With the current cost of living, there’s never been a better time to review your home loan.
We’ll look at your rate, term, repayments, and equity, giving your loan a full check-up to make sure it’s still right for you and your current needs.
Community Bank • 89B Bulcock Street, Caloundra
DANCERS from En Pointe Classical Ballet Coaching are set to cast a spell of winter magic as they transform the stage at The Lind Theatre into the enchanting world of Frozen - The Ballet.
The full-scale production features students aged four to 17 performing everything from ballet, jazz, tap, and song, and contributing to every step of the creative process – from script to stage.
En Pointe’s Elizabeth Probert, 15, who will play Anna, said the process of preparing for the production had fuelled her ambition to one day become a principal dancer in an overseas ballet company.
“In five years, I hope to have finished high school at an overseas ballet school and be slowly working myself up the ranks of a professional ballet company either as an apprentice or in the corps de ballet,” Elizabeth said.
“It’s incredible to be performing for an audience, on stage, with lighting and amazing costumes.
“The passion that is brought to every rehearsal and performance is highlighted by the teamwork, dedication, and commitment of every single student, teacher, and dance parent.”
Elizabeth and her peers at En Pointe train upwards of 25 hours each week to perfect their craft.
En Pointe director and Aura local, Leticia Webb, founded the dance school in 2006, and its graduates continue to perform on world stages from London to Paris, Germany and beyond.
Frozen – The Ballet will play in a 4pm matinee and 7:30pm evening performance at Lind Lane Theatre on 1 December.
To book visit www.lindlane.com.au.
LOCALS will remain in the dark over mysterious late-night helicopter flights buzzing over Caloundra.
The Aura Post’s attempts to uncover who’s behind the mystery of low-flying helicopters spotted on FlightRadar24 were shot down when no one fessed up.
Some apps identify the helicopter as a Surf Lifesaving Res-
cue chopper, but the official word from Surf Lifesaving Queensland is that the activity was Polair – the police air wing used by law enforcement agencies across Australia.
However, queries to Queensland Police revealed there was no Polair activity registered in the area during that timeframe.
Enquiries to Council, which
oversees Caloundra Aerodrome, revealed emergency service choppers can fly as needed, casting doubt over the accuracy of flight details on the apps, above all else.
Since making enquiries, late night chopper activity seems to have reduced over the 4551 area and helicopters actively flying over homes have failed to show on FlightRadar24.
WHITE’S IGA has been inducted into the Sunshine Coast Business Awards Hall of Fame at the recent 2024 event after winning the Retail (large) category for three years running in 2021-2023.
Co-founder Roz White, who purchased her first corner store with husband Michael in 1993, credited her staff and the community for the accolade.
White’s IGA has six stores across the Sunshine Coast and 520 staff.
“I have been skipping around the stores, I am just so excited by this,” Ms White said.
“I keep saying to my staff and to our customers, this is your celebration too, you are a part of our story.”
Reflecting on 31 years of business, Ms White said she would never forget the couple who made her business ownership dreams come true.
“Our first business mentors were the couple we bought our first store off, Rob and Sandra,” she said.
“We scratched together enough money to buy the store but we didn’t think about any money we would need for stock – we had none.
“This couple very generously gave us 12 months vendor finance to pay off the stock – otherwise it would never have happened – none of this would ever have happened without them.”
White’s IGA has gone on to give many Sunshine Coast teenagers their first ever job, and has some staff clocking up their
28th year of service.
“We had one girl who came to us as a teenager and worked part-time through school and university and then came to work with us in HR once she got her degree,” Ms White said.
“We have a man who is one of our most senior leaders in the business who came to us as a teenager and chipped away at a business analyst degree over 10 years to work his way up in the business.
“When you find good people – you hold onto them.”
Ms. White said the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic only strengthened the bond of an already tight-knit team.
“Our staff were frontline through the whole thing and regardless of their own fears – they continued to serve our community,” she said.
“We basically became a two-pillared business and we had two jobs to do – keep people safe and keep people fed, but afterwards I felt this enormous fragility and there was a vulnerability in our team that I had never seen before.
“We then had to work and implement support and strategy to bring health and wellness back to where it needed to be and we implemented programs to help our staff to do that.”
She said the cost of living crisis was a new obstacle the business faced alongside the community.
“Now we have moved into a new phase
White’s IGA at the Sunshine Coast Business Awards 2024.
where there is financial strain in the community, and our team feels that too,” she said.
“The workforce has changed since COVID, people’s attitudes have changed –
it’s such a time of evolution and as a business you have to continue to respond as expectations change and you have to change your workforce and evolve and adapt.”
For many, Christmas time this year will be different, as you celebrate without one of your loved ones. As a way of honouring and remembering them this year, we warmly invite yourself and family to attend one of our Christmas Memorial Services.
Monday 2nd December at 6:00pm Noosa Chapel: 202 Eumundi Noosa Rd, Noosaville 4566
Tuesday 3rd December at 6:00pm
Nambour Chapel: 34 National Park Road, Nambour 4560
Wednesday 4th December at 6:00pm
Buderim Chapel: 159 Wises Road, Buderim 4558
Thursday 5th December at 6:00pm
Caloundra Chapel: 5 Gregson Pl, Caloundra 4551
You are welcome to write a message in memory of your loved one and place it along with a Christmas ornament on our Tree of Remembrance during the service. Following the service, you are invited to join us for supper.
RSVP by Thursday, 28th November 2024
By Phone: (07) 5491 1559 or by email: caloundra@gregsonweight.com.au advising the location, number attending and the name of who you will be remembering.
GREGSON & Weight Funeral Directors announce the return of their annual Christmas Memorial Services, inviting members of the community to come together to remember the lives of those they have lost.
Each year, for 14 years, thousands attend the Christmas Memorial Services, which feature local musicians, a photographic tribute, and the lighting of the Christmas Memorial Tree.
General Manager Luke Gregson said the service gives families the opportunity to come together to remember and honour those loved and lost this year.
This year’s services will be held from
Monday, 2 December, to Thursday, 5 December, at each of the four Gregson & Weight branches across the Sunshine Coast, from Caloundra to Noosa. Starting at 6:00 p.m., the services will be followed by light refreshments.
Families wishing to attend can RSVP by Thursday, 28 November, by contacting their local Gregson & Weight branch or calling the Caloundra office on 5491 1559. In 2022, Gregson & Weight celebrated 50 years of service to the Sunshine Coast and, during this time, has provided funeral services for almost 45,000 families in their time of need.
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According to an Energex spokesperson, technicians said it was an asset earth failure (a fault in the grounding system of a transformer, circuit or cable) and not overload related.
Enraged locals were convinced the presence of an Energex generator in the area was proof the grid was overloaded, and no underground fault had occurred, with one local suggesting The Aura Post had “struck a deal” with Energex to publicise the underground cable fault.
Energex confirmed generators were on site to carry load when crews were conducting any emergency or maintenance work right across the country, often for weeks at a time.
“To allow for further growth and a more robust network on the southern Sunshine Coast, this year Energex began construction on a more than $100 million new network that will feed Aura and surrounding suburbs stretching 11 kilometres from Meridan Plains and finishing at a new substation to be built at Bells Creek,” the spokesperson said.
“This project is expected to be completed early 2027.
“Furthermore, with the new network and Bells Creek substation online, it will take significant load off the existing Caloundra substation and will be particularly beneficial during severe weather events – allowing our technical staff to divert power between both areas, enabling faster restoration if storms or other unexpected issues interrupt supply.”
Energex also provided details of the outages experienced in Aura during the early summer season of 2024.
“We had three outages in this year’s early summer season,” the spokesperson said.
“On 9 January, there was an outage caused by an underground fault that affected 3,759 customers in the estate.
“On 23 February, there was an outage affecting 68 Aura customers – no cause was found.
“On 28 February, there was an outage affecting 36 Aura customers – damage at a pillarbox.”
Further speculation Energex could remotely access residents’ smart meters to “stabilise the grid” during overload was re-
futed by the provider, though they did provide additional information on the opt-in Peak-Smart air conditioning and hot water economy tariff.
“For more than 50 years, Energex has been able to switch off hot water systems as part of the off-peak tariff system – more than 700,000 Energex customers already have this in their homes.
“This is done remotely most days by Energex sending a switch on/off signal through the network – more information about off peak tariff electricity can be found at www. energex.com.au/manage-your-energy,” the spokesperson said.
“Similarly, many Energex customers over the past 15 years signed up to the PeakSmart
program which allows Energex to remotely scale down the compressor on air conditioners to conserve load – the air conditioner’s fan continues to work.
“This happens from time to time, and customers rarely notice it happening –more information about PeakSmart can be found at www.energex.com.au/manage-your-energy/cashback-rewards-program/peaksmart-air-conditioning.”
According to Aura-based solar battery specialist Circuit Alert, residents tired of outages could install a battery system which would provide power to essential loads such as fridges, lights, general power sockets, TV, internet and fans during a blackout.
Circuit Alert manager Martin Rudd said a well-designed, quality home battery system linked with a hybrid inverter could save households serious money on electricity costs by storing excess solar energy generated in daylight hours that can be used at night.
“When the system is being designed, you will need to consider which circuits you would like blackout protection for as each system has different capabilities,” Mr Rudd said.
“7.2kWh is considered small and 11kWh is considered the norm; however, we do regularly install more than 50kWh on some large homes.
“Your installer will need to consider the required solar system size needed to support the battery, this is important to get right as getting it wrong can damage the battery and void the warranty.”
A LOCAL academic has spoken out about the harms of social media on adolescents, urging parents, especially those with daughters, to take a firm stance and remove social media access.
The recent suicides of several Queensland tween and teenage girls are among the factors prompting the Federal Government to propose legislation setting a minimum age for social media.
But according to University of the Sunshine Coast’s Associate Professor in Child/ Adolescent Development and Learning, Michael Nagel, while the sentiment is good, in practice, effective change will need to be driven by parents.
“We now have a substantive and growing body of evidence that social media usage is disproportionately harming adolescents, with teenaged girls most at risk of the pitfalls,” Dr Nagel said.
“Girls in particular use social media platforms like Instagram to shape their identity – they are using the platform to create this life of illusion and there is now concrete evidence that this is wreaking havoc on their health.”
“Prior to 2010 teens were doing very well when it came to mental health, but at about the same time kids started holding smart phones, things started to deteriorate
“We used to point to casual evidence that social media could be harmful but we now have concrete evidence that these platforms erode happiness and confidence, negatively impact body image and behaviour and im-
pact your brain function.”
Dr Nagel’s upcoming book, Virtual Autism and other Screen Disorders delves into the science behind social media impacts on developing brains.
“Your brain is in development until your late 20s but there are particular times when access to certain content can be most harmful,” he said.
“Between 0 and four years old when the
brain is laying down neural pathways and during puberty, when your brain is undergoing a ‘refurb’ and is under construction.”
But he said even kids who were exposed to malicious bullying and other harmful content online struggled to exit social media of their own accord.
“We are at a point where most kids have an understanding that social media is not healthy for them, but they are loathe to turn
it off on their own volition,”
“My advice is to get them to blame youfor the parents to be the bad guy.
“Let them shift the blame to you if they have fear of missing out or their friends ask - and clean up your own digital habits.
“If they see you constantly on social media they’ll want to constantly be on social media.”
For support phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.
MY journey to becoming CEO of the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce has not taken a normal route.
But as Randy Newman sang, ‘It Feels Like Home to Me’.
I was raised in Toowoomba and had great aspirations of being the saviour of the Australian wool industry.
I took a shipment of Australian wool over to Bangladesh when I was 21 years old to manufacture machine washable rugby jerseys.
Needless to say, things did not go according to my well thought out plan.
I vowed then that I needed more education and started my Economics and Operations & Logistics Management degree at the University of Southern Queensland.
Whilst studying I was working in the Qantas Call Centre in Brisbane, it was one of the best experiences of my life.
The people were excellent, but the consistent training was exceptional.
I finished my degree and moved to Sydney with Qantas.
I jumped over to P&O Cruises and had the great privilege of working with Ann Sherry.
From there I went to a small expedition cruise company called Aurora Expeditions as Operations Manager and took over as CEO in the middle of the global financial crisis.
I was blessed with a great Board of Directors who saw my potential, pushed me but also supported me.
I took a short break before starting with Scenic Cruises and Tours as General Manager of Product Development and more recently I have set up a consulting business writing cruise ship itinerary, doing port operations, permitting and planning and on the side, I run a helicopter company.
I am thrilled to be the CEO of the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce and my vision for the Chamber over the next three years
is to strengthen and expand the membership base so we can continue to effectively support local businesses, promote community growth and advocate for policies that foster a thriving economic and social environment. I want to ensure that the Chamber is seen as a hub for networking, resources and advocacy, helping to shape the overall health and vibrancy of the local economy and community.
We have a great calendar of events planned for 2025, which includes the return of the much-loved Breakfast of Champions and a new series of Member only Professional Development workshops.
Membership engagement is critical to the strength of the Chamber of Commerce and that will be driven by strong communication, facilitated discussion and personal contact.
The Chamber Board is well known business leaders in Caloundra and the broader Sunshine Coast and they are fully engaged in working with businesses to help them achieve their goals.
The Caloundra Chamber of Commerce is responsible for running of the:
• Caloundra Street Fair every Sunday from 8.00am to 1.00pm on Bulcock Street.
• Caloundra Twilight Markets on the last Friday of every month from 5.00pm to 8.00pm on the Bulcock Beach Esplanade.
• Currimundi Lake Twilight Markets on the third Friday of every month from 4.00pm to 8.00pm.
• Aura Farmers Markets every Saturday from 7.00am to 12.00pm on the corner of Central Avenue and Whiteley Avenue at Nirimba.
• Aura Twilight Markets on the first Friday of each month from 4.00pm to 8.00pm on the corner of Central Avenue and Whiteley Avenue at Nirimba.
A BAND of cat-loving cleaners and locals sprang into action on the morning of 13 November to save a litter of five-week-old kittens dumped at Nirimba Primary School.
Aura mother Gail Burridge noticed a post on social media at around 6am, from a Nirimba Primary staff member Leigh James who had stumbled upon a litter of kittens when he arrived on campus.
“I saw the post just after 6am and I was at the school by before 7am,” Ms Burridge said.
“I come from a rescue background and I was bundling up three kittens a cleaner had found when there was a shriek that another had been found, and it was stuck.”
The kitten had wedged itself between a brick wall and a plumbing pipe, with a team effort required to free it.
“We thought it might die at one point, but we got it out,” Ms Burridge said.
She contacted Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge (SCARS) and took the four kittens home out of the heat and rehydrated them before dropping them off.
“A few hours later I got a call that they’d found another kitten – this one was stuck in a rat trap,” Ms Burridge said.
She rushed to the school and rescued the fifth kitten, which, against all odds survived its ordeal and instantly bonded with Ms. Burridge.
“I need to make that kitten my cat – I just need to convince my husband when they’re ready to be rehomed,” she said.
“There was talk that these could be wild cats but they’re not, they’re used to human
handling and very cuddly.”
Nelly Vitkind, who was involved with surrendering the litter to SCARS, said it was her life’s ambition to help animals in need.
“They don’t have a voice but they have feelings and emotions just like us,” Ms Vitkind said.
“I think in a way, at least these kittens were left somewhere that people would find them.
“People sometimes do leave poor, vulnerable kittens wrapped in plastic bags, in bins, in the bushland or in completely closed boxes.”
Mr. James credited the response to his social media post to save the kittens as a true testament to the community’s spirit.
“It was definitely a team effort,” he said.
The RSPCA encouraged Queenslanders to think carefully before buying a pet as a
gift this Christmas. Their “Pets are for life, not just for Christmas” campaign reminds those welcoming a pet to the family to make sure they can commit to its lifelong care.
Sometimes, situations arise that may be outside your control, and if you find you can no longer keep your pet, RSPCA Queensland can assist by calling 13 ANIMAL (264 625).
AS hospitality and lifestyle manager at IRT Woodlands, Aura’s Janelle Robinson shared her love of painting kindness rocks with residents.
“I found a kindness rock hidden in Hervey Bay and I thought, this is such a good idea, and I brought rocks and paints into work and got the residents involved.”
Kindness rocks are small stones painted with uplifting messages, positive words, or cheerful designs that people hide in parks, trails, or other public places.
Kindness rocks spread joy and positivity, with finders often re-hiding them and shar-
ing their locations on social media.
Ms Robinson set up a Facebook page, Aura Rocks, to keep track of the painted treasures she hides around the 4551 community, with some rocks being found as far afield as New South Wales.
“My residents are from a time when they wrote letters to people and it was fascinating enough for that letter to somehow arrive in another country,” she said.
“Their minds are blown when they paint these rocks and I show them a photo on the internet of a child finding them and enjoying them and re-hiding them.
“We don’t mind if you decide to keep the rock, but we love it if you still let us know you’ve found it.
“We recently had a rock we hid in the Aura Brook turn up at Sydney airport and then later on in Canungra – it gives our residents great joy to see where they travel.”
Locals like Natalie Dunstan and her daughter Kloee joined Aura Rocks 18 months ago and regularly paint, hide and share their rock discoveries across greater Caloundra.
“The majority of the painted rocks are done by Janelle and the people she works
with but my friends, their families, and I have also gotten involved – we love it.”
Ms Robinson urged locals who found the rocks to post their discovery to Facebook to encourage others to keep crafting kindness rocks for the community.
“We might put 50 out at Kings Beach and the residents will be asking me if anyone found them,” she said.
“It is so nice when I can find a picture on my phone to show them that it was found and where it was found.”
Find Aura Rocks on Facebook by searching ‘Aura Rocks’.
Meet Charlotte:
I’VE lived in Aura since 2019, and moved here because we loved the community, the park was just 150m away from our front door and there was the chance to meet like-minded people.
My journey in community development began during my first work experience in Cape Town, South Africa, where I developed a passion for creating spaces where people feel connected and empowered.
For me, building community means helping residents bring their ideas and initiatives to life in ways that will benefit and support them for years to come.
At Aura, I collaborate with residents to showcase the incredible talent and diversity in this community, ensuring that people feel supported, inspired, and proud to be passionate ambassadors for their Aura community.
Why is building a sense of community a priority for Aura and what benefits does it bring to residents?
CREATING a strong sense of community ensures a connection to people and place, fostering a genuine feeling of belonging.
This is especially important in a masterplanned community like Aura, where people from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life come together.
For some, Aura may be their first home in a new country, or they may be moving from interstate, while others are local families with deep roots on the Sunshine Coast. Building this sense of community empowers residents to take pride in where they live and strengthen connections.
As a resident myself, I can say the community here was one of the main reasons we chose to buy in Aura.
What role do events and social initiatives play in building a thriving community at Aura?
EVENTS are always enjoyable and well received, but what resonates most with residents is the fulfilment they get from being involved in planning these events.
When the community identifies a need, shares ideas, and works together, that’s when the magic happens.
We’re starting to see some of this already, and the empowerment it builds is what community development is all about.
For example, YouthFest – an event created by teens for teens – provides a platform for young bands to play and win recording contracts while bringing support services and programs like PCYC, headspace, IFYS and local First Nations groups together.
The Aura Farmers Markets are a welcome addition to the community, with Youth Markets quickly becoming a favourite.
I hear from young residents almost every week who want to be involved and I hope to create mentoring opportunities for them beyond the market stalls.
Chiggys skateboarding remains a red-hot favourite.
The best part is when I’m stopped by a family at the local IGA and the kids tell me all about the new tricks they’ve learned.
What initiatives encourage engagement and a sense of belonging?
OVER the past 18 months, we’ve focused on understanding the broader needs of the community.
We host regular neighbourhood events, like park openings and “meet-your-neighbour” gatherings, but our efforts go beyond one-off events.
We’re dedicated to building capacity within local groups, including schools and their P&Cs, essential services and community organisations, working together to upskill and empower them to run events.
For instance, Nirimba State Primary School’s Winter Festival is a great addition to the events calendar and an excellent op-
portunity for their P&C to raise funds that help to subsidise costs for children.
Similarly, the Aura Community Christmas event hosted by Baringa State Primary School also brings everyone together, raising funds for the school community while creating a festive experience for everyone.
Supporting local businesses is another priority. We regularly spotlight home-based businesses through video and website features, and recently provided free stalls at the Aura Farmers Market.
Our Youth Markets, piloted in September, will return in December due to positive feedback, giving school-aged budding entrepreneurs the best head start on their business journey.
How do Aura’s infrastructure and amenities support community interaction?
WITH over 120 km of bike paths, Aura is an example of a true bicycle-friendly community, and it’s wonderful to see so many people enjoying the outdoors.
With Aura’s extensive cycling paths, we’ve been working with the Sunshine Coast Council and the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) to look at behaviour change opportunities to encourage more active transport options.
Beyond physical infrastructure, Aura’s green spaces provide opportunities for social connection and contribute to residents’ wellbeing.
Our Aura Active program, offering free boxing, yoga, and cross-fit sessions through Live Life Get Active, is popular among residents.
Soon, we’ll be piloting a ThinkChange initiative in collaboration with Council and USC, studying factors that motivate cycling. This program will include e-bike trials and safe cycling education sessions.
Our parks and green spaces also serve as hubs for community activities, like school holiday skateboarding sessions with Chiggy’s Skateboarding.
This program connects young people through fun outdoor activities and supports personal development by teaching new skills introducing positive role models.
Has resident feedback influenced any of Aura’s community initiatives?
YES, YouthFest is a direct response to the need for more teen-focused activities, helping introduce young people and their families to local resources, career paths and support services.
We’ve even had our civil contractors out talking to teens about traineeship options, so they can potentially learn and work right here in Aura.
Resident feedback also led to the creation of the Construction Update page on our website, to provide the community with a single source of up-to-date information.
Looking ahead, are there any new community initiatives planned for 2025?
YES, we have several exciting initiatives and launches planned for 2025!
As part of an e-bike trial, we’re working with a local environmental group to establish an educational program with Sunshine Coast schools.
I’m especially interested in creating more mentorship opportunities.
With such a diverse range of expertise in the community, I’d love to connect our younger generation with experienced residents to help develop new support programs.
The community is also eagerly anticipating the opening of the Baringa Sports Complex and the naming of new parks that will open next year.
Finally, we’re working on a special New Year’s Eve event for residents.
Keep an eye on Aura’s social media channels for updates!
FUNDING for a national health promotion initiative offering free group exercise classes six days a week to Nirimba locals has been renewed for another year.
The LiveLifeGetActive program runs from Nirimba Sports Complex at 6:15am Monday to Saturday for ages 18 and over.
Offering a range of boxing fitness, cross training and yoga, program CEO Amanda King said 1167 people had signed up to the program since its inception four years ago.
“I would say 85 per cent of those who come to our Nirimba sessions are women and the average age is from about 30 years to 44,” Ms King said.
“The program is accessible to every level of fitness and we promote the benefits of being physically active in terms of boosting your mental, emotional and social health, self-confidence and self-esteem.”
She said the group had clocked a cumulative weight loss of 831kg.
“And that’s only the people who have been openly counting, lots don’t share that info,” she said.
“Over the last few years there’s been a shift by people to worry more about work and social media and regular exercise can be very levelling.
“Our group at Nirimba has no stigmas attached, everyone is welcome, we don’t mind if you show up in your oldest trackie dacks.”
Register for the program online at livelifegetactive.com then get down to Nirimba Sports Complex, Park Avenue, Nirimba from 6:15am Monday to Saturday for some fun and fitness.
AS the humid Queensland summer approaches, cycling enthusiasts in the greater Caloundra area are ready to hit the road. With stunning coastal views, scenic hinterland trails, and a growing cycling community, it’s the perfect place for summer rides.
Here’s a guide to make your local cycling experience safe and enjoyable:
1. Plan Your Routes - Caloundra offers access to a variety of cycling routes, from flat coastal paths to more challenging hinterland trails. Popular options include the Caloundra Coastal Pathway and the tracks around Beerwah and the Glass House Mountains. Be sure to check for any closures or weather updates before you head out.
2. Stay Cool - With the summer heat, staying cool is key. Wear moisture-wicking jerseys and breathable gear to keep comfortable as you ride along the coast or into the hinterland.
3. Hydrate - Always carry a water bottle or hydration pack, especially on longer rides. Adding electrolyte tablets can help replenish lost salts during those hotter days.
4. Sun Protection - The summer sun can be intense, so don’t forget to wear sunglasses, a visored helmet, and sunscreen with a high SPF to protect yourself from UV rays.
5. Ride at the Right Time - Baringa Bikes director Scott Durston said the best times for cycling across Caloun-
dra were in the early mornings or late afternoons when the temperature is milder. “Try to do your rides early morning or late afternoon, or even better, at night,” Mr Durston said. “Lighting for night rides are a necessity and I would recommend a light with at least 400 lumen output for general urban riding.” Mr Durston said off road riding would require more output from a light, and it was generally better to have a light on the bike and another on your helmet. “If riding late afternoon or early morning you would want to be seen, so a light with 200 lumens would be okay and a rear red light is also recommended,” he said.
6. Take Breaks - Cycling in the summer heat can be tough, so take regular breaks at shady spots or local cafes across Caloundra to cool down and rehydrate.
7. Post-Ride Care - After your ride, clean your bike and gear, stretch to ease muscle tension, and rehydrate to recover for your next adventure.
Try the Caloundra Connection pathway from Bells Creek to Bulcock Beach – the 6km stretch is perfect for a family ride with lots of places to relax including Golden Beach foreshore picnic areas.
For more information visit: www. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/experience-sunshine-coast/pathways-tracks-and-trails/ coastal-pathway.
This week, Year 12 students across 4551 closed the chapter on their schooling journeys and welcomed the exciting new adventures that lie ahead in 2025.
A MESSAGE from the Caloundra State High School’s management team:
On 14 November, Caloundra State High School held its Year 12 Graduation at The Station in Birtinya, marking an unforgettable milestone for the 150 graduating students.
With over 600 guests in attendance, the evening was filled with joy, gratitude, and celebration, as students, families, and staff shared fond memories and looked forward to the promising futures ahead.
We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2024 and can’t wait to see what they achieve next!
A MESSAGE from the Caloundra City Private School’s management team:
Congratulations to the Caloundra City Private School Year 12 Class of 2024.
As you step into the next chapter of your lives, we are confident that you are well-equipped to achieve your dreams.
Whether you are pursuing further studies, starting your career, or exploring new opportunities, know that you have the skills, knowledge, and passion to excel on the path you’ve chosen.
The world is waiting for you, and we can’t wait to see the incredible things you will accomplish.
Remember, you will always be a part of the CCPS family, and we will be cheering you on every step.
STUDENTS at Currimundi State School channelled their artistic talents to commemorate Remembrance Day on 11 November.
The activity was part of the RSL Queensland’s third annual ‘Draw to Remember’ initiative, giving thousands of students across the state the opportunity to use their creativity to acknowledge local veterans.
Inspired Currimundi students put chalk to concrete to illustrate the sacrifice of those who have served in the Australian Defence Force since World War I.
THE Queensland Government has hit pause on Best Practice Industry Conditions (BPICs) for new government-funded projects, aiming to curb budget blowouts, protect housing supply, and ease cost-of-living pressures for renters and homeowners.
The move comes as Treasury modelling revealed that continuing BPICs could have driven rents up by 7 per cent over five years and left 22,000 homes unbuilt across the state.
In a bid to address these challenges, the government will reestablish the Queensland Productivity Commission (QPC) by the end of 2024, with its first task being a comprehensive review of the building industry.
Until the review is completed and recommendations are implemented, the pause on BPICs will help stabilise the construction market and prevent further strain on Queensland’s housing sector.
The pause will apply to new projects and those not yet at the procurement stage, with opportunities to enhance productivity even in some existing projects.
BPICs, which have been criticised for adding red tape and limiting contractor competition, have been linked to increased project costs and reduced market efficiency.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said BPICs have had a significant impact on productivity and labour capacity and have resulted in delays on government-funded major projects.
“We need to urgently control the cost blow-outs of government-funded construc-
tion projects, which ultimately hits the hip-pockets of Queensland families and businesses,” Mr Bleijie said.
“Queenslanders shouldn’t have to bear the brunt of this which is why we’ve ordered this pause and review.
“It will also give subcontractors, especially small and family businesses and regional firms, a greater chance of securing work on government projects, without all the costs and time involved in having to gain unnecessary prequalification.”
Minister for Housing and Public Works
Sam O’Connor said not only would BPICs
impact housing, but they would also impact energy projects.
“Independent Treasury modelling shows Queenslanders will pay more to rent a home and there will be fewer homes built in our state under the current BPIC conditions, it would be irresponsible to ignore this advice in the face of a housing crisis,” Mr O’Connor said.
“If BPICs were to continue, they would also apply to energy and storage projects implemented by Government Owned Corporations, placing upward pressure on electricity prices and household cost-of-living.”
From Page 15
These recently completed villas offer high-end construction and a lifestyle of comfort.
Each villa is spread over two levels with three-metre ceilings that create an airy and spacious feel, the home includes three large bedrooms, a separate study, two stylish bathrooms, and a powder room on the upper level.
The kitchen is a standout, featuring luxury stone countertops, floor-to-ceiling two-pac cabinetry, and Smeg appliances, including a 900mm oven, gas cooktop, and walk-in pantry.
Just 300 meters from Dicky Beach, it’s perfect for those who enjoy the surf.
Afterward, rinse off in the outdoor shower and relax by the private inground pool.
The property also offers plenty of storage and an additional outdoor living area on the lower level.
5 Jean Street, Dicky Beach Agent: Clare Mccormack 0407 198 021 Price: Offers over $2,300,000 per villa
SAY goodbye to mowing and hello to luxury low maintenance living with 14 new Signature Terraces being offered to market in early 2025.
Pelican Waters general manager of development, Hamish Pressland, said the Signature Terrace product was designed as a premium lifestyle offering for downsizers looking for their own lot and no body corporate fees.
“We wanted to maintain the premium lifestyle we have in Pelican Waters so the buyers never felt like it was a downgrade – rather a ‘sideways’ move into a new home in an area they know and with all the premium features they previously had but without the huge floor area or yard,” Mr Pressland said.
He said the buyer range was typically from 50 to 88.
“We appeal to empty nesters as they still have plenty of room for family to visit, downsizers or those who just want a low maintenance but high-end home to live in so they can take advantage of the waterways, parks and marina and proximity to our Pumicestone Passage and beaches.”
All terraces are 285sqm under roof, with four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, two living areas, a double lock-up garage, internal courtyard, alfresco and upper-level balconies.
The first 35 Signature Terraces sold like hotcakes, prompting the design and build of 14 new terraces over the next 18 months.
Mr Pressland said more than half of buy-
ers drawn to the niche product were Sunshine Coast locals.
“Probably 60 per cent of buyers are Pelican Waters or Sunshine Coast locals – the remainder are from Brisbane and other SEQ regions,” he said.
“This was an untried product for us here at Pelican Waters.
“We had always been about big lots and big homes but there was a missing middle and a market we were not catering for.
“Something premium, but not too big, and easily maintained – it’s like living in a townhouse development without the body corporate structure.”
Mr Pressland said terraces also fit into a more affordable category of homeownership and should be considered by buyers of all demographics.
“In the current housing shortage, they provide a fantastic option for young families of all types as both rental and owning options,” he said.
“Our product is designed to be next-level, catering for those who want to focus on the Pelican Waters lifestyle of boats, golf, lunches and beaches rather than mowing lawns and painting the house.
“We have improved our design with every new stage of terraces we have produced.
“After building 35 terraces already we are still continuing to strive to improve our design and construction process.
“Our last stage was north-facing overlooking a new park in Pelican Waters and we will be continuing the theme with a brand-new layout and look in the next roll out of terraces early in 2025.”
The Signature Terraces sales team operates from one of the original terrace homes so interested buyers can get a feel for the product.
For more information visit the Land Sales Suite on Arlington Drive in Pelican Waters or visit www.pelicanwaters.com.
GLOWING boats and festive cheer will light up Crummunda Park as the muchloved Lights on the Lake festival returns to Currimundi Lake on Sunday 8 December.
This community festival is run entirely by volunteers with support from Sunshine Coast Council and sponsorship from Caloundra Community Bendigo Bank Branch, NABIS Dredging and several other local businesses.
The event is all about festive, family fun, with a focus on environmental sustainability.
Lights on the Lake attendees will enjoy creative kids’ arts and crafts, a kids’ disco, face painting, live performances from local entertainers on the Caloundra Community Bendigo Bank Branch stage, a drumming circle, Indigenous weaving workshop and food stalls.
The ever-popular learning vans will be there, including Turtle Care and Council’s Discovery Van.
A highlight each year is the NABIS Dredging Water Parade of decorated watercraft paddling around Currimundi Lake at nightfall.
If you bring your canoe or kayak decorated with festive lights, you might win the contest for the best decorated watercraft.
The evening will end with a laser light show from the main stage
When: 4pm to 8pm, Sunday 8 December 2024
Where: Crummunda Park, Coongarra Esplanade, Wurtulla.
For more information, visit www.currimundicatchment.org.au/lights-on-lake or email lightsonthelake@currimundicatchment.org.au to register your boat, kayak or paddle board.
THE Night Eyes Water and Landcare Group is teaming up with local high schools to give students a firsthand look at the health of their local waterways and the impact of pollution on marine life.
Night Eyes volunteer Eliza Broadbent said the team had taken students from Meridan College and Caloundra High School out on boat patrols to demonstrate how the Pelican Waters loch system works and where “rubbish hot spots” are.
“We show them where the rubbish tends to accumulate and the effects all this rubbish has on our marine and wildlife,” Ms Broadbent said.
“The students thoroughly enjoyed their time on the water and look forward to doing it again.”
A recent Walk, Talk and Tidy (WTT) by the Night Eyes group across Caloundra uncovered significant illegal dumping throughout the area.
“For the month of October the WTT crews picked up an incredible 547kg of rubbish,” Ms Broadbent said.
And November is shaping up to be another record month for litter collection.
A Night Eyes team collected 220kg of discarded rubbish on Pierce Avenue and Racecourse Road on 6 November, requiring three trips to the nearby dump.
“Our volunteers do an incredible job,” Ms Broadbent said.
To become a Night Eyes volunteer visit www.nighteyeswaterandlandcare.com.au
BOATS decked out in sparkling Christmas lights are set to illuminate the Pelican Waters canals on 8 December, bringing festive cheer to the waterfront community for the second year running.
Caloundra Coastguard Flotilla Commander Roger Pearce said the annual Pelican Waters Christmas Lights Boat Parade launched in 2023 as an uplifting community initiative.
“It was an exhaustive process to set it up last year with all of the approvals we needed, but our persistence was worth the ef-
fort,” Commander Pearce said.
“The night turned out so well, we are very much looking forward to this year’s event, which we expect will be even bigger than last year.
“We had 50 boats at the 2023 event, and we had 12 registrations within the first 24 hours of being open this year.”
Those interested in being part of this year’s parade can pick up a registration form from the Caloundra Coast Guard Headquarters at Tripcony Lane, off Majola Avenue, or by emailing fc.qf4@coastguard.com.au.
CALOUNDRA Christmas Street Party is back on Friday, 29 November from 4pm to 8pm along Bulcock Street.
This year’s event will transform the heart of Caloundra into a festive wonderlandideal for families and friends to kick off the holiday season together.
The night promises a variety of attractions for all ages, with a lively night market, roving performers, live music, and extended shopping hours at local stores. Kids can enjoy rides, activities, face painting, and holiday-themed workshops to add to the magic of the season.
Shoppers will find unique holiday gifts crafted by local artisans, while food vendors and trucks serve delicious bites from around the world.
Caloundra’s beachside community is
coming together to make this a night to remember. Booking tickets is recommended to assist with event communication and operations, but tickets do not guarantee seating.
Event details: Friday, 29 November, 2024, from 4pm to 8pm, on Bulcock Street, Caloundra. Road closures will affect Bulcock Street from Otranto Ave to Knox Ave from 2pm to 10pm, including all on-street parking.
The Christmas Street Party is brought to life by the Downtown Caloundra Taskforce, Sunshine Coast Council, Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, and the Caloundra Business Alliance.
Come along to celebrate the joy and magic of the holiday season in the heart of Caloundra.
CALOUNDRA households will soon have the ability to store the energy they generate during the day for use at night, helping to reduce both costs and emissions.
A “nation-leading” project to gradually transform Queensland’s regional grid into a series of tailored local renewable energy zones (LREZ) will launch in Caloundra, starting with the installation of community battery storage.
The Queensland Government has committed $80 million to the LREZ project across Caloundra and Townsville that will:
• boost renewable energy production
• improve grid stability
• ensure reliable energy supply for local communities.
According to the federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW), which has kicked in an additional $21.2 million in funding under a Federation Funding Agreement, households could save up to $800 per year on electricity bills under the program.
DCCEEW has promised the project would provide the benefits of “shared solar” energy for all households – including those living in apartments, renters and low-income earners.
But energy drawn from solar panels can
be significantly impacted by their condition.
Caloundra-based Fierce Solar Cleaning owner Tahnee Fiers said the difference between dirty and clean solar panels could equate to a 50 per cent cost saving on electricity bills.
“By the time we get a call for a solar clean, most homeowners have seen up to a 25 per cent reduction in their savings or increase in their electricity bill,” Ms Fiers said.
“Regular maintenance can ensure your savings stay where they belong - in your account.”
She said the build-up of dirt, dust and debris affected the efficiency of the solar panel and reduced their lifespan.
“And the longer you leave it, the more damage can be done to your panels’ cells and can erode their protective coating,” she said.
“A common misconception is that “rain washes the solar panels clean”, but does rainfall wash your car clean when it’s open to the elements and the bird droppings or debris? No.
“Neglecting them and allowing bird droppings, lichen, mould, dirt and debris to remain on the panels and be caked in by the sun only drops their value in terms of savings and lifespan.”
FAMILY-owned Caloundra marine fabrication company First Light Fabrication will be inducted into the Sunshine Coast Business Awards Hall of Fame next year after winning the Small Manufacturer category for three consecutive years.
First Light business manager Nicole Roberts founded the company with her husband Angus during COVID lockdown while she was heavily pregnant.
“Angus was working FIFO, I was pregnant with our second child, and he had a side hustle making bait boards for boats,” Ms Roberts said.
“When lockdown came, he realised he had enough work for three months without having to go back to FIFO and then four months later we got a lease on a shed, and now we have eight staff.”
Angus, a plumber by trade, finished school early with undiagnosed dyslexia and is a self-taught fitter and turner, CAD designer and 3D printing specialist.
“He is completely self-made and the definition of an innovator,” Ms Roberts said.
“At work, we have a sign up on his door calling him the risk taker, idiot and genius and he really is all three.
“We worked well together because he is the risk taker and my background in HR meant I came in as Miss Conservative with a business plan and plotted out our stability.”
The couple run the business around caring for their two children, Toby, aged six, and Molly, aged four.
“Really all of this came about because the borders shut and I was too scared for him to leave for FIFO work and leave me home pregnant and alone,” Ms Roberts said.
“When we got our first award in 2022, we thought, okay this is cool, but we had the biggest imposter syndrome ever at the
awards night.
“We felt like we should even be there.
“By the time we won in 2023, we couldn’t believe it and the hat trick was truly a pinch yourself moment this year.”
But the stressors of running a small business weigh heavily, with Ms Roberts admitting her husband’s mental load was “huge”.
“It can still be 12-hour days for Angus, and while he has a huge work mental load I
have the home mental load.
“I am always juggling work with the kids and trying to remember whether or not I ordered the dog’s flea stuff.” Visit firstlightfabrication.com.au.
From Page 24
“The foreshore in front of the Club has been badly eroded on the high tides most months because of the direct wash from the break,” Mr Anderson said.
“The sand is being washed 200m south onto the local boat ramp which then has to be removed from the boat ramp regularly by Council – you are talking around 300 cubic metres of sand.
“Also, the majority of mangroves to our north between the Club and the TS Onslow Naval Cadets have been slowly dying off over the past couple of years.”
Bureaucratic buck-passing and inaction have led desperate businesses and locals to sandbag their premises and anxiously fear the next ocean surge.
“The breakthrough is not a recent event anymore, it was three years ago this coming January,” Mr Anderson said.
“One department needs to be responsible and make a decision on the solution – there are so many different departments or groups that are aware of the situation.”
“The local community is wanting their Community Club to be safe from the danger of further, and possibly greater, erosion from a large storm swell and local boating community would like their local boat ramp free of large deposits of sand.”
A long-time resident who runs the Diamond Head Neighbours Community Group said the residential enclave was one rain event or ocean surge away from being inundated.
“When Bribie was there it protected us, but since the breakthrough we are exposed,” she said.
“Council only has responsibility for the foreshore and the State Government has responsibility for the passage and now is the time for truth telling and action, in my opinion, it’s about 10 years too late.”
Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton said that while the LNP was out of office, they raised the issue in parliament, but the Labor government chose to “leave it up to nature.”
“There were questions asked on notice in parliament and a report as far back as 2014 that modelled the breakthrough, but it was not expected to occur so soon,” Ms Morton said.
“When it did, the former government’s position was to do nothing – to let it take its course.”
But she said the LNP had made the $37 million Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority “one of its top priorities for Caloundra.”
“I know people will say, oh that’s just another authority group, but this has been
modelled on the Gold Coast Waterways Authority and will provide a one-stop-shop to enable local input to waterway management,” she said.
“I am personally aware of the erosion problem, I see it as critical, and it will be a key project for me and for Caloundra.
“I held a community forum on the Pumicestone Passage in May and those with local expert knowledge who have been impacted by erosion issues along the foreshore came together to discuss next steps.
“We not only have the foreshore to protect but the environment and marine consequences also.”
Ms Morton welcomed concerned residents to email her at caloundra@lnp.org.au and ask to be added to the waterways authority mailing list for regular updates.
“I am in setup mode and when we get our new office up and running in the next month, we will contact everyone with updates.
“The only solution is to create a waterways authority that unites all stakeholders, including the local community, to manage it effectively.”
Caloundra Residents Association president Craig Humphrey said effective management strategies were “crucial to prevent such avoidable damage and sustain the coast’s resilience”.
He urged community members to provide feedback on the draft Healthy Coast Management Plan and Shoreline Erosion Management Plan 2025-2035, as well as the Coastal Hazard Adaptation Precinct Planning (CHAPP) investigation.
The consultation period for both initiatives, run by Council, closes at 5pm on Monday 25 November.
Council said the plans address pressing coastal hazards such as “coastal erosion, storm tide inundation, expanding tidal areas due to sea level rise, and flooding, which threaten both the environment and local infrastructure”.
To share your input, visit the feedback surveys at the following web addresses:
• Healthy Coast Management Plan & Shoreline Erosion Management Plan Survey: https://haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/hcmp-semp/hcmpand-semp-feedback-survey
• Coastal Hazard Adaptation Precinct Planning Submission Form: https:// haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld. gov.au/chapps/coastal-hazard-adaptation-precinct-planning-golden-beach-and-caloundra-bulcock-beach Alternatively, email your feedback to ourresilientcoast@sunshinecoast.qld.gov. au.
A STRETCH of reconstructed Golden Beach seawall and footpath between Jellicoe and Nelson Street is almost complete, just in time for summer.
Sunshine Coast Council Division Two Councillor Terry Landsberg said the updated stretch was improved with “adaptation to future climate hazards in mind”.
The local community has been eagerly awaiting its reopening.
“This project included reconstructing and raising approximately 80 metres of seawall using grouted rock and installing special
concrete tiles which aim to create a ‘living seawall’ to provide habitat for marine creatures,” Cr Landsberg said.
“We have reconstructed and upgraded the coastal footpath and installed
• a matching hardwood-and-stainlesssteel handrail,
• a new stairway to access the foreshore,
• reinstated the barbecue shelter and benches and
• a wheelchair-accessible binoculars station for locals and visitors to continue to enjoy the views out to Bribie Island
and the shorebirds.
“We anticipate the foreshore works and seawall will be completed by early December.”
The project was part of a trial with the University of the Sunshine Coast and the Queensland Government-funded QCoast Program to install and monitor a ‘living seawall’ with specially designed tiles.
A $300,000 grant was provided to Council from the QCoast Program towards building the new raised seawall and including the living seawall elements.
SEVERE foreshore erosion along Golden Beach has reached critical levels, with businesses and residents fearing the impact of each high tide as the fallout from the Bribie Island breakthrough continues.
Frustrated locals have been waiting nearly three years for action, as bureaucratic delays leave them scrambling for a solution.
Caloundra Power Boat Club operations manager Shane Anderson has witnessed the shoreline near the popular club erode dramatically over the past year.
