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Viral pic of illegal camper sparks local outrage

<p>A viral photo capturing an L-plated Mazda hatchback sprawled across two parking spaces with a rooftop tent erected atop has ignited a storm of controversy in Noosa, Queensland.</p> <p>The image, taken at the Woods Bay carpark by Facebook user and Noosa local Martin Doyle, has thrust the issue of illegal camping and parking violations into the spotlight, prompting calls for stricter enforcement from exasperated locals.</p> <p>The uproar stems from a perceived flouting of parking restrictions and an apparent disregard for Noosa's efforts to curb illegal camping. In response to mounting complaints from the community, Noosa Shire Council implemented a trial "no-parking" zone from 10pm to 4am in August 2023. Despite these measures, reports of overnight campers persist, raising concerns about the strain on local infrastructure and the environment.</p> <p>After Martin shared his contentious photo online, lamenting the lack of enforcement, he urged the council to take firmer action. “Come on council get some teeth and get serious about this camping illegally business,” he wrote. “This was not the only one overnight camping in the area and clearly not homeless.”</p> <p>His sentiments echo those of many residents who are frustrated by the sight of carparks resembling makeshift campgrounds, complete with tents and – worst of all – human waste.</p> <p>While some sympathise with the financial burden of traditional camping accommodations, others argue that respecting parking regulations is non-negotiable, particularly in densely populated tourist hubs like Noosa.</p> <p>The issue also extends beyond Noosa's shores. Similar conflicts between locals and visitors occur in tourist destinations nationwide, from Newcastle's Horseshoe Beach to coastal towns in Far North Queensland. The allure of scenic vistas and budget-friendly travel often collides with the need to maintain order and protect fragile ecosystems.</p> <p><em>Image: Martin Doyle | Facebook | Noosa Council</em> </p>

Travel Trouble

Woman sparks debate after copping $116 fine for "absurd" rule

<p>Shakira Coldwell, 21, has sparked debate online after copping a $116 parking fine for an "absurd" rule she claims she didn't even know existed. </p> <p>The Aussie woman took to TikTok to share her confusion, and asked if anyone else was aware of the rule. </p> <p>“Was I the only one that didn’t know you can get a parking fine for parking nose in, like the front of your car goes in first instead of backing into a car park?” she asked. </p> <p>She then asked whether the rule was only enforced in Noosa, saying that she was "pretty sure" you could park in any way as long as you stay between the lines. </p> <p>Coldwell then shared a photo of how she parked her car when she received the fine and said that she was “clearly” within the parking lines but hadn’t backed into her space like the car next to her.</p> <p>“Does that not just seem a bit absurd, a bit bizarre?” she said.</p> <p>She also said that she was only just made aware of the fine, as she had been travelling, which means that she may be copping even bigger fees as her payment was now overdue. </p> <p>“I’ve asked a couple of people about this and they literally had no idea that rule even existed. Like, I’m within the lines, it doesn’t matter how I’m parked,” she continued. </p> <p>According to the Brisbane City Council website, failing to park as indicated by an angle parking sign will result in a $116 fine, but Coldwell claims that she didn't see any signs. </p> <p>“So I am a bit confused. Is this just Noosa rule or does everyone know this because I literally did not know this was a rule. And low key $116 for a parking fine that's a bit absurd, given I was within the lines,” she said.</p> <p>Many commenters were quick to inform her that it was actually a common parking rule that wasn't restricted to Noosa. </p> <p>“As someone who lives in Noosa I can 100% guarantee there was a sign saying you had to back in,” one person wrote. </p> <p>“Being within the lines literally has nothing to do with it lol,” another said.</p> <p>A few others said that parking the wrong way in angled spots can make it “dangerous” when backing out into traffic, with one commenter claiming “everyone knows this”.</p> <p>However, a few others were just as baffled as the 21-year-old. </p> <p>“I’d be challenging that. I have never heard of it and there should definitely be signs so if you can go and check the signage,” one said. </p> <p>“Never heard of this before I wouldn’t pay it tell them where to go,” another wrote. </p> <p>According to the <a href="https://www.noosa.qld.gov.au/community/local-laws/parking-regulations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Noosa Council website</a>, rear-in angle parking is enforced in certain areas to “ensure a safer parking experience for everyone in the area," and to prevent cars from crossing into oncoming traffic as they try to exit the parking bay. </p> <p><em>Images: TikTok</em></p>

Legal

Michael Clarke breaks silence on THAT stoush in Noosa with Karl Stefanovic

<p>In a candid interview on <em>A Current Affair</em>, former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke has broken his silence regarding a distressing incident involving his then-girlfriend, Jade Yarbrough, which circulated online <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/karl-stefanovic-and-michael-clarke-caught-in-public-scuffle-over-cheating-claims" target="_blank" rel="noopener">earlier this year</a>.</p> <p>The altercation took place in Noosa in January, and since then, Clarke has maintained a resolute silence about the incident.</p> <p>Clarke began by acknowledging the complexities of handling personal matters in the public eye. He explained, "A lot of people are involved, you know, there's other families, there's friends.</p> <p>"I think it's always important that you do your best to try and respect that as well. So a lot of the time throughout my career I've asked to not speak about my personal life, or I've tried not to talk about it, which has probably been to the detriment of me at some stages because I think the public have wanted to know and the fact I haven't spoken, you know, might look like there's something to hide or 'why can't he just talk about it?' But it's not just about me - like I say, you are trying to respect everyone that's involved."</p> <p>The incident in Noosa involved a confrontation with Jade Yarbrough, who is the sister of Karl Stefanovic's wife, Jasmine. Accusations of an affair between Clarke and a former lover escalated into a heated exchange.</p> <p>In the video, tensions ran high with Clarke and Yarbrough hurling expletives at each other. Even <em>Today</em> show host Karl Stefanovic found himself at the receiving end of Clarke's ire.</p> <p>In his recent appearance on <em>A Current Affair </em>as an ambassador for Australian Bitters, Clarke discussed the challenges of dealing with public and media scrutiny. He stated, "Sometimes it's out of control as well, you know, sometimes unless I stay in my house 24/7, that's the only way I keep control of it."</p> <p>The interview also delved into the incident in Noosa, with the interviewer, Simon Bouda, asking Clarke about any regrets from that time. To this, Clarke replied, "No... listen, I'm here to talk about lemon, lime, and bitters."</p> <p>He emphasised that speaking about personal matters often overshadowed the purpose of his appearances, and he didn't want his experiences to overshadow the brand he was endorsing.</p> <p>The conversation continued to highlight the challenges of fame and the constant public scrutiny faced by sports figures. Clarke admitted to making mistakes, saying, "I've made, ah, I've made some mistakes, I haven't made mistakes. I've spoken about them, I haven't spoken about them.</p> <p>"For me, again, I think the most important thing is that you get out of bed every day and try and do your best. I'm not here to blame anyone, I'm not here to blame me. I'm here to learn. I think that's the key; we're all still learning, we're all still trying our best, and yeah, relationships are tough."</p> <p>Despite the challenges and controversies he's faced, Clarke has moved forward with a new venture, serving as an ambassador for the Australian startup Australian Bitters as it explores opportunities for global expansion. Business development manager Jeremy Allen expressed confidence in the timing of their expansion, citing Clarke's involvement as an essential element of their strategy.</p> <p>In a world where personal matters often collide with the public sphere, Clarke's open discussion about the complexities of fame and relationships sheds light on the struggles faced by individuals in the public eye. His role as an ambassador for Australian Bitters signifies a new chapter in his life, where he's focused on learning from the past while embracing the opportunities that the future holds.</p> <p><em>Image: A Current Affair</em></p>

"Where's Karlos?": Michael Clarke pokes fun at himself in return to Noosa

<p>Aussie cricket legend Michael Clarke has given his social media followers a chuckle with a self-deprecating update post from Noosa.</p> <p>The post comes three months after his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/karl-stefanovic-and-michael-clarke-caught-in-public-scuffle-over-cheating-claims" target="_blank" rel="noopener">scuffle with Karl Stefanovic</a> at the Queensland tourist hotspot that made headlines nationwide.</p> <p>Over the Easter long weekend Clarke returned to the scene of the spat which went viral online, but this time the post saw him with family members as he was off from his hosting duties on the <em>Big Sports Breakfast</em> morning radio show.</p> <p>He posted a sweet family photo, including his daughter, Kelsey Lee, 7, and his mother Debbie.</p> <p>Clarke made fun of himself in the post, pairing the image with the caption, “Back in Noosa, a little more wholesome this time,”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq4nnb3JkMa/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq4nnb3JkMa/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Michael Clarke AO (@michaelclarkeofficial)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p> His Instagram post attracted hundreds of comments, many making fun of the viral incident with Stefanovic.</p> <p>“Where’s Karlos?” one comment read.</p> <p>“Stefanovic on his way up there surely?” wrote another.</p> <p>Karl Stefanovic was also pictured in Noosa over the long weekend, but there were no signs of him meeting up with the cricket icon.</p> <p>Stefanovic also took to Instagram, looking elated as he shows off a fish he had caught on the beach at Noosa.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cquk0OYuy-f/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cquk0OYuy-f/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by karl stefanovic (@karlstefanovic_)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Clarke has had a tough 2023 so far, with his Noosa altercation reportedly costing him a $150,000 commentary gig for Australia’s recent cricket tour of India.</p> <p>He also <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/rip-pop-michael-clarke-reveals-further-heartbreak" target="_blank" rel="noopener">suffered the loss of his best friend </a>in March 2023.</p> <p>Since the Noosa spat, the cricket great has been backed by Tabcorp, the owners of <em>Sky Sports Radio</em>, who have supported Clarke as he continues his role on <em>Big Sports Breakfast</em>.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Noosa resident sells home for 190 times what they paid for it

<p>A buyer has swooped in on a waterfront mansion in Noosa Heads, on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.</p> <p>The property comes with a $17 million price tag and cost the vendor only $90,000 when purchased in the mid-'80s.</p> <p>On the numbers, it truly is the deal of a lifetime.</p> <p>The six-bedroom house at 32 Noose Parade was built in 1985 on a plum parcel of land, capturing 20-metre river frontage.</p> <p>The sold price for the brick home on highly-sought after Noose Parade, on the Noosa River, has not been disclosed, but the advertising campaign called for offers over $17 million.</p> <p>If the property achieved close that sum, which it is understood to have, it would be second highest sale ever in Noosa Heads, behind $19.5 million paid this year.</p> <p>The Sunshine Coast and Queensland property record is $34 million paid for the stunning 17 Webb Road, Sunshine Beach, in June last year.</p> <p>Listing agent for 32 Noosa Parade, Tom Offermann, said the riverside location is the "holy grail" for property seekers in Noosa Heads, and the home sold for its land value. He declined to comment on the buyer or their plans for the property.</p> <p>Offermann, director of Tom Offermnan Real Estate, said Noosa Parade has immense appeal and homes often only come to market when vendors reach older age.</p> <p>The listing for 32 Noosa Parade gives away very little about the condition of the house, but the few photos attached hint that it is faithful to the original design.</p> <p><em>Image: Domain</em></p>

Real Estate

Dawn Fraser’s home could earn her more than when she was an Olympian

<p>Aussie swimming legend Dawn Fraser could earn more on the sale of her Sunshine Coast investment property than she did throughout the entirety of her athletic career.</p> <p>The 83-year-old has listed her darling Noosa Heads home more than two decades after she bought it for $345,000.</p> <p>Fraser is regarded as one of Australia’s greatest swimmers and strongest Olympian and is hoping to fetch $1 million for her four-bedroom, three-bathroom investment property.</p> <p>The charming home sits on a 599 sqm block and overlooks the pool and a park across the street.</p> <p>Sam Plummer of Noosa Estate Agents sold the property to Fraser back in 2001 and now has the property under her arm again.</p> <p>The agent says the Noosa market was “unprecedented.”</p> <p>“It’s a market nobody, I believe, has seen before here,” she said.</p> <p>“I’ve never seen this in my time, in 20 years.”</p> <p>She is currently renting out the property for $600 a week, but the lease is due to expire in October.</p> <p>Ms Plummer said no improvements had been made on the property since Fraser first bought it, but still it has gained attractive offers.</p> <p>“It’s a great time to sell and to capitalise on this current market,” Ms Plummer said.</p> <p>“It’s attracting a fair bit of attention. We’re looking at offers in excess of $1 million.</p> <p>“We’re selling it as a home to either renovate and live in yourself, or you may want to knock it down and build your dream home.”</p>

Real Estate

4 foodie destinations to try in Noosa

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Despite the sun, sand and relaxing environment, many are surprised that Noosa is a hidden gem when it comes to fantastic food.</span></p> <p><strong>1. Wasabi, Noosa</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Danielle Gjestland, renowned Wasabi restaurateur, spoke to </span><a href="https://www.escape.com.au/destinations/australia/queensland/noosa-tasting-the-food-revolution/news-story/399211fee6c0d79cfcdee34479c6bf48?ad_sec2=australia"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Escape</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> about how the farm got started. If the name doesn’t give it away, the food that is served at Wasabi is Japanese.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Honeysuckle Hill Farm is a particular highlight for people who enjoy restaurants, as the owner grows more than 50 varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We started the farm out of necessity really,” Danielle explained.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The restaurant got to a point where we couldn’t do what we wanted to do without access to certain ingredients.” </span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtPyo9rAtRi/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtPyo9rAtRi/" target="_blank">The painstaking process of a Mukago harvest at Honeysuckle Hill. Mukago are the arial tubers of the Yama-imo (the main reason for growing the plant - a yam that has the most wonderful sticky texture when grated and is also awesome simply grilled. Fun fact ..... In the Edo period they thought the yam was an aphrodisiac and added the yam paste to bath water to enhance male virility) Mukago are just a bonus of growing Yama Imo but are tricky to harvest as they often fall to the ground as soon as you touch them, vanishing in the surrounding leaf litter. They taste delicious steamed, roasted or fried so are worth the extra effort! #honeysucklehillfarm #japanesecuisine #noosa #restaurantaustralia</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/wasabi_noosa/" target="_blank"> Wasabi Restaurant & Bar</a> (@wasabi_noosa) on Jan 29, 2019 at 9:20pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She says that when the restaurant opened less than a decade ago, the locals weren’t a fan.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“One thing that we really try to achieve is yes, you’re going to eat Japanese food, but you’re also going to come away having experienced the produce from our region and the things that live here and grow here,” Danielle said.</span></p> <p><strong>2. The local farmers market in Noosa</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Those who are eager to taste the local produce of Noosa can head down to the Noosa Farmers Market, which is on every Sunday. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a variety of local stalls available, which allows you to taste fresh organic produce, herbs and fresh seafood caught straight from the ocean, there’s bound to be something to suit your taste buds.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This is a great way to experience the local tastes, smells and sounds of Noosa while enjoying some of the region’s greatest coffee, according to its </span><a href="https://www.noosafarmersmarket.com.au/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">website</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxzKgQ0hvsX/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxzKgQ0hvsX/" target="_blank">Early morning is the best time at the market, you get to see sunrises like this. #visitnoosa #noosa #noosafarmersmarket</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/noosafarmersmarkets/" target="_blank"> Noosa Farmers Market</a> (@noosafarmersmarkets) on May 23, 2019 at 2:07am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><strong>3. Thomas Corner Eatery</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Strong local relationships with farmers and the fishermen in Noosa work out quite well for the restaurants that open here. This is the case at Thomas Corner Eatery, which overlooks the Noosa River.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The eatery prides themselves on only using local ingredients. Head chef Michael Trask explained that their Sunday lunch event during the Noosa Food and Wine Festival this year will really highlight what the restaurant has to offer.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“All of the produce will come from no further south than Caloundra and no further north than Gympie,” he says.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByjR-fWh-mp/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByjR-fWh-mp/" target="_blank">One of my favorite starters. Bbg east coast baby octopus, capsicum, capers, oregano, black garlic #startersatthomascorner #chefslife #noosariver #noosarestaurants #visitnoosa #noosariver</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/thomascornereatery/" target="_blank"> Thomas Corner Eatery</a> (@thomascornereatery) on Jun 10, 2019 at 6:36pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><strong>4. Bombetta</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The slick, split-level Italian restaurant known as Bombetta is making waves since it opened in late 2017.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Although Hastings Street is known as the epicentre of any Noosa holiday, restaurateur Pascal Turschwell explains that most of the action with food is “over the hill”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“People don’t usually come over the hill, but this is where the bars are,” he says</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The extensive menu will settle any craving that you have for Italian, and with pan fried gnocchi, braised beef short rib and crispy skin slow roasted Porchetta on the menu, it seems like you can’t go wrong.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByjuKQhhPZj/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByjuKQhhPZj/" target="_blank">New Winter menu filtering in- Pan fried ricotta gnocchi, lemon braised silverbeet, toasted almonds, shaved parmesan 🤤 #newmenu #gnocchi #noosarestaurant #visitnoosajunction #bombettanoosa #visitsunshinecoast #housemadegnocchi #visitnoosa #vego</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/bombettanoosa/" target="_blank"> Bombetta</a> (@bombettanoosa) on Jun 10, 2019 at 10:42pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p> </p>

Domestic Travel

Insider’s guide to Noosa

<p>Looking for natural charm combined with casual sophistication and wonderful local produce? There’s no better place on Australia’s east coast to take in the good life than Noosa, on the aptly named Sunshine Coast.</p> <p>Start the day like a local and enjoy brunch while watching the local beach life sitting in Noosa’s chic, sun-soaked beachfront café,<span> </span><span>Bistro C</span>. It’s the perfect spot to watch the crowd go by while enjoying amazing local produce with changing menus to suit the seasons.</p> <p>Long-time owner Lorri Banks and her team bring panache and passion to this establishment. Enjoy the fruits of their labour.</p> <p>Those in the know accept that it’s not a proper visit to Noosa without a casual promenade down the main street, Hastings Street, that runs parallel to the beach. Take in the glamorous collection of fashion boutiques, cafes and charming restaurants as you go.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822979/food-at-bistro-c.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/6846fb5af8f34e3d8153c32692238b34" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>Food at Bistro C</em></p> <p><span>Enjoy a cocktail at Aroma’s or Miss Moneypenny’s and capture some of the history of Noosa at </span><span>Café le Monde </span><span>while enjoying fresh shucked oysters direct from the grower. Across the road, drop by Massimo’s Gelateria. The many boutiques carry both international labels and brands unique to Noosa – and can be forgiving on the more mature figure.</span></p> <p>Visit Gordon Herford, a master jeweller in his Poeta shop that is among some of the best designer shops on the strip. Take to the beach with a Noosa LongBoard handcrafted surfboard. NL can help surfers of all abilities.</p> <p>Check out the sand artist along the boardwalk for the finest sand sculptures. Next, leave your towel on the beach and head to an old beachfront favourite,<span> </span><span>Season Restaurant</span><span> </span>for a casual Noosa-style lunch.</p> <p>Walking in the Noosa National Park is a must for everyone; whether you choose the coastal or the rainforest track on a morning run or a stroll any time of the day.</p> <p>If you’re up early enough, watch out for those koalas on the pathways and keep your eyes alerted to their mates sleeping in the eucalypts.</p> <p>The coastal track runs from Noosa to Sunshine Beach. If you enter from the Sunshine Beach end, you are more likely to see pods of dolphins swimming in the bays or migrating whales from the headlands.</p> <p>Watch the currents when you swim at beautiful isolated Alexander Bay - they can be wild, and it is unofficially ‘clothing optional’ at the southern end.</p> <p>Whichever entrance you use, walk to Hell’s Gate, the half-way headland. Some of the best surf spots are in the park and the ideal swimming spots are Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822977/tea-tree-bay.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/40d2a18233d845c4964f5b193aca8d69" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>Tea Tree Bay</em></p> <p>Little Cove Beach, a short walk along the seaside boardwalk towards the entrance to the Park is worth a stop – well protected with gentle surf.</p> <p>While in Sunshine Beach, don’t miss a coffee at the Golden Bean award-winning<span> </span><span>Costa Noosa Espresso</span><span> </span>among the Duke Street shops and cafes that add to the Sunshine Beach charm. Best of all, head to the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club perched on a headland with great views of the ocean for a casual drink and a steak or seafood.</p> <p>Watch out for the next artist to sing at their Sunday afternoon concerts – it might just be your favourite! There’s a modern Asian restaurant, Embassy XO Restaurant and Bar too, try the beef cheeks! Cocktails, wine list and tapas are good at the Marble Bar.</p> <p>To stock up on your weekly food supplies, head to the Farmers Market every Sunday morning at the AFL ground on the road to Noosaville. The local farmers set up their stalls by 7am – don’t be too late or you’ll miss seeing the basket-loads of local produce – fruit and greens all grown in the region, tapenades, nuts and spices, take-home pork, seafood, spatchcock and duck. There is a first grade cheese maker who makes a rich burrata and mozzarella and Gympie Farm Cheese, run by French born Camille Mortaud has delicious handcrafted goat's chèvre and handmade butter.</p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822980/embassy-xo.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/eca6cd39d71a49069081f936700aab53" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em>Food at Embassy XO</em></p> <p>If you’re serious about your health then you won’t regret shopping and eating at Organika supermarket and café on Gibson Road, Noosaville. Stroll along Gibson Road to take a peek into the homeware, swimwear and giftware shops of OneWorld and Gibsons of Noosa Homewares & Deli Café. You will definitely find a gift to take home or a new swimsuit.</p> <p>Fuel up for the afternoon with a healthy food basket packed by<span> </span><span>Belmondos Organic Market</span>, tucked in the industrial back streets of Noosaville. It stocks local products, including Eumundi meats, Clandestino coffee and a range of local Ayuvedic health supplements, Yukti Botanicals. Relax and ease away any tension at Noosa Springs Golf and Spa with a hydro-massage and full body massage.</p> <p>Eumundi markets are a short drive from Hastings Street, opening on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. This market is full of the most exquisite local handicraft and a good place to go for your morning cappuccino and pastry or freshly made lemonade.</p> <p>Whether it’s lunch or dinner you want, head to Wasabi or Ricky’s restaurant on the river. Take the ferry, water taxi or a gondola to both. Check the time of sunset before booking, to see the sunset view across the glittering Noosa river from these award-winning restaurants.</p> <p>The 2-hatted Wasabi has been in Noosa for many years offering refined Japanese cuisine using produce grown on their Honeysuckle Hill Farm. Next door, devour a six-course tasting menu at Ricky’s. Want to cook like the chefs at Wasabi and Ricky’s? Enrol in a course at the Noosa Cooking School in the same complex.</p> <p>Exhausted after the eating and shopping? Don’t forget the beach…</p> <p>What is your favourite Australian destination? Let us know in the comments below.</p> <p><em>Written by Fay Geddes. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/insiders-guide-to-noosa.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Domestic Travel

Pat Rafter loses millions on Aussie beachfront mansion

<p><span>Records have revealed that Aussie tennis legend Pat Rafter lost millions after selling his stunning Queensland property.</span></p> <p><span>The athlete had originally wanted $18 million for the stunning investment house in Noosa’s Sunshine Beach.</span></p> <p><span>After the house remained on the market for two years, Rafter was forced to lower the price, settling for several million less than the asking price.</span></p> <p><span>The beach house was sold on March 29 for $15.2 million, according to realestate.com.au.</span></p> <p><span>The final figure was $2.8 million less than what the Rafters said they paid to develop the property.</span></p> <p><span>“$18m — that’s what we spent on it,” he told News Corp Australia earlier this year.</span></p> <p><span>The sale was still worth more than Rafter had made in winnings during his career on the international tennis circuit, which ProTennis estimated at $14.5 million.</span></p> <p><span>The Mediterranean beach house was built a decade ago and includes a private path to the beach, seven bedrooms and breathtaking ocean views.</span></p> <p><span>The home also features an infinity pool, spa, home theatre, study, media room and wine cellar.</span></p> <p><span>Scroll through the gallery above to get a sneak peek into the stunning beach house. </span></p>

Accommodation

This is the most underrated destination in Australia

<p><em><strong>Travel writer Amber Cross describes what she thinks is the most underrated location in Australia. Better book your tickets soon, it’s not going to be a secret for long!</strong></em></p> <p>Queensland is one of my very favourite spots; I love the sunshine, the holiday vibes and the ease of popping across the ditch for a romantic break close to home.</p> <p>The secret's definitely out though and if, like me, you're up for adventuring where only the locals know about, consider heading off the beaten path and laying out your towel on one of these beautiful beaches.</p> <p>Hidden away in Noosa National Park and accessible only via foot, Alexandria Bay is well worth the mission. It's a three kilometre hike through scrubland, but the reward is uncrowded stretches of sand and rolling barrels (great for keen surfers).</p> <p>My next favourite secret spot is in the Mackay region. It's not other beachgoers you'll share the sand with, but rather wallabies at Cape Hillsborough. It's also a great spot for keen bird watchers.</p> <p>If you're in Palm Cove and looking for a quieter spot, head to Ellis Beach. While there, pop into the Ellis Beach Bar & Grill for a delicious post-dip lunch.</p> <p>You could almost roll off the plane and onto Mudjimba Beach it's that close to the Sunshine Coast Airport. Yet this peaceful village is often completely off the radar for out-of-towners.</p> <p>Do you agree with Amber’s suggestions? Have you ever visited these holiday spots? What do you think the most underrated holiday location in Australia is?</p> <p>Share your thoughts in the comments.</p> <p><em>Written by Amber Cross. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>.</em></p>

International Travel

Dogs on surfboards steal spotlight at Festival of Surfing

<p>For most dogs, the only physical activity they’ll be getting up to today will probably involve fetching a plush toy from the lounge room, figuring out which end of the couch to lie on, or perhaps digging up some gardenias from their backyard.</p> <p>But the playful pooches in this video aren’t like most dogs.</p> <p>These dogs are part of the Dog Spectacular at the Noosa Festival of Surfing, the only surfing event in the world where a master and dog compete as a team.</p> <p>Dogs of all breeds and ages padded out with their owners for some pure, surf-loving fun as the catch the perfect waves on pristine Noosa Beach.</p> <p> “It’s a wonderful experience for dog and human,” said Festival Co-Founder Paul Jarratt. “It’s not really about winning or losing; it’s a celebration of all the good things we love about surfing, the ocean and environment that we are privileged to have in Noosa. I think that’s why we attract surfers and their families from all over the world, we’ve got 20 countries represented this year.”</p> <p>To see some of the highlights from this year’s competition watch the video above. Don’t you think the dogs look like they’re having fun?</p> <p>Or do you think it’s wrong for dogs to be surfing?</p> <p>Share your thoughts in the comments.</p> <p><em>Video: YouTube / NoosaSurfFestival</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/06/this-hilariously-awkward-dog-is-stealing-hearts/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">This hilariously awkward dog is stealing hearts</span></strong></em></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/06/puppy-born-without-back-paws-gets-second-chance-at-life/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Puppy born without back paws gets second chance at life</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/06/how-to-cope-with-a-jealous-pet-when-grandkids-come-along/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>How to cope with a jealous pet when grandkids come along</strong></em></span></a></p>

International Travel

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