Buderim Archives - Page 2 of 5

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

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

Buderim Mountain State School To Celebrate 150 Years Of Learning And Legacy

Photo Credit: bmsspandc/Instagram

Buderim Mountain State School, a heritage-listed cornerstone of Queensland’s education system, is preparing to celebrate 150 years of continuous operation with a day of reflection, reunions and community pride.

A Growing School With Deep Community Roots

Buderim Mountain State School, one of Queensland’s oldest and most cherished public schools, will celebrate its 150th anniversary with a community-wide celebration honouring generations of students, staff and families who have shaped the school since it opened in 1875.

The milestone event, titled Back to Buderim Mountain State School, will take place on Saturday, 21 June 2025, drawing past and present students, teachers, and local residents for a full day of festivities at the school’s Main Street campus.

Celebration Day To Reconnect Generations

Now with over 1,100 students and a new $10 million hall, Buderim Mountain State School has grown from a small provisional school into a hub of education and community pride. It’s heritage-listed and forms part of the Buderim War Memorial Community Centre — a “living memorial” that includes the school’s arboretum, sports fields and memorial gates from 1945.

*Photo Credit: 4556 Chamber of Commerce/Facebook*

The celebration program includes an official ceremony, school tours, historical exhibitions, a commemorative sculpture unveiling, and the long-awaited opening of a time capsule buried during the school’s 125th anniversary in 2000.

A Documentary To Capture 150 Years Of School Life

The day will feature a roll call of former students by decade, followed by performances from the choir, rock band and dance troupe. A documentary by Reflected Image Productions, backed by the Buderim Foundation, will also premiere, sharing school life across generations through student memories.

To mark the occasion, the school has released a limited-edition BMSS 150th umbrella. The 120cm golf-style design comes with a sleeve, costs $36, and is available from the Uniform Shop or via Flexischools for classroom delivery.

Open Invitation To The Wider Community

Community members are encouraged to register online to take part in the day. Memorabilia and student-designed artwork will be available for purchase, and refreshments will be served throughout the grounds.

After 150 years of continuous operation, Buderim Mountain State School remains not just an institution of learning, but a place where stories, friendships, and history are shared and celebrated by the Buderim community.

Published 21-April-2025

Buderim Resident Buys Extra Fridge to Fight Backyard Cane Toads Invasion

Photo Credit: Queensland Government

A Buderim woman concerned about invasive cane toads has bought a second-hand fridge to humanely euthanise the hundreds of pests she actively removes from her property.

Community Effort Targets Pests

Cassie Fenton, 29, decided to take action shortly after moving to the Sunshine Coast and discovering many cane toads in her yard. Realising the animals were notorious invasive species, she began catching them herself.

Ms Fenton stated she uses dedicated tongs for handling the toads, as their skin secretions are poisonous, preventing them from being used for food. Equipped with the tongs, a container, and a head torch for navigating in the dark, she captures the nocturnal animals. She reported catching 214 cane toads in her backyard over just 12 nights.

Approved Humane Practices Followed

Ms Fenton explained that she uses methods recommended by the RSPCA for humane euthanasia. One option she employs is a spray product called HopStop, which is available commercially and applied directly to the toad for a quick death. The other method is stepped hypothermia.

This involves placing the caught toads in a refrigerator set at four degrees Celsius for 12 hours to anaesthetise them, followed by transferring them to a freezer at minus 20 degrees Celsius for at least 24 hours to kill them painlessly. To manage this process without contaminating her household food storage, Ms Fenton mentioned purchasing a used fridge and freezer to deal with the toads.

Wider Cane Toad Problem in Australia

Cane toads are recognised as one of Australia’s most damaging invasive species. They were originally introduced to north Queensland from South America in 1935 in a failed attempt to control destructive beetles in sugar cane crops. Since then, their population has exploded. They have spread widely through Queensland, into the Northern Territory, northern New South Wales, and parts of Western Australia.

The National Museum of Australia estimates its range expands by 40 to 60 kilometres annually. Its toxic skin glands can kill native predators trying to eat it, competing with native amphibians for food and habitat. Authorities acknowledge that finding a large-scale control method is unlikely, making community actions and efforts to protect vulnerable native animals important.

Published Date 18-April-2025