Cooroora Connect July 2021

Cooroora Connect July 2021

An Initiative of Pomona & District Community House

Sunday 25 July 2021 The iconic Pomona King Of The Mountain Challenge is celebrating 42 years and is a highlight on the hinterland calendar.

RUNNERS RETURN TO THE MOUNTAIN On the fourth Sunday of July, the town of Pomona comes alive for the King of the Mountain festival. This year, however, the festival is going to look different. Both the Zinc 96.1 Prince and Princess Race and the Bendigo Bank International Mountain Challenge will be run on the same day.

to return to the finish line and cheer on the main race runners.

Long-time Pomona school teacher, Leslie Saunders, has been training the local runners in preparation for the race: the children scale the first section of the main race before turning right and heading along the With just the two races taking place, tourist pathway, looping back to the those who visit Pomona on the There will be no market stalls, no base of the mountain, and then on to 25 July will experience the rawness of the finish line near the Lions Den. additional entertainment and no what started out as a pub bet long school relays, but the mountain will The 3.4km race has been run in as captivate attendees like never before. before there was even a designated track to the summit of Mt Cooroora. fast as 16 minutes and 15 seconds, so The essence of running up and down if you plan on being there at the start, a mountain is pure and raw. There is This year is all about the runners don’t wander off or you may miss the nowhere to hide from the inevitable tackling the mountain, witnessed by finish. There is truly something those who understand the purity of burn in the legs, the gasping for air moving about watching youngsters and the struggle of finding some sort that challenge. giving it their all. Registration is on of running form to carry yourself Running the Prince and Princess online for the Prince and Princess back to the finish line immediately Race prior to the main race will give event. after the frantic descent. the 9 to 13 year-olds the opportunity Continued page 3 Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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King of the Mountain…the very first race and the early years

by Rachel Bridger

hot, delivered the preplaced sealed envelope he In 1958 when Bruce Samuels, a local footballer had collected at the mountain top to the hotel and railway porter, door. The stopwatch announced to drinkers in the Railway Hotel he’d run recorded his time at just 35 to the top of Mt. Cooroora minutes. and back in less than an One of the first to shake hour, he was nearly Webb's hand was "Hillary" laughed out of the joint.

Samuels who later “I’ll prove it” he declared. announced he would do some preparation and The challenge was set for attempt to recapture his 22 March and with no record. And that was how special preparation it first began, so the story Samuels set off. To the goes…. amazement of many, not only did he do it, he smashed it, coming home with 20 minutes to spare.

He became town hero overnight and was nicknamed "Hillary" Samuels, after Everest mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary.

The feat was recorded on the bar wall, where Barry Webb, a 21yr old Brisbane man, spotted it in 1959.

Barry was no speedster but he had stamina, and claimed he could beat Samuels’ time.

Just a week later, with little fanfare or publicity, somehow everyone knew it was on and just before 2.30pm the street outside the hotel was packed.

Webb, ruddy faced and

The first formal race was held on 27 June 1959, each runner having to complete the course before the next was allowed to start. Frank Mainwaring won in 31:51, Samuels ran a painfully close second at 31:52. There were more races for the “Gold Crest Cup” over the next decade or so but somehow the race slipped from the calendar.

In 1979 the Cooroy Pomona Lions Club was looking to create an event to promote Pomona.

Finding the original trophy in a box in the shed behind the ambulance station (QATB), Lions decided to revive the race as "Pomona King of the Mountain Race". In a first, to add

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drama and spectacle, all the racers started together.

It was all a bit experimental so numbers were limited to 25 for safety.

To add more interest and an international dimension, the Pomona team partnered with the organisers of the Kawerau King of the Mountain Festival in New Zealand to The new format was a hit with racers, spectators and create the trans-Tasman challenge. Each year the sponsors alike. winners of the local race Each year, as the race are sent to compete in the protocols were refined rival race across the ditch, (downhill runners have a tradition that has now right of way on the narrow been on-going for over 35 sections), the number of years and competition for entrants was allowed to bragging rights remains increase, eventually being fierce. capped at 100.

In both 1987 and 1988 As the race grew, Lions Barry Stewart of Cooroy joined forces with local Pomona Lions and Stan school teacher Stan Topper Topper were named Noosa whose P&C team were Shire Citizens of the Year raising money to build for their contribution to Pomona swimming pool. the King of the Mountain With access to the school Festival. grounds in Reserve Street Stan remained a key (now Stan Topper Park) member of the race the race day “side show alley” expanded to include committee until he was no all sorts of novelty fun and longer able, sadly passing away in 1990. games for all, from Billy Cart Racing, Wood Barry Stewart is a valuable Chopping, Catch a Greasy member of the Cooroy Pig and the World Thong Pomona Lions and is still Throwing Competition, involved in organising the creating a real festival feel. King Of The Mountain Race days in 1983 and 1984 event. added a massive $8400 to Check out the King of the the pool fund, as well as Mountain website for more contributing to other local details. causes. www.kingofthemountain.com.au

CORRECTION In the June 2021 issue story titled: Fact or Fiction?

Dispelling the myth of the community-built Pomona Swimming Pool that the school is keeping to itself, it stated Stan Topper was a member of the Cooroy Pomona Lions Club. He was not.

The story also implied the first King of the Mountain Race was conducted in 1983. It was in fact held in 1979.

From 1983, Stan Topper was a member of the race committee for a number of years.

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Princes and Princesses in their stride at this years event From page 1 Those who run mountains will remember each and every mountain race they participate in.

Even many years later, the emotionfilled moments of victory, despair, struggle and sacrifice will rise above the usual challenges of day-to-day life. With origins dating back over four decades, this mountain challenge has a deep history filled with stories of those who have been part of the journey.

In 2019, local film producer, Jacob Schiotz, spotted the beauty in all that the King of the Mountain festival offers. A few emails, phone calls and cinnamon donuts later, the The Zinc Prince and Princess Race will be held on Sunday 25 July at 1pm. decision was made that creating a The warm-up and introduction of documentary on the festival was a no be a Pomona True Value Hardware Bike Ride in the surrounding the Bendigo Bank International -brainer.

Pomona bushland.

Mountain Challenge runners begins 2020 was going to be the year that at 2pm at the roundabout near the the festival was captured in all of its Registration starts at 8am at the lower corner of Stan Topper Park. flourishing glory; but COVID forced corner of Hospital and School streets The starting gun fires at 2:30pm and a rethink. With no festival last year, in Pomona. This non-competitive ride caters to all skills and is a spectators can watch the runners the stripped-back 2021 festival is now perfect opportunity to enjoy the surge towards the mountain. Come centre stage. trails on a Sunday morning. down, support the brave runners, Runners on the day will stand on the and experience the race like never The Prince and Princess Race is not shoulders of all those that have run before. Even without the rides, stalls accepting registrations on the day. before them, and both races will be and additional entertainments, you'll All runners must have registered recorded as not only a form of art online by 23 July. The race begins at still be guaranteed to feel the event's but as a time capsule of the rich buzz. For more information, visit 1pm at the Lions Den opposite the history of this gruelling endeavour. www.kingofthemountain.com.au.

In the morning on race day there will top corner of Stan Topper Park.

ANTIQUES &COLLECTABLES FAIR The Pomona Antiques and Collectibles Fair, held in the Pomona Memorial Hall, runs over the Pomona King of the Mountain weekend from Saturday 24 July from 8am to 4pm and Sunday 25 July from 8am to 3pm.

A variety of antiques and collectables will be on sale from toys, tools, fine furniture, paintings, china, jewellery, books, linen, art deco, coins and military memorabilia.

Entry fee is $6 for adults and children accompanying an adult will be admitted free of charge. The fair will go ahead if COVID restrictions at the time allow.

For more information please contact Clive or Jane Ford on 5485 2028.

Prince and Princess Training Leslie Saunders will be conducting training days on the track once a week. Training day to be Thursday 3.15pm (school term) meeting at the Lions Den on Mountain Street, Pomona.

All parents must stay for the training. Training days will be advertised on our King Of The Mountain facebook page.

Cooroy Pomona Lions Club would like to thank our funding partners: Noosa Council, Bendigo Bank Pomona, Pomona True Value Hardware, Zinc 96.1, Cooroy Rag and local businesses.

Pomona King Of The Mountain is a project of the Cooroy Pomona Lions Club.

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Noosa Qld Day Awards highlight all that’s great about our local community achievements

Noosa Queensland Day Awards winners celebrated at the Noosa J on 6 June.

Where would we be without our volunteer workforce?

held at The J.

A total of 25 people from a broad range of community On 6 June, we celebrated and business sectors, Queensland Day right including community across this great state. associations, professional services, sporting clubs, In Noosa, a deserving regional events and local bunch of volunteers was honoured a few days earlier initiatives, received a Queensland Day medallion at the Noosa Electorate and certificate of Queensland Day Awards

appreciation.

Older people are indeed over-represented in the volunteering community, but the ceremony also showcased a younger, emerging group of volunteers. The concert band from St. Teresa’s Catholic College shared their musical talents to

treat the audience to an entertaining variety of songs to kick off proceedings.

Young and old, community members celebrated the spirit of our community and our collective dedication to protecting our unique culture.

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Majestic Theatre volunteers Michael Egan, Alison Hadfield, Natasha Riley and Vince Scheenhouwer (far right) with Rosemary Burrows (second from right) who actively volunteers at the Noosa Show Society.

Virtually every person who lives in Noosa has made a conscious decision to come here and having made that decision have joined a not-for-profit group of their choice to give back.

Since its inception six years ago, the awards have honoured hundreds of locals. In partnership with major sponsors, Bendigo Bank and Noosa Today, Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton thanked both local businesses for their ongoing support.

“The fact that we all have such a strong connection with each of those honoured last night makes the awards ceremony all the more special,” Sandy shared.

“We couldn’t present the awards without their help and look forward to this sort of support for many years to come. With so many amazing volunteers in our community, it’s time to think about who we can honour in 2022,” she said.

Pomona Meals on Wheels volunteer, Peter Hodgson (left) is congratulated by Stephen Hilditch.

Cooroora Connect Deadline for August issue is 17 July heather@pomonacommunityhouse.com.au Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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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 - Fri    

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 & District Community House acknowledges funding from Department of Communities Noosa Council

Kabi Kabi to be consulted about trails name, construction work Construction work on the Trail 5 section of the Noosa Trail Network between Cooran and Pomona could start as early as next month, Principal Environmental Officer with Noosa Council, Peter Milne, told members of the trails reference group meeting at Cooran recently.

The Kabi Kabi First Nations people would be consulted about information to be provided to trail users through signs and Smartphone apps activated by QR matrix barcodes and they would be asked to suggest an Indigenous name for the trail, he said.

In further developments, a short loop trail will be investigated at Mt Cooran, via Henry Street, subject to landowners’ agreement, and the feasibility of horse trailhead facilities being located at the base of Mt Cooroora, rather than the showgrounds, will be explored.

Peter Milne, Noosa Council. facilities at Pomona and Cooran is now $1.44 million after the council deducted a $170,000 ‘management fee’ from the initial $1.61 million federal-state grant.

The sites at Cooran have been settled (Chris Kenny Park and Pioneer Park). From the Pomona town centre, the preferred trail corridor would be along the route used by King of the Mountain runners, past the Lions Den.

Meanwhile, survey work is continuing on the trail to determine the nature of remedial work, improvements (including dedicated mountain bike sections) and short walking loops from Cooran and Pomona to cater to those who want a small trails experience, Mr Milne said.

Mr Milne was addressing the third meeting of the trails reference group, which is advising Noosa Council about the project. The amount of money available for the trails work and for ‘trailhead’

He revealed maps showing how the hinterland section of the 110km overall trails network could be connected to the coast, eventually to extend the trails experience across the shire.

Free Tax Help available at the Pomona Community House Tuesday 17 August BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Phone 5485 2427 For people earning under $60,000 *Must have a My Gov Account*

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Focus on history, murals coordinator tells Pomona An idea to make Sheffield, Tasmania, Australia’s premier ‘murals town’ is credited with saving the local bank, post office and economy, attracting artists and galleries and drawing thousands of tourists annually keen to view its 60 murals and help celebrate the annual ‘muralsfest’.

The advice of Charlotte King, head of Sheffield Inc. – the community group that manages the murals scattered throughout the town of 1600 and district, near Devonport – is for any community contemplating a similar Cooroy doesn’t take itself too seriously in this mural featured on an otherwise bland blank concept to focus on the area’s history wall of a local butcher. for inspiration.

Kentish Municipality’s 140 Ms King is a member of the council’s She emphasised the point in a recent permanent outdoor murals in town public art committee, which Zoom video conference call with and across several surrounding considers applications for new Pomona and District Community villages in North-West Tasmania. murals.

House community coordinator, “The aim is for Sheffield to be a Commenting on his municipality’s Kathryn Shewring, who presented vibrant centre for mural art and for premier murals status, Kentish the Pomona as a mural town concept tourists who stay a while and explore Mayor Tim Wilson said: “I personally to local businesses on 16 June.

Cradle Mountain, Mole Creek, like that there’s a lot to learn about Ms King’s comments are particularly Railton and Wilmot, using it as a Kentish through looking at our apt, as Pomona is known as Noosa’s base," Ms King said. “Stick with murals that tell the stories of the Living Heritage Town and is home to murals that focus on history, because area.” the Noosa Shire Museum, which has that is what makes any town unique -With thanks to The Advocate, 9000 photographs of the shire’s and they tell a story that outsiders Burnie, Tasmania. history that could provide inspiration want to know,” she said. for locally-based murals.

If you would like to join the Kentish Council donates $5000 a year conversation about murals and Sheffield is rich in history and lore to Sheffield Inc. for new murals and mosaics there will be a meeting in and the murals it displays largely $10,000 for the upkeep of existing the Lawson Shed on Thursday, depict the culture, lifestyles and murals. Businesses also sponsor new July 29 at 10.00am. Feel free to join personality of its citizens, past and murals. us. present. Sheffield Inc. maintains the

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Open day to mark centenary of Pomona Uniting Church While 25 March marked the centenary of the opening of the Pomona Uniting Church (formerly the Methodist Church), celebrations at the end of this month will commemorate the milestone officially.

community.

Following is a brief history of the church:

Right: The original Pomona Methodist Church in Factory Street, now the Uniting Church.

Methodist Church services were held in Pomona prior to 1921 – firstly in the Inter-denominational Church, built in Rectory Street in the early On Saturday 31 July there will be an 1900s. This building burnt down in Open Day at the church in Factory about 1911, after which services were Street, to be held in conjunction with held in a hall in the town. the Noosa Shire Museum, from 10am to 2pm. Everyone is invited, not just On 25 March 1921, the current church building was officially opened the present-day congregation.

by Rev. Dr H. Youngman, a former The church will feature a historical President-General of the Methodist display, as well as period décor, with Church of Australasia. The first refreshments served in the hall. A Minister was a Rev. Grayson. The jumping castle and face painting will church was built by Messrs be available for children. Next door, McConnell and Bale; the pulpit was the museum will open for anyone made and donated by Messrs Page wishing to view exhibits featuring and Scope and the seats by Mr the early days of our area.

McConnell.

On Sunday 1 August, the 9.30am By 1922 the church was free of debt. morning service will be a further The first lights used were two celebration of 100 years of continual benzine lanterns and later, carbide witness and worship in the Pomona

lights were installed. In 1942, the Ladies Guild installed electric lights in the building.

In 1925, a church from Kareewa (in the Cootharaba area) was moved and erected as a hall at the back of the church.

For more information, or if you have photos, memorabilia or memories to share, please contact David Cramb (email: crambs5@bigpond.com or phone: 0427 677 678) or Allan Mulcahy (email: allan@qmp.net.au or phone 0403 052 125).

NEW MARKETING SLOGAN REVEALED The new tourist information kiosk that will promote our district to visitors from its position outside the Pomona IGA supermarket will use the marketing slogan Noosa Hinterland Villages – Mountains of Adventure.

Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce has revealed the slogan, saying it is a reference to our three prominent mountains of the Northern Hinterland and the villages along the Noosa Country Drive, as well as the nature-based tourism opportunities of the Noosa Trails Network.

Firefly Solutions Marketing and Event Management is working on the digital content of the Pomona touch screen kiosk, which has been funded using a $20,000 grant from Tourism Noosa.

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Pumped hydro power proposal for our region The Queensland Government has commissioned Powerlink, the publicly-owned electricity transmission company, to undertake a $22 million detailed design study and cost analysis into a one gigawatt ‘pumped hydro’ power station at Borumba Dam, 42 km from Pomona in the Mary Valley.

The project has potential to double the generation capability and triple the energy storage of the existing pumped hydro station at Wivenhoe Dam. It would supply the energy needed by an estimated 1.5 million homes and firmly set Queensland on the path to progress to 50 per cent power generation through renewables by 2030.

And should the clean energy station proceed to construction, 2000 building jobs would be created, the state government announced last month. The workforce spending power would represent a huge

boost to the Mary Valley and Northern Noosa Hinterland economy.

“We’re investing $22 million to potentially unlock a multi-billiondollar construction project that would leverage billions Improvements to lakeside facilities form part of a proposal to use Lake Borumba to generate ‘pumped hydo’ power. more in clean energy investment and support picnics on the lake front Mick de Brenni, observed thousands of jobs,” said and this possible expansion that the benefits of having Treasurer, Cameron Dick. will see that grow,” Mr pumped hydro as part of a One of three ministers Dick said. diversified energy mix was involved in the major proven recently when the Pumped hydro balances announcement, Mr Dick coal-fired Callide Power the electricity network, said the business case Station went offline. “We using power generated would include detailed were able to ramp up the from other sources, engineering and design, Wivenhoe Hydro-electric including solar and wind hydrological modelling, Station to provide critical farms, and ‘storing’ it for geological testing, an later use. Unneeded power generation support and assessment of stabilise the network. environmental impacts and in the grid is used to pump “Pumped hydro storage is water to a higher elevation. community consultation.

When electricity is needed, flexible, reliable, and That consultation would complements renewable include discussions around the water is released and energy generation such as runs through turbines to recreation and lakeside solar and wind,” he said. generate electricity. facilities, such as trails, Powerlink will undertake picnic spots and barbecues “More pumped hydro initial works in the coming – further incentivising means more long-term, months by engaging with a visitation to our region. reliable energy and jobs for range of stakeholders, including Seqwater, local “Borumba Dam is already a Queenslanders,” said Premier Anna Palaszczuk. community, environmental hub of activity with water Minister for Energy, groups and Traditional skiing, camping, BBQs and Renewables and Hydrogen, Owners.

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 Email: pononamarketsqld@gmail.com

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Pomona Courthouse Changes The Pomona Magistrates Court is changing operational days. Pomona Court will continue to operate three days a week, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, providing a full range of Justice and Agency (other Qld Government) services, along with Justices of the Peace Community Program.

Pomona Court will be closed from Monday 12 July to Tuesday 2o July while the Registrar assists the Gympie Courthouse. The Court House office will be open both Wednesdays.

While the JP site at the Courthouse will be unavailable during this closure, a JP will be diverted to the Pomona and District Community House each Tuesday afternoon 13 and 20 July from 1-3pm to assist you.

This process will continue during any future temporary closures and there will always be signage on the building doors and the Red Street-facing signage next to the Police Station.

To check availability at PCH please call 5485 2427.

For other enquiries please contact the Court House on our new number 5487 1401.

Kin Kin says farewell to St Luke’s Anglican Church

By Nick Thompson Father Kevin Lewis described it as “a melancholy day for all of us”.

requiring major repairs as recently as 1985, had been especially painful.

It became apparent during discussions that today’s After 95 years of service, St parishioners were scared they might be letting down Luke’s Anglican Church in all those who had worked to Kin Kin has been officially fundraise, build, maintain de-consecrated and is now an historic country building and care for the church rather than a formal place of during its life. worship.

But times, he admitted, One of the oldest churches have changed.

While St Luke’s was a in Noosa Shire, St Luke’s church that met the needs opened on 19 November of the community when it 1926 with a dedication ceremony conducted by the was built, more than 70 per Archbishop of Brisbane, Dr cent of Australians now say that religion is not Gerald Sharp. personally important to That service was attended them. by what the Brisbane Bishop Jeremy urged the Courier reported as “a congregation to look to the remarkable gathering of future and face the over 300 persons, representatives of all creeds challenges. “We need to be a church that listens to this being in attendance". new world in which we find Last Saturday’s formal ourselves,” he said. service of thanksgiving and After the formal ceremony, closure was attended by the congregation and barely two dozen parishioners and officials – a church officials gathered for reflection of the changes in a recreation of the photo taken on the church steps society. when it was dedicated in Bishop Jeremy Greaves, who November 1926. conducted the 2021 service said it shared elements of a Two contrasts became immediately apparent. funeral with people saying goodbye and recalling their Surprisingly, while everyone looked rather glum at the memories of the place and opening, they were all its past. smiling at the farewell. And As Bishop of the Northern in 1926 nearly everyone Region of the Brisbane sported a hat while in 2021 Diocese, he has had to the only headgear in sight conduct five similar closures was the bishop’s mitre. in the past five years, each The de-consecration of St time with a heavy heart.

Luke’s as a place of worship The decision to close St marks the end of a Luke’s, which suffered significant chapter in Kin extensive storm damage Kin’s history.

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Cooroy Pomona Lions Club

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

“Books Galore” Great Bargains & Prices St Luke’s Anglican Church, Kin Kin The hinterland town once had three churches (Anglican, Roman Catholic and Methodist/Uniting) but now, like many other small country towns, it finds itself with none.

This, Archbishop Gerald Sharp warned in the church’s first sermon back in 1926, is a situation that could lead to people “drifting back to paganism”.

But in 2021 the people of Kin Kin seem to be more concerned about what will happen to the simple but elegant timber building and its gardens in the days ahead.

Anglican authorities say there are no immediate plans to put the property

up for sale. A number of prospective tenants have inquired about leasing the main hall and annex and the hope is that someone will take them over with community services in mind.

Father Kevin, currently locum priest in the Cooroora parish, would like to see the building become a hub for arts and crafts workshops or for training in areas like cookery and hospitality.

This would still allow religious services to be held from time to time.

ONE ON ONE COMPUTER LESSONS @ Pomona Community House Call 5485 2427 to book a one-on-one lesson

Cooroy Pomona Lions Den Mountain Street Pomona Donations of books welcomed Ph: 0434 612 149

Glen Buckley "Draw the Line" exhibition is in the Carriage Room 3rd July - 5th Aug **** Jo Gabe "The Eclectic Works of Jo Gabe" in the Banana Shed 10 - 27 July **** Art Market in the Paddock 24 July 9am - 1pm **** Gallery Memberships Due by 30 June Always something new at the Gallery!

Pomona Railway Station Gallery 10 Station St, Pomona Open 7 Days Monday - Friday 10am to 4pm Saturday 9am to 2pm Sunday 10am to 2pm

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Indigenous art features at the Butter Factory Connect, Share and Heal is this year’s NAIDOC Week theme.

Until 18 July, the Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre will feature the creativity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists who are connected to, or living on, Kabi Kabi/ Gubbi Gubbi lands. Through their work, visitors will be able to share their understanding of connection to country and the need to ‘heal country’ through painting, weaving, sculpture, video, poetry and performance.

Coordinator Alicia Sharples said: “The Cooroy Butter Factory constantly strives to create a place with a sense of safety, belonging and inclusion within the community and allows for First Nations voices to be heard with their regular NAIDOC exhibitions.

are excited to host an incredible array of artists. They include elders such as Aunty Hope O’Chin, Aunty Beverly Hand and Uncle Paul Calcott, along with established artists such as Dr Jandamarra Cadd, James Hurley, Bridgette Chilli Davis and new emerging artists such Cholena Drew Hughes and Ivy Minniecon.

animals. It is part of the way we practise, learn, rekindle and redevelop our creative skills; listen deeper to ourselves and the land.

“Healing ourselves through healing country leads to healing our nation.”

Ms Stannard continued: “We need to try to halt and reverse the damage done to our environment, the “We are incredibly lucky to again pollution of land and waterways, have artworks by Uncle Paul Calcott’s destruction of sacred sites and Nuunaron group, which consists of knowledge; and to actively heed and First People’s Disability Network engage with Aboriginal knowledge.” artists. Their work is being seen for the first time in this exhibition in Cooroy before their unveiling in the UN headquarters in New York.”

Co-Coordinator and local indigenous artist, Melissa Stannard, said Indigenous connection to country is inherent to identity. “When we walk on country we come alive as our ancestors watch over us and guide “This year we have the generous us. They are embodied in our support of ACCOR hotel group to make this exhibition possible and we waterways, trees, rocks, plants and

Featured work at the Cooroy Butter Factory

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 Pomona 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) 8am - 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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Art sales generate need to fill job vacancies at gallery Don’t miss the Pomona Railway Station Gallery next ‘Art in the Paddock’ event to be held in the grounds of the gallery from 9am to 1pm on Saturday 24 July.

If you have time to spare and want to volunteer for a good cause, the art gallery has vacancies for an exhibition manager, a coordinator and social media and media manager.

Gallery manager, Alan Falls, said existing volunteers were filling these positions, but it would be helpful to spread the load. He may be contacted by phone on 5485 2950.

Alan reminded gallery members that annual fees are due. To display paintings and creative art at the gallery, artists must be members of the Hinterland Art Group.

Community members are also encouraged to join in support of gallery activities.

The cost is $30. Applications will be available soon on the gallery web page.

Always popular at the Pomona Railway Station Gallery is the Art in the Paddock event where artists and crafters display their creativity in the grounds of the gallery complex.

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Riot of colour greets visitors to latest gallery exhibition In the Carriage Room at the Pomona Railway Gallery, artist Glen Buckley presents his exhibition Draw The Line.

attendance at the gallery every Wednesday between 1pm and 4pm, or by appointment.

In the Banana Shed, Josi Gabe will present her exhibition The Eclectic Works of Jo Gabe - a mix of contemporary and realism paintings inspired by her Glen says: " I am fascinated world travels.

Above: One of Josi Gabe’s paintings which will feature at her by the flow and curve of The official opening is on Exhibition at the gallery. line where movement is Saturday, seemingly random yet 10 July at 10am. This designed. The work exhibition will run through finished yet ever evolving". to 29 July.

His new exhibition stems from his love of graphic art and artists such as M C Escher, Gustav Klimt and Aubrey Beardsley.

In this art selection, imaginary and abstract elements are combined to create distinct graphic groupings.

The Pomona Railway Station Gallery is located at 10 Station St. Pomona.

The gallery is open everyday serving artists for The Draw the Line exhibition runs to 5 August. over 20 years. www.pomonartgallery.com The artist will be in

Josi Gabe

Glen Buckley

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Community celebrates at lively Cooran village If you haven’t been to Cooran recently, you might want to take a drive, stop and become immersed in the lively vibe of a wonderful village where everyone looks out for each other in an atmosphere that respects our natural environment.

The celebration of community was on show recently. What started out as a need to find new committee members for the Cooran Hall grew into encompassing the greater local community, where on Sunday 23 May, local community members gathered to showcase a variety of community action groups and individual and family businesses.

Using Red Cross funding

through Noosa Council – providing funding for the purpose of building resilience within communities in the wake of recent bushfires – the hall committee decided to create an event that would develop connections between those who attended, that would encourage community membership and involvement. What better way to start building our local resilience than to get to know each other!

The afternoon featured a little harp music and small choirs, a beautiful offering of cakes and chai tea, a history display and activities that helped cement connections with the Kabi Kabi traditional custodians, organised by

Above: Cooran locals are actively involved in protecting their local environment and working on sustainable power generation.

Brian Warner.

Organisers say it was a successful event that will run again. As the day confirmed, building resilience and knowing each other is certainly what’s needed for a better future.

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.

Road closures for Pomona King of the Mountain race day The 42nd annual King of the Mountain Event in Pomona is being held on Sunday 25 July and as per previous years will include the following street closures: 

Reserve Street between School Street and the eastern side of the railway crossing from 12pm to 5pm



Memorial Ave from between Rectory Street and Station Street from 7am to 5pm.



Mountain Street from Hospital Street to Church Lane 7am to 5pm



Mountain Street between School Street and Church Street from 7am to 5pm

Alternative routes around the festival area are via School Street and Factory Street. Detour signs around the affected areas will be posted.

The Pomona King Of The Mountain Festival is a project of Cooroy Pomona Lions Club. The King Of The Mountain Committee would like to thank our funding partners Noosa Council, Bendigo Bank Pomona, Pomona True Value Hardware and local businesses for their continued support. www.kingofthemountain.com.au

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Parking ‘not a problem’ at Pomona, council says, as two-hour limit proposed The prospect of a two-hour parking limit applying across Pomona’s central business area has come onto the agenda as the town grapples with a shortage of available car parking spaces.

Social media chatter put forward the idea, with Noosa Council Local Laws Manager, Sunil Kushor, responding by saying the council would work with the community to determine whether there should be any changes to timed parking limits.

“Timed parking could always be an option as this

would allow for greater turnover of vehicles,” he said.

Pomona and District Chamber of Commerce wants the council to consider new sealed nosein parking spaces between the art gallery and the water stand in Station Street or a carpark on vacant railway land as means of easing parking woes.

This picture, taken at noon on a Tuesday, shows all parking spaces filled along Memorial Ave, Pomona.

Noosa Council has specifically ruled out the President Phil Moran said railway land alternative. parking limits were not the The site is owned by the answer. However, the Department of Transport unused space near the and Main Roads and a Railway Station was worthy carpark is consistent with of further discussion. its ‘community services’ zoning.

Cr Amelia Lorentson requested Noosa Council Infrastructure, Planning, Design and Delivery Manager Craig Eldridge to investigate a council lease of the railway land, but the conclusion was this would be at commercial rates, not a peppercorn rent.

“The traffic study identified that while variations in parking demand occurred, overall Pomona has sufficient parking,” said Tina Peck of the council’s Infrastructure Services team.

“Based on the data provided in the traffic study and the recent site inspection, the available parking outside the busy market period indicates a high level of service during non-peak periods is being provided at Pomona.

“While there are currently no plans for further parking “The property section does infrastructure in the 10-year not support a lease over the capital works program for land that is not required Pomona, it is appreciated when parking demand is the situation can change already largely catered for,” and Council will continue Cr Lorenston was advised. to monitor it,” he said. Mr In September 2020, the Moran said car parking council sent two staff spaces remained high on members to Pomona to the chamber’s agenda. survey the parking situation on Saturdays, Social Indoor Bowls at when the popular markets Pomona Hall are held. They assessed Wednesday 9am - 11.30am parking against the Arrive 8.30am objectives of the 2017-32 Casual Dress & Flat sole shoes Noosa Council Traffic Contact Alan Ph: 544 76223 Study.

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State budget confirms new hall for Pomona high school campus The Queensland state budget brought down on 15 June included a major windfall for the Northern Hinterland – news that the Pomona Campus of the Noosa District High School will get a new hall valued at $6.4 million.

To get the project started, some $714,000 will be spent in 2021-22.

In further good news for our region, the state government has allocated $667,000 in 2021-22 towards a total $2.2 million contribution to provide eco-cabin accommodation along the Cooloola Great Walk between Noosa and Rainbow Beach and to introduce Indigenous guided walks in conjunction with the Kabi Kabi First Nations People Corporation. This will guarantee new jobs for the area.

The budget also confirmed $2 million in 2021-22 towards the $2.8 million state government contribution towards the total cost of the Cooroy Hinterland Adventure Playground, now under construction and due to be completed by Christmas.

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5 Factory Street, Pomona

REPAIRS TO KIN KIN COMMUNITY CENTRE After a long wait of almost two years for action to repair and re-open the Kin Kin Sportgrounds Community Centre, it appears the frustration of locals at not being able to access a valuable public facility for so long is about to end.

In response to a query via social media, Noosa Mayor, Clare Stewart, responded recently, saying the necessary work, which was supposed to take just two months following closure in September 2019, would proceed this year.

“The centre has been closed because of a bat infestation. Money has been allocated by our property department in this year’s budget to clean up the mess left by the bats and, as well, the addition of a new water supply system,” the Mayor said.

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POMONA WALKING GROUP Monday to Friday 7am Meeting Point Community House, Memorial Ave, Pomona Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

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Mona (centre) from Cuppa, Cake and Conversation celebrated a very special 95th birthday on the 8 June. Cakes, flowers and lots of lovely home-baked goodies were on the menu. Special thanks to Josephine for baking the lovely birthday cake. Coordinators, Rosemary (back row 2nd in) and Margo (back right) coordinate the group on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.

RUMMIKUB @

Pomona Community House

Wednesday 1pm - 3.30pm Donation $3 includes tea/coffee

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Facts and Myths about organ donation Pomona and District Community House will be hosting an information morning tea on Wednesday 28 July starting at 9.30am at the Lawson Shed.

The information morning will be highlighting facts and dispelling the myths about organ donations.

one minute to fill out the form but that minute could mean a world of difference to a waitlisted patient and their family and friends.

Savannah and You might not realise it but many of Nathan are forever grateful to their you are possibly working alongside organ donors gifting an organ or tissue transplant recipient or a donor family member. them the ability to experience life, love Organ and tissue donation might not and family. be something we easily discuss Bookings are required for around the family dinner table, but information morning tea. we really should.

Please phone 5485 2427.

Young Savannah is a Sunshine Coast resident, she’s also a double lung recipient having received her lifesaving gift at age 16.

Pictured above Savannah and Nathan enjoying life and promoting the benefits of being an organ recipient. Sunday 25 July is DonateLife Day and the aim is to have 100,000 new registrations.

www.donatelife.gov.au

Nathan is also a local resident and at age 25 was saved by a heart transplant.

Two young people that you might have walked past in the street and never knew their life was saved by a selfless organ donor and their family.

There are currently 1800 Australians waiting for an organ transplant so they might live.

On Sunday 25 July DonateLife launches its annual national campaign urging all of us to register as organ and tissue donors and tell our families about our decision.

This year’s campaign is themed around the Great Registration Race with DonateLife aiming for 100,000 new registrations. Waitlisted patients are in a ‘race’ against time, hoping their life will be saved, while our surgeons and nursing teams are in a ‘race’ to quickly and safely retrieve organs from our patients who have sadly passed away but selflessly donated so others can live.

To register as an organ and tissue donor is easy and quick. You just need your Medicare card and to jump online at donatelife.gov.au; it takes Pomona & District Community House - Keeping You In Touch With Your Community

20

TAI CHI & QI GONG Yuka Olsen 0431 315 639

Mayoral Ball will benefit family support centre in the hinterland

Gentle Tai Chi & Qi Gong For Beginners Mondays 8am / Cost $10 Stan Topper Park, Pomona Tai Chi Wednesday 8am / Cost $10 Stan Topper Park, Pomona Tai Chi & QI Gong Fridays 8am / Cost $12 Pomona Memorial Hall Gentle Tai Chi & QI Gong Saturdays 8am / Cost $10 Cooroora Creek Park, Pomona

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

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

Left to Right: Coordinator Josanne Falla, Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart, SunnyKids general manager Kathleen Hope, anti-DFV campaigner Kay McGrath and Leigh McCready from the organising committee.

Noosa residents will ‘mingle with the mayor’ in all their finery on 31 July when the annual Mayor’s Ball brings into sharp focus the issue of domestic violence and the important work undertaken by one of the hinterland’s most vital not-for-profit groups.

advised me recently that they’ve seen an increase of over 40 per cent in domestic violence issues in the past 12 to 18 months in our region alone,” Ms Stewart said.

“I’m thrilled that an injection of funds will make it possible for SunnyKids to increase The SunnyKids Cooroy services not only in Family Support Centre Cooroy, but hopefully will be a major recipient across the Noosa Shire,” of funds raised at this Cr Stewart said. year’s event, to be held SunnyKids General at Sofitel Noosa.

Manager, Kathleen The Cooroy centre extends its activity across the Northern Hinterland and partners with the Department of Child Safety Youth and Women to deliver counselling and support to victims of domestic and family violence.

Mayor Clare Stewart said our region is not immune to family violence and its consequences. “Police

Hope, said the anticipated funding boost would assist in the provision of frontline services in huge demand.

“Each year we provide 8000 nights emergency accommodation, and since COVID-19 hit we have seen an increase in people seeking our help,“ Ms Hope said.

towards increasing our counselling and support services for local families, including children who often experience severe disruption due to domestic and family violence.”

Tickets for the ball are sold out but you can contribute to the cause by bidding for auction items on the night.

They include a Peugeot Django 150 Scooter (black) with insurance, helmet, stamp duty and registration included, and a 1.21 carat round brilliant cut diamond, valued at $24,000.

Here is the link for raffle tickets: https:// app.galabid.com/ mayorsball.

The Support Centre is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9am to 3pm.

You can schedule an “Any funds we receive appointment by from the Ball will be put phoning 5447 774.

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Open Letter calls on Cordwell to reduce truck movements truck and our local school buses,” Cr Stewart said.

Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart has renewed calls for Cordwell Resources to reduce truck movements during peak school times.

In an Open Letter published today, Cr Stewart said enough was enough.

“I write this letter in the hope that you and your business will show some compassion for the community you have chosen to work in.”

Cr Stewart added the current quarry operations at Kin Kin are causing a great deal of angst within the Noosa hinterland communities and proving intolerable for many.

The letter states: “Safety continues to be our number one concern, not only

These sentiments are echoed by Sandy Bolton: “The trauma to our community for our residents, but also our local cannot be underestimated. Even bus drivers; even tourists are though TMR and QPS have done becoming increasingly frightened for everything in their role to increase the safety of their loved ones.” safety, it cannot offset the danger of The Mayor was today joined by high volumes of trucks.”

Noosa MP Sandy Bolton and mother “Access routes were independently of four (three of whom ride the assessed as not capable of dealing school buses) Anita Poteri calling on with this volume. That Council and the company as a good corporate State powers cannot reduce these citizen, to stop trucks during school numbers is the worst case of system bus times and significantly reduce failure I have ever seen,” Ms Bolton truck movements to a more said. manageable level.

“We continue to investigate every “This would clearly show Cordwell option available to us, but implore Resources is community-minded and the operators to work within that shares our concerns about safety, independent assessment from 2010 especially for our local children,” she to demonstrate compassion for these said. communities and prevent a tragedy.

“I fear the worst is inevitable unless There needs to be a co-operative something is done. None of us wants approach from all parties to find a to see an accident involving a quarry compromise,” she said.

SPEED LIMITS ON ‘OTHER’ KIN KIN ROAD Lead-footers beware! The Department of Transport and Main Roads advises that the speed limit on the Kin Kin Road between Tin Can Bay Road and Wolvi township will be reduced from 100kph to 80kph, similarly between Yellow Gully Road and Counter Road.

From Counter Road to the start of the gravel section, the speed limit drops to 90kph.

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The Barbed Wire Breakfast BBQ gave men an opportunity to talk about mental health

The Barbed Wire Breakfast BBQ at Cooroy on Saturday 19June gave men young and old, as well as their spouses and friends, the chance to talk about important mental health issues for men including suicide prevention. Hosted by Mark Evans from Impact Boxing and Ben Burns, co-ordinator of Suicide Prevention in Local Communities, and supported by the Pomona and District Community House, the blokes present shared a range of personal stories. The event demonstrated the ongoing need for venues and opportunities where men can make connections and support one another through tough times.

Suicide Prevention in Local Communities Group meets monthly. If you would like to join the group, please call Ben Burns on 0437 986 633. If you need crisis support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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Annie hand in your guns From 1 July a national firearms amnesty will commence. We’ve had these amnesties in varying forms over the years with moderate numbers of guns surrendered to firearms dealers or police stations that were in the possession of unlicensed persons or weren’t registered.

Unsurprisingly it’s not the hardened, mouth-breathing crook that turns up at the station carrying a rusted 12 bore fowling piece wrapped in a doona cover; more your honest Joe and Josephine who have had guns left with them by relatives and were stored in the shed for the past 30 years.

PLOD’S PAGE

by Sgt Dan McNamara OIC Pomona Police Station

Ph: 5480 1733

easily be sold and used in major crimes.

when used in serious crimes.

I’ve had the odd heart palpitation and done some double takes myself on seeing an AK47 copy leaning up against the lounge room wall at police jobs, so store them away when not in use please to avoid misunderstanding!

Due to their increasing popularity, here are some fast facts.  In QLD Gel Blasters may be

bought without a licence and it’s not an offence to possess one without a weapons licence.  When carrying one in public the

item should be carried or covered For further info call the Firearms so that it’s not visible to the public Amnesty section on 3015 7777 in any way. between 9am-3pm Monday to Friday  When not in use, Gel Blasters Some people are worried they’ll cop a or visit https:// must be stored securely such as in court summons if they hand them in, www.police.qld.gov.au/units/ a locked cupboard, but not in a but even without an amnesty this is weapons-licensing gun safe. not the case if you’re genuine.

So, from 1 July you can contact an approved firearms dealer or police station and enquire about surrendering or registering an unregistered firearm; it’s a simple process and a good way of keeping you out of trouble and a potential court appearance.

If you hold a QLD weapons licence you may be able to register the firearm, and this is often the case where WL holders have had unregistered guns left to them as valuable and sentimental heirlooms from deceased estates. An important fact to consider is that some of these guns are stolen during break and enters as they often aren’t secured and as they’re unregistered, they can

Blast you!!

Staying with the arms theme, Gel Blasters are super realistic scale replica pistols, shotguns, rifles and machine guns that fire small soft pellets and have been getting plenty of press for the fear they can cause when carried in public.

They’re replica firearms and therefore under Qld law you will still need a reasonable excuse to own or possess one, such as collecting or club use.

They look like pretty good fun if used appropriately on private property out of the public gaze but plenty of police jobs have occurred where people have understandably confused them for the real thing and

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 Before travelling with them

interstate, check the local laws pertaining to these items.

Ask Minnie Myze Minnie invites you our readers to send in your questions on ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ and feedback on questions or answers.

Drop us a note at Pomona Community House or email upcyclingpomona@gmail.com Find Q&As scattered throughout future editions of Cooroora Connect

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