EXPERIENCE the Fraser Coast Orchestra’s inaugural concert event, A Night at the Proms, in what organisers say will be a rousing musical journey across the British Isles.
In the tradition of the well-loved BBC Proms, Conductor Barrie Gott will lead the Fraser Coast Orchestra from the podium with a patriotic program of all-time favourites such as Jerusalem, Pomp and Circumstance, Finlandia, Rule Britannia and many more.
This event will showcase the talents of over fifty local musicians from the Fraser Coast region and shining star and soloist, Judit Molnar.
Judit is a highly skilled and educated leading Soprano singer in the genres of Opera and Operetta.
She regularly performs at solo and chamber concerts, festivals, oratories, and operas in Europe including Hungary, Italy, Austria, Germany, Czech, Poland, Slovakia and the UK as
well as Japan and Australia.
Other special guests include the Highlands Fraser Coast Highlanders Pipe Band (The Highlanders).
The Fraser Coast Orchestra (FCO) was established in July 2024 by local musician, Sian Davis.
Sian is also the founder of the Rockhampton Symphony Orchestra (2018), and since moving to Maryborough in late 2022, she saw the potential to establish a regional orchestra in the Fraser Coast region.
A Management Committee was formed, including other local musicians and music teachers, Greg Aitken and Scott van Gerrisheim.
The Orchestra’s Patron, Mayor George Seymour, acknowledges that the formation of the Fraser Coast Orchestra has been “a great outlet for the musicians to really step up, and be part of something really big for the community”.
Mayor Seymour will even be making a special guest performance in the percussion section of the Orchestra at the Proms event.
Attendees are invited to bring along their flags to wave (all nationalities welcome) or purchase a Union Jack at the door for $2, and dress in their finest if they wish.
Support has also been provided through the Regional Arts Development Fund – a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Fraser Coast Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
The FCO is a semi-professional orchestra comprised of talented local musicians who work in collaboration with professional CONTINUED ON PAGE TWO
The Mayor went on to say, “I am very excited to experience the first concert for this amazing new cultural institution, in May, at the Brolga Theatre”.
Bauple Drive upgrade starts this month
BAUPLE Drive is getting a much-needed makeover, with work starting this month to make the road safer, wider and smoother for the local community.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Transport and Roads spokesperson Cr Phil Truscott said the $1.3 million upgrade to a 700 metre section of the road would deliver big improvements for everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Bauple.
“Bauple Drive is a key road for the town, connecting residents to homes, farms and businesses. This project will make it safer, stronger and more comfortable for everyday travel,” Cr Truscott said.
“The work will include widening the road,
fixing sections that have broken down, clearing overgrown vegetation for better visibility, improving drainage, and giving the road a fresh new bitumen surface with new line markings.”
Cr Truscott said crews would do their best to minimise disruption, with traffic management in place during the works.
The project is expected to be finished by September 2025, weather and construction conditions permitting.
“Council is committed to effectively managing and maintaining its assets, and ensuring we have resilient regional infrastructure – and that’s exactly what this project is all about,” he said.
Political fingers point to rumoured Downer job losses
JAY FIELDING
A VISCIOUS fight has erupted after Downer EDI announced plans to reduce its workforce in Maryborough.
Labor politicians, including former Maryborough MP Bruce Saunders, jumped on the news, claiming it represented a broken promise from the LNP government.
However, the government says the loss of jobs relates to a private contract and not taxpayer investment.
The potential loss of about 100 jobs at Downer’s Maryborough site does not affect the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program and the underconstruction train-building facility at Torbanlea.
Downer Group said in a statement it was discussing redundancies with staff following a dip in workload.
“Due to a reduction in the expected volume of work at our Maryborough facility, Downer commenced consultation with our workforce regarding potential redundancies,”
a spokesperson said.
“No final decision has been made, and we continue to explore opportunities to fill the gap in work, in order to ease any impact with our people.
“There has been no change to any Queensland government contracted work with Downer that impacts our current workforce in Maryborough.
“Our work on the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program is continuing as expected and we look forward to working with the Queensland government on potential future opportunities.
“The consultation we have commenced with our workforce specifically relates to the cessation of a contract with a private freight operator.”
Questions also remain over plans to refurbish Queensland’s Tilt Trains at the site.
Queensland Rail ruled Downer’s bid for the work was not value for money and will rescope the project before returning it to a tender process.
•
Opposition Leader Steven Miles, former transport minister Bart Mellish and Bundaberg MP Tom Smith recently protested the job cuts outside Maryborough MP John Barounis’s office.
“(Premier) David Crisafulli and his government (are) personally responsible for these 122 job losses,” Mr Miles said.
“It is such a terrible outcome,” he said.
Mr Barounis rejected Labor’s claims.
“Despite the consistent scare campaign about local jobs, I couldn’t be more clear,” Mr Barounis said.
“I will always stand up for Maryborough,” he said.
“There has been no change to the Queensland Government contract for the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program.”
Downer says that jobs at the Torbanlea train manufacturing plant will not be effected by potential redundancies. (Downer)
Mary River pontoon upgrades underway
CONSTRUCTION
commences next week on a new pontoon and gangway on the Mary River near the Wide Bay Rowing Club, delivering improved accessibility, safety, and flood resilience for local rowers.
The project is funded through the Australian and Queensland Governments’ Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) – Recreation and Community Assets Funding Program. Federal Minister for Emergency Management
Jenny McAllister said the Australian Government is committed to supporting regional communities through long-
term recovery.
“This new pontoon is a practical investment that will make a real difference to local rowers and the broader Maryborough community,” Minister McAllister said.
“We’re working closely with the Queensland Government and the Fraser Coast Regional Council to deliver infrastructure that’s safer, stronger and built to last.
“Recovery takes time, but we’re here for the long haul to help communities rebuild in a way that prepares them for the future.”
Minister for Disaster
Recovery Ann Leahy said the DRFA allowed all three tiers of government to work together, strengthening Queensland after severe weather events.
“Through our investments we want to not only help communities rebuild following disasters but improve overall resilience and lifestyle,” Minister Leahy said.
“Public recreation assets offer long-lasting value, and I’m proud we’re delivering these pontoon upgrades for Maryborough and the Wide Bay.”
Fraser Coast Mayor
George Seymour said the new infrastructure
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would replace a temporary pontoon installed after the 2022 floods, which had damaged the original structure beyond repair.
“Since the 2022 floods, a temporary pontoon has been used by the Wide Bay Rowing Club for training, including school rowing activities for larger quad boats,” he said.
“This $1.855 million project will deliver a purpose-built pontoon and gangway system designed to better withstand flooding, with built-in resilience features and a release mechanism to help minimise damage during major flood events.
“Rowing has a proud history in Maryborough dating back to 1881, and the Wide Bay Rowing Club continues to play an important role in the community todayespecially through its strong partnership with Maryborough State High School, which is helping develop the next generation of rowers.”
Cr Paul Truscott, who has been assisting the Wide Bay Rowing Club in ongoing discussions with Council, said the club was very pleased with the ‘build back better’ approach being taken.
“This new purpose-built pontoon, funded through disaster recovery funds, will not only improve flood resilience but also allow one of Queensland’s oldest rowing clubs to expand its programs into the future,” he said.
Cr Daniel Sanderson said: “It’s great to see this much-loved and vital community infrastructure being reinstated.”
Construction works are scheduled to start on Monday 12 May and will
include:
• Clearing vegetation and removing existing structures to prepare the site;
• Installation of the pontoon, gangway and headstock, including pile installations; and
• Restoring and turfing disturbed areas upon project completion.
An exclusion zone will be in place during the works to ensure public safety, with construction expected to be completed by the end of August 2025, weather permitting.
Mental health facility a first
IN A first for Queensland, a dedicated Subacute Older Persons Mental Health Unit has opened its doors in Maryborough, offering older members of the community access to a therapeutic, recoveryoriented environment close to home.
The newly refurbished unit is not only a statefirst but also a proud achievement for the Fraser Coast, setting a new benchmark for mental health care for older Queenslanders.
Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service
Chief Executive Debbie Carroll said the opening of the new unit not only expands bed capacity across the Fraser Coast but also reflects a significant shift in how mental health care is being delivered locally.
“The Subacute Older Persons Mental Health Unit is a reflection of our commitment to ensuring every member of our community receives the right care, at the right time, in the
right place,” she said.
“This specialist service will provide a therapeutic environment tailored to the unique needs of older people living with mental illness, enabling recovery and wellbeing close to home, family and support networks.”
Executive Director for Mental Health Robyn Bradley said the new service is open to consumers aged over 65 years old and Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander consumers over 50.
“Each stage of the project was informed by the voices of livedexperience workers, carers, consumers and families, who provided valuable input from planning through to completion,” she said.
Stage One of the Fraser Coast Mental Health Service project – the Fraser Coast Mental Health Inpatient Unit officially commenced services last year and has since cared for hundreds of consumers.
LNP’s O’Brien re-elected but may find himself on the outer
NEWLY re-elected Member for Wide Bay
Llew O’Brien may find himself an outsider within his party after fiercely backing Matt Canavan in his unsuccessful bid for the Nationals leadership.
Leader David Littleproud fended off the challenge from Senator Canavan at a party room meeting on Monday.
The party lost two seats at the election, including the NSW senate spot held by former deputy leader Perin Davies, and lost a third when NT senator Jacinta Price defected to the Liberals.
Mr O’Brien comfortably won Wide Bay in the face of Labor’s historic landslide victory.
Ahead of the leadership spill, Mr O’Brien issued a lengthy statement
announcing his support for the challenger and the reasons why.
The former police officer said the party – and the country – needed to ditch its commitment to the Paris Agreement on climate change and net zero rise in emissions.
“I am supporting Matt Canavan because he is also an exceptional candidate for leadership – and because, like me, he recognises that the targets under the Paris Agreement are not in
MARYBOROUGH
Australia’s national interest,” Mr O’Brien said.
“There are better, more responsible ways to secure our nation’s energy future than flattening agricultural land with solar panels, building intrusive wind farms, or carving up the countryside with high-voltage transmission lines,” he said.
“I refuse to go down in history as someone who stayed silent while flawed and illogical policies were imposed.”
However, Nationals colleagues did not agree with Mr O’Brien’s views or Senator Canavan’s pitch to bring back the party’s “fighting spirit”.
“Only if we fight, will we have a fighting chance,” Senator Canavan said in launching his bid for the top spot.
MP
the party’s senate leader.
LOCALLY OWNED, LOCALLY FOCUSED
Another year of Marvellous.
Secondary School Teacher of the Year
Mrs Bryan
NSW
Kevin Hogan was elected deputy leader while Bridget McKenzie kept her role as
The LNPs Llew O’Brien (left) backed leadership contender Matt Canavan (centre) who was defeated by leader David Littleproud (right) in the battle for the head role of the Nationals. (LNP)
Woodchop Arena (17) Woodchop Competition from 9:30am
Rodeo Arena (33)
6.30pm – 8.30pm
Edinburgh Tattoo tickets on sale now
BRISBANE will host the famed Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the very first time in 2026.
The large-scale military spectacle will feature over 1,000 world class artists and is expected to draw visitors from across the world.
Titled “The Heroes Who Made Us,” the show will be a milestone production celebrating the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary.
The world-famous event is held annually at Edinburgh Castle and is rooted in centuriesold Scottish tradition, featuring massed pipes and drums, Highland dance, and stunning displays blending military precision
with performance.
The Brisbane edition is the exclusive Australian leg of the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary show, celebrating the event’s rich history and spotlighting local heroes.
Since its inception in 1950, the Tattoo has visited Australia on only four occasions via Sydney and Melbourne but has never ventured into Queensland until now.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is on February 12-15 at Suncorp Stadium, with tickets on sale now at ticketek.com.au priced from $49.90 through to $745 for premium packages which include dinner and private performances.
Museum garage sale will help fund our history
THE Maryborough Military Aviation Museum will be holding a fundraising garage sale in early June.
A range of interesting military and historical books, aircraft models and kits, tools, plants, household items, brica-brac and much more will be on offer to fund ongoing work on the historical collection, which is growing in both size and popularity.
The Museum is asking or donations of saleable items to help with their efforts, which can be dropped off
at the airport.
Please contact them on 0434 104 601 or 0447 846317 or email mmamsecretary@gmail. com
Rollcall for 150th birthday of Tinana State School
PAST students and staff members of Tinana State School are being invited to the school’s 150th birthday celebration on May 31.
Tinana School opened it’s doors on that date in 1875 with an enrolment of just 41 pupils.
One of the first state schools to be established in Queensland, it sat on 36 acres, 16 of which were set aside for a horse paddock for the students.
The size of the school reserve was rather surprising as in those days it was common for 2 acres to be allotted for schools.
Problems encountered by school students in 1875 included danger from wild cattle being driven down the road, snakes, white ants and lack of playground space due to the heavily timbered nature of the grounds.
Extracts from the Inspector’s report in these early years highlight the difficulties these men encountered. “Very wet year. Covered, mostly on horseback 3278 miles.” was one succinct comment. He also commented unfavourably on the low windows in the school which allowed the children to be distracted by passing teams.
One of the requirements of a Head Master was that he should be married, and matrimonial aspirations figured heavily in job applications at the time.
The Head Master’s wife of course, had to teach sewing to the girls, with no extra remuneration.
150 years on, the spacious grounds are dotted with modern double teaching classrooms, tastefully landscaped, and if the
children still do look out the windows, it is the roar of busy highway traffic that distracts them, not the clip clop of the passing teams.
Tinana State School 150th birthday, 31st May from 8.30am with memorabilia displays, open classrooms, kidzone activities, market stalls and plenty of food and drink.
The birthday cake cutting
will commence at 10am.
The school encourages past students to let them know where they are now by emailing events@ tinanass.eq.gov.au.
Past and present staff members are also invited to lunch at the Tinana Tavern from 12.30.
Email westsidetinana@ live.com.au for bookings.
Military charity celebrates 100 years with a visit to Maryborough
TOC-H is a charitable organisation most notable for the establishment of the The Royal Queensland Bush Children’s Health Scheme, and it’s Maryborough-born founder ‘Tubby’ Clayton is imortalised on the side of the Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum.
On the 12th December, 1915, Army Chaplain, the Reverend Philip Thomas Byard Clayton, affectionately known as “Tubby”, opened the doors of Talbot House in Poperinge in Belgium.
It was a place of rest and recreation, a home away from home for allied troops serving on the Western Front.
For his care and compassion for those
serving, he was awarded the Military Cross.
The special ethos of Talbot House (Toc H was the army signallers code word for Talbot House) was built around Friendship, Service, Fairmindedness and The Kingdom of God which became the foundation stones of the Toc H movement founded by Tubby Clayton after the war ended.
It is still active in many parts of the world today, welcoming everyone and breaking down the barriers that so often keep people apart and challenging them to do something about the problems that confront people in the 21st century.
Toc H today is all about caring for people.
On the 24th of May, Toc-H will celebrate its 100th year with a special service at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Maryborough, and Queensland Toc-H Director Ray Geise OAM says that everyone is welcome.
“People can join us from 9am for morning tea and
hear about our plans for the future,” he said.
“Bishop Bill Ray will be giving the address.”
Toc-H members will be treated to a tour of the Museum and our Gallipoli to Armistice Memorial as part of their celebrations.
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
The mural of Tubby Clayton at the Military Museum by artist Akos Juhasz.
Origin Energy expands to regional areas, but may leave out solar users
ORIGIN Energy has officially launched electricity offers for residential and small business customers in the Ergon network, providing a choice of electricity retailer that has previously been unavailable for many regional Queensland consumers - now including Maryborough, however solar users may be left out in the early stages.
One of Australia’s leading energy retailers, with more than 4.7 million customer accounts, Origin is expanding its electricity offering to parts of regional Queensland, which is almost wholly serviced by the government-subsidised retailer, Ergon Retail.
Origin says that they already have a strong
Queensland footprint –which includes 690,000 electricity customer accounts and 175,000 natural gas customer accounts in the south-east, LPG and internet services across the state, and part of its customer support team based in Brisbane.
“We’re excited to be extending our electricity offering into parts of regional Queensland and providing consumers in these areas with a choice of retailer – which for many has not been an option for a long period of time,” Origin’s General Manager of Consumer & Property – Retail, Duncan Permezel, said.
“As one of Australia’s leading energy retailers, we’re focused on delivering useful products and services for Australians
and providing them with choice. We already have strong connections in regional Queensland communities through our LPG and internet services and are thrilled to now be able to include a range of electricity plans, for both residential and small business customers.”
Residential customers may be eligible to access a range of offers - including a $50 bill credit, 5,000 Everyday Rewards points, or up to a $35 per month internet discount for bundling Origin’s electricity and internet services.
Origin will not initially be offering electricity plans to customers with solar.
Eligible small business customers will be able to access the recently
Origin Energy will initially exclude solar customers in Maryborough and other regional Queensland areas because they say they are still finalising solar tariff pricing with the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA).
While Origin has now started introducing electricity competition to these areas, they are not offering plans for solar households until the solar pricing is determined.
There is no indication yet as to when this might be finalised.
launched Origin Sunshine Special offer, which provides lower electricity rates during the day from 10am to 3pm.
“Our electricity rates from day one will importantly be competitive with the incumbent retailer in regional Queensland. But we believe what makes us an attractive alternative is the value and benefits we can provide customers
beyond their electricity,” Mr Permezel said.
“This includes the ability to save money by bundling electricity and internet services, collecting Everyday Rewards points, or accessing discounts through our Origin Rewards program on petrol, movie tickets and with some of Australia’s leading retailers.”
The Ergon network services around 1.5 million people, across more than 790,000 residential and business customers.
Residential and small business customers can check if Origin services their location, compare plans, find out more about available offers, and sign up from today by visiting www.originenergy.com.au or calling 13 24 61.
Insurance Council meets in Hervey Bay tonight
THE Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is hosting an insurer townhall and consultations in Hervey Bay tonight for customers affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Impacted policyholders will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with representatives from a number of insurers, giving them an opportunity to discuss their individual claim and seek personal advice.
In the evening, the ICA will host a townhall where locals will also have the opportunity to obtain
general information on the claims process, complaints avenues and other useful insurance-related information to assist with insurance claims and the recovery process.
Director of Mitigation and Extreme Weather Response, Liam Walter said “The impacts of exTropical Cyclone Alfred are still being felt in many communities, with more than 100,000 claims received totalling almost $1 billion.
“While the Insurance Council and its members had presence in Hervey
Bay immediately following this weather event and provided support and advice for impacted community members, it’s important for insurers to visit the region to work through any questions, issues or concerns.” he added.
“We expect assessments activities and scope of works discussions are well underway at this point in the claim process but hope these additional forums will provide further support for the Hervey Bay community as they continue their recovery.”
WetSide closes for winter maintenance
WETSIDE Water Park is celebrating its biggest season in nearly a decade as the much-loved attraction gets ready to close for regular winter maintenance.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the park made a big splash with 150,000 visitors from September to May, making it the biggest year for the park since 2018.
“The impressive attendance figures underscores WetSide’s significance as a vibrant community hub, a tourist drawcard and cements its reputation as one of the Fraser Coast’s top family destinations,” he said.
“WetSide is a fantastic place to cool off and have fun, offering something for all ages - from exciting
waterslides and the popular Aqua Ninja Course to the recently upgraded TotSide for under-fives.
“The December school holidays were our busiest period, with 55,058 visitors from 14 December 2024 to 27 January 2025.
“Waterslides remain a crowd favourite, with more than 6,400 slide passes sold during that time, while the Aqua Ninja Course continues to grow in popularityup 47% in participation compared to the same period last year.
“To help maintain the park and keep everything running to a high standard, WetSide will be closed from Tuesday May 6 to September 19 to undergo regular winter
maintenance.”
Cr Seymour said the park would remain open for one final day on the Labour Day public holiday (Monday 5 May), with trading hours from 10.00am to 5.00pm.
“Regular maintenance ensures all the features remain safe, clean and in top condition for the next season,” he said.
“We’re proud of what WetSide offers our community and visitors alike, and we’re looking forward to another fantastic year when the park reopens in September.”
For more information about WetSide Water Park, visit: www. frasercoast.qld.gov.au/ wetside-water-park
Consultations will be held Thursday 15th May at The Clubhouse Hervey Bay, Corner Tooth St & Old Maryborough Road, Pialba, Hervey Bay for one-on-one insurer consultations from 10am to 4pm.
The group meeting will then commence at 5pm, with further consultations to follow until 8pm.
Registrations for the consultations are essential.
Bookings can be made at www.insurancecouncil. com.au/bookings.
What’s on in local arts
Maryborough Regional Art Society Gallery
282 Kent Street, Maryborough
MAY
Reciprocal exhibition with the Bundaberg Art Society, a tribute exhibition by the late Terry Tomlin (1935-2023), plus exhibitions by local artists, Deanna Bennett and Val Hammond.
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, https://www.facebook.com/share/1H8XzSh8D6/ , for more information, dates and times.
Exhibiting at Gatakers Artspace until 17 May:
• Identities: Elena Churilova
• Simply Stitches: Maryborough Heritage City Embroiderers
Exhibiting at Gatakers Artspace until 1 June:
• CATTITUDE: Wendy Talbot, Jo Williams, Sheena Walsh & Kerry Harrison
• SALT: Nora Hanasy & Jo Williams
Unearthing the Past: Queen’s Park Time Capsule Until 18th May, Bond Store
What’s Your Story? Floods
Until 30 June, The Story Bank
Creative Space Print Studio
Wednesdays and Saturdays 10am-2pm, Gatakers Creative Space
MRAC Cinema Club presents The Teacher who promised the Sea Wednesday, 14th May - 6:30pm, Brolga Theatre
One More Night of Phil Collins
Friday, 16th May - 7:30pm, Brolga Theatre
Aluminium Plate Etching Printmaking Workshop
Saturday, 17th May - 10am, Gatakers Creative Space
Beauty in the Dark: Ellen Foulds 17th May – 22 June, Gatakers Creative Space
Pastel Workshop with Elena Churilova
Saturday, 17th May - 10am, Gatakers Creative Space
Arts Marketing for Beginners
Sunday, 18th May - 10am, Gatakers Creative Space
Robertson Brothers 60’s Variety TV Show Sunday, 18th May - 2pm, Brolga Theatre
Maryborough Dance Eisteddfod 2025 19th May – 25 May, Brolga Theatre
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.
HAVE you ever thought about why the parks in Maryborough are so wellcared for?
That’s because our local gardeners are working hard to keep them clean.
What do Gardeners do?
Here are just a few jobs that a gardener in Maryborough might need to complete in their dayto-day lives:
● Sowing and cultivating seeds, to ensure that plants receive their proper care and nutrients.
● Finding issues with trees and other plants, as plants can be affected by many factors. These include diseases, pests, and climate change. It is a gardener’s job to treat these issues before they worsen.
● Gardeners also prune and trim plants to keep them neat and healthy.
● Watering and fertilising soil, keeping it healthy enough for plants to grow.
● Controlling pests/ weeding protects the health of native plants, keeping them safe from invasive species.
In Maryborough, gardeners repair vandalism and damage from floods.
Without gardeners, our favourite parks would not look as beautiful as they do.
The range of jobs that they complete ensures that the ecosystem in places like Queens Park
stays in good shape. They can also help provide pollinator support for birds, butterflies and bees, when flowers or other plants are planted and well-cared for.
In addition, they prevent the spread of pests and disease in plants, helping to reduce pollution and keep the environment in order.
If gardeners didn’t keep the soil healthy, the soil would lose its ability to support life, leading to a depletion of nutrients, loss of biodiversity and a rise in erosion that would contribute to climate change.
If you Want to Start a Garden of your Own If you want to start a veggie garden at home and become a gardener yourself, you might need to think of the jobs you’ll need to do to keep your garden’s ecosystem thriving.
1. You’ll want to keep your soil healthy, to allow your
plants to grow. You can do this by composting, mulching or using cover crops.
2. Make sure that you choose the right plants for your garden and give them enough water and sunlight.
3. Finally, think of how you’re going to avoid pests and diseases in your plants.
And if you see them, be sure to thank the gardeners in Maryborough who keep our parks beautiful. I would like to thank them very much, and Linda for suggesting this article, to give them the appreciation they deserve.
Did you enjoy this article? If you enjoyed reading, and want to share your article idea for the For Kids by Kids column, please email marysun.phoebelee@ gmail.com.
with Phoebe Lee MARYBOROUGH SUN SUPER-CUB REPORTER
Swamp
Bushy Tales
Insanity Streak
DEATH NOTICE
HAYES
Adam Denis
Of Maryborough, formerly of Howard. Passed away unexpectedly on April 30, 2025. Aged 50 years. Beloved son of Janice and Denis Hayes. Loved father of Joshua.
Forever In Our Hearts
A private cremation has been held.
MOORE
Geoffrey Alan
Recently of Maryborough, formerly of the Sunshine Coast, born in Brisbane. Passed away after a short illness in the Hervey Bay Hospital on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Aged 73 years. Much loved brother of Cheryl and her family Jodie, Frederic, Tarra, Angelique, Tony and Jess. Friend to many in his local community in Maryborough.
We Will Miss His Smile, Sense of Humour & Larrikinism ~ Rest In Peace ~ A private cremation was held.
PUBLIC NOTICE
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. 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:
Or
EDUCATION
Problems reading or spelling? Headaches?
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
TrustHypnotherapy –Hypnotherapy works!
Do you want to Quit smoking or break free from alcohol and live a happier life. Call Ruth today on 0409 641 102
JOBS
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Part-time position available for an Administrative Assistant at Maryborough Anglican Parish office for 14 hours per week. Please email for a job description and selection criteria to maryborough@anglicanchurchsq.org.au Applications close on Saturday 14th June, 2025
BOATS
On-site trailer, mast, boom & rigging 10hp BMW diesel working motor Non Slip Decking Tender included Ready for fitout & sails
AA Waste Disposal – Pump Out Professionals. Mick Munn. Servicing Maryborough & surrounds. Mobile 0409 488 436. Eftpos now available
ADVANCE Tree Works. Removal of dead & dangerous trees, tree trimming, stump grinding, land clearing, 24 hours emergency works. Phone Office (07) 4124 7516
ASBESTOS Removal. DJ & MA Hose. QBCC 42753. Demolition, House raising, lowering. Phone (07) 4121 6644, 0418 764 236 or 0412 988 906
JAMIE’S Tree Services 0448 641 007 – Jamie & Lachlan Forbes. Father & Son business. Local to Maryborough. Fully Insured, free quotes, competitive rates LATE Model Caravans wanted to buy. Cash Paid. Hervey Bay Caravans. Ricky 0417 033 852 or (07) 4128 1777
Please bring a friend and share a cuppa Raffle – Lucky Door – Progressive Raffle
FRIENDSHIP GROUP
Come join our Friendship Group Every Thursday at Granville Tavern - 11:00am
For more information phone Sue 0456 356 751
RITUALS art exhibition @ JINX ART GALLERY
24th May - 20th June 2025
Opening night 24th May 2025 - 5pm
92 Ellena St, Maryborough
Phone 0404 204 361
Maryborough Choral Society CONCERT
Sunday 1st June 2025
St Paul’s Anglican Church 2pm – 4pm
Afternoon Tea Provided All welcome to enjoy an afternoon of Singing and Connection
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
Croquet
- fun for all ages at Point Lookout Croquet Club
Come and try at no cost?
For more information
Phone 0412 596 544
SPLENDID SPRING GARAGE SALE
Sat 31st Aug 2024 7:00am to 12:00pm 79 Bidwill
Rain brings prawns and crabs
The team from FREEDOM FISHING SUPPLIES
THERE is some good news associated with the cooler weather.
Let’s check out what’s
been happening in our local waters.
Pencil squid are on the chew.
You will find them in the deeper holes over weed beds in the Strait and good numbers are coming in from the Kingfisher jetty.
Size 1, 1.5 and 2.5 jigs are the bomb.
Charge your spotty
THIS WEEK'S BRAG BOARD
up and dust off your spear and get out on the shallows if your keen to get a tiger squid.
The rain has had a huge impact.
We are starting to see promising signs of prawns in our estuary systems and the mud crabs are still plentiful.
We have had anglers report in, with quality sand crabs potting in
the strait.
Good numbers of winter whiting have finally come back in.
The inshore reefs such as Sammie’s and Moon ledge have been reporting snapper, grassy sweet lip, blackall and estuary cod, while Gatakers Bay has been extremely popular with good quality black spot tusk fish off the bommies.
Using fresh paddler crabs and banana prawns have been the preferred bait for the tuskies.
There has been plenty of pelagic action between the arch cliffs all the way up to Rooney’s point with reports of long tail and mack tuna and spotted mackerel taking small metal slugs or blades.
There are plenty of bait fish schooling in the shallows as well,
attracting large golden trevally, making for some fantastic sight fishing.
The Mary River has again been producing the goods with grunter, barramundi and threadfin salmon reported throughout the entire River System.
And the mangrove jack are just as aggressive as ever with quality fish been caught at Maaroom, Boonoroo, Butha and Kauri creeks.
Check out the size of this rusty buck caught in one of our local creeks. The we have Dan with a healthy threadfin. Mick got into the mangrove jack. Next is Tyler who had a ball landing this golden travally and our very own Lissy doing her favourite thing, catching squid.
Bowls Results
DOON VILLA
Jackpot Pairs : Winners - T.Pike, T.Jackson d J.McCoombed, B.Stimpson 3112. Runners Up - L.Rampton, R.Whittaker d N.Gambie, G.Gambie 22-21. Others - M.Jackson, B.Jackson d I.Axelsen, N.Weinheiner 26-9. S.Jensen, R,Turnbull d W.Raguse, C.White 2420. D.Cheslett, R.Anerson, A.Hartwig d R.Cheslett, L.Atkinson, K.Anderson 19-15. G.Kemp, M.Allan d J.Demarco, P.Whittaker 24-16. K.Paxton, G.Kuhn d S.Morris, A.Scholl 19-12. -C.White, scribe
Furniture & Antiques
Display cabinets, dressers, bookcases, trunks, blanket boxes and much more, our collection changes regularly with new stock always arriving.
Tassels, lamp oils, wicks etc
Hand picked by us, and beautifully made, these tassels will add a dash of colour to your cabinet knobs and keys.
We also supply quality lamp oils, replacement lamp wicks, chimneys, burners, brass knobs, handles and much more.
