13 February 2013

SCLA Writers’ Competition is open!

Measure your creativity and literacy skills against writers from across regional South East Queensland in the 2013 Sunshine Coast Literary Association’s Annual Writers’ Competition.

Entries to the Writers’ Competition are now open and close on Friday, 26 April. For the second year, the competition is open to residents in the Moreton Bay and South Burnett Council areas as well as the Sunshine Coast and Gympie. There are four entry categories including junior short story, young adult short story, open short story and open poem.

President of the SCLA, Kerri Jackson said the competition was designed to provide an outlet for talented writers to showcase their work to their peers and receive valuable feedback from professional and accomplished writers.

“The competition was strong last year, demonstrating the amazing abilities of writers throughout these regions,” Kerri said.

“This year we will encourage and prepare the entrants for the competition by hosting several workshops in February, March and April,” Kerri said.

There are four categories in this year’s competition including:

  • Category 1: Open Short Story, to a maximum of 2500 words.
  • Category 2: Open Poem, to a maximum of 40 lines.
  • Category 3: Young Adult (High School, Years 8-12) Short Story, to a maximum of 1500 words.
  • Category 4: Junior (Primary, Years 5-7) Short Story, to a maximum of 1000 words.

There is also the chance to win some great prizes with each category having a $200 first prize and $50 second prize, as well as certificates for all winners including Highly Commended entries.

A panel of experienced judges decides on the winners, which will be announced at the SCLA Awards Dinner on Wednesday, 19 June. More details regarding the event will be available closer to the date.

The Sunshine Coast Literary Association is a not-for-profit association dedicated to nurturing, showcasing and celebrating literary talent throughout the Sunshine Coast region.

“Our writing competition was first held in 2007 and has been run every year since 2009 so it is a key element of the Association’s calendar,” Kerri said.

“We encourage everyone to have a go, you never know, maybe they will discover a hidden talent,” Kerri said.

There are a number of sponsorship opportunities available; for more information email info@scliterary.org.

Each entry is $7 with a maximum of three entries per candidate. Entry forms and details are available online at the SCLA website, www.scliterary.org, or by emailing info@scliterary.org. All entries must be received post marked no later than 26 April 2013.

08 February 2013

Successful local author to share writing experience at SCLA Discussion Evening

The Sunshine Coast Literary Association will host its next discussion and presentation evening on Wednesday, 13 March with local author and guest speaker, James Lergessner.

This rescheduled event, which was to be held in February but was cancelled due to bad weather, will be held at the Buderim Mountain State School Conference Room, 8-42 Main Street, Buderim (opposite St Mark’s Church) from 6.30pm. Entry is free for members and $2 for non-members, payable on the night.

The evening will feature an author talk from Bribie Island writer James Lergessner, who will share details of his growing up in Brisbane in the 1950s, and his experiences since then. James’ recently published book Snippets from a Baby Boomer’s Diary is full of reminiscences that help the reader see who they once were, where they have been, and how the present is impacted on by the past.

James said he was keen to share his experiences with budding writers.

SCLA President, Kerri Jackson, said the discussion evening, as always, would be a stimulating and interesting night with inspiring company.

“The session is held in a relaxed environment and community members can join us for a cuppa, light refreshments and a chat,” Ms Jackson said.

Formed in 2005, the SCLA provides a pathway for the Sunshine Coast’s writers and enthusiasts to explore their interests, develop skills and share their work. It allows like-minded individuals to exchange ideas and seek advice to develop their abilities.

The association offers regular literary workshops, seminars and events, awards programs and monthly “Front Write Up” Writer’s Group evenings that provide an opportunity to showcase the talent of its members. The SCLA also promotes other state and national writing competitions that offer successful applicants great prizes and recognition.

The SCLA requests guests to RSVP for catering purposes via email info@scliterary.org. For more information on beginning your journey as a writer or to become a member of the SCLA, please visit www.scliterary.org.

07 February 2013

A Valentine’s Day meal your body will love

If that someone special in your life is living with Coeliac disease and gluten intolerance, a nice home cooked meal may just be the perfect way to say I love you this Valentine’s Day.

Gluten and grain free specialist and food expert, Tania Hubbard said home cooking was not only a great way to save money, but knowing what had gone into the food meant you were looking after your special someone in more ways than one.

“There is nothing less romantic than feeling bloated and unwell, so choosing the right dish to cook is really important,” Tania said.

“I just want you to feel confident and happy in the kitchen, and I know that cooking a meal that tastes good can be hard enough without the added difficulty of cooking for someone with food allergies or intolerances,” Tania said.

“But you don’t have to be the best cook in the world to make a delicious meal your partner will love. Just keep it easy, delicious and quick, using simple and nutritious ingredients,” Tania said.

To help give you some inspiration, try Tania’s special Gluten and Grain Free Valentine’s Day menu, filled with seasonal ingredients and meals everyone’s taste buds and tummy is sure to enjoy.

– My Zucchini Bake is an all-round crowd pleaser and can be made in individual ramekins for something extra special or for a more rustic dinner you can take it straight from the oven to the table.

– Served with a fresh, light green salad on the side this is a simple, health giving, lovely meal to enjoy together. In one bowl, toss together some sliced ripe pears, a handful of rocket, a few torn mint leaves, drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

– For dessert, end the night on a sweet note with something truly decadent; my Chocolate Blueberry and Strawberry Cake served with fresh cream.

For plenty more recipes just like these, see Tania’s cookbook, gluten free grain free – food we love, packed with over 150 pages of mouth-watering recipes, information about stocking a gluten and grain free pantry, label reading and much more.

For a complete list of stockists of gluten free grain free – food we love and the bake@home range, or to purchase online, visit www.glutenfreegrainfree.com.au.

Zucchini Bake

Ingredients                                       Quantity

Zucchini                                               6 medium sliced lengthways nice and skinny

Eggs                                                    4 separated

Salt                                                      A good pinch

Parmesan or other hard cheese          1 cup grated

Nutmeg                                                 Pinch

Olive oil                                                To taste

Method

  • Preheat oven to 175C
  • Blanch zucchini in boiling salted water for no longer than 2 minutes
  • Mix the egg yolks with the cheese & nutmeg and stir the zucchinis into the mix
  • Beat egg whites until stiff and fold into mixture
  • I simply put it into a single baking dish lined with non stick baking paper, put in the oven and bake until puffed and golden on top. Make sure it bounces back when gently pressed in the middle
  • Usually about 25-30 minutes
  • Take to the table hot and let people serve themselves

Other Possibilities

This is a terrific dish served in individual ramekins

 

Chocolate Blueberry & Strawberry Cake

Ingredients                            Quantity

Chia Seeds                                4 tablespoons soaked in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes

Raw Cocoa                                ½ cup

Olive Oil                                     4 tablespoons

Blueberries                                ¼ cup to place into cake mix (keep a handful of berries for top of the cake)

Strawberries                              5 strawberries chopped about the same size as the blueberries or smaller (keep a handful of berries for top of the cake)

Eggs                                           5 medium

Almond Meal                             1 cup (175 grams)

Coconut Palm sugar

(or your choice of sugar)             1 cup or ½ a cup for a less sweeter cake

Cinnamon                                  2 teaspoons

Salt                                              pinch (remember to make sure it is a quality salt that does not contain any anti caking agents)

Bicarb                                          1 teaspoon

Method

  • Preheat oven to 180C
  • Line a spring form cake tin with non stick baking paper
  • Soak chia seeds in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes, stirring regularly
  • In meantime wash and dry strawberries and blueberries using a clean tea towel or paper towel
  • Take ¼ cup of the blueberries and 5 strawberries chopped small and add them to a bowl. Reserve the rest of the fruit for the cake decorating.
  • Add to the bowl the cocoa, eggs, almond meal, sugar, salt, bicarb and olive oil
  • Whisk to combine well and break up any lumps
  • Add the chia seed jelly and whisk until well combined
  • Pour into lined cake tin
  • Bake in oven for 35 – 40 minutes or until it bounces back when pressed In the middle
  • Let the cake cook for 5 – 10 minutes in the tin
  • Finish cooking on a wire cooling rack

Topping

  • In a bowl, place 1 tablespoon of cocoa and 5 tablespoons of coconut palm sugar or rapidura sugar
  • To this add just enough water to make a thick paste
  • Stir mixture until well combined
  • Add a tiny bit more water until it is a lovely thick glossy mixture
  • Leave it sit until the cake is completely cool

Assembly

  • Place cake on a lovely plate
  • Stir the topping then pour over the cake spreading to the edges
  • Place the remaining blueberries and strawberries in the middle of the cake
  • Let them tumble over the cake – it is lovely and natural
  • If you like you can sprinkle the top of the cake with a bit more cinnamon, it helps to bring out the flavour of the fruit.
05 February 2013

New Community and Education Partnership to support students

Sunshine Beach State High School students will have the support of a network of Coast organisations with the signing of the Sunshine Connect Partnership agreement today.

The new community and education partnership, brokered by Queensland Youth Industry Links Inc. (QYIL), brings together a range of support services to provide immediate and specialised support to help vulnerable young people stay engaged with the education system.

The partnership was established when the local Youth Connections Coordinator, Dee Mitchell of United Synergies, presented a pilot program to QYIL to develop a new interagency model. QYIL, as the Partnership Broker, then helped identify and connect other organisations that delivered services or programs that would support the partnership.

Partnership Broker Lee Shea said the signing of the partnership between Sunshine Beach State High School, United Synergies Ltd and multiple other local professional services would see the organisations work together to provide evidence-based support to vulnerable parents and young people.

“The partnership will include early intervention by school services referring to support programs, a parent support program, personal support and skills development for parents and young people, and a youth and community combined action plan,” Mr Shea said.

“Working together the partnership will provide support for parents who can find it difficult to manage the complexities of parenting, including teaching their teenagers coping skills and encouraging school attendance.

“This partnership provides a solid wrap around support for young people and their family and builds the capacity of the school to keep its young people engaged, reducing absenteeism,” Mr Shea said.

The new Partnership Agreement would create ongoing sustainability for the Sunshine Connect Pilot Program, which started in September 2011, with 28 young people taking part so far.

Mr Shea said once the at-risk young people were identified, the School Support Services invited the young person and their parent/s to participate in the program.

“From there, a plan of specialised professional support for the student and parent/s was tailored to suit their situation and reviewed regularly.

“The program can include one-on-one counselling, mental health, drug and alcohol support and financial planning,” he said.

Already the Sunshine Connect Program has had an extraordinary impact with school attendance by participants increasing by 85%, and 92% remaining engaged either at school (60%) or alternative learning environments including traineeships, apprenticeships or distance education (32%).

QYIL is the Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay region provider of the Partnership Brokers Program, funded by the Australian Government, to build partnerships with schools, businesses and community groups and develop partnerships at a strategic level which influence the region’s response to youth Attainment and Transition. The National Program consists of more than 1,450 active and self-sustaining partnerships involving more than 4,700 partner organisations. New Partnerships continue to form every week across Australia.

12 December 2012

More employers needed to reach MAX Employment’s 10,000 jobs for Christmas target

MAX Employment has found jobs for more than 7,800 unemployed people, in the lead up to Christmas, 2,794 of them in Queensland.

But more employers are needed to find 2,200 more job placements to reach MAX Employment’s target to find 10,000 new job placements across Australia for Christmas as part of their Greatest Gift campaign.

MAXNetWork Managing Director Deborah Homewood said everyone was thrilled with the response to the campaign so far but would continue to work hard to reach their goal.

“Giving someone who is unemployed a job can make a huge impact not only on their life but on the lives of their family as well as the positive outcomes are something that will last long beyond the festive season,” Ms Homewood said.

Ms Homewood said too many families were living in poverty because of unemployment, causing not just financial issues, but serious emotional and mental health problems as well.

“Many of us don’t have to face these challenges so we forget, but think about when you got your first job, or when you were congratulated for a job well done – it is not just about the advantages that come with bringing home a pay cheque but also the improved physical and mental health benefits.

“This is why we are urging employers everywhere to think about whether they have a job opportunity to offer and join us in giving someone the greatest gift.”

To extend the impact of the campaign even further and help more struggling families in the lead up to Christmas, MAX Employment will also be donating $50,000 to Lifeline to celebrate the success, when the 10,000 jobs target is reached.

As part of the Job Services Australia network, MAX Employment offers no cost recruitment services to employers. Employers may also be eligible to receive government financial assistance to help with the cost of hiring and training new employees.

Ms Homewood said ideally MAX Employment would like to find long-term positions, either full-time or part-time, but she said even a seasonal job would provide a job seeker with additional income and provide new skills and experience.

She said the jobs could be across any industry including hospitality, retail, business administration, transport and logistics, trade and the care industry including aged and child care.

“The impact of the campaign already has been great – we have new employees who have told us that getting these jobs has given them their lives back.

“Leigh Billman in Townsville is a perfect example. He has a new job at Pickerings Auto and says already it has turned his life around.

“He told our team that after six years of unemployment, his job would give his family the best Christmas they have ever had.

“Hearing the stories of the differences that this campaign is making is great and our employers feel really proud to be making such a difference, as do we,” Ms Homewood said.

“So if you are an employer and want to get involved, you can register at our website – www.maxjobs.com.au – or freecall 1800 625 350. Together we can make a huge impact giving people the greatest gift for Christmas.”

10 December 2012

Sunshine Coast charity seeks volunteers

Community transport and care organisation, ComLink is searching for volunteer drivers to offer their precious time to help others in need.

ComLink is a not-for profit organisation and charity providing community transport and care for the frail aged and younger people with a disability to attend medical appointments, shop and maintain their social inclusion from North Brisbane and throughout the Sunshine Coast.

ComLink Chief Executive, Feda Adra said drivers were a vital part of ComLink and without them, we wouldn’t be able to continue providing our valuable services to the community.

“We are in particular need of bus drivers that hold a current small or medium rigid license, but all drivers are welcome.

“We have about 70 volunteer drivers but only a handful who can drive buses and due to this shortage, we sometimes have to cancel bus runs,” Ms Adra said.

Kitty Orreill, bus driver of 48 years and a dedicated ComLink volunteer driver for two years, said she gets a ‘buzz’ from volunteering and helping others.

“Volunteering is a great way to keep busy, meet new people, laugh and have a lot of fun.

“ComLink is great, they are incredibly flexible and make you feel like your time is valued,” Kitty said.

Warana resident, Yvonne Parsons has been using ComLink services for four years, being no longer able to drive due to poor eyesight. Ms Parsons, who is a regular on Kitty’s bus route and uses the service to complete her weekly shopping and visit the library, said the service was just marvelous and has helped her maintain her independence.

“It’s more than just a transport service, it’s also about the social connections and the friends you make,” Ms Parsons said.

“Kitty is an absolute treasure and we all love her – it is a classic day out,” Ms Parsons said.

Elsie Padley, another regular ComLink client, who has been using the service since her husband passed away seven years ago said she didn’t know how she would have managed without ComLink transport.

“We are so lucky to live on the Sunshine Coast and have a service like this,” Ms Padley said.

Ms Adra said ComLink services more than 3,800 clients and many of them rely on ComLink as their only means of transport.

“ComLink also provides transport to a range of organised outings including picnics, Christmas lights, trips to the RSL, Anzac Day dawn services and our regular social meet-ups including Kawana Companions every Monday,” Ms Adra said.

“Everyone working for ComLink is considered family and volunteers can come and go as they please, the level of commitment is completely up to them,” Ms Adra said.

If you are interested in becoming a ComLink volunteer, please contact Mobility Manager Robyn Elkojje on 1300 761 011.

Image: Volunteer driver Kitty Orreill with ComLink client Yvonne Parsons.

29 November 2012

Australian Crochet Queen releases long-anticipated pattern book

Australia’s Crochet Queen, Jenny King has joined together with US craft and publishing powerhouse, Annie’s, to release a new book of patterns especially designed to highlight the beauty of Noro Yarns.

The book,Fashions to flaunt crocheted with Noro Yarns,is filled with over 40 pages of Jenny’s exclusive crochet designs including scarves, vests, cardigans, hats, skirts and plenty more, with patterns ranging from beginner to advanced.

Jenny said she was really excited about releasing the book in Australia, after successfully launching the book recently in the US.

“I was originally going to self-publish, but after mentioning the book to an old friend that works for Annie’s, they jumped at the chance to be involved,” Jenny said.

The book is the second in a popular series Jenny has published with Annie’s, with the third planned for release in February 2013.

“The first book’Learn to do Bavarian Crochet’was a huge success and has just be translated into Russian so I hop this book will be just as popular,” Jenny said.

“Noro is a Japanese designer yarn and it is one of my favourite yarns to work with,” Jenny said.

“This yarn is very unique, being made of natural minerals with vivid, variegated colours inspired by nature, so no two garments are ever the same,” Jenny said.

“I have designed the patterns to highlight the beautiful colours and texture of this yarn which is just perfect for the Australian climate.”

Jenny, who has been crocheting since being taught two simple stitches when she was just 8, has been passing on her love of crochet since the 1990s and is the author of 15 crochet books and countless patterns that cover everything from intricate beading, bags and jewellery to swimwear.

Jenny is internationally recognised as one of the world’s most talented crochet designers, having her designs featured in publications including Vogue Knitting Crochet Magazine, Interweave Crochet, and Britain’s premier crochet magazine, Inside Crochet. She has also taught crochet around Australia and internationally including the US and offers a range of classes from her Sunshine Coast shop, JK Designs.

“Crochet is a rapidly growing trend and continues to increase in popularity as more and more crochet fashions appear on cat walks around the world,” Jenny said.

“I believe, that this, in part, has revived the lost art of crochet and prompted people to want to learn the craft themselves,” Jenny said.

Jenny’s new book, Fashions to flaunt crocheted with Noro Yarns, retails for $20 and is available to purchase from Jenny King Designs, Shop 1, 932 David Low Way, Marcoola and via the website www.jennykingdesigns.com.

26 November 2012

Santa comes to the Cotton Tree Markets

The Cotton Tree Markets is spreading the Christmas spirit this year with entertainment and visits from Santa during the month of December.

The markets, now managed by Bloomhill Cancer Help, are held every Sunday at King Street, Cotton Tree and for the month of December will have live music, carols, raffles with the chance to win Christmas hams and special visits from Santa between 9am to 11am.

Bloomhill Cancer Help, General Manager, Mervat Thompson said it was a great opportunity for kids to meet Santa and tell him their Christmas wishes.

“You can even bring your camera and have photos taken,” Mervat said.

“Santa’s helper will also be on-hand and for those who miss out on seeing Santa, there will be a magic letterbox available for kids to post letters to the North Pole,” Mervat said.

The Cotton Tree Markets operate every Sunday from 7am to 12pm and feature a range of local fashion, homewares, toys, sculptures, skin care, jewellery, art and crafts plus plenty more.

“The markets are a great place to pick up unique Christmas gifts made from local artisans,” Mervat said.

“Our stallholders are transforming their stalls with Christmas decorations, making it a festive street and fun outing for the family,” she said.

Bloomhill Cancer Help is a Sunshine Coast based charity and provides support and assistance to those affected by cancer. Operated by a team of dedicated staff and hundreds of volunteers, Bloomhill offers counselling, transport to appointments, respite care and a range of complementary therapies and other practical help.

Revenue from stallholder site fees is placed back into the community through Bloomhill’s services and programs, enabling Bloomhill to provide support to a greater number of people during their time of need.

“By shopping at the Cotton Tree Markets you are helping to support those with cancer on the Coast,” Mervat said.

“We invite everyone to come down and join in the festivities, enjoy the markets and the wonderful shopping and cafes in the Cotton Tree precinct,” Mervat said.

“We are always on the lookout for new and unique stallholders, so please contact us if you would like to register your interest,” Mervat said.

For more information or to register your interest in becoming a part of the Cotton Tree Markets, please visit www.cottontreemarkets.com.au or email cottontreemarkets@bloomhill.com.au

See what Reflected Image can do for you. Contact Us Today