2023 MARY VALLEY VOICE - AUGUST 11, Vol. 33 #8

MARY VALLEY SHOW & RODEO

An action packed day of fun for all the family - come on down to the 103rd annual Mary Valley Show 26 August from 8 am until 11 pm. The Railway Hotel Super All Round Rodeo commences at 9.30 am with action all day in the rodeo arena. Ring events will be sure to please with a special attraction of mules visiting during the day. Kids will love Miss Donna Balloons, face painting, fairy floss, and cuddles at the animal farm. Larrikin puppets are sure to please and the professional sand sculpting is guaranteed to be amazing. Beef, Poultry, Ring Events, Chain Saw Racing, Woodchop, Pavilion, Circus, Fireworks, fantastic food, coffee, bar and entertainment for all ages. Trade sites, side show alley, animal and get hands on with some native wildlife, with

Wildlife Unleashed offering hands-on animal encounters! Hands on circus fun, live music with spectacular fireworks to bring joy to our Mary Valley show day.

Our valued sponsors of platinum, gold, silver, bronze plus any value large or small and volunteers welcome you to the greatest little country show - see you 26 August, Imbil Showgrounds. Tickets will be available online and at the gate. Adults $20, Children $5 (5-16 yrs) Under 5

free, Family $45 (2 adults, 2 children). For show schedules and more information, visit our website - www.maryvalleyshow. com.au – we encourage our readers to enter one of our many sections. Telephone: 0427 167329 for more information. Follow our FB posts and please share. See you at this great one day country show!

FROM THE WRITINGS OF LILY DOBSON (NEE SIMS)

After World War II broke out in September of 1939 Lily Sims wrote in her memoirs, "Many of the soldiers were camped in the vicinity – one of their activities to improve the Obi Road to Mapleton. We, the people of the district, put on dances and entertainment for them, also inviting them to different homes for a taste of home made cooking. We had our plane spotters, their purpose being to identify planes which flew over. Also had our warning siren in town – a circular saw, being struck very hard with one metal stick. It was very audible. The only time I remember it being used, when one day a plane flew over which no one could identify. We, the family, happened to be in town at brother Dicks home, saying farewell to Dick and wife Jane, as they were shifting to Imbil. My two daughters, Claire and Fay, were on their way back to school after coming up to lunch with us when the siren went. They started to run but couldn’t reach school to climb into slit tranches, so they

but he didn’t drop any bombs.

Certain items of food became scarce and coupons were issued for vaious items: tea, sugar, butter being the main ones, also clothing coupons. As we made our own butter, we were able to supply

it to our friends. Some people became very resourceful, making dresses out of sheeting, which was not couponed and they really looked nice.

Towards the end of the war Italian prisoners of war were sent to Australia and instead of keeping them imprisoned they were allowed to work on farms, with the proviso that they were not to fraternise with the farmers who employed them. This law I’m afraid was not adhered to. Mr J. Adsett from Gheerulla had an Italian placed on his farm who was a good singer. Mr Adsett gave him a gramaphone with some good records to use during his leisure time. That man stayed with the Adsett family until the end of the war.”

Learn more about the history of the district any Sunday from 10 a.m. at the Kenilworth Historical Museum, Alexandra Street.

~ Lenore Meldrum, President, Kenilworth & District Historical Assn Inc.

Claire

Photo Left: Faye &

“ Many of the soldiers were camped in the vicinity... We, the people of the district, put on dances and entertainment for them, also inviting them to different homes for a taste of home made cooking. ”

~ Lily Sims, 1939

CHEERIO FROM THE CHURCHES

Have you noticed the RED BENCH at St Luke’s Church? This is a symbol to show our support for Speaking Out Against Domestic Violence and support for victims.

On 6 August a dedication service was conducted by Rev’d Kaye Pitman with addresses by Val France from “Speak Up Now” and State Member, Rob Skelton, MP for Nicklin. Present were several community members including Ron Perel from The Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce and members of other faith groups. Cr David Law was unable to attend but sent his apology and best wishes. The statistics released on 6 August on the prevalence of domestic violence are alarming and we must speak out and support victims wherever we can.

St Luke’s has now resumed Sunday services at 9am after a trial of Saturday afternoon worship which did present some difficulties. St Luke’s is hoping the Sunday service will be more convenient and hopefully attract more people. A special welcome is extended to all our visitors to Kenilworth in the caravan parks, camping areas and all the tourist venues. We love visitors and would love to see you!

A very well attended ecumenical service at St Jonn Bosco’s was held on Sunday 30 July, led by the Uniting Church with able leadership by Jen Franzi. Rev’d Phil Smith gave a lively and inspiring sermon which was quite thought provoking. Morning tea was served as usual.

There are still some pews left for sale at St Luke’s. Please contact 0427 723 848 if interested. We are putting out our yearly call for small personal care items for our Christmas hampers which go to the homeless, elderly in Aged Care and people in need. We are also asking for empty standard sized cereal boxes ( 23cm x 15.5 cm x 5cm). Any donations can be left at St Luke’s. Thank you!

On Friday 1 September at 9:30am, a World Day of Prayer for Creation will be held at The Big FigTree walk at Little Yabba, followed by a BYO picnic morning tea.

~ Cheerio from the churches

KENILWORTH ARTS COUNCIL

he 2024 Kenilworth ArtsFest will be held at Kenilworth Hall from 24 to 26 May. So all you artists out there, start getting your entries ready! Again KAC will be joining with the Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce to present a Family Fun Day with FREE activities !

A reminder that annual membership renewals are now open. Members, please tell a friend about KAC – the more the merrier! Please let us know your ideas! It’s not just about painting and drawing! Art is everywhere!

WORLD CLASS 3D WINS 2023 MARY VALLEY ART FESTIVAL, IMBIL

Judges sparked some intense discussion when they awarded the Best in Show $3000 prize to a three-dimensional entry by Jozsef Pinter at the 2023 Mary Valley Art Festival opening. More than 170 people crowded into the Imbil Public Hall to congratulate the winners and enjoy the record 330+ entries on show. Pinter’s artwork titled Space station on Mars was an exceptional and worldclass piece, according to artists and judges Llew Brennan and Ian Gunn, who unanimously decided the award, sponsored by RJR Property.

They said it was an easy decision when they saw the beautiful combination of materials and original thought that spawned the work.

Right: Leanne Vincent and Best in Show winner Jozsef Pinter with his world class 3D artwork.

VOLUNTEERS MUSEUM VISIT

The volunteers from the Kenilworth Information Centre visited our Kenilworth Historical Museum in July. We were welcomed and guided around by Lenore Meldrum, our local historian and custodianof the Museum. We watched a film of Kenilworth from beginnings in a cow paddock to how it is today – a very busy and beautiful town. There was much chatter, many stories and lots of laughter. A highlight was finding a photo of one of our vollies (unnamed) at her debut in the fifties. I personally left thinking how fortunate our town is to have its history saved and on show for all to see. Many small towns have lost this and once gone it is lost forever. My gratitude and thanks to Lenore for the day and her passionate desire for history. After leaving we went to McGinns for lunch which was enjoyed by all. Everyone agreed the day out was a great success and they look forward to our next outing. If you have some spare time and would like to join our team, please contact us on 07 5446 0122 or just drop in for a chat. Many friendships have been formed and we always have a good laugh and enjoy meeting and showing off Kenilworth to the many and varied visitors. The next time you are in town, please check out the new murals in our Kenilworth Information Centre windows beside the car park entrance. They were painted by Lisa O’Connell, a local artist and coordinator of the Gheerulla Art Fair. They look absolutely fantastic and our sincere thanks go to Lisa. We all love the rolling donuts!

~ Kaye Linck, Coordinator Kenilworth Information Centre

CLASSIC CARS IN THE VALLEY

A KENILWORTH CLASSIC CAR SHOW

SUNDAY 27 AUGUST 2023

Since our inaugural Classic Car Show was such a huge success it was decided to hold the show annually as the chambers flag ship event. Our aims are to promote our town of Kenilworth, promote local businesses, get the community working together as a unit, promote and obtain gold coin donations for the local SES branch, promote and obtain gold coin donations for the local Kenilworth Community College, promote our Chamber and thereby increase both interest and membership.

So far we have achieved everything we set out to do and are pretty sure we will be able to obtain an even better result this year.

live music fills the air, evoking the spirit and style of the times when these magnificent automobiles ruled the roads. Enjoy the tunes and soak up the atmosphere while relishing the charm of Kenilworth.

Some quotes from visitors last year...

Delicious Food and Refreshments: Take a break from the automotive marvels and indulge in mouthwatering delicacies from local food vendors. Treat yourself to a wide range of delectable options that will satisfy any craving.

Family-Friendly Fun: Bring your loved ones along for a fantastic day out! We have activities for all ages, including face painting, mini car displays, and interactive exhibits. It's a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with your family.

Our town now has one more annual event to hold, which attracts a unique crowd of car enthusiasts. Most important we have the community working together on a joint project and talking positively about the community getting together and achieving results for the whole town.

Calling all car enthusiasts and admirers of classic automobiles! Prepare to be transported back in time as we showcase a stunning collection of vintage vehicles that will leave you in awe. Whether you are a seasoned collector, a fan of timeless designs, or simply curious about automotive heritage, this event is a must-attend!

Here's what you can look forward to:

Dazzling Displays: Marvel at an extraordinary assortment of classic cars spanning different eras, from the elegant curves of the 1950s to the muscular powerhouses of the 1970s. Immerse yourself in the artistry of automotive craftsmanship.

Nostalgic Atmosphere: Step into a bygone era as

Picture Perfect: Capture the beauty of these timeless automobiles against the backdrop of Kenilworth's scenic surroundings. Snap photos and share your experience on social media using our event hashtag to join the conversation.

~ Thanks to Ron Perel and the Kenilworth Chamber for this article and photos. See you there!

“ It was great to see community working together!”

“Awesome show, will definitely be back next year”

“Beautiful country!”

A WELL-LOVED LOCAL BUSINESS CHANGES INTO NEW AND VERY CAPABLE HANDS

If you live in the Mary Valley and have rainwater tanks (as most of us do), chances are in the past you have called Tracey of Mary Valley Milk at some point to deliver your water and top up that precious resource needed for life.

As the seasons turn things change. Mary Valley Milk have serviced the area for over 40 years, but now lifetime local man David Warren and his lovely family have taken on the business and are transitioning to Mary Valley Haulage - molasses and water.

David shares, "As a child, growing up and being raised in the Mary Valley on a local dairy farm located in Coles Creek, our family always had a passion for hard work in the community and small business often volunteering our time and skills to local organisations within our community.

We have many great memories growing up within the Mary Valley Country and being a part of a close-knit community has always been something we are proud of.

It was always a dream to one day own and manage my own business and I have been fortunate to turn this dream into a reality, with hard work, determination and a passion to help this small community by building Loo’s Express Portable Toilet Hire into the success it is today.

My wife, Robyn and I enjoy raising our four children in

the Mary Valley and are proud to call this great community our home. We love the great connections and friendships we’ve gained by being small business owners in this region and continue to work hard to make sure our businesses are providing a professional, dedicated and outstanding service within the community.

As small business owners we have had the privilege of supporting and sponsoring some of the local businesses and events in the community such as, Imbil Bull & Bronc Rodeos, Kenilworth Gourmet Day, Rally Queensland in Gympie and the Kenilworth and Imbil local shows.

When the opportunity was presented to us to purchase Mary Valley Milk and expand into Water and Molasses, it excited us to be able to keep another family business within the Mary Valley, and so we became, Mary Valley Haulage offering Water cartage in the Mary Valley region from Amamoor to Conondale and out to Belli Park. Plus deliveries of Molasses to the greater Southeast Queensland."

Mary Valley Haulage can deliver up to 11,000 litres of domestic water in one go and are available 7 days a week. For all your Mary Valley Water or Molasses deliveries, please call David on 0459 146 355.

David and his greatest supporters, his family.

Photo above:

Photo left: Two haulage trucks, water and molasses.

Are you ready?

It's August - which means Sunshine Coast bushfire season is here. Council is getting ready - are you? Learn how bushfires' behave and what you can do to prepare. Get to know Council’s Disaster Hub website at disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au - so when a disaster happens you know where to go and what to do.

Stay safe from swooping birds

Some native birds, like magpies, can act defensively to protect their territory, their nests and their young. On the Sunshine Coast, this usually happens between July and November each year. Please be tolerant of these protected and iconic native birds if you walk or ride near nests. Search “defensive birds” on Council’s website for tips on how to protect yourself.

CUSTOMER CONTACT

sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Council/ Contact-Council

Major grants now open

Not-fot-profit community groups can seek Major Grant funding for projects or events that meet an identified need and provide local community benefit. The current round closes on 28 August. Visit Council's website to apply today.

Want to weed out the weeds?

Learn how to manage invasive species on your property, meet a conservation dog, find out the benefits of biodiversity and much more at Council’s Invasive Plants and Animals Workshop event at Obi Obi Hall on 2 September from 9am - 1pm. The event is free and registration is essential. Visit Council’s website to register.

One for the calendar Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting online or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers – 24 August at 9am.

Chance

to win $1000 off your rates!

Your Council rates are due for payment by 18 August. Register now through MyCouncil to receive your future rate notices by email and you’ll go in the running to win up to $1000 off your next rate bill. Head to Council’s website to register and for more information.

Get the latest Council news delivered directly to your inbox each week.

Sign up for the OurSC enewsletter here

CR WINSTON JOHNSTON DIVISION 5 – SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL

Last chance to shape Maleny’s main street!: Maleny’s Maple Street will soon tell even more of its heritage and country charm story through the design of streetscape improvements. The latest designs for a new look streetscape for the hinterland hub were well received at a recent community forum and are now ready for further feedback. This is your last chance to tell us via an online survey which is open until August 20, 2023. Please visit Sunshine Coast Council’s Have Your Say website to share your feedback.

Is your property disaster ready?: It's August – which means bushfire season is here. Residents need to be ready by understanding fire weather and how to prepare and protect family and property. Our Disaster Management team want you to know that bushfires don’t just occur in the bush. They can impact anyone, anywhere on the Sunshine Coast. There are a few steps you can take to make sure you’re prepared and to protect your property. Find out more at www.oursc.com.au/council/are-you-ready-for-bushfireseason.

Keeping you connected: Please do keep an eye on my Facebook page for the latest Division 5 news and information. Visit www.facebook.com/winstonjohnstondivision5scc

TED O'BRIEN FEDERAL MEMBER FOR FAIRFAX

Sunshine Coast Veteran Wellbeing Centre: Last month I invited representatives from local veteran organisations to meet with Shadow Minister for Veteran Affairs Barnaby Joyce to discuss how to provide better support for ex-service personnel in our community Here on the Sunshine Coast, we have the second biggest population in Australia of veterans and that is why Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace MP and I are calling on the Labor Government to reinstate critical funding for a Veteran Wellbeing Centre to be established here in our community.

Energy Security = National Security: I’m concerned that the Albanese Labor Government’s unrealistic and untested 82% renewables target has left Australia vulnerable to cyber-attacks. With almost 60 percent of installed smart inverters being supplied by Chinese manufacturers which are bound by China’s National Intelligence Laws, this should be of deep concern to our country. Providing affordable and reliable energy that is free from foreign interference should be a first order priority of government, but it’s not for Labor.

Volunteer Grants: Expressions of Interest for the 2023-2024 Volunteer Grants are now open. Grants of between $1,000 to $5,000 will be available to assist eligible notfor-profit community organisations support the efforts of their volunteers, such as the purchase of equipment or fuel vouchers. EOIs close 31 August. Please contact my office on 5479 2800 for more information.

CR DAVID LAW DIVIDION 10 - SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL

Visit Kenilworth Library: Roll up your sleeves to create some wildflower-based art with Dr Sue Davis from Wild/flower Women and learn how to make a paper flower lantern to take home. You can make your own Wildflower Lantern at Kenilworth Library on Saturday, September 2 from 10-11.30am. It costs $5 per person to attend and with only 10 spaces available, please be quick to book via the Libraries website! The nature inspired hands-on workshop will be held across the region at all Council Libraries during September. Storytime sessions are held at Kenilworth Library on the first Wednesday of each month from 9.30 to 10.30am. The sessions help your child discover the magical world of books and reading. It is free to attend and no registration is required. Storytime sessions are suitable for ages 2 to 5 years. Visit Sunshine Coast Libraries website to view more details.

Mary River: I would like to remind residents that fishing is prohibited in the Mary River from now until 1 November. This closed season is to protect the Mary River Cod during their breeding season.

Major Grants: Valuable funding opportunities for community organisations and groups to bring their initiatives to life are now available through Sunshine Coast Council’s Major Grants program. Major Grant applications can be submitted in one of six categories, community development, community facilities, creative development, cultural heritage, economic development and sports and recreation. This Major Grants round is open now and closes on August 28. Visit Council’s website for more information.

Don’t forget if you have any questions please contact me at email: david.law@ sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and follow my Facebook page for regular updates: @ DavidLawDivision10.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR PAYBACK TIME

As a resident of Little Bella Creek Road, via Bella Creek Road, for the past thirty years, I have learnt to not be surprised at the ongoing neglect of our road conditions by the Gympie Council. As far back as the reign of mayors Mick Venardos and Joan Dodt, the only time any upkeep of the local roads was done was after a barrage of phone call complaints to the road maintenance department. And it appears that we must have worn them down because no direct contact to that department is available any longer. The young women on the front desk now have to wear the flack of these constant complaint calls and of course by design that filtering system produces zero results. But surprised I am. The neglect of our only access road has now reached a whole new level (image right). And I have a strong suspicion as to why.

Recently, a local group called BRAG had the audacity to push back on a council supported Development Application put forward by a local land holder and a developer from the Sunshine Coast to build a dirt bike extravaganza in our area. The DA was submitted several times by someone who obviously did not understand the meaning of the word NO. After a protracted battle in the courts and even with council support, the DA was finally defeated. Hence the title “the Little Bella Creek whingers” was born.

We as residents are obliged to pay our tens of thousands of dollars of rates each year but it appears that the council feels no obligation, legally or otherwise, to reciprocate with any form of road maintenance at all. Even to bring it up to a safe standard. And the potential for a serious accident due to ducking and weaving around potholes and a washed out drain, is almost inevitable.

I lodged an official complaint to the council regarding this matter on the 13th June of this year. No response to date.

This ridiculous situation has left us with no other course of action but to now contact the Ombudsman.

~ Peter Watson, Callsign “Whinger 1”

LOCAL FESTIVAL FUN

Mitchell Creek Rock N Blues Fest invites patrons to join its family within, on the ultimate hinterland camping escape, revelling in foodie delights and world class live music up close and personal as the spirit of the place works its relaxing and revitalising magic. So does it deliver on its promise? If the jubilant faces on patrons and artists alike are anything to go by each year, then a resounding “yes” echoes through the 90 acre private bushland property! Nestled in the picturesque Sunshine Coast hinterland just two hours north of Brisbane and 45 minutes west of Noosa, the event turns on an amazing 4-night/3-day show.

Australia plays host to many a fine festival promoting top acts and delighting audiences and there’s no doubt that the Mitchell Creek Rock N Blues Fest puts together a stellar program line-up that absolutely moves the crowd to the music. The magic begins from the moment patrons turn onto the Mary Valley scenic route. The simple pleasures of a country drive, noticing livestock happily grazing on green pastures against a backdrop of fragrant hillside eucalypts vanishes day to day worries as they are exhaled away with every breath of fresh air. Quaint little towns offer the chance to explore the area and what it has to offer, or to stop off and enjoy local hospitality and a bite to eat or beverage along the way. Excitement builds as the Mitchell Creek Rock N Blues Fest sign comes into view and the drive takes a turn down the festival lane through graceful native Australian trees that create a bushland wall surrounding the property, which itself is shaped like a huge natural amphitheatre creating clear, warm acoustics, cushioned by lush, soft grasses to relax on.

Patrons can pull in with their tent or campervan and have the option of choosing their own campsite either close to the action, high up on the hills for a birds eye view, tucked away in a private secluded space in the shade of the forest, or down by the cooling creek. No shuttle buses needed here, free parking is conveniently located right next to the campsites. For those who prefer it, or are flying in with minimal luggage, there are preerected tent motels with carpet, comfy mattresses and shade awnings for glamping it up. Toilets and hot showers are plentiful throughout the property and fastidiously maintained for optimum comfort.

The spring weather is renowned for turning on beautiful sunny blue skies by day and sparkling stars in the clear black nights that shine much brighter in the clean country air away from city lights and pollution. The ability to share the experience with like-minded people who love music and camping has often been cited as a key reason why people come to the festival and many groups form and make it an annual pilgrimage. With a cap on ticket numbers limited to 3,000, the festival is large enough to be exciting and small enough that people can still recognise each other and say “g’day” to someone they met earlier.

All ages are welcome to come along and there are organised children’s activities to give parents a break. A range of affordable ticket prices is available from single day and festival passes to VIP packages with extra bonuses to cater to a range of budgets and time constraints. Now in its tenth year, coming along to this festival is like being let in on an exciting little secret that continues to grow bigger and better as word spreads through the bush telegraph and up and down the highways and skyways. “That was amazing! I can’t wait until next year to do it all again!”