HAPPY Valley’s newly minted stretch of post-Bribie breakthrough beach may look like a perfect spot for fun, but it’s unpatrolled by Surf Life Saving Queensland - and for good reason.
Last summer, locals and holidaymakers were met with the strong presence of red flags and “danger” no swimming signs, and this summer is shaping up to look the same.
Surf Life Saving Queensland Regional Operations Manager Aaron Purchase said the Happy Valley stretch between Kings and Bulcock Beach was not a designated bathing reserve and was unlikely to have red and yellow flags anytime soon.
“Since the river bar has pretty well closed up and moved, there is so much sand and it’s enticing for visitors,” Mr Purchase said.
“It is not that we don’t want to put flags up there; it’s that we don’t have the authority to do so, but there is a reason for that. To Page 3
A LIGHT plane with a trainee pilot and instructor on board made an emergency landing on the beach at Happy Valley on Friday, 4 October.
The aircraft, a Sling Two, operated by GoFly Aviation, experienced engine failure shortly after takeoff around 9 a.m.
Both occupants were uninjured, and no damage to the plan was reported.
The plane was removed from the beach later that day.
Photos - Thomas Haberkorn
BARINGA
FRIENDLY TEAM IS HERE TO HELP
Chigwidden has been carving it up with Aura locals at local skateboarding haunts.
Rollin’ with Chiggy
PROFESSIONAL skateboard coach and the face behind Chiggy’s Skateboarding, Mat “Chiggy” Chigwidden, has wowed the crowds in Aura over the past few weeks with drop-in sessions at the Farmers Market and coaching programs at Baringa Skate Park.
Chiggy’s portable mini ramp was a natural drawcard for young aspiring skateboarders who came out in droves to take part in the sessions with rave reviews.
And the good news is, Chiggy is sticking around in the 4551 postcode.
“We have regular lessons every week as well as workshops at Baringa,” Chiggy said.
Dates of the Baringa workshops are:
December 2024
• Saturday 14th 9am-3pm (12 and under)
• Monday 16th 9am-3pm (12 and under)
• Friday 20th 3pm-8pm (12 and over)
January 2025
• Saturday 12th 9am-3pm (12 and under)
• Thursday 16th 9am-3pm (12 and under)
• Friday 17th 3pm-8pm (12 and over)
• Friday 24th 3pm-8pm (12 and over)
Chiggy said skateboarding offered kids the opportunity to learn balance and coordination, social skills, confidence and the ability to overcome fear.
“They don’t need any skills, we can provide them with all the necessary skills in just one day within our workshops or a few of our lessons,” he said.
Chiggy himself got started as a skateboarder at the age of eight.
“A friend of mine from school offered me a board to sit down on and bomb a hill – I was hooked instantly,” he said.
“I had an opportunity to teach when I was 21 and I was also hooked instantly.
“I knew right there and then that this is what I was supposed to do, as it brought me so much joy and still does today.
“The smile on peoples’ faces when they learn and overcome challenges you have assisted them with is the ultimate fulfilling experience.”
Chiggy said the Baringa Skate Park had the bones of a top-notch skateboarding locale.
“It is an ideal place for skateboarders, however it would be nice to be able to add some transition to the park to make it more diverse and create more flow,” he said.
Chiggy and his coaches work with emerging skateboarders from beginner to advanced skill levels.
For more information on Chiggy’s regular sessions head to www.chiggysskateboarding.com.au.
No flags No swim
From Page 1
“There is a very lengthy consultation process with Council and the State Government to determine what is suitable will become a designated bathing reserve.
“Due to uncertainty with what the bar is going to do and the current conditions, that’s the circumstances for Happy Valley.”
While the 2022 tidal breakthrough created a top-notch walking beach, a safe swimming lagoon it is not.
Last year lifesavers from Ithaca Caloundra City Lifesaving on Bulcock Beach were run ragged attending call outs from beachgoers who had ignored the no swimming signs and cut their feet on concealed rocks, oyster shells or met with lurking stonefish.
Mr Purchase said while the stretch looked attractive to paddle in, beachgoers should never enter water not patrolled by red and yellow flags.
“We do have a lifeguard surveillance service there but that is not the same as a patrolled beach – this is an unpatrolled beach,” he said.
“We never encourage people to swim where we don’t have flags,”
Mr Purchase said Happy Valley conditions had been “pretty consistent” for 18 of the 20 years he had worked in the area but had changed “a hell of a lot” in the last two years.
“Happy Valley is relatively exposed so it’s not a good swimming spot anyway,” he said.
“Kings Beach is better protected and is a better option for families, plus we have flags there and it is patrolled,” he said.
Mr Purchase said the Sunshine Coast Council had a “proactive and positive relationship” with Surf Life Saving Queensland and made decisions in consultation with experts about safe spots for swimming.
“We try and adjust our services to ensure the community can utilise as many beaches as possible and we have the backing of the Council in every way – they make decisions with us as to what is in the best interests of beachgoers,” he said.
“The tidal changes in Happy Valley will likely change significantly again over the next two years and we will watch and wait in terms of what that means for conditions.”
Last season, 12 of the 13 drownings in Queensland took place outside patrolled areas or patrol hours.
3.00ct
Mat “Chiggy”
Vigilante spirit: rally against recklessness
LOCAL motorists are taking a stand against reckless driving following a tragic accident in Nirimba that resulted in the death of 17-year-old Broc Dawson.
Frustrated by the dangers on the road, community members are taking to social media with their dash cam footage in a bid to prevent further tragedies.
Local resident Dan moved from Sydney to make a home for his family in Caloundra South but is considering leaving the area due to mounting aggression on the roads and “infrastructure that cannot cope with growth”.
His dashcam footage has captured numerous near misses across Aura in the last fortnight alone, including a grey utility blatantly speeding through a red-light during peak hour.
Dan said some motorists “did whatever they wanted” on the roads and he often saw utilities travelling down back streets at breakneck speed.
“They just don’t care,” he said.
“It’s an absolute mess at traffic lights with lights that go red for no reason – just not following the true flow of traffic.”
Local resident Juanita Bennett said the government could install red light cameras across the area in a “win/win” approach to solving the issue.
“Red light cameras for sure would help,” she said.
“And it would boost revenue so it’s kind of a win/win!”
Sunshine Coast District Officer Superintendent Craig Hawkins said the opening of the Caloundra South Police Station on Nov-
el Road would ensure police presence grew at the same rate as the community.
“We know the Sunshine Coast is only going to get busier, so we’ve ensured the new police station has the physical capacity to grow and accommodate additional resources over time to meet the community’s needs now and into the future,” Superintendent Hawkins said.
“Ensuring you feel safe in your own community is a priority for me, so this new station, built in the heart of the Caloundra South community, contributes to that.”
The Caloundra South station does house road policing officers and general duty first-response officers among other specialties.
Report reckless driving to police at 13HOON (134 666).
Green light red alert: scare for local mum
Signal timings will be adjusted in a bid to improve traffic light functionality.
TRAFFIC signal phasing will be adjusted for vehicles travelling to and from Aura Boulevard to Banya Avenue from 8 October.
Stockland is working with the Sunshine Coast Council to enhance traffic signal phasing in the community.
This initiative is expected to be completed within the same week and will adjust signal timings to allow for increased green light duration.
Other intersections are under review with the council, and further enhancements will follow once approved.
Banya resident Sarina Louise called for red light cameras at every intersection to put an end to reckless driving behaviour throughout Aura.
She narrowly escaped being struck by a speeding ute running a red light at the Banya Avenue and Western Drive intersection on Wednesday, 2 October, while walking with her baby in a pram.
Sarina said she had a green walking signal when the ute flew through the intersection.
“Thankfully I didn’t step out, I always look, but kids might not look,” Sarina said.
“Police don’t want to know, they just say - Oh, unless you’ve been hit we can’t do anything.”
“I think they should add some red-light cameras at every set of lights – it might stop people running them.”
A local motorist catches a red light runner red handed on dashcam during busy peak hour.
The Caloundra South Crawl:
A daily commute ‘straight from hell’
FRUSTRATED Aura residents are navigating daily gridlocked traffic jams on their way to work and school, facing peak hour chaos on Bells Creek Arterial and Bellvista Boulevard.
Nirrimba mother Toni said it often took her more than 45mins to commute to her son’s daycare in Currimundi.
“Some days I am not even on Caloundra Road by that point – it has literally taken me one hour to get to Currimundi before,” she said.
“But there were no daycare places for my son inside Aura so what choice do I have?
“It adds so much unnecessary stress to our day every morning because they didn’t plan for us to actually live here and need to leave here to get to work.”
said he managed to get out of the area for a 7:15am appointment in Maroochydore, but coming back home was a different story.
a complete shit fight for those heading up Bellvista Blvd towards Caloundra Rd – that intersection needs traffic lights,” Mr John son said.
9:00 AM - 1:00PM
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ing growing transport needs on the southern Sunshine Coast with several key projects”.
Departmental figures revealed state-controlled Caloundra Road carried an annual average of about 34,000 vehicles per day around the Bellvista Boulevard and Caloundra Road section.
“A business case is being finalised to replace the Caloundra Road, Bells Creek Arterial, and Kawana Way Link roundabout with a signalised intersection, reducing congestion and improving safety,” the spokesperson said.
“Planning is also underway for the Kawana Motorway, connecting Parrearra to Meridan Plains.”
“Other projects include a new road from Aura to Pelican Waters, an Aura to Bruce
Late-night health boost
THE Caloundra Minor Injuries and Illness Clinic, affectionately referred to as ‘the MIIC’, will now be open from 8am until 10pm, with government funding secured for extra staff.
The extension is in response to growing demand – particularly from working families seeking care after 5pm.
Sunshine Coast Health Chief Executive Dr Peter Gilles said the enhanced hours would reduce wait times.
“But also contributes to our broader goal of improving health outcomes and community wellbeing,” Dr Gilles said.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Service, and Minister for Women, the Honourable Shannon Fentiman said local families would have access to the service “when they need it most.”
“Many working families rely on our services beyond regular hours, and this funding will ensure they have access to the care they need,” Ms Fentiman said.
Currently, the MIIC provides essential care to an average of 70 to 80 patients per day with a nearly 12 per cent rise in daily visits over the past year.
Many of these patients are successfully
treated and managed within the MIIC, reducing the need for further transfers.
An additional clinician will be rostered on for each evening shift, to significantly improve patient flow and minimise wait times.
According to the Sunshine Coast Health Service, the team at the clinic treat patients with conditions such as fever, coughs, colds, earache, toothache, minor eye issues, broken bones, minor cuts, burns, scalds, infections, rashes, strains and sprains.
Your local healthcare options:
1. See your GP
Visit www.healthdirect.gov.au to find one
near you.
2. Find an afterhours medical service
Find a provider through www.healthdirect.gov.au or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for free professional health advice, 24-hours a day.
3. Visit a Minor Injury and Illness Clinic
If your GP is not available, you can visit the Minor Injury and Illness Clinic at Caloundra without an appointment from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week.
In an emergency call Triple Zero (000), or present at your closest emergency department.
Caloundra’s GP access crisis
DESPERATE parents are relying on already-swamped emergency departments as many GP surgeries across greater Caloundra refuse new patients.
Caloundra West mother-of-three Sage moved to the area in late 2023 and has yet to secure a general practitioner who will see her entire family.
“It took me three weeks to even get in for my first appointment with my eldest child,” she said.
“Too bad if we actually needed to see someone for something acute – we would be forced to go to the hospital for something relatively minor like a throat infection.
“I recently paid $87 for a Telehealth consultation to receive the results of a urine test at a Caloundra doctors’ surgery for a child under the age of 16 – they were on the phone with me for all of two minutes, if that.”
Caloundra Greens Candidate and physician Dr Peta Higgs said local parents struggled to find a doctor or put off seeing one
due to mounting costs.
“People are putting off going to the doctor because they can’t find one that bulk bills, or can’t afford to go to the dentist or specialist at all,” Dr Higgs said.
“Because of the cost-of-living crisis, my patients are struggling to afford even basic medicines and allied health services that I know they need.
“They struggle to find a GP who can see them at all.”
The “Health of the Nation 2023” report from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) highlighted significant issues within the healthcare system, particularly regarding GP burnout.
According to the report, 71 per cent of GPs reported feeling burnt out, which can hinder their ability and willingness to accept new patients.
This situation can lead to reduced hours, further complicating access to healthcare for patients.
L-R Dr Sam Borzi, Tanya Grant, Amy Carey, and Bernadette Bradshaw from the Caloundra Minor Injury and Illness Clinic.
Gagalba: All systems a go
AURA’s newest suburb, Gagalba, has received the green light for the construction of over 900 homes, as part of a $270 million expansion plan that continues to grow the Aura community.
Economic Development Queensland has approved the new residential precinct after an amended development application was lodged in April this year.
The approved stage of Gagalba, known as the Pumicestone Precinct, will deliver up to 918 new homes, with an expectancy to encompass 6000 homes between lakes, wetlands and green spaces upon the completion of the suburb.
But locals are concerned the already-strained infrastructure won’t cope with the expansion.
Local resident Kristy Searle said the release was a “joke”.
“The infrastructure is beyond inadequate as it is,” she said.
Other residents questioned where the shopping mall and “Southbank-style” lagoon was.
“We need a big shopping centre that was promised,” resident Gillian Armstrong said.
“Double lanes to prevent more gridlock?”
But local businesses welcomed the expansion.
The future site for 900 new homes to be built in Gagalba.
“As a business owner in this area, this is great news,” Jared Abrahamse said.
Gagalba, a Kabi Kabi-derived word meaning “shiny place”, is situated south of Banya and adjacent to the Bruce Highway.
Detached homes for first-home buyers, downsizers and growing families with other housing such as duplexes, triplexes and multi-residential complexes will be on offer.
The 74ha Pumicestone Precinct will include a neighbourhood centre offering a retail and commercial area, childcare centre, sports park and state primary school alongside a civic park for gatherings and events.
Upon completion, the precinct will offer two choices of state primary schools and one state high school for future residents.
Economic Development Queensland business operations executive director Jason Camden said the project was a significant step forward in addressing Queensland’s housing crisis.
“This project will not only provide over 900 new homes but will also contribute to the creation of a vibrant, connected community that will enhance the lifestyle of future residents,” Mr Camden said.
“It’s an exciting time for the region, and we look forward to the positive impact this development will have.”
Stockland Aura project director Josh Sondergeld said early construction works would begin soon.
“We’re pleased to have the first development application approved for Gagalba, which will be a vibrant residential precinct located within the Aura masterplanned community,” Mr Sondergeld said.
“We continue to see high demand for homes in the community, driven by the range of housing options available - the active lifestyle, and the convenient access to schools, jobs, shops and parks.
“Our masterplanned communities play an important role in providing accessible home ownership options across Australia.”
To find out more visit www.edq.qld.gov. au.
Sunstate Jeweller’s 52 years
CALOUNDRA’s first jewellery store turns 52 this month – a family-owned treasure with a legacy as brilliant as the gems they create.
It all began on October 10, 1972, when trailblazers Bob Clark and Lester Smiley took a punt on a small jewellery workshop in the Sunstate Building Society block in Bulcock Street, Caloundra.
1972 was an all-round eventful year for Caloundra, with cyclones—Daisy, Wendy, and Emily all causing widespread flooding and damage and Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen officially opening the airstrip.
And these jewellery visionaries were in it for the long run - their business soon grew from strength to strength – their easy-going nature leading to them adopting the name “Sunstate Jewellers” after locals directed visitors to go “upstairs at Sunstate” to find them.
By the early 80s, Sunstate’s growing success led to the purchase of a besser block building at Allen Street Moffat Beach, where they still reside.
Originally purchased for $12,000 – it was accessible via dirt road.
Today, only the tea tree out the front remains of the original structure.
Lester’s daughter Rita Williams is now at the helm of a business which has weathered more than half a century of change and challenges, firmly woven into the fabric of Caloundra’s community.
“I came in 35 years ago as the entry-level general dog’s body and have certainly seen the business go through a lot of interesting times,” Ms Williams said.
“When I think about the changes to this area alone in recent years, honestly it has floored me.
“Moffat Beach has gone from an out-oftown type of place to the type of place where there is a Maserati in the car park.
“But the one thing we have retained, I believe, is that small town vibe, and I think our customers tap into that – we are old school coastal small-town people.”
But for all her modesty, Ms Williams did concede her “flexibility” as a business brain had helped to keep Sunstate in business across the peaks and troughs of market shifts.
“We’ve been incredibly nimble and have always adopted a type of future-proofed style thinking,” she said.
“We were very early adopters of Computer-Aided Design (CAD), probably by around a decade.
“Our signature is restyling existing jewellery.
“We can help you keep that asset that was Grandma’s and do sort of a magic trick with it to bring it into a modern setting.”
They’ve also been loyal to their staff, and the staff have reciprocated in kind.
Jeweller Ian “Doogs” McDougall began his apprenticeship with Lester Smiley 40 years ago, and is still crafting jewellery for Sunstate. “Doogs has been like our homing pigeon,” Ms Williams said.
“He did go off and work all through South East Queensland but he has come back to us and the man is just so phenomenally gifted, yet so humble.
“If you walked past him on the street or saw him on his motorbike you’d never pick him as the absolute master of his craft – he is the most outstanding jeweller.”
And for all her Dad taught her about jewellery and business, Ms Williams is ensuring his entrepreneurial solidarity with the local
“We hail from an era when everyone knew each other, and my Dad was always eager
support budding businesses,” she
“It’s about lifting those up who come next and supporting collaboration within the local community.”
“It’s about having each others backs.”
CEO Rita Williams and jeweller of 40 years, Ian “Doogs” McDougall. business community lives on.
to
said.
Jason Hunt - Labor
Traffic & Infrastructure: “How will you reduce traffic congestion and improve roads in Caloundra?”
Since I was elected as your local member in 2020, I’ve been working hard to deliver the infrastructure that Caloundra needs to keep up with our growing population.
We’ve delivered the Mighty Bells Creek Arterial Road connecting Aura to the Bruce, Traffic lights at dangerous intersections at Peachester and Ridgewood Road, upgrades to the Steve Irwin Way, and locked in funding for Stage one of the Sunshine Coast Direct Rail line which will take hundreds of cars off the Bruce and Caloundra Road.
Moving forward our Government is undertaking business cases to fix the Caloundra Road/Kawana Link Way roundabout at Aura and the Caloundra Road/Nicklin way roundabout as well.
Affordable Housing: “What’s your plan to increase affordable housing for locals?”
I know firsthand that this community is facing housing pressure.
Here in my office, my staff and I help people every week facing housing insecurity by connecting them with the government services they need like rentconnect and social housing.
We’ve introduced new rental reforms to protect renters and invested in our rentconnect programs which help folks with rental security subsidies, bond loans, and more.
I’ve personally opened more than four different new Social Housing builds in the area in Caloundra, and we’re currently
building two new social housing builds right here in Aura.
In fact, over 81 social and affordable projects are currently under construction across the Sunshine Coast.
We’re also making it easier for first home buyers to get their first home, raising the stamp duty exemption from $500k – $700k and doubling the homeowners grant from $15K – $30K.
Environment: “How will you balance development with protecting Caloundra’s environment?”
It’s important that we recognise that pressure for housing has to be balanced against the lifestyle that we all want to enjoy here
Peta Higgs - Greens
Traffic & Infrastructure: “How will you reduce traffic congestion and improve roads in Caloundra?”
The best way to stop traffic is to get people out of cars and into public and active transport.
The Greens have a plan to massively expand frequent bus routes on the Coast, deliver the Sunshine Coast Rapid Transit project, and upgrade our heavy rail with an extension to Maroochydore, duplication from Beerburrum to Nambour, and a second Brisbane to Sunshine Coast rail bypass corridor to allow for faster connections.
Everyone should get the benefit of 50c fares, not just people in Brisbane.
Affordable Housing: “What’s your plan to increase affordable housing for locals?”
Rents are skyrocketing, mortgages are out of control and the social housing list is ballooning – but the major parties don’t have a plan to tackle the housing crisis.
Rent on the Sunny Coast is up $200 a week, a 44 per cent increase since 2020.
It’s no surprise that one in five renters on the Coast are in rental stress.
The Greens will cap rent increases to let wages catch up and build 100,000 affordable and energy efficient homes through our public housing developer plan.
Environment: “How will you balance
development with protecting Caloundra’s environment?”
Our plan to deliver 100,000 publicly built homes will deliver gently dense infill around shops, services, schools and parks –not bulldoze native forest and koala habitat like Labor and the LNP want to.
Meanwhile, the major parties are in lock step on fossil fuels, approving dozens of new coal mines and thousands of new gas wells – with many more in the pipeline –making a mockery of our commitments to fight climate change.
The Greens will phase out thermal coal, stop new coal and gas mines, deliver 100 per cent publicly owned 100 per cent renewable energy and help households with the transition.
Healthcare: “What will you do to improve healthcare access and reduce wait times here?”
As a doctor who has worked in public health for over 30 years, I know my patients are struggling.
My priority is making healthcare truly free which is why the Greens have a plan to build 200 publicly funded GP clinics including allied and mental health services to make sure everyone can see a bulk-billing GP.
And that’s why we’ll fully fund public hospitals, delivering 2,000 more hospital
on the Sunshine Coast in the first place. I have already saved one forest – Ferny forest in Landsborough from logging, and I am very pleased that the first trial of Renewable Energy Zones, which will make us less reliant on fossil fuels and put less pressure to bear on existing native forests, will take place in only two locations in QLD –Townsville and right here in Caloundra.
Healthcare: “What will you do to improve healthcare access and reduce wait times here?”
Just last week I was delighted to announce more than $88m in funding for our Caloundra Minor Illness and Injury Clinic (or the MIIC as most people call it) to boost
services and most importantly, extend the operating hours to 8am – 10am.
We’re also hiring more nurses, nurse practitioners and doctors to provide the highest quality care whilst improving patient wait times at both our Caloundra MIIC and Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
I was also very excited to announce that a re-elected Miles Labor Government has announced we will build a new Satellite Hospital on the Sunshine Coast to add to our health services and take pressure off our existing health services.
Most importantly we need to protect the jobs of our health workers – we never want to see thousands of nurses and midwives sacked again as they were under the LNP.
Youth & Jobs: “How will you create more opportunities for young people?”
QLD Labor’s free TAFE strategy has been a massive success – this week we’ve hit over 100,000 young QLD’ers who have taken advantage of our free TAFE and with the top courses here on the Coast being Nursing and Early Childhood Education.
We’re skilling our young people for the jobs of the future, ready for our renewable energy future, our Big Build, and our Homes for Queenslanders plan.
We should never forget that the LNP closed TAFE campuses here on the Coast and sacked almost 400 TAFE workers.
And before our kids get to TAFE, they need a quality education.
Labor has opened 3 new schools in Caloundra in the past 4 years, compared to the LNP who last opened one here in 1983.
beds and ending ambulance ramping. Youth & Jobs: “How will you create more opportunities for young people?”
The chronic underfunding of our public schools has forced more and more out-ofpocket costs onto families.
This means less money for excursions, extracurricular activities or team sports. The Greens will fully fund public schools, abolish all out-of-pocket costs including for excursions and give every kid a free season of community sport every year.
2024 State Election
Meet Your Candidates
QUEENSLANDERS will vote in the State Election on October 26, with the hotly contested Caloundra electorate covering 227sqkm from Currimundi to Glenview.
There are three declared candidates for 2024 – Jason Hunt of the Australian Labor Party (who currently holds the seat), Kendall Morton of the Liberal National Party and Peta Higgs of The Greens.
The Aura Post asked each candidate to answer key questions about traffic, infrastructure, housing, the environment and youth.
We encourage you to check them out.
Early voting is available at the Baringa Community Centre at 20 Edwards Terrace, Baringa, from 8am-6pm Monday to Friday.
Other polling booth locations across the 4551 postcode include:
• Caloundra CCSA Hall, 1 Nutley Street, CALOUNDRA
• Unity College, 47 Lomond Crescent, CALOUNDRA WEST
• Our Lady of The Rosary Primary School, Alfred Street, SHELLY BEACH.
IT’S disheartening to witness a rise in dangerous driving behaviours in a community still grappling with the tragic loss of a local high school student in a senseless and preventable road accident caused by a reckless motorcyclist.
Yet every day there is dashcam footage shared by residents across greater Caloundra revealing shocking near-misses and hazardous manoeuvres that could easily lead to further tragedy.
Recent incidents in our area have brought this alarming trend into sharp focus and as our population grows, so does the frustration of local drivers who are witnessing this chaos firsthand.
It’s time for us to come together and demand better.
We need stricter enforcement of road rules and more visible police presence to deter these reckless antics.
To fund that, we need politicians with a zero-tolerance approach to reckless driving and a “money where your mouth is” support for hardline initiatives that will take our roads back from dangerous drivers once and for all.
As we approach the upcoming state election, we must seek out candidates who refuse to let this carnage on our roads continue.
We deserve leaders committed to enforcing traffic laws and ensuring our streets are safe for everyone.
Kendall Morton - LNP
Traffic & Infrastructure: “How will you reduce traffic congestion and improve roads in Caloundra?”
While Labor have cut funding from important road upgrades, an LNP Government will deliver our $400 million congestion-busting plan to finally fix the bottlenecks and pinch points along Caloundra Road.
This includes Kawana Link Way overpass, upgrades to Bellvista Boulevard roundabout, and a road from Aura Boulevard straight through to Pelican Waters Boulevard.
In addition, we have committed to delivering Sunshine Coast Heavy Rail all the way to Maroochydore to ensure Caloundra doesn’t become a carpark.
Affordable Housing: “What’s your plan to increase affordable housing for locals?”
The LNP will kickstart new housing construction through a $2 billion housing infrastructure investment fund.
We will boost home ownership by abolishing stamp duty tax for new homes for every first home buyer.
We will provide more rental options for Queenslanders by getting more homes built faster and we will save renters up to $700 a year by funding grants for solar panels on rental homes.
Environment: “How will you balance development with protecting Caloundra’s environment?”
Like so many people in our community, I love our beaches, our magnificent natural
environment and the incredible Pumicestone Passage. It’s important to ensure we get the balance right between ensuring we have the housing and infrastructure we need, while also protecting the environment that makes our part of the world so special.
One of the ways the LNP will ensure local residents have greater say in how our waterways are managed is through establishing a new Sunshine Coast Waterways Authority. This will be a legislated one-stop-shop to end the bureaucratic buck-passing and ensure local knowledge is fed into waterway
management decisions for the Sunshine Coast.
Healthcare: “What will you do to improve healthcare access and reduce wait times here?”
We will restore health services when you need them, by investing more to clear waiting lists and listening to doctors, nurses and paramedics who are on the frontline.
We will hire more doctors, more nurses and more paramedics to provide our growing region with the services they need, and we will provide real-time health data to give Queenslanders the transparency they deserve.
We will also remove Labor’s Patients’ Tax to save you paying more when you visit the doctor.
Youth & Jobs: “How will you create more opportunities for young people?”
The LNP will build a TAFE Centre of Excellence in Aura, south of Caloundra, to train the construction and trades workers needed in this fast-growing region.
Under Labor, South East Queensland has a need for 90,000 additional tradies, with demand growing due to Labor’s Housing Crisis.
The LNP’s TAFE Centre of Excellence will secure a pipeline of skilled workers for the Sunshine Coast, ensuring the region has the workers needed to deliver the new homes needed for our growing population. This is just one example of the pathways and investments the LNP will make to ensure we have happier and healthier students in Caloundra.
regional producers,” Mr Sondergeld said.
“Our vision at Stockland is to be the leading creator and curator of connected communities, and this is underpinned by our purpose – a better way to live.”
To find out more about whats on at our three local markets across Caloundra visit www.caloundramarkets.com.au.
Aura - our city of colour
chill-out zone, Enchanted Garden and fairy garden will be open for the young and old to explore.
Perhaps the most anticipated part of the Brook is the Enchanted Garden which features a twilight plaza that will come alive with glowing pathways at dusk, sculptural elements, an open kick-about space and an elevated viewpoint of the Brook.
The connecting and playfully designed pedestrian bridge features curves to replicate the movement of water and provides direct walking access between Nirimba and the Enchanted Garden Park to Banya.
A central boardwalk will connect walkers to nature and kilometres of future walking trails, providing direct walking access between Banya and the Nirimba State Primary School.
Head down to join the festivities at 4pm 12 October with access via Park Avenue, Archibald Cr or Cape Barren Cct. The Aura Brook will officially open with a
Baringa Bike’s Ride Guide for Pelican Waters
TWO-wheel guru and director of Baringa Bikes, Scott Durston will this week take cyclists further afield for the “Birdlife and Boardwalks” ride route.
“This week’s route takes in the Lamerough Creek West Environment Reserve at Pelican Waters,” Scott said.
“This is a smooth wide gravel path, which is also popular with walkers, and is well signed.
“It runs beside Lamerough creek and associated wetlands.
“The starting point is at the dead-end street off the roundabout at Caloundra City Private School.
“The suggested route is just a short 3.4km, but some may prefer to follow the gravel path back to the start point rather than the side street.
“It is possible to extend the ride to the water’s edge along Pumicestone Passage for those that are keen.”
Baringa Bikes Ride Guide - October
Difficulty Level: Beginner to moderate (suitable for children) Distance: 3.4km
Starting Point: Caloundra City Private School – 200 Pelican Waters Boulevard
Ending Point: Back where you started – looped.
Trying it out?
Send your pics to editorial@theaurapost.com.au
AFM TOY SWAP
This is the perfect opportunity to refresh the family toy box or bookshelf in a way that is kind to your budget and the environment.
Bring the toys and / or books you ’ re finished or bored with to Aura Farmers Market on Saturday Mornings to swap for something else or just donate for someone else to enjoy. Nothing to donate? That’s ok you ’ re welcome to help yourself to a book or toy to brighten your day during these tough times. When you ’ re done swap it for something else. Let’s build a community libraray for all to enjoy!!
When: Saturdays 8am-11am
Where: Aura Farmers Market Cnr Whiteley & Central Ave, Nirimba
Sisters, Arielle (L) and Anais (R) ready to set off and test the Baringa Bike’s Ride Guide.
Dishing up connections
A NIRIMBA Mum of two has devised a clever method to cut down on cooking time for her growing family.
Kaytlyn Scott, who is expecting her third child in early 2025, has set up the Nirimba Meal Exchange, with the group’s first event planned at Fig Tree Park on Friday 11 October at 5:30pm.
“I grew up on defence bases and everyone knew everyone, and most families had one parent who was always away,” Ms Scott said.
“I moved here from Hervey Bay last year and have found it hard to meet people, so this is a way to meet other Mums.
“But it’s also come about because so many of us are sick of cooking every night and I thought, if we all make a big serve of something we can take servings and swap them out.”
Ms Scott suggested interested members stick to tried and true favourites such as spaghetti bolognaise or curry.
“At the event I have suggested that people bring their own containers and we can all swap meals so that they have something to take home and eat that night or put into their freezer,” she said.
“I am taking a lasagne as I know it’s something that is easy to share and that my own kids will eat.”
Meal sharers are encouraged to list ingredients in each dish to accommodate families with allergies or intolerances.
Kaytlyn Scott with her children McKenna and Flynn has created the
“The main thing to remember is that no one expects anything fancy or gourmet –none of us have time to be doing gourmet,” Ms Scott said.
“Hopefully this is a chance for Mums to meet up, for the kids to play and for us to share with each other so we get a little break from cooking occasionally.”
Tree Park is located along Annalise Circuit, Nirimba.
For more information email kaytlyn. scott@live.com.
NIGHT EYES WATER AND LAND CARE:
Litter-ally saving our environment
THERE is a group of unsung heroes in our midst, waging a quiet war on litter and transforming our streets and shores in their fight for a cleaner tomorrow.
There are 70 active Night Eyes Water and Land Care Group volunteers, many retirees, who dedicate their time to keeping the parks, waterways, and beaches across greater Caloundra clean for everyone.
Last week the group retrieved 22kg in waste from Happy Valley, including a lounge chair and television and a whopping 55kg from the waterways south of Bells Creek.
Night Eyes president Dennis Evans said while the work could be dirty and tiring, “somebody has got to do it”.
“One of the worst places for litter right now is along Caloundra Road,” Mr Evans said.
“We will be walking along in a crew in the morning in peak hour and picking up things people have decided just to sling out of their car window.
“It can be pretty bad along Pelican Waters Boulevard too.”
A recent clean up across Caloundra South uncovered plenty of discarded vapes, an item Mr Evans said his crew was discovering more often.
“Vapes are a huge problem because they contain a lithium-ion battery which is a fire risk and harmful chemicals in the e-liquid,” he said.
Last month six members of the group collected 300kg of rubbish from Pierce Avenue including tyres, mattresses and landfill –mere steps from the dump.
But despite the relentless chore of it, Mr Evans said the Night Eyes teams usually carried out their business in an upbeat man-
ner and enjoyed each other’s company.
“We do what we call a walk, talk and tidy and so that means we get to have a bit of a chat and exercise at the same time,” he said.
“We are funded by the Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Council as part of their Environmental Levy, so we feel they
our environment.
look after us pretty well.
“Obviously it would be nice if people disposed of their rubbish more thoughtfully.”
“But either way, we can’t leave it lying around.”
To become a Night Eyes volunteer visit www.nighteyeswaterandlandcare.com.au.
Nirimba Meal Exchange.
Fig
Tireless Night Eyes volunteers on the job across the 4551 postcode, cleaning up
Introducing Lincoln (and Teddy)
Pearly of The Post
Ever dreamt of seeing your name in the spotlight?
Here’s your chance!
Every edition we will feature a local kid in our Pearls of Wisdom Q&A – and you could be next.
Got a friend or sibling who’s got fun stories?
Nominate them to be our next “Pearly of the Post” by emailing editorial@theaurapost.com.au.
Who knows? You might just be the star of our next issue!
Name: Lincoln Age: 7
Grade: 2
Q1. If you could swap places with any cartoon character for a day, who would it be?
Spyro
Q2. Pizza or pancakes?
Pancakes
Q3. What’s the craziest invention you’d make if you were a mad scientist?
A flying Titanic
Q4. If your bedroom could magically transform into any place, where would it be?
A mansion with a pool
Q5. If you had a time machine, would you visit the dinosaurs in the past or the future with flying cars?
Future with flying cars
Q6. Broccoli or Carrots?
Carrots
Q7. Would you rather have a trampoline for a bed or a waterslide for stairs?
Waterslide stairs.
Q8. If you could be invisible for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do?
Rob a bank and buy sneakers.
Q9. What’s the weirdest thing you would put on a sandwich?
Biscoff
Q10. Burgers or hotdogs?
Burgers
Do you want to be in our next edition? You can live anywhere within the 4551 postcode to feature in our Pearly of the Post Interview. Email us at editorial@ theaurapost.com.au
Hair Braiding
CAUTION- ANSWERS BELOW COVER IF YOU’RE TEMPTED TO CHEAT! OR TAKE A PEEK, CROSSWORDS ARE HARD AFTER ALL
VENOM, 57 END UP, 58 COMMODE, 59 IDEAS, 60 TOP SECRET, 61 DISPENSES.
46 Steiner Crescent Baringa is a family-sized home a mere stones
Pedal Park perfection
DISCOVER your family’s dream home at 46 Steiner Crescent, Baringa.
This beautifully designed four-bedroom residence perfectly balances comfort and functionality, making it ideal for those who cherish both relaxation and entertaining.
Nestled in a vibrant, family-friendly comareas filled with modern amenities that cater to every lifestyle need.
weekend barbecues or family playtime.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an impressive open-plan layout that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas—perfect for family gatherings or entertaining friends.
Coronis agent Josh Butler said the location of the property was “A1”.
“We have the wider road and street parking from Steiner Crescent being the old entry to Baringa,” Mr Butler said.
“You can see one of the best parks in Bar-
rooms and a retreat for an office, second living or play space for the kids.”
For more information or to arrange inspection contact Josh on 0433 231 387.
BARINGA
46 Steiner Crescent 4bed 2bath 2car
throw from one of Aura’s most loved parks.
community events
Local Event List
Local community events keep the vibe high throughout 4551! Please double-check with the event organiser in case something has changed. Do you have an event you’d like to share? Shoot the details over to us at editorial@the aurapost.com.au and we’ll spread the word!
Broadway in the Hangar
The Rotary Club of Caloundra Pacific is hosting Cirrus Aircraft: Broadway in the Hangar for the 4th year, at the Queensland Air Museum on the 19th of October at 5pm featuring the Under ground Opera Company. The event is a fundraiser for Angel Flight and will be fully catered with a licensed bar. Cost is $125 per person, bookings are essential. To book visit: trybooking.comCPPX!
Benny Goodman Tribute Show
The Paul Hendon Quintet presenting a Benny Goodman Tribute, on Sunday the 20th of October, at the Caloundra Pow er Boat Club, hosted by the Sunshine Coast Jazz Club is hosting. The event runs from 1pm to 3.30pm with doors open at midday. For more information and bookings visit sunshinecoastjazz club.net.au or phone Richard on 0427 782 960.
What: Little Quirks, debut album tour
Where: Norton Music Factory When: 6pm, Saturday 12 October
Where: The Station When: 7pm,Friday25 October How much: General Admissionfrom$66.27
Do you know your rights as a tenant?
Caloundra Community Centre is host ing a community information session on renters’/tenancy rights and responsi bilities on the 23rd of October from 5.30 to 7.30pm. Guests will be Tenants QLD focusing on bonds, negotiating rent in creases, resolving tenancy disputes and the recent changes in tenancy legisla tion. Food and snacks will be available. RSVP is required, phone 5491 4000.
How much: General Admission from $21.95 BIG PINEAPPLE, PINEAPPLE FIELDS
What: Big Pineapple Festival
Where: The Big Pineapple When: 11am, Saturday 19 October
How much: General Admission from $150
Affordable housing hope
SEVENTY residents will soon make their home in the social housing complex being erected in Light Lane, Banya – the second social housing complex of its type currently under construction in Caloundra West.
Another social housing project is nearing completion in Aspley Lane, Nirimba.
The Light Lane project is being managed by Badge Construction and Coast2Bay affordable housing project as part of a Queensland government initiative to provide more affordable housing across the state.
Coast2Bay Housing Group CEO Andrew Elvin said Coast2Bay Housing Group was the largest community housing provider in the region and looked forward to supporting new tenants to thrive in the community.
Mr Elvin said affordable housing options on the Sunshine Coast were “desperately needed”.
“Particularly for our key workers, as the area continues to experience unprecedented growth,” Mr Elvin said.
“We applaud the Sunshine Coast Council for seeking innovative approaches to housing.
“By utilising vacant land and a modular prefabrication approach, the homes can be delivered in a shorter time frame compared to traditional construction methods.
“Ultimately, this provides more rapid outcomes for those in need of affordable homes.”
The Light Lane, Banya, social housing complex is currently under construction.
