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National Garage Sale Trail Returns: Sunshine Coast Joins Australia’s Biggest Secondhand Event

Sunshine Coast is gearing up to join thousands of Australians in the country’s largest community trading event, as the Garage Sale Trail returns this November.

Read: Sunshine Coast to Land on the Monopoly Board in 2025

The Garage Sale Trail offers Coast residents a perfect opportunity to declutter sustainably while connecting with neighbours.

Event Details

This year’s trail lights up the Sunshine Coast across two action-packed weekends:

November 9-10, 2024
November 16-17, 2024

Local participants can host sales on any – or all – of these days, making it easier to work around the region’s busy weekend markets and events calendar.

Community Involvement

The Sunshine Coast’s diverse community is embracing the trail in numerous ways. Beachside households are preparing to clear space for summer, while local community groups see it as a prime fundraising opportunity.

Schools and sporting clubs are organising collective sales, and local artists and craftspeople are planning to showcase their creations. Small businesses are joining the circular economy movement, and the enthusiasm has spread to entire streets in both coastal and hinterland neighbourhoods, with some planning coordinated street-wide events.

Treasures on the Trail

The treasure hunt across Coast suburbs promises an eclectic mix of finds. Residents can expect to discover everything from surfboards and beach gear to coastal-inspired homewares. Garden equipment suited to the subtropical climate frequently appears alongside pre-loved outdoor furniture.

Local handmade crafts add a unique touch to the offerings, while vintage finds from Coast homes bring character and history. Traditional garage sale staples such as books, toys, and sporting equipment round out the diverse array of items available.

Read: From Alexandra Headland to Kings Beach: Sunshine Coast’s Pathway Gets a Boost

By participating, Sunshine Coast residents contribute to a national movement that keeps more than 4 million kilograms of goods out of landfill annually. The initiative supports the region’s sustainability goals while building stronger neighbourhood connections. For registration and additional information about the Garage Sale Trail, residents can visit garagesaletrail.com.au.

Published 30-October-2024

Bonsai Magic to Bloom in Buderim on October

Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Bonsai Society

The Sunshine Coast Bonsai Society is excited to present its highly anticipated Annual Bonsai Show at the Buderim War Memorial Hall.

This year’s event, on Saturday, 26 October, and Sunday, 27 October, promises to be a captivating showcase of horticultural artistry, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into this fascinating world.

Attendees can expect an impressive exhibition of bonsai masterpieces crafted with meticulous care by members of the society. Expert practitioners will also be on hand throughout the weekend, providing insightful demonstrations and sharing their extensive knowledge with the public.

For those inspired to try their hand at this ancient art form, a wide array of bonsai trees, pots, tools, and other related accessories will be available, catering to seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

The event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday. Entry is $5, and ample free parking is available on-site.

Organisers anticipate a large turnout and encourage attendees to arrive early to fully experience the beauty and serenity of this unique horticultural event.

The Sunshine Coast Bonsai Society aims to promote and foster appreciation for this art within the community.

Through this annual event, the society provides a platform for enthusiasts to connect, learn, and share their passion for this ancient horticultural practice.

Published Date 01-October-2024

Sunshine Coast to Land on the Monopoly Board in 2025

Photo Credit: Winning Moves Australia/ Facebook

The Sunshine Coast is set to become the latest Australian locale to get its very own Monopoly board game, with the first edition slated for release in 2025.

This comes after persistent local demand, fuelled by the triumph of previous Queensland editions like the Gold Coast in 2018 and the recent Gympie release.

Winning Moves, the company producing the game under license from Hasbro, invites residents, the local council, and businesses to collaborate on crafting a bespoke game showcasing the region’s iconic landmarks. From the freshly opened Big Pineapple to the ever-popular Eumundi Markets, the race is on to secure a coveted spot on the board.

A representative from Winning Moves, Jaimie-Lee de Niet, shared that requests for a Sunshine Coast edition have been pouring in for years. The company has been eager to create a Sunshine Coast board for quite a while.

They are eager to collaborate with locals to identify the area’s best features and create a game that both residents and tourists who adore the Sunshine Coast can enjoy because of the region’s size and hidden treasures.

Starting today, locals can submit suggestions for what they’d like to see included in the game.

This marks an exciting chapter for the Sunshine Coast. It adds a playful twist to its identity and allows players to navigate its unique landmarks from the comfort of their living rooms.

Published Date 27-September-2024

Gustav Riebe and the Rise and Fall of Coffee Cultivation in Buderim

Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Library

At the turn of the 20th century, Buderim became known not for the typical tea but for its burgeoning coffee cultivation, pioneered by Hungarian-born farmer Gustav Riebe, who was the first to produce coffee commercially on the mountain’s rich volcanic slopes.

Buderim’s coffee history dates back to the 1880s when Gustav Riebe, initially a tea merchant, acquired 300 acres in Maroochy. Venturing beyond the predominant sugar cane and banana crops, Riebe’s interest in diverse agricultural pursuits led him to plant coffee amid rows of bananas, leveraging the protective shade of the banana suckers to nurture the coffee plants.

The Riebe Family in Buderim — The Riebe Family
Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Library

The coffee produced during this era was so revered that a sample sent by Mr. E.J. Burnett to the Earl’s Court Exhibition in London in 1899 won a gold medal diploma. The Queensland Department of Agriculture recognised the potential of this crop and employed Mr. H. Newport as an expert in coffee cultivation.

Coffee plantation in Buderim — Buderim coffee plantation
Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

Newport’s comprehensive guide, “Coffee Cultivation in Queensland,” detailed the optimal conditions on Buderim’s coffee-growing slopes, citing the ideal frost-free land and porous basalt soil. His prediction of the plantation yields influenced many local farmers to switch from sugar to coffee, given the steep increase in labour costs in the sugar industry due to legislative changes.

Transport and Trade

The logistical challenge of transporting goods was partially mitigated by the Buderim Steam Tramway, opened in 1891. This tramway facilitated the movement of coffee and other crops to Palmwoods Station and onwards to larger markets in Brisbane and beyond. This accessibility and the protective tariffs that made imported South American coffee more expensive positioned Buderim to capitalise on the coffee market.

Is it Buderim Coffee? — *Photo Credit: National Library of Australia*

However, by 1911, despite the area becoming the largest coffee-growing region in Queensland, global market pressures and the high cost of labour began to erode profits.

Local journalist accounts from the time glorified the coffee plantations, comparing them favourably with those in Java and Ceylon, yet economic realities eventually prompted a shift towards other crops, like ginger, which began to dominate during and after the First World War.

Cultural Impact and Decline

The coffee cultivation on Buderim provided an economic backbone for the region and established a cultural heritage, with coffee mills like the one started by Mr. Harry Board becoming community focal points. Despite the initial success, the coffee industry in Buderim was not immune to the challenges faced by agricultural ventures reliant on intensive labour and fluctuating market support.

*Photo Credit: National Library of Australia*

By the 1950s, the industry had largely faded, replaced by crops that demanded less labour and offered higher returns, such as strawberries and beans.

Yet, the legacy of those times lives on, with some residents maintaining coffee bushes and continuing to produce their brews, keeping the memory of Buderim’s coffee era alive.

Published 13-Sept-2024

Sippy Downs Resident’s Heroic Act Ends Teen’s Luxury Car Crime Spree

Photo Credit: Facebook / Devontae Simpson

A Sippy Downs resident’s brave actions led to the arrest of 19-year-old Devontae Simpson, effectively ending a two-week crime spree that spanned Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. The incident, which occurred on February 17, 2024, was detailed in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

Simpson, who pleaded guilty to over 30 charges, including burglaries and multiple counts of unlawful use of motor vehicles, met his match when he attempted to steal a Toyota LandCruiser ute from a Sippy Downs property. The resident, alerted by the sound of his vehicle starting, rushed to confront the thief.

In a display of quick thinking and courage, the Sippy Downs homeowner jumped into the passenger side of his vehicle as Simpson attempted to flee. Despite the teen’s efforts to escape, including reversing at high speed into a fence, the determined resident managed to pull the handbrake, bringing the vehicle to a halt.

After Simpson fled on foot, the homeowner gave chase, successfully tackling and subduing the young offender. The struggle left the Sippy Downs man with lacerations to his arm and knee, but his perseverance paid off. With the help of neighbours, Simpson was detained until police arrived.

This act of bravery not only protected the Sippy Downs resident’s property but also put an end to a crime spree that had seen luxury vehicles stolen from upscale Brisbane suburbs, including Ashgrove, Auchenflower, Virginia, Bardon, and Clayfield.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Devontae Simpson

The court heard that Simpson’s criminal activities began on January 26 in north Brisbane and escalated to include the theft of high-end vehicles such as a Porsche, BMW, Audi, Jeep, and Mercedes. Police prosecutor Shane Raison described Simpson’s philosophy during the spree as “What’s mine is mine, and what’s yours is mine.”

As a result of his crimes and the brave intervention of the Sippy Downs resident, Simpson has been sentenced to 15 months in jail, with parole eligibility set for January 3, 2025.

Published 3-September-2024

Mother Calls for Tougher E-Scooter Regulations After Daughter’s Near-Fatal Accident in Maroochydore

In the wake of a harrowing incident involving her 12-year-old daughter, a mother is urgently calling for stricter regulations on e-scooter safety in Australia. The accident, which occurred in Maroochydore, has sparked a renewed debate on the safety of these increasingly popular vehicles, especially when used by young riders.

Read: From Alexandra Headland to Kings Beach: Sunshine Coast’s Pathway Gets a Boost

Rebecca Cronan’s daughter, Ruby, was riding her e-scooter on the footpath to school when tragedy struck. It’s believed she was hit by a car reversing out of a driveway, leaving her trapped underneath the vehicle. Quick-thinking bystanders rushed to her aid, potentially saving her life.

Ruby is currently recovering at Sunshine Coast University Hospital, having suffered a brain injury and collapsed lungs. Despite the severity of her injuries, she is now talking and walking, showing promising signs of recovery.

A Mother’s Regret and Call to Action

Mrs Cronan revealed that she had purchased the e-scooter for Ruby after months of persistent requests. Now, filled with regret, she’s urging other parents not to make the same mistake.

The concerned mother is now advocating for significant changes to e-scooter regulations. While current Queensland state regulations allow children aged 12-16 to ride e-scooters under adult supervision without a licence, Mrs Cronan believes this age range is far too young. She’s suggesting that the minimum age should be raised to between 16 and 18, with the addition of a mandatory educational day course for riders.

One crucial factor that may have prevented an even worse outcome was Ruby’s use of a helmet. The headgear was significantly damaged in the accident, underscoring its vital role in protecting riders.

A Growing Concern

This incident is not isolated. Data from the Sunshine Coast Health Trauma Service reveals an alarming trend in e-scooter-related emergencies.

Over a 12-month period from January 2023 to January 2024, the Sunshine Coast University Hospital Emergency Department saw 118 presentations related to e-scooter incidents – equivalent to one every three days.

Dr Andrew Hobbins-King, Medical Director of the Trauma Service, highlighted that adolescents make up the largest group of e-scooter incident victims, with many sustaining significant injuries:

56.8% of presentations were patients under 18 years old
72.9% of overall presentations were male
61% of patients had at least one fractured bone
Injuries ranged from mild abrasions to fractures, collapsed lungs, and brain bleeds

Read: Help Save Lives By Being A Blood Donor Today At The Maroochydore Donor Centre

Call for Safer E-Scooting

In light of these statistics, Sunshine Coast Health is urging the community to prioritise safety when using e-scooters.

The incident involving Ruby serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with these vehicles, especially for young riders.

Published 2-September-2024

From Alexandra Headland to Kings Beach: Sunshine Coast’s Pathway Gets a Boost

The Sunshine Coast is gearing up for a significant upgrade to its popular Coastal Pathway, with over $4 million in funding secured for enhancements to Alexandra Headland and Kings Beach sections.

Read: Sunshine Coast’s New Boardwalk: A Gateway to Nature

This investment promises to transform these well-used stretches into more accessible, safe, and enjoyable spaces for both residents and visitors.

At Alexandra Headland, one of the most frequented sections of the Coastal Pathway, plans include:

A wide and accessible boardwalk
New concrete pathways in Alex Bluff Foreshore Park
Enhanced amenities such as seating and lighting

These improvements aim to create a seamless connection with existing pathways while offering users breathtaking scenic views of the coastline.

The Kings Beach section will see equally impressive upgrades, including a revamped pathway along the headland, an accessible barbecue area, and extensive landscaping.

A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson emphasised that the new designs will maintain consistency with the existing pathway. “We are continuing the look and feel of the existing much-loved pathway network,” they stated. This approach ensures that the upgrades will complement and enhance the current infrastructure rather than replace it entirely..

The upgrades go beyond mere aesthetics. The new pathway alignments will prioritise safety by moving away from the road. They will also be wider and more compliant with accessibility standards, featuring:

Regular rest stops
Ample seating
Landscaping and shade trees
Strategically placed lookout points

These features align with the council’s Coastal Pathway Linear Open Space Master Plan, demonstrating a commitment to long-term, sustainable development.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

While some community engagement has already taken place, the council plans to conduct more detailed consultations now that construction funds have been confirmed. This approach ensures that the final designs will meet the needs and expectations of the local community.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli highlighted the broader implications of these upgrades. “These projects will contribute towards creating a safe, high-quality connected active transport network that improves the lifestyle, health, and sustainability of the region,” she said.

Moreover, these enhancements will play a crucial role in preparing the region for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The upgraded pathways will provide improved access to various Games venues, including Sunshine Coast Sports Precinct, Alexandra Headland events area, Athletes Village in Maroochydore, and Caloundra live venue.

Read: Caloundra’s Lighthouses Commence Rehabilitation Work

The funding for these upgrades comes from the SEQ Liveability Fund. As the Sunshine Coast prepares for these exciting upgrades, residents and visitors alike can look forward to enhanced coastal experiences, improved accessibility, and a pathway network that not only serves daily needs but also positions the region for a bright, Olympic-inspired future.

Published 2-September-2024

96 Years of Harmony: Celebrating the Life of Ken Chadwick

Ken Chadwick, a beloved figure in the Buderim community and beyond, passed away on 8 August 2024, at the age of 96. His life was a testament to the power of music, community service, and deep-rooted family connections to the Sunshine Coast.

Read: Honouring Jack Simpson: The ANZAC Spirit Embodied in Courage and Sacrifice

A Legacy Rooted in Buderim

William F. Bell with daughter Ivy Bell, who later became Ivy Chadwick, 1912 (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

Born Kenneth Burdett Chadwick in Brisbane in 1928, Ken’s ties to Buderim stretched back generations. His great-grandfather, William Fawcett Bell, migrated from England to Buderim in 1884, setting the stage for a family legacy that would span over a century. Ken’s grandfather, Bill Bell, was a noted Buderim sporting identity, further cementing the family’s place in local history.

Early Years and War Service

Ken Chadwick — Photo credit: Buderim Historical Society

The Chadwick family moved to a farm on Buderim in 1936, following a brief stint running a business in Mooloolaba. During World War II, young Ken served in the Buderim Volunteer Defence Corps, demonstrating his commitment to his community from an early age.

A Musical Journey

Photo credit: Sunshine Coast Concert Band/Facebook

Inspired by his mother Ivy, an accomplished musician and music teacher, Ken embarked on a lifelong journey in music. In 1952, he joined the RAAF Central Band in Melbourne, marking the beginning of a successful career as a musician and music educator. Ken played in various Melbourne bands and taught music in high schools, sharing his passion with countless students.

In 1986, Ken and his wife Valmai returned to their roots on the Sunshine Coast. Here, Ken’s musical influence continued to flourish. He played with the Nambour Brass Band and later became the musical director of the Caloundra Concert Band (now the Sunshine Coast Concert Band), a position he held for 24 years.

Community Leadership and Recognition

Ken’s contributions extended beyond music. From 1999 to 2001, he served as President of the Buderim War Memorial Community Association, further demonstrating his commitment to local affairs. In 2008, his lifetime of work in music and community service was recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

Read: Buderim: One of Most Sought-After Qld Suburbs Among Brits as Brexit Looms

A Life Well-Lived

Ken Chadwick’s life was characterised by his dedication to music, family, and community. From his early days on a Buderim farm to his final years in Coolum, he left an indelible mark on the Sunshine Coast. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to resonate through the lives he touched and the music he shared.

As we bid farewell to this Buderim icon, we celebrate a life lived in harmony – both in music and in service to others.

Published 30-August-2024

Maroochy River to Host Australia’s First Blue Carbon Farming Trial

The Maroochy River floodplain in the Sunshine Coast will soon become home to Australia’s first blue carbon farming trial, aiming to create a thriving mangrove ecosystem and explore new income opportunities for landholders.

Australia’s Clean Energy Regulator has officially registered the nation’s inaugural Blue Carbon project in the Sunshine Coast’s Blue Heart area. This registration follows an extensive research and application process, marking a significant milestone for the region’s environmental conservation and sustainable land management.

Blue carbon refers to the carbon stored in marine and coastal ecosystems, including seagrasses, tidal marshes, and mangroves. The blue carbon farming method involves rehabilitating and protecting these ecosystems on registered sites. This process generates Australian Carbon Credit Units, which are tradable financial products that can be sold to government or private entities to help meet emission reduction commitments.

Maroochy River Blue Carbon Farming — *Photo Credit: SunshineCoastCouncil*

Sunshine Coast will lead the initiative by restoring estuarine wetland ecosystems in the Blue Heart. The project will introduce tidal waters to six land parcels, covering a total area of 165 hectares.

The blue carbon farming trial is expected to yield multiple benefits for the Maroochy River and surrounding communities. These include improved river health, enhanced fish breeding grounds, and stronger biodiversity. The project will also protect flood storage, create opportunities for Traditional Custodians to care for Country, increase tourism potential, and provide new areas for community exploration and nature experiences.

Mayor Rosanna Natoli highlighted the project’s pioneering nature, stating that it positions the region at the forefront of an emerging industry. She noted that generating carbon credits locally would have positive impacts on the area.

With challenging market conditions affecting traditional cane farming in the area, the trial aims to investigate new income-generating opportunities for property owners in the Blue Heart region.

Unitywater Chief Executive Officer Anna Jackson supported the project, noting its alignment with successful outcomes at the nearby Yandina Creek Wetland. She highlighted the significant environmental benefits of restoring wetland environments, including the removal of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous from waterways.

As the Sunshine Coast embarks on this groundbreaking blue carbon farming trial, the project stands to offer valuable insights into sustainable land management practices and economic opportunities for coastal communities across Australia.

Published 30-Aug-2024

Stringybark Road Bridge: New Buderim-Sippy Downs Access Reaches Halfway Mark

Buderim and Sippy Downs residents will soon enjoy safer travel options as the new Stringybark Road bridge for pedestrians and cyclists hits the 50 per cent completion milestone, connecting the communities across the Sunshine Motorway.

The new three-metre-wide bridge runs parallel to the existing Stringybark Road vehicle bridge. It will provide a dedicated shared pathway for cyclists and pedestrians, separate from vehicle traffic.

Queensland Bridge and Civil, an experienced contractor, is overseeing the construction. The project aims to finish by November 2024, weather permitting.

Construction Progress

August 2024 marks a significant step forward with the installation of the new Stringybark Road Bridge deck. Twelve pre-made concrete beams will be lifted into place by crane and joined to form the deck. Temporary barriers will ensure a safe work environment during this process.

Day and night works are now underway to keep the project on schedule. The construction team is focusing on completing the bridge deck over the Sunshine Motorway, which forms a crucial part of the shared pedestrian and cycle pathway.

Additional Improvements

Once the new pedestrian and cycle bridge is complete, the existing vehicle bridge will change. The current pedestrian pathway will be removed, and on-road cycle lanes will be added to both sides. This reconfiguration aims to improve safety for all road users, including motorists and cyclists who prefer to ride on the road.

The design includes decorative elements inspired by the local forest canopy and birdlife. These features will create interesting light patterns during the day and provide soft lighting at night for user safety. The architectural elements are designed to complement the surrounding area, enhancing the bridge’s visual appeal while serving its practical purpose.

Stringybark Road bridge — *Photo Credit: SunshineCoastCouncil*

Traffic Management

Throughout construction, traffic on Stringybark Road and the Sunshine Motorway will remain open. However, drivers should be aware of some changes:

1. Single lane closures on the Sunshine Motorway at times

2. A temporary 80 km/h transition zone between the 100 km/h and 60 km/h areas near the construction site

3. Speed cameras in operation

Authorities will fine drivers who fail to follow these new traffic conditions. These measures are in place to ensure the safety of both construction workers and motorists during the project.

The existing shared pathway on the vehicle bridge will stay open for pedestrians and cyclists until the new bridge is ready, ensuring continuous access for non-motorised traffic.

Community Benefits

“The new 3m-wide ‘missing link’ spans the Sunshine Motorway, bridging the Division 6 and 7 communities. The separation of both bridges ensures all users can cross over the motorway safely, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to adopt more sustainable methods of transport,” Cr Ted Hungerford said.

The new Stringybark Road Bridge is expected to enhance community connectivity, promote active lifestyles, and provide a safer alternative for those walking or cycling between Buderim and Sippy Downs.

The $11.8-million project, jointly funded by the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants program and Sunshine Coast Council, began construction in early March 2024.

Published 30-Aug-2021