In this episode, we meet a man whose steady presence and quiet contributions have helped guide Noosa through decades of change. From big-city boardrooms to small-town community boards, Rick Cooper has been part of the region’s evolution in ways many locals might not even realise. His story offers a rare glimpse into what it means to be invested in the place you call home.

This Sunday, as we celebrate all mums everywhere with Mother’s Day, we’re going to shine a light on the extraordinary journey of Leanne Walsh, founder and CEO of Sunshine Butterflies. What began as a simple support group in her garage has blossomed into a thriving community organisation that empowers families and individuals living with disability across the Sunshine Coast. Inspired by her son Curtis, born 13 weeks premature with cerebral palsy, Leanne transformed personal challenges into a mission to fill the gaps in support and inclusion for families like hers. From fundraising barbecues to establishing innovative day programs on a sprawling 15-acre property, SunshineButterflies offers life skills, therapies, and a vibrant community where people with disabilities can grow, thrive, and find belonging. This episode of our podcast looks at Leanne’s unwavering dedication, passion, and leadership-reminding us all of the power of love and resilience in creating lasting change.

Cyndi O'Meara shares her journey from a childhood free of medication and processed foods to becoming a nutritionist who champions ancestral health. Discover how a philosophy of vitalism—eating local, seasonal foods and embracing natural living—can revolutionise your well-being, challenging mainstream diet trends and profit-driven food narratives. And if you're inspired to learn more, join Cyndi at the Health & Nutrition Summit from July 26-27 at the Caloundra Events Centre in Queensland!

We are going to take a closer look at what’s happening at TheStation across autumn, chatting with Chris Hignett, who runs this incredible venue with his wife Lauren. Chris gives us the inside scoop on what's making The Station the go-to destination for music, food, and community on the Sunshine Coast. Enjoy, and discover why The Station is more than just a venue – it's an experience.

Get ready for a captivating chat with Jamie Marshall, the new skipper at the helm of Creative Tours. From dodging lightning strikes at sea to finding love through a CV, Jamie's life story reads like an adventure novel. Born in Holland to boat-loving parents, he grew up speaking Dutch and learning English from Fawlty Towers reruns. Jamie's sailed the seven seas, survived heart-stopping storms, and even had a brush with death that would make most landlubbers shake in their boots. Australia is now home, and this world-traveller shares his unique take on Aussie culture and why he reckons our sunburnt country is the best place to drop anchor. It’s a ripper yarn about life on the high seas, near-death experiences, and how a chance phone call led to love and a new life Down Under.

Discover the intricacies of the build stage with Pat Ryan ofRyan Designer Homes in this third installment of our branded series. Uncover the secrets behind construction schedules, payment claims, and client communication as Pat shares invaluable insights into the custom home-building process. Learn how Ryan Designer Homes navigates unexpected challenges, from material shortages to weather events, and discover why their unique approach to project management and client relationships sets them apart. Whether you're a prospective homeowner or simply curious about the construction journey, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of custom home building.

What does it take to turn a family-owned dairy into a regional powerhouse, beloved for its award-winning products and community-first ethos? In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Tait, CEO of Maleny Dairies, to explore the passion and purpose that fuel their success, from winning three consecutive Sunshine Coast Business Awards to launching a podcast amplifying farmers' voices.

Join us as Stephen shares how Maleny Dairies balances innovation with tradition, why paying farmers above industry average is non-negotiable, and the surprising ways they’re using their platform to advocate for the future of dairy. It’s a story of resilience, connection, and staying true to your roots while building a brighter, sustainable tomorrow.

Welcome to Part Two of our special BRANDED SERIES for The Station. We’re back with Chris and Lauren Hignett, the dynamic duo behind The Station, and we’ll look at their incredible first year. From pulling in over 17,000 fans in just six months to booking some massive acts for the season ahead, they’re not just changing the game—they’re defining it.

And it’s not just about the big gigs. Chris and Lauren share how they’re building a community hub with exciting collaborations with organisations like Team Musicare and we preview their cozy new Sunday Sessions. And yes, there might even be snow on the Sunshine Coast this Christmas.