Cooroora Connect May 2021

Cooroora Connect May 2021

An Initiative of Pomona & District Community House

Information stations will boost tourism A Tourism Noosa grant will fund installation of an electronic touch screen information kiosk at Pomona that will keep residents and visitors up to date with local businesses, their services and products as well as promote tourism activities across the Northern Hinterland.

It will have a ‘mate’ – a more conventional tourist information booth at Kin Kin, also funded by the same Tourism Noosa Villages Tourism Funding Boost Initiative – to provide comprehensive holiday and visitor assistance; all designed to keep tourists spending and staying longer in our region.

PDCC Inc. has commissioned local company, Firefly Solutions, to devise and install the datasets within the electronic information kiosk, which will be positioned centrally outside the Pomona IGA. “In addition, chamber members can promote their businesses and services, with the images and data kept up to date on the touchscreen display,” Mr Moran said. Upcoming events will be promoted also.

At Kin Kin, the proposed information hub will provide visitor resource material, self-guided visitor experiences, maps (including of the Noosa Trail Network) and historical The Pomona and District Chamber of information. It is also proposed that Commerce Inc. (PDCC) sought a it facilitates space for a community $20,000 grant for the Pomona touch noticeboard and library. screen and sponsored the Kin Kin “The Kin Kin Community Group will Community Group application to manage the restocking of materials Tourism Noosa for its information and all cleaning and maintenance,” stand, which will sit prominently in Mr Moran said. that town.

“A pleasing aspect of the Noosa All up, $40,000 has been allocated to Villages Tourism Funding Boost both projects. The money will be Initiative is that it brought about spent by the end of June 2021. cooperation between community “These information dissemination groups at Pomona and Kin Kin – the points at both ends of our region will anchor points of the Noosa Trails promote authentic, sustainable and Network Upgrade – to consider how nature-based tourism experiences to best serve the information needs of that define our hinterland holiday a surging number of visitors coming offering,” said chamber president, to the hinterland, particularly Phil Moran.

Queenslanders holidaying at home

A tourist information touch screen computer similar to this will be placed outside the Pomona IGA supermarket. during the pandemic.

“The information nodes augment the distribution of 60,000 printed maps of the Noosa Country Drive annually and the associated app that visitors can download to personalise their tour and stay.”

Mr Moran said it was satisfying to see growth in the hinterland tourism market, particularly around ecotourism, which he predicted would significantly enhance Noosa Biosphere’s ‘green and different’ reputation.

“We thank Tourism Noosa for sharing our vision,” Mr Moran said.

“The business this will generate represents a further boost to the hinterland economy.”

See history walk app story pages 10-11.

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PUBLIC CONSULTATION ENDS Public feedback on Noosa Council’s Draft Walking and Cycling Strategy closed on 16 April.

Body art festival a colourful win for organisers, visitors

The strategy and accompanying implementation plan will re-establish the vision for bike riding and walking across Noosa Shire for the next 20 years (2020 - 2040).

Once finalised, taking account of feedback, it will set the direction and commitment to the vision of ‘more people riding a bike and walking for health, transport, tourism and the environment’.

Cooroy Pomona Lions Club

Bookshop All proceeds go to Community Projects

Friday 8am - 1pm Saturday 8am - 12pm

“Books Galore” Great Bargains & Prices NEW LOCATION Cooroy Pomona Lions Den Mountain Street Pomona

Donations of books welcomed Ph: 0434 612 149

The 2021 Australian Body Art Festival at Cooroy lived up to its reputation as one of the best events on the Sunshine Coast all year. The ticketed event was scaled back this year after the 2020 body art showing was cancelled altogether.

Organisers said that volunteers could hold their heads high for their fantastic efforts. Some amazing artwork was produced and lots of fun had by everyone. Winner and People's Choice for Airbrush Competition was Fran Catford and second was Stephanie Sargentson, and best model Laura.

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Let’s support Noosa Shire’s oldest institution

‘SHOW’ US THE MONEY this year – from logistics to It takes a lot of support from the community to keep these mouths fed at the Noosa Country Show, which this year will be held at the judging and f00d preparation – and we really Pomona Showgrounds on Friday and Saturday, 10-11 September.

Friday the 10th will be a public holiday across Noosa Shire. need those skills now in the six-month lead-up to the show,” said president committee has begun the Charlie Pattison. task of identifying areas where resources and “We would also love to people are needed to stage welcome new members from all across Noosa Shire this year’s event. If you wish to assist, phone to help us continue the The Noosa Country Show is show’s great traditions,” Mr Carole Clancy at the show office on 0490 254 652, or Noosa Shire’s oldest Pattison said. contact her at institution and, more than “We will be encouraging administrationofficer@noo ever, needs community Show Society president, those in the more urban sashowsociety.org.au support and sponsorship Charlie Pattison parts of the Noosa Shire to money to put on a cracker embrace the 2021 Noosa BACK TO POMONA REUNION two days jam-packed with Country Show with as The annual Back to Pomona Reunion is on again this fun, excitement and much enthusiasm as those year – to be held at Club Pomona (the bowls club) from displays of agricultural from our farming 10am on Saturday 29 May. If you are in touch with innovation and excellence. communities and smaller former residents of the district, invite them to pay a visit The immediate need is for townships. We hope to see or alert them to the day and time. volunteer stewards, judges their increasing and sponsors for a variety participation as members, of activities; and the show volunteers and entrants in committee is hoping for the many categories  Registered Physiotherapists strong support. On each covered by the show  Registered Massage Therapist day of the show, more than competitions.  Sports Injuries 100 volunteers are required. Support and sponsorship This year it will need to  PTSD Management packages in exchange for Mob: 0415 734 180 operate under COVID-19  Women’s Health advertising promotion in restrictions, requiring Fax: 5485 1168  Cranial & TMJ Release the show schedule and additional resources.  Yoga Therapy / Acupuncture throughout the ground on “Every person has a skill show day are available,  Chronic Injury / Pain Management that can be used to help from a few hundred dollars  Post Graduate Specialisation in Manual Adjustment Therapy make our show a success to more than $5000. The September might seem a long way off, but for organisers of the Noosa Country Show, the next six months will mark a frenetic period of doubling down to present an annual event that’s twice as good to make up for the cancelled 2020 show due to the COVID-19 virus.

BAREFOOT PHYSIO

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Free 2-hour Mindfulness Workshop

Remembering our veterans

Learn Mindfulness techniques to calm your body and mind plus breathing techniques

4 Sessions 10.00am - 12noon Pomona Memorial Hall Sunday 9 May 2021 (Mother’s Day) Sunday 16 May / 23 May / 30 May Please arrive ten minutes early for sign-in and bring a yoga mat plus drink if required To register book tickets through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/150411882991 - Link for Sunday 9 May https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/150855714503 - Link for Sunday 16 May

ANZAC Day 2021 - Pomona Fire Station Lieutenant, Ken Lavender and his crew participated in Light Up The Dawn in Pomona on Sunday, 25 April. Lest we forget.

Further links for following workshops will be posted on Eventbrite soon.

For more information contact: Jackie 0410 251 510 Mindfulness & Holistic Art Therapy

Cooroy State School student leaders, Ellie (above) and Hudson (right) attended the Dawn Service and ANZAC March in Cooroy on Sunday, 25 April.

The school leaders took turns in reading the honour role.

Pomona did not have an Anzac Service this year however, community members came together to lay wreaths at the War Memorial.

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Can we talk please, business owner asks council Noosa Council has received praise and criticism for its Draft Walking and Cycling Strategy, which will guide development of a more connected community and reduce reliance on cars for getting about, especially for short trips.

But it is one of the strategy’s more progressive proposals – construction of a pathway connection from Factory Street to Cooroora Creek Park – that has raised some concerns, especially from Andrew Chapman of Andrews A-Grade Mechanical Services, whose Factory Street premises sits adjacent to the proposed pathway link.

The proposed pathway will expand the cross-town path over the railway tracks and extend it east of Factory Street to consolidate an east-west active transport connection joining both sides of Pomona.

The council already owns the land where customers of Andrews AGrade Mechanical Services park their cars and where parts and tyre deliveries occur regularly throughout the day.

Andrew Chapman stands where Noosa Council proposes a predestrian and cycling path past his busy mechanical repairs workshop.

vehicles come and go constantly throughout the day as customers drop off and pick up cars booked in for a mechanical service, wheel realignment or windscreen Mr Chapman has operated his family replacement. Employees regularly, on -owned business for almost 20 years, numerous occasions through the employing eight people. It is the working day, run cars into the anchor enterprise for a cluster of building to align with hoists, or vehicle servicing and repair reverse them out. Vehicles are moved operations in Factory Street. A car about on site and parked, ready for detailing business is the most recent collection.” addition.

Staff members have encountered a In preparing its walking and cycling situation whereby children riding strategy, Noosa Council appears to their bikes through the site to or have ignored Mr Chapman’s past from Factory Street and Cooroora representations on the matter. He is Creek Park have had to swerve seeking a compromise while suddenly, or drop their bikes to avoid remaining broadly supportive of the a collision. path proposal.

Safety would be compromised if this “A pedestrian pathway immediately movement of pedestrians and cyclists adjacent to my business premises will were formalised and encouraged with severely impact on its operations a formed path and signage while also compromising safety for identifying this as an active transport pedestrians and cyclists,” he wrote in corridor, Mr Chapman believes. a letter to the council.

He has a couple of ideas about how “The nature of my business is that

the path could be installed and additional spaces provided for customer parking.

Mr Chapman said he would like to work constructively with the council around the alternatives.

In the past, others have suggested that these should include exploring a drainage easement as a pedestrian pathway from Factory Street to Cooroora Creek Park.

Although more direct, one downside is that the easement crosses private land, which the council would have to purchase.

It owns the land beside 15 Factory Street, the address of Andrews AGrade Mechanical Services, making this a more cost-effective option.

RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Please contact the Pomona Red Cross Op Shop if you would like to volunteer. Please Phone 5485 2934 for more information.

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Pomona and District While the full benefits of Pomona and District Community House to the people of the Northern Hinterland are difficult to quantify, the service is invaluable.

Pictured right are the management committee members of the Community House who help make things happen.

Community House generates $2.46 value for every $1 it receives in grants, donations In pure dollar terms, the value of services that Pomona and District Community House (PCH) provides to the people of the Northern Hinterland equates to almost $300,000 annually, the findings of a survey conducted by the Queensland Families and Communities Association has found, but this does not take into account the ‘social cohesion’ quotient, including assistance to other groups, mental and physical health benefits and brokered community services such as Centrelink.

In reality, the total community benefit of PCH is significantly greater than has been calculated in dollars alone.

The number of weekly participants in each activity type facilitated by PCH can be multiplied by the relevant percentage of those taking part who identified ‘meeting new people/making friends’ and/or ‘spending time with others’ as benefits of attending gathering across the board, including a support group for carers and sole occupant households whose occupant simply wanted a chat. Men’s and women’s health are also on the PCH agenda.

We draw attention to recycling, also reskilling – maximising the use of materials and resources generated from the community.

In 2019, Community House received program funding of $119,116 from the Queensland Department of

Communities, Disability Services and Seniors and Noosa Council and increased the financial gain of each dollar received by a factor of 2.46.

Throughout the year, the House receives one-off grants and generous donations from individuals and businesses, for which we are very grateful.

The return on investment is boosted by our wonderful volunteers whose passion and dedication cannot be measured, but who, together, put in 45 hours of unpaid work each week. Direct and indirect full -time equivalent positions created are based on 50 hours of paid hours weekly, shared between two coordinators.

Community House facilities are used 44 hours a week on average.

Auspicing the work of other organisations, providing meeting space and office services such as photocopying helps PCH be recognised as having the highest levels of volunteerism in Noosa Shire.

This past year proved especially tough for the communities of the Northern Hinterland that we serve, as we coped with the effects of the pandemic. We joined with 45 per cent of other community centres in providing food to those in need due to sudden unemployment and forced isolation.

A prescription drugs delivery service operated out of Community House for several months. Our volunteers made welfare telephone calls and we assisted

FACTS ABOUT US THAT YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW Based on data collected in 2019, Pomona and District Community House provided the following services, presented as monthly performance and service delivery levels: 

Across all organised activities at PCH, 244 people participate each month.

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Our volunteers provide 180 hours of free service monthly.

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For people with special hardship needs, Community House can provide food and fuel vouchers to individuals, capped at set limits; equivalent to about $100 a month.

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We assist people write resumes and provide access to Centrelink services.

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Internet access is available for those without computers or who need training.

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A Justice of the Peace service is available also.

those in need of employment referral, benefits and Medicare services provided by the federal government. And we kept the community in touch in isolation through the pages of Cooroora Connect.

Above all else, we saw our mission as providing a continued sense of community that we hope you felt and appreciated. To maintain our relevance and benchmark our activity, the PCH executive committee, themselves all volunteers, conducted a corporate strategy meeting this past month, utilising the services of an outside facilitator, and will publish our revised strategy planning document soon.

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Community House

Pomona & District Community House 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona

RECOGNISING IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY CENTRES The importance of community houses to social cohesion and development will be recognised during Neighbourhood House Week, to be commemorated nationally from 8-14 May. It is being organised by the Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Centres Association, the peak national body for more than 1000 such facilities.

Ph: 5485 2427 Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm They are greater in number than Macdonalds restaurants and they provide safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with community, form friendships, and become involved in diverse projects, programs and groups.

Across Australia this past year, the value of community houses and the work their staff and

volunteers perform was on display through the COVID-19 crisis, when many had to change and adapt their service delivery to meet the needs of those most vulnerable and deserving.

Centres had to respond to the consequences of the lockdown, such as increasing levels of domestic violence and sense of loneliness and isolation.

Referral & Information Internet & Computer Access Copying, Printing & Scanning Emailing & Faxing Laminating & Binding Venue & Room Hire Justice Of Peace Service

Centrelink / Medicare Access Point

Pomona Community House 1 Memorial Ave Pomona

9am to 4pm Mon - Fri    

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

One-on-One Computer Lessons Tuesday - by appointment Donation $5 per visit With the kind assistance of Pomona businesses, one of the outreach activities through Pomona Community House is the Annual Christmas Day Lunch.

Booking Essential Ph: 5485 2427

Pomona & District Community House acknowledges funding from Department of Communities Noosa Council Tai Chi in the park during COVID-19 restrictions for mental health week.

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Untidy business signs in Chamber’s sights The Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce (PDCC) has welcomed a Noosa Council decision to continue to adopt a ‘flexible’ position to commercial advertising signage while agreeing to review the position in July as the community emerges gradually from COVID-19 restrictions.

The council has announced a new signs policy, with a moratorium on the use of temporary advertising devices that businesses have been using to convey messages during the past year.

“The extension period is to allow more time for noncomplying signage to comply with the new local law requirements. The council will monitor progress and expect to share information on levels of compliance and/or issues identified in July 2021.”

PDCC president, Phil Moran, said the chamber wanted to work constructively with the council to educate business operators about the new signs requirements. “There remains some confusion,” he said.

Pomona & District Chamber of Commerce wants to see untidy and obsolete signs removed, including this one (above) erected by a predecessor of the Chamber. signs that is the main issue; it is their safe placement, their relevance and the currency of the information they display that’s important,” he said.

ensure that hand-painted and out-of-date signage was removed also.

“There are always reasons why hand-painted temporary signs are needed, but not when they are on display for years,” Mr Moran said. He sought a ‘tidy-up’ of signage and asked the local business community to audit what was necessary by way of signage, its size, design and proliferation.

He said the council had taken the sensible step not “The moratorium was to The chamber has surveyed to enforce immediately sections of the signs local allow a transitional period business signs and issued for compliance with the an overall ‘could try harder’ laws regulations passed in new local law requirements report card against the use February 2020 so that for temporary advertising of permanent hand-painted businesses could erect signs,” said Anthony Dow, signs advertising goods and additional signs, or adapt the council’s acting services around hinterland old ones, to keep customers informed of Director of Environment towns and villages.

He even dobbed in a changed trading operations precursor of his own and Sustainable Old, outdated signs during COVID-19.

Development. depicting obsolete organisation for not trying information are of Among the new provisions, harder. “For years there has “We will slowly commence particular concern, Mr tear-drop signs were been an unnecessary sign an education and Moran said. banned, only one A-frame near the Reserve Street compliance program for all sign may be displayed for level crossing advertising other signage,” Mr Dow “The chamber believes it is each building tenancy – the meeting times of the announced. not the proliferation of even those with multiple old Pomona Chamber of businesses – and Commerce. We will be directional signs for local working with Noosa markets are not allowed.

Council to have that The council policy aims to removed or adapted.” limit the number and proliferation of signs, but Mr Moran said the chamber was keen to

Some of Noosa Council’s own directional signage in hinterland towns needed attention too, he said.

BLACK MOUNTAIN ROAD REPAIRS Noosa Council estimates it will take five months to complete the $1.35 million upgrade of Black Mountain Road. The scheduled work has been delayed due to recent wet weather.

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A lunch that’s long on satisfaction Pomona was the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement in Noosa Shire and the renown and excellence of our food produce, and now wines and meads, are satisfying the tastebuds of locals, visitors and others further afield.

The district will showcase the very best of produce and drink at the famous Hinterland Harvest Long Lunch, to be held at Black Ant Gourmet, Kin Kin, on Friday 11 June, from noon to 3pm.

Black Ant chef, Jodie Williams, and Sunshine Coast Foodie, Martin Duncan, have teamed up to prepare a menu like no other. It will feature K2 Organic Beef, Kandanga Farm Store produce, the plenty of Mayan Farm, Bunya Grove Produce, the

Meadery tempts judges’ tastebuds Pinbarren’s Amrita Park Meadery has scored highly at the Red Hill Mead Show, receiving four silver and one gold medal in the sections in which it competed.

Diners enjoy a long lunch of hinterland food and drink at Black Ant Gourmet, Kin Kin.

Owners Andy Coates and Nicola Cleaver said it was ‘very humbling’ to have had their passion for the business rewarded in the latest industry rankings.

Mary Valley Country Harvest Co-operative, Kenilworth Dairies, Lindol’s Macadamias, Cooloola Berries and Noosa Black Coffee.

Landcare, topped off with interactive chats with local producers.

All this fare will be washed down with special tastings of mead and wines from Amrita Park Meadery and Dingo Creek Winery.

REMINDER ABOUT WET BIRDSEED

There will be displays organised by Slow Food Noosa, Country Noosa and Noosa and District

The organisation has been fielding calls about sick birds, particularly sick galahs and parrots, and suspects that fermented seed left out by well-meaning people is to blame.

Tickets cost $100 and may be booked through the eventbrite.com.au website.

The gold award was for the Amrita Ginger and Lime Mead.

WILVOS is reminding everyone not to leave bird seed out for wild birds in wet weather. When seed gets wet, it ferments and poisons the wildlife.

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Savvy blogger puts 21st Century spin on Pomona’s historic past A new resident to the area, Simone Leao, has adapted the 2D brochure depicting the Pomona History Walk into an interactive App for smartphones, including a game with puzzles and quizzes, that Indoor facilities were closed or had interprets the town to a new to operate at very limited capacity. audience and generation. Here’s her At the same time, in order to avoid story. crowding and the breach of selfby Simone Z. Leao, Director of distancing, regional areas with lower Outer Data Lab urbanisation densities and natural Tourism is a global industry which recreational areas seemed to have has been greatly affected by the received increasing patronage.

COVID-19 pandemic. Suddenly Moreover, single tourists or small borders between countries were groups started to rely on self-guided closed, internal borders between tours, particularly assisted by digital states and regions were restricted, technologies. The COVID-19 several businesses servicing tourists adaptation period saw great were closed or had limited operation, innovative developments of new and many people had to start living digital platforms to support tourism, in self-isolation and self-distancing including tours using mobile maps, from others. geo-location, sounds and images, A recovery of the industry is expected by the World Tourism Organization (WTO).

However, the pandemic may cause some changes in tourist behaviour that persist in the post-COVID era.

For example, with restricted mobility, many people started to explore more their close surroundings, instead of going overseas. Outdoors activities have been targeted more by tourists.

a place. Nevertheless, we still believe that actual tourism experiences are important for social cohesion, actual cultural exposure, contact with nature and physical activity.

As a new resident in the Noosa Shire, living in between the quaint and historic towns of Pomona and Cooran, exploring the heritage sites and buildings and learning more about the history of the Noosa Hinterland settlements was an obvious option for me during COVID -19.

I found some very interesting and informative online brochures for selfguided heritage walks on the Noosa Shire website. However, as they are produced as a PDF brochure, their usefulness to assist in a walk on-thego are limited.

and tour ‘gamification’ ranging from As everyone has a smart phone in simple 2D itineraries to sophisticated their pockets these days, I decided to 3D and Augmented Reality-based experiment and see how a digital products. adaptation of one of Noosa Shire’s There has been a growth of virtual heritage walks would work. tourism experiences as well, whereby I am the director of Outer Data Lab, people do not even need to leave a firm applying data science to create their homes to visit a place. The positive impacts on society. So, this latter brings benefits to the initiative made sense. My plan was to contention of the spread of COVIDnot only develop a mobile phone 19, and for being more inclusive to map-based experience, but also to people unable for any reason to be at include some simple ‘gaming’

Pomona’s self-guided History Walk starts at the Stan Topper Park toilets, aided by a paper map and pictures.

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

11 functions to stimulate participation, engagement, and user experience.

Outer Data Lab launched in April 2021 a free ‘Pomona Heritage Walk Game’ for mobile phones and iPads running on any operational system.

The game is a 2D-based map tour with a sequence of 23 sites and buildings to be visited along a 2km linear walk through a very gentle topography around Pomona’s town centre.

The tour can take from one to three hours, depending on people’s pace and how long they spend visiting some of the sites (the museum, for example). After opening the game on their mobile devices – via the QR code or the Web link – users of the game will be able to see where they are located on the map via the screen

of their mobile phones, and move through the heritage walk itinerary at their own pace.

provided to individual tourists, the analytics of the game usage – completely anonymous – could provide some insights for the town and the shire council about tourist numbers.

For each stop, people ‘playing’ the game receive past and present information about relevant places that comprise the history of Pomona, To access and play the ‘Pomona including some historical facts and Heritage Walk Game’ you don't need current and old photos. to install an App. Just go to https:// studio.playvisit.com/app/3958 OR Moreover, to add some fun in the scan the QR code (you will be asked process, people ‘walking’ the game to activate your web location and will be receiving challenges – checking in when they find the site, mobile location functionalities, if answering quizzes, or even solving a they are not already active). puzzle – and getting points when they respond or perform these properly. They also receive rewards – badges, medals and trophies – when they reach intermediate parts of the journey, until completion.

Interestingly, beyond the assistance

We would love to hear your feedback on the ‘Pomona Heritage Walk Game’, as we are working on new walking games around the region and beyond. Check our website for updates.

This is how the self-guided walk is depicted on a smart phone App devised by Simone Leao.

POMONA COUNTRY MARKETS STAN TOPPER PAR With locally grown fruit & vegies, jams, homemade breads, fresh coffee, handcrafted quality products, clothing, jewellery, plants, herbs

Every Saturday 7am - 12 noon Stall Enquires Ph: 0499 146 857 Email: pononamarketsqld@gmail.com

ENGAGE YOUR SERVICES Introductory offer Second hour free!

(On first visit)

Garden Maintenance Rubbish Removal Contact Justin 0402 642 320

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Renewed push for hinterland shuttle trains Installation of new signalling technology that will improve safety and efficiency of train movements on the Sunshine Coast Line and North Coast Line to Gympie North has led to renewed calls for more passenger trains to serve stations north of Nambour.

Currently there are only two return services on weekdays for stations between Nambour and Gympie North, but proponents are pushing for a shuttle service plying up to five times a day in each direction to Robert Dow - Rail Back on Track spokesman improve connectivity between hinterland towns. Now there are calls lifestyle destination within for further investigation and trials. commuting distance of the Brisbane As part of its transport strategy CBD, it is necessary to increase the thinking, Noosa Council has said: frequency of commuter services and “Partnerships with public transport extend services on existing lines (e.g. providers can help local needs be extend more than two peak services realised as part of a larger system. daily beyond Nambour) ...”

“The rail service from Nambour to Independent Noosa MP, Sandy Gympie would appear to be an ideal Bolton, is on board too. “Anyone who candidate for a community does the daily commute to Brisbane partnership trial scheme, which will know that the rail services to and would involve the State Government from the Sunshine Coast are woefully and Gympie, Sunshine Coast and lacking,” she wrote.

Noosa councils with an aim of improving services, coordination and Her Nicklin counterpart, Rob Skelton MP, remains sceptical of the marketing.” practicality of the extra trains, The concept has the backing of the concerned that additional passenger state’s peak industry group. services would impede freight train The Chamber of Commerce and movements and block the line Industry Queensland (CCIQ) in a unnecessarily at Cooroy. submission to the Queensland Government states: “As the Sunshine Public Transport advocate, Robert Dow of Rail Back On Track, disputes Coast is eager to promote itself as a this, saying there are spare ‘train paths’ available north of Nambour.

COORAN MEN’S GROUP The Cooran Men's Group meets Queensland Rail’s official position is fortnightly every other Monday at contained in this statement supplied 6.30pm, at The Human Movement to Ms Bolton: “QR is aware of Therapies Studio, 30 King St, Cooran. requests for a Gympie North to Nambour shuttle train service and It is a friendly welcoming and supportive group for men of the area. has undertaken initial investigations into this approach. However, further If you're struggling with life, or are feasibility work would be required to just looking to hang out with some understand the viability of this like-minded company and share ideas and experiences, this could be suggestion.” for you. For further details, call The Minister for Transport and Main Simon on 0421 602771.

Roads, Mark Bailey, said recently

that installation of new electronic signalling and safety monitoring equipment at a cost of $43 million, known as ETCS, would pave the way for improved services between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane ahead of the Cross River Rail tunnel opening in 2025.

“Installing ETCS technology on the line means we’ll be able to put the newer NGR class trains into services up to Gympie,” Mr Bailey said.

Mr Dow proposes a gradual trial of Nambour and Gympie North shuttle trains. "A service that departs Nambour say around 7am, for a return from Gympie North at around 8.30am would be very useful for the community,” he said. "Similarly a service that departs Nambour say around 4.30pm for return from Gympie North at 6pm."

Ultimately he proposes a ‘three-hour’ shuttle, departing Gympie North at 5.30am, 8.30am, 11.30am, 2.30pm and 5.30pm. Nambour departures would be at 7am, 10am, 1pm, 4pm, 7pm.

“These are just hypothetical. Actual timings would need adjustments of course, but I think the principle of three-hour frequency is sound,” Mr Dow said. The shuttle would meet Brisbane-bound trains at Nambour and buses heading to Sunshine Coast destinations, including hospitals.

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Better rail links would accelerate population shift The accelerated trend during the COVID-19 pandemic of city dwellers moving to regional localities such as the Sunshine Coast and Noosa would gain momentum if governments invested in fast rail services from those regions to their capital city, a survey prepared for the Australasian Railways Association (ARA) has revealed.

The survey, conducted by Zing Insights on behalf of ARA, found that faster rail connections would increase the likelihood of 42 per cent of 600 respondents moving to a regional area.

Seventy-one per cent of regional residents would also consider taking the train over other modes of transport if upgrades meant that travel times to the nearest city were equal or less than they were for other modes. Furthermore, 84 per cent believed faster rail connections would make their region more attractive for people considering relocating.

The projected migration away from cities is also enhanced by the belief of many respondents that a return to full-time office working is unlikely following the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over 40 per cent of respondents were working from home more than they did pre-pandemic. Seventyseven per cent expected at least some of these changes to be permanent.

A wider investigation into faster rail services Australia-wide was prepared by consultants Arup.

To get people migrating from cities to nearby regions would require frequent inter-connecting rail services running at between 160kph and 200kph and millions of dollars in investment, it found.

Improving rail services between Gympie and Nambour a priority With Noosa Council resisting community pressure to plan and construct a direct bicycle path between Cooran and Pomona, one alternative being advocated is shuttle trains linking the railway towns of the hinterland. Here Robert Dow, Administrator of Rail Back on Track, discusses the possibility.

Two Citytrain services each way daily is grossly inadequate for the communities along the line.

Queensland Rail should introduce rail shuttle services between Gympie North and Nambour, to connect to the more frequent Nambour to Brisbane services. Shuttle services, similar in operation to the Ipswich to Rosewood services, could operate at A complete rebuild of the Cooran three-hour intervals using locally and Pomona railway stations in Noosa Shire, as well as elimination of stabled trains. the rusting temporary station The surging population and the platform at Eumundi, together with tourism industry needs connectivity other improvements at Yandina and north <> south. Access to Nambour Cooroy in recent years, form a solid for the towns north along the railway foundation for improving the is important for local reliability and frequency of Citytrain transport, medical, and community passenger services north of reasons. Imagine the positive impact Nambour. of the lives of residents and the With more people calling the railway economic benefit of a daily influx of visitors to towns such as Cooran, towns of the Sunshine Coast and Pomona, Cooroy and Eumundi by Noosa hinterland home, additional regular rail shuttles. thought needs to be given to the contribution they make to the settlement pattern of South-East Queensland and, in turn, the need that generates for more frequent trains operating as shuttles between Nambour and Gympie North railway stations.

Day trips from Brisbane would also become a real proposition and could and would be promoted. There would be JOBS! Day excursions on the Mary Valley Rattler heritage railway would be possible for day trippers from Brisbane.

With the imminent retirement of the InterCity Express (ICE) trains, and the recent upgrade of the signalling between Gympie North and Nambour as part of the project to roll out European Train Control System (ETCS) level one technology between Caboolture and Gympie North, it becomes both cost and operationally effective to increase the number of daily services.

The Gold Coast has had very significant investment and improvements in public transport, with excellent results. But it is way past the time that the Sunshine Coast’s public transport was improved. The railway line with upgraded signalling is in place, upgraded stations are ready, all we need is more train services.

Free Legal Advice & Referral Appointments Ph: 5443 7827

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

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Pomona is focus of national study into inter-generational living alternatives Pomona will be examined as part of a national study into how greater interaction can occur among the generations in small communities.

Intergenerational connections and understanding are at the heart of good communities. One of the great challenges for local communities across Australia as the population ages is the disconnection between generations. This impacts quality of life and a sense of inclusion.

Regional communities such as Pomona have among its people a wealth of lived experience, abilities, creativity and local knowledge that contribute to a rich tapestry, celebrated and enjoyed by local residents and visitors alike. Pomona’s local heritage, bucolic scenery, local businesses, creative arts and community enterprises provide a wonderfully diverse environment to support intergenerational engagement.

For several years, The School of Architecture and Built Environment at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has conducted an architectural student project led by Dr Yasu Santo, designing structures for community enterprises in Pomona.

BOOMERANG BAGS POMONA Come & Sew A Reusable Bag Share Conversation & Friendship Monday - 9.30am to 3.30pm @ Lawson Shed, All Items Supplied ** Donations of fabric welcomed **

Anya 0457 042 782

This year, the project will be developed to include intergenerational themes, led by senior lecturer Marissa Lindquist*.

Marissa is part of a cross-institutional team at QUT, Australian Catholic University and Deakin University, funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, that is exploring intergenerational living and learning.

The vision of the project, known as Grandschools 2020, is to deepen relationships, connectivity and understandings between generations, particular to secondary education and senior living environments.

Governments around the world are establishing healthy ageing policy strategies, in line with the World Health Organisation’s Healthy Ageing agenda, so that seniors can age in place and continue to be active within their community.

Strategies are called for to develop initiatives that support inclusive participation, meaningful activities and opportunities for social interaction and to look toward intergenerational solutions. This vision is complemented by the need for innovative workforce training and vocational pathways in health and allied services. The objective is to foster engagement between generations, and to cater for workforce training needs into the future.

Community-run enterprises and initiatives are great opportunities for intergenerational connection, where

shared knowledge and relationships can develop. With this background, the 2021 QUT Pomona Architectural Project will explore designing community enterprise dwellings for intergenerational engagement. The students will delve into Pomona’s local context, meet community members and understand the local community’s vision for Pomona, while considering the local plan of Noosa Shire Council.

Some of the themes the students will engage with will focus on well-being, shared learning and creation, hospitality, arts, leisure, horticulture and food production, as well as understanding existing opportunities, such as those afforded through the Noosa Trail Network.

An initial study undertaken by the students is to develop a concept design to support the Pomona Community Markets, through market shelters, an information hub and display spaces. The students look forward to this great opportunity to connect and hear from Pomona’s local community for their architectural course activities. – Contributed article. *Marissa Lindquist is an award-winning architect, Senior Lecturer and Design Lab Regional and Resilient Program Leader at Queensland University of Technology.

She is working collaboratively with colleagues to explore new models for Healthy Senior Living and Integrated School Communities across Urban and Regional Australia.

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

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Student architects help us consider the future

QUT architectural students gather at Pomona Community House to receive a briefing before beginning their assignment They came, they saw and they pondered – about 80 students from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) travelled to Pomona on Saturday 27 March to observe the use of Stan Topper Park on what was declared Harmony Day and to explore the town’s major buildings to consider how they might be redesigned or extended while maintaining the integrity of each structure’s character.

It is the seventh year that the students have made their annual pilgrimage to Pomona – the experience designed to prepare them for life in the professional world where they would interact with a client and receive a brief to prepare plans for a building makeover.

Park and the trails network beyond.

“Although the trail network caters for different users including walkers, runners, mountain bike riders and horse riders, trailhead facilities were mostly designed to cater for horse riders and horse float parking, therefore located away from town centres,” said Noosa Council’s Principal Environmental Officer, Peter Milne.

of the space and most commented that the ageing soundshell – used for many weekly and annual events – could be realigned and rebuilt to a more functional design. Interpretive signage explaining the history of the King of the Mountain race and landscaping that would draw visitors from the town centre towards Mt Cooroora were among other considerations.

“One of the objectives of the Noosa Trail Masterplan is to bring trail users into town so it is proposed to have two sets of trailheads – one for horseriders as existing, and new trailhead facilities at central parks such as Stan Topper Park, Pomona, and Pioneer Park, Cooran.”

The students will present their findings mid-year and the QUT School of Design plans a special presentation to the council and the Noosa Trail Network Stakeholder Reference Group.

“A key component of the design It’s unlikely any of the students’ criteria is locating facilities and plans for Pomona will ever be assigning usage that does not conflict realised, but the inclusion of Stan with other park users during events Topper Park in their studies has such as the King of the Mountain caught the eye of Noosa Council, festival and the Saturday markets.” which is considering the park as one Asked about their initial possible location for ‘trailhead’ observations, the QUT students said facilities to serve increasing numbers Stan Topper Park needed more shade of people visiting Tuchekoi National so that people could make better use

Pomona Astronomy Club 4th Wednesday of the month 7.00pm Cost $3 per person Lawson Shed Cliff 0474 025 215

RUMMIKUB @ Pomona Community House

POMONA WALKING GROUP

Wednesday 1pm - 3.30pm

Meeting Point Community House, Memorial Ave, Pomona

Donation $3 includes tea/coffee

Monday to Friday 7am

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Let’s celebrate grand old dame’s century The land on which the Majestic Theatre stands was purchased in January 1921 by Clara McDonald, who also financed the building of the ‘hall’.

of the hall, and this section was later extended to the north-east.

Travelling ‘Picture Show’ men initially called at the Majestic Hall to show The hall was designed to silent movies. However, in serve several functions – to 1923 the hall was leased by show silent movies, for Mrs Osborne to Harold vaudeville productions, 'Picture' Page, who and to act as a social centre obtained a theatre licence for the town. that year. Herbert Page (unrelated), of Page Over time it served as a Furnishers, was called 'Blue venue for dances, balls, Shirt' Page, to distinguish concerts, wedding him from Picture Page. functions, roller skating, boxing and church Reportedly, the early silent services. films in Pomona were Constructed of unseasoned accompanied by a schoolgirl playing random milled hardwood, it music on a pianola. On 28 included a sprung dance floor of Crow's Ash timber, April 1931 the first talkie, or movie recorded with its still in use today. own soundtrack, was On the left-hand side was shown at the hall, and the Majestic Café. It served around 1933 the hall's lease as general store before was transferred to Ernie being used for storage from Bazzo, who upgraded the the 1930s, and the right hall to a theatre by adding hand side's shop a small gallery and a bio accommodated at various box. times a dentist, a radio A number of local social shop and a mechanic. In functions were shifted to the mid-1920s a supper the (then) new Pomona room was added to the Memorial Hall during this long south-east elevation decade.

Organist, Ron West at the console of the Compton organ.

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

17 In the late 1930s Mr Bazzo used seating from the Princess Theatre in South Brisbane to replace the Majestic’s canvas sling seating.

The Pomona Talkie Company was registered on 1 October 1935, and involved Errol Osborne, Ernest Bazzo and Charles S. Thomson. Bazzo also owned the nearby Central Garage and worked as a mechanic during the day, operating the theatre at night.

In more recent times, Ron and Mandy West introduced the Travelling Film Festival, which featured first-release and avant garde films, to the Majestic Theatre. They purchased the theatre in 1974. The Majestic remained Noosa Shire's only picture theatre until 1984.

More modern theatres attracted the crowds and the Wests hit upon movie nostalgia as means of getting people through the door, the musical accompaniment to silent movies being a large Wurlitzer organ, subsequently damaged in a flood.

The current organ console, the only one in a Queensland theatre,

Ready for another 100 years The best legacy that The Majestic Theatre management committee can leave for future administrators of the historic building is an organisation free of debt, says president Vince Scheenhouwer, reflecting on its proud 100 years service to Noosa Shire.

He was commenting on the hard work being done as major events and shows return to the theatre after the impacts wrought by COVID-19 restrictions, the construction of a new bar area to make the theatre Vince Scheenhouwer, president of the more functional and, more recently, Pomona Arts Inc. at the Majestic Theatre. a $33,000 grant to upgrade the sound system. Work will start soon. brought in additional revenue at a time Meanwhile, the building has been airit was needed. conditioned and, in the recent past, a “Essentially we will be carrying on,” Mr refurbished organ installed.

Scheenhouwer said. He thanked the Increasing the Pomona Country committee members for their support Markets frequency to weekly had and hard work. is located to the left of the stage and is an electric 1937 Compton. It was bequeathed to the theatre by the Linnet family of Brisbane on the passing of Blaire Linnet. It comes from the Regal Cinema in South Shields, Chester England.

In late 2006 ownership was transferred to Pomona Progress Art Tourism Inc., now known as Pomona Arts Inc.

Flute-making workshop Here is an opportunity for budding musicians to make and play their own bamboo flute with the artisan known as Windelf. A Shakuhachi, Native American or Transverse flute is easy to make.

To join in, attend the workshop at the Lawson Shed, Pomona, on Saturday 22 May, 9am to noon.

For more information about these flutes and the workshop, see windelfflutes.com. Cost $35.

Phone Windelf on 0400314902, bookings essential.

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Majestic Theatre presents the Legends of Baroque Although we are all ‘grounded’ now, isolated in our island-nation bubble, music continues to connect us with people around the globe.

Chamber Ensemble will explore the links between two legends of the Baroque era, namely Antonio Vivaldi and J.S. Bach, in an exciting program of virtuoso arias and solo Even in times before instrumental works to be international travel could performed at The Majestic whisk us across the globe in only a day or so, musical Theatre. styles and influences still Now in their eighth year of travelled between centres performing together, such as northern Italy to Arioso Chamber Ensemble Germany and England.

- soprano Judit Molnár, Members of the Arioso Chamber Ensemble.

Margaret Caley (baroque As composer-performers violin), Belinda Manwaring moved from one city to another, the latest musical (baroque cello) and Janet $15 –$30. For bookings/ Brewer (harpsichord) - look audiences. The concert at fashions travelled with The Majestic Theatre is further information: forward to sharing this them. In their upcoming scheduled for 2.30pm on www.ariosochamberensem musical journey with concert, the Arioso Sunday 9 May. Tickets are ble.com.

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Take a walk in the sand at this art exhibition Pomona Railway Station Gallery is proud to present "FOOTSTEPS IN THE SAND", an exhibition of pastels by artist Gail Williams.

Gail has painted many many seascapes since being inspired by childhood holidays spent at Kings Beach Caloundra. A deep affinity for the Sunshine Coast began way back then - the sea, the surf, the headlands and coves, the rock platforms and of course, the glorious skies. After a working life in Brisbane then Sydney, she has been able to move here and

renew that love affair and capture it. Her work often features pathways to the beach, bringing all the joy and expectation, of venturing down that pathway through sunshine and shadows, or reflections of skies and clouds, again capturing an escape from your ordinary world.

Gail’s paintings have sold in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne as well as finding homes in New Zealand, Germany and Vietnam and, of course, here on the coast.

Gail has been a supporter of Wishlist Art Auction

Hospital. She is also very proud that a recent artwork has gone to a newly created parents’ retreat space on the children’s ward, helping create a calm environment for parents and carers of very ill children.

Gail Williams, artist.

This exhibition, “Footsteps in the Sand”, showcases her love of both the pastel medium and her love of all things beach.

1 May to 3 June in the and her paintings are hung Carriage Room. on the walls of the 10 Station St. Pomona / maternity unit at the www.pomonartgallery.com Sunshine Coast University

Volunteers needed at Pomona Community House to help out on reception duties. Phone Heather or Kathryn on 5485 2427.

Always something new at the Gallery!

**** FOOTSTEPS IN THE SAND an exhibition by pastel artist Gail Williams 1 May to 3 June in the Carriage Room **** Serving Local Artists for Over Twenty Years **** Monday - Friday 10am to 4pm Saturday 9am to 2pm Sunday 10am to 2pm

10 STATION ST, POMONA PH: 5485 2950 Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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We celebrate a happy community in harmony ‘Everyone Belongs’ was the theme of this year’s Harmony Day events, held in conjunction with the Pomona Country Markets.

It was a celebration of our cultural diversity, expressed through music, dance, song and food.

For those who attended and took part, it was an amazing day of inclusiveness, made more relevant by the need to look out for each other during Coronavirus times.

Special events included a ‘talking circle’ at the Lawson Shed and dance and song held in conjunction with the weekly markets.

Our cultural diversity is a great strength and brings with it a whole host of traditions, religions and languages. It helps us to do things in different ways, reduces discrimination and lets us accept difference.

Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world – from the oldest continuous culture of our First Nations people to the 49 per cent of Australians who are of international descent.

With such a variety of backgrounds and rich life experiences we are able to work together and use our individual strengths to help each other.

Funded by State Government through Noosa Council as part of building resilience and connections in the community.

Above: Karen Finzel, Kilaga Neilsen and Tias celebrating ‘Everyone Belongs’ at the Pomona Markets.

Left: Albertina Banks organised Harmony Week celebrations in conjunction with Pomona & District Community House.

Harmony Week celebration was on Saturday 27 March and provided a great day out for the local community.

POMONA HALL ACTIVITIES Zumba (Mon) 9.30am - 10.30am Contact Cathy Tapper Ph: 042 816 1622 JKA Karate (Mon & Thurs) 6pm - 7pm Contact Kim Vines Ph 0422 373 198 Pilates (Tues) 8.30am - 9.30am Contact Amy Block Ph: 0409 766 634 Ko-Ji Martial Arts (Tues) 5.30pm –6.30pm Contact Brett - 0419 740 815 Harmony Dance (Tues) 6.30pm - 9.30pm Contact Pat & Norm Young Ph: 5485 2007 Indoor Bowls (Wed) 9am - 11.30am (arrive 8.30am) Contact Alan Kenzler -5447 6223 Yoga (Wed) 6pm - 7.15pm Amy Sorensen 0432 066 935 Stretch Yoga (Thurs) 9.15am - 10.50am Contact Andy Pike Ph: 0415 734 180 Stretch Classes (Thurs) 11.30am –12.30pm Micheala Shulze 0449 047 746 Tai Chi (Fri) 8.30am - 9.30am Table Tennis (Wed/Fri) Lower Hall 8.30am - 11am Peter 044 888 2600 Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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Below: Locals enjoying the good vibes, music and dancing. Local band, 4GOOD kicked off the event and played songs about respect, empathy and gratitude.

Above: Sunshine Coast Caledonian Pipes and Drums attended the day and played the highland music on the bag pipes.

Above: Traditional dress in vibrant colours was worn on the day. Orange signifies social communication and meaningful conversations.

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

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Sewing ‘goddesses’ want to stitch up more new members The Sewing Goddesses is a sewing club operating under the auspices of the Cooroy Pomona Lions Club.

Do you like to quilt, sew, embroider, knit or crochet?

You may be interested in joining our small community-based group of like -minded people to spend some time working on your individual projects.

Projects can be varied and may include cushion covers, bags, quilts and throwovers.

Members of the group are all happy to share knowledge and skills and

DYI WILDLIFE BOXES You are invited to attend DYI day when Hollow Log Homes will be at Noosa and District Landcare’s Rural

help each other with projects.

The sewers meet on the first and third Saturday of each month, from 9.30am at the Lions Den, corner Mountain and Hospital streets, Pomona.

BYO sewing machines, or projects and lunch. Morning tea is provided.

Membership fees apply.

If you would like to come along and meet other like-minded people you are welcome to visit. Alternatively, for further information, contact Linda Bailue on 0433766240.

An example of the group’s work.

Futures Centre, Pavilion Street, Pomona, on 22 May.

hints and tips on nesting hollow habitats, aw well as installation and Learn how to build your own nesting monitoring of nesting boxes. Contact Landcare on 5485 2155. box. Get help with design, receive

INDONESIAN FUN & EASY!!

SHORT COURSES *Speak in just 6 weeks!

*Everyday Fluency in just 30 weeks Pomona Cooroy Noosa Highly Qualified Teacher

Albertina Banks ph: 0429 329 743

email:albertinabanks699@gmail.com Fact: Indonesian has the same alphabet as English

WANT TO START YOUR OWN CHILD CARE BUSINESS? As a local family day care scheme of 10 years we want to help you launch your own new business.

We provide all the training and support you need to work from home, set your rates and hours.

The experienced Euphoria team are ready to help.

Ph: 07 5485 1891 / M: 0438 445 885 E: enquiries@euporiafamilydaycare.com.au

www.euphoriagroup.net.au Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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The work of volunteers is appreciated by all According to the ABS Census 2016, there are 714,138 volunteers in Queensland or 18.8 per cent of the population.

Volunteers Week, May 17 – 21, 2021, will pay homage more than 700,000 Queenslanders and six million+ Aussies who volunteer their time, making an extraordinary impact on individuals, communities and the environment.

Did you know that volunteers annually provide in excess of 133.4 million hours’ work and, in 2014, a conservative estimate valued volunteering at $11.6 billion to the Queensland economy.

Coming off the back of a year of uncertainty, closed doors and cancelled events, this year’s aptly named theme, Recognise, Reconnect and Re-imagine, provides an opportunity to: 

Say, ‘thank you’ to the thousands of volunteers who have supported individuals, groups and organisations during this last year and to recognise the enormous contribution that

volunteers make. 



Invite volunteers who may have taken a step back to reconnect with the groups and communities they love.

Find ways to reimagine volunteering in this new world of zoom calls and social distancing.

Noosa Orchid and Foliage Society Annual Mother's Day Show Friday 7 May 8.30am to 4.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 2.30pm CWA Hall, Maple Street, Cooroy

It will be a great opportunity to buy beautiful orchids and experienced, award-winning members will be on hand to answer any questions regarding how to grow orchids successfully.

Beautiful and unusual orchids will be on display, grown by our members.

While the Hinterland has one of the highest number of volunteers per capita, there are still many organisations in the area that would love your support.

If you are unsure of where you could volunteer, come and ask at the Community House and we can let you know what’s available.

Local volunteers are invited to attend an informal gathering to say thank you for all that they do.

Venue: Lawson Shed Date: Wednesday 19 May Time: 4.00pm – 6.00pm Please book in through Pomona Community House, 5485 2427.

Volunteers are happier, healthier and sleep better than those who don’t volunteer.

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Volunteers needed to help improve Cooroora Creek Park Would you like some light exercise in convivial company while working outdoors and learning about Noosa’s wonderful environment? Then you might like to volunteer as a bush warrior removing weeds and planting out shrubs in Pomona’s Cooroora Creek Park.

The park at the rear of the Factory Street business premises is one of the town’s hidden gems.

New volunteers are being sought for the Bushland Care Program, which operates at Cooroora Creek Park every third Sunday of the month, between 8am and 10am.

The Bushland Care Program is a partnership arrangement between the council and community volunteers who find reward in contributing to positive change in their local bushland areas. Its objective is to involve the

The condition of Cooroora Creek Park, Pomona, is maintained partly through the efforts of bushcare volunteers. community actively in restoration of degraded bushland areas.

To discuss your interest and to find out more about what’s entailed, phone the Noosa Council Community Partnerships Officer on 5329 6500.

A Bushland Care registration form may be downloaded from the Noosa Council website.

NEWS IN BRIEF Trail audit advances TRC, the same consultancy that finalised the Noosa Trails Masterplan has been engaged as the lead consultant to provide specialist guidance and help organise an audit of Trail 5 (Cooran-Pomona bush trail) and design and construct trail work and trailhead facilities in both towns.

One suggestion is for the trailhead facilities to be located in Stan Topper Park, Pomona, and Pioneer Park, Cooran. Design work will be completed by the end of August, with construction to start in October.

Grant delays The Noosa Show Society has sought an extension of time to spend a $85,675 grant from the Federal Government’s Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program while it awaits conformation that Noosa Council will contribute $30,000 towards the cost of main arena lighting.

The Commonwealth money was required to be spent by 30 June, but the project can’t proceed until the council commits its share of the total project cost.

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KIN KIN QUARRY DEBATE

Court case depends on strength of evidence

Up to 100 quarry trucks daily through Cooran for the next six months As the assessment process to consider evidence gathered against the operation of the Cordwells Quarry at Kin Kin enters its most critical stage, Cooran has become the latest hinterland community to be impacted by up to 100 quarry trucks a day rumbling through town, evoking concerns for the safety of children.

A three-month evidence-gathering exercise around quarry truck movements and the consequences for towns, lifestyle, mental health and roads not built to a standard to withstand the pounding of 250 trucks a day across the hinterland has ended. Legal representatives hired by Noosa Council now have a further month to sift the details and assess whether a Planning and Environment Court case should proceed.

Before it does, however, the matter is likely to go to mediation to resolve community grievances against quarry truck operations, the goal being to alter the council-approved Quarry Management Plan dealing with truck movements, the hours they operate and the approved haulage route along the Pomona-Kin Kin Road and through town.

Led by the council and supported by the 410-strong Save Noosa Hinterland group (SNH), the objective is to convince the court to curtail significantly the rate at which up to one million tonnes of rock can be extracted annually, equating to 288 truck movements per day to and from the quarry.

50 members at The Majestic Theatre on 8 April.

While this remains the short-term goal and the focus of all attention, long term her group is committed to seeing the quarry shut down entirely and the site converted into a community recreational facility.

month.



The Department of Transport and Main Roads has inspected the condition of two narrow bridges and decided they will not be subject to load limits.

Public consultation on a replacement Six-Mile Creek bridge will occur at For the past three months, a group of the end of the year, paving the way about 20 residents has maintained for work on the new two-lane bridge logs of truck movements past their to start in autumn 2022. houses, the time of day, noise and the driving behavior of quarry truck Sarah Keating said it was now known that Cordwells ‘pretty much could drivers. Police and Transport and Main Roads officials have monitored use any route to distribute rock’, including through Kin Kin and, from speed and safe operation of trucks there, via Wahpunga, Neusa Vale and and cameras used to check the spacing of trucks leaving the quarry – Sister Creek. set at five minutes apart under terms She said the prospect of Cordwells of the Quarry Management Plan. possibly obtaining contracts to haul Cordwells has been fined more than extracted material to the huge billon$160,000 for alleged infringements. dollar Bruce Highway bypass of To date the company has not paid Gympie raised the prospect of the up. In a sign that the quarry trucks Kin Kin-Gympie Road coming under are affecting mental health, Noosa enormous pressure from quarry truck Council has arranged for professional movements, in addition to other counsellors to hear peoples’ concerns local roads. and provide tailored advice to those Cordwells has a lease on the Kin Kin individuals affected. The possibility quarry until 2033. of property prices being affected along the quarry haulage route was also raised at The Majestic meeting.

Cooroora Connect Further disclosures were as follows:



The design of a safe-crossing point for Cooran children accessing the skate park is being assessed.



The Department of Environment and Science has determined that the recent heavy rain did not result in “We believe if the court proceedings overspill of containment ponds at the are successful and Cordwells’ quarry site, designed to prevent operations are capped, it will become muddy run-off into Kin Kin Creek. uneconomical for them to continue  Pavement edge strengthening and that will force them to look at along the Pomona-Kin Kin Road has options such as selling,” SNH been delayed and will start this president Sarah Keating told about

Advertising deadline 15 May 2021 heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au

TAI CHI & QIGONG Yuka Olsen 0431 315 639 Mondays 7.30am / Cost $10 Cooroora Creek Park, Pomona Fridays 8am / Cost $12 Pomona Memorial Hall Saturdays 7.30am / Cost $10 Cooroora Creek Park, Pomona

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INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE in a local

Concept Development Workshop to share your personal opinions about potential opportunities to establish employment and/or other income and personal support services for women 50+ who are experiencing financial vulnerability in the Noosa Shire region.

Local community organisations and businesses are also very welcome and encouraged to attend.

Saturday 29 May 9am – 4pm Lawson Shed, Pomona, Qld Lunch will be provided Places are Limited - Please Book Early

For more information, contact Monica Kennedy mkholisticcounselling@gmail.com 0438 156 903 BOOKING QR CODE

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/concept-development-workshop-resupporting-women-50-to-generate-income-tickets-151186225069

Appointments Available Now Ph: 5485 1177

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE

Immunisations & Skin Checks Medical & Health Assessments

BULK BILLING AVAILABLE ** for selected patients** Introducing Dr Christine Storey Monday to Friday - 8am to 5pm 

Dr Michael Petrinchuk



Dr Robin Gregory



Dr Ruth Nash

5 Factory Street, Pomona

Personal development options for 50+ women “When we listen to each other, we will hear what is happening to others.

“When we talk to each other and share our thoughts, we will begin to understand.

When we share our unique perspective, just maybe

by Monica Kennedy of Holistic Counselling The above statement came from a lived experience of frustration and understanding of just how difficult it is to be heard and to return to the workforce for women 50+.

We have all passed through a year of restrictions created by the COVID-19 pandemic that has exposed the illusion of equality in our society. It has also raised our collective awareness of the increased financial vulnerability of women 50 and over.

solutions emerge.

“When solutions are found, the possibility for change occurs. Each of us holds the power within to make a difference.”

(Monica Kennedy, 2021) struggling to access suitable support mechanisms to help get back on track.

We invite you to join us to discover what we have learned so far and to identify what solutions would work best for you.

With this information, we aim to work collaboratively with community to develop real possibilities for financial security in our futures.

For some of us, this could mean returning into private practice, developing or returning to business, or accessing There is an escalation of programs and support uncertainty in this group services to rebuild or 0f women for their develop required skills, financial futures. Being confidence and selfone of a growing group of esteem to gain unemployed professional meaningful employment. women unable to step This concept back into their career development workshop is post-COVID, we do not the first step in answering feel equal, nor are our futures certain. However, the call for achieving an equal future on our own we are strong. terms.

Some of us have gathered to step up and look out to If you would like to be a part of this discussion we our community to find encourage you to join us. out if other women are experiencing financial Please register early as vulnerability and/or places will be limited. We uncertainty, and who look forward to may also be challenged connecting with you. See with the Jobactive ad on this page for more system, and/or are details.

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Pomona Meals on Wheels calls for more volunteers

GOT A STORY TO TELL? Cooroora Connect welcomes readers’ stories or news of your club or sporting group. Contact Heather on 5485 2427 or email heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au

Sustaining our older residents and the sick who need a healthy meal.

The hardworking team at Pomona Meals on Wheels (MOW) has been kept busy over the past 12 months of COVID-19, with many new clients registering for the service.

Also, during the past year MOW has had a smaller dedicated team of kitchen staff, drivers and administrative support to cope with that demand, as several volunteers who are in the vulnerable category have withdrawn their services for the time being.

The kitchen operates between 7 am and 12 noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Currently, due to COVID restrictions limiting contact with

clients, MOW is delivering a week’s supply of frozen meals (soup/main/dessert) on Mondays. It is hoped that in future we will return to delivering hot and frozen meals three days a week to clients in Pomona, Cooroy, Cooran, Eumundi, Federal and Boreen Point.

If you are able to join the friendly MOW team operating from the Pomona Memorial Hall and help out in the kitchen, as a driver, packer or office support person, please get in touch.

All training will be provided.

Phone: 5485 1777 or email admin@mowp.org.au.

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

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

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

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Noosa Council News Climate change response plan open for comment

Stan Topper Park public amenities due for makeover.

Council reveals details of its capital works projects

Noosa Council is calling for feedback on its draft Climate Change Response Plan. It sets out actions to boost the community’s resilience to hotter temperatures, bushfires, extreme weather events and other climate change impacts, as well as reduce Noosa’s emissions, as a community.

The draft plan builds on Cr Brian Stockwell work the council has been Noosa Council has The much-anticipated doing since 2016 to slash Carbon Reduction Project identified new construction School Road footpath its own operational Officer, Annie Nolan, said. works at Pomona, Cooran upgrade will cost $80,000 emissions to net-zero by and Kin Kin as part of its in 2022-23.

2026.

Sea level rise and other proposed 10-year Capital coastal hazards associated The planned $151,000 Actions outlined in the Works Program released upgrade to fitness draft plan cover a range of with climate change are for public comment ahead equipment in Cooroora dealt with in the Coastal themes, including: of the 2021-22 Budget being Creek Park, Pomona, has Hazards Adaption Plan adopted.  Sustainable transport (CHAP), which opened for been put back a year from  Sustainable agriculture comment recently.

The big-ticket item for previous published plans, and food systems Pomona is a $157,000 now to proceed in 2023-24.

Cr Brian Stockwell said  Energy efficiency and upgrade of the public That same year, the gravel the risks of climate change renewable energy amenities at Stan Topper section of Station Road will inaction were great, while Park in 2023-24. A small receive an $80,000 upgrade.  Clean low-emissions taking an ambitious, industries pathway link within the proactive approach could The residents of Kin Kin  Zero waste and a park, connecting to provide business can anticipate a $308,000 circular economy.

Memorial Avenue, is opportunities and build on refurbishment of their planned for next financial “Each theme has strategic Noosa’s well-established sportsground, but not year, cost $12,000. It will be before its scheduled date of climate risk actions and green credentials and bundled with a $10,000 emissions reduction brand.

2027-28. The Cooran Skate Memorial Avenue ‘missing Park renewal will cost opportunities for the link’ path extension costing $150,000 in 2024-25.

Noosa community and the “Climate change is not just an environmental issue. $10,000. council,” Taking action on climate addresses social issues affecting the community such as safe and affordable Noosa Council has acknowledged that a The council says ‘initial scoping work is living,” he said. budgeted proposal to form a small team of under way’. planners that would conduct a placeCr Stockwell said there Place-making is focussed on observing, making study of one or two localities in were important economic listening to, and asking questions of the the shire is running behind schedule. reasons to prepare for people who live, work, and play in a

Council place-making study is behind schedule

The 2019-20 Capital Works Program set aside $100,000 for the project, which was to have been completed by the end of June 2020, utilising the services of a dedicated coordinator.

particular place in order to understand their needs and aspirations for that space and for their community as a whole. The council is yet to announce the chosen town that will be the focus of the study.

climate impacts.

Have a say on the Draft Climate Change Response Plan at Your Say Noosa – yoursay.noosa.qld.gov.au.

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29

Easy Rider Autumn in SEQ for my money is the best time of the year - clear cool nights, perfect days where you can still catch a wave in full sunshine and put on the fire at night.

Great weather also means packed markets, cafes and breweries and a steady stream of cars and motorbikes doing an easy café run or, for those teflon pilots with cameras strapped to their helmets, attempts at a personal best time scratching tar.

The issue? In 2021 Queensland has had 75 fatal road crashes so far with a total of 83 lives lost. That’s 27 more than the same time last year. Thirty per cent of those killed have been on motorcycles.

I borrowed the following tips you can use and pass on to help reduce the carnage: Riding a bike needs a completely different mindset to driving a car. You must be fully engaged mentally and physically for every minute of the ride.

You need to control the riding environment. Crashes occur because riders run out of time to take corrective action. The only way to create the time to react and correct is to manage your distance away from potential impacts.

You need to make yourself be seen. An effective rider constantly alters road/ lane position to anticipate drivers not seeing them and takes action to make sure they are seen. For example, on a multi-lane road, position yourself so you can see yourself in the mirrors of the car just ahead of you in the adjacent lane.

PLOD’S PAGE

majority. Let your actions on the road enhance the perception of bike riders, not detract from it. Riding is a perishable skill. Every rider should be practicing their skills. When was the last time you practiced emergency braking, slow speed U-turns and counter-steering?

Learn to ride your bike slowly before you learn to ride at road speeds. The slow speed skills you learn are the foundation of all good motorcycling skills.

by Sgt Dan McNamara OIC Pomona Police Station

Ph: 5480 1733 Do not learn to ride or get experience riding with your mates who tell you how great they can ride. Go to experienced professionals to learn and make riding a life-long learning experience. If someone tells you how fantastic they were on the racetrack, you can be sure that has no application to safe/efficient road riding (even police riders have to re-qualify their skill sets every 12 months).

Give yourself the best chance before you ride. Ensure your tyre pressures are correct, the chain is adjusted and you have appropriate safety gear and your head is in the right space. Never disrespect your pillion by allowing them on your bike without the best safety gear.

Riding fast and riding efficiently are worlds apart. Fast riding is about velocity; efficient riding is about being at the right speed in the right position at the right time. It doesn’t have to be slow, but efficient riding always allows a buffer for the unexpected.

As a bike rider, you are in a minority that is often judged poorly by a

Ride each ride to your skills. Trying to keep up with more experienced riders is bound to have you ending up in the bushes. If you are in a group, decide where the next stop will be and ride at your own pace to get there. The group will wait for you. If you get that feeling in your gut that this is too fast, you are!

Slow down and, if its windy or wet, try riding in a gear lower than normal. The bike will feel rock solid again.

Understand that a bike generally accelerates far quicker than a car.

Understand that car drivers may not appreciate your closing speed even though you are not speeding. Never, ever, ‘lay the bike down’, as is commonly dictated, especially by older riders. To do so removes all braking response, all steering response and leaves you at the mercy of physics.

If you are returning to riding after a break, make certain you do a refresher training course. The 2021 hyperbike is a completely different beast to a 1985 sports bike with F1 type acceleration and power-to-weight ratios.

Until next time, stay safe and keep it on two wheels.

All Earthworks       

Shed / Houses Sites Trees / Stumps Cleared Lantana / Scrub Cleared 12 Tonne Machine 4 In 1 Bucket / Ripper On Board Laser Steep Slopes

Phone John 0455 916 231 Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

30

Boreen Point amenities were upgraded in time for Easter The 9000 visitors to the Boreen Point Campground annually now have superior amenities to make their stay more comfortable and enjoyable following a $450,000 makeover that includes improvements to water treatment facilities and replacement of concrete water storage tanks.

The final touches were still being made last month as campers flocked to the grounds beside Lake Cootharaba, bringing the popular holiday spot to life during the Easter holidays.

Noosa Mayor, Clare Stewart, said the project had delivered a more functional layout, new tiles, paint, benches, sinks and mirrors among other

fixtures and fittings. Family bathrooms and additional unisex toilets also await campers.

“These new facilities will ensure guests enjoy a more contemporary, comfortable, safe and family-friendly holiday experience for many years to come,” Cr Stewart said.

The mayor said the upgrade work was one of more than 10 infrastructure projects her council had fast-tracked using state Modern new amenities, complete with family bathrooms and government funding. additional unisex toilets, await guests at Boreen Point Campground.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have received $2 million COVID-19 pandemic,” the refurbishment of amenities in Unite and Recover in Stan Topper Park are funding on top of the $1.83 mayor said.

The rebuilding of the part of the same works million the Queensland Pomona Memorial Hall program and are yet to be Government distributed toilets and the completed. previously during the

Direct input into council budget process ends Ratepayers want the 2021-22 Noosa Council budget to include higher investment in infrastructure, bridges and roads, as well as waste management, and less spent on community facilities and services.

These are the main results of the Your Say budget feedback process the council instigated in the leadup to approval of its annual expenditure blueprint.

Asked to balance the budget competing priorities, ratepayers indicated they would tolerate a rate rise of under two per cent. From 1 March to 29 March 2021, the council received 547 webpage views on-line and 67 submissions were made. Councillors considered the feedback at a special meeting on 23

Petition calls on council to restrict dog off-leash areas beside lake Noosa councillors have resolved that a petition signed by 30 people requesting that the council amend its local laws to remove the offleash areas on the foreshore at Urunga Parade, Boreen Point, be referred to the Chief Executive Officer, Brett de Chastel, to determine appropriate action.

increase in the number of dogs running free in these small beach and picnic areas. One of these is Buffalo Park,” read the covering letter to the petition.

“The recent installation of off-leash area signs has seen a significant

dedicated beach for launching, rigging and storing sailing boats.

“This area is used regularly by families with small children. It seems dangerous and contradictory to encourage and, indeed, permit The petition alerted the council to a dogs to be off-leash.” potential conflict involving dogs The petitioners noted that the main running free at the off-leash areas beach at Boreen Point is a ‘dog onat foreshore picnic spots frequented leash’ area, which they said was by locals and visitors. appropriate, given that it was a

Social Indoor Bowls at Pomona Hall Wednesday 9am - 11.30am / Arrive 8.30am Casual Dress & Flat sole shoes Contact Alan Ph: 544 76223

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Hospitality industry must use QR customer tracing system In a move that will have implications for the hinterland’s hospitality businesses, the state government has announced that use of the Check In Qld app would be mandatory for all clubs, bars and cafes from 1 May.

Check In Qld app at one business, it remembers your details, saving you time in the future and providing easy on-going, check-in across all participating venues,” she said.

“Importantly, the app removes some of the everyday burdens of COVID-19 restrictions for licensed venues, cafes and their customers. It’s everyone’s responsibility to help keep our community safe, and effective contact tracing still remains at the “The new Check In Qld app heart of our public health response,” Ms Palaszczuk will help Queensland said.

Health’s contact tracing team to quickly identify For customers, it’s as and assist anyone who may simple as downloading the have been exposed to app from Google Play or COVID-19. Use of the app Apple App Stores and will be monitored and entering their details once. might be rolled out to At participating venues, cover other industries, the customers can then ‘Check government has in Now’ by opening the announced. app and using the venue’s Check In Qld QR code.

Commenting on the new Patrons and customers are being asked to download the app, which scans QR codes at venues, doing away with multiple registrations across the sites they visit while COVID-19 restrictions apply.

arrangements Premier Anna Palaszczuk said it simplified compliance with public health directions for all hospitality venues, with patrons and customers able to self-check-in and have their information stored securely. “Once people have used the

“Customers can add the names of the other people in their party, show venue staff their successful check -in screen, and then enjoy their time out knowing they have helped keep Queenslanders safe,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

Harmony Dance Club Social Ball Room Dancing New Vogue & Old Time Dancing Pomona Hall Tuesday 6.30pm - 9.30pm Cost $4 includes supper Contact Pat & Norm Ph: 5485 2007

COOROORA SCREENS & BLINDS 19a Factory Street, Pomona P: 5485 1287 / M: 0419 655 901 * Screens & Security Doors * * Shutters * Awnings * * Verticals * Venetians * * Roller & Roman Blinds *

POMONA True Value Hardware PH: 5485 1351 10 Reserve St Pomona HARDWARE, TIMBER, GARDEN, PAINT, LP GAS, RURAL & PRODUCE NEEDS

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Australia's Biggest Morning Tea is a community event that raises vital funds to make a big difference for those impacted by cancer.

The official date is Thursday 27th May 2021, but you can host anytime that works for you until the end of June.

It’s your morning tea, and you can host it any way you like! You can host at home with friends and family, at the local park with your community, or via online video chat with your colleagues.

Every dollar you raise is going to make an incredible difference for people impacted by cancer.

Register to receive your free host kit. You'll also get access to great tips, tools and ideas to help make raising funds and organising your morning tea a piece of cake!

People impacted by cancer need your support now, more than ever. So register now, and host your tea your way!

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