The Echo September 2009

This Month’s Special 500 full colour business cards (one side only)

$90 incl GST Ph 4782 2514

VET Your community news Issue 10

info@bennettsprinting.com.au

September 2009

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Leura Gardens Festival Nine stunning, private Blue Mountains gardens rarely accessible to the public, along with the National Trust property Everglades, will open for two weeks at the Leura Gardens Festival, Saturday 3rd October to Sunday 11th October.

See page 9

New Bank The community of Katoomba and the Upper Blue mountains have filled their minimum share subscription, ensuring the Community Bank® branch will open in Katoomba in late October.

The $1.1 million maximum has also been very nearly reached with 260 local shareholders in this exciting community venture. Chairman Robert Stock said achieving this share capital total was a momentous occasion

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for the community. “To raise $1.1 million is no mean feat,” he said. “People up here have faith in the Community Bank® model and in the Bendigo Bank and we look forward to now working towards the opening of our bank branch.”

See page 4

Leura Village Fair For over 25 years the Leura Village Association has sponsored the Leura Village Fair and this year it is the 10th and 11th October.

The central strip of the mall will be full of cherry blossom and the shops bring their goods out on to the pathways with lots of extra stalls.

Megalong Books will have local children’s authors at the shop on Sunday October 11th. From 10am - 12 you can meet author-illustrator Nina Rycroft and from 12 - 2pm you can meet the incredibly popular Emily Rodda, author of the

Ph 4757 3255

www.wentworthfallsvet.com.au Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8.30am-7pm Sat 9am-1pm • Sun 10am-12pm

Deltora series. Her very newest book, the Battle for Rondo, will be available.

See page 3

BlokeFest

BlokeFest is for men and it is all happening between 10 and 3 pm on Saturday September 5th (the day before Father’s Day) at Katoomba Public School in Merriwa St. It may have finished by the time you see this but you can still read about what you missed!

See page 6

Vote For The Echo The 2009 Blue Mountains Business Advantage Awards are now open and the People’s Choice Award is won by popular vote If you would like to vote for The Echo or any other local business, visit www.bluemts.com. au/nominate.asp. before the 12th September.

Month of September only!

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September 2009

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The Echo

Delivered monthly to Katoomba, Leura & Wentworth Falls

Local News Editor Jeanie Baxter 0420 356 705 echocommunitynews@gmail.com Managing Editor and Advertising Enquiries Margaret Stepniewski

Fixed Fee Conveyancing Jennifer G. Laing J.P. CPC

PO Box 121, Mulgoa, NSW 2745

Phone/fax: 4773 8974 info@theecho.net.au

NEXT ISSUE BOOKING DEADLINE Monday, September 21, 2009 Advertising policy: Priority is given to businesses connected to local residents. An editorial focus on a local business may be included if space permits, at the Editor’s discretion. Community news: The District Gazette welcomes the following information (published free of charge): community news and events, local achievements, births, deaths, obituaries, weddings, engagements, anniversaries & birthdays. Articles of interest will be accepted at the Editor’s discretion. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editor. Letters to the Editor may be printed and edited as necessary. Names must be submitted but can be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. Every effort is made to print correct information but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.

Emergency Services (Police, Ambulance, Fire)

Adept Conveyancing Ph: 4757 1675

000

Licensed Conveyancer Lic No. 1334793

Email: jenny@adeptconveyancing.com.au www.adeptconveyancing.com.au 10a Station St Wentworth Falls NSW 2782 (Behind Jakeman’s Art Supplies)

Specialising in Digital TV Reception & TV/DVD & Top Box Set-up 34 Years Servicing the Mountains Sydney & Wollongong Stations

SALES & SERVICE

Community Groups Community Health Centre Katoomba Neighbourhood The Salvation Army - Community Services - Rehabilitation Centre Breastfeeding Association Blue Mtns Bushcare Katoomba Girl Guides Rotary (Upper Blue) W. Falls Lions Club Leura/Katoomba Probus Central Blue Probus Toastmasters Alliance for Sustainable Well Being

4782 8201 4782 1117 4782 9251 4782 7392 4782 9474 4780 5528 4727 0655 4787 1857 4782 2178 4782 1672 4757 4695 4784 1349 4784 1349

Sports Clubs Katoomba Swimming Club 4782 2292 Cricket Club 0402 167 136 Katoomba Tennis (keys from the Handystore) Juniors Competition 4782 2303 Wentworth FallsTennis 4784 1044 (keys from the Falls Food Hall)

Junior Rugby League Table Tennis www.theecho.net.au

0432 219 564 4782 3174

Are you interested in joining a fitness class that is fun, full of energy and is suited to any age, shape or size?

LET ME WHIP YOUR BUTT INTO SHAPE! Classes held at a private studio in Katoomba on Monday morning 10am & Friday night 7pm Martial art based consisting of stretch, body toning, build strength, improve fitness, learn self defense, release some aggro, sweat and have a few laughs.

Dynamic tension program also introduced Why not come along and join in.

First session is free. Bring a friend.

Contact Trina on 4782 6645

EMU HEIGHTS SPIRITUAL CENTRE

Presents their

PSYCHIC FAIR

Healers, Stall Holders are ALL WELCOME

4782 2507 162 Main St, Katoomba

For the best honest deals on bikes & accessorieS

Katoomba Police Station 4782 8199 Police Assistance Line 131 444 Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114 Katoomba Churches St Hilda’s Anglican Church 4782 1608 St Canice`s Catholic Church 4782 2804 Uniting Church 4758 8295 Lighthouse Church 4782 1352 Bethany Gospel Hall 4782 5956 The Salvation Army 4782 5124 Leura Churches St Albans Anglican Church 4782 4503 St Bonaventures Catholic 4782 2804 Uniting Church 4757 3435 Wentworth Falls Churches Holy Trinity Anglican Church 4757 1516 St Frances Xavier Catholic 4782 2804 St Andrews Presbyterian 4759 1998

Ladies Fitness Class

Where: Emu Plains Community Centre, Lawson Street (opp. Lennox Shopping Centre) Date: Saturday 12th September, Time: 10am to 4pm Cost: $15.00 per reading or $20.00 reading and healing For more details contact Nadja

on 4759 1575 or 0439 453 430

Thank You Ray and

on Dominique Camer

e to thank The Echo would lik Cameron of Ray and Dominique sagency, in the Katoomba New r their ongoing Katoomba Street fo ve missed your support! If you ha this is one of copy of The Echo, points and we our busiest pick-up sure that there endeavour to make available. are plenty of copies

See the digital page-turning edition of The Echo at u. www.theecho.net.a

for Register your email new e th notification when ur yo email issue is online. Send address to u info@theecho.net.a September 2009

FELLOWSHIP

“Don’t fear them who can kill the body; but fe ar HIM (God) who is able to de stroy both body and soul in Hell.”

If you want friendl y fellowship and good, plain Bi ble teaching with un-modern worship style, Katoo mba Baptist Chur

ch, Waratah St (op p Coles) 10am Sundays Ph

4758 8674

Katoomba Garden Club Bill Gratton on Alpine Plants Wednesday September 23rd at 7.30 at the Civic Centre, in Katoomba Street.

Club members are off to Mt Annan botanical Gardens for a guided tour Saturday 26th September.

If you are interested in these activities, or want to join a gardening club to welcoming springtime, call Margaret Brown 4782 2883, or email her at chasnmadge@aapt.net.au

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Literacy in Leura Mountains-wide group ‘Paint the Blue Read’ formed last year, to encourage the exposure of all local children to many books and storytelling in their formative years. This is documented to have myriad positive social effects, one being the easy transition to reading and writing at school. The group’s vision is to have this literacy development be supported by all levels of our community.

Leura will host an inaugural Reading Day on Wednesday, October 28th.

Businesses and shops in Leura Mall will open their doors to preschool and school groups and share books and stories with them. The group’s mascot Billy th Booksie, will be making a special visit to hear a story or two.

For more information please contact Jenny Gorman at Megalong Books 4784 1302.

Author Visit Megalong Books is excited to announce that Australia’s funniest children’s author, Andy Griffiths, will be visiting the shop on Saturday, September 19th, from 11am to 1pm. Copies of Andy’s very newest book Robot Riot will be available. Buy a book on the day,

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bring a old book along to get signed, or just come along and say hello!

Megalong Books will also have local children’s authors at the shop on Sunday October 11th as part of the Leura Village Fair celebrations. From 10 - 12 you can meet author-illustrator Nina Rycroft. Take a look at her beautiful new picture book Ballroom Bonanza and learn a little about how a drawing becomes a book! Then from 12 - 2 you have a chance to meet the incredibly popular Emily Rodda, author of the Deltora series. Her very newest book, the Battle for Rondo, will be available.

Hospital Auxiliary Last year the Blue Mountains Hospital Auxilary raised $19,000 which was spent on equipment for the hospital: two medication tables, vital signs monitor for rehab and a very expensive one for the child and adolescent unit.

This year the group are buying $28,000 worth of curtains, screens and blinds for the rehab wards.

Many members of the group have become too frail to continue, so they are looking fo new members. The group meets on the last monday in the month at 2pm in the hospital. For more information please ring Paula 4757 2007.

September 2009

Blue Mountains Hospital Auxiliary Quilt Show Blue Mountains Retirement Village Queens Road, Katoomba

September 12th & 13th 10am-4pm $5 entry Beautiful quilts to view with some to purchase. Raffle for lovely quilt made and donated by the Golf Club Quilters

• Traditional book shop atmosphere • Books, DVDs, classical CDs, audiobooks, cards & wrap • Local maps & guides • Great kids books!

183 The Mall Leura Phone 4784 1302 books@megalongbooks.com www.megalongbooks.com

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Geoff Recalls Role in Apollo 11

We Print • Menus • Stickers • Envelopes • Note Pads • Letter Heads • Business Cards • With Comp Slips • Posters • Large Format Posters • Docket Books • Reports (Monthly, Yearly) • Manuals • Brochures • Offset Printing Services • Digital Printing for Fast Turn Around Time • Raffle Tickets • Colour Copies • Black & White Photocopying • Spot Colour Matching • Catalogues • Order of Services • Book Marks We also provide • Book Binding • Saddle Staples • Perfect Bound Books • Wire Binding • Comb Bound Books • Folding (DL, Z fold, In half, A3 to DL, Concertina) • Die Cutting • Creasing • Numbering • Perforating • Graphic Design Solutions • Type Setting Ask us to quote on all your printing requirements 88 Govett Street, Katoomba

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Local Geoff Foote recently attended the 40th Anniversary Celebration open days at the CSIRO Radiotelescope at Parkes, NSW. In July 1969, he was one of the supervisors of two small teams of radio technicians from the PMG’s Department the forerunner of TELSTRA. The major part of Goeff’s involvement was being present at Parkes and Honeysuckle Creek, respectively, during the entire mission, to ensure the con-

tinued operation of the microwave links, with particular emphasis on the critical phase when two of the astronauts were on the surface of the moon. This meant some very long, latenight sessions in mid-winter conditions.

Following the successful completion of the mission, in appreciation for his efforts, he and fellow supervisor Ralph McIlwraith, each received an Apollo Achievement Award from NASA. In addition they each received a letter of appreciation from the then President of the USA, Richard Nixon.

“The Apollo 11 experience was one of the highlights of our 40-odd year careers in radio communications with the PMG’s Department and its subsequent other identities to present day TELSTRA,” said Geoff.

Community Bank® Open in October The new branch will be different to existing banks in that new facilities for customer service officers allows for the removal of security screens. It will be quite a different look.

“Despite many people doing a lot of their banking on line we are conscious that customers want easy access to staff and a manager that they know personSeptember 2009

ally. The new branch will allow a more comfortable meeting environment for customer enquiries and to provide expert advice. Recruitment for branch staff is already underway and the new branch will be located at 117 Katoomba Street.

“This is an exciting time for our community and we look forward to launching the Katoomba Community Bank® Branch in coming months,” Mr Stock said.

Organ Recital Katoomba Uniting Church is welcoming the Spring season with a burst of musical colour in the second in the 2009 series of organ recitals featuring organist Peter Jewkes with associate artists Naomi Halls (flute) and Benjamin Hibbard (percussion/marimba) at Katoomba Uniting Church on Sunday 4 October commencing at 2pm.

Peter Jewkes is highly regarded internationally. In Sydney he studied piano with Nancy Salas and organ with David Rumsey, Norman Johnston and William Pierce gaining his Licentiate of Organ Performance from Trinity College, London at the age of 18. He furthered his study at the Royal School of Church Music at Addington Palace and whilst in England Peter was appointed Assistant Organist at St Bride’s Fleet Street, London. His company cares for over 200 organs on a regular basis, including the historic Richardson organ in Katoomba Uniting Church.

Naomi Halls enjoys an international career as flautist and has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Her CD “Moon Over The Ruined Castle” is in its second print run.

Benjamin Hibbard has toured internationally as principal percussion with the Australian Youth Orchestra. He claims to be an honorary “Blue Mountaineer” as the grandson of long-time Katoomba residents the late Ken Scollay and Ruth Scollay.

Katoomba Uniting Church

Organ Recital Sunday 4th October at 2pm (Doors will open at 1.30pm) Featuring organist Peter Jewkes with associate artists Naomi Halls (flute) and Benjamin Hibbard (percussion/marimba) Admission: Adults $15 & Concession $10 (including afternoon tea) Enquiries Mrs Joan Fell 4758 8295 or Richard Morphew 0408 825 506 4

Bridge Centre On Thursday 13th August, Mid Mountains Bridge Centre had its inaugural session in its new home. We now play bridge on the first floor of the Spires Gallery at the top of Leura Mall.

Session times are: Monday 6.45pm, Thursday 12.45pm and Saturday 12.45pm. Intermediate lessons with Ed Barnes are held on Fridays at 10.30am.

Beginner’s lessons will start in October.

F o r more information contact Ian 4782 7415 or Stephen 4757 2472

Funding for Katoomba Community College Students of the Nepean Community College (NCC) will benefit from

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upgrades worth more than $1million to four key community education and training sites in Western Sydney, said Federal Member for Lindsay David Bradbury.

“This funding is part of the Rudd Government’s $500 million Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for Vocational Education and Training,” said Mr Bradbury. “ T h e funding will allow NCC to enhance the accessibility, community safety and sustainability of four key existing training facilities while providing employment opportunities for local businesses and their employees.

“This will help to strengthen economic activity, assist in cushioning our local economy from the ongoing impacts of the global economic downturn while increasing the College’s training

September 2009

capacity to meet future skills needs.”

“The Katoomba facility will receive refurbishment to the ceilings, walls and floor coverings as well as the replacement of lighting and heating throughout the facility with energy efficient lights and heaters.“Katoomba will also have a new kitchen installed with six new cook tops and two ovens with preparation areas suitable for training and demonstrations, and a state of the art computer training room with the ability to accommodate ten people in wheelchairs.

“A large percentage of this work will be carried out by local businesses s and is estimated to support 73 Jobs and 23 apprenticeships.

“Community education plays an important role in supporting productivity across Australia. That’s why it is important for the Government to support organisations such as NCC.

You’re Never Too Old To Learn The article on Betty Holmes last month failed to mention that she was 100 years old! Betty has started her computer training course. What a wonderful achievement!

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BlokeFest: A festival for men, their families and friends BlokeFest is for men of any age, any stage, in any situation on Saturday September 5th between 10 and 3 pm (the day before Father’s Day) at Katoomba Public School, Merriwa St. It may well be over by the time you read this as The Echo takes a while to be delivered throughout the whole area. However it featured “The Secrets of Being a Bloke”, including how to use a power drill, making pelmets, being a father, pathways to manhood and look into a men’s group and find out what men really talk about. There was a circus workshops for kids of all ages with Circo Blurto, bush music by the Gang Gangs,great food and coffee.

Other activities included Billy cart making, kite making, Pedal-powered wood turning, Triton club, Men’s stories, Aboriginal dance Website: www.BlokeFest.com For further info, contact Michael Burlace, the Men’s Project coordinator at Springwood Neighbourhood Centre on 4782 7733, mobile: 0409 075 558

Spring Clean Your Wardrobe All of us have unwanted clothes in our wardrobes but when they were expensive and you don’t want to wear them again how good is it to have some else sell them for you and still get 50% of the price.

‘Renommée’ in Leura was started 12 years ago and was taken over by Pauline Hyde 5 years ago. There are plenty of designer clothes and accessories at bargain prices for sale. There is vintage wear and clothes made from beautiful Japanese silk as well as kimonas and haori.

Items are kept for a month and any

Sell your unwanted clothes and accessories on consignment for 50%* Only upmarket, current fashion, pristine condition accepted. Excellent range of clothes to buy from Louis Vuitton to Country Road. Also Japanese and vintage.

Shop 3, 152 Megalong St, Leura *conditions apply

Monday-Saturday 10am-4.45pm Sunday 11am-4pm

4784 3487

www.theecho.net.au

unsold items returned. ‘Renommée’ is a friendly comfortable place and as Pauline says “Everyone is a winner”

Free Dance Workshops The Katoomba Dance Theatre is holding free dance workshops in Wentworth Falls for young people with a disability (aged 12-24 years) on Saturday mornings during September.

There is already an established group but new people are welcome.

The group are learning dance steps and techniques, movement and performance activities, vocal work and musical instruments. No experience is necessary. For bookings and enquiries, call Julie on 4782 1818.

Person – or Bloke – of the Month John S. P. King September is the month we celebrate “Blokefest” and one of the Blokes that we’d like to celebrate as part of our Community is John S. P. King.

John has been a volunteer at the Katoomba Mens’ Shed since its inception in 2005. The Shed was set up in response to concerns about local men’s health and wellbeing.

It provides a meeting place for men of all ages and backgrounds.

Jim Angel, then a member of BMCC, arranged for the group to be given access to the former stables at the Katoomba Showground, and since then John and the other Volunteers have been hard at work upgrading the building to comply with Council’s DA. “I’ve been there every week for four years!” said John.

The members have installed two large water tanks, and drainage systems, and a large deck on the outside of the building, and bagged and painted the shed’s interior. Work was interrupted with flooding but the problem has been resolved and renovations can continue. The work so far has been supported by donations, including the tools. The Shed is hoping for the donation of another water tank, as it is one of the requirements of the DA. September 2009

If all goes to plan the Shed is expected to open in early 2010, and John is looking forwards to seeing it open and take its place in the Community.

There are plans to mentor younger men, to provide computer classes and to lease out space to other groups.

“The shed is an ideal venue for retired men to socialize, exchange ideas on projects and repair items. Once a variety of machines are in place we anticipate constructing a great number of projects.” Said John.

John S.P. King is a Blue Mountains resident from early on. His parents, John R.W. and Hilda King, ran the Chalet Guesthouse in Medlow Bath for a number of years. John attended Leura grammar school in Railway Parade as a day boarder, in the building now known as Mondeval. He then went on to Katoomba High School, a career in banking and retired in 1988.

John became a fulltime carer for his mother in the last ten years of her life, and speaks very fondly of her. Hilda King lived to the age of 104.

In 1989, The Fairy Dell Restoration Group was set up in Springwood and group members John and his friend Perc Thomas were kept busy upgrading the areas used for recreation in 1880’s. John is also a member of the Blue Mountains Conservation Society, and being a keen gardener, provides invaluable assistance at the Society’s native nursery in Lawson.

Volunteering has been a big part of John’s life since his retirement, and he lists it amongst his most rewarding experiences. As a bushwalker, he is particularly proud of the work he did creating a walking track link from Bunyan lookout to Glenbrook Creek which enabled walkers to walk from Glenbrook to Faulconbridge.

He was recognized recently for his contributions with a Certificate of Appreciation for Australian Volunteers’ issued by our local MP, Bob Debus.

“I was very pleased.” said John.

Contact Katoomba Men’s Shed, email katoombamensshed@gmail.com or call 4782-7433 (4783-SHED) Website, at http://kms.org.au/ 6

Calling All Jumpsuits!

Helen from Very Fashion in Katoomba is trying to locate and reunite all the jumpsuits from the past decades...to bring them back together for a reunion fashion parade in december.

If you have one stashed away and would like to lend it for the purposes of sartorialism please phone Helen at Very Fashion on 4782 7715.

Day of Action Against Sexual Assault Blue Mountains City Council recently hosted the Day of Action against Sexual Assault, launching the new Blue Mountains Youth Card to arm young people with resources to deal with violence and abuse.

The International Day is held annually as a day to commemorate victims and survivors of sexual assault and persons/services who work at preventing this crime. The local Day of Action was organised by the Blue Mountains Coalition Against Violence and Abuse,

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a collaboration of agencies that provide support and advice for victims of violence, sexual assault health and youth accommodations services.

“The Blue Mountains Youth Card is small and easy to carry with you all the time in a wallet or bag. Having a few spare cards to hand out to your friends is a great way to look out for your mates”, said Youth Council representative, Trey Doyle.

The Blue Mountains Youth Card will be distributed to all young people participating in the Kinks and Bends program and through local youth networks. For further information, contact the Blue Mountains Women’s Health Centre, Katoomba on 4782 5133.

Afghanistan Film Launch The long awaited film on Afghanistan by local filmmaker Gary Caganoff had its world premier screening at The Edge Cinema last month. ‘The Garden at the End of the World’, follows local permaculturalist Rosemary Morrow to Afghanistan to see the effects of 25 years of war on the people, and together with Australian aid organisation Mahboba’s Promise, help the country in its struggle to rebuild. Afghanistan is

September 2009

still experiencing widespread hunger, homelessness and lawlessness. The film was very confronting but Gary has done an incredible job of researching and filming in Afghanistan blending the tragedy with hope and producing an excellent documentary.

It was inspirational to hear Afghan Australian Mahboba Rawi speak about her amazing achievements. With so much suffering, Afghanistan clings to hope and both Rosemary’s work and Mahboba’s Promise are helping the Afghani people plant the seeds of peace in the garden at the end of the world. Further information how we can help will be published in the future.

Letter to the Editor Since May ‘09 the New Mental Health Unit at Blue Mountains Hospital has closed five beds which remain closed to date (1/9/09). Yesterday the proprietors of the Kiosk at the hospital were given six weeks notice to close.

On the night of 31/9/09-1/9/09, the Emergency Department had only one nurse. Three Registered nurses (frontline clinical staff) have been given voluntary redundancies.

Blue Mountains Hospital is bleeding.

Comment on the website www. theecho.net.au. Name withheld.

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Stillness in Action This is a weekend workshop/retreat combining meditation with ‘engagement in the world’. It will be held in October 16-18th, 2009, in Katoomba.

It is an opportunity for people to connect with nature, and have spiritual support (in the form of mindfulness and meditation) for the work they are already involved in, whether it be community work, vegie gardening, caring for small children or elders, education, creative arts, business, environmental work, health care and so on.

There will be onsite childcare for 5-6 hours each day, to make it possible for people caring for children to attend, and is also a shorter timeframe for people who would rather leave their kids with a loved one, but can only do so for a couple of nights.

The spirituality is based in Buddhism, it is inclusive and non-dogmatic. There will also be a fun drum and dance workshop, on the Saturday evening, run by the wonderful and dynamic blue mountains musicians, Emily and John May http://www.handsheartfeet.com/

Art Voice

‘Art Voice’ is a new programme being run at the Women’s Health Centre, in Lurline St, Katoomba, starting on the 8th of September. The programme provides a framework for young women to create artworks that convey positive messages for their peers about challenging sexual violence and unsafe drug use, in order to promote resilience, staying safe and positive choices.

‘Art Voice’ is seeking to involve young women in the 15 to 25 years age bracket from a variety of different backgrounds and with different life experiences.

It will run for 8 to 12 weeks, on Tuesdays from 4pm to 6pm.

“This is something by young women, for young women,” said programme co-ordinator, Hellouise Paienne. “Last year we ran a similar project called Photo/ Voice which was very successful. We found that the images being produced were a very powerful means of communicating ideas.”

There will be an exhibition of the finished artworks in November at the Carrington, and Hellouise will be liaising with local high schools to promote both the programme and the ideas generated by the artists involved.

If you are interested, please contact Hellouise at the Blue Mountains Women’ Health Centre on (02) 4782 5133

Free Women’s Pamper Day in North Katoomba

Katoomba North Community Hub in conjunction with the Blue Mountains Women’s Health and Resource Centre is having a pampering day for women who live in North Katoomba. “It is important for all women that they take some time to look after themselves” said Lyn Pagan, one of the organisers.

“As women we are very good at looking after others but sometimes we are not so good at looking after ourselves.

This is an opportunity for women to do just that and have some fun whilst doing so. They could come and have a manicure (courtesy of TAFE students) or a head and shoulders massage. For those women who want to explore their creative side, there in Action develops wisdom, calmness, courage & clarity are various art and Stillness to sustain a life of freedom and integrity in challenging times craft activities to do whilst the energetic • Learn a simple meditation to still the confusions of the mind - creating spaciousness in which wisdom and compassion arise - freeing your intellectual, emotional and could try belly danc- creative intelligence. ing! There is a deli- • Renew your spirit for restoring a sustainable environment, for building a just and

Meditation, Community & the Earth Karuna Centre, Katoomba 16th – 18th October,

equitable society, for participating in healthy and creative communities, for personal and social healing.

• Strengthen confidence, kindness and joy - and your power to make a difference - through processes of deep ecology, systems science and ancient earth wisdom • Use practical tools to clarify your values and intentions and move them into action; • Learn ways to build sustaining communities of friendship.

NORTH KATOOMBA Free WOMEN’S PAMPER DAY Friday September 18 9.30 – 2.30pm Do you live in North Katoomba? Would you like to have some fun, be pampered and meet other women in the area?

• Have a manicure or a head and neck massage • Try belly dancing, group singing, art & craft • Enjoy a delicious lunch • Find out who we are and what we do

Activities will be held in Katoomba North School’s Public Hall and in the beautiful new KU Bilya Gulyangarri Pre school building. Childcare provided by request

Bookings essential. Ph 4782 5133 by September 15 An activity of the Blue Mountains Women’s Health and Resource Centre in conjunction with Katoomba North Community Hub

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cious lunch to be had and lucky door prizes. It is also an opportunity for women to come and meet some of the staff from the Hub and the Blue Mountains Women’s Health and Resource Centre and find out what we do. Even more importantly, women will be able to meet other women who live in North Katoomba.”

The day which is on Friday 18th September will be held at Katoomba North School’s Public Hall and the beautiful new KU Bilya Gulyangarri Pre school. Registration is at 9.15am and the day will finish at 2.30pm. Limited child care is available by request.

Bookings are essential. Women need to contact the Blue Mountains Women’s Health Centre and Resource Centre on 47825133 by September 15th.

“We would like to invite women of all ages in the area to come. This is the first of what we hope will be many activities for women to participate in their local community. It is also one of the first partnerships between the two organisations and the school”.

This is an activity of the Mountains Women’s Resource Centre funded by the Department of Community Services.

RETREAT LEADER: BOBBI ALLAN, a Buddhist teacher in the Insight tradition with over 30 years experience in Buddhist practice. Her “Stillness in Action” retreats, combine meditation with the ‘engaged Buddhist’ processes developed by US scholar and activist, Joanna Macy, with whom she has trained for over 20 years. (see www.joannamacy.net) SATURDAY EVENING- participate in a drum and dance celebration with Emily Cooper and John May, of Hands Heart and Feet FEES : sliding scale $190-280 per adult, children 0-4yrs $40, 5-11yrs $84, 12-17 $134 Accommodation and food provided. Fee covers the costs; Teachings are by donation - in the Buddhist tradition of generosity.

Parents with children welcome – some child care provided

Enquiries: Miriam: 4751 2360

stillnessinaction.katoomba@gmail.com www.stillnessinaction.net.au

September 2009

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Leura Gardens Festival 2009 This spring, Leura will again host one of Australia’s most visited garden festivals, the annual Leura Gardens Festival from Saturday October 3rd to Sunday October 11th.

A collection of nine private gardens, rarely accessible to the public will open for the Festival, along with the National Trust property Everglades, one of Australia’s foremost heritage gardens that combine European-style, native bush and breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains National Park. The gardens are all located in Leura and accessible by a Festival shuttle bus.

Cool climate conifers and flowering plants the Blue Mountains is famous for, such as dogwoods, Japanese cherries, rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas, tulips, and lilacs will provide much colour.

New to the Festival in 2009 is the garden, Ilion. Another garden new to the Festival in 2009 is Abbotsford, which boasts magnificent valley views.

It returns to the Festival after an extensive renovation. Shenstone, Rustlings, Brabourne, Wai-ila, Tanglewood, Elouera and the combined gardens of

Dead End House/ Greenheys /Soleby, (classified as one garden for entry) are also included.

A multiple garden entry ticket costs $18.00 per person. This allows one entry to each of the gardens for the duration of the Festival, enabling visitors to spend several days in the Blue Mountains. Entry to individual gardens costs $5.00 per person. Gardens are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

A Leura Gardens Festival shuttle bus will meet trains at Leura station and provide transport to the gardens. The shuttle bus costs $5.00 per person for an all-day, hop-on-hop-off service.

Garden entry tickets can be purchased at the gates of all gardens during the Festival, from the Leura Gardens Festival stand at the top of Leura Mall or from Festival Headquarters in Fitzroy Street. The Leura Gardens Festival is a registered charity run by volunteers with the purpose of raising funds for the Blue Mountains District Anzac Memorial Hospital, to purchase specialist medical equipment.

For further information, visit www. leuragardensfestival.com.au. To request a free Festival booklet email info@leuragardensfestival.com.au or telephone 0431 095 279.

Getaway of choice A recent poll shows more than a third of Sydneysiders would choose the Blue Mountains region as their preferred destination for a day visit.

Minister for Tourism Jodi McKay said the Sydney Chamber of Commerce CityPoll surveyed Sydney residents on their “favourite things”, with 40 per cent confirming the Blue Mountains as their favourite place to getaway.

“This is great news for the local tourism operators in the region,” Ms McKay said.“The scenic Blue Mountains and its world heritage listed national parks received more than 2.5 million domestic and international visitors, including 1.8 million day-trippers last year.“Visitors spent more than $449 million in the region, boosting the local economy.”

Local MP Phil Koperberg said the results show the Blue Mountains are the destination of choice for both international and local visitors.“The Blue Mountains gives Sydneysiders an ideal getaway, just a couple of hours drive from the city,” Mr Koperberg said.

“These results are very encouraging for local businesses that rely on tourists.

Jemby-Rinjah Eco Lodge A unique ecotourism escape Catering for groups, weddings, conferences and families...

Permanent display of Aboriginal artworks for sale

•

Licensed restaurant

•

Holiday cabins

•

Group eco lodges

•

Conference centre

•

A distinctive venue for any occasion

336 Evans Lookout Rd Blackheath Phone: 4787

7622

Email: info@jemby.com.au

Web: www.jemby.com.au www.theecho.net.au

September 2009

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Mountain Heritage Mountain Heritage, formerly ‘The California’, began life as a temperance guesthouse during Katoomba’s glory days as a resort town in the 1930’s.

These days it is a beautifully restored boutique hotel, with a licensed restaurant and comfortable lounge overlooking South Katoomba and the stunning vista of the Jamison Valley beyond.

Up till now, Mountain Heritage has catered almost exclusively for tourists, but manager Justin Higgins has a new chef and a new menu, and would like to invite Blue Mountains locals to come to the restaurant for a terrific meal, a little history and a great view!

The restaurant offers Sunday roasts, for a stress free Sunday lunch, and a family friendly and affordable lunch menu - everything under $20 – every other day of the week. This includes a kids menu, with old favourites Roll up at the restaurant, and come inside. It’s warm and welcoming.

However if you’re after something a little special, the restaurant is open till late on a Friday and Saturday night, and the evening menu is more sophisticated and creative.

Chef Andrew Third hails from New Zealand, though has spent some time working in Sydney in venues owned by the JJ O’Brien Group. His adventures in food include creating a three course meal for Monteith Beer’s “Wild Food” competition, and his inspiration includes the ideas and theories of chefs Heston Blumenthal and Peter Gordon. Heston Blumenthal is best known for his ‘scientific’ approach to food, which has had him resurrecting some historical recipes enjoyed by the

www.theecho.net.au

Romans and Tudors, and creating flavours from fiction, including a version of Harry Potter’s butterbeer.

Peter Gordon is often referred to as the father of fusion cooking, where an exotic version of a standard ingredient (perhaps an Asian or Middle Eastern alternative) can be substituted to give a traditional dish a different twist.

Andrew’s first challenges at Mountain Heritage have been creating an identifiably – and memorably - Australian cuisine, and making the dishes seasonal, in keeping with Mountains weather! Are you ready to try steak with an ironbark braising jus? Or some akatjurra (bush tomato) butter with your potato? The menu has range of dishes which vary from subtle to exciting, and Andrew has plenty of ideas for new additions to celebrate springtime, including a dish of warm smoked salmon with a white chocolate and wasabi bavarois.

Worth mentioning is the dessert menu, an unmissable assortment of sensations that will round off your meal, or could be enjoyed by themselves by locals wanting to stop by for a coffee after the movies on a Friday or Saturday night.

For the sweet tooth, there is chocolate, chili and star anise mousse, for those craving comfort food there is a rhubarb and apple crumble, and for those wanting something entirely decadent, there is a tobacco infused panna cotta with a whisky jelly, a grown– up dessert that suits this beautiful old building very well, in spite of her alcohol-free origins!

Contact Mountain Heritage Restaurant) 4782 2155, or check out the website, www.mountainheritage.com.au/

September 2009

New fire engine for Leura Fire Station Fire and emergency protection for local residents and businesses has been boosted with the handover of a new engine to the NSW Fire Brigades’ Leura Fire Station.

NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services and Member for the Blue Mountains, Phil Koperberg, officially handed over the new $350,000, Class 2 Pumper at a special ceremony at the Leura Station.

“This new pumper carries the latest equipment and technology, and will increase our firefighter’s capacity to deal with fires, accidents, chemical spills and other emergencies,” Mr Koperberg said. “The new engine features a high pressure pump capable of delivering 3,000 litres of water per minute for fighting fires, and incorporates a foam system for fighting chemical, petrol and bush fires and reducing water usage. The cabin of the vehicle has been increased in size to make it more comfortable for firefighters, and fitted with a reversing camera for safety.”

Minister for Emergency Services Steve Whan said firefighters from the Leura Fire Station had responded to 350 emergency calls in 2008/09.

“The Leura Brigade does an extraordinary job in protecting their community, and this new pumper will help them do their work even more effectively,” Mr Whan said.

NSWFB Commissioner Greg Mullins said the new truck would help firefighters better protect the Blue Mountains’ growing population, complementing resources at fire stations across the district.

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Nuts about Nuts A Diary/Calendar with a difference ‘Nuts about Nuts 2010’ is not just an ordinary diary or calendar, it is an attractive illustrated publication which contains 12 interesting articles about different kinds of edible nuts, one for each month of the year. The articles – some of which were originally written for Garden Club and Cooking Class newsletters – incorporate knowledge which the designer/producer, Vietnamese born Chân Carroll, has gleaned over the years through her heritage as a grand daughter of a well known herbalist, through her having lived in different cultures and through her wide reading.

Once again, the project is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Central Blue Mountains in support of Austral-

ian Rotary Health. Following the great success of ‘Spice up Your Days 2009’ diary last year, ‘Nuts about Nuts 2010’ this year comes in both diary and calendar formats to widen its appeal in the community.

In either format, ‘Nuts about Nuts’ is available for a donation of $12 per copy. More information can be obtained from the secretary of the Rotary Club of Central Blue Mountains, PO Box 124, Wentworth Falls, 2782 or by emailing Chân Carroll at pet@bigpond.net.au.

Radio Players The Blue Mountains Radio Players present two plays every LAST Sunday of the month at Leura House which is now the permanent home of the Radio

Plays in the Mountains. The cost is $12pp.including the Plays and Devonshire Tea. The next plays are held on 27th September, 2:30pm at Leura House at 7 Britain St in Leura.

“Other Side of the Stars” by Wyllis Cooper,Broadcast 5th May, 1949.

About an astronomer who knows what’s out there on the other side of the stars!

The other play is one of the Adventures of the Thin Man. “The Case of the Goofy Groom.” Broadcast 10th March, 1946 Nick and Nora Charles, the elegant detective duo, help the wedding couple to solve their honeymoon disaster!!

Come and be entertained, using your “Visual Imagery” Ph: 4784 2035 for more details.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Advertise your business here and on the website www.theecho.net.au AIR CONDITIONING

For all your air conditioning & gas central heating needs Phone 4735 3300 4/84 Old Bathurst Rd, Emu Heights Lic No. 148730C

WE DESIGN. WE INSTALL. WE GUARANTEE.

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Blue Mountains Domestic Appliance Service For reliable service & quality repairs to refrigeration, air conditioning & appliances

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Licence 53239C 4759 2454 or 0418 973 417 AUTO MECHANIC

General servicing & repairs All makes & models • Rego checks Pick-up & deliver • QBE Green Slips Log book servicing Ph 4782 5359 www.theecho.net.au

• $25 (single) per month or $250 for a year • $50(double) per month or $500 a year Call 4773 8974 or email info@theecho.net.au BATHROOMS & TILES

TRC Bathrooms & Tiles Your LOCAL supplier of Bathroom Plumbing Products Wall & Floor Tiles • Huge Showroom

Full Bathroom renovation service available 14/26 Megalong St, Katoomba

Ph: 4782 9944

BRICKLAYER/HANDYMAN

Bricklaying, Carpentry, Irrigation Systems, Paving, Structural landscaping,

0424 079 667

CAR CLEANING

• • • • • •

MOBILE CAR CLEANING

Regular special cleans Executive cleans Buffing & Hand Polish Under Bonnet Cleans Internal Details Seat & Carpet Shampoo

‘For that Showroom Finish’

‘For that Showroom Finish’ Call Chris 0418 239 048 Or Free call 1800 1 52637 CATERING

RED LENTIL VEGETARIAN CATERING 4-course meals delivered to your home or office

Tiffin lunches combine the convenience of takeaway, the culinary flair of a restaurant & all the best things about a home-cooked meal!

$15 (plus $1-$2 delivery)

Free delivery to Katoomba town centre

Phone 0422 850 762

Lic No 193912c

redlentilcatering.blogspot.com

CARPENTER

ELECTRICIAN

Mathew Pearson Carpentry

For all your Electrical Needs

• Renovations • Pergolas • Decks • Extensions • Built in wardrobes • Floating floors • Hang doors • Skirting • Architraves • Gyprocking/Plastering • General household maintenance & much more!

FREE QUOTES Contact Mathew on 0439 322 498 or peoscarpentry@hotmail.com

Licence No: 195360C

September 2009

• Qualified • Courteous • Clean • Reliable • On time

Call Gary: 0419

Lic No 14178S

972 427 11

ELECTRICIAN

Matcan Electrical

• Domestic & Commercial • Installations & Renovations • Telephone & Computer Networks

0414 490 386 or 4773 9590

If anyone can ... Matcan!

EXCAVATION

ALPINE EXCAVATIONS BOBCAT, EXCAVATOR & TIPPER HIRE

Rockhammer & Auger, Land Clearing, Yards Levelled, Driveways, Slashing, Rubbish Removed, Filling Supplied

LAWN MOWING

ADVERTISE HERE

Andy’s Lawn Mowing

Advertise your business here for just: $250 a year in 11 editions Please call 4773 8974 or email info@theecho.net.au Also reproduced on-line at

Rubbish removal, slashing, trees trimmed, Pensioner ride-on mowing, Discount domestic mowing, gutter cleaning Same day quotes All work guaranteed Fully insured

4757 1560 or 0414 541 560

0402 328 143

FINANCIAL ADVISER

LEGAL SERVICES

www.theecho.net.au PHOTOGRAPHY

A one hour photographic session including a disk of your digital images from $100 Quote “Echo” and receive 20% off Ph: 0416 236 558 mellmallinphotography@live.com.au mellmallinportfolio.blogspot.com

REAL ESTATE

LURLINE

tel: 4784 3422 mob: 0404 061 789

LEGAL SERVICES

* Conveyancing & Leases * Wills & Estates * Family Law * General Litigation

• • • •

Superannuation Specialist Retirement Strategy Life Insurance Wealth Creation

“Local advice in worrying times”

Contact Peter Tichband Dip FP

Authorised Representitive Total Financial Solutions Pty Ltd AFSL No. 246545

Ph 4757 4385

Suite 5, 201 Gt Western Hwy Wentworth Falls

lls49@bigpond.net.au 49 Lurline Street, Katoomba

RESTAURANT

Wentworth Falls Legal

Sada Thai Restaurant

Eddie de Sousa LLB, MDR tel: 4757 2915 Solicitor, Mediator, Conveyancer, Civil, mob: 0414 57 2915 fax: 4757 2917

Criminal - Commercial Law, Wills and Estates

202 Gt Western H’way, Wentworth Falls eddesousa@swiftdsl.com.au

FINANCIAL SERVICES

MARTIAL ARTS

HAPKIDO

Financial Services

• Interested in building wealth??

• Want a financial advantage!!

• Get your own personal adviser…

• Fantastic free mortgage service

New Roofs, Re-roof, Carl Loughman JP 0413 285

633

Roof Restoration, Repairs, Re-ridging, Extensions, INSULATION Accredited Pink

License N: 86216C

Martial Arts & Self Defence for men, women & children KATOOMBA: Mon, Wed & Sat. Adults 6.30-8.30pm. Sat Beginners 10am -12 Family Classes, Private Tuition

Phone: 4782 6645 or 0410 311 394 www.hermes.net.au/hapkido

MUSIC LESSONS

Piano & Keyboard Lessons

Friendly & inspiring atmosphere • Contemporary method • Musicianship & Composition Classes • Beginners & adults • All styles • Exams available Lic No 86216C Supply a nd fit fascia & (New & Old) guttering Supply & fit ceiling insulation

Govt funding License of upNo. to63551C $1600 for 0418eligible 446 590, 4773 8634 home owners Phone Greg

• New roofs • Roof repairs & restoration • Supply & fit fascia & guttering • Bonded asbestos removal

Phone Greg 0418 446 590 or 4773 8634

Evan Harslett

LEGAL SERVICES

Email: ptichband@tfsa.com.au

Carlsan

evan.harslett@raywhite.com raywhite.com 142 The Mall, Leura

4782 3700

Authentic Pure Thai Cuisine Takeaway lunch special $9.90 from 11.30am-2.30pm Tues-Sun Open 7 days • Eat in or Takeaway

4757 3623

1/24 Station St, Wentworth Falls

SECURITY MAKE YOUR BUSINESS SAFER High Quality Guard & Patrol Services 24 hours, 365 days of the year

• Alarm installations & service • CCTV • Alarm Monitoring • Mobile security patrols • Functions/parties SPC STATEWIDE PROTECTIVE SERVICES

4751 8932

Master Licence No. 408 379 413

SOUND GEAR

Sound Gear for Parties & Events

Early Childhood Classes

Also photos & video coverage of your next family occasion

Phone 4757 1476

www.bmmm.net brad2782@gmail.com

Developmentally appropriate music & movement programme • Newborn to 7 yrs • Singing & Instruments • Gift Certificates Available •

PIANO SALES

Clearance Sale!

Pianos from $250 Delivery available Pianos also bought & sold

0416 617 949

4757 2757

VIDEO TO DVD Preserve your precious memories vhs/tapes photographs/slides memorial/tribute to professionally edited DVD movies

0416 279 377 or 4753 7761

www.completeroofing.com.au

www.theecho.net.au

September 2009

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