Cooroy Rag Community Newspaper

04/10/2025

Saturday Spotlight: Carol Chistensen

When it comes to bringing a community together, few people have the touch of long-time Cooroy local Carol Christensen. For more than 15 years she has been the driving force behind Pink Up Cooroy, turning the town bright pink with the highly anticipated annual fundraising event supporting the McGrath Foundation’s breast care nurses.

“I love that the whole community gets behind it,” Carol said. “Businesses donate, the schools are involved, and local venues run special promotions. It’s wonderful to see.”

Carol’s story is firmly tied to Cooroy. “I’ve lived in Cooroy for 63 years! I was born in Maryborough and when I was very young, my family lived on Fraser Island where Dad worked as a timber cutter. I was probably about three or four when Mum decided it was time for me to start kindergarten, so we moved to the mainland and settled in Cooroy. I went to kindy in Cooroy, then Cooroy Primary, and later Noosa High.”

Her childhood was steeped in the timber industry. “Dad stayed in timber until it became clear the industry was coming to an end. He and my uncle eventually bought the Eumundi sawmill and ran it for a number of years before it closed in the late 1990s, when logging in the region stopped. Mum was a stay-at-home mum but worked hard to give us extras. She did the doctors’ surgery laundry for about 25 years, picked beans, did ironing – whatever odd jobs she could find.”

Carol later married Gary, one of 10 children, and together they raised two children while running the Belvedere Newsagency in Cooroy for three decades.

Her volunteering journey grew out of the town itself. “Back in 2010, when the Cooroy library was built on the old mill site, I was president of the Lower Mill Site Committee. The library staff started holding small pink fundraising events, which I joined in. When their budget was cut a few years later, I stepped in to keep it going – and I’ve been running it ever since.”

The stories shared at Pink Up Cooroy events are what keep her motivated. “The breakfasts are inspiring, especially when survivors speak about how much the McGrath breast care nurses have helped them. One woman told me her marriage might not have survived without the support of her nurse. Those stories remind me how important this work is.”

Recently, Carol’s dedication was recognised nationally. “I was invited to Government House in Sydney to celebrate the foundation’s 20th anniversary. It was an honour to be recognised alongside so many dedicated people.”

Despite her pivotal role, Carol insists Pink Up Cooroy belongs to the town. “After 30 years running a business in town, I know a lot of people and they rarely say no when I ask for help. It’s really the community that makes Pink Up Cooroy happen – I just coordinate it.”

Cooroy, she says, will always be part of her identity. “When I was growing up, everyone knew everyone. You couldn’t get into mischief without word getting back to your parents. It was a free-range sort of childhood; I knew I didn’t have to be home until the street lights came on,” Carol laughed. “I raised my children here, ran the newsagency for three decades, and have always felt supported. So Cooroy has always been a big part of my life.”

02/10/2025

Tewantin Visitor lnformation Centre Parkyn's Hut claims state honour again

Tewantin Visitor Information Centre, affectionately known as Parkyn’s Hut, has once again been recognised as Queensland’s best volunteer-run centre, taking out the 2025 Queensland Information Centres Association (QICA) award.

This is the third time the Tewantin Visitor Information Centre (VIC) has received the prestigious accolade, a testament to the dedication of its volunteer team who staff the centre seven days a week.

Tewantin Heritage & Historical Society, a not-for-profit organisation, operates the fully accredited VIC which sits in the heart of Tewantin’s town square. The Hut is not only a gateway for visitors but also a much-loved part of local life.

Representatives of the Tewantin VIC, Gail McBurney and Carol Williams, were congratulated at the awards presentation. The judges praised their entry as “high quality, succinct and well-presented”.

For tourists, the centre is often the first point of contact when arriving in the region. For locals, Parkyn’s Hut has become a hub for community connection. Residents regularly drop in to pick up newspapers, find out information for family and friends, or simply enjoy a friendly chat with the volunteers.

The Hut’s welcoming atmosphere and commitment to service were central to its win, with QICA acknowledging how important volunteer-run centres are in promoting tourism while fostering a sense of community.

Volunteer coordinator Gail McBurney said the team was thrilled by the recognition. “It’s wonderful to see the hard work of our volunteers acknowledged at a state level. Parkyn’s Hut is part of the fabric of Tewantin, and this award really belongs to the whole community,” she said.

Parkyn’s Hut is open daily and offers maps, brochures and local knowledge for visitors keen to explore Noosa, the hinterland and beyond.
Community members interested in lending a hand are encouraged to join the volunteer team. “We’re always looking for friendly faces to welcome people and share our love for the region,” Gail said.

01/10/2025

Cooroy’s super fish is back in the water

Cooroy's beloved ‘super fish’ Clinton Stanley is back in the water with a deeplypersonal mission, having nominated to swim for Noosa Masters at the Australian Masters Games in Canberra this October. The championships hold special significance as Australian Masters will be fundraising for Dementia Australia, with Clinton swimming to honour his father Chris who has Alzheimer's and has been in care at Arcare Peregian Springs for the past 18 months.

The 49-year-old swimmer, who was born with Down syndrome, maintains an unwavering dedication to his father, visiting him every Monday without fail. "It's so
amazing that Chris still knows him," Clinton’s mother Sue Stanley said. "Clinton finds it very hard knowing that his dad is losing the wonderful memories they have shared over the past 49 years together."

Clinton's remarkable swimming career includes representing Australia seven times and breaking 79 Down syndrome world records. At the upcoming championships, he will compete in six events across freestyle and butterfly over two days, drawing on 22 years of membership with Noosa Masters.

The cause resonates deeply given the scale of dementia's impact. In 2025, around 433,300 Australians live with dementia, with numbers expected to almost double in the next 30 years. When asked about swimming to raise funds for Dementia Australia, Clinton's heartfelt response was simple: II will swim for my dad and raise
much needed funds."

Sue encourages the community to support Clinton's efforts, noting that dementia has affected numerous individuals and their families locally. "Let's hope one day with funding and research there will be a cure," she said.

The Stanley family has faced challenging years since Chris was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2014. As Sue and Chris approach their 55th wedding anniversary next month, Chris now receives excellent care at Arcare Peregian Springs.

Clinton's achievements have long been celebrated locally, earning him the nickname "Cooroy Super Fish" from the Cooroy Rag in 2006. His community contributions extended beyond swimming when he served as a Queen's Baton Relay runner in both 2006 and 2018. During the 2006 relay, Clinton ran the full block from Cooroy Post Office around past IGA and back to the post office in what proved a memorable event for the Cooroy community. During Clinton's international swimming career, Chris travelled overseas as a dedicated supporter for both Clinton and the Australian team for many years.

All donations over $2 are tax deductible. Community members can support Clinton at fundraising.dementia.org.au/fundraisers/clintonstanley.

I'm raising money for a cause close to my heart and would love your support.

28/09/2025

Community concerns prompt review of Noosa River plan

Concerns raised by residents over the next stage of the Noosa River Waterway Management Plan have prompted Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to review aspects of the program before Stage 6 commences in October.

The plan, which has been in development for several years following extensive community consultation, is being rolled out in stages across the Noosa River and its tributaries. Stage 5 began on 31 May this year, restricting boats over five metres from anchoring within 30 metres of the northern shoreline of the river. Exemptions apply for boats up to 7.5 metres, which are allowed to anchor in the area for up to two hours per day, following advocacy from Noosa MP Sandy Bolton.

Stage 6 is due to begin on 1 October and introduces a limit of 28 days per year for anchoring vessels over five metres on the Noosa River system below Lake Cooroibah. Some residents, including members of the Cootharaba Community Association (CCA), have voiced concerns that the staged rollout could result in unintended consequences such as vessels being pushed further upstream and creating a ‘dumping ground’ in less regulated parts of the river.

Independent Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton MP said she has sought reassurances from MSQ that the plan will be applied consistently across the entire river system.

She facilitated a recent meeting between CCA members and senior MSQ representatives, including general manager Kell Dillon, to discuss the community’s concerns.

“It was a very productive meeting where MSQ reiterated their commitment and took on board the issues raised on the 28-day rule and its potential unintended consequences to Lake Cooroibah and beyond by rolling out in stages,” Sandy said.

She confirmed MSQ is reviewing the details of Stage 6 to ensure the plan avoids negative impacts. “It is expected that a decision by MSQ will be made in the next month regarding any changes to the staged approach or schedule to address concerns raised,” she said.

The Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg MP, has also provided reassurance in a letter to residents that the plan will encompass the entire Noosa River system once fully implemented.

MSQ said the staged rollout is designed to balance safety priorities with community expectations, while also giving time for those who will be affected by the reforms to adjust. The agency noted that immediate safety concerns need to be addressed first, but the long-term goal remains the implementation of restrictions and rules across the whole river system and its tributaries.

Sandy said she welcomed the willingness of both the minister and MSQ to address issues as they arise. “I thank both Minister for TMR Brent Mickelberg, as well as
MSQ’s general manager Kell Dillon and the MSQ team, for their responsiveness and for providing clarity on the intended outcome of the Noosa River plan,” she said.

She also thanked the community for their collaborative approach. “Over the coming weeks and months, we will continue to work with MSQ and our community during the various implementation stages of the Noosa River Waterway Management Plan and to update as further information becomes available. In addition, thank you to
residents who raised their concerns through the appropriate channels in a collaborative manner, which, as we have seen previously, is very successful.”

Further stages of the plan, including the extension of the 28-day anchoring restrictions to the entire river and its tributaries, will be announced by MSQ in coming months.

Residents are encouraged to provide feedback to MSQ via [email protected] and to copy correspondence to Sandy’s office at [email protected].

For now, the focus remains on ensuring the plan delivers the intended benefits of protecting the Noosa River system while balancing the needs of the boating community and the broader public who value the river as one of the region’s most important natural assets.

27/09/2025

Saturday Spotlight: Hinterland Hearing brings clear sound closer

Cooroy has welcomed a new permanent hearing service with the opening of Hinterland Hearing, founded by audiologist Nick Parkyn.
Nick, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Clinical Audiology, and is a full member of Audiology Australia, said he has wanted to establish a clinic in Cooroy for more than a decade.

“I chose Cooroy for many reasons,” he said. “Many locals knew my grandparents [long term locals] and I’ve found hinterland clients are down-to-earth people I especially want to work with. Also, there are no permanent hearing clinics in Cooroy, only two companies that visit monthly. Cooroy is vibrant and in need of services.”

Hinterland Hearing is the only full-time, independent hearing clinic in the town. Nicks said independence gives him the freedom to choose from all brands and offer a wider range of tests than many other providers do. These include high-frequency tinnitus assessments, children’s hearing tests, and earwax removal using suction instead of water. The clinic is also Brainwave TRx accredited, offering evidence-based tinnitus treatments that usually require a trip to Maroochydore.

Nick is quick to point out the importance of audiologists. “Unlike audiometrists, audiologists have a minimum of a master’s degree. That extra training matters because hearing loss is complex and not an easy fix. Unlike with vision loss, you can’t just put a lens at the right angle. Hearing rehabilitation requires devices with computer chips making millions of calculations per second, combined with brain training. The experience of your audiologist is key to helping you come through with clearer hearing and ultimately a healthier, easier, and more enjoyable life.”

That personal, hands-on approach also shapes the way Nick runs his business. “I prefer to run a small business well, now and into the future. Keeping it local matters. Expansion can sometimes lose the soul and community of the work,” he said.

Hinterland Hearing can be contacted via www.hinterlandhearing.com

25/09/2025

Heart of hinterland: the Cooroy Rag gives $10,000 in grants

The Cooroy Rag celebrated another successful community grants program at a relaxed evening at Crackerjack Cooroy on 10 September. The gathering honoured recipients of the 2025 Community Grants, which distributed $10,000 to local organisations making a difference in their communities.

The grants program represents the Cooroy Rag Community Newspaper’s commitment to reinvesting profits back into the community. Local organisations within the paper's distribution area were eligible to receive between $500 and $2,500 to support their community work and future initiatives.

Ian Rollins, president of the volunteer-run Cooroy Rag Committee, expressed the organisation's pride in supporting local groups. “We’ve been fortunate enough to donate some of the Cooroy Rag’s earnings back into the community. We selected a handful of wonderful organisations, many not-for-profits and community groups, to help them achieve their goals and move forward with their plans. Some of these organisations have truly great initiatives, and we’re really thrilled to support them.”

He added, “The grants program has been running for quite some time. The paper itself has taken on different shapes and sizes over the years, but giving back has always been an important part of what we do … it feels really good to be part of that legacy.”

Recipients thanked the Cooroy Rag committee for its practical and heartfelt support. “We’re so grateful to the Cooroy Rag for this generous donation,” Marie Rene, program director at Kanyini Connections Hoofbeats Sanctuary, said. “The funds will go toward building a shaded pergola area at Hoofbeats Sanctuary, creating a safe and welcoming space for both clients and volunteers. This addition will benefit around 100 people each year, giving them comfort and connection while they take part in our equine therapy programs. It means so much to have the community behind us in making things happen. Thank you.”

Doug Oaklands of the Cooroy Food Pantry said the grant of $2,000 would help keep the shelves full for those in need. “At the moment we’re almost emptying the cupboards regularly. There’s a lot of pressure, but the community has been amazing with donations of food and support. This is the first time we’ve received a grant through the Cooroy Rag. When we started out, we needed help with advertising, and we came to Sarah [the operations manager] who was such a big help in setting up our advertising material, so we kept on coming back. And the support has grown from there.”

Richard Wallace from Little Seed Theatre Company (awarded $2,500), explained the significance for future productions. “Next year we have our decade of Shakespeare at the Lake, and we’d like to sell well over 1,000 tickets to that show. This grant means we will have not just the funds for the production but the recognition for what we do, which is really valuable.”

Other grants included Sunshine Butterflies, $2,500 for stage two of the Accessible Pathway Loop; Pomona Community House, $2,000 for essential programs and workshops; Cooroy Memorial Hall Association, $1,000 for centenary celebrations; Tall Trees Art, $700 to pay nine Indigenous youth performers; Kandanga Cemetery Association, $500 for website development; and Mary Valley Artslink, $500 for assistance with a new community venue.

The evening brought together community leaders, volunteers and recipients, celebrating the projects that strengthen local connections. The 2025 Cooroy Rag Community Grants program is a reminder of how much can be achieved when the community invests in its own.

23/09/2025

Plenty of happy faces out and about in the hinterland for the Cooroy Rag Distribution Day!

Pick up a copy or read it online cooroyrag.com.au/read-online 📰

22/09/2025

It's distribution day!

The latest edition of the Cooroy Rag is out now across the hinterland with the latest local stories, including:

🚜 Locust plague fears grow as farmers call for help
🛶 Community concerns prompt review of Noosa River plan
☎️ Call grows for urgent release of aged care
🐾 Paws Patrol keeps dogs on track
🏊 Cooroy’s super fish is back in the water
📍 Parkyn's Hut in Tewantin claims state honour again
🏉 Pomona Demons Pomona Aussie Rules Football Club. celebrate half a century
🎁 the Cooroy Rag gives $10,000 in grants
🚧 Ed Webb Park upgrade enhances safety

You'll find all of our regular features here too, including Community Characters, Property, Sports, Health, Schools, Puzzles and Comics and more.

Pick up a paper or read it online: cooroyrag.com.au/read-online/

The Cooroy Rag - connecting our community since 1961.

22/09/2025

Looking for something fun for the kids these holidays?

20/09/2025

Golden Gloves glory for Cooroy’s Impact boxers

Impact Boxing and Fitness Centre has once again proved its strength on the national stage, returning from the 2025 Open International Golden Gloves with a haul of medals and powerful performances across the board.

The five-day tournament hosted nearly 500 bouts across two rings, and all seven Team Impact fighters walked away having done themselves proud. Head coach Mark Evans said he couldn’t have asked for more from his athletes. “Every single one of our boxers gave it everything they had,” he said. “They showed skill, heart and respect, both in and out of the ring.”

Among the highlights was Luke Austin who fought three times in as many days to win the 70 kg Elite Men’s Open title. “Luke’s composure under pressure is second to none,” Mark said. “He’s on a real winning streak and just keeps improving every time he steps in the ring.”

In the Junior 60 kg division, Theo Rivera also impressed, notching up three commanding wins to take home his own Golden Gloves. “Theo boxed with real maturity,” Mark said. “He stayed focused and stuck to the plan, and it paid off.”

Mika Davey stormed through the 57 kg Youth division, winning all three bouts by stoppage. “She didn’t just win, she dominated,” he said. “Three stoppages in three fights. That kind of performance makes a real statement.”

Jackson ‘The Jackhammer’ Davey added another win to his unbeaten record, bringing it to 6–0 and securing yet another Golden Gloves. “Jackson’s progress is incredible,” said Mark. “His discipline, his drive – it’s all coming together.”

Several boxers narrowly missed out on gold, including Slade Gray who fought hard in the 52 kg Youth Female division but lost in a tight split-points decision. “Slade gave everything. It was one of those tough calls, but she’ll bounce back stronger,” Mark said.

Zaden Johnson also earned silver after a hard-fought final. “It could have gone either way,” Mark said. “He showed real grit.”

A special mention went to 58-year-old Neville Wienert who made his boxing debut in the Masters division and walked away with silver. “Neville is an inspiration to all of us. He proved that it’s never too late to challenge yourself.”

Skye Wienert also impressed, winning her semi-final before narrowly missing gold in her return to the ring after a nine-month break.

With the Under 19 State Titles just weeks away, Mark said the team was already preparing for the next challenge. “This squad is hungry,” he said. “We’re learning from every fight and pushing each other to get better.” He also thanked those behind the scenes for their support. “Massive thanks to my assistant coach and beautiful wife Kylie Evans for her tireless work both in the corner and behind the scenes,” said Mark. “And to Andrew Davey, thank you for your time, passion, and dedication to the team.”

19/09/2025

Breaking barriers at Hinterland Health Expo

The Cooroy Memorial Hall will transform into a hub of health and wellbeing when The Hinterland Health Expo from LiveLife Pharmacy Cooroy returns next Friday, 26 September, bringing together a wide variety of local health professionals and services under one roof.

Event coordinator Eliza Jackson said the expo continues to grow each year, offering locals an accessible way to explore health, wellness and lifestyle options close to home. “Attendees can meet with a wide range of professionals including pharmacists, nutritionists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, mental health specialists, naturopaths and holistic practitioners,” she said. “There will also be interactive demonstrations such as karate and fitness sessions, plus free health checks and product samples.”

This year’s theme, ‘Breaking Barriers’, introduces an expanded line-up of exhibitors. “We’re excited to welcome AwakenedSHE, Generative Life, Jo Clark Coaching, Queensland Health Community Preventative Health, Senior Helpers, Pomona and District Community House, Village Midwifery, Jojoba, Antipodes, and Uniquely Natural,” Eliza said. “These new additions bring expertise across women’s empowerment, life coaching, preventative health, maternity care and natural skincare.”

Children will also be catered for, with a free workshop hosted by Matt Fiddes Martial Arts. “Their marquee will be set up outside, so parents can enjoy the expo while the kids break boards and learn a few moves with the friendly team,” Eliza said.

“Regional communities like Cooroy often have fewer opportunities to access a variety of health services in one place. Hosting a dedicated health and lifestyle expo makes these resources more visible and approachable, helping bridge gaps in awareness and accessibility.”

Eliza said she hopes visitors leave feeling motivated and connected. “We want people to feel informed, supported and inspired to take positive steps in their health journey. Every attendee will also receive a show bag filled with goodies, and many stalls will offer free samples and special promotions.”

The Hinterland Health Expo will be held at Cooroy Memorial Hall, Friday 26 September 2025, from 9 am to 1 pm. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.

18/09/2025

Menopause: health changes in every woman

For many women, the journey through perimenopause and menopause can feel like navigating a minefield. Fluctuating hormones can bring a range of changes, from hot flushes and sleep disturbances to mood shifts, memory lapses and differences in overall well-being.

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, diagnosed after 12 months without a period. It usually occurs between ages 45 and 55, though perimenopause, the lead-up to menopause, can begin years earlier. While these transitions are a natural part of life, many women can find them to be confusing, isolating and overwhelming without the right support.

Whether women are beginning to notice the first signs of perimenopause, such as irregular cycles, brain fog, night sweats, changes in energy, or are fully in menopause, healthcare professionals can help patients make sense of what’s happening and offer tools to manage the challenges.

Education is key. Once women understand what’s happening, they can make informed choices about lifestyle strategies, medical treatments and emotional support. The team of doctors and healthcare professionals at Maple Street Surgery advocate that no one should have to navigate menopause alone.

“That’s why we provide education, individualised health strategies and supportive resources designed to empower women with knowledge and confidence,” a spokesperson said. “Our approach is holistic, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional and lifestyle factors, so that patients feel heard, supported and equipped to thrive during this stage of life.”

Bone and heart health are also important considerations. Declining oestrogen can increase the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. And symptoms vary widely from person to person. Some women breeze through with few issues, while others experience symptoms that significantly affect daily life.

Local health professionals encourage women to seek advice early rather than struggle in silence. With the right care, the journey through menopause can become not a minefield, but a pathway towards resilience, renewal and greater self-awareness.

To arrange a free menopause health assessment, phone Maple Street Surgery on 5447 6644.