Adaire Palmer
Aug 26, 2026
⚓ ⚓From the Helm⚓⚓ Editor, Coochie Community Online
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What's inside this week 👀 |
⚓ Welcome Swallows - netting removed ⚓ Welcome Swallows - concern council will put up more deterrents, not protect these little creatures, and it's breeding season right now! ⚓ The Hairy Marys: Hilarious Episode 3 drops! 'Call the Cops!!! It's Mothers Day!' ⚓Scroll down and click the pic to grab your tix to the Bendigo Bank Community Lottery and support the Coochie Community Shopping Service - potentially win $15k!! ⚓ Coochie Progress announce new committee
⚓⚓Scroll down to the end for updated and standing events and other handy information (like community contact info and how to make a complaint to council - because why not!) |
The Welcome Swallows are free to return to their nests, and Coochie breathed a huge sigh of relief when the exclusion netting finally came down.
But then came two words that made that relief feel a little premature: bird deterrents.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty has indicated Council may consider alternatives, including spikes.
But what if we're asking the wrong question?
Instead of finding another way to keep our Welcome Swallows out, could we find a way for people and birds to share the jetty safely?
We've put a proposal to Council that could change where this story goes next.
Read why we believe the fight isn't over, and what we're asking Council to do now. Read More... |
Concerns have emerged at the Coochiemudlo Island ferry jetty after four officers were reportedly seen onsite discussing the structure, just days after controversial bird netting was removed. While nobody can confirm what was being considered, the sighting has raised an important question: will Council provide evidence of an approved Species Management Program before introducing any further bird deterrents?
Under Queensland’s Nature Conservation framework, activities affecting native animal breeding places may require assessment, impact mitigation, qualified wildlife oversight and government approval. An SMP can include ecological surveys, measures to avoid breeding seasons, alternative roosting sites and licensed spotter-catchers to protect birds, eggs and chicks.
Residents are encouraged to contact Redland City Council, the Acting Mayor and local councilors to request proof that all necessary approvals are in place before further action occurs.
After everything these little swallows have endured, caution, transparency and consultation are surely the least our community can expect. Read More... |
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📬 Got an idea, event, or organisation you’d like featured?
Hit reply to this email, or send a message in a bottle (aka Facebook Messenger) or to editor@coochiecommunityonline.com.
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Why Coochie? |
People, places, creatures and things that make our little slice of paradise so special...😍 |
In the comedy short Call the Cops - It's Mother's Days by The Hairy Marys, the protagonists turn the overwhelming chaos of single motherhood into a masterclass in resilience.
Instead of a peaceful Mother's Day, the women deal with a barrage of absurdities: a child handover outside a bottle shop, an ex-partner offering armchair psychiatric diagnoses at the checkout counter, and an unannounced police welfare check triggered by a bitter ex while the child isn't even home. To top it off, urgent calls for help with work shifts are intentionally ignored.
Rather than letting the unfair double standards and petty drama break them, the girls respond by pouring a drink, raising a toast to the madness, and laughing it off together. Their story offers a great life lesson: while you cannot always control unfair circumstances or difficult people, choosing humor over despair is the ultimate form of self-care. Read More... |
 Click the image to purchase tickets Closes 1 November |
Community services on Coochiemudlo Island are at the heart of its vibrant daily life, uniting residents, local leaders, and volunteers for a shared mission. Working closely with state and council representatives, islanders aim to enhance the wellbeing, sustainability, and unique coastal charm of their home. Many locals take immense pride in building Coochiemudlo’s future—whether through fostering local businesses or meeting community needs. Active involvement sees residents regularly identify priorities and join together on projects that boost civic pride and protect the island’s natural beauty. Local grants have empowered individuals and groups, backing everything from first aid training to beloved events and tech upgrades. The Coochie Bus stands as a success story, offering affordable transport powered by volunteer effort and funding. Regular public meetings ensure everyone’s voice is heard, nurturing unity as Coochiemudlo evolves. New initiatives, solving issues and a spirit of energy signal a bright future ahead for the island. Read More... |
📅Upcoming Events and Useful Dates!📅 |
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 Tickets only $25! Click the image to Book now! |
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Check in more details of the event by visiting this link |
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Join the Fun at the Art Trail Treasure Trove! Are your cupboards overflowing with pre-loved gems, vintage wares, or creative odds and ends looking for a new home? Clear out the clutter and turn your unwanted treasures into someone else's delightful find at the Art Trail Treasure Trove during this year's Art Trail weekend. Whether you're looking to sell, swap, or simply browse, it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local community while supporting our vibrant creative scene. Event Details:
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register your interest early to secure a stall. For inquiries and bookings, contact:
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Standing items |
Regular, unchanging. Same every week 🤣 |
RFDS Medical Chest on Coochie💊 |
The RFDS Medical Chest has made it easy for you to get urgent care. (NOT emergency care, you'll still call 000 for that!) |
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🌴Stay Connected on Coochie 🌴Life on Coochiemudlo Island is all about community. Whether you’re here full-time, part-time, or visiting, it’s easy to get involved and feel at home.
From emergency services and medical contacts to local clubs, sports, and social groups, there are plenty of ways to connect.
Looking for a Justice of the Peace? Want to join the Progress Association, Men’s Shed, or Recreation Club? Keen to play tennis, pickleball, or keep fit at the gym (once it reopens) Or maybe you’d like to explore art, craft, music, or gardening with fellow islanders? You’ll find it all in one handy place. 👉 Check out the full list of community contacts here It’s your go-to resource for staying safe, connected, and part of our wonderful island life.
📅Community Calendar📅 Want to know what's coming up? You don't need to wait for us to share, check the calendar right here!
Credit: Angela Hoskins for this wonderful resource 🥰 |
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Your Local Library Open Saturdays 8.30 - 11.30am (Downstairs) |
Open Saturdays 8.30 - 11.30am. Downstairs in the Community Hall. Pop in and say hi to Pam and Christine. Pick up a book or two. |
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Artisan Alley |
Open Sundays 8am - 1pm weather permitting |
Pickleball on Coochie 🥒🎾 |
The Fun, social exercise of pickleball continues each week on Coochie. Thurs, Fri & Sun at 4pm. All standards welcome, so come & check this out. Pickleball is moving it start times to 3pm in March and 2pm in June for the public sessions on Thurs, Fri & Sun
New players always welcome so come & join us for some fun exercise. Tuesday Youth Pickleball for 10 to 15s, continues 4.45 to 6pm.
The courts are behind the Gym & Op Shop, beside the Croquet lawn. 🥒🥎🎾😄
Want to join the fun or at least come watch the chaos? |
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Qigong on Coochie - Morwong Beach |
Qigong at Morwong ( opposite 186 Victoria parade North ) in the park on Wednesdays at 8 am. All welcome and bring water. FREE! |
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Image by my trusty AI assistant 😁 |
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Coochie Paddlers - room with a view 🛶 |
Sunrise, Salt Air and a Whole Lot of Smiles If you’ve ever stood on the shoreline at dawn and thought, “I should be doing something with this view,” here’s your sign. The local outrigger paddlers meet every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6.15am for a 6.30am start, and it’s one of the best-kept secrets for starting your day right. It’s free, it’s welcoming, and no, you don’t need to be an elite athlete who drinks kale smoothies for breakfast.
Paddling an outrigger canoe builds full-body strength without punishing your joints. You’ll work your core, shoulders and legs while getting a solid cardio workout, all without staring at a gym wall. It’s fitness disguised as fun. The kind where you’re too busy laughing to notice you’re actually working hard.
But here’s the real magic. It’s the camaraderie. There’s something about being on the water at sunrise, paddling in rhythm, that bonds people quickly. It’s friendly, frolicking, fitness-inducing and genuinely good for the soul. You’ll leave energised, salty-haired and slightly smug that you’ve already conquered the day before most people have had their first coffee.
If you’d like to give it a go, contact Helen on 0414 533 781 and she’ll point you in the right direction.
Early mornings never looked so good. 🌊🚣♀️ |
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Image taken by Adaire (that's me!) from the outrigger canoe recently. HDIGABTT?!?!?! |
Video by Nick Obrien |
Standing for TRUTH and FREEDOM |
Every First Sunday Of Each Month From 10-11am 1000+ parks. Over 30 Countries.
Wear yellow in unity. |
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🙏Alpha at Pineridge Place 6pm Tuesdays 🙏 |
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Red Bin, Yellow Bin, or Both? |
Below is the yellow bin calendar for the rest of the year. You can either look down the road and follow your neighbours lead, or check in here and take the lead your neighbours will follow 🤣 |
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If you're a Rec Club member, note the following 👇 |
Gym fees are carried over from last year, but the annual membership ($5) is still required.
You can pay either by dropping the $5 (in an envelope) to Yvonne Symes, Treasurer, at 1 Kingfisher, or deposit into:
Coochiemudlo Recreation Club Bendigo Bank BSB: 633-000 Account: 137959631
💥NEW💥Roles & Contacts for the Rec Club:
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Redland City Council |
Make a complaint. Report an issue. Details below. |
Here is information on how Coochiemudlo residents can contact Redland City Council for various issues. |
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Report an Issue |
Uncover island mysteries, local action, and vital updates—discover what’s really happening on Coochiemudlo! |
Redland City Council Meeting Webcast offers an archive of past meetings for public viewing. |
Disclaimer |
The information in this newsletter is provided for general interest only. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, details may change and unintentional errors can occur. Nothing here should be taken as professional, financial, legal, medical, or specialist advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional where needed. Some content may be created, enhanced, or assisted by artificial intelligence. All AI-supported material is reviewed and edited by a human before publication. Any opinions expressed are those of the author and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of any featured organisations or individuals. Event details, community updates, and offers are shared in good faith. Readers are encouraged to confirm information directly with the relevant organisers. By reading this newsletter, you accept that the publisher is not responsible for any loss, inconvenience, or unexpected detours caused by reliance on the content. |
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