Eumundi Voice Issue 111, 20 February 2025

COMMUNITY

Hinterland transport

Zero Emissions Noosa is hosting 2 public discussions on ways to improve transport in the Noosa Council area and reduce transport-related carbon emissions. On 1 March at the Cooroy Memorial Hall from 10am-12noon, the focus will be on transport in the hinterland including Cooroy, Pomona, Cooran and Kin Kin. The other consultation will be on the 8 March at the Noosa Parks Environment Centre, 5 Wallace Dr from 10am-12noon, which will focus on the Noosa Shire as a whole. Both are free but registrations are sought: zeroemissionsnoosa.com.au.

Free weekend buses discontinued

The Go Noosa free weekend and holiday buses ceased from 11 February 2025. This decision was made by Noosa Council due to Qld State Government’s announcement that the 50c public transport fares are being made permanent. Council funds will now be redirected to support other transport priorities across the shire.

According to the council, the 50c fares have increased usage of public transport in the Noosa area by 22% during the week and by 9% at weekends. The Go Noosa Holiday Program – which included the free weekend buses – is funded through the Noosa Council’s Sustainable Transport Levy.

New initiatives for the redirected funding could include improved park-and-ride services, supplementary local bus services, enhanced pedestrian and cyclist pathways and e-transport options. Visit: t.ly/4IkD-.

Noosa FM 101.3: 30 years of serving the community

Noosa FM 101.3 recently marked 30 years of service to the Noosa and Sunshine Coast communities. The first broadcast aired on 17 January 1995, and throughout its 30-year history the organisation has welcomed over 2,000 members, playing a vital part in local life.

The station's dedicated volunteers produce an impressive 8,736 hours of programming annually, offering free music, information, entertainment and emergency broadcasts. Their vision is to amplify local, indigenous and Australian talent.

Despite many challenges, Noosa FM 101.3 has evolved into a powerful local broadcaster relying on volunteers to manage operations and raise funds through sponsorships, such as Noosa FM’s Super Sponsor – the Bendigo Bank.

Community support with initiatives such as the containers-for-change program and weekly raffles allows locals to contribute directly, which is crucial in order sustain their vital work. A Noosa council grant officer noted, "Noosa FM is one of the most important pillars of our community."

From its humble beginnings over 30 years ago, Noosa FM 101.3 is now an indispensable part of Sunshine Coast life. Here's to 30 more years of community service! Kate Rider