The MaryValleyVoice
CHRISTMAS SHOW KENILWORTH
SATURDAY 20TH DECEMBER 2025 3PM - 8PM FREE RIDES & ADMISSION FROM 3PM SANTA ARRIVAL 6PM* RAFFLE 7PM FIREWORKS 8PM Free Rides - Food Trucks - Mega Raffle Draw - Face PaintingBalloon Artist - Fireworks - BYO Chairs or Blanket *Ask in-store about Santa's gift giving for your child
KENILWORTH CHRISTMAS SHOW
KENILWORTH CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS 2025 – A NIGHT OF COMMUNITY FUN AND BIG PRIZES!!!
After last year’s incredible turnout of over 1,000 attendees, the Kenilworth Christmas Celebrations are back for another free family event under the stars. On Saturday, 20th December 2025, from 3pm at the Kenilworth Showgrounds, our charming little town will once again come alive with festive cheer, free entertainment, and the warm spirit of community connection.
Families can look forward to FREE rides for the kids, a wide selection of food trucks and sweet treats, face painting and balloon artists and of course, the spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky at 8pm. A highlight of the event is the arrival of Santa at 6pm, escorted to the event by our amazing local Police and Fire Fighters.
To make sure your little one doesn’t miss out on a gift from Santa, simply pop into a participating Kenilworth business to arrange a present. Look for the sign that says “Santa Shops Here”.
This event is proudly kept 100% free for the community thanks to the incredible support of local sponsors and the success of our Mega Christmas Raffle. Every raffle ticket sold goes directly back into making this event possible year after year! Thank you to those who have generously donated prizes and cash, and the volunteers that make this spectacular night possible.
So gather your family, bring your chairs, picnic rugs, and festive spirit, or simply turn up and enjoy all that’s on offer. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re warmly invited to experience a truly magical Christmas celebration in the heart of Kenilworth. We might get a stunning sunset like last year! qqq
Saturday 20th December 2025 3-8pm
POSTAL NOTES
As we move full swing into the Christmas season, we would like to remind our customers of a few matters that will make life easier for both them and us at the Post Office.
PARCELS: With the continued increase in online shopping, Post Offices are now dealing with very high volumes of parcels, many of which are very large. With at least two deliveries of parcels daily, smaller post offices such as Kenilworth struggle to maintain adequate storage space. It would therefore be appreciated if, once you have received advice (either via a parcel card or an SMS notification from Australia Post) that your parcel is awaiting collection at the Post Office, that it is collected as promptly as possible. This allows us to clear some space for deliveries arriving the following day. As we head towards the busy Christmas period, this prompt collection of parcels becomes even more important.
COLLECTING PARCELS: As some parcels need name and licence details, please have your ID available, together with either a parcel card or SMS/Email notification. If collecting for a member of your household, proof of address is required. In order to collect a parcel for someone outside of your household, the receiver must sign the authority on back of the parcel card or provide authority via the Australia Post App. This confirms that the recipient gives approval for you to collect the parcel on their behalf.
POSTAGE AND PACKAGING: With Christmas just around the corner, Kenilworth Post Office is gearing up to meet all your Christmas needs, with postage and packaging options for the best way to send presents, a wide range of “value for money” gift ideas, as well as gift cards for those hard to buy for friends and family members. Christmas stamps are on sale now, and “card only” Christmas cards will continue to be sent at the following reduced postage rate: Standard domestic: 65c; Large domestic: $1.30. International ”card only” Christmas cards are $3.00. Please note:domestic stamps cannot to be used on international cards or mail.
PARKING OUTSIDE THE POST OFFICE: We would once again ask all members of the community to be considerate of the restricted parking times listed on signage at both ends of the ‘No Standing’ area in front of the Post Office. Between the hours of 7.00am-9.00 am Monday to Friday, this area is set aside for the Mail Contractor. Once he has completed sorting mail/parcels, he needs to have easy access to his vehicle to load mail/parcels for his roadside delivery run. Between 4.00pm-5.15pm Monday to Friday, this same area is set aside for the mail truck to offload the late afternoon delivery, as well as load outgoing mail from the Post Office. Outside of the hours listed on the ‘No Standing’ signage, parking in this area is permitted. We ask that vehicles do not park in the “No Standing” area during the times listed on the signage, so that no disruption is caused to those Australia Post workers required to access this space at these designated times.
SATURDAY MORNING CLOSURE: Please note that commencing Saturday, 27 December 2025, Kenilworth Post Office will no longer be open for trading on Saturdays. As of Monday, 29 December 2025, the trading hours for Kenilworth Post Office will be: Monday – Friday: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank members of the community for their valued custom throughout the year, and we extend our very best wishes to you all for a Happy Christmas and safe and prosperous year in 2026.
~ Robyn and Michael Pfeiffer, Kenilworth post office
HISTORICAL: PIONEER PARK, GHEERULLA
THE STORY OF PIONEER PARK, GHEERULLA
The story of Pioneer Park begins over 80 years ago when the then Main Roads Commission released plans in 1940 to reroute what is now known as EumundiKenilworth Road with the building of a new bridge over Gheerulla Creek to replace a “light traffic bridge” built in 1927 by the community with the Council funding the ironwork necessary in the construction. The Commission planned to resume 1.6 ha of land including the natural rainforest on the bank of the creek. The owner of the property, Mr Bert Sims requested the Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce to advise the commission that he was prepared to donate the land on the basis that it be made a lasting memorial to the pioneer farmers of the Kenilworth District.
Bert Sims became councillor for Division 1 of Maroochy Shire in 1967 and was able, through the utilisation of Federal Drought Relief monies and a great deal of volunteer labour, to fulfil his dream of seeing the memorial park established in 1979. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1981 before the memorial plaque he had planned was in place on the rock he had selected near the entrance to the park.
The following are the names of those pioneer farmers who contributed so much to the development of, not only the first Kenilworth locality but also, the establishment of the Kenilworth district. The years shown indicate the time each of the selectors arrived in the district.
1891
Mr Christopher Sharry
Mr Richard Sims
Mr John McGinn
Mr Edward Pickering
Mr Frederick Goeths Mr Albert Goeths
Mr Duncan Beattie
Mr Edward (Ned) Allen 1893
The three Hornibrook brothers (Michael, John, and James)
Mr Herman Kuch
1894
Mr W H (Bill) Liekefett
Mr. Alex McGinn,
Mr William Hilder
Mr Henry Hilder
Mr Andrew Purdon
Mr Alexander Purdon
Mr Thomas Sharry and Mr Patrick Murtagh 1897
Mr J C Hassall
Mr J E Pearce
Mr Harry Fritz and Mr Jacob Fritz
1900
Mr William Dellitt
Mr Henry Dellitt
Mr William Sutton
Mr Peter Sutton
The memorial stones in the park were put in place by Councillor Herman Schwabe, the successor in Council to Bert Sims and have included the names of others who have contributed to the wider district of Kenilworth.
The Kenilworth Museum is endeavouring to have the published photograph erected as a sign in Pioneer Park. The gheerulla.qld.au website has the stories of the stones and the QR code or the website will enable visitors to read those small biographies. They were an interesting mob our forebears.
~ Lenore Meldrum, President, Kenilworth and District Historical Assn Inc.
q Sign that the Historical Museum as applied to council to have erected in Pioneer Park.
Graham Brennan
COMMUNITY NEWS & STORIES
MARY VALLEY VOICE CHRISTMAS WINNERS
Last month we had a Christmas competition to count the number of festive trees hidden throughout the magazine.
Rose Braun was our child winner, receiving her prize of an iced Christmas Cake. Big thanks to Rose's mother Kate and the teachers at KSCC for allowing and enabling the presentation at the school with our wondeful treasurer (and cake chef!) Lenore Meldrum in front of the colourful busy bee mural. uuuu
Marley Morris won a $50 gift voucher to spend at Crea8tive in Kenilworth. Donated by Barbara Smith as a generous festive gesture to encourage spending at local businesses. uuuu
We love running these competitions and getting the community engaged. If you have ideas for next year, let us know!
~ Samantha Starshine, Editor MVV
CHEERIO FROM THE CHURCHES
Our blessings and best wishes to all for this joyous Christmas Season. Amid all the parties and presents, let's not forget the real meaning of Christmas -just look at the first six letters of Christmas!
From St Luke's we send our very sincere thanks to all our wonderful community members who so generously donated to our annual Christmas Hampers for those in aged care. We send special thanks to the staff, the students and the P&C at Kenilworth State Community College for their very welcome contributions.
Times for Christmas Eucharist at St Luke's and Christmas Mass at St John Bosco's will be posted on the church notice boards and on line.
Peace and joy to all!
~ Cheerio from the churches
Pool Hours
Mon - Fri 1PM - 5PM
sat &sun 10aM - 4PM
KENILWORTH POOL
Thanks to the generosity of the Kenilworth Hall Committee we have been offering free swimming lessons for the local community and surrounding districts for the past 8 weeks.
The lessons have been enjoyed by children aged 2 and up. It is great to see them enjoy the lessons, and develop their skills and gain confidence in the water. (See the photo below!)
A huge thank you to Sylvia and Sandy for giving so freely of their time. And thank you also Rennie Head for managing the scheduling and placement.
~ Hans Schinkel, Kenilworth Pool
THANK YOU TO OUR ADVERTISERS
Kenilworth
KENILWORTH ARTS COUNCIL
What an incredible year Kenilworth Arts Council has had!
Artsfest was a blast with many new emerging artists exhibiting for the first time. The talented musicians from Tonikos www.mamabuluku.com performed worldly music on Opening Night. Artsfest is a fabulous gateway to meet with fellow creatives, enjoy 2D and 3D works and purchase local talent! Entry forms for 22-24th MAY 2026 ArtsFest are online at www.kenilwortharts. org.au a new Youth Art section open. Kenilworth and Conondale school participated in the Children's Artsfest producing intricate artworks and compassionate poetry under the theme of Gratitude.
Family Fun Day www.kenilworthfamilyfun.day buzzed with excitement as Sunshine Coast locals streamed in and connected with artists, community groups and participated in free hands on activities. Next years FFD is Sunday 24th May 9-2pm.
Jazz on a Plate was an epic night of food, music and dancing. Thank you to Dean Doyle and SCREAM Orchestra and Nambour Golden Roast for making this night magical.
If you would like to volunteer at any of these events or have ideas to share, email our Secretary Lisa O'Farrell at Kac@kenilwortharts. org.au we would love to hear from you!
Our Christmas Goodies Stall will run from 8am Sat 13th Dec in front of Kenilworth Visitor and Information Centre. Come and purchase delicious treats and stocking fillers. Our last committee meeting is Wednesday 17th December 2pm. Followed by an informal Christmas Party at 5.30pm. BYO a plate to share.
Have a Safe and Merry Christmas all.
~ Kenilworth Arts Council Committee
"I dream my painting, then I paint my Dream". Vincent Van Goh
OUR BIOSECURITY OBLIGATION
EMERGING WEEDS AND YOUR GBO
Many may not know this, but under the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014 we all have a general biosecurity obligation (GBO) to reduce our weed risk. A GBO is similar in concept to Workplace Duty of Care but for the environment. Under the Act all Councils must prepare a Biosecurity Plan. These Plans categorize known plants and animals as biosecurity threats, from most to least concern, but may not include many emerging weed problems. As community members under the GBO, this is where we can all help.
Where do we find these emerging weeds?
Where people travel, plants travel.
Weeds can hook up in bumper bars, bull bars, towing hitches, tyres, and wheel rims. Roadsides often show how effective weed seeds can be moved by vehicles. An example of emerging weeds here on the Sunshine Coast is the Japanese Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia). Tithonia doesn’t have very effective windblown seeds. Yet. from a small number of plants in Dulong in the 1990s, T. diversifolia can now be found beside roads in Mapleton, Obi Obi, Kidaman Creek, Cambroon, The Hunchy and other locations across the Sunshine Coast hinterland (it loves hilly country). The most likely form of dispersal are vehicles.
By observing new plant species appearing along local roadsides, or beside bush and beach paths and tracks, (shoes, socks and bike tires are also great for moving seeds around), the community can take a more active role in identifying emerging weeds.
For more information scan the QR-Codes for the Sunshine Coast Council’s Biosecurity Plan Fact Sheet with a list of weeds to be on the lookout for on the Sunshine Coast, and for guidelines on how to report an invasive plant.
https://publicdocs.scc.qld. gov.au/HPECMWebDrawer/ RecordHtml/26078281
https://www.sunshinecoast.qld. gov.au/environment/invasiveplants-and-animals/invasiveplants/identify-and-report-aninvasive-plant
https://publicdocs.scc.qld. gov.au/hpecmwebdrawer/ Record/20915989/File/ document
tt Our local weeds (hinterland version)
Biosecurity plan fact sheet uu
tt Identify and report invasive plants
~ The Weed Whisperer
QLD SCHOOL VIOLENCE SKYROCKETS
TEACHER ASSAULTS SURGE MORE THAN 4,000% AS SUSPENSIONS FALL AND WORKCOVER CLAIMS FLATLINE
As the school year draws to a close, new data has revealed a dramatic escalation in violence against Queensland state school teachers and teacher aides, with reported assault-related injuries increasing more than 4,000 per cent between 2022 and 2024, while WorkCover claims increased by only 96 per cent over the same period.
Personal injury lawyer Trent Johnson from Travis Schultz & Partners said the Right to Information (RTI) data confirms what he regularly hears from injured teachers – deteriorating student behaviour, escalating severity of assaults, and a system that is leaving staff exposed and unsupported.
“Teachers are reporting physical assaults, psychological trauma, and classrooms being trashed with violent students often not restrained until someone has already been hurt,” Mr Johnson said.
“We’re being told behaviour has worsened significantly in the early primary years, and the severity is unlike anything teachers were reporting before the pandemic.”
The figures reveal a severe and accelerating trend, with assaultrelated injuries rising 4,100 per cent from 277 in 2022 to 11,887 in 2024. Despite this, WorkCover claims have barely increased –rising from 286 in 2022 to just 560 in 2024.
“It raises serious questions about reporting practices, the cumulative nature of injuries, and the barriers teachers and teacher aides face in seeking help.”
“Injured teachers tell us they are exhausted, unsure of the process, or worried about how a claim will affect their future. In many cases, we only see a claim after repeated trauma has finally forced a teacher out of the classroom.”
Mr Johnson emphasised that Education Queensland is legally responsible for the safety of teachers and teacher aides.
“If a school is aware that a student has violent behavioural issues and continues placing them in a classroom without proper boundaries or protections for its staff, that is a breach of their duty of care. We are seeing an increasing number of psychological injury cases where multiple incidents have occurred without adequate intervention.”
Department of Education data shows that suspensions and exclusions have not increased in line with the rise in reported injury related assaults and, in some cases, have decreased –despite student enrolment numbers remaining largely stable across the same period. In primary schools, total suspensions and exclusions fell 3 per cent in 2024 on the prior year, and in secondary schools dropped 13 per cent.
Mr Johnson said this trend raises serious questions about safety and accountability, particularly when viewed alongside the sharp rise in assault-related injuries.
“If suspension rates are dropping while assaults are skyrocketing, that suggests violent behaviour is being minimised, not managed,” Mr Johnson said.
“That leaves teachers and teacher aides dangerously exposed and raises serious questions about whether the Department is meeting its duty of care.”
Mr Johnson warned that without urgent intervention, Queensland risks losing even more teachers.
“If Education Queensland doesn’t take this seriously and closely scrutinise the injuries being reported, we will see a dwindling profession. More teachers will leave, more will take extended leave or drop to part-time arrangements, and the volume of WorkCover claims
will inevitably rise. This is not just a workforce issue – it’s a wider community issue.”
Mr Johnson said stronger protections teachers and teacher aides, greater transparency in reporting student behaviour and more robust consequences for violent student behaviour are urgently needed.
“Teachers deserve and have a right to feel safe at work. At the moment, too many are being hurt – and too few are being heard.”
While the Mary Valley is extremely blessed to have smaller schools (at least for primary) that can offer more personalised educational experiences for children and families, the question remains, why has there been such a huge increase in school-based violence? Is it the phones... the food?
Rising cost of living so parents are increasingly stretched and stressed?
The dangers of unchecked technology use and gaming?
What do you think?
MRCCC Spring in the Mary junior winner Reef Van
LOCAL ADVERTISERS
“Sheridan blew us away with her knowledge and professionalism during our selling process. She always had our best interest at heart”
- Hinterland Seller
For all your buying and selling needs, contact Hinterland local, Sheridan, today.
Sheridan Hodgetts
Sales Consultant
0419 491 448 || 07 5447 7000
sheridan@hinternoosa.com.au 30 Maple Street, Cooroy QLD 4563 hinternoosa.com.au
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
DISASTER RELIEF FUNDING
Recent severe storms left a trail of destruction across the Sunshine Coast, leaving many locals without power and damaged property.
State disaster assistance has just been activated for the region. Activated suburbs include Bald Knob, Belli Park, Beerwah, Caloundra, Caloundra West, Cambroon, Chevallum, Conondale, Coolum Beach, Doonan, Glasshouse, Kenilworth, Maleny, Marcoola, Maroochy River, Montville, Mount Coolum, Mudjimba, Ninderry, Pacific Paradise, Palmwoods, Peachester, Peregian, Peregian Springs, Reesvile, Twin Waters, Warana and Yaroomba.
Grants of $180 for individuals and up to $900 for a family of five or more can cover the costs of essentials like food, clothing and medicine, while other support measures target low income, uninsured residents.
For information on assistance available, eligibility, and how to apply, visit www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp or by calling the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR SPACE TO SHARE
Do you have thoughts or an opinion on something?
Share it here with our readers. Topics could include:
• Great places to camp
• Local businesses to visit
• The best takeaway in the Mary Valley
• The Digital ID Debate, Artificial Intelligence
• Local or Global Issues
• The escalating violence in QLD schools (story on P. 9)
• Road or amenities issues
• Anything else you are passionate about and would like to bring the community's attention to or have discussions about
uuuu
The joy of connection and community support.
Lesley at the Safe Space in Kenilworth.
CELEBRATING ONE YEAR OF THE SAFE SPACE
One year already! Since opening our doors, the Safe Space has become a trusted, welcoming place for our community. With 15–20 visitors each month, we’ve seen conversations grow, connections form, and people feel supported when they’ve needed it most.
The past year has shown us just how important connection truly is. Life can sometimes stretch us emotionally, physically and mentally, and it’s easy to forget our own needs along the way. In the Safe Space, we’ve created something special—a place where we can breathe, share, and support each other. We don’t just care for our wider community; we care for each other, too.
We would like to thank our wonderful team and we appreciate each person for their caring presence, kindness, and support. We would also like to see our lovely Lesley off with all the best wishes for the future and lots of love. You will definitely be missed.
Open: 9-12 Christmas Eve 24th and 9-12 New Year’s Eve 31st ~ Suzie, Safe Space Kenilworth
The Mary Valley Voice remains a neutral party but we welcome perspectives from all sides of issues as long as they are presented in a respectful and honest way. A bit of humour is often helpful too so we welcome your jokes and comic strips!
You can also nominate a local for our business spotlight or local legends feature.
Send an email to maryvalleyvoice31@gmail.com
Print media plays a vital role in keeping communities informed, connected, and grounded. In a fast-moving digital world, a local printed paper offers something trustworthy and tangible — a reliable source of news, stories, and voices that reflect the heart of the region. It preserves local history, supports community identity, and ensures that important information reaches everyone, including those who aren’t online.
REGIONAL NEWS & POLITICS
Community News
Follow the sparkle: explore the festive lights
Get ready to see the parks and streets of the Sunshine Coast shine bright with a spectacular display of festive lights! Enjoy one or discover all 26 trees across the region adorned with eco-friendly LED lights and colourful decorations. Whether you stroll beneath the glowing branches in Conondale, picnic under the twinkling lights in Kenilworth or cruise past the dazzling display in Eumundi, there’s a festive stop near you to explore this holiday season. Make the most of this enchanting time of year and plan your trail by visiting Council's website for details.
Summer storm season is here!
Storms and flash flooding on the Sunshine Coast are not a matter of “if”, but “when”! Being prepared is everyone’s responsibility. Visit Council’s Disaster Hub website for resources, updates and what to do before, during and after an emergency. Council support for those in need
Council understands that cost-of-living pressures are affecting many in our community. That’s why Council offers a little extra support through a pensioner concession on rates for eligible residents. Plus, if you're 60 or over, or are living with a disability, you can enjoy door-to-door transport for just two dollars each way, thanks to Council Link. Weekly trips to your local shopping centre – safe, easy and reliable. See Council’s website for details.
Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting View online on Council's website or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers at 9am on 11 December
Fun activities for kids these holidays
Dive into the fun with Sunshine Coast Council’s Summer School Holiday Guide. Brimming with free and low-cost activities, there’s something for every age and interest. Swap screen time for sunshine and create unforgettable memories outdoors or beat the heat with an indoor experience. Some events have limited spots, so book early to avoid missing out. For the full program and booking details, visit Council’s website.
CR DAVID LAW DIVISION 10 – SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL
Fresh picnic spots ready for Kenilworth Town Park: Great news for Kenilworth locals and visitors – three brand-new picnic table combos have now been installed in Kenilworth Town Park and are ready for you to enjoy! This upgrade is part of Council’s commitment to keep our parks welcoming and functional, especially as we prepare for the exciting Kenilworth Town Park Playground upgrade scheduled to start on 27 January 2026. By renewing the picnic tables ahead of time, we’ve minimised the footprint and disruption during the main construction period. The works, which began on 5 November, were carefully planned to keep the park accessible. Each table was installed on existing concrete slabs, meaning only a small site set-up was needed around each area while crews worked. These improvements are all about creating spaces where families, friends, and visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful Kenilworth surroundings.
Elizabeth Street Streetscape – next steps: Council has also committed $500,000 over the 2025–2026 financial years through the Capital Works Program to enhance the Elizabeth Street streetscape. So far, we have completed footpath upgrades, giving the area a fresh look and improving accessibility. We’re now undertaking a site assessment to help shape the next stage of improvements. Updates will be shared as planning progresses in the coming months. Thank you to everyone for your patience as we continue to improve our community spaces. These upgrades are about making Kenilworth even more inviting for locals and visitors alike. If you have ideas or feedback, I’d love to hear from you –together we can keep building a vibrant, connected community.
Please contact me with any questions or comments at email: david.law@sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au and follow my Facebook page for regular updates: @DavidLawDivision10.
CR WINSTON JOHNSTON DIVISION 5 - SC COUNCIL
New Vision for Maleny District Park: Thank you for your feedback on the draft concept plan for Maleny District Park. We received an incredible response of 2,300 views and 160 submissions. Your ideas have helped refine the plans and ensure the park will reflect our community. We’re now refining the concept plan based on your feedback.
Summer holidays are here - so is storm season! As locals we’re used to summer storm season - it’s part of life on the Sunshine Coast - but you still need to be prepared. Planning for wild weather can help keep people and properties safe. Council’s Disaster Hub provides you with up-to-date information before, during and after a storm. Be disaster ready! disasterhub.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.
Wishing you a joyful Christmas and New Year: As we come to the close of another year, I want to take a moment to thank our wonderful community for your support, resilience, and spirit throughout 2025. Christmas is a time to reflect on what truly matters—family, friends, and the connections that make our community strong. May this festive season bring you peace, joy, and plenty of time to celebrate with loved ones. I look forward to working together in the year ahead to continue building a vibrant and happy community.
TOSS OF A COIN, IT'S A TOSS UP!
Will notes and coins stay or will they go in the increasing demand for a cashless society? Will we still be able to use cash? Are notes and coins being phased out? So far, they are safe, according to a recent ruling of the Commonwealth Government. Where do our coins and notes come from and where do they finish up?
They are made at the Royal Australian Mint and eventually when no longer in demand or in good shape, their components are recycled. Some, of course, finish up down the side of the couch, under the cupboard, in a rusty tin in the shed or in children's money boxes. And sometimes even a few 5cent coins appear in the church plate on Sunday!
Did you know that: It costs more than 12 cents to make a 5 cent coin, based on metal prices? 110 million 5 cent coins with King Charles 111 on them have been minted? $1 and $2 coins with 92% copper cost less to produce than other coins? The number of coins minted fell from 110 million in 2022-23 to 47 million in 2023-24? The 5 cent coin seems the most likely coin to disappear?
Notes seem to be in a better position for the future. For transporting to banks and businesses, they are not as heavy, not as bulky and take up far less space. They are popular in ATM machines and fit easily into your wallet. A question to ponder. If eventually the 5 cent coin is phased out, will a 95cent price tag be rounded up to $1 or rounded down to 90 cents? Well, what do you reckon? Shall we toss a coin on that one?
~ Shirley Moreland
Reference : The Royal Australian Mint
Ian Naylor Ron Jeffery Leanne Vincent
Marie Kemp Joleen Lotze Teena Lee
VOLUNTEERS: KEEPING COMMUNITY ALIVE
PRESIDENT’S CORNER
Dear Readers,
Well as I write my last monthly corner as President of Mary Valley News in the last issue for the year, I take comfort in the pleasure this position has given me over the past three years in our local community.
Our AGM has just been held and moves forward with our continuing committee, along with new members and myself remaining as a committee member, as I believe its team work that contributes to a strong organisation and body. We are still awaiting in anticipation for the outcome of our funding application.
We have photos of our 2 competition winners from last months issue (on page 5) and congratulations to them both. It is nice to see the youth participate in local activities and programs. Thanks to Lenore for providing her great Xmas Cake for first prize and no doubt the family will enjoy.
So thank you to those who supported my actions and choices over the past years along with the challenges, and I leave you with well Wishes for the Festive Season along with Safe Travels and Good Health.
Thank you to Ross Sigley who has offered to take on the Presidents role in the interim, until we manage to source a new President for 2026.
I HAVE LEARNED 3 LESSONS THIS YEAR: TO LEAVE PEOPLE WHERE THEY ARE, ACCEPT SITUATIONS FOR WHAT THEY ARE, AND NOT EVERY ACTION NEEDS A REACTION”.
You can send in your community news, stories and advertising enquiries to our editor Sam at: maryvalleyvoice31@gmail.com ~ Cheers Barbara Smith - President MVV
Huge thanks to THE CHOOK CHASE for their generous donation to the Mary Valley Voice. You help us keep the magazine free for readers. Thank you for supporting the community in all the ways you do.
Do you like our new SUDOKU puzzle?
We will continue these for a few months before going back to crosswords, or maybe something else.
Let us know what you think!
MVV Committee: Hayley, Lenore, Tracy, Carolyn, Ross, Di, Tim. Absent Michael and Barb.
LOCAL LEGENDS: CHRISTMAS & COMMITTEES
THE CHRISTMAS HEROINE
Most Christmas lights are simple drive-bys, but on Moy Pocket Road in the Mary Valley, Joyce Wood invites you inside her home, which has been transformed into a true Christmas wonderland. For decades, Joyce has lovingly collected Christmas decorations, vintage pieces, handmade treasures, sparkling lights, and whimsical ornaments that fill every room with warmth and nostalgia. Stepping through her door feels like entering a living storybook, with each corner offering a new surprise and a reminder of Christmases past.
Joyce opens her magical home to the community every night from Wednesday 10th December, 6pm to 8pm, welcoming families, children, and anyone who wants to feel the spirit of the season. Her wonderland is created with love, generosity, and a desire to bring joy to others. It’s not just a display, it’s an experience that lights up the heart and captures what Christmas is truly
THE LOCAL LEGENDS ON COMMITTEES
Getting involved in a local committee is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to strengthen your community while enriching your own life. When you join a committee, you’re not just filling a seat—you’re becoming part of a small team of people who care about making things better for everyone. Whether it’s a school, sports club, neighbourhood group, community centre, or environmental organisation, committees are the heartbeat of local life. They keep things running, spark new ideas, and create the kind of community spirit that makes a place feel like home.
Volunteering on a committee also gives you a genuine sense of contribution. You get to see real, tangible outcomes from your efforts—whether that’s a successful event, improved facilities, or new activities for families and young people. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that something you helped plan or organise has made a positive difference in someone else’s life.
There’s also a social benefit. Committees bring together people of all ages, backgrounds, and skills. You’ll make new friends, build strong connections, and become part of a supportive network that often extends well beyond the meetings themselves. Many volunteers find that joining a committee helps them feel more connected, more grounded, and more proud of where they live.
about: community, kindness, and shared celebration.
On a personal level, you’ll grow, too. Committees are great places to learn new skills—leadership, communication, budgeting, teamwork, event planning, and problem-solving. These skills translate beautifully into work, family life, and personal confidence. Even giving just a little bit of your time each month can help you discover passions you didn’t know you had.
Most importantly, committees need people just like you—friendly, community-minded, and willing to pitch in. Your voice matters, your ideas matter, and your contribution truly counts. By joining a local committee, you’re helping build the kind of community everyone wants to be part of.
If you are not sure where to start check out the local committees of interest near you: Mary Valley Community News Association, Kenilworth Museum, Chamber of Commerce, Local School P&C, Information Centre, Sports Clubs & Local Halls, Arts Groups, etc.
Many people hesitate to join a committee because life is busy, or they’re unsure what they can offer. These barriers are understandable, but if no one steps forward, we risk losing the essential services, events, and culture that make our region special. When each of us contributes even a small amount of time, we help keep our community strong, connected, and thriving for the future. Join a committee today!
TheMary Valley Voice
OH HOW SWEET IT IS!
A Timber Cottage, a shed and a shack!
The perfect rural setting awaits you at 176 Goomong Road, Kandanga.
This very cute timber cottage is complimented by a delightful front porch reminding you of an era where time passed slowly and peacefully. With restored timber French doors, polish original floorboards inside and painted exterior chamfer boards, this cottage does blend perfectly into the landscape.
Two spacious bedrooms, plus an additional study that could be used as a third bedroom or home office if needed.
The open plan kitchen and dining areas open out onto the rear deck, another area to relax and admire the uninterrupted outlook.
A welcoming living room is completed with gas convection heating for the colder months. This room is gener-
ous in size allowing space for those who prefer to decorate with antiques and treasures of yesteryear.
A combined bathroom and laundry that also has the benefit of direct access to the rear deck.
A well-constructed steel frame shed on a concrete slab sits behind the house with good side access. This shed is ideal for the home handyman and yet still has plenty of room for vehicles. Extra height and ease of access this shed is very advantageous for those who need to store their Van or Motorhome.
In addition to the shed is an old timber shack that is perfect for storing non valuable items. The shack has been sitting there for a very long time just waiting for someone to come along
and restore it. The possibilities here have great scope.
A near level block consisting of 1897m2 that comes fenced on three sides (new fencing). Very fertile soil that is evidenced by the large productive farming land that surrounds it.
With little to no road noise and the benefit being on a no through road; this one offers everything there is for a country rural lifestyle without all that land to manage.
