What’s On: From footy & weightlifting to dragons & Easter bunnies:
Centre Manager Michelle Lees and a cuddly Easter friend at Urban Hen, Nambour Plaza.
Hop on over to the Plaza for Easter fun in Nambour
Business Writeup Nambour Plaza
Get ready for an egg-stra special 2024 Easter celebration at Nambour Plaza.
This Easter Saturday, the Easter bunny and his helper will be making a special appearance, spreading joy and Easter eggs around Nambour Plaza between 10am to 2pm.
“It will be the perfect opportunity to come along with the kids for a bunny hug and photo opportunity,” said Centre Manager, Michelle Lees.
“On week 2 of the holidays, Nambour Plaza is bringing you a bunch of fun things to do that you won’t want to miss,” she said.
“On Monday April 8, you can get up close and personal with adorable farm animals and make some furry friends while you shop. The little ones in particular, really love this.
“Then, bring your bestie and unleash your creativity making Friendship bracelets, pendants and beading from Tuesday the 9th through to Thursday the 11th,” she said.
If you are feeling adventurous, you won’t want to miss the Wildlife HQ Zoo visiting on Friday the 12th.
“You will get an opportunity to handle fascinating reptiles and see some amazing wildlife,” Michelle said.
With 28 specialty stores and plenty of undercover parking, you can get everything you need under one roof.
“Most people know we have Big W and Woolworths, but we also have fashion favourites such as Jay Jays, Suzanne Grae, Strandbags, Prouds Jewellers, and Vanilla Cove,” she said.
“There are plenty of gift options at Nextra and the Freechoice Tobacconist, and Urban Hen is bursting with stunning gifts and decor for Easter.
“Health and beauty services include Priceline Pharmacy, Specsavers, Health Beat health food store, Alison’s Uppercuts, Real Health Massage, Top Aussie Nails and A1 Beauty Hub. Phone, IT and travel services are all available at the Plaza as well.”
When it comes to food, you are spoiled for choice, with Cafe Bella, The Coolabah Tree, Donut King, Health Beat, Master Sushi, Sunshine Kebabs, SG Bakery and Liquor Legends providing a range of options for everyone.
“Join us this Easter,” Michelle said. “Bring your family and friends for a super week filled with holiday activities and shopping fun. Nambour Plaza is the place where locals love to shop.”
• Nambour Plaza is at 18 Ann Street, Nambour.
Visitors of all ages will be captivated by the enchanting world of Zog.
A dragon-sized adventure awaits at the Ginger Factory!
Hold onto your gingerbread hats because a spectacular treat awaits these Easter school holidays at The Ginger Factory; Australia’s first ever Zog Trail!
Fly headfirst into the enchanting world of Zog, brought to life from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s captivating picture book.
“We are so excited to host this unique and fun attraction at the Ginger Factory,” said Tourism Manager, Brenda Bailey.
“It features augmented reality and a luscious trail through the
rainforest, it is sure to ignite the imaginations of the entire
family.”
Picture this: friendly dragons, flying antics, and fire breathing lessons; and that’s just the beginning of the dragon sized fun. Roar, fly, and breathe fire as you embark on an unforgettable adventure with Zog, Princess Pearl, Sir Gadabout, and Madam Dragon.
And the best part?
“The trail experience is free and open seven days a week,” Ms Bailey said.
Take the adventure up a notch with the Zog activity packs available to purchase at the park. Packed with dragon wings, stickers, and activities, your little ones are in for infinite whimsical fun.
“This is going to be a wonderful activity for children over Easter and the school holidays,” she said.
And there will also be Zog book readings, engaging craft activities, and more.
“From a leisurely ride on Moreton the Ginger Train to a thrilling adventure on the Overboard Boat Ride, The Ginger Factory promises an Easter holiday bursting with fun and excitement for everyone.”
For full information, visit: www.gingerfactory.com.au
Nambour Chapel to host evening of music with Phil Spence and Nicola Jean
Ignite Christian Church and Aussie Grown Radio are thrilled to present the next Live @ The Chapel Nambour event, showcasing the talents of local artists Phil Spence and Nicola Jean, on Saturday, 6 April 2024. The evening promises an intimate musical experience from 6pm to 8pm at 29 Short Street, Nambour.
Veteran rocker Phil Spence will headline, performing tracks from his new album ‘Revolution’, including his latest single “The Passion” and the much-loved songs “So Loud” and “Revolution”. Phil’s music, inspired by the Jesus revolution of the 70s, promises to be a nostalgic trip for many.
Opening for Phil is the emerging talent, Nicola Jean, known for her exceptional guitar skills and heartfelt songwriting. With a powder-blue acoustic guitar in hand, Nicola is set to captivate the audience as one of the Sunshine Coast’s bright musical prospects.
Admission is free, with donations welcomed to support the artists. Attendees can also enjoy drinks and nibbles available for purchase. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page or contact Hank David at hank@aussiegrownradio.com.
Mapleton Choir’s Mozart to Mercury
The Mapleton Choir is set to enchant audiences with a diverse range of musical pieces, from the classical compositions of Mozart to the iconic tunes of Freddie Mercury. Their upcoming concert, “Making Music from Mozart to Mercury,” will be held at Kureelpa Hall on Saturday, June 1st, and Sunday, June 2nd, starting at 2:30 pm each day.
Tickets are available for $20 when purchased in advance or $25 at the door. For those interested in securing their seats early, tickets can be pre-purchased by calling 0407 156 708 or by speaking to any choir member. This musical journey promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing the versatile talents of the Mapleton Choir.
Now Showing at Majestic Cinemas
Here’s what’s showing now at Majestic Cinemas in Nambour. Bob Marley One Love; The Nut Farm; Riceboy Sleeps (foreign film); Just a Farmer and from March 21 Ghostbuster Frozen Empire; Kung Fu Panda 4 and Wicked Little Letters.
Flickerfest (Short film festival) returns on March 22nd at 7pm with the Best of International short films and on March 23rd at 7pm with the Best of Australian shorts. Tickets on sale now! For more information on session times please visit www.majesticcinemas.com.au or phone 5441 2954.
Montville Growers and Makers Market
Montville’s heritage-listed Village Hall is a focal point for the community and for the Montville Growers and Makers Market on the second Saturday morning or every month.
The market boasts a delicious, wholesome pancake breakfast and delicious treats to the dedicated market goer. 30+ stalls including Bernard and his freshly baked organic sourdoughs, Kim and Lindsay with their sweet Montville Bananas as well as a range of local producers and craftspeople will be standing ready to fill your empty baskets.
Cold Chisel Tribute Night at Palmwoods Hotel
Experience the legendary music of Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes at the Palmwoods Hotel on April 13, 8.30pm. “Forever Now - The Very Best of Cold Chisel” promises an evening of iconic tunes and dancing. Reserve your dinner table for a complete night out at linktr.ee/palmwoodshotel.
Maleny Film Festival
The Maleny Community Centre at 23 Maple Street welcomes cinephiles from March 22-24 for the Maleny Film Festival. The event kicks off with a 5.30pm launch party, followed by screenings of ‘Mon Crime’, ‘Scrapper’, ‘Fallen Leaves’, and ‘Next Goal Wins’. Visit malenyfilmsociety.au/maleny-film-festival/ for the full program and ticket information.
Hinterland Blues AGM
The Hinterland Blues community is invited to participate in the Annual General Meeting on March 24 at 3pm, with the location to be announced. The meeting will cover essential topics, including the past year’s financial and management reports and the election of new committee members. For more information, reach out to Jessica Popple at info@hinterlandblues.com.
Woombye Bowls rolls out six-week business comp
The Woombye Bowls Club is set to launch its much-anticipated Corporate Bowls League, offering a blend of networking and team-building opportunities every Wednesday night from April 3rd to May 8th, 2024.
“It’s more than just a game; it’s a chance to connect with fellow businesses and have a bit of friendly competition,” said Allan Sandercock, spokesperson for the club. The six-week league starts at 6pm with two games of eight ends each night. Teams can join with a $50 fee, and players are welcomed with weekly prizes and refreshments. “Come for the bowls, stay for the bonds you’ll build,” said Allan. For registration details, reach out to Allan on 0411 961 454 or the club directly.
James Patrick Reed ably portrays Monk O’Neill in this one-man show. (Image by Greals)
Dynamic Interpretation of an Old Favourite Play
Many theatre goers have enjoyed a performance of the wedding reception farce Dimboola produced by their local theatre group. It’s playwright Jack Hibberd’s best-known work, but not his best work.
Hibberd fans would argue that title belongs to A Stretch of the Imagination, a product of the Australian New Wave theatre scene of the 1970s. This one-man tour-de-force sweeps across our landscape and history through the fevered monologues of its protagonist, Monk O’Neill.
Played by experienced stage and TV actor James Patrick Reed, Monk is on a downhill slide and hanging on by a thread. It takes us through a day of his life in a stream of consciousness clever monologue, full of word-play.
This play is gleefully outrageous and laugh-out-loud comic, but also tragic. It contains adult themes and coarse language.
A Stretch of the Imagination has been reimagined by Director Anne Grant and will play at the Black Box theatre in Nambour for four performances, starting on Friday March 22.
• For bookings go to trybooking.com/events/landing/1164039
Nambour’s strongest kids are ready to snatch gold
Sunshine Coast Weightlifting Club in Nambour is hosting the 2024 Queensland Weightlifting Association School Age Championships the weekend of March 23-24.
Sixty school aged children, as young as 7 years old, are preparing to chalk up a win in the event (previously known as All-Schools). Girl power will prevail, as they outnumber boys in this competition.
Some of these young athletes have their dreams set on the 2024 Olympics.
“I am really excited to see the kids in action on the weekend and enjoy themselves in the competition,” said coach Dale Donaghue. Sunshine Coast Weightlifting Club (SCWC), established in 1970, is Queensland’s longest established club.
Located in an unassuming shed behind the Nambour Showgrounds, the club trains athletes of all ages, genders and abilities. The shed would go unnoticed if it wasn’t for the relentless sound of heavy weights clanking.
Competitors will be traveling from the Gold Coast to the Fraser Coast and everywhere between. Eight of the little lifters call SCWC home.
For many athletes, it is their first opportunity to compete outside of their own club. They will be sharing the platform with experienced lifters such as Chloe Saliba and Levi Deans who represented Australia in international competitions.
Chloe is the 2023 Commonwealth champion and a medallist in the 2024 Oceania Championship. Levi Deans has been training with the Sunshine Coast Weightlifting Club since he was 10 years old.
Levi is legally blind and says “I like the sport so much because of my vision impairment has no effect on it.”
The future generation of lifters is made up of 5 girls and 3 boys in the Under-13 age category.
Three of which are under the age of 10. The youngest being Jax Daniels at 7 years old.
The event is run by Queensland Weightlifting Association as an Australian Weightlifting Federation recognized event. Olympic style weightlifting consists of two lifts, the snatch and the clean & Jerk, both of which the lifter must have the weight over their head. Competitors have three attempts at each lift.
FESTURI is known for bringing community-centric multicultural music festivals to life.
Surfing and culture combine for Festuri festival
Moffat Beach Park is set to host an extraordinary event that marries the thrill of surfing with the exuberance of multicultural festivities. From March 28 to 31, 2024, the golden sands of Caloundra will witness the 50th anniversary of the Pa and Ma Bendall Memorial Surf Competition, this time in a colourful partnership with the FESTURI Multicultural Music and Dance Festival.
The collaboration is a weekend of surfing prowess and cultural vibrancy, offering something special for surf enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike.
This year’s surf competition, a staple in the Sunshine Coast’s sporting calendar, embarks on a new journey with FESTURI, enriching the traditional surf contest with a tapestry of global music, dance, interactive workshops, and a kaleidoscope of international cuisines. Beyond the waves, workshops, world music and dance, there will also be a dedicated kids’ festival.
The Surf comp starts March 28 7am.
Festuri festival starts March 30 12pm-9pm and continues March 31 from 12-4pm.
Artistic Director Dominique B. Cisse said the event was a fusion of surf heritage and cultural diversity, aimed at fostering community bonds.
“This unique blend of activities not only celebrates the competition’s storied history but also introduces a new era of communal celebration, drawing families, locals, and visitors into a harmonious gathering,” he said.
“For the first time in its illustrious history, the competition will feature musical entertainment, responding to community desire for a more enriching and inclusive experience,” said President Toria Mason.
Toria said FESTURI was known for bringing community-centric multicultural music festivals to life.
“Along with DC Productions, we’ve curated a lineup featuring local and regional multicultural talents, adding a global flavour to the local surf scene. It promises to bridge the worlds of surf tradition and multicultural celebration, uniting the community in a symphony of waves and rhythms.”
• For detailed event information visit the official websites and social media pages of FESTURI and Wind an Sea Boardriders. Go to festuri.org.au.
Savills Marketing Manager Rebekah Radov with Eliza McBain (blue ears) and Jacci Kelly pink ears.
Celebrate Easter with family, food and festivities!
Business Writeup Buderim Marketplace
As Easter is fast approaching, you can get ready with everything you need for Easter celebrations and the school holidays at Buderim Marketplace.
“It is such a convenient centre for your holiday shopping and to spend time with your family,” said Savills Marketing Manager Rebekah Radov.
“You can stock up with Easter treats and traditional favourites such as chocolates and Hot Cross buns at Woolworths and Bakers Delight, and pick up quirky gifts and Easter decorations at Nextra or the Pharmacy gift shop,” she said.
“For a more lasting gift, Buderim Jewellers has a gorgeous selection to suit all tastes and budgets.”
Hop in on Easter Saturday from 10am to 2pm when the Easter bunny will be there for meet and greets, photo moments, warm hugs and of course to give out some chocolate eggs, as well as stacks of fun and games to be had with the Hot 91 FM Street crew.
There are plenty of options for easy dining, from great coffee at Mint, to tasty Asian flavours, pizza, and delicious breakfasts, snacks and lunches from Taste This.
Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Easter at Buderim Marketplace.
“Parking is free for 3 hours, so grab your friends and family, put on your bunny ears, and join us in celebrating the season of new beginnings and chocolate eggs galore,” Rebekah said.
“This Easter - make it one to remember at Buderim Marketplace where it’s not just about shopping – it’s about having a good time too!”
• Buderim Marketplace 67 Burnett St, Buderim.
What’s On Day by Day Listings
March
• March 21: Nambour State College Principal's Tours at 4:30pm. Explore facilities and meet staff. For more info on the Pinnacle Program, call Emma and Talitha at 07 5450 4111.
• March 22: Australian Classic Theatre presents "A Stretch of the Imagination" at Black Box theatre, Nambour, starting at 7pm. Tickets at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1164039
• March 22-24: Weekend of canine fun with Sunshine Coast Kennel Club Dog Shows at Beerwah Sportsground. Free entry. Contact Helen at 0434 344 230.
• March 22-24: Maleny Film Festival launches with a variety of screenings at the Maleny Community Centre. Details at malenyfilmsociety.au/maleny-film-festival/.
• March 23: Yandina Five ‘0’ Trail Run at Terella Brewing. Races include 50km, 36km, 21km, and 12km. More info at events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.
• March 23 (7pm) and March 24 (2.30pm): Montville Murder Mystery: Enjoy a rollicking mystery in Montville. Fundraiser for the hall.
• March 23: "Oh – apostrophe" art exhibition by Bernard O’Scanaill opens at Maleny Art Direct at 4pm. For more info, visit www.malenyartdirect.com.au.
• March 23: Nambour Crushers Rugby League Club season launch with trial games at Crusher Park. RSVP required. Contact: 0407 712 206.
• March 24: Nambour Rummagers Market relocates to Sunshine Coast Council/Nambour Library Forecourt from 9am-12pm. Free entry. For stall bookings, contact Nambour Rummagers Market on Facebook.
• March 23-24: Queensland Weightlifting Association School Age Championships at Sunshine Coast Weightlifting Club, Nambour. Details on scwc.com.au.
• March 23-24: Flickerfest at Majestic Cinemas, Nambour. Showcasing international and Australian short films. Tickets at flickerfest.com.au/tour/nambour/.
• March 24: Nambour Rummagers Market debuts at Eddie De Vere Building’s forecourt, Currie Street, from 9am. Browse plants, vintage, and handmade items.
• March 27: Launch of Australia’s first Zog Trail at The Ginger Factory, Yandina. A family adventure. Details at gingerfactory.com.au/zog-trail.
• March 28-31: Festuri Surf and Multicultural Music Festival at Moffat Beach Park, Caloundra. Surf competition starts March 28. Festival info at festuri.org.au.
• March 28: Easter reflection at Sanctuary Park Nambour Church of Christ from 6pm-8pm. More details at 5441 2833.
• March 29: Good Friday
• March 31: Easter Sunday
APRIL
• April Various Dates: Nambour Bowls Club Business Challenge in April, Wednesdays 6-7pm. Register at 0477 111 110.
• April 3-May 8: Woombye Bowls Corporate League, Wednesday nights. Register at 0411 961 454.
• April 5-7: "The Real Inspector Hound" at Playhouse Maleny Showgrounds. Tickets at trybooking.com/COUS.
• April 6: Live @ The Chapel Nambour with Phil Spence and Nicola Jean, 29 Short Street, from 6pm. Free entry. Details on Facebook.
• April 7: Indoor All-Weather Market: Dance, Art Etc, Nambour, 9am-2pm. Visit Rummager’s Market, Thursday Town Square Market, Friday Night Markets.
• April 8-12: Easter activities at Nambour Plaza, starting with farm animals on April 8. Wildlife encounters on April 12. Location: 18 Ann Street, Nambour.
• April 12: Outspoken presents Bri Lee in conversation at Maleny Community Centre. Tickets at outspokenmaleny.com.
• April 13: Cinema on the Rooftop at Cooroy Library, 6-8pm. Bring a blanket and enjoy "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish". Admission by donation.
• April 13: Cold Chisel Tribute Night at Palmwoods Hotel, 8.30pm. Booking at linktr.ee/palmwoodshotel.
• April 13: Book Fair and mini market, 8am to 12noon, Mapleton Library & Community Centre.
• April 14: Maroochy River Country Music Club concert, A.C.M.A. Hall of Fame, Yandina, 12 noon. Info: 0458 671 568.
• April 17, 24, May 1: Genealogy Sunshine Coast Beginner’s Classes, 9.30am-3.30pm. Book early. More info on their website.
• April 18-21: Bad Habit Records & Collectables Big Birthday Weekend in Nambour. Bands, vinyl sale, and skateboarding. Details on badhabitrecords.com.au.
• April 25: Montville and Mapleton ANZAC Day Services, Montville service starts 5:30 am; Mapleton details to be confirmed.
• April 29 - May 1: Coolum Art Collective’s Easter Art Expo at Coolum Civic Centre. Free entry. More at coolumartcollective.com.