Cooroora connect bw may 2015

The Cooroora Connect

An Initiative of Pomona & District Community House

May 2015

Pomona Men’s Shed about to boom

Above: Brian Lawson and members of the Men's Shed Pomona working on renovating the existing shed made possible by local businesses and Queensland Gambling Community Grant Funding. Grant funding will enable the Men’s Shed to include disability toilet and shower facilities.

The Men’s Shed Pomona took possession of the former Parks and Wildlife storage shed in School Street with a much appreciated $15,000 cheque from Colorbond in November last year.

Community House Inc. (PCH) and treasurer and project manager for Men’s Shed Pomona, said local suppliers had come on board to allow for a more ambitious expansion than envisaged originally. (PCH ‘auspiced’ the men’s The recent news that the group had group to make the grant application, secured a grant of $34,021 from the Qld which must be lodged through an Gambling Fund was received with great joy and enthusiasm as this will enable the incorporated organisation.) “ After three years trying to find a site or workspace to be increased, more than building to get Men’s Shed Pomona doubling the current space.

(MSP) underway, on 1 November last During the past three years, more than year the eight-man steering committee 160 local men have registered their was given the keys to the disused Parks interest in becoming members, so a and Wildlife storage shed on favourable decent size shed will be required. Their lease terms and started the process of expertise, no matter how skilled or making the pretty rundown building unskilled, will be needed now as the usable again. The building was without Men’s Shed pushes ahead with the plans power, water or sewerage, so it was to be to take members into the renovated a challenge for the boys,” Brian said. existing building in June, and have the new extension completed by September. “Earlier that same year, we were told that MSP had won one of 10 prizes nationally A beaming Brian Lawson, honorary in Colorbond’s ‘Help A Mate’ manager of Pomona and District

competition, valued at $15,000 each. We proceeded to get electricity and water connected and the exterior of the original shed sheeted in Colorbond. However, connection to the sewerage was going to be outside the budget, so we applied for a grant from the Queensland Gambling Community Fund.

“In the application, we said we would use the grant money to extend the existing building by an extra eight metres, which is 10.5 metres long by eight metres wide.

We also intend to get the sewerage connected and have extra electrical work done to accommodate our machinery and electrical tools,” he said.

The extension was to include a disabled access toilet and shower, Brian said.

“On Tuesday 14 April, MSP received word that the gambling fund application had been successful to the value of $34,021.

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Continued page 2 1

Tall Trees Art Exhibition, Cooran, 15 – 17 May

Men’s Shed set to boom

Art lovers across the coast will be heading for Cooran on the weekend of 15 – 17 May for the 7th annual Tall Trees Art Exhibition, showcasing again the awesome talents of the many artists in the Noosa Hinterland region.

Continued from page 1

The venue for the ‘pop-up gallery’ will be the Cooran Memorial School of Arts in the main street of Cooran, right next door to Clooney’s Restaurant. Opening hours for the exhibition are 9.00am to 5.00pm all day Saturday and Sunday.

The official Opening is being staged on the evening of Friday 15 May, with a preview and creative conversation starting from 5.30pm, followed by guest speakers, Cr Tony Wellington and local artist/Archibald finalist Jandamarra Cadd.

The exhibition will feature brand new works from 40 artists, both seasoned exhibitors and emerging artists. Digital Art Photographer Rob Roy, ceramicist/ artist Beatrice Prost, Joolie Gibbs with her natural fibre work have all had successful recent exhibitions in Noosa and Gympie. Also featured will be glass work from Jason Makeig, creative digital photography from Mia Hacker, Brooke Fehlberg, Davina Foster and Peta Hempsall. Sculptors Phil Willy and Julie Hauritz, painters Deb Dougherty, Lynda Black, Erica Evans, Janey Richards, Kym Angelique Nelson and Leigh Hooker, to name just a few, will also have works exhibited.

What makes Tall Trees special is that it has the ‘big exhibition’ feeling in a village setting, excellent artists, diverse artwork, built on a strong sense of community with dedicated and resourceful volunteers.

Tall Trees is developing a huge reputation and extensive following across the Coast – check us out on Facebook / Tall Trees Art Exhibition, join the group, “like” us and share our posts to your Facebook connections. For more information email talltreesart@internode.on.net or call Mia on 0437 721 966.

Located @ Old Masonic Lodge 9 Station Street, Pomona

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Thanks to the generosity of local suppliers, instead of the planned eight-metre extension, we now will be extending by 12 metres.”

Brian said men’s sheds were about much more than men tinkering with metal and wood.

“The act of constructing and making something outside their previous experience or capability makes men’s sheds worthwhile.

The evidence is that men open up when they do things together, such as build something.

“It is marvellous how men, who have not been expressive about their lives and their health previously, find it easy to talk about these things.

At times, talking about one’s own health problems, will make others think and compare their own symptoms and encourage others to seek medical advice,” Brian said.

“Sometimes, the average bloke finds this stuff embarrassing. In fact, lives can be saved by this type of interaction and contribution.”

You can follow the Pomona Men’s Shed’s progress by checking out MensShedPomona on Facebook.

Pomona to celebrate opening of fire station

Pomona’s new $1.5 million fire station in Reserve Street, will be officially opened on May 13th.

More than 90 people have been invited to attend the official opening of Pomona’s new $1.5m fire station by the State Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Jo-Ann Miller, on Wednesday, 13 May. The general public will have an opportunity to inspect the new station and its equipment at a gala open day to be held the following Saturday, 16 May, between 9am and noon.

opening of the new fire station to hand to a proud Pomona Auxiliary fire captain, Sam Spink, keys to a brand new fire truck worth $500,000 that will be housed in the prominent engine house, the taller of the two buildings making up the fire station complex.

The opening ceremony is the culmination of a campaign by the people of Pomona to get a replacement fire station. More than 10 sites were investigated, culminating in the Reserve Street location being bought.

The QFES abandoned earlier plans for the new fire station buildings, in favour of an adaptation of plans prepared by architectural students from the Queensland University of Technology, who were engaged by the community to devise a design more in sympathy with Pomona’s historic town feel.

The smaller building, built in an The office and training room were to be architectural style that complements the built originally in brick, for instance.

Pomona War Memorial Hall opposite, contains two offices, a large training room, kitchen and toilets, with a A sausage sizzle and fire hazard covered area to one side. A parking information displays are part of the Noosa Council will be holding its activities planned. In addition, two old area, accessed by an automatic gate, and training area out back complete the new Ordinary Meeting on Thursday fire engines that provided faithful evening, 7 May at the Cooran Hall. service to the district will be brought out fire complex. of retirement from their home at the From time to time, the Queensland Fire Local Residents, businesses and Noosa Museum especially for the day. and Emergency Service (QFES) plans to community groups are all invited to use the Pomona Station as a training come along and have a chat with the The State Member for Gympie, Tony facility, to be used by surrounding Mayor, Councillors and senior staff Perrett MP and the Mayor of Noosa, both prior to and following the Noel Playford, will be among the guests brigades. at the official opening of the new fire station in Reserve Street, which is now operational. It sits beside the recently repainted ambulance station.

The Queensland Ambulance Service eventually plans to enclose the carport at the side of the ambulance station to complete development of an emergency services precinct in the heart of town.

The new fire station, and associated facilities sits in stark contrast to the old fire station on floodprone land in Factory Street. Its fate is still to be decided.

Ms Miller will use the occasion of the

A large metal panel depicting the fires of Pomona over the years will be placed prominently on the rock wall in front of the fire station to become a new feature in the historic walk around town.

The pictures and words on the twometre panel were researched by the Noosa Museum and the Noosa Council library service, under the guidance of history librarian, Jane Harding. Noosa and District Landcare provided landscaping services. In further support of the community, Pomona Meals on Wheels will cater to guests at the official opening.

meeting.

The program for the evening is as follows:

Thursday 7 May 2015 5pm to 6pm Meet and greet 6pm to 6.30pm (approx.)

Ordinary Meeting of Council 6.30pm to 7.30pm Networking Venue: Cooran Hall King Street, Cooran

Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community

3

Hope Dairies could send 120 new jobs our way The Mary Valley economy is bouncing back after almost a decade of uncertainty and confusion caused by the Traveston Dam project that ultimately did not proceed on environmental grounds. The Beattie-Bligh state government purchased 464 properties, covering 13,000ha of productive farming land for the failed dam.

for dairying.

Hope Dairies chief executive Dave Garcia has confirmed that the agreement with the Queensland government would be honoured by the new Labor state government and said the business plan was moving forward.

“We’ve met with the Agriculture Minister, Bill Byrne, already who was across the detail and said they would be honouring the memorandum of understanding we signed with the previous government," Mr Garcia said.

However, last month came the good news that all but a handful of land parcels had been sold back at $250 million less than what the government had paid.

People are working the land again, and re-establishing rural enterprise businesses in the valley towns.

Above: Ms Gina Rinehart

It was confirmed last month that the final parcels of Mary Valley land to be re David Gibson, who was the State Member for Gympie at the time, told the -sold at current market rates, will end up in the hands of Hope Dairies. More than ABC Landline program that the shattered local economy was recovering, 20 titles of good dairying land had been bundled together for Hope Dairies to but off a low base. “In many ways, we buy and establish what promises to be can be quite confident we’re past that Australia’s biggest dairying operation, danger point of it collapsing and going backwards,” Mr Gibson said. “Where it producing 150 million litres of milk a goes to from here is in the hands of the year from 16,000 cows grazing on farmland across the Mary Valley and in community.” the South Burnett Region.

The community’s optimism is swinging on the development of a revitalised dairy The milk would be processed into 30,000 tonnes of infant formula for industry for the Mary Valley and export to China. About 150 million litres surrounding agricultural land in the of milk will be required every year. To Noosa Hinterland sparked by the news that Hope Dairies – a joint venture of Ms produce this quantity of milk, Hope Dairies requires 11,000 milkers and 4,000 Gina Rinehart, Australia’s richest heifers. The company has purchased or woman, and Chinese interests – will leased 4000ha of land for cropping. It develop an export milk powder plant wishes to source 40 per cent of its feed about 15km from Pomona. locally, while growing 60 per cent of its The manufacturing plant is slated for a own requirements. block of land, just off the Bruce Highway Hope Dairies agreed on a memorandum at the Mary Valley Link Road of understanding with the former LNP interchange. It will employ more than government to buy up as much as 5000 100 people. hectares of dairy farms or land suitable

100Hp

1.5m wide

Sash and Tanya 0412 020 789 4

Cooroora Connect

He said he had been ‘very impressed’ with the approach and enthusiasm of the new Queensland government.

“The State Development Minister, Anthony Lynham, actually called us in the very early days after coming to office to introduce himself. He was very straight-talking and had a great attitude to the project. All round I have been very impressed with this approach so far.

They want this to happen for Queensland and Australia, which will be great for the region” Mr Garcia said.

Story contributed

DATE CLAIMER Community Connect Morning Tea Wed 17th 9.30am - 11.00am

‘The Elephant in the Room’ Dale English from beyondblue will raise awareness about depression and anxiety, particularly in the senior community, and disperse some of the stigmas and myths surrounding these conditions.

Right: Dale English from Beyond Blue.

Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community

5

NOOSA COUNCIL NEWS Noosa NBN commitment ‘good for business’

medical and technical businesses,” he said.

"Previous economic strategies have primarily supported established “We have a number of global businesses industries such as tourism and retail.

Council has welcomed Noosa’s operating from Noosa and NBN access Supporting new and emerging inclusion in the list of new sites will make it cheaper and easier for more industries that add diversity to our local earmarked for National Broadband economy will be a key aim of the new companies to realise the lifestyle Network infrastructure, scheduled to be economic plan," Ms Bullen said. benefits of being based in Noosa. rolled out starting next year.

Council will appoint 8 to 12 members to “From our high-value tourism industry the Noosa Shire Local Economic Plan Noosa Mayor Noel Playford said NBN through to new and developing sectors, Project Focus Group, which will meet Co’s announcement that more than NBN access is good for business and an for the first time in May. 22,000 Noosa premises will gain access important tool to help diversify our to the network was good news.

"The closing date for expressions of local economy,” Cr Playford said. interest to join the Local Economic Plan “It is pleasing to see Noosa homes and Project Focus Group is 7 May, 2015," Ms businesses included in the 111,000 Bullen said. additional Queensland premises that will begin to see NBN infrastructure "This is a great opportunity for local rolled out between April and September Noosa Council is calling for expressions business people and other members of of interest from residents keen to next year,” he said. the community to make a lasting participate in a project focus group that contribution to the shire's future “Council looks forward to working with will help shape a new economic plan for economic strength."

NBN Co on its local network planning the shire. and design work.”

For those who would like to express an Council will be undertaking community interest in participating in the Project Cr Playford said faster internet would consultation to generate ideas for Focus Group, forms can be collected greatly assist local businesses, make developing Noosa's Local Economic from Council, or downloaded from the Noosa an even more appealing base for Plan and the Project Focus Group will Business and Economy section on the the work-from-home market, and pave review the ideas coming from the website www.noosa.qld.gov.au. the way for new and innovative consultation process. industries.

Completed forms can be submitted via Council's Economic Development email to mail@noosa.qld.gov.au or by “High-speed internet opens up new Officer Carolyn Bullen says focus group post to PO Box 141, Tewantin QLD 4565, opportunities for local businesses by members will be encouraged to draw on or in person at 9 Pelican Street, way of increased reach and access to their personal experience in business to Tewantin. new technologies and markets, but also test concepts and ideas and help to it enables new industries to develop in identify the most appropriate approach Noosa Council regional areas, such as specialist Phone: 5329 6108 to economic development for Noosa.

Focus group helps shape local economic plan

Partners In Recovery Partners in Recovery (PIR) aims to support people with severe and persistent mental illness and their carers/families to:   

 

Make informed choices about the services and supports they need on their recovery journey Access the services and supports they need Support the services/organisations involved to cut through the red tape and barriers that prevent people having their needs met Identify any barriers to accessing services and work with the community to address these Work with the community to identify practical solutions where a need cannot be met

Contact us on 1300 747 724 Check out our website for more information:

www.partnersinrecovery.scg.org.au Partners In Recovery is an Australian Government initiative 6

Cooroora Connect

Noosa Community Biosphere Association seeks ‘big ideas’ A steering group charged with forming the Noosa Community Biosphere Association Inc. (NCBA) – a key group within the Biosphere’s new management structure – is calling for ‘big ideas’ and members ahead of its formal incorporation.

DRAFT OBJECTS OF ASSOCIATION

said membership of the NCBA was open to the general public, but it first had to be incorporated. A constitution had been drafted for comment.

“From the public input, we will amend and finalise the draft constitution and submit it for ratification by the QueensA new Noosa Biosphere Reserve govland Office of Fair Trading,” Mr Barnes ernance framework was developed in said. “Upon incorporation, the steering 2014 following extensive community group will conduct the first NCBA genconsultation, the aim being to put in eral meeting and stand down so that place a truly community-owned frame- office bearers can be nominated and work to realise aspirations for a sustain- elected in the normal way,” Mr Barnes able future within the Noosa Biosphere said.

Reserve, which covers the entire “The new association aims to get broad shire. The previous model was based community involvement so that the around a council-owned company with NCBA can sit alongside and complea board of directors and a series of com- ment the many focussed organisations munity sector boards. that work so well in Noosa Shire and The new structure includes the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Public Trust with a company, the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation Ltd, as trustee. The foundation has eight directors, of which one is a council representative. In addition to receiving conditional council funding, it is expected that the trust will gain tax exempt and deductible gift recipient status to attract donations.

beyond.

Noosa Council held a meeting on 19 March to consider ways of extending community involvement in Biosphere activities. Dick Barnes is the chair of the interim NCBA steering committee.

Calling for greater public involvement in the Biosphere at a grassroots level, Mr Barnes last month sought ideas that could be funded by the Biosphere Foundation, those ideas to be sourced, sorted and supported by the NCBA. He

“There will be an unlimited number of ordinary members with the right to vote. Membership will be free for the first 12 months. At a future date, the elected management committee will review classes of membership. If required, changes will be proposed at a general meeting,” Mr Barnes concluded.

The NCBA may be contacted at: NoosaCBA@gmail.com

“To get the new association off to a flying start and get ahead of the game, we not only want to get the constitution right, but want to engage people’s energy and past experiences. So the public should feel free to tell us the big ideas and activities they think the new Association should be working on as soon as it is incorporated,” he said.

Tony Perrett MP Member for Gympie will be available for interviews on

Tuesday, 12 May from 9am Pomona & District Community House For appointments

or email

Phone: 5329 5100 Gympie@parliament.qld.gov.au

 Develop and action initiatives aligned with the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere programme and the Australian Biosphere Reserve Management Principles;  Promote and encourage involvement from people, places and like-minded entities in the activities of this Association  Advance the conservation and enhancement of natural ecosystems, inclusive of their biodiversity, within the Noosa Biosphere  Support environmental research, education and information related to the Noosa Biosphere  Foster environmentally, socially and culturally, appropriate economic and human development for the sustainability of the Noosa Biosphere Liaise for funding with the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation Ltd, all levels of government, other like-minded benefactors and the United National Economic, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Hinterland Christian Centre Assemblies of God Church 113 Marara Street , Cooroy CHRISTIAN CENTRE Bringing God & People Together

9.30am Sunday Family Service 5.30pm Interactive Course Contemporary worship & teaching Incredible Children's Program toddlers to primary school age

Refreshments after the service People of all ages welcome

Ph: 07 5447 7797

www.hinterland.org.au

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7

‘TRAIN YOUR BRAIN’ FREE BrainHQ COMPUTER SESSIONS Your brain is no different than the rest of the muscles in your body you either use it or you lose it.

Inspired by evidence of how using brain training programs can assist us to stay alert, and slow down the socalled inevitable decline of our brain functions as we progress in years, the Pomona & District Community House has recently acquired an extraordinary brain training program from Posit Science called BrainHQ. BrainHQ has 25+ effective brain training exercises that are explicitly designed to improve brain health and speed up the brain, so you can think faster and more efficiently in every situation.

BrainHQ's exercises work out your attention, memory, brain speed, people skills, navigation, and intelligence.

There are hundreds of levels of exercises. Each one automatically adapts to your skill level so that you're always training at your "threshold"—the right level for your brain to make real improvements.

Available at the Pomona Community House, Memorial Avenue Pomona Full tutorial given for newcomers. We will work out a time that works for you.

Call Kathryn Shewring or Brian Lawson on 5485 2427 to book in your FREE sessions.

A Touch of the Past Antiques Coffee Shop

1 Memorial Ave, Pomona

DONATIONS WANTED 5 Reserve Street, Pomona

Ph: 5485 1883

Open 6 Days - 7am to 5pm

Bric-a-brac, kitchenware, clothes etc. for The Community Op Shop

close Wednesday

*Antiques* *Gifts* *Flowers* *Jewellery* *Teddy Heaven* *Homemade Cakes* *Lunches* ** Parties Welcome ** 8

Free pickup available

Cooroora Connect

Pomona Pacers – 5 Years and still enjoying our walks Our local walking group, the Pomona Pacers has now been walking for 5 years.

What a great achievement and well done to everyone who has been involved.

The group meets every week day (except public holidays) to enjoy walks of 50 to 60 minutes around Pomona and the immediate area and with autumn’s arrival the conditions for walking are perfect. We are a group of active people who enjoy walking and a range of social activities. We have regular coffee mornings and each month we enjoy an evening meal in Tewantin followed by a moon walk along the beautiful Noosa River.

We also get more adventurous from time to time and go further afield to explore some of our bush trails in the district. These walks are prearranged so that you can chose whether this walk is for you.

Cooran Birth and Beyond We are starting a regular group in Cooran, a morning where new or expectant mothers can come together and share each others company, wisdom, a cuppa, information, a check- in for babies and bellies, laughter, an impromptu shoulder rub and..... whatever we make of it…

Coming together every first Wednesday of the month, starting on the 6th of May at the Phoenix Room ( King St.) at 9am till lunchtime, information session starts at 10am.

Cuppa's provided, gold coin donation towards the room rental is appreciated.

Find out more on Facebook/ Birth and Beyond Cooran or ring Carla on 0435740947 Please support all our local young families by spreading the news, thank you.

Morning Melodies Luncheon Tewantin Noosa RSL

Our walkers join us when they can and there’s no obligation to be there five days a week. The Pomona Pacers meet at 7.00am in front of Pomona Community House. If you’d like to join us please give Karen a call on 0408 652 821.

PH: 5447 1766 May 27th

“As time goes by”

Karen, Walk Organiser

11.00am - 1.00pm

Lozza’s Rock and Roll Café WE COOK FROM THE TIME WE OPEN ‘TIL THE TIME WE CLOSE

PHOTO COMPETITION Noosa Council is inviting budding young photographers to enter the Living Smart Landscape and Wildlife Junior Photography Competition for a chance to win camera gear worth $250. The competition aims to encourage greater awareness, among under18s, of our natural environment, its significance and beauty.

Entries can include pictures that show the connection between people and the natural environment.

Go to www.livingsmartqld.com.au to enter and view the terms and conditions. Entrants must be under 18. Entries close 5pm, Sunday, 24 May. Finalists will be announced Friday, 29 May. The top 10 entries will be exhibited at Noosa Library for two weeks from 5 June, World Environment Day.

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thickshakes  Takeaway  Lollies NEW OPENING HOURS

 Ice creams

Mon. Tues.

Wed. Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun.

 Cold Drinks

4pm - 8pm 4pm - 8pm 4pm - 8pm 4pm - 8pm 12am - 8pm 12pm - 8pm 12pm - 8pm

 Cigarettes

Shop 3, 3 Station St Pomona Phone orders: 5485 0045

Fresh prawns now available

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9

FUSION FESTIVAL, IT’S FUN, FABULOUS AND FREE The 2015 Cooroy Fusion Festival will be held this Saturday 9 May 2015, from 9:00am to 3.30pm on Maple Street and the Lower Mill Precinct outside the library.

The free one-day festival offers something for all ages and tastes!

The classic cars and WWII army vehicles will start the day off with a parade up Maple Street at 9am.

Following up from the School Bands and Little Seeds Theatre, Geckoes Wildlife will present an educational and entertaining ‘hands on’ experience featuring Bumpy the bare–nosed wombat and his native animal friends in the Cooroy Bendigo Community Bank Tent. There will even be an opportunity to get up close with these beautiful natives off stage.

After the Welcome to Country presented by Lyndon Davis, the afternoon will kick off in style with live music by Triple Minx, and the return of crowd favourite Andrea Kirwin and her band.

The afternoon headline act will be Cooroy’s very own Isaac McGovern, appearing with a three piece band.

Singer, songwriter and multi–talented instrumentalist, Isaac shot to fame on last year’s hit television series, The Voice, where he was coached by Joel Madden.

One of the festival’s highlight will certainly be Bubble Soccer: think soccer mixed with bumper cars!

Sponsored by Cooroy Supa IGA, tournaments will be organised during the day. As well as the opportunity for anyone interested to give it a go, there will be bubbles available for all ages.

Conventional & Organic Produce

Above: Sponsors of Cooroy Fusion Festival and community members meet for a media launch promoting this year’s festival.

This year’s program includes a free jumping castle for the kids, and they can also get their faces painted and play with some hands-on activities while you check out the artist markets at the Butter Factory.

Thanks to Hinternoosa the roof of the library will be home to the ever popular Animal Farm where big and small alike can snuggle up to some very cute fluffy and furry locals.

The library will be a hive of activity with yoga, Tai Chi, Music2Grow, Storytime and Food for Families and the Lego Lounge will be open all day.

Have fun in the ‘Pop-Up’ Instagram photo booth with your friend - you can try on the props and post your picture onto Instagram.

STUDIO CLEAN OUT TIME Artists are invited to participate in the Pomona Railway Station Gallery Art Market in the Paddock to be held on Saturday 27 June, 2015 from 9:00 to 1:00.

This is an opportunity to clean out your studio of those special paintings, sculptures and other significant works and present them to the public for possible sale at this popular market.

Nothing to be priced over $100.00. Market fee is $15.00 per artist.

Application forms can be downloaded from www.pomonartgallery.com or are available at the gallery.

10 Station Street, Pomona, 5485 2950 / pomonagallery@gmail.com

Of course there will be delicious food stalls to select from, and the many market stalls are sure to have that last minute present for Mother’s Day! There will be something for everyone, with the full Fusion program available at www.cooroyfusionfestival.com.au.

Phone: 5485 1922 Is a Rainbow of Flavours that soothes the Mind, Body & Spirit

Massage Ka Huna & Remedial (health fund rebate) Counselling Astrology Readings Art Therapy Workshops

Francoise 0409 069 782 24A King Street, Cooran

4 Memorial Avenue, Pomona 10

Cooroora Connect

Anzac Day service held in new Memorial Gardens It was a race for the Pomona State School to complete its new $13,500 Anzac Memorial Garden in time for students to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing last month.

In a respectful ceremony led by the student leadership team of Mathew Brown, Ashleigh Robinson (school captains) and Harry O’Brien, Savannah Whale, Josh Butler and Aliera Ryan (school leaders), Anzac Day was made more meaningful for the school cohort through the dedication of the gardens and cenotaph within the school grounds. The ceremony occurred on 24 April.

This memorial garden was funded through the Australian Government’s Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program and overseen by a project team consisting of Wayne Voss, Shaylene Brock, Viv Temple and Mick Byrne.

Pages Furniture contributed also, through a generous donation of bench seats.

Above Left to right: Chief Petty Officer Brad Snow, Mr John Simmons (RSL), Able Seaman, Andrew Praeger. Student Representatives, Ashleigh Robinson, Aliera Ryan, Harry O’Brien, Mathew Brown, Savannah Whale, Josh Butler.

Other volunteers were thanked for completing an amazing job in a short period.

Special guests who attended the commemoration day included Mr John Simmons, Able Seaman Andrew Praeger, Chief Petty Officer Brad Snow and Mr Danny Williams.

Pomona State School provided student representatives to the Cooroy Anzac Day memorial service, while a sch0ol contingent supervised by Mr Thompson marched in the morning parade.

Above: A great turnout for the Anzac Centenary march in Cooroy. Ari Wedlock is carrying the flag, Cody Andersen is behind him waving (in the ninja turtle tshirt) & Jakai Kennedy (behind in the uniform waving with flag tattoo on face).

Left: Pomona State School leaders Josh Butler, Mathew Brown, Harry O'Brien, Kristy Bowen, Ashleigh Robinson who attended this years Anzac March.

Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community

11

Pomona celebrates agency opening

Above: Mitch Young, Geoff Edwards and Les Sloots enjoying the evening celebrations.

Above: Geoff Edwards, Noel Jessup, Rob Chittick, Rick Cooper, Stephen Hilditch, Mayor Noel Playford and Pam Hoens celebrating the opening of Pomona Agency of Bendigo Bank.

Above: Stephen Hilditch, Perene Barker and Jim Austin caught up at the local opening.

Pomona was in full swing on 14 April as “Local word of mouth has meant we’ve the town officially opened its very own had lots of interest either side of Easter, Bendigo Bank Agency. but it was great to enjoy the opening with so many who have worked hard to Guests including Mayor Noel Playford and Bendigo Bank state manager, Noel make this happen. There’s also great Jessup and the board of Sunshine Coast excitement about Pomona having a real Community Financial Services Limited say in its own future, and Pam Hoens and the team are excited and ready to (SCCFSL) were on hand to celebrate assist with locals with their banking with more than 100 locals and needs. community group representatives.

staff. Manager Geoff Edwards continues to be based in Cooroy and Customer Relationship Officer, Pam Hoens now occupies her office in the Pomona Agency during opening hours.

Filling a great local need, the agency is the town’s only banking service, following the closure of the ANZ Bank late last year.

Located at 3 Station Street, the agency now services Pomona and the Noosa hinterland three days a week every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10.00am - 3.00pm.

Chairman of SCCFSL, Rick Cooper said the agency is already enjoying a lot of enquiries as they provide residents, traders and community groups with an alternative, locally-owned banking option.

“We’re delighted to be able to deliver what the Pomona community asked for last year, and indications are this agency will grow from strength to strength. I think it’s going to be a great addition to Pomona’s business community and have significant positive long term impact on the town,” Mr. Cooper added.

He added, the message is simple - the more support the Pomona agency receives, the more support can be given to the community.

“Every savings or investment account, every home or personal loan, every insurance policy, and every product or service we offer, means money can go back into the community. As one of the new agency’s customers, you not only make a decision that benefits you, you make one that benefits the whole community,” Mr. Cooper concluded.

“The agency offers transaction and lending services, and can process home loans, personal loans, business lending and credit cards. There’s also opportunity to book in financial planning and business banking appointments. We’re also excited about The Pomona agency is fully supported the arrival of an ATM as an added convenience to locals,” Mr. Cooper said. by the Cooroy Community Bank branch 12

Cooroora Connect

If you have any questions regarding the new agency, call Geoff, Pam and the team on 5447 7131 at Cooroy, or at Pomona Agency during opening hours Monday, Wednesday and Friday on 5485 1786 .

The Anglican Church The Anglican Church is inviting hinterland families to join us every Sunday at 9am for a new family friendly worship service.

In under an hour, the easy going program will feature contemporary music, prayer, praise, a short children’s talk and a reflection.

All children, teens, parents and families are welcome to join us, and stay on for morning tea after.

Anglican Parish of Cooroora 1 Rectory Street, Pomona Phone: 5485 1218

Volunteering Makes You Happy!!

Floating Land Festival sculptures and works

New research says that just a few hours of volunteer work a week makes a difference in happiness and mood.

Boreen Point’s sublime visual and arts spectacular – the biennial Floating Land Festival – as adopted ‘Reflect and Re-imagine’ as its themes for the 2015 event, to be held from 27 August to 18 October. In keeping with the theme, Noosa Council has called for Expressions of Interest from local artists and artists’ groups to create new, site-specific works for the eighth iteration of the event.

If this is the case then Pomona and surrounds must be one of the happiest regions in Queensland with almost 20 organisations utilising volunteers in Pomona, Cooran and Kin Kin combined.

The research states that :  Volunteers are happier, healthier and sleep better than those who don’t volunteer.  95% of volunteers say that volunteering is related to feelings of wellbeing.  The experience of helping others provides meaning, a sense of self-worth, a social role and health enhancement.  Sustained volunteering is associated with better mental health.  A strong correlation exists between the wellbeing, happiness, health and longevity of people who are emotionally kind and compassionate in their charitable helping activities.

Community House volunteer, Judi Gilliland agrees saying that, “When you volunteer you get out of your own world of worries. When you Judi Gilliland has volunteered start helping someone else you at the Community House for don’t have time to think about nearly 5 years and says she yourself. It’s just great to know that has loved every moment of it. you have contributed to someone else having a great day and that’s a great feeling.”

Mid-May is the closing date for EOI proposals, from which eight new works will be commissioned for 2015.

“Floating Land 2015: Reflect & Re-imagine will provide an opportunity to pause and reconnect with the grassroots beginnings of this event, which was first held in Noosa in 2001,” sais council Community Services Director, Alan (Fox) Rogers.

This year’s event will include a range of community activities and exhibitions over the seven week period, including an exhibition of temporal artworks in the environment, featuring local artists from previous Floating Land iterations and a new 2015 Floating Land artist.

Workshops, presentations and activities for artists and the community will extend the festival’s reach.

Fox Rogers said this year’s Floating Land event would be focused on two key foreshores of Tewantin and Boreen Point. It will include a retrospective element, looking back and taking time to pause before looking forwards and reimagining the future of Floating Land,” he said.

Artists interested in proposing a new artwork for Floating Land 2015 are invited to respond to the Expression of Interest document, available on Noosa Council’s website at www.noosa.qld.gov.au

Volunteers week, May 11 -17, gives us an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the many volunteers who contribute like Judi. It is a chance to recognise the critical role that volunteers play in our own community as well as others. With over 6.1 million people volunteering nationally who contribute $200 billion to the Australian economy, we’d be in a sorry state without them!

THANK YOU TO VOLUNTEERS EVERYWHERE! If you are interested in volunteering please contact Heather or Kathryn at the Pomona and District Community House and we will be able to suggest various organisations.

Phone: 5485 2427

Pomona State School P&C Trivia Night Fundraiser Cooroy RSL Club Saturday 16th May 6pm $20 per person - includes your ticket and a meal 4-6 people per table

Bookings call Jaymie PH: 040 763 9731 Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community

13

Don't Ask .... Imagine

comments made to be polite but real suggestions, real interest. Real discussions take place to encourage each and everyone to start writing in order to produce a book.

Imagine sharing other's publication experiences over a glorious cuppa with a few tasty treats. No fuss just a warm welcoming chat with one and all.

Imagine if you were not part of this group. When would you be compelled to begin writing? Where would you find support to continue once started?

How would you learn the fine details of marketing yourself? Why would you consider publishing? What genre would you choose? How would you find out about online publishing?

Imagine coming to this weekly gathering without any desire to A few days ago a friend mentioned they Imagine sitting enjoying what others publish. That is acceptable. There is have written about a random topic. were interested in participating in a never ever any pressure any criticism People providing five minute leisurely activity that required some just a group of people who share an challenging brain work. My friend was humorous accounts, sad tales, reflective interest in, have a passion for and anecdotes and real life scenarios. seriously considering a number of simply love to write. options. For example playing contract Imagine the assortment of writing bridge, giving local lectures on which is produced each week from the Imagine all the people and places in the world. There are many, but imagine not environmental matters, supporting group who write 500 words on an local charities as a volunteer but she interesting topic selected by the group's sharing a few hours with the Pomona's Writer's Group. could not make up her mind. Finally coordinator. she asked "What do you know about So my friend I can't imagine anything The variety is intriguing with rarely the Pomona Writers Group?" I more pleasurable, challenging and fun anyone incorporating the same view. responded "Don't ask .... imagine." than being in the Lawson Shed every Some writings are reality, some are Tuesday morning starting at 9.30am.

Imagine a roomful of people diverse in fictitious, some are funny, some are See you there. backgrounds, various ages, different serious but rarely do they have a attitudes, a mix of genders and who sameness.

Contributed Rae Boulter have one main thing in common. A Imagine nobody responds critically to love of writing. what has been written. Bouts of Apologies Imagine this group who are complete laughter often interrupt a reading but The Cooroora Connect would like to strangers forming a strong connection. then the writer is encouraged to apologise to Izzy Feisst for writing An unbroken unspoken thread joins continue knowing at least that some her name as Izzy Chapman in our this group through a passion for joy has occurred. story, ‘Pomona poppies find their putting down on paper their feelings, Imagine people in the group being way to Gallipoli’ in the April edition their experiences, life's blows, life's supportive, offering suggestions on of Cooroora Connect. joys and recollections of past events. how to publish one's own writing. Not

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Cooroora Connect

Community Connect Morning Tea Wednesday 20 May 9.30 - 11.00 am

Life Story Have you ever wanted to write your life story and share it with others? Have you ever wanted to write a book and see your words in print?

If you have, our next Cooroora Connect Morning Tea is for you. Three self-published authors will share their experiences of writing.

Raewyn Harlum will share the extraordinary story of her life – the story that has led her to write her autobiography, ‘I Was Only Nineteen’. A writer, a poet and an artist, who loves to bird-watch and to garden, Raewyn will tell you that her life has not always been so serene and will share her inspiring tale.

Local authors, Pat Ritter and Les Shipp will let you into some of the secrets of what it takes to actually write your life story and give you some tips on publishing your work.

Date: Time: Venue: Cost: Bookings:

Wednesday 20 May 9.30am – 11.00am Lawson Shed, Memorial Ave, Pomona $3.00 donation (includes morning tea) Ph: 5485 2427

Creative Connections Free Art Journaling Workshops FREE vibrant two and half hour workshop for hinterland women and mothers. Through playful group conversations, shared experiences, art and art journaling, Aimee Stanyer and Kathryn Shewring from ‘Playing with Possibilities’ will facilitate this delightful workshop.

No art experience needed! Everything provided.

The theme of this workshop is

“Celebrating your connections” Date: Friday, 22 May 9.30am - Midday Venue: Cooran Hall, 14 King Street, Cooran Please book by phoning Kathryn on 0458 629 104.

Support with childcare is available but bookings (with number of children) is essential

Cooran Connect Workshops are FREE due to the generous support of NISER, Sisters of Charity Foundation, Playing with Possibilities, Spadeflower and Inger Rice Foundation

Cooroy Family Support Centre 8 Oak Street, Cooroy Phone: 5447 7747 The well-being of families experiencing Domestic and Family Violence is our number one priority, but we can also provide limited support to families who are facing social and emotional barriers to reaching their full potential.

Our team know where support is available and how to help you find it. They listen and connect you with a wide range of supports and resources, including but not limited to: * Emergency relief, * Counselling and guidance * Parenting Support, Housing assistance * Sporting activities, Health and medical support * Mentoring Call us today, we will help you get the right support Opening Hours: Mon, Wed & Thurs 9am to 3pm University of the Sunshine Coast will be running FREE Outreach counselling Clinic out of Cooroy Family Support Centre 2 days per week. To access this service or find out further information please phone 5447-7747.

Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community

15

"Learn eco-printing�

Natural dye technique using eucalyptus leaves to extract colour directly into the fabric in the shape of the leaf.

Eco-print, cut and hand-embroider your own wool vest to take home and keep you warm this winter.

4th and 25th May, 9:30-12:30, Art Space Cooran. $90 for the two mornings. Limited numbers.

For more details and bookings please contact

Jaime 0431373497 or 54854771

2015 DATE CLAIMERS May

June

Cooran Acoustic Night Sat 2nd 7pm Cooran Hall

Queens Birthday 8th Public Holiday

Cooroora Woodworkers Club - Wood & Craft Show Cooroy Memorial Hall Fri 8th & Sat 9 May

Cooran Acoustic Night Sat 13th 7pm Cooran Hall

Pomona Community House Community Connect Morning Tea Life Story - Raewyn Harlum Wed 20th 9.30am - 11.00am Cooroy Pomona Lions Club & Pomona AFL Trivia Night at Pomona Memorial Hall Sat 23 May 6.30pm

Pomona Table Tennis Pomona Hall - Lower Room Next to Red Cross Op Shop Monday to Fridays Paul 5485 4485 Bernard 5485 0888 16

Pomona Community House Community Connect Morning Tea Wed 17th 9.30am - 11.00am Topic - Beyond Blue - Raising Awarness

July Cooran Acoustic Night Sat 25th 7pm Cooran Hall Wimmers King Of The Mountain Festival Sun 26 All Day Pomona Tennis Club Pomona Showground Tuesday Social Tennis 9am - 12pm - $2.50 Friday Social Tennis 7pm - $4.50 Thursday Juniors & Beginners 3.15pm-4.15pm Contact Roger 5485 1749

Cooroora Connect

Untutored Life Drawing

Tuesday May 5th Cooran Hall 7.00pm - 9.00pm $15.00 Tea and Coffee available We meet the first Tuesday of the Month 2015 dates 5th May 2nd June 7th July

4th Aug 1st Sept 6th Oct 3rd Nov

Social Indoor Bowls Pomona Memorial Hall Wednesday 9am - 11.30am Casual Dress - flat sole shoes (Rubber soft compound) All Ages Welcome

Pomona Community House Groups & Services

REFERRAL & INFORMATION

1 Memorial Ave, Pomona PH: 54852427 FAX: 5485 1702 PHOTOCOPYING COLOUR PRINTING SCANNING / EMAILS LAMINATING FAXING VENUE HIRE WORKSHOPS/FUNCTIONS PH: 5485 2427 CENTRELINK MEDICARE SELF SERVE ACCESS POINT

FREE LEGAL ADVICE & REFERRAL Family & General Law @ Pomona Community House 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona Tuesday evenings Fortnightly 6.pm – 7.30pm BOOKINGS REQUIRED Ph: 5443 7827 A donation of $5 is appreciated to help this service continue

Cooroora Connect advertising / Editorial deadline for the next issue Friday 22 May. Our next edition is published in June. heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au

Pomona Book Exchange

Lawson ShedWriting Pomona Creative

Tarn Rugs

Monday - Friday 9am to 3.30pm Pomona Community House

Tuesday 9.30am - 12pm Cost $3 per person includes coffee/tea Contact Noel Ph: 0403 173 851

Pomona Community House Lawson Shed Thursday 1pm - 2.30pm Cost $3 per person includes coffee/tea Bookings Essential 0457 042782

Swap or buy a book $2.00 Donations of books welcomed Pomona Pixel People Lawson Shed 1st/2nd/4th Monday 7pm-9pm Cost $4 per person ** Camera Enthusiasts Welcome ** Computer Lessons Tuesday 9am-12pm Donation $3 per visit Booking Essential Phone: 5485 2427

Music with Piet Pomona Community House Wednesday from 9am Cost $15 per hour or $10 per 1/2 hour Booking Required

Scrabble

Pomona Astronomy Club 4th Wednesday of the month 7.30pm Cost $3 per person Lawson Shed Contact Jacqui 0420 518 222

Pomona Community House 2nd Friday of the month 9.30am - 12.30pm Cost $3 per person includes coffee/tea

Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community

17

PLOD’S PAGE Off the Pulpit: Allow me to step down from my preachers pulpit for one edition, ‘cause life in the Force has its moments of comedy, mixed in with the serious business of policing. Thought I'd share a few good ones with you that yes, actually happened and yes, some may have even occurred in the Pomona Division over the years!

by Dan McNamara,

Phone: 5485 2586

being FBI I should be aware that it was Cooroy Pomona to block satellite rays and myself from Lions Club and reading his thoughts. Ok then. I had Pomona AFL Club is some time spare and we went through hosting a Trivia Hissed Off: This one actually made the various objects, bike pump? = noxious Night on Saturday 23 May starting at Sunshine coast Daily in about 2008 gas detector, enamel cup? = phone 6.30pm at the Pomona Memorial with photos n' all. I was patrolling debugger and on we went. I started to Hall.

Cooran a while back with former like this old bloke and playing the staunch offsider Dion, when we nearly game, asked what the broken mobile Make up a team of 4 or 6 bright hit a 6 foot carpet snake, catching some phone was for. He said sharply "what sparks (or just friends who like to rays on a suburban street. have a bit of fun) for a chance to win are you nuts!!, it's for making phone some great prizes. Cost per person calls to my lawyer when nosey cops ask Dion, espousing his bushcraft skills had $10. BYO nibbles. Drinks will be availme idiot questions about my stuff, now a "crikey moment" and told me to hold able to purchase at the bar. p*ss off and leave me alone!" tight while he moved the big fella to safety. The old carpet instantly drew To book a table contact Coral on Fluffy: I was working out of Nambour back and went tactical on Dion forcing in the 90's when my partner and I 5485 3236 or Alicia on 0409 632 860. about 130 kg's of sweating copper attended a property to make some vertically off the ground and general inquiries. On walking up to the Cooroora backwards. I was breathless with mirth farmhouse door, we were confronted Woodworkers Club until the carpet snake sensed a nice with the horrifying sight of a large bull Annual Wood & warm engine bay nearby and shot up mastiff dog launching from the hallway Craft Show. into the bowels of the Police Hilux, towards us. We screamed (a little) and disabling it. Laughing stopped, we as this was the days before Tasers and Friday 8th & Saturday 9th May ventured closure and with our flushed Capsicum Spray, bolted towards our Time: 8:30am faces about 6 inches from the bonnet police car only to find it , locked! No air vents saw 2 angry green eyes and a The show is held at two locations time to lose we did a 3 Stooges run flicking tongue, coiled and ready to Cooroy Memorial Hall in Maple Street around the car, and got 3 fast laps in deploy on us. and at the Lower Mill Precinct, before the mongrels salivating T Rex Cooroy. sized mouth got a bit close to my ample Further rapid withdrawals and some For more information buttocks and forced us to scramble potty mouth oaths issued. After an Phone 5442 6995. onto the roof of the car. emergency briefing and few serpent selfies, we contacted a local bloke who Dog strutted growling around the car knows his way around a reptile and, until our shouts alerted a 4 year old girl POMONA & DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE after a decent fight, he removed the from the house who called out, "here offending old chap to safety. Bottom Fluffy, bad dog". Fluffy dropped his line, non venomous native creature ears, tail and chastened, slunk back into disables police vehicle and 2 fully the house. Mom then came out and equipped police for about an hour! said, "sorry, he's a pig hunting dog and Snake survived and still tells this story we keep him a bit lean" no malice to his grandkids I'm sure.

Manager - Brian Lawson intended, I'm sure.

Coordinator - Heather Manders Are you nuts?: Years back, I came Most coppers could and should write a Coordinator - Kathryn Shewring across an older hitch hiker who was book at the end of their careers but doing it tough on the side of the road, a honestly, most of you would not believe Cooroora Connect is an initiative of little west of here in the middle of a Pomona & District Community House. some of the things we encounter. Life is particularly bad summer. I pulled over good, stay well and I'll catch you next The material published in Cooroora Connect to see if I could get him to train station time listeners! may be reproduced only with appropriate and such and saw that he had the authorisation and acknowledgment. contents of his backpack laid out on the Sgt Dan McNamara (Plod) OIC The views expressed in Cooroora Connect are not Pomona 54852586 road and unusually, put a chip packet necessarily the views of the editor, publisher or on top of his head, silver side up. I just Pomona District Community House. had to ask and the gent replied that, 18

Cooroora Connect

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Andrew Pike

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0415 734 180

SUNDAY SERVICES Pomona Community Hall Reserve Street, Pomona 9.30 - 11am Family Service * Contemporary Music * * Teaching * * Kids Church * Refreshment after the service

Options 4 U Op Shop 1 Memorial Av Pomona

(ground floor of Community House)

Ph: 5485 0206 or 0412 972744

 Registered Physio  Post Graduate in Manual Physiotherapy  Sports Injuries  Acupuncture  Yoga Therapy

Bulk Billing

La Mode De Fabienne  Weddings  Evening Wear  Smart Casual Gift Vouchers Available.

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2/3 Station St, Pomona Ph: 5485 2128 19

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Cooroora Connect