Sunshine Valley Gazette

13/11/2024

Montville Chamber of Commerce Montville

13/11/2024

⭐️🎄Please join us for a fantastic FREE community event🎄⭐️

13/11/2024

Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge

Happy Hump day!

Are you looking for a different way to stay fit? Join our dog volunteer team ! Please share amongst your friends, especially the gym ‘junkies’😉🙏

We are desperately seeking fit, strong volunteers who can walk dogs, move them around the shelter between their sleep pen and exercise yards, as well as able to be trained up to take them on external walks outside the shelter!

Over this period we are always looking for extra volunteers and we have over 40 dogs on site needing you! If you can help out for a few hours morning or afternoon every week or so, we would love to hear from you!

Please complete the application and put ‘Dog Walker’ on it.🙏😊

https://app.betterimpact.com/PublicOrganization/c4c3c103-4708-4f85-b9f9-41091a48bf7c/1

12/11/2024

Safety boost and new investments: Mayor looks to Nambour’s future
- by Cameron Outridge

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli has committed to addressing long-standing concerns about safety and anti-social behaviour in Nambour’s CBD. The Mayor told local business owners she would work alongside newly-elected Marty Hunt - LNP for Nicklin to bring about tangible change.

Speaking at the Nambour Chamber of Commerce Coffee Catchup at Small Change Espresso, Mayor Natoli acknowledged the challenges faced by businesses in Nambour, including increased graffiti, anti-social behaviour, and a high number of vacancies in the CBD.

“Within the last fortnight, I was invited to Nambour by local business people, and I did a walk-around to understand the issues,” she said. “The perception of safety is a challenge, and we’re already talking with MP Marty Hunt about initiatives to address that. We need his support, and we won’t be waiting long for it,” she added, lightheartedly pressing the newly elected MP to act swiftly. Mayor Natoli emphasised her dedication to ensuring that the concerns of local businesses were heard, describing the relationship between the council and state representatives as “absolutely vital.”

Mayor Natoli highlighted the importance of collaborating with the LNP, whose members she said have made significant promises to invest in Nambour and the Sunshine Coast. “We will hold them accountable every day,” she said.

Cr David Law - Division 10 told the meeting he was also looking forward to working with Mr Hunt (LNP) and to “seeing what we can do to continue to build Nambour into a really great place that we all know it is and that we will continue to change those perceptions (concerning safety) that still are there in some parts of our community.”

The Mayor also acknowledged the challenges of owning a small business, sharing her own experience of financial hardship when her family lost their home. “I know how tough it is to be a small business owner,” she said. “I am determined to make sure council supports you.” She urged those facing difficulties to reach out to the Sunshine Coast Council’s Economic Development department, which offers coaching and various support initiatives for local enterprises.

In a bid to boost Nambour’s economy, Mayor Natoli pointed to some promising investments in the town, including the significant revamp of the C Square building by Sydney-based landlord Sandran. She also welcomed the reopening of the Nambour Cinema & Events Centre, calling it “great news” for the town’s cultural scene.

“The Sunshine Coast is set to grow, and we need to be ready,” she said. “We want to welcome people here, and for that, we need the right infrastructure and vibrant community spaces.”

Mayor Natoli also spoke about the opportunities presented by the upcoming 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, suggesting that the event would help draw investment and focus global attention on Nambour and the broader Sunshine Coast region.

Mayor Natoli encouraged the audience to feel optimistic about the future. “Growth brings challenges, but it also brings fantastic opportunities. It’s up to us to harness those opportunities and run forward.”

She reassured business owners that she remains accessible and committed to addressing local issues, urging them to reach out and share their concerns.

Place Activations

Upcoming place activations, such as the monthly Nambour Rummagers Market on November 17, the Town Square Christmas markets on November 19, and the Tramfest Nambour on November 30, were highlighted as part of the council’s efforts to improve the vibrancy of the area. “I love Christmas, and I love a street party,” Mayor Natoli said, hoping to attend the festivities.

“I hope you feel as excited about our future as I do,” she said. “The Sunshine Coast is ready to go, and I’m ready to be with you on this journey.”

Pictured: Mayor Rosanna Natoli with Nambour Chamber of Commerce President, Mary Bray and Chamber Member Services Officer, Julie Smedley.

12/11/2024

Skelton proud of campaign: ‘we lost by smallest margin of any changing seat’
- From Rob Skelton, former Nicklin MP

The ECQ have declared the seat of Nicklin in favour of the LNP.

This was a hard-fought campaign which all the pundits and polls said we would lose comprehensively.

Yes we lost, but by such a small margin, the smallest of any changing seat, Nicklin is now a marginal seat, having narrowed opposite party representation over three terms.

I would like to thank the good people of Nicklin for putting their trust in me for four years.

In that short time, I worked tirelessly to improve our neglected schools, and upgrade our sporting opportunities for our kids.

I have lobbied every day for more and better facilities and services for Nicklin and have had success in a number of areas, including bringing the Borumba Pumped Hydro offices to Nambour and promoting opportunities for local business to reap the benefits of this major infrastructure project.

It has been an honour to work with the dedicated fine citizens that strive so hard in community groups and service areas to care for the disadvantaged and aid their communities; their work is the backbone of our villages and towns.

The sporting and community clubs and groups that give our children and teenagers such fine direction towards good citizenship and a sense of belonging have been an inspiration to me and my team.

I would like to personally thank my office team; Daniel Wilson and Morrison Lakey for their single-minded focus on constituent help and service; Emma Comer and Avalon MacKellar for their insights and more recently Kane Playford and Lily Teubler who provided a younger perspective to our work and direction.

I also need to thank my amazing campaign volunteers - Agnes, Angel, Freddy, Delia, Hughey, Col, Darin, David, Geoff, Gerry, Greg, both Ians, Jan, Jessika, Jim, Lachie, Chris, Eric, Jacinto, Naomi, Kevvie, Charmaine, Kyle, Nick, Paul, All the Peters, Robyn, Robert, Troy, John, Genevieve, Mary-ann, Michael, Tamara, Piper, Sascha, Eva & Zai, and of course my campaign manager Tony.

Thank you all. I’ll now take some time to spend with my family and see where the future lies.

Over the next four years the Labor party here in Nicklin will continue to hold the LNP to account, both State-wide, but more importantly locally.

Good people of Nicklin, you will still have a socially progressive voice defending the poor and the disadvantaged and promoting the socially cohesive policies that make our region so great.

Thank you all for allowing me to serve, it has been the honour of my life.

Pictured: Rob Skelton is proud of his team: “Yes we lost, but by such a small margin, the smallest of any changing seat, Nicklin is now a marginal seat.”

Robert Skelton MP for Nicklin

12/11/2024

Young vibe for Tramfest Nambour as historic project rolls into sight
- by Cameron Outridge.

Nambour’s much-loved Tramfest is set to return on November 30, transforming Mill Street into a lively strip of food, music, and entertainment—all in support of the ambitious Nambour Tram Project.

The event will run from 4pm to 9pm and promises a fresh twist with local talent taking centre stage, including two teenage bands, Sol Amor from Nambour State College and the up-and-coming Wave Raiders, adding youthful energy to the festivities.

The community-driven Tramfest series aims to raise funds for the long-awaited Nambour Tram, a project designed to revitalise the town and celebrate its rich history as a sugar town. Originally slated for completion in 2021, the tram project has faced a series of delays, largely due to regulatory complexities. Despite these setbacks, the team remains committed to achieving their goal, with the latest completion target set for mid-2025.

Nambour Tramway Company Chairman Greg Rogerson acknowledges the challenges but sees the project as vital to Nambour’s future. “We understand our obligation and responsibility to make sure that this tram is absolutely fully compliant with the Transport and Main Roads Queensland and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR),” Mr Rogerson said. He highlighted the significant financial backing, including millions from local philanthropists Rob Forrester and Roy and Nola Thompson, and assured that every detail is being handled with the utmost care.

The tram, which has been designed by Witta artist Russell Anderson, aims to offer a unique historical experience with a steampunk-inspired design and solar-powered technology. Ted O'Brien MP - Federal Member for Fairfax described it as “a moving piece of street theatre,” envisioning it as a key attraction for the region. Once operational, the tram will travel from the Nambour Mill Village Shopping Centre to Quota Park, running along Mill and Howard Streets.

“Stage 1 is the present route described, but the intention always has been, that once Stage 1 is proved up, Stage 2 will see the Tram travel to the Nambour Showgrounds, to provide alternative transport to key events such as the Queensland Garden Expo and Caravan and Camping Expo, to name just two,” said Mr Rogerson.

In addition to the new musical acts, this Tramfest will feature attractions for all ages, including a climbing wall, Santa with presents for children, and popular band Bad Habits. Mr Rogerson encouraged residents to come along and enjoy the festivities, underscoring the importance of the event to the tram’s progress.

While the tram project has faced some local criticism, with detractors labelling it a “tram to nowhere” due to the short route, supporters argue it will breathe new life into the town centre and boost local tourism.

Engineering consultants Covey Associates are working closely with Mr Anderson to bring the vision to life, despite the technical and regulatory hurdles.

With the November 30 Tramfest, organisers hope to bolster community support for the tram project, helping to bring Nambour closer to a future where the historic tramline contributes to a vibrant and thriving CBD.

12/11/2024

Hamper Appeal brings hope to struggling families

This Christmas, as many face the challenges of a cost-of-living crisis, the spirit of hope and generosity shines brighter than ever.

The Shack Community Centre, in partnership with the The Salvation Army Family Store Nambour, is working to bring joy and comfort back into the hearts of those who need it most. The Trees of Hope Hamper Appeal, now in its 5th year, is set to deliver over 400 hampers and 9,000kg of food across communities from Kingaroy to Bribie Island.

This heartwarming initiative, which continues to grow, wouldn’t be possible without the steadfast support of local family businesses such as Sunshine Mitre 10, GJ Gardner, Ray White Nambour, Little Mountain Pharmacy, Youi, and Sunshine Coast Grammar School. These generous partners are coming together to sponsor festive favourites and provide much-needed schoolbag packs to help ease the burden on families this Christmas.

If you’re excited about donating to this incredible cause, you can pick up one of our very bright green Trees of Hope bags from any Sunshine Mitre 10 store across the coast, as well as from Ray White Nambour, Little Mountain Pharmacy, GJ Gardner Kawana, Sweet & Flour · bakery cafe · Nambour, and The Barn on Flaxton.

Inside each bag, you’ll find a detailed list of the items needed.

It’s a fantastic way to get the whole family involved in a shopping treasure hunt or organize a corporate activity that will most certainly pay it forward and bring hope to those who need it most.

Together, we can make Christmas a little brighter and fill the season with love, hope, and the kindness of community.

Pictured: Donna and Dale Dowler and Imogene Nguyen from The Shack and Rosemary Campbell from the Salvation Army Nambour with some of the Trees of Hope hamper bags.

12/11/2024

Nambour CBD Plan pushes on despite funding blocks
- by Cameron Outridge

Sunshine Coast Council’s much-anticipated Nambour Place Plan is gaining some traction, despite receiving no funding from the Transport and Main Roads Queensland.

Cr David Law - Division 10 told a recent Nambour Chamber of Commerce Coffee Catchup event at Small Change Espresso about the next steps for the project, which would particularly target improvements to the busy Currie Street, Mill Street, and Howard Street intersection. The focus will be on revitalising the town’s core and addressing pressing pedestrian safety concerns.

The intersection was identified as the community’s top priority, and construction is expected to begin next year.

“We are getting very close to the first stage of construction,” Cr Law said, acknowledging the community’s involvement in the plan over the past three years.

A key part of the Nambour Place Plan involved calming traffic and improving pedestrian access at the heart of the CBD, which has long been a challenge for the town. Cr Law highlighted the council’s efforts to engage the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) in this process.

“We’ve been trying to get TMR to come on board with us because that road (Currie St) is their road,” he said. Despite the challenges Cr Law emphasised the council’s commitment to making the area safer for pedestrians. “Stage one of the project is about doing the most essential parts first, and that will be providing a pedestrian crossing so people can cross this four-lane highway safely and confidently all of the time,” Cr Law said.

The proposed raised pedestrian crossing aims to not only improve safety but also encourage more foot traffic to the area. “It will also see the speed of vehicles slowing down because what will happen there starting next year will be the first raised pedestrian crossing on a four-lane road anywhere in Queensland.”

However, he expressed frustration that TMR had yet to commit funding for the project, saying, “They’re not helping us.”

Cr Law also mentioned ongoing discussions with newly elected Nicklin MP Marty Hunt to advocate for further support from the state government. “I’ll be chatting with Marty Hunt about this because I found out this morning that the Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg is just up the road at Buderim. So I’m feeling hopeful,” he said.

In addition to council funding of $1.4 million, the Queensland Government has contributed $300,000 through the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program, but Cr Law pointed out that more was needed to fully realise the project’s potential.

“That really won’t do what we need to do on Currie Street,” Cr Law said, but added that it will help create “that pedestrian crossing across the state government’s TMR road” and improve connectivity across the CBD.

“You’ll be able to feel far more comfortable to get across the town, and I believe that’s very important to increase the foot traffic to all the current businesses and the new businesses that are on their way,” he said.

The upgrades are part of a broader effort to revitalise Nambour and attract investment to the area.

Cr Law highlighted significant investments, including a major upgrade to the C Square building, which will house a new state government mental health unit, and the reopening of the Nambour Cinema & Event Centre. “There are a number of exciting investments in Nambour,” he said, encouraging local businesses to remain optimistic about the future.

With construction expected to begin next year, Cr Law urged the community to remain engaged and hopeful. “Every small step adds up,” he said. “If you can get the small things right, that’s a really great start.”

12/11/2024

Cheap tickets, premium experience. New era for Cinema
- By Cameron Outridge

The hinterland entertainment scene is getting a revolutionary upgrade as the Nambour Cinema & Events Centre prepares to open, bringing a blend of premium experiences and affordability.

The opening comes after the closure of the Majestic Cinema Nambour earlier this year.

But new owner/operator Luke Warburton is confident the premise’s transformation heralds a bright future. The familiar space will now feature laser projection, improved surround sound, and platinum recliner seating—all at a price that won’t break the bank. With tickets starting at just $10.

The combination of affordable ticket prices, premium facilities, and a commitment to community engagement is a proven recipe for success, says Mr Warburton.

“We’re a local independent so the returns we need to make are nowhere near the amounts of a publicly traded operator; we just need to keep the doors open and offer a great facility for locals,” he said. “This is all about making a difference in the community, providing a space for entertainment, connection, and enjoyment.”

Mr Warburton, who also operates cinemas in Bribie and Caloundra, said the Nambour cinema’s features were aimed at enhancing the experience for locals. “We’ve invested heavily to offer an elevated movie-going experience,” said Mr Warburton.

“Our platinum recliner cinema is a full cinema of recliners, each with its own tray table, so people can enjoy drinks, hot food, and a great movie.”

With the premium platinum recliner seats available for just $15, Mr Warburton said the idea was to keep the experience affordable and popular. “You can come to our cinema for less than half the price that it’s going to cost you elsewhere,” he said. “We want to make it accessible to everyone.”

In addition to major Hollywood blockbusters, the Nambour Cinema & Event Centre will focus on hosting local events, including film festivals, community gatherings, and live performances. “We want to be a part of the filmmaking community on the Sunshine Coast,” he said. “This space is perfect for hosting short film festivals, local premieres, and community events. We see this as more than just a cinema—it will be a hub for local culture and entertainment.”

The cinema’s reopening is expected around December 5, pending the arrival of the recliners and final touches to the new foyer, which has undergone a complete refurbishment. “The entire facility has been updated—new lighting, flooring, even upgraded bathrooms. It’s really going to be something Nambour can be proud of.”

The entire foyer has been upgraded along with a fresh candy bar. There’s a coffee machine, and a lounge area, adding to the overall experience for movie-goers.

Mr Warburton said the reopening of the cinema was part of a larger revitalisation effort for the C Square precinct, with millions of dollars being invested in upgrades. “The entire facade of C Square is getting a facelift, and the cinema is playing a big part in bringing people back to the area,” he said. “We want to create a vibrant space where people want to come and spend time, whether it’s for a movie, an event, or just to enjoy the atmosphere.”

The new Nambour Cinema & Event Centre also plans to activate its live theatre space, offering the potential for local and touring acts to perform. “We want to use the live theatre space in Cinema One to attract local and touring performers,” he said.

“From what I understand, the Civic Centre used to have a great business back in the day. Now, with all these upgrades, we hope to bring that energy back.”

Mr Warburton hopes the new Nambour Cinema & Event Centre will draw both locals and visitors, bringing vibrancy back to C Square and the CBD. “Cinemas are really community assets,” he said. “Some councils would love to have a cinema in their town. We’re fortunate to be able to bring this facility back to life, and we’re excited to help reinvigorate the CBD.

12/11/2024

Sunshine Coast Cider wins big at awards

Sunshine Coast Cider is toasting a major win at the 2024 Australian Cider Awards, taking home Best in Class and a Gold Medal for its Brut+ Cider, crafted using the traditional method.

The accolade cements their Brut+ as the top champagne-style cider in both Queensland and Australia. Woombye’s Martin Rellstab, the passionate cider maker behind the brand, said, “This recognition is a fantastic honour and a reflection of our commitment to quality and craftsmanship. We’re incredibly proud to represent Queensland at such a prestigious event.”

Their Sunshine Cider also added to the celebration, earning a bronze medal and showcasing the consistent quality of their diverse range. “We’re so happy to see our Sunshine Cider recognized again—it really highlights the dedication and love we put into every bottle,” Mr Rellstab said.

On top of their award success, Sunshine Coast Cider is also getting ready to launch a new Cellar Door in K***a Park, just in time for summer. The venue will feature up to 100 Australian craft ciders, including their signature Sunshine Coast Cider range and the popular Cheeky Tiki varieties.

“We can’t wait to welcome locals and visitors alike,” said Mr Rellstab. “The renovations are nearly complete, and we’re looking forward to sharing a wide variety of craft ciders in an inviting space that showcases the best of what we and our fellow cider makers produce.”

Sunshine Coast Cider is the only Cidery in Queensland dedicating 100% of their effort towards creating delicious cider. Mr Rellstab, whose family history of cider making goes back to 1383 in Zurich, Switzerland, takes pride in every step of the process, from selecting Granite Belt apples to allowing the cider to mature properly before bottling.

• For more information visit www.sunshinecoastcider.com.au. www.sunshinecoastcider.com.au | 1/4 Conara Road, K***a Park | 0435 022 975.

Pictured: Best in class ... Martin Rellstab holds a bottle of Sunshine Coast Cider’s award-winning Brut+ Cider.

12/11/2024

Environmental works restore platypus habitat

A heavily impacted section of Petrie Creek, Nambour has been rehabilitated to help stabilise the population of duck-billed platypuses.

Unitywater partnered with ECOllaboration Ltd to help ensure the Sunshine Coast’s healthy population of platypuses remained intact.

The species is classified as near-threatened due to habitat destruction, pollution of riverbanks and waterways, and human activities such as yabbying.

Unitywater Environmental and Cultural Heritage Planning Specialist, Emma Newton, said restoration works had encouraged the duck-billed platypus to return to their natural habitat.

“The collaboration has seen almost 1km of bushland successfully restored through the management of invasive and restricted w**ds, and removal of debris created by human activity in the highly populated area,” she said.

ECOllaboration Community Engagement Officer, Trevor Morrison, said the removal of category 3 restricted w**d structures including the madeira vine and cat’s claw creeper created a more stable bank for platypus burrows.

“One of our volunteers recently spotted two platypuses behind Unitywater’s Wastewater Treatment Plant in Nambour only a week after restoration works were completed in October, which is really encouraging,” he said. “Platypuses are highly sensitive to water quality, so spotting a couple so soon after the completion of these restoration works is a strong indicator of the positive impact made on this section of the creek.”

Pictured: A platypus spotted in Petrie Creek after bushland rehabilitation.

12/11/2024

Ambulance volunteers acknowledged for century of service

Long term volunteers of the Nambour Local Ambulance Committee were acknowledged recently at a Sunshine Coast awards ceremony.

Assistant Commissioner Rita Kelly (ASM) was in attendance with awards presented by District Director, Sunshine Coast, Hayley Salethorne to LAC Volunteers as well as Ambulance Officers.

AC Kelly congratulated all recipients and made special mention of the 25 years’ service medals to volunteers Greg Biggs, Geoff Brown and Gary Langford. Also receiving an award was Brett Sinclair receiving his 20 years medal.

The awards recognised almost 100 years of volunteer work by the four community-minded people.

AC Kelly said it was wonderful to see everyone come together to celebrate the incredible contribution the men make to the Queensland Ambulance Service

“Your dedication and commitment is truly appreciated, and the event was a reminder of the outstanding work you continue to do each and every day. Thank you for your ongoing service and support,” she said.

Pictured: Nambour LAC volunteers, from left, Greg Biggs, Geoff Brown, Brett Sinclair and Gary Langford.
Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)

12/11/2024

Sculpture on the Edge Sunshine Coast brings creativity to life at Flaxton Gardens

Flaxton Gardens will come alive this November as it hosts the 15th annual Sculpture on the Edge, a nine-day celebration of art against the stunning backdrop of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Running from November 23 to December 1, the event features a diverse range of indoor and outdoor sculptures presented by Arts Connect Inc.

Visitors can also get involved in hands-on workshops, exploring their own creativity while engaging with the work of talented artists from across the region.

This year's theme, 'A Creative Feast', invites attendees to enjoy not only the art but also the natural beauty of Flaxton Gardens, complemented by food and festivities.

Flaxton Gardens will host opening and closing celebrations for the event, with the opening on November 22 being the only opportunity to see the entire collection illuminated at night.

Event organiser Debbie Weaver said past visitors have consistently praised the exhibition.

“Past visitors have consistently praised the event, with feedback highlighting the thought-provoking, original talent and the welcoming atmosphere,” Ms Weaver said. “It's a celebration of art and creativity—Sculpture on the Edge is a not to be missed experience for everyone.”

The event runs daily from 8am to 2pm, and workshops and entry tickets are now available for booking. With sculptures available for purchase, it's an opportunity to take home a piece of local talent while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

• For more details or to book, call 5445 7450. www.flaxtongardens.com.au. 313 Flaxton Drive, Flaxton.

12/11/2024

New owners at Yandina Feed Barn

Business Writeup by Tanya Outridge

On September 30, the much loved Yandina Feed Barn changed hands from long time owners Lyle and Andree Ravencroft to Yandina Creeks locals, Rob and Cara Ceccato.

Although the couple have both enjoyed professional careers in health and management, the transition could not have been more natural, Cara explained.

“Rob is a Physiotherapist by trade and I am a registered nurse,” she said.

“For years we lived in Brisbane and Rob’s role as a General Manager for a large Australian Allied Health company, and my career as a Business Development manager for a medical device company saw us doing a lot of travel and spending a lot of time away from home. We had arrived at a point where we just wanted to spend more time with our daughter, at home. And I guess, like many people, we really felt the need to slow down and immerse ourselves in not only our family, but the beautiful community here as well.

“There was an awesome produce store in Brisbane that we really loved and we found ourselves thinking that we would love to do something similar. When this business came up for sale, it was a no-brainer to go for it.”

Rob grew up in the area, attending Nambour Christian College, and his family still have a cane farm at Bli Bli.

“I also grew up in the area, and we have our horse agistment property at Yandina Creek complete with horses, mini goats, sheep and chickens,” said Cara.

“It is so exciting to be business owners again, particularly in such a well loved and respected family business.”

Lyle and long term staffer, Nancy Cordwell, will be staying on at the Feed Barn.

“We are not letting them go!,” Cara laughed. “We are pretty much kidnapping them.”

The couple do not have any plans for drastic change to the business, and will spend time now gathering feedback from customers.

“Our only immediate plan is for a little ‘facelift’ out the front, but that is about it,” Cara said. “We figure if it isn’t broken, there’s no need to fix it.”

Pictured: From left, former owner, Lyle Ravenscroft, with new owners Rob, Cara and daughter Macie Ceccato (holding Frankie the pup) and employee Nancy Cordwell.

12/11/2024

Garden growing strong thanks to local businesses

Our town’s community spirit was out for all to see at the Nambour Chamber of Commerce Coffee Catch up last week.

The Nambour Grown community garden is run by a terrific group of local gardening people who have the know-how but are a short of funds.

“Feeling a little humble, with hat in hand, we headed to the Nambour Chamber of Commerce’s Coffee Catchup (November 6) to tell everyone about the value of our community garden and invite local businesses to invest in our garden by sponsoring a garden bed for 2025,” said club president Racheal Pascoe.

“Well, the idea was a sell out! We now have all garden beds sponsored thanks to the local businesses and their wonderful generosity. Our 2025 growing season is looking like it will be our best year yet.

“We are all about greening up Nambour, growing food, sharing knowledge, learning from each other and running workshops in our shared green space. In time we aim to supply local community groups who support those in need, with our surplus fruit and vegetables.”

If you would like to be involved, follow Nambour Grown on Facebook. “We meet once a fortnight on a Sunday afternoon 3-5pm in the garden to work together.”

The Nambour Grown Community Gardens are located in the Showgrounds from Coronation Avenue and turn left as you come through the gates, the gardens are on the left up the hill.

Local sponsors included:
Kotoa Family, Cherish Funerals, Hammond Optometry & Eyewear, Sunshine Mitre 10, Uptown Hair Studio, Commonwealth Bank, RACQ Bank, Enchanted Eco Events Hire, Nambour RSL Club, Hardy & Sons Plumbing, White Lady Funerals, Amaroo Day Spa, Funky Books, My Legal , Two Guys Electrical, Mark Bray, Sunshine Valley Gazette, Nambour Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured: Mel Green, Racheal Pascoe and Manda Boyd grabbed a bunch of $125 sponsors for Nambour Grown with the nearly-completed sponsors list. The remaining spots were filled fast.