Connecting Communities
OPEN STUDIOS COMES TO KENILWORTH
Meet the artists, explore the Mary Valley and discover creativity at Gheerulla Community Hall this July
CHOOK CHASE COMING SOON!
KENILWORTH CHOOK CHASE 2026
Kenilworth Chook Chase will be held over the weekend of the 18-19 July when there will be up to 350 motorcycle riders and more than 150 pee wee and junior riders in the showgrounds and riding through the parklands to the west of the township.
The Chook Chase committee would like to thank all who have contributed to the success of the Kenilworth Chook Chase over the past two decades and more. The Kenilworth Chook Chase is a charity motorcycle ride where 100% of the money raised goes back to the community. The ride was begun in 2000-by members of the local community in an effort to raise funds for this hinterland district. The name was derived from local slang of the bikes being ridden at the time.
to be fully licensed, on registered bikes as per Forestry regulations and for pee wee and junior riders on a closed track on private land where unregistered or less experienced riders can play.
Tickets go on sale six weeks prior to the event. Details will be available on the facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/ KenilworthChookChase
“Your bike is not fast enough to catch a chook” and it evolved that the bikes then became Chook Chasers.
The Kenilworth area is renowned for its
EXCITING NEWS: MARY VALLEY VOICE WINS SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL GRANT!
The Mary Valley Voice is proud to announce we’ve been awarded a $2,920 Community Development Grant from the Sunshine Coast Council! This funding will help us modernise for 2026, with a focus on launching a brand-new Youth Section.
We will be looking for Volunteer Youth Reporters to bring fresh ideas and energy to our pages. This is a fantastic opportunity for young locals to be trained and mentored by professional writers while reporting on community events. To set them up for success, our new Youth Reporters will each receive a branded t-shirt and an iPad to use for their stories.
hills, valleys and beautiful scenery, which has made the Kenilworth Chook Chase one of the best trail rides around. The ride raises funds for the local P&C, the State Emergency Service, the Kenilworth Swimming Pool, the community newspaper the Mary Valley Voice. The weekend is run by volunteers and is a great family event where everyone who rides a motorbike can come along and have a great weekend. The senior ride consists of an open loop in the bush that surrounds Kenilworth and in the forestry areas where the riders are required
This initiative is all about bridging the gap between generations and ensuring our youth have a powerful voice in the Mary Valley.
Keep an eye on our next edition for details on how to apply and join our team!
~ Carolyn, MVV Committee
2
FAMILY FUN DAY - YOUTH PERSPECTIVE
On Sunday the 24th of May I went to the family fun day at the Kenilworth show grounds.
It started off as a cloudy day but it brightened up later on, which was lucky for everyone. There were so many stalls of community groups and businesses from around the region, plus the aerial rig in the middle of the oval.
I did bubble blowing, pogo sticking and hoola hooping. There was music playing on the stage. The little kids liked the parachute game and rainbow serpent parade around the field. It was also fun to listen and learn about Mary River animals and the book to save Sun Bears. The food was really great too! My mum was selling the books she wrote herself and my older sister was braiding hair.
Overall it was an excellent day out for all the family. Thanks to the Kenilworth Arts Council and Chamber of Commerce, we look forward to next year.
~ Raila, youth reporter
OPEN STUDIOS IN THE MARY VALLEY
HEAD OFF ON AN ARTISTIC ADVENTURE THIS JULY
Discover the creativity of the region as Open Studios Sunshine Coast returns from Friday 17 to Sunday 26 July, inviting locals and visitors alike behind the scenes of some of the Sunshine Coast’s most inspiring artists’ studios.
Presented by Arts Connect Inc, this much-loved event celebrates the rich diversity of our creative community, offering a rare opportunity to meet artists in the places where ideas come to life, from coastal studios to hinterland hideaways.
This year’s event unfolds across six distinct regions over two weekends. The first weekend features the Caloundra, Central and Northern trails while the second weekend spotlights the Foothills, Kenilworth, Maleny and Montville trails.
This year's Open Studios Sunshine Coast offers more than an art trail—it's an invitation to explore the region. Follow the trail from Nambour and Montville through the rolling hinterland to Kenilworth, meeting artists in their studios and discovering the stories behind their work. Why not make a weekend of it?
Wander through the charming Mary Valley village, enjoy local cafés and country hospitality, and experience Kenilworth's Ember & Harvest Weekend, where food, wine, music and creativity come together. It's the perfect opportunity to slow down, connect with local makers and experience the Sunshine Coast through its artists, landscapes and communities.
About Kenilworth Arts Council: The local arts organisation is Kenilworth Arts Council. Established in the late 1990s, it has built a strong reputation through the annual Kenilworth ArtsFest, Family Fun Day, exhibitions, poetry competitions, workshops and community arts activities. The organisation actively supports local and regional artists and collaborates with other arts groups across the Sunshine Coast.
What's happening in Kenilworth – 25 & 26 July
Coincidentally, the same weekend as Open Studios, Kenilworth is hosting the Ember & Harvest Weekend as part of the Sunshine Coast's Curated Plate festival. The program includes:
• Wildfire & Wine on Saturday 25 July – an evening celebrating local food, wine and live music.
• Gather & Graze – Sip & Paint on Sunday 26 July – a creative food and art experience hosted in Kenilworth.
• The weekend begins Friday evening with the Smokin' Boot Scoot, creating a full three-day hinterland experience.
Also in the area whilst you're visiting you could check out:-
•Kenilworth Visitor Information Centre for local recommendations and maps.
• Fig Tree Walk – an easy rainforest walk featuring giant strangler figs.
• Booloumba Falls and the surrounding areas of Conondale National Park for nature lovers.
• Kenilworth Historical Museum for local heritage.
• Kenilworth Town Park and the village centre for a relaxed country atmosphere.
Visitors can create their own self-guided art trail, stepping into working studios, watching demonstrations, discovering painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, glass and more, and hearing the stories behind the work. Along the way, there’s the chance to purchase original art direct from makers, take part in workshops, and enjoy the beauty of the Sunshine Coast through an artistic lens.
No two studios are alike, and that sense of discovery is part of what makes Open Studios such a unique experience — a celebration of place, process and connection.
Whether you’re an art lover, collector, curious explorer or looking for a memorable day out, Open Studios Sunshine Coast offers an inspiring winter adventure.
Plan your trail and learn more at: https://openstudiossunshinecoast.com.au/
HISTORICAL: THAT'S CRICKET
1904 CRICKET MATCH
Nambour Cricket Club were invited to play a match against their counterparts in Kenilworth in 1904 covered in a report published on page 8 of the Nambour Chronicle on 19 February. After the match the report continues:-
Tea was provided and heartily enjoyed after which those present sought their homes, the visitors not being forgotten for one moment. It was the pleasure of the writer and Mr. V Gaylard to visit Mr. C. Charry’s home, (I believe it should read Sharry) which is situated under what is called by most of the residents Charry's Mountain,' and in view of the track where the telephone line crosses the range to Kenilworth.
Historic note:- Charry’s Mountain now officially Thilba Thalba In 1904 the only telephone in Kenilworth was at Kenilworth Run – installed after the 1893 flood to give Gympie 24 hours warning of flood. (Refer Maryborough Chronicle 22.11.1899 page 3)
It may be remarked here that Mr Charry has only the use of his left arm, he having lost the right through a couple of accidents. (Refer The Brisbane Courier – 20 September, 1898, page 5).
Leaving here, we proceeded to the school, and were entertained with magic lantern views shown by Mr. Laverick, of Montville, after which the school was cleared of spare seating accommodation, and some few hours dancing indulged in. Mr. H. Goeths acting as M.C., while Mr. D. Robinson (violin) supplied the music. At 11.15 refreshments were again served, and during this portion of the proceedings Mr. L. W. Wilkinson, on behalf of the visitors, returned thanks for the hospitable treatment meted out to them, to which Mr. E. Pickering, for the local folk, suitably replied.
The visitors were then taken in charge, Messrs. V. Sorb and C. Nichols being the guests of Mr. Pearce, Messrs. W. Cronk and A. Saunders of Mr. H. Pickering, and
Mr. V.Gavlard and “your humble” of Mr. E. Pickering. We reached our hosts after a nice journey, the Mary River having to be crossed. Mr. and Mrs. Pickering were very kind, placing everything at our disposal, and it was not long before my partner was— well, say asleep, and I soon followed. As was a natural consequence (we had no cows to milk), we did not rise too early, and, indeed might have slept even longer had not the noise of the separator wakened us.
Learn more of the early days of Kenilworth at the Museum in Alexandra Street any Sunday from 10 a.m.
Lenore Meldrum
President
Kenilworth & District Historical Assn Inc.
RAINFALL MOY POCKET – MAY 2026 by Graham Brennan
p The original Kenilworth Cricket Club.
COMMUNITY NEWS
CHEERIO FROM THE CHURCHES
Sunday services are held at St Luke’s Anglican Church on Sunday at 9am with morning tea to follow. Mass is held every third Sunday at 10:30 am with services on other Sundays at 9am at St John Bosco.
A well attended Ecumenical Service was held at St Luke’s on 31 May where a warm welcome was extended to the incoming School Chaplain and her family. All welcome to join us at St Luke’s for a coffee 10am Sundays.
The community of St John Bosco celebrated the baptism of Della with her family at the monthly Mass on 17th May. We are now planning for a new sign to be placed in the grounds of the church. Thanks to some volunteers the grounds are kept in good shape and provide a warm welcome to visitors. Enquiries: 0439 130 158
~ Cheerio from the Churches
We are sad to announce the passing of Dennis Woodford. He was a wonderful man, pillar of the community and rural fire brigade for many years and will be sadly missed. Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service for Dennis at Obi Obi Hall on the 4th July at 1pm.
SAVE THE DATE!!
Community bush dances are a great way for people to connect. The event is a fun evening of dancing, learning new skills and socialising, bringing together people of all ages.
Saturday 1st August 6.30pm Kandanga Public Hall.
URGENT NOTICE
From Saturday 20th June our Old Time Country Hall dances will be held at the Long Flat Hall.
Our live bands will still be playing and helping you enjoy the social comradre through dance. Dances will be from 7pm till 11pm and the Entry will be $12 entry to cover the bands and hall hire costs. Raffles $1 per ticket will still be available to give a little back to our patrons. Bring a share plate for supper, tea and coffee provided.
The reason for moving to Long Flat is that the Kandanga Hall committee have major issues with the floor being unsafe for users and have advised that this is the best way to allow us to continue our love of social dancing in our communities.
So please spread the word as we have been graciously welcomed to use the Long Flat Hall facilities. Looking forward to seeing you all at Long Flat onwards firstly 20th June, 2026.
Kind Regards, Julie CCDG
Kenilworth ARTS COUNCIL
KAC KENILWORTH ARTS COUNCIL
Kenilworth Arts Council Committee would like to thank all the sponsors and volunteers for helping deliver a fantastic Artsfest. The People's Choice was awarded to Brendan Keogh. 2027 ARTSFEST DATES are 21st-23rd May. Congratulations to all the entrants for sharing your artwork with the community.
Thank you to Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce and the volunteers who helped setup marquees for Family Fun Day. We were blessed with good weather and fabulous entertainment!
Next Arts Council meeting is Sunday 21st June. ALL MEMBERS and PUBLIC welcome.
1.30pm at Kenilworth Arts Building (behind the library). Come and let us know your ideas. Tea/ Coffee/nibbles available.
“Art is a line around your thoughts.” Gustav Klimt
COMMUNITY ACCESSIBILITY
THE BENEFITS OF UNIVERSAL ACCESSIBILITY
Creating a fairer more enjoyable society is achievable with Accessible Amenities
Imagine a future where every community building, park, recreation spot, restaurant, and shopping amenity is designed from the ground up to be suitable for people with disabilities. Such a vision goes beyond simply ticking compliance boxes, it means creating spaces where everyone, regardless of physical ability, can participate fully and equally. It benefits Everyone.
Ensuring universal accessibility would not only serve those with disabilities but also benefit a much wider audience. Parents with prams, older Australians, people temporarily affected by injury, even delivery drivers would all gain easier access. Features like ramps, wider doorways, accessible toilets, and clear signage make movement and engagement simpler for all. The result is a more welcoming, comfortable, and safer environment, encouraging greater community participation and social inclusion. By making spaces accessible, we actively remove barriers to participation and opportunity, reducing discrimination. People with disabilities would no longer be sidelined or excluded from everyday activities others take for granted. This fosters a sense of belonging, self-worth, and community pride for everyone, while promoting equality and respect. Businesses and public spaces that embrace accessibility also expand their customer base and reputation, paving the way for economic benefits.
However, there are challenges and potential drawbacks. Upgrading existing infrastructure can
be costly, requiring significant investment in retrofitting and ongoing maintenance. Some heritage or older buildings may present complex design hurdles. There may also be resistance from stakeholders concerned about the aesthetics or perceived inconvenience of certain accessibility features.
Despite these challenges, the overall social and ethical gains far outweigh the drawbacks. An accessible society is a fairer and more vibrant one, where everyone has the chance to participate and contribute without discrimination. Ultimately, designing for access isn’t just about compliance, it’s about creating a better Australia for all.
A little about me: Having been a leg amputee since 1976 as a result of a car accident, I have learned to live life to the fullest the best way I know how. I have advocated for those with disabilities ever since then and worked even harder once the The Disabilities Act was passed in 1992.
I moved to the USA in 2003 and worked with amputees and wheelchair users the entire time I was there. On returning home to Australia to live in 2024 after my husband passed, I was really disappointed to see that there has been very little done in rural areas and towns to support the disabled folk who support their communities. By sharing my articles, I am trying to create an awareness that affects all towns and many families, and to educate people about an issue that will affect many families in time to come. After all, on September 3rd 1976, I had no plans on becoming an amputee, but by September 4th 1976, that's what I was.
~ Wendy Holmberg
ECOSYSTEMS & NATURE
HELP TO KEEP THE MARY RIVER HEALTHY.
Those of us who live along the length of our beautiful Mary River and its tributaries, face significant challenges in supporting the health and recovery of “The Mary” and its catchments. The invasion of plant pests is an ever-present and increasing problem for the health of the river and its banks.
At the recent MRCCC meeting Tim Odgers from Seqwater mentioned, that despite all the good work along the river, Seqwater remains concerned about the potential impact of difficult to manage riparian vine weeds such as Madeira Vine on the longterm health of the Mary River.
Mr Odgers said, “the root network of the large trees and healthy forest that holds the riverbanks together, if we lose these riverbank forests to vine weeds, we lose the resilience of our riverbanks and we can expect streambank erosion to increase in the longer term”.
“Seqwater will continue to work with stakeholders to continue to act in a coordinated way to do our best to manage these weed infestations now, before they become much worse”.
It can feel overwhelming when tackling weed infestations, and not just vines. Sometimes it can be hard to see an end to the jungle in front of us. Here in the Mary Valley, we are fortunate to have community organizations dedicated to the health of the river and its catchments. Support from others in the same boat as you can make all the difference in getting the job done.
From the headwaters above Conondale, to the mouth at River Heads, there are people who give their time and effort to the health of the Mary River and its surrounding catchments and are willing to help you. Check the QR-Code for a list of helpful local groups.
~ The Weed Whisperer
HavE a TOPIC yOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE COvERED IN ECOSySTEMS aND NaTURE? LET US KNOW!
MARY VALLEY VOICE
PET CARE: WINTER IS HERE
WINTER PET HEALTH WARNING: COMMON COLD-WEATHER RISKS COULD LEAD TO VET BILLS
As winter sets in, colder weather, shorter days and seasonal household hazards can put pets at greater risk of illness, injury and discomfort, making it important for owners to take extra steps to keep their animals safe and healthy throughout the cooler months.
New claims data highlights the added health pressures winter can place on pets, with a notable spike in mobility and joint-related conditions during the colder months. According to RSPCA Pet Insurance CEO Brad Smith, claims for these ailments increase significantly in winter, with the average vet visit costing $2,462.
“We know that the top five issues resulting in vet visits year-round are ingestion of foreign objects, skin allergies, ear infections, gastroenteritis and vomiting, but during winter, the most noticeable rise in claims is for mobility and joint issues,” says Smith. These conditions can worsen in colder weather, making prevention and early care especially important.
should also watch for signs of hypothermia, including shivering, reluctance to walk, whining, hunched posture, or tucked tails, especially in underweight animals.
but it does result in reduced circulation, muscle tightening and thicker joint fluid which increase discomfort and stiffness in joints,” she explains.
While pets often begin showing signs of joint disease at the age of 7 years, claims data show that many pets visiting vets for mobility and jointrelated conditions are even younger, highlighting that these issues are not limited to older animals and are something all pet owners should be aware of.
Sniffles, coughs and respiratory issues
Smith also warns that winter routines can contribute to seasonal health issues for pets. “We all feel the pull of the couch after work when the days are shorter and cooler, but less exercise, reduced fresh air, cold weather and drier indoor environments can affect pets too by increasing the risk of weight gain, stiffness, skin irritations and infections such as kennel cough.”
Cold tolerance
Dr Melissa Meehan, Director of Veterinary Services, RSPCA Victoria, says that in the chillier regions, which include Tasmania, anywhere south of Sydney, the high plains, and the Australian Alps (which include the ironically named Mount Hotham in winter), several risks arise. “Among them are hypothermia, frostbite and chemical poisoning.”
Dr Meehan says smaller breeds, short-haired pets, puppies and kittens as well as senior pets are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, as they struggle to regulate body temperature and have less body fat. “Where possible, it’s best to keep pets indoors during winter,” she says, adding that short-haired breeds may benefit from a jacket or sweater, while outdoor pets need warm, dry shelter and bedding.
She says colder weather can also worsen joint stiffness and mobility issues in pets. “Cold weather doesn’t cause joint problems,
Dr Meehan says pets are more prone to winter illnesses such as kennel cough during colder months, with claims rising as dogs pick up infections at parks, daycare and boarding facilities, while cats can be affected in poorly ventilated indoor spaces. She recommends keeping vaccinations up to date, in particular Bordetella and Canine Parainfluenza virus, which cause kennel cough and ensuring pets have warm bedding and well-ventilated shelter. Owners should watch for symptoms including coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy and noisy breathing, and seek veterinary advice if symptoms develop.
Winter itch and skin health
Heated homes and lower humidity during winter can dry out pets’ skin, worsening allergies, itching and infections, with skin-related claims remaining consistently high throughout the colder months.
Dr Meehan recommends regular brushing to maintain natural oils, limiting baths, and using moisturising shampoos when needed. She says winter can also increase the risk of ear infections, particularly in floppy-eared breeds, due to dampness and reduced airflow indoors. Owners should avoid getting water in ears, dry pets thoroughly after bathing and watch for signs including head shaking redness, odour, discharge or excessive scratching.
For pets, as with people, prevention matters. A balanced diet, regular exercise and consistent grooming can help protect their health through winter, but Smith urges owners to act quickly if something seems wrong. “Don’t wait, a quick vet check can stop minor hassles from becoming major problems.”
LOCAL NEWS & POLITICS
Community News
Walkies time? Know the new rules before you go
Planning a dog walk on the Sunshine Coast? New rules start from 3 July. Changes affect beaches, parks, sports fields and reserves, with some areas introducing on-leash, timed or seasonal restrictions. Dogs are no longer allowed in certain reserves, bushland, on sports fields, rocky foreshores and headlands. Before heading out, check Council’s online map, follow local signage and be a responsible pet owner. Help protect our natural spaces and keep the Coast safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Dim the lights: delight the stars
Our Sunshine Coast hinterland is now home to the globally recognised Sunshine Coast Dark Sky Reserve: a place where we preserve starry skies together. Everyone can help reduce light pollution across our Sunshine Coast Biosphere by using dark sky friendly lighting and turning it off when not needed. For local stargazing spots and tips to reduce light pollution at your place, see Council's website.
Empowering community projects
Council’s Minor Grants round is open for applications until 13 July. If you’re an arts group, heritage society, local hall, chamber network, sporting group or another non-profit seeking funding for projects, events or activities benefiting locals, why not give it a go? See Council’s website for details.
Council’s
next Ordinary Meeting
View on Council's website or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers at 9am, 18 June.
Keeping local dollars in our local economy
Buy Local Day is Saturday 27 June – a celebration of Sunshine Coast businesses that keep our community strong. When you shop local, you support jobs, families and a thriving region, with every dollar making a difference. See Council's Level Up Business website for details.
Get the latest Council news delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for the OurSC enewsletter. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au 07 5475 7272
CR DAVID LAW DIVISION 10 – SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL
Greening Kenilworth, one street at a time: We’re getting ready to roll up our sleeves in Kenilworth, with new street trees set to be planted this July.
You’ll see crews along Maleny on Kenilworth Road and Anne, Charles, Elizabeth, George and Philip streets, adding fresh greenery to our nature strips. It’s part of Council’s Cool Urban Places Project, a simple idea with big benefits for our community.
Planting more street trees will make our streets cooler and more comfortable. Trees provide shade, help cool the air and make walking and cycling more pleasant. On hot days, that extra shade can make a real difference.
There are other benefits too. Street trees support local wildlife, help soak up stormwater, and improve air quality. They also lift the look and feel of our neighbourhoods, making our streets more inviting places to spend time.
As our region grows and the climate warms, built-up areas can trap heat. Roads and buildings hold that heat in. That’s why planting more trees is so important. It’s a practical way to keep our communities cooler, safer and more liveable.
The trees chosen for Kenilworth have been carefully selected. They are native species suited to local conditions. They are picked for their manageable size, minimal seasonal mess, and roots that won’t cause problems underground. All of this follows Council’s Street Tree Master Plan, which guides where and how we plant for the best long-term results.
If you’d like to know more about the trees or where they’ll go, please get in touch with Council at customer.service@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or call 5475 72 72. I look forward to seeing these trees take root and grow with our community.
Assistance provided by the Queensland Government under the Disaster Ready Fund. Please contact me with any questions or comments at email: david.law@sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au and follow my Facebook page for regular updates: @DavidLawDivision10.
TED O'BRIEN - FEDERAL MEMBER FOR FAIRFAX
Welcoming Major Milestone for Rail Upgrade: Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien has welcomed the release of detailed designs for Stage 1 of the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade, describing it as a major milestone to secure better rail infrastructure for the Sunshine Coast.
Mr O’Brien said he fought alongside the local community for the upgrade, which will improve rail reliability, reduce Bruce Highway congestion and support the region’s future growth. The project includes duplication of the rail line from Beerburrum to Beerwah, new rail bridges, removal of level crossings, expanded park ‘n’ ride facilities in Nambour, and major road upgrades to improve safety and efficiency along the corridor.
This is a significant step forward for our region and I l welcome progress on a project that I, and the Sunshine Coast fought so hard for, over many years,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The Beerburrum to Nambour corridor is one of the most critical transport links in South East Queensland, and upgrading it is essential if we are serious about reducing congestion, improving reliability and preparing for future growth.”
Mr O’Brien said the project would help deliver a safer, faster and more reliable rail connection for commuters while also supporting freight efficiency and economic development across the region.
“As our population continues to grow and as we prepare for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, infrastructure must keep up,” he said. Mr O’Brien said securing Federal investment for the project had been a major focus of his as a local Federal Member, along with the member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace.
“In government, we secured a $390 million Federal commitment toward Stage 1 of the Beerburrum to Nambour upgrade, helping get this project moving after years of advocacy for improved rail infrastructure on the Sunshine Coast,” he said. Mr O’Brien also launched and led the campaign to bring rail to the coastal strip, for which he and Mr Wallace secured Federal funding. Thanks to the LNP State Government, that project now forms part of The Wave.
Qxpress:
18Make brown
19Salt water
21Groove
23Haughty contempt
26Abreaking out
27S-shaped moulding
29Twist
30Trophy
31Old sailors
32Connected
1Clergyman
2Language
3Prayer ending
4Oppressively hot
5Disengages
6Device hiding curtain rod
7Calm
11Happen again
12Permit
13Lair
14Weird
16African wild pigs
19Wrongdoing
20Fuss
21Responds
22Underground passage
23Physician
24Struck with amazement
25Required
28Lofty
HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE
SAFER NIGHTS SECURED: SUNNY COAST SLEEPER FUNDED IN NAMBOUR THROUGH TO END OF 2027
Relief for homelessness in Nambour has been secured through to the end of 2027, with the Sunshine Coast community raising more than $26,000 to support the Sunny Coast Sleeper Bus service.
After completing a volunteer shift on Monday night, Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien MP says he has seen firsthand just how powerful a safe night’s sleep can be for locals experiencing homelessness.
starts and ends with security and housing,” she said
Mr O’Brien, who has been leading the campaign to secure the service’s future, said the community had rallied to raise more than $26,000, including a major $15,000 donation from the Harry Cohney Charitable Foundation, to ensure the bus can continue operating in Nambour through to the end of 2027.
“In the last four months, locals have come together to raise more than $26,000, ensuring the Sunny Coast Sleeper Bus can continue providing a safe night’s sleep for those in Nambour doing it tough right through to the end of 2027,” Mr O’Brien said.
Founded by the late Harry Cohney, the private charity reflects a lifetime commitment to helping others. A humble and generous man, Mr Cohney believed everyone deserved a roof over their head, food on the table and someone willing to listen. Following his passing in 2021, much of his life’s work and savings were dedicated to continuing that mission through the Foundation.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Harry Cohney Charitable Foundation for their generous donation, they heard my call out and stepped up in a significant way to help those most in need,” Mr O’Brien said.
Sarah Bennett, a director of the Harry Cohney Charitable Foundation said sleep and safety is the first step in treating the mental health of those suffering from homelessness.
“I see the homeless as ‘superhuman,’ they have endured too much already. Individual and collective mental health
Delivered by the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, the Sunny Coast Sleeper Bus is a converted coach providing a safe, supervised overnight place to sleep for up to nine people each night who would otherwise be sleeping rough. The service is supported by dedicated volunteers.
Mr O’Brien said the outcome comes at a time when cost-of-living pressures are pushing more Australians into hardship.
“Across the country, more people are at risk of falling through the cracks, which is why practical, frontline services like the Sleeper Bus are so important,” he said. Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre CEO Mark Ellis said the funding provides certainty for the service and those who rely on it. “This funding gives us the ability to plan ahead and continue delivering this service for the community,” Mr Ellis said.
“We’ve already seen the impact a safe night’s sleep can have, and now we can keep supporting people on their journey to stability.”
Due to current volunteer availability, the Sunny Coast Sleeper Bus will operate one night per week, on Mondays in Nambour through to the end of 2027, with capacity to expand to up to three nights per week as more volunteers come on board.
Mr O’Brien thanked every volunteer and donor who contributed to the campaign and said ongoing community involvement remains critical. “While funding is now secured, volunteers will always be the backbone of this service, and I encourage anyone who can to get involved.”
To register as a volunteer, visit: https://www.maroochync.org.au/ volunteer
Other background: According to updated information from the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, it costs $180 per night for the bus to service Nambour. The money raised has also be allocated to mechanical upgrades for the bus including a new battery and other necessary repairs to continue its trip to Nambour.
A PRIVATE COUNTRY HOMESTEAD
– 39 ACRES PLUS A LARGE ACREAGE HOLDING OF STATE FORESTRY LEASEHOLD
A beautiful craftsman built traditional Queenslander home that is approximately 12 years old. In true Garth Chapman style, this home replicates a true country Homestead with wide verandahs accessed from classic timber French doors and open plan living areas. 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms (ensuite to the main bedroom), 2 Living areas. Fantastic wrap around timber verandas and entertainment areas, all on one level and not highset
39.37 acres of usable farmland, a great water supply from a large dam equipped with a pump, fully fenced, rich red volcanic soil and sections that are frost free. For anyone seeking a lifestyle property with capacity to grow, graze or simply enjoy the private space around you; this one, is more than likely it. A property with a great deal of scope and opportunity for a buyer seeking privacy, views and something of substance to work with. Create your own legacy with State Forest on the boundary therefore giving you assurance of privacy and in addition this property comes with a State Forest Lease providing you your very own playground to explore and enjoy,
Situated approximately 8kms from Kenilworth Township. Bitumen roads all the way, followed by a short well constructed gravel driveway that will have you at home enjoying paradise and serenity in no time. A lifestyle choice you will definitely not regret. Offers Invited $1.7 million
