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Belle Property Expands to Buderim, Tapping into Strong Sunshine Coast Market

Signalling strong confidence in the Sunshine Coast’s property market, national real estate powerhouse Belle Property has established a new presence in Buderim, led by a team of seasoned local experts.

A Local Team with a National Edge

The new Belle Property Buderim is being guided by a team already well-known in the community for its integrity and personalised approach. Principal Tanya Mungomery is a 25-year resident of Buderim with more than 15 years of industry experience. She is joined by Leasing and Tenancy Manager Ebony McCulloch, who contributes nearly a decade of expertise in property management.

This established local team will now operate with the backing of Belle Property, a full-service agency with over 200 offices across Australia known for its premium marketing and impressive digital reach.

This partnership provides the Buderim team access to a national and international network of clients and agents, while allowing them to continue their focus on tailored, high-impact campaigns. It represents a move to blend their strong community reputation with the resources of one of the country’s leading lifestyle real estate brands, which prides itself on servicing select markets from simple studios to multi-million-dollar homes.

A Vision for Buderim’s Future

According to Mungomery, the decision to join the Belle Property network is about enhancing what her team can offer clients, not changing its core identity. She expressed that clients will receive the same honest, local advice, now supported by a prestige brand.

Mungomery’s vision for the agency extends beyond property transactions, aiming to enrich the area’s future while honouring its past. This people-first mindset aligns with the shared values of honesty, respect, and professionalism that unite all Belle Property agents nationwide.

Confidence in the Sunshine Coast Market

The launch comes at a time of steady growth in the Sunshine Coast property market, which is fuelled by high buyer demand. Buderim remains one of the region’s most sought-after suburbs, valued for its unique hinterland feel just minutes from the coast. Its vibrant village atmosphere, proximity to top schools, and natural attractions like the Buderim Forest Waterfall make it a prime location for families, professionals, and retirees.

Belle Property’s Head of State for Queensland, David Holmes, commented on the new venture, stating that Mungomery’s team is a perfect fit for the brand due to their professionalism and strong local presence. This move signals significant confidence from the national group in both the local team and the enduring appeal of the Buderim lifestyle. Belle Property Buderim is now actively serving the community from its office at the Buderim Mall on Burnett Street.

Published Date 04-August-2025

Springfield Lakes & Buderim Area Sports Results – Aug 1 to 3

Sun, August 3, 2025 – FQPL1 – Men – Round 19
• Redlands United 1 | Ipswich FC 1

Springfield Lakes & Buderim Areas Sports Results – July 11 to 13

Sat, July 12, 2025 – FQPL1 – Men – Round 17
• Holland Park Hawks 1 | Ipswich FC 1

Sun, July 13, 2025 – NPL – Men – Round 17
• Eastern Suburbs 4 | Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1

Sun, July 13, 2025 – NPL – Women – Round 21
• Mitchelton FC 2 | Sunshine Coast Wanderers 3
• Mitchelton FC U23 0 | Sunshine Coast Wanderers U23 4

Sun, July 13, 2025 – NBL1 North – Men – Round 11
• Ipswich Force 110 | Cairns Marlins 96

Sun, July 13, 2025 – NBL1 North – Women – Round 11
• Ipswich Force 77 | Cairns Dolphins 115

Caloundra Congestion Fix Moves Ahead As Major Traffic Upgrades Get Green Light

Photo Credit: Department of Transport and Main Roads

Caloundra residents stuck in daily traffic snarls could soon find relief, with the state government confirming a full-scale plan to ease gridlock across key roads in the city’s southern corridor.

A Push To Ease Pressure On Caloundra Roads

The Caloundra congestion relief plan has been officially included in the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program, with construction set to begin later this year. The upgrades will target five major traffic hotspots that locals say have caused long-standing delays during school runs, commutes and weekends.

Caloundra Road now sees over 32,000 vehicles daily, with traffic increasing by more than 30 per cent in the past 20 years. Local leaders say the gridlock has affected everyday life and business movement across the region.

The plan combines five infrastructure projects, including key intersection upgrades and new links to ease pressure. The transport department says the aim is to improve road safety, increase access, and support Caloundra’s growing population.

What The Plan Includes

The upgrade includes completing the Nicklin Way to Third Avenue connection to give drivers another route into Caloundra’s CBD. An overpass will link Kawana Way Link Road and Bells Creek Arterial over Caloundra Road, while other works will improve key intersections, including Bellvista Boulevard and Pelican Waters Boulevard.

*Photo Credit: Department of Transport and Main Roads*

Early works have started on some sites, with overpass design planning expected before the end of 2025. While a $400 million cost was pledged before the election, final figures haven’t been confirmed. Premier David Crisafulli said actual costs will become clear after the tender process.

Community Relief And Cautious Optimism

Residents and business owners have long pushed for action on Caloundra’s traffic issues, which worsen during school times and holidays. Locals say rapid growth in nearby areas like Aura and Baringa has added pressure to already busy roads. MP Kendall Morton noted the congestion has made even short trips difficult, while Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the upgrades will help with day-to-day life and local business.

Some concerns remain over the lack of detailed costings, but the overall response from the community has been positive. The government says it will focus on cost-effective delivery through staged construction and competitive tendering.

What Comes Next

All five parts of the Caloundra congestion relief plan are now fully funded under the state’s QTRIP program. Major construction is set to begin in stages from the second half of 2025, with some early site work already underway. No completion date has been confirmed, but the upgrades will be rolled out gradually to limit disruptions.

Authorities have asked locals for patience, as temporary traffic changes will be needed during the build. Once finished, the works are expected to ease congestion and improve road links across the Sunshine Coast.

Published 05-July-2025

Buderim Private Hospital Celebrates Inclusive Employment Success Through Project SEARCH Program

Buderim Private Hospital is demonstrating the tangible benefits of inclusive employment practices through the success of Nathan, a local participant in the Project SEARCH program who is currently completing his second internship rotation in the hospital’s Supply Department.

The 12-month immersive work-based internship program, designed specifically for young people with disabilities, has proven transformative for Nathan, who previously completed his first rotation in the hospital’s Central Sterilisation Department. His journey exemplifies how structured workplace programs can create meaningful pathways to independence for individuals with disabilities.

Nathan’s integration into the hospital’s operations has been marked by his positive attitude and eagerness to learn, qualities that have resonated strongly with supervisors and colleagues throughout his rotations. His presence has not only contributed to departmental operations but has also reinforced the hospital’s commitment to creating an inclusive workplace environment.

“Having Nathan as part of our team not only benefits our department but also reflects our core values of support and inclusion,” said Buderim Private Hospital’s Supply Coordinator. “We’re proud to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”

The Project SEARCH program operates on a comprehensive model where participants complete three 11-week internships over 12 months, attending the workplace five days a week for six hours daily. This immersive approach allows interns to gain diverse, marketable job skills while receiving ongoing coaching, feedback, and support at every stage of their development.

Nathan’s success story arrives as Project SEARCH opens enrolments for its next cohort, seeking young adults aged 17–28 years with NDIS funding. The program currently operates across multiple healthcare facilities including The Wesley Hospital, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, UnitingCare Head Office, and Buderim Private Hospital.

For Buderim residents, Nathan’s achievement represents more than individual success – it reflects the community’s broader commitment to ensuring every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the workforce. His journey from Central Sterilisation to Supply Department demonstrates the program’s effectiveness in building both practical skills and workplace confidence.

The hospital’s embrace of the Project SEARCH program aligns with growing recognition across the healthcare sector of the value that diverse workforces bring to patient care and operational excellence. As healthcare facilities increasingly prioritise inclusive practices, programs like Project SEARCH provide a proven framework for creating opportunities that benefit both participants and employers.

Applications for the next Project SEARCH cohort are being accepted through the program’s website at myuniting.care/projectsearch, offering other young people with disabilities the chance to follow in Nathan’s footsteps toward greater independence and professional fulfilment.

Published 23-May-2025

Unitywater Community Grants Now Open to Buderim Groups

Community organisations in Buderim can now apply for Unitywater’s Healthy and Thriving Community Grants, supporting environmental and sustainability projects across the region.

Grant Round Now Open

Unitywater has launched the 2025–26 round of its Healthy and Thriving Community Grants Program, offering between $2,000 and $20,000 to eligible organisations in Buderim and other parts of the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, and Noosa regions. Applications opened on 21 May and will close on 20 June.

Program Background and Objectives

Since 2020, Unitywater has distributed over $150,000 to 29 projects that contribute to sustainability goals. The program supports projects that strengthen community connections and align with Unitywater’s strategic ambition to foster healthier, more sustainable communities.

Key Focus Areas

This year’s grants target three categories:

Natural environment and liveability: Projects aimed at protecting waterways, biodiversity, or encouraging community engagement with natural spaces.
First Nations peoples and connection to Country: Initiatives promoting cultural heritage preservation and sustainable economic outcomes.
Innovation and the future of water: Programs that explore climate solutions, science, or technology related to water sustainability.

Eligibility Criteria and Conditions

Eligible applicants must be community, educational, or First Nations-owned organisations operating in the specified regions. Proposals must fall within one or more of the identified categories. All applicants are required to meet relevant insurance and compliance standards, and successful recipients must acknowledge Unitywater’s support publicly.

The funding process is competitive, with Unitywater reserving the right to award full or partial grants at its discretion. Initiatives already fully funded by other parties are ineligible, although co-funded projects are considered with evidence of financial backing.

Application Process and Support

Submissions are managed through a new online grants hub, allowing organisations to register, apply, and track progress. Applicants must provide a detailed budget and agree to complete their projects within 12 months of receiving funding, with final reports due one year from the agreement date.

Next Steps and Timeline

Successful applicants will be notified by 23 July, with agreements to be finalised by 8 August. Funding will be released upon signing. Unitywater has confirmed only one grant round will be held in the 2025–26 financial year.

Published 23-May-2025

Million-Dollar Prize Winner in Buderim Area Still Unknown After Almost a Month

Photo Credit: The Lott

A $1.6 million windfall remains unclaimed, with the winning ticket bought at Nextra Gympie. This prompts a community-wide call for Buderim and Sunshine Coast residents to check their Saturday Gold entries urgently.

The division one winning entry was from draw number 4563, which took place on 12 April. Three division one winners across the country were in this draw, each taking home $1,607,641.94.

Plea to Check Tickets

A spokesperson for The Lott, Anna Hobdell, stated that it was surprising that a winner in the Sunshine Coast region had yet to come forward to claim such a significant amount of money. She suggested the winner might not even realise they are a millionaire.

Ms Hobdell urged anyone who purchased a ticket from Nextra Gympie to carefully review their entries, as they could be the missing winner. She also highlighted the benefits of registering tickets with The Lott Members Club, allowing them to contact winners directly with the good news.

Excitement in Gympie

Kelly Goatham, the owner of Nextra Gympie, expressed her excitement upon learning that their store had sold a division one-winning entry. She recounted her initial reaction, which she humorously described as causing her co-owner to think a snake was in the building due to her loud exclamation.

Ms Goatham mentioned that this was the first time she and her co-owner, Justene, had sold a division one winning entry since taking over the business. The store has been decorated to celebrate the win, and they have been sharing the news with their customers. Ms Goatham expressed her hope that the winner is a regular customer who might not have registered their ticket.

Winning Numbers

The winning numbers in Saturday’s Gold draw 4563 were 45, 3, 22, 17, 13, and 6. The supplementary numbers were 29 and 31. The Lott reports that there were 394 division one winners in the 2024-25 financial year.

Published Date 13-May-2025

Sunshine Coast Tragedy Highlights Hungry Jack’s Battery Toy Breach

Photo Credit: Hungry Jack's

The death of a Sunshine Coast child who ingested a button battery has resurfaced in national focus after Hungry Jack’s was penalised for breaching battery safety rules in its toy giveaways.

Child’s Death Prompts Renewed Safety Focus

The death of four-year-old Sunshine Coast child Summer Steer in 2013 from ingesting a lithium button battery remains a pivotal moment in shaping Australia’s consumer safety practices. Summer became the first Australian child known to die from ingesting a button battery, with her death following multiple medical visits in the hours before she collapsed.

She was taken to Noosa Hospital three times on the day of her death, after experiencing a nosebleed and vomiting blood. Despite initial assurances from doctors, she later suffered a cardiac arrest and died after being transferred to Brisbane. An inquest later confirmed the cause was internal injuries from a swallowed battery.

Hungry Jack’s Toy Recall and Penalty

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has penalised Hungry Jack’s Pty Ltd $150,240 for supplying toys without required button battery warnings. The breach involved 27,850 Garfield toys distributed with children’s meals over a 10-day period in May 2024. While the toys complied with the mandatory button battery safety standard, the packaging failed to include the necessary hazard warnings or advice on what to do in case of ingestion, as required under the information standard.

The fast-food company was issued eight infringement notices and has since signed a court-enforceable undertaking admitting the toy likely failed to comply with information standards. The company also announced it would implement a compliance program to avoid future breaches.

Button Battery Risks and Regulation

Sunshine Coast button battery — *Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

Button batteries are small and can become lodged in a child’s throat if swallowed, leading to fatal injuries in as little as two hours. In Australia, at least three children have died and more than one child each month is injured due to button battery incidents.

The mandatory button battery standards in Australia require not only physical safety measures like secure battery compartments but also clear labelling and consumer guidance. The ACCC has continued to take enforcement action against suppliers who fail to meet these obligations.

Consumer Advocates Raise Concern

Following the Hungry Jack’s incident, safety advocates have reiterated the danger these batteries pose. The ACCC stated that despite recent regulatory improvements, non-compliant products remain on the market, presenting ongoing risks to children. Organisations such as Kidsafe Queensland remain active in urging tighter compliance with safety regulations and clearer warning labels.

Andrea Shoesmith, mother of Summer Steer, remains critical of businesses that downplay the risks. She has long campaigned for stricter rules around button batteries and said that even when products technically meet construction standards, they can still pose serious harm if not correctly labelled.

Response and Ongoing Measures

The Garfield toys have since been withdrawn by Hungry Jack’s, with non-battery alternatives available for exchange at any of the chain’s outlets.

The ACCC has urged families to check their homes for button battery products and to report any safety concerns. It has also warned that companies must report any serious safety incidents involving their products within two days.

The commission said it would continue to monitor businesses for compliance and take enforcement action where necessary. The safety of consumer goods involving young children remains a core focus for the ACCC in the 2025–26 period.

Published 12-May-2025

Mum Speaks Out After Daughter Killed In Bruce Highway Mayhem

Photo Credit: Social Mum Tales/Facebook

A mother’s heartbreak over losing her daughter in the Bruce Highway crash has deepened as she watches the tragedy become a viral moment, fearing 22-year-old Jocelyn Mollee will be remembered for the mayhem and not the life she lived.

A Young Life Lost in a Moment

The Easter Monday crash turned deadly when a red Porsche Macan lost control on the Bruce Highway, triggering a multi-vehicle pile-up. Jocelyn Mollee, a 22-year-old University of Queensland engineering student, died at the scene.

*Photo Credit: Gen Edwin Kiprotich/Facebook*

The driver, 41-year-old Bradley Donald Towle, allegedly fled, shot a 62-year-old man who stopped to help, stole his car, and later committed a second carjacking before being arrested nearby. Towle faces multiple charges, including dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death and armed robbery, and is due in court on 30 June.

‘Her Heart Was So Big’: Family Speaks Out

Jocelyn’s mother, Amanda Chippendale, said her daughter loved nature and cared deeply about water conservation. The 22-year-old was in her final year of a chemical engineering degree and had spent Easter camping with her boyfriend.

*Photo Credit: World News Updates/Youtube*

They were driving back to Brisbane when their car was caught in the crash. Amanda later spoke of her frustration that Jocelyn’s death was being overshadowed by a viral video of two witnesses, saying her daughter’s life and potential deserved more attention.

University and Community in Mourning

The University of Queensland said it was deeply saddened by Jocelyn’s death and offered support to students who knew her. Her peers remembered her as intelligent, kind and quietly determined.

First responders also felt the emotional weight of the crash, with Jocelyn’s family acknowledging the lasting impact such trauma can have on those who arrive first.

Calls for Change Amid Grief

Jocelyn’s mother called for tougher penalties for adult offenders behind the wheel, saying no other family should have to suffer what hers is now facing. She believes stronger consequences could help prevent similar tragedies.

Police are still piecing together the events that began with the crash and quickly escalated. What remains clear is that a young life was lost on a highway used by thousands of Queenslanders every day.

Published 6-May-2025

Flaxton Woman Builds Australia’s First Approved Aircrete Dome Home By Hand

Photo Credit: Aircrete Dome Elysian Falls/Facebook

In the quiet hills of Flaxton, a sculptor has turned a personal dream into a one-of-a-kind reality, hand-building what’s believed to be the first council-approved aircrete dome home in Australia.

Building Dreams In The Hinterland

Cath Wild, an artist in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, built her 90-square-metre home in Flaxton using aircrete, a light, foamy mix of cement, water and soap. Over several years, she handcrafted 6,000 bricks on the rural block she shares with her partner.

*Photo Credit: Aircrete Dome Elysian Falls/Facebook*

What started as curiosity about sustainable building grew into a full project. Drawing on her sculpting background, Wild shaped curved domes instead of square rooms.

Overcoming Red Tape

Before building began, Wild faced her biggest hurdle, getting council approval. With aircrete unfamiliar to authorities, she was rejected by engineers multiple times before finally finding support on her twentieth try.

Wild spent about $26,000 on approvals, navigating rules not built for alternative homes. By documenting her work and testing aircrete’s strength, she met all safety standards.

From Art To Architecture

Calling the home her largest artwork, Wild used her sculptor’s eye to shape the domes into a liveable space with two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, study and lounge. Skylights and curved windows bring in soft natural light.

Though designed for personal use, Wild said her hope was to demonstrate what’s possible when art, design and environmental thinking come together. Her journey has since inspired others across the country to consider similar approaches. She has shared her plans and techniques with other builders and said several nearby projects have already received council approval.

A Growing Community Of Builders

What started as a solo project in a quiet Flaxton clearing is now influencing a wider movement. Wild continues to support others who are experimenting with aircrete, helping to build a network of DIY builders interested in low-impact, cost-effective housing.

Although she didn’t set out to make history, Wild’s project has gained attention for what it represents: a shift toward creative, community-driven approaches to living. Her house may be the first of its kind, but she says it won’t be the last.

Published 6-May-2025