’s lounge later in the year, the Club will cater for pilots of all levels, from those with very few hours, to experienced civil and military aviators.”

The Maryborough Aero Club has been functioning since 1932 and welcomes new members, either students, pilots or those who have an active interest in aviation.

More information at www.maryborough aeroclub.com

Maryborough Markets get into the spirit of Easter

MARYBOROUGH

Markets visitors will be treated to an Easter Bunny Hop next week.

The Rotary Events team say that stallholders will be dressing up and getting into the festive activities as well.

“The Easter Bunny will hop through the markets at 8.30am on Thursday 28th March as part of our markets.” they said.

The Markets have continued to grow over the past year as Rotary works to deliver more stalls, more variety, and a high quality of products.

The markets are held in Adelaide Street every Thursday.

POLICE found a man allegedly smashing a car with a star picket when they were called to a disturbance in Maryborough.

Officers were called to Kent Street on March 9 following reports a 43-year-old man had been causing a disturbance.

The man had left by the time they arrived but shortly afterwards, police received reports the same man was causing a disturbance near the intersection of Adelaide and Sussex Streets.

The man was allegedly smashing the windows of the vehicle and had to be

restrained by officers. He was taken to the watchhouse where he was charged with one count each of failing to leave a licensed premises, creating a disturbance in a licensed premises, committing public nuisance, going armed so as to cause fear and obstructing police.

Sheraton may come to the Fraser Coast

JAY FIELDING

THE world’s largest luxury hotel group could be coming to the Fraser Coast.

Sheraton has signed an agreement confirming its intention to operate the proposed Hervey Bay Esplanade Resort.

If built, Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, part of the Marriott International group, would become the operator of the 223-room five-star hotel component of the $445 million Torquay waterfront development.

The company says Sheraton Hervey Bay would be the largest and most luxurious new hotel between Brisbane and Cairns.

The backers of the project have secured Jamie Durie, award-winning designer, television host and environmentalist, to become an ambassador for the project.

He will be designing an “oasis” recreational area for the new resort.

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the hotel chain and developer Sunny Beach Land completes an international search for an operator.

Hervey Bay would be only the fifth Sheraton location in Australia, joining the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resorts at the Gold Coast and Port Douglas, the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park and the Sheraton Melbourne Hotel.

Marriott International is the world’s largest hospitality company with 32 brands, 8,900 hotels and 800,000 people across 140 countries.

The hotel plans include a resort pool, fitness centre, business lounge, conference and functions space, children’s area, restaurant, and a rooftop bar overlooking the bay.

It would also feature 424 one-, two- and threebedroom apartments, 1000 car parking spaces, 144 bike parks, a cafe, bar, two lap pools, sundecks and barbecue areas.

The developers say it would create 1100 jobs during construction and 250 ongoing jobs.

Sunny Beach Land director Dan Cuda said a Sheraton resort would put the Fraser Coast region firmly on the map as a world-class tourism destination.

“Our MOU with Marriott International is an exciting coup for Hervey Bay and represents another compelling reason for the Hervey Bay Esplanade Resort to go ahead,” Mr Cuda said.

He said an operator with the reputation of Sheraton would ensure the success of the resort and attract wealthy tourists.

“The potential contribution this would make to the Fraser Coast economy, local businesses and

employment is simply massive and too good of an opportunity to miss.

The presence of Sheraton in Hervey Bay would also set the tone for future residential and tourism developments in this region and encourage further investment,” he said.

Richard Crawford, Marriott International’s vice-president of hotel development in Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Marriott International, said the company had great confidence in the outlook for Hervey Bay.

“… (A)nd Sunny Beach Land’s project presents the opportunity we have been waiting for to enter the market,” Mr Crawford said.

“Hervey Bay is a destination with excellent prospects for growth and long-term success, however, its lack of highquality accommodation has diminished the city’s appeal to affluent travellers, and it is missing out on the marketing power of international hotel companies,” he said.

“In Marriott’s case, we focus our distribution on our 200 million Marriott Bonvoy loyalty members, who represent 50 per cent

of night occupancy at our hotels.

Mr Crawford said the Sheraton properties in Sydney, Melbourne, the Gold Coast and Port Douglas were among Australia’s most recognised and highestperforming hotels.

“By joining this longestablished network of hotels, Sheraton Hervey Bay would gain instant recognition and be sure to attract new demand from intrastate, domestic and international travellers – to the benefit of the city of Hervey Bay and surrounds,” he said.

“The direct economic and social benefits of the proponent’s vision for this project are vast and farreaching and their plans are as well-resolved and impressive as any we have seen for other similar projects, anywhere in Australia.”

Mr Durie said he was thrilled to work on the resort, both on an environmental front and by designing an “oasis” recreation area.

“We all know that K’gari is paradise and with the internationally recognised Sheraton brand behind it the world will too,” he said.

Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre multi-million upgrade under way

THE first stage of the long-term $4.1 million project investment upgrade into the Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre has commenced.

The initial works will include new changerooms and a new enclosure for the 25-metre pool, a refurbishment of the existing plant room and a new backwash tank and chlorine spill tank in the service yard.

This first stage will also lay the groundwork for future stages with the construction of a new lagoon pool plant room and the laying of pipes to service this pool and a future zero depth splash pad, as well as the construction of new chemical storage, a lifeguard station and general storage.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Community and Culture Executive Manager Joyce Chorny said the initial focus would be on the 25-metre pool area, which would be closed over the next six months while the works occurred.

“The upgrades are about improving the aquatic centre safety and reliability and ensuring it meets modern standards,” she said.

“This first stage will give a much-needed refresh to the 25m pool, new changerooms and some necessary works in the background that means we can enjoy it for

decades to come.”

Ms Chorny said the 50-metre pool and the heated program pool would remain open during the first stage of the upgrade with the current works timed to occur in the cooler months to minimise the disruption to swimmers.

Also, Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre multientry pass holders would have the expiry date on their passes extended due to the works.

Support was received from the Queensland state government towards the project.

Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari said the state government was investing more than $3.5 million towards the $4.1 million project through its Local Government Grants and Subsidies program.

“We love our time in the sun and surf in Hervey Bay, and I know the community is looking forward to this project – it’s why I advocated for funding for it,” Mr Tantari said.

A copy of the Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre Master Plan and information from the community consultation process is available herehttps://frasercoast. engagementhub.com.

au/hervey-bay-aquaticcentre-master-plan

Crash puts 6yo in hospital Club first clicked in 1950

JAY FIELDING

A SIX-YEAR-OLD girl had to be flown to hospital following a serious three-car crash on the Bruce Highway at Tinana.

Police say that a white Toyota Rav4 was southbound on the highway about 2pm on March 11 when it crashed into a Nissan Dualis and Isuzu D-Max heading in the opposite direction.

The driver of the Rav4 has been charged over the crash and will now face court.

Four people in the Dualis were taken to Hervey Bay Hospital with significant injuries including cuts.

They included the girl who had to be later airlifted to the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane in a serious condition.

The driver of the D-Max suffered minor injuries and did not go to hospital.

Police have charged a 27-year-old man

following a serious three-vehicle traffic crash in Tinana yesterday, March 11.

Investigations indicate around 2.15pm, a white Toyota Rav4 was travelling south on the Bruce Highway when it crashed with a Nissan Dualis and Isuzu D-Max travelling in the opposite direction.

Four people travelling in the Nissan Dualis were transported to Hervey Bay Hospital with significant injuries and lacerations. This included a six-yearold girl who was subsequently airlifted to Queensland Children’s Hospital in a serious condition.

The crash caused major traffic delays throughout Maryborough.

The 27-year-old driver of the Rav4 was charged with one count of driving without due care and attention causing grievous bodily harm.

He is due to appear in the Magistrates Court April 22.

AFTER several earlier attempts to form a camera club in Maryborough as early as 1902, it finally came together in 1950, according to the Maryborough Camera Club.

2025 marks the Club’s 75th anniversary and President Eric Blandseth said that they have started planning a suitable celebration.

The club’s website manager, Greg Suter, told members at a recent meeting about the club’s beginnings at a public meeting on 15 March 1950 that was reported the following Saturday in Maryborough’s newspaper of the time.

“There had been prior

attempts to establish a camera club in Maryborough in 1902 and in 1941, but those clubs had not survived.”

The Club meets on the second Monday of each month at 7pm at the Uniting Church Hall in Sussex Street.

The club aims to develop the photographic knowledge and skills of members and to encourage them to explore and develop their passion as skilled photographers, according to their website.

More information about the club can be obtained at https://maryborough. myphotoclub.com.au.

Visitors and new members are always welcome.

Garden Club integrates art workshops into their calendar

ART, craft, workshops, gardening, chatting, sharing, laughing and friendship are all part of Garden & Art Fridays with members of Maryborough Arts & Garden Club.

Workshops are held at The Hut, corner of Raglan and Banana St, Granville from 9am on Fridays.

A FCRC Wellness and Resilience grant will allow members to explore fun activities like jewellery making, EFT Tapping, kokedama hanging plant balls, cement mushrooms, mosaics, carving, timber projects and many more exciting activities.

“Members can bring their own craft project but we have fortnightly group projects for people to participate in too.

For those not into the arts and crafts, our food forest veggie garden and pot plants may be more their style,” comments club Secretary, Suzanne Bushell.

“Our management committee want to have something for everyone.”

The Club’s ethos is built on getting people involved and feeling special.

“If you have a talent for something and want to share with others, we can help.” she said.

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

Cost $20 club membership and $2 per session.

A rooster created as part of the Club’s mosaic workshop and (below) Arts & Garden Club members with some of their Hebel creations. (Supplied)

Organ pipes up to celebrate 140 years at St Paul’s

THIS year St Paul’s Anglican Church celebrates 140 years of wonderful music played on their pipe organ.

A number of monthly Market Day Music performances starting in April will feature the organ played by St Paul’s organists.

The April concert is by Mr Dave McLeod, one of St. Paul’s regular organists, playing a variety of traditional and popular music on this magnificent historic instrument.

At Easter in 1882, a decision was made to order an organ from Wadsworth of Manchester.

It was estimated that the cost of the Maryborough organ would be around £600, including the price of a hydraulic motor to provide wind.

The instrument was finally completed in November 1883.

The Week newspaper

of February 16 1884 reported in its Maryborough column: “It is not often we see three large barques lying at our wharves, but we have three here now - the Childwall, Thorne, and Earl of Derby.”

The Brisbane Courier of February 4 in its Maryborough cargo report listed “For St. Paul’s Church of England a £400 instrument is on board the Earl of Derby”.

“Earl Derby” was just1,100 tons laden and had sailed from Plymouth on 27th October 1883.

It arrived in Maryborough Queensland on 22nd January 1884.

On board were 329 immigrant passengers the majority of whom were under 30, and general cargo including the St Paul’s shipment.

Mr B. Whitehouse, head tuner from the Brisbane Piano warehouse travelled to Maryborough especially to install the

organ and tune it ready for its gala opening.

Local organists played the opening recital on 24 March 1884 ably assisted by local vocalists and many newspapers commented favourably that the “The (Maryborough) Church of England organ is the finest in Queensland”.

Inevitably time takes a toll and significant maintenance has been required.

In 1969 Whitehouse Bros replaced the mechanical action linking pipes to the keyboards with an electro-pneumatic”action.

Pierce Pipe Organs undertook major refurbishment of various sections of the organ in 1988 and 1999.

In 2020 the blower and its motor was brought inside which equalised the temperature and humidity of the organ wind, which along with a much needed and very successful refurbishment of the wind chests in

2022 has brought the organ back to life.

At that time also the Trumpet stop was moved to its own windchest to create space for organ techs to work and now the Trumpet speaks really powerfully into the church.

Despite that work the “voice” of the organ however - those wonderfully crafted English pipes of 1884are still original and they still sing with that same beautiful voice of 140 years ago.

We get to hear the same organ as our Maryborough pioneers all those years ago.

A wonderful legacy indeed.

It is said that the Greek engineer Ctesibius of Alexandria invented the organ in the 3rd century BC, creating an instrument called the hydraulis, which delivered a wind supply maintained through water pressure to a set of pipes

The 9th century Persian geographer Ibn Khurradadhbih (d. 913), in his lexicographical discussion of instruments, cited the organ as one of the typical instruments of the Eastern Roman Empire.

It was often used in the Hippodrome in the imperial capital of Constantinople

Our plan is more of the Queensland you love

Over the next 10 years, our state will grow by more than a million new Queenslanders. We’re planning and working together with government, industry and communities to develop a range of homes to suit everyone’s needs and budgets, as well as more hospitals and public transport, more upgraded schools, and more parks and places to meet.

Discover how we are planning homes and more for our growing state.

The St Paul’s pipe organ will be heard at Easter. (Inset) The Earl Derby. (Supplied)

Mental Health group release fundraiser dates

FRASER Coast Mates have released their fundraiser dates for 2024.

The mental health group’s golf days particularly have become an iconic part of the Fraser Coast social calendar, attracting crowds of over 300 players each year in both Hervey Bay and Maryborough.

The Hervey Bay Golf Day and the Flourish event will be held Friday June 21st with team applications opening soon.

The Pink Dinner will be on Friday October 11.

The Maryborough golf day is on Friday September 6, with team applications and sponsorship opportunities opening later in the year.

Bloom, an event for women will once again be held in conjunction with the golf day.

The Doin’ it Tuff dinner will be held at the Carrier’s Arms Hotel on October 26th.

Fraser Coast Mates is a local organisation that spreads awareness of mental wellness and suicide prevention in both men and women within our community.

“We are also passionate about building a community of mates that look out for each other.”

They host a range of events and provide resources such as the Little Black Book and free counselling sessions.

“Whether you are someone who is needing urgent help, are just wanting to be better educated around mental wellbeing or are worried about a mate or loved one - we’re here for you.”

More information about mental health and Fraser Coast Mates is at www.frasercoastmates. com.au

Vandals cost ratepayers $10,000 in single tree attack

Twelve trees have been unlawfully removed along a section of the Mary to Bay Rail Trail at Urraween costing ratepayers about $10,000.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Executive Manager Open Space and Environment Max Corte said twelve Eumundi Quandongs have been snapped off at their bases, with the tops left lying on the ground.

“It is so disappointing to see this environmental vandalism occurring on an avenue of trees that was only planted a year ago and we encourage anyone with any information about this incident to contact Council,” he said.

“Council received a positive response from residents to the new trees as they provide shade, habitat for native animals and help beautify the area.

“The Fraser Coast has a beautiful natural environment with a range of unique ecosystems, and this project is part of Council’s Greening the Fraser Coast Strategy and our commitment to plant 100,000 trees by 2030.

“Rehabilitating

unauthorised vegetation damage is not only expensive, it takes away funds that could have been used for other community services and priorities.

“Removing the stumps, supplying replacement trees and reestablishing the trees over the next 12 months is expected to cost about $10,000.”

Mr Corte said under Council local laws, it is an offence to damage vegetation in any way on Council-controlled land without prior approval from Council.

“While we are still in the early stages of an investigation, Council is urging anyone who witnessed the vandalism to contact Council as soon as possible so we can take the appropriate action,” he said.

“Our local laws allow Council to take action by issuing fines, making the offenders replant trees at their expense and referring matters to the courts where warranted.”

If members of the public have any information about vegetation damage

that is potentially illegal, they can report it confidentially to Council on 1300 79 49 29.

The Eumundi quandong is a slow growing evergreen

species from Queensland and New South Wales rainforest areas that produces delicate sweetscented cream-coloured flowers which attract birds.

Council is investigating the destruction of trees on Urraween Road(above) before and (above) after the attack. (FCRC)

Hunt for Easter eggs in Queen’s Park

LOOKING for a fun morning out for the kids celebrating Easter?

Join the Maryborough City Progress Association. and sponsors on Sunday 24th March, at Queen’s Park for the Mary Easter Scavenger Hunt.

The event is a children’s Easter celebration where for $10 per child, they’ll get an entry into the Scavenger Hunt and an Easter Gift Box on return of their entry form, unlimited rides on the jumping castles, face painting and a ticket in the Kid’s Raffle Prize.

MELSA will be running their miniature trains at $3 per ride.

There’ll be food, drinks, market stalls, craft activities and live entertainment by the Maryborough Muso’s and Fraser Coast Highlanders Pipe Band.

Still want more?

We have a monster Easter Raffle with 2 fabulous chocolate prizes up for grabs, get tickets and wristbands from MCPAI gazebo at the event.

“We had an absolute ball last year and a fantastic turnout despite the rainy weather, this year looks to be even bigger again!” said vent co-ordinator Jenelle Harrington.

“There were lots of smiling

faces, it was so good to see everyone having such a great time.” she said.

Get down to Queen’s Park on Sunday 24th March from 10am to 2pm to join in the Easter festivities.

Policing becomes more visible with Mobile Police Beat

CRAIG WINTER

WIDE Bay police have taken delivery of a new community policing van.

The Mobile Police Beat is a ‘police station on wheels’ and will allow police to be more visible, in more areas than ever before.

The van will tour around the Wide bay from Gympie in the south, to Gin Gin in the north, and as far west as Eidsvold.

Acting Superintendent Paul Algae said that the van is fully self sustainable and has already seen use in outlaying areas like Poona and Burrum Heads.

“The van will be used at crime scenes, search and rescue sites and for community policing utilising our Police Volunteers who will be able to provide information to the public. he said.

“It will provide us with much needed frontline policing opportunities.

“If you see the van

anywhere, feel free to go and chat.”

Senior Constable Matthew Bedding said police would now be able to be more accessible to residents, particularly in remote communities and at public events.

“It’s a great deployment initiative and staff will be able to provide a range of information and advice on sch thins as recommendations on home security, attend reports of hooning and antisocial behaviour hotspots, and any other need as reported by residents.”

A similar resource in Townsville has seen great success with it;s deployments.

Communities and residents can request the van’s presence through social media or by calling their local station.

Members of the public can visit the Mobile Police Beat to get advice and seek support, as well as report crimes.

Volunteer Police members

Doug McBride-Fergusson and Rose Tsakisiris, Acting Superintendent Paul Algae and Senior Constable Matthew Bedding with the new Mobile Police Beat van. (Craig Winter)

Requests can also be made by emailing widebaymbdeployment@ police.qld.gov.au or

To request the MPB van in your community:

Email widebaymbdeployment @police.qld.gov.au

Scan the QR code or go to https://mypolice.qld. gov.au/maryborough/

Easter Egg Hunt part of Botanic Gardens holidays boost of fun

KIDS will be able to hunt for giant painted eggs in the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens and the Orchid House will have special Saturday opening times during the upcoming Easter school holidays.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Parks Coordinator North Marshall Nuttall said the Orchid House would be open for three Saturdays over the school holidays.

“The Orchid House at the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens continues to grow in popularity with more than 18,000 residents and tourists visiting the free facility in 2023,” he said.

“The regular opening hours are Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 2.30pm, but this year we are going to open on three Saturdays, March 30, April 6 and April 13, from 9am to midday as part of a trial to evaluate demand.

“This is a great opportunity for as many people as possible to view

part of the largest publicly owned orchid collection in Australia with about 5,500 specimens.

“The collection includes 85 popular and unusual plants from the orchidaceous family including orchids such as cattleyas, dendrobiums, oncidiums, phalaenopsis and brassias.”

Throughout the school holidays, both residents and tourists can also participate in a giant easter egg hunt at the Botanic Gardens, organized by the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre (HBNC) and Wide Bay Kids.

For the first time, there will be nine giant easter eggs to find which will be painted with themes and placed around the gardens.

“It will be a fun and interactive hunt for kids to not only find giant easter eggs but to learn about the natural environment,” Mr Nuttall said.

Participants can enhance

their engagement by downloading the interactive ‘Agents of Discovery’ app. Simply scan the QR Code and it will guide you to various sites within the gardens.

The Giant Easter Egg Hunt at the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens is free and open to anyone from March 25 to April 15.

HBNC CEO Tanya Stevenson said local artists had painted the 1m high giant eggs for the hunt.

“Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre will also be delivering a number of school holiday workshops from the Urangan Community Wellness Centre which families can book through the website - www.hbnc. com.au,” she said.

More information about the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens and the Orchid House is available at https://www.frasercoast. qld.gov.au/botanicgardens-orchid-house

Extended hours during the Easter Holidays.

Share the Dignity drive

SHARE the Dignity’s biannual Dignity Drive continues throughout March.

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 everyone has 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

New website the ‘go-to guide’ for local events info

Coast Events website will be the community’s go-to guide for everything that is happening across the region, providing a single source

Fraser Coast Regional Council Executive Manager of Economic Development and Tourism Justine Cooper said the new website - https:// frasercoastevents.com - was a collaboration between Council and Fraser Coast Tourism and Events.

“From festivals to music gigs, art exhibitions to markets, it’s all covered on the Fraser Coast Events website,” she said.

“The new online platform

combines information from a range of sources including the Our Fraser Coast website, the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse and ticketing platforms to provide the most convenient and exciting way to experience the region and find out about events.

“Residents and visitors can use the website in a way that best suits them by searching through different categories, shortlisting events and creating alerts for events they like.

“Event organisers can submit their events for listing and publishing on the website for free, providing a great new promotional tool to get the word out about their

events.”

Fraser Coast Tourism and Events General Manager Martin Simons said the goal of the joint project between FCTE and Council had been to launch “a single source of truth” to all events being staged on the Fraser Coast.

“With the rich communitydelivered events program already in place, the Fraser Coast Events website will provide a valuable marketing tool for event organisers and real-time listings keeping visitors and locals informed on what’s on and what’s coming up,” he said.

“The events site will help

A local, family owned business, employing locals, spending locally, and proudly supporting Maryborough and the surrounding districts.

locals live their best life and provide visitors with ample incentive to extend their stay in this amazing region.”

Ms Cooper said Council’s aspiration was to “enhance Fraser Coast’s reputation as an event-friendly destination”.

“There are so many

fantastic events happening right throughout the Fraser Coast and this new website will bring information about them into one place, helping to maximise the economic and social benefits,” she said.

“The platform will continue to evolve with future opportunities to

write and publish articles and add resources to make presenting and promoting events even easier.

“Fraser Coast Events is the perfect place to dive into the region’s vibrant culture and entertainment scene, and we encourage everyone to check it out and make the most of the new platform.”

MARYBOROUGH

Driving into the future: Arron achieves employment dream

MARYBOROUGH man

Arron Murphy is right where he wants to be - in the driver’s seat of his truck, his career, and his life.

For 10 years, the 27-yearold truck driver worked in supported employment at Maryborough Business Solutions; a social enterprise operated by Endeavour Foundation, to provide opportunities for people with disability who face barriers to work.

Employees are paid a wage, but they also have access to the Disability Support Pension, and to NDIS support to help them achieve their goalsincluding at work.

Two years ago, Arron set himself a new goal.

“We had a role here for a Production Team Leader (PTL), so I sent the job ad to Arron and said, ‘Why don’t you apply?’ said Employment Coach Jessica Dullaway.

“It wasn’t something that he had considered as an option for himself, but

since that day he’s been working at becoming more independent so he can advance in his career.”

Arron worked on his communication skills and, at his own pace, gradually dropped the hours and level of support he was receiving.

“It’s a big step in a person’s life to decide they no longer need support,” said Ms Dullaway.

“Arron is now a truck driver but if he chooses to stay, we’d love for him to become a PTL one day, which would mean he’s gone from being a supported employee to being the one providing the support.

“That’s going to challenge him, but it will also give him unique insights that benefit the team.”

Arron received the news of his promotion to the open employment role just weeks after receiving his 10-year service award.

“It feels pretty good. A long time coming but I’m

finally here,” Mr Murphy said.

“I got my truck and forklift licences through Endeavour Foundation because that’s what I liked doing so I wanted to keep doing it.”

Arron said the truck’s UHF keeps him company on delivery trips to Maroochydore and Bundaberg.

“When I first started, I was getting a bit bored of it, but once I got more experienced in it, I started to enjoy it more,” he said.

“There’s some funny stuff said on the UHF.

“I was going through Gympie one day and the next minute I hear someone going ‘buck buck buck’ on the radio like a chicken,” he laughed.

“But that’s just Gympie.”

Arron is blazing a trail for others to follow.

“There are other people at work that want to come to where I am now because

they’ve seen what I’ve achieved,” he said.

“I’m pretty happy.

Endeavour Foundation has put in a lot of work helped me out to get to

where I want to be,” he concluded.

If you’d like to know more about the NDIS services available in the Maryborough region or if

you’d like to partner with Endeavour Foundation to create more opportunities for people with a disability, call 1800 112 112 or go to endeavour. com.au.

Historic Mary Ann steam train to celebrate 25 years

THE Mary Ann Steam Train that makes it weekly run down the wharf line on Thursdays as well as the last Sunday of the month, is having its 25th birthday later in the year.

The replica Mary Ann has now been running many years longer than the 1873 model that John Walker built at their Bowen Street Works in Maryborough.

At the time, this was the very first steam locomotive built in Queensland.

The 25th anniversary will be celebrated on the last weekend of November.

The steam train normally runs on the last Sunday of the month, but this month the last Sunday is Easter Sunday and unfortunately it will not run.

However the following Sunday 7 April, which is the middle Sunday of the school holidays the Mary Ann will be running from 9am until last pickup 12 noon.

This lovable trio need homes

From THE MARYBOROUGH ANIMAL REFUGE

Holly D.O.B: 05/11/2023

Breed: Bull Mastiff/Arab

Gender: Female

Adoption Fee: $450.00

Child Friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: untested

Toilet Trained: In training.

How adorable am I.

Hi, I’m Holly and I am looking for my forever family.

I am still a little puppy, but

I have a big personality and love everyone.

I came to the refuge as a 9-week-old puppy, and I am now 15 weeks old. That is 6 weeks old my puppy life I could be spending with a family instead on in a pen.

I am from a litter of 10 puppies and there is just me and my two sister Beech & Aspen left to find families.

I am learning to walk on a lead which I think is pretty cool and I am also learning how to sit… I love it when

the humans give me treats and tell me what a good girl I am.

I have also been told my recall is getting better to.

Please, please, please help me find my forever family.

The following vet work has been completed: Desexed, C5 Vaccination, Microchipped, Wormed, Flea Treate, Council registration in Fraser Coast Region

Whiskey Jack D.O.B: 7 years old

Breed: Huskey Cross

Gender: Male

Child Friendly: Yes

Adoption Fee: $300.00

Cat Friendly: untested

Toilet Trained: Yes

Gidday, nice ta meet ya, I’m Whiskey Jack and here’s what you need to know about me.

I am a super model and always posing for the camera. I don’t have a best side because all of me is perfect.

I was originally from the refuge in 2018 and I had the most amazing kind and loving family but unfortunately due to reasons out of their control they had rehome me.

I will never forget the life they gave me, and I thank them for always loving me.

I am a very smart dog, I sit, shake, stay, leave, drop, and know quiet. I can be a little frightened of tight spaces like pens but love the wideopen spaces.

If you are wanting a friend to go to the beach with you then I am your dog. I love water and should’ve probably been a fish.

I walk well on a lead and do a little dance when I am excited.

I love human companionship and will always be by your side.

I have lived with children, men, and women.

Please help me find a home. I do not like being in a pen and would love to join your family.

The following vet work has been completed: Desexed, C5 Vaccination, Microchipped, Wormed, Flea Treated, Council registration in Fraser Coast Region

Sheba

DOB: 18 months

Gender: Female

Child Friendly: untested

Cat Friendly: Picky

Toilet trained: Yes.

Adoption fee: $200.00

Hi, do you like attention?

Because I love attention.

My name is Sheba, and I am

a ragdoll cross.

I’ve been told I have a lovely nature but also sometimes I can be a little sassy. I can be a little picky with cats I like, and I am not suited to a home with young children.

I am an indoor cat only. I am toilet trained.

My favourite place to hang out is on the scratching post where I can be up high and watch the world go by.

I can sometimes be a tripping hazard as I like to drop right at your feet and roll over.

If you’ve got a camera, I am the first to be in front of it posing.

The following vet work has been completed: Desexed, F3 Vaccination, Microchipped, Wormed, Flea Treated.

Holly,

Sugarcane at the heart of many regional communities

From CANEGROWERS CHAIRMAN OWEN MENKENS

THERE has been much talk in the news recently about the struggles of Mossman mill and what the mill’s closure might mean for the local community.

Thankfully, the mill has been given a lifeline, with a mystery investor stepping in at the eleventh hour with a plan to save the factory and, in turn, the sugarcane industry in the area.

There are still some hurdles to clear before that deal can be signed and the mill’s long-term future secured.

But even though the outcome is not assured, the announcement of government funding, combined with the appearance of a mystery investor, has brought a great sense of relief to the local community.

The sugarcane industry in Mossman accounts for over 500 local jobs, both directly and indirectly.

That is over one-third of all jobs in the region.

If the industry falters, the local town will be devastated and, within a year, Mossman will be a shell of its former self as businesses close and families move away to find work.

Mossman’s story is an example of just how interwoven the sugarcane industry is into our regional communities.

Since the tourism and resources booms, we sometimes forget that sugarcane was once the single biggest, most important industry in Queensland.

Towns and cities along the coast built up around the industry and, for generations, relied on sugarcane for their survival.

If our recent brush with Covid has taught us anything, it’s that tourism is at the mercy of international influences.

An outbreak of disease on the other side of the world could bring Queensland’s tourism industry to its knees in months, if not weeks.

Similarly, our mining resources are finite. Mines will eventually run dry or outside factors such as climate change will force us to stop mining certain materials.

Sugarcane, on the other hand, is resilient and sustainable. It is not

impacted by global pandemics and will not run out.

In fact, far from contributing to climate change, sugarcane can be part of the solution through its use to produce sustainable biofuels and other products.

HISTORY & NATURE

We are an old industry. We’ve been supporting Queenslanders for a long time.

But we’re also an industry on the cusp of a rebirth, and we will be here to support regional communities through good times and bad for many years to come.

Sally the ‘miracle dog’

Sally is a golden-coloured Labrador Retriever owned by Howard resident Darrell Mitchell and his partner Kate.

She is just like most members of her breed who love nothing better than to swim and to fetch sticks or anything thrown into water.

On one occasion Darrell was visiting a friend at Torbanlea, north of Maryborough.

Sally was being her usual self by swimming in the farm dam, and then going for a brisk run around the far side of the water hole before heading back to the two men.

As she galloped through an area of high grass, she let out three mournful howls as if in distress.

Because of the way she reacted, Darrell urgently commented to his friend, “I think she’s broken a leg”.

When the men reached the apparently suffering dog, they noticed a lump of wood protruding out from

the side of her chest.

Expecting the stake to have entered for only a short distance, Darrell gingerly tried to remove it; however, Sally had other ideas.

She gently closed her mouth around his wrist and held firm, more or less saying, “Please do not touch”.

Darrell could see that his canine friend was in real trouble, so he bundled her into his ute and urgently headed for a vet in Hervey Bay.

At roadworks, a ‘stop and go’ operator was soon convinced to radio his colleague at the other end to reverse their signs around and let Darrell through.

A quote from Darrell, “At one stage, Sally, who was sitting beside me dropped her head a bit, and clear fluid ran out of her nose. I really thought she was going to die”.

When he reached the veterinary clinic, the staff almost freaked out after they realised the piece of

wood was stuck fast.

The vet, Ron McKay, then examined Sally and announced an immediate operation was required.

He hitched a lead to her collar, and she walked beside him into the surgery.

X-rays were taken - the vet and his staff could hardly believe what they were looking at.

Sally was opened up down the chest as the surgeon negotiated along the length of the piece of wood.

On and on he went, probing and cutting.

When at last he came to the end of the wooden stake, he found he had almost arrived at the end of the dog as well.

The 460 mm length of wood had travelled internally almost the full length of Sally without damaging any internal organs.

Incredible! She soon recovered.

Vet Ron, commented, “She is one very lucky

dog”. Sally’s ordeal even made it to the veterinary conference that year as a case study.

When Darrell trained Sally to retrieve a stick he threw,

he expected her to bring it back in her mouth, not in her body as what happened that day at the farm.

In the long grass, she had

run at full speed into sharp roots protruding out of the base of a tree blown over years previously.

Sometimes you can get lucky.

LINDSAY TITMARSH

Darrell Mitchell and Sally at Tandora, with the stake showing the 460mm depth that had impaled her, in 2018. (Lindsay Titmarsh)

What’s on in local arts

MARCH 2024

Regional Art Society Gallery

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.

MAY 2024

Exhibition by Lyn Munn, plus members’ competition, ‘Bees’ theme.

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)

Film Screening: Dark Cargoes

Mon 25 March, 10am, Hervey Bay Regional Gallery

La Forza Del Destino - Metropolitan Opera

Mon 25 March, 1pm, Brolga Theatre

School Holidays Easter Craft Activities

30 March – 14 April, The Story Bank

School Holidays Pocket Park Lawn Games

30 March – 14 April, The Story Bank

The Michael Jackson HIStory Show

Sat 30 March, 8pm, Brolga Theatre

www.ourfrasercoast.com.au/what-s-on Launching

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.

Did you know that people have been eating chocolate since 1750 BC?

Ever since ancient times, people have been eating chocolate. Why have people been eating it for so long, you ask - because it’s so good! (Unless you’re dairy intolerant then I’m sorry.)

It really makes you wonder, how do they do it? Just how is the great, creamy dessert of glory, chocolate, crafted to perfection? Let’s find out.

The process of making chocolate begins in Africa, where 70% of the main ingredient of chocolate originates.

This ingredient is cacao beans, which are harvested from the inside of a cacao pod. The beans

are cleaned, fermented, and inspected to check that they have the right colour and consistency, before they are sent off to be made into chocolate.

The beans are roasted to develop their rich, familiar taste, before the husk is separated, leaving only the ‘nib’ of the cacao bean.

The nibs are ground together into a thick paste, which comes out of the grinder looking like…well, melted chocolate! However, I wouldn’t dip your fingers in yet because the yummy ingredients haven’t been added to the mixture yet!

In fact, the paste at this stage smells like alcohol, earning it the name, ‘chocolate liqueur!’

Next, large amounts of fat are mixed into the chocolate liqueur, giving it its texture. After that, extra ingredients such as sugar or powdered milk are added to the mixture to make it sweeter.

Now, it’s time to harden the chocolate and make it into what it looks like when

with Phoebe Lee MARYBOROUGH SUN SUPER-CUB REPORTER

you take off the wrapper. The mixture is heated then cooled, before it is poured into moulds. Finally, the chocolate is packaged and sent off to all four corners of the world.

For more information, search up the YouTube video, “How Chocolate is Made,” by the Factora channel, where I got all my information.

It is now time for a tasty but simple recipe that you can use in the spirit of Easter!

How to Make Easter Nests: This recipe was found on the British BBC Good Food Website.

Ingredients: Mini chocolate eggs (around three for each Easter nest), 200 grams

of chocolate broken into pieces, and 85 grams of either cornflakes or rice bubbles.

Method:

1. Melt the chocolate in a small bowl placed over a pan of barely simmering water. Pour the chocolate over the cornflakes/rice bubbles and stir well.

2. Divide the mixture evenly into cupcake cases and place three mini eggs on top of each one. Enjoy!

Easter is coming on the 31st of March this month, leaving many kids waiting in anticipation for chocolatey goodies. However, you’re going to have to wait a little longer before you whip out your golden tickets because we’ve still got more than a week to go - sit tight!

Maryborough

Alisha Sorensen - Local Butchulla Artist

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Assaults continue to rise

THE Australian Bureau of Statistics says that assault cases in Australia’s criminal courts rose by 16 per cent in the 2022–23 financial year, the highest in over 10 years, according to data released recently.

Samantha McNally, ABS head of crime and justice statistics said: “There were 74,526 defendants whose most serious offence was assault, which accounted for 14 per cent of all completed court cases across the country.”

“Of the assault defendants who received a judgement, 91 per cent (54,069) had a guilty outcome.

The courts imposed custody in a correctional institution for one in five of these defendants, and a good behaviour order on a further one in five.”

Over half a million (533,971) defendants had a criminal court case completed during 2022–23, an increase of 9 per cent from the previous year.

This increase was in part due to clearing of

Fraser Coast Mates is a group of volunteers who promote good mental health, increase awareness of mental health issues, support anti-suicide programs, and fund emergency counselling right here in Maryborough.

If you or anyone you know needs to talk to someone, direct them to frasercoastmates. com.au for information on how to cope, or a referral for FREE face to face counselling.

Let’s talk...and remember to look out for your mates.

Proudly supported by

MARYBOROUGH

COVID-19 backlog cases. Traffic and vehicle offences continued to account for just over a third (35 per cent) of all defendants across Australian courts.

More information, including state and territory data, can be found in Criminal Courts Australia, 2022–23, available as a free download from the ABS website.

What defines ‘assault’?

In Queensland, a common assault charge carries a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment and is dealt with in the Magistrates Court (or Children’s Court where the accused is under 18).

Assault occasioning bodily harm occurs where the person assaulted has sustained more serious injuries; that is, the offender has caused them actual bodily harm.

Bodily harm is defined in the Criminal Code as any bodily injury that interferes with health or comfort.

This offence carries a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment and is dealt with in either the Magistrates Court or the District Court.

A charge of serious assault in Queensland can occur when a person:

- assaults someone with the intention to also commit another crime resists their arrest or detention, or that of someone else, by police assaults, resists, or wilfully obstructs a police officer

- assaults a person while they are performing a legal duty

- assaults a person in order to commit an unlawful conspiracy - assaults someone who is aged 60 or older, or assaults a person who is disabled or who relies on a remedial device or guide or assistance dog.

The maximum penalty for serious assault in Queensland is seven years imprisonment.

However, this penalty may be raised to 14 years imprisonment if the offender bites or spits at a police officer, or in any way applies bodily fluid or faeces to a police officer.

Men’s Walk & Talk

Every Thursday 5.15pm

Women’s Walk & Talk

Every Tuesday 5pm

Ululah Lagoon, Cheapside St Next to the netball courts - look for the flag

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. Walk 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

MASTECTOMY FITTERS

Anne’s Lingerie

Fraser Coast’s longest established professional mastectomy fitters and suppliers of Amoena breast forms. Also remember you can claim your breast forms from Medicare with a rebate of $400 per prosthetic every two years. Come and see us as we really do care!

Ph 41234456

399 Kent St, Maryborough

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.

0411 281 148 Or email sales@marysun.com.au

Sporty highlights to Outlander

FOLLOWING a successful launch of the 24MY Mitsubishi Outlander and Outlander Plug-In Hybrid EV ranges, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) now offers a new headline act: The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GSR.

“The GSR nameplate has long been significant for Mitsubishi Motors, both in Australia and abroad,” said MMAL CEO, Shaun Westcott.

“GSR means sportiness, style and sophistication for Mitsubishi, and the latest addition to the Outlander range certainly meets these criteria,” he said.

Priced from $73,790 plus on-road costs, the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GSR will be available in showrooms from March.

Since its 2021 launch, the current-generation Mitsubishi Outlander’s design has stood out within the Medium SUV segment.

With the new Outlander

PHEV GSR, this distinctive style is further enhanced with a contrasting dark exterior theme.

Featuring black finishes to the front and rear bumper skid plates, grille mouldings, door mirrors, belt lines, roof rails, fog lamp bezels and Dynamic Shield, the unique appearance is further enhanced with black 20-inch alloy wheels and ‘Outlander’ bonnet lettering. A unique GSR tailgate badge completes the look.

Moving inside, the contrasting theme continues with highquality silver stitching deployed throughout the cabin. This stitching is applied to the instrument panel trim, door trims and seats, complementing the black hood liner, A-pillar trims, seats and door trims. The shift lever panel features a laseretched black finish with piano black side panel.

All Mitsubishi Outlander models benefit from a range of passive and active safety features, including airbags to the front and

side for both the driver and front passenger, curtain airbags and a driver’s knee airbag.

Under the MiTEC banner, a range of active safety and support features are available within the Outlander range, including:

Active Stability Control

Active Traction Control

Anti-lock Braking System

Brake Override System

Blind Spot Warning

Electronic Brakeforce

Distribution

Emergency Brake Assist

Emergency Stop Signal

Forward Collision

Mitigation system

Hill Descent Control

Hill Start Assist

Lane Change Assist

Speed Limiter

Trailer Stability Assist

Mitsubishi’s MI-PILOT driving assistant made its debut on the 23MY Outlander EXCEED and EXCEED TOURER variants. The 24MY Outlander GSR PHEV also gains this feature.

MI-PILOT brings additional functionality to the vehicle’s Adaptive Cruise Control system.

The Lane Keep Assist system introduces steering control assistance, which can help to retain the vehicle within its lane while driving.

Lane Keep Assist can be activated when travelling over 60km/h or when a vehicle is detected in front travelling under 60km/h.

MI-PILOT also includes Traffic Jam Assist, which expands the Adaptive Cruise Control’s functionality to allow

its re-engagement after coming to a complete stop.

MI-PILOT also features Speed Limit Assistance using Traffic Sign Recognition. This prompts automatic adjustment to changing speed zones with one touch, when Adaptive Cruise Control is engaged.

To ensure safe operation, the steering wheel now features touch sensors to allow MI-PILOT engagement. MI-PILOT will disengage when

the driver’s grip is not detected; when turn signals are engaged, or when windscreen wipers are continuously operated in their highest speed.

Market-leading Mitsubishi aftersales support, with 10/10 Diamond Advantage

All Mitsubishi Outlanders are covered by Mitsubishi’s market-leading 10/10 Diamond Advantage warranty and capped price servicing program.

Mercedes GLC hits the mark

THE latest generation of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC line-up offers a more enticing choice than ever: the familyfriendly appeal of the GLC 43 4MATIC SUV or the striking design of the GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé.

Both are underpinned by a new powerplant that is smaller and more efficient, yet also more powerful than the unit it replaces.

The enduring appeal of the popular GLC 43 line-up only widens with the arrival of the latest generation, featuring Formula 1-bred technology and a comprehensive array of standard equipment and features.

Whether customers opt for the practical SUV or the dramatic appeal of the Coupé, a suite of performancefocused features is standard including rear axle steering; AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution; and an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission with wet start-off clutch.

Both models roll on AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with Adaptive Damping.

“The Mercedes-AMG GLC range is an absolute success with our customers,” says Michael Schiebe, CEO of MercedesAMG GmbH. “The allwheel-drive system, the active rear-axle steering, and the quick-shifting transmission enhance the emotionally appealing hallmark AMG driving experience.”

An electric exhaust gas turbocharger system that was originally developed for Formula 1™ racing cars is teamed with a highly efficient 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine to generate exciting levels of performance; yet also enabling the latest GLC 43 duo to achieve exemplary efficiency.

In keeping with timehonoured Mercedes-AMG tradition, the power unit was developed entirely at the company’s Affalterbach site and installed there in accordance with the “One Man, One Engine” principle.

This longitudinallymounted unit is the only production engine in the world to date that is turbocharged with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger, a system directly derived from technology used by the world championshipwinning Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.

This is achieved via an electric motor around four centimetres thin, which is powered by a 48-volt on-board electrical system. Integrated directly on the turbocharger shaft, this electronically controlled motor operates at speeds of up to 175,000 rpm, directly driving the shaft to significantly improve responsiveness directly from idle speed and across the entire rev range.

This electrification of the turbocharger also allows higher torque at low revs, further increasing agility and optimising acceleration from a standstill.

The result is a rated output on either GLC 43 model of 310 kW at 6750 rpm and maximum torque

of 500 Nm available at 5000 rpm, producing rapid acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 4.8 seconds.

The system can also briefly provide an additional boost of 10 kW by the belt-driven starter generator (BSG) which acts as a mild hybrid, also providing functions such as gliding and recuperation for maximum efficiency.

The innovative 48-volt technology also increases comfort, as the transitions between the start/stop

function and the gliding mode function are almost imperceptible.

Getting power to the road optimally is the job of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission, in which a wet startoff clutch replaces the torque converter. This reduces weight and optimises response to accelerator pedal input, especially during spurts and load changes. The ECO start/stop function is automatically activated in the Comfort drive

program, while a fueloptimising Glide function can be activated in Individual mode.

The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system features a permanent front-rear power distribution of 31 to 69 per cent.

The rear-biased configuration provides for enhanced dynamic handling, including higher lateral acceleration and improved traction when accelerating.

2015

Large

1. The proposed facility consists of removing the existing 6 x Telstra omni antennas and TMA’s (tower mounted amplifiers) and installing 6 x Telstra panel antennas on the existing structure at 22m, 6 x TMA’s behind the proposed panel antennas, 3 x Telstra Air antennas on the existing structure at 22.9m, 3 x Telstra radio 4466 and 3 x interface junction boxes behind proposed Air antennas, proposed modifications to existing headframe, internal modifications to existing equipment shelter and associated ancillary equipment including GPS antenna, cabling, electrical equipment, safety signage and other associated equipment.

2. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 ("The Determination") based on the description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Liz Mansell, 0418698701,

by 8 April 2024.

We

Maryborough

Maryborough Pensioners Association Inc Free

Market

– 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 and their partners –

All welcome

Maryborough Services

Memorial Bowls Club

TOMBOLA

Sunday 5th May 2024

Services Bowls Club

220 Lennox Street, 1:00pm start

Free Afternoon Tea –Raffles & Lucky Door Prizes

SPORT

Maryborough Roller Derby skating into action for an exciting season

GLEN PORTEOUS

ROLLER DERBY:

Maryborough Roller Derby skaters were tearing around the rink recently to get another exciting season rolling and to promote their thrilling sport.

It is one of the fastest growing sports in both speed and popularity on the Fraser Coast and always on the look out for more skaters.

Rachyl Allen was rolling around showing her skill and experience during a coaching session at Aldridge State High School and encouraged any potential new skaters.

“It’s good fun and fitness and a social activity to make friends. New skaters should come and have a go,” Rachyl said.

“If you’re having a bad day, you can always get your skates on and go out for a roll.”

Roller Derby is also a fun family activity with Rachyl’s mum Amanda coaching and dad Ian, who is club secretary and a keen supporter from the sideline.

The aim of the sport is to score points with five

players per side on track and played for maximum of two minutes for each jam and depending on tournament, half hour halves.

Skaters are required to wear protective gear and the club can lend equipment to help new skaters.

Club president Carolyn Beetham said the numbers looked good for this season, however there is still room for new skaters.

“We have junior and senior skaters and we have just had our first come and try training session,” Beetham said.

“We coach the skaters the skills required, such as how to fall properly and be able to give and take a hit. It can be a physical sport but it has rules.”

Beetham said there are different levels of training for juniors before going into competition.

“It’s not too late to start Derby and I began at 40. It’s all inclusive and great for fitness.”

For any more information contact Maryborough Roller Derby on maryboroughrollerderby@ hotmail.com or Facebook.

This fast growing sport is attracting Fraser Coast skaters

Fraser Coasters Wheelchair Basketball program show pathway to success

GLEN PORTEOUS WHEELCHAIR

BASKETBALL: Fraser Coaster Wheelchair Basketballer Gorja

Ebert’s selection for state representation is a just reward for several years of hard work and dedicated training.

Ebert was recently been given the nod by state selectors to represent Queensland at the Junior National Wheelchair Basketball Championships Kevin Coombs Cup hosted at Brisbane in April.

“I’m excited about selection and ready to learn at lot of new skills.

“I have been training hard for two years and practicing a lot,” Ebert said.

Ebert has refused to allow a rare muscular disorder Nemaline Myopathy to restrict her desire for sporting involvement and saw her state selection as a reward for the effort she has put in.

Also attending the national championships will be Jack Bottcher to referee games.

Bottcher will be heading down with previous state championships experience and knows he will have to step up for nationals.

“The nationals will be a higher standard level with

faster and more skillful games.

“Really excited about going to the nationals because its next level refereeing,” Bottcher said.

“It will be a great experience for me and to be learn and work with other referees.”

Fraser Coasters representative coach, Michael Oxley said the recent selections was a reflection of the hard work put in by Ebert and Bottcher and Pathways Programs.

“It’s quite a good program we have here and one of the largest in regional Queensland and they are

dedicated to becoming the best they can be and it shows with their selections.” Oxley said.

“The great thing about wheelchair basketball is that someone with a disability can play a team sport and be able to have that fun engagement,” he said.

Oxley who has previous coaching experience with Queensland and Australian teams, has another goal in his coaching sights.

“We are already looking at the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane and how to work on getting selection for it,” he said.

Poor weather can be advantage

THE TEAM from FREEDOM FISHING SUPPLIES

Well yet again the weather has not the best for us fisho’s, fingers crossed for some clear days ahead.

Just remember the fish are still out there feeding, and

it’s only going to improve.

Let’s have a look at this fortnight’s fishing report.

OK, obviously with all the freshwater runoff, our freshwater species have been a popular target.

Flicking soft plastic shad tails, frogs and cicadas for bass has been the go around Lenthalls Dam, Tinana and Teddington.

Barra are also being taken at Lenthalls on Gold

THIS WEEK'S BRAG BOARD

Bombers and similar hard body lures.

The Burrum is another hot spot with barra, jack and grunter all on the chew.

Plenty of black and silver bream; they love this stirred up water, lots of turn and food available.

You’ll find the fish will be more aggressive and have more confidence feeding on overcast days.

The Mary River is still

running a bit fresh however threadfin salmon, grunter, silver bream, and flathead landed between Beaver Rock and River Heads including the Susan River.

The snags along the banks are holding some beautiful black bream around the kilo mark.

The estuary system throughout the Sandy Strait continues to impress with good quality grunter, estuary cod and flathead

all landed in numbers and ledges such as Kinbackers.

Fig Tree and Tinnanbar have produced a mixed bag of reef fish including a few legal scarlet’s and grassy sweetlip.

A few good muddies have been potted in the mouths of the creeks and in the deeper parts of the channels.

Some have even been lucky enough to pick up a

few when they have been wading on the sand flats.

The inshore reefs such as Sammie’s, Mickeys and the Artificial have also been producing a mixed bag of reef fish.

First up is father and daughter team Dan and Jasmine who had a great trip landing this cod and mangrove jack. Next up is Damon with his first reef fish. This coral trout was released to grow bigger. Last up is Jorja and Annelise who had a great girls’ trip in the Strait both landing juvenile nannygai. It’s great to see how healthy our reefs in the Strait are. Both fish were released to fight another day.

Bowls Results

Mens

DOON VILLA

Sunday Morning Rollers : Winners - K.Gitsham, B.Richardson, C.Williams d P.Stephensen, K.Andersen, B.Stimpson 28-16. Runners upR.Window, S.Patch, A.Scholl d G.Kemp, J.Kemp, J.Devenish 23-15. D.Anderson, G.Gambie, K.Paxton d R.Andersen, K.Pieper, G.Birch 20-15.

P.Weinheimer, N.Weinheimer, B.Spilsbury d K.Greenhalgh, S.Bartley, T.Buckley 19-17.

Meat Tray Triples: Winners - K.Turnbull, P.Whittaker 2w + 10. Runners upJ.McCoombe, G.Gambie, N.Gambie 1w 1L 12. S.hyde, T.Gill, K.Johnson 1L 1w 11. W.Raguse, K.Andersen, C.White 2w + 4. I.Axelsen, R.Whittaker 1L 1w 10. N.Weinheimer, R.Dillon 1w 1L. G.Kuhn,S.Patch, A.Scholl 1w 1L. G,Kemp, K.Pieper, T.Buckley 2 L. R.Andersen, J.Chitlton, B.Spilsbury 2L. P.Newman, K.Paxton 2L.

Jackpot Pairs : Winners - G.Kemp, T.Buckley d C.White, R.Whittaker 2114. Runners up - G.Kuhn, K.Paxton d N.Weinheimer, R.Dillon 24-23.

S.Hyde, J.Devenish d S.Patch, A,Scholl 25-17. J.Fraser, K.Andersen d J.Chilton 25-19.R.Andersen, I.Axelsen, J.Demarco d J.McCoombe, G.Gambie, B.Stimpson 30-16. - C White, scribe

Friday 8th March V.I.P.

Day M. Pieper, T. Buckley, M. Allan, L. Johnson def S. Williams S. Bednall, R. Nickel, J. Brooks 26-17

L. Durrie, E. Osborne L. Einam. D. Chapman def R. Andersen, L. James, M. Wood, S. Jensen 19-11

G. Kemp, B. James, B. George, K. Turnbull def B. Rynne, T. Fleming, D. Small, M. Wight 23-6

Mbo def K. Wells, D. Campbell, B. Richardson, J. Hansen 23-10

K. Andersen, T. Green, M. Andrews, V. Lingard 23-12

Winning Home Team L. Johnson

Winning Away Team M. Wight - L. Hannaford, scribe

MARYBOROUGH

Ladies

Wed 28/2 - Consistency Singles L Gundry def C Murdoch 135-115

L Handley won on forfeit H Nation

Wed 28/2 - Social V Jones, J Nolan, P Howard def N Andreasen, E Wakelin, M McDonald/PMatsen 16-14 S Natoli, A Blazely, L Handley def L Parsons ,N McDonald, M Donohue 19-15

Fri 1/3 - Consistency Singles M Scott def L Handley 130-108

Fri 1/3 - Social A Blazely, P Howard def S Natoli, P Matsen 14-9

E Wakelin, M McDonald, B Cochrane def V Jones, J Nolan, E Osborne 20-5

Fri 1/3 - Consistency Singles

M Scott def L Handley 130-108

Fri 8/3 - Championship Pairs

C Murdoch, L Gundry def J Nolan 27-7

Fri 8/3 - Consistency

Singles N McDonald def L Frivaldo 130-114

Fri 8/3 - Social M McDonald, B Wakelin, M McDonald def V Jones, P Matsen, N Andreasen 19-12

Wed 13/3 - Social M McDonald, N Andreasen, P Matsen def V Jones, L Frivaldo, T Jackson 19-11

A Blazely, P Howard def B Wakelin, B Cochrane 18-13

Mens

Thur 7/2 - Mens Jackpot Pairs

K Campbell, B Dean def C Clark, P Bendall 26-15

T Lindeberg, C Roberts def C Lean, W Burton 20-20

B Henningsen, G Walker def T Pike, T Dillon 22-10

M Walker, T Alwright def C Hutchinson, D Blazely 23-13 P Davis, L Genrich def G Hewson, A Dennison 18-14

M McDonald, N Nitz def T Jackson, P Clarke 30-10

D Bretherton, L Hamilton def P Nolan, C English 25-15

K Milzewski, J Cruice def S Jones, N Gundry 30-12

A Blackwell, A Simpson def A Aiello, R Wilson 27-12

L Wood, J Dawson def R Watts, P Frawley 20-19

Winners - M McDonald, N Nitz Runners Up -K Milzewski, J Cruice Losing Rink - T Jackson, P Clarke. Jackpot did not go off

Our fishos who were lucky enough to find a break in the winds and head out wide were not disappointed with anglers landing quality grassy sweetlip, venus tusk fish, scarlett’s, hussar and a few reef jacks. Sun

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MARYBOROUGH