5 Signs an Over 50s Lifestyle Resort Is for You!
1. You Want to Travel More
With the freedom to explore, why not make the most of it? Living at our lifestyle resort makes extended holidays stress-free. Your home will be secure in our gated community, your gardens maintained, and your mail collected. Want to stay closer to home? Solana 1770-Agnes Water is surrounded by Queensland’s natural beauty. From scenic road trips to weekend getaways, there’s plenty to discover right on your doorstep.
2. You’re
Over Maintaining a Large Property
Mowing lawns, cleaning pools, fixing up endless rooms—sound familiar? Downsizing to a low-maintenance home at Solana frees up your time. Instead of chores, spend your time relaxing in your private alfresco area, swimming in the pool, or catching up with new friends.
3. You Want to Stay Active
Staying active has never been easier. Solana’s Livewell Centre features a gym, swimming pools, tennis courts, a community garden, and lawn bowls, along with access to local cycling paths and walking trails that lead to nearby beaches. With shopping, healthcare, and other essentials close by, you can enjoy the perfect balance of convenience and an active lifestyle.
4. You Crave Real Friendships
Making meaningful connections can be challenging, but at Solana it feels easy! From BBQs and craft groups to walking clubs and sunset cocktails, our community makes it easy to connect. At Solana, we pride ourselves on being a place for real people, where you can be yourself and build genuine friendships.
5. You’re Thinking About Your Financial Future
Downsizing is an exciting chapter, but it often comes with financial questions. At Solana 1770-Agnes Water, we make it easy to enjoy flexibility and peace of mind. Our Lifestyle Resort follows a land lease model, where you own your home and lease the land with a simple weekly site fee. Best of all: no entry or exit fees, no council rates, and no body corporate or strata fees. For eligible homeowners, government rent assistance is also available.
Ready to learn more? Reach out to Renee, our Sales Consultant, and take the first step toward your new lifestyle at Solana 1770-Agnes Water!
Visit our Sales Office & Display
| Monday - Friday | 10:00am - 4:00 pm
| 13 Watermark Avenue, Agnes Water
I am thrilled to introduce Annie Backhaus, from BizXpress, as the newest member of the Coastal Rag team! Annie will be taking on the vital role of overseeing advertising and promotions, a cornerstone of our efforts to keep this publication thriving and relevant to our community. With her enthusiasm and expertise, I am confident Annie will be a valuable addition to the team and instrumental in continuing the mission to inform, connect, and celebrate the incredible community we share.
As always, we remain open to collaboration and cherish the relationships we’ve built with our readers and contributors. Your support and involvement have been the backbone of this paper’s success, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played a part in keeping the Coastal Rag alive and well.
Saunders
editor@thecoastalrag.com.au
I would also like to shine a spotlight on some recent local achievements! Congratulations to the Agnes Water Outdoor Volleyball team and the Agnes Water Active Riders for their dedication and success in their recent adventures and upgrades. Your hard work and passion inspire us all and remind us of the vibrant, active spirit of our community.
Sad to see the end of the Baffle Creek Car/ Bike Muster and thank you to all the organisers that made each event possible over the years. If you are interested in taking over the muster reach out to the organisers and have a chat.
Here’s to a bright future together, with Annie on board and your continued support and collaboration.
ANZAC Day: 110 Years of Honouring Sacrifice
As the 110th anniversary of ANZAC Day approaches, it is important to remember the significance of this day. We remember the soldiers who landed on the beach at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915, and the impact that this landing had for Australia and New Zealand. But it is not only this conflict or these soldiers that we remember on ANZAC Day, it is every service man, woman, and animal that has served these countries, both in wartime and peacetime—those who served overseas and those who served at home, those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those who have returned to keep their memories alive. Their spirit lives on because we remember them every year.
When we think of ANZAC Day, we imagine soldiers fighting in the trenches, but there are so many veterans who have contributed to the safety and freedoms that we enjoy today:
• Bob Macintosh and Norman Lee, RAAF fighter pilots in Korea
• Colleen Mealy, a returned Vietnam veteran nurse who served in a field hospital in Vung Tau
• Jose Garcia, who joined the Army Reserves and was a signaller with the SAS in Afghanistan
• Rachel Milsom, an RAAF Flight Commander in Iraq and Afghanistan
• Cheryl Elston, an Army Medic in Rwanda
• Mark Povey, a naval storeman who was posted to Somalia with the United Nations
• Cheryl Pearce, a Military Police Officer who served in Timor, Afghanistan, and
Cyprus
• Patricia Guest, who joined the Australian Women’s Army Service and transported returned POWs to the hospital in her ambulance
• Roy ‘Zeke’ Mundine, who was injured by a landmine in Vietnam on 25 April 1969 and was appointed the Australian Army’s first Indigenous Australian Elder in 2016.
Every ANZAC Day, we honour them. Since 2020, Lucy Lu’s display, which you see on the front cover of this issue has paid homage to the veterans and service animals that have served our country. RAAF veteran John Weale will forever stand proud at the Agnes Water/1770 ANZAC Day service. His uniform was donated by his wife Carol.
Lucy Lu Simmons, shared with The Coastal Rag, “God gave me the gift of creativity; what you’ll see at the cenotaph is that gift. I want to thank my husband, Andrew Simmons, for his support and the community for coming together and making the poppies for the display.” Lucy’s heartfelt work and the collective efforts of the community remind us of the importance of coming together to honour those who have served.
We pay our respects to all the nurses who gave everything to tend to the wounded and dying in all conflicts. This WW1 replica uniform was made and donated by Kate Gay. Camels, horses, and donkeys that have carried our soldiers and supplies. Dogs that have worked to keep our soldiers safe. Birds that have been used to deliver messages.
It is important to never forget the sacrifices our defence personnel have made and will continue to make. It is important to teach our younger generations to remember and show respect to these same personnel. It is also important that the local RSL subbranch is a place where all veterans can get together, not so that our pasts can be relived, but because we all have an unbreakable bond and every one of us chose to defend our country.
On ANZAC Day, we remember every veteran.
By Peta Davies Agnes Water/1770 RSL Sub-branch
Photos: By Shirley Hitschmann, H&M Productions. Display by Lucy Lu Simmons, poppies created by Community.
Thank You and Farewell from the Baffle Creek Car/ Bike Muster
The organisers of the Baffle Creek Car/ Bike Muster (BCCBM) have announced the closure of the show.
Phyllis Gomes, who founded the Muster in 2017, has expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the experience of presenting the show each year. However, she has decided it is time to retire and pursue new adventures.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in the show, no matter in what capacity,” she said. “Whether you’ve showcased a vehicle, run a stall, provided food, volunteered, or
simply attended on the day, you have all contributed to making the Muster a success.”
Over the years, the BCCBM has donated well over $30,000 to LifeFlight. This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the community. Special thanks go to the businesses and residents of Baffle Creek, who have been both the inspiration for and the strongest supporters of the event.
The official BCCBM Facebook page (Baffle Creek Car/Bike Muster (Official))
will remain active. Any questions regarding the Muster can be directed there.
If anyone is interested in taking over the show, please contact Phyllis directly at 0407 625 168.
Thank you once again to everyone for your patronage and support throughout the life of the Muster.
Spectacular Fireworks to Light Up the 1770 Festival
Get ready for a dazzling display as the 1770 Festival lights up the night sky with an unforgettable Fireworks show on Saturday 24 May 2025, at 6:45 PM.
This year's Fireworks show is proudly sponsored by 1770 LARC! Tours, and promises to be one of the breathtaking highlights of the entire festival!
Neil Mergard, owner and operator of 1770 LARC! Tours, said he’s proud to be part of this cherished local tradition, “We’re very happy to support such a fantastic community event that has been running for so many years, bringing people together and celebrating everything that makes our towns so special. 1770 LARC! Tours has supported the 1770 Art Show and the 1770 Festival for many years, and this year, it just felt right to get behind the magnificent Fireworks show! It will be a REAL highlight for so many families and visitors, see you there!”
As part of the three-day free entry 1770 Festival, the Fireworks will be a mustsee moment for families, friends, and festival goers, bringing the community together in celebration. Come early and enjoy a full day of festival fun with workshops, amusement rides, live music and endless entertainment, then kick off the evening with a spectacular Fireworks display from 6:45 PM.
Date: Saturday, 24 May 2025
Time: 6:45 PM
Location: SES Grounds, Captain Cook Drive, Seventeen Seventy
Cost: FREE for all festival attendees Don’t miss out on the biggest and brightest show of the year!
The 1770 Festival 2025 is proudly supported by Gladstone Regional Council and Tourism and Events Queensland.
Photos supplied by 1770 Festival. Bottom photo of Niel and Isabella from 1770 LARC! Tours.
Baffle Creek Car/ Bike Muster
Fireworks Show
New HERE Program Offers Vital Support to Local Youth Facing Mental Health Challenges
A new initiative, the HERE Youth Program, launched by IMPACT Community Services (IMPACT), is making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people aged up to 18 years old in the Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, and Discovery Coast regions.
This program provides essential early intervention and non-clinical psychosocial support to young people experiencing mental health challenges, helping them stay connected to their families, schools, and communities.
The HERE Youth Program aims to foster Hope, Empowerment, Resilience and Enablement (HERE) by offering tailored support to young people. The program's goal is to ensure that youth have the resources they need to manage their mental health challenges and maintain healthy relationships with their support networks.
“Many young people experience mental health challenges that affect all aspects of their lives. Our program focuses on providing early support and developing coping skills that help them stay connected to their community and continue to thrive,” explains HERE Youth Worker, Tandia O’Halloran.
Through this initiative, IMPACT is responding to the growing need for accessible mental health support in the region. By working closely with families and schools, the HERE Youth Program ensures that young people are not only supported but also empowered to navigate their mental health journey with confidence.
“We believe that with the right support, every young person can overcome the challenges they face. It’s about helping them realise their potential and providing the tools they need to build resilience,” Ms O’Halloran said.
The HERE Youth Program is already seeing positive outcomes in the community, with many young people reporting improvements in their mental health, self-esteem, and ability to stay connected with loved ones and peers.
Ms O’Halloran stated, “As a community, we want to ensure that young people have access to the support they need when they need it most. We’re here to offer guidance, help them build the skills to cope with life’s challenges, and remind them that they are not alone.”
The program is free of charge for young people and their families, and IMPACT Community Services encourages anyone in need of support to reach out.
Parents and young people can contact Tandia on 0428 062 104 to enquire about the HERE program. More information is also available at www.impact.org.au
Traveller’s Rest 1770 Unveils BushTracks Eco Tours
Mike and Michi, owners of Traveller’s Rest 1770, are excited to start the new season by introducing BushTracks Eco Tours to local business partners and tourism operators. They embarked on a gentle stroll along their scenic bushland boardwalk, where Mike shared fascinating facts about native plant use, mosaic burns, land management, history, and the habitats of native wildlife.
Participants were invited to taste and feel native plants along the way and were fortunate enough to observe native wildlife in their natural habitats. Everyone was pleasantly surprised by the upgrades Mike and Michi worked on during the off-season. Professionally designed interpretive displays are now featured along the unique boardwalk, which meanders through native bushland along a carefully chosen path. Additionally, the fully accessible BBQ area, which can be used after the tours, has been enhanced.
Mike and Michi, from Traveller’s Rest 1770, have not only been focused on enhancing the offerings on their beautiful property but have also
engaged in professional development opportunities.
Becoming ecotourism-certified and achieving Eco Guide Certification in 2024 made Mike and Michi realise the value of their tour and the importance of organisations such as Savannah Guides Enterprises. Attending the Savannah Guide Field School in Injune and Carnarvon Gorge highlighted the significance of a professional network of tour guides. All the knowledge shared during the two Field Schools Mike attended has been invaluable and will undoubtedly help Traveller’s Rest 1770 and BushTracks Eco Tours grow from strength to strength.
Michael and Michaela
Photos provided by Traveller's Rest
To the right ; Michael OliverSavannah /Eco Guide
To the left: Rainbow Bee-eater
Photo below; Guests trying native Bushtucker
Photo provided by IMPACT from left to right of Tandia O'Halloran and Shaz Collins.
1770 Golf: Competition Results and Updates from the Past Fortnight
The wet weather cancelled a few more competitions over the past fortnight; however, we were able to hold Round 1 of the ‘Door Doctors’ Singles Matchplay on Saturday, 12 April. Results were:
- Rick Petterson def Lloyd Holley
- Ken Armstrong def John Firth
- Chris Wilkinson def Paul Rodi
- Matt Eales def Synon Holland
- Vic Glass def Brett Newstead
- Shawn Horley def Richie Hyne
- Hannah Lawrence def Lachlan Hazell
- Dale Cameron def Neville Hughes
- Shane Hazell def Sue Hughes
- Mick McConnell def Chris Delaney
- Steve Black def John Leggatt (Cowboy)
- John McLean def Rohan Sheppard
- Ashley Newstead def Tania Dickson
- Craig Macnamara def Gary Pengelly
Good luck to those players going through to the second round, to be played on Saturday, 26 April.
Thursday 10 Apri, was an individual stroke competition won by Lachlan Hazell with a net 67. Neale Dent placed second with a net 69 on a countback from Troy Wise, third, and John Jennings, fourth. Troy also won the pin shot on hole 3, Drew Clarke hole 4, Gary Pengelly hole 5, and Rohan Sheppard hole 6. The longest drives, sponsored by Gripske and Sons, were won by Michael
Wooldridge and Laura Boulton.
Friday 11 April’s Chook Run was won by Hayley Fleming with a great round, returning a net 26! Nick Feddon came in second place with a net 28, and Matt Hitchins placed third with a net 28½. Shane Hazell had a great 2-over-par round of 36 for the best gross score of the day. Ross Graving won the pin shot on hole 12, Ashley Newstead hole 13, Dale Cameron hole 14, and Hayley Fleming hole 17. Shawn Horley won the putting competition with 30 points.
Saturday, 12 April, was an individual stableford round won by Chris Heath with 41 points ahead of John McLean, second, with 38 points. Harper Jones, from Rockhampton, came in third place with 37 points on a countback
from Scott Gibbs, fourth. Drew Clarke won the pin shot on hole 3, Rick Gazzard hole 4, Shawn Horley hole 5, and Scott Gibbs hole 6. Tania Dickson and Brett Newstead won the longest drives thanks to Paul Gripske.
Our standard weekly Saturday competition will still be held on Easter Saturday, and the course will be closed for social play from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm on this day. We will be open for social play for the remainder of the Easter weekend and look forward to welcoming all players for a round!
Jo-Anne Lawrence - Town of 1770 Golf Course & Driving Range
Agnes Water Active Riders Grounds Update & Upcoming Events
Exciting progress is underway at the Agnes Water Active Riders grounds! The concrete driveway has now been completed thanks to Crittas Concreting, making access smoother for everyone.
A huge thank you to Active Women and Girls, a Queensland Government initiative, for their support in helping us enhance our facilities. Thanks also to the fantastic team at Pumps Gas & Stuff, who assisted us in finding an effective irrigation solution. With their help, we now have a transferable watering system in place to keep our grounds in top condition. Ironically, as soon as we switched it on, the rain arrived! But hey, we’re not complaining—every drop counts.
We would also like to extend our gratitude to our dedicated members who have given so much of their time and effort to prepare the area for turfing. Your hard work and commitment are truly appreciated and have played a crucial role in improving our grounds.
A huge thank you to JC’s Mobile Plant Hire for their generous contribution to our club. Your support has been genuinely appreciated and makes a big difference to our team. We are grateful for your help.
In other news, we’d like to wish good luck and safe travels to all our members and friends heading down to the Kilkivan Horse Ride. Have an amazing time!
Photo: Supplied by Agnes Water Active Riders on Bronwyn Lynch on Dingo.
Looking ahead, our next Club Day is set for 26 April with an Easter-themed event. Get ready for a fun-filled day of pole work and drills, and don’t forget to dress up for a chance to win!
We look forward to seeing you all there!
Agnes Water Active Riders
Agnes Water Outdoor Volleyball Competes at Hervey Bay
From March 21 to 23, Agnes Water Outdoor Volleyball (AWOV) players Brittany Cervantes, Tessa Cheetham, Thiago Passos, and Nic Gibson travelled to Hervey Bay to participate in Round 14 of the Queensland Beach Volleyball Tour. This was the first year Hervey Bay had hosted the event.
On Friday, the team, competing under the name “On Agnes Time,” took part in the “Corporate and Community Challenge” mixed 4-a-side games before the official competition commenced on Saturday. The team placed second and proudly returned home with silver medals.
On Saturday, Cheetham and Cervantes excelled in their pool, securing first place with four wins and one loss. This success advanced them to the semifinals on Sunday, where they ultimately finished third out of ten teams in the Women’s Challenger Division.
Highlights from the event include:
- This marked AWOV’s debut in statelevel competition, just nine months after the group’s establishment.
- Hervey Bay Volleyball’s first time hosting a tour round received an overwhelmingly positive response, bringing high-level play closer to the Agnes community.
- AWOV continues to meet most Saturday mornings at Main Beach, with set-up beginning at 7:30 am for an 8 am start, running for 2–3 hours.
- Community members are encouraged to join the “Agnes Water Outdoor Volleyball” Facebook group to stay updated.
- AWOV expressed gratitude to the community for donating to the initial
start-up fundraiser, which has been instrumental in making the group’s activities possible and enabling participation in state-level competitions.
Photos provided by Agnes Water Outdoor Volleyball from the Hervey Bay Round 14 of Queensland Beach Volleyball Tour.
Photo above: Tessa Cheetham caught in action, captured by Sondergaard Photography.
Photo below: Brittany Cervantes at Hervey Bay competing by Sondergaard Photography.
Photo above: 'On Agnes Time' team members— top row (from left): Nic Gibson, Thiago Passos; bottom row (from left): Brittany Cervantes, Tessa Cheetham.
Photo below: 'On Agnes Time' team of 4 playing.
Meet the Eurimbula Rural Fire Brigade Volunteers
Get to know our members: Maxine Hitchings
Current position: Firefighter, Secretary, 3rd Officer, 2nd Fire Warden
When did you join the Rural Fire Service (RFS)?
2020 when the brigade opened as Eurimbula Rural Fire Brigade.
Why did you join?
I joined the local fire brigade to learn how to maintain my property while supporting my community. Once I joined, I discovered it was more than just a team—it felt like family.
What’s your day job?
I was a teacher, but now I am about to embark on a new business venture.
What do you love most about being a firefighter?
I love being a firefighter for the friendships, the knowledge, and the sense of community. Connecting with colleagues from other brigades and the people of Captain Creek makes every call-out more meaningful. What was the most memorable fire for you?
In 2023, at Gwene Range, we worked tirelessly for months to control and monitor the fire, with every local brigade coming together as one— sharing camaraderie, support, and mutual respect between volunteers and urban brigades.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Joining the fire brigade allows me to support my community while gaining valuable fire management skills and experience. It also brings lifelong friendships and a strong sense of
family. If you want to give back and build lasting connections, this is the perfect place to start!
Eurimbula Rural Fire Brigade. Photo: Maxine Hitchings, supplied by
Young Readers Speak: Local Kids Share Their Thoughts on Recent Reads
Holes - Louis Sachar
Holes was one of the best books I have ever read. Stanley Yelnuts is the perfect example of being in the wrong place at the wrong time!
It took me a couple of chapters to enjoy it, but soon I could not put it down. If it ever felt boring, the Author would surprise me with a plot twist around the corner! I love its short chapters, keeping me interested. Holes was a great book, good for boys and girls of any age, even some adults!
Come indulge yourself in mystery and adventure with Stanley. Hopefully you'll enjoy it as much as I did! The only problem is that it was too short! I really loved it and rate it 9/10.
- Maya , 12 yrs.
The Percy Jackson series - Rick Riordan
I like Percy Jackson because he is a demigod teenager that can breathe underwater. Percy Jackson and Nicko Delangelo are my favourite characters in the book because they are interesting. I think the book is funny because some of the characters have monster siblings! My favourite part of the book is when The Cyclops cry out 'Peanut Butter!!' This book would be great for kids who love adventures and mythical creatures.
- Finn, 10 yrs
Would you like to share a book review?
Send your book review to editor@thecoastalrag.com.au
Eurimbula Rural Fire Brigade
NFP House Unveils Exciting Upgrades to Volunteer Portal
NFP House has announced significant upgrades to its online Volunteer Portal, aiming to enhance communication, improve responsiveness, and expand opportunities for youth volunteers aged 12-17.
One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of youth volunteers. Young individuals can now register, provided they have parental consent.
Additional enhancements include an upgraded dashboard for both volunteers and community organisations. Volunteers will now have quick access to their profile, notifications, and submitted EOIs. Organisations will also see improvements, with easier navigation to their profiles, public notices, and volunteer applications.
New features will streamline communication, reducing lost emails and improving follow-ups. Volunteers
with incomplete profiles will receive reminders, while organisations will be prompted to respond to volunteers within a week. Furthermore, public notices can now be pinned for increased visibility, and school holidays have been added as an availability option for postings.
To ensure a smooth transition, NFP House representatives will be reaching out to volunteers and organisations to discuss these changes and gather feedback. A detailed manual will also be provided to guide users through the new features.
This project is made possible through the support of the Gladstone Regional Council’s Elevator Fund. For more information, visit the NFP House website and get ready to explore an improved volunteer experience.
Happy volunteering!!
WHISTLING DUCKS of AGNES
BY JODIE RICHARDS
If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it’s probably a duck. But what if it whistles instead?
Meet the Plumed Whistling-Duck and the Wandering Whistling-Duck— two elegant, long-legged locals who break the mould.
Lois from NFP House, where you can contact us anytime, to make a difference to your life and our community!
They don’t quack. Instead, they give a high, whistling call that cuts through the quiet of our local wetlands and paddocks. Both are tall, upright ducks with cinnamon colouring and cream sideplumes—and telling them apart takes a little attention to detail.
The Plumed Whistling-Duck is usually seen grazing on land. Its creamy side plumes stick out like decorative streamers, and it stands tall with a neat, slim build. Plumed Whistling-Ducks walk more than they swim and often gather in large flocks on grassy paddocks or dam edges. If you spot a duck struts about on its red legs and feet rather than paddling, with fancy plumes that flares out from the flanks, it’s most likely a Plumed.
The Wandering Whistling-Duck, by contrast, is a waterbird through and through. So the Wandering Whistling-Duck doesn’t wander it swims—I swear the birders naming these
birds are taking the mickey. It’s slightly bulkier, darker overall, than its Plumed cousin and its side markings look painted on rather than being 3D. These ducks are often seen swimming or diving for aquatic plants in quiet, vegetated wetlands, so you probably won’t notice their black feet unless you catch them on dry land.
Locally, Plumed WhistlingDucks turn up most often in the Captain Creek area, while Wandering Whistling-Ducks are found on hidden dams and wetlands along Round Hill Road. Despite their name, whistlingducks are more closely related to geese than the classic quacking ducks. They mate for life, roost standing on one leg, and often gather in large, chatty flocks. Want to learn more or share a sighting? Join the “Agnes Water & 1770 Birders” Facebook group and get quacking.
Photos courtesy of Stephen Goldsworthy
Wandering Whistling-Duck
Plumed Whistling-Duck
David Harris: A Practical Plan to Put Australians First
My name is David Harris. I’ve lived the values of service, hard work, and standing up for what’s right. As a former member of the Royal Australian Air Force and a regional Queenslander, I know firsthand that the people of Flynn and across the country are feeling the squeeze— rising fuel and grocery prices, growing electricity bills, and communities left to fend for themselves. I’ve seen it firsthand, and I believe it’s time for real, practical change that puts Australians first.
One Nation stands for immediate cost-of-living relief. We will halve the fuel excise, which will be a saving of 26 cents per litre, to stop punishing rural and regional families who rely on vehicles and machinery. These taxes are outdated and unfair—and cutting them will ease pressure across the board.
We also support changes to allow pensioners and veterans to work without being financially penalised. Many want to contribute more, and the current system holds them back. It's time we respected their service
and experience by giving them the freedom to work on their terms.
Public safety is a priority. People deserve to feel secure in their homes and towns. We back properly funded police, stronger sentencing, and practical crime prevention to restore order in communities where crime is on the rise.
One Nation also supports a balanced and realistic approach to energy. We are not against renewable energy— but we are against policies that push unreliable and costly technologies at the expense of Australian households and businesses. We support an energy mix that includes coal, gas, hydro, and emerging renewables—so long as it’s affordable, reliable, and Australian-controlled. We oppose offshore wind projects that damage coastal communities and deliver little return to the regions they affect.
We stand for one law for all, an end to divisive identity politics, and a return to policies that prioritise Australians— our workers, our farmers, our families.
Local manufacturing, food security, strong borders, and proper education are the pillars of a nation that works for everyone.
David
Harris
- FLYNN Electorate Candidate for 2025 - One Nation Party
BUSHKids Celebrate 90 years at Queensland Parliament
The 2 April was a fitting celebration of the 90 years of great work that has gone into the Royal Queensland Bush Children’s Health Scheme known as BUSHkids.
BUSHkids is a not-for-profit organisation which continues to support the health and wellbeing of children and families across Queensland’s remote and rural communities.
Their teams go above and beyond to help disadvantaged children who are at risk of poor health, educational or social outcomes, to reach their full potential. "90 years is a huge milestone, and I wanted to be able to help BUSHkids celebrate the occasion in a fitting location."
It will be an honour to host the event in Queensland Parliament next week to congratulate BUSHkids for their
decades of service.
Stephen Bennett - Member for Burnett
People First Party: A Vision for Australia's Future
Albanese has called the election at a time that has many other significant events, ANZAC Day and Easter, to take the focus off three years of mismanagement.
I have been touring the great electorate of Flynn, and I am saddened by the constant reminders of poor government over time. From the many closed shops, empty silos no longer attached to rail, empty rail yards, closed factories, and small businesses. The cost of power is a large contributor to the downfall of small businesses, as is the cost of payroll tax and the unending stream of fees and charges. The current system is a political duopoly, a food supply duopoly, a banking duopoly, a media duopoly, a power duopoly, and an education system that is government, not parentdriven.
People First Party stand for getting government out of the boardroom, out of the classroom, and out of the bedroom. Much of our Australianowned assets have been lost to foreign ownership. My parents’ generation left assets for all Australians to prosper with and build on, to leave the next generation a legacy of wealth.
Instead, under the two major parties, we will be leaving the next generation a legacy of foreign debt that is not balanced by assets.
People First Party have policies of building wealth and assets using an Australian-owned infrastructure bank. Building dams, power stations, roads, rail, communication, ports, and airports. Australian-owned, Australian-built, and Australian-funded.
- A public bank and insurance – Putting competition back into the banking system and banks back into the community.
- An infrastructure bank – Stop borrowing overseas money to fund infrastructure. Infrastructure that is purchased overseas.
- Voluntary superannuation – Stop the fat cats living off your super while you struggle to pay your home loan.
- Flexible childcare – Payments made to the parent to care for the child instead of the big childcare companies.
- Lower income tax – Raising the tax-free threshold from $18,200 to $40,000.
So please give People First Party a GO on 3 May 2025. People First by name
and by nature.
www.peoplefirstparty.com.au
Because if you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always got.
Lance Price - FLYNN Electorate Candidate for 2025 - People First Party
Colin Boyce Visits Agnes Water: Community Engagement and Local Support
I recently had a great couple of days in Agnes Water to catch up with the local community.
My first visit was meeting with the Agnes Water Active Riders which was established in 2018. The club are committed to providing equestrian activities to the local community and beyond. Excitingly, they now have a new permanent base! I announced to the committee and members that an elected LNP Government will deliver $67,000 to the club for an amenities block and water tanks.
The installation of an amenities block, and water tanks is essential for creating a family-friendly and inclusive equestrian facility. These facilities benefit both horse owners and those who wish to participate in local events. I then held a community catch up with community members at the Agnes Water Tavern that night to discuss the local issues of the region.
The next day I had a meeting with Pamela, the Practice Manager from the IMPACT Community Health Service to discuss how the facility is going
and heard how it is strongly utilised by the Agnes Water community and surrounds.
I finished my trip checking out the First Steps Early Learning Centre with the Director, Linda showing me around the facility.
My team were also pleased to attend the Gladstone Regional Council Forum on April 12 and the Rotary Discovery Coast Markets on April 13.
As you may be aware, the federal election will be taking place on Saturday, May 3.
If you are unable to vote on the 3rd, I wanted to let you know that the following early voting locations will be open:
Agnes Water - Agnes Water Community Centre, 71 Springs Rd: 9.00am – 4.30pm Tuesday 22 April –Thursday 24 April 9.00am – 4.30pm Monday 28 April –Thursday 1 May 9.00am – 6.00pm – Friday 2 May
Colin Boyce - Member for Flynn
GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL
Phone: (07) 4970 0700
For urgent matters (e.g., burst water main), call anytime, day or night, and after-hours calls will be redirected to our Emergency Call Centre.
Non-urgent: Call during opening hours
Opening Hours:
8.30am - 5pm Monday to Friday
Council General Meetings: 1st & 3rd Tuesday of every month.
If you need to let council know of a problem in your area, then “Snap, Send & Solve”
TRANSFER STATIONS
MUST WEAR ENCLOSED SHOES
Agnes Water: Mon – Fri - 8am – 12pm Sat & Sun - 8 – 12 & 1 - 4pm
Baffle Creek: Thurs – Mon - 1pm – 4pm
Rosedale: Thurs – Mon - 8am – 11am
GRC LIBRARY
71 Springs Rd, Agnes Water
Mon – Fri 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 5 pm
Saturday - 9am - 12 pm
Activities
Mah-jong Wed 9.30 - 1pm
Cards 500 Wed 9.30 – 1pm
Chess Club on Fridays 9.30 - 1pm (for those that want to learn and those who wish to have a game or two)
Storytime Thursdays 10.30 – 11.30
MUSEUM
NEW EXHIBITION – DOOR OF DESTINY
Open Monday-Sunday 10.00am - 2.00pm
69 Springs Road, Agnes Water (opposite the Visitor Information Centre) Ph. (07) 4974 9511
Adults $5.00. Children FREE
EMERGENCY
POLICE PH: 000 IN AN EMERGENCY
Agnes Water 4899 4000
Miriam Vale 4974 6000
Rosedale 4153 8636
Police Link (non- urgent) 131 444
RURAL FIRE BRIGADES
Agnes Water First Officer: 0428 815 568
Eurimbula First Officer: 0423 464 037
FIRE WARDENS
Eurimbula: 0411 269 510
Colosseum: 0429 953 048
Lowmead 1 & 2: 0428 569 131
Wartburg: 0436 942 422
Rosedale 1 & 2: 0422 727 330
RURAL FIRE BRIGADE - NOTICE
We are all volunteers, we are glad to help people out, donations welcome!
A fire that is more than 2m x 2m wide needs a permit!
Phone your local fire station.
Agnes Water/1770 SES - 132 500
Flood or Storm Emergencies
Ph: Ian (07) 4974 9330.
E: Ian.jones@ses.qfes.qld.gov.au
Baffle Creek & Rosedale SES
Training 2nd & 4th Tues 10am @Rosedale Ph: Margaret 4156 6223 / 0448 486 176 MEDICAL
Shore Care Family Doctor: 4859 1234
Impact Dr Dani: 4902 2000
DC Doctor & Dentist: 4974 7707
Agnes Water Doctors - 4803 5451
Poisons Info: 13 11 26
Ambulance: 13 12 33
13 HEALTH: 13 432584
CHEMISTS
Agnes Water Pharmacy - 4974 9700
Live Life Pharmacy - 4803 5291
DEFIBRILLATOR LOCATIONS
Agnes Water/1770 Local Ambulance, Agnes Water Ampol, 1770 Bowls Club, 1770 Camping Ground, Rosedale Hotel, Baffle Creek General store, Agnes Water Post Office, Food works, Codie’s Place, Captain Creek Sport & Rec. Tavern.
Lifeline pharmacy.
The Reef Caravan Park, Sandcastles Resort and Chappy House donated by Rotary.
4CYTE PATHOLOGY
Located at Agnes Water Doctors & at Impact Community Health.
2853 Round Hill Rd, Agnes Water Clinic Phone: 0402 682 086 JP SERVICES
Available at :
Agnes/1770 RTC, POST OFFICE COUNCIL OFFICE
Baffle Creek ring Jon: 0408 068 169
Madeline 0427 569 199
Captain Creek ring Rochelle: 0404 011 616
WILDLIFE ASSISTANCE
WIldlife Carer - Yvonne Thompson 0427 860 801
Vet (07) 4974 9045
Snake Catchers
Jason: 0421 174 128
Tim Hein: 0424 629 801
Michael: 0490 945 016
Leah 0468 907 130 or Corey 0434 855 662
Katherine 0487 172 980
Kathy Robertson Cipak: 0419 672 899
Marine strandings: 1300 130 372
Qld parks & Wildlife 4974 9350
COMMUNITY GROUPS
1770 Art Show: Lynne 0411126701
1770 Bowls Club: Ph 0480355114
1770 Dragons: Keith 0427261253
Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival: Ph 0458 491 770, info@agnesbluesandroots.com.au
Agnes Conservation Community Contact info@agnescc.org.au
AW Childcare: Ph 4974 9066
AW Craft Ladies: 1st Wed of the month. 9am – 12 pm. 12 Seaspray Dve. Judy: 4974 7373
Agnes Water Men’s Shed: Dennis 0400 831 693
Agnes Water Active Riders: Bronwyn 0448 938 493
AW/1770 Little Athletics: Anna 0431 099 479. awla1770@gmail.com
AW Orchid & Foliage Group: 1st Wed of the month.10am – 12 noon. 0417 141 775
AW/1770 RSL Subbranch: Lillian.Ph 0499 075 741
Friday 915am Bingo at the Tavern, Friday night 6pm - meat trays and Jag the Joker
Agnes Water Quilters: Karen 0417 106 884
Agnes Water Rugby League Marlins: 0431 671 008
AW Surf Life Saving: 4111 1000 Agnes Water Triathlon: admin@agneswatertriathlon.com
AWSUM Ukulele Group: Lyn 0419 015 584
Baffle Creek Craft ladies: Every Wed at the Sport & Rec.
Baffle Creek Art: Every Sat 9.30am to 1.30pm. Patti 0418 183 670
Baffle Creek Fishing Club: Last Sat of the month 2pm. Wayne 0475 353 266
Baffle Creek Garden Club: 3rd Wed of the month. Ph Petronella: 0427 194 986
Baffle Creek Golf: Wed 8.30 am Ladies. Sun 8.30 am Medley, Raffles 2nd Friday of the month.
Baffle Creek Men’s Shed: Every Sat 9am to 12 noon (behind BCCI oval)
Baffle Creek Youth Group: 2nd Friday of the month 3.30 – 7pm.
Boomerang Bags: Every Tues 9am at the Bororen ‘Little Joey’s Playgroup: 49744124 Brekky Club – 1st Mon of the month meets at Latinos! 8 am
Captain Cook 1770 Agnes Water Lions Club: Dave Wilkinson 0439 076 409 Captain Creek Pony Club: Ph: Kyra French 0401 827 988
Disc Coast Environment Group: Ph 0439 289 633
Discovery Coast Men’s Circle: Aaron Shultz. Ph 0400 573 867 Every 2nd Mon at (New Hall) 6.30pm.
DC Meals on Wheels: Delivering to Baffle Creek, Rosedale, Lowmead, Miriam Vale Fingerboard, Captain Creek & Agnes/1770. Ph: 0477 885 506. Volunteers welcome!
Discovery Coast Rotary
Servicing Baffle Creek, Deepwater, Rosedale, Lowmead, Miriam Vale, Agnes
Water and 1770. 0488 087 622 dcrmarkets@gmail.com
discoverycoastrotary@gmail.com
Discovery Coast Sport & Rec: secretarydcsraaw@gmail.com
Disc Coast Tourism & Commerce: (DCTC) Email: info@dctc.com.au. Ph: 0458 491 770 Discovery Vibes choir and marimba in Seventeen Seventy by Helga Bateman 0418752558
Discovery Coast Women’s: 2nd Thurs of each month. 10:00am to 12:00pm, (Old Hall)) Contact: 0437 233 799.
Imperial Vale Station: Every Tuesday Meet & Greet. 10am FREE smoko! Mary 0439 831 806.
Playgroups supported by BUSHKIDS: Contact Sasha - 0427 848 239
- Agnes Water Playgroup: Tues 9-11am
- Captain Creek Playgroup - Mon 9-11am
- Miriam Vale ‘Playtime’: Wed 930-1130am
- Lowmead play group: Every Wed 9-11am
- Wartburg: Thurs 930-11am (Every 2nd wk)
- Rosedale: Thurs 930-11am (Every 2nd wk)
Tide n Turn Board riders Assoc: See our Facebook page.
Up & Active: Rosedale Hall 9.30 Mon. Lowmead Hall 7.30am Tues. Baffle Ck Com Inc 9.30 Tues.
CHURCHES
AGNES WATER BAPTIST CHURCH
200 Bicentennial Dr, Agnes Water
Contemporary Sunday Worship Service commences at 9.30am. Followed by morning tea. There is also a ‘Kids Church’ program running concurrently with the Worship Service during School Terms” All are warmly welcomed. Phone: Pastor Rob Rodgers – 0491 109 633. admin@awbaptist. org.au
OP SHOP - Tues – Sat 9am – 1pm. Ph: 4974 9018
Donations & volunteers welcome!
ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sunday Worship Times. St Mary’s, Larson St Miriam Vale. 1st & 3rd Sunday each month at 4pm. St Luke’s, Lowmead Rd, Lowmead 4th Sunday at 4pm. Rev Beryl Anderson 0419 649 711
LUTHERAN CHURCH
1st & 3rd Sunday of the month 10.30am. Followed by brunch. Rosedale.Ph:4156 6162
ST AGNES CATHOLIC CHURCH
Mass, liturgy with communion (Lay Lead) every 4th Sunday 11am. 86 Bicentennial Dr, Agnes Water Ph: 4972 1025
THE CATHOLIC CHURCH Baffle Ck. Mass every first Sunday of the month Coast Rd, 12pm. Baffle Creek. Brian Ph: 0477 701 640 Paul Ph: 0429 885 771
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH Service every Sabbath Saturday 9.30–10.40am, 11am–12pm Main Service Lutheran Church, James St, Rosedale. Ph: 4974 7234.
Agnes Water SDA Fellowship meet on a Saturday. For more info please contact 0458 040 300.
POWER COMMUNITY CHURCH
St John’s 76 James St Rosedale. Services 10am every Sunday. Contact
Pastor Dave 0438979994
Pastor Shelly 0438874700
SUPPORT SERVICES
Uniting Care Discovery Coast Community Support Program
Food hampers, fuel vouchers, linking, referrals and support with community action. Mon, Wed & Thurs on - 0427 319 978 Or Tues & Thurs on 0439 699 297
Email: jamie.saunders@uccommunity.org.au
Impact Community Health Service
2 Rafting Ground Road Agnes Water.
Our Health Precinct provides a range of health services through co-located and visiting health providers, along with Nursing & Allied Health Services provided by ICHS. Agnes Water, Baffle Creek, Rosedale, Lowmead, Miriam Vale, Bororen & Turkey Beach
Contact ICHS - 07 4902 2000
1800 RESPECT - National Domestic Violence Service
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
Is Australia’s only free 24/7 confidential and private counselling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25.
Alcoholics Anonymous AA 6.30pm Tuesday, 6.30pm Friday
Old Community Hall, Springs Rd, 1300 22 22 22
Lifeline: Call 13 11 14
Queensland Health: 13 Health
Out Back Minds
support@outbackmind.com.au
Little Free Pantry
Donations of non-perishable food, pet food, toiletries & cleaning products. Drop off at the “Little Blue Bin” on 56 Innamincka Way, Agnes Water. Anytime, Any Day. Phone: Margaret 4974 9418
PHOTOGRAPHY
DATE CLAIMERS
Anzac Day Service - Friday 25 April 2025
Mother’s Day BrunchMiriam Vale HotelSunday 11 May 2025
1770 Festival - 23-25 May 2025
1770 Art Show & Quilting Exhibition - from 22 May 2025
Miriam Vale Hotel Wood ChopSaturday 7 June 2025from 9am
Discovery Coast College 10th Year Anniversary Fun Day - Saturday 9 Aug 2025
Agnes Water ThriathlonSaturday 4 October 2025
Strum Music FestivalAgnes Water - Saturday 25 October 2025
Cash For Cans 19 Corfield Drive! 10c bottle & cans. Meals On Wheels donation code is C101 390 39
MARKETS
Rosedale Markets - Last Saturday of each season. 730am-12pm.
4 x per year. Call 0419 021 485.
Miriam Vale Community Markets - First Sunday of the month - 9am to 1pm. Contact 0401 288 017 to book site.
Baffle Creek Markets - 2nd Sat of the month. From 8am at the shops
Farmers & Artisan’s Market @ the Creek - 2nd Sat of the month.
3-7pm. See Facebook for info.
Discovery Coast Rotary Markets - 2nd & 4th Sunday of the Month and every Sunday in the QLD School Holidays and Public Holidays. 1770 SES Grounds, Agnes Water
Captain Creek Produce SwapTuesdays fortnightly. 10am-12pm. 111 Murphy Rd, Captain Creek.
EMPLOYMENT
Home, house, hut or shed with power & water for responsible mature age female & quiet dog (doesn’t chase kangaroos, either of us!)
Good tenant, rent on time. Present accommodation to be sold. Please ph. 0477 848 595
NOTICES
Anzac Day Service - Friday 25 April 2025
Dawn Service - 5.15am
Parade - 10am
Main Service - 10.10am
Are you interested in history? Agnes Water Museum is the Discovery Coast’s leading museum in local, maritime, cultural and natural history.
The museum is currently looking for volunteers to assist with general duties including welcoming visitors, administrative, data and bookkeeping support and social media sharing.
If you are interested please give our friendly team at the museum a call on 07 4974 9511 between the hours of 10.30am and 1.30pm.
Celebrate Creativity: Tickets Now Available for The 1770 Art Show Exhibition Gala Opening Night!
Tickets are now on sale for The 1770 Art Show Exhibition Gala Opening Night held on Thursday 22 May 2025. The tickets are available at the Agnes Water Bendigo Community Bank and the Agnes Water Visitor Information Centre. There is a limited number of tickets and they sell out quickly so do not wait to purchase yours. The Agnes Water Quilter’s Exhibition also opens on Thursday 22 May 2025 with a gold coin entry.
While you are purchasing your tickets for the Exhibition Gala Opening do not forget to submit your art entry forms for the exhibition. Entry forms are to be submitted by 5:00pm on Friday, 2nd May and are available at the Agnes Water Bendigo Community Bank or online at 1770arts.com.au. One of the wonderful features of the 1770 Art Show is that artists in all stages of their creative endeavours are welcomed and encouraged. From beginning to long term practising artists, we love receiving your work.
Come and join us in celebrating the wonderful artwork by local and regional artists and share in the bold new direction of 1770 Art Show Inc. under the new identity of 1770 Arts. “This transformation reflects our commitment to fostering the arts in the
region, not just for our annual show, but as an ongoing creative hub.,” said Prue Brown, President of 1770 Art Show Inc.
“We also want to take a moment to thank the extended support provided by the Agnes Water Bendigo Community Bank, the Gladstone Regional Council and the Queensland Government Community Benefit Fund.
To our past and present supporters who all share in our vision, your commitment allows the 1770 Art Show to thrive and 1770 Arts to grow.”, Prue added. The refreshed brand marks an exciting step forward, ensuring the arts remain a vibrant and growing part of our local culture. As 1770 Arts embarks on this new chapter, the committee invites the community to stay
connected through our new website at 1770arts.com.au and our new Facebook page. Check in regularly for upcoming workshops, events and opportunities on how to be part of this exciting evolution.
The 1770 Art Show
Friday 23 May to Sunday 1 June 2025
9:00am – 4:00pm, Sunday 1 June 9:00am – 12:00noon.
New Community Hall, Agnes Water. Entry: Gold Coin Donation
Agnes Water Quilter’s Exhibition
Thursday 22 May to Sunday 25 May 2025
9:00am – 4:00pm
Old Community Hall, Agnes Water Entry: Gold Coin Donation
1770 Art Show Team
Photo provided by 1770 Art Show of previous Gala Night
Catch a Wave for Conservation at Our Next Eco
Flick!
Looking for a fun night out that also supports a great cause? Join the Agnes Conservation Community for our next Eco Flicks movie night—where entertainment meets environmental action.
Our Eco Flicks series is all about bringing the community together to enjoy eye-opening films that explore nature, sustainability, and the challenges facing our planet. These inspiring documentaries and features not only highlight environmental issues but also offer real solutions that empower us all to make a difference.
This month, we’re switching things up with a splash of saltwater and surf! Come ride the wave with us as we screen “You Should Have Been Here Yesterday!”—a poetic homage to Australia’s early surf-culture, with unearthed footage set to an original soundtrack. This surf film celebrates ocean life, surf culture, and the natural beauty we’re all working to protect. It tells the story of a wild community who took off up the coast and discovered a whole new way to live.
Where: Southern Cross Travellers Retreat
When: Saturday, 26th April
Doors open: 5:30 PM (grab a bite and a drink!)
Movie starts: 6:30 PM
Tickets: Just $10 – and grommets under 17 get in free!
All profits go directly to local conservation projects, so you can kick back with a film and know you’re supporting meaningful change right here in our community.
Bring your mates, bring the kids, and bring your love for the planet. See you there!
Round Hill Head
Date: 19 April - 2 May 2025
Caution:
Tidal predictions are based on limited observations and therefore expected to be less accurate for this location. Users should exercise caution when using these predictions.
VMR ROUND HILL
Please call at 07 4974 9383 or 0427 747 477
On air daily from 06:30 to 18:00, monitoring VHF channels 16, 81, and 82, with working channels 81 and Lady Musgrave to Fitzroy on 82 north.
Weather updates are available daily on channel 82 at approximately 06:40 and 16:40, or upon request on channels 81 or 82.
Remember: DON’T DUMP!
Dispose of your fish scraps correctly.