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Adaire Palmer

Apr 29, 2026

⚓ From the Helm⚓

The Season That Didn’t RSVP

It drives me bonkers when people talk incessantly about the weather… and yet here we are.

Because what exactly just happened to Autumn?

Somewhere around ANZAC Day, it quietly slipped out the back door without saying goodbye. No golden afternoons. No “maybe I’ll have a swim” moments. Just… damp. A kind of early, clingy winter that arrived like it had every right to be here.

And maybe that’s the bit that catches us off guard.

We expect change to announce itself. To ease in. To give us a chance to adjust. But sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes it skips the gentle middle and drops us straight into something we weren’t quite ready for.

Out come the ugg boots. The Oodie. The winter PJs that somehow become a full-day outfit if no one’s looking too closely.

Small comforts, really. Familiar things we reach for when the edges feel a bit off.

It’s funny though… because island life has a way of reminding us that even when the rhythm feels out of step, it hasn’t actually stopped.

The tide still turns.
The ferry still runs.
The kookaburras & Curlews still carry on like they own the place.

And people still show up.

You see it in the quiet ways. A wave from across the road. Someone checking in. A chat that runs a little longer than it needed to. That lift from the ferry so you don't have to walk home in the rain. The small, steady things that don’t depend on the weather getting it right.

Maybe that’s the real shift.

Not the seasons themselves, but how we meet them.

Because whether it’s a missing Autumn, a damp start to winter, or one of those curveball weeks where July suddenly thinks it’s summer again… this place keeps doing what it does best.

It adapts.
It softens the edges.
It carries on.

And so do we.

Even if we’re doing it in ugg boots… until at least September.

Stay cosy.

Adaire ⚓

Adaire Palmer

Editor, Coochie Community Online

What's inside this edition...

⚓Ranger Wayne's presentation on the Marine park in our backyard

⚓Best of Redlands - Your opportunity to celebrate our leaders and quiet achievers - nominate and vote now!

⚓Welcome, Robyn's Book Nook

⚓Mad Mabel - more adventures of library mouse Mabel

⚓

⚓⚓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!)

"Beneath the Waves: Unveiling the Secrets of the Guardians of the Blue"

Sitting at the Coochiemudlo Island Recreation Club, locals are reminded that Moreton Bay’s unique marine life isn’t a distant spectacle but right in our backyard.

A recent marine turtle stranding session offered firsthand insight from rangers into the region’s rich but fragile ecosystems.

Seagrass meadows, mangroves, and coral communities support dugongs, turtles, and even migrating humpback whales—making local waters a haven for wildlife.

Threatened loggerhead and hawksbill turtles are often seen gliding past, while whales begin their migration, leading to more frequent up-close encounters.

With increased boat traffic, following whale-watching rules and giving animals space is essential.

Rangers urge residents to report, not rescue, marine life in distress—particularly turtles tangled in fishing gear.

With turtles and dolphins at risk, it’s clear: protecting these waters is a shared responsibility, with every action making a difference.

The message is simple—this special coastline is ours to protect.

The Best of Redlands

The Redlands Is Handing Out Some Well-Deserved Recognition

You know those people.

The ones who quietly get things done… organise the thing, show up early, stay late, never make a fuss… and somehow hold half the community together without anyone really noticing?

Well. Someone finally decided they deserve a proper shout-out.

A new initiative called “Best of the Redlands” has just been launched, and it’s all about celebrating the locals who make this place what it is. The ones who don’t usually end up in headlines but absolutely should.

Local MPs Rebecca Young, Russell Field and Amanda Stoker are behind it, with winners to be announced on Queensland Day, June 6.

And here’s the good bit…

It’s not a panel deciding everything behind closed doors. It’s us. This Isn’t About Big Names. It’s About Real People. The idea is simple.

Nominate someone you reckon is doing good things.

Could be:

The volunteer who somehow runs three groups and still remembers everyone’s name
The small business owner who goes above and beyond (you know the one)
The coach who’s basically raising half the kids on the island
Or that quiet legend who just… helps. All the time.

There are a stack of categories too. From Redlands Legend (big shoes, but we know a few) through to Rising Stars, local businesses, community groups, even best places to eat… and a People’s Choice where the community gets the final say.

So yes… this could absolutely turn into a bit of friendly rivalry. We’ll allow it.

Why This One Actually Matters

Awards can sometimes feel a bit… glossy.

This one feels different. Because if you live around here, you already know the truth: this place runs on people who care. Not systems. Not structures. People.

The ones who give their time, their energy, their weekends… and occasionally their sanity.

This is just a chance to point at them and say,
“Hey. We see you.”

Got Someone in Mind? You probably do. That person just popped into your head, didn’t they? Good. That’s your sign.

👉 You can nominate here:
Nominate for Best of the Redlands

And if nothing else, it’s a nice reminder…
we’re surrounded by more good people than we sometimes realise.

Might be worth saying it out loud.

"From Romance to Mystery: Dive into the World of Robyn's Book Nook"

Robyn’s Book Nook sits quietly along Victoria Parade, sparking genuine curiosity and neighborhood warmth.

Founded by Robyn Markwell, this inviting little community library at 402 Victoria Parade has transformed into a favorite gathering spot for locals of all ages.

It’s far more than a book swap — families pause mid-stroll, children sift through stories, and visitors leave kind notes in the logbook, all adding to the Nook’s unique character.

With a special children’s section, Robyn believes in the magic of reading to expand young minds, echoing Dr. Seuss’s wise words.

During school holidays, the Nook buzzes with quiet connections, laughter, and generous exchanges of books from the community.

This vibrant hub is lovingly sustained by islanders who continue to donate books and share stories, making it a true exchange of kindness and connection.

Slow down next time you pass 402 Victoria Parade — you may find much more than just a book.

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"Mad Mabel: A Tale of Love, Revenge, and Redemption"

Every Saturday, Mabel began her day with tea in her orderly island cottage, cherishing the predictability of her morning routine.

On this particular Saturday, she headed to the tranquil Coochie library, exchanging friendly greetings before browsing shelves that felt comfortingly familiar.

Everything changed when she stumbled upon a mysterious green book, “Mad Mabel”, its subtitle unsettlingly familiar: They called it murder. She called it justice.

Mabel’s curiosity compelled her to read—and by the third chapter, she realized the book wasn’t just inspired by someone like her.

It was her story and her secret past, carefully concealed on the island, now unexpectedly exposed.

Concern grew as she wondered what would happen if others discovered the truth lurking on the library’s shelves, knowing some secrets refuse to stay buried.

📬 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.

Events on Coochie you will want to attend...

New Events Monthly!!

Op Shop This Weekend!

The Kind of Saturday You Don’t Plan… But You’re Glad You Didn’t Miss

There’s a very specific moment that happens at the Coochie Op Shop.

You walk in thinking, I’ll just have a quick look…

And about twenty minutes later you’re holding a coffee machine you didn’t know you needed, debating a ceramic jug with a stranger, and wondering how vinyl records made such a convincing comeback.

That moment? That’s back again this Saturday.

The Coochiemudlo Island Recreation Club Op Shop is open Saturday 2 May, 8:30am to 11am, tucked between the Men’s Shed and the Rec Club Gym off Elizabeth Street.

And if you’ve never been, here’s the thing…

This isn’t your typical op shop.

There are no racks of clothes to flick through.
No musty smell.
No chaos (weeellll, maybe a weeny bit of jostling)

Instead, it feels more like a carefully curated little boutique of second chances.

Think kitchen gadgets that still work, stacks of books and vinyl, coffee plungers, plates, quirky homewares, and those completely random finds that somehow make perfect sense once you get them home.

It’s treasure hunting… without the overwhelm.

But honestly? The real magic isn’t on the shelves.

It’s in the in-between.

The chats.
The “should I get this?” moments.
The someone-you-know-but-can’t-place-until-they-smile moments.

And just when you think you’ll head off… the smell hits.

Next door, the Men’s Shed crew are cooking up their famous bacon and egg sangas, and suddenly your “quick visit” turns into a sit-down, catch-up kind of morning.

That’s how it goes.

You come for a bargain.
You stay for a chat.
You leave feeling like you’ve actually done Saturday properly.

Bring a bag. You’ll need it.

World Labyrinth Day:

A Quiet Walk with a Big Intention

There’s something quietly powerful about people choosing to pause and walk for peace.

On Saturday 2nd May, Coochiemudlo Island will join a global movement for World Labyrinth Day 🌏, with a Labyrinth Walk for Peace happening right here on the island.

This isn’t about steps or fitness goals. It’s a slower kind of walk. One that gives you a moment to breathe, reflect, and maybe reset a little.

One Island, One Path, Connected to the World

Across the globe, people will be walking labyrinths on the same day, creating what’s often described as a “rolling wave of peace.”

It’s simple. You walk in, you pause, and you walk out again.

More details...

Caring for Our Island… One Working Bee at a Time

There’s something quietly powerful about a group of locals showing up with hats, gloves, and a shared love for where they live. That’s exactly what Coastcare Coochiemudlo Island has been doing for years… caring for the island in ways that most people only notice once it stops happening.

From protecting fragile dune systems to restoring the Melaleuca wetlands, Coastcare is one of those behind-the-scenes forces keeping Coochie as beautiful and biodiverse as it is. And they do it the old-school way… boots on the ground, hands in the soil, and a cuppa at the end.

Their upcoming Working Bee on Saturday 2 May, 2–4pm is another chance to be part of it.

This time, the focus is on weeding and tending the wetlands and dunes near the southern end of the island, around the James Street entrance. It’s practical, hands-on work that directly protects native plants and wildlife… and yes, there’s always time afterwards to relax and chat with the crew.

What makes Coastcare special isn’t just the environmental impact. It’s the community that forms around it. New members are genuinely welcome, families included, and there’s no expectation to be an expert. Just show up in a hat, covered shoes, and clothes you don’t mind getting a bit grubby.

And here’s the thing most people don’t realise… those healthy wetlands and stable dunes? They don’t stay that way by accident.

They stay that way because people care enough to turn up.

If you’ve ever walked through the bush tracks, spotted birdlife in the wetlands, or just enjoyed the natural beauty of the island… this is one of the ways you can quietly give back.

For more info, Coastcare regularly shares updates and activities on their Facebook page… and they’re always keen to see a few new faces join in.

Pickleball turns 2… and yes, we’re celebrating 🏓

If you’ve heard the familiar pop… pop… pop drifting across the courts, you already know this crew doesn’t take much convincing to gather.

What started as a casual hit-around has become one of those quietly iconic parts of Coochie life… equal parts laughter, light competition, and “we’re just here for fun” (until someone keeps score).

Saturday 16 May | 12:30pm
📍 Morwong Beach (end of Elizabeth St)
🥗 BYO lunch + drinks + a fun game

Think bocce on the sand, cards under a tree, frisbee, or a cheeky mini pickleball showdown for bragging rights.

Mostly though? It’s just a good excuse to get together.

Questions? Dave’s your guy: 0408 079 098

👥📣EMERALD FRINGE COMMUNITY FORUM 📣👥

Book your seat at the table here.

Have your say! Take the survey here.

Standing items

Unveiling Hidden Island Secrets: Register here for a peek into the latest edition!

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!)

💚Community on Coochiemudlo Island💚

🌴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 🥰

Your Local Library

Open Saturdays 9am - Noon (Downstairs)

Open Saturdays 9am - noon. Downstairs in the Community Hall. Pop in and say hi to Pam and Christine. Pick up a book or two.

Read about Mabels life through books

Artisan Alley

Unveiling Hidden Island Secrets: Register here for a peek into the latest edition!

Check here for more information...

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!

Image by my trusty AI assistant 😁

Visit the Coochiemudlo Island Recreation Club

Facebook Page for more information.

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 recently. HDIGABTT?!?!?!

Standing for TRUTH and FREEDOM

Every First Sunday Of Each Month From 10-11am

1000+ parks. Over 30 Countries.

No Agenda
No Religion
No Leaders

Wear yellow in unity.

Coochie's Stand In The Park is in the park at Main Beach, in the shelter opposite the Memorial (near the beach bar)

🙏Alpha at Pineridge Place 6pm Tuesdays 🙏

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 🤣

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).

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:

📣 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

Unveiling Hidden Island Secrets: Register here for a peek into the latest edition!

"How to Contact Redland City Council for

Various Community Issues"

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

Unveiling Hidden Island Secrets: Register here for a peek into the latest edition!

Redland City Council Public Meetings

Explore Redland City Council Meetings: Your Informative Archive for Public Viewing and Engagement.

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.