Summer 2016 SPRING 2015
Experience the charisma and charm
BLAYNEY AND VILLAGES, CARCOAR & MILLTHORPE town feature
NOSTALGIC
RECIPES
to delight
A regal welcome to WOODSTOCK SHOW
PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM THE BEAUTIFUL CENTRAL WEST REGION
capturing the best in the west
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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 shotbyjake@hotmail.com ART DIRECTOR Zora Regulic artdirector@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 2016
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
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CONTENTS SUMMER 2016
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100-PAGE TOWN FEATURE: BLAYNEY, CARCOAR & MILLTHORPE Hitch a ride with us through these delightful country villages, overflowing with hearty hospitality and strong community spirit, rich in heritage and culture, and full of charismatic country characters with stories to tell.
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IT’S SHOWTIME
TONS OF TICKER
COSTUME CAPERS
TINY DANCERS
Record crowds flock to the 70th Woodstock Memorial Show.
At age 101, Jeff Perry could well be the country’s oldest driver.
Red hats mean fun and friendship for these lively Dubbo women.
Running her own dance studio is a dream come true for Kristen Woods.
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GARDEN VARIETY
COUNTRY CHARM
FASHION PHILOSOPHY
Ann and Mark Olson’s plentiful Parkes garden is a glorious sight to behold.
Even contemporary homes can benefit from clever country styling.
Maree Statham says true style is more than just the clothes you wear.
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174 RUN TO PARADISE
OH SO SWEET
ABBA ARRIVAL
Jake Lindsay discovers the magic of Bali – its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, relaxed attitude and its focus on life’s simple pleasures.
Lorraine Hills shares some old-fashioned dessert recipes.
Trundle’s bundle of joy: the annual ABBA Festival.
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EVENTS IN THE WEST
WEDDINGS
THE LAST WORD
Pictures from the 34th Cowra Wine Show plus plenty more.
The Central West's blushing brides and gallant grooms tie the knot in true country style.
Julia Boag is proof that bowerbirds have a beautiful song.
ON THE COVER 2016 r 2015 Summe SPRING
Experience the charisma
and charm
, BLAYNEY AND VILLAGES RPE CARCOAR & MILLTHO re featu town
NOSTALGIC
RECIPES to delight
$11.00
inc GST
608002
>
Summer 2016 VOLUME 15
772201
The magazine could not exist without them, and their loyalty shows their commitment to the communities of the Central West.
Photography: Robert Bruce A regal welcome to WOODSTOCK SHOW
• EVENTS • TRAVEL AGRICU LTURE • STYLE GARDEN S • FOOD • L WEST REGION PEOPLE • HOMES • THE BEAUTI FUL CENTRA • AND MORE FROM CULTUR E • BUSINE SS
in the west capt uring the best
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WE ENCOURAGE OUR READERS TO SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS.
The historic Athol Gardens homestead is featured on page 20 in the Blayney and villages Town Feature.
CWL 5
SECTION
From the Publishers Welcome to summer in the Central West! After consistent and very substantial spring rainfall, we are experiencing a magnificent season here in the Central West and the adjoining regions. We hope you enjoyed our Spring edition, featuring the unique towns of Condobolin, Lake Cargelligo and West Wyalong. We have never before seen such a rush on magazines! The sales skyrocketed in the first few weeks after release and we have been restocking many newsagencies on a regular basis ever since. Our Spring launch, held at the beautiful Royal Hotel at West Wyalong, was enjoyed by almost 90 guests. It was indeed a celebration of the strength and diversity of these welcoming Central West communities. We were thrilled to be invited to attend the recent Woodstock Annual Show. This remarkable community paid homage to very special guests Sir Peter Cosgrove (who opened the show) and Lady Cosgrove. The dedicated and hardworking committee can be truly proud of such a well-supported event reflecting true country community spirit. It was such an honour to be able to present Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove and Lady Cosgrove with the Third Anniversary Collection of Central West Lifestyle. We would like to farewell and thank Pip Teys, CWL Travel Writer and Home and Style Writer, for her dedicated and creative efforts over the past 14 editions. We know that many readers enjoyed her inspiring contributions. We will be continuing to provide high-quality travel stories submitted by a number of writers sharing their travel adventures across the globe. Amanda O’Sullivan will continue in her role as Home and Style Writer, together with several other talented contributors whom we will introduce over upcoming editions. This year has been one to remember for many reasons. On a personal note, our daughter Jane married Justin Sanderson on April 2 at the historic Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Dubbo. A wedding is always a lovely reason to celebrate with family and friends. We were fortunate to experience the most glorious autumn weather for this very special occasion.
Family wedding: Kate Boshammer, Richie Tickle, Elizabeth Tickle, Justin and Jane Sanderson, Alex Tickle, Anna Tickle.
To cap off the year, our eldest daughter Kate and her husband Justin Boshammer rejoiced in the birth of son Theo Alexander Boshammer (our first grandchild) on September 28. Kate has been a significant guiding force in the establishment of the magazine and designed the first 10 editions. Kate now enjoys the role of Business Strategist with CWL. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our many local councils, advertisers, newsagencies and readers for their loyalty and support over the past 15 editions. Our Feature Town for Autumn 2017 is Temora. What an impressive welcome we received from this gorgeous town as we began our research and exploration in recent months. Watch out for 100 pages of captivating content on Temora and its local area in edition number 16! The team at CWL would like to wish you all a happy and fulfilling Christmas and trust that 2017 brings you joy, good health and quality time with those you love. Until next time, stay safe and enjoy the 15th edition of Central West Lifestyle. Warm regards,
Elizabeth and Alex Tickle 6 CWL
Enjoying Woodstock Show: Cowra Deputy Mayor Judi Smith, Cowra Mayor Bill West, Sir Peter and Lady Cosgrove, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle.
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GOLDEN moments A BIG HEARTY WELCOME and Merry Christmas to all our dear readers. Faithful followers would know that we have unearthed some pretty ripping yarns from throughout the Central West over the years but our latest little escapade to Blayney, Millthorpe and Carcoar was the icing on the cake! These three little dots on the map deserve to have their praises sung from the top echelons. They have everything you’d expect – history, charm and appeal – and a whole lot more. In Blayney the locals quietly go about their business, be it at the saleyards or on the farm, at work in the garden, home or shop, or making dog food at the factory! Blayney is on the go, much like the neighbouring villages of Millthorpe and Carcoar. Visiting these historic villages is an absolute must. Cross it off your bucket list and get out there! There is so much more bubbling under the surface than meets the eye. Where else can you catch up with kings in grass castles (I kid you not), blokes who make amazing one-off art pieces from discarded farm relics or beautiful homes made out of, well, very old buildings that were begging for help! I’ve met talented musicians, potters and painters (you’ll love catching up with Ada), first-time authors (Nick, you have a remarkable gift) and friendly publicans (I’ll bet you a beer that it’s cold at Reggie’s Commercial Hotel in Millthorpe). I’ve visited museums (even one that features pianos), stunning B&Bs (everybody deserves at least one night at Stoke House) and imposing backyards (love is in the air at the spectacular “Athol Gardens”). I’ve even stumbled upon my dream home – a magnificent, spacious homestead built within a historic woolshed (don’t let the rams in, Mrs Green). I’ve sat in French restaurants and fumbled with my French, and spent many enjoyable hours just chatting to the locals. But it’s not just people! These places are full of magnificent structures, each oozing old world mystery and charm. I mean, how many courthouses in this country can stand up to the one in Carcoar? 8 CWL
It’s little wonder that places like Carcoar have featured in so many fine Australian period films. I’ve even met blokes who shone, for a few seconds, in said films (John, and you’ll meet him on the very last page, is normally pretty quiet but once he gets started look out). If you scratch underneath the surface, you will find that every dwelling and every person has a unique, and often compelling, story to tell. Not every story, however, is ready to be told. It takes the right time and place (and energy) to open up to total strangers about your life and times. That is why I take my hat off to everybody featured in this magazine. You allowed your amazing stories to be shared with our most trusted readers! You (and you know who you are) are what this magazine is all about! In this bumper Summer issue get ready for a wild ride as I take you to the world’s biggest ABBA festival – right here in downtown Trundle, the little community with the big heart. Dancing Queens were strutting their stuff in NSW’s widest street and it’s all in the can (damn, I’m plucking an old photographer’s expression from All This In 60 Minutes). It’s a fabulous new read. Do yourself a favour and get one. In the end, however, it’s life’s “little moments” you tend to remember. These are the times you feel naturally good about connecting with a total stranger or just being somewhere special. Or both. Hearing a country girl sing an emotional Italian opera, right there in the middle of her timber workshop, was one such moment. Fittingly, she will be the last person you meet in this magazine, and, for me, that is a good thing, because people like Julia and John Boag demonstrate, every day, the true “joie de vivre” of life. Till next time, keep your hat on and don’t forget to live your life and be free!
Shot by Jake
SUMMER 2016 CONTRIBUTORS
Meet your team
ELIZABETH TICKLE
ALEX TICKLE
JAKE LINDSAY
GINA CRANSON
Publisher & Editor
Publisher & Advertising
Chief Writer & Photographer
Sub-Editor & Proofreader
KATE BOSHAMMER
ZORA REGULIC
MITCH BRAKENRIDGE
CATHERINE PLAYER
ANNA TICKLE
ELIZABETH SWANE
ANGUS WADDELL
JANE SANDERSON
AMANDA O’SULLIVAN
HAYLEY MAUDSLEY
ALI WANCHAP WOOD
DAYNA TIERNEY
EMILY MITCHELL
HEATHER CROSBY
ROBERT I BRUCE
LORRAINE HILLS
PAUL & ANNE LOVERIDGE
Business Strategist
Writer & Social Media Manager
Home & Style Writer, Photographer
Writer & Photographer
Art Director
Garden Writer
Household Hints Writer
Writer
Country Cuisine Writer
Advertising Designer
Photographer
Fashion Writer
Photographer
Seasonal Food Writers
Writer
Wedding Writer
Writer
SUE MEIKLE
Social Photographer
SECTION
As readers from the very first CWL magazine we took time in September to look at towns featured in the magazines. From Maitland to Mudgee to Orange to Cowra to Parkes to Dubbo and all the little townships in between (Sorry Forbes, you were on our list but the floods stopped us from visiting you). Throughout our travels we stayed at the accommodation, ate at the cafes and coffee shops, and visited the interesting shops and places that have been featured in the magazine. A day at the Cowra show was a real highlight, as were the Japanese Gardens and POW camp. This is an outstanding magazine of the highest quality and townsfolk from each town featured must be extremely proud of the showcase you are receiving from some very talented journos and photographers. Chris Osmond and Harold Mayo, East Maitland Congratulations to Central West Lifestyle on a fantastic Spring 2016 edition. The feature on Condobolin, Lake Cargelligo and West Wyalong has been a great boost to the Lachlan Shire with the exposure of tourist attractions and local characters. This boost has seen an increase in retail sales and visitors to the areas and many visitors and locals have purchased the magazine for gifts for family and friends within Australia and overseas. The quality of the photography is amazing and displays the subject material in the best possible aspect. The advertisements also provide a great snapshot of what is available in the featured areas. We loved having Jake stay with us and appreciate the support that Alex and Elizabeth have given us for the sale of their magnificent magazine. Thank you and well done to everybody involved. Mick and Vicki Hanlon, Condobolin Newsagency
your letters The Spring 2016 issue of Central West Lifestyle featured the beautiful towns of Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo in the Lachlan Shire. It has been a pleasure to read about the many residents included in the articles and the businesses showcased. This has been a great opportunity for the region as the magazine has captured what small communities are about in the Central West; full of hard working individuals with a picturesque landscape to call home. On behalf of Lachlan Shire Council I would like to congratulate Central West Lifestyle on what has been a very successful edition. We wish you all the best in the future. John Medcalf Mayor, Lachlan Shire Council
Gordon and I had the pleasure of meeting you and Alex recently at the Mudgee Field Days. We wanted to congratulate you both again on your fabulous magazine. We thoroughly enjoy each publication. The quality of the articles, photography and set-up is outstanding. Before we moved to the Central West we were able to use your magazine to gain a wonderful insight into the various towns and areas showcased, learn more about the history of the region as well as the inspiring people who live and farm in the district. Now living here, we have found your magazine to be an invaluable source of information enabling us to discover new shops and businesses and also read about various local activities and events. Loads of copies have been sent to family and friends and through their comments we know you have a growing and appreciative audience throughout Sydney and beyond. Your magazine is doing an incredible job promoting this beautiful region and is certainly “capturing the best in the west”. Keep up the great work!
Your Spring publication that focuses on the Bland and Lachlan shires is a credit to you and your team. The quality of the photography and the way you have captured the essence of our region makes the magazine a wonderful read. Please accept our congratulations for producing a magazine that will create great interest among our towns and people. It has already received considerable acclaim from right across our local community and from the businesses featured. This has been a very successful partnership between Bland Shire and CWL. We wish you well for the future and look forward to the day when we may be able to feature our shire once again. Cr Neil Pokoney Former Mayor, Bland Shire Council My husband Len and I and the staff at newsXpress West Wyalong would like to congratulate Central West Lifestyle on the release of their 14th edition of their stunning magazine featuring West Wyalong, Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo. We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received with regard to sales, selling in excess of 600 copies. On a more personal note, having our own home featured was a highlight and created a lot of interest within our local community. Writer/photographer Jake Lindsay is to be congratulated for the professional manner in which he conducted himself and making the day an absolute pleasure to be a part of. The launch of the Spring edition was a wonderful experience in a delightful, relaxing atmosphere at the Royal Hotel, West Wyalong. Customers are now asking when the next edition is being released and are all looking forward to it. Congratulations, CWL, on a job well done! Joanne Lynch, newsXpress West Wyalong
Gordon and Anne West Alstonefield Farm, Oberon
Share your feedback Email: info@centralwestmagazine.com.au
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BLAYNEY
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BLAYNEY
Welcome to
BLAYNEY & VILLAGES TOWN FEATURE WORDS & IMAGES: SHOT BY JAKE
BLAYNEY CWL 13
BLAYNEY
FROM THE MAYOR Nestled in the Central Tablelands of NSW is the unique Blayney Shire. Even though we have a reputation of having cold winters, we are a very warm and welcoming community . . . and proud of it. While it’s not unusual to see snowfall in winter, we have beautiful springs that bring a real English feel to our countryside. Our summers are pleasantly warm, with cool nights. And autumns are spectacular, with our altitude allowing for European trees to show off their amazing colours. We enjoy four very distinct seasons throughout the year as demonstrated by the beautiful gardens and fresh produce on offer. The Blayney Shire sits comfortably between the large vibrant centres of Orange, Bathurst and Cowra, and has strong links back to Australia’s early colonial history of agriculture and mining. The Wiradjuri people are the original inhabitants of these areas, and we share a mutual respect for this beautiful countryside that we live in. Our Shire has the reputation of producing some of the best prime lambs and cattle throughout the country and we are home to Cadia, the largest underground gold mine in Australia. Blayney is fortunate to have large rural enterprises and manufacturing businesses supporting employment and economic growth for our entire region. We are a growing area and provide an affordable and supportive community that is attracting young families to live and work here. 14 CWL BLAYNEY
We love our sport in the Blayney Shire and have many sporting clubs and organisations that work closely with Council to improve their facilities and venues. We are very proud of our indoor swimming and gymnasium facility, CentrePoint Sport & Leisure, which promotes healthy lifestyles and social activities. These modern facilities and excellent health services also support older residents to enjoy retirement in our safe rural community. Blayney is surrounded by many beautifully distinct villages – a main attraction for visitors to our area. Blayney Shire Council has recently rebranded to be “The Shire of Villages”. Our Visitor Information Centre, known as “The Cottage”, is in the main street of Blayney, where our volunteers are guaranteed to offer you a warm welcome. Carcoar, a heritage-listed village, was the third established settlement over the mountains. Preserved in time, Carcoar’s historic streetscape and buildings will easily immerse you in our Australian early colonial story. Millthorpe, with charm and a unique setting, has developed into a major tourist destination to enjoy food, wine and boutique shopping. Throughout the year, people flock to our villages to enjoy the rural atmosphere and historic feel with family history groups and individuals exploring the many museums and cemeteries. Our local agricultural shows in Blayney, Carcoar and Neville are wonderful annual events that attract many participants and visitors. As Mayor, I hope everyone enjoys this edition of Central West Lifestyle, learning more about the beautiful part of NSW that we are lucky to call home. Cr Scott Ferguson, Mayor of Blayney Shire Council
BLAYNEY
The best of BLAYNEY
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layney Shire Council and locals are thrilled the Blayney region is the focus of the Central West Lifestyle Summer edition. Within these pages, you’ll discover many hidden treasures located in the historic villages of Carcoar, Millthorpe, Lyndhurst, Mandurama, Barry and Neville along with other localities, such as Kings Plains, Hobbys Yards, Errowanbang and Forest Reefs. This is just a small window into what the region has to offer. Together, we encourage you to come and experience first-hand the wealth of what we have here nestled between the regional centres of Cowra, Bathurst and Orange in the heart of Wiradjuri country and just a short drive from Sydney and Canberra. Visitors are welcomed by local hospitality built on a strong community spirit, which is shared by generations of about 7400 locals who call the region home. Well known for its thriving agricultural industry, fresh food and cool-climate wines, the landscape is simply spectacular. Expect big, open skies filled with bright stars, rolling green pastures, colourful native flora and fauna, picturesque landscape and waterways, like Carcoar Dam and the Belubula River, which winds its way through Blayney, west to Carcoar and beyond. Heritage abounds with a rich culture and intriguing stories from the days of early Australian settlement. Founded by pioneers exploring west of the Blue Mountains, Blayney was first proclaimed in 1843 and the villages soon flourished in the gold rush of the 1850s. This was a time that brought growth in commercial enterprise to Blayney, and the rail network soon followed in 1876. Experience the vivid history of the first bushrangers, like Ben Hall and his gang who attempted the first ever daylight robbery at the Commercial Bank in Carcoar. Trek the route of Cobb & Co. horse wagons, explore historical architecture preserved for over a century in the heritage-listed towns of Carcoar and Millthorpe.
Blayney and its villages are fast becoming known for the many attractions and events that bring together the community and visitors.
Alive in history, there are many museums to explore including Australia’s only piano museum in Neville, Carcoar’s hospital museum, a 20th century toy museum in Carcoar and the Millthorpe Golden Memories Museum. Blayney and its villages are fast becoming known for the many attractions and events that bring together the community and visitors such as the monthly Farmers’ Markets, biannual Millthorpe Markets, B2B cycling festival (Blayney to Bathurst), Millthorpe Garden Ramble held in December, some of the best little country shows at Neville, Blayney and Carcoar and the Australia Day celebrations in Carcoar. Art and culture is in abundance with many local artists displaying their works at exhibitions and galleries throughout the year. Come for a short trip, stay longer and return once again to indulge, unwind and relax in all that Blayney and villages have to offer. Make sure you tell your friends and family about all of the great experiences you have had during your stay. You never know, you and your family and friends may just want to stay. Find us on Facebook @BlayneyShireCouncil #warmwelcome #historicvillages and visit www.visitblayney.com.au. CWL BLAYNEY CWL 15
Solid foundations HERITAGE-RICH BLAYNEY CONTINUES TO STAND THE TEST OF TIME. BOLSTERED BY A STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY.
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BLAYNEY
BLAYNEY & VILLAGES • Barry • Carcoar • Hobbys Yards
• Kings Plains • Lyndhurst • Mandurama • Millthorpe • Neville • Newbridge
Indulge your senses ...Share our history #historicvillages #warmwelcome
www.visitblayney.com.au www.blayney.nsw.gov.au/VisitorGuide
Blayney Shire Visitor Information Centre 97 Adelaide Street, Blayney • Ph 02 6368 3534 • Fx 02 6368 4360
BLAYNEY CWL 17
BLAYNEY
Days gone by
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BLAYNEY
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Wedded bliss THE ENCHANTING “ATHOL GARDENS”, BLAYNEY, PROVIDES A UNIQUE COUNTRY WEDDING VENUE THAT GUESTS FALL IN LOVE WITH AND REMEMBER FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS.
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t “Athol Gardens” congenial hosts David and Karen Somervaille are passionate about every aspect of weddings and are genuinely excited to be part of such special events. “I love socialising and enjoy creating a personal and unique experience for what is a very special day in a person’s life – something I get to do at the 20 or so weddings booked in each year,” Karen says. Guests can expect a unique garden party atmosphere with chic country style and attention to detail. Romantic couples can even design and decorate their own dream garden wedding in a private parkland setting. The gardens have to be seen to be truly appreciated. Karen suggests a garden is an autobiography of the person who created or nurtures it. “To tend a garden is to give an expression of yourself. Our garden is a retreat not just for us but for others,” she says. “It’s a place where we can relax and enjoy the fruits of our labours. It is a real privilege to share our garden and ourselves with others.”
David and Karen welcome guests from all over the world, but their core clientele come from the Central West, the Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands and sometimes Sydney. Getting to this stage didn’t happen overnight. The Somervailles began making plans to move into the historic property in 2003, becoming only the fourth family since 1875 to live in the magnificent old homestead. (The 350-acre estate formerly belonged to David’s parents, who used it as their weekender for nearly 30 years. Bob Somervaille AO was a prominent lawyer, and at one point, chairman of Telstra, GIO and the ABC). Their first wedding was staged in 2004, and was a real family affair with Karen, on that occasion, carrying out cooking duties, David at the bar and daughters Veronica, Hannah and Gabriella waitressing. It was a resounding success but the pair still had their home in Five Ways, Paddington, and hadn’t completely committed to their country weekender. > BLAYNEY CWL 21
The Somervailles BEGAN MAKING PLANS TO MOVE INTO THE historic property IN 2003.
A year later Rotary asked them to host a black-tie fundraising dinner and everybody suggested they move into functions. After the first few they built a garden terrace to accommodate 100 guests, which doubles as their playground and is the perfect spot for relaxing family barbecues.
While most of the family are away leading their own lives on the South Coast or Sydney (you may have seen their son-in-law on the Lifestyle Channel program Village Vets), one daughter, Mia, lives nearby and helps set up on wedding weekends.
Their new country lifestyle seemed to be pulling them from Sydney, where Karen was an events manager and David a former managing partner and chairman of the international law firm now known as Ashurst. He was a partner in the firm for 35 years, and although officially retired, still acts as a consultant.
Karen is the gardener, wedding planner and runs the vineyard, having completed a wine business management course through Curtin University.
“Although we lived in Sydney for the bulk of our lives we weren’t your typical beach goers, always preferring weekend escapes to the country,” Karen says. Thirty years ago the family established a two-acre vineyard on an idyllic block between Carcoar and Mandurama. Located on the Belubula River, Somervaille Estate Wines became one of the first wineries in the Central West, producing mostly shiraz, which goes down rather well at their weddings and functions. “We still love escaping there, even though it’s only 20 minutes away. We have a house there and often stay for weekends. It’s a magical spot for our four daughters (and their children) and closest friends,” David says. The fun-loving pair love revisiting France where they were married, although these days they are just as content sitting on their verandah at sunset, enjoying a fine wine with their favourite pooch, Chilli, for company. David has been a councillor for the past four years and is also chair of the regional water authority, Central Tablelands Water. 22 CWL BLAYNEY
“I aspire to the Hugh Mackay AO philosophy: we are social creatures and to reach our potential, must engage with each other and our community. We need to work for a society that sustains and nurtures the many, not just the fortunate few.” A few years ago David and Karen both received a “Paul Harris Fellow” from the local Rotary Club, in recognition of their outstanding fundraising activities (the gardens and function centre are used for such events at least twice yearly, with over $100,000 raised over the past five years). “It was quite an honour to receive it as neither of us were Rotarians, although David has since joined the fold,” Karen says. Hard work, love of the garden and a passion for people have given David and Karen a fortunate life. “Living our life at the heart of the thriving community of Blayney among people we trust and within an environment of mutual respect is a treasure we both embrace,” David says. With their usual joie de vivre, the Somervailles have fully immersed themselves in the Central West lifestyle. Their pace may be slower but it’s lost none of its richness. CWL
A tranquil setting for a special occasion A unique function centre in a 350 acre estate near Blayney in the picturesque Central Tablelands of NSW.
84 Newbridge Road Blayney NSW 02 6368 2639 www.atholgardens.com.au
Don’t just drive by, come on in... 107 Adelaide Street, Blayney NSW 2799 T: (02) 6368 3355 rb@bcm.net.au
www.blayneycentralmotel.com.au BLAYNEY CWL 23
BLAYNEY
RUSTIC romance NEWBRIDGE BLACKSMITH TOM MILLER AND WIFE MONIKA HAVE FOUND THEIR PLACE IN THE SUN.
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reating inspiring metal pieces has become a life’s dream for talented blacksmith Tom Miller, who runs his “Metal as Anything” studio with his masseuse wife Monika from their farm at Newbridge.
Raised on a small farm near Denmark, WA, Tom spent two decades in the building game in Darwin where he and Monika met and romance blossomed, but tiring of the Top End’s debilitating humidity, the couple was keen for an exciting tree change. They were hoping to raise chickens, grow their own vegetables and enjoy a slower pace of life, surrounded by nature. In essence, they were looking for a Central West lifestyle! “We had both previously been through this area,” Monika says. “Bathurst was on the cards but when we found this 50-acre block near Newbridge, we knew we’d struck gold.” Since moving to “Timberline” in 2007, the industrious pair has developed a whole new outlook and appreciation of life. After tidying up the block, Tom was looking for something to do. Both he and Monika had been captivated by a blacksmith at a local market so Tom completed a short blacksmithing course over two weekends at Orange TAFE. Tom knew he’d found his calling, and spent a further three years finishing a Certificate 3 course in blacksmithing, metal fabrication and engineering at Richmond TAFE. The study fired up his imagination. During the course Tom and Monika created an open-air gallery in an Elm grove on their property, which today features many of his bigger sculptures and ornamental garden pieces. The latest instalment is the Smithy (a shed where a blacksmith plies his trade) and Tom conducts demonstrations on their open days, particularly during the warmer days in spring and autumn. Some of his sculptures can take weeks to complete and typically feature discarded pieces of rustic farm machinery. Rusty old cogs, springs, running boards, plough discs and shearing blades are all brought back to life with some bashing from Tom’s hammer and anvil. Yellow Box and Stringybark tree stumps are also perfect for some of his one-off pieces. Monika works a few days a week in nearby Blayney but thoroughly enjoys coming home to the little village of Newbridge, where the social life revolves around the local pub, the Gladstone Hotel. “Working the metal in the forge fire and then on the anvil, is for me, the most satisfying aspect of the creative process,” says Tom, an easy-going fellow with talent to burn. “The hours disappear in an instant, until I get a call from Monika who informs me that it’s dark outside and time for dinner.” Tom’s the new captain of the Newbridge Rural Fire Service and enjoys being part of the local community but the couple also relishes the secluded life. “It’s magical out here, even more so when it snows, which happens a few times each winter. On those days, Tom just moves closer to the forge,” Monika laughs. CWL
Facing page, clockwise from left: Tom Miller in his open air gallery; Scrap-Yard Blitz - The Rings sculpture; Tom and Monika with Tom’s guitar sculpture; one of the Running Stumps sculptures. This page from top: The open air gallery; Tom working on the anvil; sculpture titled Planet Fracked By The Hand Of Man. BLAYNEY CWL 25
BLAYNEY
Something to write
HOME ABOUT
BLAYNEY’S NEWEST B&B HAS JUST OPENED ITS DOORS AT THE OLD POST OFFICE, AND NEW OWNER RACHEL BURKE COULDN’T BE MORE EXCITED, IF NOT A TAD NERVOUS.
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er new venture, the Post Office B&B, will provide another accommodation venue for the town, right in Blayney’s main street. Rachel has plenty to celebrate, having recently clocked up 30 years with Australia Post, including 26 years as a corporate employee. “I’ve only ever had one job,” she says. “My mother saw an ad in the paper, and having just finished school at Kelso High, I thought I’d give it a go.” She started as a “young and naive” country girl from Vittoria, population 20, before moving to Sydney when she was 18. For the next decade she gained valuable experience at the Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo Post Offices before becoming the youngest female country postal manager at Young, and finally returning to Orange.
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“IT’S MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IN TOWN AND HAS BEEN OPERATING AS A POST OFFICE FOR 134 YEARS.”
After her 26-year career, she resigned from Australia Post and purchased the Blayney Post Office, including the upstairs residence, in 2013. For the first 18 months she carried out the demanding postal duties on her own, accompanied by her faithful dog Nudge, but is now capably assisted on the front counter by three local ladies. “It’s my favourite building in town and has been operating as a post office for 134 years,” she says. “Although it was a big investment, I firmly believe Blayney will benefit from this style of accommodation.” The grand building was opened in 1882 with a new post office and telegraph station, including a post master’s residence on the first floor. In the early days there was an upstairs balcony, complete with wroughtiron balustrade. A few years later saw further additions to the building, including an arcaded loggia, sheltering the northern side of the building. In 1997 Australia Post sold the building and it became a licensed post office, with Rachel becoming the third owner. The upstairs section, formerly used as a private residence, has been turned into a B&B with three lavishly appointed bedrooms, including one room with a queen bed, a second with a queen bed and single and a third with two single double bunks, making it ideal for a family or group. Rachel likes to sew and has made all the curtains and soft furnishings like cushions and table runners. Her primary focus will always be providing the exceptional service that her postal customers have learnt to expect. No doubt Rachel’s professionalism and attention to detail will extend to her clients upstairs. CWL Images: Shot by Jake and Robert I Bruce
Blayney Post Office B&B
6368 2466 60 Adelaide St Blayney NSW 2799 BLAYNEY CWL 27
BLAYNEY
Grand DESIGNS TEASDALE PARK IS WELL AND TRULY IN ITS HAY DAY.
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hird-generation Blayney beef producer Tim Mendham is a man used to thinking big, but constructing a mansion out of hay bales was the final straw.
For two months the grand edifice stretched across a hillside on the family property, “Teasdale Park”, between Barry and Hobbys Yards, drawing gasps from passing motorists who must have felt they were in Disneyland. It had everything from towers, turrets, moat and drawbridge, but Tim never stayed there because the massive eight-metre-high edifice was built entirely from 278 home-grown round and square hay bales over three weekends (and with a little help from a front-end loader and telehandler). The realistic-looking castle romped home to collect first prize in Blayney’s inaugural Hay Bale Art Challenge, staged earlier this year. It was lucky Tim changed his mind from his original concept of a pushbike. “The bales were a bit brown and it would’ve been lost against the brown countryside. I went for the castle, which was more visible,” he says with his trademark grin. Judges had a difficult task scoring the 11 creative and often humorous displays lining the NAB B2B (Blayney to Bathurst) cycling route from Blayney, through Barry, Hobbys Yards and out to Newbridge.
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Ranging from brides and grooms to bees and sheep, the artworks were judged for originality, design and effort. The “Every Man Needs A Castle” exhibit couldn’t be beaten for its sheer size. Although the Mendhams pocketed $250 for their fairytale effort, the real winner on the day was the Blayney community. The amount of effort, fun and dedication local farmers put into their displays was astounding and demonstrates the strong community spirit so evident in these villages. Proudly supported by Blayney Shire Council and the Blayney Town Association, the concept was about making the ride for nearly 1000 cyclists something to remember. Tim, wife Shannon and three children grow plenty of hay for their 500-strong Angus cattle herd, and are well known for their creative hay-bale displays, having built a swimming pool for their son’s birthday (using a huge tarp to keep the water in) and a monstrous Santa Claus and Christmas tree. But the family is not just using hay bales for art’s sake. Tim and Blayney owner/driver Matt Bird donated and transported 66 bales for the Burrumbuttock Hay Runner project, where 280 trucks delivered more than 21,000 hay bales to drought-stricken farmers throughout Central Queensland. “We had a relatively good season so wanted to get involved and help where we could,” Tim says. Who knew hay bales could become an expression of art? The Blayney Hay Bale Art Challenge is expected to become part of the landscape for years to come, with the locals already suggesting the bike ride is Blayney’s answer to the famed Tour de France. Footnote: The castle, and all it stood for, was later devoured by a mob of thankful steers. CWL Facing page: Shannon and Tim Mendham with their children Sam and Ollie (daughter Lucy was away at school).; Silage, wheat, hay and straw is mixed up in the tub grinder and fed to the steers. Only problem is the ground is so wet. After the heaviest monthly rainfall ever, Tim has been forced to resort to the tractor to get through the boggy conditions. Right: The “Every Man Needs A Castle” exhibit was the standout entry on the day. BLAYNEY CWL 29