Mapleton Lilyponds Welcomes Inclusive Communication Boards!
A fantastic new addition has arrived at Mapleton Lilyponds: communication boards designed to break down barriers for those with communication difficulties.

This project, a collaboration between Sunshine Sign and Sing and the Sunshine Coast Council, empowers individuals to express themselves through pictures and Key Word Sign (KWS), a form of sign language. These boards help bridge communication gaps, allowing people to easily share their needs and choices. Using them is simple; point to pictures or sign and speak simultaneously.

Funded by First 5 Forever, this initiative promotes early literacy and creates a more inclusive environment for everyone.These boards are a wonderful step forward for our park.

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Craft Group's Australiana Quilt to Benefit Cancer Council
A stunning quilt, lovingly crafted by the Mapleton craft group, is set to be raffled to raise funds for the Cancer Council.

Each of the quilt's squares showcases a unique piece of Australiana, from vibrant parrots to delicate native flowers, all meticulously created using appliqué and detailed stitching. Over a year, members worked on this collaborative project, selecting a diverse array of fabrics and techniques to illustrate their chosen themes.

The quilt, a testament to the group's skill and dedication, will be displayed at the Mapleton library from April 5th to May 14th, with raffle tickets available for purchase at various local events. This beautiful creation not only celebrates Australia's natural beauty but also supports a vital cause within our community.

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Community Alert: Piano Scam Targeting Residents
A sophisticated scam is circulating that targets residents with enticing offers of free pianos. Scammers often pose as grieving individuals and use emotional stories to lure victims. They then pressure victims into paying increasing fees for "moving" and "storage". To appear legitimate, scammers may exploit trust by referencing community organisations or friends. Residents should be wary of such offers and avoid providing personal or financial information.

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Bring Warmth and Hope to Ukraine.
Families in Ukraine are without reliable heating or cooking, their lives shattered by ongoing conflict. The Blackall Range Lions, in collaboration with Lions International, is answering their desperate need with wood-burning stoves. Imagine your family, huddled in a damaged home, finally able to cook a warm meal and find a sliver of comfort thanks to these stoves.

Your generous donation, big or small, will directly provide these essential tools, each costing $250, ensuring warmth and sustenance for those who have lost everything. Join the Lions Club extending a hand of hope; every contribution brings them closer to their goal of delivering 15,000 stoves by the end of April 2025.

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Piers Lane at Lucas Parklands
Piers Lane AO captivated a Montville audience at Lucas Parklands with a stunning piano recital, despite the April humidity. His program, featuring Schubert's emotive Sonata in D major and Chopin's powerful "Military Polonaise," showcased his exceptional range. Lane's rendition of Rachmaninoff's "The Bells of Moscow" resonated deeply, highlighting the composer's dramatic intensity.

The concert's highlight was Schulz-Evler's dazzling "Arabesque on The Blue Danube Waltz," a display of pure virtuosity. A special finale with Ian Lucas added a unique, memorable touch. The event proved Lucas Parklands' continued commitment to bringing world-class music to our community.

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Sunshine Coast Sisters Help Power Global Education Initiative
A Mapleton family is making a global impact through their dedication to the "Teacher in a Box" (TIB) program. This initiative delivers vital educational resources to remote communities without internet access, using portable server technology.

The Huth family's commitment has driven the program's expansion, with hundreds of units now deployed worldwide. Their efforts are particularly focused on supporting communities in regions like Papua New Guinea, where access to educational materials is severely limited.

By providing offline access to a vast digital library, the family is helping to bridge the digital divide and empower thousands. Their work highlights how a local initiative can have far-reaching, transformative effects on global education. The family's partnership with KingIT in Nambour further solidifies the community-driven nature of this project.

Recently, the Zonta Club of Blackall Range supported TIB with a donation to a program in Papua New Guinea, highlighting the local community's role in this worldwide effort to bridge the digital divide.

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Mapleton Lilyponds to Gain New Sports Court!
The community has spoken, and a new basketball/netball half court is coming to Mapleton Lilyponds! A recent survey revealed overwhelming support, with 87% of respondents backing the project. Residents also favoured the proposed location near the skate park, with 81% approval.

Responding to community feedback, pickleball line markings will be included, adding to the court's versatility. Thanks to this strong community endorsement, funding has been secured, and construction is slated for this year.

Wuthering Heights of Mapleton Day Cancelled
It is with regret that the organising committee announces the cancellation of the Wuthering Heights of Mapleton Day, scheduled for July 2025.

Wendy Turton, WHOM organiser, said "I understand this news will be disappointing to many, and I apologise for any inconvenience caused. I appreciate the community's enthusiasm and support for this unique celebration".

'Welcome Team' Volunteer Wanted
Maleny Neighbourhood Centre seeks warm, welcoming volunteers for its Welcome Team, becoming "Neighbourhood Champions." This role involves greeting visitors, offering assistance, and connecting them with needed resources. Volunteers will also maintain records and attend training. Beyond this, diverse volunteer opportunities exist, from event planning to advocacy.

Volunteering strengthens the community and fosters personal growth. Join the centre in making a difference; apply by clicking on the button below.

Maleny Neighbourhood Centre

Have Your Say on Future Library Services
The Sunshine Coast Council is actively seeking community input to shape the future of its thriving library network. With nearly a million in-person visits last year, libraries are a vital hub, offering everything from books and Wi-Fi to programs and eResources. Residents are invited to participate in a survey until May 5th, 2025, to share their thoughts on current services and future needs.

Council is also hosting pop-up events across the coast for face-to-face feedback. This input will directly inform the new Sunshine Coast Library Services Plan 2025-2035, ensuring libraries continue to meet the community's evolving needs. Your voice matters in shaping this essential community resource.

Library Survey