#10 Central West Lifestyle | Spring 2015

Central West

SPRING 2015

MILLTHORPE

GARDENS out to impress

Country shows in the spotlight

DUBBO & GILGANDRA SENSATIONAL SPRING RECIPES

featuring local produce

Explore Australia’s CHERRY CAPITAL

YOUNG

town feature PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM THE BEAUTIFUL CENTRAL WEST REGION

capturing the best in the west

52-56 Lachlan Street, Forbes NSW 2871 | Phone 02 6851 5500

www.johndavismotors.com.au

32 - 38 Bathurst Road, Orange NSW 2800 | Phone 02 6362 0966

IF IT COST NO MORE WOULD YOU CHOOSE A HEAVIER FRAMING SYSTEM, A BETTER WAFFLE POD SLAB, SUPERIOR STEEL BATTEN CONSTRUCTION, DESIGNER KITCHEN, FULL INSULATION, AIR CONDITIONING, A COMPLIMENTARY FACADE UPGRADE AND OF COURSE A GUARANTEED BUILD TIME AND A FIXED PRICE CONTRACT.

WHO’S BUILDING YOUR HOME?

1800 200 888 bellriverhomes.com.au Builders Lic. 61247C. BELL 2325-08

CENTRAL WEST LIFESTYLE PTY LTD

CONTENT COVERAGE AREA

trading as Central West Magazine ABN 151 6322 9418 ADDRESS PO BOX 1050 DUBBO NSW 2830 PHONE 0429 441 086 FAX 02 6867 9895 WEBSITE www.centralwestmagazine.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/CentralWestLifestyle PUBLISHERS, ACCOUNTS & ADVERTISING Elizabeth & Alex Tickle info@centralwestmagazine.com.au EDITOR Elizabeth Tickle editor@centralwestmagazine.com.au CHIEF WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER Jake Lindsay jake@centralwestmagazine.com.au ART DIRECTOR Kate Boshammer design@centralwestmagazine.com.au

DISTRIBUTION Central West Lifestyle magazine is published quarterly (available at the beginning of each season) and distributed to selected newsagents and retail outlets within the Central West and in the bordering regions of the Far West, North West, Southern Highlands, Canberra, Goulburn, Northern and Eastern suburbs of Sydney, in addition to a selection of other rural and coastal areas of New South Wales.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE To order a subscription or back issue (mailed or online), visit www.centralwestmagazine.com.au. Š Central West Lifestyle Pty Ltd 2015

All Rights Reserved

Subscriptions and back issues are also available to read online, on desktop and mobile devices.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Unsold magazines are distributed to cafes, health waiting rooms, quality hotels/motels, bed and breakfast establishments, hair and beauty salons and tourist outlets.

While every care is taken in the publication of Central West Lifestyle magazine, the publishers will not be held responsible for omissions, errors or their subsequent effects.

Environmentally responsible, Titan Plus Gloss, produced in an ISO 14001 accredited facility ensures all processes involved in production are of the highest environmental standards. FSC Mixed Sources Chain of Custody (CoC) certification ensures fibre is sourced from certified & well managed forests.

2 CWL

Call of the wild.

The all new CLA Shooting Brake.

Always searching. Constantly discovering. Forever wanting to experience more. The all new CLA Shooting Brake prowls the urban jungle like you’ve never seen before. Its striking design combined with exceptional functionality, luxurious comfort and cutting-edge safety, makes it a truly formidable beast.

Hunt one down at West Orange Motors.

MBA8159

A Daimler Brand

www.mbwestorangemotors.com.au

Optional OrangeArt edition shown, available to order.

West Orange Motors

32 Forbes Road Orange NSW 2800 Phone: 02 6361 1000 LMCT: 19853

CONTENTS SPRING 2015

12

90-PAGE TOWN FEATURE: YOUNG Known as the Cherry Capital of Australia, Young supports a diverse range of agricultural pursuits including broadacre agriculture, horticulture and viticulture. Explore this innovative and thriving country town that’s become a dynamic regional centre.

114

104

110

118

SHOW OF SUPPORT

UNDER DAN’S WING

COUNTRY CROWD-PLEASER

EDUCATION

The three days of action at Dubbo Show attracted nearly 20,000 visitors.

Dan Compton is aiming for the stars with an indigenous flying school.

The community spirit was strong at Gilgandra’s centenary show.

TAFE Western is opening doors to the rural industry for its students.

4 CWL

123

130 MILLTHORPE GARDENS

HOME & STYLE

We explore two of Millthorpe’s delightful gardens, “Bethune” and “Old Baptist Church”, in the lead-up to the annual Garden Ramble.

Jacqui Greig’s love of words punctuates her Forbes home beautifully; resonate with Pip’s renovating memoirs; rediscover the joy of pink.

152

156

148 FASHION

TRAVEL

FOOD

Our spring racing fashion form guide will keep you on the right track.

The Anzac spirit lives on.

A delightful spring meal plan using local ingredients; a nostalgic family recipe; experience Dubbo’s top steakhouse, The Lion’s Pride.

186

169

192

EVENTS IN THE WEST

WEDDING BELLS

THE LAST WORD

Upcoming events and snapshots from Dunedoo and Parkes.

The Central West’s beautiful brides and dapper grooms say “I do”.

Les Hollands has been repairing boots for more than 50 years.

ON THE COVER Young is widely recognised as Australia’s Cherry Capital, and is also home to so much more. Explore this progressive community in the town feature (page 12).

WE ENCOURAGE OUR READERS TO SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS.

Photography: Holly Bradford

The magazine could not exist without them, and their loyalty shows their commitment to the communities of the Central West.

CWL 5

From the Publishers Welcome to spring, a season of birth, renewal and wonderful new beginnings.

What an amazing time we have had with the Winter magazine featuring Parkes!

New selling records were set with well-known and popular newsagents Greg and Christene Nash of Parkes Newsagency. We have never before seen such support!

A memorable night was held at the Dish Café at the Radio Telescope, Parkes, where councillors, advertisers, and Parkes identities came together to celebrate the launch of the Winter CWL magazine. We have featured a selection of images from the launch night on page 180 in this issue. Thank you to the incredible Parkes community for their loyalty and commitment to our publication.

CWL was very honoured recently to be nominated for a Heritage Award, conducted by Forbes Council. This nomination meant a great deal to the CWL team, as part of our mission is to make a conscious effort to portray the significant history in our regional communities.

Congratulations to Snare’s Newsagency, Dubbo, on celebrating 60 years in business. The story on this iconic family business was featured in our Autumn 2015 magazine. Patriarch Joe Snare (who is turning 90 this year) and his son Peter have shown how business success is not only based on exceptional management but on strong and genuine relationships with people.

This unique business story was also featured in a recent National Newsagent magazine, which is published by the Australian Newsagents’ Federation and is edited

by Carolyn Doherty.

Forbes Shire Council’s Heritage Advisor Graham Hall, General Manager Brian Stefan, Mayor Phyllis Miller, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle, Ken Nock of Nock’s Newsagency, Forbes and Deputy Mayor Graeme Miller.

Image courtesy of Sophie Harris, The Forbes Advocate.

Carolyn also approached CWL regarding sharing our story.

We are thrilled that our journey with CWL will be featured in an upcoming issue of this national magazine.

Another open day at the magnificent Iandra Castle at Greenethorpe brought more than 1000 visitors through the gate on the June long weekend. We again sold magazines, met wonderful people (some who were visiting the castle for the first time) and enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere of the day. Adding to the historical appeal of the day were Jennifer and Robert Strang of Bathurst. Two years ago Jennifer had given Robert (a bike lover from way back) a penny-farthing as a gift. By riding within the picturesque grounds and sharing his knowledge of the old world penny-farthing, Robert gave a great deal of pleasure to the Iandra crowd.

Parkes Mayor Ken Keith OAM, Anna Wyllie, Economic and Business Development Manager, Parkes Council, Elizabeth Tickle and Andrew Gee, Member for Orange at the CWL Parkes Launch.

We have been busy getting to know the beautiful town of Young and the many innovative business people who have built strong connections to this area. We trust you will enjoy reading about the many attractions of the cherry capital of Australia, and make time to visit this stunning town in the near future.

Enjoy the beautiful spring weather, soak up the warm sunshine and take all the opportunities that come your way.

Until next time, warm regards,

Elizabeth and Alex Tickle

Elizabeth with Jennifer and Robert Strang and Rod Kershaw at Iandra Castle.

NEWS FLASH: As we go to print, we are able to announce that CWL is now available to read online! This is an exciting move for us, as it means the sensational message of the Central West can now be experienced from anywhere in the world. Please visit our website for more information.

6 CWL

FOR SALE 5 3 5+ Offers Over $640,000 322 Macquarie Street, Dubbo Looks, Lifestyle and Location R&H Dubbo With absolute quality throughout, this charming Federation home promises 6882 1755 unrivalled family living in a second-to-none location. The ground floor offers Agent Monica Henley 0410 615 505 monicah@rhdubbo.com.au Sharon Allan 0408 156 015 sallan@rhdubbo.com.au

large living areas, 3 generous bedrooms with access to 2 study/play rooms, main bathroom with claw foot bath and kitchen with Smeg appliances & stone benches.

Upstairs is the generous master suite with large walk-in robe, ensuite, rumpus & study. Venture outside to find plenty of covered space & leafy surrounds for private outdoor living & entertaining as well as a pool. The lock-up garage boasts a selfcontained studio/5th bedroom upstairs. Elevated on a 1,157m2 block this stately residence enjoys views across Lady Cutler Park, sits alongside the walking track and is a short stroll from the CBD for restaurants & shops. Additional: ducted RC air con; Federation details; built-in robes; 4th toilet off laundry; under-cover parking for 5-6 vehicles; in-ground pool; 1.5kW solar panels; auto watering system.

rh.com.au/dubbo

Forever Young Another long, cold winter has bitten the dust and we are approaching a fabulous time of the year, full of renewed hope, warmer days and exciting new projects.

Returning to the 2015 Dubbo Show proved cathartic for this old hack. I recall one memorable stay at the Blue Lagoon Motel some 30 years ago while covering the ram sales for a reputable rural newspaper. I was blissfully naive at the time and, having never stayed in a motel room before, was totally unaware of how these new-fangled mini-bars worked.

It seemed that if you drank anything it would mysteriously reappear back in the fridge the following day! I assumed it was all part of the generous service and, during my last night, considering my controlled behaviour thus far, decided it appropriate to empty her out! My bar bill far exceeded the cost of the room and I had a lot of explaining to do for my very patient boss!

It was great to see country and city come together for a few days of education, competition and friendship. The Dubbo Show is considered one of the largest shows outside of Sydney and the sideshow alley and special attractions were all enjoyed along with the usual cattle, sheep, lambs, horses, dogs and poultry exhibits.

I remained “forever young” during my extended visit to the cherry capital of Australia. What a progressive town Young is, with a thriving CBD and strong rural base.

Young even has an old picture theatre and a castle.

Yes, that’s right. I finally managed to find my way to Iandra Castle, the magnificent old home (if you can call it that) now capably managed by Rod and Bev Kershaw.

It was a tranquil experience staying out at “Springfield”, collecting my eggs each morning from the hen barn next door, enjoying the sunsets and just feeling the synergy with mother nature. It was here I stumbled onto the amazing story of Dave Heyhoe and Treo, his world famous sniffer dog.

8 CWL

I met some wonderful characters like Clare Freudenstein OAM and whip-maker Richard Taubman, NRMA stalwart Maurice Henry and his colourful old mate for nearly eight decades, Tiger Hunter, along with dozens of refreshing, fair-dinkum and successful business operators like Adrian Capra from the Art of Espresso.

It was great witnessing Anzac Day in Young on the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign.

I love reading and was delighted when engaging Dubbo author Kerrie Phipps offered me her latest book, Do Talk to Strangers. It is a thoroughly good read. In fact, I am going to lift out one paragraph that I feel needs to be shared.

“During economic downturns, people are becoming concerned about how their business will withstand the challenges. I truly believe that increasing the level of happiness in a business, bringing fun and creativity to the surface, with a focus on each customer who walks through the door, will stand a business in good stead through any economic fluctuation. Consider this: if the world around you is not positive, where will you want to go? The stores where people put a smile on your face or the ones just going through the motions?”

So there it is! A simple (and cheap) method of transforming your business overnight!

By the time you are reading this, spring will be in the air and the cold winter will just be a memory. As you snuggle up with our 10th edition, remember to sit back and relax in the knowledge that the spirit of the Central West is truly alive and well.

Till next time, chin up and soldier on.

It’s the Australian way.

Shot by Jake

• Selling in every auction sale week • Leading wooltrade broker • Forward contract with Riemann • Offering Auctions Plus wool • Accredited & modern rehandle • Cash settlement on small lots • Merchandise • Shearing finance • Web access to client account • One competitive flat rate for all bales • Comprehensive market reporting • Detailed clip analysis

Since taking over our family farm I have been using Jemalong wool exclusively to market our annual woolclip. Using a combination of the traditional auction system and the internet based Wool Trade™ we have been able to take advantage of any upward movements of wool prices. This is due to personalised attention to detail and flexibility due mainly to Jemalong understanding our needs as a business.

- Simon Squire-Wilson, Tiverton, Harden, NSW

SPRING 2015 CONTRIBUTORS

Meet your team

ELIZABETH TICKLE

ALEX TICKLE

Publisher & Editor

JAKE LINDSAY

Publisher & Advertising

Chief Writer & Photographer

KATE BOSHAMMER

KRYSTEN BARROS

KELLY DONNELLY Designer

Advertising Designer

ANNA TICKLE

CATHERINE PLAYER

JANE TICKLE

ELIZABETH SWANE

PIP TEYS

AMANDA O’SULLIVAN

DAYNA TIERNEY

LORRAINE HILLS

PAUL & ANNE LOVERIDGE

GINA CRANSON

Art Director

Writer

ALI WANCHAP WOOD Fashion Writer

ANGUS WADDELL Photographer

Designer

Writer

Home & Style and Travel Writer

Country Cuisine Writer

Events Officer

Home & Style Writer

Seasonal Food Writers

LISA STARR

Garden Writer

Writer

Proofreader

your letters As Mayor of Parkes Shire Council, I was delighted with the expansive feature highlighting the many icons and attractions of the Parkes Shire within the Winter edition of the Central West Lifestyle magazine.

I pay tribute to the publishers, Alex and Elizabeth Tickle, and staff for the high quality and professional production values on display throughout the magazine. My compliments to chief writer and photographer Jake Lindsay, who became one of Parkes’s favourite visiting sons during his research and photography trips to the region.

The magazine has lived up to its reputation as one of Australia’s pre-eminent publications, one that continues to grow in circulation and increase its number of avid readers.

I know that the Parkes focus will provide numerous and tangible benefits to the region and I commend a relationship with the magazine to any aspiring, progressive regional centre.

I convey the gratitude of my fellow councillors and the community of the Parkes Shire for a job well done.

Cr Ken Keith OAM, Mayor, Parkes Shire Council

.................................................................................

Congratulations to Elizabeth, Alex and the team at Central West Lifestyle magazine, who put together the Winter issue showcasing our wonderful town of Parkes.

In the first three weeks that the magazine has been on sale we have sold in excess of 650 copies in our newsagency.

Customers have purchased copies and sent to relatives and friends in such places as New Zealand and locations all over Australia.

Parkes Shire Council in conjunction with CWL launched the Winter issue at The Dish Café at the Parkes Radio Telescope.

The launch was extremely successful with many advertisers and locals featured in the magazine being present.

In our eight years in the newsagency business we have never seen a magazine create so much interest. Many of the purchasers were not previously aware of the magazine, and are in awe of what a wonderful publication it is. Many are now inquiring when the next issue will be out.

We feel that the whole of Central and Southern NSW should feel proud that the staff at CWL are so passionate about the area we all call home.

Behind any good business you need people who are honest and genuine and this is where Elizabeth and Alex take this magazine to that next level. All the staff that we have had dealings with offer the same high-quality service.

Both Christene and myself say that we do not have to sell this magazine. It is such a quality publication it sells itself.

Elizabeth, Alex and all the staff at CWL, keep up your wonderful work.

Greg and Christene Nash, Parkes Newsagency & Gifts

.................................................................................

Congratulations on a wonderful magazine. I am really delighted to get each copy as it arrives. It is a delight to read.

The photography and the detail to each article are really something. It is great to have such a good quality magazine available for reading. The magazine graces my coffee table in my living area so that I can share it with my visitors.

Elvy Quirk, Forbes

.................................................................................

Thank you for the remarkable article you did on Moorambilla Voices in the Summer 2014 edition of CWL. Your timing was wonderful as it helped give our 10th birthday skills development tour more gravitas. With your support, more people in our region knew what we had done, what we do, how and most importantly why. This really helped open more doors for us in some communities, and gave the region a truly great good news story to counterbalance all the negativity in the press.

So, on behalf of all the communities we represent, their families, children and friends, thank you so much for being such a special part of our 10th year and for the positive energy and acknowledgement you gave us and continue to give the region.

We look forward to keeping in touch and seeing you hopefully as we celebrate in Dubbo all the capacity of this remarkable region on Saturday, September 19.

Michelle Leonard, Founder and Artistic Director Moorambilla Voices

.................................................................................

I am a resident of Nowra on the South Coast but I spend a lot of time in the Central West, generally touring on my motorcycle.

The long weekend was another opportunity to head west, this time to attend the Grenfell Henry Lawson Festival.

I hit the road early and stopped at one of my favourite cafes, The Merino Cafe, in Gunning for breakfast. As I waited for brekky to arrive, and over a most excellent coffee, I grabbed a magazine off the reading table to peruse. It just so happened to be a copy of Central West Lifestyle, a magazine I had not encountered before! Initially I just thumbed through it, looking for an interesting article to read, but as I was doing so, I was struck by the photography!

These were no point-and-shoot shots but glorious, immaculately framed and composed photos, obviously done by a master of their trade with a real passion. I am an avid reader and consumer of magazines and I felt I had a new favourite very close! After feasting on the visual glory, I settled in and read a couple of articles and features. The writing was tight, concise but with a warmth that really let you into the story. If I had to describe CWL in one word, it would be “lush”, like enjoying a glass of red in an old armchair in front of an open fire.

After breakfast, I travelled on to Grenfell and enjoyed the street parade before heading out to my overnight stop in Gooloogong in a classic Aussie pub. Sunday morning I returned to Grenfell and attended the Poetry in the Park, then strolled up and down the main street admiring the classic cars on display, before heading out to Pinnacle for the guinea pig races (highly recommended!). After lunch I was heading for my stop that night in Boorowa when I passed Iandra Castle and saw it was an open day. I had been there about five years ago and was curious to see how much progress had been made in the restoration. Iandra is simply stunning, and many more rooms were open this time round. As I listened to the guide, he mentioned that CWL had done a feature article and was available on site. I immediately thought of the stunning photography in the magazine and left the tour in order to make sure I obtained a copy.

You can imagine my surprise when, upon reaching the CWL stand, I recognised Alex as the gentleman I had seen stacking magazines in the Merino Cafe the previous morning! Yes, it is indeed a small world!

So from never having heard of your magazine, we now have a number of curious, perhaps even serendipitous, events tying myself and your magazine together.

You have a convert, and I will be making sure to obtain CWL on a regular basis in the future.

David Adams, Nowra

.................................................................................

Share your feedback Email: info@centralwestmagazine.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/CentralWestLifestyle

CWL 11

Welcome to

YOUNG TOWN FEATURE WORDS & IMAGES: SHOT BY JAKE

FROM THE MAYOR With rolling granite hills and a profusion of flowering fruit trees, the Young district presents an enthralling profile of inland rural Australia.

Nestled as part of the South West Slopes of NSW, its undulating landscape supports a diverse range of intensive to broad-acre agriculture, horticulture, and more recently renowned viticulture industries.

Pioneer James White first settled on Burrangong Creek in 1826; the well-sheltered land along its banks proving a safe haven for his lambing ewes.

Soon afterward a township of Lambing Flat was established in this vicinity, brought on by the gold rush of 1860.

The discovery of gold in the area not only changed the dynamics of this peaceful grazing area but also the history of Australia.

As with many other goldfields of the era, the diggings at Lambing Flat attracted miners from around the world hoping to change their fortunes. However, the clash of Eastern and Western cultures evident on other Australian goldfields developed into a riot here.

A banner spelling out “No Chinese” as a statement of purpose was produced by the miners, who chased the Chinese fossickers from the fields.

That banner is today a centerpiece of the Lambing Flat Museum, and is considered one of the most significant flags of Australia.

From the government intervention of these goldfield riots the White Australia Policy was drafted and the township of Lambing Flat was renamed Young after the governor of the day, Sir John Young.

At Young today people of all cultures are welcomed, and the town acknowledges this phase of its history through the Lambing Flat Chinese Festival in March.

This multicultural celebration highlights the best of modern and ancient cultures within a unifying theme of harmony, and the community-built Chinese Tribute Garden draws countless visitors each year.

One of the European migrants attracted to the goldfields here was Croatian Nikole Jasprizza, who identified the area as suitable for growing cherries and experimented extensively. His countrymen Baldo and Antony Cunich, and later Barisa Batinich, were among prominent industry pioneers.

The early orchards they established on the red granite hillsides became larger and more growers planted in the district until Young became the biggest cherry producer in Australia.

Fourth- and fifth-generation cherry growers are still producing export-quality fruit under high-technology methods today.

Young celebrates this feature of our economy and culture with the annual National Cherry Festival held on the first weekend in December.

Thousands join in the atmosphere of celebration through a program of events that unite visitors, itinerant harvest workers and locals.

14 CWL YOUNG

At the outbreak of World War I many men from the district volunteered, served in overseas battlefields and, as the military history of the time reflects, many were killed as a consequence.

Community members of the Young district would not allow the heroic deeds and sacrifice of these servicemen to be forgotten and had a Memorial Tower erected in their honour.

This chiming clock tower, nearly 100 years later, is still one of the main features of Young’s busy main street.

Today the town of Young is a dynamic regional centre, attracting people from a wide radius.

Major rural supply businesses and diverse general retail outlets dominate the CBD while steel fabrication and meat processing combine with rural industries of fruit, wheat, wool, prime lamb, beef, modern intensive piggery and egg production, canola and mustard seed production to set the scene for a prosperous future.

It’s with much pleasure I invite you all to come visit us at Young and see for yourselves.

Cr John Walker, Mayor of the Young Shire Image of Mayor: Holly Bradford Photography

Image: Maree Myhill

Young & VIBRANT FROM ALMOST ALL OF THE 11 ROADS INTO YOUNG THERE IS A VIEW OF THE TOWN TUCKED INTO ITS VALLEY. WITH GOOD RAINFALL AND RICH SOILS, IT IS ENGLAND WITH GUM TREES.

WORDS BY JOE KINSELA FROM a timber shanty town, cleared by two great fires in the mid 1870s, Young became the solid commercial centre we see today. Those who remained after the “Rush” consolidated the town that had rapidly and haphazardly grown from the “lambing flat” where gold was found in 1860.

Some tried cherries and soft fruits, others took to grazing and cropping, so a settled prosperous community grew from a broad foundation. In 1922, the 1875 Town Hall doubled in size with the addition of a splendid War Memorial, its clock tower. The Information Centre occupies a singularly beautiful 1885 Railway Station, built in Italianate-Gothic style with ornate verandahs of cast iron.

Miners from southern China were targeted by disgruntled diggers in 1861, and thousands were driven from the field. This dramatic event is remembered in the great Court House, fashioned as a Roman temple by colonial architect James Barnet. Built to emphasise law and order, where the mounted police had read the Riot Act and charged rebellious diggers, overlooking a restful park and bandstand, the Court House now serves as Young High School.

The Public School, erected in 1883 with airy classrooms and a perfect Italian campanile for the bell, houses our museum, exhibiting items telling the history of the nation and the town, such as the Roll Up Banner carried by the rioters. Across Campbell Street stands St Mary’s Catholic Church (1874), solid granite with a tall spire. Other fine churches in the town include St John’s Anglican Church (1893), designed in Decorated Gothic style by the Blacket firm.

Romantic bank buildings are found in the main street: an 1890 “Arts & Crafts”-style arcaded Bank of NSW and an emphatically Baroque Commercial Bank of Australia. The Commonwealth Bank, in a cool Art Deco style (1920s-’30s), now serves as a gun shop.

The finest commercial building is the three-storeyed emporium built for Millard’s General Merchants in 1917. The interior is a “must see” for its grand staircase. In Lynch Street, opposite the simple Gothic Presbyterian Church, stands a very fine essay in Georgian style, built as the AMP Insurance building.

This mixture of grand and sweet buildings among the formal plantings of deciduous European trees around the town, a series of charming lakes along the meandering creek (shaped from the chaotic gold diggings) together with small holdings and the patterns of orchards and vineyards on the hills, reinforces the image of a European town set down among the eucalypts.

YOUNG

Young survives in tough times. Partly this is due to the foresight of the civic leaders with their eye on development, partly to the town’s situation, midway between Bathurst and Wagga, between Orange and Canberra. This brings a commercial advantage – Harvey Norman, Big W, Rivers, Best & Less and others are established here at the centre of a regional population of 40,000.

Young has always been a good place for business; seven soldier settlement villages were created after World War I and many settler blocks after World War II built up the district population. On all sides of town are small holdings on the deep red soils. Stone fruit and cherries are part of the district’s identity, and now local vine growers are demonstrating the unbounded potential of the “Hilltops Region”.

Young has several specialist industries. The Flour Mill has remained a small independent milling company, and now makes flour from durum wheat for pasta. Young Causmag crushes magnesium oxide, used in pharmaceuticals and fertilisers from the purest deposits in the world, 19 kilometres from town.

YLAD has developed an organic soil-enrichment process for pasture and crops. Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory specialises in local jams and chocolates, while The Grog Shop at Wombat refines orchard fruits.

The district has large-scale piggeries and poultry farms, sheep, cattle and cropping operations, and some local orchards and berry farms also offer visitors a chance to pick their own fruit.

There are two main festivals in the annual calendar. The National Cherry Festival in late November/early December sees the town fill with thousands of tourists as coaches arrive from coastal cities and towns to join in cherry seed spitting or cherry pie eating contests,

the grand procession and the crowning of the Cherry Queen (and Cherry King, as from 2015).

In recent years Young has become more mindful of the Chinese story from the gold rush days. There are feelings of sorrow and regret with the outward racism expressed in the 1860/’61 riots, the suffering that drove nearly 2000 off the field at the height of winter.

The town has constructed a Chinese Tribute Garden in Sawpit Gully (around the former Chinaman’s Dam) as a place of rest and reflection and for healing of memories. Many from Sydney’s Chinatown supported the designing and planting of this beautiful garden, and the City of Guangzhou donated sculptural elements in the traditional style.

Waterfowl – moorhens and ducks, shags and black swans – swim and breed in the tranquil lakes of the garden. Our other growing celebration is The Lambing Flat Chinese Festival at the end of March, when there are dozens of market stalls, musical and dramatic presentations of the Chinese traditional sort and, spectacularly, the Chinese Dragons perform in the street in unequalled acrobatic style.

In autumn, colours paint the streets and parks, and in springtime pink and white blossoms and yellow canola splash over the hills. Late in the year, when cherries are in season, the pickers are in town, and conversations bubble along in French, German, Scandinavian and many Asian languages at street corners and in shops and cafes.

Lebanese families from the Sydney area have settled on small farms, and the headscarves of Muslim women and the robes of their husbands contribute, with visitors and locals, to a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere around the town. CWL YOUNG CWL 17

In Younger Days

18 CWL YOUNG

THE EARLY YEARS WITH BRIAN JAMES, PRESIDENT OF THE YOUNG HISTORICAL SOCIETY

THE VOGT WINE PRESS In 1853 Joseph and Caroline Vogt were German assisted immigrants who came to NSW where Joseph undertook vine dressing for Sir Charles Cowper of “Wivenhoe”, near Camden. Joseph, his wife and two young children stayed with Sir Charles Cowper for two years.

After this Joseph purchased land at Mandemar, near Berrima, where he set up his own grape growing and wine making. Among his clientele were the early Joadja Creek miners as they tracked between the Joadja Creek shale mine and Berrima township.

Joseph and Caroline went on to have nine more children. One of these children was William Thomas Vogt, who settled at Young. William set about growing grapes and producing wine from his property on the corner of Lovell and Zouch streets.

A wine press used by William was made by William’s father at Mandemar and brought to Young in the early days. The stain of grapes can be still seen in the well-preserved timber.

Furniture making and carpentry were carried out on the property and at a later date a mortuary was erected to conduct the business of undertaker.

The two-storey house was eventually moved to make way for a motel and shops. It has been restored on a property on the outskirts of Young.

EARLY VINEYARDS AND WINE MAKERS One of the earliest to grow grapes and make wine was Nicholas Jasprizza. In 1876 he was the only wine grower of any note.

Previously Michael Schmidt, the proprietor of the old Empire Hotel, had a small vineyard where the Railway Goods Shed stood in Lovell Street and made wine. Dr Temple had a small vineyard on a rise on the east of the town and also made wine.

Above: Young Historical Society president Brian James with the old Vogt wine press.

John Baker opened his Pastoral Hotel on the Grenfell Road in 1878 and maintained his licence for a number of years. It was situated on the west side of the Grenfell Road almost opposite Jerrybang Lane.

There was a good sized vineyard established on the site and the Bakers made wine.

Baldo Cunich was reported to have purchased a lot of his wine there and a lot of wine was sold to travellers.

Young in modern times is the centre of the well-known Hilltops Cool Climate Wine Region, featuring numerous vineyards and wines.

20 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

BARNEY In the early days of the gold rush at Lambing Flat along the track that was to become Main Street there were numerous shanties, hotels, bowling alleys and shooting galleries for the entertainment of the diggers.

Some of the hotels had theatres and dance halls attached where performances and dancing took place each evening.

One such theatre was the “Diggers Theatre”, run by Barnett Phillips, and in the doorway stood “Barney” to welcome customers.

In later years “Barney” was attached to the verandah of Little’s Arcade, opposite the Town Hall. Today “Barney” is still at work welcoming visitors to our museum.

Above: Young enthusiastic historians Brian James, Tony Bolger and Joe Kinsela with “Barney” at the entrance of the Lambing Flat Folk Museum.

THE CHINESE TRIBUTE GARDENS In the early 1860s German brothers Hermann and Johann Tiedemann established a dam on this site to obtain water to use for gold sluicing at their Victoria Hill gold claim. Well after the period of the riots the Tiedemann brothers sold the dam to a group of Chinese miners.

With the coming of the railway, water was needed for the steam locomotives on the proposed Demondrille-Cowra-Blayney branch line. About 1882 the railway department took over the site and it was known as Young Tank. From 1885 to 1901 the locomotives replenished their water here.

In 1901 a water supply was established at the Young Railway Station, but the water was still supplied from the Chinaman’s Dam. The dam’s capacity was enlarged in 1911. By 1937 the water was supplied by the Burrinjuck Dam on the Murrumbidgee River.

In 1963 a 15ha reserve was declared with the Shire Council being the trustee. For years it was used as a recreation reserve and unofficial swimming hole but an unfortunate death saw an end to that.

In 1992 the gardens were established and it was decided to dedicate them to the honour of the Chinese who played a big part in the history and development of Young.

Chinese members of the Sydney community have contributed financial and other support to the development. A lot has still to be done but this will proceed as money becomes available. > YOUNG CWL 21

ANTI-CHINESE RIOTS Most of the Chinese in Australia in the 19th Century came from Kwangtung Province, the majority from the Canton Delta. The lure of gold brought them to Australia. They did not want to settle; their aim was to provide for their families in China.

They arrived on the rich Victorian goldfields in the 1850s.

When restrictions were put on them they landed in NSW or South Australia and walked overland.

Anti-Chinese riots flared on the Buckland diggings in 1857. An uneasy peace was restored but the Chinese kept coming and overflowed onto the NSW diggings. When gold was discovered at Lambing Flat in 1860 the Chinese soon found their way there.

Lambing Flat was a poor man’s field. The Europeans resented the Chinese, whom they claimed were “clannish”, looked and spoke differently, were dishonest and, worst of all, wasted and dirtied the scarce water.

There were many Americans and others who had been on the Californian goldfields and the American Vigilance Committee idea was soon resorted to. On December 12, a roll-up of miners was called to destroy the grog shops and shanties that had sprung up.

This done, they turned their attention to the Chinese, driving them off their claims. Pigtails were cut off and two Chinese were reportedly killed.

Captain Zouch arrived with some troopers; police numbers were now eight mounted men and two detectives. The miners were back at work, all was quiet and no bodies could be found.

On January 27, 1861, the miners again rioted and drove the Chinese from the area. The police could do nothing. Inspector McLerie and 30 more mounted men arrived. A Miner’s Protection League was formed on February 3, and a mass meeting was called.

Speakers including Charles Allen, John Stewart and William Spicer addressed the meeting at Golden Point.

Despite their increased numbers, the police were powerless.

The Riot Act was read but ignored. The rioters moved through the town to Blackguard Gully and Wamba Numba and drove the Chinese off, beating them and cutting off their pigtails, destroying or stealing their tools, shovels, cradles, tents and possessions.

The police action was ineffectual and the miners had defied the government so on February 25, 1861, 20 mounted police were sent to escort three 12 pound field guns under Captain Lovell and 130 men of the 12th Regiment – the same regiment that had seen action at Eureka – to restore order.

The Chinese at Blackguard Gully, Sawpit Gully and Back Creek were attacked and driven like cattle before the mob. They were bashed, pigtails cut off, some almost scalped. Tents and equipment were burnt and destroyed. They retreated to Robert’s Currawong Station 12 miles away, where they were given shelter.

Three of the miners’ leaders were arrested and committed for trial.

On July 14 the miners laid siege to the police camp in an attempt to liberate their mates. The Riot Act was again read, but was either not heard or ignored. Shots were exchanged from both sides and the mob was finally dispersed with a sabre charge.

Several police were wounded, as were a number of miners. One miner, William Lupton, standing some hundreds of yards away, was killed by a stray bullet.

The troops started from Redfern Station on a special train to Campbelltown and then by 10 horse buses to Goulburn, and then on to Lambing Flat, arriving March 5.

Next morning the police released the prisoners and abandoned the camp. The courthouse was burnt down by a lunatic who had been in the lock-up. The military, under Colonel Kempt, was dispatched again, comprising the 12th Regiment under Captain Wilkie, a howitzer under Lieutenant Pitt and 11 police constables under Captain McLerie, arriving in late July.

Meanwhile, the Premier, “Slippery Charlie” Cowper, had arrived at Lambing Flat, promising the miners a new law would be passed and urging restraint until this happened. Cowper was given a farewell dinner at the Great Eastern Hotel and returned to Sydney.

In Goulburn 13 men were tried and 12 were acquitted, which resulted in a long and loud celebration on the goldfields. In November 1861 a further victory was celebrated when the Chinese Immigration Restriction Act was passed through Parliament, the beginning of the White Australian Policy.

The military arrived and all was quiet. The troopers mixed with the locals and even played friendly cricket matches between “town and tunic”. The cannons were fired on odd occasions in practice.

Without warning on May 24, the Queen’s Birthday, the artillery fired a 21-gun salute and departed.

The military remained at Lambing Flat until July 3, 1862. The name was changed to Young, to honour the Governor, Sir John Young, and to remove Lambing Flat from the map.

The Legislative Council would not pass Cowper’s new legislation.

In mid June a rumour spread that 1500 Chinese had arrived in Sydney and were on their way to Burrangong. The resounding cry “Roll up, roll up, no Chinese” was soon heard and on June 30, led by a brass band and the large Roll Up Banner, around 2000 diggers marched from Tipperary Gully to expel all the Chinese on the Burrangong goldfields.

22 CWL YOUNG

After the gold rush petered out the town began to die. Most of the mining population had moved on, and the Chinese who were prepared to rework old ground were invited back to save Young from becoming a ghost town. CWL Above: Joe Kinsela, Tony Bolger and Historical Society president Brian James with the original roll-up banner of the 1861 riots. It is reputedly in far better condition than the Eureka Stockade flag from the same era.

Parts of this article have been sourced from Ross Maroney’s Old Young and Popinjay Publications No.21, 1988.

YOUNG

A HAPPENING PLACE YOUNG IS A VIBRANT PLACE WHERE PEOPLE LOOK TO THE FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE. THIS SOUTH WEST NSW shire has an ideal location close to Canberra and Sydney and its business sector brings innovation to a diverse agriculture and horticulture base.

Widely recognised as Australia’s Cherry Capital, the Young district provides paddock to plate produce in the form of its cherries, grain, canola, lamb, chicken, eggs, pork, honey, oils, plums, beef, prunes, peaches, wine, apricots, organic chickens and ducks.

Young is also home to innovative businesses in the field of research, technology, milling, genetics, accounting, telecommunication, building, sustainability, concreting, mining and biogas.

Dynamic sectors in retail, law, finance, allied health, retirement and aged care sustain the town and district population of over 12,500, while servicing a regional population in excess of 57,000 people.

Young is steadily becoming the headquarters for businesses that have expanded into neighbouring towns and centres while others have forged expertise that brings clients to the town from a wide radius.

Individual businesses continue to extend their products, services and market reach.

The formation of the new Canberra region (CBR) brings fresh opportunities for Young industry and tourism, with additional ties to the national capital, the ski slopes and the coast.

Young is also part of the Hilltops food and wine region, which is recognised for superior cool-climate wines and diverse produce.

The town’s tourism is supported by two annual festivals that centre on the cherry harvest and Chinese gold mining history, attracting big crowds in December and March.

Yet, its richest resource is its people, whose hard work and ambition since the first settlement in 1826 have brought prosperity to the region over the years.

Young retains the best of country living and lifestyle; a close-knit community with plenty of sport, recreation and cultural activities and modern public facilities and a range of education options.

Sport is a major part of life here. Young Golf Course is widely acclaimed as the best in the South West region. Bowling greens, sports grounds, ovals, dressage centre, pony club grounds, raceway, tennis and netball courts and extensive Police Community Youth Club facilities are used year round. Young’s paceway is a major drawcard and attracts entries from as far afield as Victoria and Dubbo as well as all points in between.

The town has had its share of champions like Australia cricketer Nathan Lyon and Australian rugby league players Brett Mullins and Simon Woolford to mention just a few.

The Young Regional School of Music is a centre of excellence, with highly qualified tutors providing individual, group and shared lessons in town and to outlying centres as well as bringing professionals to perform regularly.

Art and craft groups, workshop programs and a cinema add to the social life of the community while there are two dance schools, and theatre companies.

There’s a profusion of community organisations in the town, which offer residents opportunities for fund-raising, learning and entertainment.

Young is a centre that is keeping pace with change while forging strong bonds with neighbours and like-minded groups as it continues to shape a bright future in the 21st century and beyond.

Images: Holly Bradford Photography YOUNG CWL 23

YOUNG

Making Merry in the Cherry Capital YOUNG is the undisputed cherry capital of Australia so it’s only natural the vibrant and progressive town supports its signature event, the annual National Cherry Festival, staged in the first full weekend in December, coinciding with the cherry harvest.

The three-day celebration, now in its 65th year, will include quirky and colourful festivities including the National Cherry Festival street parade, Christmas street market, cherry pie-eating championships, cherry pip-spitting competition, live music, drum and pipe bands, Hilltops Wine Expo, Young and region farmers market, fringe events and much more.

The festival starts on Friday night, December 4, with fireworks, live music in the park and the announcement of the Cherry Queen/King and Charity Queen/King winners. A big program of events continues on Saturday, December 5 and Sunday, December 6.

There are many other sporting and cultural events linked to the National Cherry Festival held in November and December.

Springtime brings with it an abundance of cherry blossoms and the Cherry Blossom Long Lunch, held in one of the district’s cherry orchards on September 27.

Images: Holly Bradford Photography 24 CWL YOUNG

66TH NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL

4TH – 6TH DEC 2015 Street Parade Market Stalls Celtic Tattoo Parade Cherry Pie Eating Competition Cherry Pip Spit Competition Hilltops Region Wine Tasting Hilltops Heritage Rally Live Music, Fireworks, Amusements, Festival Food, National Cherry Festival Car Show Pick your own Cherries and more...

For more information

www.visityoung.com.au or connect with us #YoungNSW

Now available to read online SUBSCRIPTIONS BACK ISSUES BOXED COLLECTIONS VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO EXPERIENCE CWL IN PRINT OR ONLINE: WWW.CENTRALWESTMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Come to Young and Celebrate the start of Spring at the Cherry Blossom Long Lunch.

Long trestle tables, exceptional Hilltops food and wines, and the rustic charm of one of Young’s most picturesque orchards combine for an unrivalled experience during the spring time blossoms.

Sunday 27th September Tickets $60 Call Young Visitor Information Centre on 02 6382 3394 Bookings are essential (Adults Only)

YOUNG CWL 25

BEARING FRUIT

26 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

THE BATINICH CHERRY dynasty started humbly enough in 1892 when 14-year-old Barisa Batinich sailed in the bow of a ship from the Yugoslavian port city of Split, carrying nothing more than a bag and an old prayer book. He ended up on the other side of the world in Young, working on his sponsor Baldo Cunich’s orchard on the north side of town while contemplating his next big move.

Other brothers went to America but he was in Australia and married Aussie girl Julia Apps in early 1911. Barisa took out 19 acres on the Commons Road, east of Young.

With help from his eldest sons, Norman and Ernest, he cleared what was virtually scrub country, except for the small section along the creek, which was potted with old gold diggings.

Before the orchard was planted (using fruit tree stocks from friends) and while it was still maturing, Barisa planted watermelons, which he’d sell to the locals in town.

With help from his father-in-law, the newcomer pegged out and built a house fashioned from rough-cut timber logs. This quaint, primitive but cosy structure would remain their principal home for the rest of their lives.

The pair went on to have seven children – all born, bar one, on the property.

Years later the Commons Road became known as Batinich Road.

Barisa died in late 1944 in Orange hospital. His two eldest boys brought their father’s body back by train to be buried in Young Cemetery.

One of those boys, Ernie, went on to marry Irelene Loader, descendant of a well-known pioneer family who had a property on the Boorowa Road.

Ernie leased a general store in the nearby township of Wombat, with coupons used to purchase fuel and goods. Irelene would run the store during the day while Ernie worked as a labourer for Mr Arnott (from the famous biscuit family) on the nearby property of “Bibaringa”.

Always looking ahead and planning a better future for his family, Ernie made the decision, in 1944, to purchase 55 acres of land called “Glen Iris”, about 12km from Young. On this land Ernie used his knowledge of orchards and planted a small patch of cherries – he was the first grower on the town’s south side – while the family laboured on with the traditional vegetables, peas and carrots.

They enjoyed the help of three army girls who were sent to make their contribution to the war effort. The girls would help out with many varied duties, from helping in the home to harvesting the peas and other vegetables.

With the opportunity to purchase greater acreage from Mr Davidson further up the road, they decided to sell “Glen Iris”. The new “Cherrymore” property consisted of different varieties of fruit, cherries, plums, nectarines and apples. The adjoining property was purchased some years later, making Ernie a substantial and well-respected cherry grower in the Young district and earning him life membership to the NSW Cherry Growers Association.

Ernie and Irelene had two children, Noel and Maureen. Noel decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and gradually assumed control as his parents later enjoyed the fruits of their hard-working lives with extensive journeys throughout Australia and overseas.

When Ernie died in late 1999, cherry branches laden with cherries adorned the coffin. The “Glen Iris” property, where he originally started, is now, once again, owned by the Batinich family. > Left: Michael and his father Noel Batinich and wife Wendy inspect their orchard.

Above: Ernie Batinich. Right: Noel Batinich has been involved with the cherry industry all his life.

YOUNG CWL 27

YOUNG

The Batinich family – Daniel, Matthew, Michael and Wendy, Tim and Ariahana, Natasha and Arabella. Front: Yvonne and Noel Batinich. (Image: Holly Bradford Photography)

NEW BEGINNINGS Now with Noel’s son Michael and his highly skilled wife Wendy at the helm, it’s truly one big family operation with their own three sons, Tim, Daniel and Matthew, all involved. Michael’s younger brother Barisha (named in honour of his great grandfather who started it all) is working his orchard nearby and five sisters live in the neighbourhood.

Cherry growing is firmly in the blood with the family responsible for producing about 1000 tonnes each year.

The busiest time of the year is picking, traditionally from November to Christmas. The labour force grows to a cast of hundreds from all walks of life. Good pickers do about 20 lugs a day but it’s not an easy job.

With two big packing facilities, the family was exporting 75 per cent of their produce but in the past few years the market’s swung the other way thanks to a high Australian dollar and Queensland fruit fly.

“We’ve lost a few good export markets and there’s a big push from Orange, Young and Victorian growers to get back these markets, but it’s a tough game, especially trying to break into China,” Michael says.

“You can’t describe the feeling of listening to hailstones hit the roof at harvest time,” Michael says. “In a really bad year it rains just before each variety’s harvest. That’s happened.”

Back home there have been many changes to the industry. Over the past 15 years the cherry industry has rationalised from 240 growers down to the 25 to 30 remaining operators in the district. “There’s probably only about half a dozen growers who derive their income solely from cherry and fruit growing,” he says. He’s a fourth generation fruit grower, and like his father, grandfather and great-grandfather before him, has grown up surrounded by cherries.

Cherry business is big business. The properties surrounding Young bear such names as “Cherryhaven” and “Cherrygrove”. Everywhere roadside signs urge visitors to “Pick your own cherries”. The town has a Cherry Festival, Cherry Queen, Cherry Shop and a cherry pip-spitting competition!

Visitors have little doubt they are in the “Cherry Capital of Australia”.

28 CWL YOUNG

Still, there’s serious money in cherries. Young produces about half of Australia’s cherry crop, or about 600,000 five-kilo cases each year but it all depends on the weather. As the season is so short, rain or hail at the wrong time can mean huge losses.

Last year Australian growers produced 10,500 tonnes and in a good season would grow 13,000 tonnes, most of which is sold on the domestic market. Today, E B Batinich supplies cherries, stone fruit and cherry juice to businesses Australia wide, IGA stores and locally at their fruit stall during the harvest season.

They also produce a 100% Pure Cherry Juice called Cherrymore Juice.

This has become very popular throughout Australia and overseas with many people using it as a health product to help relieve the symptoms of arthritis and gout.

Cherries are loaded with essential nutrients, providing a good source of vitamin C, potassium and fibre, and are one of nature’s true “red power” super fruits packed with powerful antioxidants.

The Batinich clan are firmly flying the family flag despite challenging times in the industry. They are justifiably proud of their rich heritage. CWL

YOUNG

On the road again JOHN DUNK, from Dunk Insurance, is a well-known straight shooter.

To him, a handshake represents who you are and what you stand for.

He likes a solid grip and good eye contact, and that’s what you’ll get every time you meet with this savvy businessman who proudly stands behind his name in the township of Young.

He was born in Bourke and spent the first 32 years of his life on the familyowned “Warroo Station”, at Hungerford – all 76,000 acres of it. The northern section is the Queensland/NSW border and the dog fence comes onto his property, he tells me from his buzzing new Dunk Insurance headquarters.

This man is a ball of energy, with a love of cricket and life on the land and a sound head for business. As a grazier himself, he understands only too well the vagaries of life on the land and the need to protect the biggest family asset through insurance.

He attended All Saints’ College, Bathurst, and later Macquarie Uni in Sydney, where he was thrilled to play two years of grade cricket.

John returned to the family farm to help his father run the property.

“In 1981 we moved, supposedly temporarily, to offer secondary education for our children,” he says. “And that’s how I fell into insurance 34 years ago.

We were destined to be here for only two years but never made it back.”

John was offered a job in West Wyalong with Australian Eagle, having absolutely no insurance knowledge. He was told he didn’t have to write any insurance but “basically get around and talk to the farmers”. John was there for four wonderful years before being transferred to Young, where there was more of a traditional mix of farming and commercial clients.

30 CWL YOUNG

QBE bought them out but John still had a substantial portfolio of clients in the local district. His wife Wendy encouraged him to start out on his own, and he did so in 1997, opposite Wilders Bakery.

In 2001, John’s son, James, who was on the property in Bourke, joined the expanding business. An office was opened in Cootamundra, which now employs five staff. A daughter lives in Germany, while Wendy’s three children, Shaun, Jono and Ryan, live in Young, Sydney and Melbourne.

In 2006 John obtained his own broker’s licence and a year later became a shareholder of the highly respected Steadfast Group. In 2014 he purchased the completely renovated premises in Young to house a growing staff of 10.

Today both offices boast a turnover of $20 million with more than 4000 clients between Young, Cootamundra, West Wyalong, Tibooburra and Cunnamulla as well as various spots in Sydney and Canberra. There are also authorised representatives in Wagga Wagga, West Wyalong and Wauchope.

John typically spends much time out of the office, a tribute to the dedicated staff who keep things going.

“My big thing is still playing cricket and tennis. In fact, that’s how I met my beautiful wife Wendy – she was my mixed doubles partner,” he says fondly.

In 2005 he started his own cricket team in the Young district cricket competition, after 21 years’ involvement with junior cricket. The team was called JDI (John Dunk Insurance) and a highlight was playing several games with James and Wendy’s boys! John had the team for three years and in 2006 won the A-grade competition.

“Everything I do is cricket,” he says enthusiastically. “I keep a lot of memorabilia. Soon I’m off to England, playing cricket with the SCG Xl, the social arm of the club, and at 65 will be padding up for a great battle.”

In between all that is Warroo Station, now managed by another couple.

John and James return regularly and recently spent three days out there mustering with an ultralight and motor bikes. They run a Santa Gertrudis herd with bulls sourced from one of their clients.

It’s still more than 500km to the closest selling centre. “I’ve had to reinvent myself,” John says. “I used to do a lot of wool classing and shearing to make ends meet. Now I spend most of my time in the car visiting clients, which I love doing. Just last week James and I travelled to five different states in four days. People think I’m mad, including Wendy, but the fact is I leave home in the dark and get back in the dark.”

It’s not all that different from life on the station. “When I was a kid at home we had a mail service twice a week. When the Dalgety man would come out to visit, he’d bring out a fresh loaf. I still take a cake out when I visit clients – so I can say you can have your cake and eat it too!”

The Dunk Insurance point of difference is their preparedness to travel to clients to give personalised advice on their insurance needs. “Our clients trust us because we share similar values. I am a cocky and they seem to relate to that,” John says. CWL Above: John Dunk in the new office with his talented insurance team: Meg McAllister, Emma Wells, Cath Johnson, Simon Major, Patricia Webb, Diana Fraser, Tegan Woods and Karina Robinson (Image: Holly Bradford Photography).

Right: John spent the first 32 years of his life on “Warroo Station”, Hungerford; John loves his cricket and is soon off to England for a game or two. He is pictured on the grounds of Gloucester, England.

YOUNG CWL 31

32 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

THE GOOD SOIL RHONDA DALY IS ON A DIRECT MISSION TO SAVE OUR SOILS, DELIVERING A STRONG MESSAGE TO HER EVER-GROWING BAND OF FAITHFUL FOLLOWERS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF IMPROVED SOIL HEALTH AND ITS DIRECT RELATIONSHIP TO THE FOOD WE EAT. THERE HAVE BEEN a ton of words written about this extraordinary woman’s determination to change the way we think about soils.

She has spread her message across the globe, sending a simple truth that is hard to refute: our soils are suffering and pulling a generation of farmers into slow, ignoble ruin.

This woman likes to keep busy, juggling the demands of a job she lives and breathes, keeping an eye on her two adult children, James, 37, and Liz, 34, and five grandchildren, helping run the farm, speaking at engagements throughout the world and maintaining their cosy and very much alive home.

It is particularly fitting that 2015 is the International Year of the Soils.

After all, this seasoned campaigner has devoted a good part of her working life to alerting fellow farmers of the dangers of soil degradation as well as positive ways to reverse the trend.

Rhonda must sometimes shake her head at how her life has unravelled.

It all started simply enough. As a member of the well-known Freudenstein family, she was educated at Loreto College and grew up on the family farm at Monteagle, just north of Young.

Since European settlement in Australia, Rhonda says we’ve reduced the organic carbon in our soils by 80 per cent. “In the last 60 odd years we introduced chemical sprays and fertilisers that have virtually decimated the soil,” she says from her imposing, granite homestead snuggled in the rolling green hills of Moppity, near Young.

Bill was likewise a fourth-generation farmer whose family settled here from South Australia in 1907. Bill was born in 1953, during the heaviest snowfall ever recorded in Young. When he was a boy, the original 100-year-old weatherboard cottage, decimated by a mouse plague, was burnt to the ground.

The gorgeous and well-appointed home was painstakingly built with husband Bill on their 1200ha sheep and cereal-cropping property “Milgadara”. It is here the Dalys plan their very hectic schedules. They run 5000 sheep, put in 400ha of cropping and trade about 100 steers a year, not to mention the multimillion-dollar compost and soil business.

Rhonda and Bill, about to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary, know about adversity and hard work. Rhonda’s passion for the soil began as a death-bed epiphany 14 years ago. After a seven-week illness, she was finally diagnosed with chronic spinal meningitis (caused by heavy metal poisoning) and doctors didn’t expect her to live. > YOUNG CWL 33

34 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

“I was lying in bed waiting for the doctor when I heard a voice,” she says.

“It told me that I had to heal the soil and help others.”

Rhonda, now 62, survived the ordeal but never forgot the voice or its message. Once well enough, she began transforming the family farm, planting 15,000 trees and looking at her soils in a very new light.

In 2002 she and Bill established YLAD Living Soils, followed four years later by YLAD Living Compost. Today they have helped establish 53 more composting operations around Australia and New Zealand.

“Often the darkest hour in your life is about change for the better.

Listening to that voice all those years ago was the best thing I’ve ever done,” she says.

Her mission was to teach farmers how to increase the organic carbon in their soil for long-term sustainability. “A lot of people thought I’d lost my trolley but we believed we needed to restore life to the soil.”

The world is facing food shortages that will worsen as climate change shrinks the area of prime farming land available for food production.

“The production of nutritious food in an ecologically sustainable manner is what drives us to educate and spread the word on the benefits of compost and healthy living soils,” Rhonda says.

Simply stated, healthy soil biology is achieved through soil mineral balance, soil carbon levels, structure and absence of toxic residues.

All four factors are interrelated and each is reliant on the other for maximum soil performance.

“You can’t show people what’s around the corner until they reach that corner. All our clients have reached that corner. It’s our mission to now help them around that corner,” she says.

The compost is big business, bringing in a far greater return than the farm. Rhonda is spreading her message through public speaking but really it all begins at home, on the headwaters of the Murrumbidgee River system, where she and Bill practise what they preach.

Like the business, they started the house, beginning in 1987, from scratch.

Unbelievably, the building blocks of granite had sat forlorn in the one spot since the 1830s. They had been collected and stacked to build a house for a fellow whose fiancée was arriving from England.

Something happened and she didn’t make it and the poor fellow died quite young, supposedly of a broken heart. > YOUNG CWL 35

YOUNG

The Dalys carted all 380 tonnes of the granite to the new site, using 280 tonnes to build their stone house over several years. “This was all I ever wanted,” says Rhonda, casting her well-trained eye over her home.

“I always dreamed of living in a stone house with a dam with swans on it.”

As we sit here today overlooking exactly what Rhonda visualised, it shows how the power of thought can realise our dreams.

An open-plan living area flooded with natural light takes in vistas of the garden from every window.

“We always thought our home would be a bit different,” concedes Bill, who had no prior experience in the building trade. What they lacked in experience, they made up for in vision, determination and a whole lot of back-breaking work.

The Dalys built the footings with formwork but found the stones were too big when starting the walls. From then on it was built freehand, “just using our eye to lines things up,” Bill says. “It was like a massive jigsaw puzzle with no two pieces being the same. Many thought we were crazy building our home, so I’m not sure how they felt when we started our biological fertiliser business 14 years ago.”

The humus compost they produce and sell is high-quality aerobic compost that takes 10 weeks to create.

36 CWL YOUNG

Microbial inocula are used from week three to six to build it into a dark sweet-smelling humus compost that they joke is like gourmet compost.

“Humus compost is the only fertiliser product that I know that improves the three aspects of the soil: the physical, the mineral and the microbiology,” Rhonda says. “Local wastes such as stubble, manures, wasted hay and abattoir waste are utilised into the compost.

Instead of burning it or turning it into landfill, why not turn it into fertiliser for your own area.”

They take local waste to produce local fertiliser for local food production. “Nothing can be more sustainable than this system, particularly with the huge focus on being productive and profitable in a low-carbon economy.”

The tragedy is that it’s not too hard to fix. You don’t have to throw out the baby with the bath water. It’s simply a joining together of conventional farming and biological farming to create a “new ground effect”.

The end result is that with good functioning soils farmers get excited about farming again, particularly if they have another generation coming through the ranks. “We’re saying ‘get the soil healthy at the beginning and you won’t need to band-aid it at the end’,” Rhonda says.

CWL

All pu rpose natu ral plant food Promotes healthy living soil Encourages strong healthy plants Improves water holding capacity and reduces disease and pests Used in award winning gardens Call 1300 811 681 or

email sales@yladlivingsoils.com.au www.yladlivingsoils.com.au

Full of Beans HE COULD HAVE ended up as an old Sydney barrister but now Adrian Capra is a Young barista for life! Adrian studied law for five years before meeting a country lass from the village of Greenethorpe over a freshly brewed cup of coffee.

In 1999 they took a job at a pre-Olympic Equestrian trial at Hawkesbury and were introduced to Reg Inglis, who after two coffees asked them to attend his horse auctions. They were not aware at the time that the auctions were among the most prestigious thoroughbred horse sales in the world.

Instead of law he assumed a role in retail, where he honed his skills and recognised the importance of customer service. After four years the country life beckoned and the newlyweds headed west to the country where Gaby grew up. Adrian’s only prerequisite for leaving the city was being able to get a decent coffee in the country.

“We soon realised our one coffee cart could make a hell of a difference to our lives and income. In those days we could make more in one day than a whole week working in the cafe. No staff, no overheads, no kitchen. It was just pack up and go,” Adrian says.

With no prior experience they opened a cafe/restaurant called the Cherrywood (now the Country Providore) and introduced one of the town’s first versions of espresso coffee in its purest form. The couple were intent on changing the way coffee was perceived in the country and it was here that the foundations for the Art of Espresso were born.

After seven years the talented pair won the Australian Cafe of the Year award, based on food, service and coffee. The prize was a fully paid trip to Italy thanks to Qantas and after three months they walked out as fully trained baristas. “We learned the true ‘art of espresso’ from the nation that invented it,” Gaby says.

“Coffee roasting was in its infancy and on our return to Australia we came back to no business (they had sold the shop while overseas), no work and Gaby was gloriously pregnant for the first time,” says Adrian, an old soul with a strong desire to share his experiences with others.

The pressure was on. “This was the crossroad of our working career,” Adrian says. “Instead of busting us up, it took us to a whole new level.

Starting with a mobile coffee cart (there are now 12), we started providing coffee at events throughout the district.”

38 CWL YOUNG

From here Art of Espresso took a leap of faith and with a young family growing by the day, their nomadic lifestyle had to be kerbed.

Adrian invested in a three kilo roaster and started roasting his own coffee and blends in a purpose-built shed on their 200-acre mixed farm “Marree”, not far from Iandra Castle.

“In our first 12 months we were roasting about 30 kilos of coffee per week, which was mainly for ourselves and our coffee cart business,” Adrian says.

“I was like a muso on the road doing gigs, and it came to the point where I needed to put out an album, so to speak. I started entering competitions purely for my own ego and feedback,” he says with a wide grin.

“In 2006 I won a bronze medal but the following year I struck gold, literally, winning the gold medal at the International Golden Bean Coffee Roasters competition. It was then I realised I had an OK product; I just had to get it out there.

“I literally drove around the state trying to flog my coffee but 90 per cent of people were simply not interested. There was the odd one, however, who believed in our coffee, and, thankfully, even today they are still customers. I passed all my knowledge onto them and through the years we have grown exponentially together.”

YOUNG

NEW DIGS In 2009 Adrian and Gaby purchased an old warehouse in Young and moved in about a year later. Coffee is big business – it is the second most traded commodity in the world after oil – and when you see savvy customers pour through their doors each morning, you quickly get the picture.

The couple have a busy staff of eight who manage the cafe and assist in the wholesale side of the business. The business now moves about 30 tonnes of coffee a year, with Adrian’s blends going out to numerous coffee houses and restaurants throughout the eastern states of Australia.

“My business philosophy is 100 per cent based on relationships from plant to cup, from growers as far afield as India, Guatemala, Colombia and northern Australia. The relationships I have formed come from my own personal experiences in these foreign countries,” he says.

“I have met the people and shook the hands of those who pick the beans and it is this aspect that I’m truly proud of and that drives me.

I am able to share this, not just through my cups of coffee but with my customers who drink it. It is part of the experience. The mums, tradies, teachers and professionals – all who come in to enjoy my coffee – are all part of the long chain of relationships from plant to cup.”

Adrian can talk his passion all day if required. “I really want to let people know that Young is now the home of this brand. The support I have been given is unconditional and I tip my hat off to all my customers for giving me the impetus to get my product out there.”

His coffee, he admits, has become his personal signature and nothing gives him more pleasure knowing his customers want ownership of it.

“Coffee is our passion and livelihood but our true passion is love of life,” Gaby explains.

Art of Espresso supports Australian independent live music and has become a popular live music venue attracting such artists as Bill Chambers, Deborah Conway, Mia Dyson and Adalita to name a few.

“Respect, support and human relations are the core values here,” Adrian says.

“Having a deep and profound respect for our mother earth and the rainbow of cultures we are fortunate to connect with, our approach is fun, loose and organic, with a healthy love of music (vinyls!), Kombi Vans, flannelette shirts and all-round respect.” CWL Facing page: Gaby and Adrian love the opportunities coffee has given them.

Above: Caroline Dowling, Adrian Capra, Mario Fraietta and Jacalyn Coddington are some of the friendly staff you’ll find at the Art of Espresso.

IANDRA

REVISITED

40 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

IANDRA is one place to embody the image of Australia as “the lucky country”. Where else could a European immigrant buy undeveloped land in the middle of rural NSW and make himself “Lord of the Manor” out of little more than grand ambition, steely determination and the riches of the land itself?

The 104-year-old Mt Oriel homestead has been largely unoccupied since 1975 but it’s far from neglected thanks to the efforts of David and Margaret Morris, who spent a lifetime restoring the homestead to its former glory after a 20-year-stint as a Methodist home for delinquent boys.

Englishman George Henry Greene was a wealthy, influential man, whose commitment to agriculture and benevolence to the less fortunate man, revolutionised farming in NSW. His changing of the landscape and introduction of share farming on Iandra became a catalyst for the shaping of a prosperous community.

It was a daunting task. The building was virtually an empty shell with no furniture or sense of history. A couple of corrugated sheets of iron served as the front door. With help from talented carpenter Neville Fragar, the job was finished with a lot of blood, sweat and tears.

In its heyday, Iandra carried about 19,000 sheep and annually produced 10,000 tonnes of wheat, thanks to the efforts of 500 to 600 men, nine steam chaff-cutting plants, 23 carting teams and about 700 horses.

In his last 30 years George saw Iandra grow to include its own store, post office, school, carpenter’s and blacksmith’s shops as well as a handling agent for farm machinery. As many as 350 men were permanently employed, not counting the 61 sharefarmers and contractors.

George became a prominent horse breeder, experimented successfully with superphosphate, was the first to demonstrate the reaper binder and in 1910 the Massey Harris reaper thresher, now known as a header.

St Saviour’s Church, built a kilometre from the homestead by George and Ellen (his wife) in 1886, is where they both lie buried along with son Pomeroy. The nearby village of Greenethorpe was named and designed

by George Greene on his land but his greatest legacy might well have been the imposing Mt Oriel homestead (Iandra Castle) he left behind.

The ornate Edwardian mansion with 54 rooms cost about 63,000 pounds and provided accommodation for visitors from various parts of the world who were interested in the sharefarming methods pioneered by George in 1893, which eventually allowed the share farmers who had done well from the model to purchase their own land.

David died in 2002 and is forever remembered not just for his eccentric manner but also his honesty and meticulous attention to detail.

Often he flew his plane to Iandra’s airstrip, while Margaret preferred to drive their old Ford station wagon from their Rylstone property.

The upkeep on such a massive building is not cheap and Mt Oriel Homestead (Iandra Castle) traditionally opens the gates four to six times a year. Money raised from these and similar events goes towards restoration and maintenance. Since 2003 this has helped offset the wages of the cleaners and gardeners employed to keep Iandra presentable for its thousands of visitors.

Margaret died last year, aged 88, leaving Rod and Bev Kershaw with the onerous management task of keeping Mt Oriel’s doors open to the inquisitive public. The iconic building, along with the surrounding stables, church and residences, was listed on the NSW Heritage list in 2005.

Today, Iandra is a 1150ha mixed-farming property and the Mt Oriel Homestead must remain viable in its own right. “One cannot be a drain on the other, and achieving that during harvest, sowing or shearing can sometimes be a juggle,” Rod says. > The next open days will be on Sunday, September 27, and Sunday, October 4, 2015.

Top: The man responsible for Iandra’s revival, David Morris, with the trusty plane he’d often fly to the property in.

Left: Iandra farm and Mt Oriel managers Rod Kershaw and wife Bev. Bottom left: Talented porcelain artist Robyn Moore, Young, and husband Geoff, enjoy sharing the day with the hordes of visitors to Iandra on open days.

42 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

Above: Nancy and James Hudson arrived from their Tharraminda Lavendar farm, Cowra, to promote their produce.

Below: Karen Grant and Coral Cosgrove love helping out on the Iandra open days.

FAMILY TIES In only her second visit to Iandra Castle, Grenfell’s Wendy Goodsell was thrilled to see where her grandmother, Kathleen Kent, worked as a lady-in-waiting for Mrs Greene.

It was here Kathleen met her husband, Thomas Smith, who was in charge of the cart-horses in the stable complex. The couple lived here from 1915 for 18 months, where two children were born: Wendy’s father and aunty.

“Grandma came out here from England with Mrs Greene when she was only 18 years old,” Wendy says. “She had a very adventurous spirit and went home in 1913 to seek her father’s blessing on her impending marriage. She was married the day after arriving back in Sydney.”

She returned again in 1947, several years after her husband’s death, and promised to be back for her father’s 100th birthday but he died the year before his centenary.

YOUNG CWL 43

YOUNG

CHIN UP, HEAD DOWN WALTER BENNETT NEVER THOUGHT HE’D HAVE HIS FIRST INTERVIEW ON THE EVE OF HIS 96TH BIRTHDAY BUT THE FIT AND AGILE SENIOR HAS A STORY THAT DESERVES TO BE TOLD. BORN in Peak Hill in 1919, Walter started work as a 15-year-old working on farms for 15 shillings a week. He and a mate would take out 24 horses a day (two teams) for all the ploughing and general farm duties. Walter spent 40 years in the Barellan District share farming and on the odd day off in the early days he’d play tennis with child prodigy Evonne Goolagong.

She would go on to be the darling of the tennis world while Walter kept his head down and chin up.

Walter enjoyed his sports and in 1938 rode a pushbike 120 miles in 40-degree heat to visit his brother in Lake Cargelligo. His fitness and lust for adventure saw him in action in New Guinea during the war years.

He married his sweetheart, Yvonne, a few years after his return and they began the humble Bennett dynasty.

“When we took our vows we really meant them – for the rest of our lives,” Yvonne says with a twinkle in her eye. She knows her man after nearly 70 years of matrimony. Starting with a boy and a girl, the clan now includes seven granddaughters and five great-grandchildren.

“Walter applied for many soldier settlers blocks but was not lucky enough so had to move from place to place, working on farms,” Yvonne says. “In those days if you had no work, you had no money.”

Walter’s father ended up being a local preacher and among the few things he left behind was a dog-eared book full of his sermons from 1911. It features beautifully hand-written notes and is his most prized possession from a long-ago era.

The resilient pair moved into Temora at the end of 1998, where Walter still mows his lawn.

He’s never had a beer in his life and gave away rolling his own smokes after the war. In fact, Walter has always maintained good health – apart from an ear complaint that has troubled him since New Guinea – and has always maintained a healthy sense of humour. “He only hears what he wants to,” Yvonne laughs. “He’s very well kept,” adds the dutiful wife who still loves puzzles and texting regularly with family.

Walter doesn’t march much any more, even if it is the 100th anniversary of the Anzac landing at Gallipoli. The cenotaph is located near their home and this year his wife woke up to the sound of The Last Post. Walter stood silently with his medals near the door and felt an inner peace.

Soon they will travel with their daughter, Carol, to visit Yvonne’s sister, Elva, in Quirindi. Walter still has his full licence and has driven no fewer than 192 times to Quirindi with an unblemished driving record.

It’s been a solid and long ride through life for Walter and Yvonne.

Although they’ve never had it easy, these two remarkable old-timers live with the knowledge that their own lives are reflected in the sparkling eyes of each new generation they’ve welcomed into the world.

44 CWL YOUNG

A Portrait of the Artist NOTED ARTIST Glen Preece is probably known as much for the trendy red 1963 “Beetle” he drives around his new home town as his artworks, but this passionate, well-respected and down-to-earth artist doesn’t mind one bit.

Glen moved to Young last year with Victoria, his wife of 30 years, from their base at Wyangala Dam and before that 27 years in the Southern Highlands.

“We needed a change. It was handy for Victoria with her work (she helps people with disabilities in Young) and the farm we live on, 10 minutes from Iandra Castle, is peaceful and tranquil,” he says. “There is no noise.

Just nothing. We really enjoy the seasons – a cold winter, hot summer, beautiful shades of autumn and the explosion of spring.”

From an early age Glen knew he was destined to be an artist. His first three paintings were entered into a Sydney group exhibition and all sold when he was barely 12 years old. After that affirmation he visited the local art supply shop and bought oils, brushes, canvases and an easel.

An artist was in the making.

His first one-man show at the Artarmon Gallery sold out before the exhibition officially opened. Another solo exhibition took him to the Galerie Elyette Peyre, Paris. The gallery was on the left bank in rue Visconti, the same street where Delacroix, the famous 19th century French Romantic painter, had his studio. (A famous work by him, Liberty Leading the People, was painted in 1860 and now hangs in the Louvre).

Glen has been exhibiting his work in London since 2002. He is currently working towards his seventh show with the Panter & Hall Gallery, Mayfair.

He is also doing work for an exhibition with the Milk Factory Gallery in Bowral later this year.

“I’ve had many successful shows with the Milk Factory and I think it’s one of the most attractive and exciting galleries in Australia,” he says.

Glen usually paints about 50 works each year, with as many as 20 ending up overseas. Singer/songwriter/musician Kate Bush has bought many paintings over the years, some of which feature floating figures, adding a little bit of mystique and magic to his work.

Victoria often accompanies him overseas and occasionally some of his three adult children Max, 21, Edward, 23, and Hannah, 25, who all share their father’s artistic bent.

Among the highlights of Glen’s career was being commissioned to paint Dame Joan Sutherland (he later had her husband, Richard Bonynge, pianist and conductor, open one of his exhibitions) and the friendship built up with the late and great artist Lloyd Rees, visiting him in his Longueville studio in Sydney.

“When I first met him he said gently, ‘Ahh, Glen Preece – painter of fine pictures’ and I’ve never forgotten it,” Glen says. “He became a great mentor and friend and I saw him the week before he died in his 90s in Tasmania.”

A prized possession is his priceless English easel made in 1890, which once belonged to a royal portrait artist. “The easel is extremely rare. If the house was burning down it would be the first item I would rescue,” he says.

The Preeces are enamoured of Young and its people. “The people are friendly and everybody has a story to tell,” Glen says. “The landscape is inspiring and every evening we are treated to a beautiful sunset from our back verandah.”

Above: Self-portrait by Glen Preece; Glen is recognised by his groovy red “Beetle”.

YOUNG CWL 45

YOUNG

A BOWL OF CHERRIES

THE LITTLE CHERRY Tree is a vibrant family-run business that has evolved from a love of finding gorgeous wares for the home and that perfect gift for a loved one.

“We pride ourselves in providing great quality, gorgeous pieces for the whole family, from co-ordinating kids’ party supplies, beautiful jewellery for Mum, that perfect piece to style your home and everything in between,” owner Racheal Moore says. “We also now stock ladies’ and children’s clothing.

Pop in and check out our vast range including T2 – there are so many fragrant brews to choose from.”

Born and raised in Young, Racheal and husband Phyllip have two children: Grace, 16, and Charlie, seven. Aside from the Little Cherry Tree, the pair also runs Moore’s Exhaust Centre.

“When either of my children had a party or celebration I always picked up a theme and then liked to co-ordinate the party around that,” she says. “When I went shopping for the things I needed, I couldn’t find it locally and had to always buy online and that’s how the Little Cherry Tree was born in 2012.”

The business was online for 12 months, but spiralling local interest forced them to set up a small shop in the CBD of Young. “We stocked our original party supplies and also stocked beautiful ranges of homewears, giftwares, children’s accessories and candles,” Racheal says.

“We were incredibly blessed to have such wonderful local support that the shop was soon bursting at the seams. As fate would have it, the much 46 CWL YOUNG

larger shop next door became vacant and we jumped onto it. We opened here at 164 Boorowa Street last September and haven’t looked back.”

The move to bigger premises has allowed The Little Cherry Tree to increase its lines, branching into ladies and children’s clothing.

Homewares and children’s decor has expanded, with amazing brands including Penny Scallan, Tiger Tribe, Seedling, Icy Interior, T2, The Blacklist, General Electric, Urban Nest, Cabin & Co, Picadilly Designs, Milk and Sugar and The Family Love Tree.

Then there’s the stock for clothing kids: Milky, Hootkid, Curious Wonderland, Daisy and Moose, French Soda. In women’s fashion, there’s Naudic, Alessi, A Little Birdie Told Me, Kalypso and Firefly.

“The sky’s the limit, really. If it’s gorgeous the chances are we will stock it.

The shop really is an eclectic mish-mash of all things gorgeous,” Racheal says.

“We love social media, using Facebook and Instagram to keep in touch.

I love how we can reach people all over the world and only recently sent a parcel to a lady over in the UK. “I love the store and the bright, happy vibe it has. I absolutely enjoy seeing and chatting with our customers. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my days. It really is true what they say: if you have a job that you love you’ll never work a day in your life.”

Above: Racheal Moore and Traci Foster.

GLEN PREECE – FORTY FACES

164 Boorowa St, Young

02 6382 2795 www.littlecherrytree.com.au check us out on facebook and instagram

31 OCTOBER – 30 NOVEMBER Milk Factory Gallery – Bowral phone 02 4862 1077 www.milkfactorygallery.com.au open seven days 10am – 5pm

35 Main Street, Young

www.artofespresso.com.au YOUNG CWL 47

HISTORIC HOME “ORIZABA”, a hip-sounding historic Young farm, is home to about 5000 Merinos and the strong family name of Parkman. The woolshed, built in 1929 and only a stone’s throw from the homestead, has witnessed plenty of action over the years. Likewise, the stunning federation homestead, skirted by old structures lovingly restored and maintained, lies testament to a well-oiled farming enterprise that’s expanded greatly over its rich 103-year history.

The Parkman family are still there, of course, with much the same qualities in their veins they have always had: a strong love for family and the land, faith in God and the community that surrounds them and humour and celebration in their everyday lives.

It all began with John and Margaret Parkman moving to “Orizaba” (named after a mountain in Mexico) in 1912 soon after being married.

The homestead was built by prominent local builders W.S. Millard & Sons of Young (one of their stores is still in Boorowa Street).

The 1400ha property, on the Murringo Road, was once all part of “Calabash”, taken up by the family in the late 1800s.

The Parkman family grew to include children Joan, Edith and identical twins Bob and Jack.

They were to enjoy all the spoils of country living.

It was certainly hard yakka but undertaken in an era when there were many farmhands, along with much appreciated help in the house and garden.

Of Farm & Family

There were also sports, picnic races, woolshed balls, tennis parties and frequent picnics, trips to Sydney and even some overseas adventures to Bali and London. Sadly, John, who had married late in life, died in 1936, leaving Margaret to soldier on.

Eventually, as the boys grew into men, they each found wives. Jack married Lorna and built their home at “Chanticleer” across the road from “Orizaba” (Lorna, who is 95, still resides there) while Bob married Murringo girl Pauline Malone and took up residence in the original home with Margaret until her death in 1953.

Bob and Pauline had seven children: Robert, Elizabeth, Michael, James, Louise, Peter and Lucy.

From all accounts, Bob was the quintessential country gentleman, well known and much loved by all in his community and beyond.

He welcomed visitors warmly and, in fact, would bring anyone – from the neighbours’ overseas visitors to the fellow delivering the fuel – home for morning tea or lunch.

He knew his wife could create a wonderful meal out of nothing and could “feed a cast of thousands” on short notice. He loved nothing better than getting in his car and touring the local district and beyond to visit friends and acquaintances.

Descriptions of his trips were often punctuated by the meals he had in “the cafe on the corner with the friendly waitress who served a wonderful lamb’s fry and bacon”.

As well as taking care of the children, Pauline helped out on the farm as was needed, as did most women on the land. She always had a project “on the hop”, be it re-upholstering a lounge, making a kitchen dresser, painting a room, making chocolates or sewing. > YOUNG CWL 49

HISTORIC HOME

Pauline has a strong faith and community spirit and continues to be a wonderful role model for her children and grandchildren, to whom she loves to tell stories about the old woolshed, scene of much social activity during the 1940s-’50s, when eligible young spinsters and bachelors from the district would congregate for 12 hours of “solid merriment”.

In an article in the 1950 Australian Women’s Weekly, it was stated: “With an enormous wool press in the centre of the shed, decorated with gum tree branches, streamers and balloons . . .

The back portion of the shed was transformed into a bar, with benches from the Young Town Hall and a piano arriving on the back of a truck from ‘Milly Milly’.”

Bob was immensely proud of the way his sons James and Peter took to farming, not to mention the improvements two young enthusiastic men could undertake together. Though, of course, he always harked back to “the good old days”.

The brothers have worked the place for nearly 40 years – more than half of that time with their late father.

“He would be immensely proud of the wonderful farming enterprise that ‘Orizaba’ is today and the respect that the boys have gained for their hard work, community spirit and the strong family culture they developed,” says Jane Parkman, who married James in 1987.

It was a fabulous wedding reception at “Orizaba”.

There were no marquees but the wedding spread throughout the house, in the hallways, the billiard room, living room, verandahs and into the garden.

It was a wonderful start to their married life. In 1993, after Pauline and Bob moved to town, Jamie and Jane moved into the main homestead. Sadly, Bob died suddenly of a heart attack only eight weeks after his change of address. It was a great shock and a terrible sadness for the family.

“The family all agreed it would be lovely for Bob to be buried here close to his sisters and were glad to find there weren’t too many hoops to jump through for it to happen,” Jane says.

He loved the song Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree so on the day of the funeral 100 yellow ribbons were tied around a pepper tree next to the cemetery.

Meanwhile, Peter Parkman and his wife Leanne had already started renovating the almost 100-year-old stables while Jamie and Jane Parkman continued living at “Orizaba” with Aunt Joan until her death in 2002. “People used to ask how it was having someone live with you,” Jane says. “I thought it was more like we lived with her, she was here first. I always said that though it was different, it was wonderful.

“Joan would nurse the baby or read a story to the children while I was cooking dinner, she dusted and swept the floors every day, was always cheery and had a wonderful laugh. She loved her home and family. Her life revolved around visiting them, writing to them, sending gifts and enjoying their news. She was sadly missed when she passed away and joined Bob in the family cemetery.” > From top: Jane and Jamie Parkman live in “Orizaba”; Pauline enjoys her community involvement.

50 CWL YOUNG

THE ORIZABA STABLES The “Orizaba” stables hadn’t been used for many years, serving only as a storeroom for the lawn mower, since their heyday as horse stables from the early 1900s through to the 1970s. However, in 1992 Peter and Leanne set about converting the four-room building into a family home.

The task was a large one, with the stables having only earth floors and no electricity.

The building was initially gutted and a damp course put down to stem the moisture problems that had emerged over the years. The upstairs loft area had to be reroofed, reinforced, insulated and lined after severe windstorms had removed half the roof during the 1980s.

The upstairs floor, made of beautiful rough sawn oregon, was sanded and painted above and below, giving the living room ceiling beneath a rich, warm feeling on a cold winter’s night.

The addition of a north-facing sun room with large double-glazed windows adds generous light and warmth to the upstairs room and provides pleasant views of the ranges to the north.

The other major task was to create functional access to the second floor, which could only be reached via the loft ladder. An old cedar staircase, bought by Peter’s grandmother many years before, was restored and installed as if purpose-built. The staircase had been stored in the rafters of the “Orizaba” woolshed for many years and required three weeks of painstaking work with a toothbrush and paint stripper to remove the old shellac finish.

Many furnishings and fittings in the stables have also been resurrected and reinstalled, including the pine railings in the harness room, the ironbark and slate steps, the Coolgardie safe, and many old wooden Cooper’s boxes left lying throughout the building.

Once moving into their new home in 1997, Leanne and Peter built a four-metre-wide verandah, which serves to protect the old brickwork and is now draped with white wisteria.

Its generous proportions provide extra living space and a relaxing outdoor entertaining area for family and friends. > Left: Peter and Leanne renovated the old stables, creating a home with character.

YOUNG CWL 51

THE MURRINGO COMMUNITY The Parkman children have all grown up in the Murringo community, a strong rural community founded by families just like the Parkmans.

Life centred very much around the school, the community hall and the church.

James and Jane’s only daughter, Georgie, is about to complete her studies at the Australian National University, studying Psychology and Arts. It is not likely that she will be a farmer but she has a lovely bond with “Orizaba” and her cousins.

Their son Charlie has just moved into the bluestone building behind the house (above) and is enjoying some independence. “He has a strong connection to the family and the farm but is also discovering life beyond the farm gates,” Jane says.

“I don’t think he will wander too far away.”

The house definitely has a “personality”. It can be a wonderful place of quiet respite (infrequently) and then it can expand to accommodate hundreds for a wedding, Christmas, family celebration or party. “I wouldn’t say it had ghosts as such, but there is a presence of the spirits of those who have lived here; it’s a warm and friendly feeling,” Jane says.

Above: The bluestone cottage is occupied by Jamie and Jane’s son, Charlie; brothers Jamie and Peter in the historic woolshed.

52 CWL YOUNG

Sometimes a door gently opens, a floorboard creaks and even a whisper has been heard.

There is a strong family bond with all the children and cousins. And though most live away they all visit regularly and enjoy reminiscing about amazing adventures had at “Orizaba”. CWL

YOUNG

ANNIE B GOOD ANNIE B’S FULL HOUSE HAS RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS 11TH BIRTHDAY AND OWNER ANNIE BASSINGTHWAIGHTE COULDN’T BE HAPPIER! THE SHOP is well known for the mostly Australian-made products it stocks including Glasshouse Candles, MOR Marshmallow, Canterbury Rose, Didgeridoonas, sock mates and hair clips, Dynamo House, Suzie Hope ironing board covers, La Barre olive oil and Thurlby Herb Farm products, to list but a few.

With many years’ experience in helping other businesses become established, Annie feels right at home in Young, a town she loves to the core.

This business dynamo worked for the Cootamundra Development Corporation for 13 years before moving to Australia’s cherry capital to spend the next eight years as Tourism Manager for the Young Shire Council. Part of her role was to work with the committee to present the Cherry Festival and Young on a Platter.

Annie and husband Gerald, who have enjoyed nearly 40 years of wedded bliss, bought Jayne’s Full House from former Miss Australia Jayne Bargwanna in 2004 and changed the name to Annie B’s Full House, moving the shop after 12 months to its current location in Boorowa Street.

“We decided to fill the gaps in the retail sector and offer a diverse range of Aussie products,” Annie explains. “Customer service is a strong focus and with our experienced staff it is hoped we meet the needs of the community.”

Over the years Annie B’s has introduced many changes and employed some wonderful staff. All these talented women, too numerous to mention, are renowned for their excellent customer service and professional advice.

“My staff take it in turns to change the shop’s front window on a regular basis. This shows our new stock and keeps people occupied on their daily walk,” Annie laughs.

At Annie B’s expect friendly service, with free gift wrapping, delivery after hours in certain cases, advice on decorating ideas and suggestions for gifts.

“Young is a wonderful, dynamic and vital community,” Annie says.

“What a great place to have a shop.” Annie thanks her many loyal customers who have supported her business for the past 11 years.

Gifts | Kitchenware | Collectables | Local Produce

Annie B’s FULL HOUSE

We pride ourselves on our customer service and hope to offer a wonderful shopping experience.

Stocking top brands including Maxwell & Williams, Glasshouse and MOR Marshmallow.

follow us on

OPEN 7 DAYS 102 Boorowa Street, YOUNG 02 6382 5970 www.anniebsyoung.com.au YOUNG CWL 53

KING OF THE ROAD AT 80 YEARS OF AGE, MAURICE HENRY IS ARGUABLY THE OLDEST AND MOST COLOURFUL NRMA MECHANIC ON THE ROAD TODAY.

54 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

BASED AT BRIBBAREE, the tiny village near Young, Maurice has almost 37 years’ continual service under his belt. “If anybody breaks down in my neck of the woods, I am the man to call,” he says with a big grin.

For a man with his vast wealth of experience, there are bound to be plenty of good yarns at the back of his mind, and Maurice is more than happy to oblige.

“About 20 years back I got a call about one in the morning to go to Bribie Island. The operator had got our two towns mixed up and after some time I let her know in no uncertain terms that I was not going thousands of miles to a place that was not even near my territory,” he says.

Any other funny incidents, Maurice?

“When I had the old Mercury in the late 1950s, a mother went into labour during the middle of a flood. They got her out using a horse and sulky to home, then we loaded her in the car and headed for Young. We didn’t quite make the grade. Outside the Westpac bank the baby popped its head out and it was all over in minutes! I took her straight to the hospital.”

Maurice likes spinning yarns and he’s only just warming up.

“Once I drove the community nurse out to a farm where we were supposed to check on a new-born baby to a mother with six already, all born in the scrub. We used clothes pegs to seal the umbilical cord and I gave him a slap on the behind a few times and he started crying.

The minister was there. The baby was wrapped in newspaper and the minister says: ‘We better get some water, we’re losing him’. Next thing we christened him Chips. He was loaded into the V-dub and met the ambulance on the road.”

It’s not the end of the story. “Much later in life I was in West Wyalong hospital and the nurse told me she had relatives in Bribbaree. It turned out she had married that same little baby and I actually met him. It’s the gospel truth!” Maurice insists.

Before the NRMA, Maurice was a mechanic in Bribbaree, having started his apprenticeship in 1949. “Me and my great mate Tiger Hunter (see separate story on page 78) were both kicked out of school at the same time,” he laughs.

“We were going to be married 53 years ago but she died in a road accident.”

Maurice has witnessed plenty of changes since he was a young bloke, particularly the use of electrics in modern-day vehicles. “They (the NRMA) are terrific on their training sessions. The basic service is probably better than it’s ever been,” he says.

He’s always loved his cars and can name them all, from Volkswagen “Beetles”, a 1939 Ford Mercury, a 1960 Holden, a 1968 Holden ute, a Holden WB ute and then a Falcon before hitting the VS Commodore and finally a 2009 VZ Commodore.

Throughout his long driving career he’s rather proud to have only had one traffic infringement, which he got out of because the vehicle had been in an accident and the speedometer was faulty.

Quite a few years back he started doing up antique water carts. Having been with horses all his life, Maurice decided to get a horse to pull the cart at the Lawson festival at Grenfell and the Cherry Festival at Young.

“We went down as ‘Billy the Trapper’ – Tiger riding shotgun, a fox skin hanging out each side with a dingo trap on the back and a sign saying “Cat, roo and stew – a dollar a mug! It was one hell of a sight,” he recalls with a belly of laughs.

“The last parade we did was at Grenfell with a five-year-old black horse, broken in for only six months. It was our last hurrah before insurance beat us,” he says.

Six months ago he handed in his heavy-duty licence (for driving trucks) but expects to be helping out stranded motorists on the road for a good while yet, while still visiting Young once a month (mostly for funerals).

He much prefers the tranquillity at Bribbaree. It’s here that his beloved horses, tennis and footy take a backseat to his mission of assisting people in need. Work is his life and helping people on their journeys means everything. CWL

For 65 years he has fixed cars, trucks and tractors. In the old days they used to ship over tractors and machinery from International Harvesters in crates, ready to be assembled in the garage at Bribbaree Motors.

The garage has long shut down, like most everything in Bribbaree – except Maurice. This delightful character has never married, smoked a ciggy or drank in his life and likes to think he’s as “fit as a mallee bull”.

“One day I split the ball of my eye open in an accident (only one of two times in his life he’s been hospitalised) and was in Orange Hospital, where my nurse became a special lady friend. We were going to be married 53 years ago but she died in a road accident coming home from work.”

It’s a long time ago now and Maurice has grown accustomed to the single life. “Being a bachelor has had its advantages. You can eat when you like and come and go as you like,” he says.

Which is pretty handy when you work for the NRMA Road Service.

Retirement is not a word in this man’s vocabulary. “I had a few months off in 2012 but was absolutely lost for something to do. I couldn’t wait to start again. During this time the good folk of the adjoining depots of Temora, Young, West Wyalong and Grenfell covered my area. I was the contact point to direct the patrols to the area but was very happy to get back to work.”

YOUNG CWL 55

YOUNG

Matching PEOPLE with PROPERTY THE EXPERIENCED and professional team at Ray White, Young, is active in all parts of the real estate market, including residential homes and unit sales, lifestyle and rural properties, commercial properties and business sales.

“Our philosophy is a simple one,” managing director and selling principal David Coombes says. “Real estate is all about matching people with property. That comes through listening, understanding and, most importantly, acting and communicating with your client.

“It comes about through combining new technologies to reach the market with old-fashioned negotiating and customer service – always being prepared to sniff out an opportunity and put the deal together,” David says.

David is a fully licensed agent and accredited auctioneer, now in his 21st year of real estate. He is regarded as a dedicated professional, not just a real estate agent, whose success is largely due to significant repeat and referral business, something agents everywhere aspire to achieve.

He is well known and respected, not only in Young and districts, but also throughout the Central West, namely his home town of Blayney and also Cowra, where he commenced his real estate career with L.J. Hooker in 1994.

David relocated to Young and bought the L.J. Hooker franchise in 2001 and was instrumental in changing the face of real estate in Young. He successfully built a formidable business through a professional and dedicated approach and focusing on exclusive and auction agency sales.

In 2008 he sold the business to become a director and partner in Ray White, Young, where he continues today as the selling principal, specialising in lifestyle, commercial and business sales and mentoring his sales team, which holds a dominant market share throughout the Young district.

Senior sales consultant Dick Cummins, born and bred in Young, is a consistent high performer and the district’s leading salesperson.

“Dick’s clients respect his straight-down-the-line approach,” David says.

56 CWL YOUNG

Bringing an exciting level of youth and enthusiasm to the agency is Adam Strong, who has already forged a professional profile. Now in his fifth year, he focuses on residential and lifestyle sales. Adam is also responsible for the business’s highly regarded photography and social media presence.

Tony Brown is very much an old school agent who prides himself on honesty and doing whatever’s necessary to sell your property. Tony is a quiet achiever who values loyalty and delivers good old-fashioned customer service and results through traditional sales strategies.

Director and rural sales specialist Jock Snodgrass has a real passion for agribusiness at all levels and selling rural property allows him to get involved with people’s farming businesses. He sees huge opportunities for the agricultural sector in Australia and has 13 years’ experience in negotiating prestige rural property sales.

As a progressive and fast becoming regional centre, Young is widely known for its housing affordability and attractive property investment opportunities, which David and his team will confidently recommend as proud members of the Young community.

“We encourage you to explore our website, raywhiteyoung.com, in which you will discover information about our town, our district and our real estate market,” he says.

“The information you find here will help you to better understand real estate in Young. Of course, you will also find comprehensive details of all properties and businesses we have for sale.”

From left: The Ray White team of Tony and Robyn Brown, Adam Strong, Dick Cummins, Jenene Hartnett and managing director David Coombes.

"Rose Cottage" 291 Olympic Way North, Young "Rose Cottage" is a truly unique, historical residence on lifestyle acreage that absolutely depicts the Young real estate scene.

Well known in Young and district, this circa 1860s property is steeped in history, reputed to be a staging house for Cobb & Co and located only 5 minutes north of the Young CBD on the Cowra approach. In more recent years Rose Cottage has been extensively renovated, however still retains many of the original features of the Cobb & Co era with a few modern comforts applied for good measure.

A home of enormous character and charm, it boasts a degree of privacy rarely found in town. Its living plan is unique, only adding to the home's charm. There are 5 bedrooms with some of these peeling off a long hallway that takes you to light filled living and entertaining areas.

The living room is a real feature that captures views of the garden and borrowed landscape beyond the garden fence. It is partly built from local stone with large windows capturing sunlight from the north. There is also a large open fireplace that can really set

the mood whilst relaxing with the newspaper or warming up on a cold night. The kitchen is modern, functional & includes timber bench tops, island bench, and stainless steel appliances, including double oven.

The garden is a real feature of Rose Cottage and must be seen to be appreciated. As you drive into the property you are warmly welcomed by sweeping lawns, flower garden beds and large established trees. The garden also includes a water feature plus meandering paths that let you explore the garden and its tranquil surrounds. There is a floodlit clay tennis court and in-ground salt water pool. The property extends beyond the house yard and gardens, beautifully set on approximately 10 acres (4ha) of land, including a dam and some fruit trees.

Truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire such a historic lifestyle property with neighbouring cherry orchard surrounds.

For further sale details or to arrange a private viewing, please contact Ray White Young on 02 6382 5800.

BEST of BOTH WORLDS WITH THE AUSTRALIAN SHEEP FLOCK SHRINKING TO HISTORIC LOWS BUT DEMAND FOR LAMB AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH, THE IDEA OF GETTING MORE MEAT FROM OUR MERINOS HAS NEVER MADE MORE SENSE.

AT LEAST that’s the view of grazier Rick Baldwin, Bundilla Merinos, Young, who is checking ewes on his rather damp 4000-acre property, one of two operated with wife Jill and father Ross, when CWL drops in for a brief visit.

The family joins around 4000 ewes, breeding about 500 rams that are sold at their on-property production sale in late September with the remainder by private inspection. Continuing the work of his father, Rick is building a dual-purpose flock using Australian Sheep Breeding Values and careful management to ensure neither the meat nor wool quality suffers.

Before it used to be fine wool or meat – that was the only choice in the early days of the colony – but research shows the financial benefits associated with a dual-purpose animal with bigger growth and muscle.

The program started 40 years ago when Ross and Susi Baldwin had intentions to not only develop a large-frame heavy-cutting Merino but also one that had the ability to wean twin lambs.

Their beliefs are steadfastly maintained by Rick, whose flock was established from top quality Wonga Stud and flock ewes, with the aim to increase these ewes’ fecundity (ovulation rate) using the F gene.

Today Bundilla is recognised as Australia’s leading high-fertility Merino flock, and has clients in every state across the country.

“We are a commercial-based operation and use visual plus performance-based figures selection, which has been the key to the success of our breeding operation,” Rick says.

The Baldwins have three daughters attending St Mary’s Primary school in Young. The family lives in the delightful homestead built in 1903 and surrounded by well manicured lawns and stunning trees, including a magnificent Golden Elm. But there are winter crops to be prepared and time stands still for no one. CWL YOUNG CWL 59

THE EYES HAVE IT WIND BACK the clock to a time when a young optometrist, harking from Cowra, first laid eyes on a strapping vet during a local game of tennis.

Some would say it was odds-on that the pair would fall in love, settle, raise a family, and ultimately thrive amid the vibrant rural community of Young.

Simon Hobson, originally from Moree, was working at that time as a short-term locum. “I came to Young for a month in 1991, and stayed,” Simon says. “I fell in love with the climate and lifestyle. I really enjoyed the cultural opportunities in the southern part of NSW. The food, wine, and music . . . and I prefer the cooler climate.”

The threads of the story are similar for Janine. “I’ve always enjoyed living in the country,” says Janine, optometrist and now joint-owner of Young Eyes with her husband. “Young was close to my parents in Cowra, and the town had a strong sense of community. Plus it offered good sporting opportunities, important to us both.”

Fast forward to today.

The couple’s three children are nearly grown. Edwina (17), Beatrice (16) and Henry (14), all attended local primary schools, and continue to be active in sporting and musical endeavours. To support the children’s interests, 60 CWL YOUNG

Simon was president of the Young Regional School of Music for a time.

“I didn’t have musical opportunity as a child,” he says. “So it was important for me to get involved.”

And does working together at their main-street business suit the active couple?

“I love business,” Simon says. “We are both very passionate about service and making sure we are customer centric.”

“Work is very busy, and as I’m in my consulting room all day, we don’t get much time together,” Janine says. “But I do love being able to chat with Simon about the kids, work, and interesting cases we’re working on. It’s easy to communicate when we are both here all day.”

Are there business challenges in this country location? On the contrary, it seems.

“We tend to have increased loyalty from our patients who travel for our specialised services such as colourimetry, dyslexia and general children’s assessments,” Janine says. “They are lovely and patient. We never seem to run to schedule as we often get people with urgent problems who need to be seen that day.

YOUNG

“Our staff are fantastic at managing our patients and keeping me on time. They do all the pretesting, scanning and extra testing. The patients appreciate their extra training.”

“A family-owned business where you share a passion is a great thing,” Simon says. “In this day and age where it’s all about corporate branding it’s satisfying to know what can be achieved with personal care and time.”

Spending precious personal time wisely appeals not only to Janine, Simon and their children, but also to staff.

“Last year I asked the staff to take part in a wellbeing challenge,” Janine explains. “They chose the 27km Cancer Council Seven Bridges Walk, held in Sydney each October. We had inspiration from Orange-based triathlon coach Melissa Ashton-Gerard, who helped us with training tips.”

“The event itself was bookmarked by a three-day fest of dinners, shopping, walking, and finally a glass of bubbly to mark our achievement. I felt it was great for the staff to have a challenge and to complete it as a team,” she says.

Tough challenges are part of everyday life for Janine, who recently travelled to Sumba Island, in remote Indonesia, assisting an Australian team of eye specialists pass on their expertise, knowledge and equipment to the under-resourced local people.

As for the future, there are no plans for the quiet life. Instead, Simon and Janine hope that as the children’s schooling winds up they can complete a bike ride from Paris to Moscow with specialist Australian company Ride and Seek. CWL Facing page: Simon, Janine and their dog Max (Image: Holly Bradford Photography).

Left: The Young Eyes team of Jeanette, Colleen, Janine, Simon and Nicole; Janine in Sumba.

Words: Merry Kirkwood

Young Eyes is a family-owned business.

We are passionate about correcting your family’s vision naturally. pms black

pms 1807 CP

pms 431 CP

pms 7501 CP

Call 6382 4000 to book an appointment 178 Boorowa Street, Young, NSW 2594

www.youngeyes.com.au YOUNG CWL 61

A Fortunate Life FOR YOUNG COMMUNITY STALWART AND MUCH-LOVED FIGURE CLARE FREUDENSTEIN OAM, ANZAC DAY HOLDS PARTICULAR SIGNIFICANCE. 62 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

ROMANCE IN WAR TIME One evening, a girlfriend was having a send-off to join the WRAF and Clare was invited to the party but her strict mother put her foot down, even after she suggested a few friends might escort her. “Mum said: ‘I don’t care who takes you to the party, all I care about is who brings you home’,” she laughs.

That night was a game changer. She met a “really nice boy” – dashing young farmer Keith Freudenstein, who at 18 years, had been called up for military service. Her mother was aghast and berated her daughter with words she’ll never forget: “Clare, I don’t want you running around with all-sorts.”

Clare received many offers of dates and knocked them all back, even refusing Keith on three occasions as she knew her mother would never allow her to date. Keith persisted and was eventually allowed to take her to the pictures.

At a big turn-out for the soldiers at the showground, the pair met again and sparks flew. Keith met Clare’s parents later that evening, and they found him to be a thorough gentleman.

Keith was later serving in New Guinea and, during a visit home to Young, was met by a nervous Clare at the railway station. Keith’s skin looked yellow and gaunt. It didn’t take long to ascertain he had contracted malaria.

CLARE’S FATHER and husband served their country in the world wars and she has lived through most of the 20th century to tell her remarkable story.

Now living out her days at “Blair Athol”, her magnificent home only a few blocks from the CBD, Clare admits that apart from a few “dark periods” she’s lived a long and fortunate life. Since losing her husband about 10 years ago, Clare shares her beautiful home with daughter and local shire councillor Sandy Freudenstein, her husband Dr Russell Price, himself a WW2 veteran, avid sailor and former dentist, and the family dog Peggy.

When CWL visits, it’s a drear and wet Autumn day but Clare manages to don her Sunday best and disguise the fact she is just a few months shy of her 90th birthday.

As a wedding takes place in her magnificent garden, Clare is happy to share her life from town girl, to farmer’s wife and mother and then back to living in the town she has given so much to.

Her father, Ernest Edward Hargreaves, worked for the railways before signing up to fight for “King and Country” in WW1. Ernest was among those gallant Australian soldiers who landed on the beaches of Gallipoli in April 1915.

“Dad never spoke much about his wartime experiences, although he did mention the struggles the men encountered with barbed wire,” she says quietly. “There was one attack he told me about when there was a bomb whistling overhead. Just as Dad was about to dive into a dugout full of frightened soldiers, he heard the words ‘Mate, she’s a full house, jump into the next one’. As it turned out the bomb scored a direct hit where he was initially heading, tragically killing all 30 men.”

It was only by sheer fate that he didn’t become one of the nearly 9000 Australians to die in the hell that was Gallipoli.

We are talking about incidents that took place 100 years ago but for Clare, who possesses a brilliant memory, it might have been yesterday.

Although she has witnessed some of the war chronicles on TV she still finds it difficult to watch.

Ernest made it home and went on to father eight children, of which Clare and her baby sister Elaine are the only ones remaining.

Tragedy hit the family when Clare’s brother, Lesley Roy Hargreaves, was killed in the jungles of Borneo in July 1945, only months before war’s end. By that stage, Clare’s father had died (at age 61), leaving three children under the age of 10 without a father. “When Mum heard about the death of her son (one of five boys) it was almost too much,” Clare says, checking her emotions.

By this stage she was window dressing at Coles in Young before being called up to work three shifts in an ammunition factory. “I’d never been out at night time on my own and was frightfully nervous,” she says. “A friend and I would ride our pushbikes down to work, making components for Bren guns in the building opposite the Town Hall. It was a very difficult time but because of the sacrifices by my family in wartime, I was proud to do my little bit.”

For the next few years while serving overseas, Keith wrote to his sweetheart every day. Clare, while faithful to her beau, dutifully wrote back but not as often, thinking her life (compared to his) was rather mundane.

“In one letter he implied he was missing some of my mail and suggested we number our letters. For me, the game was up and even though I sometimes struggled for things to say, I tried to keep up my letter-writing effort, knowing how vital it was for morale,” Clare says.

With the war finally behind them, the couple were married in 1946. It was a big wedding with an unforgettable reception at the Young Town Hall.

The Freudensteins went to live on “Kembali”, had three daughters, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and enjoyed nearly 60 years of wedded bliss with barely a quarrel between them.

After selling the farm, they moved into “Blair Athol” for their retirement, having purchased the historic home many years earlier. It had been Clare’s favourite place in Young since she was a child.

“I cried when we sold the farm because we both loved it,” she says. “It was a beautiful property and we worked so well together. When the rural recession took place and wool was worth nothing, everybody was interested in our little cherry farm.

“There weren’t many cherry farms around in those days and my husband always said they (the cherries) were a godsend for the four expensive women he had to maintain!”

Upon moving into town, Clare immersed herself in community projects, as she had done all her life.

“After my marriage, Keith’s mother came to live with us for a few years.

She was an active Red Cross member so I went along with her to my first meeting, aged 21,” says Clare, who clocked up nearly 70 years of service and is a life member.

She received her OAM for community service in 2000, quickly followed

by Senior Australian of the Year, thanks to her three decades of service on Young’s Tidy Town Committee and the Lions Club Citizen of the Year.

These certificates, along with at least 10 others, hang proudly on her lounge room wall.

The best tribute, however, comes from her daughters Jill, Sandy and Rhonda, who are planning a special 90th birthday bash. “She is a loving and caring mother and a very good listener,” Sandy says.

As for the birthday girl, who still loves dining out at local hotels and entertaining at home, family and a sense of belonging is everything.

“Young is a beautiful town and I love it dearly. I love people and love to give.

I guess you’d have to say I’m a giver,” she says demurely. Never a truer word was spoken. CWL Above: Clare Freudenstein OAM with daughter Sandy and her husband Dr Russell Price and dog Peggy at “Blair Athol”.

YOUNG CWL 63

YOUNG

1

2

3

4

A time to reflect BEFORE DAWN on April 25, 1915, the Anzacs stormed ashore at Gallipoli, in a place now known as Anzac Cove. It was our first major contribution to the world as a nation – Australia was only 14 years old.

Two thousand Anzacs were dead by the end of the day, but through perseverance, courage and comradeship they held their ground in a deadly baptism of fire. The campaign lasted eight months, until the remaining 35,000 Anzacs were evacuated.

Anzac Day held a particular significance this year, as thousands poured in from Young and surrounding districts to commemorate the centenary of the landings in Gallipoli.

5

Two services were conducted in town, the first being the dawn service, when almost 1500 people filled Boorowa Street at 6am to pay their respects and hear a few poignant words from Commander Cliff Kyle of the HMAS Albatross – a naval detachment that has become an integral part of Young’s annual commemorations.

At least double this number congregated around the Town Hall for the 11am march and service, despite the threat of rain clouds.

When The Last Post played, the silence was palpable. Generations of families then proudly posed for pictures while others wandered off to play the time-honoured tradition of two-up.

We can never forget the deeds, courage and fortitude of our original Anzacs. Lest we forget.

6

8

64 CWL YOUNG

7

9

10

11

12 13 1. Craig, Margaret and Allan Davis with Rodney Cooper, all from Young.

2. Larry Wordsworth, Young, with his father’s medals from both world wars.

Before that he had served in the United States cavalry. 3. Vietnam veteran Bill Baldwin, Young. 4. Phil Welch, Wirrimal. 5. Ashley Smith, Young, with young son Charlie. 6. Leading seaman Kevin Hewitson, Nowra, has strong family connections to Young. 7. Denzil Weeks, Young. 8. Lance Cobban, Albury, whose grandfather served in both world wars. 9. Ron McLeod, Young.

10. John and Elizabeth Barton, Young, walked for the first time in remembrance of their late grandfather who fought on the Western Front in WW1. John was in the first intake of national servicemen in 1957. 11. John Gregory, Canberra, went into the National Service from here in 1957. 12. Crowds paid their respects at two services on Anzac Day in Young. 13. Barry Martens, from Vietnam’s 1st Armoured Regiment, Young. 14. Ian Reid, Ian Murray and Gordon Dowling. Now in their 90s, these three Young men are among the last survivors to have fought overseas in the last great war.

14

YOUNG CWL 65

YOUNG

15

16

17 15. Ryan and Jordan Long with their uncle Wayne Long.

16. Gwen O’Sullivan was a sister in the Royal Australian Air Force Nursing Service back in the late 1950s.

17. Joyce Lamb, Young, remembers her husband, a former Rat of Tobruk.

18. Young Lions Club president Ron Hampton.

19. Young police Thomas and Kristin Marshall, Alistair Murdoch, Jeff Downey, Bill Sutcliffe, Karen Williams, Kurt Lyzun and Paul Colefax.

18

19

66 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

A BUDDING BUSINESS

THE ROLLING HILLS around Murringo, near Young, are home to one of only a handful of caper growers in the state, and Louise and Sandy Scrivener, of “Claremont”, are optimistic about the crop’s future.

The caper business started after watching an episode of Landline about 10 years ago, spruiking the plant’s easy maintenance (they are housed in old tyres) and low water requirements.

This hardy perennial comes from the Mediterranean region of Southern Europe, the Middle East and Northern Africa. Capers have become part of the Mediterranean diet along with olives, grapes, almonds, pistachios, sun-dried tomatoes, dips and cheeses.

Each bush, dormant throughout the winter months, can grow up to 1.5 metres wide. They are pruned in July, August and start to shoot in late October.

They grow well in the hot parts of southern and central Australia and now we are just beginning to enjoy their delights, thanks to growers like the Scriveners, who are appreciative the plant is drought tolerant.

“Capers don’t like wet summers and are disease free, with cabbage moth the only pest that can cause problems,” Louise says.

The caper, which has been used as a condiment for more than 5000 years, adds a piquant flavour to cooking. It is widely known to promote the appetite, used mainly in hors d’oeuvres, salads and mayonnaise as a garnish or topping, and on pizzas or omelettes. Capers are also great for making caper and tartar sauce for use on fish or chicken.

The plants take three years to reach full production, and the Scriveners plan to have 350 caper plants on the property in the coming years.

The caper buds have to be picked every five to seven days before processing. It’s a labour-intensive program, taking about three hours to pick one kilogram. If the buds (capers) aren’t picked they flower and can be harvested once they turn into the plant’s fruit, the caper berry, now growing in popularity.

This is the first year Louise will offer them for sale, fetching up to $100 a kilogram when sold at farmers markets locally and in Canberra.

From top left: Louise Scrivener with some of her caper plants; Sandy and Louise Scrivener stand proudly in the new farm office; the capers are grown in old tyres for ease of handling; from paddock to plate; the finished product: Claremont Capers.

YOUNG CWL 67

Bread winners

Bread Winners

YOUNG

IN 1950 Milty and Olga Wilder were enthusiastic newlyweds looking to kick-start their life and business together. They lived on the premises and worked side by side for 30 years at 207 Boorowa Street, Young.

Milty was the baker and pastry cook and Olga ran the front shop and did the bookwork.

Their aim was to deliver a quality product and a large variety.

They made cakes, pastries, breads, rolls, pies and sweet buns and later introduced a sandwich bar.

The business grew steadily over the years and any profit went into improvements, equipment and staffing.

In 1989 son Alan (affectionately known as Wally) and daughter Wendy Dunk took over the running of the business. Alan had learnt the trade from his father and Wendy from her mother. Having been reared on the job, a strong work ethic and understanding of the trade had well and truly been instilled.

Once they took over, they felt the need to introduce coffee and provide seating for all the family. Initially four tables and 16 chairs were introduced, however, with popularity and demand there is now a second-storey mezzanine balcony and conference room with seating for 150, making it a great meeting place for large or small business groups.

The bakery now operates seven days, with a staff of 26 from the busy front counter to the pastry cooks out the back. Some products are now even being sold in Sydney at the farmers markets and Wilders Bakery now produces 12,000 dozen meat pies per year.

“At the moment I am revamping the front of the shop and facilitating the ease of purchasing ready-made salads and rolls,” Wendy says.

“We also have some local made mustards and oils and some reasonably priced giftware. It’s all rather new and will only get better with time.”

Wilders Bakery was built on hard work, the love of baking and simply having a go. Now 65 years later, the bakery stands as a testament to the original skills of Milty and Olga. They would be proud to think third-generation staffer Shaun Rolfe is currently working in the business and is known as a bit of an all-rounder. CWL Facing page: Siblings Wendy Dunk and “Wally” Wilder bring much experience to the table.

Above: Pastry chef Simon Oakes hard at work.

YOUNG CWL 69

Proudly serving Young for 65 years.

Good old fashioned service, great coffee and the perfect place for Breakfast, Lunch or that special treat.

“More than just a bakery�

Wilders Bakery Pty Ltd

Our Opening Hours

207 Boorowa Street, Young P: 02 6382 1275

Monday to Friday: 6am to 5.30pm Saturday and Sunday: 8am to 3pm

www.wilders.com.au

YOUNG

Sartorial Elegance THE LOFT FASHION House in Young has a proud 30-year history of dressing women from Young and the surrounding areas. At the helm is Helen Walker, who moved from Melbourne back to Young eight years ago with husband Greg and daughter Dipika.

Helen was born in Young and grew up on the family property in Bribbaree. She bought The Loft seven years ago and continues to search for the latest in good, casual leisurewear and fashion trends to suit her customers.

The Loft carries the largest range of hats and fascinators in the South West Slopes. “It’s an exciting time for customers to choose from the extensive range for the racing season,” Helen says.

The Loft stocks sizes 8 to 24. The mature age group is well catered for with labels such as Black Pepper, Givoni, Jillian and Slade knitwear.

Other well-known labels include Yarra Trail, Goondiwindi Cotton, Corfu, OPM and Cordelia St. There is also Philosophy, which is an Australian label covering most fashion trends.

For the larger fittings, RTM is also an Australian label covering a comprehensive range with competitive pricing.

“Handbags are a girl’s best friend and we carry Vera May, Serenade, Pinky & Buster and the exclusive Nicole Lee, adding a point of difference. The extensive range of jewellery, scarves and gloves will complement any outfit,” Helen says.

The Loft stocks a great range of fine merino and lambs-wool knitwear such as Bridge & Lord, Fields, La Dame, Harp & Dublin and Slade.

The Loft

“One stop shopping”

Fashion House

Large range of scarves to suit all occasions Largest range of hats and fascinators in the South West Slopes Handbags and jewellery Fantastic range of co-ordinate leisurewear Cocktail, evening and mother-of-the-bride outfits

The Loft has the variety, style and practical clothing to suit sizes 8 - 24.

Surrounded by great cafes come in and browse.

144 Boorowa St, Young

•

6382 1533

Black Pepper Yarra Trail Gordon Smith Goondiwindi Cotton Corfu Fine Merino Knitwear

by Slade, Harp & Dublin, Bridge and Lord.

“A complete shopping ex perience” YOUNG CWL 71

Flavours to Savour KETTLE & GRAIN CAFE IS A FUSION OF HISTORY AND MODERNISATION, COUNTRY AND URBAN.

OWNERS Brooke Stevenson and Ben Hurth-Gye take their skills and knowledge from years of hospitality experience (as well as Brooke’s local knowledge from growing up in Young and going to high school across the road) and let the original architecture and history of the former Young Public School heritage building shine through.

It is Young’s newest place to meet with friends or to enjoy a moment to yourself. Experience a simple yet delicious breakfast or lunch in the beautiful sunny courtyard or shaded verandah or at one of the many seating choices inside the former classrooms.

Food evokes memories for Ben, but also inspires him for the future.

Ben’s vision for Kettle & Grain’s menu is this: simple, tasty and fresh produce.

Brooke was born in Windsor and also grew up in the Southern Highlands.

In 1995 her family moved to Young, where she attended the local schools and continued on with her passion for horse riding, which she continues today.

Kettle & Grain prides itself on its homemade cakes and slices, and has gluten-free options available. Let the barista create a smooth, creamy coffee for you – their bean is the award-winning ONA Coffee from Canberra.

Making the move to Canberra in 2007 was quite an eye opener for the “country kid”. Brooke began an Advanced Diploma in Hotel Management at the Canberra Institute of Technology. Hard work and determination saw her earn a CIT Institute Medal for “Outstanding Achievement” and the “Centre Director’s Award”.

While visiting the cafe, take a stroll on the path alongside the weir or a walk around the old schoolyard and visit the Lambing Flat Museum and Family History Group. Local Hilltops Honey and homemade pantry items are also available for purchase, as well as artwork from abstract expressionist Joan Bell’s colourful collection.

She furthered her education at the University of Canberra with a Bachelor of Tourism Management. Brooke’s first hospitality experience in Canberra was at Ottoman Cuisine in Barton, a renowned and fast-paced five-star restaurant famous for its high-class Turkish menu.

Her time here concreted her devotion towards the hospitality industry.

Ben was born and raised in the Southern Highlands of NSW. From an early age he has experienced different food and cultures, thanks to his French mother and his grandparents who live in Paris. Ben’s French heritage exposed him to rich, flavoursome foods, harvested from his mother’s vegetable garden and sourced at the open-air markets in Paris.

In late 2007 Brooke took an opportunity to work at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra, working primarily within the Tea Lounge, where the famous “High Tea” was held daily.

In his adult life, Ben has travelled through many parts of the world, soaking in as many cultures as possible. His exposure to food has ranged from traditionally prepared game meat in Botswana, to handmade Pierogi on the streets of Krakow and fresh goat’s cheese straight from the farmer in a small village in southern France.

72 CWL YOUNG

It is said there is many a love story that begins at the Hyatt.

This was indeed the case for Brooke and Ben, who met working in the Tea Lounge/Speaker’s Corner Bar. By mid 2013 they moved back to Young to begin as operations managers for a catering company/ restaurant. The dream of owning their own cafe never faded and by mid 2014 the opportunity arose.

YOUNG

HISTORY THAT’S ALL CLASS Kettle & Grain is set in what was once Young Public School (now known as the Young Community Arts Centre). The school was established in 1862 and moved to its current location in 1976. Today the YCAC is a hub of activity, with the classrooms turned into the Lambing Flat Museum, Young Family History Group, Young Camera Club, Young Theatre Company, a residence and of course a cafe!

After the discovery of gold at Lambing Flat, a considerable population began to build up, which included a number of families with children, creating a need for educational facilities. A Mrs Carter was the first to open a school in early 1861 with 15 pupils.

About the same time, the Young National School was Flavours to savour opened with about 40 students attending. In 1864 a new timber school opened in Lovell Street with 101 students.

By 1872 this accommodated 182, including 16 boarders.

Kettle & Grain Cafe isschool, a fusionand of history Agitation was made for a larger in 1873 and modernisation, country and Henry Parkes laid the foundation stone for a urban. new brick building on the site, which later became home to the Railway Station (now the Information Centre). The old timber school was retained and used for boarders.

With the coming of the railway to Young, a new site was found in Hume Street. The foundation stone to this building was laid in 1883, and the building opened in August 1884.

The headmaster was William Teale and the school could accommodate 700 pupils.

The new school, with its conspicuous tower and two-storey teacher’s residence, cost £8250 and was built by Charles Hardy of Wagga Wagga. It operated as a school until the 1970s.

This building today is the Community Arts Centre, which houses the Lambing Flat Folk Museum. CWL

YOUNG CWL 73

YOUNG

WINE OF CREDIT THE GROVE ESTATE Winery, just three kilometres from Young on the Murringo Road, is a picture of beauty.

The Cellar Door is a restored workers cottage overlooking the vineyard and the large verandah area makes a great place to relax and enjoy some wine. During winter months Cellar Door manager Ray Sherratt has the open fire stoked to keep the place warm and sociable.

“You are welcome to bring friends and lunch and avail of the facilities and just take a bit of time out,” says viticulturalist Brian Mullany, whose family teamed up with the Flanders and Kirkwood families to establish the Grove Estate vineyard in 1989.

The property was purchased with the aim of producing premium cool-climate wine grapes on its red volcanic soils. The vineyards have a long history of involvement within the wine growing industry with vines originally planted on the property back in 1886.

The Croatian settlers moved into the region after leaving Dalmatia and brought with them bundles of vine cuttings, some of which survive at Grove Estate today.

Since 1989, more than 50 hectares of vines have been planted on the property, including the varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Zinfandel, Barbera, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, Semillon and Nebbiolo.

Over the years Brian and his colleagues at Grove Estate have quietly built an international following for their wines, which include traditional and award-winning reds: Shiraz Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Nebbiolo.

74 CWL YOUNG

There are also two red blends: The Italian (Primitivo, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese) and the MCB (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Barbera).

The whites include a Semillon Sauvignon Blanc and a Chardonnay, a Rose and a delicious dessert wine, The Late Harvest Viognier. There are also two new sparkling wines: The Campaigne ‘Flanders Field’ and a Wherehaveyou Bin ‘Bin Fizzin’.

The extraordinary partnership of Brian with winemakers Bryan Martin and Tim Kirk has resulted in a run of notable wines that have produced exciting results at many wine shows across Australia. The Nebbiolo has been a standout in recent times, winning a prestigious trophy at the Boutique Australian Wine Show last year for best Italian varietal. The Shiraz Viognier can generally be found up the pointy end of most international Qantas flights.

One of the real success stories for Grove Estate is the MCB. Originally a blend made up from excess wine of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Barbera, it was to be exported to Russia. The export order fell through at the last minute and the wine was left stranded on the Sydney docks.

Eventually, the wine returned to Young and sat in storage for six months while the partners worked out where it should go.

Over drinks one day the decision was made to put it on the Australian market and it is now the biggest selling wine from the vineyard. The secret blend is re-released each vintage.

Above: Harvesting the grapes in the picturesque Grove Estate; Suellen and Brian Mullany in the Grove Estate Cellar Door.

House proud

HOUSE PROUD THE SECRET to a great night’s sleep is a comfortable bed, and travellers to Young get to rest in the finest of king beds when they book into Aston House B&B. Aston House is a mid-1920s fully renovated brick federation home featuring two spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, polished cypress timber floors, spacious living room and laundry – all complemented by a delightful north-facing front verandah and set in newly landscaped grounds.

The self-contained luxury accommodation is situated at the quiet end of Young’s main street, just a block from the town’s shops, restaurants, pubs and cafes.

Aston House was formerly the office for Young draftsman Sandy Scrivener, who also runs a cross-bred sheep and caper enterprise with wife Louise. The family have been farming in the district since the 1880s.

“To get him out we converted an old 1890s granary (a tin shed for storing bagged grain) on the farm,” says son Ben, who now manages the B&B. “From the outside it looks like an old tin shed in the middle of the sheep yards but inside has all the modern conveniences.”

Ben applied the same techniques to Aston House, sparing no expense in the renovations before opening up for business in October 2014.

It is not his first B&B experience, having run a similar operation on the farm for about six years.

“We had full-time tenants for many years but I wanted it to be more versatile, so that myself, family and friends could all enjoy it,” he says.

“I have a passion for very large dining room tables and love nothing more than seeing a bunch of people sitting down and laughing while indulging in good food, great wine and hearty conversations.”

It helps when you are a fanatical cook (he bakes a fairly handy cake) and into food styling (he managed the front house of a local restaurant for years). Armed with several science degrees, Ben also enjoys landscape gardening, interior design and bringing old buildings back to life.

Now that Aston House is finished he has sunk his teeth into renovating a 1907 home across the road named “Ulmarra”. Aston House, incidentally, previously bore no name and the title was chosen to honour Louise’s grandparents.

Next time you visit Young for a business trip or a quiet weekend away, experience the gentle warmth and classic comfort of Aston House.

YOUNG CWL 75

YOUNG

Sweet Success WITH MORE than 200 coaches visiting Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory each year, it is certainly Young’s sweetest tourist attraction.

Poppa’s makes fudge, jam, chutney, sauce and cherry products.

Poppa grows it on his farm and makes it on the premises. You’ll also find a huge gift emporium filled with unique home and giftware.

Kevin “Poppa” Powderly and wife Vicki were once electrical contractors, with a pump and irrigation business. At its peak, the business employed 40 staff before the pair sold up 13 years ago.

“Kevin decided he would retire and work his beloved trotters on the 50-acre block on the town limits,” Vicki says. It’s where he works his horses but, more importantly, it’s where he grows the fruit and vegetables to be processed for cooking.

“Cherries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, lotus, figs, quince, pears, peaches, nectarines, olives, tomatoes, zucchinis – everything we grow ourselves, but if we can’t, we source local products to process,” Vicki says.

The fruit and vegetables are processed and put in freezers. The Powderlys usually put down 11 to 12 tonnes of cherries to use in the chutneys and jams to ensure they never run out.

So how did such a tourist venture start up?

“After we opened a giftware store we went on a road trip down south to Ballarat,” Vicki says. “We passed a chocolate mill and went straight back.

We realised that people will stop for food, chocolate and fudge. We went with the fudge, starting in 2005.”

In the first 10 days they sold 1.5 tonnes of fudge and knew they were onto something big. Today, in the busy periods, Poppa’s employs seven to eight staff and makes over 100 lines of jams, chutneys and sauces and 60 varieties of fudge. The most popular fudge is called Pip the Cherry, in which dried cherries are used. Others are dipped in chocolate and there are also chocolate macadamias and chocolate ginger.

About a year after introducing the fudge, the Powderlys went for confectionary and more chocolates. “When JD’s Jam Factory closed we took on more manufacturing of jams and condiments. Our biggest sellers are the hot relish Blue Heeler and, of course, our Cherry Jam,” Vicki says.

“What started out as a hobby has turned into a profitable lifestyle for us,” she says. “We have five children and 14 grandchildren, some of whom worked here. They all have their separate businesses and are successful in their own right.

“We are thrilled, if not surprised, to be as big as we are and put it down to hard work,” says Poppa Fudge, the mastermind behind the whole thing, a good businessman and a real straight shooter.

“We never forget how we got there and strive to remain humble. We are doing now what we want to do and not what we have to do. It proves if you are passionate enough about something you can achieve it.”

Life is like a big wheel, Vicki says. “If you work together everybody can have a share of the cherry pie. If you don’t work you don’t get a slice of the pie.”

Vicki enjoys sourcing her home and giftwares and meeting people from all walks of life. “I really love working alongside Kevin; it doesn’t work for everybody but it works a treat for us.”

Poppa’s Fudge & Jam Factory is a staunch supporter of local charities.

No one is knocked back for a donation for a worthwhile cause. “We feel that the more we give the more we get back,” Vicki says.

Above: Vicki and Kevin “Poppa” Powderly love their store and all it represents.

76 CWL YOUNG

A fusion of history meets modernisation - country meets urban!

Grove Estate have quietly built an international following for their wines, which include both traditional and award winning reds.

Call us today on 02 6382 6999 or drop into our Cellar Door 4100 Murringo Road, Young Open 7 days 9am - 4.30pm

OPEN all day Tuesday to Sunday | 2 Campbell St, Young www.kettleandgrain.com | 0497 247 246

www.groveestate.com.au

Poppa’s Fudge and Jam Factory Welcome to Poppa’s Fudge and Jam Factory, Young’s sweetest tourist attraction.

From Paddock to Plate we grow our own produce to ensure the freshest ingredients.

We make all our products by hand, over 100 lines of jams, sauces and chutneys and over 50 varieties of fudge.

Huge gift emporium in store.

Open 7 days Shop 1, 21 Lovell St, Young

ASTON HOUSE

Newly renovated Federation home centrally located on Boorowa St, Young

Phone: 02 6382 5854

Every comfort and luxury you require in a home away from home

Boasting 2 king bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully ducted air conditioning and centrally heated.

P 0418 975 965 E astonhouse@bigpond.com YOUNG CWL 77

YOUNG

TIGER BY THE TALE WHEN I FINALLY track him down he is trimming a shrub out the back of his house in Young to within an inch of its life. He casually declares he knows of no “tigers around these parts” but as those steely green eyes give me the quick once-over, I instinctively know I’ve met my elusive country character.

Unfortunately, Maurice “Tiger” Hunter appears too busy to chat right now. I persist – he’s on my list for “must-do” stories. Finally he puts his fancy new chainsaw down and opens up for a “brief” yarn about his hard-working life on the land and his well-known affinity with horses.

“I’ve been called Tiger all my life,” says the 80-year-old bushman who lost his dearly beloved wife, Margaret, six years ago.

He’s old school through and through and has never owned a computer nor sent a text. “Not interested, don’t need it and never have,” he says.

I shouldn’t have been shocked. “That should be enough for your story,” he adds, with a tough old country nod. “I got things to do!” I know good stories rarely come easy and I dig my RM heels in. Tiger is a man’s man and doesn’t mind sporting some colourful language, especially when discussing the way he sees the country is headed.

I’ve got to keep him focused on things I can actually transcribe! I have heard he is horse mad, and with Anzac Day having just passed, our conversation swings around to horses. He’s been riding since he could walk and knows the meaning of sacrifice. He lost two uncles in the Australian Light Horse in Egypt during WW1. “It wasn’t war, it was slaughter,” he says bitterly of the Gallipoli campaign. “They lost the cream of the cake as far as Australia was concerned.”

He is starting to relax as the memories come trickling back. “I was there for the wool boom of the mid ‘50s and early ‘60s. Had a lot of sheep in those days, drove them all over NSW amid the droughts and dust storms around the end of the war – all caused by the rabbits. They were like a wave of water coming up the road. There were millions of them in this area.

“I’ve been on the land all my life,” he says with the natural bush style he has never lost. “The thing I love the most is working with mother nature.

It’s a challenge; every day there are new challenges to test the mettle of those on the land. As far as a lifestyle goes I don’t think you can beat it.

I’ve always loved it and I’m sure glad my boys (his three sons) took on those challenges.”

78 CWL YOUNG

Tiger reflects back to the days when his grandfather, a miner, first settled on “Marble View”, Thuddungra, near Young. It’s still in the Hunter family today.

With another two daughters, Vicki and Lisa, and 17 grandchildren to his name – not to mention the generations on the land before him – he hopes his grandchildren will make it six generations.

“Cost structure will be a big thing to them, in my opinion,” he says.

“Everything is so expensive today with the farming world. Back in those days we were getting 22 pound a tonne subsidy on fertiliser; today it might set us back $1000 per tonne. Wheat in 1947 was 57 pound a tonne and today is worth between $240 and $300 a tonne.

“When I was a young bloke you couldn’t spend a quid (or a pound) in town even if you tried all day. I wasn’t drinking but it was equal to 20 odd middies. No one could drink that much. Money had value in those days. That quid today may as well be useless.

“We used to go to town with a pound, then it went to five pound and now you need $50 just to walk out the front gate. If you didn’t have a partner you’d be lucky to get a meal and perhaps one drink with it,” he says flatly. “Land value has gone up but not our returns. We farmers are asset rich and cash poor.”

After a spell, Tiger remembers his first big job. His father had trotting horses and one day sent some mares over to Mr George Baxter’s horse stud at Wattamondara. “When I was 11 years old, Dad sent me and Billy Hunter (no relation), to pick up the horses and told us we’d be paid five shillings each from a Mr Edgerton.

“One horse had never been rode,” says Tiger with a laugh. “I threw the saddle on her and away she went and bolted. Four days later I took her up to this Edgerton fellow and he said ‘This is not my bloody horse, Tiger.

My horse ain’t broken’. ‘Well she is now, Mr Edgerton!’, I replied.” He got a further five shillings for his efforts on that well-earned trip. The boy was riding like a man.

Fast-forward a lifetime and Tiger is still a farmer who lives in town but with his heart firmly entrenched on the land. He has a property at Bribbaree and helped set up three sons: Michael on “Richlands”, Howard on “Rockley” and Matthew on “Westwood” – along with their capable wives Joanne, Narelle and Stephanie. >

YOUNG

YOUNG CWL 79

YOUNG

“I’ve been on the land all my life.

The thing I love the most is working with mother nature.”

“When I was a young bloke you couldn’t spend a quid (or a pound) in town even if you tried all day.”

“My boys have got horses and there’s still some horse blood left in them.

Don’t know about the grandkids though,” he laughs. Tiger still regularly saddles up one of his five steeds on the farm, and when he gets the urge, competes in a select few horse events like tent pegging, polocrosse and team penning. At many shows he is the oldest competitor but you’d never guess, as his trophy cabinet can testify.

“Let me tell you a little story,” he suggests. I feel a campfire yarn coming on. “Back in about 1930, my father and his brother were at Condobolin.

They got their first farm for three pound an acre and that was the start of farming life for my dad. They were out there and went broke just as the Depression was hitting. The rabbits and grasshoppers ate all their crops. All my grandfather gave my old man was 12 draught horses and all the gear. There was no machinery, only horse teams in those days.”

When he was a young lad he recalls the header being drawn by a team of eight horses. It is an image he will never forget.

80 CWL YOUNG

The family had just bought their first tractor and the great horse days would soon be nothing more than a silent memory from a bygone era.

Eventually a lot of these magnificent creatures, he says, met a similar fate to all those horses shipped overseas in the First Great War. “It was disgraceful they only brought one horse back out of 180,000 (from the war). Like the soldiers, they put their lives on the line and deserved to come home,” he says ruefully.

I get a feeling old Tiger could talk all day about horses, stock camps and the meaning of life, but he suddenly looks at his watch and declares it’s time to go. After I help remove the remaining branches he is going to drive 46 kilometres out to the farm to check his horses and the land that has kept him strong and resolute for eight decades. With a second great-grandson on the way, this true country gentleman is confident the old ways of the bush will never be forgotten. CWL

YOUNG

BOOTS & ALL YOUNG WORKWEAR IS THE TOWN’S WORKWEAR AND COUNTRY WEAR SPECIALIST. OWNER Kai Levett was born in Young and has been part of a local orcharding business for the past 25 years.

Kai has been building Young Workwear over the past four years from a basic workwear store into what it is today. One of Kai’s orcharding partners, Dale Levett, works for her and you will often find Kai’s children and three-year-old granddaughter helping out.

Young Workwear has a huge range of not just workwear but country wear, business, casual and sports clothing.

Young Workwear stocks workwear brands FXD, Bisley, JB’s Wear, Ritemate, Pilgrim, DNC, Be Seen, BIZ Collection and Huski as well as boot brands including Redback, Bata, Baxter, Thomas Cook, Twisted X and Utility by Diadora.

They stock an extensive range of Thomas Cook, Wrangler and Akubra as well as locally made Lindner Socks from Crookwell.

Young Workwear offers a fast and friendly embroidery service for all your business and sport logos, school emblems, caps and gifts such as towels and bags.

Not only will you find workwear and country wear but a range of handbags, wallets, jewellery and gift ideas.

Young Workwear is an ever evolving store, so come in and check out their huge range.

Above: It’s a real family concern at Young Workwear with Dale, Kai and Amye Levett manning the fort.

YOUNG CWL 81

By the Book THE GILBERT MEN, LYLE AND TIM, HAVE FOLLOWED IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF BOTH THEIR FATHER AND GRANDFATHER, DEDICATING MOST OF THEIR WORKING LIVES TO THE FAMILY BOOK BUSINESS IN YOUNG, WF GILBERT, WHICH THIS YEAR CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF OPERATION.

82 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

THE MAN who started it all, William Frederick Gilbert, better known as Bill, was born in 1885 in Tumut. He worked there (for a jeweller) and Wagga (at what is now Hunters on the Hill, a stationery shop) before putting up his own shingle in Young. It was 1915, just a few months after the disaster of Gallipoli. He paid Arthur Sheedy the princely sum of 488 pounds, five shillings and 10 pence and the deal was done.

By Bill’s side was his new bride and school teacher, Catherine Copas, whom he had married only weeks before in Wollongong.

Called WF Gilbert, Stationer and Tobacconist, the shop sold books and stationery, tobacco and cigarettes, toys, fancy goods and jewellery.

Moving into the upstairs flat, the newcomers set about enlarging their trade to such an extent that the premises had to be doubled in size during the 1920s. The shop became one of the best known book stores in southern NSW, with its annual sale of books only exceeded by leading bookshops in Sydney and Newcastle.

Branching out into sporting goods, the late Bill Gilbert imported cricket bats, tennis gut and balls from England. With the popularisation of photography he even offered his customers a same-day developing service.

Bill’s son Arthur, at age 18, joined his father briefly in 1937 before the war arrived. Not long after signing up, Arthur was captured by the Japanese in Singapore and spent 3½ years as a royal guest of the Japanese Imperial Army at the notorious Changhi POW camp.

Arthur returned a very changed man. His old thongs, hacked from a car tyre about 70 odd years ago on a faraway land, are now framed, and help the family remember the deep deprivations endured during his time of enforced labour.

Happy to put his war saga behind him and get on with life, Arthur married the fun-loving Monica Lidster, a nurse and friend of his two sisters. The war was never spoken of again and he never attended Anzac marches.

When he was well enough, he resumed work for his ageing father, who died in early January 1953 after a long day in the shop. Arthur by then had children of his own; Lyle born in early 1950, followed by the girls and then Tim in 1954.

When Lyle finished school he worked in the CBA bank for a few years in Grenfell and Canberra, before deciding to eventually return to Young and “settle down”. Tim always maintained the ambition to join the family business and joined the day he left school.

Their parents lived long and productive lives. Arthur died in 1999, just shy of his 80th birthday, followed by his wife in 2011, aged 90 years.

Their two bachelor sons (they’ve both been married with respective families) have now worked together for the past 43 years, Lyle working up front and Tim out the back “counting the beans”. Lyle is an avid reader while the “bean counter” is lucky to pick up a book every five years!

Lyle takes immense pride in the shop and enjoys spending his little brother’s money on new stock, including the latest books.

They are thinking, though, that it might be time for someone else to take up the story.

“The buck stops with me and Tim,” Lyle says. “We’ve done our 100 years at 100 Boorowa Street and it’s now up to somebody else to take it to the next level, which includes the new technology of online shopping.” CWL Facing page: Tim and Lyle Gilbert stand side by side in their bookshop, where the family has notched up 100 years of proud business; some of the items on sale.

Above from top: Bill Gilbert started the store a century ago; the original documents of sale dating back to July 1915; Arthur Gilbert during WW2; there was always plenty of business being conducted out the front of the store in the early parts of the 20th century.

YOUNG CWL 83

A PROUD HISTORY

THE ROLLING HILLS of “Springfield”, in the Hilltops region of Young, is home for Victoria Anderson, a proud sixth-generation grazier, who loves her land and the rich history accompanying it.

The entrance foyer and kitchen are where the groom for the horses once lived. The buggies were housed in the large main bedroom and living room, while the second bedroom was the original tack and feed room.

Around the 1840s, her family controlled a sprawling enterprise stretching from “Springfield” down to Murringo called “The Calabash”. Murringo was the scene of much activity and where the big old station homestead burnt down around 1900.

All can be rented out for short- or longer-term stays. Two of them come with original fireplaces and guests can relax on the sprawling grounds of the property or in the cool swimming pool.

In those days, “Springfield” was an outstation and Young a tiny place called Lambing Flat that never really gained momentum until the discovery of gold in the 1860s.

Over the generations, the property was carved up by various family members, leaving Victoria and her three young boys, with the jewel in the crown: the homestead and various outstation buildings that Victoria has lovingly restored to their former glory and rents out to colleagues and friends from Sydney and afar.

The landmark property includes many old historic buildings, from the cosy Shepherds Cottage (named Bill’s), Gardener’s Cottage (named Gabby’s, after her great grandmother who was wed at 15 years) and The Stables.

Gabby’s was built in 1908 from sandstock bricks; the rafters made from round stringbark poles. It was extensively renovated and modernised in 2008. The Stables were built a few years earlier by Sam Tout, Gabby’s husband and Victoria’s great grandfather.

84 CWL YOUNG

Everybody at “Springfield” identifies with the Australian bush; after all, it is a working farm and part of the Hilltops region renowned for wine, cherries and stone fruit.

“So many farms are being bought out by bigger, overseas corporations, that the traditional old family farm is in jeopardy of being lost forever,” says Victoria, a highly spirited woman who knows how to get the job done.

She uses a dozen alpacas to guard her sheep flock from foxes, particularly during lambing. She’s had the alpacas for about six years and regards them as a solid investment, living to the age of 20 and requiring minimum upkeep apart from annual shearing and the odd drenching.

Victoria is a passionate woman who believes the real issue is keeping the buildings and history alive. A painting of her famous grandfather, Charles Groves Anderson, takes pride of place in her old-world decorated lounge room.

Above: Two of the historic buildings – Bill’s Cottage and Gabby’s Cottage.

“So many farms are being bought out by bigger, overseas corporations, that the traditional old family farm is in jeopardy of being lost forever.”

YOUNG’S FIRST VICTORIA CROSS WINNER After growing up in Africa and being schooled in England, Charles Anderson served as an officer during the East African campaign against the Germans during WW1, reaching the rank of captain and being awarded a Military Cross.

After the war, he settled as a farmer in Kenya before marrying an Australian woman (Victoria’s grandmother) and moving to “Springfield”, Young, where he became a grazier during the 1930s. In 1939 Charles joined the Militia, Australia’s part-time military force, before volunteering for overseas service after the outbreak of WW2.

In early 1941 he was deployed to Malaya, as part of the Australian 8th Division, where he rose to command an Australian infantry battalion against the Japanese following their invasion of Malaya later that year. For his brave actions in the Battle of Muar in January 1942, he was awarded the Victoria Cross before being captured at the end of the fighting in Singapore.

He spent three years in Japanese captivity before being released at the end of the war.

In the post-war years, Charles returned to farming and served as a federal parliamentarian, representing the Division of Hume twice between 1949 and 1961, before retiring.

He died in Canberra at the age of 91.

While Victoria is immensely proud of her grandfather’s achievements, she is even more determined to keep her dream alive of running the farm and offering a bright future for her lively lads, the seventh-generation custodians of “Springfield”.

The bonus, in between, is meeting wonderful folk from all over who get to enjoy a slice of real country living on a traditional, working farm close to town. CWL Above: A bedroom in The Stables; the formal dining room at “Springfield”; Victoria in the yards performing regular stock maintenance.

Above: Victoria with a painting of her grandfather, Lt Colonel Charles Anderson, painted by Sir William Dargie, the official war artist.

Man’s Best Friend DAVE HEYHOE has spent almost half of his 45 years with the UK-based Royal Army Veterinary Corps and has worked in some of the most volatile spots in the world including Afghanistan, Iraq, Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Kosovo.

CWL met him in Young, where he spent the last day in the country visiting his new friend, Victoria Anderson, on the family farm “Springfield”.

Now retired and with a young family of his own, Dave fought a war with his own demons before penning a beautiful and inspiring book about the touching relationship he developed with Treo, his big, black Labrador.

When sent to Afghanistan to help locate roadside bombs, Dave knew he’d need a special dog by his side, and Treo, a staggeringly brave ball of energy and mischief, did not let him down.

The pair developed an enduring friendship that helped save countless lives – so much so that Treo became a Taliban target himself. But as the realities of war hit home in a rollercoaster of emotion, Dave realised he needed Treo more than he could ever have imagined.

Tear-jerkingly sad one moment, laugh-out-loud hilarious the next, It’s All About Treo is a moving and uplifting story that will melt the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. “It’s essentially a love story – a cross between the films Marley & Me and The Hurt Locker,” he says.

“The book was never about making money. All I wanted was for just one person to understand what we as dog handlers experience on the front line.

I just wanted to get our story out there. This is my story about Treo and me but it could well have been any of the dog handlers, regardless of nationality.”

Nothing would ever have been written if it wasn’t for the love of his dog and children, says the dog whisperer, who is now, forever slowly, getting over the raw emotion that grips him whenever he talks about the sudden end to his career and the happenings of Treo.

“Initially it was difficult having to relive that experience. It was emotional and often painful. I’m getting better at controlling my emotions but if what happened didn’t happen and my life didn’t take a different course, I wouldn’t have this story,” he says.

Over the years man and dog developed their own special language known only to them – much of their communication instinctive and unspoken.

“One wrong move, one tiny lapse of concentration, could lead to myself and those Bravo Company lads getting blown to bits,” Dave says of his deployment to Afghanistan. “I didn’t want that on my conscience, not even posthumously. Worst of all, I knew that if I let Treo put one paw wrong, it could so easily be his last.”

Then one inauspicious day the unthinkable happened. Sergeant Heyhoe was blown up on what turned out to be his last tour of duty. “I stepped on an IED with Treo by my side and we were both propelled into thin air,” he says. He felt himself lifted off the ground and the next moment was floating in agonising slow motion before landing with a sickening thud.

An instant later he lost consciousness.

He later discovered it was a command wire device – a single charge designed to blow him and his black dog to hell and back. But the charge had blown the shrapnel downwards into the earth instead of into “Dave Dog” himself. “What were the chances of them putting the charges in the wrong way round?,” he asks in his engaging British accent. “If it had been placed normal I wouldn’t be here telling the story.”

During that six-month tour, Treo and Dave secured 45 separate, verified finds – arms, explosive caches and IEDs. “Yet somehow we both made it home, uninjured and alive,” he says. “Looking back on our time, I’m sure now there was somebody watching over us. Nothing else can explain how my dog and I made it out of there in one piece.”

86 CWL YOUNG

After he was discharged, Dave wasn’t coping so well. Suffering post-traumatic depression, he tried to commit suicide but realised his beloved pooch couldn’t live without him. He was in a bad place, he says, but fortunately found solace in an old friend Rachel, from Cheshire, who was going through a divorce and getting her own act together.

“When we first met up it was like falling in love all over again. She straightened me out and wouldn’t allow me into her life if I was going to self destruct. I married her and adopted her two boys and was glad to finally be a father. We were together for a year before we found out she was pregnant with a little girl called Ellie-Ann, now aged three,” he says.

“I was absolutely over the moon, thinking my low sperm count would never see me be a real father.” Up until that point Treo had been the son he could never have. “One day I was thinking about Treo and realised his initials stood for Thomas, Rachel, Ellie and Ollie (the name of his kids).

What are the chances?” he shudders.

Treo came into his life while Dave was serving in Northern Ireland in 2005.

Treo was three and already trained. He was known as the dog nobody wanted because of his aggressiveness. “I had the choice of five dogs and thought Treo was perhaps a little too much like me but when we first spotted each other we knew it was instinctively right.

“I love my kids and my dog,” he continues, “but something was missing.”

While becoming accustomed to “friendly soil”, Rachel suggested Dave turn all the darkness in his head into a book, and he did!

Somebody randomly read his book in Australia before giving her copy to cosmetics doctor turned Australian actor Jeremy Crompton. In 2014 he devoured the pages on a flight to the UK to watch his favourite footy club, Arsenal, before inviting Dave and his family over to Australia for their first trip in early 2014.

He felt he needed to go somewhere quiet, and that place was Victoria’s farm, where he and Jeremy talked about turning the book into a film.

“It was the first time I could think clearly. My life was full of pressures and stress but at the farm no one could contact me. It was just a peaceful moment in a beautiful part of the country. We could walk for miles and discuss what we wanted to do as a family,” he says.

On this, his second trip Down Under, he came to read the movie script and loved it. “It’s unbelievable,” he says. “A best seller in the UK (selling more than 400,000 copies) and now I’m on the other side of the world and this opportunity is taking place.”

After five days at Fox Studios he felt he needed some down time and again travelled to Young to connect with Victoria and the rolling hills she calls home. “Victoria made us feel so welcome when we first came here and it was so easy to get on with her. That’s why I’ll be coming back again and again. You just don’t get a friend in Victoria, you get a historian.

Every building has a story behind it. It really is a lovely place to be.”

Next year “Springfield” will be his base to train two dogs for the forthcoming movie to be shot in South Australia. The dogs will be sourced from either rescue shelters or reputable breeders and trained over 12 weeks.

Naturally, they will need to be black Labradors.

Treo at 14 is way past it. “He’s done his time and I wouldn’t ask him to go through all that again. They tried to retain him (after Dave retired in 2010) but Treo wouldn’t work for anyone else. I managed to get him out of there and he is now a family pet and the top dog in the pack.”

Dave Heyhoe has an inspiring story of love and devotion, a great wife and now a brand new life far removed from the fields lined with explosives.

While driving trucks can be “mind-numbingly boring” in between his new adventures, there is still plenty of life in his military bones to enjoy his wonderful new family, complete with one of the world’s most decorated dogs by his side. CWL

YOUNG

YOUNG CWL 87

YOUNG

A CREDITABLE CREDO SOUTH WEST SLOPES Credit Union (SWSCU) is a community credit union operating in the southwest region of NSW, with its head office in Young, branches in Cootamundra, Temora and West Wyalong and agency arrangements in Harden and Boorowa.

The credit union provides a complete range of financial services in these towns and has a long and proud history in the communities spanning 4½ decades.

General manager Steve Elsley was originally employed by the credit union in 1989 as the loans officer and appointed general manager in 1995.

In Steve’s 26 years of employment with SWSCU he has seen a lot of changes. He has seen the credit union grow from 1800 members to nearly 15,500, assets of $5 million to $140 million and staff of five to 32.

“I have seen the credit union transform from virtually a manual ledger operation to a fully computerised organisation offering telephone, internet and mobile banking services. And there have been numerous branch renovations and fit-outs,” he says.

“But through all these changes one thing that I am proud of is that we have not changed our focus that is a common commitment to the principles of mutuality, a real commitment to the ‘mate helping mate’ culture of Australians and a commitment to the communities SWSCU serves.

“I am proud that support we have received from these communities has produced the financial performance that sets benchmarks in the mutual sector and puts the credit union in a position to return this support to these communities by way of our sponsorship programs.

88 CWL YOUNG

“I am equally proud of the fact that over the past decade the credit union has supported numerous sporting, educational and community events in excess of $1 million through this sponsorship program.

“Through my background in the Rural/State Bank of NSW I have always been of the belief that the finance sector is a service industry and not a sales industry and it is service that has been the main contributor to the success the credit union enjoys today.

“In saying this, the financial sector is rapidly changing and while I think service will always play a huge role in the sector, the younger generations are demanding digital technology that will allow them to conduct their finances at any time of the day or night. If we want to remain relevant and grow into the future, we must provide these generations with the technologies and initiatives they are demanding.”

SWSCU has acknowledged this need for change and is currently implementing cultural change that will enable the credit union to reconnect with the younger generations and the community.

Technology and social media will drive the change with staff being trained as advisers rather than just transaction facilitators.

“While competition within the finance sector is forever increasing from both traditional players and new entrants such as Apple, Google, Woolworths, I have no doubt that the mutual sector has a role to play due to their customer-owned structure and real focus on enhancing the financial well-being of both their customers and the communities in which they operate,” Steve says.

Springfield

GUEST COTTAGES

a perfect retreat for couples and families

Celebrating

100 YEARS

Enjoy the quiet of the countryside in an historic stone cottage, the quaint gardener’s cottage, the original 19th Century stables or the grand manager’s residence.

A short 7 minute drive from the bustling town of Young.

Springfield Guest Cottages

W.F.GilbERt StAtionER & bookSEllER 100 Boorowa Street, Young • Phone: 02 6382 2021 Email: wfg100@bigpond.net.au

victoriaanderson@bigpond.com

0439 823 799

YOUNG CWL 89

The Prune BOOM

VERITY PRUNES ARE BIG BUSINESS.

THE YOUNG company processes about 500 to 550 tonnes of prunes each year.

Verity began as a grower-owned co-operative in 1927 to pack and market prunes produced around Young. These prunes came from orchards established as soldier settlement blocks after WW1 to provide a home and living for returned servicemen.

Over time, as the prune industry grew, Verity adopted new methods and systems to cater to increased grower supply and the changing demands of the retail market. The 1990s saw Verity acquire two other prune-processing businesses to achieve greater efficiency and competitiveness. “At the moment we have seven to eight staff members working at Verity,� says boss Chris Brooke-Kelly, who has followed in his father’s footsteps and devoted a lifetime to the prune industry.

While he has always been involved with growing fruit, he has become heavily involved in prune processing since 2006 when Verity became a private company. Dried figs also became a new product line at this time. The trend towards convenience products saw pitted prunes added to the range.

Verity prunes are sourced from the Young, Griffith and Murrumbidgee Irrigation Areas.

Verity is now the only 100 per cent Australian-owned prune processor and remains committed to supporting Australian prune growers and providing consumers with healthy, natural, tasty dried prunes.

Look for them in Coles and Woolworths and independent supermarkets.

Verity Prunes worker Mikhaela Rykers (top) and packer Karen Thompson.

90 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

Timeless Treasures ONE-TIME strangers Ainslee Stoney and Marilyn Schiller wasted no time in getting down to business – their business. Within one week of their chanced first meeting, the pair set about designing what they now describe as a treasure trove of gourmet homewares.

The General Store by Chalk N Cheese in Young specialises in pieces that do not succumb to trends. They have set their standards high and their desire is to stock interesting objects that will transcend time as much-loved family investments.

The

General Store

by Chalk N Cheese

With a large range of homewares, antiques, lighting, fabrics and furniture, along with Porter’s Paints, The General store by Chalk N Cheese sparks its customers’ creative desires. The diversity of the store’s “one off” items from around the world takes the shopper on a magical journey of retail therapy.

“The depths of our pieces often tell their own stories. They provoke imagination about the people who once owned them, the style or the era. Our pieces are also very diverse,” co-owner Maz says.

Providing the shopper with a sensory and tactile shopping experience, Ainslee and Maz aim to bring the excitement back into retail therapy, one rare item at a time.

44 Lovell St, Young NSW 2594 02 6382 3515

The team at The General Store by Chalk N Cheese – Bridget, Marilyn and Ainslee.

Words: Catherine Player Images: Angus Waddell YOUNG CWL 91

WHEN CWL popped in to see young country music sensation Sami Cooke, she had just finished a frenetic two-week tour of the Central Coast and was home briefly in Young to pick up her new touring bus before dashing off the following week.

Sami finished her HSC in 2013 and, at just 19 years of age, has grown up fast in the rough-and-tumble live music scene. In between gigs, she is studying professional writing and editing, hoping to earn a bit of extra cash as a part-time journalist in addition to her three or four performances each week at various clubs and pubs.

Last year was her maiden 2014 Australian album tour. “We did 101 shows on that tour, which took us everywhere from Airlie Beach, Queensland, to Port Fairy in Victoria and everywhere else in between,” says Sami, whose favourite performers are Delta Goodrem, Aleyce Simmonds, Carrie Underwood and Martina McBride.

“In a few days we are taking over a 14-seater bus, replacing the pop-top camper trailer we did on the 13,000km tour. I couldn’t be more excited.”

During the trip, her mother, manager and agent, Janelle Cooke, helped sell 700 of her first 1000 debut albums, titled SAMI – Every Passing Minute.

She not only books all the shows but helps out with lighting and sound. With another two musicians on her books, Janelle is definitely dedicated and helping get her daughter’s name out there.

“I was really happy with that (sales of her album),” Sami says. “That’s why we went on tour.

You don’t sell albums sitting at home.”

She started singing at age 11, followed by three years of lessons from local opera singer Mark Brooker. “Thanks to Mark’s training, my voice can handle three or four shows a week, each show lasting three to four hours,” says Sami, a multi-talented instrumentalist.

She plays guitar, ukulele, saxophone and keyboard, which she mixes up through her act.

“My shows are all about keeping the crowd there.

I mix with the crowd and quite often will invite them on stage to sing and dance or shake maracas. It’s all about entertainment value and the emphasis is on having a good time.”

Every audience and every venue is different, from a small corner to a massive stage in front of hundreds. Sami takes it all in her confident stride.

“I perform over 60 songs. I will do a few covers and then throw in one of my original songs.

I’ve learnt pretty quickly how to gauge the reaction of the audience and how to keep bums on seats.”

SAMI TONES

So far she has written nearly 30 songs. “Mostly they came pretty easy to me. Most songs on my album were written in about 20 minutes,” she says. “I went through a break-up and of course you get a break-up song about that.

It’s an ever-evolving style and I like to keep challenging myself and see how I can do better.”

The songs on SAMI – Every Passing Minute have won awards at various talent quests and song-writing awards.

YOUNG

Sami has made three film clips with Dean Kinlyside, Neon Multimedia, in Young.

Their first clip was made at the historic Millard Centre in town. All three can be seen on CMC channel: Every Passing Minute (the title track of her new album), The Click of Her Fingers and Still Searching (her anti-bullying song) or on Sami’s Youtube channel.

A highlight of the year is attending the Tamworth Country Music Festival each January.

In 2014 she performed 33 shows in 12 days and this year added on media commitments, reporting on the Golden Guitar Awards for 2YYY 92.3 FM in Young as well as for The Young Witness.

She also had her own radio show on the Tamworth Festival Radio.

“This year was my fourth festival and I had my own ticketed shows, which were all packed out,” she says enthusiastically. “It’s hectic but so much fun. By the end of it you lose five kilos and look great for the Golden Guitar awards.”

Sami tones

Sami admits she sometimes has to pinch herself.

“Before finishing school I didn’t really figure out how I could turn my love of music into a career, but here I am two years later, working my butt off and enjoying every minute of the ride. I don’t listen to my album that much any more but when I’m driving and hear one of my songs on the radio I tend to get rather excited and find myself singing along.”

Mum Janelle believes that Sami was always chasing her musical dreams. “For a while she was going to be a music teacher but from her first moment on stage that was it,” she says.

Even the pet bird they’ve had for 23 years, a cockatiel named Coco, appreciates her music and starts whistling when Sami pulls out a guitar.

“There is so much sport in a country town like Young and it was initially difficult to give her opportunities to sing. Sami’s career has provided me with a new job and we couldn’t be happier,” Janelle says proudly.

“It’s always fun coming home and having a bit of a break,” Sami chimes in. “I moved to Canberra in December. I’m the youngest of five and two of my siblings live in Canberra, where my father works during the week. He was an agronomist in Young and now works for the Department of Agriculture. He has a big vegie patch and looks after our goats and Grandma when we are away on the road.”

There are many more opportunities in store for this talented and energetic young woman, including a two-week New Zealand tour booked for February, followed hopefully by Norfolk Island and a proposed six-week tour of Canada.

In the meantime, become one of Sami Cooke’s 5000 Facebook followers, the free form of social media she loves nearly as much as her music. CWL YOUNG CWL 93

YOUNG

THE QUIET LIFE

IF YOU LOVE peace and quiet and a sumptuous meal at the end of a long drive, then the Hilltops Retreat Motor Inn has you covered.

With 14 spacious rooms, including four family rooms, a special room for disabled guests and a honeymoon suite with a spa, this 3.5-star motel ticks all the boxes.

The motel features a seasonal outdoor saltwater pool and a fully licensed restaurant called “Elevation”. Guests can order a cooked or continental breakfast each morning and enjoy an a-la-carte Aussie favourite for dinner. Room service is also available.

Surrounded by cherry and stone fruit orchards, Hilltops Retreat is only a five-minute drive to the centre of Young. It offers free Wi-Fi access, complimentary parking and laundry services. The motor inn also has a small library with a selection of around 100 books.

Each fully air-conditioned room comes with tea- and coffee-making facilities, a mini bar and flat-screen TV with cable channels.

The en suite bathroom comes with free toiletries and hairdryer.

Owner Maree Marsh has been operating the motel for nearly five years and enjoys the relaxed lifestyle and meeting new and interesting people on their travels.

“It’s a popular spot to stay for sales reps, who are always guaranteed a decent night’s sleep,” she says.

Husband Stan holds the fort at the family farm “Branxton Park”, between Goulburn and Braidwood, where he runs a fine wool Merino operation along with some beef cattle.

“I’ve always wanted to run a motel,” Maree says. “Although I really love the farm life I needed a challenge and the motel business keeps me squarely on my toes.”

94 CWL YOUNG

BUILT TO LAST EVERDELL CONSTRUCTION has been providing Young and districts with building services for the past 20 years.

They undertake both residential and commercial work, insurance and maintenance work as well as concrete polishing.

Robert and Robin Everdell established Everdell Construction in 2005 and since this time have built up a loyal client base.

Robert did his apprenticeship in Young then worked in Sydney for nine years. He returned to Young in 1989 with Robin and first son James, as proprietors of Young Building Supplies before going back into the building industry. During his time in Young he’s had three more sons.

Robert works in conjunction with the client or architect to bring about a final product that is of a high standard. Robert’s main interest lies in eco-friendly housing, however, along with a staff of 10 and local subcontractors, Everdell Construction undertakes a variety of work with the aim being a satisfied client at the end of the job.

With a fully equipped van and a specialist tradesman, the concrete polishing component of the business is growing.

Polished concrete can be used in both residential and commercial situations and is proving very popular.

Robert Everdell | robert@everdellconstruction.com.au

M: 0427 020 067

| P: 02 6382 7558

14 ROOMS Family, twin-share, queen, spa and two bedroom suite.

ELEVATION RESTAURANT A-la-carte, fully licenced, room service, catering for functions Salt water pool, BBQ, Wi-Fi, Foxtel Close to orchards and vineyards

“It’s a popular spot to stay for sales reps, who are always guaranteed a decent night’s sleep.”

HILLTOPS RETREAT MOTOR INN 4662 Olympic Highway , Young P: 6382 3300 E: info@hilltopsretreat.com www.hilltopsretreatyoung.com.au

YOUNG CWL 95

96 CWL YOUNG

YOUNG

Having a Crack WHEN CWL travelled to Richard and Leah Taubman’s well-kept woolshed, the pair had just finished their 17th whip-making school.

Since commencing seven years ago, nearly 200 students ranging in age from just 13 to 84 years have experienced all facets of whip making and usually go home with at least a hand-fashioned belt, keyring and even a whip as a reminder of their weekend stay.

Admiration and persistent questioning followed from the boy and over the next 10 years the hardened old man – 60 years his senior – passed on the skills and wisdom forged from a thousand adventures in the bush.

The Taubmans, proud cattle and sheep breeders from Murringo, near Young, admit you can never start too early. An impressionable young Richard began at only 13 and is still going strong – 7000 whips and 40 years later. “It’s a long apprenticeship; you never stop learning,” he says with a wry grin.

When Syd died in Tumut, aged 83, in 1983, Richard was compelled to write the story of his mate’s amazing journey through life. One of the Last, now in its eighth edition, is a remarkable yarn about an independent and spirited man who, on just one of his outback journeys, traversed the Australian continent by horse in the 1920s from Melbourne to Darwin and back. As he did most of his life, he worked his way around the country, doubling as a roo shooter and stockman on stations, including right through the arid centre of the country.

The pair are going through about 3000 kangaroo skins a year, this being the strongest leather in the world and known for its thickness (to prove its strength, Richard once made a 28-strand plaited belt and pulled a four-ton truck with it). Only three types of the 85 different wallabies and kangaroos found in Australia are shot commercially: the Reds, the Eastern and Western Greys.

Never far from Richard’s side is hard-working wife Leah. The pair have been together for about 14 years, raising two sons and two daughters in the process. All are making their own way in life, although Richard hopes at least one might return home one day to help run the family farm, “Spring Valley”, a 7000-acre concern traditionally running about 1000 Hereford cattle (including about 350 breeders) and 6000 Merinos.

Richard is a big countryman with a fair-dinkum sense of honour. He knew what he wanted early in life after meeting his lifetime mentor and friend, Syd Bayliss, while still a teenager.

The ones Richard paid careful attention to concerned the traditional way of turning roo and cow hide into carefully crafted leather pieces built to withstand the rigours of life in the outback.

As it turned out, Richard went on to live a life that today mirrors the very actions of the man he honours – hawking on outback NT stations for six weeks each year. Richard, with the unwavering support of Leah, has dedicated his life to the memory of the great old bushman, who was well known for his exploits in the WW1 trenches (he enlisted as a mere 15-year-old boy) and life afterwards on rough, lonely bush roads throughout the country.

Through hard work, dedication and as a tribute to Richard and Syd, Leah brought the old Hancock’s Store back to life as a small museum and store in Murringo. Here they are able to record the life of Syd Bayliss in a well-worn 1850s building befitting the man and, in turn, the life of his most industrious student. > YOUNG CWL 97

YOUNG

They have called the store the Taubman & Webb Trading Post in memory of Syd, who once owned a similar venture in Tumut after hawking saddlery gear around five states from the Depression through to the 1940s.

As testament to their enduring friendship, Richard once created a monster whip, all 66 foot of it. Like Syd’s original, it came with a shovel end for a handle. Dubbed Big Bertha II, the whip used up one and a half large bullock hides and took 24 hours to plait over six days. With a whopping 17kg of weight, you wouldn’t think you could crack it but Richard just smiles and casually goes to work.

With little effort the whip coiled down the road much to the surprise of this reporter. Richard’s done it thousands of times before and while he makes it look easy, truth is few men – apart from Syd who taught him the technique – have mastered the art. It’s his trademark one-man performance, just as it was for his mentor up north during the 1930s.

Richard knows it’s a great way to kick-start a conversation with ringers from the top end and that usually leads to sales of all his gear.

“We travel to Brunette Downs in the Northern Territory each June, where there is a big race meeting, campdraft, buckjumps and all sorts of bush activities. We take our whips, belts, hats, pocket-knives – all the things a ringer needs,” he says.

“It’s a long apprenticeship; you never stop learning.”

After 30 years of making the long northern haul, the Taubmans simply enjoy catching up with old mates and making new ones around the campfire. They get a trip for nothing and regard it far more important than the mighty dollar.

You get the feeling Richard enjoys living in both outback Australia as well as the gently undulating hills of Murringo, where he has been all his life.

His father was a journo for the Sydney Morning Herald and had a Hereford stud in the Snowy Mountains. On his return from New Guinea after WW2 he travelled with Taubman’s Paints for a couple of years (his great grandfather helped establish the painting dynasty at the turn of the 20th century but his family were all out of it by the late 1960s).

In 1959 his father finally settled on the land near Young. “I was three months old and barely the length of a whip handle,” he laughs.

During his lifetime he has quadrupled the size of the property in order to remain productive. Today there are parts of 19 neighbouring properties all under the Spring Valley umbrella. With Leah, two other full-time workers (including one happy employee who has been with the family for 40 years) and plenty of contracting teams, Richard is able to deliver as a grazier and as one of the last of the old-time hawkers.

When the peaceful old homestead transcends into a quiet and eerie darkness, this bushman often looks up into the skies and feels humbled by the presence of the man who taught him not just how to create magnificent stockwhips but how to push your boundaries, live your dream and leave a legacy for the next generation. CWL Left: Richard Taubman loves the Australian bush and the art of whip-making; Leah and Richard Taubman in the heart of their historic store and museum.

Above: Syd Bayliss after five years at war.

98 CWL YOUNG

MAN about TOWN MEN GENERALLY don’t like to shop. That is a fact, says Bruce Mangelsdorf, who has been running Bruce’s Mensland for the past 13 years in Boorowa Street, Young.

Look your best trackside this Spring

With 43 years of experience in the retail game, he knows what he’s talking about. “Despite being a menswear business, we find that 80 per cent of our customers are usually women shopping for their menfolk.”

Mensland is one of the major independent menswear retail groups in Australia with more than 70 stores throughout regional and metro areas.

Since 1969, Mensland has been outfitting men of all ages for all of life’s scenarios. Whether it’s from the beach to the home, from the boardroom to their wedding, customers have remained loyal and trusting of their local Mensland stores.

There is a broad range of clothing available for men of all ages, from trousers, shirts, country wear, suits and suit hire down to urban street wear, tees, hoodies, caps, jeans and backpacks for the young at heart.

Personalised service and advice, extensive product ranges, quality national and international brands, competitive pricing and loyal staff all help to make this business the success that it is.

Bruce has a terrific sense of humour, with two teenage children who keep him forever young. When he is not running the shop, which he leaves to his talented offsider Garry Sell, Bruce likes to play golf, study his German ancestry and relax at home following his favourite rugby league team, St George.

Mensland will appeal to the quality-conscious modern man who lives confidently in the present, chooses the best from the past and is determined to shape his future.

Bruce Mangelsdorf and Garry Sell inside the long-established Bruce’s Mensland.

suits. suit hire. formal attire.

Also a great range of casual wear and young mens t-shirts from popular labels Jet Pilot • Element • Elwood • Henley • Lonsdale

All your clothing needs for young and old.

BRUCE’S MENSLAND 6382 6762 • 152 Boorowa St YOUNG YOUNG CWL 99

YOUNG

CAPTURING

THE ESSENCE

100 CWL YOUNG

ANGUS WADDELL wears many hats. His expertise lies not only in livestock handling, working dogs and photography, but he also seems to master the challenge that is balancing business aspirations with a fantastic family of four on their property, “Peakview”, southeast of Young.

Angus has worked to challenge the status quo surrounding stockmanship, and travels extensively across the country running StockHelp stockhandling schools for individuals and groups to promote competent, calm and safe practices. Angus’s valuable offerings are well-received by participants of all ages and experience levels and, as a result, livestock handlers are seeing benefits in both the human resource skillset and productivity of stock after introducing StockHelp techniques.

Border Collie dogs play another major role in Angus’s life, and he and his wife Sarah’s stud, Waddy’s Collies, is known for all the right reasons.

Waddy’s dogs are selectively bred using only the best genetics, and it is not unusual for buyers to come back time and time again for Waddy’s pups. It only takes a few minutes watching Angus work half a dozen of the dogs to understand the depth of discipline, training and mastery of the relationship between dog and human that he has achieved.

But there’s more to Angus’s story, and for many years now he has enjoyed photography, something that is intrinsically linked to his stockhandling and working dog pursuits.

Angus is proud of his business, Angus Waddell Photography, which has allowed him to travel widely to engage in wedding, corporate and family photography, and he also captures images closer to home for CWL. Between stockhandling schools and photography, Angus can offer a tale or two about travel.

“I have learnt that in most cases people will open up to you when you have a camera, and to have that kind of access to a person’s inner workings is a very special privilege,” Angus says.

Angus enjoys taking a minimalist approach to photography and places most importance on the composition of the photograph.

“By capturing the subject in a relaxed, natural state, the image brings out the beauty within.”

His rural background and experiences have helped shape the way he views photography, and in his view, having an open mind when taking a photograph is crucial.

Angus’s ability to manage his business life alongside his family is admirable, and Sarah and children William and Heidi enjoy being connected to his many and varied pastimes.

His perspective on personal development is this: “A mistake made more than once is a decision. People make a choice to change or grow.”

“Photography for me is a creative outlet that allows others to see the way I view the world around me,” Angus says. “There is so much beauty out there that can be captured and presented in a photograph.”

As popular and respected members of the Young community, Angus and Sarah Waddell and their family continue to enjoy the benefits of basing their home and businesses in this vibrant area.

His credibility in the field has grown immensely over the years. Angus’s photograph of bullocks on the march taken at Nockatunga Station in far west Queensland raised $7000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service at a charity function at Beef Australia, Rockhampton, in May.

Above: Some of Angus’s work, including the Iandra Castle stables and Nockatunga Station bullocks, the image that raised funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

CWL

Words: Anna Tickle YOUNG: CONCLUSION OF TOWN FEATURE CWL 101

Frank Smith

Work Clothing and Shoe repairS

Shoe Repairs • Work Clothing Casual Country Clothing Open 7 days 12 - late www.churchbar.com.au 6334 2300

1 Ribbon Gang Lane, Bathurst

"Always an interesting place to shop" 71 Keppel St, Bathurst 2795 • Phone 02 6331 7544 www.gottheboot.com.au • franksmithworkclothing@gmail.com

Lithgow

Surprisingly diverse

Summer Hill has come to the country DRESSMAKING AND SEWING CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS Beginners to experienced Small day and evening classes Top quality machines Tailor your workshop to suit your own group

For a free copy of the

Lithgow Visitor Guide

Lithgow Visitor Information Centre 1137 Great Western Highway, (PO Box 19 Lithgow NSW 2790) T: 1300 760 276 or (02) 6350 3230, F: (02) 6350 3239 E: tourism@lithgow.com

www.tourism.lithgow.com august.indd 1

102 CWL

Lithgow Tourism 11/05/15 10:32 AM

Hartley area T 6352 3577 sarah@sewingemporium.com.au www.sewingemporium.com.au

T:: (02) 6361 4546 F:: (02) 6361 4566 : jasmin.bond@bigpond.com G

G

IA

E:: jasmin.bond@bigpond.com F:: (02) 6361 4566 (02) 6361 residence withT:: peaceful, valley4546 views. Landscaped

Greentrees Guesthouse is a very comfortable country lawns, Orange 2800 flower beds, shrubs and trees combine to create a beautiful, relaxing garden and serene NSW atmosphere.

6 Lysterfield Road 6 Lysterfield Road Located close to Orange (only 4.5kms from the post office) in Central West NSW, Greentrees is less than four hours (Cnr Pinnacle and Lysterfield Rds), Rd and we are on your right.

Rd and we are on your right. drive fromThis Sydney’s CBD. It is the which to explore Orange and the Rd. scenic andlefthistoric local areas. ourism RTurn ating TPinnacle becomes Pinnacle Rd.ideal Turnlocation left into from Lysterfield This becomes into Lysterfield ABN 762 Orange89 NSW 2800400 186 past Elephant Park then turn onto Racecourse Rd. pastpeaceful Elephantpastoral ParkAAA then turn onto Racecourse Rd. Our comfortable and elegantly decorated suites offer tranquillity and views.

CBD. Turn left at Woodward St. (2nd Roundabout). Go CBD. Turn left at Woodward St. (2nd Roundabout). Go **** Book Directions: in today for business orSydney pleasure, and enjoy Orange a traditionalDirections: cooked breakfast, dinner in our BYO restaurant From drive through From Sydney drive through Orange and Ph 02 6361 4546 Jasmin Bond home-grown hospitality.

Fax weekend 02 6361for4566 special two. (Pictured Below) special weekend for two. (Pictured Below)

Birdsong

dR elcanniP

dR elcanniP

AI

G

AI

G

rural tranquility and country hospitality with in 8 acres, Greentrees combines

aR

Nestling

Rd

Autumn

To Mount Canobolas

Cook

Birdsong

Rd

To Mount Canobolas

Orange CBD

Summer Stit(Mitchell Hwy)five people.

Line Full of country ambience sleeps Railway and Galahs are reflected in wall prints and tiles.

Golf Course Rosellas,Duntryleague King Parrots, Sulphur Crested Cockatoos visit Greentrees Gardens.

N Crimson and Eastern To Forbes This suite reflects the parrots that

se

Golf Club Wentworth

teertS drawdooW

o ru

c ce

aR

c ce

o ru

se

compliment the gold toned furniture. on tiles and autumn landscapes on the walls make this room warm and restful. Autumn roses and Sydney To Bathurst Apricot, ivory tints Park cinnamon and teertS drawdooW

Autumn

Full of country ambience it sleeps five people. and Galahs are reflected in wall prints and tiles.

Rosellas, King Parrots, Sulphur Crested Cockatoos visit Greentrees Gardens. Crimson and Eastern This suite reflects the parrots that

S

Golf Club Wentworth

Harvest

RO

compliment the gold toned furniture. on tiles and autumn landscapes on the walls make this room warm and restful. Autumn roses Apricot, cinnamon and ivory tints

****

Jasmin Bond

Lysterfield Rd

Racecourse Towac Park

Canobolas Rd

S

Canobolas Rd

Tourism Rating AAA

GREENTREES

The Rose Suite rural tranquility and country hospitality with Nestling in 8 acres,REGreentrees redolent with the richness living.

RE of country E ENTREcombines NTRfiveEEpeople and is This room is spacious,E sleeps cold climate wines form the decore theme here.

Harvest Lucious fruits, vegetables and

redolent with the richness of country living.

This room is spacious, sleeps five people and is cold climate wines form the decore theme here.

Lucious fruits, vegetables and

AI

Orange NSW 2800 6 Lysterfield Road

Your HNost Your Host jasmin.bond@greentreeshouse.com.au SW AUST GE RA N A L www.greentreeshouse.com.au the benefits and facilities of city living. the benefits and facilities of city living.

Your host: Jasmin Bond

RO

The Rose Suite

spa. AnGREENTREES ideal romantic retreat and hideaway for a controls),Lysterfield double vanity,SW toilet, and large Rd AUSbidet EN T king bed, king size NG shower (two Rsets AL of water contained luxuryAsuite complete with kitchenette, Racecourse Towac Park An exquisite self

L

E:: jasmin.bond@bigpond.com F:: (02) 6361 4566 T:: (02) 6361 4546

.greentreeshouse.com.au spa. An ideal romantic retreat and hideaway for a controls), double vanity, toilet, bidet and large king bed, king size shower (two sets of water contained luxury suite complete with kitchenette, An exquisite self

SW AUST GE N RA

REE REE NT

S

L

AN

L

S

RA GE N SW AUST

SW AUST GE N RA

REE REE NT

AI

RO

OR

AN

AN

ABN 89 762 400 186

www.greentreeshouse.com.au RO

NT REE REE

S

G

ABN 89 762 400 186

www.greentreeshouse.com.au

Park Cook

and Sydney To Bathurst Orange CBD

Summer St (Mitchell Hwy)

Golf Course Duntryleague

N

To Forbes

To Dubbo

Line Railway

To Dubbo

Looking for a local and trusted advisor?

The team at Crowe Horwath provides practical accounting, audit, tax, business and financial advice to individuals and businesses across the Central West region.

From superannuation and succession planning to business structuring and managing cash flow, we can assist however simple or complex your needs are.

We employ local people with local knowledge. Contact us today and find out how we can assist you.

Tel 1300 856 065 www.crowehorwath.com.au

Audit | Tax | Advisory | Financial Advice

Twisted River Cellar Door & Vineyard Award winning wines, great food, stunning surroundings, there is no better place to spend time, whether it’s a leisurely tasting, or attendance at one of our events. Twisted River is also the perfect setting to hold your next special event or just a great place to meet up with friends.

Cellar door open Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 5pm, however best to call first or just drop in when the flags are out.

Twisted River Wines 6056 Henry Parkes Way, Manildra PO Box 2, Manildra NSW 2865

Phone: 02 6364 5447 Helen Armstrong 0429 998 023 Michelle Davies 0429 652 167

Email: twistedriverwines@gmail.com Website: www.twistedriverwines.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/TwistedRiverWines CWL 103

Show of Support FOR 142 YEARS THE DUBBO SHOW HAS FORGED A REPUTATION AS ONE OF THE PREMIER SHOWS IN RURAL NSW AND THIS YEAR WAS NO EXCEPTION. FOR OVER THREE DAYS OF NON-STOP ACTION, THE SHOW PROMOTED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AROUND THE REGION, EXPOSED BUSINESSES TO THE REGIONAL COMMUNITY AND PROVIDED COMPETITION AND ENTERTAINMENT FOR NEARLY 20,000 VISITORS.

SHOW SECRETARY and stalwart Sue Hood says there were 199 cattle exhibits, 816 in the sheep section (including strong entries in the White Suffolk feature breed), 280 in the poultry section plus more than 200 horses and 45 pigs on display.

Dubbo Show Society has produced three state winners, Margo Bassett (1973), Melanie Trethowan (1986) and Kennedy Tourle (2013), now one of the show’s five vice-presidents.

“The major change is how we do our entries and recordings,” Sue says.

“These days it’s mostly done electronically. Eight years ago we were handwriting everything.”

The 2015 Zoo FM Dubbo showgirl, Camilla Kenny, a former Mendooran girl and now working in Dubbo as a Rural Mental Health Co-ordinator for NSW Health, was given the nod before four other contenders in front of a capacity crowd in the grandstand following the grand parade.

In 1871 the Dubbo Show Society (formerly known as the Pastoral and Agricultural Society) was founded by a few early settlers at a meeting at the local courthouse. The chairman, in a long speech, pointed out the “necessity” of a show in Dubbo as the town was the centre of the North Western District.

The wood-chopping section was again well attended with the strong men doing their bit in the underhand, starting block, tree felling, double-handed sawing and chain-sawing events. The sheep shearing competition attracted 110 shearers from all across the country, with 1200 sheep shorn within nine hours.

Since the staging of the inaugural show the following year, the organisation has grown from strength to strength and is still regarded as a highlight on the Dubbo calendar. The show is where the district is on exhibition for town and country people alike. It continues to be a wonderful meeting place for people of all ages, with something for everybody to watch and do.

The pavilion exhibitors arrived with their entries a few days prior to the show, ready to be judged. The atmosphere is great and all enjoy seeing each other’s exhibits, whether it is paintings, cakes, flowers, sewing, photography or fine arts. The wool and farm produce were also strongly supported.

Today the 2015 Orana Mutual Dubbo Show Society is controlled by 50 committee members, all volunteers, some whose ancestors go back to the very start.

The show has always attracted great horses and riders, with good prize money in all sections. The Dubbo Show Society is equally happy to welcome the local pony club members and tiny tot riders on their favourite ponies, as all competitors contribute to making the show so wonderful.

The Land Sydney Royal Showgirl Competition has established itself as an important part of all country shows for the past 53 years.

Words and images: Shot by Jake

104 CWL

COUNTRY SHOW

Darrell Bishop, Mudgee, with his White Wyandotte large fowl.

Show sponsor Orana Mutual was represented by Brenda Moon and Ben Luck.

The sheep shearing competition attracted 110 shearers from all states plus New Zealand.

Molly Wright, 15, with Hollywood Diamonds R Forever.

Justin Kirkby, Amarula Dorper Stud, Gravesend, with his champion on the hoof lamb.

2015 Dubbo Zoo FM showgirl Camilla Kenny.

Margaret McManus, Dubbo, with Honorary Life Members Patricia Warrell, Wagga Wagga, and Lorna White, Dubbo.

Gilgandra poultry breeder Stan Thurlow with one of the 22 birds he brought along.

He has been doing much the same for nearly 50 years and was recently awarded Life Membership to the Dubbo Poultry Club.

Duri farmer Don Riley enjoys the atmosphere of the cattle sheds while Dubbo local lads Campbell Walsh and Harry Walsh enjoy breakfast.

The thrill of winning blue is all in the eyes of Dubbo three-year-old Zavier Deveigne, as he is led out of the ring by his proud grandfather and ex-jockey Fred Walker.

President Marty Morris with some of the show’s Honorary Life Members, Earl McManus, Graeme Board, Jack Shanks, Lyle Dorn and Cedric Cross.

CWL 105

Dubbo Show Secretary Sue Hood. Sue has been in the job 19 years but has been involved with the show for a sterling 33 consecutive years.

Evie O’Connor, Dubbo, enjoys the show with her friends Hayley Nelson, Dunedoo, and Clare Amor, Dubbo.

Popular local member Troy Grant discusses the grand parade with CWL publishers Elizabeth and Alex Tickle.

Dubbo youngsters Maddi Birrell and Johnno Moston with some cute little farm critters.

Dubbo Show ringmaster Stephen Bradshaw was until recently one of the state’s most senior policemen with over 40 years’ service to rural communities.

Dubbo’s Peter Knaggs, Ben Reynolds and Paul Knaggs.

Siblings John Morris, Marty Morris and Helen Jones, whose family have served more than 100 years with the Dubbo Show committee.

The Morris family are still on the original block 102 years later.

Judging the huge classes of White Suffolk was Ivan Chandler, Barham, Victoria.

The supreme pig of the show was this 320kg exhibit, Wondalla Jennie A58, with proud exhibitor Dave Middleton, Glendave Stud, Wallabadah, and pig committee man Wes Temessl, from Gollan near Mudgee.

106 CWL

Dubbo Mayor Mathew Dickerson with Dubbo Show Vice-Presidents Jane Diffey, Kate Warren and Kennedy Tourle.

COUNTRY SHOW

The Zoo FM Showgirl entrants Katherine Mann, Camilla Kenny, 2014 winner Anna Tickle, Lauren Amor, Amy McAneney.

Showgirl entrant Abby Ettershank with proud parents Andrew and Wendy Ettershank, “Mernda”, Gilgandra.

Dubbo Show President Marty Morris with partner Lorna Breeze.

Nathan Leach, Kaloola Shorthorns, Narromine, with Katrine Rasmussen, Narromine.

Dubbo show regular Russel Blight, 75, has been attending the show since he was five and has never missed one. In the early days Russel used to exhibit in the poultry section but these days is just as happy to see the sights, including the circus performance.

Kim Williams, Polldale Shorthorns, Dubbo, has been exhibiting for nearly 50 years and was proud to walk away with grand champion Shorthorn bull, Polldale Jackal, at the Shorthorn feature show.

Honorary Life Member Les Clarke and visiting ASC President Tim O’Brien, Parkes, chat to local member Troy Grant.

The showjumping attracted record entries and lived up to its reputation as one of the best in the state.

Beaming with country charm were Corrina Board and Pip Job.

Jess Stalling, The Oaks, with champion open pony and Francesca Christie, Tynong, Victoria, with her supreme champion hack.

Kitchen ladies Bev Fallon, Lorna Breeze, Liz Tourle and Janette Dorn.

CWL 107

2015 AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FIELD DAYS

THURSDAY 22 TO SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER

Over 600 Agricultural exhibitors, Sheep and Cattle Centres, Art Competition, Education Centre, Sheep dog trials, Gourmet Food, Demonstrations, Fashion Parades, Live music and Children’s activities, Something for Everyone.

Location: 563 Borenore Road, Borenore (15kms west of Orange) p: 02 6362 1588 e: info@anfd.com.au w: anfd.com.au

Looking for the perfect candidate?

GWS Personnel is a passionate business, fuelled by passionate people.

GWS Personnel was established in 1994 and has since been servicing the Central West. Now part of the Spinifex Group with 8 offices across regional and metropolitan NSW. We are a local recruiter and specialise in recruitment services in services for the following industries;

Agribusiness Professionals

Industrial & Manufacturing

Specialist and Executive Positions

Professional and Office Support

Spinifex Australia Holdings

Leaders in Regional Recruitment

1300 800 301

Orange | Parkes | Bathurst | Dubbo | Wagga www.gwspersonnel.com.au

Sales at Cowra Saleyards, Young Road, Cowra Cattle Sales Monday commencing approx 1pm Sheep Sale Fridays commencing at 11am The Team can also assist in Private Sales, Paddock & Over the Hook sales The Team are Fully Accredited Auctionsplus Livestock Assessors and can assist you to sell your stock to a wider audience through Auctionsplus.

108 CWL

Norman C Bellamy Pty Ltd Stock & Station Agents 98 Brisbane Street Cowra Tracey : Office 02 6342 1155 02 6342 4115 info@normancbellamy.com.au

find us on facebook and LinkedIn

OurAgents...

Steve Nash Damien Stephenson Matt Bargwanna John Bargwanna

0428 413 185 0409 426 601 0429 421 155 0408 637 016

WHERE STARS ARE MADE

COUNTRYMAN MOTOR INN At Countryman Motor Inn our service is paramount, enuring your stay is an enjoyable one.

Relax after your journey at our newly launched Cafe and Restaurant, the perfect setting to catch up with family and friends.

47 Cobra St, Dubbo p (02) 6882 7422 e countrymandubbo@bigpond.com w countrymandubbo.com.au

Breeding Angus since 1990

Combining Phenotype with performance OUR ACCOLADES...Our Females and Bulls have won Supreme at Melbourne and Canberra Royal Shows and Championships at Sydney RAS and Bendigo Beef.

OUR BULLS...Bulls for sale all year by private treaty. Semen tested, Breedplan evaluated. Thick made, easy doing, fertile, affordable and quiet temperament. Inspection invited.

Ian & Lyn Frecklington "The Grange" PEAK HILL NSW

02 6869 1315 0477 620 940

hollywoodangus.com.au

CWL 109

Under Dan’s Wing DAN COMPTON IS THE MAN BEHIND THE WINGS OUT WEST FLYING OPERATION. HE LIKES TO THINK BIG AND AIM FOR THE STARS, WHICH IS PRECISELY WHY HE WANTS TO ESTABLISH AN INDIGENOUS FLYING SCHOOL FROM HIS HOME BASE IN DUBBO.

110 CWL

HIS FIRST STUDENT is trainee-instructor Adam Wiseman, who boasts a rather colourful ancestry including Italian and Aboriginal grandparents.

His home in East Dubbo was the flight path for Rex and Qantas and young Adam learnt to distinguish various planes by sound from an early age. While still at school, he harboured a dream of flying with the Air Force.

“But life got in the way,” says Adam, who left school after Year 10, had two children with partner Annaleece McNeill and is now back at TAFE, aged 28, studying English and maths in a bid to see his dream realised.

On the other hand, Dan, his mentor and friend, has been flying for 28 years.

Raised as one of four siblings on “Ellerslie”, Narrabri, Dan showed an early aptitude for farm life, shearing with his father Laurie, stick picking, rock picking and wool pressing. All he ever wanted to do, however, was take to the skies.

Like Adam, he was desperate to join the Air Force but pressure, a lack of confidence and a desire to start work saw him likewise finish school in Year 10. Through scrimping, he managed to obtain his commercial pilot's licence but flying now wasn't enough. He wanted to work with the best pilots in the business and make a difference.

One day he returned to the spot where his former instructor had died in an air disaster and had a good, hard think about the direction he was headed. It was then he decided to return to his local school (in Narrabri), at age 21, and complete his studies once and for all.

By then two of his school mates were now teaching in the same school.

More importantly, he came to meet his future wife Erlina, a fellow student, while studying for his HSC. Erlina is now mother to Brigalow, aged four, and general manager of Western Local Land Services.

After school the second time round, Dan spent 12 years with the RAAF, based at East Sale, Victoria. His dream had come true. Ready for a change, the Comptons moved to Dubbo where Dan was to spend three years with the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The job came with a 50 per cent pay cut but by then his goals had once again shifted.

The new job was fantastic once he realised flying could be fun again.

“There are more important things than money and, besides, it gave me time to rethink my dream of running a school for indigenous pilots,” he says.

“I was eyeing off Bourke, which had an Air Force base there during the war years,” he continues. “After several meetings with the local elders I was basically dissuaded to proceed, mainly due to a lack of candidates.”

Back in Dubbo, Dan established Wings out West in 2013, complete with his own personal airstrip right in front of the new family home on 460 acres out of town. “The real estate agent who was selling it had a heart attack and I flew him to Sydney, which is how I initially heard about the place,” Dan says. “It's all about karma.”

In the big hangar is housed his pride and joy: a brightly painted yellow Legend Cub. A second plane is being built in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and Dan, as the South Pacific Legend Cub dealer, is looking forward to promoting the brand.

“I want to see this program do something but it can't happen with just one person and one aircraft,” he says.

These days Dan is training 13 students from scratch. Five others are doing courses like navigation and another five are on the waiting list. It all has to fit in with looking after Brigalow while Mum's at work. It's a major juggling act but this pilot would have it no other way.

The school has never strayed far from his mind. “Adam came along, announced his indigenous heritage and the switch was flicked back on,” he says.

“Adam's drive and ambition has certainly caught my attention,” Dan says.

“I can't help but pull him up, after all, that's what life's all about, right?”

As for Adam, he continues to study. “I will still be flying somewhere,” says the part-time case worker for homeless youth. “In the meantime, I sit at my desk and feel like a caged bird,” he concedes. Adam has been hard hit by the flying bug, with more than 70 hours’ credit to his name.

Dan reminds his charge it's not an easy path. Whenever things get tough, Dan merely thinks of Len Waters, the great Australian World War II pilot and middleweight boxing champion, whom he first heard of through talking to elder “Blackie” Gordon at the Walgett Bowling Club.

“He was the only Aboriginal fighter pilot in the RAAF and flew 94 missions in the Battle of Milne Bay,” Dan says. “He relentlessly pushed his way through the ranks and in the end wanted to set up an airline in St George but the Government didn't want to know him as he wasn't considered a citizen of the country at that time. He never flew a plane again and went back shearing.”

While racism in the military during World War II was considered to be minimal, Len and other Aborigines who had served their country found their newly acquired skills not valued in peacetime. He wrote later that, having taken off his uniform, he simply “returned to being a black fellow”.

“Every time I give up on this program I think of him and get inspired once more,” says Dan, an inspiration himself. As we head out for a quick spin in his Legend Cub, Dan admits it will take more than money to get the flying school going off the ground. “If we are going to offer our disadvantaged youths the freedom of flying then we need to get the community right behind us.” CWL Above: Wings out West front men Adam Wiseman (left) and owner Dan Compton.

Words and images: Shot by Jake

CWL 111

australian braford society inc nsw branch Chairman

Doug Barnett Croppa Creek NSW 2411 Phone 02 6754 5240 Email baromadowns@activ8.net.au

Secretary

Braford cows are fertile, easy living and thrive in wide ranging conditions.

Their progeny are quick growing and high yielding, and are suited to various market options, including vealers, feeders, bullocks or replacement breeders.

Ray Gorton Wingham NSW 2429 Phone 02 6553 5181 Email rayandlo@bigpond.com

www.braford.org.au

Highly suitable for crossbreeding. Superior foraging ability in dry times. Bloat resistant in good times and NO PINKEYE PROBLEMS!

Lucknow Skin Shop and Boot Barn is a family run business

spanning four generations. We have a 45 year history of manufacturing sheepskin boots and two generations of wool classers so we’re not just your average retailer, we know sheepskin inside out.

At Lucknow Skin Shop and Boot Barn we stock Thomas Cook and Wrangler Clothing for all ages, Moda Immagine ladies fashion and RM Williams Stockyard.

We have a wide range of boots and leather accessories for the colts and fillies too, in all the latest styles and colours to keep you looking great.

4601 Mitchell Highway, Lucknow 2800 OPEN 7 days 9:00 to 5:30 | Phone orders welcome Ph 02 6365 5330 Visit www.lucknowskinshop.com.au if you just can’t make it in-store.

112 CWL

www.wingsoutwest.com Dan Compton 0409 944 619 South Pacific dealer for the Legend Cub Aircraft • • • •

BEARINGS & SEALS CHAIN & SPROCKETS BELTS & PULLEYS CLUTCH & ALTERNATORS

• • • •

OILS & LUBRICANTS AUTOMOTIVE SPARES ENGINE KITS MACHINERY PARTS

DELIVERY AUSTRALIA-WIDE 155 Clarinda St, Parkes NSW 2870 PH: 02 6862 2666 | F: 02 6862 2272 | A/H 0455 727 127 industrial@aablatch.com.au | www.aablatch.com.au

Safe, Accessible, Fun Flying at Wings Out West Real Bush Pilots Fly Real Bush Aircraft

LICENCED STOCK & STATION AGENTS, AUCTIONEERS & REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Weekly Livestock Sales at Forbes Over the Hooks Sales Accredited Auctions Plus Assessors for Sheep and Cattle Property Sales and Appraisals 242 Clarinda Street PARKES NSW 2870 Phone: 6862 2362 Fax: 6862 4120 Geoff Rice 0429 629 966 Matt Coady 0417 295 343 Greg Miller 0448 433 317 Cooper Byrnes 0427 417 480 Email: office@langlandshanlon.com.au Web: www.langlandshanlon.com.au

Servicing South West Slopes, Central West Slopes and Plains, Western Districts and surrounding areas.

CWL 113

A real country crowd-pleaser GILGANDRA put on a show to remember on May 12 and 13.

The Bendigo Bank Centenary Show drew large crowds and no one was disappointed. Gilgandra businesses supported the midweek show by closing their doors, an interesting move reflecting true country spirit.

The vast array of exhibits and displays, including show dogs, bush poet and narrator, woodchop, speed shear, farmers’ challenge, Aboriginal dancers and sideshows kept the crowd well entertained over the two days.

The usual horse events, stud cattle and junior judging, sheep and pavilions reflected the usual high quality regularly witnessed at Gilgandra.

The Showgirl competition was hotly contested. The 2015 Showgirl, Kaarin Kelly, is the first married entrant to win the title in Showgirl history. A well-supported Junior Showgirl and Tiny Tots competition were also conducted.

During the show, all eyes looked upward at the numerous flyovers by the massive aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force. A feature of the final afternoon was the Parade through the Ages led by two horses pulling a wagonette, and followed by antique tractors and cars as well as a truck carrying a historic Mouldboard plough. This parade must surely have stirred some memories from the past.

Show goers of all ages marvelled at the magnificent display of fireworks that lit up the night sky on the final evening.

“I am very pleased with the show. The committee did a wonderful job of pulling it all together and we look forward to the next 100 years,” President Barrie Batten said. CWL Words and images: Elizabeth Tickle

Displays depicting the 100-year history of the Gilgandra Show.

Roselind and Warren Evans, from Dubbo.

Grand champion ewe of show was a merino ewe owned

by Warren Leeson, Anglewood Merino Stud, Dunedoo.

Artwork from Gilgandra Public School.

Tom Dwyer, Forbes Manager, Western District Exhibit, Les Clarke, Dubbo District Exhibit, Alan Smith, Gilgandra Committee Secretary and previous designer of District Exhibit displays.

114 CWL

Champion wool fleeces.

COUNTRY SHOW

Enjoying a day out at the show were Maree Raglus and Candace Hannelly, both from Gilgandra.

Show President Barrie Batten, “Barlor”, Gilgandra, and Chief Ground Steward Ross Barden, Gilgandra.

A record number of 250 chooks, representing a wide array of breeds of poultry were competing at the show.

Margaret Windeyer with her champion artwork. Margaret is a designer for the Western District Exhibit.

Woodchopping was a feature on the Centenary Show program.

Chief steward of British Breed sheep Scott Chandler holding his family’s Champion Poll Dorset Ram, from Avondale Poll Dorset Stud, Gilgandra.

Supreme Champion beast of the show, a shorthorn bull owned by Howard Williams, Marrington Shorthorns, “Kabinga”, Narromine.

Roy Duncan, Gilgandra Men’s Shed, talented guest woodworker Robert Peart from “Bundaleer” Ingune, Queensland, and Margaret Peart, “Manoora”, Tooraweenah.

CWL 115

S C h o La rS h iP S ava iL a b Le

2016 all rounde

r & boarding apply noW

2017 academic, Music & visual arts Scho larships Applications OP EN december 1

In alliance with PLC Sydney

Kick start your career close to home with CSU Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Dubbo gives you the opportunity to gain a degree and kick-start your career without having to move far from home.

Our small class sizes, friendly and supportive setting and great relationships with businesses and the community make CSU a great place to live and learn.

The practical focus of our courses means when you graduate, you’ll already have hands-on experience in your chosen field. Plus, our graduate employment rate is 10% above the national average.

At CSU’s Dubbo Campus, you can choose from: • Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) • Bachelor of Nursing • Bachelor of Social Work - TAFE integrated program CSU also has a great range of courses available to study online, giving you a wealth of opportunities without having to leave home.

Apply by 30 September to start your study in 2016.

A11139

1800 334 733 www.csu.edu.au/courses

116 CWL

New Tara Boarding Scholarships for 2016 In 1897 Tara Anglican School for Girls was established as a boarding school in Parramatta. Regional Boarding Scholarships reflect the school’s continuing commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities for girls from rural areas.

Tara is offering multiple Boarding Scholarships to girls entering Years 7 and 9 in 2016 who demonstrate a willingness and ability to enter fully into the life of the school. There will also be additional means-related scholarships for girls.

To apply visit our website tara.nsw.edu.au Enquiries to scholarship@tara.nsw.edu.au or visit us at an upcoming Boarding School Expo.

Every story has a beginning

Kinross Wolaroi School is situated in the heart of the city of Orange in the Central West of New South Wales, on 40 hectares (100 acres) of beautifully established landscaped grounds.

We offer the unique opportunity for co-educational learning from Pre-Prep to Year 12 with separate boarding sites for boys and girls from Year 7.

• 129 years of educational tradition and experience • HSC Graduates regularly in the State’s top 10% • Outstanding facilities and resources • First class education within a safe, secure and friendly country environment.

For more information contact our Registrar, Michelle Pryse Jones P: 6392 0300 M: 0427 683 751 E: mprysejones@kws.nsw.edu.au

www.kws.nsw.edu.au

CWL 117

DOORWAY to the RURAL INDUSTRY TAFE WESTERN runs an outstanding Certificate II in Agriculture training program to guide aspiring jackeroos and jillaroos into the rural industry.

After four weeks of intensive training, course participants have learnt basic and essential skills to get them started in a rural career – irrespective of their age, gender or background.

The training offered by TAFE Western is of the highest quality, with current industry instructors passing on sound skills and knowledge. The agricultural industry has a strong demand for permanent, seasonal and casual workers.

TAFE Western is a specialist provider of agriculture training, offering a range of courses that meet the needs of the rural industry.

Through extensive industry involvement, consultation and hands-on experience, TAFE Western teachers developed the four-week training program to give young jackeroos and jillaroos the best possible start in the rural industry.

The course gives participants lots of exposure to large-scale industry operations, including livestock, machinery and farm maintenance.

“Because we also include first aid, chemical handling and work health and safety in the program, farm businesses are keen to employ our graduates,” Agriculture teacher Frank Roberts says.

“It takes away a lot of the anxiety and guesswork when employing someone in a complex farm environment.”

As far as participants are concerned, the TAFE program is beneficial.

Dan Ryan, from Dubbo, is up-skilling for his role in the SES. Tyron Beard, of Geurie, wants to be a jackeroo. Emily Wilson, of Bega, wants to learn more about the sheep and cattle industries.

Michael Livermore's parents from Forster have just purchased a farm and wanted him to learn fencing and general farm work. Former Dubbo abattoir meat processor Nathan Marchant aspires to be a farmer, and former baker Rob Morris simply wanted a career change.

All participants have their reasons for taking part in the program, and all are confident it will lead to employment once they have completed the course.

Above: Frank Roberts demonstrates the finer points of cultivation to his students.

Left: Megan Finley, 21, Canberra, wants to be a jillaroo. She is pictured learning tractor skills from instructor Will Dargan.

118 CWL

EDUCATION

SHEAR ENJOYMENT LEARNING FROM EXPERTS Getting a start in the wool harvesting industry can be tough, especially when you don’t possess the required skills and knowledge. TAFE Western’s shearing school can help.

The two-week course is controlled and taught by industry experts.

Australian Hall of Fame shearer and TAFE instructor Ian Elkins, along with fellow trainers Wayne Hosie and Penny Clout, help create excellent outcomes from the course.

“Shearing is a unique art form and the industry’s top performers are elite athletes who are dedicated to always getting better,” Frank Roberts says.

“Shearing is the ultimate aim of the course but we are also here as wool harvesters, and the preparation of the woolclip is very important.”

This course will not only teach learners important shearing skills, but will also assist with equipment selection, maintenance and trouble shooting.

Students will also learn animal care and ethics, industry awards and conditions, and advice to ensure longevity in health and fitness.

Previous course participants have praised this fantastic course, believing it has much more to offer than just shearing.

A PATHWAY TO TEACHING Teacher Frank Roberts knew no other life than that on the land when he came to TAFE Western in 2003. The fourth-generation farmer grew up on a mixed farming and grazing property in the Collie district, 60km north-west of Dubbo, and was schooled locally before attending Longreach Pastoral College, Queensland, in 1988/’89.

“This consolidated my future in the agricultural industry and helped me begin my journey towards gaining all the necessary skills and knowledge to become an educator,” he says.

Frank worked in all facets of the rural industry, including the sheep/wool harvesting sector, cropping and cattle and meat processing, before becoming a livestock buyer for Fletcher International Exports.

“During my time there I also worked in the wool scouring and wool processing section. This gave me invaluable skills in wool pipeline knowledge and an understanding that I am able to pass on to my wool-classing students.”

After 12 years of teaching in Dubbo, Franks admits it's been the most rewarding and enjoyable job he's ever had.

“I get to combine working and networking in the agriculture sector while teaching and moulding future rural industry personnel. It is awesome to watch these learners follow the agricultural career pathway and in some cases become future leaders in their chosen field.” CWL Above: Shearing coach Wayne Hosie, Gunnedah, during a demonstration.

Right: Wool classer and TAFE wool handling instructor Penny Clout. Legendary shearer Ian Elkins has been at TAFE Dubbo for 12 years and enjoys the teaching environment.

Words and images: Shot by Jake

CWL 119

St Stanislaus’ College,Bathurst EMBEDDING EXCELLENCE IN BOYS EDUCATION

2016 enrolment applications are now being accepted We believe Stannies offers outstanding educational opportunities for boys through a rich and diverse curriculum. We have a broad range of co-curricular opportunities that cover all interests including sport, creative and performing arts, agriculture, equestrian, chess, public speaking, debating, computing and stage management.

A boarding enrolment in 2015 of more than 120 students will provide rich diversity, meeting a range of interests in a total enrolment of 600.

The main College campus is set on 38 acres near the centre of Bathurst incorporating 7 playing fields, an Olympic swimming pool, tennis courts, an indoor recreation venue, well-appointed classrooms and specialist areas in a combination of modern and heritage listed buildings.

If you are interested in providing your son with an educational experience which has demonstrated consistent success, please contact the Registrar for enrolment forms and details on 6331 4177 or email registrar@stannies.com

220 Bentinck Street, Bathurst

Phone: 6331 4177

www.stannies.com

ENROL NOW FOR 2016

A Catholic faith community dedicated to excellence in the education of young women

MacKillop College PO Box 691 Bathurst NSW 2795 P: (02) 6338 2200 E: mackillop@bth.catholic.edu.au W: www.mackillopcollege.com.au

120 CWL

‘An Educational And Boarding Experience For Young Rural Women from Years 7 to 12’

RED BEND CATHOLIC COLLEGE A local community of mission within the Australian Marist community

Join our global learning community, educating and empowering young women to serve and shape their world.

Residential Program Find out about our all-round opportunities, caring culture, Evening Study Centre and family-style accommodation. With just 50 boarders, girls make life-long friends with fellow boarders and day girls. Apply early to avoid disappointment.

02 6852 2000 rbcc@redbendcc.nsw.edu.au

‘Through difficulties to greatness’ Year 7 - 12 co-educational day and boarding college

SCOTS202_CWL HP Ad_June 2015.indd 2

Please telephone the Director of Enrolments on (02) 9409 4440 or email enrolments@wenona.nsw.edu.au to arrange a tour.

Wenona School 176 Walker Street, North Sydney, NSW, 2060 www.wenona.nsw.edu.au @Wenona_School

23/06/2015 2:16 pm

CWL 121

Tranquil. It's the perfect word to describe the Japanese Garden. You can't help but feel completely at peace when you walk through the lush gardens and cascading streams which represent the landscapes of Japan: where the hill is a mountain, streams are the rivers and the ponds, inland lakes and the sea. Spend some time walking around the exquisitely manicured Kaiyushiki (strolling) garden.

Special features include a traditional Tatami Room, 3 Room Cultural Centre, Tea House, Bonsai House, Bonsho Bell, Gift Shop, Audio Guides, Golf Buggy Hire and CafĂŠ.

Open Daily 8.30 am to 5.00 pm (Closed Christmas Day) Admission charges apply Ken Nakajima Place (PO Box 248), Cowra NSW 2794 P: +61 2 6341 2233 F: +61 2 6341 1875 E: info@cowragarden.com.au www.cowragarden.com.au

4.5 STAR WINERY 2015 James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion Visit our cellar door in the historic bluestone stables in Millthorpe for wine tasting and sales.

Cnr. Park & Victoria Streets, Millthorpe / phone 02 6366 3444 11am to 5pm Friday to Monday / angullong.com.au

122 CWL

SUNNY SPOTS

of Greenery EACH YEAR THE CHARMING VILLAGE OF MILLTHORPE HOSTS A GARDEN RAMBLE, OPENING 10 TOWN AND COUNTRY GARDENS TO THOUSANDS OF VISITORS WHO FLOCK FROM NEAR AND FAR TO ENJOY THE SIGHTS AND SCENTS OF SPRING.

NOW in its 11th year the ramble has become a very popular event on the gardening calendar and the committee of local residents who organise the ramble say 2015 promises visitors a fantastic line-up of beautiful gardens. So mark Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1 in your diary now!

Central West Lifestyle is pleased to share two of 2014’s open gardens, “Bethune”, a large country garden where trees take centre stage, and the “Old Baptist Church”, a gorgeous town garden surrounding the former 1902 Baptist Church. Although these two gardens are not open in 2015, they’ll give you an idea of the delights to be enjoyed during a spring visit to Millthorpe. > Clockwise from top left: The tree canopy creates a cool shaded walk at “Bethune”; the spring floral display at “Bethune” includes “Snow Ball” Viburnum; bubblegum scented Michelia figo grace the courtyard at “Old Baptist Church”.

“Bethune”

124 CWL

GARDEN

“This is really not a garden, it’s a park.” – Hope Gordon The garden at “Bethune” holds many memories for custodian Hope Gordon, who has lived on the property for 64 years. Over that time, Hope and her late husband George bought land, farmed, built a family home, raised eight children and planted an extensive park-like garden where trees take centre stage.

Situated outside Millthorpe, just off the highway at Guyong, the first indication of this expansive country garden is the row of enormous shelter trees bordering the property. Entering the gates, the buildings are completely dwarfed by surrounding towering trees.

Hope describes how they built here when wool was one pound a pound, and knowing little about gardens, she and her husband George commissioned the services of Danish landscaper and horticulturalist Paul Sorensen. Much in demand on country properties, Paul Sorensen was associated with many large gardens in the Blue Mountains and Western Plains of NSW. Trees were the most significant element of his designs, and he had inherent understanding of how mature trees would work in the landscape. Paul’s other key signatures include stone walls, featured in three weirs at “Bethune”, and wide expanses of lawn, which provide a park-like feel among the mature trees.

Hope is passionate about trees and says the shelter trees were the first to be planted, enveloping and protecting the garden from the harsh winds.

Among the verdant tree-scape, Hope’s favourites are the Deodar and Atlantic Cedars, although the russet sheened foliage of a mature Copper Beech (Fagus sylvatica) glistening in the sun is a close second and she’s rather fond of maples too.

The greens are complemented by golden foliage of Gleditsia ‘Sunburst’ and Golden Elm, while flowering trees like pink Horse-chestnut and wisteria provide bursts of spring colour.

Hope describes an avenue of tall conifers punctuated by a statue as her “little bit of Paris”. On the corner of the house a gigantic redwood tree towers overhead, planted 56 years ago by Hope and her husband.

Today Hope is dwarfed by the sheer size of this tree, and admits perhaps it was sited “quite close” to the house.

When the stone weirs are full of water, the reflection on the water is superb, creating a pretty picture. So too do the golden yellow buttercups that have naturalised along the banks from just one little plant gifted by her sister. Under the trees throughout the garden a host of forget-me-nots, violets, hellebores, bluebells, daffodils and Aquilegia (Granny’s bonnet) and Cerastium cover the ground with carpets of pretty flowers.

Closer to the house, a cottage-style garden was established with the help of Mary Davis, featuring pretty flowering shrubs like Philadelphus – mock orange, Snow Ball Viburnum, white Wisteria and burgundyfoliaged Loropetalum, along with a summerhouse swathed in yellow banksia roses. A moon gate leads to possibly the largest weeping elm you may ever come across, under-planted with masses of hellebores.

Touring the garden, stooping frequently to pick up fallen sticks and branches, Hope explains the trees require some annual maintenance, removing dead branches especially after storms, although not all are pruned as they provide habitat for the birdlife. The expansive tree cover also creates a microclimate, cooling the garden by a welcome 10 degrees during summer.

Hope, at age 92, is an enthusiastic advocate of gardening to keep the mind and body healthy. She is in the garden every day and still mows some of the large acreage herself. Hope reasons: “If I can drive the car, I can drive the Kubota.” She does have a “girl”, Narelle Stedman, who is in her 60s and has been helping in the garden for many, many years.

Hope has passed the love of gardening, along with plenty of gardening tips, to her son Bruce and his wife Sally. Their wonderful garden “Oatleigh” is sometimes opened for the annual ramble. > Facing page, clockwise from top left: Graceful weeping willow has stood the test of time; delicate Maple leaves and winged seed pods; pleated foliage of weeping Elm; the house is enveloped by the park-like gardens; towering redwood tree; white wisteria is a spring favourite; colourful pink peony and subtle blue forget-me-not; tranquil reflection on the water by the stone weirs; pretty yellow banksia rose.

Above: Glistening Copper Beech is just one of Hope’s favorite trees; at 92 years old, Hope is an enthusiastic and inspirational gardener.

CWL 125

“Old Baptist Church” Virginia DeSantis and Gordon Craig’s move to Millthorpe village was really quite accidental. Lovers of musical instruments, they came to a public auction in 2001 with the intention of buying a church organ, were outbid, and in an interesting turn of events, successfully bid on Millthorpe’s 1902 Baptist Church instead.

With cries of “Oh, what have we done?”, the couple soon fell in love with the old church and its sizeable block of land. The old church hall was demolished, and they decided on a straw bale addition to complement the main church building, reusing materials such as weatherboards as ceiling linings and salvaged bricks as courtyard paving. They also repurposed small windows.

The metal window guards from the old church have been repurposed as screens, which add a sense of privacy and enclosure to the front courtyard.

Inside the old church building has been transformed into a lounge and dining room, and the baptismal font cleverly remodelled as a wine cellar.

There wasn’t much of a garden, however an existing hedge of Pyracantha (firethorn) and pink flowering Escallonia, now neatly clipped, protects the garden from the elements. Inside this screened area the couple has built a bocce court that accommodates friendly competition on Sunday afternoons. Three large pencil pines close to the church remain, and are complemented by pear trees and rows of flowering French lavender.

Gordon enjoys growing flowers, and the brilliant poppies and pansies along the low front fence put on a colourful spring display, followed by cheery petunias for summer. Young seedlings are liquid fed using seaweed solution to strengthen the plants and help them cope with frost and temperatures that can plunge to -9 degrees during winter.

126 CWL

Under the copse of silver birch in the front garden, scented Daphne, delicate violets, aromatic thyme, winter rose hellebores, leafy hydrangeas and pretty alyssum create a woodland feel. Gordon plans to put in more bulbs to add winter and spring flowers in place of pink and white Japanese windflowers, which although superb in autumn had a tendency to smother everything else.

Virginia gained her love of growing vegetables from her father, although had poor results while the vegie patch was located on a former grassed area. Now she has great success growing healthy vegies in raised beds, and nurtures tender spring seedlings under homemade plastic hot houses that she removes during the day and replaces each night. She likes to get capsicum and eggplants going early but a late frost here can kill off the whole lot. Broad beans, asparagus, blueberries, onions, fennel, potatoes, zucchini and strawberries are among the many crops Virginia produces.

Beds of decorative pansies border the vegetable patch; clearly demarcation of flowers and produce is not all it seems.

In the sundrenched courtyard citrus trees enjoy the warmth trapped by the straw bale walls, and are lush and healthy despite Millthorpe’s cold frosty winters. The delicious scent of Michelia figo (Bubble Gum or Port Wine magnolia) wafts through the air, and seaside daisies ramble softly over the edges of the paving.

In the south western corner of the block there’s windbreak planting using Claret Ash, Viburnum, red leafed Photinia and Pittosporum and nestled among the foliage an “outdoor dunny” built by Gordon is actually the garden shed.

An exposed roadside embankment has been cleverly transformed into a tapestry of colour by Gordon, who planted pig face, gazania, seaside daisy, Brachyscome, jelly bean sedum and Convolvulus.

Self-seeding annuals keep the show going through the seasons.

The Old Church is a now harmonious blend of the old and the new, enhanced by a lovely town garden. And yes, Virginia and Gordon did eventually buy a pedal organ from Newcastle, which happily resides in the lounge room where they host wonderful musical evenings.

Facing page, clockwise from top left: The harmonious blend of old and new buildings and garden styles creates a pretty picture in this village property; a copse of silver birch with a flowering understorey lend a woodland feel, and bright annuals border the grassed verge; Virginia’s productive raised vegie beds; bright and cheery pig face; a paved courtyard where cleverly repurposed materials from the former church create a wonderful space; Virginia and Gordon relax in the front courtyard.

Above: This welcoming front garden gives pleasure to the owners and passers-by alike.

READY TO RAMBLE Keen members of the Millthorpe Village Committee started Millthorpe Garden Ramble 11 years ago, with the aim of raising funds to beautify the village with trees and a garden. The most notable outcome is Mill Green, once a rubbish-strewn eyesore, now transformed into a tranquil enclosed garden on the edge of the village. Visitors to Millthorpe can rest and relax on seating provided by the proceeds. The latest project has been Redmond Oval Kiosk, where more than $40,000 has been raised to replace the kiosk with a vastly improved structure. Any surplus funds raised are donated to community projects, and devoted residents support the ongoing beautification and maintenance of the gardens.

The 2015 ramble promises interest, beauty and diversity, including established gardens, some young gardens and a blend of town and out-of-town gardens including the fabulous “Eidolia Park”, with its vast displays of roses and iris.

Gardens are open between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1, and the cost is $5 per garden or $20 ($15 pensioner concession) for an all-garden pass.

Spring in the Central West can be hot and sunny, so bring your hat, sunscreen and umbrella for shade when visiting gardens. Many of the gardens have stalls with items or food and drinks for sale; proceeds from these stalls go to local charities. Millthorpe Village has a wonderful selection of cafés, restaurants, CWA rooms in Pym Street and interesting shops, so take time to enjoy a village stroll. There are cellar doors for wine tasting and hotels to enjoy a cold beverage at the end of the day. If you decide to make it a weekend there’s plenty of accommodation to choose from but be sure to book ahead.

To learn more about Millthorpe Garden Ramble go to www.millthorpevillage.com.au. CWL Words: Elizabeth Swane. Images: Angus Waddell

Magnolia Nursery & Little Garden Shop

“something special and unique for the garden and the gardener” quality plants | garden decor | giftware

NARELLAN POOLS WESTERN PLAINS YOUR ONE STOP SHOP Locally operated since 1989 Large range of great shapes and sizes of fibreglass inground swimming pools and spas. Fully installed or Kit options

GIVE US A CALL SO WE CAN HAVE YOU SWIMMING THIS SUMMER!

OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES

Install over Winter

SERVICING: 73 Wheelers Lane, Dubbo | p: 02 6882 2580 e: magnolia.nursery.dubbo@gmail.com

Dubbo, Narromine, Mudgee, Nyngan, Lightning Ridge, Bourke, Cobar and surrounding areas

Monday- Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-12pm Shop 1/ 31 Bultje Street Dubbo

FOR GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY CALL US

02 6884 3117

Innovative, sustainable garden design Central-West NSW • D.A & C.C Plans

CATRIONA GLANVILLE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

T. 02 6343 8288 E. info@outscape.net.au

www.outscape.net.au

Canowindra’s must-see licensed emporium 35 Gaskill Street, Canowindra • Phone 02 6344 1638 OPEN: Thursday – Monday 9.30 – 4ish

Great coffee, plate of the day, grazing platters and all day spanish breakfast Wide selection of local wines Terrific range of gifts and furniture, exclusive clothing and accessories Contemporary artefacts and gallery 128 CWL

• English furniture • Interesting collectables • Decorative items • Vintage teawares Gift Certificates and Layby available | Valuation service offered Goddard’s silver cleaner & National Trust polish available 2013 Carillon Business Awards Best New Business Winner 2014 Small Retail Finalist

AU S T R A L I A N M A D E A N D OW N E D

• Bathrooms • Ceilings • Walls • Restoration • Kitchen Splashbacks • Cupboards • New Buildings

We buy vintage, old wares & antique individual items or house clearance

151-153 George Street, BATHURST NSW 2795 0417 785495 | martin@kingsantiques.com.au www.kingsantiques.com.au OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5pm

Ph: (02) 6332 1738 Fax: (02) 6332 1896 Email: amanda@pressedtinpanels.com 22 Vale Rd, Bathurst NSW 2795

www.pressedtinpanels.com

CWL 129

HOME & STYLE

Renovating Memoirs WHAT DOES RENOVATING mean to you? Does the thought spark anticipation or does it cause you to cringe with fear? Whether you are a novice or a seasoned renovator, undertaking an update project compares with overseas travel – numerous tales worth sharing at the end of the journey.

Before it begins, we have daydreams and visions of the completed creation.

Despite the initial heightened optimism, it seems that throughout the trial we often cannot wait for it to finish. Nevertheless, the eye on the prize drives us forward relentlessly. When the last finishing touch has been added we can usually admit that we actually had some fun along the way.

Despite the many challenges, the noise, the chaos and the layers of dust, there is a sense of enormous satisfaction in surviving a renovation.

With my own reno behind me, I delight in remembering the entertaining episodes. Let me share with you a funny anecdote involving our builder, Gary. Gary has our shiny new stainless steel barbecue ready to drop into its spot among the Caesarstone outdoor kitchen. He is holding it with his team and attempting to manoeuvre it into position. I observe three significant dents in the stainless steel hood and handle. I remark: “My husband is going to be devastated about the dents on his new barbecue.”

Without a second’s delay, Gary retorts: “I think you’ve got a bigger problem than those dents right now” as he points in disbelief towards the side of the barbecue, which simply doesn’t fit into the cavity built for it. Woops!

At the time it was definitely not funny, but later that evening I collapsed into hysterical laughter thinking about how my builder had responded to my aesthetic observation. Learning to enjoy the adventure is the golden rule.

Any reno journey is filled with highs and lows. I recall periods when the compressor caused me to become a little jumpy, particularly when the nail gun had been singing the same tune for an eternal number of hours!

Then there was the bloke who reversed his truck into the driveway to deliver a load of large timber beams and clumsily swung his crane lifting 130 CWL

hook contraption into my beautifully manicured murraya hedge, extracting large volumes of glossy dark green foliage. Yes, on those days, I forced a smile and adopted the “Keep Calm and Carry On” mantra.

The swimming pool rejuvenation was also exasperating.

Laying travertine around a pool requires Pythagorean mathematical prowess. The French Pattern with four different sized tiles required intense concentration and if you lose your spot while calling out “1,1,2,3,2,1,4,2,1,1” you are done for. It requires an uplift of previously laid tiles to recover the pattern. Grant, who laid our travertine with my husband while I directed the placement of each stunningly smooth stone piece, believes my husband and I would make hilarious TV entertainment on The Block, such is the gamesmanship that transpires between us.

Poor Grant, stuck in the middle of two chiefs – where could he run and hide? I say, 1, 1, 2, 3, 2 and my husband says, no the 1 doesn’t go there, it’s a 2 that is needed there! Poor Grant, first he has a 1 in his hand and then takes it back for a 2. I truly think he enjoyed the fun as whenever we had a win/win, he would sport a big grin and shout “Happy Days”.

Our painter Dom was unflappable. He was always smiling, always happy, constantly listening to the cricket on 1233 ABC and one of the most obliging people I have ever had the pleasure to meet, not to mention a brilliant painter. Of course he was happy; he was living at my home for two months, seven days a week and living a real-life soap opera.

Our family made the Osbournes look positively boring!

To all the Garys, Grants and Doms out there, thank you so much. Without each and every one of you, we would never have the striking renovations that have been created. I am indebted to all tradesmen in our building industry. You are invaluable.

Pip

Words, styling and images: Pip Teys

Despite the initial heightened optimism, it seems that throughout the trial we often cannot wait for it to finish.

PAUL CUSACK LICENSED BUILDER AND CABINET MAKER

• Kitchens • Fine Furniture and Joinery • Kitchen Accessories • Furniture Made to Order • Specialty Timbers • Solid Timber Entrance and Internal Doors

0417 127 181

PO Box 117, Parkes 2870 • Phone/Fax: (02) 6862 1144 www.paulcusack.com.au

Owner Operator Dustless Equipment Commercial & Domestic Non-Toxic Water Based Finishes Staining of Floors Polyurethane Tung Oil Finishes Will Travel Anywhere

0438 229 261

steves.sanding@yahoo.com.au

The perfect one stop location to make your house into a home

13 Saleyards Road, Parkes | 6862 2545 | www.furnitureone.com.au 132 CWL

Kitchens - Laundries - War dr obes - Stone Benches Vanities - Floating Floor s - Commer cial Joiner y For the best value custom and flat pack kitchens 28 Hawthorn Street, Dubbo Phone 6884 1292

23 Timor Street, Coonabarabran Phone 6842 2788

www.krc.com.au

112 Dalton Street, Orange Phone 6360 0505

CWL 133

SAFE as HOUSES IN 1974, auctioneer Bob Berry left Sydney for the Central West.

Dubbo’s central location was ideal for a man who was just as comfortable among four-legged creatures as he was with the two-legged kind.

His venture coincided with a drought and cattle market crash but Bob, entrepreneurial and eager, recouped, ran quarter horse auctions and then made a leap from stud stock into real estate.

Bob’s association with a local Dubbo builder and Sydney project home builders company took him exclusively into real estate, with more than 200 house and land packages developed and sold in the 1980s and ‘90s. By the mid 1980s, Bob Berry Real Estate officially commenced trading as a small boutique business, concentrating on urban real estate exclusively.

Ratemyagent.com listed Bob Berry’s licensed real estate agent Karen Chant with the highest number of sales in Dubbo in 2014 and Bob Berry Real Estate as the second highest gross sales. With agency averages of $8 million to $9 million in Dubbo, Bob Berry’s team delivered a staggering $35 million in sales for the 2014 calendar year. They manage more than 400 residential, commercial and industrial properties for 260 owners in all Australian states.

The longevity, reputation and success of Bob Berry Real Estate is due largely, Bob believes, to their honest, professional and personal service, current market knowledge, superior negotiating skills and always acting in the best interest of the vendor.

Bob Berry Real Estate, Dubbo, boasts a combined professional sales experience of 100 years.

As Bob assures: “Our reputation is your guarantee; without it we don’t have a business.”

From left: Shayna Chapman, Manager – Property Investment Services, Karen Chant, Sales Consultant, Graeme Board OAM, Assistant Manager and Sales Consultant, Jane Donald, Sales Consultant and Principal Bob Berry (front).

Words: Dayna Tierney Images: Wendy Merrick

134 CWL

Crampton’s bring the store to your door For almost 30 years we’ve offered a free measure and quote service with our home service van.

Call us today to have one of our consultants arrange an appointment within your home FREE of charge.

Servicing Dubbo and the Western area.

Or call in and visit our showroom and friendly sales team.

62 Hawthorn St, Dubbo | Tel: 02 6882 8911 www.cramptonscarpets.com.au

Lighting up your home...

Whether you're building a new house, renovating an existing home or just need to lightup a dark corner, we have lights and lamps to create the right mood for every need.

• • • •

Dedicated showroom to display lighting products New products arriving regularly Weekly specials on a wide range of lights Customer service staff to advise you on all your lighting needs

54-56 Erskine St, Dubbo NSW 2830 | www.bandblighting.com.au |

(02) 6884 8000 CWL 135

WORDS

s e r u t c i p &

HOME & STYLE

JACQUI GREIG’S PASSION FOR WORDS IS EVIDENT IN EVERY ROOM THROUGHOUT HER AND HUSBAND WES’S MODERN, SPLIT-LEVEL HOME. JACQUI is a talented, self-taught graphic designer who runs her successful stationery and print business, Wordsetc, from home while raising her two daughters Emily, 2, and Georgia, three months. Her love of words is why inspirational quotes, images and artwork adorn walls and shelves in every space.

Only three years ago the couple were living in a small weatherboard house and looking to upgrade when they found the spacious open-plan home on the market. Situated on four acres close to the centre of Forbes, the house is the ideal balance of town and country.

They were thrilled to discover that it was within their budget, as they knew it would be the perfect home to start and grow their family.

Since then, they have welcomed two daughters into their lives and home, with ample room to spare. > CWL 137

Emily and Georgia sleep in bedrooms that look like they are straight from the pages of a magazine. Soft, sheer curtains allow the natural light to flood into the children’s rooms, filling them with warmth. The rooms have been styled to include lots of fun and colour without being gaudy. In fact, the colours are so gentle and muted they evoke a sense of calm on entering, which is ideal for a child’s bedroom.

Emily’s cloud-covered bedspread is like it is straight out of a dream and her shelf full of framed prints and quotes immerse her in positive words and images. A pom-pom garland hangs from the windows, providing a little burst of colour and fun, while a heart-shaped shelf holds much-loved treasures.

Georgia’s room boasts an impressive feature wall of animal wallpaper that takes full advantage of the high ceilings. The wallpaper creates instant impact when you enter the room, while still sticking to the muted palette. A smart set of wall shelves provides clean and tidy book storage as well as freeing up the floor space for cushions and playing. The girls are also lucky enough to enjoy a gigantic playroom, equipped with tepee, books and toys to keep them entertained for hours. >

138 CWL

HOME & STYLE

CWL 139

Jacqui’s favourite room in the house is the master bedroom, which has floor to ceiling windows that overlook the entertaining and pool area, making them feel like they’re always on holidays. The generous-sized room means there is also space for Jacqui’s cherished oversized chaise, which is her designated chocolate and reading chair. More beautiful prints and family photos are on display here, a clear indicator of a close-knit family.

“I think my walls are probably over-utilised,” Jacqui says, but the family photos and uplifting words bring warmth and authenticity to their home.

While the home is sophisticated and stylish, it also contains many elements of fun. The vibrant orange door in the laundry brightens up the area and creates a lighthearted space for completing household chores.

Jacqui admits she is influenced by interior trends she sees on Instagram, but also believes that you should fill your home with pieces you love.

“I rarely go looking for something in particular, but I often find things I have to have!”

She also suggests that furniture should not all be purchased from one place as it can leave your home looking like a showroom. “It takes time to collect all the pieces for your home, so make sure you really love the pieces, that way it will work even if it doesn’t match.”

Future plans for the home include irrigating the garden, painting the house and updating the kitchen with crisp white cupboards.

Jacqui is also looking forward to revamping the playroom and admits to madly “pinning” ideas to her Pinterest boards. She believes that her home will always be evolving and changing, especially as she continues to design and produce her range of framed prints. CWL Words, images and styling: Amanda O’Sullivan, RedAgape Guesthouse Millthorpe (www.redagapeblog.com)

140 CWL

Designer

Decor & Gifts

Specialising in the custom design and supply of; • Hardwood Furniture (handcrafted in Dubbo) • Unique Gifts (handmade in Australia) • Truckloads of smiles, inspiration, friendly local services and support

02 6884 7392

Peta Carolan 79 Talbragar Street DUBBO

Parkes Decor For all of your indoor and otdoor window furnishings

Free Measure and Quote and Free Consultation Servicing Forbes | Orange | Eugowra | Condobolin | Nyngan Tullamore | Trundle | Tottenham and all surrounding areas

•

Established 39 years with one owner

•

We pride our business on the service we offer

•

Large range of lighting

•

Member of Lighting Network

•

No job too big or too small

•

We sell bedspreads, cushions, small furniture, lamps and bases.

•

An extensive range of ceiling fans

202 Clarinda Street Parkes NSW 2870 (02) 6862 2677

CWL 141

What can we do for you?

Expect a high quality finish?

We’ve got you covered

Face to face service & advice.

Talk to real people and have your questions answered

Select your paper with samples on hand

Short on time? No worries. Fast quotes, proofs and printing

Attention to detail – absolutely everything is proof read TWICE.

Free delivery within Dubbo for extra convenience

Boutique shopfront – more than just a printing business

Our small business supporting your small business

In-house graphic designers – consult with them instore or via email

166 Brisbane St, DUBBO NSW 2830 P: 02 6882 1233 E: admin@printingworks.com www.printingworks.com

Like us for all your gift ideas and new stock arrivals

29 Talbragar Street Dubbo NSW 2830 Tel: 02 6882 9528

S W I S H 142 CWL

tunning silver jewellery all decor to wow! nspiring gifts carves and bags omewares for now!

theswishgallery@bigpond.com www.theswishgallery.com.au Open weekdays 9 - 5ish Sat 9 - 12ish!

At Inspirations Paint Dubbo, the expert team love your painting projects and will work with you to make yours amazing.

Need some inspiration, some creative ideas with redecorating?

Then see the team at Inspirations Paint Dubbo. They have years of experience and can help you with your project no matter how big or small.

Doing a Paint Project?

Join Paint Club Free!

• Everyday discounts of 5% off paint and 10% off accessories • Colour recording to make future touch-ups a breeze • Early heads-up on offers and promotions Join in-store at Inspirations Paint Dubbo or online www.PaintClub.com.au

Store colour consultant Jean Cain says “The best part of my job is the end result and seeing the customers happy with what we do.”

You can book an appointment with Jean to get project and colour advice from the comfort of your own home.

A wide variety of trusted paint, woodcare and wallpaper products are available across Inspiration Paint’s favourite brands including Dulux, Berger, Porters Paints, Cabot’s and more.

Inspirations Paint Dubbo now offers an exciting range of home and giftwares to perfectly complement that freshly painted room. Stock includes clocks, photo frames, cushions, vases, ornaments and unique gifts.

Let the team at Inspirations Paint Dubbo help you with your next project.

think pink

IN LOVE with pink? I certainly am. I find pink to be a mood lifter, a way of injecting personality into your interiors and a very feminine statement. Pink has a lot more to it than the obvious girly connotations it conjures up for most people.

Pink can be subtle, energetic, feminine, sexy, innocent, peaceful and crazy. Now that’s a versatile colour!

For interiors, pink has come a long way from the salmon pink that I recall being ever so popular for the exterior of Queenslander homes in the ‘80s when I was renovating my first home in Brisbane. I also recall the dusty rose shades that almost became mandatory for bedrooms and even in bathrooms!

Pink is an uplifting, happy colour. When executed properly in the home, pink can also be graceful, classical and elegant.

What do you picture in your mind when the colour pink is mentioned? For some, a grapefruit cut in half for breakfast is their chosen shade of pink, while others would gravitate towards bubblegum pink thoughts of fairy floss and iced cupcakes. Remember Iced VoVos? Their pretty pale pink inspired many a woman to incorporate these feminine tones into homes with scatter cushions, wall colour, flowers in vases and artworks in the ‘50s and ‘60s when the Arnott’s biscuits were widely advertised in Australia.

The colour pink was first used in the early Renaissance period where artworks depicting baby Jesus around the 1260s were created. The baby Jesus was often clothed in pink, the colour that was associated with the body of Christ. The colour pink had become a very popular colour throughout Europe by the late 18th Century. It was associated with both romanticism and seduction. It was also during the Rococo period (1720-1777) that the use of pastel colours, including pink,

became very popular in fashion. Fast forward to the 1930s when Elsa Schiaparelli, the Italian fashion designer, came up with the idea to add a little white with magenta, the end result becoming her signature colour, Shocking Pink.

Jacqueline Kennedy, the wife of President John F. Kennedy, made pink a popular high fashion colour when she wore it in 1962 to a gala event.

Today in 2015, it is not uncommon for our homes to be adorned with splashes of pink in varying tones. It is up to you how you permit this wonderfully dynamic hue to perform in your home. Pink can deliver daring, heroic statements in the form of a vibrant, magenta occasional chair in a velvet fabric popped in the corner of your master suite. However, if you seek a more demure, reticent mood, consider a soft feather textured, powder puff pink throw for your bed.

Pink has even evolved into the kitchen, making its debut in the appliances that grace our bench tops. Take the KitchenAid Stand Mixer in Raspberry Ice or the Kenwood electric kettle and toaster in Passion Pink. The use of pink today is a far cry from the pale pink dresses used to clothe young boys in the 1800s. Pink flowers are used in abundance throughout the home: roses, lilies, peonies, to name a few of my favourites.

You can source pink accessories from cushions, iPad covers, candles, bookends, salad servers, headphones, dinner ware, table lamps, even light switch covers and pink extension leads!

Rose, raspberry and magenta shades will always be close to my heart. In what ways will you choose to incorporate pink into your homes?

Pip

Words, styling and images: Pip Teys

At Choices Flooring we know that good interior decorating starts

from the floor up

131 - 141 Clarinda St, Parkes P: 6862 4002 E: haysgifts@bigpond.com

Choices Flooring by Brights 61 George Street, Bathurst (next to Dan Murphy’s) 6331 4866 choicesflooring.com.au

Be Inspired....

100 Byng St, Orange, 02 6363 1160 thewhiteplace.com.au Open Mon - Fri 10 am - 5.30 pm Sat 10 am - 3 pm now online

CWL 145

HEALTH SEEME EYEWEAR provides unique and hand-painted quality frames to the Central West and beyond.

The company’s objective is to supply eyewear that is as unique as the individuals who seek to wear it. Each fashion frame provides a glimpse into the personality of its wearer, and every statement piece demands to be noticed!

With two exquisite suppliers, SeeMe Eyewear has the market cornered in optical individuality.

From the feminine wisdom of an ancient land comes the Ronit Fürst collection. Born in Israel, Fürst’s eyewear range is on a trajectory of art evolution. It transcends and defies its atavistic origins to arrive in a modern world of colour and bold design.

Fancy Frames

Described as both “fun” and as a “guilty pleasure”, Fürst’s frames were originally designed to fulfil the artist’s urge for renewal. Having painted over her old frames, Fürst’s new spectacles grabbed the unexpected attention of strangers. With their bold textured brushstrokes, bright colour and a deliberate intention to avoid symmetry, Ronit Fürst quickly realised that she had a product. Today, sold all over the world, Ronit Fürst’s collection of hand-painted frames continues to grab and hold attention wherever they are worn.

And for those who enjoy freedom in fashion, the Just Eye Fashion range might be more their style. Fresh and fun, these super light frames come in a huge array of styles, but most curious is the interesting design feature of interchangeable temples. Just Eye Fashion asks the wearer for no commitment, enabling the freedom to change temple design as often as one might change their clothes. The range is perfect for individuals who like to keep it edgy and fresh or simply for those who are energised by change.

Unique, statement, arty, edgy – whatever your preference, SeeMe eyewear has a style for you.

Ask your optometrist about SeeMe Eyewear’s range of Ronit Fürst and Just Eye Fashion today.

Words: Catherine Player

146 CWL

GORGEOUSNESS This little store is a blend of all things gorgeous and girly

We have an extensive range of clothing and accessories, so we can dress you from head to toe.

Some of our favourite brands include...

Honey & Beau | Ministry of Style | Nude shoes

A mix of beautiful items for your home

Mavi jeans | Fate | Sass | Living Doll Top End & Mollini shoes

furniture | soft furnishings | decorator items gifts for men, women and kids and all things quirky!

120 William Street, Bathurst NSW 2795 ph/fax: 6332 3474 OPEN 7 days Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri 10 to 6 Thurs 10 to 6.30 Sat and Sun 10 to 2.30

124A William Street, Bathurst NSW 2795 ph/fax: 6332 6333 OPEN 7 days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10 to 6 Thursday 10 to 6.30, Saturday and Sunday 10 to 2.30

ARTISAN YARNS FOR DISCERNING KNITTERS A special experience for knitters premium yarns and accessories, hand knits and collectibles.

Open Friday to Monday 10am - 4pm or by appointment conventandchapel@gmail.com www.conventandchapelwool.com

Bridge View Inn 28 - 30 Louee St Rylstone 0409 564 747 CWL 147

WINNING in STYLE Cup Day 1

features the race that stops the nation, so make a show-stopping statement with bold colours and prints. Decadent jewels are a must.

1. Dolce & Gabbana Sunglasses $300, Sunglass Hut, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6881 6855.

5

4. Trelise Cooper Spring Awakening – Florally Bankrupt Dress $599 (www.trelisecooperonline.com).

5. Button Pillbox with Loops and Veil by Fiona Schofield Millinery $350, Ewe Two on Dandaloo, Trangie (02) 6888 8268 (or contact (02) 6362 1808 for more Central West stockists).

2

3 2. The Daily Edited White Asymmetric Clutch $129.95 (www.thedailyedited.com).

3. Quarter Carat Diamond Earrings $599, Angus & Coote, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6884 3433.

Derby Day

4

is traditionally black and white. Add a modern element to this classic palette and opt for an elegant statement pant and top. Team with contemporary accessories for a winning ensemble.

6. ARNLEY Brady Apron Singlet $280 and ARNLEY Victor Wide Pant $365 (www.arnley.com.au).

7. Tailored Silk Pillbox with Loops and Swathe by Fiona Schofield Millinery $425, Ewe Two on Dandaloo, Trangie (02) 6888 8268 (or contact (02) 6362 1808 for more Central West stockists).

6 7

8

9

8. Emporio Armani Sunglasses $230, Sunglass Hut, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6881 6855.

9. Pearl Drop Earrings $129, Michael Hill, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6885 6346.

11 10

10. Vera May Kay Ladies Evening Clutch in black $39.95, The Loft Fashion House, Young (02) 6382 1533.

11. Audrey Avenue Jane in black patent $169, Easy Living Footwear, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga (02) 6332 3822 (www.easylivingfootwear.com.au).

Whether you are heading to Melbourne for the Cup or putting together an outfit for a local spring racing event, this fashion form guide will keep you on the right track.

Compiled by Ali Wanchap Wood

Men’s Attire

Old-fashioned is now modern again, so play with classic tones and the styles of yesteryear to create an ensemble that is subtle and hip.

12

12. Shoreditch suit, range available at Bruce’s Mensland, Young (02) 6382 6762.

13. Giorgio Armani Sunglasses $390, Sunglass Hut, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6881 6855.

13

15

14

14. Saddler & Co Men’s Leather Belt in chestnut $95, Saddler & Co, Dubbo (www.saddlerandco.com.au).

15. Fossil Grant Chronograph Watch $179, Regency Jewellers, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6882 7538.

16. Squire Shoes Conan shoe in caffeine $189 (www.squireshoes.com.au).

16

Oaks Day 17

17. Trelise Cooper Honey Dew Tie The Knot Dress $659 (trelisecooperonline.com).

18. Vera May Thames Ladies Faux Patent Leather handbag in beige $144.95, The Loft Fashion House, Young (02) 6382 1533.

19

is ladies’ day, so play to your softer side with a feminine pastel palette and delicate adornments.

19. Deconstructed Silk Flower Headpiece

by Fiona Schofield Millinery $380, Ewe Two on Dandaloo, Trangie (02) 6888 8268 (or contact (02) 6362 1808 for more Central West stockists).

20

21

22

18

20. Miu Miu Sunglasses $550, Sunglass Hut, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6881 6855.

21. Swarovski Baron Earrings $219, Regency Jewellers, Orana Mall, Dubbo (02) 6882 7538.

22. Merchant 1948 Baylor Heels $179.90 (www.merchant1948.com).

CWL 149

Ewe Two

on dandaloo

Now stocking Vigorella, Boo Radley, Jimmy Jean,Yarra Trail and Goondiwindi Cotton.

Beautiful homewares and gifts including Flatout Teddies Glasshouse Fragrances and Sybella Jewellery.

P 02 6888 8268 - E ewetwoclothing@bigpond.com -

AU ST R A L I A N MADE KNIT WE AR

www.judeaustralia.com

150 CWL

www.ewetwo.com.au

the

New arrivals for

BU

SIN

ESS

closet cowra

Call into your nearest store or hop online to see the full range of summer styles that have just arrived...

FO R

SAL E

full and accessories accessories full of of clothes clothes and

Hispanitas CHV51191 black/stone $239 Django & Juliette JILSY black/ white $149

Ara 32235 blue/white/red, taupe combo $279

Toorallie • Yarra Trail • Clothing Company • Marco Polo • Metallicus Goondiwindi Cotton • Nouvelle • Gordon Smith • Ping Pong Hammock and Vine • Boo Radley • Jump • Zaya • Gitane • Corfu

Bathurst 94 William Street ● Dubbo 174 Macquarie Street Orange 171 Summer Street ● Tamworth 284 Peel Street Wagga Wagga 56 Baylis Street ● Call 6332 3822 for a catalogue! www.easylivingfootwear.com.au FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

*conditions may apply

MENTION THIS AD FOR $10 OFF YOUR PURCHASE! *

Catering for sizes up to 22

OPEN Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm Shop 2 / 37 Macquarie St, Cowra 2794 • 02 6342 2478 thecloset@bigpond.com

Spring has arrived at 2 Fat Ladies With lots of cool cottons, linens and natural fibres in amazing colours and styles.

We have a massive selection of clothing, scarves, handbags, Jewellery and gifts.

Petite size up to 24

Fashion | Workshops | Gifts Mitchell Highway, Lucknow

Phone 6365 5437

sales@2fatladies.com.au www.2fatladies.com.au Open 7 days per week 9am - 5pm

CWL 151

THE ANZAC SPIRIT LIVES ON

152 CWL

TRAVEL

ON APRIL 25, 2015, we marked the 100th Anniversary of the Anzac landing at Gallipoli.

Since 1915, this special day has involved the entire nation in solemn ceremonies of remembrance, gratitude, reverence and national pride.

On Anzac Day this year I had the honour of being able to attend the Dawn Service at the Villers-Bretonneux Australian National Memorial in the Somme region of Northern France.

The National Memorial lists the names of 10,773 soldiers of the Australian Imperial Force who fought on the Western Front in World War I. Attending the Dawn Service was the fitting end to a two-day journey my husband and I undertook visiting the battlefields of Northern France and Belgium. We followed the Australian Remembrance Trail. Dotted across the landscape of France and Belgium are (incredibly) more than 900 war cemeteries and memorials where these soldiers lie buried or where their names are listed among those tens of thousands who have “no known grave”. It was a deeply moving and emotional experience visiting my first grave, which simply said: “An Australian Soldier of the Great War – Known Unto God”. There was no name and this rather obvious missing detail stirred strong feelings within my very soul and no doubt the hundreds of thousands of people who have made the pilgrimage to this part of the world. The tragic price of war was painfully obvious here.

First stop on our segment of the Australian Remembrance Trail was Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery. The view on our visit was of peace and tranquillity and beautiful sunny skies. It was hard to imagine the meadow on the southern edge of the wood alive with activity. The remains of 250 World War I Australian and British soldiers were carefully exhumed from a mass grave dug there by the Germans after the Battle of Fromelles in July 1916. It was recognised that a particularly high proportion of those killed at Fromelles could not be found, a great number must still be in the ground and too deep to be located by ploughing or probing.

It was a sobering start to our day.

After Pheasant Wood we drove by the VC Corner Australian Cemetery and Memorial.

The men who died here in July 1916 fought the German lines, and their remains lie buried in VC Corner Australian Cemetery. Further on we reached Polygon Wood, a large wood 1.6km south of the village of Zonnebeke, which was completely devastated in World War I. Polygon Wood Cemetery contains 107 Commonwealth burials of the First World War, 19 of them unidentified. Sixty of those buried here served with the New Zealand forces. There is also one German grave within the cemetery.

Back in the coach and we headed off to Tyne Cot Cemetery, Belgium. On arrival you couldn’t miss the great cross towering over the headstones. Hidden beneath the cross’s stone pedestal are the remains of a German concrete bunker that was captured by the 3rd Australian Division in October 1917. In this countryside was fought one of the most costly and horrific battles of World War I: Passchendaele. In the mud of Passchendaele, in the month of October 1917 alone, the AIF lost 6673 men.

The end of the trail brought us to Ypres, Belgium, and Menin Gate. Ypres was a delightful village, and quite the haven for excellent shopping and cafes. During the First World War the Belgian town of Ypres was devastated by shellfire and deserted by its inhabitants. The tragedy of wartime Ypres is told at the In Flanders Fields Museum in the Cloth Hall, a site on the Australian Remembrance Trail, which includes stories of Australians associated with the town and its determined defence.

The early hours of Anzac Day arrived quite rapidly after our busy day and we were quickly in the coach heading for the Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux. As we arrived in Villers in the very early hours of the morning, the landscape awash with tourist buses, one thing became very obvious: this small town of about 4000 people was not ready for the invasion of about 8000 tourists, mainly Aussies I might add. As we alighted from the coach we were greeted with sleeting rain and near-freezing temperatures. As we meandered our way to our seats, I prayed for the skies to clear and the rain to abate. It didn’t!

For the four hours we were at the memorial, the weather was dreadful. Huddled under umbrellas with most of our view obstructed throughout the service, my thoughts often drifted to the soldiers and the weather conditions they must have endured.

Around the walls of the memorial were the names of some 11,000 Australians missing in action in France. On the night of 24–25 April 1918, Australian soldiers recaptured VillersBretonneux from the Germans, a battle also remembered in the Franco-Australian Museum at the Victoria school in the town. In the playground is a sign: Do Not Forget Australia.

It was an incredible experience, being an Australian in this part of France. I encourage all readers to add the Western Front and an Anzac Day Dawn Service in this part of Europe to your bucket list.

Lest We Forget.

Pip

Words and images: Pip Teys

CWL 153

Providing leading Medical Imaging in rural Australia.

State of the art CT Scanner, Digital X-Ray, OPG, Ultrasound and Therapeutic Guided Injections.

Open Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.00pm | Shop 1/344 Clarinda St, Parkes | 02 6862 3399

WE CARE ABOUT YOUR EYECARE conditions and diseases such as glaucoma, macular-degeneration, diabetes and cataract.

Our commitment to providing the highest standard of eyecare is reflected in our eye examinations which focus on eye health and the detection of eye diseases, as well as vision assessment.

World class technology is used to assist in the diagnosis and management of eye

We stock a wide range of designer optical frames and sunglasses for adults and children.

parkesdiagnosticimaging

DUBBO 02 6884 4077

3/47-59 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo 2830

WELLINGTON 02 6845 3453

4 Nanima Crescent, Wellington 2820

COBAR 02 6836 4077

39 Marshall Street, Cobar 2835

www.maxastrioptometrists.com

YOUR SPECIALISTS IN DISABILITY, AGED CARE & REHABILITATION NEEDS

1800 675 434 for SALES

SERVICE

HIRE

Regency Mediquip Centre, 8 Royal Street, PARKES 2870 Fax: 02 6862 6312 Email: sales@regencyparkes.com.au www.regencyparkes.com.au 154 CWL

Mobile Showroom Standard & Customised Power Wheelchairs Home Care Equipment Mobility Aids Physio & Sports Rehab Equipment Bedding & Furniture Repairs & Maintenance Home & Needs Assessment Service

COOEE LODGE

RETIREMENT VILLAGE gilgandra Looking to settle in a retirement village?

Self contained, independent living units start at Cooee Lodge Retirement Village in Gilgandra offers the lifestyle benefts of a country community combined with excellent services and close proximity to Dubbo.

$145,000

For more information please contact: 02 6817 8744

CWL 155

SPRING FARE ENTRÉE

RECIPES AND IMAGES BY ANNE & PAUL LOVERIDGE, THE QUARRY RESTAURANT, COWRA

Cowra Green Asparagus with Mustard Greens and Shaved Parmesan One of the seasonal delights available in Cowra each spring is the green asparagus. We eagerly await its arrival in September and it always features on our spring menu. Our asparagus is delivered just after picking and is amazing to eat raw when fresh like this. It has the most incredible nutty flavour. This entrée salad is simple, easy and delicious. The textures and flavours will explode in your mouth and leave you wanting more.

INGREDIENTS 20 fresh green asparagus 3 cups of mixed mustard greens – baby rocket, mizuna, cress 2 tbsp Cowra olive oil (I use Rosnay organic extra virgin produced in Cowra) 2 tsp La Barre Blood Plum Vinaigrette (also from Cowra) Juice of one lemon 2 tbsp beetroot and sesame flake (see following recipe) 100g top quality aged Parmesan cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano if available 4 small farm fresh eggs to poach Micro herbs to garnish METHOD Cut asparagus to about 12cm lengths, discarding tail end.

Blanch the asparagus in boiling salted water for one minute then refresh under cold water to keep their beautiful green colour and drain.

Take a simmering pot of salted water and add the eggs, one at a time, and poach gently for two to three minutes so that the yolk is still soft and just runny. Remove from water and set aside.

SERVES 4

Dried beetroot and sesame flake INGREDIENTS 1 fresh beetroot, peeled 2 tsp sesame seeds 1 tsp wasabi paste 2 tsp sesame oil

While the eggs are cooking, place asparagus, salad greens, olive oil, blood plum vinaigrette and lemon juice in a large bowl and toss together. Season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper.

METHOD

Divide salad onto four plates, sprinkle over dried beetroot flake, top with poached egg and liberally apply shaved Parmesan.

When beetroot is cool, place in mixing bowl and add sesame seeds, wasabi paste and sesame oil.

Serve with some hot crusty sourdough bread, with olive oil and balsamic for dipping.

Rub with fingers to mix well and store in sealed container (keeps well for two weeks).

156 CWL

Finely grate a fresh beetroot and scatter on oven tray, place in oven on lowest temperature possible for three hours then leave in oven to dry.

SEASONAL RECIPES

MAIN

Rack of Cowra Lamb and Miso Glaze with Roasted Potato and Garlic Although lamb is available in Cowra all year, there is something about the lamb produced in spring that is extra special. We source our lamb direct from Breakout River Meat, which provides some of the best lamb available in NSW. This dish is simple, and when served with the crusty rosemary and salt flavoured potato dish there is nothing better. We prefer to cook our lamb medium rare, however, if you would prefer your lamb a little more cooked just add another five to 10 minutes to the cooking time. This is a great dish to take to the table on platters and let guests help themselves – there is nothing more welcoming than platters laden with regional produce to share with friends.

INGREDIENTS 4 Cowra lamb racks of 3 ribs each, French trimmed 500ml beef consommé Marinade: ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce ¼ cup mirin ¼ cup soy sauce 1 tsp grated fresh ginger 1 tsp miso paste 1 tsp minced fresh garlic 2 tbsp honey Reserve ½ cup for the sauce Potato & Garlic: 1kg creamy roasting potatoes 1 head of fresh garlic 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary Olive oil for roasting 200g fresh baby spinach Sea salt flakes

SERVES 4

METHOD Combine marinade ingredients, mixing well.

Brush liberally over lamb racks and refrigerate for four hours.

Preheat oven to 220ºc.

Cut the potatoes into chunks with their skin on. Separate the garlic cloves, leaving the skin on.

Spread potatoes and garlic over shallow roasting pan and sprinkle with rosemary. Drizzle olive oil over and turn the ingredients to make sure everything is coated with oil. Place in oven for one hour, turning occasionally to colour and crisp.

Take an oiled skillet and cook lamb over high heat, fat side down, to seal and colour for about five minutes, then turn and brown other side for three minutes more.

Place racks of lamb in a roasting pan and transfer to hot oven for 25 minutes for medium rare. Remove and let stand in a warm place for eight minutes to allow lamb to rest.

While lamb is resting place 500ml of beef consommé in saucepan with reserved marinade and simmer to reduce a little, adjust seasoning.

To serve: Place some baby spinach in a warmed platter and spread the potato and garlic over, sprinkle with sea salt flakes to taste.

Place the racks of lamb on a warmed platter and pour the miso glaze into a warm jug.

A bowl of fresh steamed seasonal greens would be nice with this.

Serve with Shiraz.

CWL 157

DESSERT

Vanilla Crème Brûlée with Rhubarb and Raspberry Compote This is one of my favourite desserts, and our guests absolutely love it. You have the theatre of your guests making the initial crack of the golden tortoiseshell caramel followed by them delving into a velvety sweetness of vanilla speckled cream. Bliss! This recipe has been fine-tuned over the past few years. I actually went through a stage of my brûlées not setting and it nearly drove me crazy. I eventually discovered that the ratio of one egg yolk to 100ml of milk/cream was the perfect mix. It is also important to make sure the mixture coats the back of the wooden spoon while stirring over heat.

Crème Brûlée INGREDIENTS 400ml milk 400ml cream 8 egg yolks 125g caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla paste Extra caster sugar for caramelising

SERVES 6

METHOD Preheat oven to 150ºc.

Combine milk, cream and vanilla paste in a saucepan and bring to boiling point, but do not let boil.

Whisk the egg yolks and caster sugar together till just combined.

Gradually pour the cream mixture into the egg mixture, stirring continuously.

Pour this mixture into a clean saucepan over low to medium heat.

It is very important to continuously stir this mix with a wooden spoon until the custard thickens and coats the back of the wooden spoon.

Anywhere from five to 10 minutes. It is very important that you don’t stop stirring, as you do not want to scramble the egg.

Pour the mix into six greased one-cup ramekins and place in a deep oven tray. You could also use pretty teacups for this. Pour hot water into the pan until it reaches half way up the ramekins.

Cook for 20 minutes or until set. You can test this by gently shaking the pan. There should be just a little wobble to the brûlée mix.

Remove from the oven and let cool. When cool, remove ramekins from the water bath and place covered with cling wrap in the fridge.

The brûlées will keep for a few days, making this a wonderful dessert to prepare in advance.

Just before service remove from the fridge, sprinkle the extra caster sugar over the top of the brûlées and use a kitchen blow torch to caramelise. Blow torches are available from most kitchen shops and are quite inexpensive. I really do find this the easiest way to caramelise the sugar. You want a lovely golden brown finish.

158 CWL

Rhubarb and Raspberry Compote INGREDIENTS 1 bunch of rich red rhubarb 300g frozen raspberries (fresh if you prefer) 1 cup brown sugar METHOD Combine rhubarb and brown sugar in a saucepan over the lowest heat possible. Slowly simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally very gently; you just want to melt the sugar and soften the rhubarb.

Try not to break up the rhubarb too much. When soft, remove from heat and allow to cool.

Add the raspberries and refrigerate until needed. I add the raspberries while still frozen to allow them to hold their shape. When the raspberries have thawed give the mix a very gentle stir to allow the raspberry juice to colour the compote further.

Sprinkle icing sugar over six plates then place the caramelised crème brûlées and the compote spooned into small dishes next to it.

Image: Angus Waddell

We invite you to enjoy the following events in our beautiful region: June 2015— Harvest in the Park Market July 2015—Cowra Wine Show Weekend September 2015 - Sakura Matsuri

Taste wines in our unusual strawbale winery. Tasting platters and meals available if booked, or bring a picnic.

82 Lawrences Rd, Canowindra 0427 936 054 wallingtonwines@gmail.com www.wallingtonwines.com.au

Stay in the newly renovated Winery Cottage, a beautifully restored pise farm house overlooking the farm, vineyard and olive grove.

October 2015—Harvest in the Park Market December 2015—Cowra Christmas Night Market

For details on these events and more please visit:

www.cowratourism.com.au Cowra Visitor Infomation Centre Cnr Mid Western Hwy & Lachlan Valley Way Cowra NSW 2794 PH: 02 6342 4333

Restaurant & Cellar Door Lunch Thu - Sun from noon Dinner Fri & Sat from 6.30 Cellar Door Thu - Sun, 10 - 4 7191 Boorowa Rd, Cowra 02 6342 3650 quarry@bigpond.net.au www.thequarryrestaurant.com.au

CWL 159

160 CWL

RESTAURANT

PRIDE and JOY WANDERING AROUND THE STREETS OF DUBBO, I SLIPPED INTO A DEN OF GUSTATORY DELIGHT. THIS CONTEMPORARY AUSTRALIAN STEAKHOUSE WAS A REAL FIND. IN TRUTH, visiting The Lion’s Pride, Dubbo, went a little something like that, or perhaps the place was simply suggested by a family member.

What I do know, is that the food was tasty, generous and good family value.

The restaurant was packed with eager patrons. This was the very first indication that the owners were doing something very right. What struck me straight away was the number of families enjoying a Saturday night out. Attentive staff bustled around purposefully. Extremely good and friendly customer service added to the experience.

Locally made, hot cob loaf with garlic butter was a great start to this casual affair. My friend’s entree, salt and pepper squid with freshly made tartar sauce, was quite pleasant. The light batter was mysteriously flavoursome.

Struggling to pick exactly what the secret batter ingredient was, my curiosity was left hanging. All good chefs have their secrets, I am told.

My entree was prawns and squid with chorizo, baked in an avocado and finished in a creamy tomato sauce. I particularly like food that speaks to me.

The chorizo kicked me in the mouth with a big warm hello, while the fresh lime gave the dish just the right acid balance. Decorum temporarily missing, I couldn’t resist using the garlic cob to soak up the creamy tomato sauce.

Now for the real reason that I came to the Lion’s Pride: I had been told that I would never sample barbecue ribs as delicious anywhere else.

Hoping for a long life, it will now be my enduring quest to do just that.

What can I say? The flavour was so good that they even bottle and sell the barbecue glaze at the restaurant. The ribs themselves were all the tenderness of slow-cooked and all the crispiness of fried. Utter magic!

With sticky fingers and a well-glazed mouth, a good palate cleanser was in order. The food at this den is akin to that surrounding a vivacious beer culture. Big hearty protein, delicious sauces and carb-o-licious sides, all washed down with liquid gold. It’s everything a lion could want from a meal, notwithstanding careful consideration given to lighter options for a lioness.

Soon our mains arrived. The grain-fed steak was juicy, tender and large.

The ageing process had evidently helped to produce a succulent cut.

I am always quietly pleased when a chef delivers the directive of “medium” to perfection. Steak lovers won’t be disappointed! A little garden salad on the side for freshness and a large jacket potato and cream completed the picture. The chef’s signature honey mustard dressing drew further excitement.

Apple and raspberry crumble, with macadamia ice-cream was our first sweet. The sugary cinnamon crumble was a lovely contrast to the smoky apples and the tarty raspberry. About those smoky apples, they were interesting at very least, and they fused particularly well with the sweet macadamia ice-cream. I have committed this dessert to memory for next time.

Our final dessert was mocha panna cotta with homemade vanilla, chocolate and pistachio biscotti. There was so much right about this dish! Rich, silky and smooth, this roaring little dessert had the “wow” factor. The two-toned biscotti dotted with green pistachios instantly engaged our eyes and added not only a unique flavour but acted as a smart textural accompaniment to the panna cotta. When a dish’s flavour is both beautiful and balanced it can be elevated to the next level of indulgence through careful textural consideration. This dessert stands testament to this concept.

Ribs, steak and dessert! These are my top three reasons to visit The Lion’s Pride. Relaxed, family orientated and true value, some further good reasons to pay it a visit. In terms of good honest family dining, the restaurant rates among the best. Next time you’re in Dubbo, give it a go.

It’s great! I’m not lion! CWL Words: Catherine Player

CWL 161

Honey Mustard DRESSING

Whip an ordinary meal into an extraordinary taste sensation

Rosie’s Honey Mustard Dressing is more than just a dressing Gluten and preservative free, handmade with all natural ingredients. 100% Australian owned and made.

0427 418 861 Warren, NSW

Perfect with fish, red meats, chicken, green salad and as a marinade. Order online today

www.rosies.net.au

MEAT & SEAFOOD • • • • • •

Home grown grass fed “Cambjarah” lamb Personalized Customer service Orders packed in foam eskies if required Local and surrounding districts delivery service Fortnightly Specials Fresh Seafood direct from markets twice a week

• Private service kills cut to your requirements

Unit 8/55 Wheelers Lane, Dubbo 2830 P: 02 6881 8255 F: 02 6882 1504 E: contact@dubbomeatcentre.com.au W: www.dubbomeatcentre.com.au

162 CWL

Trading Hours: Monday- Wednesday: 7.00am-5.30pm Thursday- Friday: 7.00am-6.00pm Saturday: 7.00am-3.00pm

FOOD

Honest Country Fare THE OUTLOOK CAFÉ captures the essence of Dubbo with its unique location, relaxing views, delicious food and contemporary interior. Nestled between the Dubbo Art Gallery and Regional Museum, there is a certain indescribable vibe as you a step inside the light-filled café. Its entrance is a contextual canvas of clean lines and warm citrus hues, infused with a subtle caramel aroma of good coffee and a taste for culture.

There is plenty of space to unwind in, spend a lazy lunch with friends, or enjoy coffee and cake outdoors. The food is honest Australian country fare, with a modern twist and a taste of home. This is exactly how owner Anthony Walkom planned it.

The Outlook Cafe passion is the view, the food, the people.

We use only the finest and freshest ingredients for our menu that will fill your belly and warm your heart.

“I really want people to enjoy their time here,” he says. “The food is fresh, full of flavour and served in a relaxed, friendly environment.”

Anthony’s mother Janet and sister Michala help bring Anthony’s love of family and food together, alongside an eclectic and friendly staff. Fresh scones are baked daily and home-cooked cake and pie warm the heart.

An ever-changing specials menu keeps the taste buds tantalised.

Open daily 9am to 5pm Closed Tuesday Open late Friday night

The Outlook Café can cater for large conventions, community groups, weddings, business meetings and celebrations. Sit back this spring and enjoy the view, the food, and the people at The Outlook Café Dubbo.

The Outlook Team - Michala Walkom, Janet Walkom, Sharney Milton, Anthony Walkom, Amber-Lee Rogers and Katie Rugendyke.

Words: Dayna Tierney

RESERVATIONS Phone 02 6884 7977 Email theoutlookcafe@hotmail.com

ADDRESS Western Plains Cultural Centre 76 Wingewarra St, Dubbo NSW CWL 163

FOOD

Crunch Time WITH LORRAINE HILLS

A PROUD moment for New England region fine wool growers, Ian and Lorraine Hills, was the news of their six championship awards and three medallions in the fleece section at the 2015 Sydney Royal Easter Show.

Coffee Creamed Viennese My sister, Annette Winter, like me, has very fond memories of our early years in Parkes. She recalls how we absolutely loved our mum’s Coffee Kiss biscuits. Annette now bakes for various organisations in Tamworth and the memory of those Coffee Kisses led her to create her own recipe, which she calls “Coffee Creamed Viennese”. These cookies are always popular at any fund-raising function she supports.

INGREDIENTS 220g butter ½ tsp vanilla essence ½ cup icing sugar 1 cup plain flour ½ cup SR flour 2 level tbsp rice flour 3 level tsp of a strong espresso flavour instant coffee powder (not granules), dissolved to a paste in a few drops of water METHOD Cream the butter and icing sugar. Add vanilla and the coffee paste (first, set aside two teaspoons of the paste for the coffee cream).

This spectacular achievement was the culmination of many years of dedication and commitment to a targeted selection and breeding program. Their long-term plan has been a collaborative effort with sheep classer Greg Andrews.

Lorraine has also been honoured with judging the chutneys, pickles and preserves in the District Exhibits section for the past two years at the Royal Easter Show.

Lorraine commented: “It has been a pleasure to have been invited to judge and be able to see and taste the wonderful products that are made from Australian-grown produce. The way they are presented in the magnificent District Exhibits displays is a credit to all involved.”

Coffee Cream INGREDIENTS 150g butter 300g icing sugar Coffee paste, approximately 2 tsp (as prepared in previous recipe) Vanilla essence to taste

Add the plain flour, SR flour and rice flour to the creamed mixture.

METHOD

Using a piping bag, pipe the cookies and bake for 20-25 minutes at approx. 160 degrees (depending on oven).

Cream the butter and icing sugar with the coffee paste and vanilla.

When cold, join the cookies by piping with coffee cream (recipe right).

164 CWL

You may need to vary the quantities a little to achieve the right piping consistency. The cream should be easy to pipe but firm enough to set.

Kadina BnB Hand Decorated Cakes for any occasion

Come and be spoilt in affordable luxury • Perfect for a getaway • Incentive available for longer stays • Rooms feature ensuites, gowns, toiletries, free wifi, TV and air conditioning.

• Beautiful view to the East • Children are welcome • Breakfast - 5 courses available, espresso coffee and a variety of teas

16 Flavours of Pies | Sausage Rolls | Spinach & Fetta Rolls Fresh Sandwiches | Gluten Free Products Bills Beans Coffee prepared by fully trained Baristas.

Huge range of cakes and slices everyday ranging from the cinnamon donut to the exclusive Red Velvet Whoopie Pie Dine in or takeaway 71 Dandaloo St, Narromine

www.kadinabnb.com

02 6889 1921

P: (02) 6862 3995 M: 0412 444 452 E: kadinabb@bigpond.net.au

kobby99@bigpond.net.au Find us on Facebook

Narromine and surrounds

Spring and Summer Spectacular 4-5

September

27

September

4

October

18

October

Narromine Show

Narromine Showground narromineshow@gmail.com 0429 891 201 www.narromine.nsw.au/ narromine-show

Narromine Car Club Show N Shine

Narromine Aerodrome 0409 688 941 narrominecarclub@hotmail.com

Mungery Picnic Races

Mungery Racecourse 02 6889 5552 0428 325 982

17

October

1-12 December

29

December

Narromine Dandy Cup Races

Narromine Racecourse 0428 325 982 www.narromineturfclub.com.au

Ninth Junior World Gliding Championships Narromine Aerodrome jwgc@glidingaustralia.org www.jwgc2015.com

Macquarie Picnic Races Trangie Racecourse www.facebook.com/ macquariepicnicrace

Open Gardens Day

Narromine and district 02 6889 1915 judybarlow86@msn.com

www.narromine.nsw.gov.au

Airservices is Australia's air navigation service provider

Civil Aviation Safety Authority

Sport Aircraft Association of Australia

We look forward to seeing you CWL 165

Upcoming Events NARROMINE SHOW 4-5 September Narromine Showground 0429 891 201 narromineshow@gmail.com www.narromine.nsw.au/narromine-show

ORANGE REGION FARMERS MARKET 12 September, 10 October & 14 November Orange Showground, Leeds Parade Cath Thompson 0425 259 350 www.orangefarmersmarket.org.au

CUDAL CAMPDRAFT 3-5 October Cudal Showground, Davys Plains Road, Cudal Kate Blackwood 0427 986 406 cudalcampdraft@gmail.com www.abcra.com.au

NEVERTIRE FAMILY MUSTER 19 September Noel Waters Oval, Nevertire Sally Empringham 0428 239 317 belaringar.se@bigpond.com www.facebook.com/weofthenevertire

MUNGERY PICNIC RACES 4 October Tullamore Road, Mungery Sarah Masonwells (02) 6889 5552 or 0428 325 982 www.mungerypicnicraces.websyte.com.au

GRENFELL SHOW 4-5 September Grenfell Showground Jeannie Light-Murray (02) 6343 1513

GRENFELL JOCKEY CLUB RACES 19 September Grenfell racecourse Terry Carroll (02) 6343 1574 carrollt@tpg.com.au

TEMORA AVIATION MUSEUM SHOWCASE 5 & 19 September and 17 October Temora Aviation Museum, 1 Tom Moon Avenue, Temora (02) 6977 1088 info@aviationmuseum.com.au www.aviationmuseum.com.au

GO GRAZING 19 September Mudgee Showground (02) 6372 7409 www.mudgeewine.com.au

WOODSTOCK MEMORIAL SHOW 6 September Woodstock Showground Alison Rosewarne (02) 6345 0104 www.woodstockshow.wix.com/woodstockshow

DAFFODIL DAWDLE 19-20 & 26-27 September Various locations in the Oberon region (02) 6329 8210 tourism@oberon.nsw.gov.au www.oberonaustralia.com

FATHER’S DAY LUNCHEON 6 September Lazy River Estate, Dubbo Kelly Reynolds (02) 6882 2111 events@lazyriverestate.com.au www.lazyriverestate.com.au

CHEESE-MAKING WORKSHOP 20 September Borrodell on the Mount, Canobolas (02) 6365 3425 www.borrodell.com.au

MUDGEE RACES 6 September Mudgee Racecourse Colleen Walker (02) 6372 6035 colleen@hwy.com.au www.facebook.com/mudgeeraceclub FROM BEETHOVEN TO BRAZIL 6 September Anglican Christ Church, Adelaide Street, Blayney (02) 6331 6622 bathurst@mitchellconservatorium.edu.au www.mitchellconservatorium.edu MUDGEE WEEK OF GOLF VETERANS TOURNAMENT 6-11 September Mudgee Golf Club (02) 6372 1811 mudgeevets@gmail.com www.mudgeegolfclub.com.au FARMLINK OPEN DAY 11 September Temora Agricultural Innovation Centre, Barmedman Road, Temora (02) 6980 1333 farmlink@farmlink.com.au www.farmlink.com.au FORBES ANNUAL SHOW 11-12 September Forbes Showground, Show Street, Forbes Jan Facey or Lucy Pearce (02) 6852 1311 forbesshow@westserv.net.au www.agshowsnsw.org.au/index.cfm?show_id=1286 MUDGEE WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL 11 September-5 October Various Locations in the Mudgee Region (02) 6372 7409 www.mudgeewine.com.au CARAGABAL SHEEP RACES 12 September Caragabal www.visitcaragabal.com.au DAFFODILS AT RYDAL 2015 12-13 & 19-20 September Various locations in the Rydal Region Lindsay (02) 6359 3237 or Helen (02) 6355 6360 rydaldaffs@gmail.com www.rydal.com.au 166 CWL

TEMORA SHOW 26 September Temora Showground, Airport Road, Temora Tamsin Triance 0448 253 640 temorashow@gmail.com www.temorashow.com FLAVOURS OF MUDGEE STREET FESTIVAL 26 September Market Street, Mudgee Alayna Gleeson (02) 6378 2850 alayna.gleeson@midwestern.nsw.gov.au www.flavoursofmudgee.com.au TEMORA TOWN MARKETS 26 September, 31 October & 28 November Quota Club, Callaghan Park, Temora Dorothy Anderson (02) 6977 1869 or Joan Pavelic 0414 609 60 MUDGEE REGION BRIDAL FAIR 27 September Parklands Resort & Conference Centre (02) 6372 4500 www.facebook.com/mudgeebrideexpo?fref=ts

NARROMINE ROTARY MARKETS 27 September & 29 November Dundas Park, Narromine (02) 6889 1637 IANDRA CASTLE OPEN DAY 27 September & 4 October 910 Iandra Road, Greenethorpe Rod & Bev Kershaw (02) 6383 9241 or 0429 455 409 kershaw101@bigpond.com www.iandracastle.com.au 2PK PARKES COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL 1-5 October Parkes Services Club, Parkes Margaret Thurn 0427 016 886 MUDGEE RACES 3 October Mudgee Racecourse Colleen Walker (02) 6372 6035 colleen@hwy.com.au www.facebook.com/mudgeeraceclub

BOOROWA IRISH WOOLFEST 4 October Boorowa Melanie Ford (02) 6385 3962 tourism@boorowa.nsw.gov.au www.irishwoolfest.com.au GULGONG CAMEL RACES & FAMILY FUN DAY 4 October Gulgong Racecourse Diane Thompson thompsondm1@bigpond.com (02) 6374 0226 SUPERCHEAP AUTO BATHURST 1000 V8 CAR RACING 8-11 October Mount Panorama, Bathurst 1800 681 000 GRENFELL OPEN GARDENS 10-11 October Various locations in the Grenfell region Chris Lobb (02) 6343 1313 catlobb@hotmail.com ARIAH PARK MARY GILMORE FESTIVAL 16-18 October Nigel Judd (02) 6974 1026 or 0428 741 026 nigeljudd@bigpond.com www.ariahparkfestival.com ORANGE WINE FESTIVAL 2015 16 October-1 November Various locations in the Orange region (02) 6360 1990 www.brandorange.com.au NARROMINE DANDY CUP RACES 17 October Narromine Racecourse 0428 325 982 www.narromineturfclub.com.au WARREN ROTARY SPRING FESTIVAL 17-18 October Victoria Park, Udora Road, Warren Rod Sandell 0427 620 832 bbwork@bigpond.com GAIRLOCH GARDEN OPEN DAYS 17-18 & 24-25 October and 31 October-1 November Gairloch Garden, 27 Blenheim Avenue, Oberon Meg and Peter Low (02) 6336 0291 gairloch@hlowfamily.id.au MAYFIELD GARDEN OPEN DAYS 17-18 & 24-25 October and 31 October-1 November Mayfield Garden, 530 Mayfield Road, Oberon (02) 6336 3131 info@mayfieldgarden.com.au www.mayfieldgarden.com.au FLAVOURS FROM THE FARM – GILGANDRA POULTRY AND BRIGADOON HARVEST 18 October Lazy River Estate, Dubbo Kelly Reynolds (02) 6882 2111 events@lazyriverestate.com.au www.lazyriverestate.com.au

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FIELD DAYS 22-24 October 563 Borenore Road, Borenore (02) 6362 1588 www.anfd.com.au

BATHURST SPRING SPECTACULAR GARDEN WEEKEND 31 October-1 November Various locations in the Bathurst region Anne Llewellyn (02) 6331 4117 annesgarden@bigpond.com www.bathurstgardenclub.org.au

COX PLATE MUDGEE RACES 24 October Mudgee Racecourse Colleen Walker (02) 6372 6035 colleen@hwy.com.au www.facebook.com/mudgeeraceclub?fref=ts

NARROMINE GOLF CLUB MELBOURNE CUP LUNCHEON 3 November Narromine Golf Club (02) 6889 1949

RYLSTONE STREETFEAST 7 November Rylstone www.rylstonestreetfeast.com.au QUBE LOGISTICS COTTON CUP RACE MEETING 8 November Warren Racecourse (02) 6847 4447 Bekbbk@bigpond.com www.warrenjockeyclub.com.au

ORANGE CAMPDRAFT 6-8 November Orange Showground, Leeds Parade, Orange 0422 313 785

HUNTINGTON ESTATE MUSIC FESTIVAL 25-29 November Huntington Estate (02) 6373 3825 info@huntingtonestate.com.au www.huntingtonestate.com.au

CARCOAR SHOW 31 October Carcoar Showground 0407 262 494 www.facebook.com/CarcoarShow

INLAND SEA OF SOUND FESTIVAL 6-8 November Bathurst Goldfields, 428 Conrod Straight, Mount Panorama (02) 6333 6161 www.bmec.com.au

TEMORA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL 26-29 November Temora Ex-Services Memorial Club & Bundawarrah Centre Roz Giles 0408 597 307 bigriver@mcmedia.com.au www.temoracmf.com

MILLTHORPE GARDEN RAMBLE OPEN GARDENS 31 October-1 November Various locations in the Millthorpe region millthorpegardenramble@gmail.com www.millthorpevillage.com.au

10TH ANNIVERSARY TASTE CANOWINDRA 7 November Taste Canowindra 42 Ferguson Street, Canowindra www.tastecanowindra.com.au

KANDOS MARKETS 29 November Kandos Railway Green, Kandos Mary Kavanagh 0425 275 749 ms.mary.kav@gmail.com

DUNDULLIMAL & MACQUARIE CONSERVATORIUM HIGH TEA & RECITAL 25 October Dundullimal Homestead, 23L Obley Road, Dubbo Suzanne Gratton (02) 6884 9984 dundullimal@nationaltrust.com.au www.dundullimal.com.au

Do you have an event that you would like included in our magazine?

Email: events@centralwestmagazine.com.au Compiled by Jane Tickle.

All events are subject to change and we recommend contacting the organisers to confirm details.

n i e g n a r O . . y . h g w n i k l r a e t DiscovSPRING has everyone “Sublim

e

, out p r o d u ce

nity” t co m m u n a r ib v da wines an standing

Milan – Lyndey

Lyndey M ilan

Orange is a great place to rejuvenate the spirit and rediscover your love of life. Enjoy fabulous shopping in the malls, the historic backstreets and the gorgeous villages. Discover the best food and wine in the country as you drive through spectacular scenery. Explore our galleries, museums and national parks.

Friday 16 OctOber tO Sunday 1 nOvember Orange Wine Festival Saturday 17 OctOber West to East Coast Championship Rodeo

#orangew

thurSday 22 tO Saturday 24 OctOber

al inefestiv

Australian National Field Days

Saturday 24 OctOber Skydive Oz Friday 6 tO Sunday 8 nOvember Orange Campdraft Saturday 14 nOvember Central West Dragon Boat Challenge

#dragonb #austral

iannat

oats

ays ionalfieldd

...brought to you by Orange City Council

www.visitorange.com.au

/visitorange

/visit_orange

Orange Visitor Information Centre Free caLL 1800 069 466

Bring the family, stay for a day, stay for a week. Check out all the details at… www.visitorange.com.au/discover CWL 167

SPECIAL OFFER FOR CENTRAL WEST LIFESTYLE READERS Come and celebrate our recent awards at Bishop’s Court Estate.

Book two nights and receive a complimentary bottle of champagne.

Bookings by phone only.

Enjoy ultimate luxury and relaxation, allow yourself to be pampered with delectable treats and stunning wines from our region and breathe in the aroma of utter peace. It’s the little things that count at Bishop’s Court Estate.

Bishop’s Court Estate 226 Seymour Street Bathurst NSW 2795 Ph: 02 6332 4447

www.bishopscourtestate.com.au

168 CWL

Top 1%

UPCOMING EVENTS

THE 2015 National Cool Climate Wine Show Public Tasting on Friday, October 16, will bring hundreds of critics, vignerons and wine lovers to the highlight of the cool climate wine season.

To kick off at Bathurst Showground at 6pm, the Public Tasting will feature around 800 different premium, world-class cool climate wines. Connoisseurs and wine lovers will have the opportunity to sample the most prestigious wines Australia has to offer.

For $35 you can experience the elaborate tasting, sign up for tasting tours and sample delicious food. Tickets are available at the Bathurst Visitor Information Centre by phoning Phone (02) 6332 1444 or can be bought at the door on the night.

The Bathurst Wine Region covers three local government areas: Bathurst, Lithgow and Oberon. This cool climate region has vineyards at elevations ranging from 700 to 1050 metres, making the region ideally suited to cool climate grape varieties. The extended ripening period enhances the subtle, often lower alcohol characteristics associated with cool climate wines.

NATIONAL COOL CLIMATE WINE SHOW PUBLIC TASTING OCTOBER 16, BATHURST

A significant initiative of the Bathurst Regional Vignerons Association (BRVA) was to establish the National Cool Climate Wine Show, founded in 1999 with a panel of respected wine judges who judge to international standards. Over the years, the show has grown in size and stature to become the premier cool climate wine show in Australia, providing world-class feedback for Australia’s cool climate wine growers.

Wines of Bathurst also supports the region’s excellent produce at annual and one-off events promoting the best the region has to offer in food, wine, beer and spirits. Wines of Bathurst’s ongoing “Take a Local Home for Dinner” campaign on Facebook features wines and winemakers from the region. The local community and local council have embraced the regional wine industry and you will find many local drops at restaurants, cafés, hotels and bottle shops.

Image: Red Moon Creative

Take a Local Home for Dinner Best known for our Riesling, Chardonnay, Malbec, Shiraz & Cabernet. Meet us at the Bathurst Farmers Markets, Oberon Markets, Lithgow Lions Markets. Available at quality local restaurants, cafes & cellars covering Bathurst & Blue Mountains.

Mobile: 0400 373 613 Email: ruth.anderson2@myacn.net.au https://www.facebook.com/3ViewsVineyard

Upcoming Events Bathurst Farmers Markets OCT 24, NOV 28, Dec 19 2015

On the 4th Saturday of the month, come down and join our vignerons for a tasting or two, check out new vintages, pick up your local wine supplier and “Take a Local Home for Dinner”.

Bathurst Showground Pavilion 8am – 12pm

National Cool Climate Wine Show Public Tasting FRIDAY 16 Oct

For $35 you can experience over 800 sips, sign up for complementary tasting tours, sample delicious food and experience the creative minds of Australia’s most dedicated wine producers (and all cool climate wine fanatics, just like you!). The highlight feature of the Wine Show, also an official Bathurst200 endorsed event and winner of the 2014 Bathurst Region Community Event of the Year Award.

Bathurst Showground Pavilion 6pm -9pm.

Love Bathurst Wines

So many great reasons to visit Bathurst: heritage, distinct seasons, friendly people, regional produce, fantastic food, great places to stay, Mt Panorama race circuit and much, much more.

Did you know that wine is one of our best kept secrets? You’ll find award-winning Bathurst wines in many of Bathurst’s restaurants, bars, hotels and liquor retailers.

When visiting our beautiful region ask for Bathurst wines, ‘Take a Local Home for Dinner’ and share the love. Visit www.winesofbathurst.com.au to find out more.

/BathurstWines

#coolwines

Medal winning wines, handmade at the vineyard from grapes grown at 1000m altitude. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Rose wines telling the secrets of the years just passed.

Mobile: 0414 572 294 Phone: 02 63363550 Email: georgeclark15@hotmail.com http://australianpoetryandwine.com/ Open weekends or by appointment. A unique vineyard located inside the world famous Mount Panorama Racing Circuit. Do a lap & drop in to enjoy our wines. Producing Shiraz, Chardonnay, Riesling, Moscato & Tawny Port.

Mobile: 0477 298 678 http://www.mountpanoramawines.com.au

Bathurst Wines includes: Grass Parrot Vineyard, Vale Creek Wines, Renzaglia Wines, Mount Panorama Wines, 3 Views Vineyard, Bellbrook Friends Wines, Winburndale Wines, Mount Panorama Estate, Fish River Valley Brewing & Stone Pine Distillery

/Wines of Bathurst

Check our “Calendar of Events” on our website for all contacts and bookings! www.winesofbathurst.com.au | info@winesofbathurst.com.au CWL 169

Supplying staff and work opportunities across the NSW Central West

Specialising in Professional and Executive Recruitment: n Legal Services and Consultants n Banking and Financial Services n Sales and Marketing n Architectural and Drafting n Government and Education n HR and Safety n Transport and Logistics Shop 1, 183 George Street Bathurst, 02 6330 1100

See www.adecco.com.au to view current available jobs

Fish River Roasters provides speciality coffee from around the world to cafes and restaurants in the Central West, Blue Mountains and around Australia. Our award winning coffee is supported by barista training and espresso machine repairs and maintenance.

We would like to thank the cafes and restaurants that stock our coffee and the coffee drinkers of the region for their support.

fish river roasters 67 corporation avenue bathurst 2795 02 6331 7171 170 CWL

n Manufacturing and Operations n Administration and Office Support

the world’s #1 recruiter

PRANAYOGA CENTRE BATHURST YOGA TO STRENGTHEN YOUR BODY • RELAX YOUR MIND • OPEN YOUR HEART

Retreats for 2015

PRANAYOGA CENTRE WITH JAN GREEN

BALI UBUD 31st May - 6 June 13th - 19th September

YOGA CLASSES WORKSHOPS RETREATS MEDITATION COMMUNITY YOGA

INDIA - KASHMIR & LADAKH 11th - 26 July

a: Heaths Lane (rear 97 Keppel Street), Bathurst t: Jan 0423 205 801 e: pranayoga@optusnet.com.au

SLEEP WITH US!

luxury in

BATHURST SHORT-TERM • LONG-TERM Brand new rooms Gymnasium Spa suites

Self-contained Studios Family Cottages

Join our many regulars who are in the know for the best place to stay in Bathurst

6KRS +RZLFN 6WUHHW 3K

2SHQ 'D\V D :HHN

Easy two block walk to the centre of Bathurst to enjoy fine dining restaurants and award winning hotels

BATHURST HERITAGE MOTOR INN

102 Stewart Street, Bathurst Tel. 02 6334 3433 www.heritagemotorinn.com.au CWL 171

A CLOSER LOOK WESTERN PLAINS Cultural Centre (WPCC) in Dubbo aims to present the breadth and complexity of cultural production. As a facility incorporating Dubbo Regional Gallery and Dubbo Regional Museum, its seeks to present the best of national and international exhibitions as well as projects that are sourced from or relate to the communities of Dubbo and the region.

The WPCC recently presented two exhibitions engaging with indigenous culture. We Don’t Need A Map: A Martu Experience of the Western Desert was an exhibition staged by the Martumili Artists and Fremantle Arts Centre.

The exhibition examined the Martu people of the Pilbara in Western Australia and their strong connection to land. It examined the cultural practices that have enabled them to live in balance with their environment.

The exhibition presented paintings, video, woven baskets, wooden tools such as boomerangs, portraits, sound and scientific material related to the environment and land management.

Survivors, presented in the Dubbo Regional Museum, examined Nanima Mission, the oldest inland Aboriginal mission in Australia. Situated in Wellington, Nanima has been home to the Wellington Wiradjuri since before settlement and has an important cultural presence in the region.

Wellington-raised artist Asher Milgate produced stunning black and white portraits of Nanima elders along with audio recordings of their memories of growing up on the mission. The exhibition also featured a faux humpy entrance, adding to the atmosphere of the show and referencing the physical aspects of mission life. The exhibition was a hugely successful project that engaged with hitherto little-known aspects of indigenous life in the regions as well as highlighting the rich cultural history of the Wiradjuri people.

The large-scale portraits enabled visitors to view the faces of the elders while listening to their voices. The immediacy and beauty of the works allowed a closer and more intimate examination of the issues faced by Aboriginal people living in missions and reserves. For many this was a unique insight into the lives lived on the fringes of society.

The WPCC is committed to providing a rich experience that contributes to a greater understanding of artistic expression as well as illuminating the rich historical/cultural history of the region.

Images: Asher Milgate

AUNTY VIOLET CARR 18/9/1933 “I was born here in Wellington out at the town common, on the Macquarie River. My other sister, Claudia, we were all born out there.

The old midwives they delivered us, old Granny May and old Aunty Julia Stewart, Aunty Vieira May she was a midwife too.

My Dad built a house out of kerosene tins right just outside of Nanima, past the pepper trees, across the creek on the Macquarie River and that was where we were all born …

Claudia and I, along with Gloria and Billy Bower, the Forrest kids, Joyce, Nolean and Pauline were the first from Nanima to come into town to go to school, we used to catch the dredge bus with the workmen. Claudia went to primary and I went to the high school.”

UNCLE BILLY LOU CARR 17/10/1919 “I enjoyed life, all my life. We were living not on the mission, but off the mission out on the common. My father and my mother, brothers, sisters, cousins, nephews, grandfathers, grandmothers … everyone was happy!

Lots of people were nice and kind too. We used to go to dances every night.

Old bloke Patty Ryan out here, played the concertina and an old broken violin. Bloody good music! Then a bloke came from Cowra, Kenny Grace, old dark fulla. Ooh, could play the piano accordion … and his son Harry Grace on the gumleaf and the violin.

I think of them days I wish everything could start all over again. But that has been, come and gone. And won’t return. It’s like buying a ticket on the train, when you lose it, you can’t go on the train and get a new one.

But you bought the ticket and you dropped it. That’s the way life is … “

172 CWL

EVENTS

AUNTY BEATA CHATFIELD (NEE STANLEY) 15/9/1951 “When the Welfare used to come out there. Well, we had tunnels and that, through them. And when we’d see ‘em comin, we’d run down and hide in the tunnels, in the burrs. Then when they were gone, we’d come back out.

When Darren (Ah See) came along, the Welfare came out to take Darren. Because they said Nan was too old to look after him. And I can remember she was doing some washing or something, and she had the stick and she was stirring the clothes. And when he said something about taking Darren, she just got it out and she whacked him with the wet sheet, I think it was. And it was hot.

And his name was Mr Kitchener. Actually, never seen him again after that. I think all the Aboriginals started bailing up and refusing to let ‘em take any of them of the kids, anything like that. They started to fight back!”

UNCLE HERB SMITH 3/10/1951 “RESPECT your culture and heritage, family and friends, the community in which you live, and most importantly have RESPECT for yourself. Grasp the opportunity to receive an education. Never, ever let opportunity knock on your door and you let it pass by, because it may not come back and knock again. Doing these things will allow you to push forward and walk the path of SELF ACHIEVEMENT. How do I know this? I have done all of these things to walk that pathway, and I want to encourage others to follow in my footsteps.”

UNCLE ALBERT TOWNEY 9/1/1945 “I am proud of who I am and where I come from. I left school at a young age, going to work with my father in the shearing sheds.

Growing up with my brothers and sisters we were taught the meaning of respect, and the only way you get respect for yourself was to respect others. I think if people in the world today did that, it would be a better place to live in.”

AUNTY LYNETTE RILEY (NEE ELEMES) 28/6/1956 “I have seen families brought up in a white generation.

It’s totally different to the way we are. The family I know, brought up by white people, haven’t got the same thing as what we’ve got. They’ve missed, they’ve lost that.

Where we’ve grown up with that and it’s still within us.

It still will be within them, but they’ve got [to] search, find it back in themselves, I think. To where they really belong and where they come from. It’s where you belong really, is where you come from.”

GALLERY MUSUEM CAFÉ COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE 76 WINGEWARRA STREET DUBBO NSW 2830 westernplainsculturalcentre.org 02 6801 4444

CWL 173

At Steel Walsh & Murphy of Cowra, we pride ourselves in being friendly, accessible accounting specialists who make it our business to make your business more successful!

Tax Specialists for individuals, companies, partnerships and trusts including International and off-shore taxation matters.

Financing and Auditing Specialists Knowledge of accounting packages including MYOB, Phoenix, Xero and Reckon.

Complete Range of Business Services Financial Planning Accounting and Advice Superannuation and SMSF Accountants

Calare Building, 103 Kendal Street, COWRA 2794 P: 02 6342 1311 F: 02 6342 4360 www.steelwal.com.au

Eat Sleep Celebrate

BEST WESTERN Goulburn 77 Lagoon St, Goulburn NSW 02 4821 2422

144 Brisbane Street Dubbo NSW 2830

Phone: (02) 6884 7354 www.grapevinecafe.com.au OPEN 7 DAYS

The Grapevine Cafe has great coffee and great food. We offer an indoor or outdoor dining experience with full table service. Situated in a beautiful heritage listed building with a spacious courtyard.

174 CWL

Servicing the Central West for over 20 years Garian is your partner in Foodservice where you will find all the leading brands and products We offer the leading foodservice loyalty reward program in Foodservice “ BEST OF THE BEST” Contact Garian to organise your purchasing to reach the rewards you want!!

PH: 6884 1166

Now available to read online

Central West

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Central West

Central West

LIFE ST Y LE LIFE ST Y LE LIFE ST Y LE Winter 2013

welcome

to the west

discover Rylstone

meet the businesses and characters of our region

of its own

summer 2013

SPRING 2013

iconic DUNTRYLEAGUE:

IN A LEAGUE

a small town with a big personality

discover the charisma of

CANOWINDRA

A HISTORY CAPTIVATING, A CULTURE RICH AND A FUTURE PROMISING

FALLING IN LOVE WITH

JEWELS IN THE CROWN

Wellington

ABERCROMBIE HOUSE AND BISHOP’S COURT ESTATE

RICH IN HISTORY AND FULL OF COLOURFUL CHARACTERS

glorious gardens

MAYFIELD & BLAIR ATHOL AT THEIR BEST ACHIEVERS IN AGRICULTURE | CHIFLEY HOME: THE MCKENZIE STORY THE unique LIFE OF THE ULAN COWBOY | CUISINE TO WARM THE SOUL country operas | FOUR GENERATIONS ON THE LAND AT NEVERTIRe

SPRING FLING: FRESH HOME IDEAS, GORGEOUS GARDENS AND HIGH TEAS TO INSPIRE THE FULL CIRCLE OF FORGANDENNY HOUSE | LIFE’S LESSONS AT SPRING CREEK B&B CENTRAL WEST CELEBRITIES: KATE BRACKS, JASON OWEN AND KENNEDY TOURLE OUTBACK ACTION AT WARREN SHOW AND COONAMBLE RODEO + MUCH MORE

capturing the best in the west

LIFE ST Y LE AUTUMN 2014

THE MAGIC OF

Mudgee

SELF CONTAINED COTTAGE

DUBBO’S MAJESTIC HERITAGE: DUNDULLIMAL & RANELAGH HOMESTEADS STYLISH SUMMER FASHION | FLYING HIGH WITH LOCAL HEROES OF THE SKY COUNTRY FUN AT MERRIWA SHOW | THE INSPIRING STORY OF KAROO ANGUS AT HOME WITH THE MAYOR OF ORANGE | DELIGHTFUL GARDENS & TOP TIPS BUSINESS, EDUCATION, FOOD, TRAVEL, EVENTS, WEDDINGS AND MUCH MORE

capturing the best in the west

capturing the best in the west

Central West

YAHGUNYAH

Central West

Central West

winter 2014

FABULOUS

Forbes

LIFE ST Y LE SPRING 2014

RICH AND RARE:

IANDRA CASTLE

A THRIVING COUNTRY TOWN

A TOWN FOR ALL SEASONS

Magnificent

BOREE

CABONNE A National Trust

TREASURE

CARCOAR’S

COOMBING PARK

A revelation in Australian history

BATTLEFIELD TOURS: A LOCAL MAN’S TRIBUTE TO OUR HEROES

DRESS TO IMPRESS THIS AUTUMN + STYLISH HOMES AND GARDENS

MAGGIE MACKELLAR: A JOURNEY OF HEALING

BUSINESS, FOOD, EDUCATION, TRAVEL, EVENTS, WEDDINGS AND MUCH MORE

Western Treasures

CELEBRATING COMMUNITY AT CUMNOCK SHOW

capturing the best in the west

16 EXTRA PAGES

Central West

THE NEXT GENERATION SHINES: OUR RURAL DOCTORS, AG AMBASSADORS + AGENTS

FINE FOOD, FASHION, HOMES, GARDENS, EVENTS, TRAVEL, BUSINESS + MORE

NARROMINE, TRANGIE, WARREN PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL + MORE

capturing the best in the west

capturing the best in the west

Central West

SUMMER 2014

Central West

AUTUMN 2015

WINTER 2015

Celebrating

MEET FORMER

200 YEARS

Miss World

BATHURST town feature

BELINDA GREEN

Remarkable

PARKES

IN THE FACE

OF ADVERSITY:

town feature

HISTORIC

MAREE STOCKMAN’S

MENA

inspiring story

at its finest

Egelabra

Sensational spirit:

DUNEDOO

AN ICONIC WARREN RAM SALE

A UNIQUE HISTORY, A FANTASTIC FUTURE:

Cowra

TOWN FEATURE

Centenary Show

30 Maxwell St, Wellington Yahgunyah cottage, a newly renovated timber vernacular building, is one of the many fine examples of the 1920’s era.

Beautiful fret work shines in the hall way and the front of the building, with lovely spires to add much interest. The treasure of Wunderlich is in on walls and ceilings in most rooms and hall.

A Rare Breed

Boomey Park MOLONG’S magnificent GARDEN

DUBBO’S THRIVING

BISON FARM

A passion for the

PENNY-FARTHING

PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL + MORE

PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM THE BEAUTIFUL CENTRAL WEST REGION

PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM THE BEAUTIFUL CENTRAL WEST REGION

capturing the best in the west

capturing the best in the west

capturing the best in the west

SUBSCRIPTIONS, BACK ISSUES, BOXED COLLECTIONS VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO EXPERIENCE CWL IN PRINT OR ONLINE: WWW.CENTRALWESTMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Yahgunyah Cottage features 4 bedrooms and sleeps up to 9 guests. It boasts 2 ensuites and a 3rd shared bathroom.

A beautiful north facing family room finishes off the house.

Loaded with sunshine, light and personality...It’s simply gorgeous.

RECEPTION 111 ARTHUR ST

6845 4320

WHAT MAKES A CENTURY 21 AGENT? THEY’RE MADE OF ONE PART FRIENDLY HANDSHAKE, THREE PARTS IRON JACKAROO AND NINETY-EIGHT PARTS BURNING THE CANDLE AT BOTH ENDS UNTIL THEY FIND A PERFECT HOME FOR YOU. AND IF YOU’RE WONDERING HOW SOMEONE COULD BE A HUNDRED AND TWO PARTS, THE ANSWER IS SIMPLE, THEY’RE THAT GOOD.

ASK US FOR A FREE MARKET APPRAISAL CENTURY 21 AGENTS. SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER. CENTURY21.COM.AU

CENTURY 21 Golden West First Floor, 258-260 Macquarie Street, Dubbo P 02 6884 9500 CWL 175

EVENTS IN THE WEST

2

1

3

ART UNLIMITED DUNEDOO

THE STYLISH opening of Art Unlimited, Dunedoo’s annual competition for hanging art, photography and ceramics, attracted an audience of more than 300 from the Central West on May 22.

As one of regional Australia’s most vibrant arts events, Art Unlimited features the work of more than 400 entrants from across Australia, competing for prizes totalling $11,000. Judge Lisa Loader, director of Orange Regional Gallery, awarded the Pro Hart Prize for Hanging Art to Hill End artist Genevieve Carroll. Orange photographer Alf Manciagli won the Print Storm Photography Prize, and the Art Unlimited Ceramics Prize went to Queensland ceramic artist Anne Mossman.

4

The weekend exhibition drew large crowds; many visitors travelling long distances to enjoy the work on show.

Images: Kirsty Arnott

1. State Member for Barwon Kevin Humphries with Julia Taylor, of Coonamble.

2. Kylie and Angie Trengove, of Dunedoo.

3. Raylee Hart with Genevieve Carroll’s work that won the Pro Hart Prize for Hanging Art, provided by Mrs Hart in memory of her late husband.

4. Penny Heuston, of Warren, and Claire Frampton, of Dunedoo.

5. Sam and Ali Bronowski, Coolah, and Ivan Grant, Cassilis, with a painting by Lucy Watts, of Dunedoo.

5

Chad’s

Bakery Cafe The Classic Sponge

Delicious Cakes Fresh Sandwiches

Creamy Cheese

88 Bolaro St, Dunedoo NSW 2844 • (02) 6375 1677 176 CWL

cake

All your bakery needs!

Baking fresh daily Breads, cakes, pastries and Chad’s well known meat pies.

12 September–18 October 2015

“Cosmopolitan style, local value and service.”

A vibrant selection of new American art that brings together 51 works across the mediums of painting, drawing, photography and sculpture and highlights the cutting edge practices of a generation of American artists that explore the creative and conceptual possibilities these mediums hold.

A Bathurst Regional Art Gallery exhibition in conjunction with Lisa and Danny Goldberg, toured by Museums & Galleries of NSW. Curated by Richard Perram OAM.

make an appointment bella & sissi 74 macquarie street dubbo nsw 2830 02 6882 1001 hair@bellasissi.com

DYLAN LYNCH, Sucked in Juice Box 2013, acrylic on steel, 53.3 x 66 x 71.1 cm. Courtesy the artist and The Still House Group.

opening hours

monday 9am-7pm tuesday to friday 9am-5pm

follow us on facebook

COWRA REGIONAL ART GALLERY 77 Darling Street Cowra NSW Tel: 6340 2190 Hours: Tues to Sat 10am–4pm, Sun 2pm–4pm. www.cowraartgallery.com.au

The Cowra Regional Art Gallery is a cultural facility of the Cowra Shire Council

Country Gardens MOTOR INN

Cowra’s little gem

Rooms:

Facilities:

Located at the edge of town on an acreage, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind. There are 18 luxurious, clean, comfortable, ground floor units to choose from. Park at your door, off street parking for coaches and trucks. Heated pool and BBQ in Australian native gardens.

• Family Suites (2 Bedrooms) • Spa Suites • Executive Suites (King beds & bath/shower) • Deluxe Queen Suites • Disabled Suite • Some Smoking Suites available

• • • • • • •

Breakfast Room Service Free Unlimited Wireless Broadband R/C Air Con & Elec. Blankets Direct Dial Telephone Coffee/Tea/Hot Chocolate Facilities Wide Screen TV’s (16 Channels) Mini Snack Bar

a. 75 Grenfell Road (Mid Western Highway), Cowra p. 02 6341 1100 e. cgmcowra@bigpond.net.au w. www.countrygardensmotel.com.au CWL 177

Plainsman Motel 22 Sheriff Street, Forbes NSW 2871 Ph 02 6852 2466 | Fax 02 6852 3237 comforbes@exemail.com.au Reception Hours: Mon to Fri 7am - 9pm | Sat to Sun 8am - 9pm

• Free Wi-Fi available • Room From $ 108 • Two Bedroom Flat $ 180 • Disable Room Available

RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday: Breakfast 7am – 9am | Saturday and Sunday: Breakfast 8am – 9am

www.finditinforbes.com.au

BUSINESS

FOR SALE

178 CWL

Monday ~ Friday 7.30am to 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am to 1.00pm

• Excellent coffee - bills BEANS • Home made meals and sweets • Beautiful giftware & jewellery

8 Templar Street Forbes • 6852 2239

• It is very central to everything in town • The Galaxy Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday Nights • The Aastro Dish Motor Inn welcomes enquiries for special occasions & functions.

The Envy Pivot Shower leaves little to be desired. available now from Glassplace

For Bookings & enquiries: Phone: 6862 3000 | Web: www.astrodish.com.au | Email: info@astrodish.com.au

4 Clarke St, Parkes NSW 2870 Ph: (02) 6862 2346 Fax: (02) 6863 4275 Email: sales@glassplace.com.au

www.glassplace.com.au

CWL 179

1

CWL WINTER LAUNCH

2

PARKES

A TANGIBLE FEELING of excitement and anticipation was in the air as a crowd of around 80 people filled the Dish Café at the Parkes Radio Telescope to celebrate the launch of the Winter CWL magazine.

The 100-page Town Feature was the reason to celebrate, and celebrate they did!

Special guests Member for Orange Andrew Gee and Parkes Mayor Ken Keith OAM mingled with the crowd and enjoyed basking in the glory bestowed on this beautiful town. Canapés to tempt the taste buds and drinks were served

by Craig Smith and his team from the Dish Café.

Guests took home a complimentary copy of the Winter CWL magazine.

3

4

5

6

Exceptional and record-breaking sales of this issue commenced in the Parkes newsagency the next day. CWL is experiencing very strong demand across the Central West and in areas beyond.

Words: Elizabeth Tickle. Images: Sue Meikle

1. Christene and Greg Nash, Parkes Newsagency, with Natalie and Peter Snare, of Snare’s Newsagency, Dubbo.

2. Helen Magill, Peter and Maureen Massey, Greg Magill, Hedley Nicholson and Kath Swansbra.

3. Barry Green, Pam Findlay, Cheryl Tapsell and Col Lamrock.

4. Chris Finn, Hayley Wood, Bev and Les Finn.

5. Anna Wyllie, Emily Mann, Parkes Shire Council General Manager Kent Boyd, Shellie Buckle and Jodi Howard.

6. Betty Somers and Kath Swansbra.

7. Anna and Alex Tickle, Lyn and Ian Frecklington and Elizabeth Tickle.

8. Ian Frecklington with Ed and Chris Frecklington.

9. Luke and Greg Nash with Craig Smith, owner of the Dish Café.

10. John Sarkissian with Alex and Jane Tickle.

11. Kate Ward and Parkes Shire Council Deputy Mayor Alan Ward.

12. Bree Hunter and sister Nicole Rosser.

13. June and Lex Weaver.

14. Mal and Helen Westcott.

15. Renee Rice, Justine Morissey and Maureen Morissey.

16. Lauren McClurg with her father, Jeff McClurg.

180 CWL

7

8

9

EVENTS IN THE WEST

10

11

13

14

12

15

16

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF

s e k r a P

SHIRE

www.visitparkes.com.au #visitparkes CWL 181

modern australian cuisine and share tapas menu open tuesday to saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner

10 court street, parkes | 6862 2229 www.bentfoodandwine.com.au

Giftware • Homewares • Party supplies • Cake decorating Quirky and vintage inspired products Childrens gifts & decor Locally made natural candles

Shop 2/256 Clarinda, Parkes

Ph: 6863 4136

• Magazines • Papers • Cards • Gifts • Stationery • Darrell Lea

www.parkesnewsagency.com 284 Clarinda St, Parkes NSW 2870 Phone: 6862 2296

the unity g n rs rvi omm yea e S s C 80 rke er Pa or ov f

Hunter Real Estate is an independent family owned business which has been operating in Parkes for over 80 years.

We pride ourselves in providing excellent service for our clients, specialising in: • • • •

201 Clarinda Street Parkes NSW 2870 182 CWL

Phone: (02) 6862 5832 Fax: (02) 6862 4895

Property Management Sales Commercial Lease/Sales Storage Facilities

Email: mail@hunterandco.com.au Web: www.hunterandco.com.au

coffee...sandwiches...meals...spectacles!

Freshly made sandwiches, home style cooking and friendly relaxed atmosphere. Function room.

Reasonably priced meals, special dietary requirements catered for.

Spectacles and sunglasses available. Adjustments and minor repairs carried out whilst you wait.

209B Clarinda Street, Parkes NSW 2870 (02) 6862 1877

209A Clarinda Street, Parkes NSW 2870 (02) 6862 1852

24 HOURS 7 DAYS A WEEK • ALL WEATHER

AIR FREIGHT SOLUTIONS PTY LTD

FREIGHT CHARTER: PARKES NSW AUSTRALIA

DISH CATERING CO Specialising in catering on-site at your event Covering the Central West & surrounds DCC can cater to any event— corporate, conferences, meetings, weddings and any special celebration We offer personalised service— We pride ourselves on working with the customer to create a truly memorable event.

Specialising in offering a diverse service—we can plan, cater, organise and co-ordinate your event - with 50 years combined experience in the industry Email:

enquiries@dcc.com.au

Mobile:

0425 209 138

DCC—dishing up a truly memorable experience

EMERGENCY TRANSPORT FOR BREAKDOWN SITUATIONS RELIABLE, FRIENDLY, EFFICIENT & ECONOMICAL ALSO SPECIALISING IN: PASSENGER CHARTER AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE

PLEASE CALL US FOR A QUOTE M: 0402 311 088 | P: 02 6863 5995 www.airfreightsolutions.com.au Owners are looking for expressions of interest to buy The Old Parkes Convent

the

Old Parkes Convent BED AND BREAKFAST

Offering two self contained apartments 33 Currajong St Parkes NSW 2870

“Spacious seclusion in the centre of town.”

Contact

02 6862 5385 0428 625 385 www.parkesconvent.com.au

CWL 183

FASHION

DEB WHITE is a self-confessed hat lover, always dreaming of new creations for the beach, wedding, racetrack or social function. With a myriad of design ideas and know-how, Deb White Millinery works to create show-stopping hats. For this spring season, the fabulous fascinator is a popular choice.

Deb’s millinery gene has expressed itself as a quiet obsession for hats. She revels in the opportunity to bring customers’ personal designs to life. “I guess I’ve inherited my grandmother’s love of hat making. People always came to her for her dressmaking and millinery skills,” Deb says.

Although based in Parkes, Deb White Millinery welcomes orders from throughout the Central West and beyond. All hats are handmade and personalised by design, colour, fabric, style and embellishment choice.

Head over heels FOR HATS

“Everyone loves an opportunity to dress up, whether it’s a social gathering, a major town event, the races, or a wedding,” Deb says.

“A unique hat is really a point of difference to any outfit, at any event.”

Her passion and attention to detail is evident in every design. Quality workmanship and customised designs make Deb’s creations treasures for any would-be hat wearer. Male or female, straw or felt, fascinator or top hat, Deb is breathing life back into this age-old art, one hat at a time.

Words: Dayna Tierney

luxury contemporary holiday house - Dunbogan

Unique hats, fascinators and headpieces for all occasions.

We create headwear for bridal parties, women, men and children.

Hats and fascinators in stock.

Call or email DEB WHITE to arrange a consultation 0400 121 264 | debwhitemillinery@gmail.com www.debwhitemillinery.com 184 CWL

Osprey is a superbly appointed property of ultra modern design.

THE HOME:

Located half an hour south of Port Macquarie in the quiet, private Timbarra Estate at Dunbogan.

• Main bedroom has luxurious ensuite

The home overlooks native bushland and is only 200 metres from the beautiful South Beach and Crowdy Head National Park.

• 3 bedrooms - 2 queen sized beds and the other with 2 king singles

• Bathrooms have large bath with separate shower ALSO: Open plan entertainment areas featuring TV, DVD, stereo system, IPOD player. Double garage.

Large decks with barbecue.

Communal tennis court and barbecue area overlooking ocean.

BOOK for your next family holiday Owners: Pam and Mike 02 6556 5038 or 0439 424 538 Email: pamike72@hotmail.com

WEDDINGS

Hammond – Skuthorp James Skuthorp married Felicity Hammond on October 4, 2014.

Perfect spring sunshine set the scene for the couple’s big day.

After a traditional Catholic ceremony at the St Laurence O’Toole church in Forbes, the 150 guests travelled out to Felicity’s family farm “West Plains” for a truly personalised reception.

Bouquets and flowers supplied by Floreat Floral and native arrangements done by family members complemented the property’s stunning garden. Moggas Marquees provided the amazing marquee, and the day ran seamlessly and with style thanks to the involvement of Melissa Bowman Weddings.

Eat Your Greens provided quality catering, and Denise of D.A Yates Photography and Design captured the essence of the day and the couple’s personalities perfectly. Felicity’s designer Delphine Manivet gown was the ideal match for this elegant country wedding.

Entertaining speeches and a very meaningful performance of The Rose by Felicity’s mum topped off an amazing night.

The couple honeymooned in Noosa before returning to their home in Dubbo.

Photographer: Denise of D.A Yates Photography Above: Elizabeth Twomey, Richard Perkins, James and Felicity Skuthorp, Louise Tinlin, George Skuthorp, Jack Hammond and Anastasia Hull.

186 CWL

open Tuesday to Saturday make an appointment 253 Clarinda Street Parkes NSW 2870 02 6862 3798

products: unite

pravana

ego

jbronze

go24.7

follow us on facebook

CWL 187

WEDDINGS

Gray – Freeman Erin Gray fell head over heels for Luke Freeman, quite literally!

The couple met through Luke’s clumsiness, when he almost knocked Erin over at the 2012 Parkes Picnic Races, in Luke’s hometown. Despite the shaky start, the two struck up a conversation, exchanged numbers and began dating.

After 18 months together, Luke surprised his Hunter Valley born and bred girlfriend Erin by getting down on one knee at her favourite restaurant, Two Doors in Dubbo. Resounding applause from the other diners punctuated her emotional reply of “yes”.

On March 14 this year, 90 close family and friends joined in celebrating Luke and Erin’s marriage on the banks of the Macquarie River at Lazy River Estate, Dubbo.

The bride and her father made a loud arrival in a bright red and chrome 1957 Chevrolet.

The cars were chosen specifically as a surprise for Erin’s father, whose milestone birthday they would miss while on their honeymoon.

The newlyweds had the holiday of a lifetime, sightseeing in the UK and Europe.

Photographer: Karissa Tuckwell, Image Photography Right: Mick Gascoigne (best man), Lee Baxter

(maid of honour), Luke and Erin Freeman, Peter Hendry (groomsman) and Jennifer Mitchell (bridesmaid).

188 CWL

• Hand crafted engagement rings • Exquisite fine jewellery • Certified Diamonds • On-site Master Jeweller and workshop

custom made engagement rings with our on-site master jeweller

• Remodelling / repairs • Beautiful gifts for all occasions Gina Brown (4th generation) 149 Talbragar St, Dubbo P. 02 6882 4620 info@whitneysjewellers.com.au whitneysjewellers.com.au

If you want the best results you have to combine two things, professionally trained technicians with world leading products.

Suite 3/88-90 Macquarie St DUBBO (02) 6885 3332 www.jessicajane.com.au

Treatment Menu Paramedical Facials Microdermabrasion Relaxation Facials Bridal / Formal Make up Spray tanning Waxing Tinting Ear piercing Gel & Shellac Nails Manicure / pedicure Relaxation Massage Gift Voucher

CWL 189

flowershere.com.au

the central west’s premier flower group

heidi rookyard www.heidirookyard.com heidi@heidirookyard.com | 0407779263

190 CWL

0410 363 429

OUR ADVERTISERS 2 FAT LADIES Lucknow, 6365 5437 www.2fatladies.com.au

CHAD’S BAKERY CAFE Dunedoo, 6375 1677 CHARISMA HAIR DESIGN Parkes, 6862 3798

A.A. BLATCH Parkes, 6862 2666 www.aablatch.com.au

CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY Dubbo, 6885 7305 www.csu.edu.au/dubbo

AASTRO DISH MOTOR INN Parkes, 6862 3000 www.astrodish.com.au ABERCROMBIE HOUSE Bathurst, 6331 4929 www.abercrombiehouse.com.au ADECCO Bathurst, 6330 1100 www.adecco.com.au ADORS PARTY HIRE Dubbo, 6882 9333 www.adors.com.au AIR FREIGHT SOLUTIONS PTY LTD Parkes, 0402 311 088 www.airfreightsolutions.com.au ALL SAINTS’ COLLEGE Bathurst, 6331 3911 www.saints.nsw.edu.au

GRAPEVINE CAFE Dubbo, 6884 7354 www.grapevinecafe.com.au

COLOUBY CREATIONS Parkes, 6863 4136

GREENTREES GUESTHOUSE Orange, 6361 4546 www.greentreeshouse.com.au

CONVENT & CHAPEL WOOL SHOP Rylstone, 0409 564 747 www.conventandchapelwool.com COOEE LODGE RETIREMENT VILLAGE Gilgandra, 6817 8744 COUNTRY GARDENS MOTOR INN Cowra, 6341 1100 www.cowracountrygardensmotel.com.au

COURTYARD ARCHITECTURAL Bathurst, 6332 5299 www.courtyarddecor.com.au

ANNIE B’S FULL HOUSE Young, 6382 5970 www.anniebsyoung.com.au

COWRA JAPANESE GARDEN & CULTURAL CENTRE Cowra, 6341 2233 www.cowragarden.com.au COWRA REGIONAL ART GALLERY Cowra, 6340 2190 www.cowraartgallery.com.au

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FIELD DAYS Borenore, 6362 1588 www.anfd.com.au B&B LIGHTING Dubbo, 6884 8000 www.bandblighting.com.au BATHURST CITY CENTRE Bathurst, 6331 5993 www.bathurstcitycentreshopping.com.au BATHURST HERITAGE MOTOR INN Bathurst, 6334 3433 www.heritagemotorinn.com.au

COWRA TOURISM CORP Cowra, 6342 4333 www.cowratourism.com.au CRAMPTON’S CARPETS Dubbo, 6882 8911 www.cramptonscarpets.com.au CROWE HORWATH Central West, 1300 856 065 www.crowehorwath.com.au CULTIVATE ADVISORY Narromine, 0428 890 151 www.cultivateadvisory.com.au DEB WHITE MILLINERY Parkes, 0400 121 264 DESIGNER DÉCOR AND GIFTS Dubbo, 6884 7392 DISH CATERING CO Parkes, 0425 209 138

BATHURST REAL ESTATE Bathurst, 6331 5555 www.bathurstrealestate.com.au

DMC MEAT & SEAFOOD Dubbo, 6881 8255 www.dubbomeatcentre.com.au

BATHURST REGIONAL VIGNERONS ASSOCIATION Bathurst www.winesofbathurst.com.au

DUBBO PRINTING WORKS Dubbo, 6882 1233 www.printingworks.com

BELL RIVER HOMES Orange, 6391 1888 www.bellriverhomes.com.au

DUNK INSURANCE Young, 1800 219 496 www.dunkinsurance.com.au

BELLA & SISSI HAIR & BEAUTY Dubbo, 6882 1001 www.bellasissi.com

EASY LIVING FOOTWEAR Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, 6332 3822 www.elfshoes.com.au

BENT FOOD & WINE Parkes, 6862 2229 www.bentfoodandwine.com.au

EAT YOUR GREENS Eugowra, 0428 595 259 www.eatyourgreens.com.au

BEST WESTERN GOULBURN Goulburn, 4821 2422

ESME’S COFFEE SHOP Forbes, 6852 2239

BETTAFRAME AND TRUSS Dubbo, 6881 8544 www.dubborooftrusses.websyte.com.au

EVERDELL CONSTRUCTION Young, 0427 020 067

BISHOP’S COURT ESTATE Bathurst, 6332 4447 www.bishopscourtestate.com.au

EWE TWO ON DANDALOO Trangie, 6888 8268 www.ewetwo.com.au FINNS STORE Canowindra, 6344 1638

BOB BERRY REAL ESTATE Dubbo, 6882 6822 www.bobberry.com.au

GORGEOUSNESS HOME Bathurst, 6332 3474

CHURCH BAR & WOODFIRED PIZZA Bathurst, 6334 2300 www.churchbar.com.au

ANIMA CLINICA Bathurst, 6332 4225 www.animaclinica.com.au

AUSTRALIAN BRAFORD SOCIETY NSW Branch, 6754 5240 www.braford.org.au

GORGEOUSNESS Bathurst, 6332 6333

GRAINPRO PTY LTD Dubbo, 6885 4667 www.grainpro.com.au

COUNTRYMAN MOTOR INN Dubbo, 6882 7422 www.countrymandubbo.com.au

ASTON HOUSE Young, 0418 975 965

GLASSPLACE Parkes, 6862 2346 www.glassplace.com.au

CHOICES FLOORING BY BRIGHTS Bathurst, 6331 4866 choicesflooring.com.au/store/bathurst

ANGULLONG WINES Panuara, 6366 4300 www.angullong.com.au

ART OF ESPRESSO Young, 6382 1151 www.artofespresso.com.au

SPRING 2015

GROVE ESTATE Young, 6382 6999 www.groveestate.com.au GWS PERSONNEL Parkes, Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo & Wagga Wagga, 6361 1112 www.gwspersonnel.com.au

NARELLAN POOLS WESTERN PLAINS Dubbo, 6884 3117 NARROMINE SHIRE COUNCIL Narromine, 6889 9999 www.narromine.nsw.gov.au NORMAN C BELLAMY PTY LTD STOCK & STATION AGENTS Cowra, 6342 1155 OLD GANARRIN GARDEN CENTRE Dubbo, 6884 5157 OLD PARKES CONVENT B&B Parkes, 6862 5385 www.parkesconvent.com.au

HEIDI ROOKYARD PHOTOGRAPHER Central West, 0407 779 263 www.heidirookyard.com

ORANGE CITY COUNCIL Orange, 6393 8250 www.orange.nsw.gov.au

HILLTOPS RETREAT MOTOR INN Young, 6382 3300 www.hilltopsretreatyoung.com.au

OSPREY HOLIDAY HOUSE Dunbogan, 6556 5038

HOLLYWOOD ANGUS Peak Hill, 6869 1315 www.hollywoodangus.com.au

OUTSCAPE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS Grenfell, 6343 8288 www.outscape.net.au

HUNTER REAL ESTATE Parkes, 6862 5832 www.hunterandco.com.au

PARKES COFFEE POT & PARKES OPTICAL SERVICES Parkes, 6862 1877

INSPIRATIONS PAINT Dubbo, 6882 7333 www.inspirations.com

PARKES DECOR Parkes, 6862 2677

JEMALONG WOOL Forbes, 6851 4000 www.jemalongwool.com.au JESSICA JANE PARAMEDICAL & NATURAL BEAUTY THERAPY Dubbo, 6885 3332 www.jessicajane.com.au JOHN DAVIS MOTORS Orange, 6362 0966 www.johndavismotors.com.au JUDE AUSTRALIA 0412 726 882 www.judeaustralia.com.au KADINA BnB Parkes, 6862 3995 www.kadinabnb.com KETTLE & GRAIN CAFE Young, 0497 247 246 www.kettleandgrain.com KING’S ANTIQUES Bathurst, 0417 785 495 www.kingsantiques.com.au KINROSS WOLAROI SCHOOL Orange, 6392 0403 www.kws.nsw.edu.au KITCHEN & RENOVATION CONCEPTS Dubbo, Coonabarabran & Orange, 6884 1292 www.kitchen-concepts.com.au LANDMARK LANGLANDS HANLON Parkes, 6862 2362 www.langlandshanlon.com.au LITHGOW TOURISM Lithgow, 1300 760 276 www.tourism.lithgow.com LITTLE CHERRY TREE Young, 6382 2795 www.littlecherrytree.com.au

FLOWERS HERE Wellington & Dubbo, 0410 363 429 www.flowershere.com.au

MacKILLOP COLLEGE Bathurst, 6338 2200 www.mackillopcollege.com.au

FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL Forbes, 6852 4155 www.forbes.nsw.gov.au

McDOWELL’S HERBAL TREATMENTS Bathurst, 6331 3937 www.mcdowellsherbal.com

CAMERON ANDERSON ARCHITECTS Mudgee, 0409 257 688 www.caarch.com.au

FRANK SMITH WORK CLOTHING & SHOE REPAIRS Bathurst, 6331 7544 www.gottheboot.com.au

McNAUGHT GROUP PAINTING Dubbo, 6885 4744 www.mcnaughtgroup.com.au

CARINYA B&B Wellington, 6845 4320

GARIAN WHOLESALERS PTY LTD Dubbo, 6884 1166

MAGNOLIA NURSERY & LITTLE GARDEN SHOP Dubbo, 6882 2580

CENTURY 21 GOLDEN WEST Dubbo, 6884 9500 www.century21.com.au/goldenwest

GILGANDRA SHIRE COUNCIL Gilgandra, 6817 8800 www.gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

MAX ASTRI OPTOMETRISTS Dubbo, Wellington & Cobar, 6884 4077 www.maxastrioptometrists.com

BYRNE CLOTHING (WORKLOCKER) Parkes, 6862 1408 www.byrneclothing.com.au

MONICA HENLEY, RAINE & HORNE DUBBO Dubbo, 0410 615 505 www.rh.com.au/dubbo

ORANA MALL Dubbo, 6882 7766 www.oranamall.com.au

LUCKNOW SKIN SHOP Lucknow, 6365 5330 www.lucknowskinshop.com.au

BRUCE’S MENSLAND Young, 6382 6762

MILK FACTORY GALLERY Bowral, 4862 1077 www.milkfactorygallery.com.au

HAY’S GIFT AND GARDENWARE Parkes, 6862 4002

FISH RIVER ROASTERS Bathurst, 6331 7171

BRENNO’S HOT BAKE Narromine, 6889 1921

MIDNIGHT DOWNS Narromine, 6889 4427

STEEL WALSH & MURPHY CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Cowra, 6342 1311 www.steelwal.com.au STEVE’S SANDING Parkes, 0438 229 261 SUMMER HILL SEWING EMPORIUM Hartley, 6352 3577 www.sewingemporium.com.au SWISH GALLERY Dubbo, 6882 9528 www.theswishgallery.com.au TARA ANGLICAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS North Parramatta, 9630 6655 www.tara.nsw.edu.au THE CLOSET Cowra, 6342 2478 www.theclosetcowra.com THE GENERAL STORE

BY CHALK N CHEESE Young, 6382 3515 THE HUB Bathurst, 6332 1565 THE LION’S PRIDE Dubbo, 6884 3333 www.thelionspride.com.au THE LOFT FASHION HOUSE Young, 6382 1533 THE OUTLOOK CAFE Dubbo, 6884 7977 THE QUARRY RESTAURANT & CELLAR DOOR Cowra, 6342 3650 www.thequarryrestaurant.com.au THE SCOTS SCHOOL Bathurst, 6333 4702 www.scots.edu.au

PARKES DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING Parkes, 6862 3399

THE WHITE PLACE Orange, 6363 1160 www.thewhiteplace.com.au

PARKES FURNITURE ONE Parkes, 6862 2545 www.furnitureone.com.au

TOYOTA CENTRAL WEST GROUP Central West, 6882 1511 www.toyota.com.au

PARKES NEWSAGENCY Parkes, 6862 2296 www.parkesnewsagency.com

TWISTED RIVER WINES Manildra, 6364 5447 www.twistedriverwines.com.au

PARKES SHIRE COUNCIL Parkes, 6862 6000 www.parkes.nsw.gov.au

TWO DOORS CAFÉ RESTAURANT Dubbo, 6885 2333 www.twodoors.com.au

PAUL CUSACK LICENSED BUILDER AND CABINET MAKER Parkes, 6862 1144 www.paulcusack.com.au

VISIT YOUNG Young, 6382 3394 www.visityoung.com.au

PEACOCKE ACCOUNTANTS Dubbo, 6882 3933 www.peacockeaccountants.com.au

WALLINGTON WINES Canowindra, 0427 936 054 www.wallingtonwines.com.au

PLAINSMAN MOTEL Forbes, 6852 2466

WEBB & CO BEVERAGE EMPORIUM Bathurst, 6334 2176 www.webbandco.com.au

PLC ARMIDALE Armidale, 6770 1700 www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

WENONA SCHOOL North Sydney, 9955 3000 www.wenona.nsw.edu.au

POPPA’S FUDGE AND JAM FACTORY Young, 6382 5854

WEST ORANGE MOTORS Orange, 6361 1000 www.mbwestorangemotors.com.au

PRANAYOGA CENTRE Bathurst, 0423 205 801 www.pranayogacentre.vpweb.com.au PRESSED TIN PANELS Bathurst, 6332 1738 www.pressedtinpanels.com RAY WHITE YOUNG Young, 6382 5800 www.raywhiteyoung.com.au RED BEND CATHOLIC COLLEGE Forbes, 6852 2000 www.redbendcc.nsw.edu.au REGENCY MEDIQUIP CENTRE Parkes, 1800 675 434 www.regencyparkes.com.au ROSIE’S HONEY MUSTARD Warren, 6824 2055 www.rosies.net.au SADDLER & CO Dubbo, 0419 496 834 www.saddlerandco.com.au

WESTERN PLAINS CULTURAL CENTRE Dubbo, 6801 4444 www.westernplainsculturalcentre.org WESTERN PLAINS WINDOWS & GLASS PTY LTD Dubbo, 6884 8818 www.wpwg.com.au WF GILBERT STATIONER & BOOKSELLER Young, 6382 2021 WHITNEYS JEWELLERS Dubbo, 6882 4620 www.whitneysjewellers.com.au WILD OATS CAFÉ & PAVILION Mudgee, 0428 417 364 www.wildoatscafe.com.au WILDERS BAKERY Young, 6382 1275 www.wilders.com.au

SEEME EYEWEAR Scone, 0475 085 935

WINGS OUT WEST Dubbo, 0409 944 619 www.wingsoutwest.com

SOUTH WEST SLOPES CREDIT UNION Young, 6384 1111 www.swscu.com.au

YLAD LIVING SOILS Young, 1300 811 681 www.yladlivingsoils.com.au

SPRINGFIELD GUEST COTTAGES Young, 0439 823 799

YOUNG EYES Young, 6382 4000 www.youngeyes.com.au

ST STANISLAUS’ COLLEGE Bathurst, 6331 4177 www.stannies.com

WE ENCOURAGE OUR READERS TO SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS. The magazine could not exist without them, and their loyalty shows their commitment to the communities of the Central West.

YOUNG WORKWEAR Young, 6382 2289

THE LAST WORD

In his SHOES LES HOLLANDS LIKES REPAIRING BOOTS, HAVING PERFORMED THIS DUTY FOR MORE THAN 50 YEARS, JUST AS HIS FATHER BEFORE HIM.

“WHEN I left school at 14, Dad taught me everything I know,” he says from his modest home at the end of Young’s main street.

The pair worked with each other before Les branched out on his own, finally moving to Young from Penrith 25 years ago.

These days, Les, at age 78, lives the retired life on his own after the loss of his wife of 35 years almost five years ago.

“I don’t think there are too many old shoe repairmen left,” he laments. “Everything has changed. Except for RM Williams shoes, most

192 CWL

boots aren’t being repaired any more – it’s cheaper to get new ones from China!

“I can remember years ago when shoe factories were everywhere – nothing like it is now. It used to be a good trade but started to slow down in the 1960s. I guess I was lucky to be there at the right time.”

Les can’t understand the way things have changed in today’s world. “Nowadays, a lot of fellas are out of work but in my day everybody had a job.” CWL Words and image: Shot by Jake

Massive Massive Massive June JuneSale!

Sale!

June Sale!

e with amazing specials throughout the centre.

Save withamazing amazing specials throughout thecentre. centre.

Save with specials throughout the early… only while stocks last! early… onlywhile whilestocks stockslast! last!

BeBeearly… only

pecialty stores.

Open 7 days. specialty stores.

Open 7 days.

5050 specialty stores.

Open 7 days.

There’s noThere’s better way tobetter shop!

There’s no way to shop! no better way to shop!

NEW-LOOK NEW-LOOK COROLLA COROLLAHATCH HATCH IT’S IT’SHERE HERE

The New-Look Corolla Hatch doesn’t just look with with The New-Look Corolla Hatch doesn’t just amazing; look amazing; touchscreen display, reverse camera and Bluetooth® capabilities, touchscreen display, reverse camera and Bluetooth® capabilities, it’s amazingly advanced too. And 60/40 split fold it’s amazingly advanced too. with And with 60/40 splitrear fold seats rear seats and loads of boot space, it’s up for you are. and loads of boot space, it’s upanything for anything you are.

FromFrom long long trips trips awayaway to last reservations, it’s built for for tominute last minute reservations, it’s built whatever life throws at it.

It’ll love you no matter what. whatever life throws at it. It’ll love you no matter what.

To find visit toyota.com.au/corolla Toout findmore, out more, visit toyota.com.au/corolla Ascent Sport AscentHatch Sport Hatch

Contact youryour locallocal Central West Dealer for more information.

Contact Central West Dealer for more information. toyotacentralwest.com.au toyotacentralwest.com.au Armstrong ToyotaToyota CowraCowra ToyotaToyota Armstrong (West(West Wyalong) 02 6342 Wyalong) 021988 6342 1988 02 6972 cowratoyota.com.au 022400 6972 2400 cowratoyota.com.au armstrongtoyota.com.au armstrongtoyota.com.auDubbo City Toyota Dubbo City Toyota Bathurst ToyotaToyota 02 6882 Bathurst 02 1511 6882 1511 02 6334 2224 dubbocitytoyota.com.au 02 6334 2224 dubbocitytoyota.com.au bathursttoyota.com.au bathursttoyota.com.au Gilgandra Toyota Gilgandra Toyota CobarCobar ToyotaToyota 02 6847 02 2106 6847 2106 02 6836 4007 gilgandratoyota.com.au 02 6836 4007 gilgandratoyota.com.au parkestoyota.com.au parkestoyota.com.au Jeffery Toyota (Forbes) Jeffery Toyota (Forbes) 02 6851 021644 6851 1644 jefferytoyota.com.au jefferytoyota.com.au

Orange ToyotaToyota Lean &Lean Bennett (Lithgow) & Bennett (Lithgow) Orange 02 6352 02 6362 022211 6352 2211 022988 6362 2988 leanandbennetttoyota.net.au leanandbennetttoyota.net.au orangetoyota.com.au orangetoyota.com.au Macquarie ToyotaToyota (Warren) ToyotaToyota Macquarie (Warren) ParkesParkes 02 6847 02 6862 02 4266 6847 4266 02 9777 6862 9777 macquarietoyota.com.au parkestoyota.com.au macquarietoyota.com.au parkestoyota.com.au Mudgee ToyotaToyota Mudgee 02 6372 021799 6372 1799 mudgeetoyota.com.au mudgeetoyota.com.au Nyngan ToyotaToyota Nyngan 02 6832 021477 6832 1477 nyngantoyota.com.au nyngantoyota.com.au

Ron Stubberfield ToyotaToyota Ron Stubberfield (Wellington) (Wellington) 02 6845 02 2522 6845 2522 ronstubberfieldtoyota.com.au ronstubberfieldtoyota.com.au

The Bluetooth® word mark is owned Bluetooth SIG, Inc. SIG, Not all compatible and functionality varies depending on the device.

The Bluetooth® word mark isby owned

by Bluetooth Inc.devices Not all are devices are compatible and functionality varies depending on the device.

TOYOTA T OYOTA TOYOTA OYOTA ACCESS T ACCESS A SMARTER WAY TO BUY A SMARTER WAY TO BUY