Seniors Today Sunshine Coast - Winter 2026

Carrying on a legacy

They say charity begins at home and that is obviously the case for five Sunshine Coast sisters honoured by the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland’s as part of their recent National Volunteer Week celebrations.

The five women followed in the footsteps of their parents Jim and Margaret Arnold who were both Vincentians and deeply committed to helping people in need.

This year’s National Volunteer Week theme, Your Year to Volunteer, honours current volunteers and invited all Australians to discover how giving their time can create connection, purpose and lasting community benefits.

The St Vincent de Paul Society is supported by 2,689 Members and 5,051 volunteers in Queensland, whose collective contribution is what makes the Society’s mission of giving vulnerable people a hand up possible.

Chris Gilmore and Helen Minto are two of the five sisters volunteering through the Society’s St Joseph’s Nambour Conference.

Through their work, the sisters help provide practical support while also working alongside people to find long-term solutions

For the Arnold sisters, volunteering was never something they were told to do. It was something they did every day from a young age, growing up helping their parents with initiatives that brought them closer to their family and community.

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Protection boost

The Federal Government is set to strengthen protections for older Australians in the Support at Home program, with a new package that responds directly to feedback from older people, their families, advocates and providers according to Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae.

“Older Australians and their families told us they need stronger protections against rogue market prices when it comes to Support at Home,” he said.

“We’ve listened, and we’re acting.

“We’ll keep working methodically, in the interests of older people, to make sure

Support at Home delivers what it promised: quality care, at fair prices, close to home.”

“Building on our once-in-a-generation reforms and record investments, the Government will implement new measures to guard older Australians against unfair prices under Support at Home.

“The package will build on our work to ensure older Australians get the care that they need at reasonable prices and equip them with more tools to get the most out of the Support at Home program.

Responding to feedback received from community, providers and advocates, the

Government has said they will:

• Empower the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to order refunds for services where providers are found to be overcharging, take regulatory action against providers who are choosing not to meet their clear requirement to issue monthly statements, and regular public reporting on investigations and enforcement action.

• Publish a new National Summary of Support at Home Prices each quarter, showing the median and the range of prices charged by providers so older Australians and their families can see

how their provider compares.

• Building on our removal of out-ofpocket costs for showering, dressing and continence services under Support at Home, have the Department and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission specifically monitor the prices of personal care as they transition into the Clinical Care category.

• Encourage providers to limit the frequency of price increases to no more than two per year, giving older people certainty to budget their packages.

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Learn to play bridge

Looking for a fun new mental challenge?

Sunshine Coast Bridge Club is a great place to learn bridge. Their next beginners’ course starts Monday 27 July.

After just six lessons the club believes you will be able to play bridge in supervised sessions and enjoy all the benefits of

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DEADLINES

September 2026 Edition

Advertising Bookings:

Noon Thursday 13th August

Copy Deadline:

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Distributed: Monday 7th September

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Noon Thursday 12th November

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this fascinating and social game.

Instructor Lisa Phillips is a bridge director and title holder. Her classes are known for being entertaining, stimulating and, most importantly, easy to follow. The club house, at the Elizabeth Daniels Sports Complex on Syd Lingard Drive, has plenty of parking and is disabled friendly.

Course cost is $60 and includes the lesson book and morning tea.

Details on the club website: www. suncoastbridge.com.au or email: teaching@sunshinecoastbridge.com.au or telephone Lisa Phillips: 0412 196 457.

Granting community groups’ wishes

The Buderim Foundation is thrilled to once again open the door to community-led impact through its 2026 Community Grants Round, offering grants of up to $15,000 each to help great local ideas come to life.

The Buderim Foundation has been distributing grants since 2008, having awarded a total of $1,137,059 to 110 community organisations supporting the Buderim region so far.

Buderim Foundation Chair Rick Woods said everyone involved in the Foundation was proud of the long-term impact of the grants to the community and was excited to once again be opening applications.

Eligible not-for-profit organisations providing support to, and strengthening, community in the Buderim region can apply for funding from 20th May to 30th June 2026, marking a new chapter in the ongoing effort to strengthen life in our area.

Full details for the 2026 round will be available on the Buderim Foundation website starting 20 May 2026.

Buderim Foundation Chair Rick Woods

said the grants are made possible through the foundation’s unique investment model.

“Donations to the Buderim Foundation are pooled and carefully invested, and the income from these investments is used to fund our grants program,” Mr Woods said. Grants are awarded to projects that meet certain criteria and relate to eight key areas of interest:

• Protecting and preserving our natural environment

• Assisting people in need to live healthy and fulfilling lives

• Adding richness and diversity to local artistic and cultural endeavours

• Increasing learning opportunities across all age groups

• Celebrating and showcasing our heritage and local history

• Encouraging and supporting those with sporting and other recreation interests

• Strengthening the social fabric of the community

• Supporting youth in our community

To assist interested eligible not-for-

profit community organisations with their applications, there is a free Buderim Foundation Community Grants information session to be held at the Buderim Uniting Church on Wednesday, 27th May at 4pm.

Reflecting on the program’s success, Mr Woods said, “Last year we had more applications than ever which shows just how many passionate groups are working to strengthen life in Buderim.

“It’s also a powerful reflection of our donors’ generosity, and the careful management of all donations by our investment committee that we are once again looking to provide a generous level of funding for 2026 when we announce this year’s successful recipients in September,” Mr Woods said.

To find out more and apply for this year’s Grants Program, visit www.buderimfoundation.org.au/grants/buderimfoundation-community-grants/ to see if your organisation is eligible and to download the Grant Application Guide. Grant applications need to be submitted online by 5pm on Wednesday, 30 June 2026.

Seniors unfairly targeted

Over 65-year-olds are being unfairly targeted by an unexpected cut to their private health insurance rebate according to the Australian Independent Retiree’s Chief Advocate.

The Chief Advocate, Wayne Standish said the reduction by the Federal Government in the long-standing Health Insurance Rebate for older Australians is not justified.

public health system,” Mr Strandquist explained. “The health insurance rebate for older people has been cut from between 28 per cent and 32 per cent to the lower rebate of 24 per cent received by younger Australians. As a result, it is estimated that private health insurance premiums for seniors with higher levels of cover could increase by 21 per cent.

“The government has overlooked that older Australians use their Health Insurance more frequently than younger Australians.

“This change could affect over 2.5 million older Australians,” he said. “The health insurance rebate was introduced over 25 years ago with a higher rebate for older people to encourage them to take out and retain private health insurance and reduce the pressure on the

“Each hospital admission incurs significant out of pocket costs that are lower for younger Australians who require less medical attention per year.’’

When will is not final word

Family provision claims sit at the difficult intersection of a will-maker’s freedom and family obligation.

In Queensland, a person is generally free to decide how their estate will be distributed. However, that freedom is not absolute. Where a will fails to make adequate provision for an eligible person, the court may intervene.

These claims are not simply a mechanism for disappointed beneficiaries to seek a larger inheritance.

The court’s focus is whether proper provision has been made for the claimant’s maintenance and support, having regard to all relevant circumstances.

Those circumstances may include the claimant’s financial position, health, relationship with the deceased, any dependency, the size of the estate, and the competing claims of other beneficiaries.

Critics argue that family provision claims undermine the deceased’s final wishes. That concern is understandable. A will should carry significant weight. Yet succession law also recognises that certain responsibilities may survive death, particularly where a spouse, child, or dependent has been left without adequate support.

The real challenge is balance. Courts must avoid rewriting wills merely because an outcome appears unequal or emotionally harsh. At the same time, the law must protect vulnerable people from being left

without proper provision.

For will-makers, the lesson is clear: careful estate planning matters. Identifying potential claimants, documenting reasons for significant exclusions, and considering financial dependency can reduce

Carrying on a legacy

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“That’s what we do — we carry on our parents’ legacy by helping people, just like Mum and Dad did,” Helen said.

“It has brought us closer as sisters and is something meaningful we share. When we get together with our partners, they always have to remind us it’s not a Vinnies meeting!” Chris said.

In 2026, volunteering is being recognised globally through the United Nations International Year of Volunteers, highlighting the vital role of volunteers in society, at a time when national data shows participation in formal volunteering has declined in recent years.

For Chris, retirement created the opportunity to give even more of her time to Vinnies.

“When I finished work, I wanted to do something important, something where I continued learning, and where I could help others because while I can do it, I will do it. The obvious choice was Vinnies,” she said.

The Sunshine Coast sisters make the trip to Nambour each week to volunteer side-by-side, continuing a shared family commitment. They say the human connection is what makes the work so fulfilling, connecting with other volunteers and Companions, a term for people the Society supports.

“We learn so much from those we help as we journey with upholding the message giving ‘a hand up, not just a handout’. It’s very satisfying when we

can be involved in empowering those in need,” Chris said.

“Volunteering is simply about showing up with compassion and a willingness to help people get back on their feet,” Helen said.

Chris said volunteering also gives back to those who give their time.

“People find skills they didn’t think they had, build connections, and become part of a community working together to support one another,” Chris said.

St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland State President, Trish McMahon said National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to thank volunteers for serving the vulnerable in our communities with the most valuable currency there is.

“Our Members and Volunteers give something incredibly precious — their time,” she said.

“Whether it’s a few hours a week or many years of service, that generosity makes a real difference to people experiencing hardship and we are deeply grateful for the compassion, respect and love our volunteers show our Companions every day.”

The Arnold family legacy continues with the next generation, with Chris’s daughter becoming an associate Member of the Conference.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities with St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland, visithttps:// www.vinnies.org.au/get-involved/ volunteering

the risk of later disputes.

Family provision claims remain controversial, but they serve an important role in ensuring that testamentary freedom operates within principled limits. Anthony Miller holds a master’s degree in Wills and Estates Law. He and the team at Miller Sockhill Lawyers provide a free 20-minute initial consultation to review current estate planning documents or advise on estate claim prospects.

More repairs ahead

Since the launch of Noosa Council’s Free Community Repair Days, Michael from the Men’s Shed has sharpened a host of gardening tools and household knives for local residents, breathing new life into items otherwise destined for landfill.

“We’ve been able to sharpen a wide range of tools for a lot of people - everything from kitchen knives to secateurs ,” he said.

With sustainability at the heart of the Repair Day initiative, Noosa locals are encouraged to spread the word and make use of the service, with two more Repair Days so far locked in.

“We’d love to keep these going for the community, if the demand is there,” Council’s Waste Education and Sustainability Officer, Emma Menzies, said.

Council’s team of repairers, like Michael from the Men’s Shed, can help mend small items of furniture, bicycles and most general household items.

“We also have textile repairers on the sewing machines to breathe new life into clothing and household linens,” Ms Menzies said.

“If we can fix it, it spares local residents the cost of replacing an item, and keeps it out of landfill, where space is finite, so these events really are a practical, free way for the community to reduce waste and help the environment.”

There is no cost to attend the Repair Days, but registration is essential, and the sharpening service is limited to three items per person.

Registrations are now open for a further two Repair Days, running from 10am to 2pm on 28 May and 25 June.

Register online at https://bit. ly/4khCY5u

The Repair Days are held at Reviva Reuse Shop at Noosa Council’s Resource Recovery Centre, 561 Eumundi Noosa Road, Doonan.

Protections

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• Convene a working group with the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN), Council on the Ageing (COTA) Australia, Ageing Australia and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to focus on three key priorities:

• Establishing a more robust definition of ‘reasonable’ pricing, giving providers and consumers clearer guidance on their responsibilities and rights.

• Undertaking further consultation on the multi-provider model.

• Developing further guidance and supports for older people who self-manage their packages.

He said the Government would also provide extra funding to support OPAN to expand financial advocacy, and COTA to provide education and information on consumer protections, including service agreements, aged care rights, and information on how to compare prices.

“This funding will support older people to understand their prices and get assistance to challenge them when needed,” the minister said.

“This package builds on existing Support at Home protections already enshrined in legislation, including the requirement that prices be reasonable and reflect the cost of delivery, and the ban on entry and exit fees.”

The Government will also take the time needed to get broader pricing settings right, deferring the implementation of formal price caps until we have greater confidence in the stability of the market.

Private hospital set to open in heart of Maroochydore

Maroochy Private Hospital will welcome its first patients in mid-June, offering more services and specialist care for one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions.

Rising in the heart of the Maroochydore City Centre, the $100 million hospital developers Fortius Hospitals say it combines world-class clinicians, advanced technology and a landmark purpose-built facility designed to deliver a premium patient experience - setting a new benchmark for private healthcare in regional Queensland.

The 10-storey facility reflects a shift away from traditional large-scale hospital models according to the group.

They say instead it focusses on clinical excellence, world-class patient experiences and a major focus on staff culture and teamwork. It is the third hospital in the Fortius portfolio, following the successful openings of King Street Private Hospital in Newcastle and Eastwood Private Hospital in Adelaide.

Fortius Hospital director Warwick Crosby said the hospital is focused on a small number of high-demand specialties, centred on doing fewer procedures exceptionally well - an approach global evidence links to stronger outcomes and enhanced experience for patients and staff.

“Globally, we are seeing a clear shift in how surgical care is delivered, with patients moving toward dedicated surgical facilities that improve patient experience and clinical outcomes,” Mr Crosby said.

He said services would include orthopaedics, neurosurgery, ophthalmology,

plastic and reconstructive surgery, and pain management, supported by six operating theatres, advanced imaging, consulting suites and multidisciplinary clinical spaces.

A key clinical partner, Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic Group (SCOG), will deliver

orthopaedic services from the hospital’s top floor. Orthopaedic Surgeon and Director of SCOG, Associate Professor Daevyd Rodda, said the facility would provide world-class care right here on the Sunshine Coast.

“As demand for joint replacement continues to grow, we expect Maroochy Private Hospital to become a true destination hospital, attracting patients from across the Sunshine Coast and beyond for specialist treatment,” Associate Professor Rodda said.

The project has already generated great interest from healthcare professionals nationwide with Director of Nursing Heather Russo stating that the recruitment process has attracted highly qualified clinicians, nurses and support staff from leading hospitals and health services, all united by Maroochy Private’s vision and ambition.

“Recently we were delighted to bring our founding team together for a tour of the hospital and it is heartening to see a team forming that values collaboration and collective excellence,” Ms Russo said.

The founding team is excited to be going through the final steps of commissioning and looks forward to welcoming the first patients in mid-June – well ahead of schedule.

The year to volunteer here

Every day across the Sunshine Coast, volunteers generously give their time, skills and care to support programs that help bring people together, build confidence and strengthen community life.

The Sunshine Council took the time during National Volunteer Week (from 18 to 24 May) to say thank you to the volunteers who contribute alongside Council teams to help create welcoming, inclusive and connected places across our region.

Volunteers take on a wide range of roles across Council, from environmental programs and events to arts, heritage, literacy and learning with thousands of locals putting in time to make a difference.

In fact, more than 4000 volunteers share their time and skills to help deliver services and experiences that support the Sunshine Coast community.

Debra has been volunteering at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden for more than 18 years. She remembers starting out with the garden crew, helping mulch and weed before moving into nursery work where she now propagates and nurtures native plants.

“Watching plants grow from cuttings and knowing they will thrive out in the gardens is incredibly rewarding,” Debra said.

“The camaraderie among the volunteers is what keeps me coming back. The energy of the team is infectious and everyone supports one another.”

Why volunteering matters to the region?

Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the commitment shown by volunteers was something that made all members of the Sunshine Coast community proud.

“Our volunteers bring compassion, skill and a deep sense of community to the work they do,” Mayor Natoli said.

“They help create welcoming environments where people feel supported, respected and included and we are incredibly grateful for the contribution they make across the Sunshine Coast.”

Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said volunteering played an important role in strengthening community wellbeing and connection.

“Volunteers enrich our services by sharing their knowledge, life experience and time,” Cr Bunnag said.

“They help create positive experiences for residents and visitors and their involvement strengthens the sense of community pride we value so highly on the Sunshine Coast.”

He said volunteers like Debra showed the lasting impact one person could make.

“Debra’s contribution over many years highlights how volunteering can be deeply rewarding, not just for the community, but for the people who give their time,” he said.

“If you have an interest, a skill or simply some time to give, volunteering is a great way to get involved, meet new people and make a meaningful difference on the Sunshine Coast.”

The National Volunteer Week carried the theme Your Year to Volunteer, recognising the contribution of volunteers and encouraging people to consider giving back in ways that suit their skills, interests and availability.

Sunshine Coast Council thanked all volunteers for the time, energy and care

they share with the community.

For those residents interested in volunteering opportunities with the Council they can visit sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ living-and-community/volunteering to learn more.

Turning to winter dark side

By Bob Anthony

For those of you who have following my beer rankings over the years and for those who have shared a few drinks over the bar, you’ll know I have a particular passion for dark brews.

It’s for that reason I appreciate the arrival of the cooler months as brewers tend to produce their dark beers at this time.

However, I am one who enjoys a dark beer all year round and I get a little frustrated in the warmer months when the bottle shops are bombarded with pale ales.

To counter this, I find myself brewing all sorts of dark beers - browns, reds, blacks, olds, porters, bocks and stouts.

Winter isn’t a bad time of year to do home brew, if you have the right conditions, and if you can make a stockpile in the cooler months, you’ll be OK when the mercury rises (for a while).

Many people will be familiar with “olds” and stouts and there are a surprisingly wide variety to experience.

Yes, dark beers can be an acquired taste but allow me to introduce to some different styles which may tempt you.

Walk into almost any pub and you’ll likely find at least one dark beer on tap.

Old beers or black beers feature a degree of roasted bitterness, have plenty of body and depth.

Some people can find them quite “filling” because of this and they tend not to

be big ‘session’ beers.

However, they are ideal for slow drinking, especially during colder months. I find it hard to go past Tooheys Old, despite this being a mainstream big brewer product. It’s quality, very consistent and I even think they may have twigged the brew to give a richer finish.

Another favourite of mine is Monteith’s Black Beer from across the Ditch. This Kiwi brew is dark, rich and very flavoursome and is a perfect accompaniment when sitting beside the fire - speaking from experience.

You may have heard of porters which came from 18th-century London and was popular with the city’s working class, especially market and river porters — giving the beer its name.

What made porters so popular was that they were sold ready to drink, unlike many ales that required aging by publicans.

A good porter can vary from dark brown to black but is generally softer and smoother than stout.

They can offer a variety of flavours, smoother and with less bite than stouts but will still do the trick in winter. You may find porters with chocolate, caramel, or even mild coffee notes.

One of my favourites is Young Henry’s Motorcycle Engine Oil Porter - which isn’t a description of the brew - but just like engine oil, it is an ideal lubricant in cooler months and is a very sessionable drop.

When it comes to black beers, a lot of people think of stouts and when they think of stouts, they also immediately think of Guinness.

Fortunately, there are far more varieties of stout than just Ireland’s most famous export.

Originally, “stout” simply meant a stronger porter. Brewers would produce “stout porter” for customers wanting a richer, more powerful version of the popular dark ale.

What separates stout from porter today is largely the use of roasted barley, which creates the familiar espresso-like bitterness and deep black colour. Stouts also tend to feel heavier, creamier and more intense on the palate.

One of the reasons stout remains so popular is its versatility.

From dry stouts (like Guinness) to rich chocolate-infused brews, you will be surprised.

Dry stouts are lean, roasted and bitter, with notes of black coffee and toasted

grain. No guessing what the best-known dry stout is is. If you can, try and get your hands on the fully-imported Guinness as the Aussie brewed version, I feel, isn’t quite as ‘thick’ in body. On the local front, Sheath Stout is a great Australian-brewed dry stout by CUB.

Milk stouts feature the use of lactose, a milk sugar that brewing yeast cannot ferment. As a result, milk stouts tend to be sweeter and a little creamier. If you are a fan of the Guinness, you might find these stouts a bit ‘thin’

My favourite style of stout is imperial stout which was originally brewed for export to the Russian imperial court.

To ensure the brew would make the distance from London to Moscow, these stouts were ‘juiced up’ to keep fermenting and by they got the Russia they were high alcohol and full of body and flavour.

Imperial stouts often offer dark chocolate, rich espresso and dark fruit notes. They tend to be seasonal, have a high alcohol content and really are great winer warmers.

Some more exotic stouts include foreign extra stouts - Coopers do a great Extra Stout which tends to be developed for warmer climates. Foreign extra stouts are stronger and fruitier than dry stouts, with a more robust roasted profile.

If you are after a stout ‘outside the box’ , consider:

Oyster stouts - historically brewed to accompany oysters, and some modern examples still use oyster shells during brewing. Definitely an acquired taste.

Pastry stout – these use ingredients such as vanilla, maple syrup, cacao, marshmallow and coffee and tend to be rich and sweet – not one for traditionalists.

Nitro stout - served with nitrogen rather than standard carbon dioxide, nitro stouts pour with the famous cascading head and creamy texture – more for affect than taste.

Now, the challenge, should you accept it, is to find what type of black beers best suits your taste, Stay warm and hydrated, Cheers, BobAnthony

Building community

National Volunteer Week may have wrapped up, but for the team at Noosa Seniors, the positive impact of volunteers continues to be felt every day.

From welcoming people into social groups and serving morning tea, to supporting outings and helping older residents get to medical appointments, volunteers play a key role in keeping seniors connected, active and supported across the community.

“Volunteers are the heart of Noosa Seniors and play an indispensable role in everything we do,” said Amanda Moore, Community Care Assistant at Noosa Seniors.

“Their generosity, time and commitment enable us to deliver vital services that support the wellbeing, independence, and social connection of older members of our community. Without volunteers, many of our programs simply wouldn’t exist,” she said.

The organisation is encouraging more locals to get involved in volunteering, with a range of roles available to suit different interests, schedules, and abilities.

Some volunteers help at the Noosaville centre during weekly social groups, lending a hand with activities, welcoming clients and spending one-on-one time with seniors. Others assist on the popular “Out and About” bus trips, which take participants to local destinations for social outings and morning tea.

Volunteer drivers are also needed,

helping transport clients to medical appointments across the Sunshine Coast, Gympie, and Brisbane. Along with providing practical support, they often offer a friendly face and a good chat along the way.

“Volunteering at Noosa Seniors brings a real sense of joy and connection,” said Jill Hooper, a regular volunteer on bus trips.

“We get so many happy memories from being part of people’s lives, while helping our clients achieve their own great memories attending Noosa Seniors. It gives me something to look forward to and I’ve made many friendships with both clients and staff.”

For many volunteers, the experience becomes much more than simply giving back.

“By volunteering, individuals not only

make a meaningful difference in the lives of others but also gain a strong sense of purpose and belonging,” Ms. Moore said.

“Volunteering offers valuable opportunities to build new skills, develop confidence, share knowledge and form lasting friendships, while contributing to a stronger, more caring community for everyone.”

No prior experience is necessary to become a volunteer at Noosa Seniors. The most valuable qualities are kindness, reliability, and a willingness to connect with others.

“Volunteering with Noosa Seniors is very rewarding and creates purposeful connections to the community in a very loving and supportive environment,” said Dot Wood, who volunteers at Noosa Seniors on Tuesdays.

“Volunteering has made me more em-

pathetic, patient, and kinder in our otherwise busy world. The sense of purpose I gain is invaluable and meaningful as it helps create a routine in my day-to-day life.”

At a time when loneliness and social isolation are growing concerns for many older Australians, organisations like Noosa Seniors say volunteers are helping create stronger community ties and brighter days for local seniors.

Whether it’s sharing a laugh over a game of cards, helping someone attend an important appointment, or simply being there for a chat, small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.

Anyone interested in volunteering can call Noosa Seniors on 5329 6175 and speak with the team to find a role that suits their availability and interests.

MND patients called upon

Motor Neurone Disease patients from around the South East Queensland region are being called on to be part of a new program as researchers on the Darling Downs begin work on cutting-edge techniques to improve the early detection and diagnosis.

The deadly neurodegenerative disease affects nearly 3000 Australians at any time, and techniques for the early detection of MND remain limited.

Toowoomba Hospital neurologist Dr Ehsan Shandiz will lead the project, which will test the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) machine. This project will be supervised by Associate Professor Robert Henderson and Prof Pamela McCombe, elite Australian neurologists and researchers in the field of MND.

Dr Shandiz said while TMS technology had been in use for decades to treat conditions such as depression, the use of the machines for MND diagnostics and research was still new.

He said he hoped around 30 people would be involved in the research, with patients from the Darling Downs, South Burnett, Maranoa and south-east Queensland eligible to take part.

“We want to show how TMS can be used to improve how doctors detect and monitor MND by measuring changes in motor neuron function.”

Toowoomba Hospital neurologist Dr Ehsan Shandiz is looking for MNDs patients to help with his forthcoming trial.

“I believe TMS will give us a more complete picture of how MND affects the nervous system over time.”

Dr Shandiz said his goal was to develop reliable, non-invasive biomarkers that can detect disease changes earlier and track the progression of MND in patients more accurately.

The TMS machine based in Toowoomba will be the first of its kind to be used for neurology research in Queensland.

The purchase of the machine and the two-year research project has been funded by Brisbane-based charity Nerve

Connection Foundation thanks to generous donations from local philanthropists including Clive Berghofer, Matt Butler and Amelia Bailey.

Mr Butler was diagnosed with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2i, a neuromuscular disease, in 2019.

“Being involved in clinical research myself has shown me how important this work is,” Mr Butler said.

“While my condition is different to MND, all neuromuscular diseases share the same need for better understanding and better treatments.”

“I’m proud to support research like this because it’s about creating hope for future patients.”

The Foundation’s Director and one of Australia’s leading neuromuscular researchers Associate Professor Robert Henderson said the research would establish Toowoomba as a leading site for functional motor system research.

“This research is really exciting – we believe this project will establish Toowoomba as a leading site for functional motor system research, in Queensland,” A/Prof Robert Henderson said.

“Motor neurone disease is still a very mysterious disease and unlocking its secrets is one of the biggest challenges in neurological research.”

“What makes this project so exciting is the potential to better understand how the disease begins and progresses, which is essential if we are going to develop better diagnostics and treatments.”

“This is exactly the type of forwardthinking research the Nerve Connection Foundation was established to support. It also reinforces our commitment to building research capability beyond metropolitan centres.”

Patients wanting to be involved can email ehsan.shandiz@health.qld.gov.au.

More money urgently needed for dementia initiatives

Dementia Australia has welcomed the investment in dementia specific initiatives announced in the 2026-27 Federal Budget but the group’s CEO has warned more needs to be done.

The Government has invested $200 million to expand the Specialist Dementia Care Program units and the Hospital to Aged Care Dementia Support Program which meets an important need for people living with dementia with the most complex needs who are finding it difficult to access appropriate care.

Dementia Australia Chief Executive Officer Professor Tanya Buchanan said these are important steps forward. However, there is still more to be done to deliver the level of funding required to respond to dementia - now the leading cause of death for Australians.

“It is vital the Commonwealth Government fully invests and implements the ten-year National Dementia Action Plan, which is a joint commitment led by

the Federal Government in 2024, along with all state and territories,” Professor Buchanan said.

“We must invest in effective strategies aligned to the National Dementia Action Plan, like a national brain health awareness campaign, so we are addressing dementia throughout the life course, striving to prevent it, as well as managing it in acute settings.

“With two in three people with dementia thought to be living in the community, we must ensure funding extends to support all Australians of all ages, impacted by all forms of dementia, wherever they live.

Professor Buchanan welcomed the investment in dementia specific initiatives announced in the 2026-27 Federal Budget.

The Government has invested $200 million to expand the Specialist Dementia Care Program units and the Hospital to Aged Care Dementia Support Pro-

gram which meets an important need for people living with dementia with the most complex needs who are finding it difficult to access appropriate care.

The $6.7 million to continue innovative respite grants for people with dementia under the Support for Informal Carers for a further year is welcomed.

The $11.5 million for continued operation of the National Centre for Monitoring Dementia within the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is also essential to ensure continued monitoring of progress against the National Dementia Action Plan.

The Professor said the numbers are estimated to be high and without a significant intervention they are expected to get higher.

“There are an estimated 446,500 Australians living with dementia in 2026,” she said.

“Without a significant intervention, the number of Australians living with

dementia is expected to increase to more than one million by 2065.

“As the number of Australians living with dementia increases, without significant additional investment services will not be able to keep up with escalating needs, creating additional pressure on individuals, families and the healthcare system.

“People living with dementia, their families and carers have told us and the Government what they need through extensive consultations and the development of the National Dementia Action Plan and they have been patient. Dementia Australia will continue to advocate for the additional Government commitment and investment needed.”

For dementia information and support contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit dementia.org.au.

New study targets sugar’s long-term memory effects

As concern grows about the long term health effects of modern diets, new research led by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has examined how changes in what is eaten affects memory and brain function.

Published in Nutritional Neuroscience, the study focuses on whether memory function can recover after diets high in fat and sugar are replaced with healthier nutrition.

To address this question, researchers analysed evidence from controlled experiments in rodents to examine what happens to cognitive function when animals fed high fat and high sugar diets are returned to healthier nutrition.

“Our results show that improving diet quality does benefit memory,” said Dr Simone Rehn, lead author on the study.

“But those improvements were incomplete.

Even after weeks on a healthy diet, memory did not return to the level seen in animals that had never eaten an unhealthy diet.”

To look beyond the results of individual studies, the researchers conducted a systematic review and meta analysis of 27 preclinical studies to identify consistent patterns across experiments. The analysis focused on memory, but also looked at anxiety- and depressionlike behaviour, general activity, and motivation for food.

Across the studies, animals switched to a healthy diet performed better on memory tasks than those that continued eating unhealthy food. However, memory recovery depended on diet composition, with recovery seen in experiments that used high fat diets but not those using diets high in sugar or combined high fat

and high sugar diets.

No consistent improvements were seen for anxiety, activity levels or food motivation, suggesting the effects were specific to memory rather than general behaviour.

“We saw clearer memory improvements after high fat diets were replaced with healthy food,” Dr Rehn said. “But diets high in added sugar, including diets high in both fat and sugar, showed little evidence of recovery. This suggests sugar may be a key factor in limiting memory recovery.”

The memory tasks analysed reflect function of the hippocampus, a brain region essential for learning and memory, and one that is also involved in regulating appetite and food intake.

Dr Mike Kendig, senior author of the paper,

said animal models were critical for understanding how diet affects the brain.

“In humans, changes in diet usually occur alongside changes in exercise, mood and daily routines, which makes it very difficult to separate the effects of diet alone on brain function. There is a common belief that the effects of unhealthy eating are easily reversible,” Dr Kendig said. “These results suggest that, at least for memory, the picture may be more complicated, especially when diets are high in added sugar.”

“Improving diet quality is still worthwhile,” he said. “But protecting brain health may also depend on avoiding prolonged exposure to unhealthy diets, rather than assuming the effects can always be fully undone later.”

You’re invited

Kilcoy Greens

VIP High Tea

Discover elevated over-50s country living in the heart of the beautiful Somerset region on Thursday, 4 June. The GemLife Kilcoy Greens’ VIP High Tea is your opportunity to relax, enjoy the superb location, and learn more about the resort.

The team will be on hand to answer questions about the community’s smartly appointed ‘rightsized’ homes, currently under construction, and plans for the outstanding facilities to come.

DATE Thursday, 4 June 2026

TIME 10am to 12pm

WHERE GemLife Kilcoy Greens 3 Travellers Rest, Woolmar

RSVP Register online by Wednesday, 3 June at GemLife.com.au/gkgvip Registration essential

Coconut and macadamia crusted chicken with honey mustard dressing

Prep time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 45 mins

Serves: 3 people

Ingredients:

For the chicken

· 150g chicken tenderloin or breasts

· 1/2 cup (65g) macadamia nuts

· 1/2 cup (30g) desiccated coconut

· 1/2 tsp dried oregano

· 1/2 tsp onion powder

· 1/4 tsp salt

· Pinch of pepper

Method:

1. Mix almond meal, onion powder, dried oregano, salt and pepper in a shallow dish.

2. In another small bowl, whisk the eggs.

3. Blitz macadamia to fine crumbs.

4. Mix macadamia crumb and desiccated coconut in another shallow dish.

5. Slice chicken into bite size strips.

6. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.

7. Dredge (coat lightly) chicken with almond meal mixture, dip in egg wash then coat with macadamia and coconut crumb.

8. Place breaded chicken on frying pan. Cook for 5 minutes then carefully flip the chicken over with

· 1/4 cup (25g) almond meal

· 1 large egg (65g)

· 2 tbsp (25ml) oil

For the dressing

· 1 1/2 tbsp (25g) Dijon mustard

· 2 tsp (15g) honey

· 1 tsp (5g) apple cider vinegar

· 1 tsp (5g) olive oil

· 1 tsp (5g) mayonnaise

For garnishing

· 1/2 tbsp chopped parsley

a spatula and cook for another 5 minutes. Add remaining oil if needed.

9. Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer chicken to a clean paper hand towel to absorb excess oil.

10. Meanwhile, whisk together dressing ingredients until an emulsion is formed.

11. Transfer chicken to a plate & serve immediately, with dressing on the side.

Tips

· Macadamia nut crust can go from perfectly brown to burnt very quickly! Use medium heat and don’t go too far away while you’re cooking. Increase to medium-high heat for the last 30 seconds to get an extra crispy crust.

Sunflower Wraps

Prep time: 20 mins

Serves: 6 people

Ingredients:

· 3 medium-sized wraps

· 6 eggs

· ½ cup green capsicum, diced

· 1 teaspoon salt

· 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing muffin tray)

Method:

1. Cut the wraps into strips about 3cm wide.

2. Oil the muffin tray and lay the strips into the muffin tray, think big sunflower leaves, and it doesn’t need to be perfect.

3. Crack an egg into each section over the wrap strips, sprinkle the capsicum around the yolk and season with salt.

4. Oven-bake for 15 minutes at 180 °C, or airfry for 10 minutes at 180 °C.

Recipe courtesy of Australian Eggs

Wills without borders

By Johanne Viavattene of Ryans Solicitors and Attorneys

IsYourEstateReadyforaGlobal World?

In today’s world, families are more mobile than ever. It is increasingly common for Australians to have children living overseas or to hold investments and assets abroad.

While the opportunity to live or own property around the world should be celebrated, it can create complexities for your estate planning.

If your beneficiaries live abroad, or if you hold assets outside of Australia, your Will may no longer be a simple domestic document. Successfully distributing assets across borders requires a carefully considered approach to ensure your instructions are followed and your beneficiaries receive exactly what you intended, regardless of where your property is held or where your beneficiaries live.

The ‘Foreign Resident’ Tax Trap Many parents are unaware that leaving an asset to a child who is not an Australian tax resident can trigger financial consequences.

Under Australian tax law, the transfer of certain assets to a foreign resident can be treated as a ‘taxable event.’

Generally, transferring an asset to a beneficiary is a straightforward process that does not result in additional taxes or penalties.

However, this changes when a benefi-

ciary is not an Australian tax resident. In such cases, your beneficiary may be hit with a tax bill that could be tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the value and circumstances of the asset.

Without careful planning and specific clauses in your Will to manage these liabilities, your chosen beneficiaries could receive significantly less than you intended.

TheAccidentalExclusion: TestamentaryTrusts

A ‘Testamentary Trust’ is a popular tool in Wills used to protect assets and provide tax efficiencies for your family.

However, many Testamentary Trust Wills automatically exclude foreign beneficiaries to avoid heavy government surcharges.

Most Australian states impose addi-

tional taxes and charges on ‘foreign trusts,’ which are defined as any trusts that include a foreign beneficiary.

As such, many legal templates are drafted to strictly forbid foreign residents from being beneficiaries.

As a result, if your child has moved overseas or become a non-resident for tax purposes, an outdated Will might accidentally cut them out of the trust entirely, resulting in your wishes not being fulfilled.

AssetsAcrossBorders:The‘Will Conflict’

If you own a holiday home in Europe or hold bank accounts in Asia, a standard Australian Will may not be enough, as international estate law is a minefield of conflicting rules. A common and dangerous mistake is ‘Accidental Revocation.’

Many people decide to write a local Will in a foreign country to cover an overseas asset.

However, if that foreign Will is not drafted with extreme care, its standard “revocation clause” might accidentally cancel your Australian Will in its entirety. Conversely, if you sign a new Australian Will that states, “I revoke all prior Wills,” you may inadvertently invalidate a Will you have in place for your overseas assets.

HowWeCanHelp

At Ryans Solicitors and Attorneys, we specialise in navigating the complexities of all estate planning matters.

WecanhelpyoudraftaWillthat:

• Protects Foreign Beneficiaries: We ensure your international loved ones are specifically recognised and protected from accidental exclusion.

• Maximises your Estate: We provide tailored advice on methods to preserve the true value of your estate for the next generation.

• Coordinates Global Assets: We can ensure your Australian Will works in harmony with your overseas documents, preventing them from inadvertently overruling or revoking one another. This article provides general information only and is not intended as legal advice. To review your existing Will or draft a new one, call us on 5443 9911 to schedule a free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation.

Just mention this article when you call.

Nowhere like New Orleans

By Tania Phillips

“If you put your hands over your ears and look around, the bright lights could put you in any city but take your hands away, let the music and sounds filter in, you could only be in New Orlean.”

This is how independent travel agent Vanessa Tokatly described her fascination with New Orleans to me.

Vanessa is the owner of The Runway Traveller (though given her recent trip I think it should be Run Away Traveller), a luxury travel agency proudly affiliated with Smartflyer Australia and Virtuoso.

She’s also my friend and my co-admin on a community Facebook group.

A year ago, after launching her own company at the age of 49 and following almost two decades in the industry, she took off overseas for hotel inspections and a quick trip. Ness said “see you in three months” I didn’t quite believe her and I was right. She had been back two weeks when we talked - returning just in time for her 50th birthday celebrations before heading out on celebration of 50 trip to Europe - but that’s another story. After her six week trip that turned into 14 months she was brimming with new stories of travels and experiences and at that point it was her most recent that was particularly close to her heart – a visit to New Orleans.

Not that this was her first – in fact it’s her 20th (and definitely not her last) but this time, for the first time, she was there for Mardi Gras, not just watching but in true Vanessa style, experiencing it from the back of a float throwing out beads and teddy bears and “feeling a bit like Santa Claus” .

Mardi Gras has a reputation for being a little “seedy” though Vanessa said after experiencing it she realised it was much more family orientated than that and has Western Christian origins.

Celebrated in southern Louisiana for two weeks culminating on Mardi Gras day (French for Fat Tuesday – known to us as Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day her in Australia). The overall season is known as Carnival and begins on 12th Night, 6 January, and extends until midnight before Ash Wednesday.

“It was my 20th time there and I finally got to Mardi Gras,” she said. When asked what the experience was like Vanessa was uncustomarily lost for words.

“I’ve actually being trying to explain it, I don’t know if I can find the words. It was one of the best days of my life. After 20 years of doing it I can’t believe I waited so long. It was so family orientated. There was so much love, fun, colour vibrancy –people dancing the whole time. People there with their children, they set them up on ladders so the kids can see over the crowd. Kids are screaming at you to throw beads at you the whole time.

“Being on a float was the most insane adventure of my life. It really was and I know I’ve done a lot.

“The procession goes for hours and hours – you get there at 7am, pack your station (with beads, bears and in my case bedazzled toilet brushes to throw out to the crowd), at 9am the floats start slowly moving through.

“There are a number of parades – there were forty in ours we were 33a – and between each float is a marching band – like a school marching band - between every single float.

“I don’t think it finished until about three or four pm – the next day I got out of my hotel room and went to walk to the bathroom and my muscles were so sore from being on the float.”

With so many visits to the vibrant Southern City Vanessa has plenty of memories and stories and tips.

“I’ve been 20 times – my other top favourite one is Jazz Fest – it goes over two weekends – normally around the last weekend of April first weekend of May,” she said.

The line-up is often very similar to the no defunct Byron Bay Blues Festival but it’s the atmosphere in the city itself that makes it totally different.

“Unlike the Byron Blues this finishes

at 6pm and you walk out on to the streets and it’s even more fun,” she explained.

“All the houses nearby - they’ve all got bands playing on their veranda, there are bands playing on the street.

There are people with tables set up on their front lawn selling cocktails – its’ just insane.”

But for Vanessa every visit has been colourful and exciting and every visit has been more than just a quick stop in the world-famous Bourbon Street which she admits she only visits sparingly these days.

It’s about taking walking tours to drink in the music, architecture and history - a chance to wander the whole French Quarter for it’s atmosphere. Enjoying the music and bars of Frenchman Street. It’s about

late night stops for hamburgers cooked in hubcaps, the juice dripping down your arms at The Clover Grill in Bourbon Street. Visits to Canal Street the largest street in the USA which was originally meant to be a canal and separates the French quarter from the Warehouse district. To admire the architecture of the Garden District. And it’s the people “the friendliest, liveliest – talented like you wouldn’t believe.”

“It’s easy to get there – most capital cities in Australia fly direct into a major US hub, and then it’s an easy onward domestic connection into New Orleans from there,” she said.

For enquiries, contact vanessa@ therunwaytraveller.com or via WhatsApp on +61 439 799 781.

From Sting to Shaggy to MJ

By Kylie Mitchell-Smith TRAVEL WRITER/PODCASTER www.travellingsenorita.com

The stylish Glasshouse theatre recently opened in Southbank Brisbane, to form part of the QPAC precinct (Queensland Performing Arts Centre). A world class 1,500 seat theatre, Glasshouse adds to the city’s cultural development plan for exceptional art experiences ahead of Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

Kicking off with stellar shows and performances from the likes of music icons Sting and Shaggy in ‘The Last Ship- lyrics and music are written by Sting. The heartfelt musical tells the tale of Stings upbringing in Wallsend, Northeast England. Following the real-life trials and tribulations of a small shipping town, from economic hardship to the light after the darkness.

‘The Last Ship’ is exclusive to Brisbane after lauded shows in Paris and Amsterdam. The musical takes you on a journey into the souls of a community connected by the shipyard, with standout performances and a set like no other, such as the commanding ship backdrop and the magnificent state of the art LED screen.

“This 1,500-seat theatre gives us greater capacity to attract world-class talent and Australian exclusives to Queensland – such as global music icon Sting in The Last Ship – and forges our reputation as one of Australia’s biggest and busiest cultural precincts as we move towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic

Games.’ said Minister for the Arts, the Honourable John-Paul Langbroek.

The addition of the Glasshouse Theatre to QPAC has made the precinct the biggest performing arts centre under one roof in Australia. Designed and executed by Brisbane-based architects Blight Rayner in collaboration with Snøhetta (Oslo). The contemporary build is an architectural masterpiece, with interiors that bring the outside in. Gold carpet and sand coloured concrete blend seamlessly with locally sourced ironbark timber and rich green auditorium carpet- an ode to Queensland’s pristine beaches and lush rainforests.

The theatres opening season includes

A taste of ginger with side of Sunshine Coast history

There are few places on the Sunshine Coast that invite you to slow down and savour a quieter, simpler era quite like The Ginger Factory.

Established in 1941, Buderim Ginger has grown from a small farming community into one of the largest suppliers of ginger worldwide.

This special place has grown into one of the coast’s most loved destinations, with each visit emitting a proud feeling for its history.

Experience this rich history on the Taste of Ginger Tour, beginning with a film screening in their Theatrette followed by a behind-the-scenes look of the growing and factory processes, and finally into the Tasting Room for a plate of ginger-inspired sweet treats, drinks, and savoury bites.

Afterwards, settle into The Ginger

national and international shows and comprises Queensland Ballet’s Messa da Requiem (27 March to 4 April); the Australian exclusive season of The Last Ship, composed by and starring Sting (9 April to 3 May); and the world premiere of The Drover’s Wife – The Opera (13 to 22 May), directed by Leah Purcell, composed by George Palmer with libretto by Leah Purcell with George Palmer.

The Glasshouse theatre adjoins QPAC and flows seamlessly into the foyers of the Playhouse and Lyric Theatre- where MJ the Musical is currently playing for a limited season after sell-out shows in Melbourne and Sydney.

MJ the Musical is both electrifying and exceptional, the talented cast of actors and dancers are next level. On stage for just under three hours, the production is

high energy, whilst carefully considering Michael’s whole life. From young Michael in the Jackson Five to the teenage star (played by Brisbane local Liam Damons) to adult Michael (played by lead IIario Grant) who convinces you Micheal is in da house.

Touching on themes of family trauma, childhood stardom and addiction, at the heart of the Musical is the man and the music, asking the audience to heal the world, to look in the mirror and to make the change. From the epic opening of ‘Beat it’ to the carefully considered finale of ‘Black or White’ , the crowd dances their way out of theatre to ‘Wanna Be Starting Something ‘as the cast takes their final bow.

www.qpac.com.au/whats-on/2026/ mj-the-musical

Kitchen and enjoy one of their signature ginger scones with a coffee served with Buderim Ginger marmalade. These famous scones are a true musttry, the kind of unhurried afternoon treat that feels wonderfully traditional.

Continue your afternoon at their enriching Live Bee Show. Guided by a passionate beekeeper, visitors uncover the secret lives of bees and receive an insightful look into the important role these little creatures play in our ecosystem. Followed by sampling their delicious range of honey, you’ll be sure to leave with happy taste buds and maybe a jar for breakfast.

With free entry, The Ginger Factory is a one of those rare destinations that genuinely has something wonderful for everyone. Come for the history, stay for the scones.

PUZZLES

ACROSS

1 Barry Humphries

persona (4,4)

4 Aboriginal Australians from parts of Western Australia (7)

8 Gina Riley’s sitcom character (3)

9 Aussie actor, Anthony – (8)

10 Modest (3)

11 Retired cricketer, Tim – (5)

13 Māori form of William (6)

14 Colourful Aussie bird (8)

15 Aussie streaming service (5)

17 Drama series, Packed to – –(3,7)

20 Corrected instrument’s pitch (5)

22 Eyrie author, – Winton (3)

24 Actor from Strife and Offspring (5,6)

28 Bestselling author from Queensland (5,6)

29 ‘Don’t tell me that!’ (1,1,1)

30 2000s cricketer, James – (5)

33 Captain of the GWS Giants (4,6)

36 Qudos Bank or John Cain, e.g. (5)

37 Overanxious (coll) (8)

39 Nicole Kidman movie, – Rouge! (6)

40 Sydney Opera House architect, Jørn – (5)

42 Neither (3)

43 Lower wall panel (8)

44 Jeans brand from the US (3)

45 Menacing (7)

46 Coffee order (8)

DOWN

1 Also known as the tip (4)

2 TV presenter, Leila – (8)

3 Granny Smith and Pink Lady, for two (6)

4 Yoplait or Chobani product (7)

5 Famous US battle site (5)

6 Diary of a Wombat author (6,6)

7 Goal-setting acronym (abbr) (5)

8 Super League winger for St Helens (4,5)

12 Female sheep (3)

15 Comedic gag (3)

16 Place to keep additional belongings, – unit (7)

18 Welsh dish, cheese sauce on toast (7)

19 Small structure out the back (4)

21 An original judge on The Voice Australia (5,7)

23 Food critic, – Preston (4)

25 NZ comedy film, – for the Wilderpeople (4)

26 How a surgeon says ‘Now!’ (4)

27 Naarm (9)

31 Knotted snacks (8)

32 Chandelier singer (3)

34 Comedian, Anne – (7)

35 2020 Australian of the Year, James – (6)

36 Prestigious educational institution (1,1,1)

37 Olympic swimmer, Leah – (5)

38 Surname of Terri and Robert (5)

41 Intergovernmental alliance (abbr) (4)

Support For Seniors

Wine and dine in the sun

Tickets are selling fast for the 2026 Noosa Food and Wine Festival which is now just a couple of weeks away.

Organisers are thrilled to say this year’s program has been hugely popular and encourage food and wine lovers to book today.

One of Australia’s premier coastal food festivals, Noosa Food and Wine will again bring together celebrated restaurants, hospitality leaders and lauded drink brands for an electric weekend.

The 2026 program promises four days of gourmet delights and homegrown ingredients plated up alongside stunning waterways, hinterland settings and Noosa’s iconic coastlines.

Running Thursday 11 June to Sunday 14 June 2026, food lovers can take their tastebuds on a journey across three programs: the Signature Events, Restaurant Series and the heart of the festival, the Festival Village.

The three components come together over four days of dynamic dishes, mouthwatering menus, and creative collaborations with world class chefs.

The largest event on the program will once again be the Festival Village on Saturday 13 June and the single day program for 2026 likely to sell out. With Adult GA tickets from just $49.50, village ticketholders will enjoy complimentary canapes and a cocktail on arrival. Once inside, the Festival Village promises a smorgasbord of food and wine stalls with 40 plus bars and eateries presenting stylish pop-up

stalls across the waterfront parklands, so guests can sip, taste and savour the best food and wine samples from across the region. Plus, passionate foodies have the chance to level up their kitchen game with tips and tricks from live interactive masterclasses and workshops by acclaimed guest chefs from across Australia, including Louis Tikaram (Stanley), Jason Barrett (Supernormal), Darren Robertson (Three Blue Ducks), Sarah Pound (Wholesome by Sarah), Ben Cooper (Chin Chin), Alessandro Pavoni (Cibaria), Marion Grasby and international television star Gino D’Acampo.

Expect one deliciously decadent afternoon in Noosa’s signature laid-back coastal style.

The 2026 Restaurant Series comprises 19 of the finest dining destinations across Noosa and includes an unmissable series of fully curated events, top-tier collaborations, and never-before-seen culinary

experiences. The Restaurant Series will serve up some seriously special collaborations with four days of culinary events bringing together acclaimed local and national chefs for unfiltered creativity in the kitchen.

Highlights include Rickys Bar and Grill and Essa, Light Years and Long Time (Bali), Bandita and Byrdy, Peli’s and George Calombaris, Sum Yung Guys and Marion Grasby, The Woodshed in Kin Kin, Humble on Duke and Makepeace Island, and newest kid on the block, Cibaria Noosa.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, says the 2026 festival would delight visitors from near and far this June.

“The Noosa Food and Wine Festival is an event that lures food lovers and holidaymakers alike to one of Queensland’s most picturesque coastal destinations,”

Minister Powell said.

“As a key initiative of the Crisafulli Government’s 20-year tourism strategy, Destination 2045, this event is expected to generate more than $5 million in economic benefits for the state.”

The Noosa Food and Wine festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

BOOKINGS: Explore the full programs and secure tickets at: noosafoodandwine.com.au.

Whales are coming soon, in their tens of thousands

By Steve Linnell

The annual whale migration is just weeks away, with operators expecting tens of thousands of humpbacks to pass the Sunshine Coast on their journey north.

Peppie Simpson from Whalesongs Noosa said early signs suggest the season will begin around mid-June.

“From the middle of June we expect them to arrive,” she said.

“The current has shifted.”

“We expect there will be about 50,000 coming up.”

Each year, humpback whales migrate from Antarctic feeding grounds to warmer northern waters to breed and calve, creating one of the most anticipated natural spectacles along the Queensland coastline.

Noosa is considered one of the prime viewing locations, with whales often passing close to shore, delighting locals and visitors alike.

In addition to the migration, a community ceremony is being planned to mark the whales’ return, following the success of last year’s inaugural event.

Organised by Oceans for All and the Surfrider Foundation, the gathering will again bring together community members, environmental groups and local leaders.

Traditional Owners from the Kabi Kabi people are expected to deliver a Welcome to Country and cultural talks, alongside representatives from Noosa

Council, the Noosa Biosphere and Surfrider Foundation.

A highlight of the event will be local artist Dennis Massoud creating a large whale sculpture in the sand.

Organisers said the event was warmly received in 2025 and they were looking forward to building on its success, with plans to share more details with the community closer to the date.

Meanwhile, tourism operators are preparing for a busy season on the water.

Whalesongs Noosa offers small group and private charters, with onboard researchers providing insights into whale and dolphin behaviour. Using a hydrophone, passengers can listen to live whale songs during tours, offering a rare and immersive experience.

With the migration season typically running through to October, locals and visitors are being encouraged to keep watch from coastal vantage points as the first pods begin to appear offshore, marking the start of another remarkable