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What Sunshine Coast Locals Can Learn at Budget Bites Free Food Waste Workshop
If you’re looking for practical ways to save money on groceries while embracing sustainable living on the Sunshine Coast, then Budget Bites is the perfect community event for you.
Hosted at Sunshine Coast Libraries throughout March 2025, Budget Bites is a free educational workshop that teaches locals how to cut food waste, plan smarter meals, and turn leftovers into delicious new dishes — all while reducing household expenses.
With the average Australian household throwing away between $2,000 and $2,500 worth of food each year, this free Sunshine Coast workshop helps you make your food go further while helping the planet.
Proudly supported by Sunshine Coast Council’s Waste 2 Resource Education team, this workshop is a fantastic opportunity to learn practical food-saving techniques that suit both families on the Sunshine Coast and anyone wanting to live more sustainably.
Where to Attend Budget Bites Workshops on the Sunshine Coast in 2025
Budget Bites will be held at seven Sunshine Coast library locations, making it easy for residents across the region to attend a session nearby.
Workshop Dates and Locations
- Nambour Library – Monday, 17 March 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am
- Beerwah Library – Tuesday, 18 March 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am
- Coolum Library – Friday, 21 March 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am
- Maroochydore Library – Saturday, 22 March 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am
- Caloundra Library – Tuesday, 25 March 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am
- Maleny Library – Thursday, 27 March 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am
- Kawana Library – Friday, 28 March 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am
The workshops are free, open to all residents aged 16 and over, and bookings are essential.
Budget Bites Sunshine Coast: Practical Tips to Save Money and Reduce Food Waste
Led by Chloe Abernethy, Budget Bites is designed to give Sunshine Coast families, retirees, and young adults the tools they need to shop smarter, store food better, and reduce household waste.
At each session, you’ll learn:
- How to create weekly meal plans that save time and money.
- Clever ways to store fresh produce, dairy, and pantry items to keep them fresher for longer.
- Creative recipes to transform leftovers into tasty meals your family will love.
- How to use a meal planner template to map out meals for the week.
- Simple changes that reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable Sunshine Coast.
Every attendee will take home useful printed resources, including tips, templates, and tools to help you continue saving money at home.
Who Will Benefit from Attending Budget Bites on the Sunshine Coast?
Budget Bites is designed for anyone who wants to save money on groceries, reduce food waste, or live more sustainably. It’s particularly useful for:
- Families on the Sunshine Coast trying to reduce food costs.
- Young adults and students moving to the Sunshine Coast and learning how to budget for groceries for the first time.
- Retirees wanting to stretch their food dollars further.
- Eco-conscious locals interested in sustainable living practices.
- New Sunshine Coast residents looking to meet locals and learn practical skills to support their affordable lifestyle on the Sunshine Coast.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a total beginner, the tips and techniques taught at Budget Bites are easy to apply and suitable for all skill levels.
How to Register for Free Budget Bites Workshops on the Sunshine Coast
Since places at Budget Bites workshops are free but limited, you’ll need to register in advance to secure your spot.
Visit: library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/whats-on/at-the-library/budget-bites to reserve your place.
Explore Local Attractions After Your Budget Bites Workshop on the Sunshine Coast
With workshops held across multiple Sunshine Coast libraries, each location offers a chance to turn your visit into a fun day out. Consider exploring these local Sunshine Coast attractions near each library:
- Nambour: Browse the Nambour Retro Markets or enjoy coffee at a local café.
- Beerwah: Visit the iconic Australia Zoo or take a scenic walk through the Glass House Mountains.
- Coolum: Relax with a beachside coffee after your session at Coolum Beach.
- Maroochydore: Take a walk along Cotton Tree Esplanade or visit Sunshine Plaza for a little shopping.
- Caloundra: Visit Kings Beach or explore the popular Caloundra Street Fair.
- Maleny: Discover local produce and visit the Maleny Botanic Gardens.
- Kawana: Enjoy a stroll along Kawana Beach or browse Kawana Shoppingworld.
How to Get to Budget Bites Workshops at Sunshine Coast Libraries
Each Sunshine Coast library hosting Budget Bites is easy to access whether you’re driving, taking public transport, or cycling along one of the region’s many scenic pathways.
- Driving: All participating libraries offer free parking.
- Public Transport: Most libraries are serviced by Sunshine Coast bus routes.
- Cycling & Walking: Libraries like Coolum, Maroochydore, and Kawana are accessible via local walking and cycling paths, ideal for those embracing an active Sunshine Coast lifestyle.
Why Sunshine Coast Residents Should Attend Budget Bites to Save Money and Live Sustainably
Living on the Sunshine Coast means enjoying its natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle, but it also means managing rising grocery costs and contributing to a more sustainable community.
Budget Bites offers a practical way to reduce your weekly grocery bill while helping the environment by cutting back on food waste — a win-win for Sunshine Coast residents.
Attending this free community event on the Sunshine Coast is also a great way to connect with other locals, learn valuable skills, and contribute to sustainable living efforts in your region.
Register for Budget Bites: Free Sunshine Coast Food Waste Workshops in 2025
Don’t miss your chance to attend this free workshop series and learn practical ways to cut food waste and save money in your own kitchen.
Reserve your spot today at: library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/whats-on/at-the-library/budget-bites
Whether you’re a long-time Sunshine Coast local or you’ve recently made the move to this beautiful region, Budget Bites offers practical solutions for affordable living and sustainable food habits.
Check out more Sunshine Coast happenings on the Moving to the Sunshine Coast blog.