Cooroora Connect November Edition

Cooroora Connect November 2020

An Initiative of Pomona & District Community House

Sandy Bolton: Queen of power?

INSIDE: How you can get involved in the Great Up-cycling Challenge - Pages 12 and 13.

Sandy Bolton MP – anticipating being the Independent Member for Noosa for a further term.

All eyes are on finalisaton of the counting of primary votes and allocation of preferences in the ballots for the two electorates covering the Noosa Hinterland as lastminute volatility in polling pointed to a close tussle between major parties to form government in Queensland for the next four years.

The importance of the seat of Nicklin – incorporating Cooroy, Black Mountain and surrounding areas – is not lost on election aficionados, as it was sitting member Marty Hunt (LNP) who succeeded independent Peter Wellington at the 2017 election, Mr Wellington previously having supported a minority Beattie Labor government from the Speaker’s chair.

The focus has switched to popular Independent Noosa MP, Sandy Bolton, who is relying on the votes of the people of

Pomona, Kin Kin, Boreen Point and coastal areas of the shire to again be their representative in the 57th Queensland Parliament, where she may have a more prominent ‘balance of power’ role in setting the government’s legislative agenda until 2024.

Whether she plays a balance of power role as important as Mr Wellington did in forming government remains to be seen.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (ALP) and contender for the top job Deb Frecklington (LNP) have both ruled out governing in minority with the support of the crossbench or an independent. You never say never in politics, and it is in that space where Sandy Bolton, regardless of who forms government, will continue to

CYCLING STRATEGY RELEASED SOON Noosa Council will release its updated draft new cycling and walking strategy midNovember, Mayor Clare Stewart has announced. Public comment will be sought before final amendments are made and the strategy implemented.

The Noosa Cycling and Walking Strategy will re-establish a vision for cycling and walking in Noosa Shire for the Continued page 2 next 20 years.

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Will Sandy Bolton play a more prominent role?

she says has been ignored by political predecessors for years.

Asked which major party she would support in the event of a hung Parliament, Ms Bolton was clear, saying she ‘backed no-one’ save for From page 1 maintaining her focus on the Noosa demonstrate her own brand of getting electorate and the needs of its constituents. the job done if re-elected as the Member for Noosa. She will need to “If we come to that, I will look at who shake off contenders James Blevin will be able to deliver the best for (LNP), ‘evergreen’ Mark Denham Noosa and the region,” she is quoted (ALP) and Rhonda Prescott (Greens), as saying. “I am very driven to ensure as well as Darrell Redford (Animal that this community continues on its Justice Party) and Tracey Bellfantastic path,” she said.

Henselin (One Nation) and looks set In a new term of parliament, Ms to do so, barring any last-minute Bolton listed her targets as being political glitches. expansion of casualty and emergency As a COVID-affected polling pattern services at Noosa Hospital, further emerged last week, causing more improvements to managing all aspects cautious voters to cast their vote of the Noosa River including ahead of the official polling day on continued removal of abandoned Saturday 31 October, a tired but boats, providing funding to connect effervescent Sandy Bolton was setting any missing gaps in path and cycle priorities for her electorate, which ways for accessibility, and resolution include seeing-through construction of the impacts to residents, businesses of Beckmans Road Stages 2 and 3, with and infrastructure in local country Stage 1 already set for construction in villages from ‘dangerous high volume 2021. Locally she has secured $19.8 heavy haulage’. million to replace the Six Mile Creek - Brian O’Connor Bridge No. 7 – a notorious danger spot

POMONA REMBRANCE DAY SERVICE ARANGEMENTS

Proposal runs counter to Cr Finzel’s intention The plans for alternative means of dispensing books and library services to the people of the hinterland run counter to Cr Karen Finzel’s statements earlier this year supporting a ‘like for like’ replacement of the old mobile library, now retired.

During the local government election in March, the then Future Noosa candidate said alternatives such as a smaller vehicle or vending machines were not good enough, her preferred model being a replacement service that retained ‘the look and feel of a real walk-in library, along with its Wi-Fi [function], photocopier and reference books’. A diminution of service would be particularly felt in hinterland towns, she said.

“The loss of a fully-fledged mobile library service would be yet another blow to this important part of the shire,” Cr Finzel said back then.

New seafood menu at Pomona Hotel

Remembrance Day commemorations at Pomona will be low key this year, with an informal wreath-laying ceremony planned for 11 am on 11 November.

Chair of the Pomona War Memorial Committee, Nathanael Ford, will place an official wreath at the rotunda memorial and has invited others to do likewise, while maintaining social distancing protocols.

The Pomona War Memorial was restored and rededicated in 2018. Mr Ford hopes that additional commemorative elements can be added in what originally was known as Soldiers Memorial Park.

Meanwhile, discussions continue over arrangements for the ANZAC Day ceremony next year.

The Pomona Hotel has re-opened its doors and the cold beer is flowing freely. Mine host, Andrew I’Hansen, has also revealed that the hotel will be offering a new seafood menu, lunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday. Glad that the pub is open once more are (left to right) Rosie Costigan and patrons Steve McNeill and Brett Powell.

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Council reveals replacement plans for mobile library Noosa Council continues to develop options for what it calls a ‘community outreach model’ of library services for those areas of the shire that don’t have a freestanding branch library in close proximity. The model will replace the old mobile library, which has been discontinued.

The Director of Community Services at Noosa Council, Kerri Contini, said the draft new model involved a light rigid outreach vehicle operating on a weekly schedule, two library book dispensing kiosks, bulk loans to partner organisations and a schedule of learning programs and workshops to be delivered throughout the shire.

Gone – the old Noosa Mobile Library, replaced by a small delivery van and, soon, kiosks located in hinterland towns dispensing books.

Meanwhile, Noosa Council continues to encourage residents’ actions in erecting small ‘street libraries’ on their own land.

To support the start-up of the street library concept, Noosa Library Service established a number of little libraries several years ago. “The little library houses were made by Noosa Men’s Shed, stocked with ex-library books and then hosted at a range of community locations,” Ms Contini said.

creating any more street libraries, as the concept has taken off and there are now community street libraries around the shire. They do not require council approval if placed on private property,” she said.

“The street, or ‘little library’, movement is More information on street growing around the world library designs can be “Consultation with the and is enthusiastically found at community about the draft supported by Council’s www.streetlibrary.org.au. model will commence in library staff,” Ms Contini December 2020 and will said. “These small “The Library Service isn’t include information direct community collections to mobile library users, a encourage people to read, Appointments roadshow displaying the share books and connect Available Now different elements of the with neighbours.”

Ph: 5485 1177 draft model, posters on Ms Contini said there were town/community many designs available OUR SERVICES INCLUDE noticeboards and meetings online for people to make with key stakeholders,” Ms themselves, or they could Immunisations & Skin Checks Contini said. be purchased fully built.

Medical & Health Assessments

TRACKING HISTORY MADE EASIER Cataloguing and preserving the thousands of photographs and precious items of memorabilia at the Noosa Shire Museum, Pomona, is a never-ending job, made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers. All items must be registered and the story of each item researched and noted.

That task is about to become less onerous. Noosa Council has agreed to gift $4915 to the Cooroora Historical Society Inc., operators of the museum, to upgrade the computerised collections management system and purchase new equipment for the photo room. The grant will cover the cost of training more volunteers to operate the new system.

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Lions challenge businesses to bring out Christmas decorations Santa has stashed a bit more in his sack of presents this year for the local business that produces the best Christmas shopfront display, thanks to the Cooroy Pomona Lions Club.

Already, friendly banter and rival spirit has begun among business owners. For those who have not started to think about joining in, an invitation will go out from the Lions Club soon.

In recent years, the Lions Club has presented a trophy to the competition winner, but this year the award will be boosted with $200 prizemoney in the hope that more businesses will take part.

Noosa Council will again hang giant illuminated Christmas presents in the prominent tree next to the Pomona War Memorial in Joe Bazzo Park as its contribution to Pomona’s Christmas colour.

Vicki Dessaix of the CooroyPomona Lions said a poor response to the invitation to brighten the town meant that the trophy wasn’t awarded last year.

Unfortunately this year the Pomona Night Of Lights event is cancelled due to the COVID-19 restrictions. The Pomona Community House is looking at alternative activities to celebrate the “With a $200 added Winner of the 2018 Pomona Christmas lights competition was incentive, business might be Christmas festivities. So stay Studio 24. Which business will it be in 2020? convinced to try again. This tuned. is the year that we need cheer in the town,” Ms Dessaix said.

Noosa businesses are being called on to survey was vital to helping plan the In 2020, school children help gain a better understanding of the shire’s ongoing economic recovery. from the Pomona State shire’s COVID-19 recovery.

“The information will help us to better School are being invited to Noosa Council has launched phase two of advocate to Government for more busiteam with a business to its Business Roundtable Resilience Survey ness support initiatives.” allow young minds to bring – a follow-up to the one done in June this The on-line survey may be accessed from their creativity to each of the year. the Noosa Council Internet page. participating shops.

Mayor Clare Stewart said the latest Pulse

Business urged to complete resilience survey

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Llew O’Brien pledges to fight for extra $9m for further stages of trails upgrade The Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien, has pledged to do whatever he can to have an additional $9 million put towards further development of the Noosa Trails Network so it can be built to a standard that would make it a nationally significant sustainable tourism destination.

He welcomed the $1.61 million initial cash injection from the state and federal governments as a downpayment on the overall vision.

At a media conference to announce the grant

funding, Mr O’Brien said: “What this is all about is making Noosa an attractive place when it comes to domestic tourism.” The changed focus was required due to the fall-off in international tourism, for which Noosa was renowned.

assistance I can get to boost tourism and to reinvigorate the local economy [means] every dollar counts,” he said.

“This $1.6 million is part of the first stage of the Noosa Trails Upgrade. A lot more needs to be funded and I will certainly be fighting for that,” Mr O’Brien said.

As a result of borders “I have spoken to Mayor closed to visitors, Mr Clare Stewart and I think O’Brien said the shire economy and job numbers what’s required is in the had been particularly hard order of $9 million.

-hit during the coronavirus “Certainly, I’ll be going period. back to Canberra and “The numbers ... are quite having a word to frightening, so every bit of (Treasurer) Josh Frydenberg and (Minister

Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien MP for Trade, Tourism and Investment) Simon Birmingham to ensure that Noosa gets its fair share, particularly when its economy has been so badly hit by the coronavirus.”

Tourism Noosa needs your input for new campaign Tourism Noosa is inviting local businesses relying on visitor trade to devise and promote marketing deals that the tourism body will advertise free as part of upcoming aviation campaigns.

“As part of our aviation partnership with Sunshine Coast Airport and Visit Sunshine Coast, a number of campaigns will be rolled out.

“Individual business deals will be featured on a call-to-action landing page and will link back to visitnoosa.com.au/offers,” Ms Anderson said.

Tourism Noosa CEO, Melanie Anderson, said those who wished to participate should submit the deal promoting their business so it can be To be eligible, deals must: targeted at airline passengers travelling from Cairns, Adelaide and  be valid from 1 October 9 December 2020 Canberra.

 include percentage discounts or value-adds

 aim to attract visitation mid-week and longer stays (i.e. stay three days, pay for two).

Please submit details of your deal, including a photo (no logos) to sue@tourismnoosa.com.au.

Stand by for a reimagined Noosa Eat and Drink Festival signature event, to be held on 4-6 December. Details are on the Tourism Noosa website.

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Barrister will help sort out quarry mess Noosa Council will engage a barrister to review all aspects of the Kin Kin Quarry approval. Mayor Clare Stewart said seeking the best legal advice would help determine if there is anything the council could do regarding the current approval.

“We have inherited this quarry approval which was put in place in 1987 and I have asked for a thorough review to see what can be done under law to either retract, rescind or change the approval,” Cr Stewart said.

“The quarry’s operations now far exceed initial expectations, so the circumstances have clearly overtaken the initial approval. This council is committed to advocating for the community to find a workable solution for all parties.”

Cr Stewart said that under the approval, the haul route can’t be changed, unless Cordwell Resources makes a development application to change it.

The council has issued just under $27,000 in fines to the quarry operators for alleged breaches of the quarry management plan.

Meanwhile, council staff has met with TMR officials to discuss the condition of the Pomona-Kin Kin Road.

Protesters outside Noosa Council’s Tewantin offices highlight quarry truck nuisances.

Operator got to write own quarry management plan, council reveals In a startling revelation, Cr Karen Finzel has revealed that the Quarry Management Plan (QMP) that sends large trucks through hinterland villages every few minutes on weekdays was prepared by Neilsen’s – the former Kin Kin quarry operator – and was only ‘reviewed’ by Noosa Council before approval.

Since receiving a barrage of complaints concerning the quarry and trucks carting rock, the council has acted, installing a camera at the quarry entrance to check compliance with the operational plan, which only now will be amended to recognise Cordwell Resources as the new operator.

Noosa Council officers are reviewing data from the camera and an associated traffic counter to check for any breaches of the QMP, but it is known that trucks are not staggering their exit to be five minutes apart, as required.

The stepped-up surveillance is revealed in answers Cr Finzel provided to a series of 10 questions put by the Kin Kin Community Group ahead of another roundtable discussion last month involving representatives of residents, the council, Cordwells and others.

to inform it of this aspect of compliance.

She said Cordwells had yet to reach its annual extraction limit of one million tonnes of rock a year.

The management plan sought to minimise truck movements during the hours when school buses Noosa Council refused a last operated on the Kin Kin -minute request for a Range road by ‘discouraging Pomona representative to truck movements and attend the meeting. rescheduling product Cr Finzel said the council deliveries’. had ‘no plans at this stage’ to seal Sheppersons Lane to suppress dust nuisance and reduce noise caused by quarry truck movements.

“Officers understand that the noise may be significant, but I am not clear on the purpose of measuring it, as the quarry has a current approval and the council cannot revoke it,” Cr Finzel said.

The camera would reveal whether loads are covered to help suppress dust, Cr Finzel said, but the council would still rely on residents

Concerned couple make their protest heard.

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Another 13 years of quarry trucks pounding our roads If it doesn’t run out of rock to mine beforehand, Kin Kin Quarry trucks will continue to pound hinterland roads and cause safety issues and noise nuisance for another 13 years – and Noosa Council says it can do nothing about it.

“The quarry was approved by council in July 1987 subject to 12 conditions.

Under the planning legislation, there is no ability for this approval to be revoked, with the approval valid until 12 May 2033,” said Diogo Carrico, the Noosa Council development engineer.

available alternatives.

Other roads along the quarry truck haulage route are under TMR control and include Reserve St and Pomona-Kin Kin Rd. Residents who have raised quarry and haulage truck issues with Noosa Council have received a written response from the Mayor, Cr Clare Stewart.

In reads: “The quarry management plan (QMP) stipulates that the trucks are meant to be spaced apart on the roads. Staff have confirmed our Infrastructure Services area are [sic] putting a traffic counter on Sheppersons “The conditions require the Lane to assist in checking quarry to operate in how far apart the trucks are accordance with an and if they are complying approved management with the QMP. Failure to plan. Caldwells [the quarry do so will result in fines. operator] are aware of its “Not all trucks going into requirements,” Mr Carrico the quarry are in fact said in an email. owned by, nor [are they] Meanwhile, Noosa Council has raised the issue of heavy haulage trucks operating along Pioneer Road, the upkeep of which is a council responsibility, paid for by ratepayers.

“We have suggested than an alternative route be sought,” Mr Carrico said.

He did not stipulate the

the responsibility of, the quarry. It is Council’s intention that we request the operator to give these ‘other’ trucking companies advice, information and a potential warning about the requirements of the QMP and [ensuring trucks are] not ‘queuing’. Council will also ensure that the

MORE FEDERAL MONEY FOR LOCAL ROADS The Federal Budget announced on 6 October included a $790,000 allocation to Noosa Council from the Roads to Recovery Program.

The money can be used to repair local roads, with an emphasis on safety improvements. Each council’s Roads to Recovery annual allocation is determined from recommendations of the Local Government Grants Commissions in each state and the Northern Territory.

The Kin Kin Quarry site – generating 200 truck movements a day. owners are undertaking their own induction process (at the quarry’s cost) for all people who attend their site to ensure they are familiar with the rules and regulations stipulated in the management plan.

drivers to communicate using UHS in order to avoid big queues of trucks entering the quarry.

Cr Stewart said the council had restated the requirement for Caldwells to foster good relationships and cooperation with the local community. “The “In regard to the hours of Community Relations operation of the quarry, Council can certainly hold Management Plan also the operators accountable. includes a requirement to maintain a complaint [We] will be checking to logbook, in order to keep ensure compliance is occurring,” the mayor said. the operator accountable.

She said Noosa Council “The council will request a officers had reminded the copy of the complaint operator about the need for logbook,” she said.

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NOOSA TRAILS MASTERPLAN:

We’re in the money! $1.6m grant for trails upgrades Northern hinterland towns are better placed to emerge stronger and more resilient from the effects of COVID19 following Tourism Noosa and Noosa Council success in obtaining a $1.6m joint state-federal Local Economic Recovery Program grant that will begin the task of upgrading the Noosa trails in keeping with an endorsed masterplan.

Noosa Council’s Director of Environment and Sustainable Development, Kim Rawlings, has confirmed that the money will be spent on the ‘first priority upgrade’ involving improvements to the Pomona to Cooran forest link and a new Mt Cooroora base trail.

walkers, but eventually to bring them to a standard that would challenge and attract mountain biking enthusiasts nationally and internationally, has led to calls for Noosa Council to confirm Pomona as the town chosen for the single pilot ‘place-making’ study budgeted for in 2020-21.

This would identify emerging issues in the form and function of the town and allow residents a say in how Pomona should develop over the next 10 years while enhancing its natural charm and village ambience.

President of the newly-formed Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce, Phil Moran said:

Mountain bike riders on the scenic Noosa Trails Network. funding can be used to maximise the value of the money received. And we look forward to direction from the Noosa Council about how the towns of the Northern Hinterland – identified as hubs within the trails masterplan – can achieve their potential and become the base for nature-based tourism in Noosa Shire.”

Noosa was one of five Queensland local government areas that shared in $6m of bushfire recovery money as a component of the overall $36.8 Noosa has a vision to become a “This outcome demonstrates what’s million Local Economic Recovery vibrant destination for outdoor active possible when community groups recreation and the upgrade unite to achieve a common objective. (LER) program stimulus finance for Queensland, funded jointly by state suggestions delivered in the The trails masterplan had the and federal governments under masterplan will provide an enhanced backing of Noosa and District Disaster Recovery Funding experience for active travellers while Landcare, the Noosa Biosphere immersing visitors in the Noosa Reserve Foundation, Tourism Noosa Arrangements. hinterland. and Noosa Council.

“The Queensland bushfires in 2019 While proponents have welcomed “It laid the groundwork for the grant had a devastating effect on the initial cash injection, more application that succeeded in getting communities throughout Queensland,” said the Federal funding will be needed to bring the $1.6m for the first stage of the trails plan to completion and to make upgrade. This project will benefit the Minister for Natural Disaster and Pomona the principal trails ‘hub’. communities of Pomona, Cooran and Emergency Management, David Littleproud.

Kin Kin and especially those “Pomona is well facilitated by “The recovery from these fires was supporting services (accommodation, businesses directly involved in the tourism sector.

On behalf of the made that much harder by the cafes etc.), and as a community in Chamber, I thank Tourism Noosa COVID-19 pandemic, which has better readiness to take on the and Noosa Council for their hard impacted all sectors, including designation of being a trail town,” work in making this application tourism and agriculture, as well as the report states. against tight deadlines. small businesses who were already The certainty that money will be “We will be seeking to work with the struggling through drought. spent upgrading the trails for council about ways the available

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Recommendations of the Noosa Trails Masterplan With significant growth in outdoor active tourism, especially in trail-based activities, and the flow-on opportunity for economic and nature-based tourism development, the need to re-evaluate Noosa’s trails, infrastructure and support services is timely. It is envisaged that the Noosa region will become a compelling destination for outdoor active visitors across intrastate, interstate and international markets.

“The Commonwealth and Queensland Governments remain committed to helping communities recover following natural disaster, and these projects will produce enduring benefits and improve future resilience,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The six projects announced today benefit from the first round of funding under the program, with more than $30 million in future investment still to come.”

Queensland Treasurer and Minister responsible for the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA), Cameron Dick, said the funds would prove a welcome boost to local communities at a time of significant challenge. “The Palaszczuk Government is delivering its plan for economic recovery and will continue investing in Queensland’s bushfireimpacted communities to help them recover stronger than before,” he said.

Declaring the grant approval as ‘the first success in securing full project funding’, Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson congratulated the masterplan instigators – Tourism Noosa, Noosa Council, Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation, Noosa and District Landcare, hinterland businesses and National Parks agencies. She singled out individuals Juanita Terry-Bloomfield, Kim Rawlings and Greg Bourke.

The LER process focuses on community involvement in identifying projects so local needs can be reflected and the funding can be put to the best use.

The Noosa Trails Masterplan is a springboard for more detailed design and associated environmental and cultural assessments to gauge the feasibility of this happening.

The masterplan says local businesses and the community will need to be engaged and educated about leveraging significant economic and social opportunities around a quality, sustainable trail network.

Pomona’s role One of the key strategies of the masterplan involves designation of, and planning for, a ‘trail town centre’ (Pomona) to formalise a focussed hub for trail network users, with specific development of ridercentric services, information and access to multiple trailheads. Kin Kin would form a similar, smaller role anchoring the far end. The report states: “Pomona is well facilitated by supporting services (accommodation, cafes etc.), and as a community in better readiness to take on the designation of being a Trail Town. The potential for redeveloping and improving the trail network in this region is excellent, with high trail quality and features and good links both to the east and west.”

Among actions to make the vision possible, the masterplan identifies a need to work with local businesses to engage and activate trail-based visitation. The Pomona Railway Station Gallery, where visitor information is currently being provided, would become a dedicated Trail Information Centre. Transport links to and from Noosa would need to be assessed, the plan says, and approaches would need to be made to other players, including Queensland Rail (train services from Brisbane).

Ringtail and Yurol forests The masterplan says current planning for the handover of the Yurol and Ringtail State Forests to transition to National Park status

creates an ideal opportunity to develop a trail plan that incorporates realigning existing trails (for better experience and linkages) and to create new trails based on ‘maximising the landscapes and elevation on offer’ for high quality mountain biking and on-foot (walk/ run) trails.

“Ringtail’s proximity to Boreen Point in the north also makes it a primary focus for education group use, with Boreen Point and Elanda Point major hubs for school groups, and major users of trails in the region,” it notes.

Likewise, the Yurol State Forest has a connecting role to play.

“Importantly, this area links Lake Macdonald (proposed trail hub) to the proposed Trail Town, Pomona, in the south, along with Ringtail State Forest in the north, with access trails suggested into Cudgerie and Cooroy in the south.

Cooran –Pomona trail The masterplan supports development of a new trail in the rail corridor between Cooran and Pomona.

“This would bridge the gap in a potential loop trail experience between Pomona and Cooran while simultaneously providing a muchneeded bike transit route for the school-age community to commute between Cooran and Pomona.

Among actions it recommends are confirmation of a potential alignment ‘inclusive of researching the feasibility of trail route paralleling railways line’ and identifying grant opportunities.

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Members celebrate work of Community House

Above: The State Member for Noosa, Sandy Bolton, MP (foreground) and members of Pomona & District Community House present at the AGM celebrate hard work of the organisation during past year. PCH has a full agenda for 2021 including outreach services during COVID-19 restrictions and facilitating programs of various community groups.

Left: The Management Committee for 2021 - Vice President John Stuart, Community Engagement Coordinator Kathryn Shewring, Secretary Deb Polley, President Lesley Matthews, Committee Member Louise Mears, Coordinator Heather Manders and Treasurer Howson Gush.

Concern over falling use of trains and buses In any survey of public opinion in Noosa Shire, the need for better public transport, or transport services that meet our needs, is always high on the list of concerns.

2014. These stations, all refurbished or rebuilt in recent years, are served by just two return passenger trains each weekday.

Research shows annual passenger numbers on routes across the Noosa and Sunshine Coast areas for financial years 2012-13 to 2019-20, and for our area (No. 632 bus, Noosa The Department of Transport and Junction–Cooran via Pomona), have Main Roads monitors patronage been falling. While numbers for 2019trends across public transport 20 may have been affected by services and advises that patronage at the seven railway stations north of people’s reluctance to use public transport during the pandemic, Nambour has not increased since patronage on the No. 632 bus has That’s why an examination of our public transport usage is useful, the raw numbers informing the debate.

declined consistently – from 25,016 in 2012-13 to 18,067 in the 12 months to the end of June 2020. That is a drop of 6949.

Last financial year, there were more than 14 per cent fewer passengers travelling across the Sunbus network.

So, what’s the story? Are trains and buses not running at times that suit, or do they run so infrequently that it is easier to use a car? Why do we demand more public transport services when fewer people are using the ones we have now?

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‘Adaptive change’ the theme of PCH 2020 activity Pomona and District Community House (PCH) committee president, Lesley Matthews, has expressed gratitude that, despite issues experienced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent government restrictions, the organisation had managed to keep its doors open and offering vital support to the people of the Northern Hinterland.

potential and adapt resources accordingly. “It was beneficial for our community to express concerns and ask for help through a Facebook group, which we set up,” Mrs Manders said.

and the ‘Night of Lights’ in December were again extremely successful,” Ms Shewring said. “Then came 2020 and everything seemed to be swept from under our feet.”

four new groups had started in the previous 12 months. They were a Carers Group, a Knitters Group, Tai Chi classes and the Cuppa Cake and Conversation. Ms Shewring Social media had been used thanked group leaders and to highlight initiatives and their supporters. provide a conduit for Ms Manders thanked people to continue to be volunteer administrative informed of events, assistants and the activities and additional Queensland Department of support services on offer Communities and Noosa during the virus period.

Council for their funding.

Young and old had been PCH recorded a $9938 net assisted. profit in the 2019-20 financial year, down from “Our Young People’s $17,696 the previous year. groups have continued to

Activities had included picking up prescriptions and delivering them, shopping on behalf of vulnerable community members and dropping off Addressing the PCH annual frozen meals to families in general meeting on 17 need.

October, Ms Matthews said Residents had been better that by April most, if not informed through bigger, all, groups who normally newsier issues of the used Community House Cooroora Connect support local youth with facilities had to cancel or magazine published during great activities and, postpone activities. the period of the COVID-19 perhaps more importantly, “We were still able to offer restrictions. created a space where they the Centrelink access point Mrs Manders said PCH was feel safe – able to express and restricted use of fortunate over the years to themselves freely and computers, and our explore life’s challenges.” continue working on dedicated staff provided various projects, activities Despite the ups and downs, plenty of help in person, and the provision of a wide either general supportive range of services. advice or referrals to various agencies,” she said. These were outlined in the Zoom conference had been annual report of the Community Engagement used for committee Coordinator, Kathryn meetings in a process of Shewring, and were continuous adaptation. numerous. They included Ms Matthews said activity support for NAIDOC groups had been welcomed Week, a ‘lifelong learning’ back gradually from May to theme for Seniors Week, July, but only after COVID- activities and discussions 19 safety plans had been around women’s health considered and approved. and well-being, as well as In her coordinator’s report, coping with mental health Heather Manders said the issues, also men’s health. unusual circumstances had “The ‘Great Up-Cycle caused PCH to utilise social Challenge’ in November media to its maximum

COMMITTEE MEMBERS President: Lesley Matthews Vice-president: John Stuart Treasurer: Howson Gush Secretary: Debbie Polley Committee member: Louise Mears

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UP CYCLING SUPORTERS

Noosa Council and Arts Queensland Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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Join in the Great Up-cycling Challenge Up-cycling materials presents a challenge limited only by our imagination, which is why the annual Great Up-cycling Challenge gets us all thinking about how we can reduce our impact on the planet.

There are many ways things can be recycled and some of these will be demonstrated during Recycle Week.

Visit this year’s extraordinary exhibition at The Pomona Railway Gallery, on until Wednesday 25 November. View the competition entries along with other cool up-cycling ideas on display.

During Recycle Week you will find various related activities going on in Pomona — at the gallery, Pomona Community House and at the markets, with talks, workshops, demonstrations and stalls all happening.

Pomona and District Community House presents: The Great Up-cycling Challenge 2020 at The Pomona Railway Station Gallery.

Recycle Week in Pomona, 9-15 November Thanks are due to the wonderful sponsors and funding body who have given so much, especially considering this topsy-turvy year we have been living through.

Each gifted item and each voucher means another prize that can be handed to the creative and industrious participants, or for lucky door prizes to be won by exhibition visitors. Together with our generous and talented volunteers, this event belongs to you.

The Great Up-cycling Challenge last year inspired us to think anew about ways to use old and discarded items, much to the delight of this participant in 2019.

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How the garden grows at Kin Kin State School Kin Kin State School kitchen garden produce went up for sale at Black Ant Gourmet recently. Beautiful fresh, organic food from the school garden was snapped up quickly by customers impressed with the students’ enterprise and handy work.

Produce from the Kin Kin State School garden available for sale at the Black Ant Gourmet store.

Two of the proud student ‘green thumbs’ with their garden bounty.

Kin Kin State School is among those institutions that provide students with a hands-on experience growing food as part of daily studies.

ENROL NOW FOR KIN KIN PREP Are you a Kin Kin area resident with a child due to start Prep year in 2021. Kin Kin State School is planning prePrep days on the Fridays of 6-13-20 November. Come along and meet the teachers, principal, school staff and enjoy some activities at the school. Tours will be conducted on each of the days.

Young Women’s Collective

Kin Kin School is a wonderful community of learners in a gorgeous rural setting. The staff and students value play-based learning and investigative inquiry which is integrated into teaching and learning practice.

Teachers adopt the best practices in teaching and learning, aligning with current educational research.

Youth Group Age 12 - 18 Years Tuesday (Fortnightly) 3.30pm to 6.30pm

Domestic Cleaning Services

Young Men’s Collective Youth Group Age 10 - 14 Years Tuesday (Fortnightly) 3.30pm to 6.30pm

Small & Large Jobs Welcomed

Lawson Shed next to Pomona Community House Bookings & Information Phone 0432 561 270 or 5485 2427 Youth Group is hosted by Pomona Community House and supported by Pomona Community Branch Bank Bendigo, Nestle, Department Of Communities

Contact Paris

0435 857 671

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Probing ways to make composting efficient Local schools and community gardens are working with Noosa Council to test a new invention from an Australian start-up that promises to make composting easier and more successful.

If the trial goes well, it could help other schools, community groups and residents compost organic waste and spare it from landfill – fulfilling a goal of the council’s waste strategy.

Cooroy Permaculture Gardens, Veggie Village, Pomona State School and Kin Kin State School are working with Waste Education Officer, Emma Menzies, using a device consisting of a thick probe that sits in the compost and uses sensors to monitor its health.

“The aim is to make the composting process faster and more successful,” Ms Menzies said.

Known as Monty, the device is the work of an Australian technology start -up – Monty Compost Co. Designer, Ashley Baxter, says it promises to turn anyone into an expert composter, a claim the council is looking to test with the current trial.

“Organic waste produces methane gas as it decomposes in landfill, trapping 25 times more heat than carbon dioxide.

“By contrast, composting doesn’t produce methane gas and the finished product is great for use in gardens, so anything we can do to promote and encourage composting is worthwhile,” Ms Menzies said.

“Council staff met Ms Baxter in 2019 and loved the idea of what she was trying to produce. Many residents often contact us for help because they’ve tried composting but it didn’t work or it smelt.

Above: Julie Leake, Ashley Baxter, Karen Sell, at Veggie Village, testing the ‘Monty’ compost probe.

“Council is looking at ways to reduce organic waste going into landfill, so the more homes, schools, businesses and community groups we can get

composting, the better.

“We look forward to seeing whether this device proves a success for our schools and community gardens in the trial.”

Spectacular sailing regatta on Lake Cootharaba The Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club will host a ‘Cat Challenge’ regatta and the Taipan-class state titles in what promises to be a weekend of championship sailing over Saturday-Sunday, 7 and 8 November.

Entries are invited from off-the-beach multi-hulls. Go online to the club’s social media pages for full details.

Right: A feast of sailing prowess is in store for those who watch the sailing Cat Challenge and Taipan State Titles at Lake Cootharaba on November 7-8 November. It promises to be a spectacle for anyone travelling to Boreen Point for the day.

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Free holiday buses to operate this Christmas Noosa Council’s full suite of Go Noosa free holiday buses will be back for Christmas following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in Queensland.

Subject to TransLink approval, travel will be free on TransLink services 626, 627, 628, 629 and 632 from December 12 to January 26.

The free buses service Sunshine Beach, Sunrise Beach, Peregian Beach, Noosa Parklands, Tewantin, Noosa Civic, Cooroy, Pomona and Cooran.

The council’s Go Noosa loop bus will also return.

Departing the Hastings Street bus interchange, it will run every 15 minutes, from 7am to 7pm, serving

stops along Noosa Drive, Weyba Road and Noosa Parade. The service will run half-hourly from 7pm to 11pm, an hour later than last year.

To accommodate parking demand from those who drive to Noosa Heads, the council will offer paid parking in the Lions Park, managed by the Tewantin Noosa Lions Club.

Also, the loop bus will service a ‘park-and-ride facility’ at the Weyba Road AFL ground. From there people can ride into town to avoid the traffic and the stress of trying to find a parking space. Other parkand-ride locations include the Noosa Junction transit centre and The J carpark.

Cooroora Connect deadline 20 November 2020 heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au

Cooroy Pomona Lions Club

Bookshop All proceeds go to Community Projects

WEEKLY Friday & Saturday 9am to 1pm

“Books Galore” Great Bargains & Prices Located below Pomona Community House 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona

Contact Brian Ph: 0434 612149 Donations of books welcomed

Free buses will operate in Noosa Shire during the up-coming holiday season.

More bike path money, for Eumundi, but not for us Yet another Sunshine Coast hinterland town will be served by a new bicycle path as the state government rolls out its $15m Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program. It has worked with the Sunshine Coast Regional Council to allocate $1m for a 290metre path running from the Eumundi-Noosa Road to Seib Road, Eumundi, including a new bridge over the North Maroochy River.

It follows state government financial allocations for a shared pedestrian and bicycle path between Caboolture and Wamuran and the recent announcement of $6.5m for the first stage of a 20km bicycle and walking trail linking

Beerburrum and Landsborough.

Announcing the Eumundi project, the mayor of the Sunshine Coast, Mark Jamieson, said: “The pedestrian and cycle bridge has the capacity to cater for recreational trail use, such as horse riding, which is popular in the local area.”

Noosa Council is preparing its submission for a funding allocation from the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program, but a CooranPomona bicycle path does not form part of the evaluation, the council instead being briefed about a proposed CooroyNoosa bicycle path, according to Cooroy Area Ratepayers Association.

COLOURFUL AWNING: A colourful addition to the Memorial Avenue streetscape is the striped canvas retractable blind outside Gitsham Fine Foods, butchers.

The boys looked no further than the colours and patterns of their traditional aprons for the design.

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NEWS IN BRIEF COUNCIL STAFF COST US $34.8 MILLION For every one dollar Noosa Council spends on capital works projects in 2020-21, it will spend almost an equal amount on staff costs, figures presented to the October round of council meetings reveal.

The annual capital works program is $27 million, (boosted to $37 million this financial year through one-off COVID grants) while the allocation set aside for staff wages, training and superannuation is $34.8 million. Noosa Council has spent $7.6 million so far this financial year on staff costs.

Under-expenditure on permanent staff salaries and wages ($757,000) was offset partially by additional expenditure on casual staff and external labour hire ($257,000).

NETBALL COURTS TO BE REPAIRED The Cooroora Netball Club has been successful in obtaining a $6780 Noosa Council community projects grant for urgent repairs to its courts at Cooran. Cracks in the courts will be fixed and the foundations strengthened in a spot where they have failed, causing a dip.

GARDEN SHELTER GRANT UNSUCCESSFUL A grant application from Permaculture Noosa Inc. seeking Noosa Council community grants funding for a proposed new shelter planned for the Cooroy Community Gardens has failed. Permaculture Noosa continues its fundraising efforts.

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New front entrance for Pomona Railway Station Gallery Not only is the Old Railway Station Gallery at Pomona sporting a new roof, courtesy of the Noosa Shire Council, but the gallery has installed a new entrance off Station Street that will make it easier for art browsers and visitors seeking tourism information to access the premises.

breezeway and cottage garden. It is a big improvement according to gallery management, and it created much-needed work during the period of the pandemic. Disabled access is available left and right of the new entrance.

Local crafters and painters Visitors now enter through a have filled the gallery with new gate providing direct many new and unique gifts access to the central just in time for Christmas.

MARKETS WILL OPERATE WEEKLY It’s official – following a three-month trial of the Pomona Country Markets operating weekly instead of fortnightly, Noosa Council has amended the markets operating licence to make them a permanently weekly event. The markets are held 7am to 11.3opm every Saturday in Stan Topper Park.

A work crew installing the new entrance to the gallery.

Pomona Railway Station Gallery will be featuring the

The Great Up-cycling Challenge 2020

********

Come in to see this exciting exhibition Starting Monday 9 November to Sunday 15 November

Come & Enjoy!

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday & Sunday 10:00am to 2:00pm

10 STATION ST, POMONA PH: 5485 2950

As always, the old station master’s room is full of handmade works, including ceramics, glass fabric, garden items, homewares and much more.

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Powerfully evocative Indigenous art showing at Cooroy Butter Factory HERE WE STAND, ALWAYS –EXHIBITION After the Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre staged the successful 2019 First Nations Exhibition, funded by a Queensland Regional Arts Fund quick response grant, the artists and the audience requested a larger scale exhibition.

From 16 October, the Butter Factory began hosting another First Nations art exhibition throughout the whole gallery. It offers a larger exhibition for emerging and established First Nations artists residing on Gubbi Gubbi land,

culminating in a Gubbi Gubbi cultural celebration during NAIDOC week, 8-15 November.

More than 50 First Nation artists are exhibiting, creating artist residencies and hosting master classes over an eight-week period.

Gallery Coordinator, Alicia Sharples, said the renowned artists involved had agreed generously to share a diverse expression of their talent. “It is a valuable opportunity to connect and understand our First Nations culture,” she said.

“Ambassadors Dr Jandamarra Cadd and Uncle Paul Calcott are excited to take this project to the next level.”

All First Nations artists residing on Gubbi Gubbi land were invited to enter.

Ms Sharples continued: “The aim of this exhibition is to give these artists a place and platform to share their work while offering an opportunity to show their artworks to a greater audience and gain more exposure – also give them a ‘visual voice’ to share their creative expression,

Hills are alive with the sound of music The hills around Kin Kin support will be alive with the sound people with of music on 14-15 November Motor when violin virtuoso Neurone Shenzo Gregorio and the Disease, and not-for-profit PermEco Inc. 40 per cent will organise a ‘40-hour will be Jammin’ to raise funds for distributed Motor Neurone Disease among participating and participating musicians, in order to performing artists. support them during these difficult times.

The event will run from

“We are aiming for about two hours of programmed music (bands and existing ensembles) and the remaining two hours will be jamming time consisting of the musicians who performed and other musicians who would like to contribute,” he said.

DR JANDAMARRA CADD whether it be derived from their traditional stories or represented through individual pieces.”

This project is proudly supported by Queensland Regional Arts Fund with a Community Project Grant.

Noosa parks to be by royal appointment

Inclusion of five Noosa national parks within the Queen’s Canopy Initiative, which demonstrates the collective capacity of 54 Commonwealth countries to act on forest conservation, is a step closer after the Queensland “There could be some Department of themed blocks (e.g. gypsy Environment and Science 6am Saturday morning “This year we will jazz, classical etc.), but it moved the proposal until 10pm Sunday evening possibly buy equipment will be fairly open. There further, involving on the Kendall such as ventilators and are a limited amount of VIP consultation with the Kabi Permaculture Farm. iPads (for communication) all-access tickets available to donate to the MND & (entire weekend access) for Kabi people.

The musical bonanza will Once the administrative ME foundation, so they can silent auction.” be ticketed and there will processes are completed, it be distributed to MND be a capped attendance due This is an alcohol-, smokesufferers,” one of the is likely that HRH Prince to COVID-19 restrictions. and drug-free event. Street Charles, the Prince of organisers said.

One-fifth of money raised food will be available for Wales, would visit Noosa will go towards running The 40-hour Jammin will purchase onsite. in 2022 to officiate at an costs, 40 per cent to the be organised in four-hour More information: incorporation ceremony.

MND & ME foundation to blocks across two stages. www.40hourjammin.com.

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Cheers to Majestic Theatre bar changes It will be easier to get a drink at a Majestic Theatre performance soon, thanks to an $11,500 grant from Noosa Council.

theatre proper. “I have a vision for this to become a beautiful room,” she said, swinging one arm in an arc.

To this sum, Pomona Arts Inc. (PAI), the theatre managers, will add $10,000 ‘in kind’ support to move the drinks bar from its existing location in the foyer to the former Valentinos Restaurant area, which will be transformed.

The former restaurant has been an under-utilised space for some time. One wall has been fitted with display cabinets that will house The Majestic’s collection of memorabilia, while two organs donated by a Kingaroy benefactor will be featured.

Work will start in December, traditionally a quiet time for the theatre.

The area has its own disabled access to Factory Street.

PAI vice-president, Alison Hadfield, described the bar’s current location as a ‘bottleneck’, situated at the entry to the kitchen and in the same spot as the ticket booth and main entrance to the

The council grant covers the cost of appliances and plumbing.

Volunteer labour is to be used for construction of the bar, which will have its own special flooring.

COVID tales to be told The words of the late singer Helen Reddy’s female anthem ‘I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar’ will be demonstrated locally after Pomona and District Community House obtained a $2000 Noosa Council Community Project Grant to stage a show with a difference at The Majestic Theatre early next year.

To be held one night only, on Saturday 31 March, ARTiculate will provide a forum where local female artists and musicians will convey their experience of COVID-19, how their lives have been affected by the pandemic.

Themes to be explored include how it has influenced their art and in what ways art and the creative process have empowered them to find meaning in, and make sense of, an unfamiliar world.

The event will be a local celebration of Queensland Women’s Week.

WHATS ON IN NOVEMBER www.themajestictheatre.com.au

SILENT FILMS AT THE MAJESTIC THEATRE POMONA PH 5485 2330 FMI EVERY SATURDAY 12 NOON – NO NEED TO BOOK - $15 ADULTS N KIDS FREE NOV 7 - 1926 TRAMP TRAMP TRAMP

NOV 14 - 1922 DR JACK

NOV 21 - 1925 GO WEST

NOV 28 – 1927 CLARA BOW - IT

THE ULTIMATE JANIS JOPLIN EXPERIENCE 7 NOV $35 / $30C

DORIS DAY A SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY 22 NOV $35 / $30C

Janice Smithers & her band present this exciting show capturing the essence of one of the most influential female rock stars. Immerse yourself in great Joplin tracks such as ‘Me & Bobby McGee & ‘Piece of my heart’ and other classics Janice doing Janis.

Join Melly Melody and her fivepiece swing band as she celebrates the life and music of the wonderful Doris Day.

BOOK EVENTS ONLINE:

Two shows 4pm & 7pm.

www.themajestictheatre.com.au

Two shows 2pm & 4pm.

Doors & bar open 1pm.

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New outlet for local artisans and makers The call has gone out to local artisans to help stock the Noosa and District Landcare building in Station Street, which has been repainted and renovated ahead of its relaunch as The Hinterhub – a gathering space for visitors to the hinterland and those interested in our beautiful natural environment.

The nursery out back has been rebuilt also and will be covered by colourful shade sails.

“As well as our hardy endemic plants and extended plant nursery area, we will be offering a range of natural and hand-made products, information on land management, general planting advice and information about our local environment and national parks,” Landcare says in a flyer made available to local artisans.

Elsie celebrates 99 years

of interest (EOI) from people wanting to sell natural hand-made products direct to Landcare or place their products on consignment.

“Specifically, we are looking for local regional artisans producing items that have a connection with our natural environment and land use, and are sustainably produced,” said spokesperson, Rachel Lyons.

“Landcare wants to support the community and offer space to makers of items that could be useful, sensory and beautiful,” she said.

Among items that could be stocked at The Hinterhub are soaps, body lotion, essential oils, clothing, gift cards, garden ornaments, implements and books.”

Those keen to be involved should contact It is seeking expressions Rachael on 5485 2155.

Landcare staff work on restoring the Station Street building destined to become Pomona’s Hinterhub outlet.

Elsie Dalzell celebrated her 99th birthday on 30 September with her friends, playing Rummikub as she does every Wednesday afternoon at the Pomona Community House.

Elsie Dalzell was recognised recently for her service and to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II and recently was presented with a certificate and commemorative medallion by Wide Bay MP Llew O’Brien at the Cooroy RSL Sub-branch.

operations room while living in tents on Pallaranda Beach.

After the Searchlight Units were disbanded, she worked for a time in the School of Military Intelligence at Southport, then the School of Tactics and Military Intelligence at Beenleigh; later the staff school at Cabarlah as a switchboard operator before being discharged in 1946.

Elsie signed up for the Australian Women’s Army Service when she was 21, in 1942 and left her home in Elsie married Eric Dalzell in Chinchilla to begin training in 1947 and they have five Brisbane. children, nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren, She was assigned to the Australian Searchlight Unit of which keeps her very busy.

Elsie’s passion is her family, the 56th Battery Royal friends and faith. Elsie moved Australian Engineers in to Pomona three years ago Brisbane. Later she and lives with her daughter’s transferred to Townsville, family. where she worked in the

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Pomona parking: move along please, nothing to see here, the council says

by Brian O’Connor If you think moving the Pomona markets to a weekly schedule and increased visitation to town from tourists and those just staying close to do their shopping during COVID-19 is making it difficult to find a convenient car parking spot, Noosa Council disagrees.

the Noosa Traffic Survey 2017-32.

“The traffic study identified that while variations in parking demand occurred, overall Pomona has sufficient parking. [Parking utilisation is]at the lower end overall, and minimal at the higher end in the areas of study,” said Ms Tina Peck, infrastructure And don’t expect any relief planner with Noosa Council. (The study area through provision of new parking spaces for the town did not include Pomona streets east of the railway over the next 10 years. line.)

In response to a request to Ms Peck continued: “Based examine the adequacy of on the date provided in the existing parking spaces in town during busy periods, traffic study and [the] recent site inspection, the Noosa Council sent available parking outside observers to Pomona the busy market period recently and instructed indicates a high level of them to assess what they services during non-peak saw against the results of

periods.”

The site visits on market days occurred during late September and early October this year.

Car parking in Pomona is at a premium during the busy COVID Observers reported parking -19 times. utilisation during the busy three-hour market trade for all peak traffic and period. “At 10am, vacant parking loads, but provides car parking spaces were for a high level of service observed approximately 50 during on-peak periods’. to 100 metres from the She said it was neither Pomona town centre,” Ms affordable nor practical to Pack said. attempt to cater for all traffic during busiest times.

“At the conclusion of the markets, ample car parking “While there currently are became available.” no plans for further parking infrastructure in Ms Peck said the Noosa the 10-year capital works Design Principles guided the provision of car parking program for Pomona, it is appreciated situations can according to guidelines that the council ‘provide a change and the council will continue to monitor the transport network that situation,” Ms Peck said. does not attempt to cater

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Promising future for hinterland real estate With Australians reassessing their personal circumstances in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many discovering they can work from home successfully, lifestyle has jumped up the list of considerations people make about where they can live.

And the Noosa hinterland stands to benefit.

reporting that investors could earn a rental income of $450 per week based on current median home prices for Pomona, representing a good return on a lower investment property outlay.

The smartproperty.com.au website quotes a Property Industry Professionals Association (PIPA) survey While media reports finding that 44 per cent of indicate that keen southern purchasers are looking to buyers are purchasing buy in the next six to 12 property on the Sunshine months. The survey of 1000 Coast sight unseen, trends investors was conducted in show that the spillover August 2020. effect into the hinterland PIPA chairman has sent the median house Peter Koulizos said regional price at Pomona to areas were on track to $530,000 – higher than benefit the most. “It’s no Queensland’s median surprise that COVID-19 has house price of $499,000. made many people Cooran village is also seeing reconsider their lifestyles, healthy property price with nearly one-fifth of increases. (See table.) investors indicating they Despite this, the Noosa are contemplating a Hinterland property market move,” Mr Koulizos is is markedly more affordable quoted as saying. than in coastal parts of the “The survey found for those shire, where the median investors considering price is $820,000 for the year to date (more than $1m relocating, the main reasons for doing so were in Noosa Heads). improved lifestyle factors Real estate websites are (78 per cent), working from

CUPPA, CAKE & CONVERSATION

Morning Tea

Median house price growth over five years

home in the future (46 per cent) and housing affordability (40 per cent).

“It seems that regional locations are set to benefit from plenty of new residents, with investors indicating their top locations to migrate to are regional NSW (21 per cent), regional Queensland (18 per cent), Brisbane (16 per cent) and regional Victoria (14 per cent).”

While investors remain

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keen on opportunities to invest in metropolitan markets, the appeal is down from 73 per cent in 2019 to 61 per cent in 2020, the PIPA survey found.

Meanwhile, the proportion of investors that say regional markets are the most appealing has increased to 22 per cent from 15 per cent in 2019, with coastal locations also on the rise – up to nearly 12 per cent from 8 per cent last year, it said.

(On first visit)

Garden Maintenance Rubbish Removal

Contact Justin 0402 642 320

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24

The Great Noosa Trail Walk gets better every year

One hundred and fifty participants experiencing three days walking over 56km through the spectacular countryside of the Noosa Hinterland was the perfect recipe for getting rid of the COVID-19 blues from 3-5 October.

Walkers experienced this unique path at their own pace and with the helpful insight and local knowledge of trail guides along the way.

The event was organised by the Cooroy Future Group and the people of Kin Kin again hosted the walkers.

BABES IN ARMS: Enjoy the special connection with your baby by sharing rhymes and songs in these friendly and relaxed group sessions at the Cooroy Library. Meet other parents and caregivers and learn tips and ideas you can have fun with at home. Weekly sessions are free. Bookings are essential Phone:5329 6555

FREE TAX HELP You are eligible for tax help if your income is around $60,000 or less     

No Businesses No Shares No Investments No Rental Properties No Capital Gains

PH: 5485 2427 Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

25

NEWS IN BRIEF

Removal truck didn’t quite fit

Nominate your worst road It is a safe bet that if asked to nominate their worst road, the people of the hinterland would name the Pomona-Kin Kin Road as being in need of urgent attention.

The RACQ has provided the means for motorists to have their say in where road repair dollars should go, but you only have until Tuesday 3 November to respond.

To raise awareness about the condition of Queensland’s roads, the RACQ conducts the Unroadworthy Roads Survey, which invites respondents to nominate those roads they consider to be in a poor or inadequate condition, unfit for the function they are designed to perform and not providing an acceptable level of service to the road user.

Results from the survey will be provided to road authorities to help identify and support improvements on their road network. Go to the RACQ website for details.

Work starts on dam rebuild Early works have begun on a project to raise the height of the Lake Macdonald Dam wall, with construction of a replacement bridge to provide road access to the Noosa Water Treatment Plant expected to begin before Christmas.

Improvements to the SEQ Water Grid will also be undertaken so that water can continue to be provided to Noosa when the water level in the dam is lowered to allow construction of the new dam proper.

The driver and passenger of this removal truck were shaken but not injured when it was driven through the Subway Avenue rail underpass on Saturday 24 October 2020, but was too large to fit.

Fire and ambulance were quick to attend and the blockage was removed quickly so as to reduce disruption to traffic. The underpass clearly displays the clearance at 2.8 metres.

Free- thinking poets set to be creative The Pomona Community House’s ‘Free Verse for Free Thinkers’ will meet on Thursday 26 November from 6pm to 8.30pm at the Lions Den, 2 Mountain Street Pomona. Cost is $10.

This is an opportunity to be creative in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere to write poetry. The theme on the night is ‘The Butterfly Effect’.

All welcome to attend.

For more info on the event head to our facebook page: Free Verses For Free Thinkers. Phone Lisa 0438 901 558 or Tracie 0491762073.

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Tackling mental health through positive action A low-key campaign highlighting mental health issues and encouraging everyone to ‘Take Time’ for self-care was rolled out last month as Pomona and District Community House (PCH) orchestrated a series of events in support of Mental Health Week.

The campaign even went to the streets, as the ‘Pomona Pixies’, Pomona’s intrepid yarn bombers, temporarily swathed street trees in blue knitted coats - emulating the Blue Trees movement begun by the family of Jayden Whyte whose unexpected suicide led to the family’s dedication to spread the message that “It’s OK not to be OK”.

Above: Dan Truscott leads participants in Tai Chi in the beautiful Cooroora Creek Park.

Right: Jane Tipper and Dan Truscott entertain before the walk.

less’ by bringing peace and calm into our daily lives. The walk included Tai Chi Their aim is to encourage facilitated by Tai Chi master people to speak up when Dan Truscott under the shade battling mental health of one the park’s magnificent concerns and help break down trees. the stigma that is still largely A series of signs in the park attached to mental health. prompted further reflection on Hand-written cards with life, health, community, messages of hope and support and togetherness. inspiration and other signs Although temporary, some on with information such as the walk, and others simply emergency numbers adorned taking their daily stroll the branches of the trees. through the park, thought the Qi Gong, the ancient Chinese community could benefit by exercise and healing technique having the signs made as that involves meditation, permanent prompts for controlled breathing and thought for joggers and movement was offered free of walkers year-round. charge at the Lawson Shed, On return to the Lawson Shed while the more familiar yoga the walkers were joined by and Tai-Chi were offered at no others for a conversation on cost at other locations during the positive aspects of taking the week. Free early-morning care of ourselves. meditation was also offered at the Community House.

This was followed by an opportunity for creative selfA highlight of the string of expression. Here, participants activities and events was a were invited to use an array of ‘mindful meander’ involving a mixed media to represent facilitated walk through something meaningful they Cooroora Creek Park in had discovered from the Pomona. morning’s activities.

Impromptu way-stations along A delicious vegan and the route provided the vegetarian lunch prepared by opportunity for thoughtful Meals on Wheels was served. reflection on ways we can ‘take time’ for our own mental Yvonne Jongwe from carer health and find ways to ‘stress organisation, Wellways, was

Above: Artwork reflects the mood of the morning.

Right: Positive messages displayed on the Mindful Meander walk through the park. also on hand to offer information and support to carers in the group.

PCH would like to thank all who volunteered their time for the various events. Particular thanks go to the Pomona Pixies for their wonderful blue trees; Yuka Olsen for Qi Gong; to Amy Sorensen for offering free yoga; to Dan Truscott and our local Tai Chi group for their support; to Simon Eager for offering meditation; to Margo Ramsay for all her assistance; to Narelle Ladd

(local Carer Support group facilitator) for her support in creating the ‘Mindful Meander’, and last but not least to Monica Kennedy for the inordinate amount of time spent working with PCH to ensure the success of the week’s activities. Thank you all.

The series of activities was made possible by a $1000 grant from Qld Alliance for Mental Health.

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Council connects Noosa locals with a range of free activities

Pomona & District Community House 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona Ph: 5485 2427 Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm Referral & Information Internet & Computer Access Copying, Printing & Scanning Emailing & Faxing Laminating & Binding Venue & Room Hire Justice Of Peace Service

Tai Chi is among the activities included in the Connecting Noosa program.

A new activities initiative called Connecting Noosa is being implemented by Noosa Council as it seeks to bring people together after a tough year of bushfires and COVID-19.

Connecting Noosa is a suite of free community activities around the shire, giving residents the opportunity to engage, socialise and participate in a COVID-safe environment.

The first of the planned activities was held last month, but the full program will extend until March 2021, said Community Development Manager, Alison Hamblin.

The number of free planned activities includes yoga, heritage walks, Tai Chi and tech talks. There is a full timetable in place with activities and events changing every month. “We really are focused on connecting the Noosa community

again. It’s been a challenging year after battling the bushfires and then navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic, so we thought it was the ideal time to roll out this initiative at a time when restrictions are easing,” Ms Hamblin said.

“This really is a fantastic opportunity for people to reach out to neighbours, friends, family and colleagues and get them along to these Connecting Noosa activities.

“The activities are all free, but people need to register online for the activities they would like to do so we can control numbers and remain COVID-safe,” Ms Hamblin said.

The timetable will change on a monthly basis and can be viewed at www.noosa.qld.gov.au/connectingnoosa

BOOMERANG BAGS POMONA Come & Sew A Reusable Bag Share Conversation & Friendship Monday - 9.30am to 3.30pm @ Lawson Shed,

Centrelink / Medicare Access Point

Pomona Community House 1 Memorial Ave Pomona

9am to 4pm Mon - Frid    

Self Service Phone/Computer Printer/Scanning/Fax Identify documents

One-on-One Computer Lessons Tuesday - by appointment Donation $5 per visit Booking Essential Ph: 5485 2427

Pomona & District Community House acknowledges funding from Department of Communities Noosa Council

All Items Supplied ** Donations of fabric welcomed.**

Anya 0457 042 782 Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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COURT HOUSE WILL BE CLOSED Pomona Magistrates Court will be closed temporarily for training and upskilling from Tuesday 17 to Thursday 26 November 2020, returning to reopen on Tuesday 1 December. The skills gained help the Court better provide you our community with more and better services.

The Justice of the Peace signing site service will be relocated to the Pomona and District Community House during this time. Please note the most recent update to the local signing sites and their operating hours.

Enquiries can be made with the Registrar at Pomona Court on 5487 1401 or Pomona and District Community House on 5485 2427.

Cooroora Connect Advertising/Editorial deadline for the next issue: 20 November 2020 heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au

Cooroora Connect Cooroora Connect is an initiative of the Pomona & District Community House Inc. The material published in Cooroora Connect may be reproduced only with appropriate authorisation and acknowledgment.

The views expressed in Cooroora Connect are not necessarily the views of the editor, publisher or Pomona & District Community House. Inc. Claims in advertisements are those of the advertisers and not the publisher.

Our aim is to produce and distribute Cooroora Connect in a timely manner to ensure we meet all deadlines. However, due to unforeseen circumstances that are beyond our control, we take all care but no responsibility if circumstances arise.

Free Legal Advice & Referral Phone Appointments Ph: 5443 7827

FOR LEASE A prime multi-purpose space is available in the centre of Pomona with ample parking adjacent.

This high-profile location is the ground floor area beneath Pomona Community House.

The premises are suitable for a shop or professional offices and include main office/reception/display area, three separate offices, kitchenette and toilet facilities.

Contact Heather on 5485 2427 or 0411 114 077 POMONA WALKING GROUP Monday to Friday 6.30am Meeting Point Community House 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona

RUMMIKUB @ Pomona Community House Wednesday 1pm - 3.30pm Donation $3 includes tea/coffee

Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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Adventure playground expected to be smaller in scale Construction of Cooroy’s new Hinterland Adventure Playground will proceed early in the New Year, Noosa Mayor, Clare Stewart, has announced. The council set aside $1 million in its 2020-21 capital works program to allow for a start of work.

It is believed that Noosa Council is considering a scaled-back version of its original proposal for the Lower Mill site after receiving tenders indicating that the council may not get all that was planned in the original $5.2 million budget.

Noosa Council may scale back the original designs for the $5.2 million Hinterland Adventure Playground it plans to build beside the Cooroy Library.

As planned originally, the playground was to have created 28 full-time jobs during construction, with 17 permanent jobs created — 11 directly associated with the playground operation and six from ‘flow-on effects’.

construction.” Cooroy Area Ratepayers Association president, Rod Ritchie, has expressed the opinion of his organisation’s membership, saying the scale of the playground did not suit a relatively small town. “We want something good but think it’s totally over– Cr Stewart said the council was ‘finalising the scope of works to suit ambitious,” he said of the playground concepts. Cr Stewart said the the budget and requirements of the site’. “Once the process is complete, playground would cater for children staff will prepare a report for Council of all ages and abilities and would include a flying fox, climbing seeking approval to start

Dumping at Op Shop not on The local Pomona Op Shop operated by Red Cross is a valuable asset to the community by providing good quality clothing, bric-a-brac, kitchenware and books etc. The shop does not accept furniture or electrical goods.

However, good quality donations are accepted during shop hours.

Volunteer staff were shocked recently to discover on the morning of Monday 26 October a truck-load of furniture dumped at the entrance.

The items were mouldy, damaged and virtually only fit for the rubbish dump. The local police

have been informed regarding the illegal dumping of items.

The Pomona Hall Committee is looking for the community to be vigilant and report any illegal dumping to Pomona police.

Please take down a description of vehicles used by offenders and the registration number.

The cost of disposing of these useless items is an unnecessary expense for the Op Shop. and a frustration for volunteers.

This also impacts hall users and raises safety concerns.

structures and a creek-style water play area.

“In addition to exercise, nature-based playgrounds are known to encourage kids’ social and emotional development, inspire creativity and give them an appreciation of nature,” Cr Stewart said. “As part of the development, Cooroy will also gain new car parking spaces, plus new public toilet facilities, which the community asked for.”

POMONA COUNTRY MARKETS STAN TOPPER PARK Every Saturday 7am - 12 noon With locally grown fruit & vegies, jams, homemade breads, fresh coffee, handcrafted quality products, clothing, jewellery, plants, herbs and lots more…...

Stall Enquires Ph: 0499 146 857 Email: pononamarketsqld@gmail.com

FAMILY DRUG SUPPORT www.fds.org.au FDS runs regular Family Drug Support Group Meetings . For 24 hours a day support, call toll free 1300 368 186.

Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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Cooroy ratepayers oppose retirement resort plans Last month, the Cooroora Connect, published a contributed article supporting the GemLife retirement resort of 246 units proposed for a site in Myall Street, Cooroy. If approved by Noosa Council, the Cooroy Golf Club would receive two new fairways and a new $2.2m clubhouse in the centre of the existing 18 holes.

benefits to the Cooroy Golf Club not withstanding – in an analysis on the group’s website.

The first objection is that the proposed development represents an inconsistent land use. The proposal is located on land within the Rural Zone, outside the designated Urban Growth Boundary. “Accordingly the proposed residential use The council has asked the creates conflict with the applicant to demonstrate intent of the planning how the proposed dwellings scheme. The proposal is will provide for aged care, as also within the [Lake per its Housing Needs Macdonald] water Analysis, and how the catchment zone,” CARA proposal supports argues. current public transport “The proposal is not a links, pedestrian suitable use, given the connections, traffic context and characteristics management and of the site.” The stormwater issues. The development would impact Cooroy Area Ratepayers negatively on the Myall/ Association opposes the Elm Streets intersection development. and further exacerbate the parking problem in the The Cooroy Area Cooroy CBD. Ratepayers Association (CARA) presents the case CARA says 39 per cent of against the GemLife dwellings in the proposed Retirement Resort – its retirement housing would

A representation of the proposed GemLife retirement village integrated with the Cooroy Golf Club. have two vehicles, and 35.5 per cent one vehicle, making for 330 additional cars in town.

since Cooroy already has two retirement residential/ resort living establishments. Also in the New Noosa Plan, land The group also questions opposite the site at 125 the need for yet another Myall Street, Cooroy is large retirement unit proposed to be zoned development in the town.

‘Community Facilities’ to “There is no need for the proposed rezoning to allow allow for a residential care facility in the future.” for retirement housing,

CASE AGAINST THE GEMLIFE PROPOSAL 

The proposed residential estate is located within the Lake Macdonald Catchment Area and therefore does not comply with the Noosa Plan.



The development will result in a worsening of operating conditions on the state-controlled road network, especially at the already congested intersections at Myall and Elm Streets, and Diamond and Elm Streets.



The population density, as proposed, is not compatible with surrounding development.



The site cover exceeds the maximum allowed area/plot ratio.



The layout does not provide an adequate setback or buffer between premises.



The design does not provide adequate areas for outdoor recreation for children.



These ‘relocatable’ houses are not truly relocatable in a practical sense.



Internal road width of 6m does not provide adequate space for visitor parking, emergency vehicles and walkways.



The proposal is located on land within the Rural Zone, which is an inconsistent land use.

The development will impact negatively on scenic and environmental values of nearby rural land to the east and to the north.

Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community 

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Cooroy in the pink for breast cancer research

For all your local Advertising

Cooroora Connect heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au

COOROORA SCREENS & BLINDS 19a Factory Street, Pomona P: 5485 1287 / M: 0419 655 901 Bras of all shapes and sizes strung like washing on the line outside the Cooroy Memorial Hall certainly turned heads and brought into sharp focus the town’s efforts to raise funds to combat breast cancer.

* Screens & Security Doors * * Shutters * Awnings * * Verticals * Venetians * * Roller & Roman Blinds *

And it wasn’t just an activity for women, as the picture shows. It was a fantastic community effort when townsfolk got behind the Cooroy Chamber of Commerce Pink October fundraiser stall on Saturday, 10 October. The Chamber hopes to raise $3000 from the event.

No Appointment Necessary

NEW COOROY POLICE STATION

Open Tues, Wed & Thurs

Cooroy will get a new $3.5 million police station, although it is not quite clear when it will be built. The Police Minister, Mark Ryan, announced two new stations for a realigned North Coast Region last month – at Cooroy and Caloundra South – and said both would be ‘up and running within five years’.

Pomona Barber Located behind The Caltex Garage Factory Street, Pomona

PH: 0477 043 071

Mr Ryan also announced that the new North Coast Region would get an extra 150 police officers. He anticipated residents would welcome replacement of the current old and cramped Cooroy police station.

POMONA True Value Hardware

“That [news] will be well received by locals because I know that the facilities at Cooroy were in need of renewal,” he said.

PH: 5485 1351 10 Reserve St Pomona

MORE CAR PARKING SPACES For those seeking a car park at Cooroy, things are about to get much easier. Noosa Council has set aside $27,000 of community grants funding to create and seal a formalised car park at the rear of the CWA Hall.

HARDWARE, TIMBER, GARDEN, PAINT, LP GAS, RURAL & PRODUCE NEEDS

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Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community