Edition 11 November 2025

By Sonia Isaacs

By Sonia Isaacs

groups and environmental advocates are urging Sunshine Coast residents to make submissions to the Deputy Premier and Planning Minister before the November 17 deadline for the controversial Coochin Creek Tourist Park development. The application proposes a 150-site “Eco Park” at 1807 Roys Road, Coochin Creek. Coalition spokespersons warn this is the community’s one and only opportunity to influence the decision, which cannot be appealed once made. Full story p7

course. Members voted overwhelmingly in favour of authorising the board to debt-fund construction of

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NEWS TEAM

MITCH GAYNOR ManagingEditor mitch@gcnews.com.au

SONIA ISAACS DeputyEditor sonia@gcnews.com.au

ADVERTISING

TINA GRIEVE tina@gcnews.com.au

LEWIS KWARCIANYI lewis@gcnews.com.au

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

SHARON KING KATIE BUCKLEY design@gcnews.com.au

ADMIN & ACCOUNTS

ANGELA USHER angela@gcnews.com.au

FROM THE EDITOR

I’M part way through a book given to me for a birthday marking a significant and only reasonably depressing number.

How Not To Become A Grumpy Old Bugger by former journalist Geoff Hutchinson is a goodhumoured look at how blokes can help themselves to avoid the pitfalls that turn them into “unhappy husbands”, “disengaged grandfathers” or “letter to the editor’ writers” (which is the only stereotype I disagree with. Keep them coming, fellas and ladies! editorial@gcnews.com.au).

For a while there I was of the opinion that I could stay true to my - admittedly self-labelledunabashed optimism no matter the weariness of the years.

But then I looked up from my newspaper at the phone and the apple truly started to crumble.

Yet another story about millions of people using chatbots as partners - sexual and otherwise - and actually marrying these avatars.

Another half hour lost in da social media reels.

Another email I didn’t have to

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see or read. I’m also doing a course about increasing online news engagement and a guest speaker showed us a video that generated 100 million views.

It was her in the backseat of a car testing if she could cook a burger faster than getting through the drive thru.

Look, I mean, maybe we could do that here, but I ...I just can’t go there. But this is what gets lapped up online.

We are meant to believe that influencers and their quick-witted observations as they answer all the world’s questions and solve your problems in 30 second knowit-all morsels. But we all suspect (or know) it’s garbage.

As a bit of light relief I took myself to see new movie Bugonia.

I should have known better.

A conspiracy theorist whose brain had been cooked from online activity kidnaps a CEO believing she is an alien sent to earth to destroy all humans.

It was therefore a relief to get back to Hutchinson’s book, where I landed on the chapter “Hearing and Listening” - a pretty good

starting point to being a better person I thought.

The chapter asserts that you can’t be a good listener if you think you’re always right.

This rings true to me.

The obsession with black and white and right and wrong in a world with all colours and shades of the rainbow is not doing anybody any favours.

As journalists, listening is something we apply professionally every day - it’s always seemed the only way to get close to the truth of any matter.

But this skill is increasingly lost in the irritating shouty look-at-me metaspehere.

In fact, sitting on the fence is more or less seen as weak or ineffective. That seems a big mountain to climb, but imagine being comfortable enough not to have a fixed position and just listen. Suddenly the conversations change.

I don’t know if any of this will help me swim against the incoming tide of grumpiness, but I’m all ears for any other ideas!

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GET your wings ready and prepare to soar into a night of fun, education and adventure as Australasian Bat Night returns for its

This free, family-friendly event, hosted by Sunshine Coast Council, will once again light up the Maleny Showgrounds on Saturday, November 15, from 1pm to 8pm, offering something for

Expect guided tours, batthemed cra activities,food stores, batpack bag printing, expert talks, and

an outdoor movie under the stars.

Sunshine Coast Council Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor

Tim Burns invited the community to join Council and everyone’s favourite flying fox mascot, Frankie, to explore the fascinating world of bats and their vital role in keeping our environment healthy.

“Bat Night is a great opportunity to learn more about these fascinating winged creatures and how we can live alongside

them in a wildlife-friendly biosphere,” Cr Burns said.

“There’ll be plenty to see and do, and it’s a great way to spend an a ernoon with the family while learning about our nocturnal neighbours.”

Don’t forget to bring a torch to help you find your way in the dark as you watch the local flying fox roost “fly out” for the night and dress up in your favourite batty costume and join the fun! Free tickets and more info via eventbrite.com.au.

Festival’s $95m headline act

Developer lodges formal response to advance Coochin Fields mega event site plan

By Sonia Isaacs

THE Comiskey Group says its proposed Coochin Creek festival and events venue could generate over $95m in visitor expenditure and 277,000 visitor nightsannually in its response to an information request from the state government.

The request by Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie follows his decision to call-in the project a er the Sunshine Coast Council questioned its viability. If successful the venue would hold up to eight

events annually, hosting up to 35,000 patrons a day.

The developer’s November 5 submission outlined how the project would deliver strong economic and community benefits while protecting the sensitive Northern Inter-Urban Break (NIUB), the environmental buffer separating Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. According to the submission, the venue could contribute $95.1 million in visitor expenditure and attract 277,000 visitor nights annually.

In its submission, Coochin

Creek Property Pty Ltd argued the project aligned with Queensland’s Tourism 2045 Strategy, supporting the goal of doubling tourism spend and developing a $4bn annual event calendar.

The Comiskey Group stated the $35 million project could generate $71.3 million annually in Gross Regional Product and create 682 full-time equivalent jobs for the Sunshine Coast economy. The group says the site could deliver a “Coachella-style” experience and become a cornerstone of Queensland’s tourism industry. The

proposal, known as Coochin Fields, aims to transform a 150-hectare rural property at 1641 Roys Road, Coochin Creek, into a world-class outdoor venue able to host up to six large-scale music festivals and exhibitions each year.

Mr Bleijie, who “called in” the project in July, described the proposal as a “major tourism and economic opportunity” for the region but noted that “significant social and environmental matters” would need careful consideration before any approval.

To address environmental concerns, the developers propose a low-frequency, high-quality operation, replacing existing turf and strawberry farming that they claim posed runoff risks to the nearby Ramsarlisted Pumicestone Passage.

The developers said its plan included extensive revegetation, landscaping, and creation of ecological corridors, resulting in a net gain of native habitat.

The site would remain largely undeveloped and operate as open space or nature reserve for more than 330 days a year.

Strict operating controls are proposed, including a 9am–10pm event curfew, inward-facing stages, and directional sound technology to minimise noise impacts.

Temporary mobile water and wastewater facilities would be brought onsite for events to avoid the need for permanent utilities. Despite these assurances, community and environmental groups continue to oppose the project, citing conflicts with NIUB protections, potential biodiversity impacts, fire risks, and traffic concerns.

Questions over lack of action at Beerwah East

By Sonia Isaacs

THE State Government is under pressure to reveal its plans for the long-awaited Beerwah East residential development with the Opposition demanding details of negotiations with HQPlantations and budget allocations are made public.

Beerwah East, earmarked since 2017 as a Major Development Area under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, has been touted as a potential home for more than 50,000 people - comparable in scale to the Caloundra South Priority Development Area (Aura).

Yet, more than seven years since it was first announced, the project remains in limbo, with key land and planning hurdles unresolved.

Labor’s Member for Morayfield, Mark Ryan, lodged two formal Questions on Notice in late October pressing Deputy Premier, Jarrod Bleijie, for details on progress, negotiations with HQP, and budget allocations in the 2025–26 State Budget.

“Will the Deputy Premier advise (a) whether the Crisafulli Government remains committed to

unlocking this area for future urban development, (b) the total amount allocated in the 2025-26 Queensland Budget,” Mr Ryan asked.

A second question sought details of the “current status of any negotiations or processes relating to the surrender or variation of HQPlantations’ licence within Beerwah East”.

According to the Opposition, about 2,700 hectares of the 3,200-hectare Beerwah East site are still under plantation licence to Hancock Queensland Plantations (HQPlantations)

Unlocking the site for housing requires a licence variation or surrender and compensation agreement, processes that they query have yet to begin.

“The future of this land is unclear under the Crisafulli LNP Government, with no efforts made to date to unlock this land for housing,” an Opposition spokesperson said.

New GYG to open at Moby Vics

A NEW Guzman y Gomez (GYG) restaurant is set to open in early 2026 at the former Moby Vics service station site, 4249 Bruce

“The government hasn’t budgeted any money for an Indigenous Land Use Agreement or HQPlantations compensation - both essential steps to progress housing supply.”

of the upcoming South East Queensland Regional Plan review.

“The Queensland Government has committed to developing new regional plans and infrastructure strategies that appropriately cater for growth while

“strongly supports” the completion of detailed planning and an early start to development.

Council’s proposed new planning scheme designates Beerwah East as a future urban area, noting its strategic location along the

Council spokesperson said.

“It is important that any development does not compromise the long-term vision and coordinated planning of the Beerwah East SEQ Development Area as a whole.”

sonia@gcnews.com.au

Beerwah building boom raises future growth debate

Town planner says Beerwah needs more parks and play spaces as unit

By Sonia Isaacs

BEERWAH is experiencing a mini building boom, with a sharp rise in new unit developments sparking debate about how best to manage the town’s future growth.

Recent projects under construction include 28 new units at 122–126 Peachester Road, 12 units at Bilenda Court, 20 units at 19–21 Pine Camp Road, and approvals in place for 97 units at 35 Pine Camp Road.

While many locals welcome the prospect of more affordable housing, others are concerned the

sporting facilities. Concerns have also been raised about limited on-street parking and whether existing retail and recreational amenities can support the influx of hundreds of new residents.

Town planner Adrian Raedel, Director of Arc Planning, said the trend reflects both state planning policy and strong local demand. “The growing demand for housing that accommodates locals wishing to downsize is a key driver,” he said. Mr Raedel said the shi towards higher-density living made strategic sense

numbers rise

council’s best interests to avoid the cost of major road upgrades.”

Over the past year, several multi-unit proposals have been lodged or approved, signalling a move away from the town’s traditional lowdensity character.

Supporters argue that well-located developments close to transport, shops, and schools can provide more affordable options for young families, downsizers, and key workers struggling with rising housing costs.

However, community members and planning specialists alike warn that Beerwah’s infrastructure - both physical and social must keep pace. “It’s not just roads that matter,” Mr Raedel said. “Usable infrastructure like parks, playgrounds, shops, and medical services must evolve alongside population growth. If you’re raising kids in a unit, you need access to green space, good playgrounds, and places to connect with the community.”

Urban planners caution

spokesperson said all new residential developments contribute to essential infrastructure through developer contributions

as

region. For Beerwah, no zoning changes are proposed for most properties, as the current scheme already permits

consultation. www. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ development/planningdocuments/new-sunshinecoast-planning-scheme.

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Tip talk turns to tax as council calls for reform

Deputy Mayor calls for more local reinvestment of state waste levy

By Sonia Isaacs

SUNSHINE Coast Deputy

Mayor Maria Suarez has called on the Queensland Government to reinvest a greater share of its waste levy revenue back into local waste management programs, warning councils are struggling to deliver sustainable waste solutions without adequate state support.

Her comments follow Sunshine Coast Council’s defence of rising waste disposal charges across the region amid community frustration over higher tip fees. The council said increasing service delivery costs and the escalating State Government Waste Levy were key contributors. Speaking a er the recent Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) conference, Cr Suarez said that while the levy was introduced with good intentions, it has placed growing financial pressure on local governments. “The intent behind the tax is noble; it’s supposed to drive councils away from simply burying waste and toward recycling

and resource recovery,” she said. “But the reality is, councils pay millions in levies to the state, and not enough of that money makes its way back for local waste solutions.”

The most recent State Budget projects the waste levy will raise about $477 million this financial year. Cr Suarez said there needs to be greater clarity around how those funds are

distributed to ensure they are effectively supporting waste reduction and recycling initiatives.

“We’re expected to innovate, develop organics programs, expand recycling, and explore new technologies - but without reinvestment from the levy, many councils simply don’t have the resources to deliver,” she said.

Cr Suarez said the policy

she said.

She called for greater transparency and stronger collaboration between state and local governments to ensure the levy achieves its intended environmental outcomes.

A spokesperson for the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation said the levy aims to reduce landfill reliance by incentivising recycling and resource recovery, applying only to waste sent to landfill.

is also increasing cost-of-living pressures on households as councils are forced to pass on higher waste management costs.

“The state says it doesn’t want to create new financial pressures for the community, but by withdrawing discounts and increasing levies, that’s exactly what’s happening,”

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“Almost 80 per cent of levy revenue was reinvested back into waste and environmental initiatives last financial year,” the spokesperson said, citing programs such as the $130 million Resource Recovery Boost Fund, $151 million GROW FOGO Fund, and $13 million Let’s Get It Sorted Partnership program. www.qld.gov.au/ environment/circulareconomy-waste-reduction/ disposal-levy.

AI tool to simplify planning

SUNSHINE Coast residents now have access to a new AI-powered online tool providing what the council says is instant, reliable development guidance. Whether adding a shed, building a granny flat, renovating, or starting a larger project, the AI Development Assistant helps with early planning decisions and makes the development process easier to navigate, Mayor Rosanna Natol said.

It explains what applications may be required without needing technical knowledge.

Mayor Natoli said the tool makes tailored advice more accessible, allowing residents to explore options and get answers a er hours or on weekends. Delivered by myLot, it supports confident decision-making and reflects Council’s commitment to smarter, community-focused technology. Residents can learn more at sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

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Tune in to frog calls for science

AUSTRALIANS are being encouraged to head into their backyards, paddocks and parks this week to listen to the croaks, chirps and barks of local frogs as part of the Australian Museum’s annual FrogID Week, which runs until November 16.

Now in its eighth year, the nation’s largest citizen science project and the world’s biggest frog count has already logged more than 1.3 million frog call recordings via the free FrogID app. These recordings have helped scientists discover 13 new species, including four identified in the past year alone. This year, organisers are urging people to make their gardens more frogfriendly by adding small water sources and planting native reeds and grasses. The 2025 campaign aims to collect an extra 15,000 frog call submissions and boost participation by 8,000 new users to extend coverage to 45 per cent of Australia.www.frogid.net. au/frog-id-week

Community groups urge public to have say

Final days for public submission on Coochin Creek tourist development

By Sonia Isaacs

A COALITION of 10 community organisations is urging Sunshine Coast residents to make submissions before the November 17 deadline for the controversial Coochin Creek Tourist Park development.

The narrow consultation window follows a Ministerial Call-In by Deputy Premier and Planning Minister, Jarrod Bleijie, which bypassed usual local council assessment processes.

The Comiskey Group application put forward by Coochin Creek Property Pty Ltd, proposes a 150site “Eco Park” at 1807 Roys Road, Coochin Creek.

Coalition spokespersons warn this is the community’s one and only opportunity to infl decision, which cannot be appealed once made.

websites and social media pages.

Community concerns

said State Referal and Assessment Agency’s (SARA) prior assessment and

address key environmental concerns, and that largescale tourism developments

“Every submission counts and it helps determine whether planning decisions serve the public interest or private developers,” a spokesperson said.

Residents can access templates through coalition

threats to the Northern Inter-Urban Break (NIUB), inadequate fire safety and traffic infrastructure, and non-compliance with Queensland Planning Regulation 2017 and ShapingSEQ 2023.

Melva Hobson PSM, President of OSCAR Inc.,

Ms Hobson also cited fire risks along the 10km pine plantation stretch on Roys Road, classed as “High Potential Bushfire Intensity.”

Narelle McCarthy from Sunshine Coast Environment Council added that the applicant’s information response fails to

adverse economic or social impact if the development does not proceed.

Dylan Daley of the Northern Inter Urban Break Integrity Association warned approval would set a precedent for carving up the region’s green belt.

Local residents and

advocacy groups, including Take Action for Pumicestone Passage and Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association, are calling on the Minister to respect expert advice and refuse the proposal, citing risks to water quality, wildlife, traffic safety, and local amenity.

Shannan Roy, a lifelong resident of Coochin Creek, said the Big4-style tourist park would irreversibly damage the peaceful rural area and damage the Ramsar-listed Pumicestone Passage.”

As someone whose family built Roys Road and farmed this land for generations, I can say with certainty this is the wrong place for this kind of development,” he said. With the consultation period closing soon, the community is urged to formalise objections and safeguard the environment. Submission informationis available via the Ministerial call-in page www.planning. qld.gov.au/planningframework/developmentassessment/ministerialcall-ins

The Comiskey Group were approached for comment. sonia@gcnews.com.au

Maleny dairy producers earn top recognition

Double delight for Maleny dairy excellence

TWO Sunshine Coast dairy producers have been named as finalists across three categories in the 2025 Australian Grand Dairy Awards (AGDA), the nation’s most prestigious celebration of excellence in Australian region’s proud dairy heritage.

Maleny Cheese has been selected as a finalist for two of its Maleny Gourmet Yoghurt flavours; Apple and Cinnamon and also Passionfruit, placing the

Free Full Cream Milk, both celebrated for their rich flavour and commitment to quality.

“It’s wonderful to see the dairy producers of the Maleny region being recognised for their highquality products,” said Sara Bucher from Maleny Cheese.

“It’s the hardworking farmers and production staff of the region who deserve the thanks, along with the rich soil and nutrient-dense grass that make Maleny such a special place to produce dairy.”

Sally Hopper from Maleny Dairies said the recognition shines a light on the Maleny community and its producers. “We’d like to congratulate Maleny Cheese on their well-deserved spot at the AGDA and thank our farmers and staff for their dedication to producing premium dairy products.” Winners will be announced in November.

Community award launch

MORE than 150 guests gathered to celebrate local achievement at the inaugural Kendall Morton Community Awards, held among the historic aircra of the Queensland Air Museum.

A total of 35 individuals and community groups were recognised as finalists across eight categories, highlighting the incredible diversity of talent, dedication, and community spirit within the Caloundra region.

Award winners on the night included Tara

Williams from Nirimba State School who took out the Educator of the Year top gong. Glasshouse Country Senior Citizens club was named a finalist for Senior Citizen Group of the Year, with the local club awarded runner -up.

“These awards are designed to highlight the outstanding volunteer and sporting groups, as well as the individuals, that make our community what it is,” Ms Morton said.

“The wider impact of the countless volunteer hours these people give

to our community cannot be underestimated,” she added.

The awards were supported by numerous Caloundra and Aura businesses, demonstrating the strong local spirit and shared commitment to recognising the remarkable contributions of residents.

The Kendall Morton Community Awards will now become an annual event, complementing Ms Morton’s quarterly Local Heroes Grants, which also celebrate outstanding local achievements.

Stillmaker and Sons bespoke distillery launches in Montville

By Sonia Isaacs

A NEW chapter in Sunshine Coast cra smanship has begun with the opening of Stillmaker Distillery in Montville, a family-run venture blending tradition, innovation and a proud legacy. Founded in 2018 by Sandy and Mick Martin, the bespoke distillery honours Mick’s grandfather (Nonno), Valentino, an Italian tradesman who arrived in Australia in 1927 and inspired a

multigenerational passion for cra ing things by hand.

As the region’s first dedicated whiskey producer, Stillmaker harnesses Montville’s mineral-rich spring water, four times so er and more alkaline than Tasmania’s to create an exceptionally smooth spirit.

Using premium singleorigin grains, hand-cra ed beer wash and a doubledistillation process, the Martins do everything themselves, from barrel assembly to blending.

Their whiskey matures in rare 45-year-old barrels sourced from McWilliams Wines, with six years in local conditions equivalent to around 15 years of Scottish maturation.

At the grand opening last Friday (November 7), guests celebrated the culmination of generations of skill and dedication.

Each bottle tells a story of heritage and cra smanship, positioning Stillmaker Distillery as a beacon for Queensland’s growing artisan spirits industry.

New Hinterland Tourism team

Wayne Parcell elected as the new President of Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast

HINTERLAND Tourism

Sunshine Coast (HTSC) has elected Wayne Parcell PSM as the association’s new President. He takes over from long-serving leader, Kerry Brown.

Mr Parcell has been a Hinterland resident for 20 years and established the pioneering Rangebow Festival in 2022, to celebrate the creative life and spirit of Sunshine Coast Hinterland communities of Maleny, Montville, Flaxton and Mapleton through a rich mix of culture, music, theatre,

nature, film and the arts.

In addition to his role as director of the Rangebow Festival, Wayne is also a board member of Maleny Community Centre and of Montville’s Chamber of Commerce. Wayne is former President of the Montville Village Association and Montville Tennis Club. He received the Public Service Medal in 1996 in the Australian Honours List for his outstanding service to Australia.

Award-winning Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat’s

co-owner Xochi Lindholm was elected Vice President)

of 250 tourism businesses and works closely with regional tourism operator Visit Sunshine Coast to promote the unique landscape and attractions of the Hinterland

Mr Parcell said he was honoured to be elected as President as he has a strong affection for the Hinterland.

“Living on the hinterland, I appreciate the economic

and cultural diversity of the entire region,” said Mr Parcell. “It is fundamental to community engagement and delivery that there is recognition of the distinct communities, their differences and their contribution within our region.”

Visit Sunshine Coast CEO, Matt Stoeckel, said that Wayne’s establishment of the Rangebow Festival and his enviable record of volunteering made him an ideal leader for such a distinctive region.

“The Hinterland plays a vital role in making the Sunshine Coast a premium tourist destination, renowned for its natural landscape, outstanding accommodation, rich food culture and dynamic arts and cultural scene,” said Mr Stoeckel.

“We look forward to working with Wayne and his new committee to promote the region’s established strengths as well as emerging experiences such as Dark Sky Tourism and agritourism.”

Outspoken sell out

Pictures By Sonia Isaacs

ENVIRONMENTAL legend

Bob Brown captivated a full house at last Tuesday’s (November 4) Outspoken Maleny event, sharing insights from his new book Defiance. The evening opened with the soulful harmonies of Jenny Fitzgibbon and Jacinta

Foale who performed heartfelt songs inspired by Michael Leunig’s poetry, setting a humourous yet heartfelt tone for the night. Brown spoke with his trademark warmth and conviction about the urgent need to defend Australia’s natural environment, drawing on decades of activism and personal

experience. He reminded the audience that “nature nurtures us,” urging everyone to stay steadfast in their care for the planet. His words inspired renewed hope and determination among those present an affirmation of the enduring power of courage, community, and connection to country.

and

Show time!

Masterpiece Dance ready to celebrate annual concert,

FROM a handful of students in a rented school hall to a thriving dance hub with multiple studios and hundreds of dancers, Beerwah’s Masterpiece Dance has come a long way in just over a decade.

Founded by local couple Sarah and Lewis Kwarcianyi, the family-run business celebrated its ten-year anniversary last year, marking the milestone with its concert “A Decade of Dance”. And now they are gearing up for this year’s concert, called “A Night at the Movies”, to be held at the Glasshouse Performing Arts Centre on November 21 and 22. Sarah said, “the event promises to be a

and you’re invited

looking for some high quality entertainment in the area, we’d love to invite you along”. Sarah explained there are 3 shows over 2 days with performances inspired by popular movies, including Star Wars, Shrek, Aladdin, The Lion King, Rocky, and many others.

The story of Masterpiece Dance began in 2015, when Sarah—then a

Glasshouse Christian College (GCC) to run a few a er-school classes. The response was immediate, and within 3 years she launched her own studio in the centre of town.

“I started with a small

little dance shed at the college,” Sarah recalled. “I’ve always been passionate about creating a dance school based on Christian values, modesty, and a positive, family-friendly atmosphere. Those foundations are still at the heart of everything we do.”

Despite a decade of growth, Sarah says the journey is far from over. “We’ve been going 11 years and we’re just getting started,” she said. “There’s some big changes coming in 2026, which we’re really excited about. We’re continually investing into growing our business, so we can provide a fun and positive place for our local community.”

Today, Masterpiece Dance offers more than 60 classes each week across multiple modern studios in the heart of Beerwah, with over 350 students attending lessons in ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, acrobatics, aerial silks and lyra, musical theatre, and Kindergym.

The business now employs many qualified teachers and staff, and a team of enthusiastic student helpers, offering opportunities for young people to develop both their skills and confidence in a supportive environment.

We’ve been going 11 years and we’re just getting started!

Sarah Kwarcianyi

Sarah’s husband, Lewis, manages marketing and maintenance while Sarah leads the creative direction. Together, they’ve built not only a successful business, but a community hub where families connect, friendships form, and students grow in selfconfidence.

“Dance is about more than just movement,” Sarah said. “It’s about fun, friendship, and self-expression. It’s so important for young people, especially girls, to build their self-esteem— and dance is a wonderful way to do that.”

Running a fast-growing business while raising four children is no small feat, but Sarah says the support of her team and community makes it all possible.

“Beerwah has been such an amazing place to grow this dream,” she said. “We love seeing our students light up on stage—and we’re so thankful to the families who’ve been part of our journey from the very beginning.”

With expansion plans already in motion and a loyal following behind them, Masterpiece Dance looks set to keep inspiring the Hinterland for many years to come.

For more information and to book concert tickets, visit www.masterpiecedance. com.au/events.

Beerwah veteran calls on local community to reflect

GHM RSL veteran highlights the importance and ongoing relevance of Remembrance Day

By Sonia Isaacs

BEERWAH veteran

Don Griffin is urging the community to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by Australia’s servicemen and women, emphasising the deeper meaning of Remembrance Day.

Don enlisted in the Australian Army in 1978, beginning a career that spanned both the regular Army and Army Reserve.

Over the years, he served in multiple units across Australia and overseas, including postings in Brisbane, Townsville, and two tours to Timor, before concluding his service in 2013.

“Remembrance Day is about more than ceremony,” Don said. “It’s about thinking of the soldiers in the First World War, Second World War, and other conflicts, and the sacrifices they made for our country.”

He reflected on the profound impact of war on small Australian towns and communities. “When you see little towns with remembrance walls, you realise the huge loss

“You see something, and it reminds you of that.”

suff people went to war and never returned. Some towns lost a third of their young men. It’s for them that we remember, for those who paid the supreme sacrifice.”

For Don, these reflections are not limited to November. “I think about them every day,” he said.

Now an active member of the Glass House RSL chapter, Don emphasised that Remembrance Day also strengthens connections among veterans. “People want to talk to those who understand what they went through. Support networks like the RSL help veterans share both the challenges and pride of their service,” he said.

He also highlighted the critical role of support organisations for younger veterans transitioning to civilian life.

“A lot of younger veterans just want to get away from it, but there are mates and organisations that can help, such as Mates4Mates. The RSLs are always there for anyone who needs them,” he said.

Despite his long and distinguished service, Don does not seek recognition

“We don’t want people to give us a pat on the back or feel sorry for us. We did what we did; I’m proud of that,” he said.

At the heart of his experience is the enduring bond of mateship, a cornerstone of military life.

“There’s always someone beside you. If something goes wrong, it’s not like everyone deserts you.

You know there’s always someone who’s got your back. You deal with it, and move on - there’s no good sitting back mulling over it,” he said.

For Don and his fellow veterans, Remembrance Day is more than a date on the calendar.

It is a time to honour service, acknowledge

Fresh for festive season

Contributed by Deb Mooney

THE Maleny Arts and Cra s Group (MACG) established in 1977, is pleased to announce that a er closing for several weeks it is now open for business just in time for the run up to Christmas. With collaboration and permission from our Landlord, MACG took the opportunity during needed building maintenance and repairs to freshen up and reconfigure the gallery to provide a more

appealing and comfortable environment for our customers and volunteers.

As well as requiring tradesmen for the major specialised work, such as ducted air conditioning installation, brighter LED lighting, painting and repair of the ceiling and carpet cleaning, a team of MACG volunteers worked hard to clean, demolish, declutter, repaint furniture, walls and doors.

Under the artistic direction of Collette, our gallery director, the paintings were placed

close to the ideal art gallery height with the rest of the items easily viewed and accessible at waist level or below. She also chose the colour scheme and curated items for the final display.

The President, Peter Trounce, a member of the Woodies group, also contributed greatly by making the quilt display rack, the space saving wooden counter, installing the picture rail and providing motivation and guidance to the team. We would also like to thank the Maleny Show Society for

providing storage space to us while the renovations were happening.

This year the MACG annual Christmas fair at the Maleny Community Centre will run from November 21-23. There is a raff year and in 2025 we have 4 prizes which will be drawn individually. These are displayed in the bay window at our gallery. They are all made by MACG members continuing our tradition of providing quality items valued by the community and tourists alike. So come along to our refurbished

November 21st-23rd

Inclusive connection

GLASSHOUSE Country Care is celebrating the power of connection and inclusion, helping locals of all abilities build confidence, independence, and friendships through fun and engaging activities across the Sunshine Coast.

From splashing around in water-based recreation to cycling, art workshops, and community events, the disability support team is passionate about creating opportunities where everyone feels valued and part of their community.

Now, the organisation is looking to expand

its activities closer to home, exploring more opportunities around the Glass House Mountains and Beerwah area.

Glasshouse Country Care is inviting local clubs, businesses, and community groups to get in touch and share details of inclusive programs or upcoming activities.

Whether it’s creative workshops, music, sport, nature walks, or social events, the team is eager to collaborate and connect with others who share their community spirit.

As the festive season

approaches, Glasshouse Country Care is also preparing for one of its most anticipated annual events — the Christmas Market on Wednesday, December 3 from 10am to 1pm.

The day promises a vibrant celebration filled with local stalls, entertainment, festive cheer, and plenty of opportunities for community connection.

For more information or to share inclusive activity ideas, contact Jamie-Lee Grieve at Glasshouse Country Care on (07) 5494 6948.

Mega garage sale on soon

Glasshouse Country Men’s Shed annual garage sale is set to be bigger than ever!

Contributed By Rick Canhan

IT’S that time of year again! The Glasshouse Country Men’s Shed is gearing up for its Annual Huge Garage Sale, happening on Saturday, November 29, from 7-12pmat our newly renovated shed, 352 Peachester Road, Beerwah. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a fantastic range of hand-cra ed and pre-loved treasures waiting for new homes. You’ll find leather goods including belts, whips, and other fine items; laser-cut wooden models in all shapes and sizes; beautifully turned timber pieces; and some truly unique railway spike creations and steelfabricated items. For the kids (or the young at heart), we’ll have delightful handmade rocking horses and spinning tops. We’ve also got a fine

selection of timber slabs, plenty of bric-a-brac, and some stunning cut and polished stones from our resident lapidarist.

It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up a bargain, support your local Men’s Shed, and enjoy a great Saturday morning out. So, bring your mates, bring the kids—and don’t forget your Wallet. EFTPOS available on site.

We’ll also be selling raffle tickets for the big ‘Dapple Grey’ Rocking horse which has been lovingly restored by a shed member for the past twelve months. Tickets are $5.00 each and are on sale now from shed member, Rick Canhan. The raffle will be drawn on Wed December 17, 2025 (a week before Xmas) and the winner notified by phone and result will be posted on the Men’s Shed Face Book page. Come along, grab a deal, and see what’s new at the Shed. You never know what hidden gem you might find!

GHM pink party raises funds

GLASS House Mountains Bowls Club was a sea of pink on Thursday October 30, when friends of GHM Community Garden, Community Hall and Neighbourhood Centre, GMAN, and Second Stitch Collective hosted a Pink Bloom Party. This fun and colourful event raised vital funds for Breast Cancer Trials research as part of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Dressed in various shades of pink, guests enjoyed a delicious

selection of tasty treats and were entertained with fun activities including origami Pink Ribbons, decorating kindness rocks and a trivia competition. Many guests took home fantastic prizes from the raffles. The current statistics are a sobering reminder of why funding for further research trials is so important. Every day in Australia, 58 people are diagnosed with breast cancer and nine people die from it. One in seven women will be diagnosed

in their lifetime and it’s important to remember that men also experience breast cancer.

“It’s so heartwarming to see local community groups and businesses coming together to raise funds” said event coordinator, Adrienne. For those who couldn’t attend but would like to support this worthy cause, donations can still be accepted. Please contact Adrienne Reilly via email GHMcommunitygarden@ gmail.com

Making borrowing simple and stress-free

BUYING a home, refinancing, or borrowing for a business can feel complicated — especially with changing interest rates, lender policies, and endless online options. That’s where having a trusted local lending specialist makes all the difference.

I work with everyday people across the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland to make the process straightforward and stressfree. Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing to renovate, consolidating

debt, or purchasing an investment or business asset, I compare options across a wide range of lenders — not just one bank.

My role is to help you understand your choices, structure your loan wisely, and save you time and money along the way. You’ll always deal directly with me, and I’ll guide you from application to settlement and beyond.

If you’re thinking about your next move, let’s chat about how the right loan structure can help you

Financial complaints still high

COMPLAINTS data in the Australian Financial Complaints Authority’s (AFCA) Annual Review highlights the ongoing financial pressures facing consumers and areas where financial firms can improve in handling disputes.

In the 2024–25 financial year, AFCA received more than 100,000 complaints for the second year in a row.

“We know many Australians continue to feel financially stretched and stressed – and behind every complaint we receive is a person seeking fairness and resolution in

a time of uncertainty,” said Chief Ombudsman and CEO David Locke.

“In times of economic pressure, it’s critical that financial firms strengthen their internal dispute resolution processes and ensure resources are available to deal with disputes in a fair and timely manner.”

Banking and finance made up 54 per cent of all complaints. Although financial difficulty complaints dropped 17 per cent, “failure to respond to a request for assistance”

Stan Nawrocki

Principal and Lending Specialist

LJ Hooker Home Loans

Sunshine Coast | Wide Bay

remained among the top five complaint types.

“We’re calling on all financial firms to stay committed to early resolution and proactive engagement with their customers, particularly those experiencing financial hardship,” said Mr Locke.

Complaints about financial advice rose 18 per cent, while self-managed superannuation fund complaints increased 95 per cent, and “failure to act in the client’s best interest” surged 124 per cent.

“Our complaints data points

to systemic issues in advice models, particularly where conflicts of interest and inappropriate use of SMSFs are involved,” Mr Locke said.

AFCA received 2,099 complaints about Buy Now Pay Later products, mainly involving credit enquiries, unauthorised transactions, and service quality.

Looking for a competitive rate on your next loan? I can help you compare across a wide range of lenders — from the big banks to specialist finance providers — and find the right fit for your needs.

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Car Loans/Personal Loans – From 7.99% p.a. (comparison rate 8.90% p.a.)

Business & Commercial Loans – Tailored solutions to suit your cash flow

SMSF Property Loans – From 7.24% p.a. for refinancing or new loans secured by residential property with LVR below 80%

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General insurance complaints totalled 34,231, a 17 per cent rise driven by

add-on insurance.

“Persistently high volumes of complaints about general insurance demonstrate there is more to be done,”

said Mr Locke. “Proactive and clear communication with customers can o en stop a complaint from being escalated.”

Why doing nothing could be your costliest choice

By Chris Carlin from Glasshouse Wealth

WHEN it comes to money, most people don’t make bad decisions. They just don’t make any decisions at all!

And while doing nothing can feel safe, over time it’s o en the most expensive choice of all.

Every year, Australians quietly lose hundreds of thousands through inaction.

Staying in an underperforming default super fund that no longer fits their goals.

Leaving spare cash sitting in an offset account instead of putting it to work. Missing legitimate tax

deductions simply because life gets busy.

And perhaps most worrying of all, not reviewing personal insurance until it’s too late, when illness or injury strikes and the opportunity to be protected has passed.

Doing nothing feels comfortable. It is easy. But it isn’t progress.

Life moves fast, and “I’ll sort it out later” easily turns into another year gone by.

The good news is, small financial actions can make a big difference.

Reviewing your super, setting clear goals, or putting the right protection in place can completely change your

financial future.

For example, earning just one or two percent more on your super investments for someone in their 20s or 30s can potentially add hundreds of thousands of dollars to your retirement savings when you turn 60.

Financial advice isn’t a cost. It’s an investment in clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

So if you’ve been meaning to get organised, don’t wait until next year. Or even tomorrow.

The cost of doing nothing is more expensive than the cost of taking action today.

Call Chris to book an appointment: 0434 383 774.

The instant asset write off Tax boost helps small business invest smart

By Tristan Lindner, Partner at Downing & Lindner Taxation & Business Services

THE instant asset writeoff continues to be an important tax incentive for small businesses seeking to manage cash flow while investing in productive assets. The Federal Government has extended the measure, allowing eligible small businesses

turnover under $10 million to immediately deduct the full cost of eligible depreciating assets costing less than $20,000 each.

This threshold applies on a per-asset basis, meaning businesses may potentially claim multiple assets under the concession. To qualify, the asset must be first used or installed ready for use for a taxable purpose within the income year. It is also

to apply, which can restrict deductions for certain motor vehicles above the threshold.

In the 2024–25 Federal Budget, the Government announced that the $20,000 threshold will be extended until 30 June 2026, providing additional certainty to businesses planning asset purchases over the coming years. However, once this extension ends, current legislation anticipates a significant reduction in the threshold & it will revert back to $1,000 under the existing depreciation rules for small business entities (unless further changes are announced before then). This reduction would greatly limit the ability to immediately deduct the cost of most business equipment and may impact the timing of capital expenditure

therefore review their investment plans and consider taking advantage of the current provisions

Health & Wellbeing

‘Shonky’ brands are called out

CONSUMER advocacy group CHOICE has named its 2025 Shonky Award winners, calling out some of Australia’s biggest brands for “misleading, unsafe and downright unfair” practices.

Topping the list is the Commonwealth Bank, accused of “making bank off the back of Australia’s poorest”.

Earlier this year, the bank was caught by ASIC charging 2.2 million low-income customers $270 million in fees they should never have paid.

While other major banks agreed to refund affected customers in bulk, CHOICE

says CommBank initially refused and later agreed only to assess refunds “case by case”.

“CommBank has taken bad bank behaviour to a whole new level,” said CHOICE chief executive Ashley de Silva.

Choice said it was far from the bank’s first appearance on the Shonky list, citing previous wins for its Dollarmites program and poor financial planning practices.

Online retail giant Temu was another standout “winner”, criticised as an “unsafe haven for dodgy sales tactics and fast

Call centres could help tackle loneliness crisis

LONELINESS is costing the Australian economy an estimated $2.7 billion a year in healthcare, social services and lost productivity – but a new whitepaper argues the nation’s call centres are uniquely placed to help tackle the crisis.

The report, More than a phone call: Using everyday interactions to detect and respond to loneliness, released by the QUT Centre for Future Enterprise, outlines how contact centres can shi from transactional problemsolving to becoming early detection points for social isolation.

Lead author Dr Nadine Ostern, Cisco Chair in Trusted Retail at QUT, said the findings show how businesses and service providers already hold the keys to unlocking better social outcomes.

“This whitepaper encourages us to see loneliness differently: not as a marginal issue, but as a challenge that organisations can play a role in addressing,” Dr Ostern said.

“It shows how businesses, service providers, and technology partners are uniquely positioned to intervene, not by replacing human connection, but by enabling it where it

matters.”

“Customers want seamless, personalised support across channels, and they want to feel understood.

This paper shows how contact centres can build trust and loyalty by designing care around real human needs.

“Loneliness is a systemic blind spot. Our research shows everyday service interactions - especially in contact centres - hold untapped potential to detect and respond to loneliness early and empathetically.”

fashion”.

CHOICE testing found all 15 battery-operated products it purchased from the site failed at least one Australian safety standard.

The platform also came under fire a er an eightyear-old Queensland girl suffered burns when a Temu hoodie caught fire. The item was recalled four months later, Crikey said.

“Temu’s insufficient concern for product safety means it more than deserves its Shonky Award this year,” de Silva said.

The Handy Heater Turbo

or heat”.

CHOICE found the device came with a non-compliant adaptor, lacked thermal protection, and posed fire risks due to exposed wiring and poor materials. “On top of that, it barely produced any heat,” Mr de Silva said.

Energy retailers were collectively recognised for “pricing tactics designed to confuse”, with some offering cheaper plans under the same name as existing ones.

CHOICE estimates

emotionally burdened, and trust erodes.”

Recipes

when households are struggling with bills, this kind of behaviour is incredibly shonky,” de Silva said. Health insurer HCF rounded out the list,

Steak Casserole with sweet potato crust

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil

The research, undertaken with Anglicare Southern Queensland – which fields more than 30,000 calls a month, predominantly from older Queenslanders –identifies the contact centre as one of the most frequent points of human interaction for vulnerable people.

Dr Ostern said subtle signs of distress were o en visible in call patterns: frequent calls, prolonged conversations, or queries requiring little assistance.

“These behaviours, typically seen as inefficiencies, are signals of unmet emotional needs,” she said.

“Without protocols, frontline staff are le

The paper highlights that women and Australians aged over 55 are disproportionately affected by loneliness, calling it a “systemic blind spot” that requires coordinated responses across technology, operations, and service design.

Among five strategic shi s outlined is a move toward proactive engagement, supported by integrated data systems and digital tools. The proposed “intervention spectrum” spans human-led outreach, augmented support such as guided coaching, and automated pathways that enable scale without compromising empathy.

“At the heart of this work lies a question that also drives our research: how do we ensure that technology serves human good?” Dr Ostern said.

1 onion, diced 2 shallots, diced 2 carrots, diced 2 celery sticks, diced 1kg steak, fat trimmed, diced 1 capsicum, diced 2 cups mushrooms, sliced 410g can baby corn, drained and sliced 420g can kidney beans, drained and rinsed ½ cup beef stock, salt reduced ½ cup vegetable stock, salt reduced Black pepper, to taste 400g sweet potato, roughly chopped ¼ cup milk, reduced fat

Method:

Preheat oven to 150oC.

HEAT oil in frypan over medium heat. Add onion, shallots, carrots and celery, cooking gently until onion begins to caramelize. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

ADD steak to pan, cooking until sides begin to brown. Remove from heat.

policies and relaunching nearly identical ones at higher prices. “Rorting the system like this makes HCF the perfect Shonky candidate,” de Silva said.

LAYER the steak, onion mixture, capsicum, mushrooms, corn and beans in a large casserole dish.

COMBINE the beef and vegetable stock in a bowl, seasoning with black pepper. Pour over the steak and vegetables.

PLACE lid on dish and

Banana Blueberry Smoothie

Ingredients:

1 medium banana

1 cup frozen blueberries

½ cup vanilla Greek yoghurt, reduced fat

½ cup milk, reduced fat

Method:

ADD all ingredients to a blender.

BLEND on high speed until very smooth. ADD more milk as necessary to thin to desired texture.

bake for around 2 hours. MEANWHILE, bring a large saucepan of water to the boil. Add sweet potato and cook until tender. Drain and return to pot, and mash with milk and pepper to taste.

ADD to top of casserole in last 30 minutes of cooking time. Continue to bake until golden.

SERVE with steamed green beans.

POUR into glasses and serve immediately.

Try adding ice cubes or freezing your banana if you prefer a thicker consistency. This recipe also works well as frozen popsicles – simply pour the mixture into moulds for a healthy frozen treat that is sure to be a hit with the kids!

‘Ready to lift your mood, rediscover your spark, and connect with others through the joy of music?’ Small group sessions for over 50s are coming soonweekday mornings or early afternoons. No musical experience needed- just bring your enthusiasm and love of rhythm.

$20 per session Launching in 2026 - limited group numbers - secure your spot early.

ADVERTISE

Strong interest fast-tracks new Elimbah release

Strong sales see next stage released early at GemLife Elimbah

By GemLife Elimbah

HIGH demand for homes at GemLife Elimbah, the region’s newest luxury over-50s lifestyle resort, has prompted the early release of a further 20 homes.

Developed by GemLife, one of Australia’s leading over-50s lifestyle resort creators, the Elimbah community combines quality, comfort, and connection in a secure, master-planned environment designed for today’s active over 50s. Since launching earlier this year, GemLife Elimbah has drawn strong interest from local and interstate buyers keen to secure their place in this boutique development, which is ideally positioned between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

GemLife Elimbah Sales Manager Glenys Lowry said the response had exceeded expectations.

“We’re thrilled to see so many people embracing the GemLife lifestyle at Elimbah. The community feel, location, and quality of homes have really struck a chord,” she said.

The first release of Stage One is almost sold out, with the next homes in the second release now available to meet buyer demand.

GemLife also recently opened its on-site sales centre, giving visitors and potential homeowners the chance to explore the masterplan, view home designs and facades, browse colour and finishes boards, and speak directly with the friendly GemLife sales team.

The new centre provides a welcoming space for guests to get a true feel for the lifestyle and quality on offer.

Set within 26 hectares of lush landscape, including 8 hectares of untouched bushland, GemLife Elimbah invites residents to enjoy contemporary, low-maintenance homes

alongside $20 million in exceptional resort facilities – all in a peaceful, leafy setting designed for a balanced lifestyle.

Residents will enjoy a relaxed, resort-style lifestyle with access to first-class recreational and social facilities, including a future country club, pool, gym, bar,

cinema, bowling green, and more.

Buyers are encouraged to act quickly, with homes in the latest release already attracting strong early interest.

For more information about GemLife Elimbah call 1800 835 926 or visit www. gemlife.com.au/gel

Downsize without the compromise

Start living the good life at Living Gems Moreton Bay

THERE comes a point when life becomes less about keeping up and more about slowing down, soaking in the sunshine, and spending time on what truly matters. For many Sunshine Coast locals, that means finding a place that offers freedom, community, and comfort without moving too far from the lifestyle they love. Enter Living Gems Moreton Bay, a vibrant new over-50s resort community redefining what it means to downsize.

Perfectly positioned between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane, Moreton Bay offers a blend of coastal charm and urban

connection. Here, unspoilt nature meets marinas, and the pace of life feels just right: relaxed, yet full of possibility. It is the ideal setting for a community that values balance, combining luxury and affordability, independence and togetherness, activity and relaxation.

At the heart of Living Gems Moreton Bay is a suite of multi-million-dollar resort facilities that would rival many boutique hotels. Residents can enjoy a dip in the sparkling pool, stretch out with yoga or challenge friends on the tennis or pickleball courts. There is even a private cinema,

ten-pin bowling alley, and residents’ workshop, all designed to bring people together through shared experiences and simple pleasures.

The centrepiece is the Country Club, where elegant design meets effortless comfort. By day, it is a hub for fitness classes and catch-ups over coffee. By night, it transforms into a social space where friends gather for drinks, dinners, and laughter. It is a resort lifestyle, reimagined for real life.

Each home at Living Gems Moreton Bay reflects a commitment to quality and contemporary design. Spacious, lowmaintenance layouts are filled with natural light, open-plan living areas, and modern kitchens that are perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet moments at home. Thoughtful details such as

energy-efficient features and private alfresco spaces make every home both practical and indulgent.

Because Living Gems operates under a land lease model, homeowners enjoy a range of financial advantages: no stamp duty, no exit fees, and no deferred management fees. You own your home outright while leasing the land, which provides both flexibility and long-term security. Many residents may also be eligible for Commonwealth Rent Assistance, making this lifestyle even more accessible. For those who have built their lives on the Sunshine Coast, Living Gems Moreton Bay offers a natural next step, close to the people, places, and passions that matter most. It is a community where downsizing does not mean giving up anything. Instead, it opens the door to more time, more freedom, and more living.

New homes will be selling from early 2026, find out more at LivingGems.com.au.

cause of death in Australia, yet little is known about whether rural Australians are more likely to develop the condition than those in cities.

A new University of South Australia project –Re-ACTIVate – is working with regional communities to identify if country-based people are more susceptible to dementia and to develop prevention strategies tailored to rural areas.

Re-ACTIVate will assess modifiable dementia risk factors among older rural people, then co-design a practical prevention toolkit that meets the needs of rural communities. The study builds upon UniSA’s earlier ACTIVate research, which found that how older people spend their time can affect cognition and brain volume.

Lead researcher and cognitive ageing expert Associate Professor Ashleigh Smith said the study will compare dementia risk

between rural and urban adults.

“We know there are at least 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia, which include things like smoking, diet, exercise and social isolation and we have data on how these risk factors affect people living in Australian cities,” she said.

“We also know that people living in rural and remote communities face different challenges, including access to health services, continuity of care, fewer places to be physically active, and different work and social patterns.

“This project will examine the lifestyle behaviours that increase dementia risk in rural and regional communities, then work with those same communities to co-design early prevention strategies.” PhD candidate Britt Burton said there is a critical need for a public health strategy targeting dementia risk in rural Australia.

Independence begins with the right support

Empowering lives with dignity and care

By Rebecca Whitaker

RANGECARE is helping individuals redefine what it means to live independently. For many, ageing or managing health challenges can feel isolating, but with the right support, independence becomes not only possible but deeply fulfilling.

RangeCare’s approach is grounded in compassion, care, and connection, offering services that empower people to live life

mission is the belief that independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It means having access to support that respects your choices, encourages your wellbeing, and connects you with others in meaningful ways.

Every service from inhome personal and nursing care to wellness programs and overnight respite is designed to meet people where they are, physically and emotionally.

RangeCare’s commitment

encouraged to make decisions about their care, supported by professionals who act with kindness and respect.

Whether it’s help with cooking, cleaning, or more specialised care, the focus remains on nurturing personal agency and promoting safety.

But RangeCare is more than a care provider; it’s a community. Through vibrant social centres and in-home companionship programs, clients build relationships that matter.

These spaces foster connection, reduce loneliness, and create opportunities for joy and engagement.

Technology support helps individuals stay digitally connected and safe, while home modifications and maintenance services ensure that living environments remain accessible and secure.

Nutritious meal delivery, recreational outings, and wellness activities further

RangeCare Social Centres

You’re Invited to Join Us! Discover Friendship and Fun. At RangeCare Social Centres, we believe that staying active and social is key to a happy life!

–

health, but emotional and social wellbeing.

It’s this holistic approach that makes RangeCare a trusted partner in life, not just a service provider.

“We believe independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone,” says a RangeCare spokesperson.

To learn more or explore how RangeCare can support you or a loved one, visit rangecare.com.au or call 07 5445 7044. Because independence thrives when compassion, care, and connection come together. RangeCare is here every step of the way.

We

Lakeside luxury proves a hit at GemLife Moreton Bay

By GemLife

STRONG demand for GemLife Moreton Bay’s exclusive lakeside residences has seen nearly half of the architectdesigned Emerald Collection homes already sold.

Nestled beside tranquil lakes and bordered by conservation parkland, this exclusive range of two-bedroom plus multipurpose-room homes

has resonated with over50s seeking something truly special – luxury, low-maintenance living in a stunning natural setting.

Each one of the four house designs on offer has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate its surroundings, with panoramic water outlooks captured through wraparound outdoor living spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows.

“These homes have been

incredibly well-received,” said Samantha Stevens, GemLife Moreton Bay Sales Manager. “With expansive alfresco areas, premium finishes and uninterrupted water views, it’s easy to see why they’re proving so popular.”

Inside, the homes feature a curated selection of high-end inclusions, including designer kitchens with fluted cabinetry and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances – oven, cooktop,

rangehood, dishwasher and microwave – plus signature entrance doors, floating-effect vanities, and spacious walk-in robes with built-in drawers and shelving.

Offering between 253.78 and 254.64 square metres of living space and priced from $1.4 million, these homes combine elegant design with everyday functionality.

Proudly Australia’s first over-50s land lease

community to achieve a 5 Star Green Star –Communities rating, GemLife Moreton Bay brings sustainability and style together.

To discover lakeside living at its finest, visit the display home, tour the stylish Summer House with resortstyle pool, and preview the soon-to-be-completed $18 million Country Club. For more information, call the sales team on 1800 418 605 today.

SOUNDS GOOD

GHM Seniors monthly outing fun

WHAT an amazing place Fort Lytton is to visit!

Thirteen members of the Combined Probus Club of the Glass House Mountains Inc. travelled by bus with Mystic Mountain Tours and driver Lyn on October 22 for their monthly outing. The day came together beautifully thanks to the organisation of Outings Coordinator Cheryl. Members enjoyed a guided tour with Park Ranger Daley Donnelly, who shared fascinating stories and history of the Fort, followed by a delicious lunch at the Rabbit Hole Café in Wynnum.The group was especially impressed with Mystic Mountain Tours’ new, comfortable bus.

GHM Probus members are active retirees who

Senior Living

You could hear better this Christmas with Maleny’s hearing expert

WHY travel down the coast when you have a hearing clinic locally in Maleny? Ben Small is the owner and operator of Sounds Good Sunshine Coast. His experience of nearly 30 years in the hearing industry means you will get the best advice and information possible when you make an enquiry.

Ben is a local of Maleny, and the clinic is situated at 8/43 Maple Street, best accessed via Bicentenary Lane, and opposite the Neighbourhood Centre. The clinic is open

appointment. Sounds Good also do home visit appointments for those who cannot make it into the clinic, so best to call ahead before visiting the clinic in person.

With Christmas just around the corner, Sounds Good has been assisting many people get their hearing needs under control.

The take up of the FREE assessment has enabled many clients to have a check-up, or to take further steps on the way to improved hearing.

is an important part in feeling included and not being le out or frustrated at not being able to follow conversations with family and friends.

To make and appointment for a check up call Ben on 0410 467 090.

Sounds Good is an independent clinic and has access to all makes and models of hearing aids and repairs. If your looking at having your existing aids serviced and checked or looking at doing a trial or upgrading give Ben a call to discuss your options.

Support at home is here

Care is now supporting clients under the newly launched Support at Home program, which replaced Home Care Packages on 1 November, the biggest change in aged care services in more than a decade. Support at Home, introduced following recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care, is designed to give people more choice and control over the care they receive, helping them to maintain independence, wellbeing,

the system has changed, our priority remains the same – ensuring our clients continue to receive highquality support in their own homes” said General Manager Clare Mullins.

Under the new program, clients have access to a wide range of services tailored to their individual needs including personal care, domestic assistance, transport, social support, respite, allied health services, and home modifications.

“Our staff have been

and their families to provide personalised advice, answer questions, and ensure a smooth transition into the new program” Clare said. “We will continue to provide compassionate, reliable, and professional care, helping people remain independent and connected with their community.”

For more information about Support at Home and how Glasshouse Country Care can assist, contact the office on 07 5494 6948 or visit www.ghcare.org.au.

Your Local Support at Home Experts

Our hotel life and travels

By Lynette and Ian Evans

WE were married 54 years ago in Camberwell, Melbourne. We lived in Victoria until our decision to come to Queensland for family reasons in 2020. Ian worked in the bank for ten years and Lynette was an office worker. We entered our first hotel in Wangaratta in 1979 with longtime friends, Rod and Marie. Rod and Marie were the youngest people to be granted a liquor licence. This was the beginning of a totally different lifestyle in the hospitality industry. We stayed in Wangaratta for three and half years and enjoyed the lifestyle greatly. A er this time, we decided to travel Australia in our caravans. Travelling was great and we broadened our horizons. We travelled from Broken Hill to Queensland via Packsaddle, Wilcannia and Cobar where we learned to play ‘Two Up’ on Anzac Day. We travelled slowly up the Queensland Coast to Cairns. Along the way we explored the area and visited the islands.

THE WRITE STUFF - Do you

At Cairns, we le our caravans and camped our way up to Cape York. Remember there were no sealed roads in the early 1980s, only deep wash outs and bridges built with tree trunks. We ventured across to Weipa using an old army truck from World War 2. At the same time, a truck was delivering cool room equipment for a supermarket in Weipa. He just bashed through trees and bushes. Prior to this, they shipped equipment around the Cape. Then we went up to the Cape visiting small towns on the way. There was one pub in a town with an honesty system as the publican went missing frequently, in another, a butchery made of

wire mesh. At one town a truck brought down several electricity poles, so no electricity for a few days. Another town had horse races with only two horses in some races.

We caught barramundi in the Jardine River for dinner before crossing the river to Bamaga and the tip of Australia. All the while, we were on the lookout for crocodiles and snakes. We also stocked upon red wine flagons in Cairns and cooled them off in creeks and rivers as we travelled. The Jardine was about 40 metres wide at the crossing. We did not take our vehicles but used the local aboriginal vehicle.

time of profound sorrow. Whatever it is, we’d love to hear

looking for a perfect story, just honest writing so give

a go and send

editorial@gcnews.com.au

Normanton and Karumba. Normanton had a purple hotel in the heart of the town. Karumba is a prawn port and at that time, it was a very rough town. On our travels to Darwin, we lost three tyres from the heat on the road. We scavenged at a tip for tyre rims to make it to the next town.

At Darwin, we managed the Berrimah Hotel for twelve months which was a working man’s hotel. In the early 80s, Darwin was a town with a mixed population from everywhere. Ian found it very challenging at the Berrimah Hotel with its many indigenous people.

A er a year in Darwin, we travelled back to Melbourne via the west coast and across the Nullabor. The northern part of Western Australia was untouched and raw. Lynette took her sewing machine around Australia and did not even use it!

Back in Melbourne, we resumed working in hospitality for many years. Overall, Ian worked in fourteen pubs and clubs including leases and management.

Fun, friendship and fellowship for Maleny Probus Club

PROBUS Clubs across Queensland continue to enrich the lives of retired and semi-retired seniors, offering a lively mix of social activities, travel opportunities, guest speakers, and outings, all centred around fun, friendship, and fellowship.

The Maleny Probus Club embodies this spirit, welcoming locals who want to stay active, social, and connected within their community.

The Club is part of a worldwide organisation of Probus groups that are non-political, non-sectarian, not-for-profit, and purely focused on enjoyment and companionship in retirement.

Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 9.45am at the Maleny Uniting Church on the Maleny–Landsborough Road. Each gathering features an engaging guest speaker, morning tea, and plenty of conversation and laughter.Non-members are invited to come along and experience a meeting for free, with a $10 fee applying to subsequent visits.

Details about upcoming speakers, excursions, and events are regularly shared on the Probus Club of Maleny Facebook page a great way to see what the group is up to and to get involved in this vibrant local community. More details call 0428 942 288.

Shotgun concerns

I AM increasingly concerned about how frequently people within my area of Landsborough are firing shotguns at “something” in the evening hours - and yes, know it’s different from a car backfire.

I live on Old Gympie Road, 1km from Landsborough’s town centre, where there are many houses, children, horses, trees and heavy scrub, and yet we regularly hear gunshots from properties in the area.

What direction these guns are being fired and WHAT is assumed to be in the line of fire is of increasing concern. Perhaps it’s time for the Police and Council to initiate a “public gun laws, safety and awareness campaign” to clarify that the use of guns at random within Landsborough is prohibited.

I believe there is some confusion by many

YOU SAID IT ONLINE ..

Your reaction to our story on tree clearing in North Maleny...

Mass tree clearing everywhere. Take a train to Brisbane. Plenty clearing to see. How can one take climate carry on seriously when our bushland is being decimated.

Rees Unsted Andrew Powell MP , happening everywhere on the Sunshine Coast and you keep posting about saving our wildlife? Care to comment?

Colette Quinn

This will not stop when developing land is very profitable & many people want to live here. I do not see it a good thing that Maleny continues to be developed, there is no supporting infrastructure. Parking in town, or travelling off the range has become somewhat a nightmare as it is. Le unchanged though, the town will eventually choke & become less desireable... possibly settling back to something comfortable. As for trees, there are far, far more here than I remember from

residents who think that because a suburban area includes trees and scrub, the area equates to a rural/ remote property where gun use may be permitted. Perhaps the number of pets (dogs and especially cats) allowed to roam “a er dark” within the town limits provokes random gun use?

Ignorance about gun laws and pet laws seems to be connected. Name and address supplied

Wider issues

THE anti-vax sentiment appears to be still among us (You Said It, 4 Nov ).

The writer recommended visiting the website of a US

the1970s, when it was still predominantly open dairy country & it won’t be long before you cannot see the current scar for new plantings around the homes built there.

Gadj Strebor Get over it people. As an aside.

The tree lopper/ removal businesses in Maleny are booming, because of inappropriate plantings.

were cleared when these protesters had their house built, sorry that’s different.

Colin Evans

Who did the work?

Jamie Thompson I don’t o en comment. I must say a er being born and bred in Maleny. Living there for 58 years and knowing how lovely it was when it was beauty and all farms, I find it hard to believe how any so called

y Mass tree clearing sparks outrage in Nor

Senate Enquiry that clearly was set up to support the anti-vax policies of the current administration. It contains testimonies from people who blame vaccination for their very real distress. Two have severely disabled autistic children, another lost a daughter 18 days a er her third Guardasil injection. Another witness developed fatigue and loss of lung capacity 3 weeks a er her second mRNA injection. In no case is there the slightest evidence for a causal connection. To balance this, a witness described

Lois Walters

Bet those baby boomers own their own house in Maleny…

Lisa Nielsen

While the state government takes cash handouts from developers. This will keep on happening.

Retep Bingow Didn’t you know? That’s the Sunshine Coast Council’s way and is drastically happening ALL over the Coast! We’re all supposed to grin and bear it!

Learn to plant selectively.

Aquila Nowland

And why the hell were they chipped when the timber could potentially have been used?

Katie White

Which one do you want houses or trees. Likely trees

new comers can complain about progress. It had to happen for them to come there. Sadly Maleny isn’t what it used to be. Everyone loved it came there and then wanted to change it . They wouldn’t have a clue.

CONDITIONS Please keep your letters under 300 words,

not be personal attacks on individuals.

Picking

We know Maleny is a hotbed of passionate environmentalists but even they didn’t want their evening with Bob Brown hijacked by a group trying to save Crookneck from falling into a quarry.

Some dude tried to erect a poster of the mountains with claims of imminent destruction at the front of the stage of a packed

Community Centre at the former Greens leader’s Outspoken chitchat.

While you might have thought it’d get some sympathy - a few groans and a ‘pull it down!’ was the best the crowd could muster. Pick your moments, I suppose.

Anyway good old Bob took the time to go and visit Crookneck, maybe just to

Debbie Carter Everyone who is outraged by this must have had their house lowered in by helicopter. What I joke that you all live in a house but believe no clearing happened for it to be built. Gather some emotional maturity and grow up.

Levi Peters

Well every farm in the whole district was once cleared then the subdivisions of those farms brought houses and more people here.

I find it amusing how everyone that has come here and lives on the cleared ground gets upset about clearing. Your just watching the result of to many people moving here to live. What comes first the chicken or the egg.

Darren Howard

her sorrow at losing her 5 year-old son to the 2009 H1N1 flu epidemic, two weeks before a vaccine became available.

There are wider issues at play.: There is a natural (if o en wrong) instinct to want to blame someone or somethicg when a tradgedy befalls us. Vaccines and science make convenient villains.

Social media seem to encourage grievance, and Republicans seem to find electoral advantage in stirring anger and grievance..

Autism has a strong (if complex) genetic component and parents may be suffering from guilt as well as grief.

So the website is strong on grief but lacking in logic. I trust our Australian medical authorities will

POLICE BEAT

EBikes and EScooters: Sadly, EBikes and EScooters have been in the news lately due to the tragic deaths of two children. With Christmas and the holidays approaching it is a good time to remind parents of the difference between ebikes an electric motorbike. To be classed as and ebike:it must not have more than 250 watts of continuous power output; be pedal powered with motor assistance up to 25km/h; the motor must cut out when bike reaches 25km/h; motor only power (no pedalling) not to exceed 6km/h. If the bike does not meet these requirements, then it is considered an electric motorbike and must be roadworthy and registered in the same way as a regular motorbike and only ridden by appropriately licenced adults. While ebikes can be ridden by persons of any age escooters and eskateboards can only be ridden by persons 12 years

continue to take a logical, evidence-based approach to public health.

David Lowry Witta Lions thank you THE Maleny Lions Club wishes to sincerely thank the Maleny community for their wonderful support of our 2025 Maleny Lions Club Meet and Greet event. Your generosity and community spirit made this event a great success. All funds raised from the Maleny Lions Meet and Greet are distributed back into our local community. Thank you, Maleny, for your ongoing support!

old or over. From age 12 to 16 children on escooters must be supervised by an adult. Over the summer period there will be an increase in police enforcement in relation the use of ebikes and escooters across the Sunshine Coast. For more information check out the following sites - www.qld.gov.au/ transport/safety/rules/ wheeled-devices/electricbicycle-rules and www.qld. gov.au/transport/safety/ rules/wheeled-devices/ personal-mobility-devices Blue Light: Our final Dance Party for the year will be on Friday November 28, 7-9pm at the Beerwah Community Hall (next to the library). The theme is Christmas, so break out the Santa hats and tinsel and come and celebrate with us. The event is open to all school age children and parents are welcome to stay or to simply drop children off Once inside, children are not permitted to leave without an appropriate adult until the finish time.

check that it was actually still standing. It is... for now. Jobs for jam IF you’ve been able to hold on for dear life in the world of banking, life must be good. Rocking up at 9.30, out the door by 4pm. What a day!

Haha, I’m joking, I know it’s super hard work. That would be like telling teachers they get it easy

with their 9-3 days, 10 weeks of leave per year, student free days each other week and every public holiday.

Yet, strangely, a $100k salary for a first year teacher is still not good enough, with the union forcing the matter into arbitration. Sign me up. I’ll even bring my own blackboard, chalk and cane.

Swooping in What is it with an MP not from the hinterland taking an interest in the hinterland?

Good to see some pointed questions raised about Beerwah East this week by Member for Morayfield, Mark Ryan. Who knows, something might actually get built here. At least they’ll

Sculpture on the Edge an inspiring event

Experience fresh and evolving art at Flaxton

EXPERIENCE the fascinating world of sculpture at the creative feast that is Sculpture on the Edge returning to the Flaxton Gardens from Saturday November 28 to Sunday December 7 2025. Now in its 16th year, this popular annual exhibition organised by Arts Connect

Deb Weaver said this year’s showcase features 182 works by 95 artists highlighting a rich mix of emerging and established sculptors. “The lineup is always fresh and evolving, keeping visitors coming back year a er year,” Ms Weaver said. “Expect to see a wide variety of styles and

this year’s finalists, including all of last year’s winners, and noted that 38 sculptures were created using upcycled materials. Visitors can wander through the scenic outdoor gardens, explore indoor gallery spaces, and enjoy a delicious breakfast, morning tea, or lunch at the on-site restaurant. Gates open daily

LUSCIOUS harmonies, cheekily spiritual Leunig poems, and gleeful songs abound in ‘Pocket Love Songs’ a heartwarming performance guaranteed to upli and delight.

Musician, writer and teacher Jacinta Foale has grown melodies and harmonies on the trellis of

Horoscopes WEEK BEGINNING NOVEMBER 11

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22

This week’s starmap suggests it could be worth dropping your Scorpionic guard a little to let some intriguing newbies into your circle. And not just for their potential: we’re talking people who are your match now. And with your ruler Pluto moving forward, life on the home front looks up.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21

With Mercury retrograde in your sign, no-one’s especially keen on listening this week - especially you. So, it’s important to remember you have two ears and only one mouth for a reason; also that you’re not learning anything when you’re talking. Better to listen and observe until Mercury turns.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

Pluto’s transformative influence will become more apparent with the power planet’s course correct in Aquarius. Now you can put whatever you learned during Pluto’s five-month pause for self-reflection into practice, avoiding past errors. Even, ready or not, become a source of inspiration for others.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

This week’s astral energetics, in Capricorn’s sector of collaborative ventures, is a good time to confer with co-workers and clients, because your hard-working selves know that success involves strong professional relationships and mutual support systems. Venus is all about who you know this week, so best get networking.

This week’s astral patterning recommends going small to go big, as in dividing up large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and enjoying the satisfaction of completing them one at a time. It also offers a beautiful opportunity to think about who might help make your work easier and more fun.

ARIES

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

This week’s conglomerate of retrogrades invites you to revisit past decisions, see if they work for current conditions and rethink your next steps if necessary. Don’t rush: this is your power time for reflection and recalibration, so tune in, dig deep: you’re on the verge of a major breakthrough.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 20

Michael Leunig’s poetry, joining with folk singer Jenny Fitzgibbon to create a totally engaging show filled with humour and warmth.

These two talented locals are thrilled to be part of a new concert series at the Vantage Maleny Clubhouse

Auditorium (formerly Sunstone Gardens), 23 Macadamia Driven, just a short walk from town. Sunday November 16, 3pm.Gates open for coffee and tea. BYO welcome. Visitor parking onsite and along Macadamia Drive. No entrance fee – freewill donations for the artists.

Unpredictable Uranus, backpedalling into your sign, offers a cosmic plot twist requiring you to think fast and adapt on the fly. Got plans (and what Taurus hasn’t?) then best stay negotiable, because who knows? Leaning into the unexpected may take you places you never thought of.

GEMINI

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

LEO

JULY 23 – AUGUST 23

With Mercury in reverse gear, it’s wise to take the usual precautions, as in travelling Twins should leave early for airports and triple check reservations. Best news? This tricky transit fortunately finishes at the end of November, in time for next month’s festive planning to proceed more freely.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

Jupiter, hitting the brakes in your sign, helps you sort through what really matters at a pace that won’t agitate internal anxiety. Check in that loved ones feel supported and, if trust levels are tested, you’ll have a better sense of who you can rely on once Mercury moves forward.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22

November’s passionate attractions and reactions won’t hold back, especially with the midweek moon in Leo. So, use this opportunity to practise being diplomatic as well as direct. It takes 21 days to form a new habit, so wise lions will get started before the season of unreason really cranks up.

With Virgo’s planet ruler Mercury retrograde, it’s a good idea to keep plans and decisions as flexible as possible because arrangements could change at a moment’s notice. Best use of this respite could be to research sustainable, earthfriendly holiday gifts and sketch in ideas for seasonal get-togethers.

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23

With Pluto back on track this week in your house of fun, make it your mission to experiment. While your plans might not come off in exactly the way you imagine, if you stay openminded and receptive, you’re bound to discover new and creative ways of engaging.

Country tunes spark connection

YANDINA will come alive with the sounds of country music on Sunday, November 16, as the ACMA Hall of Fame hosts its next concert from 11am to 3pm.

The Yandina Country Music event will feature talented guest artists from the Wide Bay Branch, performing well-loved classics and upbeat favourites sure to get toes tapping.

The family-friendly a ernoon includes raffle and door prizes, free tea and coffee, and a bring-yourown lunch setup.

Entry is $10, or $8 for members, with all proceeds supporting the upkeep of the not-for-profit hall at 24 Steggalls Road. Organisers say it’s a great opportunity for music lovers to relax, connect, and enjoy quality local entertainment in a welcoming community atmosphere.

Australian Wearable Art Festival entries open now

2026 runway returns bolder

CALLING all artists, designers, cra ers and creatives - entries are now open for the Australian Wearable Art Festival 2026, with organisers inviting bold thinkers and creative risktakers from across Australia and the world to bring their imagination to life on the runway.

Set to be held on July 11, 2026 at the Convention Centre, Novotel Sunshine Coast, next year’s festival promises an extraordinary new experience for Australia’s preeminent showcase of wearable art -where fashion meets sculpture, movement and performance.

Festival Co-Founder and Curator Wendy Roe said entries are officially open, with the submission deadline January 12, 2026, nal works can be completed closer to the event, early entry is

“Every year, we see artists step up in scale, creativity and courage - and 2026 will be no exception,” Ms Roe said. “With our new

venue, we’re offering artists the opportunity to showcase their work to our biggest audiences yet - two full-scale shows with 1,000 guests each. The Convention Centre gives us a world-class canvas to immerse audiences completely in storytelling, artistry and design.”

“From recycled plastics and metals to beads, fabric and light, wearable art is where imagination has no limits. Whether you’re a professional artist, costume designer, student or curious creator, this is the platform to explore what’s possible.”

Each year, the Australian Wearable Art Festival draws entries from across Australia and overseas, celebrating sustainability, innovation and theatrical design. The event has become a launchpad for artists seeking national exposure, professional development and creative collaboration.

Reigning Supreme Winners Evita Camilleri and Dan Draper, who took home the top prize in both 2022 and 2025,

encourage new artists to take the plunge and enter.

“AWAF completely changed our creative journey,” Ms Camilleri said.

“The AWAF platform is an incredible experience - not just the competition itself, but the community, the mentoring, and the chance

to see your work come alive on stage. We encourage anyone who’s ever dreamed of creating something extraordinary to give it a go.”

Entries are open across multiple categories including Avant Garde, Trashion, Elements of

Nature and Abstract Form, with additional awards recognising Sustainability, Textile Innovation and Performance Excellence. Artists can submit their concepts and review entry guidelines at: www. australianwearableart.com. au/designer-entry

Local author launches second book at Beerwah Celebration of beauty with Wildflowering by Design

BEERWAH author Vyvyan Bloomfield will launch her second book, ‘G’day, Owyagoin’!’, at Beerwah Library on Saturday November 22, from 2–4pm. The event is free to attend and includes refreshments, with all locals invited to celebrate the release of Vyvyan’s new collection of short stories, bush yarns and poems.

Raised in the vast, sunhardened expanse of northwest Queensland, Vyvyan’s writing reflects the grit, humour and honesty of the land and people she knows so well. Her storytelling voice is unmistakably Australian raw, warm and wry with a knack for capturing both the beauty and absurdity of everyday

of lived experience and observation.

Her new collection celebrates country life through sharp dialogue, colourful characters and stories that strike a chord,whether they make you laugh or tug at the heartstrings.

“Without Beerwah Writers, I could never have found

the confidence to write,” she said. “Now I’m launching my second book, and yes, there’s a third in the making, so stay tuned.”

Vyvyan credits her husband Vic - “ever patient, coffee in hand”—as her quiet supporter through every chapter of her creative journey.

A long-time member of the Beerwah Writers Group, Vyvyan describes her work as a reflection of life as she sees it: unfiltered, open and full of heart. Each story in G’day, Owyagoin’! offers a conversation with an old friend—honest, funny and brimming with life.

VISITORS are being greeted by a profusion of colour as wildflowers spill across canvases, textiles and digital designs in the latest exhibition at Caloundra Regional Gallery.

Wildflowering by Design celebrates the beauty and resilience of our native flora and women’s connection to place. Caloundra Regional Gallery Director Jo Duke said Wildflowering by Design had arrived in the region just in time for our wildflowering season.

“This exhibition is a great celebration for our region as there are so many local artists involved in the show,” Ms Duke said. Wildflowering by Design is on display at Caloundra Regional Gallery Tuesday to Friday, 10am–4pm, and weekends 10am–2pm until November 30. Entry is free. Register for workshops and the performance at gallery. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

What’s On

Bats and Bees

When: Wednesday November 12, 10am11.30am

Where: Beerwah Library

25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah

Info: Join wildlife biologist Angel Pesut, bee enthusiast Ian Driver and bat enthusiast Jeannie Campbell to discover who does the pollinating in your backyard and how to attract or deter them. Learn the easy way to identify pollinators that make flowers pop and fruit drop. Connect with naturalists in your area through local Citizen Science projects. Hear how to entice Australian Native Bees to your garden. All attendees receive a free native plant voucher!

Peachester State School Summer Kitchen-Garden Produce Market

When: Wednesday November 12, 2.30pm3.30pm

Where: Peachester State School Gates

Info: Fresh produce, seedlings & plants from our school community.

A Taste of Toastmasters

When: Thursday November 13, 9am - 11.30am

Where: 27 Beerwah Parade, Beerwah

Info: Please join us as our guest. You will have the opportunity to observe or participate if you choose. We all remember how nervous we were when we 1 st arrived. Toastmasters meetings are famously friendly. The meeting s are well structured. You will find a very supportive, encouraging atmosphere.

Mountain Movement

Qigong

When: Thursday November 13, 7.45am - 8.45am

Where: Bankfoot House, Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains

Info: Qigong is an ancient method using deep breathing and gentle movements to activate the part of the nervous system that calms and relaxes. Bookings preferred to

Theresa Walker - Langley at Bijam of Yoga on 0414 221 966

Speechie Library Talks

When: Friday November 14, 10.30am - 11.30am Where: Beerwah Library 25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Do you have a child aged between 0-5 years old? Would you like to help develop their language and literacy skills? Speech pathologists work with children and families to help to build the foundations on which literacy skills develop and help support a healthy transition into literacy. Meet your local speech pathologist, enjoy a reading of one of Speech Pathology

Australia’s Book of the Year 2025 winning books and find out more about how you can support your child’s language and literacy development at home.

Meet the Rainforest Guided Walk

When: Saturday November 15, 10am - 11.30am Where: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, 148 Mountain View Rd, Maleny Info: Discover and delight in the magical rainforest of Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Join one of our volunteer guides for a casual and relaxing walk through Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve on Jinibara Country. Immerse yourself in nature as you discover the secrets of this diverse and stunning rainforest island, and learn about its ecology and history. The rainforest track consists of boardwalk, sealed and unsealed sections and varies from relatively flat to a moderate gradient. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Come dressed for a walk in the outdoors.

Beerwah Tower Green Market

When: Saturday November 15, 8am - 12pm

Where: QCWA Hall, Simpson Street, Beerwah Info: Come along to our monthly artisan market to browse and buy from our local makers, growers, creatives, bakers, plants and more, with

live entertainment and a sausage sizzle. Inside the QCWA hall you’ll find morning tea (scones of course), baked goods and craft items. Come and find that special gift.

Native Stingless Bee

Workshop

When: Saturday November 15, 9.30am - 12.30pm Where: 21B Plantation Road, Glass House

Mountains

Info: Here is a workshop NOT to miss! Starting at 9.30 am, we will talk through all the aspects of Native Stingless Bee management, including a visual inspection of hives via view panels on a walk around the species with an explanation of what you see. After morning tea, we will perform a hive transfer into a new box, from an upside down plant pot! This includes interactive vacuuming of bees for successful transfer to the new hive. $35 per person, including a delicious morning tea. Tickets can be purchased online or on the day!

Bat Night Roost Tours

When: Saturday November 15, 1pm - 4.30pm

Where: Maleny Showground 13 Maleny Stanley River Rd, Maleny

Info: Learn more about the ecology and culture significance of the Nationally significant Pecan Park flying-fox roost. Learn more about the ecology and culture significance of the Nationally significant Pecan Park flying-fox roost

Want a different experience from Bat Night? Want to see flying-fox pups up close and in the wild? Join Andrew Smith (ecologist) at the Nationally significant Pecan Park flying-fox roost. Take a guided tour of the Pecan Park flying-fox roost to learn all about the ecosystem services of flying-foxes, and conservation of a threatened species at a Nationally significant roost site. A bus will take you to and from the roost, leaving from Bat Night at the Maleny Showgrounds hall. www.eventbrite.com.au

Maleny’s Epic Car Boot Sale - Again!

When: Sunday November 16, 7.30am - 12pm

Where: 926 MalenyMontville Road, Balmoral Ridge

Info: Car boot sale again! Last one for the year folks. It will be the best one yet!! There will be a second hand goods galore, local produce, plants, wood work, craft and lots more. Vego food/ BBQ was a hit and will be happening again. Bring your family and/or car boot full of goods! EOI: 0414 455 001.

Friendly

Frog Habitats

When: Tuesday November 18, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Beerwah Library 25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Cute as buttons! Join Trevor Morrison from ECOllaboration to discover where and how to look for frogs in the wild and the issues that threaten their habitat loss. Learn the different frog calls with the Frog ID App. Go behind the scenes of Citizen Science data to protect frog conservation. See a live frog hotel demonstration!

Glasshouse History Group Meeting

When: Tuesday November 18, 1.30pm

Where: Glasshouse Mountains Neighbourhood Centre

Info: The theme for November: ‘Old Timepieces or Wrist Watches’ – an appropriate theme as the year and time ticks down. Timepieces or watches do not have to be still working but we would love to hear the stories behind these old, once essential, reminders of time. All are welcome and afternoon tea will be provided.

Nature Writing

When: Thursday November 20, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Maleny Library 5 Coral St, Maleny Info: Open the door to how nature can inspire your stories with author Ola Kwintowski. create engaging narratives that connects environment to your storyline. Enjoy fun

writing exercises blending nature journalling with creative writing. Discover how to tap into the five senses to give voice to the natural world. Take home all the green tips and tricks to get started on your eco-story journey. Session details: BYO writing tools and devices.

Friends of Parks - Ferny Forest

When: Thursday November 20, 8am - 11am

Where: Location varies— RSVP to QPWSandP.GlassHouse@ des.qld.gov.au for details

Info: Join the Friends of Ferny Forest and Queensland Parks & Wildlife rangers for hands-on conservation every 3rd Thursday of the month! This is your chance to protect and restore a stunning slice of Sunshine Coast nature while learning about local flora and fauna.

Maleny Arts & Cra s Christmas Fair

When: Friday November 21 - Sunday November 23, 9am - 4pm

Where: Maleny Community Centre

Info: Come along to our well known free annual event, the Maleny Arts and Crafts Group’s Christmas Fair. There will be hundreds of handmade articles made by our members for sale. Each day commences at 9am and continues until the afternoon. Pick up an early Christmas gift for your loved ones or spoil yourself. There is pottery, glassware, sewn items, knitted and crocheted items, papercraft, jewellery, jams and bags to mention some of the things available.

Maleny Farm Fest

When: Saturday November 22, 9am - 4pm

Where: Maleny

Showgrounds

Info: It’s a fun, educational day out for the whole family — from bush BBQs and farm demos to talks, tastings, and hands-on fun for all ages. There’s something for everyone!

Sunshine Coast Art & Design Fair

When: Saturday November 22, 9am - 7pm & Sunday NOvember 23, 9am - 3pm

Where: 313-327 Flaxton Dr, Flaxton

Info: MADE Sunshine Coast presents a high-quality artisan event at Flaxton Gardens, transforming the venue into a vibrant ArtSpace filled with artists, fine food, wine, and music. Guests can explore individual ArtSpaces, enjoy breakfast, lunch, or a curated Saturday dinner by Alan’s team, and “sip and shop” with live music. With free entry, the event celebrates creativity, slow enjoyment, and breathtaking views. More info: facebook.com/ madesunshinecoast

Create Timber

Christmas Decorations

When: Thursday November 27, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Beerwah Library

25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Join the Heritage Library team to handpaint and decorate timber Christmas ornaments to take home! Hear stories about the rich history of the timber industry on the Sunshine Coast. Session details: BYO apron/paint shirt. Paints, brushes and timber ornament provided. $5 per person. Registration essential. Ages 16 and over.

Video Calling

When: Friday November 28, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Beerwah Library

25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Join library staff in a group session on video calling. Discover all the different video calling platforms, how to set up your device, tips on lighting and framing, and general video calling etiquette. Walk away with the skills to get connect with family and friends, attend an online medical appointment or connect into a business call. Session details: BYO fully charged and updated device.

your local home of the freshest produce, seafood, honey, coffee, baked treats and live

Don’t just come to the cross, go through it

IN a world searching for meaning, peace, and identity, the message of the cross still stands as the greatest act of love ever displayed. Yet, many stop at simply coming to the cross, receiving forgiveness and salvation, without ever going through it into the life Jesus died to give.

Coming to the cross is the moment of surrender when we recognise our need for a Saviour. It’s where we exchange guilt for grace and begin a new life with God. But it’s just the starting point. The real invitation of Christ is to go through the cross and let His sacrifice transform us from the inside out.

Jesus said, “Whoever desires to come a er Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow

Me” (Luke 9:23). Following Jesus isn’t about a one-time prayer or a Sunday faith. It’s about daily surrender. Going through the cross means allowing God to strip away pride, selfishness, and offence, so His grace and power can shine through us. It’s a journey of discipleship.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ Who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). That’s not religion; that’s transformation. When we truly go through the cross, we don’t live for our plans or remain in our pride. We live for the One who gave everything for us. We begin to love like Jesus, forgive like Jesus, and serve like Jesus.

If you’ve never come to the cross, today is the day.

Song Birds bring joy back to GHC Care

CABOOLTURE Community

Choir members have long loved entertaining at care facilities, and Glasshouse Country Care in Beerwah was always a favourite stop until COVID-19 forced the choir to pause performances.

Now rebranded as the where they were warmly welcomed with a delicious morning tea before taking to the stage. A er enjoying an impressive spread of treats, the Song Birds invited residents to sing along to much-loved classics from the 1950s, including Gene Kelly’s Singin’ in the Rain

and Michelle Maher The Range Church, Montville

Jesus died so you could live free, not bound by sin, guilt, or shame, but alive with purpose. And if you’re already a believer, maybe God is calling you deeper, beyond the point of salvation, into the power of transformation.

The cross is not the end of the story; it’s the doorway into a new one. Don’t settle for standing at the foot of it. Walk on through. Let His grace transform you, and watch His Kingdom take root in your heart, where love replaces fear, forgiveness heals all wounds, and life becomes a reflection of the One who gave it all.

concerts in the lead-up to Christmas, eager to spread festive cheer across the community. New members are also encouraged to join in 2026 - no special musical skills are required, just a love of singing and community spirit. The choristers also hope to find a new, enthusiastic Musical Director. Anyone with the skills to lead a choir, or who knows someone who may have the talent and the

Church & Community

Dr Bob Brown shows GHM support

Contributed by Burnice Starkey

FOLLOWING Dr Bob Brown’s recent visit to Maleny for his book launch of ‘Defiance’, the renowned former senator and environmental/social justice campaigner stopped by at the local heritage-listed site of Mount Coonowrin, Glass House Mountains.

During his visit, he filmed some videos and audio for his upcoming podcast episode, in support of the grassroots community campaign ‘Save Our Glass House Mountains’ (SOGHM) group. The group has elected to be a

co-respondent in the upcoming legal case with the Qld Planning and Environment Court, opposing the expansion application of the Heidelberg Materials (formerly Hanson) quarry at the base of Mount Coonowrin.

Some of Dr Bob Brown’s video footage can be viewed on the ‘Save Our Glass House Mountains’ Facebook and Instagram pages (www.instagram. com/

Concerned community members can show their peaceful support against quarry expansion by attending the Sunshine

Coast Council Meeting on Thursday, November 13 2025 - meeting outside for sign in at 8am, at the Sunshine Coast Council City Hall, Maroochydore.

Donate to support the ‘Save Our Glass House Mountains’ legal campaign at chuffed.org or directly at: https://bit.ly/3Wno9Dr or their Social Media pages.

Old timepieces topic of the month

Contributed by Ron Gillinder

THE Glasshouse History Group Inc. will hold its final community meeting for 2025 on Tuesday, November 18, at 1.30pm at the Glass House Mountains Neighbourhood Centre (behind the Post Office).

Fittingly, the theme for the month is Old Timepieces or Wrist Watches

- a nostalgic nod as the year ticks down. Members and visitors are encouraged to bring along their treasured timepieces, whether working or not, and share the stories behind them. Everyone is welcome to attend, and as always, the a ernoon will conclude with a friendly cuppa and conversation.

Pictured is a vintage

WASTE MATTERS

Balloons – Festive but Harmful blockages, leading to starvation and death. The strings attached to balloons strangle animals. For these reasons, releasing balloons is illegal in Queensland. Balloons and their ribbons contribute to plastic waste earth or are disposed of ll).

They take years to degrade, never completely breaking down and releasing micro plastics into the soil, air and waterways. Also, helium balloons contribute to the

pendulum mantle clock which chimes on the half hour and each stroke of the hour. Dual springs must be wound every 8 days.

depletion of helium, a nonrenewable resource.

Here are some decoration ideas to replace balloons:

• Fabric or paper bunting

• Paper chains

• Paper streamers

• Flowers (real or paper) in jars or as wreaths

• Paper pom poms

• Fairy lights or candles hung in glass jars

• Party curtains

• Kites

• Bubbles.

Decco Painters

Bringing quality colour and craftsmanship to the Sunshine Coast hinterland

FAMILY-OWNED and proudly local, Decco Painters has been adding colour to Australian homes and businesses since its beginnings in Darwin in 2011. Formerly known as Darwin Painters, the company has recently relocated to the Sunshine Coast, where it now focuses exclusively on serving clients across the region and into North Brisbane.

With more than 25 years of combined industry experience, Decco Painters offers a full suite of professional painting services for commercial, industrial, public sector, and body corporate projects. The team prides itself on attention to detail, reliability, and an unwavering commitment to quality, working with trusted brands such as

Dulux and Wattyl Paints. From retail outlets and restaurants to schools, hospitals, and heritage sites, Decco Painters handles jobs of all sizes with the same professional care. Their industrial painting services are designed to keep projects on time and within budget, while maintaining strict safety standards. For body corporate and strata clients, the company harsh coastal conditions — from multi-storey complexes to exposed outdoor areas. Fully licensed and

every project meets the highest standards of safety and workmanship. Now launching a new

PEST CONTROL

Contributed by David Kerr

need some more TLC. On the courts, while a small club we are competitive.

AGMs can be languorous affairs. Yet also an opportunity to reflect and look to at least the next hoop but one.

At our recent meeting, Club President Sarah Widin talked about “the year it’s been”. Following is an edited summary of Sarah’s 2025 address: “Thank you all for being here today and supporting our small but resilient club. I would like to acknowledge the support of our Patrons, Ted Singleton and Andrew Powell. It’s been an eventful year with the handover of TS Centaur to our club. The building is awesome – and works well for local and regional events but will

Glassy Bowls

Contributed by David Hayes

WEDNESDAY 05/11/25

Social Bowls 9.00am

Trish Jackson, Geoff Edmonds, John Annakin def Jos Evans, Gayle Coppa and Viv James 20 -13.

Seija Munster, Dennis Hume and Steph Sleeman def Jeff Clayton, Mick Clark and Marg Gibson 21 - 15.

Bill Bloomfield, Jonathon and Noelene Annakin def Jo Sparks, Joy Reason and Jill Kirchheiner 28 - 18. Carol Lewis, Shane Kirstenfeldt and Rob Scullion def Frank Scadding, Mark

Winning outright the Ricochet Regional (that’s right!) championships for the first time. We also warmly embraced Golf Croquet over the even warmer summer and did not embarrass ourselves.

Once again, this year the tradition of dedicated Association Croquet (AC) play continued as a strength and passion. Behind the scenes our dedicated members enabled us to deliver successful events including hosting Western Australian players prior to the national AC Women’s tournament.

The Rangebow Festival was a lot of work, feathers and fun! 2025 Friendship Day was a knockout success, with players from other clubs commenting how they loved the concept. The on, off and on-again Hoops and High Tea

Whittam and Sally Squires 18 - 16.

Winners of the day were Noelene Annakin’s team. R/Up were Steph Sleeman’s team

Lucky Draw was John Annakin’s team Thursday 06.11.25 Social Bowls 12.30pm start. 5 rinks of triples and 2 rinks of pairs.

Winners of the day with 2 wins and a score of 44 were Frank Scadding, Scott Bedwell and David Booth. R/Up on a 4 way count back were Don Teirney, Vic Muscat and Gavin Linnan with a score of 22. Lucky draw was won by

event has resulted in four new club members. Attracting new players is rewarding and we will continue that next year.

We have said goodbye to Stuart Craig our past Treasurer who is enjoying playing Bridge from a comfortable chair. Senior player Nic Cram has also hung up his mallet (actual, not metaphorical) and we say “Good Shot” to both men for their contribution and companionship, and in one case slightly ribald conversations borne of hanger humour and service.

Thank you to Vince Carbery as my Vice President, mentor and supporter. Thanks also to Sally for supporting the monthly group visit from Little Mountain - another part of our commitment to the community.

Thank you, Donna Manning, for taking on the Treasurer’s position and that

Special mention and thanks to Wallace Roy who put his hand up as the AC and RC regional coordinator and Club Secretary. Not to forget his mastery of courts, equipment and conditions of play that have earned him the title of the Lawn Whisperer.”

Should you like to have a try croquet’s “tapping and rushing, rolling and jumping coloured balls through the hoops”, then contact us on 0417640704.

Trish

Maleny Bowls Club

Contributed by Brett Gillis

THIS coming Thursday is our annual Plum Pudding Day with home made puddings being much sought a er prizes at the event. We have 16 teams representing district bowls clubs who will enjoy 2 games of bowls with a break for a delicious lunch. We would like to thank major sponsors Maleny Hotel and all of our incredible volunteers who contribute to ensure that everything runs smoothly and it is a resounding success.

Last weeks Hen’s Party organisers sent us this message: “Thank you and the Maleny Bowls club for allowing us to have such an important event at your premises on Saturday. The Wedding of our daughter on Sunday at Maleny would not have been so successful and possible without the support

and the team at the Bowls club & the town of Maleny. Thankyou for your patience, understanding and support throughout this whole process. My wife & I wish you and the team going forward all the happiness and health you could wish for.”

It was another busy weekend hiring our facilities for private celebrations. On Saturday we hosted a surprise 80th Birthday party with the guest of honour being taken by complete surprise when entering the clubhouse to find it full of family and friends. Some enjoyed a game of barefoot bowls while others just mingled and enjoyed themselves. On Sunday we welcomed Maleny Neighbourhood Centre who came to celebrate and partake in a game of barefoot bowls. Despite the ominous looking clouds it actually made it cooler to play with everyone making the most of conditions. Thanks for choosing as your meeting place.

This

, email resume to admin@landsboroughpub.com.au or call in Landsborough Hotel, 32 Cribb Street, Landsborough with your resume.

WANTED

LOOKING FOR LAND TO LEASE for an off-grid tiny house on wheels. One responsible adult looking for some peace and quiet on host land. Contact Emma 0466 098 729.

SEEKING AFFORDABLE 4br spacious farmhouse for responsible family (3+cat). Unfurnished. Private arrangement. Near Beerwah (30mins). All options considered. 0402 295 753.

BEERWAH, 8 Argus Court. Saturday November 15, 8am – 12pm FAREWELL SALE; Rock bottom prices, everything to go! Outdoor furniture, golfing year, snorkel gear, plants, pots, fertilisers, mulch, Christmas decos, beds, side tables, tools, hedgetrimmer, books, blower/vac/ mulcher, bar stools. DON’T MISS IT.

Maleny Golf Club greenlights

$1.5m clubhouse project

Member-backed plan for new clubhouse

By Yarin Barrett

MALENY Golf Club is embarking on another exciting development phase with plans to construct a new fit-for-purpose $1.5 million clubhouse to complement its awardwinning 18-hole golf course in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hinterland.

At a General Meeting held on Saturday, 1 November, members voted overwhelmingly in favour of a special resolution authorising the board to debt-fund construction of the new clubhouse which is expected to be operational by mid-2026.

The resolution empowered the Board to borrow sufficient funds from members, banks, or other institutions to finance the project, which also recently received Owner’s Consent from the Sunshine Coast Council as lessor.

Club President Doug Evans said the new clubhouse would provide a much-needed upgrade from the club’s aging temporary facilities and would be shared for use by other community groups such as

the Brisbane Astronomical Society.

“This is a major milestone for the Maleny Golf Club to finally have a permanent headquarters. Our members have shown incredible patience and support for this project to deliver a modern, functional clubhouse which reflects the quality of our course and depth of community support,” he said.

Mr Evans said that since opening the first 9 holes in 2015, the golf club had operated essentially debt-free from temporary headquarters cleverly

establishment of a state-ofthe-art maintenance facility, completion of our second 9 holes and acquisition of equipment to raise the course presentation to an exceptionally high standard,” he said.

“However, our temporary clubhouse was always just that and becoming increasingly unfit for purpose due to the condition of the facility and the club’s continued growth in membership and visitor patronage.”

Members have already offered loans totalling $725,000, demonstrating

Changing of the guard for local clubs

By Yarin Barrett

THE warm weather is upon us, which means the local cricket season is here, but for some Sunshine Coast clubs things are a little different now.

Hinterland cricket clubs are facing new challenges to maintain their presence in the Sunshine Coast Cricket Association (SCCA) competition.

As the competition heads in a new, more streamlined version, smaller clubs are being forced to make important decisions to survive.

Clubs across the hinterland region are being forced to evaluate their position in the competition.

Recent years have seen clubs merging or developing a sister club relationship in

order to survive, with some not making the cut and forced to close down.

Clubs including Burpengary, Caboolture, Landsborough, Maleny, Nambour, North Lakes, Palmwoods, Wamuran and Sandstone Point have all been affected in some way in in the last few seasons alone.

For some it is due to a lack of players registered, while for others it is a lack of facilities and funding, and ultimately not being able to meet the requirements of a club competing in the Sunshine Coast competition.

The SCCA is looking to consolidate clubs into five or six larger entities, with more teams per division, rather than managing several smaller clubs, with

the aim to create a stronger competition for players to perform and progress to higher honours.

In 2022, the SCCA moved to ‘The Big House’ at the Landsborough Sports Complex with a view of separating the association from other clubs by being based at the stand-alone facility.

The SCCA region spans from Caboolture in the south to Gympie in the north, with affiliated clubs including Caloundra, Glasshouse, Landsborough, Palmwoods and NambourUSC.

The competition has over 2000 players competing each week, with clubs playing in men’s, women’s and junior competitions.

The men’s first grade competition was previously

10 teams, but is now down to eight, with Maroochydore Cricket Club’s second team and the team from Palmwoods Cricket Club dropping down into division two for this season, along with the merger of Nambour and USC.

Currently, the eightclub competition means every team will play each other in all formats across the season, the SCCA is encouraging alliances, with a goal of reducing the number of smaller clubs to improve talent depth and player development, which could see first grade reduced further to only six teams in the future.

allow for efficient, off-site prefabrication and future expansion when required.

“This development marks another step forward for Maleny Golf Club as it continues to strengthen its position as one of Queensland’s premier regional golf destinations,”

Site works will begin in January 2026 - a er which the building will be delivered in six modules and li ed into place in a single day, becoming operational within approximately eight

More reasons to love children

BIBLE A little boy opened the big family Bible. He was fascinated as he fingered through the old pages. Suddenly, something fell out of the Bible. He picked up the object and looked at it. What he saw was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages.

‘Mama, look what I found,’ the boy called out.

‘What have you got there, dear?’

With astonishment in the young boy’s voice, he answered, ‘I think it’s Adam’s underwear!’

DEATH While walking along the sidewalk in front of his church, our minister

heard the intoning of a prayer that nearly made his collar wilt. Apparently, his 5-year-old son and his playmates had found a dead robin. Feeling that proper burial should be performed, they had secured a small box and cottonwool, then dug a hole and made ready for the disposal of the deceased.

The minister’s son was chosen to say the appropriate prayers and with sonorous dignity intoned his version of what he thought his father always said: ‘Glory be unto the Faaather, and unto the Sonnn, and into the hole he goooes.’ (I want this line used at my funeral!)

Calling all joke tellers!

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

Ask Brownie

I DO like it when readers send me in something –though the paper – that they’ve come across, found or wondered about.

It shows me that people are reading (I hope) this gardening page and gives me some good topics for a column or two.

Here’s some recent items sent in.

the Stinkhorn group. They both use a putrid smell to attract flies and other insects to help spread their spore around.

The first one is called Phallus multicolour (also called Crinoline Stinkhorn) and the second is Colus pusillus (sometimes called Craypot Stinkhorn).

Like nearly all fungi, they

spot earlier in the year, and so I’m not sure why these ones are sick.

Wendy Palmview

On a walk in a park at Mooloolah, my wife and I spotted these weird looking growths in a garden bed near a playground.

Can shed some light on what they are, and are they dangerous near a playground?

Graham (and Leisa)

Mooloolah

Thanks Graham for sending in the photos.

What you’ve found are two types of fungus from

probably do have some unpleasant side effects if ingested … but to be honest, you’d have to be pretty brave – even for a kid – to go messing about with one.

Can you help me with my tomato plants? They seem to have wilted despite the recent rains we’ve had and the liquid fertiliser I’ve been giving them. I grew really good tomatoes in the same

The key to the problem is that you broke one of the golden rules of growing tomatoes or any of the solanum group of plants, including capsicums and

The golden rule is to never grow solanum plants in the same place twice in a row without growing something else in the spot for a while. Problems such as root nematodes, fungal wilt diseases and viruses can establish in the soil and will infect the next lot of solanum plants grown in the same spot. By growing something else in the soil other than a tomato or capsicum or eggplant, you starve these

In The Garden WITH BROWNIE

pests and diseases of their host plants, and so they disappear back to low levels in the soil.

There isn’t much you can do to save these tomato plants now. I’d suggest pulling them up, disposing of them in the bin and using the space to grow something like corn or silverbeet.

Hi Brownie – I enjoy your columns.

This plant has popped up on the roadside near our house in Landsborough.

Can you tell me what it is please.

Margie

Hello Margie. What you’ve got here is a member of the pea family commonly called Rattlepods – from the pods which, when dry, rattle in the wind.

Unfortunately it is an introduced weed, although not a rampant one.

The yellow pea flowers are quite attractive, and being a legume, it fixes nitrogen into the soil. But don’t be fooled, as all parts of the plant contain an alkaloid chemical which can be poisonous to

Vegetable file

Khol rabi

I let you in on my secret vegetable – kohlrabi.

You won’t see it in the shops, and it looks kind of

It’s a cabbage family plant and has a sweet cabbage-like flavour.

You eat the swollen stem when it gets to about the size of an orange, but you can also eat the leaves as

They are high in vitamin C and fibre, and can be used in soups, stews, stir fries, curries or mashed in with potato.

animals if eaten. The best way to control them is by hand pulling – wear gloves in case the alkaloid irritates your skin.

I like reading your columns about what to plant each month. I try and grow some of the vegetables … sometime successfully, sometimes not.

What’s your favourite vegetable to grow?

Best grown from seed in autumn and winter, they grow and can be harvested through spring and summer.

Like cabbage and broccoli, they can be attacked by leaf eating insects – but as you mainly eat the swollen stem, a few eaten leaves don’t really matter.

Last week, we released the 2026 McGrath Report, which reveals three property important trends as well as my top suburb picks for the new year in NSW, Queensland, Victoria, and Tasmania. There are plenty of other reasons to read the report, namely its overarching theme, ‘Have we run out of homes?’ Here I examine the complexities of Australia’s housing crisis, including severe labour shortages and construction costs, and the issues that are of key concern.

contradiction, over half of our vast country’s population is squeezed into Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This has resulted in massive price pressure and property density in these locations. As a result, only 22% of Australians

aged under 34. The numbers paint a picture that should concern us all. New borrowers are spending 50% of their household income on mortgage repayments.

And this home price-to-income ratio has already climbed eight times.

JOHN MCGRATH –HAVE WE RUN OUT OF HOMES?

Meanwhile, potential buyers need to save for over a decade for a 20% deposit and renters are dedicating 33%

decades in this industry, I’ve learned that the housing market has three

construction viability. Right now, all three pillars are compromised. While this is of course, a major problem, even more worrying is the fact that Australia’s housing dilemma isn’t due to land scarcity. It is accessibility that is the real issue. What do I mean by this? Our major cities and other locations across Australia have plenty of land which is ideal for developments. But this land is not connected to essential infrastructure. However, the property development

industry has some major challenges – these include a doubling or even construction costs have risen 30%. As a result, many developments simply

market prices. So, what’s the answer? Examining and exploring these issues in full, I believe the main reason for Australia’s housing contradiction is accessibility – and not land scarcity. And, for real change to occur in our property market, we need to focus on supply bottlenecks. We need to free up people’s options of where they can live. Part of this change means we need to streamline development processes, reduce approval time frames, and provide better infrastructure in locations with ample land. This change

rising development activity around transport hubs underway, which should in turn eventually ease some property pressure. Government-owned land with existing infrastructure should also be prioritised for development. Skilled migration and training could help address labour shortages while supporting innovative construction methods that reduce costs. Despite these issues, I believe that Australia’s property market does have several reasons to celebrate. Firstly, housing demand is moderating and expected to

annually from 2026.

Construction cost growth is slowing down too, and State governments are beginning some planning reforms, with the aim of expanding supply options. Helping the market further are the three property trends analysed in this year’s McGrath Report.

that cashed-up Generation X has on today’s property choices.

We also explore in the trend, Lifestyle Locations: Walkable, Liveable, Loveable, the appeal of neighbourhood living, whether it be in city or regional areas that boast a city lifestyle with rural tranquillity. In the third trend ‘Weathering the Future’, renowned architect Adam Haddow, illustrates how design and sustainability impacts has the land, demand, and capability.

year’s McGrath Report encourage and highlight some of the changes needed.

Thinking of selling before Christmas? Now could be the perfect time!

As we inch closer to Christmas, the hinterland property market is showing great energy and a renewed sense of optimism, with many buyers and sellers looking to make their next move before the year’s end.

According to Cassi Nuske, Sales Specialist at McGrath Beerwah, now is an ideal time for sellers ready to act.

buyers are responding quickly to wellpriced properties. With the right strategy, there’s the opportunity to secure a buyer for your home before the end of the year.”

McGrath Beerwah are currently experiencing high demand for properties in the $800,000–$1,000,000 price range from investors, downsizers and families from the Coast seeking the spacious

block sizes available in the hinterland. Two recent entry-level opportunities

processes. We’re also seeing a recent uptake from interstate investors, particularly for dual-occupancy properties. These homes appeal to those seeking a secure investment with tenants already in place, as well as families exploring multigenerational living options.

If you’ve been watching the market, thinking about selling, or feeling ready for a change but unsure where to start, now could be the perfect time. A wellplanned approach today could see you celebrating your sale before Christmas.

erland, our tment nalised d on helping ssible on.

At McGrath Coast & Hinterland, our local knowledge, commitment to excellence, and personalised approach are all focused on helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. Whether you’re planning your next move or simply exploring options, we’d love to help you take the next step with

To stay informed about new listing opportunities, visit mcgrathch.com.au/

our exclusive buyer database, or follow Team Cassi Nuske on Facebook and Instagram to see listings advertised nowhere else.

g y s, base, ske m to see ere else.

Across from a leafy family park, this beautifully updated home on a generous 1,125sqm corner allotment captures the relaxed essence of hinterland living. The true beauty of this residence is revealed once you step through the front door, where refreshed interiors

glam meets hinterland charm

Grandview Homes residence delivers a harmonious balance of sleek modern style and practical sophistication. Designed to embrace its elevated position, expansive interiors unfold to a wide verandah overlooking manicured terraced gardens, the perfect setting for quiet moments of contemplation

If you would like to speak to our team regarding buying, selling or renting, we would be delighted to assist you further. For leasing and new client enquiries please contact our New Client Consultant Deb Fleming on 0488 771 626. For all sales enquiries please contact Cassi Nuske –0415 304 127. We look forward to being of service for all of your real estate requirements.