April 2014
An Initiative of Pomona & District Community House Inc.
$15,000 boost for men’s shed Bluescope Steel has come to the rescue of those planning to locate the Men’s Shed Pomona within the old Pomona Fire Station. National Sales Manager (Queensland) for Bluescope Steel, Wal Nicolussi (right) hands a cheque for $15,000 to the office manager at Pomona Community House, Brian Lawson (second from right) on behalf of the Men’s Shed Pomona Group. Also pictured is men’s shed enthusiast Doug Bettens (centre) and Councillor Tony Wellington of Noosa Shire, (left) a staunch supporter. The prospect of a men’s shed being built at Pomona is closer following a $15,000 grant to the Men's shed Pomona by the steel producer, Bluescope Steel. Pressure now is on the state government to donate the current Pomona fire station site and building to the men’s shed group once the new fire station opens in Reserve Street later this year. A delighted Brian Lawson, a man of many hats around town, received the cheque for $15,000 last month from Wal Nicolussi, the national sales manager (Queensland) for Bluescope Steel.
“This initiative struck a chord, not only because of the dedication of those involved, and the support they have, but because there is a real commitment to make it happen,” he said. The Lawson Shed at Pomona, an annexe to Pomona Community House (PCH), was initiated by Honorary House Manager, Brian Lawson and former President, Doug Bettens
Men’s shed patron and former Noosa councillor, Doug Bettens, said the group was waiting for advice from the Queensland Department of Community Safety that the Pomona group could Wal explained that the Men’s Shed secure the current fire station as a Pomona was the tenth and final recipient gathering space, with valuable machinery in Australia of company grants towards and other equipment to be operated by worthwhile community projects. Three the men being housed in a shed on out of the 10 grants had gone to men’s stumps – above known flood levels – at shed projects, Wal explained. the rear of the fire station building.
A shed measuring 12m by seven metres, suitable for this purpose, has been obtained from a Nambour rural property, dismantled and stored on land Doug owns at Cooran. “What we can achieve depends on the money we get, but today’s grant from Bluescope Steel represents a fantastic boost to our coffers,” Doug said. Noosa councillor, Tony Wellington, who was present for the cheque handover, said the council was backing the men’s shed plans and had been liaising with the state government to facilitate transfer of ownership of the fire station to the men’s shed. October-November is the anticipated completion date for Pomona’s new fire station, subject to funding being confirmed in the June state budget.
Changes at Noosa Show Society: See page 10 Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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From 14 April 2014 to 21 April 2014 Noosa Council, in partnership with TransLink, are providing FREE public transport for everyone in the Noosa Shire. The FREE services include: TransLink’s Noosa local Sunbus services: Route 626 - Sunrise Beach to Tewantin Route 627 - Sunshine Beach to Tewantin Route 628 - Noosa Junction to Noosa Parklands Route 629 - Noosa Junction to Tewantin. Route 632 - Cooran to Noosa Junction Temporary shuttles (14 – 21 April) Route 064 - between Peregian Beach and Noosa Heads Route 065 - between Noosa Junction and Noosaville Boreen Point to Tewantin Flexilink service Noosa Council Cabs services. Note: normal booking procedures apply to Council Cabs and Flexilink services. Timetables Pick up a Free Holiday Buses pocket timetable from your Council office, library or local visitor information centre, or download a copy from council’s website. The Free Holiday Buses initiative is proudly funded by Noosa Council's Public Transport Levy and aims to: Reduce congestion during the Easter peak holiday period. Promote public transport in and around Noosa. Feedback survey - Win $250 - Your feedback is valuable. (Survey available from 14 April – conditions apply).
www.noosa.qld.gov.au.
Pomona Anglican Church Located @ Old Masonic Lodge 9 Station Street, Pomona
0412 909 156
CHURCH IS FOR EVERYONE Sunday 7:30am Communion Service
YOU WILL BE MOST WELCOME
Pomona Anglican Church Cnr Memorial Ave & Rectory St, Pomona Parish office: 5485 1218
Rev Gillian Moses 2
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Meditation & Sound Healing Tuesday’s 10 am & 6.30 pm Yoga Wednesday 6pm - 7.30 pm Sound & Crystal Healing Intuitive Massage (23 years experience) Energy Work (Reiki, Holistic Pulsing etc.) Spiritual Counselling Inner Child Healing Sound Baths for full moon 17 March (Monthly)
A Path of Light & Path of Love Starting on 24 March (7 month Courses with the Ascended Masters)
District celebrates Heritage Month: Volunteers needed Pomona’s popular heritage walks are on again during April when tour guides will lead groups of people around the towns of our district. A cemetery walk is an added attraction.
New homestay option for people with a disability The range of farm stays and bed and breakfast establishments across the Noosa Hinterland has been enhanced with the opening of a homestay on the outskirts of Pomona designed specifically for people with a disability, their carers and families. Operated by Queensland Support Services and Solutions (QSSS) on 3.2ha of tranquil bushland, the friendly homestay offers flexible holiday options for people with a disability, including the support of a nurse or other professional care-giver, if required. All facilities are wheelchair friendly, while there is a bus with a hoist for those who want to explore local attractions. While it is not government funded, disabled guests may qualify for a respite subsidy. “It is a place where people with a physical disability can come for a holiday and carers can take a break from caring,” said principal, Louise Lowe, herself a
wheelchair user of 52 years. Her husband, Mark, takes care of the beautiful grounds, while Kerry Martin is manager. “People say why do you need a holiday if you have a carer meeting your needs, but this is about a change of pace and a change of scenery with the ability to holiday independently. That could be important for the person concerned, or their carer also,” Louise said. Kerry said those who had stayed at the QSSS homestay ‘didn’t want to go home.’ “We want to provide a state of relaxation . For people with a physical disability, this is an opportunity to holiday on their own, or with family should they wish, away from their normal environment, but with all the support they need.”
The heritage of Pomona and district will be highlighted in a series of walks and events planned for April and May as part of Heritage Month. Queensland Heritage Month is an opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate the places and stories that make Australia special. It is also an opportunity to raise public awareness of the importance of conserving and protecting our natural heritage, rich Indigenous heritage and the diverse historic sites that help form our cultural identity. The events locally are being organised by the Noosa Museum and involve a series of historic walks and fashion parade. Details are:
Fri. 16 May, 5.30pm Fashion Parade at Noosa Museum. Cost $15, $12 members or concession. Each walk will be lead by an experienced guide who will bring alive the history of each locality. The cemetery walk is a new addition for 2014. Jeanette Alfredson of the Noosa Museum said volunteers would be required to help organise the fashion parade. Otherwise consider taking one of the walks or inviting friends to accompany you.
Phone Jeannete Alfredson on 5485 1080
Wed. 23 April, 1pm: Pomona Heritage Walk Wed. 30 April, 1pm: Cooran Heritage Walk Fri. 9 May, 4pm: Pomona Cemetery Walk.
**Open 7 Day**
Flowers Gifts Fresh Juices & Smoothies Boutique Coffee Tasty Treats - Gluten Free & Dairy Free
Open 7 Days Sun to Wed10am-4pm
The homestay does not cater for people with mental health issues.
Thurs to Sat 9am-4pm
More information: phone 5485 0998.
Shop 2/14 Reserve St, Pomona
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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A time for reflection Amid preparations for Anzac Day 2014 on 25 April, we reflect upon the sacrifice and service of Australia’s military personnel across conflicts and generations and, inevitably, search introspectively for the relevance of the annual commemoration to ourselves. It is a deeply personal experience. We also feel it collectively, as part of the national psyche. There was a poignant juxtaposition at Pomona last month when young people mainly in their early 20s – architectural students from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) – met with the users of the Pomona Memorial Hall to discuss how its design could work better. The significance of the interaction was that the community was looking to the inspiration of creative young people, a new generation of 21st Century designers, to reinterpret the fabric of a much loved and much used building. The Pomona Memorial Hall is the town’s war memorial. The rotunda in Memorial Park was a later addition. Eighty-eight years ago, when the hall opened, the youthful vibrancy of our community was missing – decimated by the loss of so many from a generation sacrificed in the Great War. The names of those from this area who died in that conflict are inscribed on honour boards displayed within the Pomona Memorial Hall. We honour them by keeping the hall in good repair and maintaining its relevance to today’s community. The QUT students were about the same age as those young people taken from us in war. Whatever the outcome of the design students’ work and the hall committee’s consideration of their concepts, it is appropriate to ask what the hall – and the reasons for building it – mean to us today. And with that comes this question: ‘Should Pomona have its own Anzac Day ceremony?’ We don’t currently. Certainly, our population size suggests that we could manage it. The Cooroy dawn and mid-morning Anzac Day memorial services are well attended, including by numbers of people from Pomona, Cooran, Kin Kin and surrounds. Attendance is growing every year. How many of those, and others who would attend a ceremony held closer, would prefer to gather around the memorial hall plaques and remember our own in 2015, the centenary of the Gallipoli landing? Do we owe it to those recorded there to stand sentinel as one to their memory just one day a year? It is a matter for reflection as, once more, we ready to commemorate Anzac Day. Contributed: By Brian O’Connor
Deadline for next issue: 24 April Read Cooroora Connect online at www.facebook.com/PomonaDistrictCommunityHouseInc 4
Inspirational speakers What does ‘Healthy, Wealthy and Wise’ mean to you? was the question posed to three presenters at the International Women’s Day morning tea held at the Pomona Memorial Hall on Saturday 8 March.
Having the inner strength to be able to change our lives for the better was the heartfelt message that Cr Sandy Bolton brought to the morning.
something that keeps her brain ticking over and involved with the local community.
The speakers were united in the notion that the wealth in our lives is not solely dependent on money. Our families, our relationships and our environment all add to our sense of wealth.
Sandy emphasised the need to take care of ourselves and The speakers – Ellen Leape, not to remain stuck in Andrea Kirwin and Sandy patterns that leave us sick Bolton – addressed the topic and disempowered. Sandy’s from the perspective of three willingness to talk different generations. authentically from her own Ellen Leape, former Matron experience was appreciated and applauded by all. of Noosa Hospital, and the ‘most senior’ of the speakers, A moment of reflection spoke of the importance of came when host Kathryn keeping fit and healthy and Shewring, presented current of her enjoyment walking statistics on the status of regularly with the Pomona women around the world, Pacers. reminding those present that many women still face a With poise and dignity she reminded participants of the life of inequality and discrimination and invited positives of staying connected and active, citing the audience to support women however they felt her volunteer position as a able. Justice of the Peace as
Singer/songwriter, Andrea Kirwin, the youngest of the speakers at 29, told tales of growing up in a crosscultural modern day Australia, living in Fiji and North Queensland. Andrea’s moving tributes to her mother and grandmother, to their strength and wisdom, touched hearts.
“My grandchildren know that they are my treasures,” said Ellen Leape.
Thanking Community House for inviting her, Sandy said she was inspired by the team at the Community House, whom She spoke of her own she said did ‘amazing work decision to follow her heart by putting “unity” into by giving up a law degree for community.’ her first love – music. Every year proceeds from She delighted everyone with her soulful and inspiring mix of songs and guitar playing. Andrea was accompanied by Cody, one of the ‘smart pups’ she now trains as an ‘assistance’ dog. Cody charmed the audience with a demonstration of his ability to recognise signs of illness.
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the International Women’s Day at Pomona are donated to an organisation that supports women. This year, a cheque for $300 will be presented to the Cooroy Family Support Centre. The money will go towards supporting families and, in particular, victims of domestic violence.
embrace hinterland International Women's Day
The day for women was well attended. Those present appreciated a discussion on the topic ‘Healthy, Wealthy and Wise’ by three guest speakers. The event is a highlight of the Pomona Community House calendar, organised by Kathryn Shewring (far left).
Noosa farmers eligible for drought relief assistance Primary producers throughout the Noosa Hinterland are entitled to special drought assistance following inclusion of the shire in 79 per cent of Queensland now in the grip of its most widespread big dry. “Queensland is a big state and there is usually a drought somewhere, but this is the largest area of Queensland that has ever been drought declared at one time,” Agriculture Minister, John McVeigh said. Noosa was included among droughtdesignated shires on 1 March.
“The Burnett and coastal areas from Gladstone to Caboolture have not received any useful rain since Cyclone Oswald,” the minister explained. Drought declaration means landholders are eligible for Queensland's Drought Relief Assistance Scheme (DRAS), including fodder and water assistance. Producers wanting to apply for DRAS, including the Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate, should contact the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry on 13 25 23.
EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN Speakers at Pomona’s International Women’s Day celebrations represented three generations - each with their own perspective on life. Picture left to right are Ellen Leape, Cr Sandy Bolton and Andrea Kirwin.
A Easter craft workshop will be held at the Lawson Shed, Pomona, on Wednesday 16 April from 10am to 12pm. See school newsletters and Pomona Community House facebook for more information.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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New Pomona fire station ready by Christmas? Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) senior officials have told Pomona’s auxiliary firies that they will be working from a new building adjacent to the existing ambulance station by Christmas 2014. The undertaking that a start on the new fire station is imminent would not be confirmed by the office of the Minister for Community Safety last month, however, a spokesperson for the Minister, Jack Dempsey, said the project was proceeding to the construction phase.
An architect’s sketch of the new fire and rescue service station planned for a site in Reserve Street, Pomona.
The first signs of progress on the redevelopment of the prominent site in Reserve Street, opposite the Pomona “The Newman Government is Memorial Hall, will be earthworks in committed to revitalising frontline preparation for the laying of services, and the funding of the foundations. The spokesperson said Pomona fire and rescue station is an $200,000 had been set aside in 2013-14 example of that commitment,” the for construction of new fire and rescue spokesperson said. stations at Pomona and Ingham. That “Tenders for the Pomona station closed money, already available, is for works on 7 February and are being evaluated. that are scheduled to start and finish before the end of June. The tender is for the design and construction of the facility. A The state government will bring down construction timeline will be confirmed its annual Budget in June and the pending [selection of] the successful expectation is that the financials will tenderer,” the spokesperson said. contain the funds needed to construct
the Pomona facility. The works would be continuous – from site works this financial year to physical building in financial year 2014-15. The spokesperson would not be drawn on the use of the current fire station as the future home of the Men’s Shed Pomona. “The current Pomona fire and rescue station is still in use and, as such, is not available to the men’s shed group at this stage,” he said. Meanwhile, the illuminated Maltese cross sign that usually adorns the Pomona ambulance station has been removed for restoration.
POMONA MEDICAL CENTRE 5 Factory St, Pomona PHONE (07) 5485 1177 FAX (07) 5485 2047 Allied Health Services include:
Opening hours are: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm Saturday 8am to 12pm Early Blood Collection available from 7.30am to 8am on Mon/Tues/Thur/Fri
Current After Hours is provided through 0408 713 395
Dietitian Exercise Physiologist Podiatry
Nursing services include: Diabetic care, Retinography, Medical health checks
Doctors are:
Dr Maura Harvey Dr Belinda Hanley Dr Richard Hayter Dr Leonie Mitchell Dr Claire Lawrence
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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Leukaemia Foundation staff members Kim Dallimore (left) and Megan Blears (right) join those on the day who had their head shaved or head dyed to raise funds for this worthy cause.
Left and Right: Aleta Bon and Brian Lawson were the highlight act of the Worlds Greatest Shave event held at Pomona. Aleta gained sponsorship worth $1300 towards Leukaemia research, while Brian sacrificed his moustache of more than 45 years, inspired by the experience of a daughter of a family friend. Aleta’s long red locks will be made into a wig for a cancer patients. Brian declined to have his eyebrows shaved, however.
Hairolicious 25 Factory Street, Pomona Phone 5485 0120
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Sporting their fuzz are Heather Manders and Jan Wise from Pomona Community House, enthusiastic participants in the World’s Greatest Shave.
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BEFORE AND AFTER Suave man about town, Cory Harris is familiar to most as helpful assistant at the Pomona True Value Hardware, but he swapped the counter for the barber’s chair to have his thick head of hair shaved to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation. Cory received generous sponsorship from the hardware shop customers to encourage him to take the ’full Monty’, which included having his eyebrows shaved off.
Cherrie Hunt is feeling the breeze these days following her close encounter with the barber’s clippers on the day. She is receiving smiles and words of encouragement from customers filing in to her business the Gilded Lily.
Thanks For Supporting Us In The World’s Greatest Shave Total amount raised for the Leukaemia Foundation - $2106, plus approximately $1300 raised by Aleta Bon.
Bad hair day raises money for leukaemia Long locks, flowing locks, grey hair and even eyebrows – they all went in Pomona’s World’s Greatest Shave event in support of the Leukaemia Foundation. The shave-athon and hair-colouring exercise held in the Lawson Shed attracted about 50 participants and onlookers. More importantly, it raised over $3000 to support those undergoing treatment for blood cancer and to help discover a cure for the disease. Leukaemia is indiscriminate. Through tears and smiles, cheers and encouragement, stories came out about the motivation of those who were brave enough to abandon inhibitions and have their locks lopped, or pinked, or sprayed in the colours of the rainbow. Guest speaker, David Campbell of Cooroy, spoke of his past experience with leukaemia and the six-month stint he had spent in Brisbane while receiving treatment. Money raised for the Leukaemia Foundation goes to providing accommodation for country people undergoing tests and medical procedures in the major cities. Husband and wife team, Brian and Carolyn Lawson, opted to shave their heads to recognise the struggle of a toddler, Indie Rose Taurima, who was diagnosed with cancer at three months. Brian set himself target of $500 sponsorship to shave off the moustache he has sported for 45 years but the result was a fantastic $710.00 .
which was chopped and set aside. It will be made into a wig and donated to a cancer patient. Aleta raised $1300 for the foundation from friends and supporters of her on-line business, Hinterland Mama. “I have been thinking of doing this for a long time. My son has been in the emergency department a few times lately and to see all the kids going through the hospital just breaks my heart. I knew this was the year I just had to do something for those kids and their families,” Aleta said through tears and smiles. The Pomona event was supervised by Kim Dallimore and Megan Blears, the Sunshine Coast fundraising coordinator for the Leukaemia Foundation. Megan said the Pomona activity was not as big as most but had more laughs and fun than similar shave days. “This is one of the better events because everyone knows each other and joins in,” she said. This is the 16th year Queenslanders have participated in the World’s Greatest Shave Day. Last year $380,000 was raised from the Sunshine Coast, and $5.5 million statewide. “We hope to top that in 2014,” Megan said. Thanks go to the hard-working hairdressers who gave freely of their time – Rene Jorgensen, Pomona’s barber, and Megan Oberholster of Let’s Talk Hair, Cooroy.
Morning tea was provided by Pomona and District Community House. Laughs greeted another couple, Debbie Upstairs in Community House, where and John Schouten, who had their hair normal business resumed after staff and stubble dyed in outrageous colours – all some volunteers had had their heads shaved, the place looked like a of them in Debbie’s case! A late starter on the day was Cory Harris, of Pomona skinheads convention, with a modicum of fairy magic from those who opted for Hardware, who grabbed the donation jar from the shop counter and sprinted the gaudy colour treatment. to the event for the ‘full monty’ Try not to look too surprised if you have treatment – hair and eyebrows – after a business at PCH over the next few dare from workmate Peter Hill. weeks as the hair grows back. “It is worth it, great cause,” a beaming and bald Cory said afterwards. However, the biggest cheer went to Aleta Bon, of Eumundi, whose flowing auburn hair was plaited in a pony tail,
However, the big question is whether Brian Lawson will grow his distinctive moustache again.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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New direction for Noosa Show Society The Noosa Show Society has announced a change in personnel and structure of its executive committee, involving a new vice-president and secretary and the addition of two new committee members. The call has gone out for more new members, including executive members, with the appointment of a new president being high among priorities. The new vice-president, Perene Barker, is acting president in the interim. At a special meeting held on 26 March a proposition was put to alter the show society constitution to allow new members to vote on matters without first having to sit out three meetings within a six-month period during which time they cannot vote. This provision frustrated some new members who were locked out of voting at the society’s December annual general meeting, at which committee positions were re-affirmed.
Keith Haining
Lorraine Fraley
Ian Pike
Les Andreassen
month, which read in part: “After two very successful and proactive years as the elected committee for the Noosa A.H. & I. Society Inc., it is with deep disappointment that we announce that The Noosa Country Show is scheduled the majority [of] committee [members] to be held on Friday and Saturday, 12 and 13 September. It is in 2015 that there have resigned from their elected positions. might be some changes, Keith said. “Our sincere thanks go out to everyone In addition to the former committee for their support [and] for helping the members going, several section committee achieve our record results. stewards have also resigned. We are very grateful for having had the Replacements are being sought. opportunity, with that support, to Keith said the feasibility of holding a Those members, believed to be new ‘annual general meeting’ was being deliver such success ... while preserving the continuity of the show [and its] associated with the Pomona Pony Club, investigated, as audited accounts had Shire.” The show waited until the early March meeting of not been ready for the December AGM. history to the Noosa th society is in its 105 year. the show society to challenge some However, they were ready in time for committee members, resulting in those people resigning before a vote could be taken. The Pony Club had been in dispute with the show society over access to the showgrounds.
new committee as we move forward,” Keith said. “We have a positive energetic team, although not much will change for the 2014 show.”
the early March meeting and were tabled.
Ian Pike resigned as show society vicepresident, as did secretary Lorraine Fraley. In a further shake-up at the top, Les Andreassen has stepped down as president to become a committee member with responsibility for maintaining the grounds. He remains as manager of the Pomona Caravan Park. The treasurer, Terrie Wakeham, will The Noosa Show Society’s financial year stay in her post until 1 June, it was ends on 31 October. A spokesperson for confirmed last week. the Queensland Office of Fair Trading New committee member, Tim has confirmed that an association must Congram, comes from a family hold an annual general meeting within background of managing caravan parks six months of the end of the and showgrounds at Apollo Bay on organisation’s reportable financial year. Victoria’s Surf Coast. Tim takes charge The society held its AGM in December of new membership and trade sites. and presented its audited financials Keith Haining, the former Pomona within the six-month stipulated period. Caravan Park caretaker, is the new show Keith confirmed there was nothing to society secretary, replacing Lorraine suggest anything untoward in the Fraley, whose enthusiasm and drive accounts following the routine annual rallied the committee last year to stage audit. one of the most successful shows ever. The former show society secretary, “Transparency and open Lorraine Fraley, issued a statement last communication are important to the 10
Cooroora Connect
Keith Haining urged people to become involved. “For just a $20 annual membership, or $50 for three years, show society members are entitled to free access for the two days of the annual show, a new monthly newsletter and a great opportunity to meet new people and even volunteer to help in the preparation of the September show. We are very open to new ideas and energy,” he said. For more information, call Keith on 5485 2331. NOOSA DISTRICT JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE is looking for more girl or boy players for their U9 team. Please contact the club ndjrl@hotmail.com or come along to training on Thursday afternoon at Cooroy from 4-5pm.
D J W Property Maintenance Home & garden maintenance
Rubbish Removal Mowing & Trimming All Jobs big or small
Honest & Reliable PH: 0450 133 326
$60m quarter horse complex a stimulus for local economy The announcement that a $60 million quarter horse racing complex is proposed for a site off Tuchekoi Road, once destined to be submerged by the waters of the now defunct Traveston Crossing Dam, signals potential spin-off benefits for the local economy, according to the convenor of the Hinterland Noosa Alliance (HNA), Allan Bonsall. Allan, who is working with Noosa Council on development of a rural futures strategy, wants closer ties between the Mary Valley and the Noosa Hinterland explored for mutually beneficial economic advantage. The Premier, Campbell Newman, announced details about the complex, planned by Australian Quarter Horse Racing Development Pty Ltd, while on a promotional and fact-finding visit to the United States. “While there are still a number of milestones the company will need to achieve, this proposal has the potential to transform the Mary Valley through the creation of a new multi-million dollar industry,” Mr Newman said. Allan said the stud and racing track, with live streaming of races to a huge betting market in Asia, would generate visitations to the region that would support the development of a motel or resort in the hinterland, as well as other opportunities. He said it was likely that establishing of the National Quarter Horse Racing Centre so close to the Noosa Hinterland would attract further investment in studs and the equine industry locally. “The country through here (Cooran and Kin Kin) is attractive as a lifestyle option for those wishing to get into
that industry. Without detracting from what is happening in the Mary Valley – and I commend people for that – we must look at how we can take advantage of this considerable new investment,” he said. “There is no reason why all the opportunity should sit in the Mary Valley. “In fact, much of what is happening there could be leveraged to benefit the Noosa Hinterland. For example, I hope that Mary Valley vegetable producers could see that establishing a marketing cooperative around Cooroy and Pomona is a more attractive proposition than in the valley because of our larger population and position as the northern gateway to the Sunshine Coast,” Allan said. “It could be argued that Pomona has greater attraction than the towns of the Mary Valley, and has more going for it, as this end of Noosa would be closer to where this new facility will be located.” State Member for Gympie and Chair of the Mary Valley Economic Development Advisory Group, David Gibson, called the project exciting for a number of reasons. “This is not just about racing, it’s about establishing a new industry in Queensland that will put Queensland and the Mary Valley on the international stage,” Mr Gibson said. Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jeff Seeney, said the project had potential to attract other new businesses supporting the local economy.
The proposal Australian Quarter Horse Racing Development Pty Ltd and the Queensland Government have reached agreement on the sale of a 1600ha property on Tuchekoi Road, approximately 20km from Pomona and Cooran, with a view to redeveloping the site as Australia’s National Centre for Quarter Horse Racing. The property, Bollier Park, was bought by the Bligh Government for a reported $25m, but the sale price is undisclosed. Planned for the site is a straightcourse racing track beaming races into a massive betting audience across Asia. Also planned are stabling, an equestrian school and other facilities, initially for about 500 quarter horses – the fastest horses in the world, capable of running at more than 80 kph over short distances. Horse trails would link the facility to surrounding rural residential lots, where people could keep horses and train them on the track. Future planning includes a convention centre, commercial accommodation and a world-class equine hospital. Permanent jobs will be created for 145 people, with additional people employed on race days. Spin-offs include work for farriers and those growing feed hay. Gympie Regional Council will work to allow the $60m project within its development planning. The next step is for the company to submit a business case by 31 August.
Sunshine Hinterland Orchestrator Children Mondays 4.30pm - 6.00pm Pomona Community House - Lawson Shed 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona Sally 0415 984 900 Brad 0437 315 676 or just come on the day Price: $50 per term
Bring your instrument & stand Conducted by Brad Smith Music Teacher Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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News from around the Hinterland Historic pub passed in at auction
Food, glorious food, at Kenilworth
Kin Kin’s Country Life Hotel failed to sell when it was offered The celebration of epicurean delights across our region for sale by auction last month. About 30 people attended the continues on Easter Saturday, 19 April, when our neighbours auction, conducted by brokers R.L. Currey and Co. in the Mary Valley celebrate their annual Cheese, Wine and However, only one genuine bid of $260,000 was made. There Food Festival. were no counter offers as the auctioneer pitched ‘vendor bids’ About 3000 visitors are expected at Kenilworth for the day, that took the bidding to $280,000, at which point the hotel which this year marks 25 years of cheese-making at was passed in. Kenilworth Country Foods. Dozens of stalls will display fine Currey’s website states that sale negotiations are continuing. food and craft, with the highlight of the day being the cheese rolling competition. It is understood that the owners would accept $285,000 for See: www.kenilworthfoodfest.org.au the pub, which has undergone two extensive renovations following recent floods. One of those renovations cost more than $1 million.
Cheap prices for all that jazz
Opened in 1914, the Country Life Hotel occupies a 2389 sq m Local jazz aficionados are being offered loyalty ticket site at the entrance to Kin Kin. It generates a rental income of discounts for the 2014 Noosa Jazz Festival to be held from 4-7 $84,000 a year. The sale was for the freehold only. September at the Noosa Lions Park, Noosa Heads. The loyalty tickets start at $10 for children and $25 for adults and represent better value than early bird special ticket prices. Planning starts for Dr Pages Road More than 50 performances are scheduled. while the festival True to his word, Noosa Mayor Noel Playford has instructed also includes workshops, master classes, jazz river cruises, the council’s engineering staff to develop plans for the sealing the legends lunch series, and Australian Jazz royalty. Loyalty a four-kilometre stretch of Dr Pages Road, at Cootharaba, to tickets can be booked online: www.noosajazz.com.au or by complete a black tar tourist trail through the Noosa calling 07 5471 3613. Hinterland. Cr Playford said he anticipated the federal government would Kin Kin welcome for all seek expressions of interest from councils for a new infrastructure fund and he wants the Noosa Council to have Are you new to Kin Kin or do you live there and just want to widen your circle of friends? If so, come to the Kin Kin ‘shovel ready’ plans waiting to action should the council be general store on the first and third Tuesday of the month at granted some funding. 10am. Meet some of the locals, have a chat over morning The roadworks are likely to cost $5 million. coffee, stay for lunch, play a board game or tell your stories.
Lozza’s Rock and Roll Café WE COOK FROM THE TIME WE OPEN ‘TIL THE TIME WE CLOSE All food cooked fresh Great variety of burgers 15 flavours of milkshakes & Opening hours Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun.
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4pm—8pm 4pm—8pm 4pm—8pm 11am—8pm 11am—8pm 11am—8pm 11am–8pm
thickshakes Light meals, dine-in Takeaway Lollies Ice creams Cold Drinks Cigarettes
Fran Corrigan Ph: 0419 839 126
Shop 3, 3 Station St Pomona Phone orders: 5485 0045
Cooroora Connect
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Anzac Day set to draw crowds Organisers of the dawn and morning Anzac Day ceremonies at Cooroy are expecting bigger crowds than last year as interest in the annual day of commemoration grows and the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing looms in 2015.
breaks is followed by a ‘gunfire breakfast’ at the RSL Club, where veterans and the public mix. The cost is $2, offered as a donation. At 10.30am the Anzac Day street parade gets underway along Maple Street.
The parade will form outside the library. Between 600 and 700 people Afterwards, at 11am, there are expected to attend the will be a further service at 5am dawn service at the RSL the Cooroy Memorial Hall. Memorial Park, Diamond Lunch follows at noon – a Street, Cooroy. The time for veterans to reflect evocative service as dawn and meet.
OLD POMONA RAILWAY STATION GALLERY 10 STATION STREET, POMONA PH: 5485 2950 Email: pomonagallery@gmail.com Gallery Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm
Cadets line up for parade at last’s years Anzac Day march at Cooroy. Large crowds are expected at the dawn and midmorning services.
Free activities planned for Youth Week celebrations Kathryn Shewring, Community Engagement Coordinator at the Pomona Community House, is thrilled to announce that a fantastic day full of FREE Youth Week activities will be held in Pomona in April. “The day is about valuing our youth. Too often they have to travel down the coast to events that interest them, so it is good that we are having an entertaining day locally where the youth of our region can have some fun,” Kathryn said.
jewellery making, tie-dye Tshirts (limited number available or bring you own plain colour shirt), art workshop using old LP records and mural painting on canvas are among the activities. Everyone will be invited to contribute to a digital magazine with photos and artwork. There will be a free sausage sizzle. While Community House is providing the venue, organisation on the day is coming from United Synergies who began as the Noosa Youth Service in 1989. United Synergies now directs services and support to families and communities, but especially young people.
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
‘Our Voice Our Impact’ is the theme of the Youth Week activities, which will centre around the Pomona skate park and Lawson Shed, from 10am to 2pm on 10 April. The target audience Youth day participants will is aged 13 to 19. be asked to register on the day. Various activities are planned, with the emphasis on participation. An open mike with musician,
For more information, phone Pomona Community House on 5485 2427.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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Phoenix Plumbing Ph: 041 760 1530 Email: mfour04@bigpond.com.au
Plumbing & Draining Roof Guttering Solar Hot Water Treatment plant endorsement New House Plumbing BSA 63891
News in brief Staggering amount of waste Well, the numbers are in concerning Noosa’s Clean Up Australia Day rubbish collection effort and there is some good and bad news. The good news is that a record 660 volunteers took part, operating from 30 sites across the region. However, the sheer volume of waste collected has staggered local Clean Up Australia Day coordinator and Noosa councillor, Joe Jurisevic – 28.5 tonnes. A contractor removed, several car bodies and large metal items in the week before the clean up, so the total could have been far greater. “With 7.16 tonnes of waste collected from across 29 community-based sites cleaned up this year being the second biggest haul collected to date, it shows that littering and dumping is still an issue that the community needs to come to terms with,” Cr Jurisevic said. The day uncovered an illegal dump site in the Ringtail Creek Forest area where 22 tonnes of rubbish had been cast about wantonly. “This illegal hotspot shows just how extensive the problem of illegal dumping has become and how complacent some people are when it comes to taking responsibility for the waste we generate,” he said.
DONATIONS WANTED
Good quality 2nd hand furniture, bric-a-brac, kitchenware, etc
Market yourself on the Internet
for The Community Op Shop Free pickup available 1 Memorial Ave Pomona
Ph: 5485 0206
A Touch of the Past Antiques
Coffee Shop
The Noosa Hinterland lends itself to lifestyle businesses, single-person businesses and enterprises that can market successfully on the Internet. A workshop to be held at the Cooran memorial Hall on 12 April will explore in detail. Hosted by Tall Trees Art Inc., the E-marketing social media and on-line marketing day will be presented by Belinda Daw of Flying Arts Alliance. The workshop will run from 10am to 4pm and cost $50 for Tall Trees Art members, $60 for nonmembers. With 23 per cent of retailing set to be conducted on line, the prospect of operating a marketing business over the Internet is easier and competitive with traditional bricks and mortar stores.
5 Reserve Street, Pomona
Ph: 5485 1883 *Antiques* *Gifts* *Flowers* *Jewellery* *Teddy Heaven* *Homemade Cakes* *Lunches*
Belinda’s tuition includes subjects such as knowing your audience, developing an on-line marketing strategy, use of blogs to promote a business or goods, social networks online and the different types of platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin and Instagram. Contact Mia Hacker on 0437 721 966 or Jason Makeig, o428 988 059 or email talltreesart@internode.on.net.
Open 7 Days - 7am to 5pm Group Bookings Welcome 14
Morning Melodies Luncheon Tewantin Noosa RSL
11am - 1pm
Bus for Hinterland Residents
23 April Anzac
PH: 5447 1766 Cooroora Connect
Uni students study our buildings
Bushfire threat still exists across region
The influx of visitors to Pomona was boosted last month when dozens of students from the Queensland University of Technology School of Design wandered through town with cameras and laptop computers, examining the streetscape and architecture, and searching for inspiration for a first semester challenge to design a suite of new buildings.
The weather might not be as hot, but the countryside remains dry from the drought, making the possibility of bushfires an ongoing threat.
Year 3 is the part of the course where students experience talking to ‘clients’ and interpreting their desires into buildings that reflect the characteristics that people like, in this case about Pomona.
In town to study Pomona’s architecture as part of their QUT Year 3 design studies were (Left to right) Laura Muirhead, Elizabeth Oliver and Isabella Meland.
Home owners are encouraged to consider a plan of action in the event of a threatening fire. The State Government has an excellent website for people seeking fire prevention tips or wishing to go about preparing a household fire plan. Go to: www.fire.gov.au
That is why some of us have been interviewed about what new facilities we would like to see locally and what we like about where we live. Inspired by the interaction, the students are busy designing a new interactive library, a series of ‘creative pods’ where artists and members of the public can meet to paint and craft, while other students have it in mind to build an extension to the Noosa Museum and develop an outdoor stage at the rear of the Majestic Theatre. While much of the students’ creation won’t ever make it to the building stage, it could spark the imagination of locals looking to explore options for extending and improving our built infrastructure. The interaction between students and public culminated in late March at a barbecue planning session involving a group of students and about 40 community members who gathered at the Lawson Shed to explore options for redesigning the Pomona Memorial Hall to make it function better for the many clubs and groups that use it. Students spent three days in town examining the building and reworking its appearance, while honouring its historic design.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
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Federal School wants to boost numbers One of the district’s oldest schools in the newest school buildings is seeking to boost numbers and hopes for a good intake of Prep students in 2015. Prep enrolments are now being accepted for the start of the 2015 academic year at Federal State School. Parents of children due to start their formal education next year are invited to contact the school for a familiarisation tour.
“We try to ensure small class sizes in prep to year 3 where we provide a strong foundation for learning leading on to later years.” Federal State School has just 14 students in Prep this year, from a total school enrolment of 95. It consistently scores high in Naplan testing, an outcome linked to committed teachers and smaller class sizes.
The school is more than 100 years “Federal State School is a special old, but occupies state-of-the-art place to learn and a special place to facilities, the result of the school teach. We take great effort to being relocated from its old site to create a learning environment that make way for the Bruce Highway is friendly, safe and happy, while widening. still maintaining our academic Phone Natalie on 5480 8600 for integrity,” said principal, Natalie more information. Pilkington.
Playground at the Federal State School.
KIN KIN CAR BOOT SALE A car boot sale will be held on Sunday, 6 April to coincide with the Kin Kin Creative Markets. The sale will be held in the car park opposite the Kin Kin Community Hall from 9am to 1pm. More information: Liz Palmer, phone 5485 4663
Donation of mulch allows Pomona community garden to take shape Mulch has been stockpiled on a plot of land beside the Pomona Community House (PCH) car park in Station Street in preparation for the site becoming a community garden. The mulch is a donation from Bielby Holdings, the contractor undertaking the Bruce
Highway realignment at Black Mountain. It was made from shredded timber cleared from the site and not required for milling. The land on which the garden will be developed is owned by Queensland
Conventional & Organic Produce
Rail, but leased to PCH for five years at an annual rent of $1, ‘if demanded’. A design for the garden is being considered and the community will be consulted before construction starts. Other landscaping materials are being sought at ‘mates rates’.
Registered Physio
Phone: 5485 1922
Post Graduate in Manual Physiotherapy Sports Injuries Acupuncture
Andrew Pike 0415 734 180
4 Memorial Avenue, Pomona
Yoga Therapy
Bulk Billing
SoulVerse Spiritual Centre Meets 1st & 3rd Sunday of Month Pomona Memorial Hall Reserve Street, Pomona 2 - 4 pm Meet & Connect, Free Hugs, Laughter, Meditation Guest Speakers & Guest Singers Fridays @ 10am at Cooran Reverend Ishjana 16
0413038515
Mowing Slashing Water Deliveries All Excavation
20 Years Experience
COMPLETE PROPERTY SERVICES
Ph/Fax: 5442 8122 Cooroora Connect
Mobile: Paul 0409 470 399
Get involved through Community House POMONA COMMUNITY HOUSE GROUPS & SERVICES PH: 54852427 COLOUR & BLACKWHITE PRINTING/COPYING SCANNING INTERNET LAMINATING & FAXING RESUME SERVICE REFERRAL & INFORMATION
POMONA CREATIVE WRITING TUESDAY 9.30AM - 12pPM Lawson Shed $3 donation Contact Noel 0403 173 851
MAHJONG WEDNESDAY 1PM - 3.30PM $3 donation
ROOM HIRE Pomona Community House & Lawson Shed Contact Heather 5485 2427 Volunteer Computer Tutor Wanted Ph: 5485 2427
COMPUTER LESSONS Monday
Pomona Astronomy Club (4th Wed Month)
Donation $2 per visit Bookings Essential PH: 5485 2427
Cooroora Connect Advertising
Starts: 7.30pm Cost $3 Venue: Lawson Shed Join local enthusiasts. Contact Cliff - PH 5485 1767 after 7pm
heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au
Pomona Pixel People @ Lawson Shed 1st/2nd/4th Monday at 7pm-9pm Cost $4 per person
FREE LEGAL ADVICE Fortnightly TUESDAY - 6PM - 7.30PM
PH: 54437827
Helpful hints on how to use your camera
Community Connect Morning Tea ** Seniors Take Note ** Lawson Shed, Pomona Wednesday 9th April 9.30am – 11.00am The first to speak is local entrepreneur and inventor Barry Sheridan who will be talking about his new invention ‘Fall Buddy’. Barry moved to Black Mountain area almost 10 years ago and in 2010 he set up Seniors Wellbeing with the express intention of developing Fall Buddy and bringing it to market. Fall Buddy is a small desk top device that can learn the normal activities and routines of its user and if it detects a prolonged period of inactivity, it will ask the user if they are OK. If they are not able to respond, it will assume they have had a fall or collapse and telephone up to 5 different people and ask for assistance. The second speaker is Kerry Martin from Queensland Support Services & Solutions (QSSS). Kerry will be introducing the new QSSS ‘Homestay Pomona’ facility. Homestay Pomona provides quality respite accommodation for People with a Physical Disability including the Aged. Kerry will be taking you on a virtual tour of the facility and grounds. She will be letting you know all about the services you can expect to find and how you can access funding which will support you in utilising QSSS services.
Light morning tea available for a gold coin donation. Please RSVP on 5485 2427
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Luke OwenJones has developed a keen eye for architectural aesthetics as he goes about his work of certifying buildings for construction, all over Australia.
Release the artist within at creative arts workshop For those wanting to learn to draw, revive their creativity, or develop drawing skills, a workshop is planned to help get you going. The workshop explores the elements basic to all drawing, using a variety of media. Artist and teacher, Kerry Wilson, will encourage the artist within.
Local company thinks nationally
The workshop will be held at the Pomona Railway Station Gallery on Saturday 5 April, from 9.30am to 1.30pm. The cost is $60 (participants bring their own materials.)
A Pomona-based company has demonstrated that it’s possible to be local yet think global as it provides an expert building certification service Australia-wide.
Bookings and enquiries to Kerry, phone 0428 502 251.
Luke Owen-Jones’ Earth Cert company has moved into new premises adjacent to the Pomona Post Office, having outgrown a home office in Rifle Street, where the company was known previously as Leap Frog Approvals. Luke, his wife and two children will move to a new house soon. It will be a short walk from the office for Luke who appreciates his life-work mix and the lifestyle opportunities that Pomona offers.
POSITION VACANT A canteen Convenor is required for Cooroora United Football Club at the Cooroy Sporting Complex. Approximately 4-5 hours on a Saturday morning with the occasional Sunday morning. Canteen will provide a simple menu and coffee on game days from early April to August. Hourly rate applies. Please contact President Kathryn Thompson on 0448 198 433 or president@cufc.org.au.
Serving the building industry, Luke’s business must deal with the cycle of construction activity, which fell away immediately after the global financial crisis. “We are lucky in that I can pick
All Cuts Mowing & Dog Clipping Service
up work across the whole of Queensland and I have a couple of big clients who provide steady work and keep me going,” Luke said. Much of Luke’s work is performed using computers and he believes the introduction of fast broadband to the hinterland will be a boost for business. Because he views building plans all day, Luke has observed the full gamut of building styles over the years, including the use of environmentally-friendly materials such as straw bale and rammed earth walls. He laments the tendency towards home designs with sealed rooms ventilated by airconditioners. “The old Queenslander colonial style was for open houses, wide verandas and eaves with plenty of crossventilation,” he said. At least Luke didn’t have to go too far to obtain building approval for his own home. Contact No. 5485 2384. Hinterland Christian Centre Assemblies of God Church 113 Marara Street Cooroy 4563
CHRISTIAN CENTRE
9.30am Sunday Family Service Contemporary worship & teaching Incredible Children's Program toddlers to primary school age
Bringing God & People Together
Matt Fulton PH: 040 4808 449 E: allcutsmowing@gmail.com
Refreshments after the service People of all ages welcome -
HEALING MEETINGS - 1st SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH
Great Rates & Prompt Service
Ph: 07 5447 7797
POMONA & DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE INC
www.hinterland.org.au
1 Memorial Ave, Pomona 4568
PHONE: 5485 2427 | FAX: 5485 1702 | ABN: 86 583 189 320 President - Dawn Gwynne
Vice President - Joy Cross
Manager - Brian Lawson
Treasurer - Jan Wise
Secretary - Gail Chapple
Coordinator - Heather Manders
Cooroora Connect is published by Pomona & District Community House Inc. The material published in Cooroora Connect may be reproduced only with appropriate authorisation & acknowledgment. The views expressed in Cooroora Connect are not necessarily the views of the editor, publisher or Pomona & District Community House.
EMAIL: heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au
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WEBSITE: WWW.pomonacommunityhouse.com
Cooroora Connect
Lets Get Cooking Do you love to Cook? Share Your Ideas? Volunteer Cook Needed for Community Kitchen / Cooking Classes If you're passionate about cooking and love to meet people on a social level. Why not volunteer to be a tutor. Contact Kathryn 5485 2427
Pomona Barber Located @ Cooroora Screens & Blinds 17 Factory Street, Pomona No Appointment Necessary
Open Tuesday to Saturday
POMONA True Value Hardware Is a Rainbow of Flavours that soothes the Mind, Body & Spirit
** Local Art Gallery **
Massage / Counselling Astrology The Spa Touch Beauty Salon
Francoise 0409 069 782 Laurence 0410 880 499
9b Factory St, Pomona (Near The Majestic Theatre)
PH: 5485 1351 10 Reserve St Pomona FOR ALL YOUR HARDWARE, TIMBER, GARDEN, PAINT, GAS, RURAL & PRODUCE NEEDS
G J Landcare Pty Ltd Pomona Based CHRISTIAN CHURCH Enquiries: Snr Pastor Joy & Alan Cross
*Slashing *Mowing *Bobcat *Tipper Hire
Ph: 0412 972744
No job too big or small!!
Email: joycross@livinghopechurchinc.org www.livinghopechurchinc.org
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
Free Call 1300 653 931
La Mode De Fabienne Weddings Evening Wear Smart Casual
Gift Vouchers Available.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
Shoes Handbags Jewellery Hats
2/3 Station St, Pomona Ph: 5485 2128 19
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Cooroora Connect