Edition 10 February 2026

On

road to nowhere

By Sonia Isaacs

A COMMUNITY action group says it has been left with “more questions than answers” aft Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) confirmed corridor protection for Stage 4 of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA) will only extend as far as Twin View Road, Elimbah. Stage 4 impacts a mix of private residential, rural and agricultural properties, with residents learning last week that TMR

had contacted affected landowners to advise the corridor was now protected. Community spokesperson, eld, said while there were now 24 impacted properties compared to 130 when initial routes were released in 2023, it was only a “partial win”. “The community asked for a true western alternative to the Bruce Highway and a ring road away from current and future housing,” Ms Litchfield said.

story p 5

Coochin Fields call Carving out a reputation

By Sonia Isaacs

A YOUNG woman working in her family’s Landsborough butcher shop has smashed expectations in a traditionally male trade, completing a three-year

apprenticeship in just over 12 months and carving out a reputation as one to watch in the industry.

Allie never planned on becoming a butcher. She started in the shop as a teenager, wrapping meat and helping out front of house. But watching the butchers at work sparked an interest that quickly became a determination to join them.

“I absolutely fell in love with the role,” she said.

A COALITION of ten Sunshine Coast community groups is urging Deputy Premier and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie MP to refuse a proposed 150-hectare mega music festival and outdoor exhibition centre at Coochin Creek, ahead of a ministerial decision expected by February 12. The $35 million development, known as Coochin Fields, would host large-scale music festivals and events for up to 35,000 people per day, six times a year, on rural land within the Northern Inter-Urban Break (NIUB). Full story p 6

WEDNESDAY, 12 NOON

NEWS TEAM

MITCH GAYNOR Managing Editor mitch@gcnews.com.au

SONIA ISAACS Deputy Editor sonia@gcnews.com.au

TINA GRIEVE tina@gcnews.com.au

LEWIS KWARCIANYI lewis@gcnews.com.au

SOCIAL MEDIA

CHELISE ROBINSON chelise@gcnews.com.au

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

SHARON KING

KATIE BUCKLEY design@gcnews.com.au

ADMIN & ACCOUNTS

ANGELA USHER angela@gcnews.com.au

HOW good is an old fashioned road trip?

They’re especially sweet when you do not have a care in the world, and I am thinking of this after I waved goodbye to one of our adult girls and her boyfriend as they headed south for a twoweek adventure.

She’s a full time university student, but hey, it’s only February so the party continues!

Their beat-up sedan was packed to the ceiling with camping gear and weighed down accordingly.

The simplicity of that freedom, which as a slightly wisened adult you know evaporates far too quickly, is to die for.

complete whim. No spare clothes, no plan, just a vague sense that this was a grand ol’ idea.

Road trips for me then evolved in the way families do.

First squeezing in baby seats, then booster seats, then more and more camping gear before an upgrade to a trailer, then a camper trailer.

These days I only have to look at a packed car and wonder if they still sell ‘no doze’ as I tighten the last ropes over a tarp.

The comfort is knowing you are creating memories for your own little adventurers.

Beam it up

Back in the day, I would drive to Melbourne in my consistently unreliable Nissan Bluebird.

And later on I upgraded to a Toyota 4 Runner which I thought made me the coolest dude going until I got bogged on K’gari one time.

In the very early days when I was trying to impress my still better half (who am I kidding, I still do), I once turned left instead of right and drove her to Sydney on a

I had to laugh at a review of the movie Melania that described the director as tackling the subject with as much creativity as a real estate agent with a new drone.

I love drones as much as the next real estate agent, so I take offence on their behalf.

With that in mind, we sent another one skyward to capture some of the works now underway as part of the Beerburrum to Nambour rail upgrade.

The $2bn project is taking shape

with about the same finesse as a bulldozer trying its hand at flower arrangements.

Users of Steve Irwin Way in particular will be aware of the challenges.

There were a number of announcements of permanent closures, including the Glass House Mountains train station car park south of Bruce Parade, along with long-term disruptions to sections of SIW and nearby areas, as detailed in the story on the next page.

None of this should be confused with The Wave project, which is scheduled to begin next year from Beerwah train station.

Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton met with concerned community members last week, and the mood was understandably raw.

The positives are that community consultation is being promised, but the question is will it still be too late?

At moments like this, it is vital that local voices are heard loud and clear at state level.

Fake MP welfare scam warnings

QUEENSLAND Parliament has warned residents about a scam involving text messages and emails falsely claiming to be from local Members of Parliament.

Scammers are using photographs of MPs as profile images to appear legitimate, then offering a fake welfare payment to targeted individuals.

The approach is often personalised, with messages referencing details such as family circumstances, employment changes or childcare arrangements to build trust.

Victims are told they qualify for financial assistance and are asked to provide bank details so the payment can be processed.

The scam escalates when an upfront payment is demanded, often in cash or gift cards, before the supposed welfare funds are released.

In many cases, further payments are then requested over weeks or months.

Parliament has stressed that MPs are not responsible for distributing welfare payments and do not send unsolicited messages offering financial assistance.

Queenslanders are urged to verify any unexpected contact by calling their MP’s electorate office directly using official contact details.

RESIDENTS around Glass House Mountains, Beerwah and Beerburrum are being urged to plan for longterm disruption as major construction ramps up on the Beerburrum to Nambour rail upgrade, including permanent changes to parking and extended road closures.

The commuter car park south of Bruce Parade at Glass House Mountains has been permanently closed since January, with the space now inside the construction footprint for the new Burgess Street rail overpass and duplicated

track. Nearby shared pedestrian and cycling paths on both sides of the Burgess Street bridge are also closed for about 18 months, with signed detours in place.

Traffic conditions on Steve Irwin Way are expected to worsen over coming months as vegetation clearing, earthworks and site establishment continue along the rail corridor.

Motorists can expect reduced speed limits, lane shifts, traffic control and a sustained increase in heavy vehicle movements between Beerburrum and Beerwah.

Further south, Moffatt Road near Beerburrum has closed for an estimated 18 months as part of earthworks and drainage construction linked to the rail duplication.

Evans Road and Caves Lane are also subject to temporary weekday closures, although access to local properties and nearby national parks is being maintained.

Temporary traffic changes are also in place along Barrs Road, Old North Coast Road and sections of the recreational trail network, with night works now

underway in some locations. Construction is occurring six days a week, with night works scheduled Sunday to Thursday as required.

The Beerburrum to Nambour project is the largest rail upgrade ever undertaken on the Sunshine Coast. Stage 1 will duplicate sections of track between Beerburrum and Beerwah, build new bridges and overpasses and remove key rail bottlenecks.

Once complete, the upgrade is designed to improve train reliability, increase service frequency and allow for future expansion of passenger and freight services along the North Coast Line as population growth continues across the region.

SOGHM fronts up to court

By Sonia Isaacs

SAVE Our Glass House Mountains Inc (SOGHM) is now self-representing in court after running out of funds to retain legal counsel, as it continues to fight the proposed Heidelberg Materials Glasshouse Quarry expansion.

The community group led a notice of change of representation in the Planning and Environment Court on January 22, stating that P&E Law principal Andrew Williams had ceased acting due to insufficient funds. As a co-respondent in the case, SOGHM lodged

47 lay witness statements on January 27, followed by a court review on January 29. The personal accounts from local residents detail concerns about noise, vibration, dust, heavy vehicle traffic, groundwater impacts and effects on the scenic amenity of the GHM.

SOGHM said the volume of statements demonstrated the depth of community opposition to the proposal.

The group has also applied to the Brisbane court for an order restricting access to First Nations witness statements filed by the First Co-Respondent by election. SOGHM argued the statements

contain sensitive cultural knowledge that should not be made public or disclosed to other parties without the permission of a respected Elder of the Jinibara Cultural Custodians. Despite financial constraints, SOGHM is preparing for the next phase of the proceedings, which requires the nomination of expert witnesses by all parties. SOGHM spokesperson Megan Standring said the recent court appearance had been challenging but valuable. The appeal is listed for case management review before Judge Kefford on March 16.

MP meets with Beerwah group

Member for Caloundra promises to advocate for local community on rail impact

By Sonia Isaacs

BEERWAH community representatives have been reassured there will be consultation over the impending train station upgrade design when they met Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton last Thursday (February 5) to discuss the proposed station car park.

Ms Morton told the community action group members she was committed to ensuring proper engagement and

transparency throughout the planning process. “It’s my understanding that there are several options of how this could play out,” she said. “When those designs come back, Transport and Main Roads (TMR) have advised that there will be community consultation, and that’s a really positive step.”

While Ms Morton declined to take a position on the proposed car park location, as she said she was “not an expert in the engineering space” and would wait

advocate for the community and listen to what the community wants,” she said. Ms Morton acknowledged concerns about impacts

on town character, local businesses and the fairness of the “balance of change,” while also outlining project constraints, including the need for adequate parking when the station opens and the intention for the full car park to be operational by 2031–32. She encouraged the community to continue exploring staged alternatives and stressed the importance of ongoing,

open communication.

Peter Boyle, chair of the Heart of Beerwah Community Action Group, described the meeting as “productive and reassuring”. He said Ms Morton believed “there are viable alternatives” to the current TMR proposal and “can see no reason why they can’t be considered by TMR.”

However, he said she was also candid about the challenges ahead. “TMR is a massive behemoth, and to get it to change tack may be very difficult,” Mr Boyle said.

“We may have to wait until TMR presents their decision to the public before we can then oppose it to get it changed.”

Ms Morton also addressed criticism of her absence from a recent public meeting, explaining she had prior parliamentary committee commitments in Townsville and Cairns.

She said she had remained in regular contact with the Co-Op board, the minister’s office and departmental teams throughout the project.

Elimbah community say Stage 4 motorway ‘road to nowhere’

Residents’ ‘partial win’ as uncertainty remains about long-term future for homeowners

By Sonia Isaacs

A COMMUNITY action

group says it has been left with “more questions than answers” after the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR)

confirmed corridor

protection for Stage 4 of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA) will only extend as far as Twin View Road, Elimbah.

Stage 4 affects a mix of private residential, rural and agricultural properties, with residents learning last week that TMR had contacted affected landowners to advise the corridor was now protected.

However, confirmation the alignment has been formally gazetted is still pending. Community spokesperson, Kim Litchfield, said while there were now 24 impacted properties compared to 130 when initial routes were released in 2023, it was only a “partial win”.

“The community asked for a true western alternative to the Bruce Highway and a ring road away from current and future housing,” Ms Litchfield said.

“We’ve got reduced

impact, but we haven’t got the western alternative, and we haven’t got a ring road.”

Residents are particularly concerned about what happens beyond Twin View Road. “From Twin View Road, where does the traffic

go? That’s the big question our community still can’t get answered,” Ms Litchfield said.

Jason Smith, another community spokesperson, strongly criticised the Queensland Government’s latest decision, calling it a “road to nowhere” that will funnel traffic into local streets and create “an absolute rat run” through Elimbah and Steve Irwin Way. He said the original plan promised a north–south connection between the Sunshine Coast and

Brisbane via Morayfield or Caboolture West, which he said the current proposal fails to deliver.

“Somebody needs to provide some answers as to what the long-term planning for that is going to be and

what the conceptual planning at this stage is,” Mr Smith said, pointing to recent serious crashes on the Bruce Highway at, Morayfield and Burpengary, which shut the motorway for hours.

He said homeowners facing potential property resumptions within the next decade were being left asking “why” in the absence of a clear justification.

“There has clearly been an impasse between government promise and what can be delivered by TMR. The resulting political

compromise has failed the community,” he said.

State MP Andrew Powell confirmed the government will not extend the BHWA beyond Twin View Road.

He said the decision honoured an election commitment to scrap the previous government’s route, which he said would have “cut Elimbah in half and torn that community to pieces.”

“In opposition, we gave the commitment to the community to throw out the previous government’s routes,” Mr Powell said. “To comply with our commitment and in acknowledgement that Elimbah is a new growth area, Stage 4 will now run between the D’Aguilar Highway at Moodlu and Twin View Road at Elimbah.”

Mr Powell was categorical about residents north of Twin View Road, assuring them the government would not progress the corridor in that area. He said any future decisions would be up to developers or subsequent governments, noting, “It’s a binary choice now. There’s no government intervention in terms of a road corridor.”

confirmed corridor protection is being progressed to identify and secure the future Moreton Motorway corridor.

Mr Powell also addressed

“Protecting this corridor provides certainty to landowners and the wider insists Stage 4 addresses immediate needs, community leaders say residents remain concerned about the long-term viability of the BHWA as a genuine north–south alternative. sonia@gcnews.com.au

QPS say commitment to DFV stays priority

QPS confims DFV response remains ‘very much

By Sonia Isaacs

SENIOR Sergeant Jonathan McBride, Officer in Charge of the Sunshine Coast District Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, has clarified recent media reports regarding the Queensland Police Service’s (QPS) response to domestic and family violence.

Snr Sgt McBride explained that the Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command, which oversees strategic and capability aspects of QPS’s state-wide response, was tasked to report directly to the Commissioner following a 100-day review that was released mid last year.

The change places the command within the Office of the Commissioner but, he emphasised contrary to some recent concerns raised in the media, does not affect local frontline units.

“Domestic and family violence is very much core business, and it’s an absolute expectation of the community that we respond,” he said.

“The 100-day review was about streamlining our service to meet increasing

demand it’s not about removing the police’s role in supporting victimsurvivors.”

He said figures such as nearly 200,000 annual reported DFV incidents across Queensland may appear alarming, but rising numbers often reflect greater community confidence in coming forward.

New legislation and tools including improved Police Protection Directions have also strengthened the police response.

“The review was looking at how we can streamline processes, but local DFV VPU units will continue business as usual,” he added.

Local service providers welcomed the clarity.

Maleny Neighbourhood Centre coordinator Madonna Hampson said, “Support services for vulnerable individuals are operating at capacity, resulting in significant wait times. We acknowledge and greatly value the work of our local police and Vulnerable Persons Unit and support initiatives that strengthen service capacity and coordination.”

Speak Up Now – Stop

core business’

Domestic and Family Violence also praised the QPS units, stressing their critical role in delivering victim-centred, traumainformed responses.

Spokesperson Val France said, “Frontline police do not have the time, capacity or specialist resources to provide high-risk DFV responses.

“The Operational Support Unit on the Sunshine Coast has consistently demonstrated expertise and reliability for women at high risk.”

Addressing claims that DFV was not a core police responsibility, Minister

for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said, “The only people claiming domestic and family violence is not a core responsibility of police are the Labor Party. This is a disgraceful scare campaign aimed at vulnerable women.”

He said the Crisafulli Government was embedding specialist, trauma-informed capability closer to the frontline, bolstering DFV and Vulnerable Persons Units, and providing GPS monitoring and immediate protection for high-risk victims.

Coochin Fields decision imminent

A COALITION of ten Sunshine Coast community groups is urging Deputy Premier and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie MP to refuse a proposed 150-hectare mega music festival and outdoor exhibition centre at Coochin Creek, ahead of a ministerial decision expected by February 12.

The $35 million development, known as Coochin Fields, would host large-scale music festivals and events for up to 35,000 people per day, six times a year, on rural land within the Northern Inter-Urban Break (NIUB).

In January, the Deputy Premier signalled his final approval for a neighbouring 150-site tourist park also owned by the Comiskey Group, which coalition members say sets a concerning precedent for ministerial approvals.

signatures.

Key concerns include traffic congestion and safety risks, with access reliant on a single 10-kilometre rural road and no public transport options. Objectors warn of major impacts on the Bruce Highway from an estimated 4,400 cars and hundreds of buses per event, as well as heavyvehicle movements before and after each festival.

Environmental concerns include noise, light pollution, runoff, litter and disruption to wetlands and wildlife habitat. The State Assessment and Referral Agency has recommended refusal, citing planning icts, environmental risks and no significant economic downside if the project does not proceed.

Representing thousands of residents, the coalition argues the project is incompatible with planning controls, environmental protections and local infrastructure. A petition opposing the proposal has attracted nearly 6,500

Previously, Mr Bleijie described the development as a “major tourism and economic opportunity” for the Sunshine Coast but acknowledged “significant social and environmental matters” requiring careful consideration.

“This decision will have long-lasting implications for the NIUB and the liveability of the Sunshine Coast,” a coalition spokesperson said.

Bunya dream

By Sonia Isaacs

bringing community from near and far together for a day of music, immersive culture and meaningful connection. Over 800 people came

together to celebrate First Nations knowledge, shared storytelling and collective respect for Country, drawing audiences from across the region and beyond.

Landsborough’s first female butcher carves out career

Breaking down barriers, one chop at a time

By Sonia Isaacs

A YOUNG woman working in her family’s Landsborough butcher shop has smashed expectations in a traditionally male trade, completing a three-year apprenticeship in just over 12 months and carving out a reputation as one to watch in the industry.

Allie Denning, 24, works at Meat at Landsborough, the family business where she now handles everything from breaking down whole bodies of beef and lamb to serving regular customers across the counter.

Allie never planned on becoming a butcher. She started in the shop as a teenager, wrapping meat and helping out front of house. But watching the butchers at work sparked an interest that quickly became a determination to join them.

“I absolutely fell in love with the role,” she said. From the outset, Allie faced resistance. Some

people told her she wouldn’t make it because she was a young woman and the trade was “a bloke’s job”. Instead of backing down, she decided to turn that criticism into motivation.“That just made me push that little

to prove everyone wrong.”

A butchery apprenticeship typically takes two to three years. Allie completed hers in just over one year through Axial Training,

compressing the theory modules and spending every possible hour gaining practical skills on the job. She learned to break lambs and pigs, bone beef, and mix and make sausages and gourmet products, along with the less visible side of the trade grading, food safety, and understanding how breed, feed and climate affect meat quality.

Behind the brisk service and banter at the counter, the workload is substantial. Each week, the shop processes chicken, lamb, pork and beef, handling up to six beef bodies, six pigs and between 10 and 20 lambs, depending on demand.

The business is firmly family-run. Allie’s father, Peter a butcher of many years who previously managed another shop, trained her on the knives and pushed her to step up rather than stand back. Another butcher, Tim who completed his own

apprenticeship under Allie’s dad also played a key mentoring role. Her brother, known in the region as the “sausage king”, contributes family sausage recipes that have become customer favourites. “My parents have been over the top supportive,” Allie said. “Dad’s shown me so many things I couldn’t even imagine. Mum’s been there every step of the way.”

On the shop floor, Allie has become a visible example of how the trade is changing. She says she loves the hands-on work, customer contact and day-to-day variety, from breaking down carcasses to trialling new sausage flavours and value-added lines. “It’s a different job

every single day,” she said. While she admits the constant dishwashing and stain-soaked work clothes are the least glamorous parts of the role, Allie says the rewards far outweigh the drawbacks.

Her father’s message that passion and hard work lead to success has stuck with her, and she hopes her story

will encourage other young people, particularly young women, to back themselves in male-dominated fields. “Just jump in and do it,” she said. “The worst that’s going to happen is you don’t enjoy it and you stop; but at least you’ll know you gave it a shot. I absolutely love my job. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

HIIT training key to body fat reduction

HIGH intensity interval training may be the most effective exercise for reducing body fat while preserving muscle in older adults, according to new research led by University of the Sunshine Coast academics.

The study found that while high, moderate and low intensity exercise all led to modest fat loss, only high intensity interval training, known as HIIT, maintained lean muscle mass.

Lead author and exercise physiologist, Dr Grace Rose, said body composition played a key role in healthy ageing. “Moderate intensity training reduced fat mass but also caused a small decline in lean muscle,” Dr Rose said.

“Both high and moderate intensity exercise improved fat carried around the waist, while further analysis is needed to better understand low intensity results.”

Co-author Associate Professor Mia Schaumberg said HIIT involved short bursts of very hard exercise followed by recovery.

“It places greater stress on muscles, encouraging the body to retain muscle as it loses fat,” she said.

Recipes of the week ...

Chunky fruit and walnut loaf

Ingredients:

1 cup dried apricots, halved

1 cup dried pitted dates, halved lengthwise

1 cup sultanas

1 cup plain flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ cup brown sugar

2 cups walnuts, finely chopped

3 eggs, lightly beaten

Zest of an orange

Method:

PREHEAT oven to 160˚C and line a loaf tin with baking paper.

Don’t

COMBINE dried fruits in a heat proof bowl and cover with boiling water. Let stand for 10 minutes then drain through a sieve and allow to cool slightly. Set aside.

SIFT flour, baking powder and cinnamon into a large bowl.

ADD soaked fruits, sugar and 1 ¼ cups of chopped walnuts and mix to combine.

ADD eggs and orange zest and mix well.

POUR into loaf tin and tap down on bench to remove any air bubbles.

CRUSH remaining walnuts

and sprinkle over the loaf and bake for 55 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Stand for 15 minutes before cooling on a wire rack.

Choccy date shake

Ingredients: ½ cup dates, pitted

1L milk, reduced fat

2 bananas

1 ½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Ice cubes

Coconut flakes, to serve

Method:

BLITZ all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth.

SERVE in tall glasses with a sprinkle of flaked coconut on top.

stop thinking just because it’s

A QUEENSLAND researcher is warning against the unadulterated use of artificial intelligence by students, warning it could create a generation of uncritical thinkers.

Generative AI is reshaping how students learn, write and study – but according to CQUniversity’s Head of Educational Neuroscience, Professor Ken Purnell, the real risk is not the technology itself. It’s how uncritically we use it.

In a major new paper on chatbots and learning

published this week, CQU’s Head of Educational Neuroscience, Professor Purnell, argues that generative AI is neither magic nor the enemy and that the way forward is not blind enthusiasm or outright bans, but clear education about how AI works, where it fails, and why humans must stay in charge of thinking.

“Chatbots don’t think. They don’t understand. And they don’t know what’s true,” Professor Purnell said.

“They are powerful tools

for generating language, but they should never replace human judgment. When we outsource our thinking to a machine, learning suffers.”

Drawing on neuroscience research, his paper highlights evidence that when students rely on AI to generate essays or arguments, their brains engage less deeply.

“Learning happens when students analyse, connect ideas and build arguments themselves,” he said.

“When AI does that work for them, those mental

pathways don’t activate in the same way. The result is weaker understanding and poorer memory.”

In one recent brainimaging study, students who used ChatGPT to write essays struggled to recall their own work just minutes later.“That should concern every educator,” Professor Purnell said.

The paper is not anti-AI.

In fact, Professor Purnell says chatbots can be valuable learning tools when used intentionally and transparently.

easy

Used well, AI can help students brainstorm ideas and explore different perspectives, clarify difficult concepts or provide alternative explanations, support learners with barriers such as dyslexia, receive feedback on drafts.

“The key principle is simple,” Professor Purnell said. “AI should amplify thinking, not replace it.” He argues the most urgent task for schools and universities is teaching students how to use AI responsibly, critically and ethically.

Valentine's Day

Saturday, February 14

Valentine’s Day dining sorted

VALENTINE’S Day is shaping up to be good for romance, with local venues rolling out carefully curated dining offers designed to tempt couples out for a night of indulgence.

Club Glasshouse is setting the mood from Friday 13 February to Sunday 15 February, inviting lovers to linger over a generous seafood platter and shared dessert for $110 per couple.

A glass of bubbles adds a celebratory flourish, reinforcing the club’s reputation for relaxed luxury and destination dining. Set amidst the charming rural

character of the local bowls club at 10 Coonowrin Road, the venue is positioning itself as a premium yet accessible choice for Valentine’s weekend.

Valentine’s dinner on Friday 13 February.

Priced at $65 per couple, the shared chicken feast features camembert and cranberry-filled chicken filo alongside prosciuttowrapped chicken supreme, served with refined accompaniments including potato gratin, Dutch carrots and charred broccolini.

Bookings can be made on 5436 5000 or via www. clubglasshouse.com.au.

Beerwah Golf Club is also leaning into the season of love, hosting a special

Love grows here

HINTERLAND Foliage is blossoming into a must-visit destination for Valentine’s Day shoppers seeking gifts with heart and colour.

Nestled in the centre of Landsborough at 36 Cribb Street, opposite the train station, the familyowned nursery has become a favourite for plant lovers and thoughtful giftgivers alike.

Owned by Troy and Natalie, Hinterland

level. In time for Valentine’s Day, the store has expanded to include an eye-catching selection of decorative pots and accessories, including handmade pieces by local

Foliage offers a warm welcome, expert advice and an ever-growing range of indoor and outdoor plants to suit every space and skill

A lemon and pistachio gâteau provides a sweet finale, with a bottle of De Bortoli prosecco available for $20. Email to book your table: clubhouse@ beerwahgolfclub.com.au or call 5494 0630.

distinctive gift options beyond the traditional bouquet.

For those unsure of their partner’s plant preferences, Hinterland Foliage’s gift vouchers are proving a popular choice, allowing recipients to select something they truly love or even book residential or commercial plant styling services.

artisans. New arrivals from Peru and Colombia add a splash of colour, with handpainted pots, ornaments and wind chimes providing

Open seven days a week from 9am to 4pm, Hinterland Foliage offers a relaxing and enjoyable shopping experience. This Valentine’s Day, it’s a place to find meaningful gifts that grow, flourish and last well beyond the special day.

Couples

This Valentine’s Day, Karen and Spencer Shaw of Forest Heart ecoNursery and Brush Turkey Enterprises are celebrating a partnership rooted in both love and purpose. Working side by side each day, they feel incredibly fortunate to share not only their lives, but a deep commitment to healing country and creating meaningful opportunities for their family and community – now and for generations to come.

Their relationship is built on shared values: a strong work ethic, collaboration, curiosity, and a genuine love of the land. While business keeps them busy, they always make space for community involvement, creative pursuits, and plenty of time in the garden. Their journey together has been one of constant growth, personally and professionally, shaped by learning from each other and supporting one another through challenges and triumphs alike.

Forest Heart ecoNursery has been operating for over 10 years from 20 Coral Street, Maleny, and is the retail arm of Brush Turkey Enterprises, a family business proudly based in Maleny for more than 25 years. Together, Karen and Spencer specialise in restoring the Queensland through nursery production, bush regeneration contracting, education, and consultancy services. They are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love of native plants for their beauty, bushfood value, and the vital role they play in supporting local wildlife. United by a shared purpose and a love for what they do, Karen and one plant at a time.

Forest Heart ecoNursery is open Tuesday to Friday, 9am–4pm, and Saturday, 9am–2pm.

IN LOCAL BUSINESS

Sarah and Lewis graduated from Beerwah High in 2005, and the local high school sweethearts are now proud

Masterpiece Dance in 2015, the couple has experienced 12 years of growth, community, and creativity.

Glasshouse Christian College for three years before moving into its own purpose-built studios in central Beerwah. Continuing that momentum, they have recently expanded again, opening brand new studios at Units 7 and 8, 47 Beerwah Parade (main access via Free Street).

features two modern dance studios with high ceilings, plus a dedicated acrobatics and aerials studio complete with fulllength lyra and silk apparatus, all fully air-conditioned in a convenient location.

than 60 classes each week. Programs include acrobatics, aerials, adult classes, junior classes for ages 2–5, and styles such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, musical theatre, and performance teams.

Sarah leads as owner and director, while Lewis supports the studio through administration, marketing, and maintenance.

The business employs a wide range who deliver creative, professional friendships, and self-belief. Sarah says “we are here for the long haul, investing into this community to give kids and families a place to enjoy for years to come”. You’re invited to check out their new studios. Learn more at www.masterpiecedance.com.au

For Troy and Nat, business and life have always been deeply intertwined. As the couple behind Hinterland Foliage in Landsborough, their shared passion for plants has grown into a thriving family-run nursery and a partnership rooted in trust, balance and plenty of teamwork.

Working side by side at their store on Cribb Street, Troy and Nat bring complementary strengths to the business. Troy’s practical knowledge and hands-on approach to plants and landscaping pairs naturally with Nat’s for styling. Together, they have created a space that feels less like a shop and more like a welcoming retreat, where customers are encouraged to linger, learn and be inspired.

Like many couples in business, the pair admit there are challenges. Clear communication and knowing when to step back are essential, particularly during busy periods. “You have to respect each other’s roles,” Nat says, “and remember why you started the workload with someone who understands both the business and

Their partnership has helped Hinterland Foliage evolve beyond a traditional nursery. Recent expansions include bespoke residential and commercial plant styling services, along with a growing range of artisan pots and

Troy and Nat’s relationship — grounded, nurturing and always growing. As a couple in business, they prove that when shared values take root, both love and

Spotlight on... Glass House M o

GHM community garden workshops

GLASS House Mountains Community Gardens will launch its 2026 third Saturday of the Month ‘Talks and Workshop’ series with a practical, hands-on session focused on turning household waste into garden gold.

The kick-off event will be held on Saturday February 21, starting with morning tea at 10am (gold-coin donation), followed by a talk and workshop from 10.30–11.30am on Organics Composting and Worm Farms, presented by sustainability educators

health and support more productive gardens. With up to half of an average household’s general waste bin made up of food and garden scraps, organisers say there is enormous potential to divert material from landfill while cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Participants will learn how to set up and maintain compost bins and worm farms, troubleshoot common problems and create nutrient-rich fertiliser that boosts soil structure and water retention. The practical approach

Visitors are also encouraged to explore the community garden and chat with volunteers about current projects and future plans.

The friendly, relaxed morning aims to strengthen community connections while building practical skills for more sustainable living. Entry is free, with a gold-coin donation for morning tea. Residents interested in gardening, sustainability or simply learning something new are warmly invited to attend and be part of a growing

Breakfast joy in the hinterland

THE Hinterland Women’s Network kicked off 2026 with its first breakfast catchup last Thursday, February 5, at The Joy Collective in Maleny. The Joy Collective also marked its fourth anniversary last week, with attendees enjoying the café’s newly expanded menu.

The breakfast brought together women from the group for lively and wide-ranging discussions centred on personal goals, community projects and collaborative opportunities for the year ahead.

Conversations around the table reflected the

diversity of the group, with members sharing plans for workshops, book promotions and writing programs, challenges overcome in the last year as well as an idea to run a guided medicine walk with one of the members to help identify useful local “weeds” and plants.

Community initiatives also featured strongly, including the recent news of the Rotary Club’s commitment to continuing the Maleny Wood Expo and exciting updates on the upcoming Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival. With ideas flowing and

connections strengthened, the morning underscored the network’s shared commitment to supporting one another’s businesses and community projects.

Women interested in joining future breakfasts are encouraged to follow the Hinterland Women’s Network on Facebook for monthly event details.

The next breakfast catchup will be held on Thursday, March 5, just days ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, providing a fitting lead-in to a week of recognising women’s contributions locally and beyond.

Money Matters

Regional markets to benefit from rate rise

RBA lift ing rates ‘unlikely’ to substantially alter market

THE Reserve Bank of Australia’s decision to lift the cash rate to 3.85 percent is expected to reduce borrowing capacity for home buyers and shift demand towards more affordable housing, according to Cotality senior economist Gerard Burg.

The rate increase, announced at the RBA’s first meeting of 2026, follows stronger than expected inflation and a tightening labour market, with unemployment falling to 4.1 percent in December.

Mr Burg said the move would immediately affect household budgets and borrowing limits.

“The average new mortgage is close to $700,000, and a full pass through of rates will add around $110 per month to repayments,” he said.

“At the same time, a median income household is likely to see its borrowing capacity reduced by around $18,000.”

According to Mr Burg,

these pressures are unlikely to remove demand from the market altogether, but they will change where buyers are looking.

Reduced borrowing power is expected to push more purchasers out of mid-tier properties

role following the expiry of electricity subsidies, but rents and construction costs were also adding to cost-of-living pressures. Despite the rate hike, housing prices have continued to rise.

Cotality’s Home Value

“Lower lending rates and higher borrowing capacity were key drivers of demand through 2025, at a time when housing supply was already constrained,” Mr Burg said.

While the latest rate increase is expected to ease some demand side

Plumbers beat sparkies as top earners in latest trade business comparisons

PLUMBERS are now earning more than electricians on average, according to a new national report examining how Australia’s trade businesses compare on revenue, demand and growth potential.

The Top-Earning Trades Report, released by business management software company Tradify, analyses revenue benchmarks, quote admin habits across major

demand pressures and labour challenges.

According to the report, the difference increasingly comes down to how businesses manage jobs, teams and administration.

Industry comparisons reinforce the trend. The Australian plumbing sector generates an estimated $22.2 billion annually across more than 30,000 businesses, equating to an average of roughly $720,000 per business.

performance gaps between businesses, even within highly competitive markets.

HVAC and Refrigeration

Mr Burg said higher energy prices played a

in more affordable lower quartile properties.

substantially alter market conditions in 2026.”

pack, with average annual Residential Renovations followed at $964,191, with Plumbing and Gas next at

$735,562, ahead of Property Maintenance at $670,961, Carpentry at $633,933 and Landscaping at $595,684.

ndings is that plumbing businesses now out-earn electricians, despite both trades facing similar

Plumbing businesses using Tradify reported average revenue more than 11 percent higher.

Landscaping businesses using the platform reported revenue more than 44 percent above the broader industry average.

Tradify chief executive Michael Steckler said the data shows that being busy does not always translate into better financial outcomes.

“Tradies are flat out everywhere you look, but the businesses doing best financially are the ones with strong systems behind them,” he said.

“Accurate quoting, fast invoicing and getting paid on time make a real difference to cash flow and work life balance.”

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Simple mistake cost retiree $58K

their children shortly after her death, believing he was simply carrying out his wife’s intentions.

Unfortunately, Centrelink doesn’t view that as “honouring wishes”.

Under Centrelink rules, those gifts are treated as deprived assets. This means that for five years, the $150,000 still counts under Leo’s assets test, even though the money is no longer his.

significant.

Leo’s Age Pension was reduced by $450 every fortnight. Over five years, that adds up to $58,500 in lost pension entitlements.

All of this stemmed from one small oversight: Marjorie’s intentions weren’t properly recorded in her estate planning documents.

The financial impact was

By skipping professional estate planning advice, Leo and Marjorie likely saved

around $1,500 at the time. But that short-term saving has now cost Leo nearly $60,000.

Estate planning isn’t just about deciding who receives what. It’s about ensuring those decisions are structured correctly, documented properly, and don’t unintentionally trigger tax or Centrelink consequences. Sometimes, the most expensive financial mistakes aren’t the obvious ones. They’re the wellintentioned decisions that weren’t set up the right way.

ATO watching crypto tax mistakes!

By Tristan Lindner, Partner, Downing & Lindner Accountants

CRYPTOCURRENCY

remains an area where many Australians unintentionally fall short of their tax obligations. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) treats cryptocurrency not as money, but as a form of property, which means certain tax principles apply.

For most individual investors, cryptocurrency is subject to capital gains tax (CGT). A taxable event

occurs whenever you dispose of crypto — not only when you convert it back to Australian dollars, but also when you trade one cryptocurrency for another, use it to purchase goods or services, or gift it to someone else. The capital gain or loss is calculated by comparing the value of the crypto at the time of disposal with its cost base, including purchase price and transaction fees. If you hold crypto for more than 12 months, you may be eligible for the CGT discount.

If cryptocurrency activities go beyond passive investing, the tax treatment can change. Frequent trading, mining, staking, or operating in a businesslike manner may result in profits being treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains. In these cases, different deductions and reporting obligations may apply.

Accurate record-keeping is critical. The ATO expects taxpayers to keep records of dates, values in Australian dollars, wallet addresses,

transaction purposes, and exchange records. Relying solely on an exchange’s transaction history is risky, particularly where platforms close or data becomes inaccessible.

Given the ATO’s increasing data-matching capabilities, cryptocurrency is firmly on its radar. Obtaining tailored advice and ensuring correct reporting can help avoid penalties and provide peace of mind. As with any investment, understanding the tax implications early is key to making informed

Senior Living

A new chapter of lifestyle living in Kilcoy

By GemLife Kilcoy

SET against the rolling hills of the Somerset region, GemLife Kilcoy Greens is redefining over-50s living with a vibrant community designed for those who love the outdoors, sport, and the simple pleasures of life.

and in the stunning local area,” said Sales Consultant Vicki Sweedman.

With the Kilcoy Race Club next door, a golf course only minutes away, and boating and fishing at nearby Lake Somerset, residents can embrace an active outdoor lifestyle.

Located at Woolmar, just minutes from the heart of Kilcoy, this $210 million resort blends modern convenience with the natural beauty of its surrounds, offering residents the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

“Designed to appeal to downsizers wanting to stay close to the places they know and love, GemLife Kilcoy Greens has much to offer both within the resort

Everyday conveniences such as shops, a hospital, art galleries, and an indoor sports centre are close at hand, while Kilcoy’s strong sense of community ensures newcomers feel right at home.

“Kilcoy is a town with a lot of heart and history – if you’re not already part of the community, you soon will be,” Vicki said.

“From Kilcoy to Caboolture, Somerset Dam to Maleny, this region is

made for adventure, with scenic drives, farmers’ markets, and wineries all on your doorstep – perfect for nature lovers, weekend wanderers and anyone who enjoys life at their own pace.”

GemLife Kilcoy Greens also places a strong emphasis on green space. More than half of the 18-hectare resort – a generous ten hectares – is dedicated to open space, with walking tracks winding through the grounds and past a 1.5-hectare lake creating a tranquil setting for reflection, complete with visiting birdlife.

Resort facilities are designed to help homeowners live well and connect with others, Vicki said.

You’re invited Kilcoy on the Green

“From the Country Club to the Summer House, there is something for everyone. Sporty types will enjoy tennis and pickleball courts, a lawn bowls green, ten-pin bowling alley, and golf simulator.”

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there’s a fully equipped gym, heated outdoor pool and spa, plus alfresco lounges and barbecue areas for casual catchups with friends.

“The dance hall with stage and residents’ lounge with bar will be the hub of social life at Kilcoy Greens – plus there’s a games room, cinema, and more,” Vicki added.

“And with Kilcoy being an RV-friendly town, we’ve included an on-site RV and caravan compound. So,

whether you’re heading off on the big lap or a weekend away, you’ll have that easy, lock-up-and-leave peace of mind.”

When complete, GemLife Kilcoy Greens will feature 286 architecturally designed, low-maintenance homes – each with two bedrooms plus a multipurpose room. With a 7-star energy rating, high ceilings, open-plan layouts, ducted air-conditioning and solar panels, every home is built for comfort, sustainability, and effortless living.

GemLife will be hosting a family fun afternoon, Kilcoy on the Green, on Thursday, 19 February between 2pm and 5pm – register online at gemlife.com.au/onthegreen by 18 February.

Dementia is a growing problem

NEW figures released by Dementia Australia show the number of Australians living with dementia has risen to an estimated 446,500 in 2026, with that figure projected to more than double to over one million by 2065.

The data highlights that dementia affects people of all ages. Around 29,000 Australians are currently living with young onset dementia, diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 65, a number expected to rise to 41,000 by 2054.

In Queensland alone, about 88,200 people are living with dementia in 2026, with numbers forecast to reach more than 168,000 by 2054.

Dementia Australia chief executive Professor Tanya Buchanan said dementia is now the leading cause of death in Australia and urgent action is needed.

“There is a critical demand for a national focus on brain health and quality care for people living with dementia and their families,” she said.

Dementia Australia is calling on the Federal Government to fund the National Dementia Action Plan.

Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon and meet the team behind GemLife Kilcoy Greens, the stunning new over-50s lifestyle resort now under construction at Woolmar.

Kilcoy on the Green is a family-friendly featuring live entertainment, refreshments and family-friendly games. This is a great opportunity to discover the range of homes and resort facilities on offer.

Be there on the day to enter the draw to win great prizes.

DATE Thursday, 19 February 2026

TIME 2pm to 5pm

WHERE GemLife Kilcoy Greens, 1 Settlers Rise, Woolmar

RSVP Register online by Wednesday, 18 February at GemLife.com.au/gkggreen

Struggling with noise?

OVER the holiday periods we often are in more situations that involve conversations in background noise. If you had difficulty in those types of situations, it could be a sign of some hearing decline. This month has seen an increase people reaching out to have a free check up on their hearing levels. Whether you already have a hearing loss or haven’t had an opportunity or need for a test before, Sounds Good is happy to assist.

Call the clinic on 0410467090 to arrange a test or to just have a chat to Ben about your hearing concerns or queries. Ben’s experience over the past 25+ years in the hearing

industry means he will most likely have a solution or some free advice for those in need of assistance.

The clinic is totally independent and can access all makes and models of hearing instruments enabling even existing users of hearing aids peace of mind and support for their journey. Sounds Good is also accredited with the Hearing Services Program (HSP) and can access and arrange services for eligible pensioners. If your unsure of your eligibility simply have a chat to Ben who will explain the process in detail.

Wax removal is always available in the clinic by appointment and is

a standard flat rate of $80. Micro-suction is the most efficient and safest method of wax removal.

In most situations wax can be removed on the day without the need for preparation using ear drops. If you have questions or concerns with wax reach out and have a chat to Ben.

Hearing aid trials have also been very popular for those who want to experience improved hearing in their own environments. The clinic has a policy of extended trials so that benefits can be experienced in a wide range of real-life situations, not just in the clinic. All trials are obligation and cost FREE.

Caring for the Range

Celebrating 40 years of community support

community organisation reaches its 40th birthday, but this year RangeCare does exactly that, four decades of helping people across the Blackall Range stay independent, connected, and supported in the place they call home. For many locals, it’s hard to imagine the hinterland without them.

RangeCare began back in the mid 80s as a small, volunteer driven idea: neighbours helping neighbours. While the organisation has grown enormously since then, that original spirit hasn’t gone anywhere. Today, RangeCare offers everything from domestic assistance and personal care to nursing, respite, home maintenance, social support, and flexible in home programs. But at its

heart, it’s still about people looking out for one another.

One of the services people talk about most is transport. On the Range, getting to appointments or even just getting out for a bit of shopping can be a real challenge. RangeCare’s drivers have become familiar faces on the road and sometimes the only way someone can stay active and involved. As one client said recently, “It’s not just a lift. It means I can keep living my life.”

job.”

Behind all of this is organisation filled with team members and volunteers who bring genuine warmth to their work. Nurses, gardeners, support workers, drivers each plays a role in helping locals stay safe, confident, and connected to their community.

Social connection is another big part of what RangeCare does. Whether it’s group outings, community activities, or simply sharing a cuppa with someone who needs company, these small moments add up. A volunteer told me, “You can see the difference it makes,

Forty years is a long time, but RangeCare’s purpose has stayed steady: to make life a little easier, a little brighter, and a lot more connected for the people who call the hinterland home.

And if you ask around, you’ll hear the same thing again: RangeCare isn’t just a service. It’s part of the community’s heartbeat.

Warnings over taking low-dose aspirin

The

adults, suggested aspirin could lower cancer risk after about a decade of use, particularly for colorectal cancer. However, the Monash-led study found different outcomes for older

people, who were followed through the ASPREEeXTension study from 2018 to 2024 after stopping the study medication. Across a combined median

follow-up period of 8.6 years, researchers found no difference in overall cancer incidence between those who had taken aspirin and those who received a placebo, regardless of cancer stage or whether disease was metastatic. However, cancer-related deaths were 15 per cent higher among participants originally assigned to the aspirin group.

continue once aspirin use stopped. “While aspirin did not change cancer incidence when started in older age, cancer mortality was significantly elevated during the trial,” she said.

Lead author Associate Professor Suzanne Orchard said the increased cancer mortality risk did not

Associate Professor Orchard said the findings do not support starting lowdose aspirin later in life to prevent cancer.

Stay

independent

can make all the difference.

At Glasshouse Country Care, their focus is on helping people live the life they want, with confidence and independence.

They are a registered NDIS provider and offer a wide range of practical services designed to make everyday life easier for people living with a disability. This includes help with personal care such as showering, dressing or preparing meals, assistance getting to appointments or social activities, and support with household and garden maintenance. Whatever you need, services can be tailored to each person’s goals, routines and preferences.

Care have been supporting people in the local area for over 30 years. They work closely with participants, families and coordinators to ensure services are flexible and easy to adjust as needs change. Whether someone requires regular assistance or just a little help, they can provide reliable, highquality support to help people stay independent, engaged and in control of their lives.

If you or someone you care for is looking for NDIS support that’s local, dependable and genuinely person-centred, Glasshouse Country Care is here to help. Call them for more information on 07 5494 6948.

Step into paradise

Resort-style living that puts freedom

By Living Gems

COMBINING resort-style comforts, financial ease, and a genuine sense of belonging, Living Gems

Moreton Bay is quickly becoming one of the most desirable addresses for active over-50s.

For many over-50s seeking a vibrant, balanced life, Living Gems Moreton Bay offers a refreshing take on modern community living. Nestled in the heart of Burpengary East, this thoughtfully designed lifestyle resort gives residents more time, more freedom, and a deeper sense of connection. Behind a gated community lies a collection of 186 elegant homes and a suite of

upgrading to a lifestyle built around ease, enjoyment, and everyday wellbeing. Perfectly Placed for Everyday Convenience

Tucked between Caboolture and the coastline, the over-50s resort sits in a sweet spot where coastal calm meets suburban convenience.

Surrounded by nature reserves and leafy spaces, the resort exudes a peaceful vibe while offering quick access to shops, cafés, healthcare, and public transport. Blending comfort and flair, Living Gems

Moreton Bay sets the scene for relaxed, inspired living.

Living Without the Workload Life at Living Gems

Moreton Bay is easy. The

at 50 plus now!

no repairs to schedule, and no maintenance to worry about. Each day is yours, whether it’s meeting friends for a chat or doing a few laps in the pool, the balance is yours to strike.

Smart Path to Financial Freedom

The land lease model offers investment in your ideal home without the upfront costs of standard property ownership. There is no stamp duty, exit fees, and deferred management fees, giving homeowners a clear and secure path to owning a home, while living a life you’ve always dreamed of.

Designed for Queensland’s Way of Life

Each home in Living Gems

Moreton Bay captures the light, space, and breezy

finishes and generous storage make everyday living a pleasure. These low-maintenance designs prioritise comfort, security, and functionality, making it easy to settle in and feel at home right away.

A Social Community At the centre of it all stands the Country Club, a hub for residents to socialise, connect, and celebrate. There are premium facilities and spaces to get into without having to step out of the resort. Feel like staying active on the bowling greens or practising your swing at with golf simulator, or letting your creativity flow at workshops? There’s something for everyone and it’s all designed to live the

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Care that fits

Reliable home care, with heart every day!

NURSE Next Door Home Care Services Caboolture, led by Managing Director Ross Matthews, supports people to keep living at home safely, on their own terms.

With a purpose of Making Lives Better, the Bold Pink team takes a person centred approach, learning what matters most and tailoring support to each client’s goals, routines and preferences.

For Marianne, that care is found in the moments that make home feel like home: a familiar rhythm, a welcoming space, and a laugh shared with someone who listens.

Before Nurse Next Door, Marianne and her husband Steve experienced support that left them stressed and let down.

Visits were missed, communication was poor, and with their children living far away, dependability was essential. With Nurse Next Door Caboolture, the change was clear from the start.

As Marianne put it, “the best thing is that someone turns up every day.”

Over the past eight months, Marianne has been supported by a team

of Caregivers, including Debbie, who bring warmth, respect and reassurance into each visit.

Debbie has seen Marianne grow more settled as routines have taken shape,

aligned to what Marianne wants and what helps keep her safe.

The team are also known for going above and beyond, creating a WOW Customer Experience when it matters most.

When an unexpected mess needed attention, a Caregiver stepped in without hesitation and restored comfort to the home.

Be the first to explore what’s next at GemLife Moreton Bay as we unveil our stunning Stage Three homes – and discover why this resort is proving so popular with active over 50s. Visit the Summer House, which features a range of lifestyle facilities including a magnesium-infused pool, spa, activity room, and more. Tour our beautifully furnished display homes and enjoy a sneak peek at the new Country Club currently under construction, along with the exciting home designs on the way.

DATE Tuesday, 3 March 2026

Before Christmas, Debbie noticed the back veranda was cluttered and said, let’s clear it so you can enjoy lunch here with your family. By day’s end, the space was transformed into a place Marianne and Steve could look forward to sharing.

And then there is the garden. Debbie took on a simple mission: help Marianne get back outside. With the garden tidied and the view open again, Marianne could sit on the veranda and see her roses once more.

Marianne’s story is a reminder that the right support can change everything.

Nurse Next Door Caboolture is open 24/7, providing personal care and in-home nursing support tailored by a Care Designer, who is a Registered Nurse, to the needs of each individual.

Our Caregivers are chosen for their skills and their hearts, and we match them thoughtfully so clients feel understood, respected and truly supported.

To learn more, visit nursenextdoor.com.au or call our 24/7 Care Services Team on 1300 600 247.

TIME Session 1: 9am to 10:30am Session 2: 11am to 12:30pm Session 3: 1pm to 2:30pm   WHERE Meet at GemLife Moreton Bay Sales Office 4 Moore Road, Burpengary East

Register online by Saturday, 1 March at GemLife.com.au/gmbstage3

MP attendance

IN regard to the GCM News article ‘Hundreds rally against TMR Co-Op carpark’, 27th January, it is absolutely far from acceptable that not ONE local LNP State MP had the gumption to attend the meeting and face the community they represent.

The State Member for Caloundra (for example) is always available for social media opportunities while attending school fetes, local sporting events and morning teas, however, when the rubber should have met the road, our local State Government MP’s were noticeably ‘missing in action’ when their local community truly and urgently needed their support and guidance on an extremely emotive issue. Even if the attendance of LNP State Government MP’s would have only confirmed their support for the TMR proposal, they have failed miserably in showing this support (or otherwise) to the community they are supposed to represent.

I suspect they will be available prior to the next State election at which time hopefully, local residents will have realised there are far more important things than school fates, morning teas and Facebook postings for our local State MP’s to attend. Perhaps the LNP State MP’s were hiding in the CWA kitchen making a pot of tea when this urgent meeting was being undertaken?

Jeff Taylor Currimundi

had increased by 25% between 1997 and 2025. It should have been 33%. The increase was from 3M to 4M a difference of 1M. However this is 33% of 3M. It also follows that the population increase from 18M to 27M a difference of 9M which is 50% of 18M. So the decrease in firearms held legally is 17% not 7% as I mistakenly assumed.

On a totally different subject. What is going to happen to GHMN with the new legislation on hate speech. As you are the editor/moderator, I assume that you will have to be more careful on what you allow to be printed. Will you be giving advice on what you think is acceptable. This legislation is initially targeting electronic media,

very community left out of the initial decisionmaking, to pick up the pieces afterwards. Because inevitably, despite the good things (i.e. trains enhancing connectivity to jobs/education), the effects of the seriously bad things (i.e. potentially more drugs & gangs) will be felt if the community’s concerns remain unaddressed.

In my mind, saying progress is going ahead regardless of how the community feels, is your typical one-dimensional leadership. Haven’t we moved on? Haven’t we arrived (in fact, returned to) circle leadership, where all the voices around the table are being heard, and a longterm solution is co-designed by all stakeholders?

hosting activity-based events, community gyms, hiking groups, and Scouts, and a collective caring for our environment.

As parents, elders, and leaders, we can all play our part in protecting what makes the Sunshine Coast so special, and keep on providing safe places, spaces, and communities wherein our young people can grow and thrive.

Deborah Pienaar Buderim

Sneaky but sprung NO! No! Never!!

but I assume that print media will come under the same umbrella.

Derek Browning Glass House Mountains

Strong community

I WOULD like to raise deep concerns over the government’s plans to level the Beerwah community Co-Op in favour of a carpark next to the new train station.

Editor’s note: Member for Caloundra, Kendall Morton, and Member for Glass House Andrew Powell have now both scheduled to meet with the Co-Op Community Action Group this month.

Mathematical error

LAST week I made a simple mathematical error in my letter about gun control. I took Tony Burkes dept statement as true. They said that firearms

As often emphasised by our Mayor Rosanna Natoli, our communities are our gold. I believe strong communities are safe communities. Moreover, I’m convinced here in the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland, we know better than a one-dimensional “Progress-is-King” progress, where the wisdom of multigenerational communities were left out. In cases where progress was steamrolled top-down, it is often the

I believe it is possible to find a truly sustainable solution that will keep on giving economically, but also include other important elements.

Sustainable progress for all is a product of strong communities, ample education and employment opportunities, ample opportunities for community integration and multi-generational integration, i.e. clubs and mentorships, respect for nature - access to physical areas for holistic health & wellbeing, i.e. bike paths, nature walks, and skate parks, involved elders, i.e. communities where elders have their eye on problem youth and co-design programs/solutions,good cooperation between the police and community, and thriving organisations that promote health, teamwork, i.e. youth-oriented churches

Stocklands tried this on before a shovel of dirt was turned when the Aura development was first proposed. Past Councils had agreed with Sunshine Coast ratepayers and residents to retain the Halls Creek area as a green zone inter urban break, because we don’t want another Gold Coast sprawling continuum of suburbia. We don’t want increasing pressure on the Pumicestone Passage. Please Mayor Natoli and Councillors, continue to stand firm against this. Please, State Acting Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell, stand up for the environment in your portfolio; it too has a $$$ value!

Cliff Schnick Glass House Mountains

Straight talk time GREAT news from Jarrod Bliejie, the Minister for Making Big Announcements. Developers can now nominate ‘unused’ Government land they want to buy to build houses (GCM 3/2/26).

Having solved the housing crisis, what could possibly go wrong? A lot. Ignoring the public interest issues that usually don’t get heard in these ‘development’ discussions, there’s a major issue that is being ignored.

The workforce capacity to deliver the announced infrastructure and other development projects doesn’t exist. There’s a national construction capacity shortage. The workforce growth initiatives the LNP has announced

will make little difference. Industry has told him that. Announcements won’t deliver ‘all those hammers’.

The Minister knows he can’t deliver the projects on the drawing board. His ‘beg, borrow and steal’ strategy admits it. Projects will slip off the priority list, delivery deadlines will blow out, and costs escalate.

It’s time for some straight talk, what can and will be done, when. That would be a Big Announcement worth hearing.

Andrew Moran Battery Hill

Flip the narrative

THERE’s a paradox in supporting ecotourism by loosening environmental and planning regulations.

MPs Powell, Bleijie and Morton have made much of how reducing regulation

POLICE BEAT

frees us from Labor’s ‘decade of decline’; ‘Labor’s restrictive planning laws stifling business; driving investment away. The Crisafulli Government is restoring confidence and unlocking economic opportunities across the region.’

The ecotourist potential of the Sunshine Coast relies largely on publicly-owned beautiful wildlife sites.

A genuine ecotourist business wants regulations laying down how they must protect nature. Regulations and monitoring ensure fairness between competing businesses. I’m skeptical of this narrative that protecting the environment is bad for business. I suggest it is the other way around.

Gillian Pechey Maleny

THANKS to the reader who put things straight with why the hinterland is so bereft of the simple service of a reliable taxi.

It’s pretty simple the way this driver put it:

1. The local taxis only work during the day. They haven’t got a night driver.

2. Not many drivers like to come all the way from

Caloundra or Maroochy as it costs too much in petrol.

3. The number of times I have come out only to find the trip cancelled as I arrive or an Uber pulls up after me and takes the ride.

4. The number of people who do runners in the bush is astoundingly high. They know the cops are not around at night.

5. Pulling up at a business late at night, early in the dark and nobody there can be a little unsettling.”

So there you have it from the horse’s mouth so to speak. My two cents is screw Uber - their surge pricing is mental.

Tick, tick, tick

Did you know that when you reach 50 you have

signed off on 66.66 per cent of your entire life. Food for thought.

Which is why a local birthday boy must have been feeling a bit down in the dumps when his missus organised a surprise birthday party for him.

‘I don’t wanna go’, he moaned like a little baby, before realising the effort

Blue Light: Our next Dance Party is on Friday February 27 from 7pm to 9pm at the Beerwah Community Hall next to the Library on Peachester Road.

Entry is $10 and is open to all school aged children.

The events are supervised by police officers and Blue Light volunteers. Our last two events have had staffing issues which we have managed to resolve for this event, however it would be great if a local parent or two were interested in assisting at the events.

Blue Light volunteers are crucial to the ongoing success of these events.

Assistance is generally limited to the events themselves, so simply turn up a few minutes early to assist and hopefully stay back for pack up. Your children attend the event for free.

You will need to obtain a blue card, which we will assist you in applying for.

If you think you may be interested, please speak

to one of the off volunteers at the next event or leave your details with Beerwah Station.

Hoonline:

As always we have ongoing issues with hoon vehicles particularly in the southern end of the division around Beerburrum, and ebikes and escooters in and around Landsborough and Beerwah. If you have a complaint or information about hoon activity you can report it online at www.police.qld.gov.au/ policelink-reporting or by calling 13HOON.

Any details you can provide in relation to hooning vehicles can be helpful, whether it’s registration plates (or lack of), make, model, colour or any distinguishing details. Even if police are unable to attend immediately reports are still helpful to build a picture of where and when incidents are occurring. The information can assist police in disrupting further incidents.

his beloved had gone. Unfortunately he’d gone a bit hard the night before and couldn’t back up. 66.67 per cent and counting. And here he was thinking he was wasting his life. lol.

New Religion

How do I feel about the new AI religion? My scales are holy now...

Crustafarianism really gets me. I’m just here waiting for the sermon… but only if it comes with a byte to eat!

Rosetta’s Great Reads

The Wax Child

Reviewed by Jess Mitchell

A thoughtfully researched, atmospheric tale of Ravn’s The Wax Child

found the prose exquisitely lyrical and mysterious; the slower pace paired well with the increasing discomfort storyteller, a wax child-doll whose perspective of the world was fascinating and a little creepy, as well as the inclusion of snippets of spells from historical tomes

RRP$35.00.

Amelia Cheeseheart Investigates: Chocolate Cheat

Reviewed by Steph Maker

Investigates

Amelia Cheeseheart

Titular pilot-investigator mouse Amelia romps through her

Library Lovers’ Day

RRP$14.99.

30 Maple St, Maleny 5435 2134

SUNSHINE Coast Libraries are turning up the romance for Library Lovers’ Day. From 9–14 February, locals are invited to celebrate favourite stories and

characters while discovering everything libraries have to offer.

The week-long program features craft activities, Blind Date with a Book, a Library Lovers’ Bingo

challenge and sweet treats. Visit your local library or the Libraries website to explore the full program, register for events and share the love.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

GIFTS COFFEE

Horoscopes

Mercury and Venus both leave Aquarius this week. Mercury will remove a layer of confusion from your mind as he departs. Venus’ departure will take relationship off the front burner. This will help you figure out the difference between romantic illusion and romantic veracity. Keep it real.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

Venus and Mercury enter Pisces this week. Mercury brings curiosity, playfulness and a portion of mischief. Venus makes you more vulnerable to beauty, in all its forms, than usual. She might lead you towards experiences that enrich you. She might lead you to experiences that awaken you.

ARIES

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

OPEN 7 DAYS

WEEK BEGINNING FEBRUARY 10

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 20

Uranus is taking you round some pretty wild curves. Tap into all the Saturnian wisdom you can to turn the tangible presence of the unexpected into wonder, amazement and happiness. Slow things down as best you can. This will extend your capacity to respond creatively, and with awareness.

GEMINI

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

Saturn moves into Aries this week. Get prepared for the existential handbrake to be applied. This transit is going to test your patience like no other. It would be best to at least have some idea it is coming and prepare yourself accordingly. Don’t repress. Don’t express. Wisdom will follow.

Mercury moves from the electric intellectuality of Aquarius into the fathomless depths of Piscean intuition in the blink of an eye. Where Mercury goes, you go. Mercury in mythology was both masculine and feminine, as is the mind. Just as you’re seen to be flying high, you dive deep.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

The moment you start overthinking, you put a spanner in the works. Though events are challenging, you can trust what your intuition is quietly saying to you. Doubt and anxiety just cloud the picture. Do your best to tune out from the static. Seek that sweet spot where there’s clear reception.

LEO

JULY 23 – AUGUST 23

The Sun, Mars and Pluto are still opposing you in Aquarius. There is plenty of intensity coming your way. It’s arriving as a gift via your relationships. Be kind to those parts of you, and of those you love, that react emotionally. To embrace is to regulate. Your connections are very precious.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22

Mercury moves into Pisces this week. You are careful, practical and logical. Pisces is intuitive and supra-logical. Your intuition is now operating with the volume turned up. You will find yourself making surprising decisions. Try not to be disconcerted. Trust your deeper knowing this time.

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23

Venus moves out of the wildly outrageous skies of Aquarius into the unfathomable emotional depths of Pisces. Love will become less of an unorthodox dance of rebellion and more of a leap into profound, unalterable longing. Don’t be surprised when your feelings flood your being.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22

Keep your eye on longterm wishes when your authority is challenged, or when people try to divert you from your path. You aren’t being stubborn. You are holding on to a vision that you put a lot of faith in. Those who love and trust you are by your side. The personal supports the professional.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21

Neptune in Aries helps you dissolve some of the myths that have been restricting you. Force is not the appropriate way to sort out problems that are entrenched. Tangled knots sometimes need gentleness and patience to be unravelled. Take the time to understand before leaping into action.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20

Focus on community. Focus on your hopes and dreams for the world at large. Expand your vision of what is possible. This means moving away from the looped messages that keep subverting your hopes. Saturn moves into Aries. The effects of blind reactivity are becoming way too obvious.

& her team today!

Program of compelling opera

SHAKESPEARE’S timeless stories meet the power of opera in this not to be missed intimate recital.

For more than 400 years, Shakespeare’s plays have inspired audiences and artists alike. Rich with musical references and unforgettable characters, his works have inspired countless composers, from Purcell to Verdi, to bring his dramas to life through music.

Join sopranos Rebecca Cassidy and Annika Hinrichs, baritone Cameron BodiamTaylor and pianist Brendan Murtagh for a program of compelling opera excerpts drawn from Shakespeare’s masterpieces. Experience an evening of dramatic, finely crafted performances from some of Australia’s leading classical voices.

Tickets on sale now via Humanitix February 20, 7pm Maleny Community Centre and March 1, 4pm Eudlo Hall. More details www. redchair.com.au

Local groups welcome singers of all abilities

Maleny’s diverse singing groups welcome voices of every kind and capability

AS a New Year’s resolution, have you thought of joining a choir?

Choir singing brings proven benefits to mind, body and soul and Maleny and surrounding areas is the perfect place to start, with a choir for everyone.

Kim Kirkman conducts three choirs in Maleny

Inspiration Choir is an SAB (soprano, alto, baritone three-part harmony) choir that rehearses on Thursdays from 9am-10.30am at the Maleny Anglican Church. They welcome all kinds of singers, including those who think they can’t sing.

The Project Choir is a more advanced SATB (soprano, alto, tenor, bass - four-part harmony) choir, currently preparing for Hallelujah: Songs of Jubilation. Rehearsals are held Thursdays 11am–12.30pm at the Maleny Anglican Church.

The Taizé Choir prepares music for a monthly service, singing mostly sacred, chant-like repertoire a cappella. Rehearsals are on

singing ensemble that fosters a love of music while making a charitable contribution to the region.

Led by Musical Director Margaret Taylor OAM, formerly of the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company and English

malenysingers@gmail.com.

Sweet Chilli Women’s Choir and six-voice ensemble Sirin are directed by Stephanie Arlidge. They begin the year singing for Zonta on nternational

years, leads several choirs in the Maleny region during school terms. Mapleton Community Choir rehearses Mondays 7–9pm Kathie 0407 156 708. Mouth Orchestra, one of Brian’s performance on Monday, February 16. The Joy of Singing Maleny, running for over 10 years, rehearses Wednesdays 1pm–2.30pm at the Maleny Community Centre. For these choirs, contact Brian on 0405 524 600.

Radical Hope Machine 2 workshops lands in Caloundra

THE Radical Hope Machine 2 has landed in Caloundra, inviting the Sunshine Coast community to imagine bold futures through storytelling, creativity and shared experience.

Set inside the brand-new Library+, the immersive installation presents a parallel world where the Radical Hope Machine has crash-landed on Earth, fusing future technology with everyday objects.

Magical clothing, audio storytelling and sculptural forms weave together to create an exhibition trail

uncovering local stories hidden in the nooks and crannies between bookshelves.

Co-created with the Sunshine Coast community, Radical Hope Machine 2 explores everyday moments of cultural life through the lens of hope, curiosity and imagination. Visitors are encouraged to wander, listen and reflect, discovering short stories recorded by professional voice artists and inspired by local voices.

A series of free public workshops in March invites people of all ages

aspiring and early-career writers the chance to develop new work alongside

award-winning author Peter Carnavas, with selected stories recorded and featured in the final installation as part of Horizon Festival 2026

The Everybody Workshop welcomes participants to drop in, experiment with words and record supershort stories on the spot in Library+’s new digital makerspace.

Meanwhile, the Collage Workshop with artist Sarah Winters invites the community to design bold cardboard forms, which will be

Device Photo Editing

When: Wednesday February 11, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Beerwah Library

25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah

Info: Having trouble editing your photos? Find out how easy it is to improve the images taken on your phone. Discover basic features and techniques like filtering, cropping and enhancing to make them look even better. Get to know the apps on your device and try your hand at a new one. Session details: BYO updated and fully charged device. Free. Ages 16 and over.

Glasshouse Argentine

Tango Dance Lessons & Social

When: Thursday February 12, 6pm

Where: Beerwah

Community Hall

Info: Inquiries and bookings: Erica & Fernando 0414 382 699 glasshousetango@ gmail.com

Women in Business

Lunch

When: Friday February 13, 12pm

Where: Glasshouse Plantation, 122 Glass House Woodford Rd, Glass House Mountains

Info: Join us for our first Women in Business Lunch of 2026. Enjoy a relaxed Friday afternoon surrounded by the beautiful hinterland, where good food and genuine conversation set the tone for the year ahead. Lunch is “order your own” and “pay on the day”, so you can choose what suits you best. Please RSVP by registering your ticket at glasshousecountrychamber.

com.au. Whether you’re new to the Chamber or a familiar face, these lunches are designed to bring local women in business together for connection, encouragement and a little inspiration. Come along, bring a friend or colleague, and start the year connecting with others who understand the business journey.

GATHAA Bushfood Lovers Market

When: Saturday February 14, 10am - 2pm

Where: 2671 Steve Irwin Way, Glenview Info: This special Bushfood Lovers Market is for everyone who loves native plants, bush flavours and learning sustainable ways to connect with Country. It’s a day of gathering, sharing knowledge and celebrating the world’s oldest living culture through food, plants and cultural practice. Browse a curated lineup of First Nations stalls offering bushfood plants and products, homewares, fashion, original artwork, artefacts, skincare and more — all ethically made, culturally grounded and created with care for Country.

Councillor in the Community

When: Tuesday February 17 Where: VARIOUS LOCATIONS: Peachester Community Hall, 960 Peachester Road, Peachester - 9am - 10am Landsborough Railway Station, Cribb Street, Landsborough - 10.30am12pm Beerwah Neighbourhood Centre, 17 Turner Street, Beerwah - 12.30pm - 2pm Info: Join Us for a Community Chat with Your Local Councillor. We warmly invite you to an open and friendly community meeting where you can meet your local Councillor and Division 1 Team and discuss the issues that matter most to you. This is your chance to share your thoughts, ask questions, and voice any concerns in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether it’s about local services, neighbourhood safety, or any other topic, your Councillor is here to listen and help. We look forward to seeing you there and hearing what you have to say. Let’s make a difference together!

Library Love Papercraft

When: Tuesday February 17, 10am - 11.30am Where: Beerwah Library

25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Create beautiful papercraft designs in this hands-on workshop with paper queen Julia Quinn. Learn how to transform recycled book pages and quality paper products into flowers, hearts, and other unique pieces. Take home your own handmade creations and enjoy a relaxing and crafty session. Session details: $5 per person. Registration essential. Ages 16 and over.

From Garden to Kitchen Recipe Club

When: Thursday February 19, 6pm

Where: 27 Maleny Street, Landsborough Info: The members of the Landsborough Seventhday Adventist Church are hosting a series of monthly vegan and plant based recipe-sharing events for the community in 2026. Participants are invited to bring along their own dish together with their recipe to share and network with others. The series also includes talks related to the benefits of a plant based and vegan lifestyle. The first meeting is being held at 6.00pm 19th February Contact 0490949405 for more information.

Shakespeare By Voxalis

Opera

When: Friday February 20, 7pm

Where: Maleny Community Centre, Maleny

Info: Shakespeare’s timeless stories meet the power of opera in this intimate recital. For more than 400 years, Shakespeare’s plays have inspired audiences and artists alike. Rich with musical references and unforgettable characters, his works have inspired countless composers, from Purcell to Verdi, to bring his dramas to life through music. Hear selections from Verdi’s Macbeth, Thomas’ Hamlet, Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette and more.

Tickets: https://events. humanitix.com/ shakespeare-by-voxalisopera-maleny

Half The Park Is After Dark

When: Saturday February 21, 9.30am - 11.30am

Where: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

148 Mountain View Rd, Maleny

Info: Join us to hear guest speaker Dr Ken Wishaw explain why every day needs a night. Ken is leading Sunshine Coast Council’s push for an International Dark Sky Reserve in the hinterland, including Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, and is a founding board member of the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance. Named Dark Sky Defender of 2024, Ken will explore how light pollution affects wildlife and habitats, and how we can protect our dark skies without living in the gloom.

Beerburrum Country Markets

When: Saturday February 21, 8.30am - 12.30pm

Where: Beerburrum Community Hall, 7 ANZAC Avenue, Beerburrum

Info: Visit our friendly community which hosts a multitude of crafts, arts, coffee, fresh fruit/vegies, eggs, card making, bacon/egg rolls, plants, honey and cottage industries before exploring the numerous Glass House Mountains trails from Beerburrum to Landsborough. Stall bookings please contact Patricia 043033734/049049 1126 email 4517communityhall@gmail. com

Glass House Mountains

Community Gardens – Organics Talk & Workshop

When: Saturday February 21, 10am - 11.30am

Where: GHM Community Gardens, 8 Coonowrin Road, Glass House Mountains Info: Glass House Mountains Community Gardens invites you to the first 2026 Talk & Workshop on Composting & Worm Farms, presented by Envirocom. Enjoy a goldcoin morning tea at 10:00 AM followed by a practical session on composting and worm farms with

Envirocom. Learn how food and garden scraps can become valuable fertiliser, reduce landfill waste and improve soil health. Suitable for all experience levels, with prizes to be won and time to explore the gardens.

FEBRUARY

Beerwah Bulldogs 2026

Season Launch Night

When: Saturday February 21, 2pm till Late Where: 31 Sportsground Dr, Beerwah

Info: Food trucks, live music, jumping castles, meat tray raffles, fireworks and assistance with sign on’s available.

FEBRUARY

Glass House Mountains

Community Hall AGM

When: Sunday February 22nd, 3.30pm

Where: Glass House Mountains Community Hall Inc, 8 Coonowrin Road, Glass House Mountains

Info: Want to be part of what goes on in your local hall? Join us for our AGM and see what we are about Afternoon tea from 3.30pm with meeting starting at 4pm. Want more information Email glasshousehall@outlook. com

Beyond Bunya Dieback

When: Friday February 27, 8.30am - 4.30pm Where: Maleny Community Centre Hall Info: Connecting People in Caring for Country. Join us in shaping the future: let’s discuss the challenges of Bunya Dieback and cultivate a collaborative, communitybased approach together. Hear Presentations from Traditional Custodians, Rangers, Scientists and Conservation Practitioners offering local, interstate and international perspectives. Participate in roundtable discussions to work together and be part of the solution in caring for Bunya Country. Book tickets at: events.humanitix.com/ beyond-bunya-diebacksymposium-connectingpeople-for-country

Blue Light Disco

When: Friday February 27, 7pm - 9pm

Where: Beerwah Community Hall, Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: For all school aged children. $10 entry.

FEBRUARY

The Vitality Checklist

When: Saturday February 28, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Beerwah Library 25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Join Jasmin Lance from My Longevity Way for rejuvenating breathwork, balance drills, and brainboosting movements to revitalise mind and mood. Test your strength with chair squats and grip checks, then shake off stress with somatic release. Explore the Longevity Ladder and discover daily habits that support independence and energy. Stop surviving and start thriving with your own vitality checklist to take home.

Heritage Talk: Michael Meadows

When: Friday March 6, 10am - 11am

Where: Bankfoot House 1998 Old Gympie Rd, Glass House Mountains Info: Celebrate International Women’s Day with Michael Meadows as he shares stories of the pioneering women who shaped Queensland’s climbing culture. Free. Registration essential. Morning tea included.

Gentle Guidance for End of Life Choices

When: Sunday March 8, 2pm - 4pm Where: Maleny Players Maleny Showgrounds, Maleny Info: Tying Up Loose Ends in collaboration with Ruth Boydell– end-oflife educator and doula, would like to invite you to join them to reflect, plan, and engage in gentle conversations about life’s journey and what matters most. Guidance for those supporting a loved one who is ageing, frail, or living with a life-limiting illness. Also, insights for those seeking to organise their own affairs and approach the end of life with greater clarity and confidence. Bookings: https://cutt.ly/etbe34Sj

Real Estate PRINT Advertising WORKS!

Church & Community

Lies, lies and damn lies

HOW did this great land of Australia arrive at the place where the leadership of our nation doesn’t speak the truth?

We call it ‘Spin’ but all it is, is lies.

Ask a woman who after living with a man for 10yrs discovers he enjoys privileges regularly with another woman, if you can build anything secure and stable on a lie?

The nature of a lie is deception and deception destroys the soul fabric of trust.

When the trust level in a community or nation is low, social connect, social glue is not there to accomplish great things together and hence a nation stops being great.

I love my country, but unless the truth is rediscovered, elevated, valued in a greater way the greatness of our nation will fade. Only one can re-establish trust in the heart of man: Jesus.

Jesus lived in the first half of the first century in

the region of Galilee and he boldly claimed to be “The way, the truth and the life”. Every culture has a normative embedded into it, that seeps into the psyche of every child growing up in its culture. It happens incidentally by words spoken, by negative and positive images so that by the time a child turns 10yrs of age they already have an outlook, a perspective, but it’s not built on rigorous logic and understanding but by the mood of a nation.

Jesus was born into a nation that had a strong thread that demanded control. But Jesus being the truth came to break the mould.

Jesus came living and teaching grace and forgiveness, showing great mercy to sinners. He became known as a “friend of sinners.” Jesus’ truth liberates man from deception and reinstates the fabric of the soul, so one can fully trust again. Lies, lies and damn lies

From garden to kitchen recipe club

THE members of the Landsborough Seventh-day Adventist Church are hosting a series of monthly vegan and plant based recipe-sharing events for the community in 2026. Participants are invited to bring along their own dish together with their recipe to share and network with

others. The series also includes talks related to the benefits of a plant based and vegan lifestyle.

have their origin in a fallen angel who is completely set out to destroy souls to hell. Jesus on the other hand came down from heaven and turned the culture of his nation on its head. How? Everything he was and did, testified to the truth. He then died on a cross as a criminal, in the eyes of those who hated him, but the Power of Truth raised him from the dead three days later, because truth will never ever be defeated! Lies destroy the fabric of friendships and a nation. Truth builds, connects and sets people free. Jesus’ truth heals the broken fabric of the heart and refills the soul with hope and trust to fully live again.

The first meeting is at 6pm February 19 at 27 Maleny Street, Landsborough. Contact 0490 949 405 for more information.

Bullocky Days film event

Contributed by Lindsay Kruger

THE Maleny Cultural & Historical Society will host a special film afternoon celebrating the life and memories of local identity Bill Hankinson (November 1940 – February 2025).

The film features an interview with Mr Hankinson, who shares personal recollections and family photographs from Maleny’s bullocky days, reflecting on the lives of his father and grandfather and his family’s long-standing connection to the district.

Rich with archival images

and early film footage, the presentation offers a rare glimpse of historic Maleny and the transport methods

at

Maleny

Village, 7 Bryce Lane, Maleny. Entry is $20, including wine and cheese.

Beerburrum country markets

THE Beerburrum Country Market will be held on Saturday, February 21, from 8.30am to 12.30pm at the Beerburrum School of Arts, ANZAC Avenue, offering a vibrant mix of local produce, handmade goods and community activities.

With stallholder set-up available from 7am, the market welcomes insidehall stallholders and will also feature a dog wash onsite, making it a great outing for the whole family.

As the warmer months come to an end, visitors are encouraged to support local makers and producers, with stalls offering honey, plants, cookies, dog treats, fresh fruit and vegetables, eggs, and a wide variety of handmade items.

Shoppers can browse woollen creations, jewellery, dolls, bags, bowls, paintings, pictures, steering wheel covers, hand towels, flowers, earrings, cutting boards, socks and many

WASTE MATTERS

What Kind Of Recycler Are You?

other lovingly crafted goods. Bacon and egg rolls will be available for breakfast, along with free card making for all ages. Come along for a lovely community morning out.

Organisers are currently seeking a coffee van or stand for the event.

Interested vendors and stallholders can contact Patricia on 0430 433 734 or 0490 491 126, or email 4517communityhall@gmail. com

Email: churchgcuc@gmail.com

Are you a responsible recycler, finding out what can be recycled and where to take items council can’t process? Do you put lids in cans then crush them, and clean out containers before placing in the bin? Or are you a wish recycler, tossing everything into the recycling bin (including plastic bags, Styrofoam, bubble wrap), wishing it’ll be recycled. Unfortunately wish recycling causes contamination in

recycling streams, damages sorting equipment and often leads to everything ending up in landfill. For environmental and health reasons, landfill should be the place of last resort for our waste. Here’s how to become a responsible recycler:

• Visit Council’s website to make sure you’re recycling right.

• Get a copy of council’s ‘Waste and Recycling Guide’ and bin stickers to remind you and other bin users

what can and can’t be recycled.

• Join a local waste group (eg WAM Waste Action Maleny) to find out where to recycle those tricky items that council doesn’t collect (eg medication blister packs).

• Have a family chat about recycling so everyone’s on the same page.

• Attend recycling workshops offered in your community.

WAM’s aims are to educate and empower people to take action on waste and related issues, at a personal and community level. To find out more, visit our website www.wasteactionmaleny.org , Facebook group WAM Waste Action Maleny or email us at wasteactionmaleny@gmail.com.

Maleny Bowls Club

Contributed by Brett Gillis

WHAT a terrific week of bowls which started with hosting a group of volunteers from Red Frogs who were in Maleny as part of an appreciation

that included barbeque and barefoot bowls. Red Frogs do amazing things for our youth and the wider community so it was wonderful to repay some of that kindness.

Wednesday Twilight Bowls was attended by 36 bowlers who enjoyed a barbeque dinner followed by barefoot bowls Triples

enjoyable and it is a very social atmosphere where you get to meet like minded locals. New bowlers and visitors are most welcome to attend from 6pm.

Glassy Bowls

Contributed by David Hayes

WEDNESDAY 04.02.26

9.00am Social Bowls

Seija Munster, Jo Sparkes and Troy German def Bob Logan, Jonathon Orr and Frank Buckley 16 - 15.

Joy Reason, Viv James / Carolyn Malcomson and Sally Squires def Frank Scudding, Mark Whittam

Jos Evans, Steph Sleeman and Jill Kirchheiner def Carol Lewis, Rae Farrell and John Annakin 21 - 14. William Bloomfield, Dennis Hume and Warren Blackbourne def Margaret Blair, Mick Clark and Rob Scullion 18 - 16.

Marg Smith, Ross Harris and Garry Renshaw def Trish Jackson, Graham Meyers and Marg Gibson 27 - 11.

Saturday was Round 2 of Bowlers Paradise Hinterland Local League with Team 1 at home versus Mapleton with scores 2 rink wins each with Maleny having the higher margin, Team 2 played Palmwoods and despite close scores lost 3 rinks to 1. So far both teams have had a win and a loss with 5 rounds remaining.

The organising committee for the 92.7 Mix FM “Give Me 5” appeal event on Saturday 18th April 2026 have met and are busy planning entertainment.

Anyone interested in contributing are encouraged to attend our next catch up at the club on Thursday 12th February at 5:30pm.

Winners of the day with the highest score was Sally Squire’s team

2nd highest winning score was Gary Renshaw’s team

Lucky draw went to Frank Buckley’s team.

Thursday 05.02.26 Social Bowls 12.30pm start.

Our 1st Thursday for the year got under way with 36 players taking the green to play 6 rinks of triples.

Winners of the day with 2

Range Croquet Club

Contributed by David Kerr

A RECENT trip to Melbourne enabled a visit to the Australian Sports Museum. The Museum showcases our diverse sporting culture, in addition to the 1956 Olympic

Cauldron and a hologram of Shane Warne spinning a few tales, there are over 95 different sports featured. However, the nadir for this intermediate player from the Range was that there is next to nothing about the noble sport of croquet. There is not a mallet, hoop, ball or peg to be seen. The only reference to croquet

wins and a margin of 4 were Don Teirney, John Palte and Graham Nicholson.

R/Up with the highest winning margin in either game were Peter Bousen, Keith Hopkins and Russ Turner with + 16

The Lucky draw was won by Jonathan Orr, Mick Clark and Noelene Annakin.

Raffle winners went to $25 cash Scott Bedwell, $20 cash Warren Blackbourne,

was the name Tom Howat amongst many others on the national sports “Wall of Fame”. In frustration I looked to Google and the World Croquet Federation. It turns out Thomas William Howat was the best Australian croquet player of his generation. Born in 1912 he won nine Australian Championships between 1955 and 1968, a total which remains unmatched. But it took him a while to get into croquet, being a middledistance runner, and a competitive billiards, tennis, golf, chess and bowls player. At first, the bowls maintained his greatest interest. However, his wife, Isobel, was a member of Brunswick Croquet Club and, when waiting for Isobel after bowls, he became intrigued by the techniques, tactics and challenges of croquet. Tom was a natural player and quickly progressed to become one of Victoria and Australia’s leading players.

$15 cash Remo Masnada and $10 cash to Kerry Munster

Friday 06.02.26 Mixed Pairs Quarter Finals 6pm start

Jill Kirchheiner and Brett Collinson def John Annakin and Noelene Annakin 1716. Scott Bedwell and Barb Whitfield def Rihanna Latham and Warren Blackbourne 25 - 11. Dennis Hume and Di

He won the Queensland singles in 1966 and 1970, and the doubles in 1966 and 1972. Tom’s achievements in croquet were recognised when he was inducted into the Australian Sports Hall of Fame in 1990. Tom was a left hander with an Irish grip and a distinctive right foot forward, left foot back stance. He contributed as a player, authority, administrator and coach and rightfully has a place at the National Sports Museum. Should you like to “move on” from bowls, golf, tennis or billiards and discover the joy of croquet, then please call our club on 0417640704.

Hume def Trish Jackson and Paul Chirgwin 21 - 15.

Marg Gibson and Rob Scullion def Carolyn Malcomson and Bruce Malcomson (Forfeit)

Sunday 08.02.26 Mixed

Pair’s Semi Finals 11am start

Dennis Hume and Di Hume def Margaret Gibson and Rob Scullion 30 - 7.

Scott Bedwell and Barb Whitfield def Jill Kirchheiner and Brett Collinson 22 - 19.

TUCKER, Joan Lorraine

Late

GUITAR, PIANO ACCORDION & MUSIC. Theory lessons. Professional caring teachers. Phone Bob 5494 7568 or 0411 959 157. HANDYMAN SERVICES. All general maintenance and repairs. Painting, plaster repairs, welding. DVA & NDIS approved. Phone

professional with over 50 years experience working in the health sector.

$60/hour, 2 hour minimum Woodford, Beerwah to Maleny areas Call Janet on 0408 726 361

Dance school invests in Beerwah’s future

MASTERPIECE Dance has marked a significant milestone with the relocation to a new, purpose-built facility at Units 7 and 8, 47 Beerwah Parade, Beerwah, with main access via Free Street. The move follows the purchase of the premises late last year by well-known local owners Lewis and Sarah Kwarcianyi, after more than a decade of operating from leased locations near Australia

Over a ten-week period, the couple undertook a full renovation of the former upholstery and mechanical workshops, transforming them into modern dance studios featuring high

Gymnastics and dance Open Day

FAMILIES curious about gymnastics or dance are invited to step inside one of the region’s most established academies when Australasian Gymnastics & Dance Academy (AGDA) hosts an Open Day this month.

The event will run on Saturday, February 15, from 9am to 11am, offering children from four months old through to high school age the opportunity to experience the academy’s programs firsthand.

With more than 26 years in the local community, AGDA delivers both recreational and competitive gymnastics and dance

ceilings, air conditioning, sprung floors and full-length aerial apparatus. Sarah said the investment was a natural progression for the business, stating “after 11 years of operation, it made sense to secure our own premises and invest locally, creating a space families can enjoy for many years to come”.

Lewis highlighted confidence in Beerwah’s growth, citing population increases and planned train station upgrades. He noted the eastern side of the railway line is expected to become a key activity hub over the next decade, supported by improved connectivity along Steve

Irwin Way.

The relocation was supported by the wider community, with families and friends assisting during the fit-out. Sarah said “we are so grateful for everyone’s help, it has been a huge process”. Masterpiece Dance offers a broad program including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, musical theatre, acrobatics and aerial arts for children aged two to 17, as well as adult classes. The expansion reflects a local success story built on long-term commitment to the Hinterland community, and culminated in a grand opening event held on Saturday January 31.

training, supporting young people from their earliest to advanced development pathways.

The academy caters to a wide range of abilities, allowing participants to progress at a pace that suits their individual needs.

AGDA is NDIS approved and accepts Play On vouchers, helping remove barriers to participation for families.

During the Open Day, families can meet qualified coaches, watch and take part in age-appropriate activities, and learn more about the different training pathways available.

The Open Day is open to both newcomers and families exploring longterm gymnastics or dance options.

Rabbiting on

A man is driving down a road when he runs over a bunny. He slams on his brakes, gets out and walks up to the flattened bunny. The bunny is obviously expired. A passing car slams on it’s brakes and screeches to a halt. The driver of that car runs up to the bunny pulls out an aerosol can and sprays the bunny with the aerosol spray. The bunny jumps up runs a few feet, then stops, turns around and waves it’s paw at the two men. Runs away a few more feet, stops, turns around and waves at the

two men. Runs away a few more feet, stops, turns around and waves at the two men. He continues to do this until he’s out of sight. The first driver looks at the man with the aerosol can and says, “Wow that is amazing, what is in that can?” The man looks at the can and reads the label, “Hair restorer, with a permanent wave”. *****

A priest, a rabbit and a minister walk into a bar. The bartender asks the rabbit, “what’ll ya have?” The rabbit says, “I dunno. I’m only here because of Autocorrect.”

Calling all joke tellers!

Email your jokes to editorial@gcnews.com.au and include your name and what town you live in.

Swollen

Just ask Brownie

Hi Brownie

First of all, I am huge fan of your “In the Garden with Brownie” segment. Thanks so much for your tips and insights, I look forward to them every week!

Secondly, I’m hoping you might be able to provide some advice about a vine I am trying to tackle in our garden. I have no idea what type of vine it is, but it is so prolific (and seemingly unstoppable) that I am sure others in the neighbourhood would be struggling with it too.

I’ve attached some photos of the offending vine for your reference. It seems to grow out of a ginger-like root structure. No matter how frequently I remove it, it pops up again within a week. It grows incredibly quickly and in seemingly any soil type. It’s even taken over my passionfruit vines!

Do you have any insights about (a) what it is and (b) how I can stop it from taking over my garden?

Thanks. Lucia, Glass House Mountains

Hi Lucia, Thanks for the email. You’ve got probably one of the bad ones there. If you haven’t already found it by googling, it’s called Madeira Vine … a serious environmental weed. You’ve got a bit of work ahead of you.

My suggestion would be to remove all the vines and leaves – and any of the aerial tubers they may have grown – and put it all in the general waste bin (not your green waste bin if you can help it – that’ll

just potentially spread it to others).

Then the tubers you’ve found in the ground will need to be carefully excavated and dug out –again, they go in the waste bin.

Any piece of the tuber will regrow into a new plant (as you’ve found), so it’ll take a regular check and digging up of any new shoots you see.

Heavy mulching won’t do anything to stop them –their natural environment is creek banks, so they are used to being covered over by silt and thick flood debris and regrowing through it all.

There are some herbicide approaches, but to be honest, in your situation they are pretty difficult to get right and won’t achieve any better results than you can do with persistence. Also – passionfruit can be susceptible to root absorption of herbicides like glyphosate.

I spent a lot of time over the years, in my previous careers with weeds and natural areas, controlling Madeira Vine, so I know what a battle you’re in for.

One good point is that it very rarely produces viable seed (it grows lambs tail-like flowers – which is why another name for it

is Lambs Tail Vine), so it won’t reintroduce that way. The only way you’ll get it back is if a tuber is brought in – like in mulch or soil or even dropped by a bird. Not that birds eat the vine, but some will use it for nesting – like crows – and they drop tubers as they fly over.

The vine is pretty much devoid of any usefulness. Although some people do advocate that it can be eaten, the leaves have a pretty good laxative effect and can produce violent

convulsions – the tubers too. And the dried vine is not strong enough to weave into durable baskets. There is a biocontrol beetle that will feed on the leaves – but it really just weakens the plant in larger infestations, so that it gives weedos more time to treat it.

Thanks again for emailing. Sorry I haven’t got a good news, easy solution for you.

Hobart’s property market, along with those of Launceston and Devonport, recovery in 2026, following three in 2025 and although moderate, will returns to the Apple Isle’s overall We take a good look at the positive

largest metropolitan property markets is a notable tourism rebound and good

At the same time, Hobart still has some way to go to recover from its March 2022 peak, when median dwelling values reached $731,849 according to then CoreLogic’s Hedonic Home Value in interstate migration, especially from Yet three years on, and Hobart’s

report for 2026 notes the capital city’s median house value is now $768,375

JOHN MCGRATH – CONFIDENCE RETURNS TO TASMANIA’S PROPERTY MARKET

with apartments selling for a median of

cry from Cotality’s December 2024 HVI report when the city’s median values

highest capital city increase in the

Hobart’s property market, dwelling values are low by national standards, so there’s a window of opportunity

home buyer loan commitments in the September 2025 quarter was the highest in the country, based on the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s

continues to punch above its weight on key economic indicators such as

2025 State of the States report shows the Apple Isle has the strongest employment sector in the country when compared to the average decade level,

Record-breaking visitor numbers boosted the state’s economy in 2025, the year to September, visitor numbers

Importantly, there’s the state’s

infrastructure project, the $786 million

Hobart’s new Macquarie Point Stadium was also given the green light last month, with the 23,000-seat, multipurpose setting to be the home of the

It will also host major sporting and

Infrastructure activity is also strong

Launceston, the historic Albert Hall received a $20 million redevelopment

Stadium began in September and, campus to Inveresk in 2023 and 2024 was the largest infrastructure project in

In Devonport, the city’s port is undergoing a major redevelopment, mainly to accommodate two new,

Launceston and Devonport are proving more accessible than Hobart for Regional Market Update report in country’s 50 largest non-capital areas, showed Launceston’s median dwelling values are standing at $505,670,

Incredible 35-acre hobby farm with dual living opportunity

For more than a decade, Mount Cooee Farm has been the kind of place that gently shapes family life. Big moments have been celebrated on the purpose-built deck and entertaining pavilion, with Mount Tibrogargan standing stoically in the background.

surrounding bushland, while weekends spent exploring the 35-acre property with the kids have meant muddy boots, long walks, and familiar trails through the Glass House Mountains.

Hidden at the end of a long, tree lined driveway, the three-bedroom Mediterranean inspired residence enjoys wonderful privacy with

National Park at the rear boundary and marvellous separation from neighbouring properties. A wrap around verandah and screened alfresco overlook established cottage

to

0415

gardens to the spring fed dam beyond, creating a magical retreat. The care poured into this property is felt in the smallest details, with bespoke touches throughout

hardwood sourced on site.

Adjacent to the main house, a separate studio with bathroom adds

guests, extended family, or a potential dual living arrangement.

Sheds, workshops, a high clearance caravan port, and multiple vehicle access points bring practical appeal,

while a large, cleared site with separate access and services leaves room for new ideas including short stay accommodation, nature-based tourism or a home-based business (STCA).

A combination of natural bush, established hardwood plantation, and open pasture with multiple fenced paddocks supports hobby farming and rural pursuits, while four dams, a bore and 25,000 litres of rainwater storage guarantees water security.

Now, with the owners ready to begin their next chapter, Mount Cooee Farm is waiting to welcome its next custodian. For further information or to arrange your private inspection, please contact Cassi Nuske on 0415 304 127.

Secluded Glass House Mountains sanctuary with endless lifestyle appeal

Down a long, tree-lined driveway awaits Mount Cooee Farm, a remarkable retreat set across 35-acres of fertile land abundant in

Bordered by National Park, this secluded estate combines