Cost Pressures End RSPCA’s Iconic Million Paws Walk After 30 Years

Photo Credit: Ruth Ellison/Flickr

For 30 years, Australians and their dogs have walked side by side to support animal welfare. But in 2025, the RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk will take its one last lap, marking the end of a beloved tradition.

RSPCA’s Final Million Paws Walk to Mark the End of an Era for Animal Lovers

RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk has united Australians in a shared mission to fight animal cruelty for the last three decades. But in 2025, the event will take its final lap. Because of increasing expenses and changing fundraising issues, the RSPCA announced that this popular event will take place for the final time on Sunday, 25 May, at Noosa. The move brings to a close a long-standing tradition that has raised $17 million and watched over 750,000 people walk with their four-legged friends for a purpose that counts.

Why the Million Paws Walk Is Ending

The cost-of-living emergency and rising event costs have resulted in the RSPCA finding it challenging to continue the Million Paws Walk. Although the event has been a significant fundraiser, the organisation has determined to allocate its resources to directly support the growing number of animals in need. With more Australians struggling financially, giving patterns have altered, resulting in a change in the way charities such as the RSPCA function.

An RSPCA spokesperson said that although the event has been a mainstay of their fundraising campaigns, the focus must now be on ensuring every dollar raised goes straight into providing critical veterinary care, shelter, and welfare programs. By avoiding large-scale events, the organisation wants to concentrate on more sustainable and direct assistance programs for animals in Australia.

A Legacy of Community and Compassion

From the very start, the Million Paws Walk has been a movement, not just a fundraiser. Families, pet owners, and animal lovers have come year after year to walk their dogs, raise awareness, and help fund the RSPCA’s cause. More than 400,000 dogs—or 1.6 million paws—have walked alongside their owners to support animal welfare initiatives over the years.

The event has been key in funding shelter operations, medical care, and rehabilitation programs for rescued and abandoned animals. By bringing people together in a fun and interactive way, it has strengthened public awareness about animal cruelty and responsible pet ownership.

Final Event: One Last Lap in May

The final-ever Million Paws Walk will be held in different cities of Australia, and Noosa will host the final big walk. The RSPCA is inviting everyone to walk one final time and create a special sendoff to an event that has left an unshakable impact on Australian animal welfare movements.

The supporters can look forward to a happy and festive atmosphere, with special emphasis on the celebration of the event’s heritage. There are special “One Last Lap” merchandise that supports fans in being able to carry a bit of the Million Paws Walk legacy home.

Though this might be the last walk, the RSPCA encourages supporters to keep coming up with new ideas to assist animals in need. Donating, volunteering, or adopting from shelters are some ways to do so. The organization is dedicated to its cause, ensuring every animal gets the care and protection it needs.

How to Join the Final Walk

Those who are interested to join the final Million Paws Walk can register online at millionpawswalk.com.au. The activity is for all animal lovers, with or without a dog. Tickets are already available and pre-registration is suggested in order to save a place for this milestone event.

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The RSPCA would like to thank all past and current participants for their commitment over the years and invites everyone to put on their walking shoes one final time to mark three decades of compassion, community, and commitment to animal welfare.

Published 26-February-2025

Mount Beerwah Faces Potential Closure Over Cultural Concerns

Photo Credit: Bidgee/CC-BY-SA-3.0

Mount Beerwah, one of the most popular summits in the Glass House Mountains, is at the centre of a fierce debate over proposals to limit public access by replacing traditional climbs with a drone-based virtual experience.

Mount Beerwah Faces Potential Closure Amid Virtual Climb Proposals

Recent internal communications and community discussions have brought new focus to Mount Beerwah. Documents obtained through Freedom of Information requests reveal that Queensland National Parks officials had been considering a staged approach that might eventually restrict physical access to the summit. The plan would see traditional climbs replaced by a simulator experience using drone technology.

Proposed Changes and Government Response

A draft of the proposed detailed management plan for the project was initiated in July 2022. The proposed measures include the permanent closure of Mount Beerwah along with other nearby peaks, with seasonal closures and alternative virtual experiences in place of physical ascents. In response, Queensland Environment Minister Andrew Powell later stated that there are “categorically” no current plans to permanently close the mountain, clarifying that any discussions on this subject occurred under the previous Labor government.

Mount Beerwah Close Up Photo — *Photo Credit: Save Our Summits/Facebook*

Community Concerns and FOI Efforts

The group Save Our Summits has been adamantly against any move that might restrict access to Mount Beerwah. Locals have shared their stories and positive memories of their climbs, emphasizing the mountain’s cultural and recreational value. One participant praised the area’s unique animals and natural beauty while mentioning a memorable hike that took place six years earlier. The organization has submitted a Freedom of Information request to the Queensland National Parks Service in response to these worries. They are demanding transparency on measures that would affect not only Mount Beerwah but also adjacent summits like Mount Tibrogargan.

A Community United

Local voices are coming together to preserve their right to climb and enjoy the natural environment of the Glass House Mountains. The community asserts that preserving these iconic summits is important to keep local customs alive for generations to come. The controversy brews as residents and climbers call for a fair solution that maintains cultural values without completely denying access to the public.

Published 26-February-2025

Sippy Downs Set to Benefit as Digital Games Hub Takes Shape

Photo Credit: University of the Sunshine Coast Online

The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) in Sippy Downs is positioned to become a focal point for Queensland’s growing digital games industry, following the announcement of a new government initiative targeting emerging developers.

The Crisafulli Government’s “Season of the Dev” program, running from March to May, will deliver workshops, networking events, and a three-day game jam aimed at addressing skilled worker shortages in the digital games sector.

Sippy Downs’ strategic position as the home of UniSC places it at the center of this development. The university already produces game development graduates through its relevant programs, creating a natural talent pipeline that could fuel industry growth in the area.

Dr. Colleen Stieler-Hunt, a game development lecturer at UniSC, highlighted the region’s advantages for the games industry, pointing to the “ultra-fast internet via the region’s submarine broadband cable and a pool of job-ready graduates at UniSC.”

The combination of technological infrastructure and educational resources in Sippy Downs creates what industry leaders see as an ideal environment for game development studios seeking both talent and lifestyle benefits.

The government-funded program specifically targets young adults early in their careers, with Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek emphasising that events will be “free and affordable, so no one misses out.”

For Sippy Downs residents and UniSC students, the initiative represents an opportunity to develop skills locally rather than relocating to traditional gaming industry centres, potentially strengthening the suburb’s economic prospects and cementing its reputation as an emerging technology hub.

Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney reinforced this potential, stating the program aims to “put the Sunshine Coast on the map as a new hub for games development,” with Sippy Downs’ educational facilities playing a crucial role in this transformation.

Published 20-February-2025

E-Scooter Ban Enforced at Nirimba State Primary School

Nirimba State Primary School has implemented an immediate ban on electric personal mobility devices following a near-miss incident where an underage student was almost hit by a car while riding an e-scooter without a helmet.

Photo Credit: Nirimba State Primary School

Principal Steven Moore announced the ban through a letter sent to parents on Monday, February 17, after noticing an increase in students using these devices since the start of the school year.

“From tomorrow, Tuesday, the 18th of February, all student personal mobility devices are banned from school grounds,” Moore stated in his letter. “The school will also not condone the inappropriate use of personable mobility devices by allowing these devices to be parked at school.”

The ban follows Queensland laws requiring riders to be at least 16 years old, or a minimum of 12 years with adult supervision. Moore cited a specific incident where a student under 12 years old was riding an e-scooter without a helmet and narrowly avoided being hit by a car. “If collision had occurred, the injures would have likely been substantial,” he wrote.

Under the new policy, students can park their devices at the Nirimba Sports Complex or another off-site location before walking onto school grounds. The principal also reminded parents to ensure their children wear helmets when riding any type of bike or scooter in the community.

While Moore declined interview requests regarding the decision, a Department of Education spokesman supported the move, stating that Nirimba State Primary School prioritises the safety of all students, staff, and community members.

The ban comes amid growing concerns about e-scooter safety in Queensland, where 290 crashes were recorded in 2024, with a significant number involving teenage riders.

Published 18-February-2025

Remembering Christopher Eccles: Nambour’s Bold and Colourful Artist

Photo Credit: GoFundme

Christopher Eccles wasn’t just an artist—he was a dreamer, and a man who saw the world in vibrant colours. Whether through his bold paintings, quirky sculptures, or sheer enthusiasm for life, he left an unforgettable mark on Nambour.

Now, his family and friends are learning to navigate a world without him.

A Life of Creativity and Connection

Christopher didn’t just create art—he lived it. He had an eye for turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. His work reflected his unique way of seeing the world.

His wife, Pia, describes him as “very colourful and bold.”

A tattoo across his chest read “small man, big mouth,” which reflects him as a person, Pia shared. At just 5 foot and 4, “he was larger than life.”

Christopher had a particular passion for sustainability, which influenced his art in unexpected ways. He collected vintage boomboxes and tapes, transforming them into creative displays. He repurposed single-use plastics into imaginative sculptures—robots, ray guns, flowers, and more.

Tragic Fall and Unfinished Recovery of Christopher Eccles

Life took a devastating turn for Christopher in April last year. While painting on a ladder, it suddenly collapsed beneath him. The impact shattered one of his kneecaps and chipped a bone, forcing him into a wheelchair for six months.

His recovery was slow, and just days before his death, doctors told him it would be another six months before he could drive again.

Then, on 27 December, at just 48 years old, Christopher suffered a fatal heart attack. His family later learned he had an undiagnosed genetic heart condition—something they never saw coming.

A Family’s Unimaginable Loss

Christopher’s sudden passing shattered his family. His wife Pia and their children, Enny, 18, and Dennis, 19, are still trying to come to terms with life without him.

Pia admitted she will not get passed the fact he’s gone. “He was my best mate,”she said.

Their love story began in Richmond, Victoria, when Pia was just 20. In 2019, they moved to Nambour, instantly falling in love with its artistic and community-driven atmosphere.

“He loved Nambour so much,” Pia said.

Christopher Eccles: A Community Champion

Christopher was about bringing people together. He formed deep friendships within the local creative scene.

His commitment to art and community earned him a place in The Keeper Project. A Sunshine Coast Council initiative where artists serve as observers, collectors and storytellers within their communities.

Now, in a powerful tribute, Pia and their children will continue his involvement in the project, carrying forward his passion and vision.

A Legacy That Won’t Fade

Christopher Eccles was a visionary. He saw the world differently, found inspiration in the discarded, and created works that challenged, inspired, and connected people.

Though his absence is deeply felt, his legacy remains woven into the fabric of Nambour. His family, friends, and the community he cherished will continue to celebrate his life.

Published 13-Feb-2025

Nook Collective: A Game-Changer for Working Parents on the Sunshine Coast

Photo Credit: Nook Collective/Facebook

Nook Collective is changing the game for working parents. Finding that balance between career and family can feel impossible.

For Sunshine Coast couple Sara and Tim Reyes, the solution was simple: create a space where parents can work productively while their kids are cared for in a fun, engaging environment.

That solution became Nook Collective, a unique co-working space in Buderim designed specifically for parents. At Nook, work and family life don’t have to compete—they can coexist.

More Than Just a Workspace

At first glance, Nook Collective might look like any other shared office space. But step inside, and it’s clear this place was built with families in mind.

It’s not just about desks and Wi-Fi—parents can concentrate while their children enjoy supervised activities in dedicated kids’ rooms. There are also collaborative workspaces, podcast and recording studios, and even monthly movie nights to bring the community together.

For Sara, who runs Assist by Sara, a virtual assistant business, and Tim, the owner of Luxe Electrical Industries, this idea was deeply personal. Like many parents, they struggled to juggle their businesses and parenting responsibilities. They knew there had to be a better way—and when they couldn’t find one, they built it themselves.

A Solution for Modern Families

The idea for Nook Collective came from real-life frustration. Flexible childcare options are scarce, and traditional daycare doesn’t always suit modern work schedules. Instead of waiting for someone else to solve the problem, Sara and Tim took matters into their own hands.

With their own children, Mila and Levi, as their inspiration, they invested six figures into transforming a space into a welcoming hub for working parents. In just five weeks, what started as a dream became reality. And from the moment Nook opened in October 2024, the response has been overwhelming.

Building a Supportive Community

Nook Collective has quickly become a go-to space for Sunshine Coast parents. Members collaborate, network, and support each other, making it a space where both businesses and friendships can grow.

To make the experience even better, the couple partnered with Maleny Dairies to create an onsite coffee nook, complete with a skilled barista.

Beyond Co-Working: Supporting Local Business

For Tim, Nook Collective is just one piece of a bigger vision. He also launched Trade Connect, a networking group for young tradies looking to grow their businesses. He understands that strong connections are essential for success, and Trade Connect is all about fostering collaboration in the trades industry.

The Reyes family isn’t stopping here and plans to expand Nook Collective to more locations. They’re constantly listening to feedback and looking for ways to improve.

For families looking for a better way to balance it all, Nook Collective isn’t just a workspace—it’s a game-changer. And for Sara and Tim, this is only the beginning.

Published 10-Feb-2025

Carpet Python Eats Pet Cat: A Shocking Encounter That Sparks Debate on Pet Safety

Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7/Facebook

“Carpet python eats pet cat”—it’s the kind of headline that makes you stop and stare. For one Queensland pet owner, it wasn’t just a news story—it was a heartbreaking reality.

Imagine stepping outside on a quiet morning and finding a massive snake wrapped around your cat. That’s exactly what happened in a quiet home in Griffin, Moreton Bay.

When snake catchers arrived, they found a scene that was both brutal and eerily natural. The python already killed the cat and had begun swallowing it whole. The owner had to make a tough decision—step in or let nature take its course.

A Difficult Choice

Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7 responded to the call on 6 February. Their team offered to remove the cat’s body, giving the owner the chance to bury their pet. But after a moment of painful reflection, the owner declined.

Snake catcher Stuart McKenzie later shared that the owner, though devastated, made a calm and difficult choice. She knew nothing could bring her pet back, so she let the snake finish its meal rather than disrupt the natural process.

Carpet python — *Stuart McKenzie*
Photo Credit: *Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7/Facebook*

McKenzie has dealt with countless human-wildlife conflicts. He described the moment as “brutal” but also a stark reminder of nature’s reality.

The Debate: Nature or Negligence?

When the snake catcher team posted a photo of the python mid-meal on Facebook, the internet erupted with mixed reactions. Some saw it as a natural, if unfortunate, event. Others were outraged.

“This is why my cat is inside 24/7,” Janine Beveridge commented. “Too many dangers outside.”

Madeleine Carter wasn’t happy about the incident. “That snake would be a D E A D snake if it ate my pet,” she said.

Others defended the snake, arguing that humans need to take responsibility for their pets. “At least the snake got food. Glad the owners understood and didn’t blame the snake,” Sofie Kent-Lamkin wrote.

Should Cats Stay Indoors?

McKenzie explained that while these incidents are rare, they do happen. In most cat-versus-snake encounters, the snake doesn’t survive. Cats, being natural hunters, often kill snakes and even drag them inside homes, prompting urgent removal calls.

But this case was different. The cat wasn’t roaming—it was in its own backyard. It was simply unlucky.

The incident has reignited the debate on responsible pet ownership. Studies show that cats kill hundreds of millions of native animals every year, making them one of Australia’s biggest threats to wildlife. That’s why many councils now require owners to keep their cats indoors or in secure outdoor enclosures.

A Wake-Up Call for Pet Owners

McKenzie believes this isn’t just another viral story—it’s an important lesson for all pet owners.

As urban areas expand into wildlife habitats, these encounters will likely increase. The takeaway is simple: keep your pets safe, or risk nature deciding for you.

Published 10-Feb-2025

Sunshine Coast Rail Line: Transforming Transport for a Growing Region

Photo Credit: Infrastructure Pipeline

The Sunshine Coast is about to experience a major transport upgrade with the new Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line. This long-awaited project will finally connect the region to South East Queensland’s passenger rail network, making travel faster, easier, and more reliable.

Locals will have a genuine alternative to driving, reducing congestion and improving access to jobs, education, healthcare, and tourism.

How Will This Benefit Locals?

1. Faster and More Reliable Travel

Right now, the Sunshine Coast is Australia’s largest urban area without a direct rail link to its nearest capital city. The 37.8km dual-track line, stretching from Beerwah to Maroochydore via Caloundra and Birtinya, will significantly cut travel time and offer a dependable public transport option. Commuters heading to Brisbane will no longer need to rely on slow, congested roads.

Sunshine Coast Rail Line — Photo Credit: *TMR*

2. Less Traffic and Safer Roads

Traffic congestion is a growing issue across the region. This new rail line will take cars off the road, reducing pressure during peak hours. Fewer vehicles mean safer, less stressful driving conditions for those who still need to travel by car.

3. Boosting Housing and Community Growth

The Sunshine Coast’s population is growing rapidly, and infrastructure must keep up. This project will support the development of over 3,000 affordable homes near new rail stations. Better transport links will also attract investment and create well-connected communities.

4. More Jobs and a Stronger Economy

Stage 1 of the project will create 2,200 jobs, providing opportunities in construction, transport, and related industries. These new jobs will benefit local businesses and families, boosting the region’s economy.

What’s Happening First?

To speed up delivery, the rail line will be built in stages. This approach means locals can start using parts of the network sooner instead of waiting for the entire project to be completed.

Key Developments in Stage 1 (Starting in 2026):

19km dual-track rail line to Caloundra
Protection of the corridor for future expansion to Maroochydore
Plans to fast-track the rail line to Birtinya
Improved bus services for better station access
More walking and cycling paths to connect to train stations

A Smarter, More Connected Future

This project is more than just a rail line—it’s a major step forward for the Sunshine Coast. It will improve public transport, ease congestion, and support local businesses.

The Australian and Queensland governments have committed between $5.5 and $7 billion to Stage 1. This funding will reshape transport in the region, ensuring the Sunshine Coast stays connected, liveable, and sustainable as it grows.

Concerns and the Push for Progress

Despite its benefits, the project faces uncertainty over funding and timelines. Local MP Jason Hunt is pushing for answers, urging state and federal governments to stick to their commitments. He warns that delays could set the region back, making transport challenges worse as the population expands.

Published 7-Feb-2025

Georgia Bartlett: The Sunshine Coast Star’s Fast-Track to the Brisbane Broncos

Photo Credit: QRL

Georgia Bartlett has taken the rugby league world by storm. In just six months, she went from playing local footy on the Sunshine Coast to signing a development contract with the Brisbane Broncos.

The 21-year-old outside back only picked up a rugby league ball last year, but her natural talent and hard work quickly paid off.

From Touch Football to Rugby League

Bartlett grew up in Chinchilla before moving to Toowoomba, where she made a name for herself in touch football. She represented Queensland at the junior level, but rugby league never crossed her mind until she relocated to the Sunshine Coast in 2021.

Her older brother Hayden, a Maroochydore Swans player, played a key role in her transition. When the team needed extra players, he convinced her to give it a go. With just a week of training, she stepped onto the field at the Sunshine Coast 9’s pre-season tournament. Despite her inexperience, she quickly impressed coaches and teammates, earning a reputation as a rising star.

Dominating the Sunshine Coast Competition

Bartlett’s rapid adaptation to rugby league took many by surprise. Playing for the Maroochydore Swans in the SCGRL open women’s competition, she displayed explosive speed, sharp footwork, and a natural ability to read the game.

Her performances didn’t go unnoticed. She earned a spot in the Sunshine Coast 47th Battalion representative team, where she dominated the competition and was named Player of the Tournament. Soon after, she stepped up again, playing fullback for Queensland Country and proving she could perform at a higher level.

Earning a Contract with the Brisbane Broncos

Bartlett’s rise caught the attention of NRLW recruiters. Throughout 2024, she trained with the Brisbane Broncos’ emerging squad, showcasing her athleticism, work ethic, and willingness to learn.

After her team’s semi-final loss, Broncos head of NRLW Paul Dyer and head coach Scott Prince approached her with a development contract.

Bartlett said that she felt “overwhelmed, speechless and full of emotion” during the contract discussion.

Now part of the Broncos system, Bartlett will train with the club’s top 24 NRLW players while gaining experience with the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Queensland BMD Premiership.

Photo Credit: *Brisbane Broncos/Instagram*

Despite her rapid rise, Bartlett stays grounded. She believes that anything can happen and just wants to enjoy where she is without pressure.

Broncos coach Scott Prince believes she has enormous potential. He saw that Bartlett shows how eager she is to learn footy and how everyone is rooting for her.

Grateful for Support

Bartlett credits her success to her family, coaches, teammates, friends, and the Maroochydore Swans rugby league club.

With talent, determination, and strong support, Georgia Bartlett’s rugby league journey is just beginning. From the Sunshine Coast to the NRLW, she’s proving that hard work and the right opportunities can lead to something incredible.

Published 5-Feb-2025

Decomposed Kangaroo Found in Water Tank: A Wake-Up Call for Homeowners

Photo Credit: Pristine Water Systems

A decomposed kangaroo inside a resident’s rainwater tank shocked the Gympie-based water tank cleaning company. What began as a routine inspection in the Glass House Mountains region ended with an unexpected discovery.

A Shocking Discovery: Decomposed Kangaroo in the Tank

Reece Gendron, owner of Pristine Water Systems, arrived for a standard inspection. What should have been a simple check quickly became something much more troubling. Gendron and his team discovered the decomposed remains of a kangaroo inside the tank.

The tank sat level with the grass and had been covered by a tile held in place by a brick. Gendron believes the kangaroo may have stepped on the unsecured cover, causing it to fall inside and become trapped.

“The poor animal had been there long enough for bones and decomposing flesh to remain, and let us tell you—it was not a pleasant sight,” he said.

Decomposed Kangaroo: An Extreme Case

While this decomposed kangaroo is an extreme case, Gendron regularly finds animals in water tanks. He often encounters possums and pythons, but this particular discovery caught him off guard.

Despite the disturbing find, Gendron reassured the public that decomposed animals in tanks don’t always pose a direct health risk. He said that pythons actually worsen the water quality but faeces sitting at the bottom of a tank causes illness.

The discovery underscores the importance of regular tank inspections. Gendron advises homeowners to check their tanks every one to two years and perform a thorough clean every three to five years, depending on the tank’s location and exposure to contaminants.

Similar Incidents on the Rise

The discovery of the decomposed kangaroo isn’t an isolated case. Other homeowners have shared similar stories, pointing out that this issue is becoming more common.

A resident named Lee from Victoria’s South Gippsland area found a possum they removed from their water tank, as per the company’s Facebook post.

“Possums are far more common than Roo’s. And as they can’t cling onto anything (unlike frogs), quickly succumb to being trapped.”

The Bottom Line: Secure Your Water Tanks

For anyone relying on rainwater, this incident serves as a reminder: tank maintenance isn’t just about clean water. It’s about securing your tank and making sure nothing unexpected gets inside.

Regularly checking and properly securing tank covers can make all the difference in keeping your water safe to drink.

Pristine Water Systems has urged locals to take action, posting online, “If you haven’t had your tank cleaned in a while, now’s the time to call in the pros.”

Published 4-Feb-2025