The
MaryValleyVoice
9 SEPTEMBER 2026 Vol. 36 #9
Connecting Communities
Youth journalist reporter wanted for the Kenilworth Show & Rodeo See inside for details...
W H AT S O N ? !? - L E T U S K N O W !
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Support local small buinesses to keep our community healthy. To feature in the Mary Valley Voice contact: maryvalleyvoice31@gmail.com u
AT THE MOVIES
Tribute screening of Country Life, an excellent 1994 Australian outback comedy starring Sam Neill in his early days. Its as good as any of Sam’s best, yet little known! Sam Neill says: “It’s no accident that it has a top flight cast - Sam Neill, Gretta Scacchi, Jon Hargreaves, Kerry Fox, Michael Blakemore & Googie Withers - It’s partly because of Michael Blakemore and because scripts of this calibre are very hard to come by”. It’s written and directed by Aussie, Michael Blakemore, who spent his life working as a major creative in London theatre. Screens: Kandanga Hall 5pm (sharp) Sunday, Gold coin admission.
Sept 13.
~ Jim Beatson Sponsored by:
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The Mary Valley Voice
KENILWORTH SHOW & RODEO A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY: THE KENILWORTH SHOW & RODEO RETURNS On Saturday, 19 September 2026, the Kenilworth Showgrounds will once again come alive with the sights, sounds and excitement of the Kenilworth Show & Rodeo. For generations, the Kenilworth Show has been much more than a day at the show. It is a celebration of the Mary Valley community. It is about bringing together families, farmers, competitors, exhibitors, entertainers, volunteers and visitors for a day that showcases the character and spirit of the region. There is something wonderfully traditional about the Kenilworth Show, with horses, cattle, woodchop, show jumping, pavilion exhibits and agricultural displays sitting alongside the action and excitement of the rodeo. At the same time, the Show continues to evolve, with live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, action sports, dog jumping and plenty to keep the younger generation entertained. Of course, none of this happens without the incredible commitment of the volunteers who work behind the scenes. Months of planning, organising and preparation go into creating one special day. From setting up the grounds and organising competitions to preparing the pavilion, coordinating entertainment and welcoming visitors, it takes a huge community effort to bring the Show to life. And then there is the atmosphere — the familiar faces, the catch-ups with friends, the children discovering something new, the excitement of the rodeo and the simple pleasure of spending a day together as a community. As the sun goes down, the day will finish in spectacular fashion with live music followed by the much-loved fireworks at 7pm. The Kenilworth Show & Rodeo is a celebration of where we live, the people who make our community special and the traditions that are worth keeping alive. So mark Saturday, 19 September in your calendar, bring the family and come along to the Kenilworth Showgrounds. Whether you have been coming for decades or have never experienced the Show before, there is something waiting for you. Come along, support our local community and be part of the Kenilworth Show & Rodeo.
Youth journalist reporter wanted for the Kenilworth Show & Rodeo. Does your child like writing? Send us 100-300 words about your experience at the show. Photos optional. maryvalleyvoice31@gmail. com
The Mary Valley Voice
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HISTORICAL: CHAMBER CONTRIBUTIONS ROAD TRANSPORT. ELECTRICITY, WATER – UTILITIES AT KENILWORTH Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1939 (The Courier-Mail, Friday 4 August 1939, page 8) and has operated ever since to bring the issues and needs of the Kenilworth community to the attention of the wider community. On page 9 of the Nambour Chronicle and North Coast Advertiser published on Friday, October 21 1949 a lengthy report on the matters discussed at the Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce meeting was printed. Mr G.B. Sutton presided over a well-attended meeting of the Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce. Thos present were Messrs E.A. Sims, H. Rowe, G. Hassall, J. Rowe, M. Lane, L. Tanner, R. Hassall, F. Rodgers, H. Sims, W.E.Sims, R. McTaggart, A. Crisp and W. Walden. The matter of road transport from Gympie through the Mary Valley to Brisbane was dealt with. This had been mooted some time ago, but petrol rationing had prevented anything being done. Just recently Mr. E.A.Sims (secretary) had made personal representations to the Transport Board and these had been well received. Historic note – in 2026 there is still no road transport system from Gympie through the Mary Valley to Brisbane. The City Electric Light Co. is making satisfactory progress with the erection of a line through to Gympie and probably the power will be through to Kenilworth by the end of 1950. Historic note: Electricity was switched on in the township in September 1951 (Nambour Chronicle and North Coast Advertiser Fri 14 Sept 1951,Page 7).
A water supply for the township was also discussed, and it is hoped to have a survey made before long to see what can be done about it. Historic note: Water supply for Kenilworth was officially opened on Saturday November 30, 1957. The newspaper report of the time detailed the arrival of the Premier – the Hon. G.F.R. Nicklin, MLA as well as Cr and Mrs D.A. Low in two veteran cars owned By Mr Ed Sims to deliver to the people of Kenilworth their £24,720 Christmas Box – their water supply. (Nambour Chronicle, 6.12.1957). The committee also sought some improvements to the telephone system. The induction on all lines is bad at present. Historic note: Telephones in 1949 worked on an earth return system with two copper wire line connection – one wire connected to the telephone the other was earthed. If the wires became exposed or dirt accumulated it could have an impact on the clarity of the connection. Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce is still active and working for this community. and may be contacted by email president@ kenilworthqld.org.au Kenilworth Museum still open every Sunday from 10 a.m. ~ Lenore Meldrum, President, Kenilworth & District Historical Assn Inc. t Current Chamber President Ross Sigley presenting the Wildfire Pit to the raffle prize winner from the Ember and Harvest festival.
RAINFALL MOY POCKET – August 2026 by Graham Brennan This August 58mm, Same figure as last Aug. 25 year average for August 46mm It rained on 13 days, average for August 6 days Three months of winter 95mm. Last winter we had 146mm. Winter Average 149mm First eight months of the year 614mm, same period last year 951mm, Jan-August average 849mm 12 Month total rain until end of August was 1054mm, 24 year annual average 1260mm. On the verandah days were 1 deg below average while nights were 2 degrees above the average for August.
COMMUNITY NEWS CHEERIO FROM THE CHURCHES
FREE SWIMMING LESSONS
It looks as if winter is over, what there was of it! We welcome our beautiful Spring weather and all the wonders of Creation.
Thanks to the generosity of the Kenilworth Hall Committee we are once again able to offer free swimming lessons to the kids of all ages in Kenilworth and surrounding districts for the 2026 - 2027 season. For further information please contact Rhennie Head on 0434 258 875 Kenilworth Pool will be open from 20th of September
St Luke's Anglican Church is celebrating St Luke's Day on Sunday 18 October with a service of Holy Communion at 9am to which all are invited, followed by morning tea. As St Luke is the Patron Saint of Physicians and also of Artists, we especially invite all who are involved in any area of health care and also members of Kenilworth Arts Council and all our talented artists. St Luke's, dedicated in 1955, is a War Memorial Church and our friends at Kenilworth RSL are cordially invited to join us at our Patronal Service.
Pool hours Weekdays 1.00pm till 5.00pm. Weekends 10.00 am till 4.00 pm ~ Hans Schinkel, President
We were saddened to hear of the passing of our long term parishioner, Gwen Welch and extend our condolences to all her family. Gwen made beautiful crochet rugs which were passed on to Anglicare in Nambour and always gratefully received. Anyone is welcome to visit St John Bosco church on a Saturday. The beautiful peaceful space provides time for prayer and reflection. Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 20th September at 10am. Liturgy of the Word with Communion on other Sundays at 9am. ~ Cheerio from the Churches
OLD TIME COUNTRY DANCE Well what a night!. Dancing was fun wasn't it! We had 29 happy dancers at Long Flat Hall. Janet's music was so enjoyable to dance, listen to and tap along to. Well done Janet. Also a big enthusiastic plug for Bob learning the Music and Gary on the door and handling yes physically handling the cards..(he dropped them a couple of times in the Monte Carlo) as he had his gloves on, but once the gloves came off he managed superbly. Well done Bob and Gary for getting the jobs done. The Lucky Door prize was won by Phil. The Monte Carlo was won by Bill and Noela. The lucky spot was won by Sylvia and Chris. The Complementary pass was won by Sylvia. Our next Learner Dance is Sept 12th. Mystique is playing for the dance and it is Old Time. BYO Supper. The Spring Ball is being held on 26th September with prizes for Belle and Beau of the Ball. Silver and Gold is the theme for the evening. The band playing will be 'Cascade'. If there are lucky locals attending the Ball would you please like to bring a little fresh greenery from your garden to set the mood of Spring please. (Just leave the birds in the trees ok). I would like to put some along the stage for you to enjoy. Also a little bit of gold and silver decorations would be very appreciated as it's a gift from contributing to the setting "Spring" will be very much appreciated by everyone who comes along. See you all at Long Flat ready to enjoy a great night with friends and new acquaintances. Cheers, Julie, For the Learner Dance Group Committee. 0428824115 for contact if required.
The Mary Valley Voice
9 SEPTEMBER 2026
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T H A N K YO U LO C A L A DV E RT I S E RS •Solicitors visiting Kenilworth• Thursday afternoons by appoinment only
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S U S TA I N A B L E I N C L U S I V E D E S I G N SUNSHINE COAST OPEN HOUSE MARKS A DECADE OF OPENING DOORS TO INSPIRING DESIGN
Gardens; Pomona House by Hive Architecture; 62 Tallowwood Place by Matthew Noffke Architects; Bombala by Sealand Architects, winner of the 2024 Gabriel Poole Award for Building of the Year; the brand new Avani Mooloolaba and Sunshine Coast Grammar School's expansive Forest Glen campus.
On 28 August the Sunshine Coast Open House festival was officially launched at the Sunshine Coast Aero Club, heralding a milestone year for one of the region's most celebrated community events. From energy-efficient homes and community-built gathering spaces to award-winning architectural projects hidden behind private gates, Sunshine Coast Open House (SCOH) is celebrating a decade of showing how purposeful and meaningful design can transform the way we live.
Returning favourites include Alfredson's Joinery, Cooroy House, Landsborough Museum, Moon Mountain Garden, Kite House, Alsahwa Estate, Pomona Railway Gallery, Caloundra Lighthouse, Pãn Pottery Studio, Ewen Maddock Dam and Water Treatment Plant, Majestic Theatre Pomona and SALTAIR Display Village.
Returning from 16–25 October 2026, this milestone event will open the doors to some of the region's most inspiring and rarely seen private homes, public buildings, gardens and community spaces, all free of charge, while exploring this year's theme of Sustainable Inclusive Design. Since its inaugural event in 2017, SCOH has welcomed thousands of visitors and opened the doors to more than 250 buildings across the Sunshine Coast and Noosa regions. Originally established to showcase the architectural evolution of the Sunshine Coast's iconic coastline, the program has grown to celebrate design, heritage, landscape and community across the region.
SCOH Co-Chair Ron Scott said the event was about far more than architecture. "Architecture, heritage buildings and public spaces are repositories of our region's history and identity," Mr Scott said.
The 2026 program features a diverse mix of new and returning buildings stretching from Caloundra to the Noosa Hinterland.
All buildings are free to visit.
Among the buildings opening to the public for the first time are the Permaculture Noosa Community Pavilion at Cooroy Community
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"It reminds us that thoughtful design can strengthen community, enhance wellbeing and enrich everyday life. I encourage people to explore this year's program, learn something new and be inspired by the creativity and care that define our region." Beyond the building tours, the program includes forums, exhibitions, walking tours and community events exploring architecture, sustainability, heritage and landscape design. For program information: www.sunshinecoastopenhouse.com.au Sponsored by:
The Mary Valley Voice
ECOSYSTEMS & COMMUNITY CLOCK VINES Did you know Thunbergias are commonly known as Clock Vines? It’s thought that this nickname comes from the way their stems twine in a clockwise direction as they climb. While Australia has no endemic plants in this genus there are around 150 species found in other tropical and subtropical regions. Thunbergias are quite stunning plants, which is why many species have been popular choices in gardens for years. Unfortunately, like so many other garden ornamentals some have turned out to become serious weeds. Here is a list of some of the Clock vines found on the Sunshine Coast from most serious weeds to least weedy: Very High weed potential Thunbergia annua is not found in Qld and is listed as prohibited under the Qld Biosecurity Act. High weed potential Blue Thunbergia (Thunbergia grandiflora p and Thunbergia laurifolia p) listed as restricted under the Qld Biosecurity Act. This Thunbergia is the most commonly found and is particularly difficult to control due to its vigorous climbing growth and large underground tuber system, which stores energy and allows the plant to reshoot even after the above-ground vines have been removed. Medium weed potential Thunbergia alata u and Thunbergia fragrans u are both not declared but as you can see from the photos they can become weedy overtime. Lower weed potential Mysore Clock Vine ( T h u n b e r g i a mysorensis q) A climber with striking red and yellow hanging flowers that is not considered a weed. If you have this one in your garden it is still important to contain it so it doesn’t spread to areas where it can’t be managed. If you don’t have the time for clock vines and are looking for some beautiful endemic vines that provide food and habitat for butterflies, birds and other wildlife you can find a great selection at your closest Community native nurseries that can be viewed on the Sunshine Coast Council website. ~ The Weed Whisperer
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ACCESSIBILITY AND THE DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION ACT 1992 The Disability Discrimination Act 1992, is an important Australian law that protects people with disability from unfair treatment. Its aim is to make public life more equal by reducing discrimination in areas such as work, education, transport, services, accommodation and access to premises. In relation to buildings, the Act makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person with disability by refusing access, making access less safe or convenient, or placing unfair conditions on entry. For example, a business may create a barrier if customers can only enter by stairs and no reasonable accessible alternative is available. The Act works alongside the Disability (Access to Premises— Buildings) Standards 2010 and the National Construction Code. New public buildings generally need to meet accessibility requirements when they are built, while older buildings may need to comply when major renovations or changes are made. However, because the Act is complaintsbased, inaccessible buildings can still be challenged when they prevent people with disability from using goods, services or facilities on an equal basis. If a disabled person faces challenges because a business has not made its building accessible, they can first raise the issue directly with the business. They might explain the barrier, describe how it affects them, and ask for a reasonable solution, such as ramp access, clearer signage, accessible toilets, an alternative entrance, home delivery, online service, or staff assistance. Keeping notes, photographs, dates and copies of communication can help if the problem continues. If the business does not respond or refuses to make reasonable changes, the person can make a complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission. The Commission can investigate and may arrange conciliation, where both sides try to resolve the issue. Possible outcomes include an apology, changes to access, staff training, policy improvements or compensation. People may also seek advice from community legal centres, disability advocacy organisations or state and territory anti-discrimination bodies. Taking action helps protect individual rights and encourages businesses to make their premises more inclusive for everyone. ~ Wendy D Holmberg
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M A RY VA L L E Y VO I C E TENS OF THOUSANDS PACK AMAMOOR CREEK STATE FOREST The 2026 Gympie Music Muster has wrapped up after another celebration of music, camping and community, with around 60,000 visitations recorded across the festival. Gympie Music Muster CEO Greg Cavanagh said it was a really solid result for the annual event, which continues to bring people from across Australia to Amamoor Creek State Forest. “The music is obviously a huge part of it, but the Muster is also about the people. It is a place where families come together, friends catch up, new friendships are made and everyone can enjoy our festival in the forest.” With Australian Ambassador Amber Lawrence and International
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Ambassadors the Davisson Brothers Band leading a program featuring James Johnston, Lee Kernaghan, Kevin Borich, Steph Strings, Sara Berki, Max Jackson, James Blundell, The Wolfe Brothers, Lyn Bowtell and many more, the Muster once again showcased the range of music on offer. Country music remains at the heart of the festival, alongside bluegrass, folk, rock, blues and roots, with music spread across the festival’s stages and camping areas. The community spirit extended across the festival, with BlazeAid volunteers marking out 6,500 campsites, while the Queensland Country Women's Association sold more than 1,700 scones across the weekend plus their famous toasties. Come along next year: 26-29 August, 2027 - Amamoor Creek State Forest #thisisqueensland #gympiemuster
The Mary Valley Voice
LOCAL STORIES KENILWORTH FIRE TRUCK RAISES $45,000 FOR KIDS IN NEED
possible through a mega raffle, brewery tours, corporate donations and, in their own words, “general begging for donations”.
A 1996 Toyota LandCruiser fire truck, 70 Bash cars, a few thousand kilometres of Queensland backroads and an apparently very serious need to determine which fire truck was fastest. It could only be the 2026 Variety Bash. The crew of Car 911 – Kenilworth Country Cabins has returned home after another epic adventure, raising an incredible $45,000 for Variety – the Children’s Charity. Together, this year’s Queensland Bash raised more than $1.8 million to support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with disability. The journey took the team from Innisfail through Woodleigh Station, Cobbold Gorge, Hughenden, Barcaldine, Carnarvon Gorge and Biloela before finishing in Gladstone. For team member Ben Phipps, now a threetime Bash veteran, it’s the combination that keeps people coming back.
p Legends Ben Phipps, Brenden Seamour, Justin Beall and Mark Bingham horse racing track – with the Kenilworth crew reportedly emerging victorious. Fellow Basher Viv Coleman of the Opal Chicks consequently declared them her favourite fire truck. We’re sure this was an entirely rigorous judging process. The little Japanese fire truck has now completed three Variety Bashes and helped raise more than $110,000 for the charity.
A huge thank you goes to the local businesses and supporters who got behind Car 911, including SJB Liquid Fertilisers, Moto1 Motorcycles, Honda Motorcycles Australia, BBQ & Fireplace Centre, Kenilworth Country Cabins, Kenilworth Rural, Kenilworth Hotel, Kenilworth Dairies, Affordably Yours Imbil, Lazy Logs, Metal MFG, QLD Pontoon Boats, Bluff Creek Camping and IGA Imbil. Behind all the fun is something much bigger: the opportunity to give back and meet some of the children and communities the fundraising supports. Now, after three Bashes, more than $110,000 raised and one extremely important fire-truck victory, the Kenilworth crew is already brainstorming its next adventure.
The team’s $45,000 contribution was made
“It’s a great cause, a great community and a great experience as well – and the mischief and shenanigans that make the Bash the Bash.” First-time team member Justin Beall described it as a fast-paced road trip filled with “countless old cool cars” and the perfect way to celebrate months of fundraising. And then there was the fire-truck race. Four Bash fire trucks lined up for an epic 100-metre sprint at the Tower Hill
The Mary Valley Voice
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LOCAL NEWS & POLITICS CR DAVID LAW DIVISION 10 – SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL Kenilworth Show and Rodeo: If you're looking for a great way to spend the weekend, head along to the Kenilworth Show and Rodeo on Saturday 19 September for a day packed with country fun and community spirit. One of the hinterland’s most loved events, it’s a fantastic opportunity to support local exhibitors, producers and volunteers while celebrating our rich rural heritage. From traditional show attractions and competitions to the excitement of the rodeo, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. New amenities for Bonney Park: I'm pleased to advise construction of the new public amenities at Bonney Park, Obi Obi Road, Kidaman Creek, is now underway. The project will deliver a modern, accessible amenities building, including accessible parking, solar power and battery storage, improved site services and landscaping works. The existing amenities will be removed as part of the project, with the site remediated and re-turfed on completion. Weather permitting, works are expected to be finished by early November 2026, providing improved facilities for the local community and park visitors. Next round of Grants now open: Do you have a project, event or initiative that could benefit our local community? Council’s
latest Major Grants round is now open, and I encourage Division 10 community organisations and not-for-profits to consider applying. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for projects, activities and events across a range of categories, while eligible community facility projects can apply for up to $30,000. Whether you're part of a sporting club, community group, arts organisation, heritage society or local hall committee, this funding could help bring your ideas to life. Applications close on 6 October 2026. Visit the Grants page on Council’s website for more details. If you have a question, idea or local issue you'd like to discuss, I'd love to hear from you. You can contact me at david.law@ sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and follow @ DavidLawDivision10 on Facebook for regular community updates.
CR WINSTON JOHNSTON DIVISION 5 - SC COUNCIL Maple Street, Maleny Streetscape: Work on the Maple Street Streetscape project continues to make good progress, with the new raised pedestrian crossing near the IGA now open. Over the coming weeks, construction activity will increase as crews work across multiple areas of the project. A temporary detour via Coral Street is now in place for west-bound traffic while a new pedestrian crossing is built near the chemist. Please follow signage and allow a little extra travel time
during these works. Thank you for your patience and support as we deliver these improvements for the Maleny community. Free trees: Ratepayers are invited to collect two free trees with their current financial year rates notice (digital or printed) this September. As well as beautifying our hinterland, trees play an important role in cooling our homes, providing food and shelter for our native animals as well as protecting the lifestyle we all value. I'll be at two upcoming locations: Montville Village Green on 22 September, 10am12pm and Maleny’s Cooke Park on 29 September, 9-11am. Animal registration: A reminder for local pet owners that animal registration renewals are due by 30 September. As a proud dog owner myself, I know how important our furry family members are. Rego helps reunite you with your pet if they get lost and supports important animal management services across our community. Visit Council's website and search 'animal registration' for more information. Vibrant celebration: As a proud supporter of the Rangebow Festival, I encourage you all to check out this year’s program running from 9 October. There are events in Maleny, Montville, Mapleton and Flaxton. Head to therangebowfestival.org. Follow my Facebook page for Division 5 updates.
Discover your next spring adventure Spring is the perfect time to get outdoors, improve your wellbeing and make the most of the Sunshine Coast’s natural environment.
For Mary Valley residents, local activities include Chair Yoga, Mobility and Movement at Kenilworth Hall and Aqua Aerobics at Eumundi Aquatic Centre, providing accessible and enjoyable ways to improve fitness, flexibility, balance and wellbeing. Healthy Sunshine Coast is also partnering with the Sunshine Coast Bushwalking Club to offer guided walks throughout September. Remaining walks this month include Mount Ninderry and the Trachyte and Tibrogargan Circuit, giving participants the chance to discover scenic trails with experienced volunteer leaders.
For those keen to explore further, Adventure Sunshine Coast features more than 250 walking, running, cycling, mountain biking, paddling and horse-riding trails across the region. Closer to home, residents can discover local favourites including the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk, Mapleton Falls, Eumundi Conservation Park, Cooloolabin Dam and Kondalilla National Park or venture further afield to enjoy the many hinterland and coastal trails across the Sunshine Coast. Healthy Sunshine Coast activities cost between $5 and $10, with some free options available. Visit sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au to find activities near you and start exploring Sunshine Coast trails at adventure.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
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Healthy Sunshine Coast offers more than 90 free or low-cost health and wellbeing activities for people of all ages and abilities, making it easier to stay energised, connect with others and enjoy the outdoors.
C R EAT I V ES A N D C U LT U R E A BRONZE STATUE IN KENILWORTH? YES INDEED! COME AND SEE!
including a collaborative project for the then Maroochy Shire Council. This entailed working on a large sculpture of a swan and an egret, “Sisters by Choice”, to mark the sister city arrangement between Xiamen and the Sunshine Coast. Elli travelled to China with the sculpture for its installation. A second version is at Alexandra Headlands.
Have you seen the lovely bronze statue in the gardens of St John Bosco’s Church? Have you ever wondered how it came to be there? Here’s the story. Francis Tillig who lived at Gheerulla was a devoted member of the St John Bosco community. In 1999 , he decided to donate a statue of the Australian nun, Mary McKillop, to be placed in the grounds of the Kenilworth church. Well known local sculptor, Elli Schlunke, was commissioned to make the bronze head and shoulders statue to stand on a stone plinth. Excited by the project, Elli researched her subject to learn more of the nature, character and history of this remarkable woman. Mary McKillop (1842 – 1909) was known for her passion in nurturing the children of working class families so they could be educated and develop their potential as skilled citizens of value and worth. She often ran foul of the church authorities in her strong support of the poor and the underprivileged. At one stage she was even excommunicated but was later re-instated. Elli was very impressed with Mary’s life and work, commenting, “ She’s my kind of gal!”
MANY CULTURES, MANY STORIES, ONE SUNSHINE COAST COMMUNITY Belonging will be at the heart of a free community celebration at Cotton Tree Park this September as Sunshine Coast Council marks Welcoming Week 2026.
Mary McKillop was recognized as “Saint” in 2010 and is now known as Mother Mary of the Cross. The Blessing and Dedication of this beautiful bronze was held on Sunday 1 July, 2001. A long term resident in the Kenilworth community, Elli is a talented painter and designer as well as a sculptor of note. She has done many commissions people to receive a complimentary traditional Turkish coffee. Everyone is welcome.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli encouraged The family-friendly community picnic residents to take part will be held from 10am to 2pm on Sunday in this community 20 September 2026 at Cotton Tree Park, celebration and Maroochydore to bring people from all connect with people from across the region. backgrounds together to celebrate culture, connection and community through food, "The Sunshine Coast is enriched by the many storytelling, music, games and interactive cultures, traditions and experiences that shape our unique identity," Mayor Natoli said. activities. Registering to attend the free event is recommended here, with the first 50
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Elli is well known for her amazing works using recycled materials and “junk”, as she calls it, to produce imaginative and colourful creatures. She has also been involved with the Woodford Folk Festival for many years. To view Elli’s beautiful Mary McKillop bronze, go along to the garden at the side of St John Bosco’s church. This bronze sculpture is a fitting memorial to the remarkable Mary McKillop, Australia’s first saint and also a wonderful testament to Elli’s passion and skills. ~ Sue Wolter and Shirley Moreland References : Elli Schlunke Arts Connect Inc; Margaret White Background Notes St John Bosco’s Church Photos: Elli Schlunke Arts Connect Inc & Sue Wolter
of our shared love of everything that makes the Sunshine Coast a wonderful place for everyone to call home." This year's theme, Belonging is Everyone's Business, recognises that creating a community where people feel seen, valued and connected is a shared responsibility.
From neighbourhoods and sporting clubs to schools, workplaces, community organisations and local government, everyone has a role to play in fostering "The Welcoming Week Community Picnic is an belonging and strengthening social opportunity to come together in celebration cohesion.
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Created in QUARK XPRESS. VER.4.03 Items not needed for publication can be erased as each is in a separate text box.
14 | 9 SEPTEMBER 2026
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Solution to No. 552
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The Mary Valley Voice
LOCAL OPINIONS... WHAT ARE YOURS? SEEKING PHOTOS
KENILWORTH DEPOT & STREET TREE UPDATE Following community questions, Kenilworth Chamber President Ross Sigley sought clarification from Sunshine Coast Council regarding the local works depot and proposed street tree planting. Council has advised that the Kenilworth depot has not closed. The small team normally based there is currently on leave for personal reasons, with mowing temporarily being contracted out. Council is reviewing its depots, however no decision has been made to close the Kenilworth depot, and Council advises the area continues to be serviced. The proposed street tree planting has also experienced delays due to requirements relating to TMR-controlled roads. Some plans will now need to be revised, while other proposed plantings are awaiting responses from affected customers. Residents interested in seeing the current planting maps or finding out more can contact Ross Sigley, President of the Kenilworth Chamber, at rosswsigley@gmail.com.
We love to feature photos from locals or visitors. If you take a pic in the valley that you would like others to see, send it in to us at maryvalleyvoice31@gmail.com
SOMEWHERE OVER THE... Yvonne and Dennis James were impressed by the sunrise with the rainbow over the Mary River. Unfortunately they didn't find the pot of gold!
LOVE THE VOICE? HERE'S HOW YOU CAN KEEP IT GOING... The Mary Valley Voice is a bit like a community garden, it only flourishes when everyone chips in. Got a story? We'd love to hear it! Send us your community news, school highlights, sporting wins, local legends, milestones, fundraisers, events, or anything that deserves a cheer. Community submissions are always welcome and published free of charge. Got a business? Advertise with us! Every ad helps keep local stories in print and 2,500 free copies landing in homes, cafés, waiting rooms and businesses across the Valley each month. You can even sponsor a page or regular feature that aligns with your business, organisation or community initiative. Got a little spare time? Join the Mary Valley Voice Committee! Whether you enjoy writing, photography, design, delivering magazines or simply supporting your community, we'd love a few more helping hands. Become an undercover distributor. Pick up a handful of magazines from the Post Office or another collection point and pop them somewhere people gather — your favourite café, waiting room, accommodation, workplace or community space. Every extra pair of eyes helps local stories and local businesses reach further. Most importantly... Read it. Share it. Tell your neighbours. Pop it on the coffee table instead of under the wobbly chair. Together, we can keep the Mary Valley Voice thriving for another 35 years. After all, it's your magazine.
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MONDAY 5 for #10 MVV 14 OCTOBER 2026 Past issues on the website issuu.com/maryvalleyvoice Mary Valley Community News Assoc. Inc., publishers of The Mary Valley Voice since 1991, reserves the right to refuse inappropriate advertising and submissions for both print and website, and any opinions expressed in any published advertisements or submissions does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Association or its Editor. It also reserves the right to determine what is inappropriate for publication purposes. • ABN 61 781 267 568 • Mary Valley Community News Assoc Inc, PO Box 158, Kenilworth Q 4574
LATEST LISTINGS Offers Over $990,000
SENSATIONAL VIEWS FROM THIS BEAUTIFUL HOME New to the market, this impressive lowset brick home enjoys an enviable Kenilworth address, set well back from the road on a generous 800m² fully fenced block. Private, peaceful and beautifully positioned, this is a home designed to make the most of relaxed hinterland living. Offering space for the whole family: • 4 generous bedrooms, all with built-ins • Master suite with walk-in robe + ensuite • 2 separate living areas, thoughtfully positioned apart • Stylish, well-appointed kitchen flowing to indoor and outdoor dining • Fully air-conditioned and well ventilated for year-round comfort • 2 covered outdoor entertaining areas • Professionally installed electric screen blinds to one entertaining area • Double remote lock-up garage + additional off-street parking • Solar panels + inverter • Town water + sewerage • Established native gardens and terraced garden beds • Plenty of room for a future pool But it’s the outlook that really sets this property apart. Embracing its elevated position and beautiful north-east aspect, the home captures expansive views across the Kenilworth township, rolling pastures and the Mary River, stretching towards the surrounding mountain ranges and State Forest. Morning light spills across the landscape, while the covered entertaining areas provide the perfect place to sit back and watch the changing colours of the hinterland. It is a rare combination of town convenience, country outlook and genuine privacy. Beautifully established and wonderfully low-maintenance, this is a property where the hard work has already been done, simply move in and enjoy. Inspections available by appointment or scheduled Open Home. Come and experience 40 George Street, Kenilworth for yourself, the photos are beautiful, but the view is even better.
Let our real estate family show your family the way home 07 5446 0222 www.boxsells.com.au
Tonia Murtagh
0407 135 797 tonia@boxsells.com.au