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1/13 Watermark Ave, Agnes Water
Open Mon - Fri | 10am - 4pm
*Other times by appointment. CALL 1300 967 060
Dear Readers
Wow – how are we already at the end of November and fast approaching Christmas and the holidays? A likely needed rest for all, to celebrate with family and recharge for the year ahead. We have a number of Christmas events coming up next month, so be sure to check out our What’s On section on page 19.
Over the holiday break, you’ll also find some awesome advertising right here in these pages – your local go-to guide for what’s happening and where to find it in upcoming issues.
I want to take a moment to congratulate Greg Howell on his recent book launch and signing at the 1770 Marina – what a wonderful success for his new book. And what an incredible turnout of 51 art submissions at Baffle Creek’s Ubuntu Gallery. We sure do have a creative bunch in our region, and it truly does start young. Thank you, Jody, for showcasing our kids’ art annually – what a special event this has become.
The annual Christmas Lights Competition is also gearing up for another fantastic year. If you’d like to sponsor a gift, please reach out – and get ready to show this tiny community what Christmas spirit is all about.
On a more personal note, this will be my last issue as Editor and owner of The Coastal Rag. Oh, what a pleasure it has been – the ups and downs, but always the community energy that makes it all worth it. Together, we’ve achieved an amazing amount of work over the last 11 months, and I cannot wait to see what Sarah, the new owner, along with Annie and Emma, will bring to the paper next.
I’ll still be involved and helping out where I can – it’s hard to step away completely – but I’ll be focusing more on wellbeing and balance as I finish out my third trimester and prepare to welcome a new family member late February/early March.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the community, to Sarah, Annie, Emma, and to all our advertisers. We could not have achieved what we have so far without each other. It truly does take teamwork and community to keep a local paper thriving.
With gratitude and festive cheer,
Feathers, Fur & Fins Baffle Creek Kids Art Exhibition
Excitement was in the air for the second annual Baffle Creek and surrounding communities Kids Art Exhibition! In the lead up to the event, five workshops were filled with creativity and lots of concentrating, with participation from three local schools as well as our vibrant homeschool community. The number of artworks grew quickly and by exhibition day, the gallery walls were bursting with colour, imagination, and creativity.
In total, 51 young artists proudly showcased their individual works, alongside a beautiful collaborative piece created by the Year 1/2 students from Goora Gan Steiner School.
We were honoured to welcome Safe Haven AACE, who attended to share their incredible work rescuing and rehabilitating local wildlife. Their
dedication to establishing a much needed turtle hospital in Deepwater inspired everyone. Guests enjoyed learning from their wealth of knowledge and were glad to support such a vital cause. It’s a comfort to know such caring people are part of our community, helping our injured and sick native animals.
Guests enjoyed delicious food and refreshments while celebrating the creativity of our young artists. It was a privilege to witness the pride and joy on the children’s faces as they showed their families and friends what they had created.
Encouraging creativity in children is about so much more than art, it builds confidence, mental well being, resilience, and self expression. These are gifts they carry for life.
A sincere thank you to Ruth, who always appears when I need her most, assisting with workshops, encouraging the kids, setting up, cooking, and so much more! And to Mark, who endlessly supports my ideas and ambitions, none of this would be possible without you. Thank you for being my person.
We’re already looking forward to next year’s exhibition… now to dream up a theme!
Yours creatively, Jody Gallery @ Ubuntu
Book Launch and Signing at the 1770 Marina
Local author and raconteur Greg Howell delves into the recent past with a coming-of-age love letter to the east coast of Australia through the eyes and hearts of two misfit teens.
Appealing to the young and the young at heart Spacey & Go-Anna will trigger memories for many growing up in Oz.
“This book is a love letter to the coast, to chosen family, and to the kind of
friendship that saves lives. I wanted to capture the grit and humour of growing up in Australia and the healing power of connection,” said Greg.
“Set in the wild beauty of 1980s coastal Australia, Spacey & Go-Anna follows two misfit teens—Spacey and Go-Anna—as they escape their troubled pasts in a battered van, chasing freedom and forging an unforgettable bond. Their journey is filled with dodgy roadkill dinners, van mix-ups, and emotional reckonings, all set against the backdrop of surf culture and Indigenous pride.’’
Written, published and printed in Australia, Spacey & Go-Anna is recognisable as a true Aussie story in our own language, but appealing to a broader readership.
Greg will hold a book signing on Saturday, December 6, at The Bookshelf 1770 following a fun launch a month before. Colourful characters and bookworms were out in force at the 1770 Marina, launching Spacey and GoAnna to the world.
The Bookshelf 1770’s Nicola Deeney (pictured below) said sales of Spacey and Go-Anna had been positive since the launch on November 8.
The book is on sale now at The Bookshelf 1770 upstairs at the Marina. Rob Black
Christmas Lights Competition is Almost Here!
It’s nearly that time of year again when Agnes Water lights up and the whole community gets into the Christmas spirit. The Christmas Lights Competition is coming back for 2025, and we’re excited to see what everyone creates this year.
Registrations will officially open on the 1st of December - please use the QR code to register.
Every year, the town gets brighter, the displays get more creative, and families love getting out and about to check out all the amazing lights. Whether you
go all out or keep it classic, it’s a great way to bring some festive cheer to the community. We’re also looking for sponsors to help make the competition even better this year. If you’d like to support the event or find out what’s involved, please message us or call 0487 525 926 for sponsorship info.
For updates and to access the Christmas Lights Map, follow us on Facebook: Agnes Water Christmas Lights.
Get ready, Agnes Water - Christmas is coming and we can’t wait to see the town sparkle!
Protecting Our Local Treasures: Turtle Conservation Visit Inspires Students
Agnes Water State School’s Year 3 and 4 students became junior conservationists last week when the Agnes Water Conservation Group visited to share their passion and expertise about our local marine turtles. The session focused on the three iconic species that nest on our beaches — Loggerhead, Green, and Flatback turtles.
With nesting season already underway, the program aimed to empower students with practical knowledge about how they can protect these incredible animals right here in their own community. Students rotated through three engaging stations, each designed to build real-world understanding:
Turtle Track Detectives
Students learned how to recognise and compare the track patterns left by different turtle species as they crawl ashore to nest. They discovered how important this skill is for monitoring turtle numbers along our coastline.
Nesting Know-How
This station explored mother turtles’ nesting behaviour and why beaches need to remain dark, quiet and obstaclefree for hatchlings to safely reach the ocean.
Turtle Identification & Rescue
Students investigated how experts
identify turtle species and what to do if they ever come across a stranded or sick turtle: keep a safe distance, avoid touching the animal, and contact trained rescuers.
The students also learned about the biggest human-made challenges faced by turtles, including:
• Plastic pollution and fishing line entanglement
• Increased coastal lighting
• Vehicles and obstructions on beaches
• Disturbance of nesting areas
Together, they discussed simple everyday actions to reduce these threats — from putting rubbish in the right place to switching off unnecessary outdoor lighting during nesting season. To help spread the word beyond the school gates, students were invited to create eye-catching posters designed to encourage both locals and tourists to look after our beach-nesting turtles. These posters will be displayed around the school and community to remind everyone how they can help keep our shores safe for the turtles who depend
on them.
The visit concluded with an enthusiastic question time, where students showed off their newfound knowledge and curiosity about the lives of turtles — from how many eggs they lay to how far they travel through the ocean.
Teachers and conservation volunteers were thrilled with the engagement shown throughout the day. “Agnes Water’s beaches are special, and our students understand they play a part in protecting the turtles that rely on them,” said one of the Year 4 teachers. A huge thank you goes to the wonderful volunteer presenters — Natalie, Anne and Kat — from the Agnes Water Conservation Group. Their time, dedication and shared knowledge made this experience both memorable and meaningful for every student involved. Thanks to this ongoing partnership, our young learners are stepping up as guardians of our environment — making sure our treasured turtles continue to return to nest for generations to come.
By Mrs Phillipa Hahn
Year 4 Teacher
Agnes Water State School
Blues With Horns: The Honey Badgers Hit Hard at Agnes Blues Fest 2026
Get ready for world-class blues grooves with horns when South Australian 6-piece The Honey Badgers fire up the Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival for the very first time in February 2026. The Honey Badgers are a powerhouse blues/soul/funk band from Adelaide. Driven by a hard-hitting horn section and irresistible grooves, their music is built to move you and make you feel good. Tunes rooted in the blues, with horns! In 2023, The Honey Badgers reached the top six of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best. Their debut album, Shakin’ — which peaked at #1 on the ABARAC charts — captured their journey from South Australia’s southern vales favourites to an international stage. Recorded over three years, this record carries the spirit of Memphis, where The Honey Badgers played on the hallowed ground of Stax Records, Sun Studios, and Beale Street.
Progressing all the way to the Grand Finale at the Memphis Orpheum Theatre, The Honey Badgers became only the second Australian band ever to achieve this milestone — joining Melbourne legends Collard Greens & Gravy. (In 2025, Melbourne act Nardia also reached the finals.)
Over the years, The Honey Badgers
have shared stages with some of Australia’s finest blues artists, including Frank Sultana, Nathan Beretta, Dan Sullivan, Ben Wicks, Adrian “Red” Herbert, and Chris Finnen.
This year is one of their biggest yet — with a new live album released in March 2025 and a highly anticipated second studio album coming later this year, The Honey Badgers are keeping the music rolling and the grooves tight, bringing Adelaide blues to the world. Brace yourself for the power and irresistible
blues grooves of The Honey Badgers on the #AgnesBluesFest Marquee Stage from 7.30-9pm Saturday night, 21 February 2026. You can’t afford to miss their world-class soulful style and feel-good ensemble sound – with horns. https://thehoneybadgers.net/
Limited Agnes Blues Festival 2026 tickets are currently available at $179pp only until 31 November 2025. Now is the best time to make the most of these discounted prices via: www. agnesbluesandroots.com.au/tickets
The Head and the Heart in Agnes Water
Could our emotions be responsible for either rejuvenation or ageing?
If you’ve lived in Agnes Water long enough, you’ve probably noticed two things:
We have more retirees than seagulls at the servo on chip night, and everyone here looks suspiciously younger than their age.
Now, while sea breeze and morning swims certainly help, science says there’s something deeper going on — something between the head and the heart.
Every minute, our subconscious mind is busy hosting an internal radio talk show: the heart says one thing, the brain replies, and depending on the tone,
our body releases either rejuvenating chemicals… or ageing ones
Here’s the gist:
Anger, frustration and worry? Your heart sends “chaos signals” upstairs, triggering stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Great if you’re being chased by a wild animal. Less great if you’re only trying to find a park at the Agnes markets.
And the list of what happens next is impressive — and not in a good way:
Heart rate spikes
Digestion shuts down
Blood vessels clamp up
Blood pressure climbs
Blood sugar jumps
You sweat (even when it’s already humid enough) and all this speeds up the ageing process.
In true survival mode, the body diverts resources to the muscles and away from rejuvenation, growth, and immunity.
The real issue? In modern life, most people live in this state all the time — even in a chill place like Agnes.
But here’s the good news for all of us beach-walkers and coffee-sippers: You can flip the switch from stressed to serene in under three minutes. And yes, science backs this.
Biologist Bruce Lipton reminds us in The Biology of Belief that the quality of our emotions literally instructs the heart on what message to send to the brain.
Meanwhile, the Institute of HeartMath
found that with simple techniques, cortisol can drop by 23%, while DHEA — a key longevity hormone — can increase by 100%. That’s a rejuvenation jackpot.
The Two-Step Agnes Water AntiAgeing Technique
Step 1: Heart & Breath
Shift your attention to your heart. Breathe slowly, as if the breath is flowing in and out of your chest. This instantly calms the nervous system — perfect before a big day, during overwhelm, or after wrestling a mozzie invasion.
Step 2: Generate a Positive Feeling
Think of someone or something that fills you with appreciation — the 1770 sunset, your favourite fishing spot, or a beloved friend.
Let that warm feeling expand. In this moment, your heart and brain are in harmony, producing dopamine, boosting immunity, and supporting rejuvenation.
Do this often and your body begins choosing “grow and heal” instead of “fight or flight.” Your cells literally receive different instructions.
Try it anywhere, anytime. Your heart will thank you. Your brain will thank you. And your mirror might thank you the most.
Edua Potor – Ageless Healer & Longevity Coach
Live Younger, Longer
Discovery Coast Rotary: Awards, Workshops & Exchange Students
Discovery Coast Rotary was pleased to again support our Bevan Larsen Community Service Awards and Bursaries, both at Rosedale State High and Discovery Christian College. Pam Mackie and Karen Kankkunen attended the Discovery Christian College Awards Night on Monday, 17th November. We awarded Georgina Smith with her Community Service Award and Bursary. She was a very worthy recipient.
Make and Mend Vocational evening
We also had a terrific Vocational visit to an interesting business in town called Make and Mend. It is a great local coop for community creativity and was fantastic. Carol and Monica shared their business model with the group, and Monica’s Mussaman was so delicious. They display local handmade products, gifts, arts, sewing alterations and repairs and a workshop space. It serves as a
community networking hub for artisans, fostering collaboration, creativity and connection. We enjoyed our visit immensely.
visit from our
Our Spanish Exchange student, Carlota, is successfully making her own connections with friends and activities. She is enjoying learning to surf through a school program. She attended the Discovery Christian College Vanuatu trip in the September school holidays, and loved the experience in the schools and villages there. She had an opportunity to meet up with her fellow Rotary Youth Exchange friends at a camp up in Cairns
in October.
If you want to know more about Rotary and how to connect with us as a friend or potential member, please emaildiscoverycoastrotary@gmail.com Or pop into our tent at Discovery Coast Rotary Markets.
Discovery Coast Rotary
Agnes Water Air Services Brings Aviation Dreams to Life
Founded in 2024 by local entrepreneur Lorenzo enedetto, Agnes Water Air Services is a unique business offering trial flights, pilot licenses, and flight reviews, making the dream of flying accessible to everyone no experience required. What sets Agnes Water Air Services apart is its deep connection to the
Discovery Coast community
Lorenzo, a local to the region and owner of a surf school and hotel, started the business out of a passion for sharing the thrill of aviation and his love for the Discovery Coast. “I love to share my love for aviation with others,” Lorenzo says, “Everyone loves the view - no one can believe it's possible to fly! If you're looking for a
Discovery Coast Tourism & Commerce Member Spotlight
safe, affordable and unforgettable adventure, Agnes Water Air Services is the only business of its kind in the Discovery Coast region.”
The business offers a range of flight experiences, from sunrise adventures to golden sunset escapes, all in their iconic yellow single-engine plane
Each lesson is hands-on, guided by expert local pilots who know all the best sights and can give you a personalised tour of our natural wonders Trial flights start from 0 minutes, with you flying for around 20 minutes Every participant receives a full safety briefing before take-off. Lorenzo and his team encourage locals and visitors to bring their sense of adventure and a camera, and get ready to see Agnes Water from a whole new perspective
A
past exchange student from France, Robin Ayrault, with his Mum, Dad and sister. Robin attended Rosedale State High School during 2022-23.
Carlota at Yvonne Thompson’s wildlife rescue
Welcome SWALLOWS
BY JODIE RICHARDS
Welcome Swallows are a common sight locally and, at this time of year, often choose verandas, garages, eaves and sheds as nesting sites. Over the last few months, nests have been active at FoodWorks (image right), the bottle shop at Endeavour Plaza and even in an umbrella at La Caravana.
Their federally protected cup-shaped mud nests can create a surprising amount of jetsam beneath them, but a cardboard or newspaper litter tray placed underneath will contain it, and the small inconvenience is far outweighed by the opportunity to watch their full breeding cycle up close.
Both parents build a nest over a 5–10 day period, returning repeatedly with small mud pellets mixed with grass. Once complete, the female lays 3–4 eggs and incubates them for 2–3 weeks.
The hatchlings begin as tiny, downy chicks with closed eyes and a large, bright red, V-shaped mouth to help them beg for food. They spend about 3 weeks in the nest, growing rapidly and developing sleek, pointed wings before confidently taking their first flights.
For children, watching this transformation day by day can be a powerful lesson in patience, gentleness and respect for wildlife.
Getting the Best Out of Your WiFi
These days, most of us rely on WiFi for almost everything; streaming our favourite shows, browsing the web, shopping online, paying bills, working from home, or chatting with family and friends. When the WiFi slows down or cuts out, it can bring everything to a standstill. The good news is, with a few simple steps, you can help your network run faster, more reliably, and with fewer interruptions. Here are some smart (and easy!) tips to get the best out of your WiFi setup at home.
1. Upgrade Your Equipment
If your modem or router is more than a few years old, it might not be keeping up with today’s internet speeds. Newer models are built to handle more devices and faster connections. Investing in up-to-date equipment can make a big difference to your WiFi performance.
2. Give Priority to What Matters Most
If you’re working from home, streaming
movies, or on a video call, you want those activities to run smoothly. Many modern routers let you give priority to certain devices or types of use (like video calls) so they don’t get interrupted when others are browsing or downloading files.
3. Separate Your Networks
If you have lots of gadgets connected at once - phones, TVs, laptops, smart speakers - it can slow things down. Creating a separate WiFi network for guests or smart home devices can help reduce congestion and make your main network faster and more secure.
4. Spread the Load
If you have several people using the internet at the same time, try to spread out big downloads, updates, or uploads so they don’t all happen at once. This helps keep everyone’s connection running smoothly, especially during busy times.
So, welcome any swallows that choose to nest at your home or workplace, and enjoy the benefits of their voracious appetite for midges as you watch them fledge into adulthood.
5. Check Your Setup Regularly
Just like your car, your WiFi setup needs a little maintenance now and then. Restart your router occasionally, make sure it’s placed in a central spot (not hidden behind furniture), and check that it’s running the latest software updates.
6. Stay Protected from Online Threats
Sometimes slow internet can be caused by unwanted visitors like viruses or hackers. Keep your devices protected with good security software and only connect to networks you trust.
7. Have a Backup Plan
If you rely on the internet for work or study, it’s worth having a backup option. This could be a mobile hotspot on your phone or even a second connection from another provider, so you can stay online if your main WiFi goes down.
If you need any advice, don’t hesitate to give IT Guardian a call on 4974 1770.
Discovery Coast Sport and Rec Association -
Sensational Summer Celebrations
Come and enjoy some summer holiday sensations at our next social night - Friday, December 5! Down at Sport and Rec the sensations will be summery. Live local music! Flavoursome food! Awesome atmosphere! Fun and friendship!
We had a great night for Halloween with lots of new faces, including many young families. We hope that they will come back for more fun, celebrating the beginning of summer and the leadup to Christmas. We have lined up some live entertainment for the kids before local musician, Greg Dore and friends start playing about 6. There will be a free sausage sizzle for the littlies too. The last members draw for the year – you have to be there to win. Come along for the food and fun and discover some new friends!
And there’s plenty more to do down at the grounds in the meantime. You can connect with the Flying Arrow Archers on Sunday morning or check out the enthusiasm on the netball court during the week. They play on Wednesday afternoons and are aiming to form a club and join the Bundaberg Netball Association next year. Take a walk around the waterways out the back or get even more physical on the exercise
stations or tennis courts. There’s something for everyone and who knows – you may even meet a new friend or two.
Discovery Coast Sport and Rec is your community facility – make the connection!
Trish Heap - Volunteer Secretary
Stephen Bennett: Column of Updates Across Our Region
Exciting expansions are on the horizon for Discovery Christian College, thanks to a $3.5 million funding boost from the Crisafulli Government. The State Capital Assistance Scheme will support the construction of seven new learning spaces, including a bespoke science precinct, to keep pace with enrolments that have surged nearly 450% since 2019. The new facilities will provide dedicated science laboratories, preparatory rooms, general learning areas, a visual arts room, and outdoor spaces, along with furniture, equipment, solar panels, and car park improvements. Students will benefit from hands-on learning opportunities in marine science, aquatics, and environmental studies, connecting classroom learning to real-world pathways.
With the warm weather returning, it’s a great time to acknowledge our Surf Life Saving Queensland volunteers who work tirelessly to keep our coastline safe. Over the past year, more than 5,000 preventative actions and 470 first aid treatments were recorded across the Wide Bay and Capricorn region. Our Surf Life Saving Club plays a vital role, not only in patrolling the beach but in supporting local families, training young people, and contributing to the heart of the community. To all our surf lifesavers,
$3.5M
thank you for your dedication and service. As always, please remember to swim between the red and yellow flags and follow the guidance of our lifesaving teams when enjoying our beautiful coastline.
The Crisafulli Government is providing cost relief for irrigators with a 15% discount on water, targeted at owneroperated businesses earning primary production income. Almost $51 million will be invested over the next two years to lock in prices and provide certainty for Queensland’s primary industries. Administered by QRIDA, the rebate cuts red tape and helps producers reduce expenses. By making irrigation costs more sustainable and practical, this initiative supports farming families and strengthens regional economies. Applications are open until 31 December 2027 via the QRIDA website.
As storm season approaches in our region, it’s important to remember that severe storms can bring heavy rain, flash flooding, damaging winds and hail, often with little warning. Get Ready Queensland advises that the best way to protect your family and home is to know your risk, make a household emergency plan, and assemble an emergency kit with essentials before a weather event occurs. Simple but vital steps like
trimming tree branches near your home, ensuring gutters are clear, and locating a safe shelter spot indoors or out of the weather can make a big difference. By preparing now, we can be safer and more resilient when the next storm rolls in.
In closing, I would like to remind you all that my doors are always open. If I can be of assistance please don’t hesitate to give my office a call on 4111 5100 or email burnett@parliament.qld.gov.au
Boost to Expand Discovery Christian College
Expansions are on the horizon for Discovery Christian College thanks to a $3.5 million funding boost from the Crisafulli Government.
The State Capital Assistance Scheme will support the construction of seven additional learning spaces, including the development of a bespoke science precinct.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the expansion couldn’t come soon enough, with the school already bursting at its seams.
“Discovery Christian College has grown by almost 450 percent since 2019 so it’s needless to say, they’re in desperate need of some more space,” Mr Bennett said. “This is a fantastic investment in the future of our community. Families right across the region know the value of a quality local education, and this funding will help ensure students can learn, explore and thrive in modern, purpose-built facilities. Creating dedicated science learning spaces, including labs and preparatory rooms, opens up incredible opportunities for students. We’re talking about hands-on learning that prepares young people for real career pathways, especially in areas like marine science, aquatics and environmental studies. With enrolments booming and our region continuing to
grow, this investment ensures Discovery Christian College can keep pace and continue delivering exceptional outcomes for local families.”
The State funding will support the construction of two science laboratories, a science preparatory room, four general learning areas, a visual arts room, storage, amenities, an outdoor covered area, lift, as well as furniture, equipment, siteworks, car park allowance, solar panels and professional fees.
Discovery Christian College Principal
Josh Counsel said the support was transformative for the school.
“We are deeply thankful for the generosity of the Minister and his team in securing this funding. For a small school like ours, the support of the State Capital Assistance Scheme allows us to continue to grow our facilities to support the aspirations and needs of our students,” Mr Counsel said. “This funding will support the construction of seven additional learning spaces, including the construction of a bespoke science precinct, something which will allow our students to connect learning to real-life opportunities through an expanded Marine Science and Aquatics program. Enrolments at the College are increasing exponentially. Since the end of 2019, the College has grown by almost 450 percent, from 73 students to 400 as at the start of the 2026 school year. We anticipate this growth will continue as our region expands. It is a remarkable story and one that we are incredibly proud of. We have been planning this project for the past four years and are excited by the opportunities it presents to expand and diversify our subject offerings for our students moving forward.”
Stephen Bennett Member for Burnett
Cracking Down on Rogue Tobacco and Vape Traders
The Crisafulli Government’s strengthened, nation-leading laws to dismantle Queensland’s illicit tobacco and vape trade have officially passed Parliament, delivering a safer future for communities across the Wide Bay.
The Tobacco and Other Smoking
Products (Dismantling Illegal Trade) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 significantly expands Queensland Health’s enforcement powers, allowing officers to seize stock, shut down illegal operators, and target landlords who knowingly facilitate this criminal activity.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the Crisafulli Government has cracked down on rogue traders harder than any government before or elsewhere in Australia.
“In our first full year in office across the Wide Bay region, officers seized 6.8
Stephen Bennett MP Member for Burnett
million illicit cigarettes, 1,193 kilograms of loose tobacco, 44,650 illicit vapes, and 31,349 nicotine pouches,” said Mr Bennett. “That is a staggering amount of illegal product that was headed straight for our communities. “We can expect these numbers to increase; the new laws will allow Queensland Health to be even tougher on the criminal syndicates behind the illegal trade. It will mean longer shutdowns, greater seizure powers, and the ability for officers to run undercover operations. If you’re running an illegal tobacco or vape business, your time is up.”
Under the Crisafulli Government's strengthened nation-leading laws:
• Queensland Health can shut down illegal businesses for three months (up from three days) without having to go through lengthy court processes.
• Queensland Health can now seize all lawful smoking products found
at illegal stores that are ‘tainted’ by being supplied or stored alongside illicit tobacco and vapes, including confectionary, food and other goods. This includes nitrous oxide bulbs and canisters, known as 'nangs'.
• Queensland Health officers can now conduct undercover operations at illicit tobacco and vape stores.
• Landlords have new powers to terminate leases when they are notified their tenant is an illegal operator.
• It is now a criminal offence for commercial landlords to knowingly permit illegal tobacco or activity, with a maximum penalty of a $166,900 fine and 12 months in jail.
• Since the Election when Queenslanders voted for a fresh start, the Crisafulli Government has seized more than (Queensland wide):
• 57 million illicit cigarettes
• 7.7 tonnes of loose tobacco
• 475,000 illicit vapes
• 405,000 nicotine pouches.
Mr Bennett said Wide Bay enforcement officers have been working tirelessly. “Locally, 157 penalty infringement notices have already been issued in Wide Bay - that includes 54 for illicit tobacco supply, 9 for illicit nicotine supply, and more than 90 for possession offences between 1 November 2024 – 31 October 2025,” he said. “This is exactly the kind of tough, practical action the community voted for. We are restoring safety where you live and giving parents peace of mind, just like we promised.”
Stephen Bennett Member for Burnett
Telecommunication Issues Continue to Get Worse
An elderly lady frantically trying to ring triple zero as their neighbour has had a heart attack, but they can’t get through to emergency services.
A Mum frustrated as she is unable to pay her household’s quarterly electricity bill as the two-factor authentication text isn’t coming through from the bank.
A worried Dad drives 40 minutes down the road to be able to call the local GP’s practice to book an appointment for his sick daughter.
A community furious as they are unable to make calls or texts for weeks over Christmas as their local mobile tower is down from recent rain.
An exhausted small business owner places a cash only sign on the front door of their shop as the EFTPOS machine has been dropping out all week.
This is the reality of telecommunications in rural and regional Australia and in the electorate of Flynn.
I recently supported the Member for Mallee’s motion in Federal Parliament that noted the following:
• The 3G telecommunications network was switched off on the Government’s watch in 2024;
• The interim report of the Senate inquiry into the shutdown made clear recommendations about the impending shutdown, recommending that the Government delay the shutdown until it was satisfied that ‘the 4G network provides coverage equivalent to or better than the coverage provided by the licensee’s 3G network’;
• The Government relied on the assurances of commercial operators to ensure equivalent mobile coverage after the shutdown but despite promises, regional Australians have been detrimentally affected and thousands of consumers have been left with worse, or no, coverage at all; Furthermore, there have been reports of poor handling of consumer complaints about their loss of service post 3G shutdown; and
• The Government has failed to take
responsibility for the fallout of the 3G shutdown in regional Australia, and its response to the final report by the Senate into the shutdown was again lazy and noncommittal, failing to agree to any new actions; and
Calls upon the Minister for Communications to take responsibility for the botched 3G shutdown and its impact on the connectivity of regional Australians by:
• Providing transparency regarding the crowdsourcing component of the National Audit of Mobile Coverage and expanding it to include off-road areas (including on private land such as farming and grazing properties) to ensure an accurate picture of the impact of the shutdown on mobile coverage is attained and;-
• thoroughly addressing the first recommendation of the final Senate inquiry report to ‘establish a program to help customers that have lost mobile phone coverage since the 3G shutoff’.
Telecommunications have gotten that bad that my three-and-a-half-hour commute from my home in Taroom to my electorate office in Gladstone takes six hours as I have to pull over every time a call comes through from a constituent.
Not having a dependable phone service is undoubtedly isolating for individuals, stifling for business and potentially dangerous in any emergency.
Landline telephones are often the only form of communication between one station and its neighbours and the outside world and these are in disrepair and can take weeks, sometimes months to fix when things go wrong.
In rural areas, people are significant distances from service centres, and even further from regional towns and the need for reliable phone coverage is paramount and even more essential than in the cities. With banks and other essential services pushing for online over face-to-face assistance and closing branches in the regions, there needs to be wider spread phone coverage instead of reductions.
It is simply unthinkable that those in rural and regional areas are to be left with no communication capabilities or be ransomed at extortionate prices to gain access. It is quite clear to me that in regard to the big Telco’s, the communications issue is one of economics rather than service delivery. I would argue that because of the enormous progression of technology and cost Telco’s are not interested in providing communications to communities where there is little or no economic benefit for them.
This is why all service obligations should be reviewed to provide better communication outcomes, particularly for isolated communities.
I invite the Minister for Communications, the CEO of Telstra and Optus to the Flynn electorate to see how dire this issue really is.
They need to speak to our regional communities and understand the impacts this 3G shutdown is having and how telecommunications continue to get worse, not better.
Colin Boyce Member For Flynn
Phone: (07) 4970 0700
For urgent matters: call anytime, day or night. After-hours calls are redirected to our Emergency Call Centre. Non-urgent: Call during opening hours
Opening Hrs: 8.30am - 5pm Mon to Fri 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”
Agnes Water Christmas Lights agneswaterchristmaslights@gmail.com
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. Corinne 4974 9129
Agnes Water Active Riders: Bronwyn 0448 938 493
Agnes Water and Surrounds Dementia Support Group: 10am-12pm on the last Thursday of the month, 200 Bicentennial Dve. Contact: Brett on 4902 2000
Agnes Water Men’s Shed: Dennis 0400 831 693
Agnes Water Men's Circle: Around the fire. Every second Wednesday 6.30pm at Agnes Water Sports and Rec Centre
by Colin Boyce MP, LNP, 76 Goondoon Street, Gladstone QLD 4680.
Sam 0403 814 016
AW/1770 Little Athletics: Anna 0431 099 479. awla1770@gmail.com
AW/1770 RSL: Secretary 0499 075 741
Friday 9.15am Bingo at the Tavern, Friday night 5.30pm meat trays & 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 200 Bicentenial Drive
Bororen ‘Little Joey’s Playgroup: 49744124 Brekky Club – 1st Mon of the month meets at Latinos! 8am
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
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 Music & Arts Inc Info@DCMA.org.au
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
each month. 10:00am to 12:00pm, (Old Hall)) Contact: 0437 233 799.
Discovery Vibes choir and marimba in Seventeen Seventy by Helga Bateman 0418752558
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.
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. 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 ph: 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. Monday - Friday - 0427 319 978
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
Alcoholics Anonymous AA 6.30pm Tuesday, 6.30pm Friday Old Community Hall, Springs Rd, 1300 22 22 22
Lifeline: Call 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Queensland Health: 13 Health Out Back Minds support@outbackmind.com.au
Little Free Pantry - Donations of nonperishable 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
Email editor@thecoastalrag.com.au to update any of the above community groups free listing.
Discovery Coast Rotary
Meeting at 6pm for 6.30 start. Every 2nd & 4th Friday of the month at Sandcastle, Agnes Water New members most welcome! You can also be a part of a great team, working together to help benefit our community
Email: discoverycoastrotary@gmail.com
(Andrew Bushby)
NEEDING THEIR FOREVER HOME
�� Looking for a Loving Retirement Home for Stitch ��
It breaks our hearts to say this, but our beautiful 10-year- old Staffy X boy, Stitch, is looking for a new forever home
He came to us on trial, but sadly, our other male dog has not accepted him, and it’s clear that he deserves a peaceful space to truly thrive
Stitch is the definition of a gentle soul — kind, placid, and endlessly patient. He’s wonderful with children and completely unfazed by livestock, horses and chickens. He’s happiest lounging in the sun, soaking up cuddles and quietly keeping you company
Stitch would be the perfect companion for couple or individual seeking devoted attention and unconditional love
He’s low-maintenance, affectionate, and just wants to be near
If you or someone you know can offer Stitch the calm, loving home he deserves, please reach out Let’s find this sweet boy the peaceful retirement he’s earned �� �� Located in Agnes Water Contact No# 0491 652 799 - microchip no#943094320458180
Christmas Ball @ Drift & Wood 6 December 2025
Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival 20-22 February 2026 Agnes Water Longboard Classic 24-29 Mar
A New Loving Home For Nulla
Personal circumstances prevent me from giving Nulla the attention she deserves alongside my two other large dogs. Marema Female, unspeyed 13 months old Vaccinated
Microchip #953 010 006 875 078
Please call 0437 146 131
FOR SALE PLACE AN AD FROM JUST $7
LOCAL 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 Swap Tuesdays fortnightly. 10am12pm. 111 Murphy Rd, Captain Creek.
Koorawatha Homestead Farmer's Market 7am - noon 13 December 2025
Captain Creek Markets Every 3rd Saturday of the month. From 2pm till Sunset. Music continues till late. 111 Murphy Rd, Captain Creek
Golf: November Competition Highlights
Thursday 13 November was an Individual Stroke competition won by Drew Clarke with a net 65, followed by Paul Cassell second with a net 67 and Tony Anderson third with a net 68. Rohan Sheppard won the mens longest drive and Sue Hughes the ladies. Jay Bills scored a Hole-In-One on hole 12!!!!! This was Jay’s second Hole-In-One on this course. Jay also won the pin shot on hole 4, Chris Wilkinson hole 5 and Rohan Sheppard hole 6.
The Chook Run on Friday 14 November was won by Ryan Watson with a net 25 ½, Jon Myers came in second with a net 26 and Patrick Ryan placed third with a net 27 ½. Ashley Newstead and Paul Rodi both scored a 37 on the front 9 for best gross score of the day. Ryan Watson won the pin shot on hole 3, Brendan Murnane hole 4, Neale Dent hole 5 and Tim McIntosh hole 8.
Saturday 15 November was an Individual Stableford competition won by Jo-Anne Lawrence with 42 points,
followed by Drew Clarke second with 41 points and Lloyd Holley placed third with 38 points on a count back from Leigh Keleher fourth. John McLean won the pin shots on holes 3 & 5, Ben Tinker hole 4 and Drew Clarke hole 6. Shawn Horley won the mens longest drive and Jo-Anne Lawrence the ladies.
Thursday 20 November was a 4BBB Stroke competition won by the team of Arnie Gautsch & Steve Black with a net 58 on a count back from runners up Rohan Sheppard & Chris Delaney. Chris Delaney won the pin shot on hole 3, Jay Bills hole 4, Malcolm Barnes hole 5 and Jeff Steed hole 6. Tania Dickson won the ladies longest drive and Shawn Horley the mens.
Friday 21 November Chook Run was won by Craig Macnamara and Neil Baxter both scoring a net 28 ½, Matt Eales came in second with a net 29 and Dave Campbell placed third with a net 29 ½. Tim McIntosh & Paul Rodi both scored a 40 on the back 9 for best gross
score of the day. Gary Pritchard won the pin shots on holes 12 & 13, Paul Rodi ho le 14 and Julian Eberhard hole 17 with an Eagle shot! Shawn Horley & Ashley Newstead tied the putting competition both scoring 28 points.
Saturday 22 November was an Individual Stableford competition won by Vic Glass with 40 points on a count back from Shawn Horley second and Paul Rodi placed third with 37 points. Gary Pengelly won the pin shot on hole 3, Andrew Bastin hole 4, Chris Delaney hole 5 and Paul Rodi hole 6. Tania Dickson won the ladies longest drive and Brett Newstead the mens.
Jo-Anne Lawrence
Town of 1770 Golf Course & Driving Range
Agnes Water Active Riders Host Successful Sporting and Obstacles Day at Warndurala - Taunton
The Agnes Water Active Riders held a highly successful Sporting and Obstacles Day over the weekend, welcoming riders of all ages and experience levels to the beautiful Warndurala property, owned by Ion and Donalee Heseltine. The hosts generously opened their grounds for the event, providing a stunning and welcoming setting for a full day of friendly competition, horsemanship and community spirit.
The program featured a range of classic sporting events including Bounce Pony, Cups, Western Bend, Snakes and Ladders and Obstacles. Riders competed across four age divisions: Under 12, 12+, 18+, and 50+, with strong participation and sportsmanship throughout.
Event Results:
Bounce Pony
Under 12: 1st Soph, 2nd Bella
12+: 1st Izzy, 2nd Montanna, 3rd Cindy
18+: 1st Betty, 2nd Lisa
50+: 1st Dawn, 2nd Ion, 3rd Julie
Cups
Under 12: 1st Sophie, 2nd Bella
12+: 1st Izzy, 2nd Cindy, 3rd Montanna
18+: 1st Betty, 2nd Lisa, 3rd Teika
50+: 1st Ion, 2nd Bronwyn, 3rd Dawn
Western Bend
Under 12: 1st Sophie, 2nd Bella
12+: 1st Montanna, 2nd Izzy
18+: 1st Lisa, 2nd Betty
50+: 1st Bronwyn, 2nd Dawn, 3rd Ion Snakes and Ladders
Under 12: 1st Sophie, 2nd Bella
12+: 1st Montanna, 2nd Izzy, 3rd Cindy
18+: 1st Betty, 2nd Lisa
50+: 1st Bronwyn, 2nd Dawn, 3rd Julie
Obstacles
Under 12: 1st Sophie
12+: 1st Cindy, 2nd Izzy, 3rd Montanna
18+: 1st Lisa, 2nd Betty, 3rd Teika
50+: 1st Bronwyn, 2nd Dawn, 3rd Donna
Overall Champions
The top point-scorers of the day were:
Under 12: Sophie
12+: Izzy
18+: Betty
50+: Bronwyn
As the main program wrapped up, riders and spectators enjoyed a series of novelty games followed by an exciting round of barrels. Several members stayed on to camp overnight, taking the opportunity the next morning for a picturesque trail ride, rounding out what participants described as a “perfect weekend.”
The Agnes Water Active Riders thanks everyone who supported and attended the event, and extended special appreciation to the Heseltine family for their hospitality and ongoing support of the riding community.
Agnes Water Active Riders Izzy and Merridy Obstacles Challenge
Sophie and Boston
Discovery Stage Returns To Rock At Agnes Blues Fest
The Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival 2026 is doubling the fun this summer, bringing back the fan-favourite Discovery Stage alongside the main Marquee Stage from 20 – 22 February 2026 at the SES Grounds, Seventeen Seventy.
Two stages, nearly 40 artists and four workshops across three epic days makes for one sizzling summer experience in paradise.
Now in its sixth year, the Discovery Stage has become a cornerstone of the festival experience — a relaxed, up-close platform where original music and emerging talent shine. With 17 additional artists, two intimate workshops, and an authentic coastal vibe, the Discovery Stage adds even more depth and diversity to Queensland’s ultimate live-music weekend.
This year’s line-up brings together a vibrant mix of artists from right across Australia and beyond — from Adelaide (SA) to Port Douglas (QLD), Sydney (NSW) to Melbourne (VIC), and as far afield as Auckland (NZ) and the UK. The 2026 program also showcases strong Queensland representation, with acts from Gladstone, Bundaberg, the Sunshine Coast, Thulimbah, Maleny, Wide Bay, Mundubbera, Agnes Water, and Brisbane. Festival organisers say this geographic spread reflects how far the event’s reputation has grown — from a local community gathering into a nationally recognised live music destination.
“The Discovery Stage has grown so much in the past six years under a dedicated festival team,” said long-time stage manager Ken Chynoweth-Tidy. “It’s now a vibrant showcase of original music that gives emerging artists the chance to develop their profiles and connect with new audiences. It’s been such a joy to see past Discovery performers step up to the main stage — that’s what makes this festival special.”
TWO STAGES, DOUBLE THE SOUND
The Discovery Stage kicks off from 4:15 pm Friday 20 February 2026, opening with vibrant Monto singer-songwriter Blake Benecke, followed by Country Stars 2025 finalist Damien J. Johns, soulful Stu Harcourt in a special warmup performance, and world-rhythm favourite Hayden Hack, bringing irresistible grooves through to 8:00 pm.
Saturday 21 February brings a dynamic line-up from 10:15 am, featuring folky Brisbane artist Paco Wolfe, travelling troubadour Maddi O’Brien, soulful Sunshine Coast songwriter Katie Milae, the Gladstone Region’s rising star Mackenzie May, and blues-roots fusion artist Tom Harrison. The night closes with powerhouse duo LiNi, featuring Marquee Stage artist Olivia Jeffery (Olivia Ruth) and bandmate Tim Weire.
Sunday 22 February rounds out the festival with family trio Stix & Stringz, Wide Bay songbird Vette English, blues-rock-folk fusion artist Palumbo, local favourite Russell Grey Bishop, and acclaimed NSW guitarist Corey Legge, performing until 3:30 pm.
“There’s something magical about this festival — it’s intimate, it’s coastal, and it’s powered by locals who genuinely
love live music,” said Festival President Amber Rodgers. “Every corner of the site will be buzzing — from the stages and workshops to the markets and bars — as the region comes alive with rhythm and energy. It’s three incredible days of music, sun and soul in paradise — the weekend we all wait for.”
CONNECT, LEARN & JAM
Two free morning workshops hosted by multi-instrumentalist Craig Atkins and blues journeyman Somerset Barnard will run from 9:00–10:00 am Saturday and Sunday. Ticketholders can grab a coffee, join in, and learn new skills directly from these inspiring artists in a relaxed, interactive setting — one of the many experiences that make #AgnesBluesFest unique.
DISCOVER THE STORY BEHIND THE STAGE
Introduced in 2020 as a second performance space run entirely by volunteers, the Discovery Stage was created to empower grassroots performers and celebrate original music. Supported initially by the Agnes Water Tavern, it has grown into a thriving platform where new artists gain exposure, mentorship, and confidence performing live.
Past Discovery performers — including Kate Mahood, Raining Roses, Murphy Road, and Craig Atkins — have gone on to grace the festival’s main Marquee Stage and major venues across Australia.
“The Discovery Stage has allowed me a supportive space to share my original music with other artists and attentive audiences,” said Sophie-Rose Raymond (Raining Roses). “It brings together like-minded people and inspires collaboration — it’s an incredible launchpad for regional artists.”
MUSIC, COMMUNITY & COASTAL VIBE
The Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival is staged on the SES Grounds, Seventeen Seventy, just a short stroll from the beach. With licensed bars, gourmet food trucks, and artisan markets, it’s an all-weather event with plenty of shade, dancing space, and a true community heartbeat.
Run by Discovery Coast Tourism &
Commerce Inc., the festival reinvests profits into local causes including the Lions Club, SES volunteers, and environmental initiatives led by the Discovery Coast Environment Group.
In 2025, independent research estimated more than $790,000 in direct economic benefit to the Gladstone Region — cementing the event’s status as a major visitation driver in Queensland’s summer calendar and supporting local jobs and businesses. BEAT THE PRICE RISE — TICKETS $179 UNTIL 30 NOVEMBER 2025
Discounted 3-day festival passes are $179 per person until midnight 30 November 2025
Book now: https://www. agnesbluesandroots.com.au/tickets SUPPORTED BY QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT & GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL
The Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival is proudly supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland and features on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar, with additional support from the Gladstone Regional Council’s Community Celebration Fund.
ABOUT AGNES BLUES, ROOTS & ROCK FESTIVAL
Rocking out since 2008, the Agnes Blues, Roots & Rock Festival has become a signature event on Queensland’s coastal music map — uniting artists and audiences for three days of rhythm and community at the Southern Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
The 3-day Festival rocks out in one of the most stunning locations along Australia’s East Coast and is one of Queensland's premiere live music events. Live music, licensed bar and a variety of food vendors and markets to suit all tastes are highlights of this all-weather event with plenty of undercover space to chill out or dance your funky socks off. A shuttle bus and local taxi service is also available, so that attendees can travel easily and cheaply between their accommodation and the Festival and enjoy a few drinks throughout the weekend along with the
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.
