Central West
AUTUMN 2015
Celebrating 200 YEARS
BATHURST town feature
Egelabra
AN ICONIC WARREN RAM SALE
Boomey Park MOLONG’S magnificent GARDEN $9.90 inc GST
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AUTUMN 2015 Volume 8
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
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32 - 38 Bathurst Road, Orange NSW 2800 | Phone 02 6362 0966
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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 jake@centralwestmagazine.com.au ART DIRECTOR & DESIGN 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. For more information on stockists, visit www.centralwestmagazine.com.au. Unsold magazines are distributed to cafes, health waiting rooms, quality hotels/motels, bed and breakfast establishments, hair and beauty salons and tourist outlets.
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE To order a subscription or back issue, visit www.centralwestmagazine.com.au. Š Central West Lifestyle Pty Ltd 2015
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.
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.
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CONTENTS AUTUMN 2015
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94-PAGE TOWN FEATURE: BATHURST Bathurst was the first white settlement west of the Blue Mountains, and is celebrating its bicentenary this year. Admire the preserved architecture, learn about the vibrant businesses and meet the interesting people that make historic Bathurst the progressive regional centre it is today.
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COUNTING SHEEP
SHOW OF FORCE
WHAT COMES NATURALLY
The 31st Egelabra ram sale at Warren was a great success. Experience an on-property sale and meet the people behind this iconic company.
The tiny town of Tooraweenah can be proud of its centenary show.
Breeding Belted Galloways with holistic farming principles.
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THE PAPER TRAIL
PARIS IN THE PADDOCKS
HOME & STYLE
The Snare family have been leading newsagents in Dubbo for 60 years.
Molong’s “Boomey Park” garden is an impressive haven of established parklands and immaculate formality and structure.
The art of styling, and tips to prepare your home for Easter.
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158
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160
PERSONALITY PLUS
PLAYING IT COOL
PITCH PERFECT
NICE AS PIE
This Condobolin cottage has had plenty of tender, loving care.
Autumn pieces poised to be your cool-climate wardrobe essentials.
The country choir that’s making a difference in the lives of rural youth.
It’s impossible to go wrong with these nostalgic recipes.
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GUESS WHO’S COMING WITH DINNER . . .
SHOP TILL YOU DROP
UPCOMING EVENTS
The retail therapy and cultural perks of an adventure in Singapore.
Find out what’s on offer in the Central West this season.
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EVENTS IN THE WEST
WEDDING BELLS
THE LAST WORD
Social snapshots from the Tooraweenah Centenary Show Ball, Macquarie Picnic Races and All Saints’ College 140th Anniversary Ball.
The Central West’s beautiful brides and dapper grooms say “I do”.
Quick-witted Jeffree Whiteford is the quintessential butler.
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FOOD THAT SINGS The Quarry is one of Cowra’s best kept culinary secrets.
Betty Mawbey is an unsung hero.
ON THE COVER The meticulously restored chapel is a unique feature of Bathurst’s luxurious Bishop’s Court Estate (page 28).
WE ENCOURAGE OUR READERS TO SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS.
Photography: Shot by Jake
The magazine could not exist without them, and their loyalty shows their commitment to the communities of the Central West.
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From the Publishers Welcome to Autumn! It is such a privilege to be able to witness Nature turn on such a magnificent show of colour for all to enjoy! We trust you had a memorable Christmas, saw the New Year in with style and even managed a small break from routine with your family and friends. The Central West was recently blessed with generous rain to give us renewed hope. Agriculture is such a vital part of our economy and the presence of substantial rain makes such a difference to the morale of our farmers and graziers and inevitably boosts the economies of our Central West towns and cities. The team at Central West Lifestyle have reflected on the past year and feel really proud of the content we have been able to present to you, our wonderful readers. We have thoroughly enjoyed working on our latest Town Feature, Bathurst. This feature coincides beautifully with the Bathurst Bicentenary, 200 years since settlement. What an amazing place Bathurst is – so rich in history and culture with so many diverse and thriving businesses that are setting such high standards in their respective fields. A special thanks to Bathurst Mayor Councillor Gary Rush and Bathurst Council, who shared our vision in bringing brilliant Bathurst into the spotlight. We also must acknowledge the endless energy, eternal optimism and great entrepreneurial wisdom of Christine Le Fevre, owner of the beautiful Bishop’s Court Estate, an icon in the accommodation and hospitality industry. The magnificent and historic Abercrombie House, Bathurst, will be the stage for our Winter Fashion shoot. We are very honoured to be able to use this stunning mansion and will present winter fashions from a number of Bathurst boutiques for your viewing in our next magazine. We are very excited about our Town Feature for Winter, Parkes. After meeting with a team from Parkes Council, including the Mayor Ken Keith, and attending part of the never-to-be-forgotten Elvis Festival, we can assure you that this feature is one to look forward to!
President of the Dunedoo Show Ronald Bowman with Elizabeth and Alex at the Tooraweenah Show (page 115). The Dunedoo Centenary Show will be featured in Winter 2015.
There have been many glowing comments about our CWL photography so we have decided to publish a book later this year that will be a celebration of the best of our photography to date. This book will focus on the best of the best, including heritage and contemporary homes, Central West personalities, aerial shots, gardens, agriculture, Central West town buildings and, not to be overlooked, our Central West rural culture, shows and rodeos. It will be available in newsagents, selected retail outlets and through our website (ordered online and posted direct to your door). Thank you to all the hardworking newsagents, who consistently promote and sell our magazine. We are continuing to extend our selling outlets. Just check our stockists on the CWL website. Back copies can be ordered online and are usually posted out within a day of CWL receiving the order. Readers, please consider supporting our loyal advertisers whenever possible (see comprehensive list at the back of this book). These businesses show their commitment to the communities of the Central West by having a strong presence in our magazine and we gratefully acknowledge their loyalty and support. We trust that you are continuing to enjoy reading about the spectacular Central West, and don’t forget to explore the hidden treasures here in this wonderful region. Until next time, warm regards,
Elizabeth and Alex Tickle
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Alex and Elizabeth with some enthusiastic Elvis impersonators at the recent Parkes Elvis Festival. Keep an eye out for coverage of the festival in the Winter 2015 Parkes Town Feature.
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A Wild Ride Greetings to all fellow travellers on the journey of life! Trusting you all had a wonderful Christmas break with family and friends and are now well settled into 2015, a historic year for all of those residing in the Central West. It was only 200 years ago that those hardy pioneers Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth carved a rough track through the rugged Blue Mountains, leading to the establishment of Bathurst and the vast hinterland now known as the Central West. This is why we selected “Beautiful Bathurst” as our feature town. In the past, most of my sojourns to Bathurst have been short and sweet but this time I got to spend an entire week to take in her many delights! I was lucky to score accommodation at A Settler’s Cottage, right in the heart of the CBD. Thanks to my gracious hosts, Tony and Gerarda Mader, who went out of their way to ensure my stay was pleasant and welcoming. This historic city is full of charm and a must-see for anybody with a taste for history. While the city streets boast some of the oldest and grandest buildings in Australia, there is also a modern feel with upmarket shops, trendy wine bars and fabulous dining and shopping opportunities. I take my hat off to every Bathurst business trying to survive, prosper and grow in these challenging times. I also dip my lid to the dynamic teams running The Church Bar and Webb & Co – two funky drinking holes with likeable hosts that raise the bar in just about every department! On my way home I had one last gig in Mudgee – shooting a good old-fashioned bush wedding down on the farm. I was thrilled to capture the big day for Sam Knight and Hallie Hunter, who said “I do” in a make-do chapel on the luxurious lawns of “Kaludabah”, home of Rick and Dawne Hunter. It was a tremendous bash, with guests arriving from all over the country along with a robust crowd of Texans (where Dawne hails from). From 200-odd weddings I’ve been lucky to score a bait to, this was the first time I’ve witnessed a throng of hats and jeans among the well-heeled crowd.
While having lunch I was surprised and delighted to meet a modern-day butler among the throng of western sheep breeders hoping to pick up a ram or two. Under the deep blue western sky, the party kicked into full swing and I was reminded of my own jackerooing days a lifetime ago. The night was a demonstration of Aussie mateship, in many ways similar to the black-tie country ball I attended at the Tooraweenah hall to commemorate the100th local show. It was a mighty task finding my old dinner suit, let alone squeezing into it after many years of neglect! The punters came from near and far to this tiny outpost and the night went off like a cracker. Thanks to my cordial hosts, Brian and Sue Armstrong, who shared their beautiful homestead at the foot of the Warrumbungles and demonstrated true bush hospitality. From a small village of only about 80 souls, the locals pulled off an amazing weekend with thousands making their way to the show, officially opened by the Hon Rick Colless. I asked him if he was partaking in the emu egg-throwing challenge, but he said, in true parliamentary fashion, that he gets to witness enough egg throwing in Canberra! So, now we are into autumn, my favourite time of the year. I like the subdued colours, the cooler evenings and the fact that most folk seem to have firmly moved on from the so-called “Silly Season”. I’ll see you next when I’m looking at you! Until then, curl up with our latest edition and enjoy the great characters who live in abundance throughout the Central West!
Shot by Jake
For once I wasn’t the only mug wearing a hat, as guests were encouraged to dress “country” and complement the groom and his six attendants, all resplendent in their black cowboy hats and boots. All weddings are special but this one really took the cake, with a perfect blend of tradition, laid-back country style and a night that rocked till the early hours. Among the guests was one chap who couldn’t wipe the smile from his face, having won the Melbourne Cup a few days earlier with a horse he had a part share in. Another great country get-together is the Egelabra ram sale, held late each year near Warren. I was fortunate to be invited by that loveable larrikin Malcolm Kater, who enjoys a good day out as much as anyone.
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Sue and Brian Armstrong – my gracious hosts at the Tooraweenah Show and ball.
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MEET YOUR TEAM Autumn 2015 Contributors
ELIZABETH TICKLE Publisher & Editor
ALEX TICKLE Publisher & Advertising
JAKE LINDSAY Chief Writer & Photographer
KATE BOSHAMMER Art Director & Design, Writer
LISA STARR Advertising Design
ELIZABETH SWANE Garden Editor
ANNA TICKLE Writer
CATHERINE PLAYER Writer
ANGUS WADDELL Photographer
ALI WANCHAP WOOD Fashion Writer
PIP TEYS Home & Style and Travel Writer
AMANDA O’SULLIVAN Home & Style Writer
LORRAINE HILLS Country Cuisine Writer
CHRISTINE LE FEVRE Food & Lifestyle Writer
NERIDA INGRAM Advertising, Writer
GINA CRANSON Proofreader
More information on the team can be found on our website: www.centralwestmagazine.com.au 10 CWL
your letters I know I have written to you before, and you included my letter in the “Your Letters” section, and I could have written post each edition since but I kept my pen down! However, I do believe that Summer 2014 has been an “above the rest” delight to read! Full to the brim with fabulous, inspiring, beautiful, encouraging, historical and emotionally loaded stories. Visually, the photography and quality of the advertisements are a vision splendid! If I were ever in Cowra, I would want to shop, eat, sleep and visit EVERY place featured in Summer 2014 Central West Lifestyle and hope to bump into some of the amazing people there. Carla Robinson, Duramana
................................................................................. What a fantastic magazine! I just love reading about local people from Dubbo and surrounding districts. The quality is first class and the photography is amazing. I usually skim through magazines but I have to confess, I read this cover to cover. Can’t wait for the next edition to come out. Congratulations to all. Toni Beatty, EO Dubbo Chamber of Commerce
................................................................................. It would have to be over 30 years ago since I was a young lad running around Iandra Castle, and unfortunately I have never been back. I was about 10 years old, and very lucky to go out to Iandra with my grandfather, Mr Neville Fragar, who worked on the restoration of the castle. His workshop was a room on the first floor in the main house, so much of my time was spent running up and down the stairs, along the hallways and exploring everywhere we could whilst supposedly helping around the ground buildings, church and castle. I unfortunately don’t really remember Mr and Mrs Morris as they did not spend all their time at Iandra. Mr Morris was very particular in the way the building was restored, with as much as possible to be back to original. Granddad even had to teach himself how to do stained-glass work so he could repair and replace broken windows. Once, when he needed a piece of glass but was unable to find any, Mr Morris paid for a plane ticket and motel so Granddad could go to Sydney and find the piece needed to repair a window. Whilst working at Iandra, my grandfather was also offered the use of the castle for the wedding of his youngest daughter, which he gratefully accepted. As a child this was a huge and exciting place to play around and I hope to take my wife back one day and relive my memories. Rod Fragar Footnote: Rod, thank you for getting in touch and clarifying the spelling of your family’s name, Fragar (correction p20, Spring 2014).
................................................................................. As a Sydney resident and business owner I was thrilled to come across Central West Lifestyle when we recently purchased our country home, my husband having successfully touted a partial escape to the country. The magazine is a wonderful showcase of the people, entrepreneurs, architecture and style of the Central West area. I enjoy reading about life, opportunities and challenges in the country that I have found inspiring my choices and changes to our lifestyle. I’m hooked, and now looking forward to reading the back issues we ordered. A tree change beckons! Kim Knox-Thurn (The Style Project) and Stephen Thurn (aspiring country accountant), Sydney & Young
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I write to offer my congratulations on the Summer 2014 edition of Central West Lifestyle magazine, and to thank you for the wonderful coverage of Cowra. It was a pleasure to see the final product of all your hard work – from the glorious opening photograph of our town to the in-depth and personal stories of some of Cowra’s locals. It was indeed a reminder of the special community that we call home. I commend you on the presentation of your magazine. I have received many positive comments that reflect on the time, dedication and hard work that goes into such a first-rate publication. While it was not only gratifying to see the great result of the Cowra edition, I also congratulate you on your commitment to the region as a whole. I wish you every success with future publications, and look forward to seeing the next wonderful portrayal of our regional communities. Cr Bill West, Cowra Mayor
................................................................................. Congratulations to the CWL team on the Summer 2014 edition featuring Cowra. I was particularly pleased with the coverage of the Cowra Prisoner of War Breakout 70th Anniversary. The quality of the images and editorial was first class and truly reflects the significant part the tragic Breakout, and the subsequent reconciliation between the people of Cowra and the people of Japan, plays in our town’s history. In a world dominated by negative media, CWL is consistently positive. The high-quality magazine always looks for uplifting and engaging stories that show why Central West NSW is such an interesting and diverse place to live. Lawrance Ryan, Chairman, Cowra POW Breakout 70th Anniversary Organising Committee
................................................................................. We would just like to congratulate the Central West Lifestyle team on the superb quality and professional publication of a lovely magazine. We were so proud to see our beautiful town Cowra featured with the talented journalism and photo production in the Summer edition. We were both deeply touched by the human-interest story of farmer Maree Stockman – what an inspiration. I (Carole) started reading late in the evening and could not lift my head out of this edition till the early hours of the morning. Once again, beautiful reading and a job well done. Barry Doyle OAM, retired journalist and sports editor, and Carole Doyle, retired nurse and rural social columnist
................................................................................. Even with a royal wedding to celebrate in the Australian Women’s Weekly in 2011, we haven’t seen sales of a magazine like the Summer 2014 edition of Central West Lifestyle magazine. It is a tangible piece of our community and history, that our customers have purchased not only for themselves, but also for their family and friends who don’t live in Cowra, to enjoy. Our customers, and your readers, have enjoyed the many different articles in this beautiful larger edition, with our town, Cowra, as your feature. Thank you to you and your team at CWL for an amazing magazine. We look forward to the next edition soon. Christine Muddle, Kendal Street Newsagency, Cowra
................................................................................. Share your feedback Email: info@centralwestmagazine.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/CentralWestLifestyle
BATHURST
Celebrating 200 years