Creating Connections Within The Community

Image credit: MSOS

It takes a hearty dose of community spirit to create a sense of kinship between more than 365,942 souls scattered across 2,291km².

But that’s the Sunshine Coast for you. We’re a close-knit community, where locals greet each other on morning strolls and surfers have a chinwag beyond the breakers.

Whether your family has been here for generations or you’ve recently discovered paradise, everybody is welcome.

And nowhere is that camaraderie more evident than in the countless community groups operating across the coast.

Community is their compass, connection their destination.

Let’s take a look at just some of the many opportunities available to connect with people and place on the Sunshine Coast.

To get Salty

Mooloolaba Spit Ocean Swimmers: Every Sunday morning of the year, you’ll find a dedicated throng of swimmers slicing up the calm waters of Mooloolaba before enjoying a coffee and a chat. Good for the body, great for the mind.

North Shore Boardriders: As one of the longest-running boardriding clubs in Australia, these guys have been championing the local surf scene since the 1960s. Groms, golden oldies and everyone in between are invited to thrash it out on the Maroochydore waves on the first Sunday of every month.

To protect our environment

Coolum and North Shore Coast Care: It’s behind-the-scenes groups like this that help make our iconic beaches what they are. This not-for-profit group runs ongoing projects including dune and bush regeneration, turtle monitoring, nesting box installation and beach rubbish collection.

Friends of Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens: For more than 25 years, this committed group of volunteers has helped care for the mighty 82 hectares that is the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens. From monitoring birds, butterflies, koalas and other local fauna, to gardening, construction, propagation and leading visitor tours, they truly embody community spirit.

To move your body

Birtinya Island parkrun: As one of the Sunshine Coast’s newest parkruns, locals can walk, jog or run the 5km course together every Saturday morning for free. Need a coffee or beer to get you to the finish line? Check out UNFIT RUN CLUB, which launched during the pandemic as a way to support local breweries and cafes. You’ll find upcoming Mooloolaba and Maroochydore runs posted here.

Caloundra Off-Road Cycling Association (CORCA): This dedicated bunch of cyclists has been an integral part of the mountain biking community in Caloundra. Not only did they work alongside the Sunshine Coast Council to make the epic Sugar Bag Road Mountain Bike Trails a reality, but they also offer a host of events and social rides for all ages and abilities. Join the Saturday Big Adventure, Women on Wheels, CORCA Kids or even the annual Christmas Lights Ride.

To get your hands dirty

Yandina Community Gardens: These guys don’t just grow nutritious organic produce, they also educate residents on permaculture principles and support local businesses to create a waste-free, circular economy by processing their food waste. Become a member or volunteer to help continue this vital work.

Golden Beach Community Garden: In 2024, an enthusiastic group of Golden Beach locals set out to establish a community garden. Now every Sunday morning, residents and members gather under the trees to connect over a love of organic gardening. The informal weekly working bee provides a space to build friendships and learn new skills during the garden’s launch phase.

To celebrate the arts

BATS Theatre Company Inc: BATS is one of the longest-running and largest community theatres groups on the Sunshine Coast, with its roots stretching back to the 1920s. Opportunities for active members span acting, directing, costumes, makeup, lighting, set design and more, while social members can join in on picnics, trivia nights and get- togethers.

Sunshine Coast Art Group (SCArt): For the past 50+ years, this not-for-profit community group has provided a supportive environment for locals to try their hand at creative pursuits. Experiment with pottery, painting, life drawing, sewing or music.

To stay connected

U3A Sunshine Coast: This community organisation offers retirees a wealth of opportunities for connection and learning in the ‘third age’. Mature-age locals can join social activities, health and fitness groups, and engaging lecture series.

Buderim Men’s Shed: Established by the Buderim Rotary Club in 2011, the Buderim Men’s Shed aims to foster social inclusion and wellness through meaningful projects. From woodwork and metal work to gardening, chess, toy making and more, learning opportunities are complemented by social connection.