Buderim Archives - Buderim Today

Buderim Community Warned After Two E-Bike Deaths Linked To Illegal High-Powered Models

A safety warning in Buderim has intensified community concern after authorities linked two recent deaths to illegal high powered e-bikes and a growing number of risky devices used by young riders.

Rising Concern After Local Tragedies

In late October, 8 year old Zeke Hondow died after a head on crash with a 15 year old rider on a bike path at Mountain Creek near Buderim. Police said the older boy’s e-bike did not meet public use standards and reached speeds far beyond legal limits.

Two days later, a separate crash on the Gold Coast claimed the life of another 15 year old whose electric dirt bike reached about ninety five kilometres per hour. Both incidents raised questions about how many young riders use powerful bikes that fall outside current rules.

Government Response Focused On Safety

Queensland’s Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg spoke in Buderim and urged parents to think carefully before buying expensive e-bikes or e-scooters that do not meet legal requirements. He said police already face challenges enforcing current laws because many riders ignore them, and he stressed the need for clearer rules that officers can enforce.

*Photo Credit:* *Brent Mickelberg MP*/Facebook

He also pointed to a parliamentary inquiry into e mobility safety, which is due to deliver findings by March 2026. He said the state will not rush new regulations before the inquiry reports and added that enforcement of existing laws will continue through summer.

Legal Action Following Mountain Creek Crash

Police charged the 15 year old involved in the Mountain Creek crash with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death, unlicensed driving and operating an unregistered and uninsured vehicle. Detectives said this is the first known case where the dangerous operation charge has been applied to an e mobility device.

Investigators noted that Zeke was riding a far less powerful bike under supervision and confirmed that the older teen’s device did not comply with legal public use limits. They also pointed to rising injury numbers among young riders on the Sunshine Coast.

Schools And Agencies Introduce New Measures

Several Sunshine Coast schools have decided to ban e-bikes and e-scooters next year because of ongoing safety concerns. The Queensland Police Service launched Operation X ray Surety to check bikes for compliance with motor wattage and speed cut out rules.

The Office of Fair Trading also advised suppliers to follow their legal obligations and sell only devices that meet Australian standards. Local cycling groups supported these steps and encouraged families across the region to stay informed about the rules for public use.

Published 19-November-2025

Intersection Upgrade Progresses in Buderim as Major Works Begin

A major upgrade has begun in Buderim to improve the Sugar Road and Mooloolaba Road intersection, a location used by about 20,000 motorists daily.

Background And Project Context In Buderim

Work has commenced on the long-awaited upgrade of the Sugar Road and Mooloolaba Road intersection in Buderim. The project spans the section between Syd Lingard Drive and Tantula Road West, an area known for congestion and a high crash rate.

Earlier plans for improvements at this intersection did not proceed, with the current works moving forward as part of broader efforts to support the Sunshine Coast’s growing transport needs ahead of the 2032 Games. Early works, including vegetation clearing, have already started and will continue over the coming months. The full project is expected to be completed next year.

Buderim intersection upgrade — Photo Credit: BrentMickelbergMP/Facebook

Scope Of Works And Planned Improvements

The upgrade includes several design changes intended to improve traffic flow and safety. Road widening will provide additional westbound capacity from Sugar Road, while modified right-turn lanes will be constructed eastbound on the Mooloolaba Road overpass. Two dedicated left-turn lanes from Sugar Road to Mooloolaba Road are also planned.

Further improvements include realigning the slip lane at the motorway’s southbound exit ramp, providing new on-road bike lanes, constructing off-road paths, adding signalised pedestrian crossings, and installing upgraded lighting.

Sunshine Coast upgrade — Photo Credit: BrentMickelbergMP/Facebook

Community Sentiment And Local Impact

The intersection is widely regarded as a bottleneck, particularly during morning and afternoon peak periods. With about 20,000 daily vehicle movements, the upgrade is expected to improve travel reliability and safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians throughout Buderim and nearby suburbs.

Mooloolaba Road — Photo Credit: BrentMickelbergMP/Facebook

Next Steps

Construction activity will continue across the area as works progress into next year. Once completed, the upgrade is expected to reduce congestion, increase traffic capacity, and strengthen connections to key destinations on the Sunshine Coast.

Published 19-Nov-2025

Subsea Cable Landing Expands Digital Capacity in Buderim

Photo Credit: Subsea Cables

A major digital infrastructure milestone has been reached near Buderim with the Tabua subsea cable landing at Maroochydore, delivering a new international connection that links Queensland through the Pacific and the United States.

Regional Investment in Connectivity

The Tabua subsea cable reached the Sunshine Coast shoreline on 11 November 2025, forming a major part of ongoing digital infrastructure upgrades for the region. The landing supports the wider Australia Connect initiative, designed to improve international data pathways linking Queensland with the Pacific and the United States.

The operation used a specialised vessel offshore, supported by excavators, winches, boats and divers to bring the cable ashore at Maroochydore. This installation aligns with earlier regional digital infrastructure planning and ongoing development of commercial data centres in the Maroochydore City Centre precinct.

Sunshine Coast connectivity — Photo Credit: Subsea Cables

Buderim’s Connection to a New International Route

The landing delivers the first direct subsea cable system linking Australia to the United States without routing through Sydney. The system also establishes connections to Sydney, Fiji, Hawaii and the United States, forming part of a broader Pacific network.

The development supports increasing demand for digital capacity and complements new regional data-centre investment designed to strengthen the Sunshine Coast’s digital capability.

Technical Features of the System

The Tabua system contains sixteen fibre pairs engineered to carry approximately 17 terabits per second per pair, creating a total capacity of 272 terabits per second. Its transpacific trunk spans more than 13,000 kilometres between the United States and Australia, with branching pathways to Oahu, Suva, Natadola and Queensland.

The system will operate as part of a larger South Pacific network that includes planned links through Hawaii and onward connections to Japan.

Benefits for Buderim and Surrounding Areas

The increased capacity supports more reliable cloud services, data movement and digital operations, including technologies relying on artificial intelligence. It provides additional bandwidth options for businesses requiring international connectivity and improves pathways for digital exports.

Residents in Buderim and nearby suburbs are expected to benefit from more dependable internet performance for everyday use such as remote work, online study, mapping services and streaming.

The system’s diverse landing points add resilience for Queensland and enhance opportunities for digital investment across the region.

Buderim subsea cable — Photo Credit: Subsea Cables

Regional Response and Outlook

Industry organisations involved in the system’s delivery have highlighted its role in strengthening international routes and improving data resilience across the Pacific. The cable links directly into a 50,000-kilometre national fibre network, expanding digital routing options throughout Australia.

Strengthening Future Infrastructure

With the arrival of the Tabua subsea cable, Buderim gains a direct connection to a wider international digital route. The system is expected to support long-term demand for data capacity, operational stability and future technology growth.

Published 18-Nov-2025

$170 Million Airport Redevelopment Near Buderim Targets 2027 Completion

Photo Credit: DEV2025/1675

A $170 million terminal redevelopment near Buderim is set to reshape Sunshine Coast Airport at Marcoola, nearly doubling its terminal footprint, tripling the departure lounge, and introducing sustainability-led features designed to accommodate strong passenger growth.

Expansion Underway

The Sunshine Coast Airport Terminal Redevelopment Project began construction earlier this year, with the first stage—the new outbound baggage handling facility—scheduled for completion in early 2026. The full terminal expansion is expected to be finished by 2027. Once complete, the upgraded facility will expand the existing terminal from 6,100 square metres to 11,750 square metres, increase departure gates from five to seven, and triple the departure lounge space from 1,250 square metres to 3,750 square metres.

Queensland infrastructure — Photo Credit: DEV2025/1675

Design and Delivery

The project is being delivered by McNab, a local construction company, in partnership with global architectural firms Populous and Fentress Studios, with project management handled by Planned Performance. The redevelopment aims to modernise the passenger journey from check-in to boarding through the installation of new technology, including 18 self-service kiosks, 10 automatic bag drops, and upgraded security screening.

Design elements emphasise sustainability and comfort, incorporating mass timber, rainwater harvesting, expanded solar power systems, and energy-efficient HVAC. The design also prioritises natural light and open viewing areas of the runway to create a relaxed passenger experience reflective of the Sunshine Coast lifestyle.

terminal expansion — Photo Credit: DEV2025/1675

Local Jobs and Regional Growth

Around 2,000 workers will be engaged during construction, with 90 per cent of trades and subcontractors sourced locally. The expansion is forecast to support the region’s growing aviation sector, with passenger numbers expected to reach 1.8 million in FY26 and 2.4 million by 2030.

Gateway Precinct Master Plan

In addition to the terminal expansion, a 30-hectare Gateway Precinct Master Plan has been lodged within the Sunshine Coast Airport Priority Development Area. The proposal, submitted on 8 September 2025 under reference DEV2025/1675, outlines five sub-precincts dedicated to aviation, tourism, retail, commercial, and industry uses. It includes plans for a 250-bed transit hotel, retail hub, landscaped public spaces, and new intersection upgrades along David Low Way, with provision for future rail or metro integration.

Community Feedback and Future Outlook

Residents around Buderim and Marcoola have expressed both optimism and questions about the project, citing hopes for improved flight routes and local transport connections. Some also raised the absence of aerobridges, which remains unconfirmed in project details.

The redevelopment marks a key milestone in the Sunshine Coast’s long-term infrastructure planning, supporting tourism and regional business growth. Construction will continue throughout 2026, with the completed terminal expected to open in 2027, providing an expanded, sustainable, and community-driven gateway for the region.

Published 13-Oct-2025

Movement as Medicine: How a Buderim Dance Class is Supporting People with Parkinson’s

Photo Credit: Dance for Parkinson’s Australia/ Facebook

For residents in Buderim looking for a creative and joyful way to improve balance, flexibility, and social connection while living with Parkinson’s Disease, a new community dance programme is offering a free introductory class.

More Than Just a Dance Class

This special event is more than just a simple dance lesson; it is a research-supported approach to enhancing well-being for individuals living with Parkinson’s. The programme, an affiliate of an internationally recognised initiative from New York, is specifically designed to address the challenges of the condition.

According to Dance for Parkinson’s Australia, the classes focus on developing artistry and grace while helping with practical concerns like balance, coordination, flexibility, and walking gait. The sessions also aim to combat the effects of social isolation and depression that can accompany the disease.

The upcoming free “taster” class is being held as part of Queensland Seniors Month celebrations, thanks to a grant that supports community activities for older residents. The focus is on creating an enjoyable and stimulating experience where the joy of dancing takes centre stage.

BOOK HERE

A Chance to Connect and Celebrate

The event is built around the Seniors Month themes of “Connect and Celebrate.” It provides a welcoming and inclusive space for people with Parkinson’s, along with their partners, carers, and friends. Organisers state that the teaching artists create a fun environment, integrating a range of musical styles to inspire movement.

After the class, participants are invited to stay for a cup of tea and refreshments. This offers a chance to socialise, meet the teaching artists, and connect with others in the local Parkinson’s community in a safe and supportive setting.

Event Information

The free class will take place on Monday, 27 October 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Buderim War Memorial Hall. While the event is free of charge, organisers recommend booking to help manage numbers.

Published Date 09-October-2025

Buderim Engineer Honoured with National Aviation Safety Scholarship

A Buderim aircraft engineer has been named one of only three people across Australia to receive a national scholarship from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, recognising his long-standing contribution to aircraft maintenance and safety.

Recognition for Experience and Commitment

Announced in September 2025, the CASA Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Scholarship awarded Buderim resident Jacob Mani, who works with Jetstar Airways, a grant of up to $5,000 to support his licensing and training.

The program helps skilled engineers across the country gain the qualifications required to become licensed aircraft maintenance engineers.

A Career Built on Technical Precision

With nearly two decades of experience in aircraft maintenance, Mani has worked on a range of aircraft including Lockheed C130 Hercules, Chinook helicopters, and commercial Airbus and Boeing jets. His work has spanned both military and civil aviation, giving him a detailed understanding of the systems that keep aircraft airworthy.

He said he finds the most satisfaction in troubleshooting issues that require new learning and hands-on problem-solving to ensure each aircraft is repaired correctly and safely.

Queensland’s Strong Showing in National Awards

CASA Chief Executive Officer Pip Spence said recipients like Mani show genuine passion for their careers and a strong dedication to maintaining aviation safety standards in Australia.

Alongside Mani, Brisbane engineer Aaron Pollard from Alliance Airlines also received a CASA scholarship. He completed his aircraft maintenance apprenticeship in under two years, showing strong dedication and skill.

Supporting Aviation’s Safety Backbone

The annual CASA scholarship program is designed to strengthen Australia’s aviation maintenance workforce. It recognises professionals who display initiative, technical skill, and a commitment to safety. Mani’s award follows a competitive selection process that drew more than 70 applicants from across the country.

Both join Perth’s Hudson Dagge as 2025 awardees, reflecting Queensland’s strength in aviation training. Mani’s success highlights Buderim’s contribution to Australia’s aviation safety and the value of supporting technical careers.

Published 3-October-2025

“Village Feel vs. New Homes”: Buderim Subdivision Sparks Fierce Debate

Photo Credit: Wayne Sweet

A fight to preserve what the residents call the “village feel” of a historic Buderim street has escalated to the courts, pitting a neighbour against the council’s approval of a four-lot subdivision.

A Plan for Change on Gloucester Road

The controversy began after a 3,629-square-metre property, which sold for $3.1 million in June of last year, became the subject of a new development application. The plans, which were later approved by the Sunshine Coast Council, involve demolishing the existing home to create four new housing lots.

These proposed lots would range in size from a substantial 800 to 985 square metres. The decision has brought to the surface a simmering debate about development in the much-loved suburb and what its future should look like.

Drawing a Legal Line

In response to the council’s approval, a neighbouring resident has formally appealed the decision in the Planning and Environment Court. The legal challenge is built on the argument that the subdivision goes against the local planning scheme. According to the appeal documents, the resident believes the plan fails to respect the “village setting” unique to that part of Buderim.

The claim asserts that the area’s planning rules are designed to protect and retain the neighbourhood’s established large lots, not encourage further subdivision. The appeal further states that no conditions could be added by the council to make the development compliant with the scheme’s requirements.

Residents Weigh In on the Debate

While the court case focuses on planning rules, the development has sparked a broader conversation among Sunshine Coast locals online, revealing a community with diverse views on the matter. A significant number of residents appear to support the subdivision, questioning the basis of the complaint. Many commentators argue that the proposed lots are far from small and are generous in size compared to new developments in other areas.

Others suggest the “village feel” the neighbour is fighting to protect may have already changed. They point to other subdivisions that have occurred on Gloucester Road and nearby streets, noting that the area is busier than it was in the past. Several people expressed the view that the objector is displaying a “not in my back yard” attitude and that progress is a natural part of any suburb’s life. The sentiment that all homes were once new developments on what was previously empty land was a common theme, alongside the practical need for more housing for families on the Sunshine Coast.

Published Date 29-September-2025

Local Lad Lands Dream Job at Buderim Hospital Through Project SEARCH

A young lad has turned his work experience placement into full-time employment at Buderim Private Hospital, showcasing the success of an innovative disability support program Project SEARCH.

Dion recently completed an internship through Project SEARCH, a workplace-based program that helps young people with disabilities develop practical skills and transition into competitive employment. His efforts during the placement impressed staff so much that he was offered a permanent role in the hospital’s kitchen and patient services department.

**Dion delivering morning tea to patients**
Photo Credit: Supplied

The achievement represents a significant personal milestone for Dion and demonstrates the effectiveness of programs designed to bridge the gap between education and employment for people with disabilities.

**Shelly (Food Services co-worker) and Dion**
Photo Credit: Supplied

Project SEARCH operates as a partnership between disability service providers and host employers, offering young adults aged 17-28 with NDIS funding the opportunity to complete three 11-week internships over a 12-month period. The program runs five days a week for six hours daily, allowing participants to gain real workplace experience whilst receiving ongoing coaching and support.

Project SEARCH is described as “an exciting opportunity for young adults aged between 17-30 with NDIS funding looking for a pathway to open employment”, according to disability service providers operating similar programs across Australia.

The program’s structure allows interns to work across different departments within their host organisation, providing them with diverse skills and experience that enhance their employability. At Buderim Private Hospital, this model gives participants exposure to various aspects of healthcare support services.

To be eligible for the program, participants must have completed Year 12, possess independent personal care skills, and demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in workplace settings. They also need reliable transport and must pass criminal history and drug screening checks.

The program is currently seeking new participants for its October intake. Young people with disabilities who meet the eligibility criteria can apply through UnitingCare Queensland, which coordinates the Sunshine Coast program.

Dion’s successful transition from intern to employee highlights the program’s core objective of helping participants move into competitive employment. His story serves as an encouragement to other young people with disabilities who may be considering their career options.

**Dion working in Patient Services Department, cleaning patient rooms**
Photo Credit: Supplied

The success also reflects well on Buderim Private Hospital’s commitment to inclusive employment practices and recognition of the value that people with disabilities bring to the workplace.

For families and young people interested in learning more about Project SEARCH opportunities at Buderim Private Hospital, information is available through UnitingCare Queensland’s website or by contacting their Project SEARCH team directly.

Published 22-September-2025

Buderim Seniors Offered Free Training to Combat Rise in Online Scammers

Photo Credit: Bolton Clarke

Instead of being victims, Buderim seniors are taking control of their online safety with a free Bolton Clarke workshop designed to build digital confidence and shut the door on internet scammers for good.

Addressing a Growing Threat

Recent data from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has shown that Australians over 65 are increasingly losing their savings to sophisticated financial scams, many of which originate on social media. As Scams Awareness Week gets underway, the need for proactive digital safety education has become more urgent than ever. With about 85 per cent of seniors now online to connect with family or use services, digital literacy is no longer just a convenience but a crucial life skill.

This local initiative aims to turn the tide, moving from awareness of the problem to active prevention by equipping seniors with the tools they need to navigate the internet safely.

Practical Skills for Digital Confidence

The upcoming session will provide practical and straightforward support to help residents build their digital skills and feel more confident online. It is scheduled to take place at the Tantula Rise Retirement Village at 10 am on Monday, 3 September. Bolton Clarke has organised for an expert from the Seniors Inquiry Line to speak about identifying and avoiding common scams.

Joe Griffiths, from the Bolton Clarke Digital Independence team, explained that an online presence is increasingly important for seniors to engage with essential services like MyGov and My Aged Care. He emphasised that while the digital world can seem complex, there are simple things people can do to stay safe. Team members will be on hand to provide one-on-one support and answer specific questions about getting online and using government resources.

A Community Effort to Stay Connected

Funded by the Australian Government’s Be Connected initiative, the session is part of a broader push to ensure all Australians can take advantage of digital technology. The event in Buderim follows other successful programs held in Caboolture and on the Gold Coast, showing a strong community interest in the topic. The session is open to everyone in the community over the age of 65, and morning tea will be provided, fostering a supportive and social learning environment.

Published Date 30-August-2025

Buderim Leads Unitywater’s List Of Wastewater Blockages

Buderim has recorded more wastewater blockages than any other suburb across Unitywater’s service region, topping the list with 237 incidents in the past financial year.

A Growing Concern For Residents

Buderim has outpaced Caboolture, Nambour and Redcliffe for wastewater blockages, according to Unitywater’s figures released on 18 August 2025. The region saw 4,395 blockages across Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast and Noosa, with Buderim alone making up nearly 6 per cent.

Unitywater linked the problem to everyday habits, from flushing wipes and nappies to pouring fats and oils down the sink. These actions harden in pipes, causing clogs that can back up into homes or spill onto streets.

Why Buderim Is On Top Of The List

According to Unitywater, the high number of blockages in Buderim reflects the impact of population density and household behaviour. The suburb’s ranking was well ahead of other hotspots, including Caboolture with 134 blockages and Redcliffe with 92.

The utility said the cost of responding to these incidents is significant. Each callout requires staff to clear the pipes, manage overflows, and protect nearby creeks and natural areas from contamination. For Buderim residents, the figures highlight how local actions can have direct consequences for both household plumbing and the wider environment.

Steps Being Taken To Address The Problem

Unitywater is stepping up efforts to stop blockages, from new treatments at pump stations to community education. One method uses magnesium hydroxide liquid, better known as a heartburn remedy, to cut odours and stop fats hardening in pipes.

The utility is also pushing the “three Ps” rule, asking households to only flush pee, poo and toilet paper. Locals are urged to make small changes like keeping bins in bathrooms, scraping plates before washing, and storing used cooking oil in jars.

A Community Issue With Shared Responsibility

Unitywater is urging Buderim residents to take action, saying blockages are a community issue as much as a utility one. Simple changes at home can prevent sewage backing up into bathrooms or spilling onto streets.

The advice is straightforward, stop flushing wipes and rethink how fats and scraps are handled in the kitchen. With Buderim recording the most blockages in the region, the warning carries extra weight.

Published 19-August-2025