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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
The story of Buderim Ginger began in 1916 when ginger was first introduced to the region. Robert Duthie, a Brisbane merchant, gave ginger seeds to local farmer Arthur Burnett to plant and experiment with. The initial crop was a success, and soon other local farmers began cultivating ginger, adding it to their small farms on the fertile soils of Buderim.
By the early 1920s, the small-scale farming of ginger had gained enough traction that growers needed to look for larger markets. However, it wasn’t until the 1940s, during the Second World War, that Buderim’s ginger industry truly began to take off.
Buderim Ginger Growers Co-operative
With international imports of ginger cut off, local growers in Buderim saw an opportunity. In 1941, they came together to form the Buderim Ginger Growers Co-operative, and by 1942, the first ginger factory was established in a disused blacksmith’s shop in Buderim.
The co-operative helped organise and streamline production, but the early years were difficult. Lack of financial resources and infrastructure made it difficult for the small factory to compete with imported ginger, which had flooded the Australian market before the war. However, the disruption of imports allowed the local industry to establish itself.
In the post-war years, Buderim Ginger continued to expand. By the 1950s, the co-operative had made its first significant move into export markets, targeting Europe and the United Kingdom.
Under Geoff Shrapnel’s leadership, appointed Attorney-Manager in 1954, the co-operative focused on producing high-quality ginger that could compete internationally. Shrapnel’s work was instrumental in securing tariff protection and government support, which helped stabilise the industry.
Buderim’s ginger industry wasn’t just about local farming anymore; it became a global player. Exports continued to rise throughout the 1960s and 1970s, establishing Buderim as the main source of processed ginger for confectionery markets in Australia and abroad. As the industry grew, so did the need for a larger, more modern facility.
In 1979, the ginger factory moved from Buderim to Yandina, where a larger site provided the space needed for expansion. While the factory left Buderim, the brand retained its name, becoming synonymous with the high-quality ginger grown in the region.
Growth of Tourism at the Ginger Factory
Today, Buderim Ginger Limited is a leading global supplier of processed ginger products, exporting to markets in the United States, Japan, and Europe. Over 60% of its output is sent overseas, while domestic sales remain strong. Buderim Ginger products are found in everything from confectionery to beverages and pharmaceuticals. By 1998, the company produced over 7,000 tonnes of ginger annually, a massive leap from its humble beginnings.
The factory’s relocation to Yandina also began its tourist operations. Buderim Ginger capitalised on the Sunshine Coast’s growing tourism industry by opening a tourist centre at the factory in the 1980s.
Prince Charles pictured by ginger bins on right and Princess Diana on left. The Royal couple toured the Ginger Factory after travelling to Yandina via Coolum from Maroochy Airport, where they had arrived on a VIP jet from Brisbane as part of their month-long tour of Australia. Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Library
The centre now attracts around 400,000 visitors each year, giving tourists a behind-the-scenes look at ginger production while promoting the various ginger products on offer.
Mechanisation and Research Boost Yields
Research and development have been key to Buderim Ginger’s success. The Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and the company itself have invested heavily in improving both the yield and quality of ginger crops. Developing mechanised harvesting and processing techniques has significantly reduced costs and increased production. In 1998, average ginger yields in Queensland had risen to over 50 tonnes per hectare, compared to just 6.7 tonnes per hectare in 1942.
Buderim’s connection to the ginger industry is more than just a name. The early days of ginger cultivation and the establishment of the co-operative shaped the town’s identity. Although the factory is now in Yandina, Buderim remains closely linked to the industry that brought it international recognition.
Ongoing Legacy
Buderim Ginger Limited continues to play a vital role in the local economy, providing jobs for hundreds of workers, both on farms and in the factory. Many growers are second or third-generation farmers who have been involved in the industry since its early days. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation ensures it remains a global ginger market leader.
From its small beginnings as a crop on family farms, the ginger industry in Buderim has grown into an international success story. As Buderim Ginger Limited continues to expand its product range and explore new markets, the town’s legacy as the birthplace of Australia’s ginger industry remains a point of pride for the community.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo credit: Queensland Police
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
Photo credit: Antonius Ferret/Pexels
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 rides an e-scooter at Sunshine Coast University Hospital (Photo credit: sunshinecoast.health.qld.gov.au)
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
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.
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
Photo credit: sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
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:
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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).
Ken Chadwick (Photo credit: Sunshine Coast Concert Band/Facebook)
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: SunshineCoastCouncil
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: SunshineCoastCouncil
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 Bridgeis 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.
