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Sunshine Coast Local News

Observing Nambour rail stabling site after dark

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Sunshine Coast Council Division 5 Councillor Jenny McKay invites Woombye residents interested in the South-East Queensland Rail Stabling Program to attend a special observation of the Nambour rail stabling facility tomorrow, Saturday, March 15 at 9pm.

The South-East Queensland Rail Stabling Program – being undertaken by Department of Transport and Main Roads and Queensland Rail – will deliver purpose-built, modern train stabling facilities across the rail network to support a significant increase in passenger trains and services.

Cr McKay said the purpose of the observation of the Nambour site was to provide Woombye residents with a clearer understanding of the state government’s consideration to include Woombye (North Coast Line) as a stabling facility in their rail network.

“The state government has already held community consultation sessions in Woombye however I felt it was also important to enable interested local residents to actually see and hear a stabling facility in action,” Cr McKay said.

“A stabling facility is a place where trains are parked when they are not in operation. Trains return to the facility at the end of service and are parked on the site throughout the night at which time they are cleaned and prepared for the next day’s service.

“Observing the trains being prepared at the Nambour facility between 9 to 10pm will demonstrate the lighting and noise that occurs at these types of facilities after hours.

“This will provide local residents with a better picture of the impact, if any, having a stabling yard in Woombye will have on their lifestyle.

“The meeting place for those attending is outside Nambour McDonald’s on Currie Streetat 9pm tomorrow, Saturday, March 15 before we walk to an appropriate viewing area at the Nambour stabling facility.”

The state government has extended the feedback period regarding Woombye being included in the next stage of the Rail Stabling Program until March 31. Residents can email submissions to SEQstabling@tmr.qld.gov.au.

For further information about the program, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au .

 

Resurfacing for a smooth ride along Howard Street

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Commuters will soon experience smoother travels on Howard St, Nambour thanks to pavement resurfacing works to be carried out by Sunshine Coast Council.

Division 10 Councillor Greg Rogerson said the works would be undertaken across the whole of Howard Street.

“This resurfacing will involve profiling the existing asphalt surface to remove weathered asphalt, followed by bitumen sealing to effectively waterproof the road surface,” he said.

“Asphalting of the entire road surface will then complete the resurfacing and this will provide a smooth waterproof surface which should provide several years of service.”

Cr Rogerson said the works include a minor surface rejuvenation to the area between the tramlines to improve the life of the pavement in this area and create a uniform appearance to the road surface on Howard Street.

“Council has included this in to its road pavement program for Howard Street after last Thursday’s landmark decision to enter into a due diligence stage for the reactivation of the tramlines,” he said.

Profiling and sealing of the road is expected to start on Sunday night, March 9 and be completed by Tuesday night. Asphalting works will be conducted concurrently in stages, starting Monday night, March 10 with completion expected by Thursday night (weather permitting).

Council has consulted with businesses and all properties adjacent to and nearby Howard Street regarding the upcoming works and any traffic changes. Traffic control measures will be in place while works are in progress however it is intended that Howard Street will remain open at all time to traffic, although some restrictions to parking and pedestrian movements are possible.

Local shows share in Queensland Government grant funding

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Local shows, promoting what's best about the area.

Local shows, promoting what’s best about the area.

Regional Queensland traditions are being kept alive with the Queensland Government providing a $11,262 boost for the Maleny Show Society, and a $6598 boost for the Woodford Agricultural, Pastoral & Industrial Association.

This follows on from last weeks funding announcements of $7,367 for the Kenilworth Show and Rodeo Sub-committee and $37,190  for the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show Society.
The money has been allocated through a Local Government grants program and is designed to ensure communities throughout Queensland continue to host their signature events.
The Member for Glass House, Andrew Powell MP, said the Maleny and Woodford shows gave their communities an annual opportunity to come together and promote what’s great about them.
“Community shows let us showcase what we can do, as well as provide entertainment for all of the family,” Mr Powell said.
“In a year when many of the state’s communities have been through so much it’s especially important to have an event that everyone can look forward to.”
Local Government Minister David Crisafulli said the money was part of the Newman Government’s push to empower local communities and strengthen regional Queensland.
“There are more than 130 agricultural shows in Queensland and more than half of those are in areas that were savaged during this year’s floods,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“Most of the other areas are now being hit by drought, so more than ever it’s important to prioritise what needs to be done to maintain a strong heartbeat in the bush.”

Nambour library celebrates 100 years

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Cr Rogerson with Sunshine Coast Council library staff dressed in 1900’s costumes in front of the Circa 1913 Sunshine Coast Council Heritage Library photo which was unveiled today.

Cr Rogerson with Sunshine Coast Council library staff dressed in 1900’s costumes in front of the Circa 1913 Sunshine Coast Council Heritage Library photo which was unveiled today.

The local community today (3rd October 2013) took a step back in time as it joined in the 100 year celebrations of Nambour Library.

Division 10 Councillor Greg Rogerson said celebrating Nambour Library’s 100 year anniversary, marks a significant milestone in the history of our region.

“I feel it is important that we take time out of our busy lives to acknowledge how far Nambour has progressed over the past 100 years and to celebrate our heritage,” he said.

“On 3 October 1913 Nambour Library commenced operating a Library and public reading room from the Town Hall in Currie Street. Unfortunately the original library and other historic buildings were destroyed by a fire in 1929, with the current Nambour Library building opened in 1986.

“There is no doubt that libraries have played a significant hand in shaping our informed, involved and educated community.

“They are welcoming and vibrant meeting spaces where people from all walks of life come together to interact, connect, learn and explore.

Cr Rogerson said the 100 year celebration provides an opportunity for library patrons and the wider community to reminisce and share their fond memories of Nambour. I know I was personally reminded of the many occasions when my family and I have visited the Nambour Library.

“Those attending the celebrations have an opportunity to write a personalised message in a book to commemorate this auspicious occasion. This book will be added to Council’s Heritage Library collection and there will be a selection of historical pieces on display,” he said.

There were some great prizes awarded for the best dressed early 1900’s costumes and people joined in some ‘old school’ fun with games such as hopscotch and quoits.

The morning was complete with a birthday cake cutting and the unveiling of a heritage print of Nambour’s Currie Street circa 1913.

Visit council’s library website for information about the Region’s Heritage Library Collection.

LNP promises CCTV for Sunshine Coast Hot Spots

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Ted O'Brien LNP Candidate for Fairfax

Ted O’Brien LNP Candidate for Fairfax

Shadow Attorney General, Senator the Hon. George Brandis and LNP candidate for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien, today announced the Coalition, if elected, would fund CCTV equipment in two “hot spots” to improve public safety.

Around $100,000 would be provided to put the high definition cameras in Duporth Avenue, Maroochydore and Currie Street in Nambour, with the recordings from these sites to be monitored and made available to the various authorities as required.

“There is such optimism about the revitalisation of these two areas and these projects will allow us to help ensure the safety of individuals and families in the area,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Currie Street Nambour has been identified as an area of concern due to a number of offences – we can’t let a small number of antisocial individuals spoil the ambience for everyone else.” Mr O’Brien said.

“Duporth Avenue in Maroochydore is a growing entertainment and social meeting precinct so is being monitored in the interests of public safety,” Mr O’Brien said.

Mr O’Brien said that the installation of CCTV in other locations on the Sunshine Coast has helped serve as a deterrent to would be law breakers.

“CCTV cameras are a valuable resource for our local police force to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. The Coalition is committed to keeping our community safe.” Mr O’Brien said.

Mr O’Brien said this funding would also enhance the work of the Sunshine Coast Council.

“Only a Coalition Government will deliver these much-needed safety improvements to the area,” he said.

New group to help people tell their stories visually

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Visual story telling - more than words.

Visual story telling – more than words.

Are you interested in telling your story through visual media?

The Sunshine Coast Multimedia Group is a new network holding its first gathering on Wednesday 28th August at the Nambour Community Centre, Cnr of James & Shearer Street, from 6pm for people to learn and share ideas and techniques to create narratives through photography.

Keen photographer and community member Tony Bryant said that with modern technology it’s relatively easy to learn the basics of telling a visual story through photography and video. Mr Bryant continued to say that everyone can tell a story through social media such as Facebook and Instagram, and programs such as Photoshop, through short films and still photography given the right knowledge. The Sunshine Coast Multimedia Group is a free group, for anyone who is keen to learn and share, from beginners to professional photographers.

Mr. Bryant said, “I am looking forward to being a part of a community-led group that together will create their own stories”.

For more information, contact Mark Wischnat and Ellen Kaluat at the Nambour Community Centre on 5441 4724 or Tony Bryant on scmultimedia@tpg.com.au and LIKE us on Facebook at Sunshine Coast Multimedia.

 

Revitalising Nambour with creative pop-up businesses

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Ardleigh Cleveland Gallery - first of many pop-up creative businesses set to revitalise Nambour

Ardleigh Cleveland Gallery – first of many pop-up creative businesses set to revitalise Nambour

[Video] Vacant shop front windows are set to become a thing of the past in Nambour CBD with the Nambour Creative Commerce initiative of pop-up businesses taking up opportunities in previously empty commercial spaces.

The initiative is set to have its official launch on Tuesday 6 August and has been met with much enthusiasm from the creative community who are looking at this arrangement as an opportunity to start and grow their business, engage directly with customers, conduct product testing and leverage off being in a creative community.

Simone Pearce, Chair of Nambour Alliance said the search is on for creatives, specifically those who are unique and innovative to fill a number of empty commercial spaces throughout the town.
“We believe this is a great program to inject fresh enthusiasm and ideas into the Nambour CBD and create excitement in otherwise unoccupied lots,” Ms Pearce said.

Artist and gallery owner, Ardleigh Cleveland is the first candidate accepted into the new initiative to occupy an empty retail space on Howard Street. Ardleigh had been running her gallery from the Palmer Coolum Resort for a number of years but needed a fresh start, and as a Nambour local, she knew this was too good an opportunity to miss.

“We are receiving so much support for the concept and people are excited at the prospect of Nambour becoming ‘the creative centre of the Sunshine Coast’… they’re my words… I like to dream big!” Ms Cleveland said.

The Ardleigh Cleveland Gallery represents artists from across Australia and the Sunshine Coast, displaying paintings, jewellery, textiles, silk scarves and more.

“I’ve had a number of artists approach me asking how they can become involved. I am very excited for the spaces around me to become occupied with other ‘creativepreneurs’ as it will create more of a diverse shopping experience for locals.”

In order to take advantage of these unique pop-up retail spaces, creatives are required to meet a certain criteria.

“The potential candidate is any business using creativity and entrepreneurial nous to develop a point of difference to conduct business for and in Nambour’s town centre,” Ms Pearce said.

For anyone who is interested in occupying one of these spaces, please contact Simone Pearce via spearce (at) butlermcdermott.com.au or visit www.facebook.com.au/nambourcreativecommerce

Hinterland Connect trial to continue

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HinterlandConnectBusThe Hinterland Connect trial bus service will continue with the Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Regional Council reaching an agreement to extend the trial service for a further 12 months.

Member for Glass House Andrew Powell announced the service would be jointly funded and continue as a trial for a further 12 months.

“A number of passengers contacted me regarding the Hinterland Connect services and I have fought to ensure it not only remains in place, but is sustainable,” Mr Powell said.

“I am glad both local and state government have agreed to a funding model and set clear performance measures to properly evaluate the trial.”

Councillor Jenny McKay, Division 5 Councillor for the Sunshine Coast Council shares Mr Powell’s enthusiasm but issued a warning that people need to keep using this service to ensure performance indicators are met.

“I am delighted that both levels of Government have reached a resolution on this matter because we all know how important this service is to the Hinterland.  It does come with a warning however that people must continue to use the service to ensure it is sustainable into the future,” Cr McKay stated.

Mr Powell said the service will now operate on weekdays only and its performance measures will include patronage of at least seven per trip.

“While we are working hard as a government to reduce Labor’s debt, it’s important that we continue to provide value for Queensland taxpayers,” Mr Powell said.

“I would encourage residents to make best use of the Hinterland Connect service to ensure it remains viable.

The Sunshine Coast Regional Council and the State Government are each contributing 50 per cent of the funding.

For more information on qconnect services, visit the qconnect website, www.qconnect.qld.gov.au

 

Nambour pool upgrade a winner for all

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Grant Belcher, Swim Fit Director Mark Branch, Nambour Aquatic Centre Complex Manager Cr Greg Rogerson Heath Collie, Aquatic and Leisure Facilities Manager

Grant Belcher, Swim Fit Director
Mark Branch, Nambour Aquatic Centre Complex Manager
Cr Greg Rogerson
Heath Collie, Aquatic and Leisure Facilities Manager

The 50m pool at the Nambour Aquatic Centre is undergoing a valuable upgrade as part of Sunshine Coast Council’s ongoing commitment to providing quality community recreation venues.

Division 10 Councillor Greg Rogerson said the water filters servicing the 30 year old heated pool are being replaced and will provide improved water quality, significant water savings and reduced electricity and chemical costs.

“Patrons will see and feel the difference when swimming in the newly filtered water at this valued community facility,” Cr Rogerson said.

“Ratepayers will also benefit through significant savings to council running costs.

“In terms of water savings, the existing four sand filters currently require a weekly backwash water release of approximately 50,000 litres per week. While the new single regenerative filter will release only about 3,000 litres per month!”

Maintenance works commenced in April and are expected to be completed by the first week of June with minimal disruption to patrons expected throughout the project.

Onsite complex management will work closely with the construction team to ensure all patrons are informed of changes to times for the 50m pool availability.

Nambour to host International Rally’s biggest night

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Malaysian factory rally team Proton Motorsports has confirmed its entry in the International Rally of Queensland after passing up a start in a world championship round in Sweden

Malaysian factory rally team Proton Motorsports has confirmed its entry in the International Rally of Queensland after passing up a start in a world championship round in Sweden

The fastest drivers from several countries will fight for victory when the International Rally of Queensland returns its main event under lights to the Nambour Showgrounds on the Sunshine Coast in July.

Competitors are expected to come from Malaysia, India, New Caledonia, China, Japan, New Zealand and Australia will tackle a new Super Special stage course at the showgrounds on the first night of the 12-14 July rally.

The spectator highlight to open the weekend will take more than 50 crews and cars on a high-speed, two-kilometre sprint around the showground precinct, including circuits of the main ring and a thrilling jump.

Car displays, fireworks, market stalls, children’s rides and food and drink outlets also are planned for a big night of family entertainment.

The International Rally of Queensland, one of the Sunshine Coast’s biggest annual sporting fixtures, will host rounds of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship, East Coast Bullbars Australian Rally Championship, Australian Classic Rally Series and other categories.

The Nambour Super Special Stage was announced last month by rally Director Errol Bailey after a track inspection by four-time Australian Rally Champion Neal Bates and top Queensland driver Ryan Smart.

Mr Bailey said the Nambour Super Special Stage was designed as an all-weather, night-time arena-style attraction for spectators and as a true test for drivers.

“Every year we strive to present the most exciting entertainment for spectators and a contest worthy of its international status for drivers,” he said.

“We’re grateful Neal Bates gave his time to travel from Canberra to inspect the showgrounds. Neal’s the most respected competitor in Australian rallying and his advice on how we can make the best of the stage is invaluable. Ryan also brings a valuable perspective as one of Australia’s hottest young driving talents, who will be guaranteed to put on a show for his home crowd.

“Nambour Showgrounds, especially with the inclusion of a jump and its all-weather ability to accommodate off-track attractions, is an ideal venue for the Super Special Stage, which will provide a curtain raiser to the weekend’s forestry-stage action around Imbil and Pomona.

“With our annual top-teams shakedown and media and VIP preview in the morning, the night-time Showgrounds Super Special Stage and other local community activities we’re hoping to see organised, Friday will be rally-day in Nambour and we hope there will be a real buzz about the town.”

Bates, who is expected to contest the annual classic rally category in his championship-winning 1980 Toyota Celica, said he was looking forward to returning to Queensland.

“The Super Special Stage is based on the pre-rally shakedown stage we have used for several years, but with a few tweaks to make more entertaining for spectators and more challenging for drivers,” he said.

“The final details of the course still have to be set, but it looks good. Best of all, spectators should be able to see the cars pass at really close quarters and get a real experience of the excitement of rallying.

“I’m looking forward to it. My Celica is pretty quick and I’m sure there will be plenty of fans who will want to see how much of a challenge we can put up to the latest overseas cars.”

Tickets to the Nambour Super Special Stage are expected to go on sale in June. Visit www.rallyqueensland.com.au to stay informed.