COOROORA CONNECT FEBRUARY EDITION 2021

Cooroora Connect An Initiative of Pomona & District Community House

February 2021

KINDNESS IS CATCHING 2020 is a year a lot of people would wish to forget.

Challenges took many forms and tested us in many ways.

Amidst the difficult times, however, there were instances of inspired kindness and generosity that lifted spirts and brought hope.

Started in 2015 by Linda Pang, Feel Good February, is a month-long initiative that encourages people to perform random acts of kindness for fellow community members.

There has been extensive research to prove that ‘giving out good’ not only benefits the receiver but also increases the happiness of the giver. There’s mental happiness and physical benefits for all involved. It is a win-win situation!

In our fast-changing world, there seems to be a lot of negative news that we are exposed to.

Feel Good Feb is here to bring a ray of brightness and light into the world – and it’s done by each of us in our own way.

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Trails steering group meets for first time to decide priorities Organised by Noosa Council, more than 25 people representing various interests groups met as the Noosa Trails Network Steering Group for the first time at the end of November to consider the next steps in implementing the trails master plan and to determine how best to spend $1.6 million on offer from the state and federal governments on two crucial trails projects.

Top of the agenda is a $70,000 audit of the trails to establish routes and track condition.

Issues raised by those attending included parking at the start and finish of the trail, signage, availability of water for hikers, toilet facilities and Indigenous history.

The short track proposed for around Mt Cooroora was considered to be an exemplar for future track upgrade work, but will require further liaison with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Kabi Kabi traditional owners.

The stakeholder group plans to meet again later this month or in March.

Yummy new business opens A new business for Pomona has created five jobs in the town.

What’s For Dessert Pomona is a gelato, dessert, pie and confectionary shop ideally located in Reserve Street.

The owners are Sharron McAtee and John Haverkemp, who previously operated a delicatessen at Alstonville, midway between Lismore and Ballina.

Deciding to ‘do something different’ after a short sojourn, the couple visited a number of towns before settling on Pomona, moving into their new home in Railway Parade late last year.

Charles Wright (left) has found employment at the new icecreamery in Pomona operated by John Haverkemp’s and partner Sharron McAtee. The new owners appreciate the support of locals and other businesses in the town.

In addition to the owners, the workforce includes a senior person

and two juniors. The shop opens five and a half days a week.

Pomona—Kin Kin Road testing program resumes The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) recommenced ‘pavement testing works’ on an 11km section of the Kin Kin Road, between Sheppersons Lane and Camphor Road, Pinbarren, on 5 January for

approximately 10 days.

The testing ‘will inform the design of upcoming road edge strengthening works (and will also) assist with future planning’, TMR says.

Our ‘worst road’: Page 5.

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Local businesses start hiring employees again There are signs of renewed hope for hinterland resurgence and resilience.

implemented, causing some to close altogether or to offer limited service, impacting jobs and job security.

With the dispensing of COVID-19 vaccines set to roll out nationally to counter the virus, local businesses that have done it tough during various iterations of lockdown measures over the past 12 months have breathed a collective sigh of relief and have begun hiring staff again.

“While there is the need to remain vigilant about the COVID-19 virus and maintain precautions to prevent it taking hold in our hinterland villages, there is a cautious optimism that our district will emerge in 2021 more resilient and its people more conscious of the power of ‘togetherness’ in tough times,” Mr Moran observed. Our region had fared better than others, he said, and the hinterland more so than coastal Noosa.

It bodes well for the hinterland economy as shops and businesses restart or instigate new measures to recover lost revenues and pursue new ways of earning a dollar.

Stimulus packages, including small but useful infrastructure projects, are having an effect; providing jobs for tradies. They include an upgrade to public toilets, improvements to The Majestic Theatre and Pomona Memorial Hall, and the Boreen Point camping ground. Also ready to start is construction of the new SixMile Creek Bridge at Pinbarren.

Our busy eateries have enjoyed the patronage of those not venturing far, but rediscovering the pleasures of holidaying closer to home. Daytripping to Noosa has benefitted the hinterland, in particular, aided by the Tourism Noosa Enter the Biosphere domestic marketing campaign.

Renewed optimism and the desire to shore up local efforts to stimulate the economy late last year resulted in the formation of a Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce.

Last month Chamber president, Phil Moran, paused to reflect on the economic hit to local businesses caused by the pandemic as the necessary public health management regimes were

“A range of civic works is in the pipeline and Tourism Noosa is working with the Chamber to stimulate events-based visitation.

The upgrade of the Noosa Trails, beginning in 2021, has the potential to be a game-changer for the hinterland as people seek out nature -based tourism experiences,” he said.

By far the biggest jobs generator for the region in 2021 is the $18 million Six-Mile Creek Bridge upgrade at Pinbarren. The Queensland Government estimates it will create and sustain an average of 28 jobs over the life of the construction project. Several businesses at Pomona have job vacancies.

Kindness is catching From page 1 We would love people to have the intention and take the time to simply ‘lift the vibe’ of those around them. One random act of kindness (RAK) can bring a smile to someone’s face.

No matter how big or how small your RAK is, you will be helping make someone’s day that much better. You can literally change their life just by being kind.

Then in turn, maybe they will do a kind deed for someone else.

Kindness will flow organically, creating a ripple effect of happiness.

Let’s counteract the negative by being proactively positive!

Feel Good Feb’s mission is to spread the word and to keep on doing RAKs not only in February but all year long.

On Wednesday, 10 February from 9.30am to 11.30am, the Pomona Community House invites you to come to a free morning tea to create small gifts to give away. There will be some resources available for you to play with but we invite you to bring your own materials and to share with others.

See Feel Good February’s website www.feelgoodfeb.org. for ideas for random acts of kindness.

Let us know how someone has helped you.

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

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ARTISTS SHARE THEIR STORIES Art plays a unique and vital part in the well-being of our society by providing outlets for creativity and giving permission for unique self-expression. Artists often ask communities to engage thoughtfully and with curiosity in times of upset and conflict.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, women and female artists have been among the most affected reducing resilience through restricted capacity for employment/ income as well as having to contend with other pandemic-related issues such as isolation and loneliness.

ARTiculate, to be held at the Majestic on 13 March, will give a panel of artists (and participants) the opportunity to share stories, experiences and learnings about how their lives have been affected by the pandemic, how it has influenced their art and in what ways art and the creative process have empowered them to find meaning in, and to, perhaps, make sense of an unfamiliar world.

Addressing both the difficulties faced by artists during the pandemic and also celebrating the creativity that has come out of the crisis, the event will highlight the strength and commitment of our local female artists.

Understanding that this has been a difficult time for many, time will be set aside to talk about available support services with resources available to take home.

The event will be broadcast live through Noosa FM. Bookings through www.themajestictheatre.com.au.

TAMSIN KERR directs the Cooroora Institute, sharing the song of the earth through creative practice. She holds a PhD on Conversations with the Bunyip and makes art that speaks the languages of trees.

She is a lively and insightful speaker and an awarded nature writer and poet.

From making the models for ‘tick, tock, what’s under the clock today?’ for Playschool, tombstone art, paste up artist, set design, community artist, papermaking and basket making to running the Gympie Regional Gallery for over 22 years, JOOLIE GIBBS brings a wealth of experience from a career spanning over 40 years. Completing her Masters of Art in Fine Art at the Queensland College of Art, connected her once again with her own art practice, taking it in new directions, which she is keenly looking forward to since recently retiring from the gallery mid Covid.

BEVERLY HAND is a Kabi Kabi story-teller with an immense knowledge of local Indigenous traditions and history. She runs Walking Talking Country tours and yarning circles and has introduced many to the wonders and details in understanding country. She re-established the traditional annual Bunya Dreaming Festival in 2007 which celebrates the harvest of the iconic Bunya Tree. She is an emerging practising artist for public art in the region.

ANDREA KIRWIN is an Australian/Fijian singer songwriter who performs on the Sunshine Coast and at Festivals across Australia and New Zealand. She is currently about to release her 5th album, BLOOM, and teaches music and music industry mentoring from her record label HQ Peace Run Records in Nambour.

AIMEE STANYER is a social worker/ mixed media artist from the Noosa Hinterland. She has been actively engaged in working alongside people in local community settings providing mental health counselling, community development, and facilitating art journaling workshops.

JEUNAE ROGERS is a music artist of Black Mountain. Her music has been described as ‘many voices’ and speaks to ways of being and processing the world around and within her through the song she harvests on vine country - Black Mountain. Jeunae has a cultivated the ability to move through many musical styles, bringing a sense of fierce freedom and musical prowess that has been distilled through a whole life of singing up country and collaborating with place.

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RACQ names Pomona-Kin Kin Road as Queensland’s worst

State Budget funds several local projects A $500,000 refurbishment of the administration building at the Pomona Campus of the Noosa District High School is among the package of local projects that will be funded from the delayed 2020-21 State Budget brought down by Treasurer Cameron Dick MP on 1 December.

RACQ Traffic and Safety Engineering Manager, Greg Miszkowycz, inspects a poor section of road.

It’s official – the Pomona-Kin Kin Road is Queensland’s worst road, surpassing the busier Bruce Highway for the dubious title in the annual survey of RACQ members, who were asked to rate the road network statewide.

The results showed the main deficiencies in the Kin Kin Road as being narrow road/lanes, poor shoulders, tight curves/blind crests, rough surface and narrow bridges/ culverts.

More than 1000 nominations were received for 410 different Queensland roads that members considered to be in ‘poor or inadequate condition, unfit for the function they were designed to perform or not providing an acceptable level of service to the road user’.

Mr Miszkowycz said: “The results will be provided to road authorities to help identify and support improvements on the road network.”

RACQ Traffic and Safety Engineering Manager, Greg Miszkowycz, said that in the survey results compiled late last year the much-maligned Bruce Highway had been knocked off the top spot for most complaints by the Pomona-Kin Kin Road, in the Noosa hinterland.

“The Kin Kin Road received 82 responses highlighting various safety concerns, while the Bruce Highway attracted 64 replies,” Mr Miszkowycz said.

The Pomona-Kin Kin Road and the Bruce Highway were followed in the RACQ worst road rankings by Beelbi Creek Rd (west of Hervey Bay), coming in third, and equal fourth-placed Brandenburg Road (Sunshine Coast) and Kilcummin Diamond Downs Road (north of Clermont).

The top five road problems highlighted by survey respondents for all roads reviewed were rough surfaces (74 per cent of responses), poor shoulders (53 per cent), narrow road/lanes (50 per cent), lack of overtaking opportunities (35 per cent) and tight curves/blind crests (29 per cent).

A start will be made on a replacement Six-Mile Creek Bridge, Pinbarren, using a $500,000 allocation towards the overall project cost of $18 million. The Budget included $1.5 million this financial year out of a total $2.5 million committed to develop ecoaccommodation and guided walks along the Cooloola Great Walk in co-operation with the Kabi Kabi people and developer CABN. The Cooroy Hinterland Adventure Playground will go ahead, receiving $921,968 this financial year from the state government component of the overall cost of the water themed play area.

The upgrade of the CooroyNoosa Road and Sivyers Road intersection will cost $965,000 – $199,000 set aside for work in 2020-21.

While no funds were allocated, the state government acknowledged its election commitment to construct a new Cooroy police station.

Cameron Dick MP, Treasurer

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CORDWELLS AGREE TO TAKE ACTION In response to recent concerns expressed about the operation of the Kin Kin Quarry, Cordwells (the quarry operator) has agreed to make the following changes to its operating procedures.

The quarry management: 

is working with larger customers to ensure all are as strategic as possible with their requirements for each day to focus on best practice for traffic flow;



will minimise truck movements on Saturday, wherever possible;



has increased storage capabilities at their Yandina site to cater for all required products, which will permit better scheduling of trucks, thereby stepping the flow of truck traffic from Kin Kin during identified peak times;



will pre-load trucks of an afternoon to help reduce the need for early morning arrivals in Kin Kin;



has resolved communication issues with the school bus on Kin Kin Range;



has further reinforced with drivers that the school bus on the range is a key safety point and will load trucks to a schedule that will help prevent them meeting the bus during bus run times;



has requested that all companies sending multiple vehicles to Kin Kin space the departure time of their vehicles by five minutes to help reduce the traffic flow;





has advised all truck companies of their internal infringement policy, including bans from the site for breaches; has recommended all companies using their site fit their vehicles with dash cameras to better ensure safety for all.

Council increases legal pressure on Cordwells The gathering of evidence against Cordwell Resources, the operators of the Kin Kin Quarry – involving alleged breaches of the Quarry Management Plan (QMP) and dust and noise pollution from large quarry trucks – is under way in a process that will involve mediation to force further concessions from the company to lessen the adverse impact of the quarry on lifestyle, public amenity and businesses.

initiating that legal action’. The type of evidence required is crucial to the process and Mr de Chastel said the community would be called on to help gather it.

The concerted campaign, especially the threat of legal action by the council, represents the ‘best way forward’ in the 10-year battle to stop the quarry expansion, according to Allan Bonsall of Kin Kin, one of the original campaigners against the extractive industry.

operate.

In some cases, individuals and businesses would be approached to place monitoring equipment on their land or premises.

The breakthrough response to calls for the council to take action was made at a packed public meeting Noosa Council has determined that held at The Majestic Theatre late last it will bring action against Cordwells year following receipt of confidential in the Planning and Environment legal advice from an eminent Court if the mediation fails, or the barrister whose services were hired court itself can order mediation at the instigation of Mayor Clare ahead of more formal proceedings Stewart. and judgement.

Pressure will be stepped up Also, the Department of Transport gradually, leading to the filing of a and Main Roads, is carrying out dispute resolution by the court midvehicle inspections of quarry trucks, year, according to a timetable fining drivers for defects, and police outlined by Mr de Chastel. Noosa will step up surveillance and Council has slapped Cordwells with enforcement of traffic regulations, a third round of breaches for including speed restrictions. allegedly failing to enforce truck Meanwhile, the Save Noosa movement provisions of the QMP. Hinterland Group is putting pressure Accumulated fines total $82,000. on the state government to close the The council will not hesitate to Kin Kin Quarry completely. It has continue to issue breach notices gathered more than 1000 signatures until compliance is achieved, Cr to a paper petition and an on-line Stewart told The Majestic Theatre petition to state parliament, calling crowd of 125 people. However, the for closure. The petition will run on- action will not involve revocation of line through until February. the quarry approval of licence to

At its December ordinary meeting, the council gave approval to CEO Brett de Chastel to ‘initiate legal proceedings and to work with the council’s legal advisers in gathering the necessary evidence, prior to

The quarry has a legal right to exist, with operations approved until 2033.

At the meeting, Mayor Clare Stewart pointed to officials present and said: “The presence of a united council here is evidence of how important this issue is to us.” Others at the top table included Mr de Chastel, Sandy Bolton MP and OIC Pomona District Police, Sen. Sgt Dan McNamara.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has eight traffic counters installed from Kin Kin to Pomona. These do not weigh vehicles, however. They measure axle configurations to determine different classes of vehicles and collect speed data for each of the classes.

TMR will provide police with speed data from the traffic counters to assist enforcement intelligence.

Kin Kin Quarry meeting was held at The Majestic Theatre.

He received a rousing cheer from the crowd when he expressed an opinion that the road over the Kin Kin Range was unsafe, not of sufficient standard to serve the level and type of traffic using it.

Cr Stewart announced formation of what she termed an ‘internal taskforce’ within the council to coordinate the quarry response, including Mr Ian Williams, appointed to handle community liaison. She did not disclose the nature of the legal advice the council had received. “As we might be going through a court process, we don’t want to disclose our [legal] hand,” she said.

Welcoming the council decision as a ‘step in the right direction’, Save Noosa Hinterland president, Sarah Keating, said: “Obviously, those

affected want to see the quarry cease permanently rather than [there being] just a scaling back of operations.

The quarry used to be a minor local one, which supplied material for local road repairs. Somehow it changed from that to one able to supply one million tonnes a year.”

“The recent increase in operations is unprecedented and is not in keeping with the region, nor the ideals that Noosa Council promotes,” she said. “We will work closely with Noosa Council to assist in gathering data in order for this matter to go to court.

We have to work together to collect as much evidence as possible to substantiate the fact that the quarry and trucks are not suitable for this area.”

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Just one or two days a week would make a big difference

The department’s transport inspectors are working closely with police to conduct joint heavy vehicle enforcement and compliance activities on Kin Kin Road.

Trucks are weighed when exiting the quarry and again at the destination, as each client is paying per tonne of rock or gravel purchased. There are legislative requirements to report.

Compliant general access vehicles (including truck and dog trailer combinations frequently used by the quarry) can use Queensland roads without special permits.

Excess mass loads do require permits and this allows authorities to place conditions on their operations.

However, TMR has not approved any vehicles above general access limits for travel on the Kin Kin Road.

Placing load restrictions on general access vehicles on Kin Kin Road may have a negative impact on important community services, other local businesses and residents, and may result in increased volumes of other types of heavy vehicles.

Timber bridges on Kin Kin Road typically cater for the general access vehicle allowable maximum mass of 42.5 tonnes.

TMR is undertaking ongoing bridge assessments.

–With thanks to Sandy Bolton MP

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New tourism events considered The Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce executive committee will consider suggestions for staging one new tourism event in the hinterland, or possibly more, after Tourism Noosa revealed it has funding to manage and promote such activities in 2021.

“Up to four ideas can be submitted for consideration, provided the $40,000 cap is not exceeded. The approved project ideas must be agreed with Tourism Noosa by 1 March 2021 and the grant money must be spent and acquitted by 30 June 2021.”

satisfaction of Tourism Noosa.”

The chamber said the funds on offer were for eligible events across the entire district – Pomona, Cooran, Kin Kin and Boreen Point.

The most likely outcome would be two events – one for Pomona and another for Kin Kin – but several are possible, subject to approval of the tourism marketing body.

As advised by Tourism Noosa, the chamber said the objective was:

The quality of the ideas in each expression of interest and how it complies with the funding purpose and criteria will dictate which activities are submitted by the chamber to Tourism Noosa for final approval.”

“In common with other business groups across Noosa Shire, the Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce has been offered the opportunity, by Tourism Noosa, to apply for up to $40,000 to deliver events and/or activities for the purpose of attracting more visitors locally,” the chamber reveals in its latest newsletter to members.

It sought comment on what people might want to occur, hopefully not just this year, but ongoing.

To create initiatives and events that enhance the visitor experience, fill gaps in a depleted events calendar, and bring increased revenue to Noosa's tourism businesses.

The newsletter states: “Tourism Noosa has provided these suggestions for guidance – street performances, markets, food or beverage events, village beautification projects, or tourism industry training.

“Each village is not guaranteed a set portion of the $40,000, but ideas for individual villages may be provided.

The newsletter said the Chamber was conscious of the lead times required to organise and market each event or activity. ‘Tourism Noosa will assist with promotion.

Also, an event will require organisers and resources; maybe even the Events must comply with COVID-19 assistance of another community event management guidelines and all group. The Chamber has limited expenditure must be acquitted to the resources within its ranks,” it noted.

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Hinterland tourism accommodation registers almost full going into 2021

Tourism accommodation bookings for the Noosa Hinterland were healthy heading into the busy summer period, sitting at between 80 per cent and just over 90 per cent for the week between Christmas and New Year, according to Tourism Noosa CEO, months ago.)

Melanie Anderson.

Year-on-year, the average Prospects for the early annual occupancy rate for months of 2021 are less hinterland accommodation clear, especially as COVID- businesses was 67 per cent related border restrictions as of October 2020 – up have applied to southern five per cent on the visitors. previous year.

Writing in November, Ms Anderson said: “With declining figures to less than 10 per cent after Australia Day, Tourism Noosa and individual operators are able to plan targeted marketing to attract visitation in February.”

(Booking numbers may have changed since those figures were compiled two

Melanie Anderson, CEO Tourism Noosa to the hinterland currently are, in order, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gympie, Moreton Bay and Logan. shorter than the other areas of the Noosa region.

The hinterland is most popular with visitors from “This gives [local] operators Wishart, Chapel Hill, The a chance to influence Gap, Bardon and Wynnum visitors who may have West. The most popular more flexible booking days to pay a visit are preferences.”

Saturday, Friday, Thursday The data is being collected and Wednesday. and managed in a new tool The booking lead time, One third of visitors developed by Tourism defined as the period of coming to the hinterland Noosa. time between when a guest from outside Noosa Shire The ‘Destination Noosa makes a reservation and were classed as ‘the most Marketing Dashboard’ the actual check-in date, affluent Australians’, displays information about matched by another 33 per sits at 39 days for accommodation hinterland operators. cent regarded as slightly occupancy, forward less than ‘most affluent’, “Year-on-year, there has bookings, visitor profiles while 10 per cent were ‘less been virtually no change in and more. It is available to affluent’, the lowest the booking lead time,” Ms Tourism Noosa members. ranking.

Anderson said. “This number of days generally is The local government areas from which visitors travel

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EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST SOUGHT Move to establish local

ambulance committee A move will be made this month to formally reactivate a Pomona Local Area Ambulance Committee (LAC). Its objective would be to bring greater focus to the work of the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) across the Northern Hinterland and better prepare the community to respond to emergency and non-emergency prehospital patient care through first aid, cardio pulmonary resuscitation and use of defibrillators.

Northern Hinterland and beyond to Tewantin and Noosa, is seeking residents interested in reestablishing the Pomona LAC. Its president, Linley Macleod, said her committee had been keen to progress a stand-alone LAC in Pomona for some time, and the proposition had again been discussed at the December meeting.

“There are funds we have kept in trust since the demise of the last (Pomona) LAC, which If it forms, the new would assist in rePomona LAC would be able establishment of the new to assist businesses seeking committee,” she said. to augment the availability of defibrillators throughout “Personally I would love to see the people of Pomona the Pomona retail centre. directly involved in their Pomona and District local ambulance station Community House has set again,” Ms Macleod said an objective to explore Pomona’s representative on such an outcome in 2021. the Cooroy LAC, Nathanael The Cooroy and Districts Ford, is keen to talk with LAC, which covers the volunteers to help re-form

Cutting the cake and celebrating 100 years of ambulance service to Pomona and District. a Pomona and District LAC. “At the next board meeting in February, it will be proposed by the president that an LAC be established,” Mr Ford said.

“Meanwhile, I put out a call for expressions of interest from anyone who wishes to participate. Without interest, the LAC won’t happen,” Mr Ford said.

A committee of at least five people is required at Pomona. LACs are required to meet at least six times a year, more active ones meet monthly.

Make a New Year resolution to support the businesses that create jobs and help sustain our local economy. Keep our Hinterland villages strong.

A message from Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce.

LACs are statutory authorities that were formed in 1991 following the closure of the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade (QATB).

There are approximately 170 committees throughout Queensland.

In addition to being a conduit for public sentiment on the effective provision of emergency transport, they manage funds from donations and bequests and can access funding from NGOs and philanthropic foundations.

There has been an ambulance presence in Pomona for more than 100 years. Interestingly, Mr Ford’s great-grandfather, Reuben Victor Ford, was a member of the first local advisory committee at Pomona.

There is a biennial conference, which provides an opportunity for all LACs to present new ideas and projects specific to their communities and meet with the QAS Commissioner, the QAS For more information, executive and paramedics contact Linley Macleod, for an exchange of views linleymac1@gmail.com. around goal-setting.

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Light shone on Christmas origins takes out award

DO YOU WANT TO JOIN LOCAL AMBULANCE COMMITTEE? Applicants wishing to join a Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) must declare that they are a person who is: 



either a permanent resident of Queensland and of the area serviced by the existing or the proposed Local Ambulance Committee; or a permanent resident of Queensland who works in the area serviced by the LAC; and aged 18 years or older.

You can:  join as a LAC volunteer

to contribute to the work of the committee generally, such as undertaking community

engagement activities and delivering CPR awareness sessions, or perhaps get elected to an office-bearer role such as President, Vice -President, Secretary or Treasurer; or  join as a LAC volunteer

specifically to be trained to deliver vitally important CPR Awareness sessions in your community.

For more information, contact the Sunshine Coast Local Ambulance Service Network, phone 5293 4001.

From the archives There has been an ambulance presence in Pomona for more than 100 years, subsequently formalised under the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade (QATB), as detailed in minutes of the Brisbane-based committee.

“A local advisory committee was formed and, on its recommendation, a freehold property with a building was purchased. On the recommendation of the Brisbane Committee, the Pomona Advisory Committee made application to convert the subcentre into an independent centre.

Pomona was gazetted as a branch centre in August 1919. Mr I.V. Rookwood was appointed superintendent.

“The first branch centre committee comprised A. Parker (chairperson), A.P. Curran (honorary treasurer), R.V. Ford, W.H. Goldsworthy, R. Shape, J.B. Cunningham and T. Alfredson.”

Les Sloots (third from left) surrounded by members of the Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce at their end of year celebrations.

The simple, timeless depiction of the Christmas message – an illuminated nativity scene – has won for Les Sloots and Mitch Young, owners of the Pomona Newsagency, the trophy for best festive season lights display in the annual competition conducted by CooroyPomona Lion Club.

In accepting the award from Lions Club representative Vicki Dessaix, Les wisely

attributed the creative genius for the shop display to his wife and business partner.

Vicki said it had been a close race for the top prize, but tradition had won out in the end.

The award, which includes $200 prizemoney, was announced at the end of year get-together for members of the Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce.

POMONA WALKING GROUP Monday to Friday 6.30am Meeting Point Community House 1 Memorial Ave Pomona

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Transport and aged care are concerning us The need for more frequent and accessible transport, an aged care facility for Pomona serving the Northern Noosa Hinterland and disability access at the Pomona swimming pool were among items of interest revealed at a ‘kitchen table’ discussion group meeting organised

by Pomona and District Community House.

The meeting was one of many held around the state on behalf of the Council on the Ageing (COTA) as that organisation gathers evidence to put to government on the concerns of older Australians.

Pictured above are the participants in the Council on the Aging kitchen table discussion group that met recently in Pomona.

‘How does your community and the services it offers help you live within your town?’

Noosa has the third oldest cohort of people aged over 65 among the local government areas of Queensland. By 2036 it is estimated that the The conversation was free-flowing percentage of people aged 65 and Preventative health and the need for and wide-ranging, but all present felt over in Noosa Shire will have grown Pomona provided a good quality of more flexible housing options for life in a safe, nurturing environment. to 30.5 per cent, or almost one third single-person households were of the entire population. among other topics of interest.

However, there needed to be a greater focus on the individual needs COTA invites you to participate in Generally, the 10 people who took their online survey Ageing in a of the elderly. Targeted care was part were overwhelmingly positive regional, rural and remote community hampered often by the need for about Pomona and the support the services to be provided from out-of- - what is it like? community gives when helping an area locations, on the Sunshine Coast See link à Ageing in Your Community individual or local cause. and in coastal Noosa, participants Survey or copy and past the internet Moderator, Monica Kennedy of Kin said. address https:// Kin posed a series of five questions to cotaqld.engagementhub.com.au/ Coordinated bus and train services, stimulate the conversation. They even a community bus, were among ageing-in-your-community into your included ‘What would you tell a internet browser. further suggestions put forward. visitor about this community?’ and

TAI CHI & QIGONG Yuka Olsen 0431 315 639 Mondays 7.30am Cooroora Creek Park, Pomona Cost $10 Fridays 8am Pomona Memorial Hall Donation $2 Saturdays 7.30am Cooroora Creek Park, Pomona Cost $10

Ian Cameron 0431 340 297

Thursdays 8.45am Apex Park, Cooroy (near skate park) Free until end of March

To everyone who contributed to our wonderful Christmas day lunch—THANK YOU Particular thanks go to: Raine and Horne Pomona Pomona IGA Meals on Wheels Gitsham Butchers Cooroy/Pomona Lions

A very generous local family Pomona Hardware Chris Harper Caltex Pomona Studio 24

All the amazing volunteers who helped out on the day.

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Fun doesn’t stop just because you are a senior Tailor-made support for older residents

morning tea/light lunch is provided.

There is a range of further activities available that include entertainers, outings, barbecue meals, high teas, indoor and outdoor games, commemorative events, guest speakers and more.

Noosa Community Support Centre (NCS) care facilitates social support groups and offers activities and programs that provide social interaction for eligible people aged over 65 years.

The centre operates five days a week (with the exception of public holidays, generally within the hours of 9.30am to 2.30pm).

NCS provide a healthy three course lunch at the Noosaville Centre and can arrange transport to and from the venue.

The Social Support Group caters to clients who feel isolated, while at the same time providing respite for

A nominal fee is charged for all of these services.

To check eligibility and obtain further information please contact the centre on 5329 6175.

You are never too old to have fun. carers.

There are also other social groups that operate around the shire with transport available at Cooroy, Noosa, Pomona and Peregian (half -day outings).

Activities are similar to those conducted from the Noosaville Centre and

We offer: 

High quality care for children 6 weeks to 5 Years.



Exciting outdoor adventure playground in a natural environment



Nutritious meals prepared on site daily



Experienced and dedicated Educators

Pomona Kindergarten Our Government Approved Kindergarten program is delivered by a University qualified Early Childhood Teacher.

Discounts/ free days apply for Health Care card holders.

Enquiries please phone Leonie or email manager@pomona.net.au

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

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The Majestic is 100: long may she reign The magnificent Majestic Theatre turns 100 this year and Pomona Arts Inc. has planned a summer of celebration performances to mark the occasion, beginning with a Valentine’s Day presentation by Australia’s favourite world-renowned operatic comedian, Judy Glen.

The self-confessed diva has sung her way around the world, starred in musical productions, entertained with one-woman shows, made her mark as an entertaining guest speaker and, now in her 70s, has reinvented herself as a designer and maker of fashion garments.

Having spent the past 15 years perfecting her oneperson performances and touring nationally and internationally, Judy Glen will guarantee a great afternoon of entertainment on Sunday 14 February.

Tickets cost $25, doors open at 2pm for the show beginning at 3pm.

The Blacksmith Shed at the Railway Station Gallery is about to undergo a transformation under the direction of gallery manager Alan Falls (pictured).

WHATS ON IN FEBRUARY www.themajestictheatre.com.au SILENT FILMS AT THE MAJESTIC THEATRE POMONA PH 5485 2330 FMI EVERY SATURDAY 12 NOON – NO NEED TO BOOK - $15 ADULTS N KIDS FREE

FEB 6 – 1927 SPRING FEVER

FEB 13 - 1915 YOUNG ROMANCE JUDY GLEN UNHINGED FEB 14 Australia's world-renowned operatic comedian Judy Glen will bring her unique style of comedy to the theatre on Valentines Day.. Judy Glen will guarantee you a great afternoon of entertainment.

Tickets $25. Doors open 2pm.

Show at 3pm. Book online

www.themajestictheatre.com.au

FEB 20 – 1927 THE UNKNOWN

FEB 27 – 1922 BACKPAY DRAG BINGO FEB 20

Bingo Queen of the Sunshine Coast, Melony Brests,and her righthand gal Sall Monalla, are back.

With some not so normal bingo games full of cheeky innuendo, hysterical call out's, & fabulous spot drag shows plus prizes Tickets $20 - Bingo Books: available at the door. Balls drop at 7.30. Book online themajestictheatre.com.au

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Gallery set to celebrate 20th anniversary Central to the vibrancy of our villages and towns is the creative endeavour of artists, crafters and sculptors who stimulate our senses and give different perspectives on life. Their collective efforts will be celebrated at a significant event in March when the Pomona Railway Station Galley marks its 20th anniversary.

A big day is planned for Saturday 20 March, so mark your calendars.

Meanwhile, Alan Falls, gallery manager and artist, is converting the Blacksmith Shed into an artists’ working space for 2D and 3D items.

“The recovery was not a walk in the park, but I eventually did walk on the beautiful new boardwalk from Noosa Beach to Noosa National Park. “This was my aim and what I was working towards.”

For more information, contact Alan at the gallery.

The personal journey of artist Pam Taylor is conveyed through a special exhibition in the Carriage Room, titled A Walk in the Park, from Saturday 6 February to 4 March.

“This exhibition is a visual story about my journey during and after knee surgery that I went through Alan intends using it to develop his almost two years ago to replace both own art practice. However, the space my knees,” Pam explained. will be available for artist residencies and workshops.

On show now until 25 February is the work of photographer Julie Hempsall. Her Getting Close to Nature exhibition of nature photography is on display in the Banana Shed.

Growing up at Cootharaba, Julie was surrounded by nature and wildlife, and that's what she enjoys photographing. In this exhibition she is able to share her photography with everyone.

Pomona Railway Station Gallery will be featuring two new exhibitions Pam Taylor, Paintings A WALK IN THE PARK Carriage Room

********

Julie Hempsall, Photography GETTING CLOSE TO NATURE In the Banana Shed

********

New Handmade Items in the Station Master Room Take a walk with Pam Taylor (above) through her art creations on display at the gallery in February.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED If you wish to be stimulated by the vibrancy of a creative environment, consider becoming a volunteer at the Pomona Railway Station Gallery. It requires three hours a week from your routine and no prior experience is necessary. Phone 5485 2950 for details.

SHOP LOCAL !

Monday - Friday 10am to 4pm Saturday 9am to 2pm Sunday 10am to 2pm

10 STATION ST, POMONA PH: 5485 2950

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Bingo queen juggles balls

Melony Brests holds her balls, ready for bingo night fun.

After a few tense months, a night at the bingo might be just the tonic you need to lighten up.

The Sunshine Coast ‘bingo queen’, Melony Brests, and her righthand gall, Sall Monalla, promise an evening of fun as only two drag queens can deliver.

Melony is Matt Dunstan, of Noosa Heads.

The pair offer some not so normal bingo games full of cheek and innuendo and hysterical call-outs, plus spot drag shows and prizes.

Entry tickets to the performance at The Majestic Theatre on Saturday 20 February at 7.30pm cost $20.

Butter Factory Centre presents ‘40 Under 40’ art prize winners The Bentley’s 40 Under 40 art prize contenders and winners are on display at the Butter Factory Arts Centre, Cooroy, until 14 February. Presented through the generous sponsorship of Bentleys Chartered Accountants, Noosa Council and the Regional Arts Development Fund, the whole gallery is a showcase of younger artists’ talent.

who are aged 40 years and under, as well as the work of some of our most talented young artists, awarded and recognised for their achievements in the arts.

It presents the work of 40 local professional and emerging Sunshine Coast, Noosa and Gympie artists

The event kicked off with a mini arts festival that spilled into the street.

After the widely successful 2020 40 Under 40 exhibition that saw 450 people cram into the Butter Factory for the opening night in 2020, organisers are hoping for similar interest this year.

Art Centre Coordinator Alicia Sharples and Amanda Bennetts celebrate the success of the exhibition.

Bingo books are on sale at the door – $10 for a full book and $5 for a half.

SHOW RECEIVES $5000 GRANT Noosa Council has approved a Regional Arts Development Fund grant worth $5000 to an unusual arts project based on an autobiographical show written and performed by Louise Birgan-Bezel about her search for stardom interposed with imaginary conversations with her idol, Boris Becker. The show will be recorded and will be presented as a cinematic event at The Majestic Theatre.

POMONA COUNTRY MARKETS STAN TOPPER PARK 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

Exhibition runs until 14 February

Paris Cleaning Services Small & Large Jobs Welcomed Contact Paris

0435 857 671

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

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Happy New Year A belated Happy New Year to everyone!! While the first month of 2021 has not been without its surprises, both welcome and not so welcome, there is much to be excited about.

With a large list to tackle, we started over the break, and the best part of this journey is that we are doing it together. Whether truck volume, community organisations in need of With Sandy Bolton MP a 'lick of paint', events uncertain or starting dates on 6 Mile Bridge…. we Member for Noosa are just now waiting for responses from our Xmas Eve letters to Departments, Ministers and the government subsidisation.

Premier.

There are many benefits. Owners are Housing crisis guaranteed their rentals with no arrears or loss of income through As you would be aware, we are vacancies, 24/7 emergency service currently experiencing a housing for tenants, and ensuring that any crisis, with workers and their families struggling to find affordable unfair wear and tear is covered after each tenancy. Alternatively, if you accommodation. As a result, in amongst other efforts, I have put the have been thinking about sharing call out for those looking to rent out your abode, there is urgent need so their property to consider the option please contact your preferred agent, community housing manager, or get of a ‘head-lease’ with one of the that ad in the paper and online. community housing providers.

Under the Property Law Act, a head- Every bit will help while we work on lease allows community managers to solutions via the Housing Action sublet their property to tenants with Group to address this crisis.

In addition, at the time of writing, 2021 has brought renewed uncertainty regarding COVID. Please make sure to keep updated via www.covid19.qld.gov.au. It has never been more important to stay vigilant as part of looking after our residents, businesses and community.

As always, Noosa 360 updates and our newsletter are available via www.sandybolton.com, including dates for the ‘Mobile’ office. If you are on Facebook, please join us at ‘Sandy Bolton MP’ as there is much to share.

Stay COVID-safe With limited space, remember to keep to your COVID-safe measures, and always be ready whether for fire, flood or storm. Having finally dealt with the last of the ‘hangers’ at home from the storm at the end of October, I look forward to now rebuilding our fences!

Blessings to all and yes, I adored my sleepover in those beautiful hills over the break. Only 2 nights, but it was heaven!

Happy 2021, everyone. May you have much happiness, good health and caring friends throughout the year.

POMONA COURTHOUSE NEWS The Registrar at Pomona Magistrates Court is happy to advise that COVID19 impact notwithstanding, our Courthouse continues to provide a full range of Court-based and agency services, every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with minimal changes, including the JP’s in the Community signing/ witnessing Site (as per this Schedule).

Community with convenience, good service and best practice by upskilling staff and providing support to nearby Registries. We will provide notice of these closures whenever possible by publishing in the Cooroora Connect and posting notice on the Registry doors.

DURING FEBRUARY POMONA COURTHOUSE WILL BE CLOSED However, the registrar does Wed 10th & Thurs 11th and Wed 17th & recommend you phone ahead to check Thurs 18th. The Court and JP service access and availability. In order to will continue to operate each Tuesday continue to provide continuity and and JP services will relocate to accessibility, the Registry will be Pomona Community House on staffed each Tuesday throughout the Wednesday afternoons (10th & 17th). year except due to illness, regardless of For information or referral, call the closures. The Court will only close for Pomona Magistrates Court (5487 1400) a part week during occasional Court or Pomona Community House sittings; we do this in order to (5485 2425). continue to provide you, our

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

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Your rights as a consumer

Young Women’s Collective Youth Group Age 12 - 18 Years Tuesday (Fortnightly) 3.30pm to 6.30pm

Young Men’s Collective Youth Group Age 10 - 14 Years Tuesday (Fortnightly) 3.30pm to 6.30pm Lawson Shed next to Pomona Community House Bookings & Information Phone 0432 561 270 or 5485 2427 Youth Group is hosted by Pomona Community House

Join the workshop to know your consumer rights.

Pomona Community House is hosting an information morning tea on Wednesday, 17 March at 9.30am in the Lawson Shed, 1 Memorial Ave, Pomona.

 Consumer guarantees

The guest speaker, who is from The Office of Fair Trading, will be talking about consumer rights and scams.

 What to look out for  How much money has

The session normally goes for about 45 mins and will allow for questions at the end.

Topics will include:

 When are you entitled to a refund?

and how to use them

 Lay-bys  How to lodge a 

 

complaint What OFT can do

been lost in last few years Why scams work Any local issues ie itinerant traders (bitumen bandits)

Morning tea will be provided after the talk.

Cost gold coin donation.

Bookings are required, please phone 5485 2427.

Work planned for courthouse Pomona Magistrates Court is getting a bit of an overhaul – prior to painting work the ramp will be replaced, gutters, roof, repairs as needed to building and outbuilding facilities and then external repaint to our heritagelisted building.

1930s. Work will commence early in February. Initially access may be affected, redirecting clients to the front entrance while the ramp and rear landing are replaced and then changing around as each component is completed.

Like for like to be in keeping with it’s Heritage status, some of the roof materials date back to the

Much of the work will be completed during the February closures.

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Grant will fund PCH youth activities The Pomona Community House is delighted to have been awarded $18, 891 from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR), Strengthening Rural Communities grants program.

FRRR aims to “connect common purposes and funding from government, business and philanthropy with the genuine local needs of rural people and places.”

(12 – 18 years) and young men (10 – 14 years). The program is underpinned by notions of respect, self-determination and responsibility and aims to develop self-confidence, leadership, selfexpression and regard for others.

It is intended that these young people The funds will be used to support local with the support of this program will contribute to FRRR’s vision - ‘a vibrant, youth through the Pomona Youth resilient and revitalised remote, rural Resilience and Well-being Project. and regional Australia’.

The program will provide free, regular For information about the program youth group meetings alternating please call 54852427. weekly between young women

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.

INDONESIAN Fun & Easy Language Courses 202 Small Groups Conversation focused Excellent for the Brain Health

Speak in Just 6 Weeks!

Day Class: 11 Feb - 18 Mar Every Thursday 9.30am -11am POMONA Community House Everyday Fluency in Just 30 Weeks!

The young women's group meets fortnightly in the school term.

BAREFOOT PHYSIO         

Registered Physiotherapists Registered Massage Therapist Sports Injuries PTSD Management Mob: 0415 734 180 Women’s Health Cranial & TMJ Release Fax: 5485 1168 Yoga Therapy / Acupuncture Chronic Injury / Pain Management Post Graduate Specialisation in Manual Adjustment Therapy

Evening Class: 10 Feb – 17 Mar Every Wednesday 6.30pm-8pm NOOSA Leisure Centre cont. after Easter

Highly Qualified Indonesian Teacher Albertina Banks Qld. Reg. 25yrs experience!

E: albertinabanks699@gmail.com P: 0429 329 743

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

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Landcare’s importance to local economy highlighted

It is easy to think of Noosa and District Landcare, based at Pomona yet serving the whole of the shire and beyond, as not being a business. In fact, it is Pomona’s second largest employer after Pages Furniture Factory, and a major contributor to the local economy through its wages payroll. Employee numbers exceed 50

– a fact brought home recently when the entire Landcare team gathered together for a staff training session. (See picture.) Even this is not Landcare’s full complement of employees. Seven staffers were missing - sick, on holidays or attending to important work when the picture was taken.

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New Hinter Hub outlet spurs on local revival Noosa and District Landcare’s role has been enhanced and expanded through the opening of the Hinter Hub outlet at Pomona. The official opening took place on 1 December, with the Mayor of Noosa, Cr Clare Stewart as guest of honour.

was closed. Upgrades take time. However we believe it opened at the perfect time for our little community of Pomona,” said Noosa Landcare’s General Manager, Phil Moran.

Local artisans and sustainable product makers were invited to stock the Hinter Hub is a destination Hinter Hub with their where residents and wares. Belinda Wedlock, visitors can obtain the Hinter Hub manager information about the said: “We have been blown natural assets and land away with the creativity management issues of the and quality of the products Noosa Hinterland, source being produced in the local sustainable artisan hinterland and encourage and natural history everyone to get behind our products and gifts, and local ‘makers’. COVID, with purchase local native all its negatives, has plants. certainly enabled many to explore their passions and Noosa Landcare closed get the creative juices down its smaller retail flowing again.” plant outlet in Station Street when the COVID-19 “We encourage our pandemic hit, and community to get behind subsequently retracted not only supporting Noosa plant sales to online and Landcare’s native plant phone orders, with pick-up nurseries, which employ via production nurseries on many locals … but also to the outskirts of town. support the many artisans and producers who are “We took the opportunity working with us, including to redevelop and upgrade the Pomona Men’s Shed,” our retail outlet while it Mr Moran said.

Mayor Clare Stewart and Landcare staff Belinda Wedlock and Keira McGrath cut the cake to mark the opening of the Hinter Hub centre in Station Street, Pomona. About 50 people attended the opening on Tuesday 1 December 2020.

FOR LEASE A prime multi-purpose space is available in the centre of Pomona with ample parking adjacent. This high-profile location is the ground floor area beneath Pomona Community House.

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

Contact Heather on 5485 2427 or 041 111 4077.

Interior and exterior photos of the new Hinter Hub information centre, nursery and gift outlet, featuring local artisans.

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University study reveals koala genetic differences The tenuous nature of continuous natural wildlife corridors between Noosa Heads and the hinterland has resulted in subtle genetic differences among populations of koalas living in each area, research by the University of the Sunshine Coast for the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation has revealed.

Using geographic imaging systems (GIS) analysis and koala scat detection by specially trained dogs, the researchers – Katrin Hohwieler, Sally Chudleigh, Dr Celine Frere and Dr Romane Cristescu – found that three clusters of koalas in the Ringtail and Yurol State Forests, A study by the University of the Sunshine Coast has revealed differences in the genetic Woondum National Park and at make-up of Noosa Shire’s hinterland and coastal koala populations.

West Cooroy-Tuchekoi could be regarded as one breeding population. each of those areas faced a ineffective. If genetic connectivity “Very low connectivity could be diminution of their gene pool, exists, we can assume that the found between these clusters and possibly affecting their genetic corridors work,” the research team Cluster 1 – Noosa Heads and diversity and survival in the longconcluded.

Tewantin,” their research paper term.

A total of 243 linkages were identified stated.

Among recommendations, the study between different pairs of koala “The identified two distinct ancestor team proposed this action: habitat nodes across the landscape in populations might be due either to “Consideration of incorporating koala the Noosa Region and beyond, of the population having different movement corridors into the Noosa which 135 were within the Noosa origins and restricted gene flows Trail or other networks to support Shire boundary. between them, or the restricted gene the protection of these corridors During the surveys, a total of 174 flow having enabled for population while promoting outdoor and ecofresh scats were collected for genetic differentiation through, for example, tourism.” analyses. An additional 28 samples a bottleneck and genetic drift in the Koalas are now classified as from surveys conducted in 2017 were smaller Noosa Heads population.” vulnerable in Queensland, New added to further boost the sample The study team recommended that South Wales and the ACT, with long- size as well as spread across the what it termed ‘pinch points’ (where term monitoring showing that landscape. Therefore, a total of 202 koalas find it difficult to move about certain populations are experiencing samples were processed for from one treed area to another) be sharp declines. genotyping. addressed. It suggested that The premise of the research paper, The GIS analysis showed that measures be taken to facilitate safe published in October 2020, was to connectivity, or linkages, between passage for koalas in the Weyba explore whether landscape the three highest value areas (Yurol Creek-Monks Bridge area, in State Forest, Tewantin National Park particular, and that revegetation and connectivity translates into genetic connectivity of koalas. and Harry Spring Conservation Park; conservation measures be initiated at Woondum National Park; and other key pinch point locations along “To determine if a corridor between high priority native animal migration two patches of koala habitat actually Toolara State Forest and Great Sandy National Park) were of good quality, corridors. connects koala populations, we can due mainly to these being protected investigate the gene flow between The group warned that unless proconservation areas. those two. active steps are taken to maintain However, more attention was needed and improve the wildlife corridors If patches that are connected by to preserve the wildlife corridors among the three hinterland cluster corridor(s) do not result in locations, the koala populations in measurable gene flow, the corridor is serving the koala clusters in the Noosa Hinterland.

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New information hub launched by council

Bushcare Group finds invasive vine in the heart of Kin Kin community

A dedicated information hub has been launched to further enhance transparency and accountability at Noosa Council.

Mayor Clare Stewart said the Open Council webpage provides residents with easier access to a raft of council information.

“This council remains committed to being as open and transparent as possible,” she said.

“Much of the information has always been available on the council’s website, but staff have now collated it and placed all relevant links and information in one section so the community has easier access and can better scrutinise how council spends ratepayers’ money.”

Information published on the webpage includes detailed financial records from council, purchasing data, current tenders, councillor expenses, capital program delivery schedule and allocation of council grants.

Cr Stewart and Deputy Mayor Frank Wilkie flagged the idea of an Open Council webpage, after attending a presentation at last year’s Local Government Association Queensland convention.

Cr Stewart said transparency, accountability and trust are at the heart of good governance.

“We are here to serve the community so it’s important we provide the mechanism for residents to monitor our decisions,” she said.

“The Open Council Hub has the full support of all councillors and demonstrates responsible and transparent decision-making.

I encourage residents to make use of the site to better understand how council operates and to stay well informed on a range of financial decisions,” she said.

The hub can be found here > https://www.noosa.qld.gov.au/open -council.

The fast-growing Madeira Vine, found at Kin Kin. The Kin Kin Bushcare Group has asked local landholders to check their properties for signs of the Madeira Vine – a very nasty and fastgrowing weed taking hold along Keys Creek in the heart of the village.

The group’s volunteers are going all out to eliminate this plant from the Keys Creek Conservation Area, especially focusing on spraying and collecting up the warty tubers that can fall to the ground and shoot new plants. The fear is that, unless checked, the vine could establish itself along the banks of Kin Kin Creek.

each leaf node and is a vigorous climber up and over other vegetation.

Cream coloured flower spikes up to 10cm long appear between December and April.

This weed can grow up to one metre per week in 'good' conditions.

Madeira Vine is considered one of Australia’s worst environmental weeds and people are required to take reasonable and practical steps to reduce the risk posed by this plant if they find it on their property – along waterways, disturbed areas and in sclerophyll forests.

Check the Queensland Department The eradication task could take up to of Agriculture and Forestry website a year. for more information: www.daf.qld.gov.au The Madeira Vine or Anredera cordifolia, has heart-shaped leaves 45cm long with wart-like tubers at

– With thanks to the Kin Kin Community Group

How you can help protect the environment Through the Bushland Care Program, Noosa Council partners with groups of community volunteers who find reward in contributing to positive change to the local environment.

The aim is to restore degraded bushland areas and reduce the

impact of weeds. There are 18 such groups across the shire, or new groups may be formed.

To discuss your interest, phone the Noosa Council Community Partnerships Officer on 5329 6500.

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Noosa Council News

Cr Stewart unveils plan to tackle Noosa’s lowcost housing options Noosa’s Mayor, Cr Clare Stewart, has instigated a plan for council land holdings to be examined with the aim of identifying allotments suitable for low-cost housing. Reviews of the council’s Local Economic Plan and Noosa’s planning scheme will also look to kick-start more affordable housing projects in the shire.

Mayor Clare Stewart Noosa Emergency Action Guide.

Mayor launches two weapons to help in future emergencies Noosa residents and businesses can now prepare better for natural disaster, with the release of the shire’s first Emergency Action Guide.

warnings, emergency news and road closures via email and/or text message.”

Cr Stewart said was another way to stay informed during times of a Produced by Noosa Council and the disaster.

Noosa Disaster Management Group, “With so much information released the 56-page guide has everything during a disaster event, it’s you need to know to prepare for, important that the community respond to and recover from receives reputable news that is disaster events. relevant to our shire. This initiative is such an important way for Noosa Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair, Cr Clare residents to keep updated,” Cr Stewart said.

Stewart, said being prepared for natural disaster was the best defense.

The guide was funded jointly by Noosa Council, the Queensland Government’s Get Ready initiative “This guide is not to alarm people, and Category C Bushfire Recovery but aims to ensure we all know what to do, where to go, and how to Program – a joint Queensland and Australian Government funded prepare and survive a natural program. The guide can be disaster,” she said. downloaded easily from the Noosa “It focuses on all types of natural Council website, https:// disasters with the safety of you, your bit.ly/33p8Len. family and property the fundamental priority,” Cr Stewart PLACE-MAKING PROGRESS told those attending the launch Ratepayers will know soon which event. town or locality in Noosa Shire has “Council has also launched a new been chosen for a pilot ‘place-making’ feature on its Disaster Dashboard study. Following adoption of the with an opt-in notification system,” Noosa Plan, the place-making she said. “Known as Noosa ALERT, exercise will capitalise on one it provides subscribers with the community’s assets, inspiration and latest news including weather potential, with the intention of

“We need to make sure we’re creating accommodation for our key workers such as hospitality staff, plus laying the foundation for more community housing options in Noosa,” Cr Stewart said.

“I am seeking the support of councillor, so we can make sure any potential planning scheme and policy changes we make are robust enough to achieve the housing outcomes our community desperately needs,” “Once Council staff have recommended planning scheme changes and potential affordable housing sites, we can start to consider which housing models are most suitable,” the mayor said.

“For this we’ll work in consultation with housing providers and local MP Sandy Bolton (Ind., Noosa) whose Housing Action Group is doing good work in this space.”

Cr Stewart said that while affordable housing was a state issue, Noosa Council had a role to play in bringing stakeholders together and assisting the housing industry and other levels of government to create affordable accommodation. creating public spaces that promote people's health, happiness and wellbeing. Councillors were informed at the December round of council meetings that a temporary position of ‘place program coordinator’ would be created in the Environment and Sustainable Development Department, for a period of one year to manage the project.

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Trails protected and Kabi Kabi consulted in state forest conversion project Existing walking and horse riding trails through the Yurol and Ringtail State Forests will be preserved as Noosa Council, the state government, the private sector and the Noosa Parks Association cooperate on a $3.5 million plan to convert 2400ha of forestry concessions to national park and prime habitat for the threatened koala and 22 other protected and endangered species.

Council CEO Brett de Chastel told councillors at their last general meeting for 2020 the conversion had the support of the local Indigenous Kabi Kabi people who would be consulted extensively.

“This land will become national park once the existing pine forest and some hardwood areas have had their final harvesting completed,” the CEO said.

Harvesting is under way and can be seen occurring either side of Yurol Forest Drive between Pomona and Cooroy.

“Part of the Noosa Trail already passes through this land and the Noosa Trail Masterplan envisages that to continue. Discussions with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service have

indicated support for those trails to be used through the proposed national park area in the short- and longterm,” Mr de Chastel said.

Conversion to national park would occur over a three- to seven-year timeframe.

“We have been working closely with the local Kabi Kabi leaders on this project over the past 18 months,” he said.

“This includes looking at opportunities to engage with the Kabi Kabi on regeneration activities, fire management and cultural heritage site reviews. The Kabi Kabi support this project and are keen to be involved. All parties to the existing agreements are also supportive of the Kabi Kabi being involved in future stages.”

Mr de Chastel reported that Noosa Council was working with the Department of Environment and Science regarding revegetation of plantation areas after harvesting. “The forest is expected to regenerate very quickly from natural seed and root stock. In some areas, weed control and plantings will assist in bringing the area back to a natural condition,” Mr de Chastel said.

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

PROJECT BACKGROUND In November 2018, a landmark agreement was reached to protect and enhance a major strategic forest corridor stretching from the Noosa Hinterland at Pomona to the Noosa River.

Through this agreement, Noosa Council, HQPlantations, the Queensland Government and the Noosa Parks Association are working together to transfer the 2400ha of the Yurol and Ringtail State Forests into National Park.

HQPlantations and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries have pine and hardwood plantation areas within both state forests. These areas need to be harvested before vegetation restoration can take place.

The harvesting techniques aim to retain natural regrowth, while the removal of plantation trees will provide an opportunity for natural vegetation to regenerate.

Cooroora Connect Advertising/Editorial deadline for the next issue: 12 February 2021 heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au

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 Kundalini Movement Meditation Yoga Dance (Tues) 10am –11am Contact: Debra McIntosh 0423 761 515 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 - 10.30am 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

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Patients need not be out of pocket for hospital visits Older hinterland residents requiring on-going transportation to and from the Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH) without driving themselves or being a burden on family and friends – or even having to pay for a costly taxi service – have a new way of making the journey, thanks to Noosa MP, Sandy Bolton.

Responding to calls for help to her office, Ms Bolton has arranged for constituents in need to access specialist medical services through

CUPPA, CAKE & CONVERSATION MORNING TEA 2ND & 4TH TUESDAY

an Australian Government patient transport service, part of its home care assistance for the elderly.

far they are away from SCUH to their home door, which is good deal more than 50km,” Ms Bolton said. “It’s Ms Bolton said the revamped service, unfair for those impacted.” known as ‘Be’, overcame an anomaly Through the Commonwealth My in the Queensland Government’s Aged Care assistance packages, Be Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme, provides many transport solutions to which provides support for patients help maintain and maximise required to travel more than 50km independence for frail, older people from the closest public hospital to and those living with a disability. Ms access specialist health services not Bolton said the new arrangements available locally. had helped Cooran and Kin Kin Ms Bolton said these patients under residents recently and would operate for a six-month trial initially, using the state scheme were covered for volunteer drivers. the cost of travel from the Noosa hinterland to Nambour Hospital, but Whereas an Uber trip from Noosa to that ended when they were the SCUH cost $120 one-way, the new transferred to SCUH. service was one-third that price.

10AM TO 11.3OAM $3 Donation Lawson Shed

This is because the Birtinya-based facility is less than 50km from Nambour. The subsidy kicks in only when the medical services the patient requires are located 50km or more from their home.

All Welcomed

“The criteria does not measure how

“We shouldn’t have people who are really, really ill and not financially able not to be subsidised,” she said.

For more information, phone Sandy Bolton’s office on 5319 3100.

Proudly serving Pomona & the Hinterland Community for over 36 years

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Anxious wait for fate of St Luke’s to be decided February was the month the Anglican Church in Australia Brisbane Archdiocese had set itself to decide the fate of 94-year-old St Luke’s Church, Kin Kin, following consultation with the local community, which wishes to retain the building for public use.

More likely it will be deconsecrated as a church and sold.

Ricki Cooper, the leader of a working group established by the Kin Kin Community Group to examine possible future uses for the church, said no clear alternatives had emerged.

Talks of St Luke’s becoming a Steiner School for between 15 and 30 students have been conducted directly with the Anglican Church, he said.

“In the process of our deliberations, a few people came to town with a view to using the building for possible commercial purposes and that has put us on the back foot,” Mr Cooper said.

At a public meeting in September 2020, the bishop for the Diocese of Brisbane Northern Region, the Right Rev. Jeremy Greaves, said he was willing to listen to any approaches from community groups with proposals for future uses of the premises. The church’s property office was approached for comment. The advice received was that the sale of St Luke’s would be considered at the February meeting of the Diocesan Financial Services Commission meeting, its first for the new year.

Commercial vacancies open up at Pomona as business moves The move by Connection Auto Services from the Caltex Service Station to 11 Factory Street, Pomona, has created a concentrated vehicle service centre also incorporating Aarons A1 Auto Electrics and a car detailing business adjacent to the Pomona ‘mid-life crisis’ Laundromat, itself up for sale.

through Ray White Commercial. It has a solid 3x3 year lease. Tracey Ryan may be contacted for details, phone 0421 981 490.

The front section of 15 Factory Street has been vacant for some time and has prime presentation to the street. Around the corner, at 25 Hill Street, factory warehouse space is available for rent and this may be The car mechanical space it has left reconfigured to create a 2000 sq m is one of a series of commercial purpose-built floorspace; phone property vacancies that has opened 0438 742 250 for further up and is being eyed off by information. The popular potential renters interested in Mountain Stop Cafe business is for taking up occupancy within the sale, phone 0455 021 511. light industrial side of town, east of TIGHT RENTAL MARKET the railway tracks.

The Hollyhock Cottage building is As newcomers snap up property, others downsize and investors being marketed by Colliers International’s Johnny Gooderham search for a bargain, Pomona’s (phone 0499 980 259). A few doors vacancy rate for rental property has down, the Pomona Medical Centre shrunk to just 0.23 per cent, according to the website building is being offered for sale realestateinvestor.com.au.

HISTORIC PUB FOR SALE Kin Kin’s 106-year-old Country Life Hotel is for sale at an asking price of $1.1 million. The iconic pub has plenty of personality and potential according to business broker Ron Currey.

Its front bar is full of memorabilia and nostalgia, featuring the town’s past, while a rustic function area out back can cater to all events involving food and drink. The kitchen and bistro were renovated recently. Upstairs are six bed and breakfast rooms.

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

Centrelink / Medicare Access Point

Pomona Community House 1 Memorial Ave Pomona

9am to 4pm Mon - Frid    

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

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

Pomona Bowls Club News Cooroy wins Warner Harris Shield In the battle for the Warner Harris Shield, conducted on Saturday, 28 November, teams from Cooroy and Pomona Bowls Clubs competed, with Cooroy winning 87 to 57. It was the first time Cooroy had won the shield since 2006.

Picture: Roley Hassall, Greens Director, and Maureen Bottomley, President of Cooroy Bowls Club, accepting the shield from Shayne Murray, Secretary of the Pomona Bowls Club.

Ready for the Hinterland Challenge The Pomona Bowls Club men's section has again nominated for the Hinterland Challenge. The season kicks off in early February and runs through to the end of March.

Meanwhile, Pomona has regained the River men/Mountain men shield.

RSL and Vets - Jack Dibble and Charlie Dewhirst Selectors - Rick, Gary and Patrick Delegate to the Board - Rick, with Patrick a proxy.

There still is an opening for viceThe club thanks Greg Hodder who president if organises all four games throughout anyone is the year. interested.

In annual elections, Rick Goulding was elected president, with other positions filled as follows: President - Rick Goulding Secretary - Jim McDougall Games Controller - Gary Evans

Rick Goulding with the River men/Mountain men shield.

Vale Betty Hallett, club life member Pomona & District Community House acknowledges funding from Department of Communities Noosa Council

Club members were saddened to hear of the loss of Betty Hallett (pictured), who passed away on 27 November 2020. She was 95 and continued to play bowls well into her eighties.

Betty held the position of Ladies President in 1985, also Patroness and life member. During her time bowling at Pomona she won many championship events and will be remembered fondly by her many friends.

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Roundabouts Well, the new year started with a bit of a whimper. Most people seem understandably worn out by 10 months of uncertainty. While probably keen to wash away 2020, folks generally didn’t go too wild over the new year.

But we’re still on the COVID roundabout. There is some relief at the easing of restrictions, tempered by new outbreaks, and new virus strains; and the return of border controls and movement restrictions in the community.

PLOD’S PAGE

the vehicle (or horse) altogether if you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Happy to be wrong

by Sgt Dan McNamara OIC Pomona Police Station

Ph: 5480 1733

motor vehicle if you are able to readily put it into motion. The most Sincerely, those vulnerable small businesses and operators still in the common example of this would be if you’re in the front seat with the keys game after all this deserve a in the ignition, or readily accessible. resilience award. Speaking personally, I’ll gladly take the vaccine It would be easy to start and drive the car. It’s a big call for the law and as I believe it’s only fair to you the the public to trust someone under public, our families and colleagues who we’re in constant contact with, the influence of liquor or a drug to exercise rational, safe judgement and to do what can be done to manage not risk it and just wake up and and stop this thing. drive. The offence is created to Park it preclude that possibility.

Going on the questions still regularly If you have absolutely no other asked by young drivers, I believe many aren’t across the various drink- options, sleep in the back seat and leave the car keys with another and drug-driving-related offences, particularly when deemed ‘in charge’ person away from the vehicle to of a motor vehicle. Heard of a person prevent potentially being charged.

Essentially you have to clearly sleeping it off in their parked car in manifest your intention ‘not to drive’ the front seat after a big night drinking being charged by police? It to police. It’s a sad day when a decent hard-working person has sounds harsh, right, as they were their licence, and possibly job, taken trying to do the right thing and not away through a lack of basic legal drive. However, essentially the law knowledge. So please pass this on. deems that you are in charge of a It’s safer again to just stay away from

Way back in about 2005, I almost fell off my perch when the Liquor Licensing Department informed me of plans to open a licensed venue at the Cooran footy club, so much so that I lodged an objection. You have to remember that back then, when there were just two overworked cops in Pomona, Cooran punched way above its weight in jobs. It accounted for 80 per cent of our total calls for service - a lot of it though alcoholinduced behaviours.

The provision of a local pub to feed them more grog, especially after a big footy match, was the last thing we wanted. So I sat down with the president and applicant, Cooran local Ron Greentree and he readily assured me he would run a good venue and not tolerate bad behaviour at the premises or let the community be affected adversely.

From then until he recently retired, I can assure you, Ron ran one of the most professional licensed venues I have ever seen, with great benefit to the community. We had almost nil policing-related issues at the club and I’m sure his retirement is well deserved. His leadership will be sorely missed. Have a few on me mate, very happy to be wrong.

Until next time, be good to each other.

Yellow lines mean no parking outside The Majestic Theatre The faded yellow line on the roadway outside The Majestic Theatre has been repainted and has been joined, for emphasis, by a second along the edge of the gutter, just to reinforce the message that motorists should not park vehicles there.

Not having vehicles park outside The Majestic allows for a better line of sight for road users at the Factory Street/Hill Street corner. By not having cars and buses park in front of the theatre makes safer the entrance and exit to the adjacent Shell Service Station. The new Noosa Plan ‘character framework concept’ for Pomona indicates this spot for reconstruction and landscaping to become an ‘entrance statement’ for the town centre proper.

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New tuckshop and garden planned for Cooran School COORAN – In 2021, the Cooran State School P & C has set itself the objective of raising funds to build a new kitchen garden and tuckshop in conjunction with The Living Classroom Project at the school.

District News Farewell to dedicated duo

Managed with the assistance of Permaculture Noosa, the Living Classroom Project is an outdoor learning program where students explore practical life skills such as designing their own vegetable gardens, growing and then preparing food and the importance of regenerative practices such as soil building, water saving and composting – all while getting out in nature and being active.

After they master the techniques of gardening, students will be able to harvest and prepare their produce in a kitchen paid for through the fundraising efforts.

OUR THREE TOP CONCERNS REGION — Noosa MP, Sandy Bolton, says she is not surprised by the responses to her ‘your say’ annual community survey.

The top three local specific State Government issues for at least 60 per cent of survey respondents are Noosa River management, health services and parks and national parks.

Gary and Pam Stewart (above) have decided to end their epic association with the Kin Kin State School and move to Brisbane to be closer to family there.

KIN KIN –Students at the Kin Kin State School return to their classrooms in 2021 without seeing the familiar face of teacher Pam Stewart, a muchloved staff member who served the school for an impressive 33 years.

She and husband Gary, who operated the school bus for 23 years, were farewelled at a school assembly late last year.

The next chapter in their lives will be retirement in Brisbane, where they will

be closer to children and grandchildren. The couple were in their twenties when they first moved to Kin Kin, Pam to take up a position first as a teacher’s aide and later as teacher.

They agree it was the best thing they could have done and leave with fond memories.

Pam says she will miss her ‘school family’. "We've always loved the kids, their innocence, their sense of humour, she said.

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Rock climbers challenged

by Mt Cooroora cliff faces

EXPLORING NOOSA’S ‘OUTBACK’ Did you know that Lake Cootharaba is Queensland’s largest saltwater lake? It is one of the fascinating items of interests in the latest issue of Noosa Outback – a quarterly tourist magazine, circulation 10,000, distributed free across the hinterland and Mary Valley.

The photography is stunning, and features all of our local villages.

Two pages are devoted to each of the towns of Boreen Point, Cooran, Pomona, Kin Kin and Cooroy.

The 48-page booklet is published by Tribal Communities Inc. Check it out online: www.noosaoutback.com.au. Do your bit for local tourism and send the link to friends and family interstate.

COOROORA SCREENS & BLINDS 19a Factory Street, Pomona P: 5485 1287 / M: 0419 655 901

A climber tackles the sheer rock walls of Mt Cooroora.

We all know Mt Cooroora is famous for the annual race up the mountain every year, but our most striking natural feature increasingly is becoming renowned among rock climbers for myriad routes to the top, to which they have assigned names such as ‘Summit Blocks’ and the ‘Chimney of Doom’.

On the north-west face is ‘Dinosaur Wall’, close by the ‘Prehistoric Beetle Junk’ – the whole mountain is mapped through the lexicon of climbers, such as Zac Trembath-Pitham, who get to name the route they climb first.

Their exploits are documented on The Crag website, www.thecrag.com/en/

climbing/australia.

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However, a thesaurus might be required to understand the rock climbers jargon, such as this: “Many of the routes start at the ‘Snake Ledges’, 40m off the deck.

Access to this is via climbing either ‘Surface Complexity’, ‘Every Creeping Thing’ or ‘Touching the Tartan’.

After reaching ‘Adventure Time Wall’, walk leftwards along the cliff face until some impressive overhangs are in sight.

This is the ‘Main Wall’.

The site warns climbers to be respectful of the environment. For instance, the ‘Snakes Ledges’ are home to falcons.

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

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