40th Anniversary liftout

1986-2026

40 yeArs telling your stories

Forty yeArs of delivering great local news across the Glass House region and beyond is a remarkable milestone, and one that I am proud to have witnessed throughout my 18 years as the local Member for Glass House.

it’s fair to say, over the years, we’ve shared many memorable moments together. one of the campaigns I am most proud of was my annual Great Walk along Maleny-Kenilworth road, advocating for much-needed upgrades, particularly north of Conondale. For 10 years, i strapped on my hiking boots and walked the 34-kilometre route in a single day, from Little yabba Creek to my office in Maleny. the Great Walk also became an important fundraising opportunity for the

After 23 yeArs, i’ve seen it All Shaz

Hi, it’s sHAroN, or “shaz” to most people. And for everyone who still asks, “is she still at the paper?” the answer is yes. in fact, it’s now been 23 years since i started with Pam Innes back in 2003.

From introducing new technology alongside Pam, to working with Lea Parkes and Greg Brown, and now with Mitch at the helm, i’ve managed the design and production of not only GC&M

News, but also our sister publication, the sentinel. the paper has come a long way over the years. We’ve evolved from an A4 publication printed on an old Heidelberg press (with a special mention to the late Paul Kelly) into the newspaper you see today. technology has changed dramatically during that time. I started designing pages in PageMaker before making the move to

Chaplaincy programs at Maleny and Conondale state schools.

I am incredibly proud that the long-awaited improvements we campaigned for have been delivered in recent years.

Glasshouse Country & Maleny News has also been a wonderful supporter of my annual Glassies, the Glass House small Business Awards.

I sincerely thank the team for their ongoing coverage and commitment to supporting small businesses across our region. I know our award winners are always grateful for the opportunity to share their stories and celebrate their achievements through your publication. together, we’ve also seen strong advocacy for important road safety improvements

inDesign, and the learning has never stopped. one of the highlights was studying how colour behaves on newsprint. It might sound a little nerdy, but i genuinely find it fascinating, and it has helped me produce pages

across Glass House over the years, including traffic lights at Bowen road, reed street, and the Kilcoy-Beerwah road and old Gympie road intersection near Beerwah state school.

to Mitch and the entire team at Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, thank you for your dedication to our community, your commitment to quality journalism, and your passion for our region. this is a milestone truly worth celebrating, and i look forward to seeing your continued success for many years to come.

And one final request, PLeAse stop outing me for tipping the Blues! i’m just trying to work my way up the leaderboard!

that look their best in print. People often ask why i’ve stayed for so long. the truth is, i think printer’s ink runs through my veins. More importantly, i’m incredibly proud of what

we produce each week. i’ve had the privilege of working alongside some truly dedicated people who share the same passion for local print media. the designers i’ve worked with over the years have all been exceptionally talented and have taught me so much, from shelly and Wendy in the early days through to Katie today. there have been plenty of memorable moments along the way, especially our Christmas parties. Boats seemed to feature more than once! on one occasion, a colleague misjudged the step onto a pontoon and ended up in the water. Another enjoyed one too many drinks on a barbecue

boat and decided a swim was a great idea… while wearing a white shirt. We also looked forward to our sequinned santa arriving for secret santa each year. they were great times and full of laughs.

We pride ourselves on being professional when answering the phones, but we’ve certainly had some interesting calls over the years. For those that remember, i still think richard’s personal ads topped the list.

of course, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. the Global Financial Crisis hit many of our advertisers hard, and it was heartbreaking to see so many local

businesses struggle. then came 2020. on 1 April, we genuinely thought we were producing the final edition of GC&M News. thankfully, JobKeeper provided a lifeline and we transitioned to a digital format for a time, producing the paper from our homes while Greg held the fort in the office. And here we are, celebrating 40 years of sharing the news and views of a remarkable community. i can’t promise i’ll still be here for the next 40 years, but as long as I continue to love what i do, you’ll find me at my computer, happily clicking and tapping away, creating covers and pages i’m proud to put my name to.

the heart is what matters

By Andrew wallace, member for fisher

FOR 40 years, GC&M News has been at the heart of our hinterland communities, telling the stories that matter and helping keep local people connected, for Free!

In an age where many regional newspapers have disappeared, GC&M News has remained a trusted voice for our community.

Week after week, it has shone a spotlight on local achievements, celebrated community milestones, promoted local events and provided a platform for the people and organisations that make our region such a special place to call home.

What has always stood out to me is Gc&M news’ commitment to community.

Whether it’s covering local sporting clubs, schools, charities, volunteer groups, small businesses or community events, the paper has consistently focused on the issues and

people that matter most to residents across the hinterland.

Importantly, GC&M News has never lost sight of the fact that some of the most important stories are not found in the headlines of major city newspapers. they are the stories of local people making a difference, neighbours helping neighbours and communities coming together to support one another.

40 years of publications is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication of the journalists, editors, photographers, staff, advertisers and loyal readers who have supported the publication throughout its journey. congratulations to everyone who has contributed to Gc&M news over the past four decades. thank you for your commitment to local journalism and to serving our community so well. I wish Gc&M news every success for the next 40 years.

Lookingbacktoday,we dosowithenormous pride,gratefulforthe challenges,achievements, friendshipsandmemories thatcamefromowning oneoftheregion’smost trustedandenduringlocal newspapers.

By lEA PArkEs

In OctOber 2004, we became the proud owners of the Glasshouse country news.

After spending nearly two decades working in government media and public relations roles, I always had a secret dream to start my own community magazine.

So while working as the Media and Pr Manager for Caloundra City Council, and seeing that Pam and John Innes decided to place their newspaper on the market, I convinced Greg that it would be a great opportunity.

What began as my vision soon became a shared venture, with both of us leaving our secure, wellpaid government careers to continue building and evolving the small but successful community newspaper.

My parents and grandparents were all small business owners who weren’t afraid to innovate, be creative and back themselves. I think that gave me the confidence to embrace the challenge.

OURSeventeenYeaRS

OfCOMMUnitY,Change andLOCaLStORieS

For Greg, the attraction was different. strong interest in local issues, planning, development, environment community affairs … and gardening provided the motivation to help tell the stories that mattered to locals. We soon discovered just how passionate the newspaper’s readers and advertisers were, they weren’t shy to tell us how much they loved their local newspaper, and they wanted to be kept informed about what was happening in their town, and in their street. they loved the publication’s distinctive A4 format. Long time locals called it ‘the book’. As they could read it while enjoying a cuppa at the same time. not surprisingly they also didn’t hold back about their frustrations about the papers being delivered tightly rolled in plastic which meant it stayed rolled up long after peeling off the plastic and often needed microwaving to flatten it.

Back in 2004 Sunshine coast had a massive number of community newspapers, including two multiple editions in caloundra and

the Hinterland, alongside the Sunshine coast Daily.

Even then, there was growing discussion about the impact the internet would have on traditional newspapers with the prediction of the end of print media; however we remained committed to independent local journalism.

For us being independent publishers was a privilege and giving readers the information they need to form their own views was always important to us.

During our time at Gc&M news the newspaper evolved significantly, transitioning from the A4 predominantly black-and-white pages printed on photocopy stock to a full-colour newspaper produced on newsprint. Along the way, digital editions were introduced, followed by regular online and social media content, and an expansion into Maleny and blackall range.

When the newspaper was sold to Mitch in January 2022, many of the print publications that existed on the Sunshine coast in the early 2000s had either closed or moved

entirely online. Glasshouse country & Maleny news remained one of only a handful of independent print publications continuing to tell local stories.

I don’t think Greg and I ever imagined we would own the newspaper for 17 years, nor did we imagine just how dramatically the industry would change. Yet despite the transformation of media, one thing never changed. Our passion for uniting the community and celebrating what makes our region such a wonderful place to live. Looking back today, we do so with enormous pride, grateful for the challenges, achievements, friendships and memories that came from owning one of the region’s most trusted and enduring local newspapers. thanks again – happy 40th!

Thank you GHCMN for capturing the stories, spirit and heart of our region, helping our community stay connected, informed and heard.

Thank you for being a trusted voice, supporting local people, local businesses and local stories.

Congratulations on 40 years - here’s to many more!

Councillor in the Community Catch-up Wednesday 1st July - Coffee Club, Beerwah 9:30-11am Or simply contact me and make a time to meet!

40YearsofChange:

Wh hasn’t Changed?

Chris CArlin Glasshouse Wealth

as our local paper celebrates its 40th anniversary, it’s worth reflecting on just how much life has changed since 1986. Back then, Australia’s standard home loan interest rates were often around 13–14%, average full-time earnings were less than $25,000 per year, and the typical australian home cost around $80,000. Today, average incomes have risen significantly, but property prices have risen much faster. Interest rates are far lower than the double-digit levels many homeowners faced in the 1980s.

Of course, the past 40 years haven’t been smooth sailing.

We’ve lived through the 1987 share market crash, the recession we had to have, the introduction of Capital Gains Tax and GST, the dot-com boom and bust, the September 11 attacks, the Global Financial Crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, rising inflation, and numerous international conflicts.

Yet despite all of those challenges, investors who remained disciplined and focused on the long term were rewarded. the lesson is simple: headlines change, crises come and go, but human progress continues.

In 1986, few people would have predicted the world we live in today. Likewise, nobody knows exactly what the next 40 years will bring.

What history does tell us, however, is that successful investors are rarely those who perfectly predict the future. More often, they are the people who stay invested, remain patient, and keep moving forward despite uncertainty.

Forty years of history reminds us that while markets, governments and technology change, the principles of long-term investing remain remarkably consistent.

ChamberLeadIng

LoCaLbusInessahead

Continuing the hi ory growth and guidance

For more than 30 years, the Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce has been the voice of local business, championing the interests of operators across one of South-East Queensland’s fastestgrowing regions.

Formed through the amalgamation of the former Landsborough, Beerwah and Glasshouse/Beerburrum chambers around 2008, the organisation has a long history of supporting local economic development.

Over the years, it has been led by dedicated presidents including Bob McLean, Ursula Starkovsky, Jenny Broderick, Tamara Hazelden and, most recently, current President Naomi Pearce.

Today, a newly energised committee is bringing fresh

momentum to the chamber with a clear strategic action plan centred on purpose, planning and partnerships. Its guiding philosophy, “growth with guardrails”, reflects a commitment to ensuring the region’s rapid expansion delivers positive outcomes for businesses and the wider community.

With significant investment flowing into public transport infrastructure, housing, industrial development and tourism, the Glasshouse Country region is experiencing unprecedented growth.

In response, the chamber is proactively engaging with representatives from all three levels of government, key departmental staff and industry peak bodies to advocate for the needs of

local businesses.

the chamber has also placed a strong focus on delivering meaningful events that create opportunities for connection, learning and collaboration.

a full calendar of activities includes Women in Business lunches, Business Backstage events, Chamber Business Forums and major keynote speaker events covering timely and relevant topics.

At its core, the chamber’s mission remains simple: to ensure members receive genuine value through networking opportunities, business resources, industry insights, advocacy, and professional development, while helping build a stronger and more prosperous Glasshouse Country.

CeLebratIng40Years ofgC&mnews

By Division 1 councillor Jenny Broderick

You would be hard pressed to find a community newspaper anywhere as locally engaged and driven as the Glasshouse Country & Maleny News.

For 40 years, it has been a passionate advocate for our wonderful Glasshouse Country and hinterland— capturing the stories, spirit and pride that make our region so special.

my own journey in our community. as a new local business owners, over 20 years ago with Glasshouse Tractors, advertising in the GhCN was where our marketing started - with Pam and John Innes, then lea and Brownie.

Back then, the ‘GC News’ was an A4 size booklet - rolled, wrapped and delivered! Just as it does today, it connected us directly with our community, built trust and helped our business grow in those early years. We

Team Jenny in the box seat

parties, grassroots groups and even elections, I have had the privilege of a close association with our ‘local rag’. as my own role has evolved into serving as a Councillor, that connection to community has remained central. the paper continues to ensure our community stays informed, connected and heard, keeps those ‘pollies’ accountable, and offers a platform where everyone can have their say.

We love where we live, and our local newspaper has supported that sense of place every step of the way.

Orthotics...

understood the value and role our local paper plays in supporting our businesses and strengthening our local economy.

My history with the paper spans more than two decades and reflects

With community events, Christmas Carols, street

Behind every edition is a team of passionate, dedicated staff who genuinely care about the people and places they write about. their commitment shines through in every story, every photo and every effort to keep our community informed and connected. as our area continues to grow, preserving that strong local voice becomes even more important. I’m optimistic about the future and confident the Glasshouse Country & Maleny News will continue to tell our story with integrity. Congratulations on 40 remarkable years, and here’s to many more.

in yOuR Own wORds

Lisa PLucknett

On the

fROnt

Of Glass hOuse news

Made me feel supreme. Far better than nude centrefold, of a raunchy magazine.

My sister says I’m looking stern, while I said “Clever, Smart.”

When people get to know me, they’ll realise I’m all heart.

So - thank you Sonia, Mitch, and all the team, for the lovely words you wrote.

Page twenty-five proves I’m alive, and euphoric I just float.

You’ve mentioned my adventures, when I went to Oodnadatta;

We all know I exaggerate, but does it really matter.

You’ve said of how I felt bereft, when I turned eighty-eight;

The joy of skinny-dipping

with my son - It felt so great.

And people stop me in the street; they’ve just read Glass house News.

And when they saw my words of mirth, they lost the Moody Blues.

I like to think that we’re a team, you’re free to rein me in.

I’m careful with four letter words, and blasphemy’s a sin.

I’m simple with my syntax, avoid hyperbole.

I hope that when my words are read, people realise it’s just me.

Reilly Roger

To The Glasshouse Country Community I am putting pen to paper to congratulate ‘Glasshouse Country & Maleny News’ on their 40th anniversary.

Since arriving in the Glasshouse Country in 2007, I have enjoyed the local information regularly provided by this weekly publication and of late, via the available electronic edition.

So now I guess I’ve said enough, I’ve shared with you, my life.

I’ll send you my obit to print, when I feel the time is nigh.

Being involved in various community groups and activities, from Street Parties to Business events and Socialising, I have had great opportunities to not only be involved, but to contribute to the promotion of our amazing region and in particular, the Glasshouse Mountains, their story and history.

In 1918, a local legend Ivon Northage and myself were privileged to receive a federal government grant to put together a book celebrating the 10th anniversary of the National heritage Listing of the Glasshouse

Mountains by then prime minister John Howard. I am pleased to say that we were supported in the promotion of this book by our ‘Glasshouse Country & Maleny News’. I have had the privilege of getting to know the talented staff members who have so well translated the local stories and busyness of our wonderful area into enjoyable and informative news and feature articles. The promotion and backing provided by the paper to the local Business, Community and Service Groups, in their events and functions as well the Local Schools definitely focuses the community on what is happening which helps and encourages us all to get involved and provide the support and participation that fosters a truly great community spirit. It is my view that this publication has truly become OUR Newspaper.

READ ALL ABOUT IT.

ese towns. ese people. Our farms. Our streets. Our sport. Our future.

We are on the ground every week, telling the stories that matter to our communities.

Independent journalism only survives when communities back it.

Subscribe today and support Glasshouse Country & Maleny News.

Phone: 5438 7445

Sarah Kwarcianyi a life built in the heart of Glasshouse Country

BORN AT Nambour Hospital in 1988, Sarah Kwarcianyi (nee Brown) has spent her entire life in the Glasshouse Country region she proudly calls home.

Growing up in Beerwah on Greber Road as one of eight children, life was busy, noisy and full of adventure.

But when Sarah was just 12 years old, tragedy struck with the death of her father, leaving her mother to look after their large family.

Despite the challenges, Sarah thrived at Beerwah State School and later Beerwah State High School, where she achieved strong

academic results and excelled in athletics.

Like many young people, she experienced a difficult period after leaving school, but life took a positive turn when she reunited with her high school sweetheart, Lewis Kwarcianyi.

The pair married in Caloundra in 2010 and began building their future together. Starting out was far from glamorous.

as a young family with two children, they rented the cheapest unit they could find in Beerwah on Kello Road. After the 2011 floods, they moved to a townhouse

on Pine Camp Road before purchasing their first home in Glass house Mountains in 2012 for $278,000.

Sarah’s lifelong passion for dance led her to begin teaching classes at Glasshouse Christian College in 2015.

What started as a small opportunity quickly grew into a thriving

Turner Street in 2018, where they stayed for eight years until further growth meant another move was needed.

In 2025, after months of searching, Sarah and Lewis purchased the former Campbell’s Upholstery and Beerwah Mechanical sheds between

Beerwah Parade and Free Street.

In a twist of fate, those very businesses were advertising on the front page of the Glasshouse Country News in 2002 when a young Sarah appeared on the cover celebrating her silver medal in high jump at the National Championships in Adelaide.

Today, Sarah is raising four children in the same community that shaped her. They attend the same local schools and athletics club

she once did. her commitment to creating opportunities for young people remains at the heart of everything she does, helping local children grow in confidence, learn valuable skills and build lasting friendships.

For Sarah, Glasshouse Country has never simply been where she lives, it is where her story began, and where she is investing into the next generation to create their own path.

Securing a strong future

DURING the late 1980s, work was difficult to find and like many young families we were working hard to make ends meet.

Having recently purchased our first home in Landsborough, my wife and I were raising our two children while I worked fulltime in Caloundra.

To earn some extra income, we began making and fitting fly screens,

and made the decision to commit to it full-time. For several years we operated from Landsborough Hardware before building our own premises in Dyer Street, Landsborough. We remained there for nine successful years before moving to larger premises to accommodate our growing business.

We continued to grow and remained at that location for 22 years before building our current factory and showroom on Lenco Cres, Landsborough.

security doors, and carrying out repairs after hours and on weekends from our backyard shed.

During the day Michelle would take customer calls and in the evenings I would quote. We then decided to advertise in the local Glass House Country News.

Before long the business began to grow.

In 1989 we officially registered the business

we have built throughout the community.

We are also proud that the business will continue into the next generation

Our son has chosen to carry on in the industry and brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked alongside us since leaving school.

In addition, we are fortunate to have a dedicated team of longterm staff who share our commitment to quality workmanship and outstanding customer service.

Today we enjoy a much larger workspace and modern showroom, enabling us to provide an even better experience for our customers.

We would like to sincerely thank all of our valued customers for their support over the years.

Your loyalty and trust have been the foundation of our success, and we are grateful for the relationships

As we look to the future, we remain committed to providing the same reliable service, quality products, and personal attention that have guided our business from the very beginning.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

Allan, Michelle and Keith Hall

Riding the wave fromrailwayTownsTo GlasshouseCounTry

IN June 1992, a front page story reported that it had become “increasingly obvious that the term Railway Towns … was not indicative of the area and residents would prefer a more suitable name”.

A competition was held by the Caloundra City Council, with a $100 prize on offer for a new name. Dozens of suggestions poured in, including Pineapple Ribbon, Captain Cook Corridor, Glasshouse Strip and Towns of the Colonial Corridor.

The ultimate winner was, of course, Glasshouse Country.

The GC News at the time seemed somewhat ambivalent, writing that Railway Towns was “a choice made many years ago” and besides, “Shakespeare didn’t place any significance in a name”.

Two months later the front page announced: “It’s Official: Glasshouse Country (re-born)”.

“Glasshouse Country will now be registered officially as an area name, and beware those ‘Caloundra folk’ who DARE to call our

lovely area the Railway Towns, eh?” the story concluded.

Yet while the name changed, the influence of the railway never disappeared.

The impact of the rail line

services, although according to reports at the time, staff declined the opportunity to ride the inaugural train because it fell on Friday the 13th and “anything can

happen”.

Less amusing were the battles that followed as governments sought to modernise the transport corridor.

In 1997, a decision was made that would permanently alter Beerwah when the State Government approved a new overpass requiring the closure of the level crossing between Simpson Street and Beerwah Parade.

For generations, the crossing had connected both sides of town. The overpass improved traffic flow but effectively divided Beerwah in two.

The Chamber of Commerce was particularly concerned about the impact on local businesses.

Then-Caloundra MP Mark McArdle railed against what he described as an “arbitrarily determined” decision to close the crossing without properly considering the impact on the town’s economy and emergency services.

“The feel of Beerwah as a small community will be forever destroyed,” he was quoted as saying.

The fight was ultimately lost, but the debate never really went away.

The question of a town divided remains today, with large social housing developments, plans

The $5.5 billion Wave rail project and the Beerburrum to Nambour Stage 1 rail upgrade promise to make travel between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane faster, more will significantly improve capacity and make travel to Brisbane far easier than today’s half-hourly services.

For four decades, GC News has chronicled the changes that have swept through Glasshouse Country. From the debate over a name, to the fight over a crossing, to the arrival of major rail infrastructure, one theme has remained constant: change arrives on the tracks.

Plantingaseedthat flourishedforgood

By Spencer Shaw, Brush Turkey

operation.

The business has continued to evolve. In recent years, Brush Turkey has expanded into the arts and cultural sector, with the Little Red Cottage gallery at Forest Heart providing a space where creativity, culture and environmental stewardship come together.

FOR nearly three decades, Brush Turkey Enterprises has played a significant role in shaping the ecological, cultural and commercial landscape of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

The difference today is the scale. The railway that once created these towns is about to reshape them

Founded in 1998 by Spencer and Karen Shaw, the business began with a simple but ambitious mission - collecting rainforest seed to help restore native ecosystems.

The couple spent countless hours combing through forest leaf litter gathering seeds, a process that inspired the company’s distinctive name.

“It felt a bit like being brush turkeys ourselves,” Spencer said. “They’re battlers. We liked that, and we decided to back ourselves with that identity - and it hasn’t done us wrong.”

A longstanding partnership with GC&M News has also been part of the journey. The relationship spans many years and was strengthened through the Maleny Chamber of Commerce, where previous owners of the newspaper worked closely with Spencer and Karen.

For Spencer, the connection reflects the importance of supporting local enterprise.

“Small businesses in small towns are the real economic and employment drivers,” he said. “We support each other and keep things local. If we don’t, we risk getting swallowed up by some big monoculture.”

What started as a seed collection venture soon grew into a nursery and bush regeneration business, making Brush Turkey one of the pioneers of the bush regeneration industry in south-east Queensland.

About a decade ago, the opening of Forest Heart, their retail nursery in Maleny, completed what Spencer describes as a fully integrated nursery

With Indigenous connections through Karen’s family and ongoing collaboration with the Jinibara people through emerging ranger programs, Spencer sees Brush Turkey’s work as part of a broader commitment to caring for Country, nurturing culture and preserving the diversity that makes the region unique.

Top Nosh Meals cook up community spirit

TNM has been growing in Beerwah for more than 20 years, and one of the greatest benefits of being based in a small, supportive community is the genuine care and encouragement we receive from local residents.

In return, we take our responsibility to support the community seriously by purchasing from local businesses and employing local people whenever possible.

One local business we greatly value is GCM News, which has been a leading source of local news and information for more than 40 years.

We would like to congratulate Mitch, Lewis, Tina and the entire team on

their continued success and growth.

Their commitment to keeping our community informed is something we all benefit from and appreciate.

Speaking of growth, TNM is excited to invite our local community to visit our new

purpose-built facility on Creek Crescent, Beerwah, just off Roys Road.

Our shop is open to the public every weekday, and we welcome you to drop in

and have a look around.

While our new premises may look a little more impressive, our meals are still prepared the same way they always have been— homestyle, with love, care and quality ingredients.

Better yet, you can take some home and experience them for yourself.

We have made this investment in Beerwah and the Glass House Mountains region because we believe the future of our community is bright.

We encourage everyone to continue supporting the local businesses that contribute to the ongoing growth, prosperity and success of the place we are proud to call home.

advertising

WHile GC&M’s journalists would like to think they have spent the past 40 years holding up a mirror to the community, our advertisers have helped complete the picture.

Their ads tell us where we shopped, what we bought, who the big players in town were, and how much our tastes have changed.

They also remind us of the price of things. What did a leg of lamb or a tube of toothpaste cost 40 years ago? How much were tickets to the Maleny Show, and what were the main attractions? Do you remember dropping off a roll of Kodak film to be developed, and what that cost?

These advertisements take us back in time. Some look simple now, some quaint, and some are gloriously daggy. But they capture the rhythm of local life in a way few other things can.

Of course, the job today is much the same: attracting eyeballs. GC&M News remains strong in print, while our digital advertising has grown through sponsored content, website campaigns, newsletters and the analytics to help justify every dollar advertisers spend.

But the belief behind it has not changed. If readers trust us, they are more likely to trust the businesses who advertise with us. Many advertisers have stayed with us for years because of that trusted relationship, and we have never taken that loyalty for granted.

then and now!

Wimberleys

By Roger Reilly

THE modern Beerwah Marketplace sits on one of the best-known retail corners in Glasshouse Country, but long before the car parks, Woolworths, real estate agents and banks arrived, locals knew the site by one name: Wimberleys.

The Wimberley family arrived in Beerwah in 1946, when Charles Montague “Charlie” Wimberley bought the small general store owned by Mrs Fannie Whitmee.

Having come from Goomeri with a background in country retailing, the family quickly became part of everyday life in a town still shaped by farming, timber, rail and postwar shortages. In the early years, it was a proper country general store, selling groceries, drapery, hardware and everyday essentials.

Charlie also managed rationing, with customers relying on coupons for essential goods.

It was practical, no-frills retailing, but it placed the Wimberleys at the centre of town life.

As Beerwah and the surrounding district grew, so did the business. A branch store opened at Peachester in the 1950s, supplying groceries and bread to the local community and sawmill workers.

Back in Beerwah, the range expanded to include clothing, hardware, building

supplies, gas, pumps and even explosives for farmers clearing land. Wimberleys was supplying farms, new homes, small businesses and families across the district.

The next generation, Randall and Noel Wimberley, steered the business through its biggest period of change.

By the mid-1970s, Wimberleys comprised three operations: supermarket, hardware and drapery. The hardware joined Mitre 10 in 1976, while the grocery business was reshaped under manager Don Murphy and relaunched as a modern Supa Valu supermarket in 1977.

The move proved critical. At one stage the grocery business had been struggling and closure was under consideration. Instead, it

became the strongest arm of the business and drew more shoppers into central Beerwah.

Wimberleys also became a major local employer. Staff including Les Howard, Josie Thistlethwaite, Don Murphy and Alvon Raddatz spent years with the business, while the stores backed local events and

promotions.

For many locals, Wimberleys was simply where you went for the weekly shop, hardware, school shoes or garden supplies.

After celebrating 40 years in Beerwah in 1986, attention turned to larger premises.

A new Foodtown supermarket opened in 1992, with sales doubling within 12 months.

More changes followed in 1997, including a supermarket extension and the creation of Beerwah Terrace, home to Beerwah Shoes and the Garden Terrace Coffee Lounge. By the late 1990s, Beerwah was no longer a sleepy retail backwater. Franklins bought the supermarket business in 1999, although the Wimberleys retained the property. By then, the family had assembled a substantial holding in the heart of town.

That became the final, and perhaps most significant, chapter. The site was sold to Village Fair investments in 2004.

The hardware continued trading for several more years, but by 2013 redevelopment was inevitable.

The Wimberley hardware store closed in 2013. The old buildings came down in 2014. Beerwah Village opened later that year, with June Wimberley among the official guests.

For 67 years, the family helped establish Beerwah as the retail heart of the hinterland. In the end, they also made possible the next chapter, leaving behind the footprint on which the town’s modern commercial centre now stands.

Hair styled with big heart

Next Top Salon has found a welcoming community and fresh start in Glass House

NexT Top Salon feels right at home! When i moved to Glass House Mountains, I wasn’t just looking for a new business. I was looking for a fresh start.

After losing my husband, Ben, life changed in ways I never imagined. Grief has a way of reshaping your world, but it also teaches you the value of community, kindness, and human connection.

When the opportunity arose to become part of this beautiful town with my children, I took a leap of faith. What I found here was more than a place to work.

I found a community that welcomed me, supported me, and reminded me that even after life’s hardest chapters, new beginnings are possible.

At Next Top Salon, hair is what we do, but people are why we do it. Every day, our salon becomes a place where stories are shared, friendships are formed, laughter is exchanged, and life’s moments are celebrated. It is a reminder

that connection matters. Local businesses and local newspapers play an important role in keeping communities strong. They help us share our stories, celebrate our successes, support one another through challenges, and stay connected to the people around us.

To every client who has sat in our chair, trusted us with their hair, shared their story, or simply stopped to say hello thank you. Your support means more than you know.

And to this wonderful community, thank you for allowing me to become part of your story.

To book your next appointment phone 07 5438 7125 or visit us at Shop 2/11, Bruce Parade, next to the post office.

A taste of the hinterland

Glasshouse Plantation brings Australiangrown coffee to the Glass House region

As Glasshouse Country & Maleny News celebrates 40 years of serving the region, businesses such as Glasshouse Plantation reflect the innovation, resilience and community spirit that continue to define the Hinterland.

Owned by agricultural scientists Paul and Lisa, Glasshouse Plantation combines generations of farming heritage with a vision for Australian-grown coffee.

Paul comes from a fifth-generation vegetable farming family in the Lockyer Valley, while Lisa was raised on a Bundaberg cane farm established by her Italian grandfather, who cleared the land by hand in the 1920s.

The idea for the business began during a family visit to the Glass House Mountains in 2010.

Inspired by the region and a later visit to a coffee farm on Norfolk Island, the couple spent five years searching for the perfect property before turning their dream into reality.

Today, more than 5,000 coffee trees grow on the plantation, with expansion already underway following the farm’s first harvest in 2025.

honey and Australian-grown coffee.

FOr more than 30 years, Beerwah state High school has been proud to serve the families of the Glasshouse Country.

Since opening in 1992, the school has grown alongside our community, educating generations of local students and building strong partnerships with families, businesses, community groups and neighbouring schools.

achievements.

Beerwah state High school values the positive relationship we have developed with the newspaper over many years. Through its coverage of school events, student

Visitors can enjoy a genuine farm-to-cup experience from the restored 110-year-old farmhouse café, with coffee tastings and tours led by son Nick and seasonal cuisine showcasing local produce.

The plantation also supports neighbouring growers through its farm shop, stocking local pineapple, macadamias, tea,

Paul and Lisa congratulate Glasshouse Country & Maleny News on reaching its 40-year milestone, describing the publication as a vital part of the social fabric of the community.

Having witnessed the loss of a local newspaper in Bundaberg, Lisa understands the important role local media plays in keeping communities connected, informed and thriving.

As Glasshouse Country & Maleny News celebrates its 40th anniversary, we would like to acknowledge the important role the publication has played in connecting our region, sharing local stories and celebrating community

achievements, staff successes and community initiatives, the publication has helped showcase the many wonderful opportunities available to young people in our region.

What makes Beerwah state High school special is that we are deeply connected to the community we serve.

Our students learn not only in classrooms, but through volunteering, leadership opportunities, sporting events, cultural programs and community partnerships that help them develop into capable and caring young people. We value the support we receive from local families and organisations and recognise that student success is strongest when schools and communities work together.

As the Glasshouse Country continues to grow, so too will Beerwah state High school.

Our future focus is on ensuring every student is known, supported and challenged to achieve their personal best.

We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Glasshouse Country & Maleny News as together we celebrate the people, stories and successes that make our community such a special place to live, learn and grow.

Fromkindy

education of generations of hinterland children.

We’ve been there for first days, graduations, formals, clap-outs and just about every milestone in between. Through thousands of photographs and countless stories, we’ve documented the lives of students across our region. From the historic classrooms of Beerwah state School, the district’s oldest school, to the opening of Beerwah state High school with its first 100 students in 1992, and Glasshouse Christian College in 2000, we’ve watched our local schools grow alongside the

are letters from four Year 7 students at Beerwah state School (above right), sharing their biggest concerns about the world: the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, terrorism, violence on television and the lack of bike paths. Brilliant. Their worries reflected the issues of the day, just as today’s students face a different set of challenges. One thing hasn’t changed. Every generation of hinterland students has arrived full of optimism, curiosity and possibility. Here’s to many more first days, last days and everything in between.

EDUCATORS

Peachester’s 130 years of learning

cOnGraTulaTiOnS to the Glasshouse country & Maleny news on celebrating 40 years of keeping our community connected, informed and engaged.

Peachester State School has been part of the local community for even longer, originally opening as Peachester Provisional School on 19 April 1892.

Today, our school proudly educates 119 students on eight acres of beautiful grounds featuring extensive play areas, sporting facilities, vegetable gardens and our Bush Tucker Track.

Throughout its history, our school has remained

committed to providing students with the strong foundations they need for lifelong success.

Programs such as our Stephanie alexander Kitchen Garden Program, Environmental Club, Choir, Instrumental Music and wholeschool auSlan lessons provide rich learning opportunities both inside and beyond the classroom.

Since introducing auSlan from Prep to Year 6 in 2024, our students have embraced sign

language as part of our school culture, contributing to performances across the region, including a Gold award at Voices on the coast competition in 2025.

Beerwah State School growing great learners

PrinciPal (Mr Scott Bowden) and staff at Beerwah State School are so excited to welcome students back to school for Term 3.

Beerwah State School’s philosophy is to support students to be their very best and to set them up to lead a life of choice and not chance.

The school’s two main priorities are:

1. Deliver an engaging English curriculum aligned to the ac achievement standards through expert

social and emotional wellbeing of students and staff.

Last Semester, Beerwah State School was delighted with their student’s results, achieving well above state wide targets.

The school also offers a wide variety of programs and activities to support students and to cater for the needs and learning styles of every student.

The Stephanie alexander

Kitchen/Garden program is thriving, with a focus on healthy eating and good food choices.

Students learn to grow produce and then use this as ingredients in their cooking classes.

Students have a wonderful time making poke bowls, stir fries, salads, muffins, etc.

The school also has many activities and clubs which run at lunch times.

These include computer club, art club, soccer club, library, and handball.

The school offers state of the art classrooms equipped with smart boards to enhance teaching and learning and many co-curricular and extracurricular activities planned

For four decades, CGN has helped us celebrate student achievements and share our stories with the wider community.

Our administration office proudly houses a scrapbook filled with newspaper clippings featuring generations of Peachester students, including several frontpage appearances. as our region continues to grow, we look forward to strengthening partnerships with local businesses and community organisations.

We hope to see continued investment

in local schools, including support for projects such as restoring our school LED sign, helping us better connect with families, visitors and the wider community.

Looking ahead, Peachester State School remains committed to preparing students for a rapidly changing world. By fostering strong literacy and numeracy foundations, resilience, wellbeing, a love of learning and global citizenship, we aim to equip every student with the skills and confidence to thrive in whatever future awaits them.

to motivate students and to foster a love of learning. all subjects from the australian curriculum are taught in interesting and innovative ways to improve student learning outcomes incorporating technology to create digital citizens that are fully equipped with skills for their future.

Beerwah State School is still accepting enrolments. Enrolment interviews can be organised by contacting the school on 5436 5555.

We’re EVolving with the times

AS electric vehicles become increasingly common on Australian roads, Glasshouse and Landsborough Automotive is helping local motorists make the transition with confidence while continuing to provide expert servicing and repairs for petrol and diesel vehicles.

Now operating from its expanded workshop in Landsborough’s Lenco Crescent industrial estate, the business services and repairs all makes and models, combining the latest diagnostic technology with more than 60 years of experience shared by owners Michael and Callum.

A key focus for the team is educating EV owners about the importance of regular

maintenance.

While electric vehicles generally require less frequent servicing and fewer replacement parts than internal combustion vehicles, annual inspections remain essential.

Callum said EVs should be serviced every 12 months or 20,000 kilometres to ensure critical safety components such as brakes, steering, suspension and cooling systems are operating correctly.

To further support EV drivers, the business has recently added two BYD electric vehicles to its complimentary pick-up and drop-off service.

Alongside EV servicing, Glasshouse and Landsborough Automotive

continues to provide comprehensive repairs and maintenance for petrol and diesel vehicles, including electronic tuning, fuel injection servicing, airconditioning repairs, ECU tuning/remapping, engine and transmission work, brake servicing, steering and suspension repairs, and offroad accessories.

Michael said the workshop’s success is built on trust, reliability and genuine customer care.

“We make a point of offering genuine oldfashioned care and consideration for all our customers and provide a high-end service without the high-end price tag,” he said.

For more information, call 5439 0436.

How the forestry continues to grow

THE working pine plantations of the Glasshouse Mountains area have been an integral part of the landscape for nearly 100 years.

While ownership of the plantations transitioned in 2010 from the Queensland State Government to HQPlantations, much of the staff remained the same with some having over 45 years in forestry.

April White has been

April said “not that long ago, there were hundreds of people working from the Beerwah and Beerburrum forest depots and to this day, many people still talk about the past connections they have to the forestry family of our area”.

Modern forestry practices now include the use of drones and Artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in fire detection, operations and reporting. The use of

with associated with the Beerburrum forest office since 1978 with her grandfather commencing work at the Beerburrum office in 1948 and her father in 1960. Her father was even born at the short-lived Beerburrum hospital!

HQPlantations’ carefully balances the management its forests to ensure a continued and sustainable supply of timber is available now, and in the future while safeguarding the forests, wildlife and waterways for generations to come. Through the Glasshouse Country and Maleny News, HQPlantations can share timely updates on plantation activities while strengthening connections

these technologies has improved productivity, safety and environmental outcomes. HQPlantations has also trialled mechanical planting machines over recent years, however, most of the planting is still undertaken by hand.

with the local community. Sharing our work highlights the importance of being able to grow vital timber resources right here in the Glasshouse area for use by locals and the broader Queensland construction industry.

HQPlantations

100 Years Growing - The Pine Plantations of the Glass House Mountains

Pine plantations have been part of the Glasshouse Mountains landscape since 1928 following the Queensland State Government’s initiative to grow softwood timber to provide much needed construction material for the rapidly growing population. Today, the timber produced from these plantations is used in the construction of more than 25,000 new homes per year.

Did you know……

• In 1947, the forestry headquarters and workers camp were relocated from Beerwah to Beerburrum?

• The Beerburrum Mountain fire lookout was built in 1951 and became an important part of protecting the forests from bushfire – a role it continues to play today.

Since 2010, pine plantations located on state forest lands have been managed by HQPlantations’ under a 99-year lease. HQPlantations has a team of experienced foresters, planners and field staff whose collective knowledge spans decades. Their work ensures the forests are managed sustainably through a continuous cycle of planting, growing, harvesting and replanting.

The logs harvested in the Glasshouse region are processed locally, supporting sawmills, transport operators, contractors and manufacturing businesses across Southeast Queensland. From planting and harvesting to hauling and processing, the industry generates jobs and economic activity that flow directly back into regional communities.

With an eye on the future, HQPlantations’ carefully balances the management of its plantation forests to ensure a continued and sustainable supply of timber is available now, and into the future while safeguarding our forests, wildlife and waterways for generations to come.

Nearly 100 years after the first pine seedlings were planted at Beerwah, the forests of the Glass House Mountains remain a living legacy – a testament to foresight, resilience and the enduring value of sustainably grown timber and one of Queensland’s most important renewable resources.

*image of Glasshouse Mountains Plantations taken from Wild Horse Mountains’ Lookout

Growing for Generations

A greAtbigthAnks!

Glasshouse and Maleny news 40th anniversary

As a person who grew up with the belief that everything that you read or hear is not always right, I have found that remains correct since coming into the Glasshouse region 8 years ago from the South Burnett. The great advantage that I have found since arriving here is the news within the Glasshouse and Maleny Country News does not have bias content. It has “HARD” hitting content that has been worthy of all citizens of our region to absorb. The “You Said It” section can have very interesting views, which makes a Community tick. As a Lions Club member of 54 years, the support that the publication gives to community organizations is second to none.

Congratulations on reaching your 40th anniversary and we will be awaiting your 50th anniversary. A tremendous THANK YOU for your continued promotion of the region.

Yours Sincerely,

Rod “Rocket” Layt

beerwah lions Club

Hearty congratulations to GCMnews for serving our hinterland communities so splendidly for some four score years. More so than ever, with the diversity of sources peddling false information, we rely on accountable and balanced outlets for information that matters locally. Maleny and surrounds were well served by the locally-owned and edited The Range News around the turn of the century, at a turbulent time when the old folk and the newcomers were shaping a dynamic future for the hinterland. Unfortunately, The Range News wilted under foreign and disinterested ownership, and our social fabric suffered with neglect until the locally owned and edited GCMnews expanded its horizons to include Maleny and district. What a blessing!

Ever since 2011, owner/editor Mitch, his deputy editor Sonia have been standouts in keeping Malenyites informed and entertained. Mitch’s pitch each week makes compelling reading, with two topics deserving special commendation –keeping Council honest as the invisible ‘suits’ in City Hall blame their predecessors and hike rates without precedent. Knowing the price of everything and the value of nothing springs to mind. Mitch’s regular insights, reminiscent of Dr Benjamen Spock on raising a family, make me thankful that my grandkids have flown the coop. Sonia’s range of thoughtful and well researched articles each week makes you wonder if she ever sleeps. Clearly, the backup team of unsung heroes behind Mitch and Sonia do a superb job keeping the paper afloat.

The GCMnews admirably demonstrates the continued need for print media with its weekly mix of local news, articles covering entertainment, sport, health, wellbeing, opinion, religion, gardening, along with a judicious mix of adverts on all sorts of useful services that enable Mitch and team to deliver each weekly edition without charge to us readers. May the future of GMCNews be as glorious as its past.

Max Whitten

Our Commun y

Congratulations to the GC&M News team on this special milestone. Glasshouse Country Social Group wish you well on the excellent paper which you produce and for keeping us so updated with all things local. We are grateful to you for including us in your community page which has encouraged ladies in the area wanting to meet new friends to join us.

Glasshouse Country soCial Club

When Speak Up Now – Stop Domestic & Family Violence was founded in early 2020, it offered our community a new and courageous way to work toward a future free from domestic and family violence and elder abuse. As a collaboration between the Rotary Club of Maleny, Zonta Blackall Range, and the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, our mission has always been clear: to raise awareness of the long term impacts of domestic and family violence on women, children, and men, and to remind our community that this is not a private issue—it is a social issue that requires all of us to stand up and speak out.

From the very beginning, the Glasshouse Country & Maleny News played a pivotal role in helping us reach the wider community. Their first story about our inaugural forum opened many eyes to the reality that domestic and family violence exists here too, even in a place we often call paradise. That coverage marked the beginning of a strong and valued partnership, and over the years we are extremely grateful to have had many stories published.

For more than six years, Mitch, Sonia, and the entire GHMN team have supported our work with accurate, compassionate, and fearless reporting. Their commitment to covering Maleny and Hinterland stories ensures our community stays informed and connected.

We at Speak Up Now warmly congratulate GHMN on their 40th birthday and look forward to many more years of shared purpose and collaboration.

speak up now

I recently found my first copy of Glasshouse Country News, issue 16 August 2001.

I purchased my Glasshouse property in August 2001 and have been reading the local paper ever since!

Happy 40th!

Our volunteer group (Friends of Bankfoot House later becoming Glasshouse History Group) was established in Sep 2006 and GCN carried our first contribution in Oct 2007. (I’ve been President since 2008).

Many thanks for the continuing support!

Ron Gillinder, President Glasshouse history Group

sharinG stories, strenGtheninG CoMMunity, Glasshouse & Maleny news and the Glasshouse Country Menshed

The President and members of the Glasshouse Country Menshed extend their sincere congratulations to the Glasshouse & Maleny News on reaching the remarkable milestone of 40 years of service to our community.

For four decades, the newspaper has been far more than a source of local news. It has been a vital link connecting residents, community groups, businesses, sporting organisations, schools, and volunteers throughout the hinterland. In an era where local journalism faces many challenges, the continued success of the Glasshouse & Maleny News is a testament to its commitment to informing, supporting, and celebrating our region.

The Glasshouse Country Men’s Shed has enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with the newspaper over many years. Through regular coverage of our projects, community activities, fundraising efforts, and member achievements, the newspaper has helped raise awareness of the positive impact Men’s Sheds have on wellbeing, social connection, and community service. The publication has also provided a valuable platform for local organisations to share their stories, promote events, and recognise the efforts of the many volunteers who contribute so much to our community.

In return, the Men’s Shed has proudly supported a publication that shares our values of community spirit, inclusiveness, and local engagement. Together, we help strengthen the fabric of our community by encouraging participation, volunteering, and neighbourly support. These shared values continue to foster a stronger, more connected and resilient community for future generations.

Congratulations on 40 outstanding years. We wish the Glasshouse & Maleny News continued success for many years to come.

Rick Canhan – Media Liaison

When we moved to Beerwah 9 years ago, I was thrilled to find we had a free local paper. Then we didn’t! After a wee hiccup- along came Mitch Gaynor who proceeded to build his team!

They deserve all the accolades and awards for prioritising our local community and keeping us up to date, and holding some to account!

Well done all. Crank is another highlight! Sadly his traffic woes at school drop off & pick up will only worsen when the poor rail commuters have to battle through to the car park from hell to catch their trains. No word yet either on helping the residents of new apartments on eastern side access town centre. They can’t surely expect them to walk the long way, or use the station lifts They need an underpass or that will mean even more cars on the road unnecessarily.

Good news is Co-op finding a new home close by. Maybe they can tuck a Coles in behind it now that the traffic woes have been sorted!

Congratulations again to our local paper and those who keep it up to awards standard.

J. Martin, Beerwah reader tribute

How print media has helped shape Imelda’s of Maleny

For nearly 20 years, Imelda’s of Maleny has been a small but valued part of the Hinterland community, growing from a boutique shoe store into a destination business that attracts visitors from across Australia and overseas.

As GC&M News celebrates 40 years in print, Imelda’s owners rachel and Howie are recognising the important role local media has played in that journey.

In an increasingly digital world, print media continues to offer something unique: credibility, trust and a genuine connection to the community.

Advertising and editorial coverage in a respected local newspaper have helped introduce Imelda’s to new residents, visitors and long-time locals, building awareness and fostering the loyal customer relationships that have supported the

business through changing economic conditions.

That support has enabled the business to continue employing local people and contributing to the region’s economy.

The success of Imelda’s is also a reflection of a community that values shopping locally.

Every purchase made at an independent business helps sustain local jobs,

strengthens the economy and preserves the distinctive character of towns such as Maleny.

Nearly two decades after opening its doors, Imelda’s remains proud to call Maleny home and grateful for the support it has received along the way.

To its customers, the local community and GC&M News on its 40th anniversary, the message is simple: thank you.

Together, you have helped shape a successful local business, and there is optimism for many more years of growth ahead.

oUr house ads have always had one job: remind local businesses that advertising in GC&M News works.

How we went about that has changed a bit over the years.

Some are still pretty funny, while others are definitely of their time.

And a couple would probably earn us a strongly

worded email from PETA, the Greens or anyone under the age of 30.

The one thing they all have in common is they never took themselves too seriously and they were all about trying to connect local businesses with local readers.

We’ve always preferred a cheeky laugh over

A fun way to celebrate your loved ones Great keepsake to commemorate special milestones From as little as $50 Book now: reception@gcnews.com.au

While the style has evolved the message hasn’t. Today that connection happens in more ways than ever.

In print, online, across social media and direct to inboxes.

However people choose to read GC&M News, we’re grateful that so many local businesses continue to see value in being part of it.

Mitre 10 grows with hinterland

the value of supporting local business and local media. Together, they have played an important role in the region’s growth and look forward to many more years—and decades—of serving the community side by side.

Painting the town proud

Paint Place Beerwah helping locals create colourful spaces for over 20 years

For more than two decades, Paint Place Beerwah has been a trusted name for homeowners, tradespeople and businesses across the Hinterland, earning a reputation for quality products, expert advice and outstanding customer service. owned and operated by Anthony Austin, the award-winning local business reflects a lifetime spent in the paint industry. Inspired by his father, a professional painter, Anthony developed his expertise over many years managing paint outlets before opening Paint Place Beerwah in February 2006. Today, Anthony and his experienced long-term team continue to help customers

tackle projects of every size, from simple home refreshes to major commercial and industrial jobs.

keeps customers coming back.

As both a local resident and business owner, Anthony strongly believes in supporting the community that supports him.

With more than 35 years of combined industry knowledge, the team offers practical advice and personalised service that

A long-term advertiser with Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, he recognises the important role local media plays in keeping communities connected and local businesses thriving. That same commitment is reflected in Paint Place Beerwah’s enduring support of local organisations, events and initiatives, a commitment that has helped Paint Place Beerwah remain a valued part of the community for more than 20 years.

40 years of connections

Supporting locals through every stage of life

FOR 40 years, RangeCare has served and supported our local community, creating a strong sense of connection, care and local pride.

Beginning as Montville Care Group, with a mission to help older residents maintain their independence and support families, we have grown across the Sunshine Coast region and now support thousands of people each year.

our purpose has always been to help people live independently, safely and with dignity in their own homes.

over the past four decades, we have grown alongside our community, evolving our services to

meet changing needs while staying true to what matters most: community, dignity, relationships and support.

“Over the past 40 years, we have had the privilege of walking alongside so many individuals and families during some of life’s most important moments.

It is those relationships - the trust placed in us, the stories shared, and the ability to support people to remain in the homes they love - that truly define who we are. It is more than care; it is connection, and it is something we hold close to our hearts,” Gary Holland, CEO, RangeCare said.

Local newspapers like GC&M News have played an essential role in bringing people together. They share

the stories that matter, celebrate local milestones, and help keep communities informed and connected.

For organisations like ours, they provide a trusted local voice and an important way to stay connected with the people and places we serve.

As our region continues to grow and evolve, the need for strong, compassionate and locally connected support will only become more important

We see great opportunity in the future of this community and remain committed to growing with it, listening to local needs, strengthening relationships and supporting people to live well in the place they know and love.

Bringing legacy of compassion since 1972

For most people, arranging a funeral is a responsibility they may face only once or twice in their lifetime.

For Gregson & Weight Funeral Directors, however, supporting families through this important journey has been their vocation for more than five decades.

funeral director, having assisted more than 45,000 families during their time of need.

Established on the Sunshine Coast in 1972, Gregson & Weight is the region’s longest-serving

As fully accredited members of Funerals Australia, the company is recognised for its quality facilities, highly trained professional staff and commitment to exceptional service and has earned a reputation as a leader in the Queensland funeral industry.

“Meaningful and memorable funerals don’t happen by chance,” said General Manager Luke Gregson.

“They require a dedicated team of experienced professionals, supported by the right facilities and resources, to bring each family’s wishes to life while helping to ease the burden during a difficult time.”

“We’ve been supporting families across the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland for 54 years and our experienced arrangers understand the importance of providing guidance, care and

reassurance throughout the funeral planning process,” he said.

Community engagement remains central to the organisation’s values.

Each December, Gregson & Weight’s branches host Christmas Memorial Services, providing families with an opportunity to honour and remember loved ones lost during the year.

The company also

continues to encourage open conversations around end-of-life planning through its annual “Dying to Know open Day”.

This year, the event will be held at the Buderim branch on Saturday, 8 August, from 8.00am to 12 noon.

Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the facilities, view informative

displays, meet exhibitors, listen to a live radio broadcast and gain a better understanding of the services available.

With four locations across the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland, Gregson & Weight Funeral Directors remains committed to providing compassionate care, professional guidance and personalised service.

The company’s enduring success is built not only on arranging funerals, but on fostering lasting relationships with the families and communities it serves.

A lifetime of solar innovation

FEW people can claim to have witnessed the growth of Australia’s solar industry from the very beginning, but local business owners Judy and Ian Hall were among the pioneers.

When solar energy was still in its infancy in Queensland during the late 1980s, only a handful of people were involved in the industry, with the focus largely on installing small solar systems in remote locations.

Interest grew steadily as solar panel technology improved and systems became more practical for everyday use.

The family’s journey began when Judy’s brother, a retired

CSIRO scientist, built a solarpowered home near Howard, north of Maryborough, where mains electricity was unavailable.

Neighbours soon wanted similar systems, prompting the launch of their first solar business.

As regional electricity networks expanded, the business evolved to serve the rapidly growing caravan and recreational vehicle market. rebranded as Solar Panel Xpress, it developed a successful mail-order operation long before online shopping became commonplace. The couple eventually relocated to the Sunshine Coast, operating

They later expanded into a purpose-built retail showroom and wholesale warehouse in Caboolture.

The launch of major government incentives and the rapid growth of gridconnected solar following the “Kevin ’07” era helped drive widespread adoption of solar energy across Australia, particularly in South-East Queensland.

Now approaching retirement, the couple now live in Glass House Mountains and have turned their attention to another practical challenge facing caravan owners.

Drawing on decades of experience, they have

We make sure the shows go on

The Events Centre entertains for generations

THE Events Centre, Caloundra continues to bring outstanding live entertainment to the Sunshine Coast, from beloved classics to contemporary productions, the upcoming events lineup is filled with something for every age and interest.

Audiences can enjoy the musical comedy charm of What’s New Pussycat?, and the nostalgic celebration of ‘The Way We Were: A Celebration of Barbra Streisand’.

Excerpt from GC News - October 1988.

Theatre lovers can experience the acclaimed production The Lark, starring theatre and TV legend Noni Hazlehurst, and the spirited, piano-fuelled musical Calamity Jane. Families are invited to step

artists and enjoy exceptional performances close to home. Discover what’s coming up and experience the magic of live performance for yourself. theeventscentre.com.au

Why the arts matter

By Sonia Isaacs

WE are extraordinarily fortunate to live in a region that pulses with creative energy. From our musicians filling local venues with live music through groups such as Glasshouse Musos and Club Acoustic, to actors and artists treading the boards at the Maleny Community Centre and The Playhouse, creativity is woven into the fabric of our community. Writers, painters, ceramicists, photographers, performers and festival organisers all contribute to a rich cultural landscape that makes our region a special place to live. The arts are not an optional extra. They are fundamental to what it means to be human. Music, theatre, visual arts, literature and live performance enrich our lives, help us understand the world around us, and bring people together across generations, backgrounds and beliefs. Whether it's Open Studios, the Maleny Music Festival, Rangebow, the

A LEGACY OF LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Discover What’s On

Room on the Broom

Based on the much-loved picture book, this joyful stage show is packed with colourful characters, catchy songs and laughs.

Fri 31 Jul, 10am, 12.30pm & 4.30pm

Mamma Mia!

Presented by Mad About Theatre

Grab your dancing queen, it’s time to party again! 22 ABBA hits. One sunny island. No regrets.

7 - 9 Aug

The Way We Were: A Celebration of Barbra Streisand

Starring Melinda Schneider, this show features hits from Barbra’s Broadway beginnings to her chart successes.

Thu 20 Aug, 7.30pm

The Lark

Don’t miss Noni Hazlehurst’s breathtaking performance as this powerful and moving meditation on life undertakes a limited season!

4 & 5 Sep

Finnegan the Fart Detective

An immersive mystery for kids and families. Grab your headphones. Follow the clues. Solve the mystery this September school holidays.

Thu 24 Sep, 9.30am, 11.30am & 2pm

What’s New Pussycat? Daytime Concert Series

Australia’s favourite cabaret duo relive the hits of Tom Jones, Aretha Franklin, Carole King and more.

Wed 30 Sep, 11am

Burn The Floor

The world’s finest international champion dancers fearlessly challenge the boundaries of the ballroom artform.

Sun 4 Oct, 5pm

Ross Wilson & The Peaceniks 50 Years of Hits Tour

Expect the hits including all the Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock favourites as well as his latest EP.

Fri 16 Oct, 8pm

And why we’ ways champion them

magic of Woodford Folk Festival, or smaller creative ventures or performances at local markets, community halls, pubs and venues such as Maleny Lane, these events do far more than entertain. They inspire creativity, strengthen social connections, support local

initiative and business and contribute to the vibrant, resilient communities we are proud to call home. Behind every concert, exhibition, reading, workshop and festival stands a dedicated network of organisations, volunteers and artists. Groups such as Arts Connect, Red Chair, the Maleny Players, the Maleny Singers, the Beerwah Writers Group, Maleny Film Society, local craft collectives and countless independent creatives invest enormous passion, talent and effort into enriching our cultural life. Their contributions deserve to be recognised and celebrated. At Glasshouse Country & Maleny News, supporting the arts is not a side project - it is one of our core commitments. Through our stories, features, interviews, event listings and advertising, we aim to shine a spotlight on the people and organisations that make our region so culturally rich. We remain committed to championing arts and culture in all its forms, providing a platform for both emerging voices and established groups. As our community continues to grow and evolve, the arts will remain central to our shared identity. We are proud to stand alongside our creative community, helping tell their stories and ensuring the artistic heartbeat of our region continues to thrive for generations to come.

Music of the Night

Enjoy a spectacular celebration of Andrew Lloyd Webber and the West End musicals, performed by a worldclass cast.

Sat 24 Oct, 3pm

Calamity Jane

A whip-crackin’ musical celebrating the wildest woman in the Wild West. This revival brings a barrelful of dirt, grit and heart to the stage.

30 Oct - 1 Nov

Casey Donovan | This Is Me

Hear iconic songs including Australian Idol favorites, hits from musicals, and new material performed live for the first time.

Sat 7 Nov, 7.30pm

Anthony Callea The Connection Tour

This uplifting live concert features music from Anthony’s chart-topping albums alongside timeless favourites.

Sat 14 Nov, 7.30pm

THIS July marks a special milestone for Rosetta Books as they celebrate 25 years of serving their local community.

Since opening in 2001, and under the custodianship of several dedicated owners, Rosetta Books has grown and evolved alongside Maleny, adapting to changing times and reading interests, while remaining committed to fostering a love of books, conversation, and connection.

Over the years, Rosetta Books has become more than a bookshop.

Current co-owner Rob Dodd said: “We offer a

Glasshouse Mountains Medical Centre proudly serving you for 20 years

Glasshouse Mountains Medical Centre is proudly the only GP clinic in Glass house Mountains and is now 100 per cent bulk billed, making quality healthcare more accessible than ever for local families. serving the community for more than 20 years, the practice has grown significantly and now offers a comprehensive range of medical services delivered by a team of eight experienced GPs, including six female doctors and two male doctors. services include skin checks and procedures,

women’s and men’s health, chronic disease management, mental health support, weight management, cancer care, palliative care, geriatric medicine, family medicine, travel vaccinations and child immunisations. The clinic also provides IuD insertions and removals, along with occupational health services.

Beyond the clinic, the doctors play an important role in supporting aged care across the region, providing medical care to five local nursing

homes and more than 300 residents.

The centre continues to welcome new patients, with some doctors currently accepting appointments. same-day consultations are often available, helping residents access timely medical care close to home.

Conveniently located alongside a pharmacy and QMl Pathology, the medical centre offers a one-stop healthcare hub for the community.

To book an appointment, call 5343 9700 or partneredhealthmedical centres.com.au

New chapter for hinterland

a NeW chapter is unfolding in the sunshine Coast hinterland, one that balances growth with the values that have long defined the region.

Known for its strong sense of community and unhurried pace, the hinterland remains a place where people put down roots for decades.

In an increasingly digital world, print media continues to play an important role, offering a trusted and tangible way to share local stories and strengthen community connection.

That sense of connection is deeply embedded in stockland’s history.

For more than 70 years, stockland has helped

shape communities across australia, creating places where people don’t just live, but belong.

This legacy continues through stockland halcyon, which began in 2004 with halcyon Parks on the sunshine Coast and has since grown to more than 30 communities across four states.

over time, halcyon has evolved alongside changing lifestyles.

Today’s communities are designed around “right sizing”, supporting greater freedom, connection and ease of living.

halcyon Dales in Beerwah reflects this next chapter, offering a considered lifestyle for over 50s that aligns with how people

want to live today. With thoughtfully designed homes, quality amenities and close ties to the local township, halcyon Dales brings together convenience and community. at its heart, an elevated clubhouse with mountain views supports a lifestyle centred on wellness, creativity and connection. as the hinterland continues to grow, stockland halcyon remains focused on shaping that future responsibly, supporting vibrant, connected communities while preserving the character that makes the region so special.

Facilities opening mid-2026 *

Discover your home between themountainsatHalcyonDales

Nestled at the foot of Queensland’s breathtaking Glass House Mountains, Halcyon Dales offers a fresh approach to over 50s living, where a vibrant and connected community meets a relaxed hinterland lifestyle.

Settle into an architecturally designed turnkey home where luxury comes as standard, so there is less to decide and more to enjoy.

With resort-style facilities set to open mid 2026*, the community is quickly coming to life. Enjoy more ways to relax, connect and stay active, right on your doorstep.

With no exit fees (DMF), you can start your next chapter with confidence and total freedom.

Call 1800 050 050 or scan the QR code to book an appointment.

Spotless growth through commercial cleaning

WHeN the CoVID-19 pandemic prompted many Australians to rethink their careers, local business owner Sylvie Bissinger saw an opportunity to build something of her own.

After more than a decade working in childcare, she launched Spotless Cleaning Services and has since grown the business into a trusted commercial cleaning operation servicing more than 30 clients across the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and North Brisbane regions. While residential

cleaning remains popular, Sylvie is currently fully booked and is now focusing on expanding her commercial cleaning services, including offices, childcare centres, builder cleans and end-of-lease projects.

“I treat every business like it’s my own,” Sylvie said, “whether small or large, I take great pride in my work. I always set my cleaning standards high no matter the size of the business”.

That hands-on approach has helped her establish

a strong reputation, with much of her growth coming through referrals and word of mouth.

Operating seven days a week and available around the clock, she offers flexible cleaning schedules tailored to each client’s needs, without after-hours surcharges or hidden costs.

Her childcare background has also shaped the way she runs the business.

“Trust, consistency and attention to detail are so important,” she said.

“I enjoy helping businesses create clean, welcoming environments for their staff and customers.”

Spotless Cleaning Services has become particularly sought after for childcare centre cleaning, where hygiene and safety are critical, as well as builder cleans that prepare newly completed properties for handover.

As the business continues to grow, Sylvie has recently launched a fresh new brand identity, including a new logo,

website and Google Business page, making it even easier for customers

Services is helping local businesses put their best foot forward.

For more information, visit www.sbspotless.com, find Spotless Cleaning Services on Facebook, or call 0497 387 101.

The community prescription

Forty years is a remarkable milestone, and we’d like to congratulate Glass House Country & Maleny News.

For four decades, it has shared the stories, achievements and everyday moments that have helped shape our community.

Coincidentally, those forty years mirror my father tim’s time serving the people of Landsborough and the surrounding districts.

Over the years, he’s watched the region grow from small rural towns into the thriving community we

know today.

While new families, businesses and opportunities have transformed the area, one thing has remained unchanged—the genuine good nature of the people who call it home.

Today,

Complete Care Pharmacy

Landsborough remains a family business, continuing the and technology,

in an effort to give more time and attention to our patients.

We’re grateful for the warm reception it’s had from the community who have embraced a new style of pharmacy that has pharmacists more patient facing than any other.

Likewise, we’re thankful for the role our local newspaper continues to play in connecting people, celebrating local successes. Congratulations on forty wonderful years. Here’s to the next chapter of serving our community.

Beerwah Golf Club on course for the future

As Beerwah Golf Club reflects on its proud history and looks toward the future, one thing remains constant – our strong connection to the local community and the stories that shape our region.

For many years, the Glasshouse Country & Maleny News has played an important role in celebrating the people, businesses, sporting clubs and community groups that make this area such a special

our history while keeping residents connected to the events and achievements happening around them.

Beerwah Golf Club has been part of the local landscape for more than five decades and has witnessed extraordinary growth across the Glass House Mountains region.

From a small country golf course built through the dedication of volunteers, the club has evolved into a modern sporting and social destination, welcoming members, visitors and families from across the

Sunshine Coast and beyond.

As our region continues to grow, we see exciting opportunities ahead. Thoughtful development, improved infrastructure and a strong sense of community will be essential in maintaining the unique character of our area.

Beerwah Golf Club is committed to growing alongside our community, investing in our facilities and

SportS StarS at home and abroad

TO say GC&M News has always had a wonderfully local view of sport is well illustrated by a front page story from February 26, 1988.

Under the headline “Another local boy in the news” was a report on golfer Ian Baker-Finch’s rise from an 11-year-old Peachester kid to competing in events such as the Gary Player Classic and Australian Masters.

Three years later he would stun the golfing world by winning The Open Championship in July 1991. Back then, though, he was

still given the full community sport treatment, as much a local lad done good as an international star in the making.

And that is probably the point.

For 40 years, GC&M News has been at its best when giving space to the names, faces and results that bigger outlets would never touch.

From the early years, pages were filled with Little Athletics, judo, cricket, rugby league and vigoro results.

School carnivals, club championships and representative selections

all mattered. That tradition continues today. Over the decades we have followed the journeys of athletes long before they reached bigger stages, including NRL star Reed Mahoney and professional boxer Dana Coolwell.

More recently, emerging talents such as Regan Hicks have followed the same path from local sporting fields to wider recognition.

The champions may change, but the first photographs, first results and often the first headlines appeared in this paper.

Celebrating decades of cricket fun

As Glasshouse & Maleny Country News celebrates 40 years of serving our local community, Glasshouse Districts Cricket Club is preparing for another exciting season and looking ahead to the future of cricket

Districts Cricket Club in 1997.

Firstly, congratulations to the team at GC&M News on this incredible milestone.

Local newspapers play an important role in connecting communities, celebrating achievements and sharing the stories that matter.

For clubs like ours, they’ve helped tell the story of local sport for generations.

The origins of our club stretch

century to 1927.

In 1949, following a merger with Beerwah and Landsborough Cricket Clubs, we became southern Districts Cricket Club before officially registering as Glasshouse

Interestingly, when GC&M News launched in 1986, our men’s team completed a remarkable “rags to riches” season - winning both the A-Grade minor premiership and grand final after finishing last the year before.

Since then, cricket has evolved. We’ve embraced electronic scoring, welcomed women’s cricket, introduced new playing formats, expanded our junior programs and adapted to the changing needs of a growing region.

Yet some things remain unchanged. Community spirit still sits at the heart of our club, and local families continue to be the foundation of everything we do.

That’s why we’re excited to announce that, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, junior memberships for the 2026/27 season have been reduced to just $200, helping make cricket more accessible for local families and investing in the next generation of players.

Growing one lawn at a time

Coochie HydroGreen continues delivering greener, lawns across the Hinterland

There’s something deeply satisfying about driving through a neighbourhood and spotting a lawn you’ve treated — lush, green, and thriving.

For us at Coochie hydroGreen Glass House Mountains, that’s a connection to the community we’re proud to call home.

We launched our franchise in July 2022, servicing the Glass house Mountains region including the Hinterland, Aura, Witta,

Woodford, and Kilcoy — just Matt in a Coochie ute, building relationships one lawn at a time.

Our 6-in-1 liquid lawn treatment addresses general health, colour, pest and weed control, and soil health in a single visit. And importantly, we are fully certified, licensed, and insured to apply professional-grade products that simply aren’t available to the general public.

We’ve grown steadily since — adding our lawn

sunshine Coast, our 11 regions are each run by a dedicated

Big Mower growing strong

For more than 40 years, The Big Mower has been helping local residents maintain their properties with one of the region’s largest ranges of outdoor power equipment and landscaping machinery.

Located on steve Irwin Way in Beerwah with their iconic big mower out the front, the familyowned business is a well-known local destination for ride-on mowers, push mowers, trimmers, chainsaws, generators, batteries and accessories. Customers can choose

from trusted brands including Bushranger, Stiga, Spartan, Victa and Masport, while recent additions include Ariens Zero Turn Mowers

and repairs for all makes and models.

With decades of industry experience, the team provides expert advice alongside a convenient pick-up and delivery service.

and Crossfire ATVs, UTVs and motorcycles.

The business is also known for its fully equipped workshop, offering servicing

A new chapter began in 2024 when Dale and Kellie Barker took ownership of the long-standing Beerwah business.

After years in the trucking industry, Dale saw an opportunity to build on The Big Mower’s strong reputation, expanding its product range while maintaining the personalised customer service.

local owner-operator who works only their own area, putting 12 vehicles on the road daily and working closely together to ensure the whole coast is covered.

We’re big believers in giving back to the community that supports us — proud to advertise in the Glass house Country

& Maleny News, sponsor the Beerwah Golf Club, the Glasshouse hinterland Lions AFL Club, and serve as active members and Bronze sponsors of the Glass house Country Chamber of Commerce.

strong local businesses make for a stronger community.

This area is growing fast and we’re growing with it. If you’ve ever thought about giving your lawn the care it deserves — we’re the only local team that can make it happen.

Keeping Beerwah rolling

For decades, Beerwah Tyres has been a trusted name for motorists across Glasshouse Country, providing expert tyre services backed by genuine local knowledge and family values.

owned and operated by Adrian and Tonya Hammond since 1998, the business has grown from its original swan street location to its current site in Beerwah Parade, where it has continued to build a loyal customer base. In 2024, the family expanded further with the purchase of the neighbouring property that

is home to The Big Mower. Beerwah Tyres is a true family business, with daughter Tamika working

alongside her parents for the past 21 years, Lachlan contributing for 17 years, and granddaughter

Offering tyres, fitting and balancing, and wheel alignments, the business has earned a reputation for expert advice and reliable service. Many staff members have been with the company for more than 20 years, creating a knowledgeable and experienced team dedicated to helping customers stay safe on the road. From family cars to everyday motoring needs, Beerwah Tyres remains a one-stop local shop for trusted tyre solutions.

Experience combines with youthful energy

WHEN it comes to real estate, experience and fresh thinking can be a powerful combination — and that is exactly what Place Beerwah is bringing to the local property market.

At the heart of the new office is an exciting partnership between industry veteran Andrew Dobbie and rising star Andy Phythian, blending decades of local knowledge with youthful energy and innovation.

Andrew and Wendy Dobbie have been part of the Glasshouse Country community since 1996,

when they purchased a tropical fruit farm and established a fruit tree nursery.

Their entrepreneurial journey later included operating the Eagle Boys franchise in Beerwah and opening a Video Ezy store in the early 2000s before entering real estate in 2009.

Andrew’s first sale, at 14 Tiverton Place, Landsborough, achieved a street record of $422,000. Today, the property is valued at around $1 million. His second sale, a one-acre property at 217 Old Peachester

Road, Peachester, sold for $560,000 and is now worth approximately $1.5 million — a reflection of both the region’s growth and Andrew’s long-standing understanding of the local market.

Andrew joined the team at Place Beerwah earlier

this year when principal Andy Phythian, who at just 22 years of age became Queensland’s youngest real estate business owner.

Since entering the industry in 2021, Andy has built a strong reputation through his clientfirst approach, local knowledge and modern marketing strategies.

Together, Andrew’s experience and Andy’s drive create a unique blend of wisdom and ambition, positioning Place Beerwah as a dynamic force in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland property market.

Growing with Glasshouse Property Sales

IT has been just about a year since my family and I took on the responsibility of Glasshouse Property Sales from Kelvin and Joy. They built something the community trusted, and we’ve worked hard to carry that forward in a way that feels true to who we are.

Like many, we were drawn to the lifestyle here. In that time, we’ve seen the region change dramatically.

We moved to the area in 2019, just before COVID, after years of relocating through my career in the defence force.

Property prices have risen, demand for lifestyle acreage has increased and new developments have started to reshape parts of the Glass House Mountains area.

We’re seeing a trend of families and remote workers continuing to move out of major centres, looking for space and a stronger sense of community. While growth is important, preserving the rural feel of our town is just as important. That balance matters.

As a family owned and operated business, we see our role as more than real estate.

It’s about being part of the community.

That’s why we invest locally.

Over the past year we’ve supported

the Community Garden, Neighbourhood Centre, Glasshouse Country RSL, local Primary School and we are excited to be a new sponsor of the Glasshouse District Cricket Club. We’ve also focused on employing local people, because that connection and understanding can’t be replaced. The past year has been one of growth and getting to know the area even better and we’re proud to be part of it.

If you are in the Glass House Township, pop in and say hi to our team.

Community built on connection

McGrath agents Cassi Nuske and Jo Daley reflect on four decades of local growth

FOR four decades, the Glasshouse Country & Maleny News has chronicled the heartbeat of our region, and few understand that heartbeat better than long-term local real estate agents Cassi Nuske and Jo Daley.

Together Cassi and Jo bring more than 20 years of experience to this market. Both have raised their

children here, and both speak openly about the deep community spirit that keeps them rooted in the hinterland.

Many of us remember when the paper arrived faithfully in our letterboxes each week, and we'd devour its contents from front page to back.

Before online community groups existed, Glasshouse

Country News was our key point of connection to local events and happenings; the classifieds were the marketplace of the past, and spotting a familiar face within its pages was our pre-Facebook way of keeping up with the neighbourhood.

Cassi and Jo have watched property values climb far beyond what anyone once thought possible, as more and more people discover what we've always known about this special place. New housing estates have risen, and streetscapes have shifted as the population has grown yet through it all, the Glasshouse Country & Maleny News has evolved alongside us, continuing to deliver a valuable local publication that connects our community and captures the enduring spirit of the Glass House Mountains and hinterland.

Boom towns

A LOOK through 40 years of real estate advertising in GC&M News is more than a trip down memory lane. It shows how a region has been gradually, but surely, reinventing itself.

The prices tell one story.

A median house price of around $60,000 in 1986 and acreage properties selling for under $150,000 in the early 1990s would now command prices that seemed unimaginable at the time.

And where once it was all five-acre blocks, hobby farms and room for a horse, today’s property pages feature townhouse developments, retirement living and estates designed to accommodate a rapidly growing population.

The hinterland has steadily absorbed the pressures long familiar to the coastal strip.

Large rural holdings have been subdivided, new estates have pushed

into former paddocks and debates about traffic, infrastructure and preserving local character have become part of everyday life. With Beerwah East now on the horizon and Aura continuing its march west, those conversations are only likely to intensify. Yet for all the change, one theme is much the same. Whether selling a weatherboard cottage in 1988 or a master-

Your last chance to make the best move ever.

Last land now

planned estate in 2026, agents have always been selling the same promise: a better lifestyle. The advertisements also show the conversation around lifestyle and affordability is nothing new. In fact, a Caloundra Council public notice published in 1988 was already talking about planning for growth

while maintaining the region’s “affordability and desirability”.

Nearly four decades later, affordability has become even harder to achieve

and the pressure for more housing has only increased. New planning schemes set to be revealed this year will reshape the region once again, just as they always have. The challenge, as it was in 1988, will be making sure the hinterland remains a place people aspire to live and can continue to afford.

Pine Property helps build up a future we can all call home

AT Pine Property Partners, we’ve always believed that real estate is about far more than simply buying and selling homes.

It’s about people, community and helping shape the future of the place we all call home.

The property market across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland continues to show remarkable resilience.

While buyers are becoming more considered in their decisionmaking, well-presented homes backed by strategic marketing and honest advice continue to achieve exceptional results.

businesses.

That growth hasn’t come from chasing volume — it has come from putting people first.

Every recommendation we make, every campaign we create and every negotiation we undertake is driven by one simple

continue to provide something incredibly valuable — a trusted voice that keeps communities connected.

We’re proud to support a publication that has championed local businesses and local people for 40 years.

More than ever, experience, communication and genuine local knowledge are making the difference.

Since opening our doors, Pine Property Partners has grown from a small local agency into one of the local region’s highest-performing independent property

objective: achieving the very best outcome for our clients.

The Glasshouse Country & Maleny News has been part of this community’s story for four decades, documenting the moments, milestones and people that make our region so unique.

In an increasingly digital world, local newspapers

As we look ahead, our vision remains unchanged. We want Pine Property Partners to continue raising the standard of real estate across the Hinterland through innovation, integrity and an unwavering commitment to our clients and community. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built, but even more excited about what’s still to come.

Congratulations to the Glasshouse Country & Maleny News on reaching this remarkable milestone. Here’s to the next 40 years of celebrating our local community together.

Congratulations 40 YEARS OF LOCAL STORIES

Congratulations to Glasshouse Country & Maleny News on this incredible 40 year milestone

For 40 years, GC&M News has been the voice of our community - sharing the stories that matter, celebrating local achievements, and keeping us connected through every chapter of our region’s growth.

Thank you for informing, inspiring, and bringing our community a little closer together each and every week.

We’re proud to be part of your story.

Like GC&M News, Kirk & Co Property was built on strong local values, trusted relationships, and a genuine passion for the place we call home. As a proudly local family business, it is our privilege to help families, homeowners, and investors achieve their property goals while supporting the community that has supported us for so many years.

We are grateful to be part of this incredible region and to work alongside organisations that help make it such a special place to live, work, and belong.

Congratulations to GC&M News on 40 remarkable years, and a heartfelt thank you to our clients, our community, and everyone who continues to support local businesses.

Here's to the next chapter together.

Did you know?

In 1986

Pineapples outnumbered housing estates.

Dairy farms dotted the Maleny hills. The median home cost less than a family car today.

Most buyers already knew their neighbours.

Today

Our region is one of Queensland's most sought-after lifestyle destinations.

Families continue to choose the Southern Sunshine Coast Hinterland for the same reasons they always have -community, lifestyle, and a place to call home.