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

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

Sunshine Coast CEO’s Beauti Software Transforms Beauty Industry

Photo Credit: Beauti Software/Facebook

In the heart of the Sunshine Coast, China Coyle has transformed the beauty industry with her innovative platform, Beauti Software.

After more than two years of development, her simple idea turned into a seven-figure business.

Bridging the Gap in Beauty Business Management

At 34, China Coyle is reshaping the beauty industry—not with a brush or scissors, but with technology. As a former salon owner, she knows firsthand how overwhelming it can be to juggle appointments, marketing, and business growth while still focusing on clients. While many business management tools exist, none were built specifically for beauty professionals.

Determined to change that, she secured funding and spent over two years developing Beauti Software. Her platform combines a seamless booking system, an integrated Canva interface for branding and marketing, and a business growth academy—all designed to help salon owners work smarter, not harder.

From Salon Owner to Tech Entrepreneur

Coyle’s journey began at just 19 when she built her own salon from the ground up. Over time, she shifted her focus to strategy and coaching, working closely with beauty businesses across Australia and overseas. That’s when she noticed a major gap—salon owners lacked a software solution tailored to their unique needs.

Determined to fix the problem, she launched Beauti Software a year ago. The response was immediate. More than 150 beauty business owners across Australia now use the platform to streamline their daily operations and focus on growing their brands.

Learning Tech from the Ground Up

Despite her deep roots in the beauty industry, stepping into the tech world was a whole new challenge. With no formal background in software development, Coyle had to learn the ins and outs of coding, product design, and technology management to bring her vision to life.

Now based on the Sunshine Coast, she’s built a strong network within the local business community. She also collaborates with salon owners on content creation, filming days, and business support, fostering a sense of community within the industry.

Beauti Software’s Rapid Growth and Global Expansion

Beauti Software is continuing to grow, that has led Coyle to expand her development team and is rolling out new features she says are unlike anything else on the market.

The next step? Expanding beyond Australia, with launches planned for New Zealand and then the UK.

From a teenage salon owner to the founder of a thriving tech company, Coyle’s journey is a testament to passion, persistence, and innovation. With Beauti Software, she’s not just offering a business tool—she’s transforming the way beauty professionals manage and grow their businesses.

Published 3-Feb-2025

Bear the Rescue Dog: From Rejected Pup to Conservation Hero

Photo Credit: Google Drive

Bear, a Border Collie x Koolie, a dog from Sunshine Coast that no one wanted has become one of Australia’s most unlikely conservation heroes.

Spent the early years of his life being passed from home to home, deemed too energetic, too difficult, and too much to handle. But this year, he is celebrated as a wildlife protector, having helped locate and save over 100 koalas in need.

Bear’s extraordinary efforts were recognised with the All Rescues Are Special (ARAS) Medal, proudly sponsored by The Saltiest Dog, as part of the Puppy Tales Australian Dog of the Year Awards. Nominated by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), Bear’s story is a powerful testament to second chances and the incredible potential of rescue animals when given the right support.

A Dog No One Wanted

Adopted as a puppy, he was soon surrendered because his high energy made him too much for his owners to handle.

Several families tried to give him a home but ended in disappointment. His final guardians even faced eviction due to the destruction he caused in their house.

At that point, Bear’s future looked uncertain. But then, fate intervened.

When the University of the Sunshine Coast Detection Dogs for Conservation team heard about Bear, they saw something others hadn’t.

Dr Romane Cristescu, Director of the Detection Dogs for Conservation, recalled that after seeing Bear, the team already knew he’s “the one.”

Bear’s Life Saving Mission

Bear became a specialist detection dog, trained to sniff out sick, injured, or displaced koalas. His work became even more critical during Australia’s devastating Black Summer bushfires, when koalas needed urgent rescue and rehabilitation.

By tracking their scent, Bear has helped save over 100 koalas, ensuring they received medical care and, where possible, were released back into the wild.

Bear’s inspiring story has been featured in documentaries even on his own: “Bear, Koala Hero.”

Celebrating Australia’s Most Remarkable Dogs

The Puppy Tales Australian Dog of the Year Awards honour extraordinary dogs who make a difference—whether through rescue work, therapy, protection, or companionship. Now in their fifth year, these awards shine a spotlight on the ways dogs enrich human lives and contribute to the world in unique and inspiring ways.

Alongside Bear, other inspiring winners include:

Australian Dog of the Year 2025: Elle, a deaf Border Collie from the Gold Coast. Elle uses sign language to navigate agility competitions and work as a school therapy dog, helping anxious children.

People’s Choice Award: Daphne, a Tibetan Spaniel from Melbourne is a former therapy do. Daphne defied the odds by recovering from a severe brain injury.

Paws-itive Change Award: Sunday, a Sydney dog who became the first Australian animal to receive an osseointegration procedure, leading the way for groundbreaking medical treatments.

The Power of Second Chances

Kate Opitz, founder of The Saltiest Dog, the award sponsor, believes in the power of finding the right home:

“I truly believe that the right dog finds us when we need each other most.”

For Bear, the once-unwanted pup turned conservation superstar, the message is clear: every dog has a purpose—they just need the right opportunity to shine.

Published 30-Jan-2025

Kids in Action 2025: Inspiring Young Australians to Walk Gently on Country

Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Council

The Kids in Action program is back for 2025, and this year’s theme, “Walking Country – Where Will Our Footprints Lead?”, is set to spark curiosity and action among young environmental leaders.

Run by the Sunshine Coast Council, the award-winning initiative invites students in Years 5-8 to take charge of their learning by planning and delivering hands-on environmental projects.

Kids in Action 2025 Theme’s Purpose

Each year, Kids in Action focuses on a theme and for this year, 2025, asks students to consider their “footprints” in both a literal and symbolic sense.

Do we walk with care and intention, respecting the land beneath us? Are we mindful of how our daily choices—big or small—affect our ecosystems and communities? Through creative projects, workshops, and interactive experiences, students will be encouraged to think about what it really means to “walk gently” with Country.

Learning from Traditional Custodians

One of the most powerful aspects of Kids in Action is the opportunity for students to connect with local custodians and Elders. Students will have a wider perspective of Country and deeply connect with Indigenous knowledge and ways.

By incorporating Indigenous perspectives into the program, students gain a greater appreciation for the land and its stories.

Kids in Action 2025 Key Events

The program isn’t just about talking—it’s about doing. Two major events will give students the chance to showcase their projects and take part in hands-on learning experiences:

Kids in Action Conference – 17 September 2025
A full-day event where students present their environmental projects, run workshops, and share their insights with peers. It’s a space for young minds to inspire and learn from each other.
Kids in Action Field Day – 18 September 2025
Following the conference, students will immerse themselves in nature for a hands-on learning experience. Guided by community mentors, they’ll take part in activities that deepen their connection to the environment and encourage them to explore ways they can actively care for Country.

Making It Accessible for Schools

To ensure as many schools as possible can take part, Kids in Action offers funding support:

Teacher Support Funding Scheme ($350) – Helps schools presenting at the conference cover costs like teacher release time, skilled mentors, or materials for their project.
New School Attendance Scheme ($350) – Supports schools that have never participated in Kids in Action before, making it easier for them to get involved. It is available within the Sunshine Coast Council region.

Participation costs are $150 per school, covering 12 student delegates (with additional students at just $10 each), ensuring the program remains an affordable and accessible opportunity.

A Program with Proven Impact

Over the years, Kids in Action has received recognition for its contribution to environmental education.

In 2019, it won the Queensland Reconciliation Award for its work with Kabi Kabi and Jinibara First Nations communities.

More recently, in 2023, it was awarded Excellence in Community Shaping at the LGMA Awards.

Published 31-Jan-2025

Jeffrey Godfrey Jailed for Killing Estranged Wife in Drug-Induced Rage

Photo Credit: Vanessa Godfrey/Facebook

Jeffrey James Godfrey, 53, has been handed a 12-year prison sentence after being found guilty of manslaughter for the death of his estranged wife, Vanessa Godfrey.

The Brisbane Supreme Court heard that Godfrey, under the influence of methamphetamine-induced paranoia, strangled Vanessa and made no effort to help her after the attack.

While the judge acknowledged that Godfrey’s judgment was impaired due to his drug use, he still held him accountable for his actions. As a serious violent offender, Godfrey will need to serve 80% of his sentence before he’s eligible for parole.

Tragic Weekend Away Turns Deadly

Jeffrey and Vanessa, who had separated months earlier, had decided to spend a weekend away together in Pelican Waters on the Sunshine Coast back in February 2022. They were there for a friend’s birthday celebration.

Jeffrey Godfrey — *Pelican Waters Resort*
Photo Credit: *Discover Queensland*

The evening started off with dinner, but things took a dark turn when they returned to their hotel room.

Early the next morning, Vanessa asked Godfrey for a neck massage to help with some pain. However, Godfrey became convinced that she had stolen his driver’s licence and Medicare card. Sitting behind her, he began questioning her about their relationship before suddenly strangling her to the point of unconsciousness.

Godfrey Fails to Help After Attack

After Vanessa fell unconscious, Godfrey believed she had died and stopped applying pressure to her neck. Instead of seeking help, he sat down, later believing he saw her breathing. He still didn’t try to assist her. Instead, he cut her arms with a knife, took Valium, and drank rum.

It wasn’t until 3 PM when hotel staff performed a welfare check that they found Vanessa lying on the bed, surrounded by blood, while Godfrey lay asleep on the floor.

Meth Use Led to Delusions and Violence

The court revealed that Godfrey had been a heavy methamphetamine user for years, spending up to $3,000 a week on drugs. His addiction had led to extreme paranoia and delusions, which played a role in his violent behaviour.

Although the court recognised his mental state was affected by his drug use, it concluded that he still knew his actions were wrong. There was also no evidence that Godfrey was under the influence of drugs at the time of his wife’s death.

Despite seeing signs of life in Vanessa, he made no attempt to help or call for medical assistance.

Family Reacts to the Verdict

Outside the court, the couple’s daughter, Olivia Godfrey, expressed relief at the sentencing. She believed that her father’s long prison term served justice for her mother’s death.

Olivia described her mother as a loving and caring woman, deeply affected by the poor choices that led to such a tragic end.

Published 31-Jan-2025

Halcyon Dales: A Fresh Take on Over 50s Living on the Sunshine Coast

Photo Credit: Stockland

Halcyon Dales, Stockland’s newest over-50s community located at the foot of the Glass House Mountains on the Sunshine Coast.

The development is designed to meet the increasing demand for high-quality, low-maintenance homes, offering retirees the chance to embrace a more relaxed lifestyle while remaining close to key amenities and natural beauty.

Halycon Dales for the Over-50s Community

Halcyon Dales is set to build 212 turnkey homes on a 15-hectare site, with breathtaking views of the Glass House Mountains and easy access to beaches, local shops, and the Bruce Highway.

The Sunshine Coast is a prime location for those seeking a sea or tree-change, with a peaceful environment that still offers modern conveniences.

Halycon Dales, A Resort-Style Living

True to the Halcyon brand, the development promises resort-quality living with a range of high-end amenities. These include a heated magnesium pool, a two-storey clubhouse, pickleball courts, a bowling green, and a gold-class cinema.

There will be arts spaces, salon treatment rooms and saunas that provide the perfect place to unwind. These features combine to offer a lifestyle that prioritises relaxation and enjoyment.

A Growing Market for Over-50s Living

Stockland’s research shows that Australia’s over-50s population is expected to grow by 1.8% annually over the next decade, with Queensland seeing a higher rate of 1.9%. As the baby boomer generation approaches retirement, there is increasing demand for suitable housing options.

Halcyon Dales is designed to meet this demand, offering a modern, affordable solution that allows retirees to downsize without sacrificing comfort or quality of life.

The land lease model used at Halcyon Dales is a key selling point. Unlike traditional homeownership, it allows retirees to free up capital without the burden of stamp duty, hidden costs, or deferred management fees.

Homeowners also retain all capital gains, offering a significant financial advantage over conventional housing options.

Hassle-Free Living with a Quick Build Time

One of the standout features of Halcyon Dales is the guaranteed nine-month build time. This quick build time means that homeowners can enjoy their new property sooner with the first homes expected to be ready by mid-2025.

Stockland is also investing in infrastructure improvements around the development. These include an upgraded intersection at Steve Irwin Way, with widened roads, a turning lane, and new pedestrian footpaths connecting Halcyon Dales to Beerwah’s town centre.

Halcyon Dales: The Perfect Place to Downsize

Halcyon Dales is a highly anticipated development, offering retirees the perfect balance of peaceful living and modern convenience. With limited availability in nearby communities and its prime location, Halcyon Dales is expected to attract significant interest. Expressions of interest are now open, with the first release of six sites scheduled for January 2025.

An information session for prospective buyers is scheduled for 5 February 2025 at B by Halcyon in Buderim. Due to the high demand, early registration is recommended.

For every one that wants to make the most of their retirement years, Halcyon Dales presents the ideal opportunity.

Published 30-Jan-2025

Sabrosa Dim Sum House: Cantonese Dishes in the Heart of Noosa

Photo Credit: Sabrosa Dim Sum House/Facebook

A new culinary hotspot has arrived in Noosa Heads with the opening of Sabrosa Dim Sum House at 26 Sunshine Beach Road. The brainchild of renowned local restaurateurs Nathan Ramsay and Shane Newton, Sabrosa is already making waves, blending sustainable, mindful dining with the vibrant essence of Cantonese cuisine.

The duo, well known for their other successful ventures, Somedays Pizza in Noosa Junction and Mariella Mexicantina in Peregian Beach, identified a need for something different in Noosa Heads.

Raising the Dining Bar in Noosa Heads

Sabrosa offers a fresh take on Cantonese flavours, carefully crafted with local, organic, and biodynamic ingredients. The menu features small-plate dishes, including delicate dim sum and fresh oysters—dishes designed to delight the taste buds.

Alongside the food, Sabrosa’s cocktail and wine selection is perfectly curated to complement the menu, bringing the same high standard Ramsay and Newton are known for across their other eateries.

Sabrosa Dim Sum House Noosa — Photo Credit: *Sabrosa Dim Sum House/Facebook*

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Vibrant, Stylish, and Full of Energy in Noosa Heads

But dining at Sabrosa is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The Melbourne-inspired aesthetic exudes a trendy yet welcoming vibe with its bright, open courtyard. With DJs spinning vinyls on Fridays and Saturdays, turning Sabrosa into more than just a place to eat but also a destination for nightlife.

This exciting addition to the Noosa dining scene takes over the site formerly home to Nudge Nudge Wink Wink. Where the former bar struggled to recover after Covid, Sabrosa has revitalized the space and injected new life into the local hospitality scene.

Savor Hong Kong Flavours at Sabrosa Dim Sum House

Sabrosa delivers to those seeking authentic Cantonese dim sum. This new hotspot in Noosa heads promises to transport their customers to the alleyways of Hong Kong.

Whether you’re a Noosa local or visiting, Sabrosa is sure to be a memorable addition to the area’s diverse culinary offerings. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of perfect dim sum, sipping a crafted cocktail, or soaking up the laid-back vibes, Sabrosa invites you to experience the best of Cantonese-inspired dining.

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Published 22-Jan-2025

Sunshine Coast Case: One-Year-Old Child Poisoned by Mum

Photo Credit: QPS

In the Sunshine Coast, a one-year-old child was secretly poisoned by a woman known to her with unauthorised prescription medications over a span of two months. The ordeal was not only painful for the child but also exploited for personal gain, as the woman reportedly shared videos of the girl’s suffering online to solicit donations.

Child Poisoned and Exploited on Sunshine Coast

Instead of providing the utmost protection, a 34-year-old Sunshine Coast woman allegedly became the perpetrator of unimaginable cruelty to her own child.

Between 6 August and 15 October 2024, she administered unauthorised prescription medications to the one-year-old. These medications, which were reportedly outdated and intended for others, caused the young girl significant harm.

The situation became even more disturbing with allegations that the woman filmed the child’s suffering, posting the videos online to attract followers and donations. Reports indicate that she raised an estimated $60,000 via a GoFundMe campaign.

Not All Heroes Wear Capes

Fortunately enough, the heinous crime was later uncovered after the one-year-old girl was admitted to a Brisbane hospital in the south. Since the child was already ill, a medical staff felt that something was amiss and reported it to the police for investigation.

Upon further examination, the tests came back positive for unauthorised substances from her system on 7 January. It was this vital intervention that led to the protection of the child, a swift action proved to be lifesaving.

Sunshine Coast Woman Charged

The Morningside Child Protection and Investigation Unit quickly launched an extensive digging, uncovering the full extent of the Sunshine Coast woman’s alleged crimes and how she has gone to conceal her actions.

One morning on 16 January, the detectives arrested the woman at a property in Underwood charging her with several serious offenses. She now faces five counts of administering poison with intent to harm, three counts of preparation to commit crimes with dangerous things, and one count each of torture, making child exploitation material and fraud.

Dalton explained that they frequently encounter some of the most disturbing cases of child abuse working in the Child Protection and Investigation Unit. He emphasised their commitment to doing everything possible to protect vulnerable children and ensure that offenders are held accountable.

GoFundMe even refunded all the accumulated donations for the Sunshine Coast mum.

A Focus on Healing

As the legal proceedings continue, attention has shifted to the young victim’s recovery and well-being. While she is now in a safe and supportive environment, the long-term effects of the trauma she endured remain uncertain.

This case is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and compassion in protecting children—the most vulnerable members of society.

Published 22-Jan-2025

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