The Cooroora Connect
An Initiative of Pomona & District Community House
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
December 2015
1
Celebrations all round at community fun day
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL From
POMONA BOWLS CLUB Come along to the Bowls Club on Sunday 13th December for a Christmas themed afternoon commencing from 1pm with Santa arriving at 1.30pm. There will be lots of fun for everyone including a 12 draw Christmas raffle. Parents don’t forget the little presents for Santa to give out from his sack. Our Bistro will be serving an “all you can eat buffet” from 11.30am onwards. Attention Bowlers - Saturday 19th December is our annual Christmas Ham Day Bowls – 1pm start – register your name with the Club, polish up your bowls and come along to win your family a Ham. Every Friday at the Club – raffles/drinkers club/badge draw/courtesy bus available .
“Crack-a-Jack’s Bistro”
Lunch Wednesday to Sundays from 11.30am Dinner Wednesday to Saturday nights “Early bird specials” between 5.00-6.00pm & youngsters eat ½ price with every main meal purchased
Enquires: Ph: 5485 1202 / 4-6 School Street, Pomona 2
Cooroora Connect
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR AMAZING VOLUNTEERS On Saturday 7th November the Pomona Community House celebrated 20 years of service to Pomona and surrounding districts by hosting a fabulous Family Fun Day for the community. With a jumping castle, face painting, craft workshop, balloons and bubbles for the young and talks and demonstrations in the Lawson Shed, along with the fantastic music of the Billy T Bush Band, there was something for everyone. Our thanks go to Men’s Shed Pomona, who manned the free sausage sizzle, fired up the pizza oven and created some delicious pizzas for young and old. The Men’s Shed blokes were keen to let people know about the group and the fact that their brand new shed will be erected next Tuesday. Anyone who would like to contact the Men’s Shed please call Brian Lawson on 5485 2427 (Monday and Friday). Thank you to everyone who assisted with the event – the committee and all our incredible volunteers; Ellen Leape who did so much; Men’s Shed Pomona; the Creative Writing Group; the Pomona Pacers; Jan Wise – photography and cake; Amy Block – pilates; Andy Flanagan – Sunshine Coast Unicycles; Pomona Pixies Craft Group; Cliff Watson – Astronomy Group; Community House Gardening Group and the Cooroy/Pomona Lions Club. The Pomona & District Community House would also like to thank our major funding partners for this event, Noosa Council and Living Hope Church and our local sponsors listed below for making this such a great day. We would also like to thank Noosa Council and Department of Communities for their ongoing support. Living Hope Church IGA Pomona Page Furnishers Pomona Veterinary Surgery Gitsham Butchers Touch of the Past Antiques Mountain Stop Café Serge’s Pizza Coffee Extra True Value Hardware Pomona Pixel People Pomona Rural Retreat Cooroora Café Gilded Lily Noosa Namaste La Mode de Fabienne Hollyhock Cottage Pomona Newsagency Pomona Bakery Pomona Pharmacy Lorraine Fraley Marc Bright Billy T Bush Band Gabrielle Shootingstar facepainting Pomona Service Centre Pomona Fruit & Veges Pomona Bowls Club Rusty Hinge Clothing Caltex Service Station The Flower Room Aussie World Australia Zoo
Pomona Pacers Walking Group The Pomona Pacers walk every week day (except public holidays) for around 50 to 60 minutes. It is a fun group and we enjoy social outings as well as our regular walks and the group has now been going strong for over 5 years. Our early morning walks vary from town walks to bush tracks depending on the weather. If you would like to join us please phone Karen on 0408652821 to confirm meeting time and other arrangements.
Above: Pomona Walking Group hosted a fun walk with quizzes and prizes.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
3
Pomona businesses are the best As people open the purse strings to spend big for Christmas, it is good to know that a dollar spent locally will buy the very best of goods and services. Four Pomona business houses took out honours in the 2015 ‘Best of the Best’ radio Zinc 96.1 listener survey of shops offering superior service and product. Pomona Fruit and Veg won the best greengrocer award, while Serge’s Pizza and Pasta and Gitsham Prime Foods won their categories. The best burgers in the region are made at Pomona’s Orange Café, according to the radio station’s listening audience. Remarkably, the four Pomona winners won against stiff competition from similar establishments across the region, including larger population centres such as Gympie. The four Pomona category winners contribute to worthy causes around the town, either through donation of prizes or gift vouchers supporting local charities. In turn, Pomona people spend approximately $28 million annually with their local shops and service providers.
Above: Serge - Serge’s Pizza & Pasta, Kerri - Orange Café, Kay - Pomona Fruit & Veg, and Bruce - Gitshams Prime Foods. As the recent Pomona Community Survey revealed, 20 per cent of locals regard locations other than Pomona as their principal shopping town and the majority of those who do shop here spend less than one hour in town – suggesting we dash in and out to get what we need.
Morning Melodies Luncheon
The next time you shop, take time to stroll the Pomona shopping strip, chat to the locals behind the counter and know with confidence that in our small retail hub people are striving, and succeeding, in offering the best.
DATES TO REMEMBER
Saturday 5 December Christmas in Cooroy Apex Park Cooroy
Tewantin Noosa RSL PH: 5447 1766
Community House Closed Friday 18 December Re-open Monday 18 January 2016
Thursday 17 December Pomona Night Of Lights Stan Topper Park
11.00am - 1.00pm Christmas Candy Land 9 December
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
100Hp
Old-fashion service and quality guaranteed 1.5m wide
Stephen Burton Licensed Plumber/Drainer & Handyman
0411 475 190 Big or small - I do it all …. 4
Cooroora Connect
Sash and Tanya 0412 020 789
SANTA PAWS FUNDRAISER There were paws a plenty on Saturday 28th November at the Pomona Markets. Jjenisis, our local all Natural, Vegan and Cruelty Free Skincare business took their beliefs one step further and held a fundraiser for the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge. Pet owners came along and had a photo with their pooch and Santa, with all profits going directly to SCAR. With the assistance of local photographer Robert Munden, there were some beautiful moments captured. By hosting this event not only did Jjenisis want to support the amazing services of SCAR but also highlight to people that they can make a conscious decision to only buy products that are not tested on animals. A big thank you to Pomona Markets for all your assistance and not forgetting Stephen Hilditch for volunteering his time and being an amazing Santa. For more information about Jjenisis skincare call Sue on 0416192876 or like us on facebook www.facebook/jjenisis. If you missed out on the day and would like some pet or family photography call Robert on 0428345238 or www.robertphotos.com.au
2016 Noosa Art Award The 2016 Noosa Art Award is open for entries. Now in its second year, the Noosa Art Award celebrates contemporary works which reflect the unique character of modern Australia's coastal or hinterland environments urban or natural. The winner of the Noosa Art Award will receive a $10,000 prize and the winner of the People's Choice will receive a $1000 prize sponsored by the Friends, of Noosa Regional Gallery. The award is open to Australian artists and designers and entries can either be in a 2D or 3D medium. Nina Shadforth, Director of Noosa Regional Gallery, said: "The 2015 inaugural Noosa Art Award received over 170 high quality entries, a very good result for a new award. This year we are very excited at the prospect of an increase in the number and calibre of entries and we look forward to unveiling the exhibition of shortlisted works in May 2016." Entries close 31 January 2016 with the winner announced on 7 May 2016. The winning entry will be acquired into the Noosa Council corporate art collection. For more information contact Noosa Regional Gallery on www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au or phone (07) 5329 6145.
Ph: 5485 1177
POMONA MEDICAL CENTRE Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm Saturday 8am to 12pm APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE NOW OUR PERMANENT DOCTORS ARE:
Dr Ma ur a H ar ve y Dr Be li nd a Han le y Dr Ri ch ar d H ay te r Dr An tho ny K ir k Our Services include: General Health Care * Chronic Disease Nurses * Medicals and Health Assessments * Immunisations * Skin checks
5 Factory Street, Pomona Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
5
Inspire Girls! Unit Leaders and Assistant Leaders Required Unit Leaders and Assistant Unit Leaders drive weekly meetings, helping the girls to plan activities, achieve goals, and have fun. You don't need to have been a Guide yourself. Training is provided
Make a difference to girls’ lives Learn new skills and develop existing ones Be part of a team of like-minded women Give your CV a boost by developing management and leadership skills Develop lasting friendships with other Leaders Take action on issues which affect the lives of women in Australia and overseas Have lots of fun!
Girl Guides Guiding provides a values-based dynamic and flexible nonformal educational program for girls and young women in a fun and supportive girls only environment. Girls develop leadership skills and a sense of personal responsibility and a shared purpose to make the world a better place. Guides discover, decide, plan, participate and develop their program to suit their Unit with the guidance of an Adult Leader. Guiding activities vary from week to week and ensure the positive Guiding mottos of "Be Prepared" and “Guides can do anything”. If you join Girl Guides between 5-17 you will be a youth member and placed into a Unit. Units are structured so girls are with their own age group. Unit meetings usually take place once a week during the Queensland school term for 2 hours within a local hut or community space. Units have opportunities to participate in many programs outside Unit meetings, for example: helping run community events, embrace the outdoors through camping and other adventurous activities, enjoy social outings with other Units and even learn how to save a life.
For more information please visit guidesqld.org and girlguides.org.au. Please call 0407146917 or 0425850360 for information about your local unit.
Tuckshop Convenor Required Applications are sought from people with an interest in running a happy, healthy and profitable tuckshop & uniform shop at Pomona State School. Please email the P&C at psspandc@hotmail.com for more information about the position (including expected hours and award conditions) and for details of the application process. Appropriate food safety training will be required before commencement, and a blue card will be required. The successful applicant will be required to implement the Queensland Schools' Smart Choices healthy food and drink supply strategy. Potential applicants interested in a job sharing arrangement for this position are encouraged to apply, and consideration may be given to such arrangements on a merit basis. Applications for the position will close on Wednesday 9 December 2015.
A Touch of the Past Antiques Coffee Shop Antiques Gifts Flowers Jewellery Teddy Bears Open 6 Days 7am to 5pm Closed Wednesday
Homemade cakes, sandwiches & salads Christmas Parties Welcomed
DONATIONS WANTED Bric-a-brac, kitchenware, clothes etc. for The Community Op Shop
Air-conditioned Comfort
5 Reserve Street, Pomona
Free pickup available
Ph: 5485 1883 6
1 Memorial Ave, Pomona
Cooroora Connect
We want a green, connected community The results of the Pomona Community Survey have been forwarded to the Noosa Council, which has agreed to begin investigating and planning pathway linkages in Pomona from April next year. About the same time, the council will start work on a new Noosa Plan. Pomona people will have an opportunity to provide further input into both initiatives during a public consultation phase that the council will lead.
sealed also, planted with trees and linked at either end to the town centre and Cooroora Creek Park. About a quarter of people surveyed did not live in Pomona, but were here for a visit or to shop. Among these, Cooran residents surveyed wanted a walking and cycle path linking their town to Pomona.
The majority of people park their car and walk the town, highlighting Pomona’s walkability, but a significant The Pomona Community Survey, a joint number live one or two kilometres from initiative of the Queensland University the town centre, yet drove on the survey of Technology (QUT) School of Design day. “How many people would leave and the Heart of Pomona working group their cars at home if there were better (HOP), was conducted over four days in and shaded pathways to town?” Mr October. People were invited to leave O’Connor asked. their thoughts about the town and its future using interactive devices housed Most people were in and out, completing their business in under an in a pop-up ‘Instabooth’. hour. Some stayed longer, but we must About 1000 people observed the booth, ask ourselves what would make people an estimated 400 left messages or stay longer or do more of their shopping engaged with the equipment, which in Pomona? (The town’s annual retail recorded their interaction. Among the turnover is estimated at $28 million.) 400, a group of 113 filled out a written The Reserve Street-Factory Street survey, the results of which have been intersection was the number one top analysed. priority road junction that people “Clearly, people want Pomona’s friendly wanted improved. This was followed by personae maintained and enhanced the Hill Street-Subway Street junction through pathways, ‘people spaces’, more and the Pound Road-Exhibition Street shade trees and development of Stan corner, where survey respondents said a Topper Park as an urban living room right-turn lane needed to be built. “All where folk can meet at the centre of the three intersections are the financial and town and interact not just on market administrative responsibility of the days and when special events are staged, Department of Transport and Main but during the week also,” said Brian Roads, not the Noosa Council”, Mr O’Connor, the HOP facilitator. O’Connor said. “Connect the two halves (of the town)” Asked about their concerns, the survey was a common response – a reference to respondents said they wanted more the desire for the cross-town pedestrian done to alleviate flooding impacts, not pathway between the pub and the withstanding the work completed Majestic Theatre to remain open, but be
recently in Rifle Street. In particular, people said they wanted Factory Street upgraded and the parking situation there tidied and formalised. More shopping choices is on Pomonans’ collective wish-list, but they should be independent businesses. People shunned a ‘big name’ supermarket or enclosed mall shopping centre for the town. A motel and retirement village were on the wish-list also. Mr O’Connor said only the written survey results had been collated to date. QUT student statisticians and data analysts were still sifting through the other thoughts and ideas, which would be assembled into a further document. It would also be sent to the council also.
WHAT PEOPLE SAID Pomona people have highlighted these desires in a community survey: A friendly, connected and attractive town where people, not cars, are the focus Pomona as a town in sympathy with its setting and historic past A lively town centre that promotes mixed-use development Social cohesion and community well-being An innovative, strong and diverse economy Ecological sustainability Artistic and cultural diversity and excellence A built environment that acknowledges Pomona’s place in its surroundings and region.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
7
When the going gets tough, the tough run for it by Debra Palmen The Pomona King of the Mountain race is rightly considered a tough event, drawing super-fit endurance athletes from around Australia and abroad. It’s a dangerous course, where injury is just one wrong step away. Finishing is an accomplishment, winning is nothing more than a dream for most. So what do the fittest competitors from the Pomona King of the Above: Ben Duffus outright winner in a time of 46:27. Mountain race do when they need an extra challenge? They think big. And Mt Edgecombe in Kawerau, New Leslie Saunders, the 2015 Women’s Zealand, more than fits the bill. Winner of the Pomona King of the In late October, an All-Star team from Mountain race, offered an insight into Above: Leslie Saunders second l her training regime for the much the Pomona event made the trip to lady home. tougher Mt Edgecombe event. New Zealand to compete in its sister race. Together, these races are known “I run up and down Mt Cooroora two Ben Duffus agrees. “The course is very as the Trans-Tasman Challenge. or three times each run”, she said. “I different to anything else I've run on”, focus on strong, continuous climbing The Pomona race is 4km long, he said. “Running down the thick and also run 10 – 16km per session to including the climb up 438m Mt build endurance. Finally, I compete in volcanic soil feels a bit like running Cooroora. By contrast, the Mt local trail runs and do lots of strength down a ski field, except there are a few Edgecombe course is 7.5km long and obstacles along the way.” work.” the climb is 820m. Runners have been known to dodge “It is a highlight in my life and I love The record finishing time stands at the race and people”, said Leslie. “The wild pigs while competing in the Mt 45:54. So the Australians had a task Edgecombe race, but this time Ben’s climb is amazing, it seems to go on ahead of them. Lachlan Challis, Ben obstacle was a little more solid. and on, and the downhill is so Duffus , Neil Labinsky, Amos Saraber and Leslie Saunders shaped up against different to Pomona. Volcanic scree Continued page 9 the best mountain racers New Zealand makes for a speedy, sliding, almost skiing descent.” had to offer.
8
Cooroora Connect
Great result from aussie contingency Continued from page 8
manager and organiser of the Pomona “About a quarter of the way back down King of the Mountain, Barry Stewart. the mountain I clipped a branch while He held the Aussie flag proudly at race jumping off a ledge, which left a rather finish for Ben and me, as well as our impressive gash on my torso. But other other team members.” than that things went nice and So how did the Australian competitors smoothly.” fare? They did us proud.
excellent achievement that all top runners try for in this race. “They all competed at the highest level and were great ambassadors for our town and race”, he said.
The Pomona King of the Mountain race is organized by the Cooroy/Pomona Ben is a veteran of several international From the 200 starters, Ben Duffus won Lions Club, and the next event scheduled for 24 July 2016. With endurance events, including the the race outright in a great time of Skyrunning World Championships held 46:27. His win was only the third time competitors like these five in the mix, it might be best if the rest of us start in the French Alps. This is an 86km an Australian has won this race in 30 training right now. ultra-marathon, and in the 2015 event years of competition. he finished 3rd overall. He’s also Leslie Saunders was the second woman competed in the World Long Distance past the line in 1:8:55. She came first in Mountain Running Championships, this the Veteran Women’s Division, year held on Pikes Peak in Colorado, retaining the title she won last year. USA. Pikes Peak takes the competitors to 4302m – for perspective consider that Neil Labinsky was 8th overall, with a Mt Kosciuszko is 2228m – and at the end time of 57:40. Lachlan Challis was 5th in the Junior Men’s Division, finishing in of that race Ben literally needed an 58:24. And Amos Saraber came 3rd in oxygen tank to recover. the Veteran Men’s Division, in a time of Despite their experience in a range of 1:4:35. endurance events, Ben and Leslie both consider the Mt Edgecombe race to be Team manager Barry Stewart noted that finishing the race in under an hour is an Above: Amos Saraber finishing 3rd veteran. special. “Just like at Pomona, the local community really gets behind the race, which creates an amazing vibe on race day and in the lead up to it”, said Ben. “It really is an amazing race”, Leslie agreed. “The community is so friendly and the Australian runners are treated so well. We stay with local families and participate in all the Festival’s predinners and meet and greets. We visit the local school and the kids perform the Haka. We were also very lucky to have with us our team
Above: Ben Duffus, Lachlan Challis and Neil Labinsky at the Kawerau King Of The Mountain.
Massage Ka Huna & Remedial (health fund rebate) Counselling Astrology Readings Art Therapy Workshops Is a Rainbow of Flavours that soothes the Mind, Body & Spirit
Francoise 0409 069 782 24A King Street, Cooran
Above: Barry Stewart was presented a wood carving which represents 30 years of the Trans Tasman Competition and Friendship.
JAYS TREE WORKS 0448 060 989 Professional & Quality Service Large Tree Removals / Pruning / Stump Grinding 4WD Tipper Truck / Land Cleaning Palm Removals / Yard Maintenance
No Job too big or small www.jaystreeworx.com.au
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
9
NOOSA COUNCIL NEWS Get disaster plan ready
A bushfire survival plan details how Noosa’s Disaster Coordination Centre residents will prepare and what action Chair, Bob Abbot, is urging residents to they will take if threatened by a develop bushfire, storm and flood bushfire. survival plans for their households For information about developing a ahead of summer. bushfire survival plan, visit the Rural It comes as Noosa’s Local Disaster Fire Service Queensland website at Management Group took part in www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au Operation Firestorm, a scenario-based Cr Abbot said Operation Firestorm emergency response exercise involving helped councils and state agencies fine Noosa, Gympie and Sunshine Coast tune their disaster response. local disaster management groups and “There are always learnings, and emergency services. communications are the key. These This year’s scenario involved major sorts of exercises help build trust and bushfires burning simultaneously foster strong working relationships across the three local government between all of the agencies involved,” areas, including three fires within he said. Noosa Shire. Plastic reduction in the bag as “These annual exercises test our Boomerang bid takes flight readiness for disaster and our disaster Council is supporting a community plan, as well as ensure coordination movement to reduce plastic bag use by across all emergency services and purchasing a batch of Boomerang Bags agencies in responding to a disaster for staff to use instead of plastic bags. event,” Cr Abbot said. Noosa Council Community “However, being well-prepared to Engagement Manager Deb Bambrook weather a disaster is everyone’s said: "while Council supports calls for a responsibility, and it starts at home. state-wide ban on plastic bags, the With summer approaching it’s Noosa community's Boomerang Bag important that we are all prepared for initiative is a great way to reduce potential fire events, and it’s timely for plastic bag waste in the interim." residents to talk to their families about Noosa is one of 15 communities to join developing not only a plan for fire the Boomerang Bag movement - a events, but storms and floods, which community driven initiative tackling occur all too often in Queensland,” Cr plastic pollution at a grassroots level. A Abbot said.
Lozza’s Pizzas Great variety of burgers 14 flavours of milkshakes
& thickshakes
Takeaway Lollies Ice creams Cold Drinks Cigarettes
Noosa's inaugural community jury recommended a plastic bag ban among its waste management recommendations to Council. Reducing plastic bag use is consistent with Council's Towards Zero Waste initiative. "While a state plastic bag ban may take some time to achieve, we can start giving up plastic bags today," says Council Waste Coordinator Ian Florence. "It is too easy to forget to bring a re-useable bag from home. Now, instead of opting for a plastic bag, we can grab a Boomerang Bag, and drop the bag back the next day." Noosa Community Biosphere Association will host a screening of multiple award-winning movie 'Bag It' at The J on Thursday, 10 December 6pm. A Gold coin donation will support the Boomerang Bag initiative. Contact Desiré Gralton on 0427 596 478.
CAFE HOURS Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun
12pm - 8pm 12pm - 8pm 12pm - 8pm 12pm - 8pm 12pm - 8pm 12pm - 8pm Closed
12 Memorial Ave, Pomona Ph: 5485 2174
Tobacco Station Cigarette Shop Hours
PLUS SIZES
10am - 8pm
AVAILABLE
Open Public Holidays
Shop 3, 3 Station Street, Pomona Phone: 5485 0045 10
"We aim to sew 2,500 Boomerang bags to leave at participating shopping precincts so people who have forgotten their re-useable bags can grab a Boomerang Bag for free and go shopping without having to take home plastic bags. They can bring their Boomerang Bag back next time," Ms Gralton said.
Rusty Hinge
Rock and Roll Café Fish & Chips
group of Noosa residents, led by Desiré Gralton, has begun making the bags.
MEN'S FASHION: THOMAS COOK, WRANGLER, DEACON, ST GOLIATH, SILENT THEORY,
Cooroora Connect
LADIES FASHION: GO GIRL, ZEN GARDEN, FREEZ, RED BERRY, EIGHT BIRDIES, BODACIOUS
Works program on track Council's 2015/2016 capital works program is on target, with more than $12.1 million worth of projects now under way. Council recently completed the Tewantin splash park renewal, the final stage of Daintree estate's major flood mitigation works, Ben Lexcen Drive stormwater pipe relining and two public jetty repair projects. Work has also started on the Munna Point bridge rehabilitation, Pomona's Rifle Street flood mitigation works, a shire-wide road reseal program, Sunrise Beach school crossing improvements and a $5 million upgrade of Dr Pages Road and part of Kinmond Creek Road.
work and planning for next year's capital program," Mr Drydale said. "We're currently 44% of the way through our $27.4 million capital works program, which is where we planned to be by now, and tracking well."
Planning scheme updates Noosa Council has made changes to the planning scheme to ensure it’s up to date. Noosa Mayor Noel Playford said the amendments would update elements of the nine-year-old planning scheme until Council starts work on a new scheme in 2016.
The amendments deal mainly with bushfire and flood hazard mapping, rear setback distances for new homes, Noosa Council Planning and and cuts to red tape to support Infrastructure Director Martin Drydale business in the hinterland. Council said Council hoped to complete the Dr updated the flood mapping to include Pages Road upgrade in April 2016. the latest modelling, historical "We're on track to have the majority of information and new flood mitigation projects well under way, if not nearing work in Tewantin and Pomona, which completion, by the second and third alleviates major flood threats for some quarters of this financial year, leaving previously flood-prone properties. the final quarter for final completion
Cr Playford said information from the community had helped shape the amendments, particularly with flood mapping, where photographs and historical information provided were assessed by Council’s consultant. Setting up some hinterland business enterprises, such as small boutique farms, wellness centres, classes, and bed and breakfast accommodation, will be easier as a result of the changes. “For example, the amendments will mean a property owner in a rural zone could use up to three of their bedrooms to create a bed and breakfast operation without need for a development approval,” Cr Playford said. The Sustainable Planning Act requires councils to review their planning schemes at least every 10 years. These amendments will prolong the life of the Noosa Plan until work begins on the new scheme. The Noosa Plan, which commenced in February 2006, has been amended several times. The new amendments will now go to the state government for review.
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
11
Learning is exciting at Pomona State Things at schools across Noosa are starting to wind down for the year. But before the summer gets into full swing the kids at Pomona State School wanted to say thank you to a valued partner. Funding from the Pomona Agency of Bendigo Bank in the latter part of this year has helped support the school’s Breakfast Club program. The school Chappy, Paulette Gee works with a team of volunteers every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday morning, putting the most important meal of the day in the tummies of 60-70 students each day. On top of that sponsorship came the opportunity for the bank to sponsor a special teaching program designed to help improve children's reading and writing skills in the lower years of primary school, known as MiniLit. Pomona State School Principal, Alyson Covey, said the cross section of sponsorship was fantastic for the Geoff Edwards joins some Year One students, Alyson Covey and Jacque Wright in celebrating students and got the relationship with the success of another strong partnership. the Pomona Agency off to a great start. State School was a great opportunity to the MiniLit program or the great “Our local Bendigo Bank manager, see the great work that’s being carried opportunities available to the students Geoff Edwards, got in touch with us out though the sponsorships so soon of Pomona State School, call 5480 8222 not long after the Pomona Agency after the Pomona Agency opening. before 11 December when their summer opened in April this year and we’re very holidays begin. “We’re loving the relationship we’re grateful he did,” Alyson shared. developing with Pomona State School FREE Breast Cancer “MiniLit stands for ‘Meeting Initial and will be keen to work with Alyson Screening in COOROY Needs In Literacy’ and is an early and Jacque to find ways to complement literacy intervention program. It’s Eden Rehabilitation hospital what their needs are from a 50 maple street designed to be delivered daily, for one Community Bank perspective. We’re hour, to small groups of up to four Year here because the people of Pomona Until the 11 Dec One students who have struggled to This service is available to women aged 40 wanted their own bank and this is one make adequate progress in learning to way our profits can benefit the students years and over. Women aged 50 to 74 are read during their first year of particularly encouraged to attend. of the area,” Geoff said. schooling. It builds on each student’s (Referrals are not required) progress and in turn builds confidence “The Year One students were telling Phone 13 20 50 to book me they love the MiniLit program and and self-belief in each student’s own other rewards literacy learning ability,” she said. which, along with The program is based on the findings feeling proud of of scientific research, carried out over their reading, the past 40 years, into how reading motivate them to works and how it may best be taught. keep exploring and It is also in accord with the learning. It’s a recommendations of national reports great program for into effective reading instruction that the kids and we’re have emphasised the five key pillars of delighted to be reading instruction (sometimes known able to fund some as the ‘five big ideas’), namely: support for it,” phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, Geoff added. vocabulary and comprehension. If you would like to Geoff Edwards said the visit to Pomona learn more about 12
Cooroora Connect
End of year celebrations a huge success Stan Topper Park in the middle of Pomona village on 26 November was the place to be. Pomona State School staged their annual end of year celebrations - Pomona In The Park. Every class performed an item which was different, fun and a joy to watch. Music items included:- Leave A Trace, Lollipops, Old Man Emu, Afro Circus, I Like To Move It, Grandma’s Feather Bed, Down On The Corner, I Want You Back, Mash Up/Toyshop, Solid Rock, Dancing Through Time, Whip Nae Nae, Tribute To The King and Jail Theme.
sponsors for their continued support. Special performance skit “The Voice” from Pomona’s Got Talent Winners was Special thanks and acknowledgement to Pomona IGA, Page Furnishers and another highlight of the evening. Cooroy Pomona Lions Club for their The magical evening was enjoyed by kind donations. many and the Pomona State School would like to thank the whole community for their continued support. The evening concluded with a fantastic firework display and the graduating class of 2016 were seen dancing on stage celebrating the night’s success. A big thankyou to all the teachers, parents, local businesses and major
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
13
14
Cooroora Connect
FREE! Laughter Yoga Workshops
Merry Christmas Everyone
For the next few weeks Laughter Yoga is being offered in Pomona and Cooran. If there is enough interest to establish one or more Laughter Clubs in the Noosa Hinterland participation will continue to be free of charge as with all Laughter Yoga Clubs worldwide.
Where & When? The
Phoenix Room, Cooran Fridays 9am – 10am
We would like to thank our volunteers and everyone who has supported the Community House throughout the year.
The Community House will close on
Friday 18th December 2015 and will reopen
Monday 18th January 2016 Have a safe and happy holiday season
The
Tree House, 29 School St, Pomona Mondays 6.45 - 7.45pm
What is Laughter Yoga? A combination of
playful laughter excercises, followed by a hand-clapping chant (ho ho ha ha ha) and yogic breathing. An aerobic
workout process (some prefer to sit through the excercises) Beneficial All
to health and well-being
welcome Expressions of Interest? Phone Lynda 5485 0965
For in depth information visit www.laughteryoga.org Acknowledgements: These workshops are made possible by the kind support of NISER (Noosa Institute of SocioEconomic & Environmental Research) who is providing the Pomona venue and public liability and The Phoenix Room who is providing the Cooran venue on a donation basis. Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
15
Above: Cooroy Pomona Lions Club have been busy little elves and getting into the festive spirit early. Club members Barry Stewart, Con Bleyerveld, Vicki Dessaix, Geoff Bailue and Ken Goldsworthy (R-L) volunteered to take on a Christmas project and decorate the arch at the entrance of Stan Topper Park. Another initiative this year was to encourage local businesses to decorate their shop windows and all businesses who participate in the inaugural Christmas Window Display Competition will be in the running for the special award which be presented at Pomona Night Of Lights, Thursday, 17 December. Cooroy Pomona Lions Club would like to wish the community a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Pomona & District Community House Cooroora Connect is an initiative of the Pomona & District Community House. The material published in Cooroora Connect may be reproduced only with appropriate authorisation and acknowledgment. The views expressed in Cooroora Connect are not necessarily the views of the editor, publisher or Pomona District Community House. Our aim is to produce, print and distribute Cooroora Connect in a timely manner to ensure we meet all deadlines. However due to unforeseen circumstances that are beyond our control, we take all care but no responsibility if circumstances arise. Email: heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au
Pomona Table Tennis Pomona Hall Lower Room Next to Red Cross Op Shop Monday to Fridays Also at Pomona State School Mon/Wed/Fri Peter 5485 0259 or Bernard 5485 0888 16
Pomona Tennis Club Pomona Showground
Social Indoor Bowls Pomona Memorial Hall
Tuesday Social Tennis 9am - 12pm - $2.50
Wednesday 9am - 11.30am
Friday Social Tennis 7pm - $4.50 Thursday Juniors & Beginners 3.15pm-4.15pm
Casual Dress flat sole shoes (Rubber soft compound)
Contact Roger 5485 1749
All Ages Welcome
Cooroora Connect
Pomona Community House Groups & Services
REFERRAL & INFORMATION
1 Memorial Ave, Pomona PH: 54852427 FAX: 5485 1702 Pomona Book Exchange
Pomona Creative Writing
Scrabble
Monday - Friday 9am to 3.30pm Pomona Community House
Pomona Community House 2nd Friday of the month 9.30am - 12.30pm Cost $3 per person includes coffee or tea
Donations of books welcomed
Lawson Shed Tuesday 9.30am - 12pm Cost $3 per person includes coffee or tea Contact Noel Ph: 0403 173 851
Pomona Pixel People
Music
Swap or buy a book $2.00
Office Services PHOTOCOPYING COLOUR PRINTING SCANNING / EMAILS LAMINATING / FAXING
Creative Aging with Piet Teaching Piano and things with strings Wednesday mornings $10 Adults or $5 kids/concession
Venue Hire
Booking Required PH: 5485 2427 Computer Lessons
One on One Computer Lessons Tuesday - by appointment Donation $3 per visit Booking Essential - Phone: 5485 2427
Pomona Astronomy Club 4th Wednesday of the month 7.30pm Cost $3 per person Lawson Shed Contact Jacqui 0420 518 222
ROOM HIRE WORKSHOPS/FUNCTIONS PH: 5485 2427
Cooroora Connect advertising/Editorial deadline for the next issue 21 January 2016
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 Centrelink / Medicare Access Point
Self Service Access Point Computer/Printer/Fax Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
17
Pomona State School students provide emergency shelter On Friday 27 November students at the Pomona State School showed their citizenship and leadership qualities by taking responsibilities for real life problems within their school and the global community when Josh Butler, President of the school EarlyAct Club presented a cheque for $230 to Carol Johnson of the Rotary Club of Cooroy for Shelterbox. Shelterbox is an international disaster relief agency that seeks to provide shelter, warmth and dignity to families that have lost their homes to disasters. It provides shelter with a family-sized tent made to withstand high winds and heavy rainfall, thermal blankets for sleeping, water purification equipment, a stove with full set of cooking and eating utensils, a basic tool kit, solar lights and children’s activity pack - in fact everything required to provide for a family devastated by the total loss of their home. EarlyAct, sponsored by Rotary, is a service club for students from ages 5 to 13. It provides young students the opportunity for gaining an increased awareness and knowledge of their community and the world.
Above: Andrew Aves, President Elect of Rotary Club of Cooroy, Emma Saunderson, Secretary EarlyAct, Josh Butler, President EarlyAct, presenting a cheque for $230 for Shelterbox to Carol Johnston, Youth Director, Rotary Club of Cooroy and on the right Matt Brown, EarlyAct Treasurer. At a young age, all students can easily be encouraged to be caring and helpful. Their minds are open to recognize the dignity and worth of each individual which builds respect for others.
“This is a very generous donation from students at Pomona State School and a Carol Johnston, Youth Director, Rotary great initiative led by members of the Club of Cooroy said: school EarlyAct Club. Pomona students realise the importance of respect, dignity “Earthquakes and tsunamis happen, often with no warning, and communities and caring for all through their active participation at school, local and lose their homes, their possessions and community levels.” their livelihoods. Shelterbox provides emergency shelter and vital supplies to
Unicycle Skills Session every Sunday Learn to ride one of these amazing machines or improve your skill set with a fun bunch of people. If you can ride a bicycle you can learn to ride a unicycle. We have taught 100s of kids and adults to unicycle and have found that with a little knowledge and a little daily practice most can unicycle in less than a week. When – every Sunday afternoon 3:30 – 5:30
What to bring– Helmet, Enclosed Shoes, Drink, Unicycle if you have one and if not you can borrow one of ours
Where – Noosa, Cooroy, Pomona, Eumundi, Bli Bli or Nambour
Check out Sunshine Unicycles facebook or website page or https://www.facebook.com/ www.sunshineunicycles.com.au 18
support communities around the world overwhelmed by disaster and humanitarian crisis”.
Cooroora Connect
Make your own cheese & yoghurt Cheese making workshops Make and take home delicious ricotta, mascarpone, lime cheese & yoghurt Enjoy hands on personalised learning experience
Gift vouchers available Contact Dawn on 0429 401425
www.easycheesy.com.au
COOROORA SCREEN & BLINDS 19a Factory Street, Pomona Ph: 5485 1287 Mob: 0419 655 901 * Screens & Security Doors * * Shutters * Awnings * * Verticals * Venetians * * Roller & Roman Blinds *
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
POMONA True Value Hardware PH: 5485 1351 10 Reserve St Pomona FOR ALL YOUR HARDWARE, TIMBER, GARDEN, PAINT, GAS, RURAL & PRODUCE NEEDS
La Mode De Fabienne Weddings Evening Wear Smart Casual
Enquiries: Snr Pastor Joy & Allan Cross Ph: 0412 972744 Email: admin@livinghopechurch.com.au www.livinghopechurch.com.au
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
Gift Vouchers Available.
Shoes Handbags Jewellery Hats
2/3 Station St, Pomona Ph: 5485 2128
Pomona Barber Located behind The Caltex Garage Factory Street, Pomona No Appointment Necessary
Open Tuesday to Friday
PH: 0477 043 071
Pomona Community House - Keeping You in Touch With Your Community
19
20
Cooroora Connect