AUTUMN
The charm of White Birch Cottage, Orange
Jillian Kilby:
DUBBO’S HIGH ACHIEVER COUNTRY EVENT:
Burrangong Picnic Races, Young
Snowy Valleys Tumut • Tumbarumba • Adelong Batlow and Villages
PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM OUR BEAUTIFUL REGIONAL AREAS
Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales
SERVICE • INFORMATION • MARKETING facebook.com/jemalongwool
twitter.com/jemalongwool
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@outlook.com.au 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 surrounding regions of the Far West, New England & North West, Riverina & Southern Slopes, Southern Highlands, Canberra, Northern and Eastern suburbs of Sydney, in addition to a selection of other rural and coastal areas of New South Wales. Subscriptions and back issues are also available to read online, on desktop and mobile devices. Unsold magazines are distributed to cafes, health waiting rooms, quality hotels/motels, bed and breakfast establishments, hair and beauty salons and tourist outlets.
Central West Lifestyle showcases authentic content from across rural and regional New South Wales. The heart of the magazine is in the Central West of the state, but a great story knows no boundaries. We are continually amazed by the innovation, inspiration and spirit that we find time and time again in communities both within the Central West and further afield. It is our passion and privilege to bring these stories to you.
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE To order a subscription or back issue (mailed or online), visit www.centralwestmagazine.com.au. © Central West Lifestyle Pty Ltd 2019 All Rights Reserved No part of this magazine may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the publisher. 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.
Pegasus Print Group, is an environmentally responsible printing company that is committed to helping achieve a sustainable environment. To underscore our commitment to environmental sustainability, Pegasus Print Group is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified as well as being ISO 14001 accredited. Paper and paper-based materials carrying the FSC symbol can be tracked back to their source, guaranteeing they come from forests which are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations. Pegasus Print Group is also an accredited ISO 9001:2008 supplier, which ensures each step of our production process is aligned with world’s best practice to deliver the finest quality possible. Together, these accreditations offered by Pegasus Print Group, offer our clients a guarantee that their printed products are produced by world’s best practice environmental and finest quality standards.
2 CWL
Autumn 2019 13
220
168
TOWN FEATURE: SNOWY VALLEYS
13 NATURE AT ITS BEST Blessed with extraordinary natural assets, the Snowy Valleys is much more than just a winter wonderland.
GARDEN
150 ELLERSLIE ENCHANTED Damien and Sue Fraumeni’s garden has thrived over time under their tender loving care. 174 AMAZING GRACE Enthusiasm, planning and country ingenuity combine with a touch of whimsy to make Jodie and Jane Costello’s Rustic Maze and Country Garden in Monteagle well worth a visit.
174
HOME & STYLE
182 LOVE AT FIRST INSPECTION Tricia Walker knew she’d found “the one” when she first inspected White Birch Cottage in Orange. 194 MEET THE MAKER The Capertee Valley’s Elizabeth McKay is turning natural fibres into intriguing wearable artworks.
188
TRAVEL
198 SITES TO BEHOLD While a trip to Jordan cannot be complete without a visit to the ancient city of Petra, there are many extraordinary and unique experiences to be had in this romantic and arid land.
EXPERIENCE
162 ONE TRUE LOVE The story of Tom and Audrey Volkofsky is one of undying love and devotion. 168 ONWARD AND UPWARD Jillian Kilby is smart, driven and passionate about rural Australia. 204 DIVINE SERVICE Travellers will find Gundagai’s Church House B&B to be the answer to their prayers. 212 THE RIGHT STEP Dr Sol Qurashi says an active life is possible after hip and knee replacements.
230 ON THE COVER AUTUMN
EVENTS
4 CWL
Image: Peter McDade Jillian Kilby:
DUBBO’S HIGH ACHIEVER COUNTRY EVENT:
Burrangong Picnic Races, Young
Snowy Valleys Tumut • Tumbarumba • Adelong Batlow and Villages
$12.95 inc GST
772201
608002
>
AUTUMN 2019 VOLUME 24
9
216 CWL SUMMER 2018 LAUNCH Pics from the event at Leeton’s beautiful Roxy Theatre. 220 BURRANGONG PICNIC RACES Faces and fashions from a wonderful spring race day. 224 A SEASON IN THE COUNTRY What to see and do this autumn in country NSW. 230 WEDDED BLISS See who’s tied the knot in your region.
The charm of White Birch Cottage, Orange
BEAUTY AND SERENITY: The Tumbarumba Creek, Tooma
PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM OUR BEAUTIFUL REGIONAL AREAS
Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales
R E F R I G E R AT I O N
&
A I R
C O N D I T I O N I N G
A U T U M N publishers’ letter
FROM THE PUBLISHERS
welcome to autumn “If you feel more fortunate than others, make your table longer, not your fence higher.”
Welcome to another magnificent autumn with its show of colours, in the Central West and beyond.
Leeton Feature Thank you to our many loyal readers for embracing the Summer 2018 edition so enthusiastically! In Leeton alone, over 1200 copies were sold in the first three weeks, a very impressive sales record! Many people have already told us of their newly created travel plans to visit lovely Leeton and surrounds. So much to see and do in and around Leeton, located in the heart of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA). See ‘Your Letters’ page for feedback from Leeton Council Mayor Cr Paul Maytom and Leeton Council Manager of Communications and Marketing Brent Lawrence.
Snowy Valleys Feature This massive edition (total size 244 pages) includes the largest feature ever! Across 147 pages we have been privileged to showcase all that is on offer in the Snowy Valleys Council area, including Tumut, Tumbarumba, Adelong and Batlow and the surrounding villages. We were overwhelmed with business support and thank all those proactive businesses, which chose to promote their communities in this way. We were also in awe of the absolute beauty of the region with breathtaking scenery, many natural and manmade attractions, flanked by the magnificent Kosciuszko National Park.
Winter 2019 Feature We have been busy researching all that is on offer in the Narrandera Council area. Thank you to this visionary council for their active collaboration. We look forward to showing you the gems of Narrandera across 100+ pages in our Winter 2019 edition.
The beauty of Autumn in the Snowy Valleys. Image: Peter McDade.
Team Changes Our CWL team changes slightly from issue to issue depending on who has contributed on a seasonal basis. We thank our past contributors and continually welcome new faces on board. It is with pride that we are able to say our team is talented and, above all, passionate about giving rural and regional communities a stylish presence in each and every edition.
Buy Local Thank you to the many businesses that have committed to a further four editions of advertising support. We are very grateful for your loyalty. CWL urges readers to support our advertisers where possible and so ensure the long-term viability of local businesses. Enjoy the beauty of autumn as you work and relax. Make every day count and don’t forget to spend quality time with those you love.
Warm regards, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle Facebook “f ” Logo
FOLLOW US 6 CWL
CMYK / .eps
Facebook “f ” Logo
High achieving McKay family: Daughter Elizabeth Miller, sons Christopher, Andrew, William and David McKay with parents Maureen and Ritchie McKay. Apologies from CWL for the captioning error in the Summer 2018 edition (page 137).
CMYK / .eps
Facebook @CentralWestLifestyle
Instagram @centralwestlifestyle
DISTRIBUTED IN AUSTRALIA BY WINTON HOUSE
Beautiful Handmade Rugs for Inside and Outside your Home WOOL | JUTE | COTTON | INDOOR OUTDOOR
www.dashandalbert.com.au o F rie n dly
th
ic a
lly Pro d u c
e
d
Ec
E
@wintonhouseaustralia
Ha
nd m ade
A U T U M N Jake’s message
HIGH SOCIETY I found the inspiration to write this column from glorious Brindabella Farmstay near the apple town of Batlow in the Snowy Mountains. The spectacular mountain views, cool evening breeze and rolling green paddocks stretched out before me are food for the soul. It doesn’t get any better. I think how fortunate other guests must feel, knowing the owners are willing to share their ultimate country hideaway with others. I think I finally get it. The joy of letting go and doing nothing! It has taken a while, learning the subtle art of chilling out in silence. No phone, Spotify or TV, just the uplifting noise of chattering parrots in their own paradise. I’ve stayed in dozens of country towns and villages – in motels, pubs, B&Bs and farmstays, and I’ve loved every single one. I’m always fully charged, juggling appointments, keeping photographic files and notes up to date while slowly ticking off my long list of assignments. Sometimes I “miss” the experience! But not this time. I know there’s a wealth of great yarns in each and every place I go. I know there will be a few old timers I get to chew the fat with. I know I’ll meet a few savvy farmers, agents, the local sporting hero and business owners forging ahead. But here, down in the Snowy Mountains Shire, it just feels different – reminiscent of New Zealand, with endless green hills, pine plantations, prime cattle and vibrant rural towns. I think the real joy is to enjoy the experience while you have it and then go home and appreciate that just as much – just on a different level! I’ve always enjoyed aerial photography and I had the opportunity to see Tumut from the front seat of an ageing Tiger Moth that was used as a training plane for young Australian pilots during the war. I’ve been up in all types of aircraft, some roomier than others, but this was the first time I was alone at the front of a plane! My pilot, Andrew Pitcher, was seated behind me but I doubt he could see much! Shooting against the breeze was a new experience and not one I’d recommend. Between the cumbersome goggles and pull on my camera, it was challenging enough to hold the camera without it blowing away! Tony Clee from Tumut Aerodrome Club kindly later took me up in his tiny Jabiru for a great look at the glorious countryside from 2000 feet. Thanks fellas, top job! Meeting other photographers is always special and we have featured two of the best in this issue. Tumbarumba’s Peter McDade is a true artist, painting exquisite landscapes from the remarkable photos he captures. Tumut’s Robyn MacRae is similarly gifted, recording her subjects, usually landscapes, with sensitivity, beauty and style. I’m very proud to showcase their outstanding craft, alongside the work of our regular and gifted shooters Robert Bruce and Zenio Lapka.
8 CWL
“I think the real joy is to enjoy the experience while you have it and then go home and appreciate that just as much – just on a different level!” You’ll find your usual assortment of ripping yarns in the Snowy feature. There are plenty of talented people in this neck of the woods and you’ll read all about them, in this, our biggest town feature ever. I really dip my hat to the Boggy Creek Show, a highlight of my trip and featuring some of the most genuine talent! Remember that every dream doesn’t become a reality through magic. It takes sweat, determination and lots of hard yakka. Tim and partner Jo (and their menagerie of farm animals) have worked tirelessly to make this one of the “must-see” shows of the year. Enjoy this special time of the year as the colours of autumn come alive. And as a great mate always tells me as he signs off the phone: “Live your life and be free”.
Cheers, Jake
ABOVE: As drought grips most of the country, the lush countryside around Tumut was a joy to behold; perched in the historic Tiger Moth with my pilots.
Make your Will and take care of what’s important. Making a Will might be something you know you should do, but just haven’t got around to. You’re not the only one. Studies show that on average 45% of Australians do not have a Will that accurately reflects their current stage of life or assets. NSW Trustee & Guardian understands things can get in the way. Work, family commitments, even things around the house take up time. Even with a lot going on, its important to have a Will prepared. A clear, legally valid and up-to-date Will is the best way to look after those you care about. It will help ensure your assets are protected and distributed according to your wishes. If you die without a Will, the law sets out which of your family members are entitled to your assets, despite what you may have wanted. If there were charities or friends you wanted to benefit from your Will, they would miss out.
There are also certain milestones in our lives that make it even more important. If you’ve welcomed a new member of the family, had a change in relationship status, made travel plans, bought a house or thought about retirement, it’s advisable to talk to a professional Will-maker like NSW Trustee & Guardian. Your Will is one of the most important documents you will ever sign. NSW Trustee & Guardian will make it easy for you. They’ve been writing Wills for ages.
Contact NSW Trustee & Guardian on 1300 10 20 30 or start your Will online at tag.nsw.gov.au
NSW Trustee & Guardian
NSW Trustee & Guardian. 100 years on and still writing Wills. While some things have changed, others remain the same for a good reason. NSW Trustee & Guardian have been writing Wills for over 100 years. We’ve got the experience, meaning there’s no Will too big or too small for us to handle. When it comes to Wills, we’ve seen it all. NSW Trustee & Guardian. Writing Wills for ages
Start your Will today. Visit your local branch, call 1300 10 20 30 or visit tag.nsw.gov.au
Fees and charges may apply, see our website for details.
CWL 9
AUTUMN 2019 CONTRIBUTORS
meet your team
ELIZABETH TICKLE
Publisher, Editor, Advertising
KATE BOSHAMMER
JAKE LINDSAY
Chief Writer & Photographer
ZORA REGULIC Art Director
Website Developer
Sub-Editor & Proofreader
GINA CRANSON
ANNA TICKLE Writer
Advertising Designer
EMMA BARRETT
ZENIO LAPKA
ROBERT I BRUCE
ELIZABETH SWANE
HEATHER CROSBY
CATHERINE PLAYER
JANE SANDERSON
ANNABELLE AMOS
ALEXANDRIA KELLY
CHRISTINE GHRAYCHE Home & Style Writer, Photographer
Health and Wellness Writer
JOHN BALTAKS
ROSIE O’KEEFFE
JOHN CURLEY
Photographer
Writer
NICOLE BONFIELD Travel Writer
10 CWL
ALEX TICKLE
Publisher, Distribution, Advertising
Garden Writer
Social Media
Travel Photographer
Writer
Writer
Writer
DR SOL QURASHI
Accountant
Photographer
Wedding Writer
JENNIFER HARDEN
Home and Style Writer
SUE MEIKLE
Social Photographer
your letters The Central West Lifestyle Magazine team collated excellent stories and promotion regarding tourism, education, agriculture, farms, businesses, sport, local characters and volunteers in our council area coupled with some outstanding photography. The positive feedback that I have received from locals and visitors to the town has been nothing short of overwhelming. Many of our townspeople have purchased large quantities of this magazine to share with their family and friends who no longer live in Leeton however are proud to call our welcoming and inclusive town their home. Council believes that investing in the Central West Lifestyle Magazine will have a great flow-on effect to our local economy as this publication will stay in homes, professional businesses, food and coffee outlets for a long period so that our town’s stories, personalities and experiences receive continued promotion. Thank you, Elizabeth and your team, for your dedication to helping put Leeton on the regional tourism map! Cr Paul Maytom, Leeton Shire Mayor
It was my great pleasure to collaborate with Elizabeth and her team to deliver such a high quality Leeton Town Feature in the Summer edition of the Central West Lifestyle Magazine. In June this year I met Elizabeth. Leeton Shire Council had just set out to collaborate with Central West Lifestyle to produce a dedicated feature on Leeton in the Summer edition of this publication showcasing Leeton’s history, town personalities and local businesses that all contribute to making our community the great place it is to live, work and play. Put simply, this magazine is stunning and a high quality publication and for me it has unlocked a lot of unique stories and experiences that Leeton has to offer to visitors and locals alike. The professionalism and attention to detail of Elizabeth and the Central West Lifestyle Magazine staff is
something to be envied and admired. Sincere thanks to Elizabeth, Alex and their extremely hardworking staff for giving the Leeton Shire community the opportunity to be part of such a unique magazine that showcases towns like Leeton, which offer the best of rural and regional NSW. Brent Lawrence, Manager Communications and Marketing, Leeton Shire Council
I wish to congratulate you on your latest articles on Leeton in your Summer issue. I read with interest the motivation of Ted Celi to build such a mountain in business, and what a wonderful partner is Anne, who was by his side all the way. The great story on Brad Booth is also to be admired, as are many others. It is really a beautiful magazine full of worthwhile stories to read, and the photography is second to none. To Elizabeth and Alex Tickle and staff, keep up the good work. Each edition is well read in my house. Elvy Quirk, Forbes
Thank you for producing such an informative, wellpresented magazine. Since my partner and I live in both Florida and Australia, we use Central West Lifestyle to bring us up-to-date on NSW events and activities when we come back to her family farm on the Liverpool Plains. After reading your new Summer 2018 edition, we are certainly going to make a detour to visit Leeton the next time we head south. Before retiring, I headed a successful marketing, advertising and public relations agency in the Tampa Bay area of the USA. I’ve worked with numerous publications and yours is certainly among the best – great articles, compelling graphics and a true sense of what your audience needs to know about what’s happened and “is happening” in regional NSW. Ralph Campbell, Tampa Bay, USA
SPECIAL CWL READER OFFERS CWL Collectors Edition
Share your feedback:
info@centralwestmagazine.com.au
See page 237 Bishops Court Estate
See page 230 CWL Subscriptions
See page 210
Facebook “f ” Logo
Follow us:
CMYK / .eps
Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .eps
Facebook @CentralWestLifestyle
Instagram @centralwestlifestyle
LillyPilly Wines
See page 218
LUXE READ ROOM OFFER SUBS SAVE WINE OFFER CWL 11
12 CWL TUMUT
TUMUT TOWN FE ATURE WORDS & IMAGES: SHOT BY JAKE
TUMUT CWL 13
nature beckons from the Mayor of Snowy Valleys Blessed with extraordinary natural assets, the Snowy Valleys is much more than just a winter wonderland. My family have been graziers in this region for five generations, so these hills and valleys are close to my heart. We are blessed with fertile farmlands growing some of the best fresh produce in the country, spectacular scenery and waterways, and wonderful people who are passionate about their towns and villages. In years gone by, those living in the cities had, for the most part, some connection with family or friends in the country, and had a sound idea of where their food came from. This has changed over time and unfortunately for some this connection has been lost. Many people are living fast-paced lives, with little opportunity to recharge away from their electronic devices. The Snowy Valleys is the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and get close to nature. Here you’ll have the chance to connect with those who grow the apples, grapes, cherries, blueberries, beef, lamb, chestnuts, hazelnuts, truffles or honey you’re about to eat. You’ll chat with the makers of the beer, wine, cider, bread, kombucha and jams that you’re enjoying, and you’ll see how their personal touch helps to deliver such quality products.
The first Snowy Valleys Council was elected in September 2017 and as councillors we are proud to represent the people of this community. We are entering a phase of immense and unprecedented opportunity and as a council have been working to capitalise on those opportunities to grow our region and to help our communities thrive into the future. We are proud to have developed the first Destination Management Plan (DMP) for the Snowy Valleys, which provides a clear direction for tourism investment in the region. The Snowy Valleys, with our (relatively) quiet roads, tough hill climbs, and long sweeping descents – as well as the myriad tracks through State Forests and National Parks – is an attractive cycling and walking destination, drawing devotees of all types. Within the next 18 months this state’s first Rail Trail, running from Tumbarumba to Rosewood, will open, delivering another cycling experience for locals and visitors alike. Council’s commitment to recreational tourism will see an investment of more than $6 million in the region over the next two-year period. Our crystal-clear waterways are the envy of many, and a magnet for fishermen. Fly fishers tackle the Swampy Plains River near Khancoban, and the Tumut and
Goobarragandra Rivers, on the hunt for elusive trout, while massive Murray Cod are frequently caught in Blowering Dam. The mighty Murray River forms the Snowy Valleys’ southern border and offers excellent fishing at Jingellic. Other popular fishing spots include Khancoban Pondage, Talbingo Reservoir, Paddys River Dam and Tooma Dam. The towns and villages throughout the region all have their own distinct histories and personalities, and are well worth exploring. Our museums and places of historical significance, such as the Pioneer Women’s Hut in Tumbarumba and the Adelong Falls Gold Mill Ruins, are highlights of any visit to the area. The upgrade of Brindabella Road, providing a touring route between Tumut and Canberra, is a project that has been bandied around for decades but is now closer than ever. Council has prioritised the upgrade of this road as a vital link between the nation’s capital and the many tourism assets of the Snowy Valleys. The Snowy Valleys boast a pristine, natural environment ready to explore, coupled with excellent food and drink, and not much in the way of crowds. I know you’ll love it here just as much as we do. Cr James Hayes OAM, Snowy Valleys Council Mayor
“We are entering a phase of immense and unprecedented opportunity and as a council have been working to capitalise on those opportunities to grow our region and to help our communities thrive into the future.” 14 CWL TUMUT
Tumut T O W N F E A T U R E
year of WONDERS The Snowy Valleys region has so much to offer, in winter, spring, summer or fall.
The Snowy Valleys is a region of contrasts, encompassing Australia’s highest mountain in the east and stretching towards the fertile plains of the Riverina in the west. In some areas, we see snow in winter, making the landscape seem magical and prompting people to snuggle up by the fire. Mt Selwyn plays host to families as children learn to ski and snowboard. The adventurous strap on snowshoes and head for the back country, making sure their packs are well-prepared in case the weather turns. Those with good luck, or great planning, see Laurel Hill’s Sugar Pine Walk covered in a blanket of white – it only happens a few times a year. In spring, plants that have been waiting throughout winter finally burst forth. The rolling hills, valleys and plains are a riot of colour, from freshly blooming tulips in the main streets, to green pastures with bouncing new spring lambs. It’s the time of budburst in the Tumbarumba Wine Region, with vignerons working hard to ensure another award-winning vintage of these famous cold-climate wines. We spend time outdoors and explore the great tracks and trails of our National Parks and State Forests. The new season is celebrated through a broad range of events like Tumbarumba Tastebuds, the Batlow Apple Blossom Festival and the Three Bridges at Tooma Boutique Markets. The fruit trees are a sight to behold – their gorgeous blossoms a delight. As the weather continues to warm, the waterways of the Snowy Valleys become popular places to relax. The rivers, creeks and dams throughout the region provide for a range of activities, whether it’s for boating, skiing, paddling, swimming or fishing, our crystal clear waters are the envy of many. During the Christmas period the shores of Blowering Dam are dotted with campers, and otherwise secluded spots in Kosciuszko National Park become mini-villages filled with families of holiday-makers. In January, the Tumut Cycle Classic sees riders from across NSW, ACT and Victoria experience the sensational views of Tumut and surrounds while raising money for the local hospital. Towards the end of summer, Tumbarumba’s quiet park, just behind the main street, becomes the venue for Tumbafest. Sprawled under shady trees are market stalls featuring fresh local produce, wines, ciders and craft beers. Some sit with their feet dangling in the cool water of the creek that meanders through the park, others enjoy dancing to the amazing bands and musical artists featured on the main stage, or sample the range of delicious food available. With autumn settling upon us, the region changes from green, through gold, to red as the leaves turn and fall. It’s a busy time for festivals as everything cools once more, with Rock the Turf, Festival of the Falling Leaf, Tumut MTB’s 3 Hour Enduro, and the inaugural
Snowy Valleys Cycle Challenge, which will see cyclists ride 144km from Adelong via Batlow to Tumbarumba and back. Batlow CiderFest is celebrated in May, closing the main street as visitors sample ciders and craft beer from local makers and those across the country. There are so many reasons to visit, no matter the time of year. We’re sure we’ll see you soon. CWL www.tumbarumbaregion.com.au
www.visittumut.com.au
ABOVE FROM TOP: Alpine Way, Khancoban; Blowering Dam; Sugar Pine Forest, Batlow. FACING PAGE: Elm Drive, Tumut.
TUMUT CWL 15
T O W N F E A T U R E Tumut
“I bewilder myself, I’m so complex, so how could he who knows me not, be able to unravel me?” Miles Franklin, letter to Emma Pischel, May 6, 1947
Miles of memorabilia
Tumut Museum is brimming with pictures and paraphernalia from an intriguing past. Celebrating its 40th birthday in 2019, the Tumut Museum is well worth a visit to view the priceless photographic collection of the district’s pioneering days. Then there’s the Miles Franklin memorabilia. The feminist, nationalist and acclaimed author entered the world at Talbingo station, Talbingo, in 1879 among pioneering families of the Monaro. She is best known for her audacious first novel, My Brilliant Career, which was rejected locally and published with the aid of Henry Lawson by William Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh and London, in 1901. Written out of inexperience and consuming longings and discontents by a 16-year-old, the novel brought Miles instant acclaim before she had turned 21. The popularity of the novel in Australia, and perceived closeness of many of the characters to her own family and circumstances, caused Miles and her family a great deal of distress. Shortly after My Brilliant Career, Miles wrote a sequel, My Career Goes Bung, which would not be published until 1946. Miles headed to America in 1906 but publishing success eluded her. It was the same story in London, where she lived from 1915-32 before finally returning to Australia. With renewed gusto, she plunged into the literary community, championing Australian literature and publishing a string of books. But it was not enough. She believed the brilliant potential foretold for her in 1901 had not come to pass. On her death in 1954, frustrated but undefeated, she left her estate to establish the Miles Franklin Literary Award to encourage Australian writing – an act of personal philanthropy unprecedented in Australia. Her vision survives in not just the award, now worth $60,000 (and first won by Patrick White for Voss in 1957) but her published work, the international screen success of My Brilliant Career and in her voluminous papers, willed to Sydney’s Mitchell Library. The exhibition at the museum is dedicated to this brave and indomitable Australian, whose ashes were scattered on Jounama Creek, Talbingo. The museum is managed by the 30 members of the Tumut & District Historical Society and is open between 1pm and 4pm on weekends or by appointment. CWL Historical images kindly supplied by the Tumut & District Historical Society.
ABOVE: My Brilliant Career was published in 1901. The museum believes it may have the only surviving soft-cover original copy. RIGHT: Tumut and District Historical Society president Marcia Commins has been an enthusiastic volunteer for nearly 40 years. She is pictured in front of a magnificent portrait of Miles Franklin.
Tumut T O W N F E A T U R E
H. E. Snowden in a bullock-driven cart.
Tumut locals w
elcome home
soldiers from th
e Boer War.
Bullock teams loade d with wool pass throu gh town en route to the railwa y station.
days gone by
t Miles Franklin laimed author and feminis Talbingo Station where acc childhood. was born and spent her
Tumut
Russell Street at the
rd Street, Tumut
store in Wynya Grill’s Post Office
The mail coach come
turn of the 20th centu
ry.
, in 1902.
s over the Tumut bridg e in 1862.
lf d grocery. In 1872 ha was a general store an se. Tiy Loong Store & Co ine Ch s wa mut the population of Tu
PROUD HERITAGE
Charismatic and community-minded, Tumut has something for everyone.
18 CWL TUMUT
Tumut T O W N F E A T U R E
TUMUT CWL 19
20 CWL TUMUT
Tumut T O W N F E A T U R E
not just a
pipe dream The Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme is rightly regarded as an engineering marvel. The high country stockmen used the mountains for grazing in the long summer months but it was the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme that left a lasting impression on the land. Between 1949 and 1976, the scheme was pivotal to Australia’s post-war economic and social development. It took a mighty workforce of 100,000 to get the ambitious job completed in 25 years, on time and on budget. Nearly two thirds of the workforce employed in the construction were immigrant workers from over 30 mostly European countries. Over 1600km of new roads and tracks, seven townships (including Khancoban and Cabramurra) and over 100 camps enabled the construction of the 16 dams, seven hydro-electric power stations and two pumping stations. This meant building 145km of tunnel and 80km of pipelines and aqueducts. Just two per cent of the construction work is visible from above ground. When the scheme finished in the mid 1970s, it was touted as Australia’s greatest engineering marvel. The major dams hold 7000 gigalitres of storage – almost 12 times the volume of Sydney Harbour. Discover your own adventure wonderland in the magnificent Snowy Valleys – from fly fishing, bush walking and biking in the pristine mountain countryside to skiing and snowboarding at Mt Selwyn in the colder months. CWL Tower 3 near Talbingo is part of the vast hydro network.
TUMUT CWL 21
T O W N F E A T U R E Tumut
WATER WORLD Famous as the site of the world water speed record in 1978, Blowering Dam is three times the size of Sydney Harbour and one of the biggest dams in NSW.
On the Tumut River and 13km from Tumut, the dam stores water released upstream for electricity generation in the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. It’s a valuable water supply for agriculture in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area and for landholders and towns along the Tumut and Murrumbidgee Rivers. The large reservoir, named after a nearby property, Blowering Station, has become a popular water sport and recreation destination.
22 CWL TUMUT
In 1977 the dam made world headlines as the spot where Ken Warby broke the world water speed record. A year later Ken returned to set his second and current record of 317 miles per hour, which to this day remains unbroken. Despite two unsuccessful official challenges to Ken’s record – along with many challengers claiming they will build a boat to beat his record – to date, no one has. Now 40 years later, Warby Motorsport are again challenging the record with Ken’s son, Dave, driving the Spirit of Australia II
on the same water – only this time with a jet-powered hydroplane that the father and son team spent five years perfecting. Watch this space. For those who enjoy a quieter pace, there are walking tracks above the reservoir to reach Blowering Falls. CWL
Blowering Dam is open 24 hours a day, all year round and entry is free. ABOVE: A recent aerial view of Blowering Dam.
ROSLYN CLARE PHOTOGRAPHY
JOYFUL - TIMELESS - FUN WWW.ROSLYNCLAREPHOTOGRAPHY.COM Professional portrait and wedding photographer based in Tumut NSW.
Find us on Facebook & Instagram!
Riverglade Caravan Park is located on the banks of the stunning Tumut River. Known amongst the regulars as the best Caravan Park in Australia, it is hard to disagree when camping here.
2– 4 Fitzroy St, Tumut P. 02 6947 2528
riverglade.com.au
TERRACE CAFÉ Café , Catering & Events The Connection 95 Wynard St Tumut NSW 2720 02 6947 6068 Mon-Fri 7.30am to 4.30pm / Sat 8am to 1pm
TUMUT CWL 23
truth BE TOLD
Fascinating stories abound in the mind, and the life, of local historian Phyllis Dowling.
Phyllis Dowling talks on the radio each week about her beloved high country and still gets annoyed by inaccurate stories. “We don’t need romantic journalism. We need the facts, which tend to be far more interesting than anything we can make up,” she informs me as I enter the Tumut home she shares with husband Mick. As far as the contentious issue of the brumbies are concerned, Phyllis believes numbers must be controlled in a humane way. “I don’t believe there are thousands of them nor the amount of damage they allegedly cause. If they could re-home at least 50 fillies a year it would help.” While Phyllis loves talking about the mountain country she has reached a certain age where she understands that her story, too, has become part of that rich history.
24 CWL TUMUT
And what a story! After being ushered into the world in Tumut in 1934, she was taken by car to Rules Point, between Yarrangobilly and Kiandra. From there, her mother carried her on horseback a further 14 miles to the family’s tiny cottage at the Blue Waterhole, at the head of Cave Creek. Her father trapped rabbits, with the skins sold for extra income. Phyllis and her mother did likewise. During the summer months he helped with stock work on the snow leases. They were largely self sufficient and the war barely affected their remote alpine existence. “We had our own milk and butter, eggs and meat,” Phyllis says. “The biggest problem was tea, which was rationed during the war years. Mother would swap her butter and meat tickets with others who had extra tea tickets.”
They were largely self sufficient and the war barely affected their remote alpine existence.
Tumut T O W N F E A T U R E
In the 1930s there were very few cars. It was an all-day job getting the vehicles through the bogged creeks. Horseback was the only effective way of getting around the hilly terrain. Phyllis has a sharp mind and remembers even the most minute details, like learning to ride a horse before her fourth birthday. “There was no entertainment when I was a young girl but I believe we were better off than the young ones of today,” she says, choosing her words carefully. “We didn’t have much but we made our own fun, never worrying about all those unpleasant things besetting today’s youth. Without TV we were blissfully unaware of world events. Our wireless, run on three dry batteries and one wet, was used only sparingly.” When she was seven Phyllis was sent to live with her grandmother in Tumut to start her education. Although she enjoyed school, she couldn’t wait to get home for holidays. “It was a fairly quiet existence until the drovers started passing through. It really was living from day to day,” she says. “It was nothing to saddle up and ride 20 miles to the Yaouk rodeo or down to the Yarrangobilly horse sports. We danced all night to sun up, had a camp and then rode home.” Phyllis admits it’s easy getting confused with exactly where the high country begins and ends. Her “high country” was from the top of Talbingo Mountain to Kiandra and back to Coolamine Plains, the Blue Water Hole and Currangorambala. “Livestock came from all over the Riverina for summer grazing,” she says. “There was always plenty of water and good pasture with lots of snow grass. Stock were walked up in the middle of November and had to be off, by law, by May 24. “There were no trucks. Drovers would bring them up and then my father took over. He looked after three or four big mobs on different leases, mustering them before the drovers arrived for the long journey home.” Phyllis and her family lived there all year round, while some stockmen were there only for the season. “During the 1940s the State Park took over the snow leases but you could still graze cattle. In the 1960s the National Parks took over and the grazing days were phased out for good.” In 1944 the family moved from the high country to Grong Grong Station where her father obtained work as a stockman. Phyllis rode her horse three miles to school before the family started a dairy in Tumut. Her first job was at the sawmill stacking boards. Later she helped make bras at the Dyomee factory, worked as a telephonist at the Tumut Telephone Exchange and, with her sister Shirley, helped with the milking. Her single days ended after meeting Mick at the movies one miserably cold evening. Mick was a plant operator and motor mechanic who went on to spend nearly 40 years with council.
“The high country has always held a special place in my heart.” They tied the knot in an Adelong church four years later in front of her parents, an aunt and one friend. “All our savings were being ploughed into a house, and money was tight,” she concedes. “Our family didn’t even have a car until I started going out with Mick in his old Chev.” Despite leaving the high country a long time ago, Phyllis always managed to find her way back, visiting relatives and enjoying regular camping and fishing trips with Mick. “The high country has always held a special place in my heart. It’s my heritage and what led me to study its history.” The Dowlings have lived long and fruitful lives with an amazing 64 years of marriage behind them. Over that time they have faced triumph and tragedy. Phyllis was involved with the successful Back to Kiandra Celebrations and awarded the 1996 Tumut Shire Citizen of the Year for her long involvement with volunteer organisations like the historical society and Family History Group. Five years later they lost their son Barry in a tragic motorbike accident. A keen water skier and their only child, his sudden passing was devastating. Thankfully they have three granddaughters in Kingaroy, Queensland, and two great grandchildren. And Phyllis only has to close her eyes to recall enduring memories of the upper reaches of the Snowy Mountains – the whiteface cattle that roamed there and the men and women who proudly called it home. CWL
FACING PAGE: The old shack that Phyllis called home as a young girl. Remarkably, it has survived the ravages of time. Phyllis and Mick are happy in their digs and enjoy documenting the days of old. ABOVE: Bringing a mob of Herefords down from the High Country in the snow; Mick and Phyllis in their youth. It proved a loyal union, still unbreakable after 64 years of marriage.
TUMUT CWL 25
TENACITY
Behind the Tumut River Brewing Co is a tale of two mates determined to succeed, but it hasn’t all been beer and skittles.
on tap
“If this story is about us, you may as well hear the full story,” declares Tim Martin as he swings opens the doors of the Tumut River Brewing Co for another day of business. Coming from a fellow beer drinker, I’m not sure where this is heading. Tumut’s first micro brewery sits on the corner of the busy Snowy Mountains Highway leading into town. Conveniently located across the road from the Tumut Region Visitor Information Centre, it’s impossible to miss. “In a nutshell, our story is one of sweat, blood, failure, success and poverty,” Tim laughs. “And it all started (as it so often does) with two mates sharing a few home brews in the shed!” Tim was in the IT business when he decided Tumut needed a micro brewery. His drinking buddy, Simon Rossato, was home to help at the tyre centre (where the brewery now stands) and wanted in. Tim had never brewed beer and Simon, with a degree in Sports Science and Nutrition, was a casual brewer. It was the perfect blend! As the brewery dream started taking shape, Tim’s world was becoming increasingly complicated. It was proving a logistical nightmare to get the business up and running.
26 CWL TUMUT
Tumut T O W N F E A T U R E
“Eventually, all micro brewery plans were put to one side and life went on but we never stopped brewing! Our equipment grew, our knowledge blossomed, books were read, courses attended and through the toughest times in our lives brewing was a constant,” he says. “We created new beers, new flavours, made beers that will never be repeated and some that never should have existed in the first place! Years after our plans for world domination had ended and our brewery had been all but forgotten, we realised we had the tools, knowledge and passion to make this thing happen.” Tim and Simon, without really thinking about it, had become beer activists, beer judges and, most importantly, quality craft beer brewers. After a mountain of paper work that would have killed lesser mortals, the Tumut River Brewery finally opened in its current form in early 2018. Today it’s a funky food and drink destination with some 24 beers on tap. Gun brewer Brad Dwyer was naturally thrilled to score the plum job. Before that he was your regular forklift driver who dreamt of drinking the stuff, not making it. Brad admits there is plenty of science involved, like chemistry and microbiology. “Nobody has the answers to the problems I encounter,” he jokes. “Seriously, it’s a lot of trial and error. Fortunately, the boys have plenty of experience and I feed off their knowledge.” The boys must be doing something right, having picked up a gong at the recent NSW Tourism Awards. “We won bronze in the Tourism, Distilleries and Breweries category,” Simon says proudly. “We’re very happy, considering the calibre of the other well-established nominees. “As for this place, we just want a nice family orientated venue where you can drink in moderation without poker machines, TAB or a giant TV in your face.” Expect regular jazz and blues nights, board game evenings, trivia nights and occasionally country music. Having invested over a million dollars in infrastructure, the lads have the capacity to produce 35,000 litres of beer each month or just over 1000 litres each day. With 50 different recipes and 24 beer lines, they aim for a new variety each month. I ask Tim about the qualities of craft beer. Put simply, he says, your average Australian beer drinker drinks commercial beer made from a large portion of corn syrup and sugar. Craft beers are made only from malt. “The industry is changing so much,” Tim says. “Beer for me is where wine was, with people now going to breweries, looking to match different beer types with different foods. “Society, too, is changing. People no longer drink to get off their face and are happy to spend a few extra bucks on having a couple of drinks that appeal to their taste buds rather than simply smashing down whatever is cheapest.”
Tumut River Plan B is another innovative answer to being away from the main street. If you stay for a meal and a few beers the boys provide a taxi home. How’s that for service! Tim and Simon are great blokes with a great product and story to match. Long-suffering wives Paula and Leah are thrilled the boys are finally winning! “We now brew great beer and our dream has reached fruition. I promise there will always be beer flowing in our shed – if the doors are open, come have a cold one with us,” laughs Tim as he pulls his first Squealing Pig of the day. CWL FACING PAGE: Tumut River Brewing Co. owners Tim Martin and Simon Rossato love beer, good times and a full house; some of the many beers on tap. ABOVE: Gun brewer Brad Dwyer loves his job; a massive beer bottle collection is on display.
– Tumut’s own microbrewery (est 2012) – 24 taps pouring local beer & cider – Live music most weekends – Gourmet pizza & house roasted coffee – Brewery tours & more 1-5 CAPPER ST TUMUT P. 1300 04 BEER
trbc.com.au
TUMUT CWL 27