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⚓ From the Helm⚓

Well crew, another edition of the Coochie Community Online newsletter has slipped quietly out of the harbour and into your inbox, carrying a good mix of island stories, local happenings, and the sort of news that keeps our little ship of a community sailing along nicely.

This week’s voyage wanders through a few familiar waters. There’s a heart-warming story from our local library (proof that adventures don’t always require a passport, sometimes just a Saturday morning walk and a good book). We also take a closer look at one of those pesky plants trying to muscle its way into our island ecosystem, and of course there are the usual sightings of community life happening all around the island.

But if there are two treasure chests worth keeping an eye on this week, they are the raffles.

First up, our Coochie Community Library raffle. That tiny library quietly punches well above its weight for a small island, sending readers off on adventures every week without anyone needing to leave the jetty. The raffle is a simple way to help keep those shelves turning, new books arriving, and that Saturday ritual alive for many island readers. Get your tix from Pam asap!

And not to be outdone, the Artisans Easter Raffle is also gathering momentum. Tickets are now circulating around the island thanks to the ever-cheerful Catherine, and the hamper is filling nicely with vouchers and goodies from local businesses on both sides of the water. If you happen to see Catherine out and about, you may find yourself walking away with a ticket… and perhaps a small daydream about winning the whole lot.

As always, this newsletter is simply a reflection of what makes this island tick: volunteers, storytellers, readers, artists, and the quiet magic of people looking out for one another.

So if you haven’t already done so, take a moment to read through the stories, support the raffles, and keep the wind in the sails of the community groups that make Coochie such a special place to live.

Until next week… steady as she goes. 🌊

Adaire ⚓

Adaire Palmer

Editor, Coochie Community Online

📬 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.

If you're looking to make a complaint to council, head to the bottom of this newsletter. You'll also find other info that might be useful.

Together, we’ll build a community resource that every Coochiemudlian (and our ML neighbours) will be glad to have in their inbox.

Scroll down for:

⚓Getting ready for Snapper season
⚓The adventurous life of Mabel through books from the Coochie Library
⚓Get your raffle tix for Artisans and Library Easter Raffles

⚓Coochie's own Gremlins - Mother of Millions
⚓Art Therapy Workshops - sharing my experience

⚓New Art Exhibition for Artisans Collective

Scroll to the end for upcoming events and 'Standing Items' for ongoing dates (like the Artisans Alley) &  key contacts on Coochie 👇👇👇

The Coochiemudlo Squire - headsup, it's SNAPPER (for supper) time 🐟

Fishing Yarn of the Week: The Coochiemudlo Squire’s Page

The fishing yarns are currently unspooling faster than my crochet over on The Coochiemudlo Squire’s Page.

For anyone new to the fine art (and occasional obsession) of fishing, a squire is simply a juvenile snapper. Think of it as the apprentice before it grows into a full-blown snapper knight. The proud parents can be seen in the photo below.

Local fish whisperer Michael from the Coochie Squire reckons the Easter Equinox is the trigger that gets the snapper moving. According to Michael, that’s when things start to get interesting out on the water.

If you’re keen to know what bait is working right now, or you’ve got a fishing question you’ve been meaning to ask, pop over to Michael’s page and join the conversation. You'll find his page by following this link.

Also on his page, you'll find Michael, Greg and Fletch showing off an 80cm mulloway, pretty clever these guys, they can even get it to grin almost as much as they were!! Check it out here.

Every Saturday on Coochiemudlo Island, Mabel begins her cherished morning routine in her tiny home, surrounded by the tranquillity of Cyprus Pines and the sounds of local birds.

Due to her disability, Mabel’s world is more contained than she once imagined, but her weekly walk to the island’s library opens up true adventure.

Inside those familiar doors, possibility returns—she browses shelves with anticipation, eager to journey through the stories of authors like Fiona McIntosh, Nora Roberts, J.D. Robb, Lee Child, and Ann Cleeves.

Her reading chair becomes a launchpad for travel beyond Coochie, from windswept landscapes to futuristic cities.

Though her days are punctuated by planning and patience, books remind Mabel that adventure is not measured in kilometres.

Each Saturday, she returns with fresh stories and the comforting knowledge that her world—though small in appearance—is enormous within her canvas bag.

A Little Ticket With a Lot of Good Behind It

Every now and then something small comes along that’s an easy yes.
Buying a ticket in the Artisans Collective Easter Raffle is one of those moments.

First up, let’s talk about the obvious reason. The prize hamper is stacked with goodies and vouchers from local favourites. There’s everything from shopping vouchers to café treats and a few surprises tucked in for good measure. Someone is going to take home a very nice Easter bundle… and it might as well be you.

But the real reason this raffle matters goes a bit deeper.

When you buy a ticket, you’re not just taking a punt on a hamper. You’re supporting the local artists, makers and volunteers who bring life to events like the Easter Exhibition at Mudlo. These are the people who quietly organise displays, encourage creativity on the island, and make sure there’s always something interesting happening in the community.

In other words, that little strip of raffle paper helps keep the creative wheels turning.

And let’s be honest. There’s something wonderfully old-fashioned about a good raffle. No apps, no passwords, no complicated rules. Just a ticket, a bit of anticipation, and that small hopeful thought:

“Wouldn’t it be funny if my number came up?”

So if you see Catherine selling tickets around the island or at Artisan Alley on Sundays, grab one. Or two. Or three if you’re feeling optimistic.

Best case scenario? You win the hamper.

Worst case scenario? You’ve helped support local creativity.

Either way, that’s a pretty good bet.

Mother of Millions – The Weed That Multiplies Like Gremlins

We're shifting gears this week, from bushtucker to weeds! Not because I'm scattered (although that remains a strong possibility), but because this little bugger has the capacity to squeeze out many of our native plants that are actually useful and help our environment.

At first glance, Mother of Millions doesn’t look like a villain.

It’s a tidy little succulent with upright stems, neat narrow leaves, and delicate orange flowers that appear in winter. In fact, many people originally planted it in gardens because it looked interesting and seemed hardy enough to survive anything.

And that’s exactly the problem....Read more...

Post cyclone Albert Art Therapy Workshops helps locals

Around a year ago, I was standing on the beach below the Coochie Community Hall peering into the mist, hoping to catch a glimpse of my boat, Adaire to Dream. During a brief reprieve in the constant drizzle, I caught sight of her, in one piece, waiting patiently for me to bring her home after Cyclone Alfred....

Did you attend the workshops? Join the conversation and share your experience here...

New Artisans Exhibition just opened! You will want to see this one! Check out the WIP of setting up the new work.  You'll find the Artisans Gallery upstairs behind the Curlew Cafe, open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 2pm. 

Need more information? Check out the full article here (published in January 2026)

Coochie History Walk with David Paxton

The morning tide had just begun to turn when people started drifting toward the little rotunda near the ferry. A few carried coffee cups. Several families appeared, with kids rubbing the weekend sleep from their eyes. Most brought hats and that unmistakable island ingredient… curiosity.

Because this wasn’t just a walk along Norfolk Beach.

It was David Paxton’s walk.

For years, David has been the quiet keeper of Coochiemudlo’s stories. The sort of person who can point to an empty stretch of sand and suddenly make you see the boats that once anchored there, the families who lived nearby, the small moments that somehow turned into island history.

And on this particular morning, the group knew something else.

This would be his last heritage walk before leaving the island.

Once everyone gathered, David set off at the gentle pace island walks require. Norfolk Beach stretched out beside them, the water that familiar Moreton Bay sea green, shifting and sparkling as the sun climbed higher. A curlew wandered past as if it had also come along for the stories.

Every so often the group paused.

Not because anyone was tired. Because David would stop, glance around, and say something like:

“You wouldn’t know it now, but right about here…”

And suddenly the beach would change.

Come with us. David's last tour is on the 28 March. Click here for details. 

Easter Markets - Coochie Progress

Saturday 4 April 2026
9am - 1pm 

Coochie Main Beach

🐰Easter Bunny hops by at 10am

Standing items

Your portal for information about Coochie

RFDS Medical Chest on Coochie💊

🌴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 🥰

Artisan Alley 

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 3.30pm in March 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?
Give Dave a buzz on 0408 079 098. He’s the Pickleball oracle around here.

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!

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 found their car keys.

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. 🌊🚣‍♀️

Image taken by Adaire (that's me!) from the outrigger canoe this morning. HDIGABTT?!?!?!

CSA RE: Coochie Island Progress Association

It appears the CIPA Facebook Page has been sucked into that black hole of cyber-space.  CIPA have been keeping members updated on Progress activities and events by email and individuals posts in relevant local groups.  Until the tech issues are resolved, you can also find information on their website, here.

Angela Hoskings has also added information where relevant to her website, Coochiemudlo Island.

Keep an eye on the new Facebook Page, Coochie Markets, for details about upcoming markets (next markets are at Easter).

Recreation Club Subs now due!

If you're a Rec Club member, note the following please:

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

If you'd like to become a member, contact Geoff - details below

💥NEW💥Roles & Contacts for the Rec Club:

📣 Coochie Recreation Club – Who’s Who

As we head into an exciting new year at the Rec Club, here are your key points of contact for programs, activities, and gym coordination.

🏋️ Personal Training Co-ordinator
Helen Symes
📞 0412 340 227

💪 Gym Co-ordinator
Jacqui Sanders
📞 0488 664 666

🎨 Kids Activity Co-ordinator
Kate Barker
📞 0416 497 076

Whether you’re keen to get moving, organise activities for the kids, or have a question about the gym, these legends have you covered.

Redland City Council 

Want to make a complaint? Report an issue?

Find out what week your bin goes out? Watch the latest Public Council Meeting? Do that here!

Here is information on how Coochiemudlo residents can contact Redland City Council for various issues.

Individuals can report issues such as potholes, trees, roads, paths, rates, planning & development, and graffiti by phone, email, or submitting a contact form.

Residents can also give feedback, lodge complaints, or seek assistance from the council.

Report an Issue

Use this form to contact council

Redland City Council Public Meetings

Redland City Council Meeting Webcast offers an archive of past meetings for public viewing.

Have questions?

Visit the help page for assistance.

Did you know you can access recordings of General Meetings, Special Council Meetings, and Special Budget Meetings?

Stay informed about important decisions and discussions within the council.

Visit the Redland City Council Public Meetings archive here.

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.