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Community Connect

October 2024


Welcome to Community Connect. Community Connect is the monthly Newsletter of the Mapleton and District Community Association.


Community Website What's On News

Veterans Day photo

Max Standage, MADCA president graphic

Message from our President

At our recent AGM, we had the honour of recognising the exceptional contributions to MADCA and our community of Jan Collins, Burnie Collins, John Seebeck, and Glenis Ayling with Lifetime MADCA Memberships. Their dedication to MADCA and our community has been invaluable - Thank you.

Reminder: As a community-focused organisation, MADCA is committed to encouraging civic participation, fostering open dialogue and understanding of important issues without advocating for any political or religious agendas. To that end, can I remind you that we’re hosting a “Meet the Candidates” event tonight (October 9th). This is your chance to engage directly with State candidates and learn about their stances on key issues before the election on the 26th October. We encourage all MADCA members to attend and participate in this important democratic process.

Finally, feedback about Community Connect and our websites are welcome and should be sent to: information@madca.com.au.

Max Standage, MADCA President


Market photos

Showers Dampen Mapleton Market, But Community Spirit Shines
September's Mapleton Country Market faced a downpour and chilly winds, prompting an early close. Despite the weather, some dedicated marketgoers braved the elements to support the stalls, even managing a smile for our reporter!

Huge thanks to the resilient stallholders and the supportive community who came out for their market fix. The Mapleton Country Market MADCA stall stocks Ten Acres artisan breads and pastries. The following day, the MADCA stall sold the remaining breads and pastries in 35 minutes at the TOSH RangeCare Op Shop thanks to quick-thinking locals following MADCA's Facebook updates!

Remember, market profits go back to the community through our grants program. Applications are open, for details email madca.inc@gmail.com. Stay connected with information@madca.com.au.

More Information


garden produce

Mapleton State School Community Garden Thrives
The Mapleton State School Community Garden has been transformed with irrigation, power, and is ready for the community's involvement! This joint venture between students, teachers, parents, and residents aims to provide fresh produce and a positive experience for all.

The garden has new chicks, a revamped coop, and freshly slashed areas ready for planting. Early spring crops like beans, basil, and spinach are already growing!

The final hurdle is building a carport over the compost bins for shade and rainwater collection. The Mapleton Men's Shed can help construct it, but the school need someone with a builder's license to oversee and sign off on the project.

If you'd like to get involved in the garden, simply sign up with the P&C subcommittee. Contact mapletonpandc@gmail.com or 0435 593 484 for more information.


Birdlife

Bank and Post Office News
Bank of Queensland (BOQ) and Virgin Money Australia customers in the Mapleton area now have the convenience of depositing and withdrawing funds at the local Post Office. This partnership between BOQ, Virgin Money Australia, and Australia Post aims to provide greater accessibility to banking services for residents and businesses in the community.

Customers can simply visit the Mapleton Post Office during regular business hours to perform their transactions. For more information or to inquire about additional services available, customers can contact the Mapleton Post Office directly.

More Information


Birdlife

Aussie Bird Count!
Discover the amazing birds in your neighbourhood and contribute to bird conservation efforts. The Aussie Bird Count, running from October 14th to 20th, invites everyone to spend 20 minutes observing and counting birds. Your observations will help BirdLife Australia understand bird populations and protect these feathered friends. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just starting out, join the fun and make a difference!

More Information


Backyards for Biodiversity graphic

Transforming Roadside and Pavement Edges
Backyards for Biodiversity is encouraging us to transform our roadside and pavement edges from biodiversity deserts into vibrant havens for native plants and animals. By replacing lawns with local native grasses, herbs, flowers, and ground covers, we can create corridors that attract insects, birds, lizards, and frogs. These corridors not only enhance biodiversity but also connect existing habitats and improve our urban environments.

verges graphic

Not only does this initiative promote biodiversity, but it also benefits human health. Shaded pathways and planted streets encourage walking and cycling, providing opportunities for exercise and improving both physical and mental well-being.

Sunshine Coast Council has released self-assessable guidelines for verge gardens available on their web site

More Information (PDF)


More Information


Magpie

Watch Out for Aggressive Birds!
Summer approaches, and some birds get fiercely protective of their young. In most of Australia, magpies, magpie-larks, and plovers become territorial during breeding season (August-November). These birds may swoop or attack to defend their nests and chicks from humans and other animals.

Cyclists are most at risk, but injuries are rare. Around 10% of magpies swoop, and you might encounter the same one year after year. Experts advise staying calm and adjusting your walking or biking route if possible. Wearing sunglasses, a hat, or a helmet with fake eyes can help deter swooping.

Report aggressive birds


More Information


Sunrise with musicians

Queensland State Education Week!
From October 21st to 25th, it's State Education Week – a time to celebrate the achievements of our Queensland state schools. This year's theme, "Great Stories Start Here," highlights the journeys students embark on with the support of dedicated teachers and staff.

Schools can get involved by planning events that showcase student success, school achievements, and the positive impact on the community. Share your stories on our Facebook page.


sail cloth shading a swing

Swings in the Shade at The Range Community Kindy!
The Range Community Kindy is keeping playtime cool with a brand new shade sail over the popular swing set, thanks to a generous grant from Cr David Law and the Sunshine Coast Council.

The Kindy has received a sponsorship grant of $4028 from the Heritage Community Bank Palmwoods Branch . This grant will allow them to replace their weathered outdoor blinds, ensuring continued protection from the elements for our undercover play area.

The Range Community Kindy's Ultimate Cash Prize Raffle is now live! Get your tickets for just $5 and have a chance to win prizes like $1,000 CASH, a Weber BBQ, and vouchers.

Join the Kindy for their Range Community Fun Day on the 2nd November 9.00am - 12.30pm, at 64 Flaxton Drive. There will be something for everyone with a jumping castle, balloon art, face painting, and more! The Rural Fire Brigade will also be on hand to share their knowledge and skills. Kids can get creative at the Kids Crafts station or enjoy delicious treats from the Bake Sale. Hungry? Grab a sausage sizzle or a coffee from the Coffee Van.

An activity pass is only $5, so bring the whole family! Don't miss out on this fantastic community event. See you there!

Raffle Tickets


Fun Day (PDF)


Blackall100 logo

Blackall 100 Trail Running Ultra
The Blackall 100 is a renowned annual trail running event held on the range. The challenging ultra-marathon offers runners three course options: 100km, 50km, and 21km. The event takes participants through diverse terrain, including vibrant fern forests, subtropical rainforest, towering eucalypts, and scenic waterfalls. The event is celebrated as much for its rugged terrain as for its rich traditions.

The race starts and finishes at QCCC Mapleton, with the 21km event beginning at Baroon Pocket Dam. Spectators are welcome to attend and cheer on the runners as they navigate the challenging course. The event features live music, a coffee shop, and food vendors for attendees to enjoy.

More information


Seniors award photo

Sunshine Coast Seniors Honoured at Leadership Awards
The Sunshine Coast Senior Leadership Awards, hosted by I Age Well, celebrated outstanding contributions by seniors today at the Maroochy RSL.

Mayor Rosanna Natoli officially opened the ceremony, setting the tone for an inspiring event. The Buderim Male Choir and Let Me Entertain You performers added to the celebratory atmosphere.

Among the honourees was U3A Sunshine Coast's Colin Maddocks, recognized for his advocacy in promoting positive aging attitudes. Others included Roy & Nola Thompson, Uncle Alan Parsons, Judith Richards, Regina Ryan, and Margaret Thompson. Guests enjoyed a Deluxe Morning High Tea in a beautifully decorated venue.

Older person Resources


Coming Up

Weekly throughout Oct - Mapleton Choir

The Mapleton Choir sing on Monday nights from 7pm-9pm at the Kureelpa Hall. We are a non-audition choir, and new members will be warmly welcomed. Any questions please email themapletonchoir@outlook.com or call 0407 156 708.

More information


Tue 1st Oct - Wed 31st Oct - Qld Seniors Month

The month-long celebration promotes positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, provides opportunities for community participation to enhance community connections, and celebrate older Queenslanders and their ongoing contribution to the state—whether as volunteers or in the workforce, community leaders or carers, grandparents, or advocates.

More information


Wed 9th Oct - Mapleton - Meet the Candidates

Join the Mapleton and District Community Association for a crucial "Meet the Candidates" event! This is your chance to engage directly with those vying for State Government. 6.30pm for 7pm at the Mapleton Bowls Club.

More information


Fri 11th Oct - Probus Meeting

Probus meets on the second Friday of the month at the Mapleton Bowling Club, Post Office Road, Mapleton at 10am till 12 noon. Email nbrprobus@gmail.com for further details about Probus.


Fri 11th Oct - Sun 13th Oct Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland will come alive with the inaugural Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival this October. Spanning three days (October 11-13), the festival promises a jam-packed program across Nambour, Maleny, and surrounding areas. Expect author talks, book sales, workshops, and unique events like "Sconeversations" with food authors. The festival aims to celebrate local and visiting authors, promote reading and writing, and showcase the region's rich literary culture.

More information


Sat 12th Oct - Montville Market

Indulge in a scrumptious pancake breakfast on the deck overlooking the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Discover handcrafted treasures, fresh produce and tasty treats from local growers and makers. 7am - 12pm.

More information


Sat 12th Oct - QCCC Mapleton Community Open Day

Queensland Conference and Camping Centre Mapleton is holding a Community Open Day. Whether you're a familiar face or a first-time visitor, this is your chance to explore all that they have to offer. Kick-off at 3 PM with Site Tours and Kids' Activities. Don't miss out on this fun-filled afternoon for the whole family!

Program (PDF)


More information


Wed 16th Oct - Mapleton Community Crop Swap

Crop swaps are a great source of new and interesting produce as well as a valuable source of information including recipes and tips on gardening. The best way to make contact and/or find out more, is to head along and say hello. They are a lovely bunch of people. One small ask, if you are taking along to share something you have made, please label it clearly and list the ingredients.

The Mapleton Crop Swap is held at TOSH in the pergola behind the Op Shop. Head along at 9am on the third Wednesday of the month.


Fri 18th Oct - Mapleton Choir - The World in Song

The Mapleton Choir conducted by Brian Martin are set to entertain you with our new collection of songs. This being an Olympic year what better way to select a repertoire than finding choral pieces from countries near and far. Be prepared to travel around the globe with us in harmony. The concert will be followed by complimentary beverages and food.

More information


Sat 19th Oct - Blackall100

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, starting in Mapleton, this is a trail ultra-marathon that traverses the beautiful and scenic Great Walk of the Sunshine Coast. The event is open to runners and walkers with distances of 100 kilometres, 50 kilometres, and 21 kilometres. 

More information


Sun 20th Oct - Festival of Small Halls

The Festival of Small Halls returns to Mapleton on Sunday, 20 October 2024 with Kellie Loder and Van Dijk & Mcdonald. Opening the show will be local act Shaky Razor! Afternoon tea and supper available.

More information


Sun 20th Oct - Mapleton Choir - The World in Song

The Mapleton Choir conducted by Brian Martin are set to entertain you with our new collection of songs. This being an Olympic year what better way to select a repertoire than finding choral pieces from countries near and far. Be prepared to travel around the globe with us in harmony. The concert will be followed by complimentary beverages and food.

More information


Mon 21st Oct - Talking Country - Building Bridges

As part of Talking Country - Building Bridges, this talk by Fiona McGill, Chair of the Sunshine Coast Reconciliation Group, will explore the complex land management system employed by First Nations people. 

5:15pm for 5:30 - 7:30pm. Come early to purchase drinks. The Green Room, Mapleton Public House, 2 Flaxton Drive, Mapleton. A gold coin donation is appreciated. RSVP to: info@talkingcountrybuildingbridges.com

More information


Thu 24th Oct - Welcome to the Hinterland Dinner

The Blackall Range Lions "Welcome to the Hinterland Dinner" is held at Flaxton Gardens where they invite the new residents to the Blackall Range Communities to come along and meet representatives from some of our local businesses and community organisations while enjoying great food and company.

More information


Fri 25th Oct - Day for Daniel

Join us in commemorating the annual Day for Daniel, held on the last Friday of October, as we pay tribute to the memory of Daniel Morcombe.

On this significant day, we invite all community members to unite by wearing red, educating themselves and others, and making a difference through donations. It's a day dedicated to fostering conversations about personal safety between parents, caregivers, and educators with children and young people. 

More information


Fri 25th Oct - Citizen Science - Pademelon Survey

Join the Mary Cairncross team for their seasonal survey of the red-legged pademelons in Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. 7.30am-9.30am. Registration required at the link.

More information


Sat 26th Oct - Mapleton Country Market

The Mapleton Country Market. 8am – 12pm at the Mapleton State School, Mapleton. Enjoy delicious food, organic sourdough, bunya nut pesto, fresh produce, jams and chutneys, honey, handmade toys, leather, clothing, arts and crafts made with love and so much more. Enjoy live music while sipping on a barista made coffee. Our local Blackall Range Lions Club will be cooking up a storm with bacon and egg rolls and sausage sizzle.

More information


Sat 26th Oct - Painting Workshop with Lauren Jones

Join Artist Lauren Jones for a full day intensive workshop of oil painting. She will guide you through a fun and 'no fuss' approach to oil painting in her Mapleton Studio. Learn the fundamentals of oil painting and colour mixing. Explore form and light through tonal studies.  Experience the fast-paced Alla Prima painting technique and its gestural mark making qualities. Take home a finished painting on canvas. All materials provided (drawing materials, paints, brushes, solvent, canvas paper and primed canvas). Tea and Coffee and light snacks included.  There is a cafe and bakery nearby (2min walk) for 1 hour lunch break.

More information


Sat 2nd Nov - Kureelpa and Dulong Community Crop Swap

Crop swaps are a great source of new and interesting produce as well as a valuable source of information including recipes and tips on gardening. The best way to make contact and/or find out more, is to head along and say hello. They are a lovely bunch of people. One small ask, if you are taking along to share something you have made, please label it clearly and list the ingredients.

Kureelpa and Surrounds Crop Swap is hosted at the Kureelpa and Dulong Community Hall at 9am on the first Saturday of the month.


Sat 2th Nov - Range Community Fun Day

Join us at The Range Community Fun Day on 2nd November at 64 Flaxton Dr, Mapleton! Bring your family and friends for a morning packed with fun activities from 9am to 12:30pm! Enjoy a Jumping Castle, Balloon Art, Face Painting, and more exciting activities! Our Rural Fire Brigade will also be there, along with a Kids Crafts station and a delightful Bake Sale. And don’t forget to grab a bite at the Sausage Sizzle or a coffee from the Coffee Van. Only $5 for an activity pass—everyone is welcome! Don’t miss out on this amazing community event! See you there!

Fun Day (PDF)


Fri 9th Nov - Probus Meeting

Probus meets on the second Friday of the month at the Mapleton Bowling Club, Post Office Road, Mapleton at 10am till 12 noon. Email nbrprobus@gmail.com for further details about Probus.


Wed 6th Nov - MADCA Monthly Meeting

6.30pm for 7pm. Monthly General meeting of the Mapleton and District Community Association at the Mapleton Bowls Club.

More information



Sat 9th Nov - Montville Market

Indulge in a scrumptious pancake breakfast on the deck overlooking the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Discover handcrafted treasures, fresh produce and tasty treats from local growers and makers. 7am - 12pm.

More information


For more local News and Events



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