By JOLENE OGLE
PLANS to create a much-needed soup kitchen in Tewantin for the homeless have been put on hold, despite over 100 calls for help.
Tribal Communities founder Peter Holliday announced last week that a soup kitchen was planned for Tewantin.
Mr Holliday has since met with council staff on Friday, who advised him a number of permits were needed for the soup kitchen to go ahead.
Mr Holliday said he could understand the permits are required for safe food handling and preparation, but was disappointed the planned soup kitchen for 1 April had to be postponed – he had already received 120 calls from people who either needed help or wanted to help with the soup kitchen that was meant to open last night (Wednesday) at the CWA Hall, Tewantin.
But Mr Holliday is determined to find a way to help those in need in the local community.
“Don’t worry… we won’t be out of action for too long,” he said.
“I’ve already been in touch with local groups and I have meetings with people who can help get this up and running.”
“So far, a lot of people have offered help.
“There is a restaurant in Tewantin that closes at 3pm and have said we could use their kitchen.
“We’re also going to meet with other groups who have commercial kitchens.”
A Noosa Council spokesperson said council is doing all it can to help Mr Holliday establish the soup kitchen.
“We’re helping in every way we can, but this issue does come under the State Government Act for a food permit,” the spokesperson said.
“But Council will work towards waiving the fees.”
The spokesperson said the venue Mr Holliday uses will have to undergo an inspection and will also require the relevant permits for food production.
