The voice of Maroochydore

The Maroochydore Community Advocate amplifies local voices and strengthens community connection by sharing authentic stories that inform, inspire, and empower the people of Maroochydore and fosters meaningful change through dedicating 5% of advertising revenue to fund community projects that deliver tangible, lasting impact.

Free

Monthly newspaper

10,000

Copies bulk dropped

5%

Of advertising allocated to fund local projects

Your voice, your community, your advocate

The Maroochydore Community Advocate is a locally owned and operated newspaper committed to hyper-local storytelling, fostering meaningful change, and strengthening community connection throughout Maroochydore.

More than a newspaper, we are a platform for participation; amplifying local voices and celebrating the people, businesses, and events that shape our region.

As the voice of our community, we prioritise stories that matter: those that inform, inspire, and empower.

Through authentic, community-led journalism, we deliver in-depth local news alongside people profiles, social photos, business spotlights, and community highlights.

We provide a platform for every voice, inviting readers to share their perspectives through opinion pieces, letters, and guest articles, and dedicated sections for youth and seniors.

Each edition connects readers to the rhythm of local life, showcasing upcoming events, sharing lifestyle and wellness articles, offering practical property and rental guides, regular coverage of local sports, and keeping people informed through classifieds, trades, and a community noticeboard.

We don’t just report on the community, we’re part of it. Five per cent of all advertising revenue is reinvested into local initiatives via a dedicated community levy, directly funding projects that create tangible, positive change.

We proudly showcase how advertisers’ dollars are making a difference, with local projects funded through our Community Champions program, reminding readers that every edition of the Maroochydore Community Advocate doesn’t just reflect the community, it contributes to it.

Every issue of the Maroochydore Community Advocate is grounded in what matters most: advocating for our community.

Your voice. Your community. Your advocate.

Your team

Alexia Purcell | PUBLISHER

Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, Alexia Purcell brings over 20 years of experience in the media industry to her role as the founder and publisher of the Maroochydore Community Advocate.

Alexia’s career includes extensive experience as an online journalist for News Corp Australia and as the editor of a long-standing community newspaper.

She has a proven track record of collaborating with communities to understand their needs and working with key stakeholders to deliver tangible change.

Vanessa Hall | EDITOR

Vanessa Hall, a long-time Sunshine Coast local, attended Stella Maris Primary, Nambour High, and was a foundation student at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

Vanessa’s media career began with writing movie reviews for the Sunshine Coast Daily in 1993. Over the past 25 years, she has held various media roles, including at Channel 7 Maroochydore, for Noosa Council in communications and events, and at a ski resort as a snow reporter.

Passionate about community news, Vanessa loves sharing the stories of the region she calls home.

Kristina Tindall | PRODUCTION

Kristina is passionate about customer-centric marketing in the form of print design and newspaper layout.

With over 20 years experience in the industry, she offers a high level of creativity, communication skills and business acumen.

Kristina lives in the Maroochydore area and understands the Sunshine Coast market and endeavours to promote and represent the local community with stunning page layouts in the Maroochydore Community Advocate.

Arkin Mackay | AD DESIGN

Arkin brings over 25 years of diverse design experience, spanning newspaper and print media, publishing, product and packaging design, photojournalism, and creative support for small businesses.

Multiskilled, Arkin has also been an Advanced Care Paramedic and has run her own small business for many years — experiences that have shaped a strong sense of community, empathy, and resilience. These roles have reinforced her belief in the value of local voices and the importance of grassroots engagement.

Matt Purcell | BDM

Matt brings extensive experience managing businesses across a variety of industries, backed by a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in finance and business law. A long-time Sunshine Coast local, he has built strong ties within the community and developed a deep understanding of the local business landscape.

Matt is a part-time performer, best known as one half of Matt and the Mayor, a blues duo with former Sunshine Coast Regional Council Mayor Bob Abbot. His blend of business acumen, community connection, and creative flair makes him a valuable advocate for the region’s people and businesses.