Cr Paul Truscott said the updated concept was shaped by community feedback and reflected what locals wanted to see in the CBD.
The proposal features open green space, shaded space, seating and potential sites for public art.
The future of the prime slice of CBD real estate, at the corner of Kent and Lennox Streets, has been widely debated since the asbestos-ridden building was demolished in 2020.
“The community made it clear they wanted more greenery, less hard surfaces, and a space that feels more like a park than a plaza – and that’s exactly what this updated plan delivers,” he said.
“By increasing the soft landscaping and incorporating features like sandstone seating, shaded areas, accessible
pathways, projection walls and public art, this park will support everything from everyday relaxation to cultural events and community gatherings.”
Cr Truscott said the council would engage local groups to explore potential communityfunded art installations and street furniture as part of the final design.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with passionate CONTINUED ON PAGE TWO
A VISION for the future of the former Maryborough council building site has been endorsed by Fraser Coast Regional Council.
Maryborough identities and community groups to deliver something iconic,” he said.
“Much like the Mary Poppins statue and the Duncan Chapman memorial, we’re hoping this space can include a landmark installation that is community-led and deeply connected to our city’s identity.”
The council will now list the landscaping works for future budget consideration and continue exploring external funding opportunities to help bring the vision to life.
IMAGES: (Front page)
Preliminary plans of the new green space in Kent Street and (right) view of the current park and Baby Clinic. (FCRC)
Gaol bust nets drugs, weapons
TWO people have been arrested after a haul of drugs, weapons and other illegal items was found in a vehicle at the Maryborough Correctional Centre.
Queensland Corrective Services intelligence and dog squad officers searched the vehicle in the visitor car park and found two homemade firearms, a machete and axe, large quantities of cash, multiple licence plates, illicit substances, prescription medication and other drug paraphernalia.
Police subsequently arrested a 24-year-old man and 20-year-old woman and charged them with offences including unlawful possessing a weapon, receiving tainted property, possessing dangerous drugs,
unlawfully possessing suspected stolen property, possessing a knife in public, possessing explosives and possessing property suspected of having been used in a drug offence.
Both were ordered to face Maryborough Magistrates Court this month.
Maryborough Correctional Centre general manager John Owens praised the correctional services and police officers involved.
“On behalf of the wider community, we are very grateful for the commitment and expertise of our intelligence officers to raise the alert and, alongside our highly skilled QCS dog squad unit, to professionally manage this incident and work with our QPS
colleagues to bring it to a successful outcome,” Mr Owens said.
“The QCS Intel teams are the unseen eyes and ears of our centres, but they are also committed to following the intelligence to make the communities where we live and work safer for all Queenslanders,” he said.
“Contraband has no place anywhere near our facilities, including in our car parks, and we are glad to have helped QPS
get these items off the streets.”
Wide Bay Criminal Investigation Branch
Senior Sergeant Steve Watts said the arrests were a clear signal to the public.
“This arrest should send a strong message to those in the community who are considering criminal activities in the vicinity of correctional facilities, that they will be discovered and held to account,” Snr Sgt Watts said.
Military Museum gets a facelift
“It
Museum Chairman Greig Bolderrow says that he
“The lighting and displays in this historic room are impressive.” he said.
“We have done justice to the exhibit, and visitors will certainly be impressed.
The renovations include new displays, an elevator to the first floor, and extensive upgrades to lighting and the buildings.
The museum is open Monday-Friday 9.30am - 3.30pm and Saturday and Sunday 9.30am - 2.00pm.
There are over 10,000 individual pieces in the collection, regarded as one of the best in Australia.
Historic Australian music contest given new life
DO YOU remember Hoadley’s Battle of the Sounds?
Maybe you were even part of it? If so, Newcastle radio host Jack Hodgins wants to hear from you.
Mr. Hodgins is writing a book that documents the iconic Hoadley’s contest.
This was Australia’s biggest music competition from the1960s till the early ’70s and even featured local rockers
from Maryborough.
Hoadley’s Chocolates, founded in 1913 and known for inventing the Violet Crumble, ran the national Battle of the Sounds from 1966 to 1972.
At its peak, the contest held sixty heats across the country where young bands would compete for a chance to win a place in a state country final, and ultimately the national grand final.
“It gave bands a chance to play, in many cases, to the biggest crowds they would ever play,” says Hodgins, “and all they would have to do is send in a coupon to their local radio station and then they could play their local area’s heat.”
The Maryborough heats were facilitated by radio station 4MB and were won by groups such as Revolution (1969) and Substitute(1970).
But it was not just
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locally known groups that played the contest; Aussie music icons such as The Twilights and Sherbet would go on to win the competition, which brought with it a considerable cash prize and a return trip to England.
Hodgins first discovered the contest while working on his radio show Vinyl Vibes.
“I was interviewing a lot of Newcastle musicians from the ’60s and ’70s, and they kept bringing up Hoadley’s,” he says.
His initial research led him to Facebook groups focused on Newcastle’s music scene, where someone eventually sent him a PDF of a1995 document that attempted to document the contest.
“It’s the only resource out there, but it has a lot of gaps,” Hodgins added.
Determined to preserve this part of Australian music history, Hodgins began tracking down any
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details he could find.
So far, his research has uncovered some unexpected gems.
“I was sent surviving audio of the 1966 Lismore heat,” says Hodgins.
“In an article, I read that Jeff Fatt - later of The Wiggles - was in a band called The Brass Nobbs who played that heat.
I was shocked when I realised I had audio of their performance.”
This snippet of audio is a minute-long and is a cover of the Peter Gunn theme.
“It’s just one example of the exciting things my
research is turning up,” he adds.
“A big focus of my research is who played which heat and the songs performed,” says Hodgins.
“Not all of this information was written down, so in some cases the only sources are those who were there.” Mr. Hodgins is aiming for a June 2026 release for the book and is still seeking any information he can find about the battles.
If you have any information about the Maryborough battles or the contest in general, you can contact him at jackhodgins67@gmail.com
COURTESY BUS
Jack at the 2NURFM radio studio. (Supplied)
LOGGING ‘SYMBOLS’
I wish to comment and correct the illinformed and incorrect statements made by conservation activists in The Sun on 26 May 2025 under your news piece “Conservationists claim to have found logging symbols”.
Ms Raveneau states she has seen trees marked for future logging but does she actually understand what the markings mean?
Does it indicate a habitat tree which is protected for the purpose of housing for the greater glider or other species that find their homes in the habitat trees?
A habitat tree is of no commercial value and would not be harvested under any circumstance.
It also states in the article that trees are harvested before maturing so they cannot form hollows that the greater gliders rely on.
LETTERS
Other trees are then marked for poles, logs or girder harvesting.
Ms Raveneau makes another statement either out of ignorance or purely scaremongering that you cannot harvest the forest without damaging the feed trees and dens of the greater glider.
She is obviously unaware of modern harvesting practices where you fell and place a tree so as to do as little damage to the existing forest and avoiding any habitat or habitat recruitment trees.
Then why have the Wide Bay Burnett Environment Council Co-ordinator Jennifer Waithman stating she would love to see these areas permanently protected.
By this statement I assume she wants the forests locked up with no harvesting to happen.
This is yet another illinformed and untruthful statement, the truth being that along with marked hollow habitat trees, many good commercial trees are marked as future recruitment habitat trees that cannot be harvested.
This would be the
worst-case scenario as there is ample evidence that well managed forests with sustainable harvesting practices have far more benefits for the environment than forests that are locked up.
It is also not as some activists would lead you to believe, that the timber industry take everything standing, this is totally untrue.
In fact, selective tree harvesting is practiced in order to maintain a permanent forest noting that on average there is approximately only 10-15 stems removed per hectare.
This may vary slightly depending on the density of the forest being harvested.
In addition, given that only individual trees are selected for harvest, the forest is allowed to remain healthy and continually regrow where it is 15-20 years and sometimes longer before an area is harvested again.
She also makes the
statement the native forests in our region are magical.
Does she know that these forests have been harvested for over one hundred years?
This in itself destroys their ridiculous argument that selective logging is unsustainable and is nothing more than another ill informed statement made by these activists.
Then we have Nicky Moffat from the Queensland Conservation Council making statements regarding an agreement between the State Government, the timber industry and conservation sectors to end native forestry harvesting at the end of 2024.
What she doesn’t tell you is that the agreement was based on promoting private native forestry as well as the government having plantations available as another source of wood supply for industry.
At the end of 2024 there was not one plantation
available for harvest and in fact most of the plantations, if not all of them had been bulldozed and the whole process was a failure.
There was also no work done to promote additional native timber from private forests.
Nicky is fully aware of this but why tell the whole story if it interferes with your activist agenda.
If these activists think that by locking up native forest they will protect greater gliders, koalas and other species that live in the forest then they live in a dreamworld.
By locking up the forests, it will create an environmental time bomb in the future.
What happens say, in ten years’ time with no active forest management and massive regrowth, a build-up of fuel with no controlled burning or selective harvesting for healthy forests and we get a dry season?
What happens when we don’t have access to roads
and fuel breaks to fight fires that come with a timber industry?
Left unmanaged we know that hotter and more intense fires will occur in these forests or parks, either lit by humans or nature.
These activists won’t have to worry about greater gliders, koalas or anything else as there won’t be much left.
This is not a matter of if we have fire, it is when
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Another year of Marvellous.
Secondary
School Teacher of the Year
Mrs Bryan
- Curly Tatnell, Managing Director, DTM Timber.
Fraser Coast Miss Junior Showgirl 2025 crowned
THE Fraser Coast Show Society has crowned Scarlett White as Miss Junior Showgirl 2025, recognising her as a future leader and passionate ambassador for the region.
Scarlett impressed judges during the Show Ball earlier this month, where entrants were interviewed on topics including community involvement, leadership, and their connection to regional Queensland.
Scarlett spoke confidently about her goals in agriculture and education, as well as her strong ties to Maryborough through family and volunteer service.
Scarlett summarised her winning response for us,
“When the judges asked, what I would like to do after school I told them about how I am currently studying a Teacher’s aide Cert and plan to study in the Agriculture Cert next year, my dream for
beyond school is to live in rural Australia for at least a year at a cattle station so I can expand my knowledge through agriculture studies and use my teaching Cert to go on as an Ag teacher” .
With a keen interest in rural life, Scarlett is planning to begin the Certificate in Agriculture, a new hands-on learning opportunity offered to students of St Mary’s College.
The program supports students to explore the diverse and evolving agricultural industryskills Scarlett is already putting into action through her involvement with the local agriculture show circuit.
As part of her new title, Scarlett attended official engagements across the Fraser Coast Show including volunteering in the Show Horse Ring as a steward assisting the judges.
She will also meet other community leaders and represent the Junior Showgirl program during the three-day event.
Scarlett’s enthusiasm, dedication, and community spirit have made her a worthy
Her journey serves as an inspiration to other young people looking to get involved in regional events, leadership opportunities, and agricultural pursuits.
Arts funding continues
ART, culture and community storytelling will take centre stage on the Fraser Coast again in 2025/26, as Council continues its investment in the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) in partnership with the Queensland Government.
Deputy Mayor and RADF Advisory Committee Chair Cr Sara Diana Faraj said the program would deliver $120,000 in funding to support local creative development and cultural experiences across the region.
“This program empowers local artists and creatives with the resources to develop their skills, share their stories, and connect with the wider community
through arts and culture,” Cr Faraj said.
“From emerging artists attending workshops to large-scale creative projects that bring our community together, the RADF program makes a real difference to the cultural life of the Fraser Coast.”
The 2025/26 RADF program includes:
• $50,000 for the Community Funding Program, supporting creative development and community projects across three categories: Participate, Develop and Share.
• $70,000 for strategic Council-led initiatives, aligned with the Fraser Coast Arts and
Culture Strategy.
Minister for Education and the Arts JohnPaul Langbroek said the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) has an impressive track record of supporting local arts and cultural programs across Queensland communities.
“The Crisafulli Government’s multi-year
Safety improvements for Albert State School
MEMBER for Maryborough, John Barounis says that the Crisafulli Government is on a mission to make school drop offs and pickups safer announcing $2.3 million for 21 new projects at Queensland schools.
This includes $74,500 to deliver safety and operational improvements to Albert State School, through the School Transport Infrastructure Program.
“This is great news for our community family orientated school. Safety for our children is a priority and the upgrade will improve this.” he said.
This investment into school road safety complements other school-related road safety projects such as the Flashing School Zone Signs Program (FSZS), School Crossing Supervisors Scheme and Community Road Safety Grants.
RADF investment provides greater funding certainty for 59 regional councils, streamlined program management and red tape reduction, while boosting the state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene,” Minister Langbroek said.
For program guidelines, assessment criteria and application support, visit: www.ourfrasercoast.com. au/radf
An additional 100 sites will also be selected this year to have flashing school zone signs installed, which is a proven and cost-effective measure to remind motorists to slow down and be on the look out for children.
Unlike the previous Labor Government, who mismanaged road maintenance across
our State and wasted taxpayers’ money, we are focused on delivering improved road infrastructure for Queenslanders, particularly those in regional areas.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering for these school communities that were left wanting under Labor.
“Children are one of our most vulnerable road users and we will continue to work hard to support long-term solutions to school road safety issues across the State,” Mr Mickelberg said.
Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said these investments around our schools highlight how serious this government was about the safety of our school children, their families and crossing supervisors.
“From road upgrades to supervised school crossings, we want to do everything we can to help make our children as safe as possible when they are travelling to and from school,” Minister Langbroek said.
“Everyone has a responsibility to ensure the safety of our children in and around schools.”
To keep making Queensland safer, the new Queensland Government is expanding ‘adult crime adult time’ to include 33 serious offences. We’re putting more police on the ground and rapid response for crime hotspots. We’re also taking knives off the street with Jack’s Law and breaking the cycle of youth crime with early intervention programs like Regional Reset. To see how safety is being restored where you live, search Making Queensland Safer.
Authorised by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane.
MAKING QUEENSLAND SAFER
recipient of the Miss Junior Showgirl title.
Scarlett White has been crowned Miss Junior Showgirl 2025. (Supplied)
Developing family helps grow Maryborough housing
JAY FIELDING
A FAMILY that has helped shape the face of 21st-Century Maryborough has sold the last block of land at one of its developments.
And it has plans to do even more.
The Blyth family and its company, Belela Pty Ltd, developed Tinana Greens, Cheyne Gardens and Henderson Park estates in Tinana.
They also sold land to Shadforth Developments,
on which it created the RV Home Base.
Precinct Property executive director Terry Shields recently sold the final block in Henderson Park for the Blyths.
Mr Shields said the three developments represented most of the residential homes in Tinana.
“It is quite amazing really,” he said.
“No other developer comes close to this.”
Mr Shields said Belela
was now pressing ahead with two new developments, another in Tinana and one behind Maryborough Hospital.
Blocks should hit the market within 18 months at both.
High interest is expected in the hospital development in particular, Mr Shields said.
“They’ll be standard residential lots, and some smaller lots, so the focus there is on affordable homes,” he said.
Theatre seats bring dreams one step closer
AS Bundaberg’s Playhouse Theatre’s fundraising campaign to replace its seating comes to a close, the question of what to do with the current seats has had a theatrical resolution - they are “coming home” to the Embassy Theatre in Maryborough.
When Maryborough’s Embassy Theatre closed as a theatre in 1966, the committee of the Bundaberg Amateur Players (as the group was then known) bought most of the seating from Embassy theatre with the intention of installing them in their own theatre which they were in the process of designing.
Bundaberg Players’ current President Nigel Dick recalls stories of the time when his father Gordon (who had just become President of the Players at the time) was organising for a truck to make its way to Maryborough to load hundreds of seats which the group had acquired from a theatre that was closing down.
“This was quite a coup for the Players as they would
be able to use 180 of the seats in its new purposebuilt theatre which would open in 1968. It was not until 1976 when the current auditorium was opened, that all 254 seats were installed.
“The seats were re-covered in 2000 and have been sitting in place for the last 25 years. The committee is extremely excited with the impending installation of brand new seats in our theatre for the first time, but equally thrilled that the old seats begin a new chapter in their history”, Nigel said.
Simon and Csilla Gall, whose company bought the former Embassy Theatre last year, are excited to bring back part of the theatre’s history.
“We have purchased the theatre with the intention of restoring it and reopening it as a performance, live music and exhibition venue. Our company works in the cultural heritage space, including the management and preservation of built heritage and my wife and I are passionate
about re-establishing the Embassy as a venue at the heart of Maryborough’s cultural life that will provide opportunity and support for local artists and performers and help revitalise the town centre,” Simon said.
“When we purchased the theatre, one of the main original features that was missing was the theatre seats from the balcony, which were permanent, fixed seating.
“A key financial and physical obstacle to the restoration of the theatre was the lack of seating on the balcony and we had not been able to find a viable solution before discovery that a large number of the original seats had survived at the Playhouse and are now available for us to bring home to the Embassy”.
The story of how Simon found out the seats is fascinating.
“We have been researching the history of the Embassy and had come across information that the original balcony seats had
ended up at the Playhouse Theatre, however we had no idea whether they were still in use or existence.
On a Sunday evening a few weeks ago for no particular reason I had an urge to revisit the fate of the balcony seats and ended up on the Playhouse website.
“It was then that I saw that the theatre was planning upgrades and replacement of its seating. I recall waking my wife up at almost midnight when I saw that the seats were for sale in my excitement”.
“I then contacted the Bundaberg Players who let me know that the seats were indeed the original seats from the Embassy.
When President Nigel Dick told us that we would be able to purchase 225 of them we were beyond ecstatic.”
Simon is hoping that fate might have more good news in store.
“We are still trying to track down what happened to the wrought iron lobby gates and the large chandeliers that
were removed at some time in the past. We would also love to see any photos that people may have of the interior or exterior and we are also keen to purchase or receive donations of any memorabilia from the theatre that people may have.
“We are hopeful that we will be able to open the theatre within 2 years, however this depends on finances and the completion of other projects we are currently working on which include
the opening of a Jazz Club and Cocktail Lounge in the former Kings Cafe in Adelaide Street”.
Anyone with information can contact Simon Gall on sgall@convergehc.com.au.
Donations for the theatre upgrade, including all new seats and other major auditorium improvements can be made at: https://artists. australianculturalfund. org.au/s/project/ a2EMn00000FVkcD/newtheatre-seats-auditoriumupgrade
78th Annual Art Exhibition launches in Maryborough
A CELEBRATION of creativity and community returns to Gatakers Artspace this week with the launch of the Maryborough Regional Art Society’s 78th Annual Competitive Art Exhibition and Competition, featuring an impressive array of artworks from local and regional artists.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Arts spokesperson
Cr Sara Diana Faraj said the exhibition will showcase 221 artworks across seven categories, including landscapes, portraits, abstracts, and depictions of fauna.
“This year’s entries come from talented artists across the region, competing in categories with prize money ranging from $2500 to $250, and a total prize pool of more than $7,000,” said Cr Faraj.
“Residents can also have their say in the People’s Choice Award, with voting open until Sunday, July 27.
“The Fraser Coast is home to a rich and diverse arts community, and this annual exhibition
highlights just how many styles and stories are being shared through art right here in our backyard.”
Presented by the Maryborough Regional Art Society – first formed as the Maryborough Art Group in 1947 – the exhibition is a longstanding cultural tradition on the Fraser Coast.
Maryborough Regional Art Society President Jeanette Rogers said the committee is thrilled to have more than 200 artworks entered this year and thanked Fraser Coast Regional Council and the event sponsors for their continued support.
“This exhibition is a vital platform for local artists to share their talents and connect with the community, helping to celebrate and strengthen our region’s creative spirit,” she said.
Cr Faraj said Council was pleased to partner with this passionate group to showcase the depth of talent within our region and beyond, supporting the exhibition through a
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$2,000 cash sponsorship and in-kind assistance with hosting and installation.
“The Fraser Coast has a strong tradition in the visual and performing arts, and events like this continue to strengthen our reputation as a region that values and celebrates creativity,” she said.
The exhibition officially opens on Saturday 7 June, with the winners announced at the launch
event from 1pm to 4pm at Gatakers Artspace.
Guests can enjoy live music from the Maryborough Ukulele Strings and Others Group and refreshments from the licensed bar.
Entry is free, and the exhibition will remain on display until 27 July 2025 at Gatakers Artspace. For more details visit: https://gatakers. ourfrasercoast.com.au/ what-s-on
Burrum Bridge closure
A CENTURY-old Fraser Coast bridge connecting Howard and Torbanlea will be closed for five weeks while essential structural repairs are carried out.
Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Michelle Byrne said the Burrum River Bridge would be closed from 16 June to 21 July 2025, weather permitting, to allow for a $305,000 repair works to be delivered by RoadTek.
“The works will include replacing deck rail posts, repairing the bridge surface, and addressing cracks in the piers and
other bridge components,” she said.
“These works are vital to ensure the bridge remains serviceable for the community.
“We recognise this closure will cause inconvenience, particularly for residents in the Howard and Torbanlea areas, and we encourage everyone to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel during this period.”
A full bridge closure will be in place for the duration of the project, with traffic detoured via the Bruce Highway.
HOSPITAL EXPANSION FOR HERVEY BAY
All Queenslanders deserve access to health services when they need them. That’s why the new Queensland Government is delivering the Hospital Rescue Plan, the biggest investment in hospital infrastructure the state has ever seen.
The Queensland Government will deliver the Hervey Bay Hospital expansion, providing:
√ An expansion by 2026
√ 35 overnight beds
√ Services including an inpatient unit, and an ICU
√ An at-grade car park.
This is alongside 46,000 more health workers by 2032. To find out what the plan means for you search Hospital Rescue Plan.
Maryborough Choral Society joins Sister Act stage show
THE joy of Sister Act is coming to the Brolga Theatre with the Maryborough Choral Society taking centre stage alongside some of Australia’s best vocal talent.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the Brolga will host Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves on Wednesday 18 June, a dazzling musical celebration inspired by the Sister Act films.
“This performance is part of a major Queensland tour by Brisbane-based theatre company, The Little Red Company, and offers a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on Maryborough’s local talent,” he said.
“As part of the show’s community engagement program, members of the Maryborough Choral Society have spent weeks rehearsing to join the professional cast on stage, adding a powerful local voice to this uplifting production.
“We’re incredibly proud of the Maryborough Choral Society and the energy they’re bringing to this performance.
“Seeing our local singers perform alongside nationally renowned artists will be a real highlight for the community.”
Created by acclaimed Queensland
theatre-makers Naomi Price and Adam Brunes, Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves is packed with soulful gospel, R&B grooves and iconic musical moments including Joyful Joyful, Oh Happy Day, and I Will Follow Him.
Cr Seymour said the tour reunites powerhouse performers Angela Fabian, Irena Lysiuk and Alisha Todd, and welcomes new cast member Rebecca Selley, fresh from the Australian tour of TINA: The Tina Turner Musical.
Director Naomi Price said the show honours the films’ groundbreaking celebration of diversity and inclusion while breathing new life into the hit soundtracks.
“Little Red has a long and happy history of working with regional artists and we’re so excited to be partnering with choirs like Maryborough Choral Society as part of this tour,” she said.
This project is supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund, a partnership between the Queensland Government and Fraser Coast Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
Tickets are on sale now via the Brolga Theatre: https://brolga. ourfrasercoast.com.au/
K’Gari Muse by Jo Williams gets placed into position. (FCRC)
New charging stations at Brolga Theatre
SIX new electric vehicle (EV) stations have been installed in the Brolga Theatre car park, boosting convenience for EV drivers and helping position the Fraser Coast as a future-ready destination.
Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Paul Truscott said the installation includes four fast charging bays and two level two charging bays, delivered by NRMA, had been a year in the making.
“Drive tourism is a key market for the Fraser Coast, and having fast charging available encourages travellers to make a short stop to recharge or even stay longer, take in a show at the Brolga or and wander around the sites of Maryborough,” said Cr Truscott.
Cr Truscott said the fastcharging stations take about thirty minutes to fully charge a car and would typically cost $20, making it easier for EV owners to plan their journeys through the region.
“Electric vehicles are becoming more popular every year, with nearly 10 per cent of new car sales in Queensland now electric. By 2035, there could be as many as 1.6 million EVs on Queensland roads,” he said.
“The six charging bays were delivered by NRMA Electric Highways Pty Ltd, who were awarded the tender in May 2024 and will lease the site for the next 10 years.”
The chargers are located in the Brolga Theatre car park with direct access off Lennox Street and are now operational.
‘It’s a Kinda Magic’ celebrates 50 years of Bohemian Rhapsody!
FRESH from a successful Canadian tour, international hit show
Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic is returning to Australia to celebrate 50 years of Bohemian Rhapsody with a 34-stop tour across the country.
This year marks 50 years since Queen released their ‘magnum opus’ Bohemian Rhapsody.
Now widely acknowledged as the band’s magnum opus – indeed one of the greatest songs ever recorded - Bohemian Rhapsody actually received mixed reviews when it was first released in 1975 because it was so highly unusual, with its mix of balladry, rock and operatic sections, a confronting theme and experimental production.
Among its many credits, the historic song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004 and in 2018 it was announced as the most streamed song of the 20th century, surpassing Nirvana’s Smells Like Teen Spirit and Guns N’ Roses’ Sweet Child o’ Mine.
Warren Vernon-Driscoll, lead singer and performer of Queen: It’s a Kinda
Magic considers himself “incredibly honoured” to have the opportunity to perform such a lauded song night after night and has put countless hours of rehearsals and study into his performance in which he plays piano and sings Freddie Mercury’s vocal part - in its original key no less - all live on stage.
“It’s one of the biggest and most iconic songs ever written. As a singer and musician, this is the kind of music most people only dream about performing, and I get to do it all over the world, it’s truly a dream” says VernonDriscoll, a classicallytrained musician who cut his musical teeth at the prestigious Drakensberg Boys Choir School in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa where he grew up.
Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic promises the full rock concert experience.
It’s a Kinda Magic, Brolga Theatre June 14.
Tickets are now available for all shows and group discounts are available.
For more details visit brolga.ourfrasercoast.com. au
WIN A DOUBLE PASS
Win a double pass to this Saturday’s concert experience just by telling us which is your favourite Queen song.
Enter by email to admin@marysun.com.au (sorry no time for mail entries this time) telling us your favourite song, name and email address by 5pm Thursday 12th June to be in the running.
Winners will be notified Friday 13th June by email and published on Facebook.
Tuscan Treats
Join a small group tour to experience Tuscany with all your senses, from medieval towns and dramatic coastlines to olive groves and delicious cuisine at every sunlit turn.
Uncover
• Douro Valley • Braga • Porto Valid for travel Select dates 18 March - 07 November 2026 10 days from $5,399*pp
Norway: Fjords & Glaciers
The Norway you’ve been dreaming of is calling, where waterfalls cascade down towering cliffs, a world-famous railway winds through valleys and glaciers echo with stories.
Highlights Oslo • Ulvik • Sogndal • Stryn • Leikanger • Bergen Valid for travel Select dates 10 May - 20 September 2026 8 days from $5,859*pp
Furry friends for your home
From the MARYBOROUGH
ANIMAL REFUGE
ROSIE
Age: 5.5 years old
Gender: Female
Breed: Domestic Short
Hair
Colour: Tabby and White
Meet Rosie, the sweet and affectionate cat who’s ready to win over your heart!
With her adorable charm and friendly disposition, she’s truly a cat lover’s
dream. While she may be a bit shy when you first meet, it won’t take long for her true personality to shine once she feels comfortable in her surroundings.
Rosie absolutely adores pats and will soak up any affection you have to offer. She will show her appreciation by sweetly rubbing against your hand.
One of her favourite indulgences is a bowl of
Bambi has recently been adopted!
delicious wet food, and she’ll become your best friend as she eagerly dines alongside you.
Though she has a soft spot for interaction, Rosie also cherishes her quiet time and enjoys retreating to her favourite hiding hole for a bit of solitude.
She loves her gentle, cozy moments, making her a wonderful companion for both lazy afternoons and chill out sessions. Ideal for a patient and loving
home, Rosie is ready to find herself a new family who will appreciate all the sweetness she brings into their lives.
Due to the fact Rosie has a minor heart murmur, her adoption fee has been reduced.
The following vet work has been completed.
- Desexed
- Current F3 Vaccination
- Flea’d
- Wormed
- Microchipped
LILY
Age: 6 years old
Gender: Female
Breed: Domestic Short
Hair
Colour: Grey Tortie
Meet Lily, a cat whose affectionate and lovable nature will capture your heart from the moment you meet her. This pretty feline is the embodiment of cuddles and snuggles, always eager to share her love with anyone in her presence. Her sweet purrs and gentle demeanour make her the perfect companion for those who appreciate a warm and cozy presence.
Lily thrives in cozy environments and finds joy in the little things, like curling up in a soft blanket or nestling into her favourite Christmas tree hiding hole. This chill and pleasant kitty is content to spend her
days lounging around and sharing peaceful moments with those she loves. Her delightful personality is complemented by her beautiful looks, making her a precious addition to any household.
If you’re looking for a snuggle buddy who will bring warmth into your life, Lily is the ideal match. With her affectionate nature and charm, she is sure to become an adored member of your family.
The following vet work has been completed.
- Desexed
- Current F3 Vaccination
- Flea’d
- Wormed
- Microchipped
Family fun day and concert in the park
JOIN the Maryborough Excelsior City Band in Queens Park on Sunday June 29 for a free concert in the Band Rotunda and support local talent.
Entertainment will commence from 10am with the Maryborough Excelsior City Band performing their regular free monthly concert.
Inside the band hall, the Band Hall Handcraft Markets will showcase local products and handcrafted items from local stallholders to find a perfect gift for an upcoming occasion.
Both MELSA trains and the Mary Ann will be running on their respective tracks for your enjoyment. With the Mary Ann returning after a few months off
for maintenance and repairs.
Why not treat yourself to a BBQ lunch from Maryborough Excelsior City Band food van with hot food and cold drinks available or enjoy a hot beverage from Cockatoo Coffee.
Kids’ entertainment also includes a jumping castle with sweet treats, fairy floss and sno-cones available from Wide Bay Mobile Entertainers, or a soft serve ice cream from Mr Whippy.
The Fraser Coast Highlander Pipe Band will also play from 12.15pm.
Sunday in the Park will run from 9am –1pm on Sunday 29th June in Queen’s Park Maryborough.
QCWA & Toastmasters collaborate for successful conference
A SUCCESSFUL collaboration between the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) and Toastmasters saw some of the region’s leading speakers seize the spotlight at the QCWA Central Region conference at Hervey Bay.
The May 30-31 event attracted around 100 attendees from communities across the region - including Bundaberg, Gympie, Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Proston, Nambour, and Kingaroy - gathered to support contestants and enjoy a day focused on confidence, communication and community spirit.
“The supportive QCWA atmosphere and the calibre of speeches proved how transformative public speaking can be for women - it’s a catalyst for confidence, community leadership, and lasting change,” said Deb Barnett (DTM), a Distinguished Toastmaster from Maryborough, one of three Toastmasters judging on the day.
A key feature of the conference was the Public Speaking Competition, a collaboration between QCWA and Toastmasters
aimed at empowering members with presentation skills. Contestants delivered prepared speeches on selected topics followed by an impromptu speech on a surprise topic.
Sarah Greensill of Proston emerged as the winner of the public speaking contest, impressing the judges and audience alike with her confident speech and clear message.
The event also featured an Interpretive Reading Contest, which challenged participants to bring a written piece to life through vocal expression and storytelling skills.
Robinlyn Sinclair from Wondai was crowned the winner in this category, captivating listeners with an expressive rendition of a children’s book.
Both winners will now advance to the state-level QCWA competition in Cairns on October 27th.
The event was driven by prominent QCWA community leaders from across the region, including Bundaberg’s Edna Buck (Previous Country Woman of the Year). Toastmasters Deb Barnett, Dawn Smith, and
Brigitte McKinnon lent their expertise as judges.
“Our Toastmasters team was proud to be part of this journey.
“The energy and support from the audience were tremendous, and this collaboration truly showcased the best of what our organisations can achieve together,” added Ms Barnett.
Deb Barnett, Dawn Smith, and Brigitte McKinnon are all seasoned members of the growing Wine n Dine Toastmasters club, which alternates venues between Hervey Bay and Maryborough.
Deb and Dawn are also key members of the zoom-friendly Weblec
Toastmasters Online club which serves remotely along the Fraser Coast.
“Through Toastmasters, we’ve seen how building confidence in speaking can inspire people to take on more leadership roles, advocate for themselves and their communities.
“Bringing that experience to QCWA conferences means we can support and encourage participants to take charge, speak out, and create impact in their communities,” said Ms Barnett.
Within the Fraser Coast, there are four Toastmaster clubs.
More information can be found at https://www. toastmasters.asn.au/
Brigitte McKinnon, Dawn Smith, Deb Barnett - Toastmasters Judges at QCWA Event. (Toastmasters)
Swamp
Bushy Tales
Insanity Streak
A home for Ospreys
LINDSAY TITMARSH
IT IS a common sight to see large eagles soaring over district rivers and estuarine waterways as they search for food.
White-bellied Sea Eagles do not allow themselves to be engulfed in the water as they snatch an unsuspecting fish from the surface.
Another species, the Osprey, can dive into water and then resurface and fly away with a catch.
Owing to the shortage of nesting sites for large raptors on the lower end of Tandora, in 2003 we
decided to erect a suitable treehouse for their use.
I joined the top of a spreading forked tree to a straight pole to give an erected height for the nest tree of 17 metres.
Ergon Energy generously donated their power pole erecting equipment and personnel to stand the nest site.
I tied a few sticks into the structure to give the birds a start and eagerly awaited a nesting pair of birds to accept my invitation of a new home.
Sometime later, on checking the site, I observed a pair of Osprey
sitting on the specially constructed perches near a new nest they had just built.
The nest site had been
We are really pleased that we encouraged a nesting pair into our area because they could not resist their Tandora designed nesting site.
Although they may not have reared chicks every year,
have occupied the site ever since its construction.
Timber industry focused on homes and environment
THE peak state body for the forest and timber industry in Queensland say they are focused on future growth delivered by evidence-based solutions following the positive first meeting of the Timber Supply Chain Ministerial Roundtable.
Timber Queensland CEO Mick Stephens said ‘We welcome the commitment by the State Government to work with industry on improving our timber supply chains to meet ever growing demand for future housing and construction needs.
“This includes the target of building 1 million new homes in Queensland over the next two decades.”
“We can identify key actions to support this target through boosting our plantation softwood and native forestry resources along with wood processing in order to build and furnish more homes and buildings with renewable local timber materials,” Mr Stephens said.
“We also recognise the broader social and environmental benefits from supporting this essential industry, including regional jobs and economic development, maintaining healthy forests and reducing our emissions in the built environment.”
“Given these upsides, we look forward to working on a bold plan that delivers policy certainty
to increase sustainable production while at the same time safeguarding the environment. Both plantations and wellmanaged native forests will play a key role in the plan,” Mr Stephens said.
“We care about our industry, our people and our environment. That is why we support the role of active forest management that can generate a wide range of ecosystem services, including carbon storage, recreational opportunities and wood fibre, that generate considerable benefits for people while also conserving biodiversity.”
“The assumption that harvesting timber from native forests is necessarily harmful to biodiversity is not correct and there is strong evidence that forests need to be managed actively.”
‘This approach is in direct contrast to the views of some activist groups with ideological notions that forest reservation is the only way to deliver conservation outcomes. This rigid view fails to stack up against the evidence on the environmental benefits from well-managed native forestry.”
This evidence, particularly for species such as koalas and gliders, includes:
• long term research into koala abundance in the native forests of north-east NSW, with no difference in population densities in
harvested state forests and national parks, noting key threats lo koalas include disease, clearing for urban development and dog attacks;
• a cost-benefit study which found that state forests delivered better biodiversity outcomes and other economic and social benefits than if they were managed as national parks in South-East Queensland;
• recent surveys with a higher abundance of greater gliders in state forests in northern NSW than in nearby national parks, with twice the density in state forests; and
• broader carbon and biodiversity benefits from maintaining a hardwood timber industry in Queensland taking into account risks from imports and local environmental best practice.
“We are not surprised by the findings, given state forests are managed in accordance with codes of forest practice to maintain healthy fauna populations with timber, recreation and biodiversity outcomes.”
“The fact that sightings of gliders in forests that have been selectively harvested for 100 years in Queensland are being used by some activists as a rationale for changing their tenure just doesn’t make sense.
“It doesn’t pass the pub
test,” Mr Stephens said. “We support state forests as important environmental assets which contrast against the challenges of many national parks that do not benefit from the same active stewardship that state forests receive.”
They say that key issues in the parks include:
• pest and weed infestations;
• feral animal predations on local fauna;
• altered fire regimes such as a lack of active fuel reduction and risks of
intense fires;
• a lack of access trails and road networks for fire management and suppression (compared to native forestry);
• high susceptibility to drought, fire and disease in the case of overstocked forests with a high density of suppressed and competing trees;
• no advantages from selective harvesting in the landscape with a diversity of habitat and foraging resources as in the case with stale forests;
• poor carbon abatement outcomes compared with
state forests which include forest sequestration and carbon storage in wood products, and substitution with steel and concrete;
• no revenues from timber harvesting to help pay for related infrastructure (e.g. campsites, mountain bike tracks, roads) and environmental management; and
• a lack of independent monitoring, certification or accountability of actual conservation outcomes compared with state forests that have internationally recognised PEFC certification.
(From left) Ergon Energy personnel erect a treehouse at Tandora for nesting raptors, 200; A pair of Ospreys enjoy the view. Note the bolts at the bottom of the picture where the trees were joined; and comfortable at home. (Lindsay Titmarsh) specifically built for Sea Eagles, as until that time, Ospreys were seldom seen up the river, instead mainly along Hervey Bay foreshore.
Ospreys
Natural telehealth service opens new chapter
AFTER nearly three decades of caring for the health of the Fraser Coast community, long-standing Maryborough naturopath Deb Hannam will close the doors of her clinic on June 30, 2025, and transition to offering online consultations available to clients everywhere.
Deb has spent the past 29 years supporting clients through a
wide range of natural therapies, including naturopathy, ERT, colonic hydrotherapy, herbal medicine, massage, bowen and iridology.
Known for her warm and personalised approach, she has guided many individuals through meaningful health and healing journeys.
“It’s been a true privilege
to serve this community,” Deb said.
“I’ve shared so many personal and transformative moments with clients over the years. I can honestly say I’ve loved my work every step of the way – and for that, I’m truly grateful.”
Deb’s move to telehealth reflects the changing needs of her clients, many
of whom are now seeking more flexible, convenient ways to access care.
With her practice now fully online, clients across Australia - and beyondcan connect with her from wherever they are.
“People are juggling so much these days - work, family, health challenges - and I want to make it easier for them to access natural health support when and how they need it,” she explained.
1996
Telehealth Naturopath . Telehealth ERT For more information and bookings Phone: 0456 150 091 www.naturalhhealthcentre.com.au Email:alpha@naturalhealthcentre.com.au
Clients can also stay connected by subscribing to her monthly wellness newsletter or following her on Facebook and Instagram, where she shares health tips, insights, and clinic updates.
Although Deb and her husband relocated to the Great Sandy Straits region four years ago, she has remained committed to her Maryborough clients.
A Sydney native, Deb moved to Maryborough in 1989 to raise their two children.
Over the years, she became an active community member - co-founding The Maryborough Mural Project, which transformed the town’s streetscape with 39 murals and sculptures, and participating in local sporting groups and service clubs.
As she embraces semiretirement, Deb is looking forward to more time for travel and rest, while continuing to offer online consultations at a gentler pace — and welcoming new clients from anywhere who are seeking natural,
holistic care.
“To everyone who has walked through the doors of my clinic over the years — thank you,” she said.
“It has been an absolute honour to serve this community.
“While this chapter may be closing, a new and exciting one is just beginning, and I look forward to sharing it with you.”
Appointments can be made easily through her website: www.naturalhealthcentre. com.au.
What’s on in local arts
Maryborough Regional Art Society Gallery 282 Kent Street, Maryborough
6 June - 27 July: 78th Annual Art Exhibition at Gataker’s Artspace. Official opening and awards, Saturday, 7 June at 2 pm.
JULY: Exhibition by Kevin Rogers. Opening night Friday 4 July at 6 – 8pm. Lucky door prize, light refreshments and drinks.
Jinx Gallery 92 Ellena Street, Maryborough
A gallery concentrating on repurposing and assemblage.
Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm and Saturdays 9am - 12pm. Art classes for adults and teens and paint parties on request.
Contact Nora on 0404 204 361
Splash of Tash, Tinana
Open shed gallery on the first Saturday morning each month. Chicken wire workshops and more. Follow Tash on Facebook for more information, dates and times.
What’s Your Story? Floods Until 30 June, The Story Bank
Creative Space Print Studio
Wednesdays and Saturdays 10am-2pm, Gatakers Creative Space Find out more and get tickets at OurFraserCoast.com.au
FOR Kids BY Kids
Hello Maryborough!
Hello Maryborough!
I’m Phoebe Lee and I’m thirteen years old. The For Kids by Kids column discusses topics and activities from kids’ and teenagers’ points of view.
LET’S face it. Rainy days aren’t ideal. Especially when you’re stuck inside on a weekend with nothing much to do.
It’s an issue that’s faced kids of many generations, and is something that many kids (including myself) still struggle with today.
However, you might have heard of “Rainy Day Activities”.
This normally refers to something fun you can do to relax if you’re stuck inside the house on a rainy day.
Rainy day activities can be a great way to relax or get creative if you’re stuck inside for the day.
A few of my favourite
activities include building jigsaw puzzles, drawing, reading, or cooking.
Here are some other ideas you might want to save for a rainy day:
● Making something out of a cardboard box: This could be anything from building a makeshift theatre to a pillow fort!
● Board Games: Anything from Scrabble to Chess to Monopoly (if you’re ready for arguments) works! Card games are also quite fun. Snap is a personal favourite of mine.
● Movie Marathon: Sometimes in the middle of winter, it’s just best to curl up with a blanket and a good snack to watch a good movie with your family.
● Building with Lego: With Lego, you can build virtually anything, from a “tallest tower” competition with your family, to a stopmotion movie.
● Flying paper planes (as long as your parents don’t mind).
COMMUNITY Fair
● Playing Solitaire, along with being a fun rainy day activity, is known to improve focus, memory and strategic thinking.
● Explore: There are many places in Maryborough you are still able to explore on a rainy day.
This could include the local bookshop, the Story Bank, the library, the Military Museum, Gatakers Artspace, and much more.
However, if you don’t like
any of these ideas, just remember that the rain doesn’t have to stop you from going outside. As long as you’re prepared for the weather, going to the park while it’s raining can be quite refreshing!
Although rainy days aren’t the best, there are still many things you can do, whether inside or outside. So, if you see the clouds begin to darken, be sure to have this article ready just in case.
with Phoebe Lee MARYBOROUGH SUN SUPER-CUB REPORTER
Mustangs dominate weekend
IT WAS a weekend of firsts for the Ford Mustang runners as the Supercars championship crossed the Nullarbor to Perth.
Youngster Ryan Wood scored his first race win with Walkinshaw Andretti United and veteran James Courtney raced to the first podium place for Blanchard Racing as the Wanneroo Park circuit celebrated its 100th round hosting the Australian Touring Car Championship.
There was also a pole position and two podium places for Chaz Mostert in the Perth Super 440. Tickford wildcard Lochie Dalton stepped up from Super2 for the weekend, putting in a solid showing ahead of his Bathurst 1000 debut later in the season.
The weekend in the West was raced over two 50-lap sprints before an 83-lap final, with two pitstops for tyres and fuel, to finish the weekend.
Wood scored his breakthrough win in the first race, proving he is
more than just a one-lap qualifying star. He was on track for victory in the second race, until a broken suspension arm cruelled his chance.
“To achieve my lifelong dream doesn’t seem real,” Wood said after his win. He cried tears of joy – as Courtney did after finishing third in the Sunday finale.
“I’m not going to lie, I did cry. It’s been a tough 18 months for these guys. I finally repaid them,” said Courtney.
“I was crying. I was like a little kid in the car. I was like Woodie yesterday.”
The 2025 Supercars Championship continues with Darwin Triple Crown in the Northern Territory from June 20-22.
Top Ford Race Results Race 1
Ryan Wood – 1st
Chaz Mostert – 3rd
Brodie Kostecki – 5th
Matt Payne – 6th
Cam Waters – 7th
Race 2
Chaz Mostert – 3rd
Cam Waters – 4th
Matt Payne – 5th
Thomas Randle – 6th
Brodie Kostecki – 7th
Race 3
Matt Payne – 2nd
James Courtney – 3rd
Cam Waters – 4th
Chaz Mostert – 6th
Kai Allen – 8th
Tim Blanchard of Blanchard Racing said
“What a turnaround from where in New Zealand. It was a much better weekend.
“It’s been a fair old journey for the team and we were fortunate with a Safety Car on Sunday, but we rolled the dice and it went our way with James Courtney.
“We had a horrible first three rounds of the championship, then took a step forward in Tassie and continued this weekend.
“It’s still a long way to go to challenge the frontrunners on a regular basis but this is great.
“We will enjoy it.”
•
MOTORING
Collectable car auctions firing
COLLECTING
Cars
delivered solid sales results in the Australasian collector car market in May as the company surpassed the sale of 2,500 lots.
The leading online auction platform for the sale of classic, performance and collectible cars achieved total sales of AUD $10.3 million from 110 lots in Australia during May.
The company’s sale of collectible cars grew five percent compared to the previous month, with 461 cars sold year-to-date, 50 percent higher than this time last year.
May also saw the average local sale price at Collecting Cars jump 26 percent over April.
“The Australasian collector car market remains solid,” said Lee Hallett, Head of APAC at Collecting Cars.
“Local new- and usedcar markets have been seeing various ups and downs since the beginning of 2025 but the figures
from Collecting Cars have stayed strong, indicating the collector car market is in a decent state of health.
“Collecting Cars has now surpassed lot number 2,500 since commencing in Australia in 2019, which means our next target is now 5,000 lots, but in even shorter time.”
Collecting Cars sale highlights from May 2025 include:
Porsche 992 GT3 RS with Weissach Pack - AU$707,000 - The Collecting Cars team has now sold more than 100 GT3 RS models from every generation, helping sellers and buyers to understand real-world market values.
Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evo IIAU$161,500 - Collecting Cars has sold more than 80 Integrales worldwide, reflecting its status as one of the most popular modern classics.
2017 Holden HSV GTSR W1 - AU$307,000 - One of four such cars that the team has sold in the last
18 months, underscoring Collecting Cars’ position as the leading sales platform for home-grown highperformance vehicles.
McLaren 765LTAU$795,000 – Highest sale price in Australia in May 2025.
Collecting Cars is a 24/7 online auction platform where vehicles are sold using a safe, secure, and hassle-free process to a large audience of committed buyers.
There are no selling fees - the seller receives 100 percent of the hammer price and keeps possession of the car until the successful buyer arranges to collect it.
To-date, this global platform has sold more than 20,000 lots, with the total sales value generated for sellers exceeding US$1 billion (AUD $1.6 billion).
The global Collecting Cars auction company has headquarters in the UK, alongside offices in Australia, Hong Kong, all over continental Europe,
and a partner in the UAE. It has more than 300,000 registered members in more than 100 countries, facilitating worldwide marketing for consignments.
The best-selling brand on Collecting Cars is Porsche, with more than 2,800 cars sold since launch, including more than 2,000 examples of the 911.
DEATH NOTICE
RICHARDS
Emma Mabel (nee Zagami)
Late of Maryborough. Passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025 with her loving family by her side after a courageous battle. Aged 73 years. Beloved wife of Stephen (Butch) for 57 years. Dearly loved and devoted mother and motherin-law to Warren, Justine and Matthew. Treasured Nanna to Jade-Elle, Ruby and Molly. Emma was a pillar of strength, compassion and generosity. She was deeply admired and loved by many throughout the Maryborough community, especially through her dedicated charity work with the Food Basket, Vinnies, the Salvation Army and Lifeline.
A Soul So Kind & Humble Remembered Always Missed Beyond Words In accordance with Emma’s wishes, a private cremation and memorial has been held.
QUEENSLAND HERITAGE ACT 1992 FRASER COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL PROPOSAL TO ENTER PLACE IN THE LOCAL HERITAGE REGISTER
Under Part 11 of the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 it is proposed to enter the following places in the Local Heritage Register:
• Scarness Band Rotunda (Scarness Foreshore, Esplanade, Scarness – Part of Lot 220 SP185042. It is proposed that the place meets heritage significance criteria A, B, D and G.
The proposed place card and the Local Heritage Register are available for inspection at Council’s Customer Service Centres in Hervey Bay and Maryborough or online at www. frasercoast.qld.gov.au/local-heritageregister. For further information contact Council on 1300 79 49 29.
Written submissions about the proposal must be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Fraser Coast Regional Council, PO Box 1943, Hervey Bay Qld 4655 and be lodged before 4.45pm on Friday, 11 July 2025.
BOATS
ALUMINIUM TINNY
4.7m long
New 40hp Mercury Motor Electric start & trailer With power winch
Unregistered – as is $9500
Phone Karen on
EDUCATION
Problems reading or spelling? Headaches?
University of the Third Age MARYBOROUGH BRANCH
OPEN DAY - MID YEAR SIGN ON FUN FOR OVER 50’S SATURDAY, 14TH JUNE 2025 FROM 9AM TO 1PM
MADCOTA COMMUNITY HUB, 333 ALICE STREET, MARYBOROUGH Everyone welcome. Learn New Things. Be Active. Make Friends. Have Fun. CLASSES AVAILABLE:
Exercise Fitness, Bush Walking, Beginners & Advanced Tai Chi, Creative Writers’ Group,Yoga, Chair Yoga, Qigong, Partner Dancing (with or without partner), Mahjong, Ukulele, Cards 500, Cards Hand & Foot Canasta, Line Dancing, Scottish Country Dancing, Philosophy, Pickleball, Sing-along, Chess and Art for Fun.
You may be light sensitive and have Irlen Syndrome. Specifically tinted, coloured glasses may help.
Heather Rawlins, Irlen diagnostician
Ph or message 0403 403 372 or colours@aapt.net.au
HYPNOTHERAPY
Quit Smoking / Stop Alcohol Is smoking or drinking stopping you from living your best life?
Hypnotherapy works!
Visiting Maryborough - 20 & 21 June
Call Ruth- TrustHypnotherapy 0409 641 102
FEES:
Registration half yearly fee $25.00 and $15.00 half yearly fee per class for most classes. (Some classes may incur a weekly or half yearly term fee). Philosophy will incur a half yearly fee of $8.00 to cover paper and ink cartridges.
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Anne: 0412 655 129 or Judy: 0408 999 363 Or website: www.u3amaryborough
LOCAL SPORTS
Wide Bay Rowing Club excels at State and National Championships
GLEN PORTEOUS
ROWING: The Wide Bay Rowing Club made waves recently at state and national championships to bring home notable results from recent major competitions it competed in.
Despite facing significant challenges at their training base, the popular rowing club was able to perform to high standards.
The Queensland Masters Rowing Championships were hosted at Lake Wyaralong, near Beaudesert in May and
the club showcased its depth and determination.
Leading the medal charge was Lee Field, who claimed gold as part of an VIII rowing crew and veteran rower Jim Stafford delivered an outstanding performance across multiple events, earning several silver medals and two bronze, while Club President Cameron Waterson added to the club’s haul with a hard-fought silver.
“Everyone’s worked incredibly hard to get to this point,” said club President Cameron Waterson.
“To see it all pay off on the water and to have a new pontoon on the way makes it a very exciting time for our club.”
Building on its state success, a contingent of five Wide Bay rowers travelled to Penrith, New South Wales to compete at the National Masters Rowing Championships in late May, where the group, which included both newer rowers and seasoned veterans, competed strongly across several events.
Highlighting the national campaign was Jim
Maryborough women’s hockey team silver lining at State Championship
GLEN PORTEOUS
HOCKEY: The Maryborough women’s hockey team had a successful championship despite finishing second at the State Hockey Centre in Brisbane. The championship featured a strong 12 team competition from around Queensland.
It was a hard-fought final for the Heritage City representatives to lose 5 –2 to the Gold Coast.
The Gold Coast came out strong in the first half scoring four goals and one early in the second half.
However, Maryborough still went down fighting scoring two goals in the final quarter with Meka
Crick and Jessie Staples sharing the honours.
Maryborough coach Aaron Kenny said it was a good result overall for the team.
“With the size of the regional centre we are, it was a good result,” Kenny said.
It was a very wet weather on Saturday that caused delays, but the day still resulted in semi-finals where Maryborough beat Cairns, and the Gold Coast beat Tweed.
Despite disappointment in losing the final, Kenny was still positive about the players overall championship performance.
“These players have
played hockey together for a long time and we had other players away with injuries and very proud of the effort they put in,” Kenny said.
Kenny also had strong praise for manager Julie Staples and the support she gave the team. Leading Goal Scorer for the championship was Meka Crick.
Several players have also gained state selection for upcoming championships. Country State Team Selection to play at Rockhampton, August this year - Lily Kemph and Jessie Staples.
Brisbane Blaze Announce Initial Squads for 2025Hannah Cullum-Sanders, Meka Crick and Madeline Kenny.
Stafford, who delivered a career-best performance to win a silver medal in the single sculls, cementing his reputation as one of the club’s top performers.
With state and national medals under their belts, the club now turns its attention to the upcoming Hyne Bridge to Bridge endurance race in Maryborough on September 13.
The 13-kilometre event is expected to draw crews from across Queensland and promises to be a major highlight for local rowing enthusiasts.
Sporting Results Round-Up
GLEN PORTEOUS
AFL: Wide Bay Reserve Grade Men’s Competition: Round Nine of the Reserve Grade Men’s Competition has just been completed and the Maryborough AFC Reserve Men’s team are in a strong position second place of the leader board.
Hervey Bay Bombers AFC Reserves Mens: Pts – 24, W – 6, L – 1, Bye - 2.
Maryborough AFC Reserve Men: Pts – 20, W – 5, L – 1, Bye – 3. Bay Power AFC Reserve Men: Pts – 16, W – 4, L – 3, Bye – 2. The Waves Eagles Reserves: Pts – 8, W – 2, L – 5, Bye – 2. Brothers Bulldogs AFC Reserve Men: Pts – nil, W – 0, L – 7, Bye – 2.
AFL: Wide Bay Senior Grade Women’s
Competition
The Maryborough AFC Senior Women’s team scored their second win for the season and proving to the opposition teams they are a competitive member of the competition and not in it to just make up numbers.
Brothers Bulldogs AFC Senior Women: Pts – 24, W – 6, L – 2, Bye -2. The Waves Eagles Senior Women’s: Pts – 20, W – 5, L – 2, Bye – 2. Bay Power AFC Senior Women: Pts – 12, W – 3, L – 4, Bye – 2. Hervey Bay Bombers AFC Senior Womens: Pts – 8, W – 2, L – 5, Bye – 2. Maryborough AFC Senior Womens: Pts – 8, W – 2, L – 4, Bye – 3
Football Queensland PL3 Wide Bay Men
Across The Waves FC Men: Pts – 18, W – 6, L – 0, Drawn – 0, GF – 34, GA – 7.
United Park Eagles FC
MEDAL VICTORY: The Wide Bay Rowing Club recently made waves of success with medal hauls at state and national championships. (Supplied).
SILVER LINING: The Maryborough Women’s Hockey came second out of 12 cities state championship. (Supplied)
Winter bites across the Coast
The team from FREEDOM FISHING SUPPLIES
WELCOME to winter!
With the slight westerly wind changes throughout the week, and a few day temps dropping under the 20 degree mark, mother nature is tarting to let us know.
Fortunately, our area thrives on the cooler temps and we’ve started to see an influx of our winter species coming over the sides of boats.
It’s this time of year where you see a clear difference between the avid angler and the obsessed fisho.
Don’t let the plummeting Fraser Coast temperatures put you off; pull out the winter woollies and get out on the water.
Lets have a look at the report.
THIS WEEK'S BRAG BOARD
The fishing continues to fire up around our local haunts.
Starting at the bottom, anglers headed over the Wide Bay Bar chasing the big pelagic fish such as Spanish mackerel, cobia and amber jacks mixed in with quality reef fish, pearlies, snapper and Maori cod.
Heading north through the strait’s popular camping and fishing spots like Kauri Creek, Tinnanbar, Poona, Tuan and Maaroom have been producing plenty of bread-and-butter
fish like whiting, bream, flathead and the occasional late season mangrove jack.
Winter whiting are really starting to school up in the deeper waters and this time of year you’ll see some really good size summer whiting. Using the humble yabbie, worm or gulp product will get you a feed.
Moving up into the shallows and sand banks you’ll find sunbaking flathead that have been tempted recently on soft or hard body lures around the 70mm – 100mm mark.
Berkley Benders, MMD Pop Prawns and Crush City Imposters have been the pick.
Fishing the reefs and ledges over along the island has been producing the goods with greasies, blackall, mosses perch, cod & coral bream.
We are seeing quite a few Snapper being landed and the pelagic fish are still prominent throughout the area mack tuna, grey and school mackerel, queenies and golden trevally taking a variety of bait displays and metal slugs.
The mud crabs are still running with most achieving their bag limit.
The prawns and squid are also around so a cast net and a squid jig on board are a must atm.
The Mary River and the Susan River also fishing well for jew, grunter, blue and threadfin salmon and of course our monstrous silver and black bream.
Baits are wide-ranging from lives to dead baits from the larger species to small crabs and mullet gut for the bream.
First up this week is Jesse with a 62cm flathead. Jade landed a snapper and is looking great in her Northern Tide fishing dress. Luke also hit the water and landed a ripper snapper.
Locky and Levi had a great day getting into the flathead, well done boy. H and Benny had a great trip bringing some nice cod over the side.
TIDE TIMES - BOONOOROO
from willyweather.com.au
Bowls Results
DOON VILLA
Championship Fours
Final : T.Pike, T.Jackson, S.Gambie, B.Jackson d G.Kemp, C.White, P.Whittaker, T.Buckley 21-20.
Jackpot Pairs : Winners - M.Allan, R.Turnbull d C.Laughton, J.Demarco 23-11. Runners Up - G.Kuhn, K.Paxton d J.McCoombe, I.Axelsen 24-18.
R.Anderson,J. Barhenquast d L.Rampton, R.Whittaker 24-20.A.Hartwig, K.Anderson d N.Gambie, G.Gambie 22-14.
Meat Tray Tripples : Two games thirteen ends.
Winners - R.Anderson, B.George, K.Johnson 2 w + 26. Runners UpP.Stephensen, A.Hartwig, K.Anderson 1 L 1 w 17. Roy, Tony, Harold 2 w + 16.G.Gambie, J.McCoombe, N.Gambie 2 w + 9. W.Raguse, C.White, J.Devenish 2 w + 4. I.Axelsen, G.Gleeson, J.Demarco 1 L 1 W 13. R.Dunne, K.Paxton, G.Kuhn 2 L. G,Kemp, M.Allan, T.Buckley 1 d 1 L. John, Chris, Joan 1 D 1 L. K.Turnbull, B.McCracken, R.Turnbull 1 w 1 L. L.Rampton, N.Weinhiemer, B.Spilsbury 2 L. T.Pyke, T.Jackson, J.MecMecannac 2 L . -C.White, scribe
