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Pomona, Queensland - Hinterland Village at the Base of Mount Cooroora
- Nov 21, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 31
Pomona, Queensland - Hinterland Village at the Base of Mount Cooroora
Nestled at the base of Mount Cooroora in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, in Queensland, Pomona is a small village with a big sense of character. Around 135 kilometres north of Brisbane and just 22 kilometres from Noosa, this relaxed country town blends heritage streets, creative flair, and a strong community spirit. From colourful murals and weekend markets to historic theatres and local distilleries, Pomona is a place that rewards a slow wander.
On our day trip to Pomona, we wandered around looking at the stunning street art and enjoyed a coffee at the Pomona Village Kitchen. We then visited the market, wandered along the heritage trail, and admired the Majestic Theatre.
Life Beneath Mount Cooroora
Pomona sits beneath the impressive bulk of Mount Cooroora, a volcanic peak rising 439 metres above the village. It’s the highest volcanic peak on the northern end of the Sunshine Coast and the backdrop to Pomona’s most famous event—the annual King of the Mountain race, which draws competitors and spectators from across the country.
Originally settled in the late 1880s, Pomona has grown into a welcoming hinterland town with cafés, a traditional hotel, a distillery, vibrant street art, and one of the region’s best-loved country markets.
Street Art & Creative Colour
One of the first things you’ll notice when wandering Pomona is its vibrant street art. A standout mural covers the IGA building, created with strong community input. Each element represents a different part of Pomona, interpreted by local artist and shop owner This Bird.
There’s also another bold, brightly coloured mural on the side of her shop along Reserve Street, adding even more personality to the town centre. Together, the artworks reflect Pomona’s creative heart and strong local pride.
Coffee Stops & Slow Food
Pomona has no shortage of great cafés, and we started our day at Pomona Village Kitchen. This welcoming café and slow-food restaurant focuses on sustainably sourced, seasonal ingredients, supporting local suppliers wherever possible. With excellent coffee and a lovely outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect place to settle in and watch the village come to life.
Pomona Country Markets
If you’re visiting on a Saturday, the Pomona Country Markets are a must. Held every Saturday morning from 7.00 am to 11.30 am in Stan Topper Park in the centre of town, the markets feature more than 65 stalls. You’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, plants, baked goods, coffee, cakes, and a wide range of handmade arts and crafts. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed—very much a reflection of Pomona itself.
Heritage Walks & Historic Buildings
We followed the Pomona Heritage Walk, which links many of the town’s historic buildings and tells the story of its early days.
The original Pomona Hotel was built in 1905 but destroyed by fire in 1913. The current hotel, rebuilt the same year, remains a classic country pub with a welcoming atmosphere and a great outdoor area.
In the heart of town stands a striking building originally constructed as the ANZ Bank in 1936. Today, it has been thoughtfully repurposed as the Pomona Vet and Pet Spa, blending heritage architecture with modern use.
Railway History & Local Art
Pomona’s railway station building dates back to 1894 and is now home to the Pomona Railway Station Gallery. The surrounding banana shed and former blacksmith shops are also used as exhibition spaces, showcasing work by local artists and creatives.
Nearby, a building constructed in the 1920s for H.V. Wood, a tax, commission, and stock agent, continues to house professional offices—another example of Pomona’s heritage being carefully preserved and reused.
The Majestic Theatre & Cultural Life
One of Pomona’s most remarkable attractions is the Majestic Theatre. Built in 1921, it is the world’s oldest continuously running silent movie theatre and one of the few pre–World War II picture theatres in Queensland that has never been demolished.
You can still watch a silent film here every Saturday at 12.00 noon, complete with live piano accompaniment—a truly unique experience.
Just around the corner, the Noosa Shire Museum is housed in the original Noosa Shire Council offices. Open Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm, the museum offers insight into the region’s history and community life.
A Taste of Pomona: Local Distilling
To round out a visit, stop by the Pomona Distilling Co., a locally owned small-batch distillery, bar, and bistro. Located on the historic site of the original Pomona Bakery, it’s a great place to sample locally crafted spirits and enjoy a relaxed meal in a setting steeped in history.
Why Pomona Is Worth the Visit
Pomona is a village that balances heritage, creativity, and community with ease. Whether you’re admiring murals, browsing market stalls, sipping coffee in the sunshine, or stepping back in time at a silent movie theatre, Pomona invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment.
If you’re exploring the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Pomona is a rewarding stop—rich in stories, colour, and genuine country charm.
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