Noosa Today - 14th May 2020

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Independent Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton.

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Newly elected Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart.

COVER STORY

WOMEN IN

POWER PAGES 4-5

Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson.

MORE TO LOVE The editor’s desk Volunteers are part of the heart and soul of any community and the Noosa region is no different. And their contribution during these Covid-19 times is more valuable than ever - the good news is if you have some hours to spare there are still plenty of opportunities to become a volunteer even at this time (see our volunteers’ feature inside).

Everyone has a set of skills that can be of benefit to the numerous community groups operating in the region - the point is to find the best fit for you. But as much as anything it’s the social interaction that comes with volunteering which has benefits that aren’t measurable in purely economic terms. Lend a hand where you can your community will thank you for it.

Jeremy Sollars

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OUR VOLUNTEERS National Volunteer Week is the annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers and this year it will run from 18-24 May. In this edition, Noosa Today pays tribute to some of those volunteers who do so much great work in the community. See our special four page feature on pages 12-15.

SPIN ON SPORT

Noosa River sunset.

Picture: SANDI VAN DER STER

Sports commentator takes a look at the state of play for competitions during the Covid-19 lockdown. Turn to pages 20-21 for his weekly Spin on Sport.

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Thursday, 14 May, 2020

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NEWS

MAPPING THE WAY FORWARD Noosa Council will stage the reopening of its public facilities such as playgrounds, libraries, aquatic facilities, to safely manage the easing of Covid-19 restrictions across the shire.

Mayor Clare Stewart said council’s Covid Recovery Taskforce is working on a gradual plan, primarily focussed on the safety of staff and the community.

“We are seeking clarity and guidance from the State Government on what are the protocols for cleaning equipment and how do we monitor social distancing requirements at re-opened facilities,” she said.

“I understand that the community expects a quick response, however it’s important to adopt a considered, measured approach to the re-opening of public facilities.” Mayor Stewart said.

Council’s Covid Recovery Taskforce Chair Kerri Contini said there are a number of factors to consider, prior to opening facilities.

“The roadmap released by the government identified May 16 as the earliest date for the consideration of opening facilities like libraries, pools, playgrounds and skate parks, provided restrictions on numbers can be met and public health measures can be put in place,” she said.

“For example if we opened libraries, we can only have ten people in the building at one time,” she said.

Noosa Libraries will not open this weekend, but a temporary “click and collect” service will be operational from Monday May 18.

Customers can reserve an item online or by phone and collect it from Cooroy, Noosaville or a Mobile Library location.

“It’s critical that the risks to staff and the community are mitigated and when we re-open a facility, appropriate measures are in place to manage the health, hygiene and social distancing protocols.” Ms Contini said.

Cr Stewart said the re-opening of parks and playgrounds remained a high priority, though there were some speed bumps.

“Playgrounds, skate parks and picnic tables still have strict social distancing requirements, however we hope to finalise some details in the next few days, “We need to be a role model for good behaviour, “Our responsibility is to safeguard the community against any further outbreaks.” the mayor said.

Cr Stewart said it was important Noosa residents didn’t become complacent with the eased restrictions and continued to follow social distancing and other restrictions.

“Our community has been tremendous in their response to the pandemic and although we want to welcome back visitors, we need to do it in a disciplined and Covid-safe way.” ●

Noosa Council are planning the safest way to re-open public facilities.

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NOOSA TODAY 3

COVER STORY

Newly elected Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart.

Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson.

NOOSA’S WOMEN IN POWER

BY ROSE ASTLEY here is no denying that Noosa is miles ahead in terms of gender equality in high-profile job titles, this has become increasingly prevalent in the recent local council elections that saw Noosa vote in its first female mayor, along with two other women councillors.

Clare Stewart, Amelia Lorenston and Karen Finzel have recently joined the new look council and through their campaigning have proven to the community they acquire the skills to get the job done.

A kudos must also be given to Ingrid Jackson, who served the Noosa Shire as the only female councillor during Tony Wellington’s time as mayor, her time in office saw increased council transparency and strong advocacy on important topics such as council’s support for marriage equality.

Having so many women on board the Noosa Council is a first for the

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Shire, in a community where the age demographic is particularly higher, it is a refreshing step to see more women voted into these influential positions.

Though Noosa is no stranger to electing women into high-profile titles, Sandy Bolton, who was once a sole female councillor, now rallies for Noosa as an Independent State Member, and Melanie Anderson in 2019 earned the position of CEO of Tourism Noosa.

Studies show that having women in leadership positions can increase productivity, enhance decision making and emphasises inclusion in the workplace.

It’s also been shown that women are said to encourage participation by soliciting input from others, share power and information by keeping open communication.

McKinsey & Company (Women Matter: Time to accelerate) wrote that it estimated that companies with three or more women in senior management positions score higher

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

in all dimensions of organisational performance.

Socially though, having a significant number of women in influential roles can be highly beneficial for younger generations, building gender equality in the workplace forces out the male dominant stigmas allowing for ‘typical’ gender roles to be reversed.

Female leaders change the perceived conception about who can lead and what qualities are necessary to have in a leadership position.

Women in these types of roles help break down cultural and structural barriers.

To highlight the influential women in our region, Noosa Today asked Ms Stewart, Ms Bolton and Ms Anderson to share some of their stories on getting where they are today.

NOOSA MAYOR CLARE STEWART Becoming the first female mayor of Noosa is a ground-breaking achievement, a journey made less

intimidating by the support of the Noosa Shire.

“I think any woman who puts their hand up to be in the public eye whether it’s a politician or CEO of Tourism Noosa such as Melanie, or anyone who put themselves out there to public scrutiny, I think you have to have a pretty tough skin,” Ms Stewart said.

“There were a few instances, not many, that I thought ‘this wouldn’t happen to Tony’ but they weren’t major and I didn’t focus on them, as a whole, both men and women were supportive and I didn’t in any way feel discriminated against “I think Noosa Shire is a great example of being really fair, give the constituents credit for our female MP, female CEO of Tourism Noosa, and I’m the first female mayor, so I we’re a great example of gender equality.

Ms Stewart said confidentially that though she and counterparts may have different opinions, that it will never come down to he vs noosatoday.com.au

Independent Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton.

Current councillor Karen Finzel.

Former councillor Ingrid Jackson.

Current councillor Amelia Lorenston.

she, claiming the male members of council have been nothing but supportive.

“My biggest piece of advice is if you really want it, and you believe you can do it, then go for it, you only get one shot in life - this is no dress rehearsal.

“People would ask me why I was running for mayor when I had three small children but the question I asked is ‘If not me, who? And if not now, when?’

“I said even if I lost the campaign, I already won, because I dared to fail,” Ms Stewart said.

TOURISM NOOSA CEO MELANIE ANDERSON My career journey started with finishing a Batchelor of Business Degree in which I majored in Tourism Management, but was enjoying the finance aspects of the course and subsequently did a semester of Industry Placement at Hill Samuel Merchant Bank in London.

That sparked my interest in the financial markets and hence when I graduated I took up a role as a Short Term Money Market officer for a national bank in Sydney.

This was my first encounter working in a heavily dominated male environment with a strong underlying sexist attitude. I held my ground, but after a while the behaviours wore thin. I was lucky that each Friday, after the markets closed, we all went to the corner pub and I regularly beat the boys at pool, which managed to get me an ‘in’. noosatoday.com.au

I look back now at how hard I had to work at my job, but also working hard at not finding myself in difficult work situations caused by inherent discrimination in a tough competitive industry.

That was a long time ago and I learnt a lot from those days, and it has assisted me in gaining insights and strength in my subsequent careers. I do want to say that I have had great and amazing male bosses and colleagues, and I have had opportunities to do some really impressive jobs, including heading up Aviation and Defence Industry Development and Investment Attraction for the State in my role in Government.

Whilst it took me a while to establish myself with the defence team (five retired ex-military males reporting to a 35 year old female), I did it and I managed to lead the team to achieve some significant wins for the state and retain long term friendships with them.

It was hard work proving myself, and delivering on my job, something that I am sure a lot of males have not had to constantly do in their careers - it was a bumpy road. But having said that, my boss at the time was an industry stalwart, and he was the most significant mentor I have had in my career. He always supported and believed in me, and my fellow female colleagues.

My mother was brought up in an era of gender inequality, and always instilled in my sister and I, a strong sense of fairness and fighting for

equality. I will be forever grateful that as the generations pass, so too will the inequity issues subside and women will have the courage to keep standing up for what is right and fair. My niece is 19, and has zero tolerance for any form of inequity in society and the workplace, I pity the person who dares to try it on with her!

I have actively mentored young females throughout my career as I am a great believer that females can achieve anything they put their minds to. I am proud that I am now working with Clare and Sandy in key leadership roles for Noosa, and am ready for this next challenge of navigating through the COVID and economic crisis.

INDEPENDENT MP SANDY BOLTON As an MP, and previously a Councillor, I am often asked to comment on my experiences with gender inequality. As the only female on the Crossbench, and yes, sole female Councillor some years ago, I have not personally encountered any bias, however, have experienced inequality in other arenas, including resourcing for the Crossbench and opposition members. However, I digress as that is a whole other story!!

Every day I am privileged to work with men and women in leadership roles, both in government and the private sector, who through commitment, hard work, empathy and uncompromising vision, achieve the outcomes they seek. That is

not to say it is an easy road as there are many detours and potholes to traverse.

Many sacrifices have been, and are made daily, with compromises to family life and yes, the guilt that many working parents experience in missing out on those special moments. We spend much time asking for forgiveness from our loved ones, and given that women were traditionally the family caregivers, there is still some judgement, as well unrealistic expectations we impose on ourselves in trying to ‘do it all’.

My mother, now in her 90s, demonstrated to her four children what can be achieved through hard work, and that you can overcome the stigma of being an ‘abandoned’ woman and sole parent.

Raising children alone in an era of no welfare was tough, and included some ‘shed dwelling’, charity and plenty of rabbit stew!

We learnt from a very young age that to survive, you had to thrive, and that meant you needed to ‘do’!

Gender was not in the equation. If something was broken (including the plumbing!) you had to fix it, if you didn’t know how, you had to learn pretty quick!

From my earliest memories, we all worked, and chores were delegated by ability, or potential ability. Picking beans and digging potatoes was the route to buying my first pony.

Continued page 6.

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NOOSA TODAY 5

NEWS

$765,000 RESEAL ON QUIET ROADS Council is making the most of quieter roads during the COVID-19 restrictions to carry out resealing and fast-track other road and infrastructure projects across the shire.

Today, at a Special Meeting, Council gave the reseal of Claude Batten Drive and Hastings Street a green light, awarding $765,000 to complete the project.

"We're seizing the opportunity to do this work while the precinct is quiet due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions, and while many of the shops are still closed," Mayor Clare Stewart said.

In the hinterland, work crews have finished pavement repairs to Cootharaba Road, and sealing of the unsealed section of Ambulance Street in Pomona will begin shortly.

"We've also been able to finish the Hector Street upgrade at Boreen Point sooner than expected. It's delivered a wider road with new kerb, channel and pavement works," Infrastructure Services Director Carl Billingham said.

"Sealing of Teewah Street at

Boreen Point is also finished, ahead of time.

"Our contractors are powering through the Hilton Terrace and Gympie Terrace upgrades faster

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than anticipated, as they're working around less traffic. We've also carried out repairs on Gibson Road at Noosaville.

Mr Billingham said Council's

parks and gardens teams were getting stuck into tree trimming.

"We've been busy trimming trees along major roads, such as Eenie Creek Road, David Low Way and Beckmans Road, while there are fewer vehicles about.

"We've brought forward our playground inspections and we're carrying out any necessary repairs ready for when they reopen.

"At Seaview Terrace, Sunshine Beach, we've been able to close the street to all but local traffic so we could replace the kerb and channel at the end of the cul-de-sac."

Work, at this stage, is expected to start on the reseal of Hastings Street - from the Park Road intersection and Claude Batten Drive, through to Noosa Spit, next week.

"Claude Batten Drive is deteriorating fairly quickly, and as Hastings Street is showing signs of wear and tear too, it makes sense to do both jobs at once. That way we'll avoid future disruption to businesses in that area just as they are getting back on their feet after COVID-19," Mayor Stewart said. ●

COVER STORY

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From page 5 My first business at 15 years enabled the purchase of ‘wheels’ and I excitedly entered home ownership before my 21st birthday. I have fond memories of the bank refusing my home loan application based on being ‘single and female’, though not so fond memories of the exorbitant interest rates of the building society who did!

There are many stories that I could share, including that of the hardships of balancing sole parenthood and work, the intricacies of ‘shed dwelling’ and the inequities of our systems which remain today. The takeout?

Regardless of gender, adversity is part of our life’s journey, and can provide the catalyst to see beyond surviving, to thriving!

In Noosa, as well across Queensland, we have diverse female representation not only in the political and government realms (for the last 2 years the Valedictory Speeches in Parliament have been delivered by Premier Annastacia, the Leader of the Opposition Deb, and myself), as well our fabulous community organisations and local businesses.

From our first female Mayor being elected this year, to the Police

Commissioner, our controllers in the State Emergency Service and our Rural Fire Brigades, to international speakers, Departmental Heads and Directors, the list of women in power is growing. During the past months, grass roots Covid initiatives in Noosa were developed by women, and some of our best school-based innovations are led by some ‘wee lasses’!

We are so very fortunate in Australia. As an MP I raise issues emanating from our particular systems, including some archaic underpinning frameworks that hinder the translation of democracy within our own Parliamentary protocols, however, we can fix these.

To live in a country that offers the same level of education, health care and endless opportunities regardless of gender is a wonderful base in which to spring from!

Yes, there are still arenas where there is a lack of equity and equality, however these ‘gaps’ will diminish through commitment and objectivity to resolve. As with all change, we must not lose sight of the pendulum, that at times swings too far.

Equality for all can only be achieved when we understand that it is not a gender-based discussion. It is a human being discussion. ● noosatoday.com.au

NEWS

CELEBRATING THE GREAT WORK OF OUR NURSES

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areas of specialisation that continues today. Within the role I also got a chance to fill in when needed in a number of other positions and got to experience a lot of how health services run and how nursing fits into policy and decision making.

“I moved again after a number of years, making the trip north to the Torres Strait and moved into academic nursing. The time my family and I spent in the Torres Strait was truly fantastic.

"My job included teaching undergraduate nursing and supporting post graduate nursing students (and sometimes other disciplines) who were studying in the region. I ran the teaching site and learnt how to fix photocopiers, troubleshoot IT problems and general handy work to keep things working smoothly. While in this role I undertook training with the World Health Organization (WHO) for their Global Outbreak and Response Network. A network of organisations and people who respond across the world to outbreaks of infectious diseases if requested by the affected country.

“I am currently working at the University of the Sunshine Coast and continue to help prepare undergraduate nurses for their careers and current nurses expand theirs. I help students undertake clinical placement in Indonesia and maintain my interest in infection prevention and have recently taken on the role of undergraduate program coordinator.

"I am continuing to work with the WHO and understandably we are pretty busy at the moment with the impacts of SARS-CoV-2.

“Nursing has been extremely good to me. I have a very stable career even in uncertain times. I have travelled across the country and globally, met many inspiring people, and had opportunities to push myself and learn new things.

"While it has certainly not always been easy, and at times it has been distressing, I honestly think I wouldn’t change if I had a chance to go back and start again. I am a nurse.” ●

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The World Health Organisation declared 2020 to be the Year of the Nurse and Midwife, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the work of nurses and on 12 May each year the contribution of nurses is recognised on International Nurses Day. In Australia, nurses traditionally come together on 12 May at breakfast events held around the country by the Australian College of Nursing (ACN).

This year, Australia’s nurses have played a key role in the nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as the usual breakfast events cannot be held, nurses are being encouraged to take time out for themselves over the week beginning Monday 11 May and treat themselves to a self-care breakfast.

In light of International Year of the Nurse and Midwife, it has been asked that the community show thanks and celebrate those who relentlessly serve our community.

Matthew Mason is a registered nurse and a lecturer of nursing at the University of the Sunshine Coast, and has been selected by the ACN to be highlighted on their website.

“I have been a registered nurse for over 20 years now having left school to become a marine biologist.

I began my career working in a large tertiary hospital in Melbourne where I worked in the Trauma/ Orthopaedics area. This included time providing care in the trauma intensive care unit and hyperbaric unit. This was a great place to start for me and I learnt a lot from a range of dedicated and knowledgeable health care workers,” Mr Mason said.

“My interests changed and I moved into community nursing and spent a few years working as a Remote Area Nurse in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara lands in central Australia. Remote area nursing was (and is) challenging but extremely rewarding as I worked at the full extent of my scope of practice with some amazing people.

“I moved back to Victoria and took up a role in Infection Prevention and Control in a rural health service. With a focus on safety for all who came into contact with the health service, this has proven to be one of my favourite

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NOOSA TODAY 7

NEWS

Business Leaders Unite: Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart, Tourism Noosa Board Director James Kendall and CEO Melanie Anderson with business association leaders from Peregian Beach Association, Noosa Chamber of Commerce, Hastings Street Association, Noosa Junction Association, Noosaville Business Association, Tewantin Traders Association, Cooroy Chamber of Commerce and Noosa Short Term Accommodation Association.

FREE TOURISM NOOSA SIGN-UP Tourism Noosa have announced free membership to the organisation for members, and is encouraging Noosa businesses to become part of its membership.

The base membership fee will be waived for Tourism Noosa membership until the end of the 2020-2021 financial year.

Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson said the membership fee waive was to support its 600 plus membership base during these challenging times.

“The tourism industry in particular has been hugely affected by the Covid-19 restrictions and in a region like Noosa that relies heavily on tourism, businesses are doing it tough. We want to be able to provide some additional support to our members and this financial saving will hopefully provide some reprieve for members.”

“The membership fee waive also provides an opportunity for other businesses to become part of our membership base and access the various marketing and industry development opportunities that Tourism Noosa provides. For new members joining, the initial joining fee will also be waived” said Ms Anderson.

Tourism Noosa Board Director James Kendall said being a member of Tourism Noosa is vital for businesses in our region.

“I have been a member of Tourism Noosa for ten years, a resident of the Shire and been 8 NOOSA TODAY

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working here in Noosa for twenty years. Offering free membership at this point in time was an obvious choice for our Board and I would encourage all businesses to become members, and have a voice” said Mr Kendall.

Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart congratulated Tourism Noosa for its proactive approach.

“Given the impacts of Covid-19, it is more vital than ever that measures such as this are implemented to help our essential tourism-related businesses during the recovery phase of the pandemic,” she said.

“As a council we are doing all we can to provide assistance and I applaud Tourism Noosa for offering free membership as the industry confronts a challenging year ahead.”

Cr Stewart said domestic tourism would be a vital part of Noosa’s economic recovery post Covid-19.

“We expect many tourists will look to travel locally as soon as they can, so it’s critical that the industry as a whole work collaboratively and be ready to adapt” said Cr Stewart.

Noosa Junction Association President, Michael Tozer, said in these challenging times he was encouraged to see a unified approach between local government, Tourism Noosa and business organisations - working together to support each other.

‘If we’re to get through the Covid-19 challenges and come out the other side, we need to focus on immediate, practical steps to

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

assist businesses to keep their doors open or reopen, and longer term strategies to innovate and operate in an environment different to the one we’ve known in the past,’ Mr Tozer said.

TOURISM NOOSA MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS INCLUDE: · Opportunity to be involved in Tourism Noosa’s strategic marketing program including visitor brochures and maps, cooperative advertisements, website and digital marketing · Stay up-to-date with local, state and national industry news through the fortnightly members’ e-newsletter The Noosa Edition · Invitations to attend regular networking events · Opportunity to host a networking event · Features in the weekly newsletter, This Week in Noosa (on a space available basis) · Features in fortnightly members’ newsletter, Member Connect · Voting rights at the Tourism Noosa AGM · Participation in the Visitor Information Centre concierge service (and online) · Opportunity to be featured in our consumer e-newsletters sent to a targeted database of up to 20,000 people around Australia and overseas · Access to participate in our Adventure Noosa Group and

receive discounted membership with Adventure Queensland · Access to participate in our wellness and business events membership groups · Access to Noosa image gallery · Participation in the Visiting Journalist Program (conditions apply) · Access to a range of members’ online resources · Opportunity to join subsidised member training sessions on a range of topics to help improve your business and product offering · Participation in Tourism Noosa training programs, Welcome to Noosa and Noosa Eco Check at subsidised rates · Opportunity to participate in sustainability initiatives including Trees for Tourism · Access to select visitor research documents · Access to the ’Member of Tourism Noosa’ logo and membership sticker · Free listing in Festive Season and School Holiday Guides where appropriate · Opportunity to present your product/businesses to volunteers and staff at a Visitor Information Centre Buzz Night (on a space available basis · Opportunity to participate in the Tourism Members Directory For membership details head to www.visitnoosa.com.au/ membership ● noosatoday.com.au

NEWS

$3.8M REVAMP FOR BRIDGE Construction of a $3.8 million stronger and wider bridge on David Low Way at Sunrise Beach is set to start on 18 May. The replacement of Orealla Crescent Bridge is a jointly funded Noosa Council and Australian Government project which will improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Infrastructure Services Director Carl Billingham said the work would result in the full closure of David Low Way near Sunrise Beach for at least three months.

“With the existing bridge to be demolished and the new bridge built in the same location, closing David Low Way is the safest and most efficient option,” he said.

Mayor Clare Stewart said the project will benefit the local community.

“Once completed, the new bridge will accommodate two lanes of traffic, include two on-road cycle lanes and a protected off-road pedestrian walkway,” Mayor Stewart said.

“We appreciate that such a large project like this will be an

The works are set to start on May 18, 2020. inconvenience during construction, but as part of the project, we’ll improve pedestrian access along Orealla Crescent, reseal affected parts of Orealla Crescent and Tingira Crescent and generally improve the bridge aesthetics,” the Mayor said.

Mr Billingham said residents’

safety was paramount.

“Detours around the works are likely to be in place for at least twelve weeks, weather permitting.

“Access to Clipper Street at David Low Way and the Orealla Crescent underpass will be closed during construction, so we really encourage motorists to consider alternate

routes by using the Sunshine Motorway as much as possible,” he said.

Mr Billingham said local traffic will be detoured via a two-way route using the recently rebuilt Tingira Crescent, Sobraon Street, and Vernon Street.

“On-street parking will be removed along the detour route to make it safer for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians to navigate.

“The detour route cannot accommodate heavy vehicles, and they must access the Sunshine Motorway via Emu Mountain Road and Eenie Creek Road.

BusLink services will, however, operate as normal,” Mr Billingham said.

“We are committed to providing the community with regular updates about the project’s progress and the construction contractor, SGQ, will keep residents and businesses well informed if works are expected to have a direct impact.”

There will be regular updates on the project and detour route on Council’s website and Facebook page. ●

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NOOSA TODAY 9

COMMUNITY UPDATES NOOSAVILLE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION NBA Membership Renewals Deferred Whilst our Association is a Not For Profit, voluntary organisation, the NBA management committee are eager to assist our members wherever we can. The NBA has decided to defer our forthcoming annual membership renewal cycle by 6 months from May 2020, meaning our members will get to keep their existing membership active for the next 6 months at no additional charge. Membership fees are usually collected in May, meaning that members will not receive the membership renewal

invoice until November.

In addition to this, we’d like to extend the offer to any businesses that are thinking of joining the NBA. If you aren’t a member and decide to join, you can do so free of charge and won’t receive your membership subscription invoice until November 2020. Please follow the link below if you’d like to join: https:// noosavillebusinessassociation.org. au/members-directory/membershipapplication/

NOOSA TOASTMASTERS Develop Public Speaking and Leadership skills for life at Noosa Toastmasters. We are a fun loving, supportive group who are all learning together.

Due to the current restrictions we are now meeting online via Zoom

Email your community news to: newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au

and are finding it is a brilliant way to learn new video conferencing skills.

Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month from 6.30 - 8.30. The first two visits are free so you can see if it’s beneficial for you. For enquiries phone Ian Davies on 0410750651 or email noosatoastmasters@gmail.com

REMINDER TO SHARE YOUR MEMBER OFFERS Just a reminder that if any member has an offer they would like to make to fellow members, please email them through and we will ensure the offer is posted to the NBA website, as well as on our social media platforms. We know that many members have had to get creative in order to

keep their businesses alive, which has often meant reinventing part of what they offer to their customers. This is a great opportunity for all members to share any offers with the rest of the group, and through a number of different channels.

NEW DEVELOPMENT AT 14 MARY STREET NOOSAVILLE For those of you that have not yet seen it, there is an exciting new development underway at 14 Mary Street Noosaville; Bounce Noosa Hostel, opposite Dan Murphy’s. A couple of our members have been involved in the development which will certainly bring about some new energy to the Noosaville area. ●

NEWS

ENTRIES OPEN FOR MCCREA PRIZE Noosa Regional Gallery is inviting entries in this year's Lyn McCrea Memorial Drawing Prize.

Held annually since 2016, the competition attracts entries from emerging and established artists

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Australia-wide.

The Gallery established the Prize with John McCrea, in memory of Sunshine Coast art educator and art collector, Lyn McCrea, to honour and celebrate the art of drawing in Australia.

"The main purpose of the Prize is to promote excellence in drawing," says Noosa Regional Gallery Director Michael Brennan.

"John McCrea has been very generous to donate money to ensure this prize continues Lyn's legacy here in Noosa. Drawing is something that Lyn was very passionate about."

In previous years the Prize included an exhibition of finalist works on display in Noosa Regional Gallery.

With the COVID-19 closure of the Gallery, however, the Prize shifts exclusively online this year in an effort to continue to provide opportunities to artists.

"We recognise that the experience of viewing an artwork on screen doesn't compare to viewing it up close, however we hope that making this opportunity available in some form is better than not going ahead with the prize at all," Mr Brennan said.

"Artists have been particularly hard hit by the crisis - much of their already precarious work has been cancelled and venues they rely on remain closed to the public. So to increase access we've also made entry to the prize free this year."

Leading Australian artist Michael Zavros, whose work has been exhibited in major museums

The competition opened May 11 and runs until July 19. throughout Australia, New Zealand, Asia and Europe, will this year judge the finalists' work.

"Michael's work is held in numerous private and public collections including The National Gallery of Australia, Queensland Art Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, to name a few. He has also won numerous awards including three drawing prizes," Mr Brennan said.

"We are ecstatic to have an artist of his renown judge this year's Prize."

The Lyn McCrea Memorial Drawing Prize opens for entries on Monday, May 11, 2020. Entry is free. Entries close July 19. Visit: www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au for more information. The winner receives $5000 prize money. ● noosatoday.com.au

OPINION

Emai letters to: newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au

TIME BETTER SPENT

STAY OUT OF IT Dom Massoni’s opinionated summing up of the makeup of the new Noosa Council (Noosa Today, 7 May) is presumptuous in the extreme.

After his indefensible Facebook revelation (Noosa Election Talk) of his and six other's plot to defeat Tony Wellington, you might think that he would stay out of Noosa Shire’s business for a long time.

Dom Massoni et al are the reason we have a council that is headed by a mayor with no experience in local government, at the very time when we need experienced leadership.

Jennifer Sadler, Lake Macdonald.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE According to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data, 18 per cent of children under 18 years of age live in a single-parent household.

It is these children who more often than not need the most care, intervention and support at school.

This was something I was never exposed to in any of the circles I mixed in when I went through school and university. noosatoday.com.au

LENSCAPE

Peregian Beach Nippers.

I naively thought most families were the nuclear family, just like mine, and those of my friends.

I feel rather despondent (but blessed) to note that my upbringing was very different to today’s norm.

The relationship parents have with each other has a profound effect on their children. This can then go on to influence the next generation, and henceforth.

Some children harbour blame, guilt, suicidal and depressive thoughts or resentment and anger as a result of their parent’s relationship breakdown, and these feelings can manifest into behavioural and mental disorders.

I value the importance of family and the stability and security of a two-parent household. Boys and girls need good male and female role models, especially throughout adolescence.

It also takes a village to raise a child (with grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers, coaches, family friends, etc. all playing invaluable roles too).

Brigid Muir.

PLEASE REACH OUT Our latest awareness campaign highlights it is very clear people’s mental

health conditions are now escalating because of fear, anxiety and social isolation.

The Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia (MIFA) is a not-for-profit group that can help people with mental health issues.

We urge anybody struggling to reach out. There is a lot of help out there. We have a free phone line to help local people and point them in the right direction. Just call us on 1800 985 944. You can also visit www.minetworks.org.au.

What is very clear is that people with severe and complex mental health conditions are a high risk group for Covid-19 complications.

We know too that many people who live with schizophrenia across the nation are very vulnerable to declining mental health and physical health issues during this pandemic.

Latest research shows at least 230,000 Australians now have schizophrenia.

We are highlighting to the community that it is shameful that the life expectancy of people with schizophrenia is 19 years less than other people. We are also out to break down the many myths. People with

schizophrenia are no more likely to be violent than anybody else. People with schizophrenia do not have a split personality.

We urge people in your local area - please reach out. Call our hotline on 1800 985 944. We can point you in the right direction.

Tony Stevenson, National CEO, Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia.

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A big thank you to Noosa for electing a new mayor and two new councillors.

I think Clare Stewart can lead Noosa to renewed prosperity but am concerned the old guard will undermine her efforts.

There is the usual chatter on social media but News Corp’s fixation on the Noosa Mayor’s campaign spend is a concern.

Despite Noosa News reporting on preliminary candidate donors - Clare Stewart $12,800, Tony Wellington $14,500, Future Noosa $20,377, Animal Justice Party $21,000 - there have been several misleading articles since regarding Clare Stewart’s $71,420.09 spend.

Stories in the Noosa News on 4 May and 8 May plus Sunshine Coast Daily on 5 May all quote figures from the Organisation of Sunshine Coast Association of Residents showing Ms Stewart spent $71,420.09 and Tony Wellington spent an estimated $7751.80.

The differential is quoted and highlighted as a reason for success.

Obviously OSCAR’s tally for Tony Wellington is incorrect, he can’t have lost $6748.20 and almost certainly would have added to his tally.

Mayor Stewart said she needed the exposure and had exorbitant advertising costs but the articles’ inferences are incorrect and have inflamed defamatory social media comments.

I could also comment on the spate of recent letters against the new councillors but hope there might be renewed confidence in Noosa council.

John Lobb, Peregian Springs.

Editorial newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

For our terms and conditions please visit noosatoday.com.au/terms-and-conditions/

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

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NOOSA TODAY 11

National Volunteer Week 2020

HONOURING WONDERFUL HELP Sunshine Butterflies Disability Support Service this week will celebrate and honour their many wonderful volunteers, who support them in their quest to improve the lives of those living with a disability and their families.

They will hold a special ‘virtual’ event in place of the normal delightful morning tea they usually host, to acknowledge the many man hours donated to the organisation, by this very special group of people.

Volunteers carry out a variety of tasks at their five acre headquarters ‘Our Backyard’, from mucking-out the stables for their much-loved therapy animals, to assisting in the Farmyard Cooking School and Chippies Corner programs, to sewing costumes for the Rhythm & Soul program, to weeding, planting, watering and tending to their beautiful grounds.

The event is planned to coincide with National Volunteer Week 2020 which runs from Monday 18 May Sunday 24 May 2020.

The theme of this year’s event is “Changing Communities, Changing

Volunteer Scotty

Volunteer Rosa Lives”, and that is certainly what these volunteers are doing.

“It takes a very special kind of person to give so willingly. We have a small but incredibly generous band

Volunteer Carole of volunteers, who donate their time to our organisation each week.

They are kind and patient and well-loved by our members and staff.

We cannot thank them enough for

all that they do. Our organization values their contribution enormously.” CEO and Founder Leanne Walsh said. ●

Thank you... to our wonderful volunteers!

We would like to thank the many wonderful people who generously give their time, to help us in our quest to improve the lives of those living with a disability.

Our heartfelt thanks x

07 5470 2830 www.sunshinebuterlies.com.au 468 McKinnon Drive, Cooroibah 12448738-NG20-20

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National Volunteer Week 2020

KEEPING THE COAST CLEAR

Coast Guard Volunteers Jackie Erikson and Ian Hutchings. in First Aid, Seamanship Radio Operations and Marine Rescue.

Fund-raising is also part of their duties as the Coast Guard is not government funded and relies for 80% of its income from sponsors, members support and various grant applications to meet its annual operations costs.

In recent years, the Flotilla are able to offer an Ashes Scattering Service from the boats and the location of a plaque on site on our Memorial Wall, for a small fee.

“We have some generous local

business sponsors and we accept associate members, where for $75, they register their details with us and we are able to track them when they are on the water and come to their assistance if needed,” Ian said.

In 2020, the female ranks of the QF5 (Queensland Flotilla 5) were boosted by an influx of 4 women who, after completing initial training, are now allocated to each of the four squads, to become competent crew members over the next months.

It can take up to 5 years to

Noosa Volunteer Coastguard provides world class marine safety services for the community Our volunteers play a vital role in giving up their valuable time to keep water enthusiasts safe.

We thank our volunteers and acknowledge the wonderful work they do, this service would not be possible without you.

Three rescue vessels in service: Primary Rescue vessel – John Waddams Secondary Rescue Vessel – Tom Offermann Third vessel – Rotary Rescue

noosatoday.com.au

Coast Guard Volunteer Russell Macphail. skipper a Coast Guard vessel but several of the senior captains have many years’ experience, often on various waterways around the world.

“We depend on the local community for financial and membership support,” Mr Hutchings said.

“No one is paid, everyone is just committed to providing an essential community service in a region with some of the busiest waterways in Queensland.” ●

Volunteer with Australian Volunteer Coast Guard today “SAFETY BY ALL MEANS” You don’t have to have previous knowledge or experience of the marine rescue environment to become part of the team.

If you would like to know more about a rewarding volunteer career with Coast Guard, or to find out how to apply, contact: QF5 Noosa Call Sign: VMR405 Munna Point Call Sign Name: Noosaville Coast Guard Noosa PH: (07) 5474 3695 E: fc.qf5@coastguard.com.au

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The Noosa Coast Guard has been operating for more than 50 years, keeping the waterways of Noosa and the adjacent coastlines safe for boaties and recreational water users.

Operated solely by volunteers, the organisation maintains 3 boats for patrol and rescues as they monitor an area from Double Island Point to Point Arkwright and 50 nautical miles out to sea.

The radio crews man the Coast Guard office base station at Munna Point, 24 hours a day 7 days a week, checking traffic across the bar and throughout the waterways up to the Everglades on VHF. Flotilla Commander Ian Hutchings says the Noosa Coast Guard monitor one of the most dangerous bar crossings on the Sunshine Coast.

“We average about 3 assists a week, more in summer of course, and that can range from someone running out of fuel up the river to a capsized vessel in the bar or someone requiring a Medivac on North Shore.”

The volunteer staff take several months to attain the skills required,

NOOSA TODAY 13

National Volunteer Week 2020

‘THANK YOU’ TO THE VOLUNTEERS National Volunteer Week is the annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers and this year it will run from May 18 to May 24.

In any ordinary year, thousands of events are held across the country during National Volunteer Week to say thank you to the six million Australians who volunteer their time.

The term ‘volunteering’ covers a wide diversity of activities in Australian society. It includes formal volunteering that takes place within organisations (including institutions and agencies) in a structured way and informal volunteering, acts that take place outside the context of a formal organisation.

While the vast majority of volunteering is undertaken by individuals, entities also donate employee time and this is included within this definition of volunteering.

In Noosa, there is an abundance of local volunteers that help benefit the community, from the wide range of service clubs, to the Noosa Coast Guard, Sunshine Butterflies and St Vincent de Paul Noosa just to name a few.

TEWANTIN NOOSA LIONS CLUB While the club does spend a lot of time flipping sausages and frying chips, this is just a very small way

your local Lion’s Club raises much needed funds for the community, their commitment to the community in fact goes much deeper.

Each year, roughly $50,000 is donated from the Lions Club back into the Noosa Shire.

Long term member Christine Pullin, along with her partner Chris, have been a part of the Lions Club for over 20 years.

“We donate a lot to Lions based projects, but the majority of our money we raise goes back to people in this community,” Christine said.

Under the clubs charter, they are to give one hundred per cent of the money they raise back to the public, this means that administration fees and other costs are paid for purely from membership fees to be a part of the club.

Their motto is simple: Where there’s a need, there’s a Lion, and with 1200 clubs across Australia and New Zealand and 1.4 million members worldwide, there is always a Lion that can lend a helping hand.

The Tewantin Noosa Lion’s Club have 54 members, and since their inception in 1967, the list of their achievements within the community is equally as long.

In the late 70’s, the club constructed a raised area in the Gympie Terrace Lions Park, the mound was to serve as a stage for concerts and performances such as the Country Music Festival.

The makeshift stage proved to be problematic and the Lions Club lobbied for the Noosa Council to allow funding for a permanent structure, completed in 2006 the River Stage Noosa is still enjoyed by many to this day.

The Tewantin Noosa Lions Club also constructed the Meals on Wheels Kitchen, plus an endlessly long list of other achievements that have benefitted the community.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL Every day St Vincent de Paul Noosa President Beryl Rowan fields countless calls from residents desperate for food and other help.

“We had to close our support centre due to social distancing but it was important that we maintain contact with vulnerable families and individuals, as well as the homeless who we normally assist,” she says.

When the pandemic struck, Beryl and her team called every person who’d sought their help over the past 12 months to check on their welfare during this unprecedented crisis.

Through a new seven-day emergency relief line, they’re also helping a whole new wave of people in need.

Their work has never been more vital.

On the eve of National Volunteer Week, Noosa Council salutes Beryl and her helpers, and all of our local volunteers.

“They’re putting in so much work to help those doing it tough, all while adapting how they operate,” says Community Development Manager Alison Hamblin.

“This year’s theme - Changing Communities. Changing Lives - has never been so pertinent.

“A special thank you to all our volunteers in these challenging and uncertain times.

“Noosa Council is extremely proud that our region has an aboveaverage volunteer rate with one fifth of our residents volunteering time to strengthen our community.”

Chefs led by Shane Bailey,Gene Quinlan, Matt Golinski and Sarah Bradford are but one recent example - together cooking up more than 600 meals a week for those in need.

“Many of our local volunteers are part of the 300+ not-for-profit community groups we have in Noosa.

“The hard-working volunteers who make these groups tick give so much of themselves and expect little in return.”

Council hosts a volunteer thankyou celebration on December 5 each year to mark International Volunteers Day. “This year will be no different, with lots to acknowledge and appreciate, and celebrate the volunteer spirit in our community.

During the darkest of times Noosa’s community spirit shines bright.” ●

TOURISM VOLUNTEER ARMY STAYING CONNECTED Over the past seven weeks, Tourism Noosa’s 100-plus volunteers have been self-isolating but staying connected thanks to strong connections made through the Noosa Inspiration Centre.

Tourism Noosa’s Head of Visitor Experience Jasmin Boyd said while the incredible team of volunteers were taking a well-earned break from their ambassador duties, they were also staying connected with their ‘Tourism Noosa family’.

“Mental health and wellbeing is very important, particularly in these self-isolating times and we know that many of our volunteers would miss their weekly shifts as ambassadors in our centres”.

“Through a weekly informal update via email, regular telephone calls and our closed group Facebook page we are uniting our vollies and chatting with them regularly. Many are also talking to each other during their usual shift time and they are appreciative of the contact” said Ms Boyd.

Volunteer Sue Havilah said she was missing her Tuesday mornings 14 NOOSA TODAY

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Tourism Noosa volunteers Wendy Cutting and Bernadine Devereux. at the Centre whilst Carol Blake commented “Your continued contact is appreciated. It’s good that we vollies have made a lot of good friends through volunteering over the years”.

Heidi Schum said “Thank you for the updates, it is very much appreciated keeping us connected.

After all, we are a huge family and

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

some of us have been working together for many, many years as you know. Staying together and we will get through this together”.

“Keeping involved and informed is important and we have set a few challenges over the past few weeks including this week completing the Free Infection Control COVID Certificate. One of our amazing

vollies Bernadine Devereux completed it within 90 minutes of the challenge being posted!”

“Like our volunteers, we are looking forward to when restrictions are lifted and we can welcome back our knowledgeable volunteers who are the backbone of our Centres” said Ms Boyd. ● noosatoday.com.au

Thank you to our local volunteers More than six million people donate their time every year in voluntary work across Australia.

Noosa Council is extremely proud that our region has an above-average volunteer rate, with one fifth of our residents volunteering their time to strengthen our community.

We have more than 300 not-for-profit groups in the region that are fueled by the generosity of volunteers.

In these challenging times and with National Volunteer Week upon us, we would like to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to our wonderful volunteers who dedicate endless hours to help others.

You are truly changing communities and changing lives.

XC

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NOOSA TODAY 15

THE BOLTON REPORT

SANDY BOLTON, NOOSA MP

ROADMAP TO RECOVERY It has been welcomed over the past month to work on recovery strategies, incorporating our businesses, not for profits and aspects of our everyday life, including the impacts to residents and our community of ‘re-opening’.

Part of this time has been spent visiting those businesses and organisations that are not online, or a member of representative groups that have sat at Roundtables with us over the past months, to ensure they have the information and assistance to get back to ‘biz’.

There are a number that will not be opening for some weeks yet due to the size and nature of their operations, however the excitement from those that are gearing up for the coming weeks when the relaxation ‘stages’ will see visitors return is palpable, passionate and very pleasing for not only our workers, as well our volunteer organisations who rely on sponsorships and fundraising activities to serve our community.

This ‘re-opening’ I realise is causing a level of concern for residents, not only from the fear

of an outbreak, but also the loss of amenity that has been enjoyed over these last weeks. We all have most definitely treasured those moments on the beach alone and grabbing a carpark with ease!

However I am sure that you would agree, that our residents, their families and livelihoods are paramount, and amongst the many letters, discussions and strategies that are currently flying between inboxes, the word ‘gradual’ is vital to ensure our community does not become ‘over-loved’ in one weekend.

As I have said in my nightly

Facebook updates, the road ahead will have its challenges, however with the Federal and State Government’s ‘Roadmap’ as a navigational guide, we will arrive at our destination.

Communication as always is key, and over the coming weeks, we need ongoing community conversation to support the endeavors to recovery and to continue to provide feedback, as has been done over the past weeks, which has been deeply appreciated.

A fabulous team effort, and again, I thank all who have made it possible to get to this point. Remember, we still must do our 1.5, wash hands

frequently, and follow directives.

With limited space, please head to the Recovery Roadmap for the timeline of easing of restrictions which start this Saturday 15 May: www.covid19.qld.gov.au/ government-actions/roadmap-toeasing-queenslands-restrictions or go to the handy FAQ page for all those niggling queries! www. covid19.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/ pdf_file/0019/127234/EasingrestrictionsQA.pdf.

While Covid continues to impact our daily lives, there are many other concerns that need to be addressed, and I look forward to the first full sitting of Parliament next week, as well a return to endeavors not pandemic related. The debate will no doubt be lively, and the agenda full! Updates will be available on our Facebook page, via Newsletters and at Noosa 360. As always, if there is anything you need, just call me on 5319 3100 or email noosa@ parliament.qld.gov.au.

Until next month, blessings to all, and yes, I can’t wait to see you!! ● Sandy

THINKING OF SELLING? Speak to your agent about listing on realestateview.com.au.

Be seen everywhere.

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LIVE

GYMPIE MUSTER CANCELLED The Gympie Music Muster today announced the cancellation of its 2020 event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The country music festival has been an annual event in the Gympie region since it first started in 1982.

“On behalf of the volunteers, board and staff of the Gympie Music Muster, we are truly sad to announce the cancellation of our 39th annual festival, scheduled to run from August 27-30,“ the Facebook statement read.

“In light of the global pandemic and the implications it has for large gatherings, the decision, though deeply disappointing, is necessary.“ Set to host a huge line-up of homegrown talent in the stunning Amamoor State Forest, 27 - 30 August, Muster Chairman Greg Cavanagh said progressing with the event is not responsible.

“While restrictions on movement and gatherings may ease by August, it has become clear that moving forward with the Muster this year is just not tenable or responsible.

“This decision was made with a heavy heart, but following

said council will fully back the Muster in its return next year.“The Gympie Muster is an iconic event that has helped shape this region for 39 years. Its loss this year will be keenly felt by the community but the right decision has been made.

The Council is 100% behind Muster and we look forward to celebrating together next year.”

All festival and camping tickets purchased for the 2020 Gympie Music Muster are fully refundable or transferable to the 2021 festival, with patrons to receive an email shortly.

An unmissable and uniquely Australian festival, Gympie Music Muster is a not-for-profit event raising in excess of $15 Million for charities Australia wide since its inception.

The Gympie Music Muster will celebrate its 40th festival in the forest, Thursday August 26 to Sunday August 29, 2021 in Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast hinterland.

For updates head to the Gympie Music Muster website https://www. muster.com.au. ●

Organisers announced the decision just four months from the event. consultation with government and health officials, we know it is the right one and in the best interests of our artists, patrons, staff, contractors, volunteers and the community at large.

“We are confident the Gympie Muster can weather this storm and will be back bigger and better for our 40th year celebrations in 2021,” Mr Cavanagh said.

In the process of amalgamating this year’s artists into next, Programmer, Emily Murphy, has her sights set on creating a very special

program for the big anniversary.

“We are working hard to deliver a wonderful celebration of our resilience and incredible live, original music for our 40th year. The line-up will include Australian icons and Muster favourites with a few surprises in store.

“We are also looking at innovative and sustainable ways to support and bring the community together for a small slice of Muster throughout the next 12 months as restrictions continue to ease.”

Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig

PUZZLES

7.

8.

9.

10.

12.

15.

16.

18.

20.

22.

ACROSS 7. Profitable (12)

1.

SUDOKU No. 4296

Quick Clues

MED No.4

How to solve Sudoku!

SUDOKU

ACROSS Profitable (12) Join (6) Powerful (6) Fashionable (7) Spy (5) Edge (5) Boat (7) Tool (6) Production (6) Declaration (12)

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

How to Sud

9 7 8 1 5 1 2 1 7 9 4 2 CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7633 7 DOWN Profitable (12) 1. Journalist (8) 2. End (4) 3 6 7 5 3. Back (7) Fashionable (7) 4. Increase (5) 5. Gas (8) 3 6. Incline (4) 11. Embrocation (8) 13. Composition (8) Production (6) 14. Dissolution (7) 5 6 4 7 2 Declaration (12) 17. Fish (5) 19. Slightly open (4) 21. Volume (4) 8 5 6 YPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7633 DOWN ACROSS 9 8 7 1 Journalist (8)

Fill the gr every row 3x3 squar the digit 2 5 7 8 3 1 6 4 9

Cryptic Clues

9 4

3

3 1

2

5

8 9 1 4 5 6 7 2 3

9 8 5 2 4 7 1 8 6 5 2 7 5 3 9 3 6 7 CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7633 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Hair restorer. 8, C-ray-on. 9, Victor. 10, Taffeta. 12, Firs-t. 15, M-err-y. 16, Dries up. 18, Shower. 20, Scrape. 22, Good gracious.

Down - 1, Carriage. 2, P-ray. 3, Pe-anu-ts (rev.) 4, Stove.

5, Practice. 6, Ergo. 11, F-irew-ood. 13, Stumps up. 14, Crystal. 17, Dr-AG’s. 19, Hug-o. 21, Rail (rev.)

9 5 2 6 4 7 8 3 1

4 1 3 8 5 2 9 7 6

7 8 6 1 9 3 5 4 2

5 4 1 2 7 9 6 8 3

8 3 7 5 1 6 4 2 9

6 2 9 4 3 8 7 1 5

3 6 4 7 2 5 1 9 8

2 7 8 9 6 1 3 5 4

Solution No.4296

1 9 5 3 8 4 2 6 7

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

noosatoday.com.au

difficulty (6). 22. My! A commendable cordial! (4,8).

DOWN 1. Bearing a bit of a train set (8). 2. Humbly ask the gentleman (4). 3. Have the girl step outside, returning with food (7). 4. Bashed in the cooker (5). 5. What Dr. Rusty needs? (8). 6. So Caesar used to say! (4). 11. Sticks bits of wire into the food (8). 13. The cricket game over, pays (6,2). 14. It’s a girl: that’s clear (7). 17. Pulls Doctor Silver’s (5). 19. Embrace, with love, the boy (4). 21. Take the false witness up to the bar (4).

2 8

ACROSS 7. If it’s successful, you’ll soon have to part again (4,8). 8.

Do write the name in pencil (6). 9. The nominal winner (6) 10. What, in couture, it’s a feat to swathe on a fat back? (7). 12. To start with, trees take time (5). 15. Make a mistake in my being a little tight (5). 16. Does help with the housework, but needs prompting (5,2). 18. He demonstrates the sprinkler (6). 20. The jam you get off with difficulty (6). 22. My! A commendable cordial! (4,8).

DOWN 1. Bearing a bit of a train set (8). 2. Humbly ask the gen-

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7633 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Remunerative. 8, Couple. 9, Strong. 10, Stylish. 12, Agent. 15, Brink. 16, Pinnace. 18, Hammer. 20, Output. 22, Announcement.

Down - 1, Reporter. 2, Rump. 3, Reverse. 4, Raise. 5, Nitrogen. 6, Lean. 11, Liniment. 13, Nocturne. 14, Divorce.

17, Trout. 19, Ajar. 21, Tome.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7633

Solution

1 8

QUICK QUICKPUZZLE PUZZLENo. NO. 7633 7633

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

|

NOOSA TODAY 17

3 6 4 9 7 2 1 5 8

9 1 2 5 4 7 3 8 6

4 7 6 3 2 8 9 1 5

SPORT TODAY

Leigh McCready found a unique way to present the Nippers awards. She presented the family award to Brett Morris.

VIRTUAL AWARDS FIRST FOR NIPPERS With social distancing restrictions in full swing, Peregian Nippers held their end of season awards presentation online, postponing their break-up celebration until later in the year.

Peregian Nippers Coordinator

Leigh McCready and 2IC Brett Morris conducted the virtual awards ceremony on the deck of the Peregian Surf Club, celebrating the achievements of the nippers who have completed their second season of a reinvigorated program following

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Thursday, 14 May, 2020

a local community campaign to bring nippers back to the beach with the support of Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club.

“One of my favourite awards to present was The Spirit of Peregian Award, which goes each year to the family who has made an exceptional contribution to the Nippers program.

“This year, it was awarded to Brett and Kristy Morris, who oversaw the Water Safety team and all the events and merchandise for the nippers. It was an amazing effort,” Ms McCready said.

“My other favourite part of the virtual awards ceremony was showing off our new shirts and polos for the Nippers and the Age Managers, which for the first time has our fantastic new Peregian sponsors displayed on them.

“New sponsors who have come on board this season are White’s IGA Peregian Beach, LJ Hooker Peregian Beach, Stonehouse, FliteFit and Sushi Wave.”

“This is in addition to longstanding sponsor Altum Property Group, who first sponsored the club in 2009 and the continuing support from the Noosa Club which runs the training courses and assists with water safety for the Peregian program,” Mr Morris said.

“We were also pleased to see several of our Nippers selected for the Queensland State Championship team as part of the larger Noosa Heads SLSC team - congratulations to Ella McCready, Tait Atkinson and Rory McIntyre for being selected.”

The other Awards were announced at the virtual ceremony were....

Most Improved Awards Under 8 - Carter Best, Emma Holman

Under 9 - Dylan Tyre, Natalie Grossman Under 10 - Emmett Budd, Layla Sare Under 11 - Felix Cawood, Isobel Harrison Under 12 - Leo Leatherbarrow, Larni Fisher Under 13/14 - Jack Grebert, Maya Fox Essence of Nippers Awards Under 8 - Mick Holman, Kalila Budd Under 9 - Cameron Williams, Lucy Nixon admin@noosasurfclub.com.au 5448 0900 PO Box 7 Noosa Heads QLD 4567 Under 10 - Charlie Lawther, Molly Lawther Under 11 - Hamish Nixon, Lilly-Dee Dixon Under 12 - Rory McIntyre, Ella McCready Under 13 - Riley Forlonge, Lylah Burton Under 14 - Asher Maclaren, Lilly Birch-Stevens Coach’s Awards Leo Leatherbarrow & Lucy Nixon

noosatoday.com.au

HOOK, LINE & SINKER

JACK MANGROVE

ANGLERS SEEK RIVER SHELTER

noosatoday.com.au

Jack Dekort with a nice spanish from Sunshine reef. to 90cm you can be assured of a battle. Have landing nets ready and ensuring fish are out of the water for a limited time will see a strong, healthy release. Elsewhere in the river you can expect to start seeing golden trevally and small giant trevally feeding along the tide lines.

They will also congregate around points and deep holes where bait can get swept up in these. Small grubs in the two inch size work really well here on super light jig heads and 8lb leaders. Now is a great time to get out there with the cracking weather and winds more in our favour.

So on behalf of Jack Mangrove, best of luck on your fishing adventures! ●

Tide Times Thursday 14Th May To Wednesday 20Th May 2020 Time

height

Time

1:25 aM 8:32 aM

1.69 m 0.71 m 1.64 m 0.69 m

showers early. Partly cloudy 22 / 16 °C

Fri 15 MAY 2:15 PM 7:35 PM

1.19 m 0.80 m

3:29 PM 8:54 PM

1.26 m 0.84 m

Light showers.

More sun than cloud

4:25 PM 10:00 PM

1.36 m 0.83 m

sun 17 MAY

5:09 PM 10:54 PM

1.48 m 0.80 m

Mon 18 MAY

5:47 PM 11:41 PM

1.60 m 0.75 m

6:22 PM

1.71 m

Fri 15Th MAY 2:28 aM 9:30 aM

noosA WeATher ForeCAsT Thu 14 MAY

Height

Thurs 14Th MAY

Partly cloudy 22 / 14 °C

sAT 16 MAY 22 / 16 °C

sAT 16Th MAY 3:25 aM 10:15 aM

1.61 m 0.64 m

More sun than clouds

sun 17Th MAY 4:14 aM 10:52 aM

1.61 m 0.59 m

4:56 aM 11:25 aM

1.62 m 0.54 m

Tues 19Th MAY 5:35 aM 11:56 aM

1.63 m 0.48 m 0.71 m 1.63 m

23 / 12 °C

Tue 19 MAY Light rain late.

Mostly cloudy.

19 / 13 °C

Wed 20 MAY

Wed 20Th MAY 12:22 aM 6:11 aM

22 / 15 °C sprinkles late. Mostly sunny.

Mon 18Th MAY

12448992-FA20-20

The offshore scene hit the pause button for the start of the week and this saw many anglers exploring the more sheltered spots around the Noosa River.

The Noosa River offers great protection from South east/west winds and there is plenty on offer.

The weekend saw light winds and the ramps in full swing as everyone hit the water.

The Barwon Banks and the Hards were popular for the bigger boats.

Despite the current a good mix of snapper, amberjack, pearl perch and some unstoppable fish were reported.

Most of these fish taking slab baits and whole pilchards. North reef saw reef fish on the chew with gang hooked pilchards working well for snapper, pearlies and a few tuskies.

Sunshine and Halls headed north toward Teewah were also popular reefs. Slow trolled dead baits saw a few lone Spanish pick up and run away with prized baits. With bird action becoming less, now is a great time to do a bit of slow trolling if after a big pelagic.

These fish will be more focused on bigger bait so go slow and have a spread of different options available.

If you are running trace make sure you use single strand wire and super small swivels to reduce bubble trails.

Surf fishing has been going great after dark and the major moon saw the focus on jewies. There have been reports of big fish lost so be sure you are going with big reels and spooled with fresh 20-30lb mono.

Daytime fishing has seen larger dart and some quality sea bream showing up along with bigger flatties to 60cm. These fish taking live beach work, fresh mullet strip and pipis.

Noosa River flatties have also been on the chew around the frying pan the Noosa North Shore and some bigger fish found around the dog beach.

With the building spring tides and the full moon, fishing during the last of a tide and the turn is the better time. Next week will see neap tides which will see more options available for the land based angler. The cooler mornings have seen queenfish showing up with chopper tailor in hot pursuit in the lower estuary. These fish are usually focused around Woods Bay, the current line and junction of coastguard and the main channel.

These fish will take a wide range of lures and baits so be sure to try a few options and look for nervous bait on the surface. From poppers to stickbaits and even soft vibes, queenfish usually put on great shows and when they get over 70cm

12:27 PM 6:56 PM

0.44 1.80 m

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

a few thunder storms. overcast 20 / 13 °C

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NOOSA TODAY 19

THE SPIN

IT’S JUST NOT CRICKET WHEN While Peter V'Landys, the NRL and their players dominate the sports pages of most news publications there is plenty happening in the realms of other sports.

Indian international cricketer Suresh Raina has thrown a cat among the pigeons this week in cricket circles urging India to soften its stance on releasing players to foreign Twenty20 competitions, such as the Big Bash League (of course that would be dependent on a relaxation of the current Australian border restrictions).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has currently blocked any active male player under its umbrella, regardless of whether they have a national contract or are close to national selection, from joining a franchise outside the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Meanwhile Indian captain Virat Kohli says that although he will miss "magical" atmosphere if games are played in empty stadiums during the summer series between Australia and India it would not dampen the competitive side of the matches.

Boris Johnson may have cleaned bowled Australia's White Ball tour of the UK after the British PM put the brakes on any imminent return for professional sport in the country putting Australia's upcoming tour in serious doubt.

Meanwhile the Men's T20 World Cup, set to be played in Australia in October must be on shaky turf.

Cricket Australia could be facing millions of dollars in lost revenue if the Test series against India and the World Cup go ahead in empty stadiums.

Horse racing seems to be the one sport handling the constraints of this pandemic best.

With strict rules in place some local riders are benefiting from opportunities that have come their way during the autumn carnivals.

Punters have becoming familiar with the names and talents of some previously over-looked riders especially in South Australia. Under normal circumstances visiting interstate jockeys plunder top rides during the autumn.

Still on the racing scene, the laconic Peter Moody, one of Queensland's favourite racing sons, made a successful return to the training ranks more than four years after walking away from training.

Moody had not saddled up a runner since March 2016 when he won the Group One William Reid Stakes with Flamberge.

It was a much different scene 20 NOOSA TODAY

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Track rider Paddy Bell shares a moment with champion mare Black Caviar and assistant trainer Tony Haydon during her stellar career. when Shepherd, his first runner since returning to training saluted last Sunday at Ballarat. Fittingly the Moody owned galloper was piloted

by Black Caviar's regular rider Luke Nolen.

Ballarat and Shepherd may have been a far cry from Black Caviar and the pomp and fan fare associated with Royal Ascot but I bet there was a lot less pressure and a very deep sense of satisfaction associated with the win.

Punters and racing devotees across Australia are pleased to see this master trainer back where he belongs. It's one bright spot on a fairly dismal sporting landscape.

RUGBY LEAGUE ON THE HORIZON Rugby League tragics are counting down to the restart of the NRL season later this month however Community Rugby League remains suspended until at least 1 June.

The strict conditions and protocols that the NRL has agreed to adhere to, which allow for the recommencement of the game are well beyond both the financial and operational capacity of Community Leagues.

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

Although the Pirates are ready and raring to go the burning question for them like all all clubs is "Will or can Community Rugby League return in 2020?"

The State Government has adopted the recently released AIS Framework for Rebooting Sport as the preferred road map for the return to community sports in the state.

In response to this the QRL Region managers and chairs met last week to discuss the possible return of Community Rugby League in Queensland.

It is understood that rugby league officials are keen to commence competition around the 11-12 July.

The QRL has indicated that using the guidelines provided by the AIS any return would come in three stages.

The QRL will also be required to develop guidelines and protocols specific to Community Rugby League and present them to the State Government and the Chief Medical Officer for endorsement.

While there has been talk of competitions commencing in July, the QRL will only be able to forecast possible return dates once they

receive these endorsements.

In addition to start dates and competition structures for individual leagues, discussions will be required around the associated costs such as insurance with the QRL focusing on the sustainability of all leagues and clubs not only this season but into 2021 and beyond.

The three levels set out by the AIS road map provide a general guide to the gradual return to training and competition.

Progression through the levels will require government approval and the easing of current restrictions relating to social isolation, movement and social gatherings.

All of these requirements monitored by club and league administrators.

The wellbeing of players, volunteers, families and the wider community remains the QRL's uppermost priority.

In the meantime all players, senior and junior are urged to keeping fit and to focus on keeping fit and healthy and where possible to train in pairs while adhering to the current social distancing regulations.

The AIS three step guidelines for a return to community sport noosatoday.com.au

email: wickets-stpe@bigpond.com

CASEY O’CONNOR

IT COMES TO SPORT RESUMING LEVEL A GENERAL DESCRIPTION Activity that can be conducted by a solo athlete or by pairs where at least 1.5m can always be maintained between participants. No contact between athletes and/or other personnel. Examples for all sports general fitness aerobic and anaerobic (e.g. running, cycling sprints, hills).

Strength and sport-specific training permitted if no equipment required, or have access to own equipment (e.g. ergometer, weights). Online coaching and resources (e.g. videos, play books).

Community Rugby League Specific Rugby League Running/aerobic/ agility training (solo), resistance training (solo), skills training (solo) including kicking, passing, ball skills (e.g. against wall) to self.

LEVEL B GENERAL DESCRIPTION As per Level A plus: Indoor/outdoor activity that can be conducted in small groups (not more than 10 athletes and/or other personnel in total) and with adequate spacing (not more than 1 person per 4m2 ).

Some sharing of sporting equipment permitted such as kicking a football, hitting a tennis ball, use of a skipping rope, weights, mats. Non-contact skills training. Accidental contact may occur but no deliberate body contact drills. No wrestling, holding, tackling or binding. Commercial gyms, boot camps, yoga, Pilates, dance classes (e.g. barre, ballet, hip hop, not partnered), cycling ‘spin’ classes permitted if other measures (above) are met.

Community Rugby League Specific Skill drills using a ball, kicking and passing. No tackling/wresting.

Small group (not more than 10 athletes/staff in total) sessions.

LEVEL C GENERAL DESCRIPTION As per Level B plus: Full sporting activity that can be conducted in groups of any size including full contact (competition, tournaments, matches). Wrestling, holding, tackling and/or binding (e.g. rugby scrums) permitted. For larger team sports, consider maintaining some small group separation at training.

For some athletes full training will be restricted by commercial operation of facilities.

Level A Running/aerobic/ agility training (solo), resistance training (solo), skills training (solo) noosatoday.com.au

Laconic trainer and former Queenslander Peter Moody made a successful return to training last week. including kicking, passing, ball skills (e.g. against wall) to self.

Level B Skill drills using a ball, kicking and passing. No tackling/ wresting. Small group (not more than 10 athletes/staff in total) sessions.

Community Rugby League Specific Full training and competition.

SIPP WAITING FOR MOTORSPORT TO REV UP Jack Sipp is keenly watching and waiting for Australian motorsport to emerge from its slumber and rev up.

Sipp is the Erebus Academy’s newest recruit and is excited to be joining the squad in the Kumho Tyre V8 Touring Car Series when racing returns.

The 25-year old has signed on to race with the team’s affiliate Image Racing for his second year in the category, having previously raced for Paul Morris Motorsport.

Sipp has experience in a variety of categories including Formula Ford, the Queensland Gemini Series, Formula 4, Australian Rally Cross and most recently Touring Cars.

“I’m really excited to be part of such a big name in the sport, I finally get the chance I’ve been working so hard for,” Sipp said recently.

Sipp who has self funded most of his career to date is looking to maximize this opportunity and explore his full potential as a driver with the support of the Erebus Academy and Image Racing.

He says he is looking forward to driving a competitive car and showing what he knows she is capable of. “I’ve put in the work and now I’m going to get results.”

Erebus Motorsport’s CEO Barry Ryan says he is looking forward to seeing Sipp progress as a driver.

Ryan said “Jack had a test earlier in the year and shows a lot of potential and I think with our support he will be able to progress into the driver we know he can become. “We’re looking forward to helping him reach his goals and give him the tools he needs to succeed.”

Though there is no word on when the V8 Touring Car calendar will resume, the team hope to see Sipp beginning his journey with the Erebus Academy and Image Racing sooner rather than later.

The Erebus Academy launched their Creating Pathways program in November 2019. The specialist program is aimed at providing tailored mentoring, marketing and management support to young racing drivers with the assistance of the Erebus Academy and its program partners.

There will be no-one more excited than Jack Sitt when Motorsport roars back to life.

CONFRO CANCELLED Students, staff and parents from Catholic Colleges across the Sunshine Coast will be disappointed to hear that the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Rugby League has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Confraternity Carnival because of uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 crisis.

It will be the first time the famous carnival has not been played since its inaugural year in 1980.

“This was a particularly difficult decision but, with the sensible measures that governments have

put in place and the uncertainty of the months ahead, we were left with no choice,” the QISSRL committee spokesperson said.

“We desperately wanted to play this year, mindful of how much this Carnival means to its players and schools, particularly for those players in Year 12.

"Confraternity Carnival will be back in 2021. In the meantime, we send out best wishes to all Year 12 students for their final year of school.”

The committee announced Iona College, which was preparing to host this year’s carnival from Monday, June 29 to Friday, July 3, would now host next year’s event.

The 40th Confraternity Carnival in Bundaberg <https://www.qrl.com. au/news/2019/07/01/confraternitycarnival-results/> last year drew more than 1000 boys from 48 schools across Queensland.

QISSRL president and Padua College Rector Peter Elmore said, “The Carnival has grown in size since it was first contested in 1980 but it remains an event in which sportsmanship, respect and fellowship are most highly valued."

“We are proud of the many Catholic schools and players who have contested this event over the decades.

"While there is a great list of former Confro players who have gone on to the game’s highest levels, we’re just as proud of the manner in which the Carnival is played."

Confraternity Carnival graduates over the years have included Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott and Cameron Munster among dozens of other Maroons and Kangaroo stars. ●

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

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NOOSA TODAY 21

TALKING SPORT

RON LANE

Sunshine Coast Martial Arts Club is staying active in an online environment.

CLUBS KEEPING IN TOUCH The active, physical game of our sporting clubs maybe dormant but for a lot of our local clubs the management people are looking to the future: as a result, positive things have been happening and will continue to do so.

The sport of touch football, officially known as the Noosa Touch Association, is a good example.

For club president Hayden Trask and his workers everything is positive; when restrictions are lifted to the level where the physical aspect is once again on track the goals achieved during isolation will certainly be of a massive benefit.

“We worked in conjunction with the Pirates rugby league club and they assisted us in obtaining a grant: this plus the support of the Noosa Shire Council and we were able to install new lights on our fields and upgrade our drainage system.”

With these achievements, this club which can boast a total of 40 clubs, both senior and junior and a total of 41 years of playing the game, they will surely survive the present crises. At present a possible restart time of late July is under discussion.

The Pirates Rugby League Club has also taken advantage of the situation to prepare for the better 22 NOOSA TODAY

|

times ahead. Speaking with a longtime club official the attitude was once again very positive. “’We have erected a fly over roof out over the entertainment area that faces on to the playing field, thus, making it a good all-weather viewing area for our fans. Our playing field has also been aerated and fertilised.

“But, the best news of all is that this week we will, on Tuesday and Thursday nights start training once again.”

This he emphasised will be done under strict Queensland Rugby League guidelines. (regarding number of players at a given time on the field and time allocated for each session).

WAITING ON SCHOOLS In Noosa Little Athletics coach Mick Hooper is hoping for possible light training Monday night, but as yet nothing definite. ‘’Our big drawback is the schools,’’ said Mick. “Once something definite is settled with the younger classes returning to school and possible dates set for training and school competition, this will give us something to work on; also, we have to share the field area with soccer; so that will make it difficult.

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

“However, our main concern is the Noosa Gift. This is a major interstate carnival that we have run for several years. With big prizemoney and local business houses on board as sponsors, we are of course worried, but a big thing in our favour is that the date for the meet is mid -November. With discussions regarding the lifting of more restrictions now under way, November could be a good possibility.’’

LIFEGUARDS IN CONTROL On the local beach scenes, the patrol flags are still down and the lifeguards still have total control.

A senior lifeguard said: “For us, people have been good: numbers down and the people talk to us regarding the rules. At the bottom end of the Sunshine Coast there has however been a number of rescues; no flags so the swimmers just go in without talking to the guards. So, we ask them, please talk before diving into the surf.”

For our volunteer lifesavers there is however one good bit of news. A perspective date of 6 February has been pencilled in for a surf boat carnival for juniors on Noosa Beach.

With a gap of some eight months, this is a big possibility: but again, it would depend on government restrictions and full council discussions and support.

CLUB GOES ONLINE In martial arts things have been better for students involved in the Sunshine Coast Martial Arts Club.

Located on Gibson Road, the club is run by Sensi Bryan Dukas 6th Dan, and staff of Shotokan Karate; a flyer released by the club informs us of the following.

With restrictions, this club is using online platform to train and be trained by instructors from all over the world. Sensi Dukas has had people join his classes from places such as Germany, Japan, South Africa, New Zealand and Scotland as well as many parts of Australia.

Amongst the top on line instructors, is strength and condition coach Jody Young from South Africa.

This sensi has been concentrating on strength and speed thus helping students prepare for the re-opening of the tournament season.

It is good to see the positive results that some of our administrators, teachers and athletes are achieving regardless of our present situation. ● noosatoday.com.au

LIFE OF BRINE

PHIL JARRATT

REFLECTING ON THE LAST WAVE We’ve been blessed with such a delightful run of perfect little point waves this past week or two that it’s completely taken my mind off Covid-19 and allowed it to wander back and forth in the mists of time.

When surfing conditions are as pretty as they’ve been this month, it’s hard not to reflect on those very first surfing experiences in similar conditions (albeit in colder water and on beach break lefts) nearly 60 years ago, and the thought that comes immediately after that is about the last wave. Not the last wave I rode last time I surfed, like a few hours ago, but the LAST wave.

When will it come, and will I even know it?

But since far more surfers remember their first wave better than their last, let’s start at the start.

But unfortunately I can’t remember the first one. First kiss, yes. First full-blown sexual experience, yes, of course. First wave? Mmm. And for a writer this is not good, because surf writers have been remembering their first waves and writing about them for centuries now, for better or for worse. Consider the following from Jack London, the adventure novelist and travel writer in 1907: I shall never forget the first big wave I caught out there in the deep water. I saw it coming, turned my back on it, and paddled for dear life.

Faster and faster my board went, till it seemed my arms would drop off. What was happening behind me I could not tell. One cannot look behind and paddle the windmill stroke. I heard the crest of the wave hissing and churning, and then my board was lifted and flung forward.

I scarcely knew what happened the first half-minute. Though I kept my eyes open, I could not see anything, for I was buried in the rushing white of the crest. But I did not mind. I was chiefly conscious of ecstatic bliss at having caught the wave.

The “ecstatic bliss” was shortlived. London got shockingly sunburnt that day at Waikiki and was rarely seen on a surfboard again.

On the other hand, and more than a century later, Pulitzer Prize winner William Finnegan’s captivating account of his first wave ridden, at San Onofre, California, at age 10, describes the beginning of a life-long quest: I wobbled to my feet. I remember looking to the side and seeing that the wave was not weakening, and looking ahead and seeing that my path was clear for a very long way, and being transfixed by the rocky sea bottom streaming under my feet. The water was clear, slightly turquoise, shallow. But there was noosatoday.com.au

The long walk back up the point for just one more. room for me to pass over safely. And so I did, again and again, that first day.

I know so well that feeling Bill captures here in his memoir, Barbarian Days, that moment of sheer amazement that you are skating across sea boulders or gorgeous coral reef with just a thin column of clear water and a plastic-coated plank between you and them. But for me that all came later. The memory of the first time is a blur across a couple of early Sixties summers, but what I do recall, and what I’ve been seeing so vividly as I ride these recent perfect First Point peelers, is not the first wave but the first one that mattered.

On one of those February or March evenings on the Coal Coast when the hot, dry wind from the escarpment backs off and the ocean develops the texture of golden glass as the sun sinks behind the collieries on the foothills of the Great Divide, on one of those special evenings that even now all these years on I can feel and smell, I paddled into a small wave and got to my feet in one swift movement, then turned the board slowly and deliberately and trimmed along the face of the wave, the heavy board beating a rhythm as it slapped the swell under my feet. My confidence grew with every metre I travelled, and when finally the wave petered out on the shore, I knew I

Picture: FENNA DE KING (FENNADEKING.COM)

Still enjoying the glide after all these years.

Picture: FENNA DE KING (FENNADEKING.COM) could do this, I knew I could become a surfer.

I carefully turned the big board around in the shallows and kneepaddled out for more.

With a couple of breaks here and there for studies, career, family, health and various addictions, I’ve been paddling back out for more ever since, and I’ve never regretted the sometimes unreasonably large factor that the thrill of the glide has been in my life. Which brings us back to that last wave.

No, I’m feeling pretty good for an old feller right now, thanks for asking. I’m not looking for the check-out chick any time soon,

touch wood. But I am thinking about when I’ll decide that the crook back and the rotator cuffs just can’t take it anymore, and I’ll quietly slip the board into a cover and hang it on the rack. Or maybe that decision will be taken out of my hands.

Most of all now, I treasure every moment I spend in the ocean, every wave I paddle into and feel that surge of power behind as I slowly get to my feet and steer my way through the obstacles. My surf sessions get shorter and recovery takes longer, but as long as the passion remains, every day you catch a wave is a good one. ●

Thursday, 14 May, 2020

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NOOSA TODAY 23

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VOTED COUNTRY QUEENSLAND 'S BEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER 2017 & 2018

NEWS

| ISSUE 378

VOTED COUNTRY QUEENSLAND'S BEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER 2017 & 2018

NEWS

WEEPING TREE WOES

NEWS

WEEPING TREE WOES

WEEPING TREE WOES

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LIFE OF BRINE

A LAST POST FROM TIMOR

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LIFE OF BRINE

A LAST POST FROM TIMOR PAGE 16

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LIFE OF BRINE

COVER STORY

POWER OF AN

COVER STORY

POWER OF AN

A LAST POST FROM TIMOR

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Mini Chef Sessions Join us for mini chef sessions at Noosa Civic these upcoming school holidays.

You’ll also get your own mini chef hat and apron to take home as our gift to you!

Dates: Monday 23rd September to Friday 4th October daily Times: 9am and 11am Cost: $5 donation to Slow Food Noosa Location: Outside Red Rooster Bookings essential.

Visit noosacivic.com.au for details.

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Big W Woolworths 100 speciality stores 28 Eenie Creek Rd (Cnr Walter Hay Drive) Noosaville Ph 5440 7900

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Mini Chef Sessions

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Join us for mini chef sessions at Noosa Civic these upcoming school holidays.

You’ll also get your own mini chef hat and apron to take home as our gift to you!

Dates: Monday 23rd September to Friday 4th October daily Times: 9am and 11am Cost: $5 donation to Slow Food Noosa Location: Outside Red Rooster Bookings essential.

Visit noosacivic.com.a u for details.

Big W Woolworths 100 speciality stores 28 Eenie Creek Rd (Cnr Walter Hay Drive) Noo

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Thursday, 14 May, 2020

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