Hinterland Times March 2026

Publication date 1st Wednesday of each month

EDITOR

Victoria McGuin 5499 9049 editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au

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Neil Coningham 5499 9049 sales@sunnycoastmedia.com.au

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The Day the Music Died

It may not be in the hinterland, but plenty of our musicians have played there over the years – the Solbar - a haven, a creative melting pot and all-round excellent venue, has closed its doors.

This is tragic news for anyone who loves music – many bands and solo artists have cut their teeth performing there, and it has been a bright light in an increasingly dimmed live music scene.

There are still some wonderful venues around, such as The Front-up Club in Maleny, The Presynct in Nambour, Marshy’s Moonshine Music in Landershute - but the Solbar had the advantage of a larger demographic close by, a busier area with more tourists, and better transport links, which makes this news all the more shocking.

So, what were the reasons? “Rising operating costs, changing audience behaviours and ongoing economic pressures” were cited.

Read between the lines, and talk to anyone trying to run a venue and it’s crippling insurance, people buying tickets last minute rather than in advance (which affects guaranteed budgets and booking artists), increased taxes, fees and rent. The money man always wants more, and is crushing the music industry.

Let’s all plug into AI slop instead, hey? Stay home and stare at screens… let the streaming giants suggest music for us all day, so we never go out and find amazing musicians on our doorstep!

If you are sick of this, then may I suggest the first thing you do is join the Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective, where you can keep in the loop on any petitions, meetings, or developments regarding this appalling situation.

Secondly, write to your MPs and the Council and let them know how you feel. Ask for them to do something about it, to stand up for our music industry! After all, a lack of homegrown music and venues not only affects our community, our connections and our mental health; it will affect tourist numbers, and our region’s reputation will suffer.

I know I am usually optimistic, or trying to find the good in situations, but today I feel utterly heartbroken. High costs are killing our live music scene and we need to find a sustainable way to stop it.

See you in April, and I will try to be optimistic once again. And one last thing - to all the women out there, please make sure you celebrate being wonderful you on March 8, for International Women’s Day!

Enjoy

We are looking for locals with great stories to share for future features in the Hinterland

If you love writing and would like to write the story yourself, just email our editor with your idea for approval, and ask for our 'house style' guidelines. We can support you in creating a stand-out story.

If you would prefer us to write the story, please send as much information as possible and your contact details. Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au

If the story is about a charity or group making a positive community impact, the HT would like to give a donation to the group/charity once the story is published.

Ten days. One hinterland. Your guide to Horizon on the Range.

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is set to shine brighter than ever as Horizon Festival celebrates its tenth year from May 1-10, 2026, bringing a wave of creativity, food, music and community spirit to our towns and treasured landscapes.

From Maleny to Montville, Mapleton and the ranges beyond, this year’s program offers locals countless ways to experience art in the places we love.

A cornerstone of the hinterland program is Burnt Earth: Bonyi Bounty, an immersive dining experience at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Led by three First Nations chefs, this slow food gathering explores native ingredients and cultural storytelling against the backdrop of the Glass House Mountains.

Guests are guided through the forest, introduced to traditional ingredients, and then sit down to

a three-course celebration of Country, connection and cooking rituals.

The Montville Timber Trail invites locals and visitors to wander between studios, halls and creative spaces, meeting woodworkers, designers and artisans who are preserving — and reinventing – the region’s rich timber heritage.

in the Glasshouse Mountains. Witness new Blak works exploring identity, belonging and relationship with Country in a space of truth-telling, reflection and healing.

Lovers of words will find their home at the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival, which returns to Maleny with authors, masterclasses and panel discussions set among the hills. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or an avid reader, the festival offers a rare opportunity to learn from some of Australia’s most engaging storytellers.

Rounding out the hinterland highlights is Outside: Music in Nature at Booloumba Creek, where audiences settle into a natural amphitheatre for an afternoon of live music and birdsong. Bring a picnic rug, switch off your phone, and enjoy a rare moment of stillness under the forest canopy.

Expect demonstrations, hands-on workshops and the chance to take home unique handcrafted pieces. The weekend trail brings new life to Main Street and St Mary’s Hall, transforming the village into a celebration of skill, story and craftsmanship.

Boundaries at Bankfoot is an afternoon gathering of spoken word, song and theatre at Bankfoot homestead

With more than 35 events across the region — most of them free — Horizon Festival’s tenth anniversary is a reminder of what makes the Sunshine Coast Hinterland so special: creativity, community, and landscapes that invite us to slow down and connect.

The Pipes are Always Calling

Wendy and Gordon Ferguson’s story entwines Glasgow, Brisbane, ballet, bagpipes and even the James Bond parody, Casino Royale!

by LOUISE TASKER

Down a long driveway, tucked away in a replica Queenslander, live Gordon and Wendy Ferguson. I sit with a cup of tea and a slice of Wendy’s 90-year-old mum’s delicious fruit cake and attempt to capture their lives on paper.

Wendy and Gordon arrived in Montville 15 years ago. Gordon has become well known across the Range as the piper to call on for events like ANZAC Day.

Gordon says, “Did you know that Gordon is not my first name? It’s really Forbes. Forbes Gordon Ferguson.” We joke and say it’s a lawyer’s name.

Wendy is Brisbane-born and bred, having been brought up in an inner city suburb in the 1960s. There were five children and her mother and father and they lived in a house with three bedrooms, one bathroom and a backyard toilet.

“It was an average suburban childhood,” she says. “We played on the road outside, everyone knew each other, we walked to school, played tennis, did ballet. And each year we had a beach holiday.”

Her father was a self-employed electrician and when her brother was old enough, her mother went to work

Gordon’s childhood was quite the opposite. Gordon lived in the top floor flat of a tenement in Rutherglen, on the outskirts of late 1940s Glasgow, with two older sisters and his mother and father.

The flat had only one bedroom and Gordon shared this with his two sisters until they became young teenagers. His parents slept in a curtained-off bed recess in the lounge. When Gordon moved out of the bedroom, he slept in a bed cabinet in the lounge. Yes, the same room as his parents. The bed cabinet was a piece of furniture incorporating a bed which pulled down to be slept on, but in the morning had to be pushed back up and the cabinet shut.

When Gordon’s father had a very bad accident and was unable to work again, Gordon’s mother became the sole bread winner, buying a corner store below their tenement flat. Mr Ferguson helped out with tidying the flat, preparing meals and making many cups of tea for his friends who were always dropping into the back of the shop for a laugh and a chat with him.

Encouraged by his father, Gordon has been playing the pipes since he was nine years old. A young piper does not learn on miniature sized pipes but on a practice chanter, which helps the student to master the fundamental finger positions, scales and embellishments necessary for piping.

At age 11, he progressed to adult sized pipes but he was so small that in order to hold the instrument he had to put his head between the drones, which his sisters thought was hysterical.

Gordon left Rutherglen Academy at age 15 to work as a commercial apprentice with Stewarts and Lloyds, international steel pipe manufacturers. They sent him to college one day a week and he attended night school, passed all high school certificates and started his studies as a chartered secretary.

As the years passed, Gordon became an expert piper and he has played with many world famous pipe bands, travelling with them to Europe, Russia, Canada, New Zealand and of course Scotland for various tattoos.

Gordon said, “I never would have thought as a kid just starting out that so many doors would be opened –everywhere you go, there is always someone somewhere who plays the pipes.”

In 1967 Gordon was playing with world champions Muirhead and Sons Pipe Band when, along with four other top Scottish bands, they were invited to Shepperton Studios in London, where the spy parody film, Casino Royale, starring David Niven and Ursula Andress was being filmed.

“We marched into Shepperton Studios, pipes playing All The Blue Bonnets Are Over The Border. Everyone stopped what they were doing (perhaps wondering if Bonnie Prince Charlie had returned!) and I was walking on air. I couldn’t believe that I was playing for a movie with famous ac

Gordon is a true Scotsman and yet he travelled 10,000 miles across the world to a very different country. Two things brought him here: a New Zealand teacher whose adventuring stories about his own country tallied with Gordon’s desire, even as a child, to always want to see what was around the corner and over the hill. And of course, the weather!

“It was the first of June and I had to sit an exam. We were living in the Highlands and I opened the door to find everything covered in an inch of snow. It was the first day of summer! Madness!”

His wife Margaret applied to the Australian Government in 1980 to emigrate and they were successful. They had lived in Newcastle for three years in the very early 1970s but after their first son was born, homesickness and a desire to show off their bonny sun-kissed baby took them home.

Nine years later, the inch of snow weighed too heavily and finally they returned down under for good, now with a family of five children!

“I really miss the Scottish traditions though. Events like the Highland Games, Burns Nights, and Ceilidhs for instance.” Gordon is excited to be recreating one in the Montville Village Hall in May.

As the dear readers would already k now a Will is a document that sets out the wishes of a person regarding how that person’s estate should be distributed after death. I shall call the will-maker “the Testator ” for the rest of this Ar ticle

For a Will to be valid it Must meet cer tain formal requirements as follows:

1. WRITING: The Will must be in writing. This means that it can be handwritten or typed

h a n d w r

n g o r t y p e d - m u s t b e u s e d throughout the Will to avoid confusion. I t can be made in any language but it is obviously b e s t i f i t i s w r i t t e n i n E n g l i s h t o a v o i d problems of translation or interpretation.

2. SIGNED: I t should be signed by the Testator mak ing the Will A signature can also be a mark in case the person signing the Will is blind or illiterate. In circumstances where the Testator is unable to mark or sign the Will then s o m e o n e e l s e c a n s i g n o n t h e Te s t a t o r ’s behalf providing firstly that the Testator is present when the Will is signed and secondly that this is disclosed in the Will

3. DATED: the Will must be dated the day it was signed. Although a Will is effec tive from the date of the Testator ’s death and not from the date of signing, the date of signing must appear on the Will If the Will has no date then the witnesses may be required to swear an affidavit about the date the Will was signed

4. WITNESSES: The Testator ’s signature must be witnessed by two witnesses who must both be present when the Testator signs I t is also impor tant that a beneficiar y not witness the Testator ’s signature as in a worst case scenario it could mean that any gift to that beneficiar y is invalid

In my nex t ar ticle I shall discuss matters that Should; rather than Must; be contained in a Will.

After Margaret passed away, Gordon met Wendy unexpectedly at a fundraising meeting between the consultancy Wendy then worked for and the Boys’ Brigade which Gordon was involved with. When they married in 1997, Wendy went from no children to five children, and eventually nine grandchildren, and her favourite 1970s music has ever since been overlaid with the many piping tunes that Gordon likes to play around the house.

Wendy says wryly it all sounds the same and, in fact, an old friend of Gordon’s once told him Gordon only ever plays two tunes. “You’ve got to be joking I said,” Gordon says in mock horror, “There are marches, strathspeys, reels, jigs, hornpipes, slow airs, pibroch! (The pibroch is the original classical Scottish music that dates back to the 16th century.)

“When can you come for a lesson?” he laughingly asks me, as he shows me a book of Scottish laments,

all with very odd titles!

Perhaps to be expected, Gordon usually wakes up with a pipe tune in his head. He has written one composition – it started on the Isle of Mull and he’s nearly completed it. I’m sure we can find somewhere for him to premiere it. Maybe at May’s Montville Ceilidh?

Wendy is now a counsellor. She says, “It’s a very privileged position to be in and that’s why I completed my Masters in Counselling. I wanted to be a counsellor, rather than a counselling psychologist, and this is what I still do. It’s work I absolutely love.

“But,” she continues, “if I had my time over again, I’d be a race car driver. The best gift Gordon ever gave me was eight laps of Queensland Raceway.”

Wendy and Gordon both love their community. Wendy says community is “one of the mental health protective factors. It’s so important to find that

connection somehow, maybe via the school or an art group or the church. It’s much easier to then become part of a community than if you wait for people to come to you.”

Perhaps because she’s a counsellor, she loves talking deeply to people rather than skimming the surface. She finds that other people’s lives can be so inspirational.

This is also where Wendy’s philosophy in life comes from: decide how you would like to be treated by others and then be that person for other people.

They both enjoy reading – fiction, non-fiction, historical novels or biographies. Gordon likes reading about the real life stories of heroic people fighting with great humanity against the odds, such as Matthew Flinders and Ernest Shackleton, both explorers.

Such heroics however were not needed to bring them to the Range. Gordon says, “When the kids were young we were told about the Mapleton QCCC which was run by the Baptist church at the time. We could get a dormitory with double bunk beds and have a proper holiday.”

The children would be away all day playing games and Gordon and Margaret could read and swim and have a low-stress holiday.

Gordon continues, “I always had in the back of my mind that I wanted to move out of Brisbane and live within a two-hour distance of Brisbane and near the coast, with some woodland and country and views, and Wendy was up for it too, so when this house came up it ticked all the boxes.”

Wendy has her own early memories of 1980s Montville.

“I used to come up and visit The Pottery in Main Street. There was a café and we would have lunch there and enjoy the views. We could watch the potters as they worked. It was beautiful.” (The Pottery was an old Queenslander house that was pulled down in 1998 and the Pottery Building was built which now houses shops like the Opalcutter.)

“Gordon says living here reminds him of the village in the Highlands – there it could take half an hour to buy a loaf of bread, because there was always someone to chat to along the way.”

I wondered what is the best piece of advice they have ever been given. Wendy was young when her mother told her, apropos of nothing, to never repeat to anyone what someone else has said about them. Keep it to yourself. It’s stood her

Gordon said, “Faint heart never won fair lady. And dinnae fash yersel. The first is pretty obvious and the second means don’t get stressed about the small things.” Surely that’s a good piece of advice for these times?

Selling o r propert before b ing the ne t one can p t o in a po erf l nego a ng posi onand o�en makes the en re process smoother, less stressf l, and more financiall re arding.

One of the biggest ad antages is certaint This remo es g ess ork from o r b dget and helps o a oid stretching o r finances or rel ing on costl bridging loans. With firm n mbers, o can make faster, more confident decisions and be in a posi on of strength hen the right propert comes along.

Being “sold” also makes o a more a rac e b er Sellers nat rall fa o r b ers ho are read to b or alread nder contract, as this red ces the risk of dela s or deals falling thro gh. In compe e markets, this ad antage can be the difference bet een sec ring o r ideal home or missing o t.

Prepara on is ke to achie ing a strong sale P r e s e n n g o r p r o p e r t e l l - t h r o g h d e c

marke ng - can significantl impact b er interest and final price. Pricing o r home acc ratel from the start also helps a ract serio s b ers and red ces me on the market, keeping moment m on o r side.

Timing ma ers too and selling first gi es o fle ibilit Yo can nego ate a longer se lement for o r sale, e s all recommend - months hich gi es o me to find o r ne t propert Once o find o r ne propert , o can req est t o s e l e o r s a l e e a r l t o c o m p l e t e o r p rchase. A good agent ill help o nego ate these terms hen o are selling. This gi es o o p o n s t o m o e q i c k l h e n t h e r i g h t o p p o r t n i t a p p e a r s R a t h e r t h a n f e e l i n g press red to “make it ork,” o ’re in control of the process.

They have no hesitation in saying that they prefer village life to living in a suburb. Wendy says “Montville is so unique and I really hope it stays that way. It’s a mountain village and that’s why we came here. I love the massive canopies of the big dark tree tunnels.

I was sorry to say goodbye at the end of our talking marathon and, really, there is still so much to know about these two generous-hearted people. That’s life though, isn’t it? There is always so much more to everyone’s story.

Ul matel , selling before b ing shi�s the balance of po er in o r fa o r It replaces ncertaint ith confidence, stress ith strateg , and rgenc ith opport nit - p ng o in the strongest possible posi on to sec re o r ne t propert on o r terms.

TESTIMONIAL

showed excellent knowledge of the local area and wonderful commitment to ensuring that

and helpful

every way I would certainly go back to Roger and his team again should the need arise.

The team at Bald in La ers are a do n-to-earth, eas going, general la prac ce ho lo e assis ng people ith their legal req irements. Working from a Nambo r base ith an addi onal office in G mpie, e lo e to ncomplicate the legal jargon for o r clients.

Whether it is e plaining in simple lang age ho a Will orks or dissec ng a complicated famil la ma er. We also make con e ancing as simple as possible.

We're here to help and g ide o . O r fees are reasonable and fair. We do home isits on req est for clients ho cannot come into to n to meet s at the office.

We assist clients ith

Ÿ Wills, End ring Po er of A orne , and Ad ance Health Direc es

Ÿ Con e ancing

Ÿ Famil La

Ÿ Commercial la (leases, sale and p rchasing of b sinesses)

It is important to ha e o r Will c rrent and p-todate ith o r circ mstances. If o need help dra�ing o r Will to make s re it reflects o r ishes, contact s to assist o .

It is also er important to make s re o ha e a alid End ring Po er of A orne and o r appointment reflects o r ishes. We pro ide all o r clients ith a free Ad ance Health Direc e in hich o determine o r medical instr c ons hen o cannot erball pro ide them.

When Ian Russell sold 7.3 ha of his Western Avenue property behind Main Street to Councill in 1999 it was on the understanding that it be developed into a memorial park for his deceased wife, Jenny.

Situated at the head of Skene’s Creek, the land boasted a permanent spring and waterholes and the remnants of a Blackall Range mixed forest. It also had a strong First Nations and early settlement history.

Council realised that it had the potential to become a major environmental and cultural place in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Over the next two years, working closely with the Montville Community, Council Parks and Garden Officers developed criteria and explored ideas/concepts for how to develop the park.

“It was an opportune time for this to happen in Montville,” shared Doug Patterson of the Montville History Group," as the President of the Montville Village Association (MVA), the same Ian Russell, had established a Futures Subcommittee to draw up guidelines for future developments along Main Street.

“These included a two-storey limit to building heights with a preference for the top floor to be accommodation to maintain a village ambience.”

A Streetscape Committee was set up to design paved paths bordered by stone walls and gardens. The MVA therefore had the structures and the sensitivity to Montville’s social amenity to make a positive contribution to this planning process.

In 2001, the Master Plan for Russell Family Park was finalised, endorsed and adopted.

“The implementation of this Master Plan was slow,” said Doug. “Funding had to be allocated in budgets and it became apparent that not everyone in Council shared the vision.”

However, the infrastructure was undertaken. Where necessary, land was cleared and shaped and a start to clearing weed trees like Camphor Laurels and Privet was made; water flows managed, pond banks stabilised and paths laid with viewing platforms, seating and steps. Work commenced on the first stage of the planned amphitheatre - a wooden stage.

Then, the formation of the Sunshine Coast Regional Council in 2008 saw a dramatic slowdown in work as

Contact us at or admin@bald insla ers.com.a Visit us at Q een Street, Nambo r QLD Zasco Van Rooyen, Director .bald insla ers.com.a

previous plans and priorities were reviewed with greater competition for funding.

“Two different local groups helped keep some semblance of work progressing,” continued Doug. “The Russell Family Park Bushcare Group under the leadership of Dr Diana O’Conner and Barung President, Eric Anderson and the Streetscape Committee under the leadership of Ron Geyl and Craig Farmiloe.

“The Bushcare Group worked closely with Council officers to begin selecting and planting trees and shrubs endemic to the area around the NorthWest slopes of the park. The Streetscape Committee pushed for designs for an Amenities Block and low walls to use stone to complement what it had used along Main Street.”

Access to Council funding was becoming increasingly competitive, so the MVA invited the Bush Care Group to come under its umbrella so it could better support it and continued to lobby Council to continue implementing the Master Plan.

“The group working with Council and with the support of the Lions Club, the Montville School and a number of community volunteers, continued clearing, planting, watering and weeding and has revegetated large swathes of the Western, Northern and NorthEastern slopes of the park,” Doug explained.

“By the end of 2025, the group had planted over 10,000 Native plants to recreate a unique Montville ecosystem that once again sustains a biodiversity of wildlife including platypus. As well, the park also boasts a range of picnic and barbecue shelters, children’s playgrounds, and a generous carpark, but it remains unfinished.

“Two key elements foreshadowed in the 2001 Master Plan are missing. The amphitheatre is still unfinished and remains an exposed, deteriorating wooden stage not fit for purpose; while the central feature, a community arts centre, seems to no longer be under consideration.”

Despite future forums in 2014, 2019 and 2025 all calling for this to be built to support the growth of Montville as an Artisan Community, consecutive councils have failed to prioritise this as competing coastal projects win funding support.

After 25 years of prevaricating, it’s time for the council to finally honour the vision and finish Russell Family Park.

Waste not, Want not!

How to model sustainable living for the world stage, courtesy of Waste Action Maleny, and our kitchen bins!

by TRAVIS EARSMAN

Humanity is facing a difficult future. We are currently experiencing a mass-extinction event, a looming climate emergency as well as a biodiversity system collapse.

It is hard to know how to approach this on a global scale, but in Maleny a small group of people are doing whatever they can on a local level, in an effort to raise awareness and to effect change.

Ernie Marcum, Jenni Harmony and Ann Donoghoe of Waste Action Maleny (WAM) feel that Maleny is wellpositioned to be a model for sustainable living on the world stage.

The group has its roots in earlier groups such as Community Response to Climate Change, and Sustainable Maleny, groups that achieved many great things including the introduction of electric car-charging points in town.

Conversations grew amongst the members of these groups, and they formed Waste Action Maleny in order to address the ways in which we as a society view our waste.

Ernie Marcum explains, “Our goal currently is focused chiefly on waste management and awareness around what we as the consumer purchases and how we dispose of that waste.

“What is waste and how do you deal with it, particularly given the global set of problems. How do we deal with that locally, in our own lives, and in our households?”

Famed environmental activist David Suzuki stated that “in nature there is no such thing as waste. In nature, nothing is wasted; everything is recycled”

This is a concept that WAM are building on, simply because in the modern human world, this no longer holds true. We live in a world in which we extract resources from the environment, regardless of the consequences, in order to produce an unending carousel of products and services to sell for profit.

People consume these, and then are left with waste products which are not naturally recycled as per the Suzukian view of nature. The question then becomes what do we do with it?

So what exactly is the ‘action’ in Waste Action Maleny? What is their message to us all?

“WAM advocates building awareness around what we buy, how we consume and how we dispose of the waste from that,” says Jenni.

“How do we connect these hidden looming global calamities to our own day-to-day life? What can we really do on a small scale? How can we positively affect the global impact of humanity upon the planet whilst we try to get on with the business of living our lives.”

“Waste Action Maleny suggests that the real-world interface between us and the waste problems of the world at large is our very own humble kitchen bin,” Ann shares.

“The bin is our direct connection to the global set of problems, the things that threaten our children, and everything, everybody that comes after. It's directly connected to the climate emergency, the creation of carbon emissions, the creation of pollutants and toxins that are the cause of the global biodiversity crisis.”

Much of what WAM advocates can be summed up by this quote from Pete Seeger: “If it can’t be reduced, reused, repaired, rebuilt, refurbished, refinished, resold, recycled or composted, then it should be restricted, redesigned or removed from production.”

Our first step therefore, is to be aware of what we consume in the first place. Avoid buying materials

that create waste destined for landfill. Repair and reuse what we can, compost our food waste and follow the WAM recycling guide to help us recycle even the trickier items that cannot go into our recycling bins.

“We don't actually see recycling as the answer,” Jenni admits.

“It's better than throwing it straight in landfill, to get more uses out of it so you're not having to buy new all the time, but definitely, the best thing is not to use what's harmful.

“We need to ask ourselves what the life of any given item is likely to be, as well as any potential damage that it may do to the environment after it is disposed of.

“Beyond this, the next step is to ask ourselves what the alternatives are. If there are viable alternatives to potentially harmful products, simply buy the alternatives instead!”

Apart from educating and encouraging people to be more mindful of their waste, WAM is endeavouring to build and nurture the community, united by this awareness and positive intention.

To this end, they are regularly running workshops, hosting guest speakers, screening films and holding house concerts, all in the name of bringing fun and community to the conservation of sustainability.

In a perfect world, we would be living closer to nature and therefore David Suzuki’s view of waste would ring true. Perhaps this is our future, but it is not our current reality.

As long as we over-produce, overconsume and exploit the environment for personal and corporate gain, harmful waste will continue to be produced.

We need to have a unified and efficient way of dealing with it, individually, locally and ultimately, globally.

Community News

Choose active travel: set up healthy habits

Ride2School Day – Friday 20 March – is an opportunity for families to leave their car at home and enjoy an active start with their child, setting up lifelong healthy travel habits. Riding, walking, or scooting helps kids stay healthy, boosts confidence and eases congestion around schools. And for parents, it’s an easy, energising way to start the day together! Visit Council’s website for more information.

Two very different but equally exciting awards are now open

The Sunshine Coast Biosphere Awards 2026 celebrate the people, groups and businesses creating a more sustainable future in our Biosphere. Entries are also open nationwide for the prestigious Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2026, with a major $25,000 prize up for grabs. Artists working in various 2D mediums, as well as digital compositions and other new media, are encouraged to apply. Head to Council’s website for details on both awards.

So much more than books!

Enjoy eight libraries and a mobile library, plus DVDs, games, free WiFi, magazines, ebooks and more. Sunshine Coast Libraries offer free membership for residents. You can even borrow up to 50 items at once! Visit your local library to join for free today. And if you’d like to get more involved, Sunshine Coast Libraries are calling for new volunteers! Visit Sunshine Coast Libraries' website to register your interest.

Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting

View online on Council's website or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers on Thursday 26 March at 9am.

Are you a local artist looking for funding to grow your skills and practice?

Or do you have or have a bold, original idea for a highquality arts project? Perfect – you've come to the right place! You can apply for a RADF Grant. Up to $15,000 in funding is available to support creative projects and professional development across the Sunshine Coast. RADF Grant applications close 30 March. Visit Council's website for details and to apply.

What's coming up on the Sunshine Coast?

This Friday, through the weekend, 6–8 March, catch Queensland Oztag’s Senior State Cup at Sunshine Coast Stadium and explore Collectorama –Queensland’s biggest antique and vintage fair –at Nambour Showgrounds. From 16–22 March, celebrate Harmony Week with multicultural events that showcase the many cultures that make our community unique. And don’t miss the Local Contemporary Art Prize and the Brothers Gruchy exhibition at Caloundra Regional Gallery, with free parking now in Caloundra’s vibrant town centre. Visit Council’s website for details.

Get the latest Council news delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for the OurSC enewsletter.

sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

SunnyKids pathways

SunnyKids has strengthened its commitment to supporting vulnerable children and young people with the acquisition of Altitude Scholarships, which will now operate as a dedicated program within the SunnyKids organisation.

This integration enhances SunnyKids’ capacity to provide educational scholarships, mentorship and longterm opportunity pathways for students across South East Queensland. Altitude Scholarships will continue delivering its established program, now backed by the broader infrastructure, governance and community reach of SunnyKids

SunnyKids CEO Kathleen Hope said, “Education is one of the most powerful protective factors in a young person’s life. By bringing Altitude Scholarships into SunnyKids, we are strengthening our ability to walk alongside children and young people not only through crisis, but into a future defined by opportunity and achievement.”

Altitude Scholarships has built a strong reputation for providing financial support, mentoring and practical guidance to students facing disadvantage.

SunnyKids is a leader in child welfare and educational support in the region, with its holistic approach to breaking cycles of disadvantage through early intervention, family support and long-term opportunity creation. (Pictured: L-R Kathleen Hope, CEO SunnyKids, Stacy Wilmore, Principal of Noosa District State High School, and students Piper Mellin and Eli Gurnett.)

Nambour Museum seeking volunteers

Do you have a few hours to spare and would like to be of service in your local community? Nambour Museum is seeking volunteers of all ages to help keep this muchloved historical icon up and running.

Men and women of all ages and skill-sets are most welcome to assist with tasks including reception, visitor engagement, maintaining exhibits, research and computer work, gardening and general maintenance.

While the Museum is open from Wednesday to Friday from 1pm to 4pm and on Saturday from 10am till 3pm, volunteers can opt to spend all or part of the day helping out.

The Museum is located at 18 Mitchell Street, Nambour, and showcases the rich history of the local district through permanent collections, special exhibits and community events.

Contact the Museum on 5441 2119 or email nambourmuseum@gmail.com to register your interest or find out more.

Glasshouse Orchid Society

The Glasshouse Orchid Society is thrilled to kick off their 50th anniversary year with something special — their inaugural Autumn Show, for one day only!

For the first time ever, they are bringing their celebration to the heart of the Glasshouse Mountains at the Glasshouse Community Hall. Expect stunning blooms, passionate growers, and plants for sale, as everyone involved celebrates five decades of loving orchids.

Saturday April 11, from 8am – 4pm, free entry, Glasshouse Community Hall, 8 Coonowrin Road Glasshouse Mountains. For more information visit glasshouseorchids.com.au

Caring for catchment

Seen from the Maleny-Montville Road, Lake Baroon is a picturesque feature of the Hinterland. It was a place of enormous cultural significance to the Jinibara People where the generous harvest of the Bunya trees brought together First Nations People from northern NSW to K’gari for important rituals and ceremonies.

The last Bunya gathering was held in 1897 as colonisation proceeded. The tradition is kept alive today by some First Nations people when the harvest is abundant.

Beneath the waters of the Lake that we see today, farms were established in what was then called Baroon Pocket. They were generously supplied with water from the Obi Obi Creek and its many tributaries flowing down the deeply incised surrounding gorges. As early as 1902, the enormous amount of water flowing down gave rise to ideas about a dam being built. The concept of a dam with electricity generation was first suggested in 1922.

It was to take until 1985 for construction of the Lake Baroon dam to start and in 1989 it overflowed for the first time. A year later the first algal bloom occurred in the Lake, creating a scum which discoloured the water and was smelly as it decayed.

This was the catalyst for a small group of residents to get together to try to improve the health of the catchment, which led to the formation of the Lake Baroon Catchment Care Group in 1992. It was an unlikely combination of farmers and what were then regarded as “greenies”.

The success of this catchment group has been remarkable and its persistence over more than 30 years is celebrated in a new book by Elaine Green titled Lake Baroon: Caring for Catchment.

The story of Lake Baroon Catchment Care Group is both inspirational and interesting, putting our local history into a new perspective. The book is available at Rosetta Books in Maleny.

BULK BILLING

Bulk billing is now becoming more accessible for all Australians. The Australian Government has expanded eligibility for MBS bulk billing incentives and established the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program, meaning more GPs are now offering bulk billed appointments for Medicareeligible patients.

ABOUT BULK BILLING

Bulk billing means you don’t pay anything when you see a GP, because Medicare covers the full cost of the service. This allows Medicare-eligible patients to access free health care, making it easier to get the care you need, when you need it.

All Medicare-eligible patients can access bulk billed appointments at general practices that offer bulk billing but not all GPs bulk bill all of the time.

General practices participating in the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) will bulk bill every Medicare-eligible patient, for every eligible service. This could save you and your family hundreds of dollars a year in out-of-pocket costs.

Before you see a doctor, it’s a good idea to check if they are a Bulk Billing Practice using the map on the health.gov.au/ bulk-billing web page, or asking if they will bulk bill you or if there will be any out-of-pocket costs. It is up to the individual doctor to decide if a patient is

HOW TO ACCESS

Step 1: Check if your GP

Find a bulk billed clinic near you by visiting the map on health.gov.au/ bulk-billing. Participating practices in the BBPIP will also display bulk billing signage at the clinic. If your GP is not participating in BBPIP, you can contact the practice to confirm whether they will bulk bill your service.

Step 2: Visit your GP

Remember to take your Medicare card to your appointment.

Step 3: Your GP submits a claim directly to Medicare for the service provided

To allow for this, you give your consent by signing an Assignment of Benefit form.

Step 4: Medicare pays your doctor directly

So you don’t need to pay anything at your appointment.

GP services that are commonly bulk billed are: consultations, including telehealth services; GP chronic condition management plans and reviews; mental health treatment plans, and health assessments.

It’s up to your doctor to decide whether they bulk bill a service. However, at Medicare Bulk Billing Practices, all eligible services are bulk billed for Medicare - eligible patients.

WHAT IF MY DOCTOR DOES NOT BULK BILL?

If you have attended a private or mixed-billing clinic, you may not be bulk billed. This means you will have to pay for your services at the time of your appointment. If a Medicare benefit applies to the services, you can claim this amount back from Medicare.

Paying upfront: You pay the full fee and then claim a refund from Medicare for the service. For more information about getting Medicare benefits, visit the Services Australia website.

To view all clinics, including mixed billing and privately billed clinics, visit Healthdirect.gov.au.

Collectorama

Collectorama is an antique, vintage and retro fair, which also helps reduce our ecological footprint through recycling and reusing in the best way possible! Celia Bonica recently took over the business from Tom and Laurie Wall, so we thought we’d touch base for this month’s Q&A.

Where were you born and raised, and what brought you to the Sunny Coast/Hinterland?

I came to Brisbane from Melbourne via Sydney, and have been here 20 years. I’ve been an antique dealer for that long, and started my own fair four years on the north side of Brisbane (Northside Collectors Market), then a craft fair (Craft-o-Rama Destash), and now Collectorama as well.

When did you begin Collectorama and what inspired you to start?

I've been a dealer at Collectorama on and off since 2008, but it was Tom and Laurie Wall who started it in 1990. They held Collectorama at the Gold Coast, the Brisbane RNA Showgrounds and Conention Centre, and always said they loved the Nambour Showgrounds, especially as they didn’t need to travel! Tom and Laurie have fully passed the business on to me, and they will attend as stallholders in the future.

What do you think sets Collectorama apart from other vintage fairs?

Collectorama is the best because it has everything for everyone- it's a great day out whether with family or friends. It's a destination, a meeting place, where everyone will find something they love plus enjoy the thrill of the hunt.

People of all ages and tastes are catered for, from the youngest child to the fussiest collector. The fair attracts dealers from all over South East Queensland and beyond.

Customers know that some dealers keep aside their best and rarest only for this fair, while others bring the bargains- this mixture gives Collectorama the joy of the unexpected find, every time.

What is the most useful advice you could give someone visiting Collectorama, either with items or as a potential

Allow plenty of time to look around – there are over 150 stalls! Ask any dealer to help you find a particular item for your collection, and you can ask about provenance when you purchase an item. Many dealers are very experienced and knowledgeable, and are always happy to help.

First-time visitors to Collectorama are advised to arrive early, and a bring a ‘nana trolley’ or large tote bag, because you can rely on Collectorama to hand you that thing you never knew you needed!

Remember that this is a cash-focused event. Many sellers won't have card facilities, entry is cash only, and paying cash might get you a better price if you ask politely.

We are a fully accessible all-weather venue with most stalls undercover, ATMs and free onsite parking. Coffee, treats and lunch are available, and we have a variety of food trucks.

Check the Collectorama Fair Facebook page or Instagram for updates.

Makers of Montville Market

Many visitors to Montville Market would have met Markeeta of Forest Garden Soaps, who has been a regular for the last five years, assisted by her teenage son, Xavier.

Asked about why she loves the markets, Markeeta replies, “The people! There is such a wonderful sense of community from the volunteers and market managers, the customers and other stallholders.

“It never feels like work, more like a social occasion and I absolutely love the conversations I have each month with people about natural products, gardening, organics, herbalism, building and more!

“And of course I have to mention the delicious pancakes made by the volunteers in the kitchen each

“This started with calendula balm, sunscreen and insect-deterrent and that led to soap-making. I enjoyed it so much that I turned it into a business. Particular favourites with my customers are exfoliating pink Himalayan salt soap, calendula lip balm and comfrey balm.”

The name Forest Garden Soaps is inspired by Markeeta’s garden, where she grows many of the ingredients used in the soap and balms.

“I want my customers to have transparency around what's in their products and I can provide this when I have grown the plants and herbs myself, using organic

Markeeta became interested in making soap and other natural skincare after her son Xavier was born.

“When my son was born he suffered from life threatening allergies; so many everyday products were unsafe for him. Reading ingredient panels opened my eyes to how many toxic chemicals we are exposed to on a daily basis so I began making comparable products using safe, natural ingredients for him.

Soap-making is a slow process with soap needing to cure, and balms being infused with olive oil for over three months.

Markeeta has recently completed her dream project of a straw bale soap studio next to her house. As the owner-builder, she designed the building and built much of it herself over the last two-and-a-half years with help from her son, friends and a talented renderer. With walls that are 42 cm thick, it keeps to a perfect 23 degrees through the hottest of days and is fire resistant.

“It has been one of the hardest yet most rewarding experiences I have had, but I’m delighted with the results. I’ll be able to make even more soap for the market, which I look forward to every month. Wonderful people, location, and … pancakes!”

The Montville Market is on the second Saturday of each month 7.30am -12pm.

A MURDER WAITING TO HAPPEN…

Sunshine Coast local Georgia Harper has completed a deeply topical new crime novel set in 1990s Sunshine Coast hinterland - Dove, which will be published on March 31 and available from all good bookstores and online.  Aprovocativequestion.Acommunityonedge.Amurder waitingtohappen.

After a violent confrontation with the man next door, Dove paints a daring question on the front wall of her Sunshine Coast hinterland farm: 'What would you do if you had a whole day on earth free of men?'

When tourists and local women answer by writing their pent-up frustrations, fears and confessions, it strikes a nerve with the local blokes. With nowhere to hide from exposed secrets and shameful legacies, tensions boil up, just as the town hits the headlines over a missing teen. As media scrutiny grows and Dove faces anonymous threats, she fears her secret romance might harbour its own hidden dangers.

Join the Red Room Soiree in Maleny to celebrate the launch of Dove on Friday March 27 - 5.30pm for a 6pm start. Meet Georgia, in conversation with Rosetta Books' Lea Dodd. The Red Room is accessed via the carpark behind Rosetta Books, 30 Maple Street, Maleny. Entry is $5, which includes a welcome glass of wine and cheese/fruit platter. Purchase tickets in-store or online: https://rosettabooks.com.au/p/georgia-harper-booklaunch. Please use EVENT as shipping option for online bookings.

OUTSPOKEN 

The 2026 series of Outspoken conversations begins with former journalist and State Premier, Bob Carr, speaking about his new memoir, BringBackYesterday

In October 2023 Bob’s wife of more than fifty years, Helena, died suddenly. In this memoir he records his attempt to deal with his grief, switching between the present time, with him pacing the night-time streets of Sydney, and reflections on his shared past with Helena, including ruminations on travel, conversations and cultural curiosity.

Books&Publishing puts it this way: ‘There is a gentle melancholy running through Bring Back Yesterday, but it is never indulgent…a memoir that feels possible only after a full life that has been well lived.’

Bob Carr was the longest serving Premier of NSW. A committed conservationist, he used his term in power to create literally hundreds of National Parks, preserving vast areas of wilderness. He later held the position of Foreign Minister under Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd. He is the author of four books, including TheDiaryofaForeignMinister. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear one of Australia’s most remarkable men in conversation. Introducing author to be confirmed. Maleny Community Centre, Tuesday March 31, 6 for 6.30pm, tickets from outspokenmaleny.com

ART ON YABBA OPENING

A vibrant new chapter for the Mary Valley arts community began on February 28, with the much-anticipated opening of the Art on Yabba Fine Art Gallery.  Located in the heart of Imbil at the Mary Valley Arts and Cultural Hub, this purpose-built gallery promises to be a long-term cultural asset for artists and art lovers across the region.

The opening marks the unveiling of the gallery’s inaugural exhibition Unveiled, Members’ Exhibition, a celebration of work by emerging and established artists from the Mary Valley and wider Gympie region. The gallery will be open Thursday to Sunday, 10am to 2pm each week.

Art on Yabba is an initiative of Mary Valley Artslink, a not-for-profit community arts organisation, dedicated to growing culture and creative opportunity across the valley.

The Unveiled, Members’ Exhibition debut is particularly significant. It showcases the creative diversity and collective spirit of the gallery’s contributing artists, offering a broad spectrum of styles, themes and techniques.

Works range from landscape paintings and evocative figurative pieces to experimental mixed-media creations, reflecting both personal vision and a shared connection to place.

Whether you’re an avid collector, a curious first-time gallery visitor, or someone who simply appreciates artistic expression, the opening of Art on Yabba promises an inspiring and memorable experience. (Pictured: Lawnikanis; Miniature Teapot.)

INTERNATIONAL PIANO DAY

On Sunday March 29, Lucas Parklands will celebrate International Piano Day by presenting a recital by Queensland’s brilliant young pianist, Rueben Tsang.

Rumours have long circulated about an outstanding pianist born in Cairns and referred to as ‘a wonder child’ - Reuben will make his Sunshine Coast concert debut at Montville’s Lucas Parklands.

March 29 is International Piano Day – it’s the 88th day of the year and pianos have 88 keys.

Reuben, who has been praised widely for his ‘technical wizardry and versatility’, will perform at Lucas Parklands at Montville on Sunday March 29 at 3pm. His repertoire will include pieces from Mozart, Chopin and Liszt. The concerts continue this season with Italian pianist Ida Pelliccioli performing her recital ‘Introspections' on Sunday April 19, 2pm; and Konstantin Shamray and Daniel Le performing Racmaninov piano concertos 1 and 2 on Sunday May 24, 2pm. For enquiries, phone 0409623228. For more information visit: lucasparklands.com.au

UPON, ABOVE AND BEYOND THE EDGE

Cate (Catherine) Day and Heather Gall, both Sunshine Coast Hinterland artists, are delighted to be collaborating on a Regional Art Exhibition at the Roma on Bungil Gallery, the Regional Gallery in Roma, from 17 April-13 June, 2026!

Titled Upon,AboveandBeyondtheEdge, They will present a collection of artworks inspired by the natural landscape and birdlife found on the edges of and beyond the Great Dividing Range.

Cate and Heather love where they live, yet they share the experience of feeling a close connection to regional and remote Queensland, having both also lived and worked ‘Beyond the Edge’! While Heather finds inspiration comes from both the natural landscape itself and also from the character and colour of our Australian birdlife within their natural landscape, Cate’s contemporary, expressionist landscapes portray the light and energy of time and place.

Why not take a road trip to Roma to experience their exhibition, from the Coast and beyond the Great Divide?! The Exhibition opening will take place at the Roma on Bungil Gallery on April 17 from 5.30pm.

LIVE AND FABULOUS

The Jazz & Blues Collective is proud to present The Mark Pradella Band featuring soul vocalist Peter Vance in Live and Fabulous, a vibrant afternoon concert celebrating groove, soul and musical excellence.

Taking place on Sunday March 29 from 1.30-4pm at the Millwell Road Community Centre, Maroochydore, this special performance showcases music from the band’s albums Off the Rack Live and That’s the Way of the World, alongside fresh new material.

Audiences can expect a diverse and engaging musical journey through jazz, swing, blues, funk, Latin and soul styles.

Band leader Mark Pradella is a highly respected woodwinds player (tenor, alto and soprano saxophone, clarinet), arranger and percussionist, known for his expressive playing and dynamic arrangements. Joined by the fabulous Peter Vance on vocals, the band brings together warmth, groove and polished musicianship in a show that balances sophistication with pure enjoyment.

This concert will feature a scaled-down band format, allowing space for expressive performances, tight grooves and intimate musical moments—combined with stage fun and audience connection.  BYO food and drink ,; there is a coffee van on site. Book via stickytickets.com.au/jazzandbluescollective

FANTASY TRILOGY 

A magical encounter with owls in the foothills of the Glass House Mountains is the inspiration behind author Jayne McIntyre's debut middlegrade fantasy trilogy, The Feathers of Farwood and TheGrippsCurse, releasing nationally on March 17

The first book in the series will be available across Australia, including at Rosetta Books in Maleny. Jayne plans to visit local schools and libraries across the Sunshine Coast and beyond to engage with young readers on the craft of storytelling, and weaving interesting animal facts into fiction.

The Feathers of Farwood and TheGrippsCurse follows the story of Eva Feather, whose father is transformed into an owl by the dreaded Gripps. Her mother whisks Eva and her sisters away to the mysterious Australian town of Farwood, a place where legends, tales, and whispers come to life. With the help of her newfound friend, Harvey, Eva races against the clock to find a cure for their feathery, family curse, before she loses her dad to his owlish form forever. Not to mention her own feathers are starting to show… Jayne’s up-close encounter with owls (including: Eastern Barn Owl, Masked Owl, Barking Owl, and Boobook) thanks to local business Raptor Vision in Beerburrum last year deeply influenced the authenticity of the birds' behaviours and their environment in the story.

“There’s something truly magical about watching an owl take flight,” Jayne said. “I wanted every glide, gaze, and beak click to feel real on the page.”

From the book by Cheryl Strayed | Adapted for the stage by Nia Vardalos | Directed by Kathryn Barnes | Music by Ruby Stone By Arrangement with ORiGiN™ Theatrical On Behalf of Samuel French A Concord Theatricals Company www.malenyplayers.org

Letters

John Pirie

I would like to formally share the news of the death of my husband John Pirie. John was a chiropractor in Maleny and the Sunshine Coast for over 20 years. He had previously been in practice down on the coast, but was very happy to semiretire and continue working in and with the people of Maleny.

After a short time in palliative care in Maleny Hospital where he was so very well looked after, he farewelled us all and had a very peaceful passing. He was okay with dying, appreciating his life and his loving family - although was slightly bummed at missing the Winter Olympics!

At his request there will be no funeral. We, the family, are grateful for the mountain of memories and stories that will last forever in our hearts.

Pippa Pirie

Make refuse centres free

Hello!

I have enjoyed reading this edition of the HT Times. Thank you.

On page 22 the article about Crack Down on Illegal dumping…I am wondering if anyone else is wondering why the council/Crisafulli government doesn’t just make the refuse centres free?

This seems like a much simpler way that the punitive measures that they are rolling out.

Surely I am not alone in this observation! $17.7 millionholy!

Meg Cooper, Booroobin

A delight

Dear Victoria,

Congratulations on the February edition of HT. It’s crowded with great stories - including the Ant’s Journey by a 9-year-old author! A delight.

Name and contact supplied

Save this glorious tree!

Remember the early advertising for ‘The Enclave’ development in Maleny? It featured rolling grassland and a perfect picnic spot shaded by an enormous old Crows Ash. That native tree is still there, healthy and over half a century old, but will be cut down soon as a newly approved development creates 15 blocks right beside the 63 already

LETTERS, LEUNIG AND LIGHT

Relax, read a few letters, enjoy a crossword and cartoon, and maybe put pen to paper (finger to keyboard) yourself! We would love you to share your thoughts and experiences with us and HT readers. Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au, and please include your name, email/address and location. Letters may be edited a little if space is tight. As we are a monthly, please be aware we are unable to print date-sensitive letters.

underway.  (OPW25/0372 and OPW22/0166 on the Council website)

This week, as massive earthworks began beside Tallowwood Street, some residents received notice from South East Civil contactors with contact details for any questions, but neither the project manager nor our local councillor could tell me if that huge Crows Ash would be retained. After much effort, I found the answer in the Council’s assessment report (RAL22/0087) and it was disheartening reading.

The report notes that “the loss of mature native trees does not meet the acceptable outcomes of the Biodiversity, waterways and wetlands overlay code, the Maleny local plan code, and the Landscape code” but goes on to say “the provision of native street trees and landscape features [will] compensate the loss of existing mature trees on the site.”

To add insult to injury, the report also details concerns about development on steep land with landslide risk “predominantly in the vicinity of the mapped waterway that traverses the site” and notes that “the extent of earthworks does not meet the acceptable outcomes of the Maleny local plan code, and does not propose to use elevated construction or stepped (split level) building forms as required to meet the acceptable outcomes of the Landslide hazard and steep land overlay code. The extent of cut and fill also does not meet the acceptable outcomes of the Works, services and infrastructure code.”

Nevertheless, with limited conditions, the proposal was recommended for approval.  No wonder developers push the boundaries!

Was there ever a point at which a better development proposal could have been negotiated? One more suited to the sloping site and waterway? One with fewer, less cramped blocks and a park to preserve that glorious tree? Perhaps then the advertising for ‘The Enclave’ would not have been such hypocrisy.

Janice Parker, Maleny

ChatGPT-free

Dear Victoria

I loved your story on Snake Catcher Dan, what a character! You captured him well, and his love for snakes and nature.

I also really enjoyed the stories from Louise Tasker, Travis Earsman and Cate Patterson. It’s very obvious you all care about your subjects, and there is not a whiff or AI or ChatGPT there – what a refreshing change from so many publications these days!

Keep up the great work for us humans.

Belinda J, Woombye

Across

1 Depressions (4)

3 Type of pasta often eaten with cheese (8)

9 Insanitary (7)

10 Musical speeds (5)

11 Roles (anag.) (5)

12 Takes into custody (7)

13 Accuse; run at (6)

15 Selected (6)

17 Approve or support (7)

18 Complete; absolute (5)

20 Well cared for (5)

21 Restrain (7)

22 White flakes in the hair (8)

23 Mineral powder (4)

Another development in Maleny

With all the developments happening on the Range these days, yet another one is being built in Maleny. Unlike the others and although close to town, this one won’t be noisy or an inconvenience to anyone. It won’t damage the existing environment nor will it be an eyesore. It will provide housing, shelter and food markets for the most vulnerable members of our community, often overlooked and rarely considered when it comes to developments.

Last autumn my landlords, with the expertise of Hinterland Bush Link and a spade of volunteers, toiled to prepare the paddock behind the house I rent. There, they planted 1100 native rainforest trees that will soon grow into a communal forest stretching down to the gully and up to the little forested creek beyond.

Not only will it provide food and shelter for some of our scaled and furry locals, it will also be a place for passing feathered travellers to stop, stretch their legs and grab a bite to eat before getting on their way again.

Personally I am thrilled to see a development like this happening in Maleny; instead of flattening the existing environment as most developments do, this one does the opposite. It will be multi-storied, of solid construction, completely sustainable and low maintenance.

It is made from high quality renewable materials, locally sourced and Australian made. It will be affordable with no fees or council red tape, no tax collectors, building inspectors or stamp duty and no entanglements with banks or real estates.

This is the start of what will become another magnificent cathedral of nature and be of enormous value to the community, providing not only food and shelter but reverence and inspiration for generations to come.

My landlords wish to remain anonymous but I want to acknowledge the help they have given to a number of people in the community by providing affordable housing. When asked why they would do such a thing their answer was admirable; the community had been good to them and they saw where they could help.

The new development now under construction is a legacy for their grandchildren, an example for them of what can be done in both thought and deed against the fear of a changing planet, with an understanding of the importance of nature so essential for our survival yet often taken for granted.

So on behalf of all of us, especially the true locals, our native wildlife, I’d like to thank my landlords. May there be many more like you.

Greg Reid

Down

1 Verified again (6-7)

2 Fills a suitcase (5)

4 Yearly (6)

5 Reconsideration; item added later (12)

6 Diffusion of molecules through a membrane (7)

7 Peculiar or individual (13)

8 Cooling device (12)

14 Insect body segment (7)

16 Trust or faith in (6)

19 Leg bone (5)

Unscramble the letters in the shaded squares to reveal a themed word:

Quick Quote

"Saruman believes it is only great power that can hold evil in

check. But that is not what I've found. I've found that it is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay. Simple acts of kindness and love.”

— Gandalf (The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey)

Poets

ELUSIVE DREAMS

Dreams of a clifftop home by the sea

Is it for you - or is it for me?

Surrounded by colour as the sun brightly glistens

She stares out her window and quietly listens

Azure blue water now soothing her soul

As she looked round her pristine surrounds

She felt so at ease as dreams touched her heart

For this was where magic abounds

Dreams of such beauty held deeply within

As thoughts were embracing her mind

For only a dream can release such emotion And make it so easy to find

Mystical visions appeared in the sky

Feeling a profound sense of peace

Thoughts of a world where everyone smiled And anger forever would cease

Her heart missed a beat as the sound of a harp

Began playing and touching her soul

A rainbow appeared and coloured the sky

As bellbirds were chirping up high

CORNER

Leunig Maggie

Bad Joke of the Month

My wife caught me standing on the bathroom scale, sucking in my stomach.

“Ha! That’s not going to help,” she said. “Sure, it does,” I said. “It’s the only way I can see the numbers.”

Back to School

With kids back at school for 2026, the new Queensland Government is delivering back to school relief for families.

Queensland kids have the right tools to help them on their education journey, and every parent and carer is getting the backing they need through a range of initiatives and programs designed to make the school year easier.

The new Queensland Government is doing its bit to ease cost-of-living pressures on Queensland families with the Back to School Boost providing $100

for every primary school student to assist with school-related costs.

The $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers are also supporting families while helping kids aged five to 17 get active and play their favourite sport.

Safer classrooms are giving students the best opportunity to learn. The successful Behaviour Boost program is backed by teachers and principals,

with permanent funding to improve behaviour and better support school staff in Queensland schools.

Free Kindy gives kids the chance to explore, play and learn while laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

With 15 new schools, and upgrades across the state, Queenslanders can be confident their kids will receive a world-class education.

Free Kindy giving kids the chance to explore, play and learn

The new Queensland Government is delivering Free Kindy, giving kids the chance to explore, play and learn while laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Designed for the year before starting school, kindy helps children develop important early learning skills, build confidence, and enhance their overall wellbeing.

It also develops a love of learning, fosters confidence, and builds social skills, preparing children for a smooth transition to school.

Free Kindy gives eligible children 15 hours per week for up to 40 weeks per year in a program approved by the Queensland Government ensuring cost is not a barrier to kindy access, and relieving cost- of - living pressures for families. To be eligible for Free Kindy, children need to be at least four years old by 30 June in the year before they start Prep.

Since the program’s introduction, kindy enrolments around Queensland have risen by almost 10 per cent. All Free Kindy programs are Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority accredited and delivered by qualified early childhood teachers.

Back to School Boost for Queensland families

The new Queensland Government has helped ease cost-of-living pressures for families, with the Back to School Boost.

Every primary-school-aged child across Queensland’s state, Catholic, and independent schools receives a $100 credit to help ease costs for families.

Parents can choose to use it on the cost of items or activities offered by the school, such as camps, excursions, incursions and extracurricular activities, stationery, uniforms or excellence programs.

“The Back to School Boost is a welcome relief for our family,” said Kristy Talbot,

mum of a nine - year - old daughter attending a state school. “Knowing we can use the $100 credit for school essentials like uniforms and excursions makes a big difference to our budget.”

For state school students, a $100 credit is applied to the student’s school account. The non-state school sector is responsible for the administration of the $100, including how it can be applied to reduce fees or other related school costs.

The Back to School Boost is provided once per year. All students in primary school (Prep -Year 6) are eligible, including children who attend a special school or children enrolled in home education.

It’s just one of the ways the new Queensland Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, with the $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers also helping ease cost-of-living pressures on Queensland families.

Game changing sports vouchers

Round 2 of Play On!

Sports Vouchers is providing ongoing cost-of-living relief for Queensland families while encouraging children to participate in their favourite sports.

F amilies with children aged five to 17 can apply for $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers, which can be used to cover the costs of memberships, registration, or participation fees, making it more affordable for Queensland kids to get involved in sports. Activity providers and sports clubs can also register to be part of the program.

There’s a dedicated allocation for children living with a disability and for kids living in regional and remote areas to even the playing field. Regional and remote Queenslanders will get their share of vouchers, reducing barriers and growing opportunities for children and young people living with a disability. Helping kids get active

Behaviour Boost delivering safer classrooms

The new Queensland Government’s Behaviour Boost initiative for state schools is delivering safer classrooms to give all students the best opportunity to learn.

to fund professional development grants of up to $2000 for school staff specialising in behaviour management.

World-class education facilities for Queensland kids

T he new Queensland Government is ensuring Queensland kids have access to world-class education facilities, with projects being delivered across Queensland inside and outside of the classroom.

The Government is investing $1 billion this financial year in South East Queensland schools for new classrooms, specialist learning areas, multi-purpose halls, sporting facilities, and outdoor learning and play areas.

Projects include new learning spaces at Coomera State Special School with 14 new classrooms and ancillary spaces to support the growing school community.

A new campus for Prep and Year 1 students at Pallara State School including 22 new classrooms, an administration building, a tuckshop with covered area, an amenities building, refurbishment of the existing resource centre and sports hall, a facilities maintenance building, staff car park and parent car park.

Projects at Bremer State High School, Haigslea State School and Claremont Special School will deliver new classrooms, playgrounds and specialist technology areas.

Schools have the flexibility to use their funding to engage behaviour specialists, implement tailored strategies, and build staff capability to address behavioural challenges quickly and effectively.

To further strengthen Behaviour Boost, an additional $2.5 million has been allocated

Behaviour Boost, which provides $45 million annually to support behaviour management strategies in state schools, has been widely supported by principals and teachers, and is now a permanent feature of Queensland’s education system.

Supported by the new Queensland Government’s $21.9 billion Education Budget, Queensland schools are being equipped to deliver safer, more focused learning environments for all students, teachers, and staff.

Leichhardt State School used the funding to build staff capacity and strengthen relationships across the school community and has seen significant improvements in behaviour, with incidents down by more than 45 per cent.

Harnessing the power of virtual education

The innovative Queensland Virtual Academy (QVA) is harnessing the power of virtual education and bringing livestreamed lessons in specialist subjects into classrooms across the state.

The QVA removes the boundaries faced by regional and rural students whose schools do not offer the specialist subjects needed for them to pursue their chosen field of study or career.

Programs available through the QVA include specialist mathematics, senior physics, Japanese, and senior psychology.

The Queensland Secondary Principals Association (QSPA) said that the program has “enormous potential to scale up offerings and broaden learning opportunities for students,” adding that secondary

schools have been “actively involved in piloting this much-needed initiative.”

STEM enrichment programs are also on offer for students in Years 5 to 9 who show an aptitude for STEM.

Providing specialist subjects through the QVA helps students pursue their passions in their local school, and creates a pipeline of skilled and talented graduates in regional communities.

The QVA benefited almost 8000 students in 2025, including 991 from 61 South East Queensland schools.

Jobs gateway widened for young Queenslanders

Queensland students can explore careers in priority industries like never before thanks to the Queensland Government’s Gateway to Industry Schools Program.

The initiative offers students across Years 7 to 12 access to explore opportunities in agribusiness, advanced manufacturing, tourism and hospitality, and more, with students able to connect with their first career pathway and gain skills in priority industries.

The program was delivered in more than 340 Queensland schools last year and has reached more than 54,000 students since 2022, ensuring a pipeline of skilled workers and better job prospects for the future.

The Government’s investment of more than $11 million extends the program over three years across a range of priority industries until January 2028, including automotive, aerospace, community services, health, information and communication technology, minerals and energy, screen and media, and building and construction.

Koala’s remarkable rehabilitation

The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is urging the public that Trauma Season is ‘far from over’, with recordbreaking patient numbers sparking growing concerns for the final weeks of summer.

September to February is the busiest and most confronting time of year for the veterinary team, marked by increased wildlife movement as animals search for food, water, shelter, and mates.

According to Dr. Ludo Valenza, Hospital Manager and Veterinarian at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, warmer weather poses a serious threat to roaming animals.

“Admissions are rising every year. The 2025-2026 season has recorded almost 2000 more patients than the previous season,” said Dr. Ludo.

Flower the koala remains in care, admitted to the Wildlife Hospital in December 2025. After being hit by a car in Central Queensland, she was driven for more than ten hours to their state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility.

“Flower is a special patient here at the Wildlife Hospital, as she was rescued and transported by my mum to receive urgent treatment. She had sustained severe facial trauma, including a fractured jaw and a ruptured eye,” said Dr. Ludo.

healing wonderfully since coming into our care.”

“Thankfully, the position of the fracture allowed it to heal naturally over time. Flower was placed on fluids, received pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication, and was looked after in the ICU during the first few weeks of her recovery,” she said.

“While Flower has lost vision in her ruptured left eye, her right eye remains perfectly healthy, and she has been

Flower is currently spending time in a large rehabilitation area within the Wildlife Hospital, where she can practice climbing tall eucalyptus trees and adjust to her one-eyed ailment in a safe and controlled

“Once she has spent approximately one month in the rehabilitation space, she’ll be released back into the wild in Central Queensland,” said Dr. Ludo. “Koalas are classified as an endangered species here in Queensland and New South Wales, making it critically important to save every life and preserve their population for future generations.”

Motorways remain one of the leading causes of injury throughout Trauma Season, as cars frequently collide with animals crossing busy roads. Motorists are urged to slow down during dawn and dusk to help protect our native wildlife, particularly near bushland or forestry areas.

The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, helping sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. To find out more about their work and donate, visit wildlifewarriors.org.au.

CHANGE HIS WORLD – ADOPT BENTLEY

At five years old, Bentley (pictured) found himself in a bit of a pickle when he was surrendered as a stray. We don’t know exactly what his life looked like before, but we do know he’s the smoochiest, most gentle and affectionate chap. Bentley is the undisputed king of head bops at our cattery. He’s a purring machine who will happily accept all the pats and chin rubs you have to offer.

He’s the kind of cat who just wants to be where you are. He’ll curl up beside you at night and greet you when you walk through the door, ready to hear all about your day. He’s calm, well mannered and will fit seamlessly into your life.

Bentley does have FIV which is an auto immune condition generally spread through deep bite wounds. FIV cats can live long, healthy and happy lives. They just need routine vet care like you'd give any other cat.

The only requirement is that he must be a single cat and rehomed as an indoor only companion. That works for him because quite honestly, all he wants is your company and your love.

NRight now, 4Paws Animal Rescue is seeing an influx of adult cats being surrendered into their care. They’re beautiful, loving animals who just need a second chance at life. While kittens and younger cats are snapped up quickly, older cats like Bentley can wait months for someone to notice them.

If you’re not quite ready to adopt, perhaps you could consider fostering instead? Fostering quite literally saves lives and gives cats like Bentley the opportunity to decompress in a safe and loving home environment while they wait for their forever family.

We believe every rescue animal deserves a new home and a new life, regardless of age. If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a feline friend into your home, perhaps you might consider Bentley?

Adoption applications for Bentley or any of the beautiful cats and dogs at 4Paws can be submitted from their webpage. Please visit 4pawsanimalrescue.org.au for more information.

In the Wild

Feeling Fruity

ot only does Forest Heart stock the best range of bush foods on the Sunshine Coast, but we’ve also got a great range of exotic fruit trees too, for your orchard and backyard. We believe a key way that we can reduce our negative impacts on the natural environment is by not only returning local native plants to our gardens, farms and the wider landscape but also taking responsibility for some of our own food production and that’s where some exotic fruit and nut trees can help!

Harvesting your own produce is fun, healthy and convenient. There’s nothing quite like popping out into the backyard to harvest some fresh produce. For example, grab a fresh lime and add tang to a salad or fish. Harvest fresh from your trees the fruit of Pomegranate, Oranges, Mandarin,

Carambola, Figs, Pawpaw, Tamarillo, Avocado, Tropical Apple or Sapote’s - to name just a few.

For novelty value you could try the Miracle Fruit, these small fruits aren’t a taste sensation in themselves but they baffle your tastebuds for a brief period and sour becomes sweet! Closer to ground level you could try Thai ginger and turmeric - great fresh flavours for spicing up a curry.

Back to bush foods and the bounty of this land is considerable. Bush food must haves that you should plant in your yard include: Midyim (Austromyrtus dulcis) a great low growing shrub/groundcover with attractive weeping foliage and tasty white berries, fresh from the bush – kids love them.

Lillypilly’s (Syzygium spp.) are all edible, if you are hungry enough, but from our

local ones the Riberry S. Luehmannii, is not only bountiful, but tastes good raw and even glazed in a sugar syrup. Plum Pine (Podocarpus elatus) produce a juicy succulent, plum like fruit with a pleasant pine taste and again, fantastic for jams and syrups.

Bunya (Araucaria bidwillii) is last but not least, to be discussed. These are serious food-producing trees. A favourite food of First People’s from South-East Queensland and beyond, from time immemorial - and some of us are only just beginning to catch up and get a ‘taste’ for what great food they can be.

Bunya season is almost over, so keep your eyes out for cones and boil, bake, mash or grind - so many great ways to cook and prepare!

LESS BUT NOT QUITE LOST

by JAMIE WALKER

Coastal wallum heathland, both wet and dry, is a beautiful habitat that has been almost lost. It once stretched continuously from Gladstone down to Coffs Harbour. Today, because it has been targetted for so much development, it is reduced to pockets (mostly small and unprotected) so fragmented by roads, housing and light industry that their ecological value has shrunk. What remains is coveted by developers, ignored by politicians and may be unrecognised by new generations.

Yet wallum is a place of beauty. It is famed for its flowering at the end of winter. The pinks, whites, oranges and yellows of Boronias, Pea flowers and Tea Trees – plus the occasional spectacle of Christmas Bells and Swamp Irises – are botanically incomparable.

If you walk through this heathland, you may find Sundews growing at your feet. Their small pink or white flowers are on slender stalks growing up from reddish rosettes of sticky, sapbeaded leaves which catch and digest insects. Darwin studied them intensely and proved that a plant could act as a predator; which added to his evidence that elements of ecosystems are not independent, but interact at every level.

Tlow, green foliage. It rarely flies (unless alarmed) and it doesn’t clamber high into bushes. Its existence is often only known for certain through its habitual high pitched whistles at dawn and dusk. And no, I haven’t yet seen one. Recently, a party of us in the very middle of Cooloola saw many wonderful things, but we failed to find Ground Parrots. But, probably the best thing about nature is that no matter how long we live, we will never see all of it. There will always be something new waiting for us.

In the low centre of the Cooloola section of Great Sandy NP the heath is at its most impressive. A thick green sward of rushes, sedges, foxtails, Grass Trees and , here and there, a climax growth of Banksias, stretches to every horizon. This is probably the last place where our heathland still looks like the wilderness it once was.

The wildlife of these areas is specialised. Swordgrass Brown butterflies – milk chocolate with scarlet ‘eye’ spots – are scarce anywhere else. Rainbow Bee-eaters excavate their nesting burrows in the sandy ground, Brown Quail scuttle along the track side, Needle-tailed Swifts can appear anywhere in a huge, open sky, White-cheeked Honeyeaters sing loudly from the banksias and, if you are very lucky, you might find Emu Wrens. These exquisite birds are probably our smallest, with a head and body a mere 6cm long. Their tails are diaphanous – like long insect wings – their plumage, an almost unique mixture of apricot and powder

But, perhaps the prime target for birders in this landscape is the Ground Parrot; a secretive, ground dwelling bird that is frustratingly hard

My books tell me that it spends most of its time hiding its green feathers among

here is a young Bunya Pine near the Barung Community Nursery which is largely surrounded by weed grasses and herbs. In this Bunya we recently noticed a small bird's nest built from grass, and later, a RedBrowed Finch visiting the nest after feeding in the long grass.

The Bunya provided a vantage point over the feeding area, but importantly provided some protection from predators in the form of some very spiky leaves.

But it’s not just birds that find shelter amongst the spikier of our local native plants, we also regularly observe reptiles, mammals and invertebrates

making use of these species.

While not every space is suitable for a Bunya, there are many small local native species with spiky foliage that can be used very effectively in even the smallest of gardens. And with careful planning in the placement of these spiky species, they need not have any impact on your own enjoyment of your garden space.

forests that can be used in a variety of ways, including - Acacia hubbardiana, Podolobium ilicifolium and Daviesia ulicifolia. These can be used with smaller spiky plants such as Lomandra confertifolia and Gahnia species.

For shadier areas spiky shrubs like Pittosporum multiflorum, Alyxia ruscifolia, Citrus australis and any of the native raspberry species.

For more open sunny spots there are several spiky shrubs that occur naturally in local Eucalypt

All of these plants will have the effect of creating an environment that more species of local wildlife will be attracted to due to the protective nature of these spiky plants.

Barung native Plant nursery Phone 5494 3151 Parkland Drive Nursery opening times: Wednesday to Saturday 9am - 3pm

Providing we care enough and their habitat can survive the pressure of human demands, these small green birds will still be there; to be caught up with in due time.

NOTE: Put it in your diary to visit a Wallum area at the end of winter (August is good) to see the flowering for yourself. Kathleen McArthur Park at Birtinya, Emu Swamp behind Peregian Beach, Emu Mountain at Coolum, Mooloola NP are all suitable spots – or you may have your own favourite.

About That

Tree

with Tree Surgeon Tony Wootton, our local arborist and author, meeting the Hinterland's tree needs since 1996

Well, 2026 has started off with a bang in the tree world. Sometimes quite literally! We have had to deal with SOOO many tree failures. Most of them have been Liquidambars.

This is the way it usually plays out. First, you will get a small limb failing. Then it won’t be too long before the next section fails. Usually a larger section.

I call the first failure a warning shot. Ignore this warning shot at your peril. Usually we can come in at this point and do a remedial prune on the tree on terms determined by us.

If you wait until after a larger section has failed, the terms of the remedial pruning are determined more by the larger wounds, so it’s harder to get a desirable result in the short term.

Of course the best thing to do is to have your trees regularly assessed, and have any pruning carried out proactively before any limbs have failed.

It’s just like having your car regularly serviced rather than waiting for some generally inconvenient, possibly life-threatening, mechanical emergency to happen.

A lot of the recent tree failures have been due to the inordinate amount of vegetative material that has been produced after two very wet years.

Mobile: 0403 467 664

Landline: 54 944 917

Mobile: 0403 467 664

The weight of the extra growth puts more mechanical loading on the structure of the tree, and in many cases the tree cannot hold it. This is where a proactive reduction prune is useful.

www.twtreesurgeon.com

www.twtreesurgeon.com

HOLISTIC HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Cate brings MS awareness to Maleny

Cate Green, a woman living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), is currently embarking on an extraordinary solo cycling journey around the coast of Australia, covering up to 20,000 kilometres over 12 months.

Beginning in April 2026, this ride is both a personal challenge and a powerful advocacy mission — one that embraces the ‘Art of Imperfection’ and shines a light on what it truly means to live, work, and dream with disability.

Alongside raising awareness of disability in business, Cate’s journey also highlights the real risks of homelessness and the profound impact of living with chronic illness without adequate support — realities faced by many Australians navigating disability, fluctuating health, and financial instability.

As part of this journey, Cate will be based in the Maleny region for six months to reset, connect with communities, creatives, and changemakers, including through her online program The Institute of Imperfection, whose work aligns deeply with her belief finding balance between mind, body and spirit is the key to life.

Cate’s ride also marks the public launch of her not-for-profit initiative, HELP ME MIND MY OWN BUSINESS, a virtual assistant and support service designed specifically for people with disability, chronic illness, and neurodivergence who are running businesses.

Through assistant support, the organisation helps people conserve energy, reduce cognitive overload, and stay connected to their goals — proving that asking for help is not a weakness, but a strategic and

Cate was diagnosed with MS in September 2018 after a sudden and life-altering onset of symptoms. In 2019, she experienced a period of complete paralysis and underwent extensive rehabilitation. Through determination, support, and adaptive thinking, she regained mobility and returned to cycling — a sport that now symbolises freedom, healing, and hope.

Her cycling achievements include a ride through Vietnam in 2020, a solo unassisted ride from Wangaratta to Bright, and an 850 km journey through Spain in 2023. As a practice ride, she completed an unassisted ride through Victoria (1500km) in 2024.

Cate’s ride around Australia is an invitation: to rethink disability, to embrace imperfection, and to build a world where people are supported to work with their bodies and minds, not against them.

She welcomes riders, supporters, artists, business owners, and community groups to join her along the way or connect during her six-month stay in the Maleny area.

For media enquiries, collaboration, or to support HELP ME MIND MY OWN BUSINESS, contact: hmmmobassist@gmail.com..

Conscious Living Celebration

One of the Sunshine Coast’s longest-running wellness events is marking a major milestone in 2026, as the Conscious Life Holistic Wellness Festival celebrates 15 years of bringing community, holistic health and conscious living together under one roof.

Founded in 2011 by Sunshine Coast local Laura Di Mambro, the festival began as a grassroots gathering and has grown into a two-day event featuring more than 100 exhibitors and over 60 facilitators and speakers, attracting attendees, businesses and practitioners from across Australia.

Held at Venue 114 in Kawana on the weekend of March 14 and 15 (9.30am–4.30pm), this special anniversary edition will showcase natural health

practitioners, sustainable living brands, spiritual teachers and wellness innovators from around the country — while continuing to spotlight local Sunshine Coast businesses.

The 2026 festival will feature: 100+ exhibitors across natural health, eco products and conscious living; keynote speakers and workshop presenters; meditation sessions and interactive experiences, live music and wholesome food options, and family-friendly activities, from $15 entry, with free entry for children.

In an era increasingly dominated by digital connection, the festival continues to draw strong in-person attendance — reinforcing the Sunshine Coast’s reputation as a hub for wellness tourism and community-led events.

Use Your Mental Edge The discipline of the daily walk

by JAMIE MILNE

his March, consider a simple, free

motivation. When the decision is already made—when, where, and how you walk—discipline no longer depends on mood or energy. It becomes automatic.

Uncluttered You

byKERRIE FRIEND

by lowering stress and restoring attention.

This is movement the human system understands: rhythmic, repeatable, sustainable.

But the real power of the daily walk isn’t the walk itself—it’s the structure around it.

High-performing environments prioritise standards and routines over

Committing to 60 minutes every day, especially on low-energy or inconvenient confidence follows.

If you’re anything like me, you probably started the new year full of energy, hope, and a desire for renewal. But how do we maintain that feeling throughout the year? One of the most powerful keys I’ve found is learning to become uncluttered.

I begin by taking inventory of my clothes, social media, digital space, kitchen, books, makeup, etc., and begin letting go of what’s unused, unnecessary, or emotionally draining. This includes timewasters and anything that creates stress or holds me back.

When we remove what no longer serves us, we create space to focus on what truly matters.

Ask yourself this question, “What do I want to carry with me into my new normal?”

Consider your relationships, material possessions, health, and spirituality. Listen to your heart and as you reflect, you’ll begin to feel freer and experience more peace.

This process isn’t just about cleaning cupboards and removing excess, it’s about creating an uncluttered life. Think of it as a roadmap to your future self, one that I encourage you to revisit regularly.

I like to “clean up my act” with every new season, releasing the old to make room for the new person I’m becoming.

This includes digital decluttering, fewer apps, clearer inboxes, and more mindful screen time. Simplicity is an effective form of self-care and by clearing space we make room for clarity, creativity and inner peace.

When being uncluttered is your focus you maintain alignment with yourself and your surroundings. This allows life to feel simpler, clearer and less burdened with excess.

Decluttering isn’t about perfection, it’s about intention, freedom, and choosing calm over chaos. The more uncluttered your life is, the more power you have to achieve the things in your heart as they are no longer buried under your past.

Blessings,

Kerrie

Celebrating 40 years of making a difference

This year, RangeCare marks an extraordinary milestone: 40 years of providing local care grounded in compassion, community, and connection. What began in 1986 as the Montville Care Group has grown into a vital organisation supporting thousands of people across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland and beyond. Yet at its core, the heart of RangeCare remains unchanged: everyone deserves the support to live with independence, dignity, and a sense of belonging.

“That small group evolved into what we now know as RangeCare, and while the organisation has expanded dramatically, the spirit of its beginnings continues to shape every service delivered.”

Today, RangeCare offers an extensive range of supports, from social programs and respite to nursing, allied health, meals, home maintenance, and transport services.

“These programs allow people to remain in their own homes connected to their community, close to loved ones, and living life on their own terms,” said

“As funding systems shift and care models evolve, RangeCare’s focus remains steady: listen first, act with respect, and deliver care that feels personal.”

Marketing Officer Rebecca Whitaker shared, “The story starts with neighbours helping neighbours. A group of residents recognised that many older people in the community needed practical, everyday assistance; someone to check in with a friendly phone call, help with shopping, provide transport, or deliver a warm meal.

Across four decades, the organisation has achieved many proud milestones: the opening of new centres, the expansion of specialist services, and recognition for excellence in aged care.

But often, it’s the quieter moments that matter most – a safe ride to an appointment, a meal delivered with kindness, a conversation that eases loneliness. These simple, human moments reflect the true heart of the organisation.

“To every client, family member, volunteer, team member, donor, and community partner, RangeCare offers its deepest thanks. Your trust and generosity have shaped a remarkable 40-year legacy.”

As RangeCare looks ahead, one commitment remains clear: to keep making a difference to living today, tomorrow, and for the next 40 years.

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ASTROLOGY

Heart Mind Astrology with Ruth Donnelly

Explore your life with astrology, bringing you insight at times of turmoil, transition and transformation. Online consultations available. 0409 564 276 astrology@ruthdonnelly.com.au

AUDIOLOGIST

Sunshine Coast Audiology

Emryn and Anita are experienced audiologists who have started a new independent audiology clinic to care for all your hearing needs. Conveniently located in Sippy Downs. Ph. 5378 2226. www.sunshinecoastaudiology.com.au

AYURVEDIC HERBALS

Eumundi Medicine Man

Knowledge is the greatest medicine. Potent Vedic remedies that give results when co-ordinated with diet and lifestyle wisdom. Order or email online at www.eumundimedicineman.com

Guaranteed Age Old Natural Remedies.

CHIROPRACTORS

Hinterland Chiropractic

Dr Josephine Sexton. Using gentle, safe and effective techniques to maintain spinal health and wellbeing. Concession rates, Family discounts and HICAPS available. 2/70 Maple Street, Maleny. Ph: 5435 2987

CHIROPRACTORS

Maple Chiropractic Maleny

Dr. Samuel Lowe, Dr. Catherine Metcalf, Dr. Rebel Hungerford & Nikki Duncan-Exercise Physiologist. Gentle, effective care for the whole family. Concession, family rates & HICAPS available 45 Maple St, Maleny 5494 3322 maplechiropractic.com.au

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COLON HYDROTHERAPY

Bottoms Up Colonics - Nambour

Time to let your S##t go!

We support the whole body assisting elimination pathways, allowing the body the opportunity to heal holistically. Book now on 5220 8859. www.bottomsupcolonics.com.au

FITNESS, PERSONAL TRAINER ,DANCE

Get Active Fitness & Personal Training

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HOMEOPATHY

Pauline Ashford - B.H.Sc, Complementary Med & Homeopathy Classical homeopathy; Lymphatic drainage; Dorn spinal, joint and headache therapy; EFT - Emotional Freedom Techniques; Reiki 130 Ansell Rd Witta – Ph: 5494 4101 E: malenyhomeopathy@gmail.com

HYPNOTHERAPY

Christian Dunham Specialising in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, a combination of clinical hypnotherapy and psychotherapy used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, phobias and other chronic conditions. Free initial consultation. Ph: 0448 303 013 www.christiandunham.net

MENTAL PERFORMANCE

Maple Chiropractic Maleny

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Dr. Samuel Lowe, Dr. Catherine Metcalf, Dr. Rebel Hungerford & Nikki Duncan-Exercise Physiologist. Gentle, effective care for the whole family. Concession, family rates & HICAPS available 45 Maple St, Maleny 5494 3322 maplechiropractic.com.au

Beautiful group fitness studio with a variety of classes to suit all ages/fitness levels. A fun supportive environment, fully qualified trainers. Book your first session FREE Ph. 0423 618 945 Bunya St, Maleny.

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HOME CARE

RangeCare

Offering in-home and respite care services to support independent living. Our tailor-made services are available to everyone in the community. We can deliver your home care package. Ph: 5445 7044

Visit: www.rangecare.com.au

Jamie Milne Training Jamie Milne is SEQ"S leading Mental Performance Coach. Finding your Mental Edge is Jamie's specialty. His approach is unique in delivery and the results speak for themselves. Contact: jamiemilnetraining.com or call 0431 339 975.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Range of Motion Physiotherapy Maleny, Mapleton and Imbil Russ, Karl, and Kathryn. Providing the highest quality care to restore & maintain optimal physical function & mobility. Ph: 5478 6600 www.rangeofmotion.com.au

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CLOCK REPAIR

Montville Clockshop

Repairs for Cuckoo, Grandfather, Mantle, Wall Clocks. Antique clock restoration. We can supply quartz movement and parts, and repair quartz clocks. P: 07 5442 9409. www.clockshop.com.au enquiries@clockshop.com.au

EARTHMOVING

Buckle Earthmoving

Newly established Sunshine Coast business. All types of Dozer work using a modern Cat D3K2 with LGP (low ground pressure) tracks to tackle all types of terrain with minimal impact. Driveways and access tracks, Clearing, Stick Raking, 6-way blade and rippers, Dams, Site preparation, Lantana removal, Civil, Horse arenas. contact: anthony_buckle@yahoo.com 0415 173 769

GUTTER CLEANING

Gutter Sucker

Gutter Sucker specialises in cleaning your guttering. a unique portable vacuum system for the efficient and effective removal of leaves and rubbish from all types of gutters and roofs. Ph: 1800 558 745 or 0402 456 391

HANDY MAN AND HOME MAINTENANCE

Montville Handy Man

30 years building experience. Available now for carpentry, home mainatenance and repairs, small concreting jobs, Propt and reliable service. CallWayne 0434 724 030.

JEWELLERY - COMMISSIONS AND DESIGN

Wasshausen Gems + Jewels

Fine individually designed and traditional handmade jewellery in a contemporary style with natural Gemstones, Pearls & Opals. Commision & redesign, alteration & repairs. Call Birgit in her Maleny workshop 0490 146 982

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

Amber Leaf Landscaping

Looking for a landscaper who can deliver?

Tohm Hajncl heads the team that offers you guaranteed quality. Choose from landscaping consultations, designs, construction and planting, pre-sale makeovers and specialised maintenance services. Ph: 5445 9801 www.amberleaf.com.au

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN continue

Stone on the Range Landscapes

Looking for creative ideas from a professional craftsman-then call Jim! Thirty years experience designing/building all aspects of gardens/stonework. Combining skills that utilize timber/stone and steel, as a designer, landscaper, stonemason. It is my passion to exceed your expectations. 0401 308 824   jimrstoneart@gmail.com

MOWING AND GARDENING

Blueys Garden Services

For all your gardening needs. Jobs include but not limited to: Mowing, Whipping snipping, Clear outs, Hedging, Tip runs, Minor landscaping and Weed management give us a call-0481 106 839

Swede with Speed Slashing

For slashing and mowing, acres or house blocks, hedge trims, whipper snipping, rubbish removal and house maintenance call Birger for a free qoute 0411 591 738.

Forest Heart ecoNursery

The Little Nursery with Big Diversity. Specialising in SE QLD native plants, cultivar native plants and fruit trees. 20 Coral Street, Maleny Ph: 07 5435 2193 - www.forestheart.com.au

Barung Landcare Native Plant Nursery

Your local community nursery stocks an extensive range of species indigenous to the Blackall Range and surrounds. Open to the public WednesdaySaturday 9am–3pm, Ph: 0429 943 152 E: nursery@barunglandcare.org.au

PLUMBING & WASTEWATER

Anderson Plumbing & Roofing

QBSA1066328

Plumbing, drainage & roofing. New work, renos, maintenance specialists. Septic systems, blocked drains, high pressure ‘sewer jett’ drain cleaner, drain camera, cable locations, tank installations, roof & guttering. Ph: 5494 3340 or 0409 541 4757

Suncoast Liquid Waste Removal

Local owner/operator specialising in commercial / domestic waste water pump outs- septics, treatment plants, grey water, holding tanks, pond/ pool sludge, drains etc. Avoid costly blockages & system failure with prompt, reliable & expert service. Tank assessments available. EPA licensed and fully insured. Call 0439 646 707

POOL MAINTENANCE

SwimSafe

Mobile pool maintenance & repairs. Swimming pool safety inspections. FREE QUOTES Proudly servicing the Sunshine Coast Ph: 0448 793 148 – www.swimsafeqld.com.au

QBCC #101629

ROOFING

Roof & Gutter Maintenance

Clean gutters, Blocked downpipes, New & repair downpipes, Roof repairs & leaks, Fix leaking gutters, New gutters & fascias, Install & service whirly birds, Skylights & Water Tanks. Free quotes, local bloke, over 20 yrs experience Phone Brad 0419 712 081

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TRANSPORTATION

UltiMate Transfers

18 years offering elite chauffeur services. Private airport transfers (Sunshine Coast & Brisbane), cruise terminals, weddings. Impeccable, discreet, and tailored travel. Reserve your experience at ultimatetransfers.com.au.

TREE SERVICES

Tony Wootton Tree Surgeon. Dip Hort(Arb) Operating locally since 1996. Tree assessments and advice. Trees and shrubs pruned and detailed. Hazardous trees removed. M: 0403 467 664 Ph: 54 944 917 www.twtreesurgeon.com

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UPHOLSTERY

Handbuilt Stone QBCC 1235589

Licensed, range-based professional. Traditional rock walls, pillars, steps, paving, entrance walls and all garden features. Visit our website to see previous work for inspiration. Phone Chris on 0438 811 975 – www.handbuiltstone.com

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Elliott Upholstery Offers superior craftsmanship in antique and household upholstery with free quotes, pick-up and delivery throughout the Sunshine Coast. Give Brendan or Shiv a call on 0407 202 227

GRAPHIC & WEB DESIGN NEW

Seedhead Design Consultancy

Need standout visuals and smarter online presence? Seedhead is a design studio specialising in userfocused brand creation, web design, web effectiveness reports and improvements. Function + Aesthetics + User Experience. Contact Paula on 0418 708 244 www.seedhead.com.au

LEGAL SERVICES

Baker Robinson Lawyers

Sophie Paras - Professional, efficient, relaible and friendly. 5494 2665 Suite 7, 43 Maple St Maleny. Email: sophie@brlawyers.com.au www.brlawyers.com.au

Easton Lawyers

Tove Easton Principal Lawyer

Your Local Lawyers in Maleny 62 Maple St, Maleny. Ph: 5494 3511 Email: tove@eastonlawyers.com.au

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

REAL ESTATE

Blake Gierke - Your Hinterland Property Expert. 10 years’ experience & multiple RMA awards. Innovative marketing strategies for maximum exposure. Get unmatched results. Blake 0412 266 719

REAL ESTATE continue

We dare to be different! Our results speak for themselves, so if you are looking to sell your property DON’T SIGN ANYTHING .. .Call us. Ph: 07 5478 5288 or check out www.rogerloughnanrealestate.com.au

REMAX Hinterland

Your property is worth more with us! 07 5408 4220, 0447 737 737 sales@remaxhinterland.com.au remaxhinterland.com.au 32 Maple Street, Maleny

VETERINARY CARE

Brant Property

At Brant Property we understand that it's all in the attention to detail, even the little things matter. Learn how ‘We Can Sell Yours Too!’

Contact Susan Brant on 0428 573 170

District Vets Maleny

Veterinarian Susan Portas and her team provide professional, compassionate care for your pets. Hours Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 8:30am – 5:30pm Wed 8:30am – 4:30pm Sat by appointment 7 Myrtle St Maleny Ph: 5499 9077

Many people are unaware of the history of the Lord’s church, of how it was begun in Jerusalem in A.D. 33 and has continued somewhere in the world since that time. They do not know how the many divisions among believers in Christ developed, forming the Romans and Greek Catholic Churches as well as Protestant churches, in addition to the original church begun by Christ.

It is our conviction that if more people knew more of the history of the development of so-called “Christendom”, they would be more concerned about Christ’s plea for unity as recorded in John 17:20,21: “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me, through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You: that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” Yes, there are currently many hundreds of denominations which claim to be rooted in the Scriptures, through their names and many of their practices and doctrines are not found there. And, yes, that original church of Christ (Mathew 16:18, Romans 16:16) still exists in this world, and has continued to exist somewhere among some people ever since its beginning. Throughout history, it could be identified by the doctrine it taught and by its commitment to God and truth. It exists today, as physical, identifiable congregations of people. Anyone, anywhere in the world, can become a part of Christ’s church by obeying His Gospel, as recorded in Acts 2. God will then add that soul to His church, to the body of believers called the kingdom, which will never be destroyed but will one day be delivered up to God the Father (1 Corinthians 15:24).

Anti-money-laundering laws

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) is preparing real estate professionals to comply with obligations under Australian anti-money laundering laws that will apply to the real estate sector for the first time from 1 July 2026.

While the majority of obligations will commence from July, real estate businesses will need to start preparing and enrolling with the relevant regulator, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), from 31 March 2026.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said time was of the essence for real estate professionals to ensure they had the knowledge and tools to comply with the new AML/CTF legislation.

“Real estate businesses will be required to develop and maintain formal AML/CTF programs and policies, train staff, appoint an AML/CTF Compliance Officer, conduct documented risk assessments, implement customer due diligence (including initial and more complex due diligence), monitor transactions, and report

“Once only the purview of big banks, the expanded AML/CTF laws will soon capture real estate professionals who facilitate buying or selling property or businesses,” she said.

ne of the defining reasons buyers choose the Maleny region is the desire for privacy, but not at the expense of community or convenience. Semi-retired buyers and treechangers are rarely seeking total seclusion; instead, they value space, quiet and outlook while remaining connected to town life.

The most sought-after Hinterland properties are those set back from the road, buffered by vegetation or neighbouring acreage, yet still within a short drive of Maleny’s cafés, shops and services. This balance allows buyers to enjoy peace and tranquility without feeling remote or disconnected.

Privacy also contributes to a sense of security and wellbeing - particularly for

buyers relocating from busier urban environments. The ability to sit outdoors, enjoy birdsong and natural surroundings and live without constant neighbouring activity is a powerful lifestyle driver.

REMAX Hinterland listings that strike this balance consistently resonate with this buyer group, as they reflect the reality of what people are moving to Maleny for: space, calm and breathing room - without losing access to everyday essentials.

Agency: RE/MAX Hinterland

Contact: Michael Reck

Phone: 0447 589 491 sales@remaxhinterland.com.au

“For example, ‘red flag raising behaviour’ that real estate professionals will need to monitor (and potentially report) includes when someone is seemingly evasive with identity verification, providing false documents, paying significant amounts in cash, or ‘hiding’ behind complex trust or company structures.”

Ms Mercorella said these are significant new legal obligations and tasks for Queensland real estate businesses – often small, independent operations – and as such, they are likely to require new expertise, systems, tools and resources to meet them.

“While we appreciate that the anti-money laundering law reforms are about making it harder for criminals to clean the profits of their crimes through Australian real estate, it must be recognised that the new and serious responsibilities for real estate businesses come with additional financial and administrative burdens.

“The new AML/CTF laws represent a substantial change in how real estate businesses must operate,” she said.

ommanding attention from the very first glance, this iconic residence stands as a statement of timeless elegance. A sweeping circular brick pathway leads through manicured hedging and flowering garden beds setting a tone of refined grandeur. At its centre, a charming fountain brings a sense of symmetry and serenity.

Inside, the home offers four spacious bedrooms, each with its own ensuite and split-system air conditioning. The upper level features two fully separated bedroom suites with private undercover balconies, including one with a kitchenette and living space ideal as a parents’ retreat or guest accommodation.

A charming country-style kitchen with timber benchtops, gas cooking and ample storage connects effortlessly to a formal dining area and an inviting lounge anchored by an original timber fireplace. High ceilings, decorative cornices, ceiling roses and polished timber floors enhance the sense of character.

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to secure one of the Hinterlands iconic homes, call Craig on 0411 554 880 to schedule your exclusive viewing today!

Agency: Brant Property

Contact: Susan Brant Phone: 0428 573 170

2/20 Maple Street, Maleny Qld 4552