As the Christmas countdown begins, Scenic Rim Regional Council has solved the present problem with an exhibition that is Gift Wrapped.
Officially opened by Scenic Rim Arts Reference Group Chair Cr Michael Enright at The Centre Beaudesert on Friday evening, the exhibition features works by artists, artisans and authors from the Scenic Rim and beyond that would make the ideal gift or acquisition for a collection.
“Gift Wrapped has something for everyone so, if you are searching for a gift for that special someone who has everything, look no further than the array of bespoke creations that Council is proud to showcase in this exhibition,” he said.
“Many of the pieces available for purchase are one-off works of art unique to the Scenic Rim and reflect the creative spirit of our community.
“Some of the pieces really are a piece of the Scenic Rim, such as Larissa Warren’s ceramics which have been created from volcanic clays sourced from Tamborine Mountain with the support of locals and traditional owners.”
The exhibition showcases beautiful paintings, works on paper, sculptures, pottery, jewellery, textiles, fibre works and even books by authors including Robyn Dobbs, Jenny and Rick Old, Ailsa Rolley and Gillian Wells.
Painters, sculptors, potters and jewellers whose work features in the exhibition include Rhiannon Barrett-Brook, Zela Bissett, Renata Buziak, Nicole Crosswell, Waylene Currie, Heather Dale, Therese Flynn-Clarke, Tamlyn Geiger, Claudje Lecompte, Twisted Murf, Felicity Smith, Larissa Warren, recent Swell Sculpture Festival award winner Colleen Lavender and Nicci Parry-Jones of PJ Pottery, who in 2022 won an award at the Sydney Teapot Show for one of her steampunk-inspired creations.
With works of wearable art, textile and fibre artists Erica Bates, Polly Cameron, Shannon Hunter, Bonny Shore and Cindy Wood are also represented in the exhibition.
“Gift Wrapped showcases the wealth of talent in our creative community and regular visitors to The Centre’s galley will be familiar with the works of many of the artists featured in this eclectic mix which ranges from practical everyday items to the purely ornamental,” Cr Enright said.
“Whether you are looking for the perfect present or something to spoil yourself, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in Gift Wrapped.”
Already wrapped for gift giving are handmade cheese boards by Rick Old, who uses Huon pine from Tasmania, pine, silky oak, jarrah and mahogany, each signed and dated by their creator.
The Scenic Rim’s Indigenous heritage has been captured in works by Waylene Currie, whose artworks draw on her connection to culture, country and stories of the dreaming.
Textures in Gift Wrapped range from rugged wireworks by Twisted Murf to soft cyanotype silk scarves by Renata Buziak.
The exhibition, which runs until Saturday 16 December, has something for every taste and budget, from Heather Dale’s hand-painted watercolour cards to major works of art and sculpture.
“As our final exhibition of 2023, Gift Wrapped beautifully wraps up our cultural year and ties it up neatly in a bow,” Cr Enright said.
Image: Celebrating the opening of the Gift Wrapped exhibition are (from left) artist Waylene Currie, Mununjali Elder Aunty Roslyn Yuke,Scenic Rim Arts Reference Group Chair Cr Michael Enright and artist Tamlyn Geiger. Photo credit Irene Girsch-Danby.
Eighteen members of the Scenic Rim community became the region’s newest Australians yesterday in an early celebration of Citizenship Day on Sunday 17 September.
The ceremony at The Centre Beaudesert represented the final step in the journey towards citizenship for residents from across the Scenic Rim who have come from 12 nations – the United Kingdom, Malaysia, the United States, Czechoslovakia, Wales, Columbia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Chile, Tonga and Indonesia – to make Australia their home.
Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said Australian Citizenship Day, first celebrated in 2001, was an opportunity for everyone to reflect on the responsibilities and privileges of living in one of the world’s most culturally diverse nations.
“Recently released census statistics have shown that half of all Australians were born overseas or have a parent who was, and our region has a proud history of welcoming people from all over the world,” he said.
“In 2021, more than 6,450 people who were living in our region were born overseas, eight per cent of whom had arrived in Australia within the previous five years.
“In January this year we welcomed as Australian citizens 23 Scenic Rim residents from 10 nations and in June another 15 from nine countries pledged their allegiance to Australia and its people.”
Since 2018, the Scenic Rim has welcomed new citizens from nations as diverse as South Korea, Belgium, Canada, England, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, the Philippines, the Russian Federation, Scotland, Wales, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Romania, Zimbabwe, Turkey, Poland, New Caledonia, Hungary, Argentina, Brazil, China, Fiji, Greece, Israel, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Hong Kong, Colombia, Chile, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Egypt and Mexico.
“Whatever our origins, our Australian citizenship is the common bond which unites us all,” Mayor Christensen said.
“Ours is the land of the fair go, in which respect and compassion underpin our care for each other and our willingness to reach out to those around us in times of need.
“By becoming an Australian citizen, you make a commitment to these values, and to contribute to our evolving Australian story.”
The Scenic Rim’s newest Australians are as follows:
Candidate
Born in
Now residing
Wayne Adcock
United Kingdom
Kalbar
Rajeswary Anil
Malaysia
Tamborine
Patricia Bover
United States
Kooralbyn
Jana Brixi
Czechoslovakia
Witheren
Paul Burton
Wales
Tamborine Mountain
Diana Diaz Aldana
Colombia
Gleneagle
Timothy Gough
United Kingdom
Tamborine Mountain
Dean Jackson
New Zealand
Teviotville
George Kila
Papua New Guinea
Beaudesert
Jessica Kirk
United Kingdom
Kerry
Philippa Lyons
United Kingdom
Peak Crossing
Sheryl Macalintal
Philippines
Beaudesert
Leonardo Orostegui Muller
Chile
Kalbar
Paull Pardoe-Matthews
United Kingdom
North Tamborine
Rheslyn Radana
Philippines
Templin
Lesley Sawyer
United Kingdom
Tamborine Mountain
Paula Siale
Tonga
Hoya
Dennis Tampemawa
Indonesia
Canungra
Cr Virginia West and Mayor Greg Christensen welcome new citizens from Canungra and Witheren, Dennis Tampemawa and Jana BrixiThe Scenic Rim’s newest citizens from Tamborine and Tamborine Mountain – Timothy Gough, Rajeswary Anil, Paull Pardoe-Matthews, Paul Burton and Lesley Sawyer – are welcomed by Deputy Mayor Jeff McConnell, Cr Amanda Hay and Mayor Greg ChristensenCr Michael Enright, Cr Virginia West and Mayor Greg Christensen welcome new Australians residing at Beaudesert, Kooralbyn, Gleneagle and Kerry, Jessica Kirk, Sheryl Macalintal, George Kila, Diana Diaz Aldana and Patricia Bover
The first Scenic Rim Wedding Expo at Tamborine Mountain in the Scenic Rim will be held on Sunday 16 July, featuring over 60 suppliers
Plus – hear from newly weds Anabelle and Grant Rogers about their incredible wedding by Cedar Creek in the mountains – how it happened and where!
The business of love is booming, and Queensland’s Scenic Rim has established itself as the ceremony capital, complete with stunning natural beauty, insta-famous vow moments, dance-the-night away venues from vineyards and rustic barns to flower and alpaca farms, garden estates and luxury, boutique lodges, breathtaking landscapes and a list of world class suppliers who couples turn to, to curate perfect moments.
Put simply, weddings in the Scenic Rim are going off! As a result the first Scenic Rim Wedding Expo at Tamborine Mountain in the Scenic Rim will be held on Sunday 16 July, featuring over 60 suppliers from world class venues, to celebrants, acclaimed florists, stylists, makeup artists, designers, alpaca farms and musicians. IMAGERY HERE of a recent stunning wedding in the region.
The numbers tell the story!
“The wedding industry is excellent business, and brings significant revenue to the Scenic Rim which has over 35 registered venues across the region. Currently the region is hosting two to three weddings at each venue each week. This in turn generates overnight stays of at least one to two nights for guests – extrapolate this out, and overnight stays can equate to 3000 visitors per day to the region for weddings alone,’ said Scenic Rim Wedding Expo organiser and CEO of Destination Scenic Rim, Christelle Moller.
“The demand for local wedding venues, accommodation, catering, photography, florists, event planners, transport providers, stylists, musicians and other related services stimulates business activities and in turn, supports a network of local vendors and suppliers. Plus we are seeing such a spike in couples asking for locally sourced menus, which is wonderful.”
“Not only that, weddings create a sense of wonderful nostalgia, with many couples returning for anniversaries each year,” she said.
At the stunning Cedar Creek Lodges at Tamborine Mountain, weddings are a booming business. Last year alone the property hosted 216 weddings. Since re-opening after COVID, they have hosted 539 weddings and over the past five years, 698 weddings.
“Currently, we have 199 weddings booked for 2023 – we’ve hosted 60 weddings in the last three months alone – and are still taking calls and looking to 2024, we have 119 booked,” said Tamara Gray from Cedar Creek Lodges.
“We are set in an ancient rainforest on a mountain by a gorgeous creek, and we’ve created ceremony locations across the property, what’s not to love? Plus, we are a one-stop shop – multiple ceremony and reception venues, multiple accommodation options from luxury and five star glamping, to campsites, and we can accommodate 200 guests, with an onsite restaurant that caters for after-wedding breakfasts, or pre wedding dinners. This is what couples are searching for in 2023,” she said.
Gold Coast couple Anabelle and Grant Rogers were married at Cedar Creek Lodges in April of this year and said it was the perfect destination.
“We wanted to keep it intimate with elements of an elopement, amongst the forest, with running water nearby. Neutral tones and a boho theme was the vibe. My dress was all lace and Grant wore a tan coloured suit and all the flowers were white, blush and toffee colour,” said Anabelle.
“While we both grew up by the beach, we’ve always been drawn to mountains, lakes and greenery. It’s so beautiful and calming in the Scenic Rim. It’s a perfect destination for our wedding.”
“I used to joke with Grant about getting married by a waterfall, so when we saw Cedar Creek running beside the ceremony and reception areas, and being amongst the forest we were sold! Cedar Creek Lodges was also well priced with so much included – the food and beverage packages, DJ, multiple spaces to use as well as a wedding planner and on-the-day coordinator! This was amazing as it kept us on track and we could sit back on the day and not worry. It was perfect ! And the backdrop was stunning!”
“Having so much already looked after meant we could share those little moments together, just us. From the first look and walking down the aisle to the dance floor and checking in with each other throughout the day/evening. Sharing our day with people we’ve known most of our lives (we met at 13 years old and are now 33!) was so special!”
Gold Coast couple Anabelle and Grant Rogers were married at Cedar Creek Lodges in the Scenic Rim
COUPLES LOOKING TO WED, COMMIT OR JUST EXPLORE THE POSSIBLITY OF A CEREMONY IN THE SCENIC RIM MUST COME TO THE WEDDING EXPO ON SUNDAY JULY 16!
Scenic Rim Wedding Expo at Tamborine Mountain
Hosted by Destination Scenic Rim
Sunday 16 July from 10am to 3pm at the Vonda Youngman Community Centre, 2-4 Knoll Rd, Tamborine Mountain
FREE entry, simply arrive on the day or register via the Scenic Rim Wedding Expo Facebook Event page to go in the draw to win fabulous prizes …. the first 200 registered couples through the door receive an Expo Bag on arrival.
EXHIBITORS INCLUDE:
Explosive Entertainment – ENTERTAINMENT DJ/Photobooth
MEET THIS AWESOME FOURSOME at the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular June 17 and 18, 2023
From tiny Shetland ponies to the towering Shire horses, all Clydesdales great and small will be celebrated in the Scenic Rim THIS weekend (June 17 and 18) for the hugely popular Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular!
Now in its 11th year, the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular is the richest Clydesdale Show in the Southern Hemisphere, where the grand champions of the breed are judged, the heritage of the breed is shared, and the history of the breed in Australia is toasted. It is a breed that in 2023 is listed as ‘vulnerable’ internationally.
Known as the Gentle Giants of the horse world and recognised in Australia as ‘the breed that built the nation’, Queensland has a long history with the Clydesdale.
“Our region owes much to the majestic Clydesdales which played a key role in establishing the Scenic Rim’s incredible agricultural base by clearing vast tracts of land, ploughing the paddocks and bringing in the harvest,” said Organising Sub-Committee Chair, Rick Stanfield. “While the advent of machinery saw a decline in the breed in the 1960s, the efforts of fan, breeders and this event committee to preserve and celebrate the 130-year history of these gentle giants here has resulted in the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular becoming one of Queensland’s most significant events.”
The event generates some $2.3 million for the region, generated 10,109 visitor nights over the weekend in 2022 and contributed to more than 13,000 visitor nights throughout Queensland.
The full schedule of Clydesdale competition takes place in the main arena, while rare trades are showcased including harness making, blacksmithing, wheelwrights, horse-drawn demonstrations & driving displays, whip plaiting and more. Additional highlights include the Queensland Whip Cracking Championships, World Billy Boiling Championships, wood chopping, working dog displays, Friesian Horse Troupe performances, artisan coopering & bush poetry.
In tribute to the Scottish descendants who moved to the region and brought with them their beloved Clydesdale, the event includes a stirring massing of Pipes and Drums, Calling of the Clans, the Clydesdale and Clan class and traditional Scottish caber tossing. There’ll be haggis burgers a whisky bar and Scots are encouraged to attend in their clan kilts!
“The event will feature some of the top Clydesdales in the country and shouldn’t be missed by anyone who has an interest in this magnificent breed, or anyone who loves horses, or for that matter anyone who wants a brilliant experience in the country where there is literally something to watch and experience at every moment!” said event organiser Greta Stanfield.
The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular will be staged in the middle of the region’s famous EAT LOCAL MONTH, creating just another reason to visit, stay and experience!
Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular 2023 Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th June 2023 Boonah Showgrounds at 8 Melbourne Street, Boonah 8 Melbourne Street, Boonah Queensland 4310 8am until late both days More information: https://clydesdalespectacular.com.au Tickets: www.clydesdalespectacular.com.au
The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular is a sub-committee of the Boonah Show Society Inc. and is supported by the Scenic Rim Regional Council. ABOUT THE SCENIC RIM: In a major international coup, the Scenic Rim was named by global travel authority Lonely Planet as one of the hottest destinations to visit in 2022, and this year delicious. magazine added to the call! Just an hour from Brisbane and 30 minutes from the heart of the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim stretches from Canungra to The Lost World, Beaudesert to Boonah, Tamborine Mountain to Kalbar and is home to the ancient World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, six historic national parks, charming towns and villages, adventure parks, farm stays, craft breweries, boutique wineries, ecolodges, tantalising gourmet experiences, world class camping and glamping and breathtaking spaces in between. It’s a region of more than 4,200 square kilometres of rich volcanic soil surrounded by ancient mountains and home to thousands of farmers and food creators, more than 30,000ha of parkland, plus three dams – Lake Moogerah, Lake Maroon, and Wyaralong Dam.
The much-anticipated Logan Writers Festival is set to captivate the literary enthusiasts of Logan once again, as it returns for its third installment on the 9th and 10th of June at the esteemed Logan West Community Centre. This exciting two-day event, running from 9am to 4pm, promises to be a literary extravaganza for all ages.
With a diverse lineup of esteemed speakers hailing from various genres, the Logan Writers Festival is set to offer an enriching experience for attendees. From mystery aficionados to those seeking inspiration to overcome life’s challenges, the festival will cater to a broad spectrum of interests. Esteemed authors and industry professionals will grace the festival’s panels, sharing their insights on writing captivating mystery stories, navigating adversity, crafting chilling tales for young readers, delving into the world of audiobooks and podcasts, and exploring the intricacies of the publishing industry.
The festival is proud to announce InHouse Publishing as its platinum sponsor alongside Logan City Council. As a local publisher deeply committed to fostering the growth of the literary community, InHouse Publishing’s support is invaluable in bringing this event to fruition. Their dedication to nurturing local talent and promoting the written word aligns perfectly with the festival’s vision of empowering and inspiring writers.
Beyond the captivating talks and discussions, attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in a literary shopping spree with a range of book merchandise available for purchase. The festival will also provide cozy spaces for readers to immerse themselves in the pages of a new book, making it an ideal gathering for literary enthusiasts and families alike. The Logan West Community Centre, with its warm and inviting atmosphere, will serve as the perfect backdrop for fostering community connections and celebrating the joy of reading.
The theme of this year’s festival is “Journey,” symbolizing the incredible paths writers embark on when creating stories that transport readers to different worlds and ignite their imaginations. Through thought-provoking conversations and engaging presentations, the festival aims to explore the various aspects of a writer’s journey, inspiring both established and aspiring authors to embark on their own literary adventures.
The Logan Writers Festival has become a beloved event in Logan, providing a platform for literary exploration, community engagement, and the celebration of creativity. As it returns for its third year, the festival promises to surpass all expectations, inviting attendees to embark on a literary journey like no other.
For more information about the Logan Writers Festival, please visit www.loganwritersfestival.com.au or contact Rhiannon D. Elton, President of the Logan Chamber of Commerce and Arts Champion at arts@loganchamber.com.au
About the Logan Writers Festival: The Logan Writers Festival is an annual event held in Logan that celebrates the power of the written word and the vibrant literary community. Bringing together acclaimed authors, industry professionals, and enthusiastic readers, the festival offers a diverse range of talks, panels, and activities for all ages. Through its engaging programming and inclusive atmosphere, the festival aims to inspire, educate, and entertain attendees while fostering a love for literature and storytelling.
Scenic Rim residents and visitors are being urged to cast their votes for Tamborine Mountain, which is in the running for its second Queensland Top Tourism Town Award.
Celebrated in 2022 as an outstanding regional destination with a community committed to excellence in visitor experiences and growing its tourism industry, Tamborine Mountain is again a finalist in the Top Tourism Town Award category for a population of more than 5000.
Mayor Greg Christensen urged the Scenic Rim community to show its support for Tamborine Mountain which is up against Bowen, Bundaberg, Caloundra, Redcliffe, Rockhampton and Townsville for the 2023 Top Tourism Town Award.
“Tucked into the hinterland Tamborine Mountain is a hidden gem, spanning boutique wineries, historic pubs, charming gift shops, art galleries and natural wonders,” he said.
It offers a unique range of experiences, from family adventures to romantic getaways, fine food and beverages, rural delights and world-class accommodation – all of which has contributed to the Scenic Rim’s recognition by the Lonely Planet guide as one of the world’s top 10 regions to visit,” he said.
“Last year’s Top Tourism Award was the result of voters from across Australia and beyond nominating Tamborine Mountain as their favourite destination for weddings, honeymoons, special events and extra-long weekend adventures.”
Presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the Top Tourism Towns awards will be announced in June with the winners of each of the three categories going on to represent Queensland in the national awards later this year.
Division 1 Councillor Amanda Hay encouraged the local community to back the Scenic Rim region by voting for Tamborine Mountain as a Top Tourism Town in 2023.
“Tamborine Mountain is a jewel in the crown of the Scenic Rim and is a key contributor to the local economy with tourism providing valuable jobs for local people,” she said.
Voting for the 2023 awards through the QTIC website at qtic.com.au/top-tourism-award/ closes on Wednesday 24 May.
Each voter goes into a draw to win a three-night stay at the five-star RACV Noosa Resort.
