Your Local Lifestyle: November 2025

ADDING A BUZZ

The Apiary Architect, Peter Velenski, adding a buzz to bee

Green With Envy

This

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alan Lander

Matt Golinski

Andrea Taylor

Tony Wellington Erin Yarwood Hayley Saunders Margie Wegener Andy Flanagan

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PO Box 125, Cooroy Qld 4563

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Distributed in Noosa Hinterland & surrounding areas

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Y LL respectfully acknowledge the sacrifices of all who have gone before us who help to make our country great.

PROUD SPONSORS of: Cooroora United Football Club I Eumundi Writers Festival I Noosa Open Studios I Pink October I Pomona Cooran Cutters Rugby League Club SUPPORTING: Christmas in Cooroy I Cooroy Eumundi Cougars Cricket Club I Cooroy Food Pantry I Cooroy Lifeline I Cooroy Pomona Lions Club I CWA I Kenilworth Family Fun Day I Kin Kin Community House I Live Life Health Expo I Mary Valley Show & Rodeo I Meals on Wheels Pomona I NDSH School Musicals I Noosa & District Orchid & Foliage Society I Noosa Come Together I RSPCA I Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club Sailability I Pomona Community House I Scone Time I Tiny Mountains Film Festival I Wolvi Stomp I Yandina Street Fairr... and supporting our local markets.

small local business we have so much pride in being able to pay it forward, wherever and whenever you can please support our Advertisers - Janet, Lil & the Team @ YLL

GET ready for a night brimming with festive fun and community spirit as we celebrate the 21st Annual Christmas in Cooroy, on Friday, December 12.

Proudly presented by the Cooroy Chamber of Commerce and supported by the incredible generosity of our local businesses, this much-loved community celebration promises an unforgettable evening of family-friendly entertainment and Christmas cheer.

This year’s event is packed with excitement; from our animal farm and Miss Donna’s Christmas Show, to the fun and games of Sideshow Alley and, making its debut in 2025, a giant slide that everyone will love!

the festive atmosphere as local performers take to the Cooroy Memorial Hall stage with fantastic live entertainment.

The streets will be alive with food trucks serving delicious bites and local market stalls perfect for Christmas shopping. Many local businesses will also be open late, offering a wonderful variety of goods and services so keep an

trading hours throughout the evening.

Feeling lucky? Take your shot at winning a Christmas ham by grabbing a ticket for the famous ham wheel!

Returning once again is the much loved Float Parade, this year the theme is ‘Country Christmas’. Whether you’re entering your own float or cheering from the sidelines, expect a festive fusion of Aussie country charm and classic Christmas magic.

Plus, don’t miss the Santa Race, Decorated Bike Competition and the Possum Trail – fun for all ages!

Christmas in Cooroy wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of the community, sponsors and Noosa Council. A heartfelt thank you to the generous sponsors already on board: Bendigo Community Bank Cooroy, Cooroy Hotel, Hinternoosa, Sunny Coast Accountants, Cooroy Landscape Supplies & Garden Centre, Bold As Love Jewellery and Cooroy Memorial Hall.

There’s still time to get involved, sponsorship opportunities are available, offering local businesses a fantastic chance to be part of a wonderful community tradition and connect with thousands of attendees.

So what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars and bring the whole family for a night of Christmas magic at Christmas in Cooroy 2025!

BIG SHOUT OUT!

CONGRATULATIONS to Ron Sutton for his 50 years of dedication to the Cooroy-Pomona RSL Sub branch.

SWIMS FOR HIS DAD AND DEMENTIA Big Shout Out to Clinton who swam for his dad and swam his heart out.

BIG SHOUT OUT to Laguna Pest Control - for being selected as a Finalist in the Sustainable Business of the Year category for the 2025 Noosa Biosphere AwardsGood luck! SUPERFISH CLINTON

NEW FENCED DOG PARK

OPENS IN YANDINA

GET ready to say those magic words, ‘let’s go for a run!’ to your beloved pet and road-test our region’s newest fenced dog exercise area.

Sunshine Coast Council has just opened a brand-new fenced dog exercise area at Tea Tree Park, on the eastern side of Yandina, off Pioneer Road, giving pets –and their humans – a fresh reason to get active and social.

The new space features secure dog

healthy lifestyles for residents and their pets.

“Following community consultation and feedback, this new fenced dog off-leash area covers around 2000m2 - about the size of a traditional footy field,” Cr Law said.

“Our off-leash areas are more than just places to play – they’re hubs for social connection and wellbeing, for both dogs and their owners.

“I’m very excited to see the community enjoy this new facility.”

Cr Law said the location was chosen to minimise impact on existing open spaces while making the most of existing park infrastructure.

fencing, expansive turf for off-leash play and socialising, a concrete pathway, and park furniture including seating, a dog tap and doggy drink bowls – everything you need for a tail-wagging good time.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 10 Councillor David Law said the project was a direct response to community feedback and a great step toward supporting active,

In May 2023, Council invited the Yandina community to have their say on a preferred location for a dog exercise area.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with 95 per cent of participants supporting the idea.

Tea Tree Park now joins a growing network of 47 dog exercise areas across the Sunshine Coast, including 22 fenced parks, 14 unfenced areas, and 11 beach sections.

Within a 20-minute drive of Yandina, dog owners can also visit Quota Memorial Park in Nambour, Muller Park in Bli Bli, and Beach Access 67–72 in Coolum Beach. So, bring your pooches, pack the treats and head to Tea Tree Park – your dog will thank you!

2025 Walk Against Violence, as part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, 7 December 2025

Time: Gather from 8.30am; Guest speakers at 8.45am; Walk commences after

Location: Amphitheater at Lions Park, Gympie Terrace, Noosaville

Dress Code: Wear orange to stand in solidarity

This event brings together local residents, advocates, and leaders to raise awareness and inspire action to end violence against women and girls. With over 35% of women worldwide affected by gender-based violence, our community’s voice is vital.

Under New Ownership Fresh Faces, Trusted Service

MEET BRIAN AND MICHELLE — THE PROUD NEW OWNERS OF TYREPOWER COOROY!

“We’re excited to continue serving Cooroy and the surrounding areas with expert mechanical services, quality tyres, and 4x4 solutions. Drop in and say hello — we’d love to meet you!”

with Tony Wellington WILD ABOUT NOOSA

SOME hinterland residents are perhaps being driven spare by the monotonous ‘whoik-whoik-whoik’ call of the Wonga Pigeon. The one near our house has been calling for weeks. It’s possibly the most tedious call of all our native birds.

They were described and painted by the English ornithologist John Gould in 1848. Gould not only painted images of the birds he found, but he also felt compelled to try eating them. He declared the Wonga pigeon to be the tastiest of its family.

A recipe book first published in 1898, Mrs Hannah Maclurcan’s Cookery Book, contains a recipe for roast Wonga Pigeon. As one might imagine, Wonga Pigeons suffered considerable decline during the era of European settlement. Today, of course, like all native birds, they are fully protected.

Wonga Pigeons spend most of their time foraging on the ground. They sometimes make tracks by following the same path each time they visit a feeding site. What they’re hunting for are seeds and fruit of both native and introduced plants.

Wonga Pigeons are monogamous with pairs remaining hitched for life. Given this, it’s difficult to understand why they need to call for days on end.

Wonga Pigeons

Dr Lisha Pollocks MBBS, DCH, FRACGP works full-time at Cooroy Family Medical and is dedicated to genuine, longterm patient care. With 10 years’ experience in Dubai before moving to Australia in 2017, she now calls the Sunshine Coast home. Her special interests include children’s health, skin cancer medicine, women’s health, chronic disease management, pregnancy and menopause care.

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR IUD CONSULTATION

We are currently offering this service to our Cooroy community. Dr Kit Haydock has closed her books for general appointments, however, she is excited to welcome new patients wishing to attend her IUD clinics. PLEASE BE ADVISED ALL PATIENTS ATTENDING IUD CLINICS MUST ADVISE US OF THEIR REGULAR GP.

FRIDAY 12TH DECEMBER 2025

5.30 TO 8.30PM

in Cooroy is an initiative of the Chamber of Commerce

 FLOAT PARADE  MISS DONNA

SHOW  BALLOON TWISTING & FACE PAINTING  PHOTOS WITH SANTA  THE GREAT SANTA RACE  DECORATED BIKE COMPETITION  THE HAM WHEEL  LINE DANCERS  LATE NIGHT SHOPPING  MOBILE POLICE BEAT  BUTTER

FACTORY CHRISTMAS MARKET  LOCAL EATERIES  FREE FAMILY SHOW BAGS  NOVA STAR STILT WALKERS  A VARIETY OF BANDS  THE CHORAL REEFERS  PETTING ZOO  AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

LEGENDS OF THE OVAL

The Evolution of Cricket in Cooroy and Eumundi

By

IF you’re driving or walking past the Cooroy Sporting Complex on a Saturday between October and March, chances are you’ll see a game of cricket underway — either on the turf wicket of Sel Bonnel Oval or on the concrete pitch on the back field. This is the home of the Cooroy Eumundi Cricket Club, known as the Cougars. The club is an amalgamation of the former Cooroy and Eumundi cricket clubs, which merged in the early 1990s. However, the history of both clubs and their grounds stretches back more than a century.

Cricket in Cooroy and Eumundi can be traced to the early 1900s. Newspaper archives show that both clubs were active by this time, with reports sharing meeting dates, fundraising events such as dances and picnics, fixtures, team lists, and match results. The earliest mention of the Eumundi Cricket Club appeared in The Chronicle and North Coast Advertiser on Friday October 23, 1903, describing a social and dance hosted by the club. Other reports detailed matches against Kenilworth, Woombye, Nambour, Yandina, Mooloolah, Palmwoods, Eerwah Vale, and Eudlo. Mentions of the Cooroy Cricket Club appeared several years later, with matches against Kin Kin, Skyring Creek, Cooran, Pomona, Cootharabah, and Tewantin.

During the war years (1914–1918), little

cricket was played across the district. The Cooroy club managed a few matches, but the Eumundi club was disbanded and remained inactive until a short-lived attempt to reform in 1919 failed due to the lack of a suitable ground. Early Eumundi matches were played in the cow paddock of Mr. Walter Gridley, and there was also mention of the Eumundi Recreation Reserve being used for sport. In November 1918, as World War I came to an end, communities across Australia sought to commemorate those who had served. Cooroy and Eumundi each created memorials: Cooroy erected a war memorial statue on Diamond Street in 1922 and built the Memorial Hall in 1926. In Eumundi, 20 Queensland fig trees were planted — one for each local life lost in the war — forming what is now Memorial Avenue. In 1919, a proposal was made to dedicate the Eumundi Recreation Reserve to the fallen soldiers, renaming it Eumundi & District Memorial Park. Fundraising, land clearing by ‘Forest Devil’ bullocks, and working bees by returned servicemen eventually resulted in the construction of a concrete cricket wicket ready for the 1927 season. The Eumundi Cricket Club finally had a permanent home. Meanwhile, in Cooroy, a 20-acre Recreation and Showground Reserve was

Charles Livingstone laid down the first concrete pitch in September 1911

proclaimed on December 23, 1908. Charles Livingstone laid down the first concrete pitch in September 1911. The Gympie Times reported on October 7, 1911 that a ‘Ladies versus Gentlemen’ match opened the new season on the pitch, with men bowling left-handed and using pick handles as bats. Around 150 spectators attended and saw the women win by 12 runs. Although few improvements were made to the grounds during wartime, the Cooroy cricketers continued to play, sharing the space with other local clubs such as the Rifle and Rugby League clubs. By 1919, teams from Kin Kin, Pomona, Skyring Creek, Cootharabah, Cooran, and Traveston regularly played against Cooroy, with names like Fenwick, Sivyer, Dinsey, Wheeldon, and Rees appearing frequently in match reports.

Cooroy Show 1969

In 1918–19, Mr. E.J. Bonnell approached local MP Harry Walker to request land for agricultural displays and sports. The land was developed for public use with cow stalls, horse stables, fencing, a bar, and a pavilion. The first Cooroy Show opened in May 1919, officiated by Noosa Shire Councillor A. Douglas.

The Cooroy show became an annual event. It was a key event for the community, displaying local agricultural achievements with farmers from the surrounding regions like Ridgewood, Carters Ridge, Black Mountain, West and East Cooroy competing against each other. The pavilion displayed flowers, fruit and vegetables while the arena featured cattle judging, horse events, woodchopping, and sideshows for children. The show was paused during World War II (1942–1946) when the grounds were used by Australian military units but resumed in 1947 and continued until the late 1960s or early 1970s. The showgrounds were the heart of Cooroy’s sporting community. In the late 1950s, track cycling gained popularity,

KAREN WOODS

PART 1

Opening of the 2 day cycling carnival

and an angled gravel track was built around the arena. The Cooroy Cycling Club hosted an annual two-day track carnival that attracted riders from across Queensland and interstate. The feature race, The Cooroy Mile, became a major event. Visiting competitors camped on the grounds or stayed with local families. Jack Wimmer, owner of the Wimmers Cordial Factory on Garnet Street and a stalwart of the club, often hosted cyclists in his home. He later served as Vice President of the Queensland Amateur Cyclists Association in 1965.

As Cooroy grew so did the number of sporting enthusiasts. New clubs formed and existing ones flourished. The Cricket club had disbanded but many other clubs were going strong – Touch Football, Soccer, Pony, Rugby League and Gymnastics. Though cricket had temporarily faded, the 1990s brought its revival — marking the beginning of a new era for cricket in Cooroy.

Dairy Cattle Cooroy Show

1966

Members of the Cooroy Rifle Club at the

Showgrounds 1914

RECENT UPGRADE KEEPS THE LIGHT SHINING ON THE OVAL

Football Match - Cooroy v Nambour

Sources include: •Page 4 in the District News of the “The Chronicle and North Coast Advertiser” issued on Friday 23 October 1903 •August 1919 “Chronicle and North Coast Advertiser” reported that a formal request was made for the name to be changed to Eumundi & District Memorial Park. •The Gympie Times reports on 7 October 1911 reporting on the game between Ladies and Gentlemen •A photo held by the queensland state library shows a ladies vs gentlemens cricket match being played at the Cooroy Showgrounds in approximately 1911. •https://heritage.noosa.qld.gov.au/ pics of cooroy and surrounds as well as cooroy show •Cooroy Show - August 1966 Gympie Regional Libraries - Originally a news broadcast on Wide Bay Television •https://www.facebook.com/groups/queenslandcycling scrapbook cycling photos •Verbal conversations with Neil and Amy Dwyer and Arthur Spicket

Sel Bonnell Oval at Cooroy is shining brighter than ever! The new lighting upgrade means the sporting community can make the most of the oval, from juniors kicking a ball after school to adults fitting in cricket or football training after work. These energy-efficient lights are a game-changer for Cooroy, creating more opportunities for sport, social connection and staying active yearround.

A huge thanks to the Queensland Government, Cricket Australia and Queensland Cricket for supporting this upgrade alongside Council.

Young DebbieTurner (Tierney) with KayleenTierney Cooroy Show 1969

Local photographer wins TOP NATIONAL PHOTO BOOK AWARD

SUNSHINE Coast-based photographer Christine Hall has taken out the Open Category top prize at the prestigious 2025 Australian Photographic Society (APS) Photo Book Awards, beating 19 other entrants from across Australia.

Her winning entry, The Studio Project, is a large-format, multi-media photo book profiling Sunshine Coast artists in their creative ‘natural’ environments. Judges praised the book for its “clever, multilayered concept, professional design

standards, and high-quality photography, commending its innovative use of QR codes linking to audio and video content from the featured artists.

The Studio Project provides intimate documentation of a variety of artists working in many varied mediums across the Sunshine Coast, including Blair McNamara, Helena Jackson-Lloyd, Jandamarra Cadd, Jess Le Clerc, Judith Laws, Pam Walpole and many more.

Christine Hall, an Australian Photographic Society (APS) member and accredited professional photographer (A.Photog.ANZIPP), has been a professional photographer for over 15 years working across the Sunshine Coast and nationally on a variety of commercial, art and individual projects.

The Studio Project is now stocked at the following locations:

• All Sunshine Coast Regional Galleries

• Maryborough Regional Gallery

• Gympie Regional Gallery

• Berkelouw Books, Eumundi

• Steven Street Gallery, Yandina

• Cool Art Gallery, Coolum

• Annie’s Bookstore, Peregian Beach

• Frametree, Cooroy

To preview the book, visit: https://youtu.be/ 63-R0aQykLg and to purchase visit www. myphotomotion.com.au/the-studio-project

SPIN, WIN AND CELEBRATE 10 YEARS WITH LIVELIFE PHARMACY

OVER $10,000 in prizes to be won this November

It’s time to celebrate! LiveLife Pharmacy Cooroy and LiveLife Pharmacy Pomona are turning 10 and they are marking this milestone with a month-long celebration of community, fun and fantastic prizes.

To say thank you for your support over the past decade, both pharmacies will feature a Wheel of Prizes throughout November. From gift vouchers to luxury skincare and wellness hampers, there’s something special waiting for the lucky winners.

Every day brings a new chance to win simply come in and try your luck at the

wheel. One lucky winner per day at both stores. After all, spinners are grinners!

“We’re proud to have served the hinterland community for 10 wonderful years, helping locals live well, stay healthy and feel supported.

Come join the celebration, meet our friendly teams, and spin to win this November at LiveLife Pharmacy Cooroy and LiveLife Pharmacy Pomona” said Jacquie and Wes Meyer, Live Life Pharmacy.

A $4.1 MILLION funding boost from the State Government’s Residential Activation Fund (RAF) will help deliver much-needed social and affordable housing in Noosa Shire.

The funding will provide essential infrastructure — including water, sewer and stormwater — for the affordable housing project at 62 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy.

Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie welcomed

the announcement, describing it as a vital step in tackling the region’s housing challenges.

“Stage One will deliver 25 homes on land that could support potentially another 60 dwellings, subject to further community consultation on the mix of uses on the site,”Cr Wilkie said.

Rehabilitation works are already underway.

Noosa Hinterland ACCOUNTING

Artist Kurun Waren

Photographer Christine Hall

THE APIARY ARCHITECT

ADDING A BUZZ TO BEE ACCOMMODATION

THERE are whole industries involved in the development and marketing of honey as food. And there are whole industries involved in the marketing of honey as part of many other products.

But there are not quite so many involved in the creation of environments that cater to the creation of honey.

And as it turns out, it’s quite a complicated business when you’re in the business of making homes – hives – for bees, the creatures who are literally at the base of that food chain.

Bees gather and spread pollen produced by plants to reproduce the plants’ species, which is thus a fundamental material for maintaining botanic life. Literally, if we don’t have bees we don’t have flowers, gardens, even agriculture.

And for humans, it means we don’t have life.

So it is in our interests these little flying

critters get some good TLC from we humans and now more than ever as our climate changes.

Meet Peter Velenski. He’s a man who knows a bit about bees.

Actually, quite a lot.

And he lives in the Noosa hinterland town of Cooroy, and runs his business - Pete’s Native Bees Cooroy.

From a business viewpoint, Peter’s not interested in honey. He’s a beekeeper - interested in the bees themselves.

in the back garden of his home. That’s the bees’ version of a housing estate, replete with big community hives, but also lengths of wood, piping, even plastic straws, to suit the more individual or esoteric apian members.

His role is to be an ‘architect’, supplying accommodation for the bee population

His role is to be an ‘architect’, supplying accommodation for the bee population –which is remarkably diverse, requiring a range of options, for colonies of bees, and for solitary operators. A bit like us, really.

So Peter has built what’s called an apiary

Some of these homes can last a long time, such as one Peter has in a tree stump somewhere around 200 years old, although the old ‘mansion’ now has a new ‘foyer’ on it.

Amazingly, there are somewhere between 1600 and 2000 different species of bees in Australia, Peter says.

“But only about four of these species we do this with,” he says.

They’re all stingless native bees and the main ones have names like the Carpenter bee, or the Teddy Bear bee, “and we have

solitaries, but they don’t stay in the hives”. They’re the wood- and pipe-dwellers.

Peter’s role not only houses bees as they need to be – he helps develop their nests to a point where they can be separated creating yet more hives, which can then be sold on to other people to help maintain the health of their own properties and regions. And of course, to ensure the continued survival of the bees - when suitable land becomes harder to find (through urbanisation), and temperatures and pests devastate hives.

“The main enemies are the small hive beetle, and the Florida syrphid fly which lays eggs and the maggots destroy the hives,” he said.

“But they just ruin the food, they don’t hurt the bees”, although Peter tends to call the affected hives ‘bee coffins’ because they’re badly designed.

While it’s not a major issue at this stage,

Peter Velenski with his 200-year-old hive inside a tree stump, with its new hive ‘foyer’

Photo: Alan Lander

further entry of the American fire ants could prove a major threat to the native bee populations.

That said, native bees are not affected by the varroa mite, which causes devastation among European honey bees.

The key is to build the right type of hive to keep the pests out, Peter says.

“It’s how your hive works, that’s the main thing. And there’s only one that works,” he says, displaying the range of his hives across the garden.

“The fellow that came up with this idea went to Brazil and studied them for three months - they’ve been farming them for 2000 years there - and he came back and we modified it a little bit.

“When the bees go in, they diverge in two directions, which gives them a little space to get them out if they need to rescue the hive.

“They won’t put any food supply into that gap, and that gap there,” Peter says, pointing out the tiny empty spots inside the hive’s ‘foyer’.

“When you go to split the hive, there are three main parasites that can get in. Often, the bees are too busy trying to fix the hive up and don’t guard the entrance. This system reduces spillage – the bees will fix it up after half a day or so.”

Good hive construction is what protects the system, he says, and advises other beekeepers on how they work. And he builds them in his well-equipped workshop – a career past in the timber industry helps ensure that.

“I just threw two out the other day. A hive a fellow dropped in for me to see what’s wrong with it – it was poor design, a heap of rubbish. I call them bee coffins.”

Peter attends various shows and beekeeping gatherings in Mary Valley and the Gympie Show – in fact, he’s ‘Mr Beekeeper’ in Gympie, the go-to man up there.

“You’re just telling people about them all the time and you take your boxes along so they can see what you’re doing. That’s how you get people doing the right thing.”

Bees won’t just roll up and knock on the door for accommodation, he says.

“You start with an empty box originally, then furnish it so the bees can build the honeycombs, and little pots where they store their own food.

“You put a resin trail through a pipe into the ‘mum’ hive box. The bees build on that and then you can add a ‘daughter’ hive box

after they’ve made enough honey in the first – and that’s what creates your new hive.”

The pollen collected builds up first, then the honey develops.

The building speed of the hive can depend on whether the hive has a queen bee, but one is not necessary to have.

Peter has a ‘restaurant’ of suitable bushes and trees around his back garden, serving his nearly 50 hives, so most of the time during the feeding seasons “they only have to go out to the bushes to get it”.

Another big risk for the bees is during the autumn and winter months, where it’s important the temperatures don’t drop too far.

“In summer they feed themselves, but winter – we’ve just had nearly two crook years for bees – we feed them a 75% honey and 25% water mix.

“With temperatures about 18C they’ll fly, but in night-time we need to keep them warm. If it’s five or six degrees, they’ll cope, but we’ll keep the hives closed.”

In winter the hives need to face north to avoid southerly winds.

Peter said too much heat doesn’t augur well for the bees either.

“About 14 years ago, temperatures here got to 42C, and I lost half the bees that were in boxes because they were no good.

“So the [bee groups] called a crisis meeting, as there was just devastation.

“I hadn’t been doing it long, so I changed my boxes to 20-millimetre size and increased their thickness. That made them a lot better, and I made covers for them and things like that. But since then, we haven’t had a temperature like that again.”

Peter came into the bee business almost

by default, as he used to find hives inside logs he cut.

“Me and my brother had a sawmill and we often had macadamia farmers ring up and say if we see any bees, could we save them for them – that’s how we started off.

“We’d just find a beehive, give the farmer a ring and they’d come and pick it up - we gave them away.

“My brother got killed in Conondale sawing a tree, so I finished up the sawmill and started working for other people on that. Then I got into tree-clearing myself for a couple of other blokes.

“Then I saved some more and started bringing [bee nests] home and looking after them.”

Originally, he came here “a long time ago from New Zealand”.

“I met my wife Diane at a hotel we used to stay at. We finished up getting married, went back over there, but the company I was working for was pretty

shaky so we moved to Oz.

“Then the old lady got a bit crook so we went back again, and bought a lobster boat.

“Then we moved to Tassie, and then up to here with the sawmill in Conondale. We used to move around the coast with a mobile mill, and we lived at Landsborough, then Tewantin, Pomona, Cooroy twice.

“We’re here permanently now - they’ll have to carry me out in a box.”

Peter is probably one of the most informed beekeepers around the region, but he doesn’t advertise it, instead remaining humble - even though he’s that go-to man in Gympie.

“I’ve been doing bees for about 40 years now. But I leave the expert stuff to the experts.”

by ALAN LANDER

Above: Peter Velenski in his workshop building another beehive

Left: Amegilla bombiformis commonly known as the teddy bear bee or golden haired mortar bee, is an Australian native bee

Photo: Alan Lander

PINK UP COOROY IGNITES COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Trivia, Raffles, Breakfasts, and Walks Bring Locals Together for a Cause OCTOBER in Cooroy shimmered with pink as the Pink Up Cooroy campaign brought together neighbours, businesses and visitors in a vibrant show of support for cancer awareness. The festivities began with a lively Trivia Night on October 1, drawing 200 enthusiastic participants eager to test their knowledge. Thanks to Raine & Horne Noosa Hinterland, generous prize money set the stage for a fun-filled evening. A huge shout out to Averil Wilcox and Eileen Walder for making this event so successful. Australian Diamond Valley added extra excitement, donating a Diamond Pink Argyle Moon Ring to be raffled at $20 per ticket—one of many dazzling opportunities to contribute to the cause.

On October 18, the Pink Precinct Fun Walk transformed downtown Cooroy into a parade of colour. Locals dressed in their brightest pinks for a walk around the CBD, with Marty Hunt MP joining in and the hotly contested Best Dressed was announced. Another highlight was the Brasterpiece competition, inviting folks to decorate bras in creative and joyful ways. The champion entry was ‘Bosom of a Garden’ by Kim Hird but all entries were amazing.

The celebrations reached new heights with the Fundraiser Breakfast at Cooroy RSL on October 24. Attended by 230 guests, the morning featured a delicious breakfast served by the talented Cooroy RSL. Fashion parades added flair to the event, and the Brasterpiece grand champion was crowned to applause. The live auction, led by auctioneer Richard Hansen, saw high-end bidders vying for amazing items, adding further excitement to the proceedings.

A particularly moving moment came when Tracy Bevan delivered an inspiring talk on her friendship with Jane McGrath and her work with the McGrath Foundation, leaving everyone in the room moved. The Diamond ring raffle was drawn to cap off the breakfast, sending one overjoyed Helen home as the lucky winner.

Pink Up Cooroy is deeply grateful to all the businesses who championed this fundraiser for the McGrath Foundation and cannot thank the Cooroy community enough for their generous support. The total funds raised will be announced soon, with continued contributions from the Cooroy Hotel’s schnitzel promotion, Copperhead’s cocktail and dessert specials, and the Cooroy-Eumundi Cricket Club’s Pink Stumps event.

Thank you to everyone who donated, purchased tickets, and supported Pink Up Cooroy in October. We look forward to seeing you all at Pink Up Cooroy in October 2026. If your group or sporting club or organisation want to run a fundraising event in October 2026 to be part of Pink Up Cooroy, please contact Carol at pinkupcooroy@ gmail.com As a community we can ensure no one going through cancer goes without the CARE of a McGrath Cancer care nurse.

Putting the FUN IN FUNDRAISING

Thank You

Photograpghy

Monique

Vecchio

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

200 Pioneer Rd, Pomona PH: 5485 0805

What's ON!

MALENY HANDMADE & ARTISAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

FRIDAY - SUNDAY

NOVEMBER 7-9 - 9am-3pm daily MALENY COMMUNITY CENTRE

UNIQUE, quirky gift ideas. Give the gift of handmade this year and support local artisans. Find something to suit your personality; buy a gift or simply take something home with you.

@ FB Maleny Handmade & Artisan Markets

MALENY MUSIC FESTIVAL

FRIDAY - SUNDAY NOVEMBER 7-9

THREE days of music, camp for the weekend or come for the day. A relaxing, family friendly event filled with so many talented musicians and performing artists. Market stalls, workshops, jamming sessions, open mic opportunities and bush poetry. Plenty of food and drinks and places to sit and melt into the music. www.malenymusicfestival.com

YANDINA COUNTRY MUSIC

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16

ACMA 'HALL OF FAME' 11am-3pm 24 Steggalls Road, YANDINA - Entry $10

BE entertained with popular country. Guest artists Wide Bay Branch. Raffle, door prizes, BYO lunch, free tea and coffee. @FB Yandina Country Music Hall of fame

RAILWAY HOTEL

Fresh Meals - 7 DAYS A WEEK Lunch - 11.30-2pm - Dinner - 5.30-8pm

Bottleshop - OPEN 7 DAYS 10am-8pm - (7pm Sunday)

MARY VALLEY COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS FAIR

FRIDAY DECEMBER 5

4-8pm - IMBIL TOWN CENTRE

CELEBRATE the festive season with rides, markets, entertainment, carols and fireworks. Everyone welcome @FB Mary Valley Community Christmas Fair

POMONA CHRISTMAS NIGHT MARKET

FRIDAY DECEMBER 5

4-8pm - RESERVE ST AND MEMORIAL AVE, POMONA

COME and meet Santa and enjoy a huge selection of stalls and late night trading, great food and entertainment. @FB Mary Valley Community Christmas Fair

TEWANTIN

CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL

SUNDAY DECEMBER 7

3.30-8pm

RSL MEMORIAL PARK TEWANTIN

IT’S a big one - 30th year this year! Food stalls, glow products and raffle tickets. Free rides including: Giant Slide, Tea Cups, Super Flyer and more. Brett Campbell’s Children’s Christmas Show, Theunis Pretorius, Amanda Jensen, Carols by Candlelight with the Kitty Kats, Raffle Draw, Biggest Fireworks Display Ever over the River

Tewantin Christmas Carnival is run and funded by Tewantin Noosa RSL Club with volunteer assistance from Noosa SES, Tewantin Noosa Lions and KNGO Australia. www.tewantin.town

DON’T miss the final Cooroy Sconetime of the year, packed with festive cheer! Join the fun on Tuesday, December 9, at 10am in the Cooroy Memorial Hall. Cooroy Hall - 10am - Tickets $8 www.sunshinecoastfoodie.com.au/sconetime/

PEREGIAN BEACH CAROLS

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 17

JOIN us for an unforgettable evening of festive fun under the stars from 3 to 8pm. Bring your picnic rugs and Christmas cheer! Early Bird Tickets: $5 per person, $15 per family. Hurry –prices go up after November 17! events.humanitix.com/peregian-beach-carols-25 @FB Peregian Family & Friends

SANTA’S CONVOY

GET ready to deck the halls and jingle the bells, as Santa and his helpers gear up for their annual journey around the shire. Areas from Kin Kin and Cooran in the north, south to Peregian Beach, the Eastern Beaches, as well as Noosaville, Tewantin, Pomona and Cooroy. Starting Monday December 8 at Peregian Beach, travelling along the Eastern Beaches. Then to Boreen Point and Cooroibah on Tuesday December 9, followed by the hinterland Wednesday and Tewantin-Noosaville on Thursday December 11. Check the routes on Noosa Council’s website https://www.noosa.qld.gov.au/.../Connecting-Noosa...

EVERY THURSDAY MORNING

Along the River @ The Jetty Cafe 186 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville 10am-12noon

LIVE music on the banks of Noosa River every Thursday morning (weather permitting). Classic vintage rock sound entertaining locals and visitors alike. The music is free, but BYO chairs.

MUSO'S JAM - OPEN MIKE

POMONA HOTEL

EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY 12NOON-3PM - NOVEMBER 5 + 19

LUNCHTIME muso’s jam/open mike session with Trev every second Wednesday at the POMONA HOTEL.

Christmas STALL

Friday November 21

In Front of CWA Hall - Maple Street - 8am-12noon

Come along to purchase your CHRISTMAS GOODIES and support the Local CWA Ladies Entertainment will be provided - ENQUIRIES

QCWA COOROY

The official opening of the new Machjet International hangar at Sunshine Coast Airport. From the aerial displays to the smiles on the tarmac, it was a proud moment that reflected the strength of the Machjet team, our community, and the future we’re building together. Founded originally to support McDermott Aviation Group national firefighting fleet, Machjet was built to deliver fast, flexible fixed-wing support - transporting crews, equipment, and critical parts to remote locations on time, every time.

A milestone moment not just for aviation - but for business, innovation, and opportunity across our region.

Congratulations to the McDermott family and everyone involved!

Left: John and Linda McDermott, Simon and Abby McDermott with some of their grandkids along with Mayor Rosanna Natolie

Happy Birthday Elsie -104 years young with Sunshine Coast Foodie Martin Duncan, Sirah Robb - Hinternoosa and Traecy - Noosa Black Coffee

All thumbs up at the Machjet Hangar party opening with pilot Emma McDonald and Stoek McDermott

A sea of purple for another successful Walk in Wings for Sunshine Butterflies held recently at the Noosa River

YOUR SEASONAL PRODUCE WATCH with Matt Golinski

genus Pyrus, belonging to the rose family and cultivated worldwide.

They come in over 3000 varieties, are rich in fiber and vitamins, and are known for their nutritional benefits, including aiding digestion and heart health. Pears are harvested when mature but not fully ripe, and they ripen best off the tree.

Pears can have different shapes, with some being narrow at the top and round at the bottom, while others are more round like an apple. Their skin color can range from green, yellow, red, to brown.

Ingredients:

1.2 kg skin on pork loin

1 lemon, halved

2 tsp salt

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup currants

ROASTED PORK LOIN WITH RUM AND BROWN SUGAR PEARS, CURRANTS AND THYME

Method:

Preheat oven to 220°C.

60ml Nil Desperadum Rum

6 pears, cored and cut into wedges

2 tbs fresh thyme

Pour boiling water over the skin of the pork and dry well with paper towel. Rub with the lemon and sprinkle on the salt.

In a small saucepan, combine the currants, rum and brown sugar and simmer for 5 minutes.

Mix with the pear wedges in a bowl and set aside.

Roast the pork for 20 minutes at 220°C or until the skin crackles, then reduce the oven temperature to 160°C, add the pears and roast for another 30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 63°C.

Allow the pork to rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Serve topped with the pears and currants, plenty of the pan juices and a sprinkling of fresh thyme.

Serves 6

Oticon Intent™ is a game-changing hearing aid that adapts to you.

It’s the first hearing aid built to understand what you want to listen to and adjust in real time.

Whether you’re catching up with friends, shopping, or walking the dog, Oticon Intent™ helps you stay more focused, comfortable, and connected.

This isn’t just sound amplification. Oticon Intent™ uses four tiny sensors to track your movement, head direction, and sound environment.

It knows when you’re engaged in conversation or shifting attention, and it adjusts automatically.

The result? Clearer speech, less background noise, and a more natural listening experience with less effort.

It’s also packed with features for modern life. Oticon Intent™ is sleek, discreet, and fully rechargeable – no small batteries to change. You can stream calls and music directly from many smartphones and tablets.

We’re a locally owned and independent audiology clinic that puts people first.

We offer expert, personalised care with fittings tailored to your hearing goals.

We’ll take the time to get it right, and you can even trial Oticon Intent™ in your real-world environments before making a decision.

Book your free hearing consultation today and experience the future of hearing.

Book a free hearing consultation today and take the first step toward clearer hearing and a more confident you.

BOOKS with Hayley Saunders

GRAVITY LET ME GO BY TRENT DALTON

TRENT Dalton is an author who certainly doesn’t need any help from me to promote his books. His latest novel Gravity Let Me Go, is another gritty journey, full of humour and heartbreak, and explores just how fragile and fleeting our sense of control really is.

Journalist Noah Cork has run out of luck. His “lucrative bi-monthly true-crime spread in the Courier Mail” has dried up after he published an article which led to the dismissal of two police offers. Suddenly “every contact and not-so-anonymous source within the Queensland Police Service” stopped talking to him. “A crime journalist lives and dies by their police contacts” and for Noah, there is nowhere left to turn.

Noah and his family live in Jubilee, a quiet suburb in Brisbane where nothing violent ever really happens… until it does.

Checking his mailbox one day, Noah discovers a tiny music box and a mysterious note which sends him on a treasure hunt with a grisly end, the discovery of the body of local mum Tamsin Fellows.

Has Noah been handed the scoop of a lifetime? Or has he been handed a curse?

With the murder still unsolved, and the investigation continuing, Noah publishes a book about his discovery, delivering a blistering taunt to the unknown killer.

Now his wife Rita has stopped talking to him – or to anyone else. A woman in a red four-wheel drive is trying to run him over. A cryptic message keeps appearing in his bathroom mirror, and he is being haunted by a skeleton intent on trying to tell him something.

Noah can’t let Tamsin’s story go. But what is he willing to risk in the process?

BERKELOUW BOOKS EUMUNDI IS GIVING AWAY A COPY OF GRAVITY LET ME GO BY TRENT DALTON

Email hello@yourlocallifestyle.com.au to enter. You will need to collect from the Eumundi store. 87 Memorial Dr, Eumundi, 5442 8366. Insta @berkelouw_books_eumundi

EUMUNDI MUSEUM EXPLORES THE WORLD THROUGH MAPS

EUMUNDI Museum’s latest temporary exhibition, Maps, takes visitors on a journey from ancient cartography to modern mapping in our own neighbourhood.

Maps is all about maps and mapping from ancient times around the world up to recent times in our neighbourhood.

The exhibition features fascinating objects borrowed from the Government’s Museum of Lands, Mapping and Surveying, including 19th- and 20th-century theodolites, planimeters, and other surveying tools once used across Queensland. Visitors can also explore reproductions of ancient charts that reveal the rich history of map-making.

A highlight is a map of Corsica drawn in the 1500s by Peri Reis, who began life as a Mediterranean corsair before becoming a cartographer and admiral in the Ottoman Navy.

Maps is open Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10am–3pm, from October 28 until March 28, 2026. Entry is free, offering

a unique chance to discover the art, science, and stories behind maps across the centuries.

73 Memorial Drive Eumundi https://www.eumundimuseum.org

KATIE NOONAN HOSTS SPECIAL HOMETOWN LISTENING PARTY

JOIN five-time ARIA Award-winning artist Katie Noonan for a special ‘listening party’ of her upcoming songs on Sunday, November 16, at The Presynct, Nambour. The music will feature on Katie’s 30th studio album, alone but all one, due for official release in early 2026.

The album is an intimate exploration of love in all its stages and marks Katie’s first songwriting collaboration with acclaimed author Trent Dalton. Katie says the project grew from a deeply personal place following the end of her long-term marriage in late 2024.

“In late 2024, I found myself at the end of a life chapter after a long and deeply committed marriage,” says Katie. “The separation was a profound emotional event, not marked by anger or dramatic rupture, but by a quiet, painful shift in identity, as someone whose entire adult life had been shared in partnership – as a wife, mother, collaborator. The sudden stillness left behind was very confronting and strange.

stillness - to honour it, explore it, and ultimately transform it.

“The project comes from a place of vulnerability and deep artistic clarity. It is not about naming or shaming – it is not a reckoning or a public unravelling. It is about what happens quietly, after the noise. About the moments where we ask ourselves: Who am I now, and how do I live from here?,” she says.

Earlier this year, Trent Dalton gifted Katie 156 pages of unpublished lyrics, inspiring new songs reflecting both the joy of new love and the reimagined love after separation. Half the album was written solo, and half with Trent’s words, creating a shared, deeply resonant experience.

Musically, alone but all one is stripped back — Katie’s voice, piano, and a string quartet recorded live in her lounge room on Gubbi Gubbi Country behind Nambour.

Katie says  is her attempt to sit with that

The listening party will see two intimate concerts – at 2pm and 5pm.  thepresynct.com.au

Studio yarn

STUDIO YARN

• Crochet & Knit

Crochet & knit Quality yarns

• Quality yarns

• Accessories & notions

Accessories & notions Classes Workshops

• Classes

• Workshops

craft & natter

• Weekly craft and natter

Gifts

• Gifts

Mischief, enchantment, and honour

FOLLOWING the success of the recent production of Mamma Mia, Little Seed is excited to wrap up 2025 with three enchanting stories.

The Acting Extension students are hard at work in rehearsals as we prepare for their year-end performances. With a focus on voice, movement, and compelling storytelling throughout the year, these talented young performers, aged eight to 18, have dedicated countless hours to perfecting their craft. The Acting Extension program has a proud history of nurturing young actors who have moved on to pursue professional training and successful careers in acting. Here’s what the current groups are set to showcase:

The Junior Acting Extension Class will take the stage with The Twits, Roald Dahl’s cherished tale about a mischievous couple who revel in playing pranks on one another. With its signature Dahl humor, this production promises an evening full of laughter. Join us at Noosa Arts Theatre on November 29 and 30 for a delightful family experience brought to life by the talented young ensemble.

On the same weekend, the Intermediate Acting Extension Class will present A Wrinkle in Time. Join Meg Murray,

complete with her braces and stubborn spirit, as she teams up with Mrs Whatsit, Charles Wallace, and Calvin O’Keefe to confront the forces of evil in a quest to rescue her father, save humanity, and discover her true self. This comingof-age tale draws on the talents of actors who have previously captivated audiences with productions like Picnic at Hanging Rock, Dracula, and Murder on the Nile. Finally, to conclude the year, the Senior Acting Extension Class will present Antigone on December 13 at the Pomona Majestic Theatre. This exceptional cohort, known for their annual Shakespeare at the Lake performances

as well as productions of The Crucible, Blackrock and Under Milkwood, promise a fresh interpretation of this ancient story of familial loyalty and the struggle against societal laws. Antigone delves into

the powerful themes of compliance and defiance, proving that Socrates’ narrative remains as relevant today as ever.

To find out more, or secure tickets head to https://www.little-seed.com.au/tickets

Ancient melodies

MEET CONTEMPORARY SOUNDS

CLASSICAL MUSIC IN MONTVILLE

ACCLAIMED violinist and composer Aaron Brown leads a remarkable ensemble of Australian musicians in Transformations: Old Made New, a concert where centuriesold melodies are reinterpreted through contemporary music making. The tour is presented by Red Chair and will visit Cleveland, Coolum Beach, Maleny, Pomona and

Transformations: Old Made New celebrates the timeless nature of music. Blending influences from medieval and Baroque traditions with jazz and world music, the ensemble reimagines historical music through modern rhythm and fresh ideas. Aaron Brown (violin/rebec) is joined by Philip Griffin (guitar/oud), Tunji Beier (percussion), Sam Vincent (double bass) and Martin Kay (wind instruments).

Cooroy Food

distinct musical voice shaped by diverse traditions and international experience. Aaron Brown, a member of the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and Churchill Fellow, is known for his work on historical instruments and his talent for bringing early music to life in fresh and inventive ways. Guitarist and oud player Philip Griffin has a broad background across early music, jazz and world styles. Percussionist Tunji Beier draws on his studies in Yoruba drumming and South Indian Carnatic percussion, while bassist Sam Vincent and wind player Martin Kay are leading figures in Australian jazz and contemporary music, known for their inventive and collaborative approach. Together, these artists bridge centuries and cultures — from the medieval courts of Europe to the concert halls of modern Australia — creating music that honours the past while opening it up to new possibilities.

FOR locals who love classical music - Lucas Parklands in Montville hosts regular concerts with some of the world’s best performers and many young rising stars.

Upcoming concerts include: Sunday November 16 at 4pmMadeleine Xiao (pianist) Her program will include: Bach/ Busoni – Chaconne; Chopin - Andante Spianato and Grand Polonaise, Ballade No. 4; Beethoven - Piano Sonata No. 30 Op. 110; Debussy - L’isle Joyeuse

Saturday December 6 at 4pmKonstantin Shamray (pianist) Konstantin was awarded First Prize at the 2008 Sydney international Piano Competition and People’s Choice winner. His program will feature some unique and entertaining piano pieces in line with his very powerful playing style. For performance and ticketing enquiries, phone 0409 623 228 or email lucasparklands@bigpond.com

Performing November 14 to 30 at Redland Performing Arts Centre, Coolum Civic Centre, Maleny Community Centre, Maleny, Majestic Theatre, Pomona and Eudlo Hall. For more information and tickets visit redchair.com.au

Dance under the stars at Verrierdale Hall’s Full Moon Dance

GET ready for a night of rhythm, energy and connection when Full Moon Dance returns to Verrierdale Hall on Friday, November 15. This much-loved local event has become a Sunshine Coast institution, bringing together music lovers for an unforgettable night of dancing under the stars.

Headlining this month’s show are crowd favourites RAW ORDIO, renowned for their high-energy fusion of live instrumentation

and electronic beats. Influenced by a wide range of musical genres and a deep passion for house music, Raw Ordio have carved out a signature sound that’s electrified audiences at Splendour in the Grass, Big Pineapple, and Pranafest. Expect a dynamic performance that blurs the line between DJ set and live concert.

Joining them are JUMAN & The Riddim Squad — a collaboration that promises pure groove. Juman’s powerhouse neo-soul vocals

and heartfelt songwriting blend seamlessly with The Riddim Squad’s infectious rhythms, creating a sound that’s soulful, uplifting and impossible not to move to.

Adding a tropical twist, SOLUA bring their irresistible world music vibe, merging AfroBrazilian and Caribbean Zouk styles with touches of jazz, funk, soul, bossa nova, and reggae. Led by the stunning vocals of Melissa Cambon, their sound is pure sunshine. Meanwhile, one-man looping sensation

ANDY V will light up the outdoor stage with a sizzling mix of bass-driven beats — from dub and reggae to Latin and drum & bass — all layered live on sax, keys and percussion.

With delicious food and drinks available (supporting the hall’s upkeep), this licensed 18+ event is set to be one of the year’s best nights out. Tickets are $37 pre-sale via Humanitix, or $40 cash at Berkelouw Books Eumundi or at the door.

Ancient melodies reimagined through a bold mix of medieval, jazz, and world music.

Old Made New Coolum Civic Centre Sat 22 Nov, 7pm

Community Centre Thu 27 Nov, 7pm

Theatre, Pomona Fri 28 Nov, 7pm

Eudlo Hall Sun 30 Nov, 4pm

Raw Ordio

Juman Solua

NOOSA CHORALE PRESENTS CHRISTMAS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

CELEBRATE the joy of Christmas with Noosa Chorale as they take you on a festive journey around the world on Friday 12, and Saturday 13, December at The J, Noosa.

The concert takes audiences on a musical journey across the globe, showcasing a vibrant selection of Christmas songs from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Australia. With a mix of classics and lively sing-along moments, the performance promises a joyful celebration for the whole community.

In addition to the music, attendees can try their luck in the Chorale’s Christmas raffle, featuring exciting prizes generously donated by local businesses.

Showtimes are Friday at 7pm and Saturday at 2pm. Ticket prices are $49 for adults and $30 for students and children 17 years and under. Book tickets: https://www.thej.com.au/cantique-noosa-chorale/

Clare Llewelyn

A BOLD FINALE AT THE COOROY BUTTER FACTORY

THE Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre (CBFAC) finishes the year with a major exhibition by local Ridgewood artist Clare Llewelyn.

Opening to the public on November 22, Clare’s exhibition will combine early works created during her stellar career in Sydney as well as more recent works. Her exhibition will take over the whole ground floor of the CBFAC.

This is an exhibition that pays tribute to a major feminist artist whose large metal sculptures and works on canvas are hard hitting commentaries on life. Her work has been described as surrealist. Gene Sherman from the original Sherman Galleries in Sydney provides a concise description of her work... “Imprisonment versus freedom, domestic versus industrial, rounded contours versus sharp edges.”

She goes on to say that the “supposedly cosy interior world of womanhood with all its trappings: domestic utensils, ceremonial garments and culinary symbols of success is juxtaposed against a more ruthless exterior world of male-like preoccupation where spikes and rough edges predominate.”

Clare Llewelyn is part of a generation of

women who came of age artistically in the 1980s/1990s and is a trailblazer in non-traditional areas of art. Clare’s official exhibition opening takes place on Saturday, November 22 from 4-6pm. Join us in celebrating her career.

In conjunction with Clare’s exhibition, we are launching our last members exhibition for the year in the upstairs members gallery.

We also celebrate Christmas in Cooroy on Friday, December 12 from 4 to 8pm with our ever-popular Christmas markets and food vans… and don’t forget the CBFAC artisan store. It is a fabulous place to get your one-of-a-kind Christmas presents.

Finally, whilst the year is closing we are already advertising our extended range of pottery courses for early 2026, including a new 2-day ‘Pottery Teaser’ course during the January holiday period. Some are already open for booking whilst the others have waitlists available before official booking opens.

https://cooroybutterfactory.com.au

TRIO SOLÉ AND BAROQUE BRILLIANCE BRING MUSIC TO COOROY

THE Sunshine Coast’s classical music lovers have a treat in November and December, with two exciting concerts at Cooroy Memorial Hall.

On Sunday, November 30 at 2.30pm, Pacific Chamber Players present Baroque Brilliance, featuring an impressive program including Handel’s Atalanta Overture, Vivaldi’s Concerto Ripieno in C major and double concerto for oboe and bassoon, Purcell’s Trumpet Sonata in D, Brescianello’s Sonata for Two Violins and Continuo, and Zelenka’s Sonata No. 3. Expect rhythmic, fiery and emotional performances, with standout moments from Sue Hunkin (oboe), Neil Heymink (bassoon) and Warren Brewer on trumpet. Tickets are available online or at the door. www.pacificchamberplayers.com/2025-season.html

Looking ahead, Trio Solé brings festive cheer with their first Christmas concert on Sunday, December 7 at 3pm. Soprano Vanessa West, tenor Raffaele Pierno and pianist Janet Brewer combine operatic passion with Mediterranean warmth to present a program of sacred classics, carols and operatic favourites. Highlights include Silent Night, White Christmas, O Holy Night, Ave Maria, Panis Angelicus and the Italian carol Tu scendi dalle stelle. Tickets are $45 adult, $40 concession, available online or at the door. www.trybooking.com/DFTTY Pacific Chamber Players

Soldier by Clare Llewellyn

BERLINDaDa

LOST IN PALM SPRINGS LANDS IN NOOSA

NOOSA Regional Gallery is proud to present a major national touring exhibition celebrating the timeless allure of modernist architecture and desert landscapes. Developed by HOTA Gallery in partnership with Museums & Galleries Queensland, the exhibition brings together 14 acclaimed artists from Australia and the USA.

Their multidisciplinary works explore the connection between the Californian desert city of Palm Springs and iconic Australian coastal and urban landscapes, revealing a shared fascination with form, light, and place. The exhibition delves into themes of

ART, MUSIC AND SURREALISM

ART lovers are invited to step into a world of daring creativity at ‘BERLINDaDa’, an exclusive Gala Fundraising Event on Saturday, November 15, at ART POST, Gympie.

Created and directed by artist Tamara Kirby with her team of collaborators, and hosted by the sharp and witty Annie Lee (Kransky Sisters), BERLINDaDa promises an unforgettable evening of performance, music, and art. Inspired by the revolutionary European art movements of the early 1900s — German Expressionism, Dada, and Surrealism — the event offers a contemporary spin on timeless questions of life, art, and culture.

“This is an immersive experience,” Tamara said. “It’s an

opportunity for each audience member to transcend time and enter a most extraordinary dalliance with artists from the past and present.”

While the gala is one night only, its creative echoes will linger, with remnants of the experience on display for a fortnight, inviting visitors to reflect on the world we live in today.

Situated at 22 Channon Street, Gympie, ART POST is a notfor-profit, artist-run space operated entirely by volunteers since 2023. Proudly supported by RAF Grants and Bendigo Bank, BERLINDaDa is ART POST’s major fundraiser for the year. Tickets: events.humanitix.com/berlin-dada

home and belonging, Bauhaus influences, and the revived appeal of mid-century modern design — from Palm Springs and Joshua Tree to Mt Eliza, Mermaid Beach and Canberra.

Featuring artists Kate Ballis, Tom Blachford, Darren Bradley, Anna Carey, Sam Cranstoun, Paul Davies, Rosi Griffin, Jim Isermann, Troy Kudlac, Lance O’Donnell, Kim Stringfellow, Vicki Stravrou, Robyn Sweaney, and Gosia Wlodarczak, it promises an inspiring journey through art, architecture, and landscape.

Free entry. Visit noosaregionalgallery.com.au

Annie Lee

Kate Ballis, 2350 (2017)

NEUROSURGERY

When to see a

Neurosurgeon vs.Orthopedic Surgeon

WHEN managing spinal conditions, knowing whether to consult a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon can help guide your care. Both specialties are trained in spinal surgery; however, neurosurgeons bring a unique focus on conditions that involve the spinal cord, nerve roots, and the broader nervous system.

Neurosurgeons are medical doctors who specialise in the diagnosis and surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves. Their training is centered on the complexities of the nervous system, which may be particularly relevant for patients experiencing neurological symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or nerve pain.

Some considerations for choosing a neurosurgeon for spine-related concerns include:

• Specialised knowledge of neurological structures, which can be important in cases involving spinal cord or nerve compression.

• Experience with complex spinal conditions such as tumours, degenerative disease, and trauma-related injuries.

• Use of minimally invasive techniques, where appropriate, that may support reduced recovery times and smaller incisions.

For individuals with spine-related symptoms— particularly those involving nerve function—it may be appropriate to discuss a referral to a neurosurgeon with your GP. Imaging such as MRI or CT scans may also assist in determining the best course of action.

To learn more about the spinal treatments offered by our team on the Sunshine Coast, please visit www.scneurosurgery. com.au or speak to your general practitioner about a referral. Dr Byrne and his team consult in Birtinya and Noosa.

Food Psychologist

“A WHAT?” I hear you say! Yes, there is such a thing, and yes 99% of people have an unhealthy view of food in relation to body image, and good health. Food behaviours play a huge part in the global epidemic known as over-weight & obesity. Hundreds of billions of dollars are spent trying to stem the tide of obesity worldwide. Our health is our wealth and what we put into our body is often controlled by what our mind is telling us. Yes, you heard correctly, our head space is often the cause of overeating.

People are so critical of themselves. They are almost hard-wired to think negatively, and are their harshest critics. Studies report that 99% of women have admitted they do not like what they see in the mirror. If you believe that this is just a woman thing, then you are sadly mistaken. A large percentage of men with eating disorders and poor body image has become frighteningly common. So, what does this have to do with a Nutritionist? Absolutely everything. Food can make us feel invigorated, full of energy, positive and even hopeful. But it also has a dark side. Food can make us feel depressed, anxious, tired, overwhelmed and sadly even suicidal. Nutrition therefore is a major player in stemming the tide of self-abuse by overeating. Eating less processed fats and sugars has been proven to have a positive impact on mental health. Conversely, eating whole fresh foods has a positive impact. Seeing a nutritionist can set you on the right path for life. Education, and awareness is the key.

Remember, when your head is in a good place your body will follow.

You are what you eat!

FOOT CARE

Step into Comfort

The Importance of General Foot Care

OUR feet carry us through life, yet they are often one of the most neglected parts of the body. Proper foot care is essential not only for comfort but also for preventing long-term problems that can affect mobility and quality of life.

One of the most common concerns is toenail care. Keeping toenails trimmed straight across and not too short helps prevent painful ingrown nails. Regular filing and good hygiene reduce the risk of fungal infections, which can spread quickly if left untreated.

Corns and callouses develop as a result of friction and pressure, often from ill-fitting shoes. While these thickened areas of skin can be uncomfortable, they are the body’s natural way of protecting itself. Over-the-counter pads may help, but persistent or painful corns should be treated by a podiatrist to avoid complications.

Dry, cracked heels are another frequent issue. They can be unsightly and, in severe cases, painful. Moisturising daily, particularly after bathing, is key to keeping the skin soft and preventing splits. For deeper cracks, known as fissures, professional treatment may be necessary to stop infection.

The best prevention for all these conditions is a combination of daily care and good footwear. Shoes that provide support, fit well, and allow the foot to breathe can make all the difference.

Your feet are your foundation—investing in their health ensures you can keep moving comfortably and confidently for years to come.

Respite care this holiday season

As the festive season approaches, many carers find themselves torn between the joy of celebration and the responsibilities of caregiving. For those supporting loved ones with medical needs, the holidays can be especially challenging. Eden Private Hospital, located in Cooroy on the Sunshine Coast, offers a compassionate solution: short-term respite care in a medically supervised, supportive environment — open throughout Christmas.

Whether you're planning a holiday, need time to recharge, or simply want to ensure your loved one is safe and supported, Eden offers flexible, self-funded options with no referral or ACAT assessment required.

ed health services, patients receive high-quality care while their carers take a well-earned break

The hospitalʼs facilities include private and shared rooms with ensuites, social inclusion activities, and personalised physiotherapy sessions to maintain mobility and wellbeing. Edenʼs team of experienced professionals ensures each patient receives attentive, individualised care in a warm and welcoming setting.

Choosing Eden for respite care during the holidays

means more than just a break itʼs an opportunity for

recovery and renewal.

For carers, the gift of rest is invaluable Taking time to

recharge not only supports their own wellbeing but also

strengthens their ability to provide care in the long

term Eden Private Hospital understands this balance

and offers a seamless respite experience that prioritises

both patient care and carer relief

This Christmas, consider Eden Private Hospitalʼs respite

care as a thoughtful, practical option for families

navigating health and caregiving responsibilities. With

limited availability over the holiday period, early

planning is encouraged.

To learn more or secure a place, contact Edenʼs friendly team on 07 5472 6472 or scan our QR code above to learn more.

MORE THAN A HOBBY

MANY people see wildlife rehabilitation as a fun thing to do – even a hobby, a way to while away the hours for ‘empty nesters’. How far is this from the truth!

It is a lifelong commitment for those who take it seriously and want to do the right thing by our precious wildlife. It is ‘action stations’ from the moment that phone call comes through the WILVOS Hotline 5441 6200, or that injured or orphaned animal is delivered.

Each native animal has different care needs and wildlife carers can choose what best fits with their lifestyle. Furless mammals and featherless birds, and eggs, will need incubation.

The smaller the animal, the more often is the feeding regime. Tiny chicks, that may need constant feeding at least every 15 minutes during the day, may have a short break from feeding during the night. This is very intensive but fortunately they are in

care for a shorter time than the mammals. The furless kangaroos may start on small two or three hourly feeds around the clock while in their humidicribs. It seems an endless cycle of feed, toilet, moisturize skin, and gentle massage and exercise. An eastern grey kangaroo may be in care for twelve months by which time they have a little ‘mob’ and go to their pre-release site.

Whatever the native animal, it has to be understood that these are not domesticated species. They are wild animals and have to be returned to their habitat with as many natural instincts as possible. Fitness is imperative as we see 100% healthy animals come into care, and we have to release them in peak fitness and health, knowing their wild environment and diet. Birds need to be able to fly a food distance without exhaustion.

Bone mass is developed at a very early stage so exercise is as important as

diet while rehabilitating wildlife.This is especially needed with young macropods. One only has to look at those long legs to know that strong muscles are required to support them. Gentle weight bearing from before furred, and as they advance the muscles become stronger when muscles pull and push against the bone as they

begin their hopping adventures.

So yes, it is time consuming, exhausting but oh so rewarding to care for wildlife, whatever the many species.

with DONNA BRENNAN

HELP GROW FRESH FOOD FOR KOALAS IN NEED

READY to roll up your sleeves and dig in to make a difference? Tree planting volunteers are needed for new fodder trees in Kureelpa (between Nambour and Mapleton) which will help nourish sick and orphaned koalas.

Register to come along on Saturday, November 15 and be part of this important wildlife initiative helping the RSPCA’s Eumundi Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre care for koalas.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 10 Councillor David Law

said a lack of local fodder meant volunteers had to travel long distances to find enough food for koalas in need.

“This new plantation will be at Shamley Heath Park in Kureelpa, in an unused paddock unsuitable for recreational use,” Cr Law said.

“Once matured, the 1500 new trees would create easy access for koala carers to collect fresh leaves for rescued koalas.

“Recently, of the 14 koalas being cared for by our local RSPCA, 12 have needed to be relocated for fodder, so we hope this planting will make a big difference for our local koala population and the wonderful volunteers who support them.”

Cr Law called on locals to join the planting day, and support koala and habitat conservation.

“Come along for a great day out, discover the different eucalyptus species koalas prefer, and learn how planting food trees supports ongoing rehabilitation and habitat restoration,” he said. Koalas are an iconic Australian animal facing threats from habitat loss, climate change, disease and human activity, contributing to population declines.

According to the Australian Koala Foundation, there are only 60,000 koalas left in the wild.

RSPCA Queensland Spokesperson Emma Lagoon said the project was a lifeline for the region’s koalas.

“It’s a no-brainer that more trees planted for koala feed are critical to their rehabilitation and return to the wild,” Ms Lagoon said.

“Sick and injured koalas can require months of care, and having access to fresh, nutritious leaves right on our doorstep will be invaluable.”

For more information or to register to volunteer, visit Eventbrite.

TAKE A HIKE IN THE HINTERLAND

with Andrea Taylor

MILL POINT - ELANDA POINT

ELANDA Point has much to offer and has a great story behind its humble beginnings.

Timber was once the backbone of the local economy, and Mill Point was one of the earliest timber settlements in Queensland. This thriving timber mill was developed by McGhie, Luya & Co. at Elanda Point from 1860 to 1892. The sawmill covered about 25 hectares and employed up to 200 workers.

Sadly, five men lost their lives on July 29, 1873 while trying to keep warm around the boiler at Mill Point. They had little warning when part of the boiler plate started to bulge, and unfortunately, the shattering explosion was too intense for them to escape. The explosion was heard three miles away. This site is now a Heritage Site.

Mill Point is just one part of Elanda Point. You can also visit the Kinaba Information Centre, which was officially opened on the September 16, 1978 by The Hon. J. BjelkePeterson, MLA, Premier of Queensland.

There is ample parking near the information hut, about 100 metres before entering the Habitat Noosa camping ground. Across the road is the Cooloola Wilderness Trail, with clearly marked signs to help you choose your journey:

• Elanda Circuit via Mill Point – 5.0 km

• Kinaba Information Centre – 6.1 km

• Cemetery – 1.5 km

This relaxing hike is very flat. It can be quite open in places with little shade. After rain the track can become very wet (I recommend tacking insect repellent).

There are so many beautiful aspects to enjoy along this walk — wide open spaces with the warmth of the sun shining down on

you. I just love the paperbark trees; they take me to a mystical world. The large cabbage tree palms look amazing with the sunlight filtering through them.

There is no shortage of wildlife — kangaroos, goannas, butterflies, beautiful kingfishers, and many other bird species. When you reach Kinaba, you’ll find toilets and plenty of room to enjoy a packed lunch. You can even have a refreshing dip in the water before heading back. Be sure to explore the boardwalk where you can see large fish swimming in the shallow waters. Mill Point is quite amazing to visit as you stand there and think back in time, far from the world we know today. I recently returned with Bonnie and Robbie, starting our walk from the visitor’s car park at Elanda Point. The 2.4 km return walk took us a while, but I love the kids’ enthusiasm and the fact that life doesn’t always have to be a crazy rush. We enjoyed some snacks and a play in the water before returning to the campground. On our return we also had more fun at Elanda Point.

This walk is great for the whole family, but unfortunately, dogs are not allowed. Remember, it can get very wet after rain, and on one of my walks, the mosquitoes were quite bad.

You can also reach Mill Point and the Kinaba Information Centre by kayak.

Habitat Noosa has so much to offer — check out their website for more information: www.habitatnoosa.com.au.

Happy hiking! Remember your sunscreen, hat, and water — and for this walk, don’t forget the mosquito repellent!

DESIGNING YOUR GARDEN WITH PERMACULTURE PRINCIPLES

HOW TO BRING SUSTAINABILITY AND ABUNDANCE TO YOUR BACKYARD

PERMACULTURE , a term coined from ‘permanent agriculture’ is a holistic approach to designing productive, sustainable landscapes that work with nature, not against it. Whether you’ve got acreage, a sprawling backyard or just a modest patch, permaculture can transform your garden into a thriving, resilient ecosystem.

The first step in permaculture design is observation. Spend time watching how sunlight moves across your garden, where water pools after rain, and which areas are windprone or sheltered. Jot down what you notice. This slow, thoughtful approach helps you understand your microclimate and soil, which are crucial for making the most of your space and choosing the right plants.

Permaculture encourages gardeners to mimic natural systems. Instead of fighting weeds, pests, or poor soil, think about how these elements fit into the bigger picture. For instance, weeds can indicate soil health, and some pests attract beneficial predators. Embrace diversity by planting a variety of species—this creates a more resilient garden and reduces the need for chemical interventions.

One core principle is zoning: placing frequently used plants (like kitchen herbs) close to the house, and less demanding crops further away. This minimises effort when tending to your garden. Permaculture also uses layers, much like a natural forest—tall trees, shrubs, groundcovers, climbers, and root crops—maximising productivity in a small footprint.

Healthy soil is the foundation. Composting kitchen scraps and mulching with organic materials enriches the earth, encourages worms, and retains moisture. Swales or rain gardens can be used to harvest and direct rainwater efficiently, reducing your reliance on the hose and helping the environment.

Permaculture gardens often produce more than you need. Swap extra zucchinis or lemons with neighbours or share cuttings and seeds. Building community is a key part of the permaculture ethos—after all, a garden is about more than just food - it’s about connection, learning, and caring for the land and each other.

By adopting permaculture principles, you’ll cultivate a garden that requires less work, is more productive, and gives back to the environment. So, grab your notebook and get observing—your sustainable oasis awaits.

Permaculture Noosa will host a special screening of Seed: The Untold Story for its November Club Night, highlighting the vital importance of preserving non-GMO fruit and vegetable seeds for the planet’s future. Entry is $5 for guests and members are free.

JOIN THE CYCLE THIS NATIONAL RECYCLING WEEK

IT’S time to Join the Cycle! National Recycling Week returns this November, inviting Australians to rethink waste and take small, practical steps toward a cleaner, greener future.

Since its launch in 1996, the campaign has inspired households and communities to recycle right. Back then, only 7% of waste — about 1.5 million tonnes — was recycled nationwide. Today, that number has grown to over 60%, or 43 million tonnes each year. On average, each Australian now recycles 1,700 kilograms of material annually — a huge leap from just 80 kilograms per person in 1996.

This year’s theme, Join the Cycle, encourages everyone to reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle — and to buy back

recycled goods to keep materials in use. Here are a few tips to make a difference:

• Always put recyclables in the bin loose, even if the bag is recyclable. Bagged items can’t be sorted properly and may end up in landfill.

• Choose products made from recycled or recyclable materials to close the recycling loop.

• Find local drop-off points for tricky items that don’t belong in your kerbside bin.

• Food scraps don’t belong in recycling bins — compost them at home or through council programs.

• Leave it out: ‘Wishcycling’ can cause more harm than good.

Learn more at recyclingnearyou.com.au

WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO

IT'S no secret that plants which do best in growth, productivity and beauty, are those afforded the best attention in their infancy in the nursery and beyond.

And if you had to figure out who in the Noosa hinterland region were best at it, the many green-fingered Friends of Noosa Botanic Gardens would be in the top five at the very least.

Which is why, if you are looking for new indoor or outdoor plants for your home that you want to last, look no further than Noosa Botanic Gardens Friends' final Plant Sale for the year.

As always, the Friends have been beavering away to ensure the finest, and widest range of plants will be on offer straight out of their propagation shed at the gardens. It's also their major fundraiser for the upkeep of the gardens so there's more than one good reason to be there on Saturday, November 22, from 7am to midday.

So don't miss out.

And a reminder for all the Gardens’

supporters that the closing date for submissions to the draft of the Master Plan for the Future of Noosa Botanic Gardens is November 7 - so don't miss out on that either!

Noosa Botanic Gardens is located on Lake Macdonald Drive, about 4km from Cooroy's town centre.

For more information about the Plant Sale, the draft plan, and being involved with the Friends, visit noosabotanicgardensfriends. com, or Facebook/noosabotanicgardens friends.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES with Andy Flanagan

ADVENTURES ABROAD

– Via Ferrata

VIA Ferrata (Italian) or Klettersteig (German) means Iron Way and they can be lots of fun for those of us that love high places. They enable access to routes and spectacular places we would never see or experience without years of rope and climbing experience. I was an avid rock climber in younger years, climbing with harness and rope regularly with family and friends. These days I prefer the convenience of climbing without all the extra gear and via ferrata allows just that. A harness, helmet and a couple of specialized lanyards and - as we found out in Switzerland - you can be climbing insanely high mountain cliff faces with very little expertise. The routes are all expertly created with steel foot holds, ladders, all sorts of bridges - and most importantly - fixed cables to always be clipped into with your two lanyards.

They are graded 1-6 or A-F and can be quite strenuous and taxing at the higher levels, 6 and F being the hardest. The best place to experience these amazing climbs is the European Alps, bordering France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy. These alps literally have 100s if not 1000s of via ferrata. Of the five that we experienced in Switzerland all were very well maintained and free to use with a donation box at the head of the trail. We always found an outdoor store nearby that had the equipment for hire and were keen to give any advice required. Via ferrata are always one way only as it would create a safety issue crossing paths so once you start you need to be confident you can finish.

Some highlights from our five via ferrata routes around Interlarken and Lausanne: On the Eiger (Rotstock) a wingsuit flyer zoomed past us while we were climbing up a canyon wall; Murrens’ traverses cliffs up to 1000m above the spectacular

Lauterbrunnen valley with lots of paragliders and there is even a platform for base jumpers complete with a radio to check for helicopter air traffic below; On the Kandersteg we crossed many very deep ravines with huge gushing water-falls off to our sides; Climbing into the clouds on Moleson; The thrill of our very first at Rochers De Nay; Most of all the beauty of all the rock features, magnificent views and of course the exhilaration of the extreme heights.

If you enjoy heights, you will love these adventures. As with all adventures ALWAYS be well prepared and self sufficient. Expect the unexpected. An uncomfortable night out due to bad timing or injury or unexpected weather could just become a great story rather than something much worse. First aid, food, water, warmth, torch, communication etc Happy travels and best wishes. Andy Flanagan www.SaveOurSummits.org

Kandersteg Valley

Kandersteg finish

Eiger Via Ferrata

Eiger Rotstok

Murren Base jumping Platform

HERITAGE CENTRE OPEN DAY

ON Saturday, November 22, from 9am to 12.30pm, the Cooroy-Noosa Genealogical & Historical Research Group is holding an open day and Christmas Market. Visitors will be welcome at the Heritage Centre, 17 Emerald Street Cooroy.

A selection of potted plants at bargain prices, hand crafted jams, chutneys and relishes lovingly made by our members, and a variety of Christmas gifts will be on sale.

Volunteers will be available to answer questions about the Cooroy-Noosa Genealogical & Historical Research Group. Take the opportunity to see firsthand the resources available at the centre to undertake your ancestry and family history research.

If you are interested in digitising your old family photos, we invite you to bring a print along for a free demonstration of the

centres digitising facilities.

The organisation was formed in 1996 by a group of friends who shared a keen interest in family history and that small group has now grown to over 130 members.

In January 2016 the group moved into their purpose-built Heritage Centre that contains a modern research area, meeting space and family history research library that is open for the community to use.

The Heritage Centre is open to the public from 9.30am to 1pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. You can drop in for a free session. Membership provides great value for money access to the research facility and library as well as special functions and expert assistance. Call 3129 0356 in the above office hours. More information can be found on the website www.genealogy-noosa.org.au

Noosa Biosphere Awards 2025 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

THE 2025 Noosa Biosphere Awards Finalists were announced at the October Green Drinks Noosa networking event.

Overall, 22 finalists were selected across five categories including individuals, businesses and organisations demonstrating outstanding contributions to positive environment and community outcomes in the Noosa Shire.

Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation General Manager, Anna Macklin said this year’s entrants demonstrated pride across the Noosa Shire community in preserving our Noosa Biosphere values.

“I’m always encouraged by our community’s spirit and dedication to protecting what we all love about Noosa.

This year’s entrants ranged from academic research, exemplar individual volunteers, and businesses embedding sustainability principles. I thank all entrants for their time in submitting their entry to the Awards.

“The 22 finalists selected demonstrate the values of living in our Noosa Biosphere and contribute to the global objectives of the Man and the Biosphere Program,” said Ms Macklin.

THE 2025 NOOSA BIOSPHERE AWARDS FINALISTS ARE:

Environmental Steward Award (under 30) sponsored by UniSC: Chaka Wood, Gene Young, Spencer Hitchen. Environmental Steward Award (over 30) sponsored by UniSC: Anne Kennedy, Beverly Hand, Paul Ryan. Social Impact Award supported by Kabi Kabi Peoples

Aboriginal Corporation: Noosa Surf Lifesaving Club, Rise & Thrive, Seahorse Inclusion Foundation, Zero Emissions Noosa. Thriving Nature Award sponsored by Noosa4Sale: Noosa and District Landcare Group, QLD Fire & Biodiversity, Tourism Noosa, UniSC Sunshine Coast Bull Shark Program. Smart Biosphere Award sponsored by Noosa Council: EnergyFlex, Mineral Fox, UniSC Indicators of Conservation Success, UniSC Koala Vaccine. Sustainable Business of the Year sponsored by Tourism Noosa: Eastwell Farms, Karla Enterprises, Laguna Pest Control, Pottery for the Planet.

Winners will be announced at the 5th Noosa Biosphere Awards Ceremony sponsored by Noosa Council on Thursday, November 13, at The J Noosa. For event details and tickets, visit www.noosabiosphere.org.au/awards.

MASTERS TO YOUNG GUNS MAKING AN IMPACT

LAST week our crew travelled to Canberra for the Australian Masters Games, where four of our boxers — Dallas Arnetts, Cassie Fitzgerald, Ada Tse, and Neville Wienert — stepped into the ring and put on outstanding performances across two days of competition.

The team came away with two gold and two silver medals, with both Dallas and Cassie stopping their opponents to claim gold. Dallas finished his bout with a first-round stoppage on day two, while Cassie secured hers in the third round with another dominant display.

With Masters Boxing continuing to grow, it’s great to see more of our seasoned athletes proving that you’re never too old to lace up the gloves.

After a quick flight home from Canberra, the team didn’t stop — jumping straight into the Impact Boxing bus and heading to Rockhampton for Saturday night’s fights.

We had three boxers on the card: Theo Rivera scored a brilliant round-three stoppage against his Gladstone opponent.

Zayden Johnson battled in an absolute war, narrowly losing a split-points decision in a bout that could have gone either way.

Mika Davey wasn’t feeling 100% but still put on a great performance against a tough opponent from Black Rock Boxing, going down on points in a close contest.

The team will now regroup before heading to Emerald for the Coalfields Tournament.

It’s been a huge year for Impact Boxing in our 20th anniversary season, with just two tournaments left on the calendar. The team is fired up and ready to finish 2025 strong — next stop, Toowoomba, November 22!

A huge thank you to everyone for your ongoing support.

#TeamImpact #ImpactBoxing #MastersBoxing #BetterThroughBoxing

Ange Harris, Ada Tse, Cassie Fitzgerald, Dallas Annetts, Nev Wienert and Mark Evans

Mark Evans, Zayden Johnson, Mika Davey, Theo Rivera and Andrew Davey

LLEW O’BRIEN Federal Member for Wide Bay

THE Albanese Government is attempting to change Australia’s Defence honours system and remove the rights of Defence Force members and veterans to have historic acts of gallantry properly reviewed.

The Defence Amendment (Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal) Bill 2025 has passed in the House of Representatives and will be debated in the Senate in late October. The Coalition opposed the Bill, but the Government was able to push it through due to their numbers in the House.

The Defence Honours and Awards Appeal Tribunal, the independent body that reviews cases of military bravery, has grave concerns that the Albanese Government’s new bill will set a 20-year time limit on reconsidering awards, which means actions from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and earlier conflicts would no longer be eligible for review.

The Tribunal has been operating for 14 years as an agency for independent review of past actions and decisions. Of the 483 reviews the Tribunal has conducted, on 283 occasions it has upheld the decision made by Defence, but on 136 occasions it has put forward recommendations to change the decision of Defence.

After careful consideration, the Tribunal made recommendations on people like Teddy Sheean and Richard Nordon, who both received VCs, and the Delta Company action at Long Tan by Harry Smith and his platoon.

Fifty years after the Battle of Long Tan

in 1966, the Tribunal determined that 10 of the men from Delta Company were not properly recognised and recommended they be awarded a military honour, or have their existing honour upgraded.

Currently, anyone can make an application for the Tribunal to review a Defence decision, but this will no longer be possible if these changes go through. The Bill is removing rights of review for veterans who saw service in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq, Somalia, Rwanda, East Timor, and the earlier years of the Afghanistan campaign.

There is no evidence that the Government properly consulted with the ex-service community on the proposed changes, which are essentially an effort by the Government to remove independence from a statutory body which was established in 2011 to consider all Defence honours and awards matters.

The capacity to review decisions made by Defence was a deliberate design feature of the Tribunal when it was established, but under the changes proposed in this Bill there would be no pathway to review past actions beyond 20 years, even if compelling new evidence becomes available.

My office is always here to help in any matter controlled by the Australian Government. If you need assistance please contact me on telephone 4121 2936, email llew.obrien.mp@ aph.gov.au, my website www.llewobrien. com.au or on Facebook www.facebook.com/ llewobrienlnp.

SANDY BOLTON State Member for Noosa

WITH a second whale entanglement in Noosa and following an Oceans for All meeting where 70 per cent of local business, environment, and wateruser groups supported a trial to replace shark nets with safe alternatives during whale migration, I raised in Parliament key evidence including the 2019 Federal Court determination, Administrative Appeals Tribunal findings, and University of Wollongong research which reported nets do not improve swimmer safety. With government ignoring this evidence, as well as KPMG’s recommendations to transition away from nets and calls from Noosa Council and our community, I asked, given safe alternatives are successfully used elsewhere, for Government to listen to our community and replace nets with these during migration season. See my full speech at https://www.facebook.com/ share/v/14F1MFTmATa/.

Following events where overseas criminals used AI-driven social engineering tools to defraud Noosa Council, I asked the Minister for Open Data what is underway to prevent such financial crimes. The Minister referred to the Australian Signals Directorate’s 2024–25 Cyber Threat Report, which shows a cyberattack occurs every six minutes in Australia, and outlined the state’s partnership to deliver the Cyber Wardens program to small businesses, with more information available at

A YEAR OF DELIVERING FOR NICKLIN

YOU asked for a fresh start, and what a year it has been delivering for our community.

From Cooroy to Yandina and Kenilworth, we’ve made real progress on the issues that matter most to locals.

Crime victim numbers are down, more police are on the beat making our community safer, and the waitlist for elective surgery has seen its biggest drop in a decade.

Across the State, we’ve unlocked land to build 98,000 new homes, giving families greater opportunity to put down roots. Families are also receiving practical cost-ofliving support with initiatives like the Back to School Boost and $200 Play On! Sports vouchers.

In Cooroy, there’s been plenty happening. A traffic count was recently conducted by TMR at the notorious intersections of Elm and Myall Streets and Elm and Diamond Streets which will guide upgrades to improve safety, ease congestion, and ensure our roads meet the needs of our growing community. I’ll keep you updated as this work progresses.

It was also fantastic to see so many residents join the Pink Up Cooroy Precinct Walk, raising funds for the McGrath Foundation – a brilliant example of our community coming

together for a great cause.

I also loved connecting with hinterland locals at my recent screening of The Travellers at Nambour Cinemas as part of Seniors Month celebrations.

Equally rewarding was spending time at my recent Conversation Station in Yandina, where I heard directly from residents about what matters most –from local infrastructure and services to everyday challenges and suggestions for improvement.

If you are a Yandina resident, you may have received a phone call from me as I canvassed the area to ensure any State issues are brought to my attention. Hearing from residents is invaluable, and the positive feedback was especially encouraging.

If you’d like to have your say, the best way is by completing my short online survey at martyhunt.com.au/survey. Every local who participates goes into the draw to win a Weber Baby Q, to be drawn at the end of this month.

Together, we’ve achieved a lot in the past year, but there’s still more to do.

I’m proud to represent a community that rolls up its sleeves, shares its voice, and works together to get things done.

Your engagement makes all the difference, and I’m excited for what we can continue to achieve locally.

http://bit.ly/3KQ8DgQ. With AI making scams increasingly complex, we encourage residents to learn how to identify and respond to them through www.scamwatch. gov.au.

The Health, Environment and Innovation Committee, of which I am a member, tabled its report into improving Queensland’s Container Refund Scheme. The 10-month-long inquiry was complex and, to ensure the scheme can be the best version available moving forward and that politics is not a determining factor in matters raised, several findings were referred to an independent entity. The full committee report is available via www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-ofCommittees/Committees/CommitteeDetails?cid=0&id=4505, including my Statement of Reservation, which highlights the ongoing failing of the committee process with regard to an appropriate amount of time in scrutinising these reports.

With so much happening and limited space, stay in the loop by visiting Noosa 360, where you can subscribe to our monthly newsletter for updates, surveys, and polls. You can also follow Sandy Bolton MP on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. For any questions or assistance with state matters, contact my office at 5319 3100.

Sandy

DAN PURDIE State Member for Ninderry

DANIEL’S LAW INTRODUCED TO QUEENSLAND PARLIAMENT

IN Parliament, I introduced Daniel’s Law – landmark legislation to protect children from repeat offenders. This law honours the memory of Sunshine Coast school boy, Daniel Morcombe, whose abduction and murder in 2003 shocked Queenslanders and prompted his parents, Bruce and Denise, to campaign tirelessly for strong child safety measures. Their advocacy has already changed the way we educate children about safety, and Daniel’s Law takes that work further.

Daniel’s Law will establish the Queensland Community Protection and Public Child Sex Offender Register and will consist of three tiers, in a multi-layered approach to child protection.

This scheme is about transparency, accountability, and ensuring that the worst repeat offenders cannot hide in the shadows.

Every child deserves the chance to grow up safe, supported, and free from harm, and this legislation is another step in making that a reality.

WOMEN’S CAREER GRANTS

Queensland women returning to work will soon have access to new support to help ease the financial pressure of getting back into the workforce.

Through the new Women’s Career Grants

program, women can apply for up to $5000 to cover expenses like workwear, childcare, training, tools, transport, or technology. This $20m statewide initiative will be delivered with Future Women, who have already supported hundreds through the Jobs Academy program. An extra $4m will extend the academy into 2026 and 2027, helping 500 more women upskill. Women can register their interest now at womenscareergrants.com.au, with applications opening on November 3. This program gives more local women the opportunity to return to work, gain financial independence, and strengthen communities.

Please do not hesitate to contact my Electorate Office on 5406 7900 or at ninderry@parliament.qld.gov.au, if you need assistance on any state related matters. Be sure to follow my socials to keep up to date.

MARTY HUNT State Member for Nicklin

COVETED FLAXTON ACREAGE WITH VIEWS AND TIMELESS APPEAL

FEW opportunities rival the lifestyle on offer here - 5.7 elevated acres in Flaxton, where sweeping hinterland vistas meet ocean glimpses and timeless Cape Cod architecture. Spanning two levels, the residence offers five bedrooms plus study, three bathrooms and multiple living areas.

From the sunken lounge with open fireplace and window seat to the dormer windows that capture breezes and outlooks, the home exudes character. A second fireplace warms the main living room, while the beautifully appointed kitchen anchors family life.

Outdoors, an expansive pavilion with built-in kitchen flows to a resort-style pool and level lawns. A detached studio, high-clearance shed, orchard and paddocks, with dam, bore

and tanks ensuring water security, highlight the property’s versatility. Kondalilla National Park is nearby, while Montville, Mapleton and Maroochydore ensure convenience is never far away.

Framed by coastal sunrises and hinterland sunsets, opportunities of this calibre are seldom available - and always unforgettable.

ADDRESS

49 AKALA STREET, FLAXTON AGENT

JASON CLEARY

ELDERS REAL ESTATE - LIVING PHONE - 0402 073 661

PRESTIGE HINTERLAND ACREAGE

EXPERIENCE the pinnacle of Noosa Hinterland living with this exquisite Hamptons-style residence on a fully fenced 40-acre parcel capturing 360-degree panoramic views, natural light, and exceptional privacy.

Spanning approximately 330sqm , the home features four bedrooms (all with walk-in robes), two elegant bathrooms, two powder rooms, a home office, two separate living areas, a designer galley kitchen with butler’s pantry, and a covered east-facing patio perfect for entertaining. Every room captures a spectacular view, showcasing refined style, functionality, and timeless Hamptons charm.

Quality finishes include ducted airconditioning, 9-foot ceilings, hybrid flooring, Caesarstone benches, 900mm oven with 5-burner gas cooktop, and dual vanities with standalone bathtubs. Enhancements such as vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and upgraded fencing add to its appeal.

Premium infrastructure completes the

picture — a 24.5m x 8m shed, 10 fenced paddocks, horse arena, round yard, cattle yards with vet crush, and 100,000L water storage. Three dams supply abundant water, supported by irrigation and sprinkler systems.

Just minutes from schools, 18 minutes to Gympie and Cooroy, and 40 minutes to Noosa Main Beach, this property offers the perfect blend of luxury, practicality, and seclusion — a showstopping lifestyle estate where rural beauty meets modern elegance.

ADDRESS

2 TRAVESTON ROAD, TRAVESTON

4 BED, 2 BATH, 10 CAR, 16.2 HECTARES PRICE - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

STACEY HITCH COUNTRYSIDE REALTY NOOSA PHONE -0411 429 499

STYLISH BALINESE-INSPIRED SANCTUARY

STEP through the gates and feel instantly transported - this Balinese-inspired residence radiates peace, privacy, and refined style. Every element has been thoughtfully crafted to create a calm retreat, perfectly positioned in a quiet cul-de-sac on the Noosa side of Cooroy, within walking distance to cafés and local amenities.

A wide entrance welcomes you with soft natural light and a sense of space that unfolds beautifully throughout the home. The open-plan living area forms the heart of the residence, complemented by a formal lounge and adjoining sunroom - inviting spaces where clean lines, tiled floors, and plantation shutters blend modern comfort with timeless design, all while framing private views over the lush tropical gardens.

The gourmet kitchen and dining area connect effortlessly to the lounge and sunroom, featuring sleek stone waterfall benchtops, quality appliances, and ample storage - the perfect setting for both entertaining and relaxed everyday living.

The master suite is a true retreat, complete with a generous ensuite and direct access

to a private courtyard - your own peaceful sanctuary to unwind and recharge. Three additional bedrooms offer flexibility for family, guests, or a home office, each designed with an emphasis on light, privacy, and comfort.

Practicality meets elegance with a double garage, low-maintenance landscaping, split-system air conditioning, and ceiling fans throughout.

Every detail of this home has been carefully considered to capture the essence of privacy and serenity while offering the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

Simply move in, relax, and let the tranquil atmosphere take over.

ADDRESS

8 DIANELLA COURT, COOROY

4 BED 2 BATH 2 CAR

PRICE - $1,250,000

AGENT

WARREN BERRY

HINTERNOOSA

PHONE - 0407730987

PRIME COOROY CBD INVESTMENT

INVESTORS take note of this outstanding opportunity in the heart of Cooroy CBD opposite the IGA: a post-war home converted to professional offices on a 1012m2 block zoned Medium Impact Density, with dual street frontage, currently tenanted by a law firm.

The building itself comprises entry porch, 1 x reception/waiting room, 3 x offices, large modern kitchen, and fully tiled bathroom; split system air-conditioning throughout, high ceilings, and hardwood timber floors are notable features, and it has been impeccably maintained.

Framed by lush leafy native and tropical gardens with colourful flowering shrubs, a pergola perfect for staff’s morning tea or lunch overlooks a delightful pond - and there is a pathway from the carpark (accessed at the rear via Wimmers Lane) through the gardens to the entry.

The three year lease expires on June 30 2026; there is a provision for rent increases every 12 months under current lease. This could make an excellent SMSF (self-managed super fund) investment on a sizeable parcel of land within the vibrant township of Cooroy with its busy town hub,

the capital of the Noosa hinterland.

Should vacancy eventually arise, securing a tenant in this prime locale will not be an issue, and there could be future redevelopment possibilities also for this block (stca). With dual street frontage (and possibly access) there is great branding visibility for businesses, and opposite Cooroy’s largest supermarket, from a commercial point-of-view the location couldn’t be better.

Investor owner is committed to secure a sale, and this is an opportunity that will attract the attention of the savvy buyer not only looking for attractive returns but also those looking to be a stakeholder in the ongoing growth of the town.

ADDRESS

12 EMERALD STREET, COOROY

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPE WITH ROOM TO GROW & ENTERTAIN

TUCKED at the end of a peaceful cul-desac, 14 Cicada Close is a private tropical retreat on a generous 1023sqm block, just minutes from the heart of Noosa. Designed for relaxed living and effortless entertaining, this spacious residence blends natural light, lush gardens, and versatile indoor-outdoor zones to create a true lifestyle haven.

Step through the gated courtyard and into a home that immediately feels welcoming. Vaulted ceilings and expansive glass invite sunshine into every corner, while the first living area offers tranquil garden views and seamless flow to a covered alfresco and sparkling plunge pool. The granite-topped kitchen is a standout, with a walk-in pantry and wide picture windows framing the greenery beyond.

The layout is ideal for families or guests, with four bedrooms thoughtfully separated for privacy. The oversized master suite is indulgent, featuring bay windows, a walk-in robe, and a spacious ensuite with double vanities and a private bath. Three additional bedrooms share their own wing with a bathroom and separate toilet.

Outside, winding paths lead to a peaceful gazebo, with pergola-covered walkways and ample lawn for children and pets. A separate gated entrance offers secure parking for a

caravan or boat, complementing the double garage and generous storage throughout. With direct access to parkland and trails, and just moments from golf, schools, hospital, and Noosa’s iconic beaches and riverfront, this is a rare opportunity to secure space, style, and serenity in a sought-after location.

YOUR OWN SLICE OF PARADISE

WELCOME to your own slice of paradise— an exceptional 8.6-acre property where tranquility and opportunity meet. This expansive block offers the perfect foundation to build your dream home in a peaceful, family-friendly setting. More than just land, it’s a lifestyle waiting to unfold. Surrounded by natural beauty and embraced by a warm, supportive community, every day here feels like a retreat.

The property features a flat, ready-to-build pad, making the transition from vision to reality seamless. Fully fenced for privacy and security, it’s ideal for families, pets, and those seeking peace of mind. With breathtaking views that capture both sunrise and sunset, the land invites you to relax, explore, and grow— whether you’re interested in hobby farming, weekend escapes, or creating a forever home.

Conveniently located just 20 minutes from the vibrant township of Cooroy, the heart of the Noosa Hinterland, and only 40 minutes from the world-renowned beaches of Noosa Heads, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility. Plus, the beloved Hub Café is just a two-minute drive away, perfect for weekend catchups and community connection. This rare opportunity offers space, serenity,

and convenience in one beautiful package. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful lifestyle, a place to raise a family, or a private retreat, this property is ready to welcome your vision. Don’t miss your chance to experience the calm, connection, and potential this special place has to offer.

ADDRESS

WELCOME to 8 Bunderra Way – a place where lifestyle, comfort, and connection come together in perfect harmony. This isn’t just a house; it’s a home designed to embrace every moment. From the moment you walk through the door, you’re greeted by a sense of warmth and calm that flows through every thoughtfully crafted space. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee on the double swing in the alfresco area as the sun rises or enjoying a cosy movie night in the media room, this home invites you to slow down and savour life. Ideal for growing families or those who love to entertain, the open-plan living area seamlessly connects to private retreats and outdoor spaces. The stylish kitchen, complete with an oversized island bench and walk-in pantry, opens via bifold doors to stunning views of the pool and surrounding mountains. The alfresco area is a true highlight, featuring a fireplace, ceiling fan, TV space, and built-in seating – perfect for year-round gatherings.

Set on a generous 5,700sqm block with dual street access, the property boasts lush gardens, a charming kids’ treehouse, and a fully fenced backyard ideal for pets and play. With four spacious bedrooms, a dedicated study nook, and a luxurious master suite with direct outdoor access, every detail has been considered to enrich daily living.

Located just 18 minutes from Cooroy, 42 minutes from Noosa’s world-class beaches, and two hours from Brisbane CBD, this home offers the perfect blend of serenity and convenience.

ADDRESS

8

NOVEMBER CROSSWORD NO. 0780

2. Firebug’s felony

52. Wild

54. Blood vessel

55. Fragrant timber

56. Natural world

57. Potato cake, ... brown

60. Shipshape

62. Crops up

65. Didn’t remember

67. The Press

69. Socially unacceptable

70. Supermarket lane

72. Spider’s lair

73. Dental thread

75. Angry growl

77. Scientist’s workplace

79. Take in (child)

81. That man’s

82. Rub out

84. Chicks’ homes

85. Dear Sir or ...

86. Tofu bean

87. Wrestles vigorously

88. Hospital dormitory DOWN

1. Commend (for bravery)

3. Vampire beast 4. Thailand’s former name 5. Ahead 6. Stared

7. Cosy corner 8. False hair

9. Ring-shaped coral isle

10. 24-hour periods

12. Besieged

14. Headquarters

16. Ditto

19. Titled

22. Communion tables

23. Bomb shelter

25. Grown-ups

26. Builds

29. Penitentiary guards

32. Donkey

35. Uncivilised

37. Closest relative, next ... (2,3)

38. Try

40. Room within roof

41. Not as common

42. Family vehicle

43. Enthusiastic

44. Approaches

47. Customers

51. TV reception pole

52. Sides

53. Coastal lake

54. Foul-mouthed

58. Bearing weapons

59. Possessed

61. Districts

63. Gaps

64. Waist bands

65. Petrified remnant

66. Lubricated

68. Jet black

71. Peruvian pack animal

72. Methods

74. Displace

76. Bank cash dispensers (1,1,2)

78. Flex

80. Legume

83. Uncooked

When experience matters, trust Bodie!

With over 18 years in real estate and five generations of local knowledge behind him, Bodie Weir is a trusted authority in rural property. Born and raised in the region, Bodie brings more than just industry expertise—he brings a deep understanding of the land, the lifestyle, and the people who call it home.

At Weir & Co, we specialise in rural and lifestyle properties, delivering tailored strategies and exceptional results for every client. Our reputation is built on local insight, integrity, and a consistent track record of success.

We endeavour to create an honest and transparent real estate experience with a promise to the community to always follow through on our word and be the voice you can trust.

If you value professionalism, reliability, indepth knowledge, and results that speak for themselves, there’s only one name to call.

Trusted. Proven. Local.

Bodie Weir Director & Co-Founder

0434 718 052