$2.50
April 2026
News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys
2026 Gresford Show
The 2026 Gresford Show has been hailed as one of the most successful in recent years, with record gate takings and an incredible turnout of visitors, exhibitors and volunteers. The strong community support was evident across the entire weekend, reinforcing the Show’s place as a much-loved highlight on the district calendar. Full story and pics p8...
Top: Junior Young Women entrants – Gracie Clements, 2026 winner Tiahnee Eldridge, 2025 winner Ebony Young, 2026 runner up Lexie Rayfield. Bottom: Junior Cattle Judging entrants. Photos by Nigel Cox
HOLY WEEK SERVICE TIMES
Wednesday 1st April - $500 Easter Egg Raffle
$2000 Prawn & Oyster Raffle
3rd April Good Friday – Club open 12.00
relaxing afternoon with JUST NATE (NO TAKEAWAYS)
Saturday 4th April – Open from 9.00am
Wednesday 8th April -Laughable Leigh Trivia 6.30
Maundy Thursday St Paul’s Paterson 6.30pm 2nd April
Saturday 25th April – Anzac Day open from 10.30
TWO UP AFTER LUNCH
Good Friday St Anne’s Gresford
Sunday 26th April – OPEN 3pm JOINT EFFORT 4PM
Sunday 10th May -Mother’s Day
3 April 10.30am
Every Week at the Bowlo!!
Easter Sunday 5 April
Gresford Arboretum 10.30am followed by lunch
WEDNESDAY SOCIAL BOWLS FROM 12.30
HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAY 4.30 - 6.00
CHANGE OF DAY FOR TRIVIA STARTING BACK IN MARCH
ALL WELCOME
Easter at the Arboretum
Second Wednesday of the month
The Laughable Leigh Trivia Night from 6.30
Celebrate with us the resurrection of Christ, at the Gresford Arboretum, on Easter Sunday, 10.30am, followed by lunch. All welcome
Wednesday Night – Meat Trays & IGA pack Raffles tickets on sale from 6.30
Friday Night – 10 Meat Tray Raffles, 1 Fruit & Veg Tray Members Draw
Sunday Night -
Raffles Tickets on sale 6.30 Drawn 7.00 Members Draw Members Draw - if not won goes up $25.00 on Sunday night, must be here to WIN!
Like us on Facebook “Support your Club, It’s your club” Best In our town,
The Gresford News Community Diary
TBC Apr Sketch Club – En PLEIN AIR, Gresford Show, 11 –3pm, Contact Christine Pike 0428 271 819
Easter service times See ads & notices for local churches
Fri 3 Apr Just Nate, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 4pm
Sat 4 Apr
Gresford Billy Cart Derby
Sat 4 Apr Live music –. Adam Wiltonc, Hotel Beatty, 2-6pm
Sat 4 Apr Live music –. Merkins Bankd, Hotel Beatty, 7-11pm
Mon 6 Apr
Wed 8 Apr
Sat 11 Apr
Sat 11 Apr
Gresford & District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm
Laughable Leigh Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm
Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, 9.30am – email Penny Kater for details pennykater@gmail.com
Gresford Book Club, CWA Hall, 2–4
Fri 17 Apr CWA Craft Morning, CWA Hall, 9–12
Sun 19 Apr 'Vacy beach' riverbank Landcare working bee, 2pm, new volunteers are always welcome
Sun 19 Apr Kids Club, Gresford Community Gallery, 2-4pm
Tues 21 Apr Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10am
Thurs 23 Apr Sketch Club – Still Life/Figurative, Gresford Community Gallery, 1pm, Contact Christine Pike 0428 271 819
Sat 25 Apr
ANZAC Day – Dawn Service at Paterson Cenotaph: 5:30am and Gresford Cenotaph: 10:30am
Sat 25 Apr Two up after lunch, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club
Sat 25 Apr Karaoke – ANZAC Day, Hotel Beatty, 2-late
Sun 26 Apr Live music – Joint Effort, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 4pm
Tues 7 Jul Gresford School of Arts Committee meeting, main hall, 7pm
Every Mon Fitness A GoGo with Donna! class, Gresford Community Gallery, 3.30pm
Every Wed Happy hour + Gift Voucher Raffles, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 4.30–6pm
Every Thurs Mass, St Helen's Catholic Church, East Gresford, 9.30am
Every Thur Happy hour, free pool & jukebox, Hotel Beatty, 5.30–7pm
Every Fri (school terms) Yoga with Donna Cavanough, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.30–11am & live zoom online Tues, Wed, Fri, 7.30am
Every Fri Twilight Bowls, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 5.30pm
Most Fri afternoons Friends of the Arboretum activities, times vary seasonally, contact Penny Kater for details 0488 371 589
Every Fri Cricket Club Raffles, Hotel Beatty
Sat-Sun
Gresford Community Gallery open, 12 Park St, East Gresford, 10-4 or by appt phone Robyn 0417 686 816
Sat Mass, St Helen's Catholic Church, East Gresford, 5.30pm (except 2nd Sat of month)
Every Sun Anglican Church services, dates & locations vary–see ad, St Paul’s Paterson, 8.30am • St Anne’s Gresford, 10.30am
Every Sun The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am
Every Sun Social Bowls +, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, from 4pm
1st Mon each month
Gresford District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm, all welcome! (not Jan)
1st & 3rd Mon each month French conversation, CWA Hall, 10–11.30
1st Wed each month Laughable Leigh Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm
2nd Mon each month
Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, 5pm (not Jan), contact Penny Kater for details 0488 371 589
2nd Thurs each month Pool Comp with prizes at the Hotel Beatty 6.30pm
2nd Sat each month Gresford Community Market, Gresford Community Park, 9–1
2nd Sat each month CWA Book Club, CWA Hall, 3pm
2nd Sun each month Mass, Sacred Heart, Summer Hill, 11.30am
3rd Tues each month Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10am (not Jan), contact Chris Walker for details 0401 566 180
3rd Thurs each month Trivia Night at the Hotel Beatty 6.30pm
3rd Fri each month CWA Craft Morning, CWA Hall, 9–12
3rd Sun each month Vacy & Surrounds Crop Swap, alongside Vacy General Store, 9.30am
3rd Sun each month 'Vacy beach' riverbank Landcare working bee, 2pm
3rd Sun each month Entertainment at the Hotel Beatty
4th Tues each month Circle Dancing, 4.30pm – to book in & check location phone Pip on 0493 388 889
PUT YOUR EVENT IN THE COMMUNITY DIARY:
Contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au • Brian Doherty 0412 372 687 • Jane Richens 0425 339 856 has always been created by the community for the community. The content is provided by individuals and community organisations to keep the community informed about activities in the area. Your contributions are always welcome! Deadline for stories & ads 20th of the month. For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred (not in word).
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Gresford News Notices
Gresford Billy Cart Derby Sat 4 Apr
Get ready for all the action....
Gresford & District Community Group Meeting • Mon 6 Apr 6.30pm Hotel Beatty
ANZAC day info
Gresford RSL Sub Branch will conduct a Dawn Service at Paterson & a Commemoration Service at Gresford. Residents invited to participate in the March & Service to remember family members & friends who have served their country.
PATERSON DAWN SERVICE
March: 5:25am, Stockers & Partridge Garage, Paterson • Paterson Cenotaph: 5:30am await the arrival of the Parade then Dawn Service. • Following Service: Paterson Tavern for a traditional mince on toast breakfast & refreshments.
GRESFORD ANZAC DAY MARCH
March: 10:25am, Gresford Garage & Rural, Durham Road • Gresford Cenotaph: 10:30am Await parade then Commemoration Service
THE GRESFORD NEWS
Gresford News: News of the communities of the Paterson & Allyn River Valleys, has been published by the Gresford & District Community Group since 2002. As a not-for-profit community association any profits go towards supporting community projects.
IT'S YOUR NEWS
The Gresford News has always been created by the community for the community. The content is provided by individuals and community organisations – Your contributions are always welcome!
IS YOUR NEWS BEING DELIVERED?
Gresford News is delivered to letterboxes on the main road north of Paterson and roadside in the Vacy and Gresford postal districts to the top of the Paterson and Allyn Rivers. PLEASE let us now if you do not recieve your NEWS – we will see if there is a problem we can fix.
• Following Service: Gresford Bowling Club for ANZAC DAY activities.
Creative activities at the Gresford Community Gallery
• Sketch Club–Still Life/Figurative Thurs 23 Apr 1pm
• Sketch Club–En PLEIN AIR – historic property Paterson Date TBC
• Kids Club Sun 23 Apr 10-2pm
CWA Special Public Events
Fri 19 June, 9am
Talk by Lyn Cummings, a Handicraft Judge, will speak at the Craft Morning about embroidery.
Sat 4 Jul, 2pm
Talk by Amorelle Dempster about her wide experiences in catering September Revisit by Tony Cavanough who will talk about Crime Fiction. Morning or afternoon tea follows events.
Gresford Still Needs YOU !
The Gresford School of Arts Committee had some important changes occur at their Annual General meeting on March 17.
Rosalie Lawrence who has been in the executive role of President for a number of years as well as Secretary and Treasurer in earlier years, advised that she would not be seeking re-election. She has been a tireless supporter of local representation and a strong advocate for Gresford.
A big thank-you to Alexandria Curruthers, our Dungog Shire Counsellor, for being the returning officer for the AGM, and also for her attendance at all the committee meetings since she was elected as well as her liaison skills with Council.
The AGM results are: President – Michael Jupp; Treasurer – Tony Schultz (but only until the end of the financial year); Secretary – Kel Merriman (also only to the end of the financial year). So we still need people to take on the roles of Treasurer and Secretary in the later half of the year.
The next Gresford School of Arts Committee Meeting will be held 7pm Tuesday 7th July 2026 in the main hall.
Kel Merriman, Secretary
Celebrating local history
In March the Gresford District Historical Society hosted a well-attended and engaging local history event that highlighted the strong community interest in preserving and sharing the area’s stories.
Held on Sunday 8 March at the School of Arts Hall in East Gresford, the free afternoon featured a presentation by local historian Dr Brian Walsh, who delivered an illustrated talk on his publication Gresford to Carrabolla, published by the Paterson Historical Society.
Attendees not only gained insight into Dr Walsh’s published work but also contributed to his ongoing research his forthcoming book on the Gresford to Upper Allyn district, with several useful leads
emerging from post-talk discussions. The opportunity for informal conversation, paired with the availability of locally relevant publications and afternoon tea, created a great atmosphere.
Events like this play an important role in celebrating the district’s rich heritage, while supporting continued research and documentation and underscoring the importance of grassroots historical organisations in facilitating knowledge sharing in regional areas.
The Gresford District Historical Society Committee thanks everyone who attended and people can contact us at any time by email on gresforddistricthistoricalsoc@ outlook.com
Dr Brian Walsh discussing local history at the East Gresford School of Arts Hall.
DAVE LAYZELL
Gloucester
Dungog
Singleton
Muswellbrook
Merriwa
Murrurundi
Gresford East
Vacy
Paterson
Lorn
Bolwarra
Gresford students make a difference with hair donation to charity
Students coming to school after getting a haircut might not seem like a newsworthy event, however two students at Gresford Public School are certainly the exception. Elkie (5 years old) and Elora (7 years old)
Graham’s hair was not swept from the floor and disposed of but carefully packaged and sent to local charitable organisations and wig-wakers where they can contribute to wigs for those suffering from alopecia areata, cancer or other medically induced hair loss conditions.
Elora first donated her hair in 2024 when she was 5 after her mother Melanie, explained that her grandmother had lost her hair after chemotherapy treatment for leukemia. Melanie also explained that hair loss can also happen to children
experiencing chemotherapy and conditions like alopecia. These stories inspired Elora to make sure that something that she wasn’t using, her cut hair, would not go to waste and could “bring joy to children experiencing tough times.”
Elora’s younger sister Elkie could not be left out and keenly grew her hair long enough that when she was also 5 years old, she too could donate her hair. “By chance,
Elora wanted to go very short and her hair length was just long enough to donate as well,” explained their mother, Melanie. That brings us to today where they have both recently returned to school, like their peers but with noticeably shorter hair. Elora admits that she is not sure how much she likes her new haircut, but she is buoyed by the knowledge that she and her little sister have helped other people in need.
Over 27 years specialising in rural property sales shows Autumn into Winter into early Spring is the best time to acheive rural sales.
Elkie (5) & Elora (7) Graham’s hair donated to charitable organisations & wig-wakers.
2026 Gresford Show Highlights
The 2026 Gresford Show has been hailed as one of the most successful in recent years, with record gate takings and an incredible turnout of visitors, exhibitors and volunteers. The strong community support was evident across the entire weekend, reinforcing the Show’s place as a muchloved highlight on the district calendar.
The pavilions were filled to capacity, showcasing an outstanding array of entries. From fresh produce and home baking to flowers, plants, handicrafts, art, photography and children’s exhibits, the displays reflected both the talent and dedication of the local community. Visitors
were treated to vibrant, high-quality exhibits that created a welcoming and engaging atmosphere throughout the grounds.
Equestrian events once again proved a major drawcard, with strong competition across all classes. The Campdraft was a standout highlight, attracting large crowds of spectators and competitors alike. Congratulations go to Georgia Nielsen, winner of the Open Campdraft. In the local horse section, congratulations go to Annabelle Chesworth, recipient of the David Cain Memorial Prize for Most Successful Local Rider Under 18 Years, and Matia Hopwood, who was named James
Hall Supreme Champion Local Rider.
In the cattle ring, the standard of competition remained exceptionally high. Boambee Angus was awarded Supreme Champion Beef Cattle Exhibit in the Stud Section, while Paul Dooley secured the Supreme Champion Commercial Cattle Exhibit for the second consecutive year— an outstanding achievement.
Pavilion competitions were equally impressive, with strong participation across all sections. Jodie Pender was awarded the prestigious Mary Keely Trophy for Most Successful Exhibitor, with Janelle McKenzie finishing a close second. In the
photos by Nigel Cox
Dakota Robertson jumping in the Open Six Bar Invitational
Produce Section, Peter Lawrence took home the Daryl Lawrence Trophy for Most Successful Exhibitor.
Festivities began on Thursday evening with the Art Show Opening and Young Woman Competition, which saw its largest attendance to date. The event provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate creativity and community spirit. Congratulations to Sofia Leonard, crowned Gresford Show Young Woman for 2026, and Runner-Up Helena Matthews.
The Grand Parade featured a wonderful display of exhibits, and the community was honoured to have Mr Dick Adams officially
open the 2026 Show. The hill was packed all afternoon once the entertainment program commenced from the entertaining Jump and Drive carriage racing and showjumping event, to the Six bar invitational spectacular, locals motorbike racing, post splitting Calcutta and the huge draw card of Rooftop express team who put on amazing display of horse and livestock handling – all topped off by our iconic fireworks display. The crowd was hooked from start to finish, with droves of kids lining the fence and making amazing memories of Gresford Show.
These outcomes reflect the hard work and dedication of the many volunteers who
Happy Easter from staff & patrons of the Hotel Beatty !
kept things running smoothly across the weekend. Behind the scenes, the success of the Show was made possible by the tireless efforts of volunteers, committee members, sponsors and supporters. In the busy weeks leading up to the event, many members of the community stepped in to lend a hand— an act of generosity that highlights the strength and spirit of the Gresford district. The continued success of the Gresford Show is a true reflection of the pride, passion and community connection that define the region. With another outstanding year complete, preparations are already looking ahead to an even bigger and better Show in 2027.
Right: Emily Foster leading her daughter Oakley Kelly
Gerard Newton in the Campdraft finals
Gresford Show – Our big calendar event of the year is Gresford Show, as it is for the Gresford community in general. The weather was perfect this year, and visitors were able to see the Show in all its magnificence. Our dining room was busy, and a cool, quiet respite from the warmth outside. The CWA provided drinks, sandwiches, light meals, scones, cakes and slices, and we were delighted with the attendance. A big thank-you to our workers and volunteers, without whom this would not be possible.
CWA NEWS
Public Events – Our Branch will host several talks this year that may be of interest to the public. The first will be by Lyn Cummings, a Handicraft Judge, who will speak at the Craft Morning on 19th June about embroidery. The second will be by Amorelle Dempster, who will talk about her wide experiences in catering at 2pm on the 4th July, and the third will be a revisit by Tony Cavanough in September, who will talk about Crime Fiction. Morning or afternoon tea will follow all of these events.
Craft Mornings – The dates for the future continue to be the third Fridays of
the month – 17th April, from 9-12 am. All are welcome to join us for a delicious morning tea, individual craft and a friendly chat. Members $3 and non-members $5.
Billy Cart Derby – Gresford CWA will join the fun once again with a stall selling all manner of things – cakes; craft items; books; bric-a-brac and other items. You’ll find us in front of the Twin Rivers café.
Book Club – Our book for 11th April at 3pm is a Jimmy Perez murder mystery by Anne Cleeves – The Killing Stones. New members are always welcome. Book Club is an activity run in association with the CWA as a cultural activity, but membership is not required, so men are also welcome.
Street Library and Indoor Library – The street library (or book box) is in the process of being revamped with some repairs and fresh paint. It is pleasing to see that borrowers have left greetings in the journal inside as recently as 26/1/26. An extra allocation of children’s books has been added. If members of the community want to access the more extensive library inside they are welcome to come when the hall is in use. Such times are generally: • First and third Mondays of the month when French is in operation. (Best times are (9:30–10 and 11:30–12 either side of the French meeting.)
• During Book Club on the second Saturday of the month between 3–4:30.
• During our Craft Mornings on the third Friday of the month from 9–12.
• Before the monthly CWA Meeting on the 1st Saturday of the month between 2–2:30.
French Conversation – takes place on the first and third Mondays of the month from 10–11:30am. Please ring Glenda Smith (0400 108 079 or 4938 9456) if you are interested, as sometimes there are changes to our planned meeting times. We are almost finished with our current topic of The Riviera.
What's On the Shelves?
by Glenda Smith Middlemarch – George Eliot
This book is a ‘classic’ Classic – surviving with relevance from the 19th century. It focuses on the lives of several characters who have differing moral arcs, and differing outcomes. There is Dorothea Brooks, a morally upright and sympathetic character who lets her head rule her heart for much of the novel; Dr Lydgate, a progressive doctor who lets romance ruin his good intentions; and young lovers Fred Vincy and Mary Garth who tread a long road to happiness.
While this summary may make Middlemarch sound like a romance novel, it is in fact a serious ‘Study of Provincial Life’ which is the rest of its title, and would be illuminating for those interested in history and society. It deals with such issues as the limitations placed on women; marriage; class; religion; morality and politics.
It is a very long book (889 pages) but highly readable, with engaging characters. Virginia Woolf described it in 1919 as "the magnificent book that, which with all its imperfections, is one of the few English novels written for grown-up people.”
All books reviewed are in the CWA library–see separate shelf so they are easy to find. Find reviews in a folder. Also visit our street library.
Bowlo News
The 2026 pennant season has started with three rounds completed. The Gresford Grade 5 team is off to a very good start lying a close second on their ladder Not so the hapless Grade 7’s which is firmly ensconced in the wooden spoon position at this stage. Not to worry though! There is only one way and that is up.
Our preparation this year has not been quite up to scratch due to a number of very hot days cancelling bowls activity. A social/trials game was played with our friends from Miller Park on 1 March. A good day was had by all and may we have more in the future. See photo.
Peter Dreyer
CULTURE VULTURE
Greetings to Culture Vulture readers
Gresford Community Gallery Updates: The Gallery has many more exciting and interesting events and guest speakers planned for this year. Please drop by to view an impressive collection of Hunter Valley artists’ work. The exhibition includes a great variety of quality art and craft, featuring painting, drawing, sculptures, ceramics, photography, fibre art, glass work, jewellery & stained glass/ lead light work. Gallery hoursWeekends 10am-4pm.
RAFFLE: Gresford Community Gallery is currently holding a raffle – a fabulous sculpture by artist Michael Garth (donated by the artist). Tickets are $5 each & will be drawn end of April. Michael Garth’s home and studio are presently based in the Hunter Valley. For over thirty years Garth has been making and teaching sculpture. Exhibiting in galleries and a finalist in major Australian Sculpture Prizes. His dynamic sculptures are collected nationally and internationally.
FEATURED GALLERY ARTIST:
GAVIN FRY Gavin is a writer, artist and museum professional with fifty years’ experience working in curatorial and management positions in Australian museums, galleries and educational institutions. He is the author of twentyfive books on Australian art and history and a large number of catalogue and journal essays.
Robyn Werkhoven
In retirement Gavin has returned to his art training and exhibits as a painter in Newcastle and Melbourne. Gavin holds the degrees of Bachelor of Arts [Hons], Master of Arts from Monash University and Master of Philosophy from Leicester University.
Gavin's style is expressionist incorporating vertical light planes and angles slightly evoking a cubist influence with a 1970s aura. His recent body of work has been directed to Newcastle and Hunter Valley icons.
“My mother’s family had been involved in the arts, with her mother a keen art collector and supporter of the local artists who lived in Warrandyte, long a favourite place for creative people since the middle of the 19th century.
Helen Aron was drawn to the modernists rather than the painters of traditional landscapes - particularly Danila Vassilieff, Arnold Shore and Adrian Lawlor. My grandfather, James Aron, had attended the National Gallery School in Melbourne at the end of the 19th century, although he never followed a career in art. Our family inherited an interesting modernist art collection and it was good to grow up surrounded by challenging and meaningful paintings.”
D4H Dozer
Gavin Fry was awarded the prestigious award - Order of Australia 2026, for his service to the Arts. Gavin exhibits at Gresford Community Gallery and regularly holds informative and interesting talks on the Arts at the gallery.
OTHER NEWS! On the 3rd May the Film/ doco Eric and Robyn and the Mythical Beasts by film producers Nicky Elliott and Pete Delahunty will be launched at Tower Cinemas, Newcastle.
Eric and Robyn Werkhoven have lived in East Gresford since 1990, it is a documentary film on the life and love story of two passionate artists, joined in every way, who delight in the absurdities of everyday life. The film tickets SOLD OUT in one week, so if you want to be on list for next screening - EXCLUSIVE
EARLY ACCESS CODE as soon as new dates are announced. Beat the rush and guarantee yourself a seat. https://form.jotform. com/260787976135068
SKETCH CLUB DAYS The gallery hosts two Sketch Clubs each month hosted by Christine Pike. En Plein Air, visiting stunning scenic locations in the Hunter Valley & Still Life / Figurative held at the gallery. Everyone enjoys the creative, friendly atmosphere. All welcome – beginners & professionals. Enquiries: gallerygresfordcommunity@gmail. com • 0428 271 819 Christine Pike.
SKETCH CLUB – STILL LIFE
Thurs 23 April 1 – 4pm at Gresford Community Gallery. Inspiration from Australian artist John Baird Choice - Still Life or Figurative / Portrait. Beginners guide to sketching starts 12 noon. –composition & start to portraiture. Please bring own art equipment. Afternoon tea provided. Cost: $10
SKETCH CLUB – APRIL EN PLEIN
AIR Stay tuned for date to this special historic working property at Paterson
Gresford is Ready to Race!
No fuel needed - billy carts are going to be the hottest vehicle in town over Easter as the Gresford Billy Cart Derby rolls around again !!
Not to make light of a difficult situation across the country now, but we know everyone is looking for affordable family fun in light of the cost of living pressures, so how good is a FREE day out watching the billy carts race through town!
The much-loved Gresford Billy Cart Derby, a project of the Rotary Club of Dungog is back this Easter Saturday, April 4, and all signs point to this year being the best yet! The event promises a fun-filled day for the whole family, packed with racing, entertainment, and plenty of community spirit.
Competitors of all ages will take to the track in their homemade billy carts, racing down the main street of East Gresford in a thrilling display of creativity and speed. The event has been running for more than 20 years, with all profits put back into local community groups and organisations.
“We were overjoyed last year to see the huge crowd flocking to the hill and we raised significant money to put back into
local community groups, this year we want to do even better to help Gresford P&C raise much needed funds to secure their STEM teaching position,” enthused committee lead Lex Innerson.
The event has always been a great drawcard to Gresford, with campers packing out the local sites for the Easter long weekend and enjoying the atmosphere of the day – from the racing to the markets, food stalls and live music at Gold sponsor, the Beatty Hotel.
The gumboot toss and pony pat lotto are also back for another year, thanks to Gresford School P&C! Plus the Easter Bunny will be visiting to hand out some early Easter treats!
On the track there are prizes for everything from Best Pit Crew to Most Unique Cart! Entry forms and event details are available on the official website https://gresfordbillycartderby. wordpress.com.
with a natural billabong. Lots of native plants, mature trees, water, reflections, views and historic buildings. Chance to continue with some twilight sketching. Inspirational Australian artist – William Robinson. Bring your own art materials/equipment, sunscreen, good walking shoes, hat, water, chair & lunch if needed. Cost: $10
KIDS ART CLUB Free Art Sunday for children at Gresford Community Gallery on the 3rd Sunday of the month between 10am and 2pm. Hosted by artist Dawn Thompson. Enquiries: 0428 924 800. During these hours children of primary school age accompanied by an adult will be able to use the art equipment supplied to create their own art. Our friendly Gallery helpers will be on hand to assist. Contact Robyn Werkhoven 0417 686 816 Email: werkhovenr@bigpond.com with Art News for Culture Vulture or enquiries about Gresford Community Gallery.
Visit/like the Gresford Community Gallery Facebook & Instagram pages for news, updates & artists features. If you live in the district consider volunteering at the gallery – meet artists & immerse yourself in the arts.
The ever-popular raffle and mega auction will once again give attendees the chance to take home some incredible prizes— including top-quality local beef, so be sure to clear some space in the freezer!
The success of the Gresford Billy Cart Derby wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of local businesses, huge thanks to the many other businesses that contribute donations, prizes, and their time to make this event a reality with all profits being invested back into the community and local causes.
See you trackside!!
Gresford District Landcare March Meeting
Gresford District Landcare held its March meeting at the junction of the Paterson and Allyn Rivers on the Vacy riverbank to view progress on one of the group’s current projects. The site, maintained by Landcare members and community volunteers, was historically known as Clarke’s Crossing and was once the original main road crossing over the Paterson River to Gresford.
The project began in mid-2022 after several local Vacy businesses approached Landcare to ask if access to the river could be restored. The area had become inaccessible due to heavy weed infestation, including lantana, green cestrum, balloon vine and dense stands of giant reed.
Following several working bees, volunteers cut a narrow track through the giant reed to reach the river. As weeds were progressively removed, the Dungog Council Weeds Officer was able to undertake targeted spraying, greatly assisting further weed control. Planting of local riparian native species began in autumn 2023.
Members also discussed the impact of the multiple floods in 2025, which caused significant erosion along sections of the Paterson and Allyn riverbanks. The Vacy site experienced silt deposits, erosion and
some bank slippage, highlighting the importance of riparian vegetation in stabilising riverbanks.
Now fondly known by locals as “Vacy Beach,” the area has become a valued community space enjoyed by residents and visitors. Fishing is particularly popular with local children, and the 2024 Annual Carp Muster attracted more than 150 people.
Volunteers meet at the site at 2pm on the
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third Sunday of each month, and new volunteers are always welcome.
The meeting was followed by a light dinner at the Vacy General Store, where members continued discussions and shared knowledge about identifying and controlling local weeds.
With the end of daylight saving approaching, the next monthly meeting will be held at 9.30 am on Saturday 11 April.
Paterson Allyn Garden Group
Welcome back to all of our members for the first meeting for 2026. Our initial meeting for the year was hosted by Lynne Armour on her property at Mitchell’s Flat, where we had a very good attendance of 45 members & 4 visitors, with a special welcome to 3 new members.
The ‘Armour’ story is one of resilience & perseverance, Lynne originally moved to the area from Camden in the 1970s with her husband Bob & their herd of Friesian cattle, they established a dairy operation which they ran successfully for a number of years. Unfortunately, they suffered a setback in the 1980s & decided to shut down the dairy. Obviously, made of sterner stuff, they rejigged their ambitions & carried on.
This resilience & perseverance is demonstrated in the garden where Lynne has worked tirelessly, over many years, moving a mountain of rocks to form gardens, pathways & rockeries around the property. With the aid of some planks & a strong back, she was able to load up an old ute to move the rocks to where they were wanted. Lynne tends to be a little understated, but her efforts certainly are not.
Although the land is quite harsh, Lynne has managed to establish a number of healthy
plants & trees including, frangipanis, murraya, golden cane palms, Chinese tallow & Persian silk trees as well as many succulents & perennials. She doesn’t usually buy any plants but manages to propagate her own as well as receiving many plants from her mother.
Lynne enjoys hand watering her garden & can often be found with a hose in one hand & a coffee or wine in the other, as she wanders around tending her handiwork. To show her versatility, Lynne has also constructed a number of outbuildings from timber obtained on site, including a
fernery, chook house & aviary. An under achiever, she is not!
It was quite inspirational to see what can be done with not much more than a vision, a lot of hard work & I’m sure, a deal of blood, sweat & tears. Congratulations to Lynne for building a garden that she can rightly be very proud of.
Lynne was presented with a gift in thanks for hosting our group & after having a good wander around, the meeting was declared closed. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, 21st April with details posted on the website beforehand.
Dungog Shire Council News
Highlights from Dungog Shire Council's Ordinary Meeting Wed. 18 March 2026
Hunter water support for advocacy
Mayor Digby Rayward put forward a Mayoral Minute acknowledging and welcoming formal letters of support received from Hunter Water Corporation endorsing Council’s advocacy on two key issues: road recategorisation and improved river health governance.
The support bolsters Council’s case to the NSW Government for the reclassification of local roads that service critical state infrastructure, including access to Chichester Dam. Council will continue to advocate for a fair funding model where roads serving state assets are recognised and funded accordingly.
Council also resolved to continue advocating for the establishment of a single agency responsible for river health, particularly for the Williams River catchment. This approach is aimed at improving coordination, accountability, and long-term water security outcomes for the region.
Mayor Rayward noted Council’s collaboration with Hunter Water and the letters of support received are an example
of successful advocacy in action, and supporting the partnership approach with Hunter Water in the interests of good community outcomes for Dungog Shire.
Tucker park tree management Council endorsed a staged management approach for the Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) trees at John Tucker Park, Paterson, following a detailed independent Tree Risk Assessment. The assessment identified several trees with structural decline, including risks associated with falling branches in high-use areas. Council has approved the removal of 24 hazardous trees, and the pruning of 25 trees to reduce immediate safety risks.
Council also committed to undertaking community consultation on the future management and replacement of the Tucker Park trees, and subject to the outcomes, implement a five-to-seven-year cyclical pruning program for retained Poplar trees, and a staged ten to 15-year tree replacement program with improved species diversity and spacing.
Viewing platform update and proposal Council has progressed plans to establish a scenic viewing platform aimed at enhancing visitor experience - supporting
the local tourism economy and showcasing the Shire’s significant landscape values. Council noted the results of a community survey undertaken in August 2025, which attracted 68 responses and demonstrated strong support for the initiative. A total of 82% of respondents indicated that viewing platforms are important to the visitor economy, with Bingleburra Road identified as the preferred corridor, receiving 41% of first preference responses. Key priorities identified by the community included panoramic views, accessible parking, clear wayfinding signage, safe road access, accessibility for all users, minimal environmental impact and design that integrates with the natural landscape.
Council also endorsed the appointment of a Landscape Architect to undertake Stage 1 (Site Assessment) and Stage 2 (Concept Design) for a site along Bingleburra Road. Importantly, the project scope will assess multiple potential sites within the corridor to ensure the most suitable location is identified.
A further report will be brought back to Council following completion of the final concept design prior to any decisions on detailed design or construction, ensuring a staged and evidence-based approach to seeking funding to deliver the project.
Easter is nearly upon us, and the school holidays start and continue for about 18 days. • There will not be any Bible Study on Thurs 9th & 16th April. We will recommence again on Thurs 23 Apr at Vacy cafe at 9.30am. Everyone is very welcome. • Fr. Peter’s men’s breakfast is on Sat 11 Apr in St. Paul’s Hall commencing at 8am. Come along and have good food and great company. • Paul O’Keefe will be at St. Paul’s Paterson on Sun 12 Apr. Paul’s topic is “After the Resurrection“. Bishop Sonia will be present at this Service. Come along and listen to what Paul says and join in with questions and opinions. Everyone very welcome. • Anzac Day Service on 25 Apr will be held at the Paterson Cenotaph at 5.30am and also at the Gresford Cenotaph at 10.30am. Rev. Mary will be at both services. • I know that the cost of living is very hard for us all, but if you can remember those who are doing without, please try and help. If anyone knows of people who need support, please contact Rev.Mary on 0418 611 778 or Beverley on 4938 5223. Service times for Easter, please refer to the special notice in this paper.
Service times for April: 12, 19, 26
St. Paul’s Paterson 8.30am & St. Anne’s Gresford 10.30am. Stay safe & look after each other. Blessings Beverley
Gresford
Congregational Church
30 Durham Rd Gresford
Services Each Sunday 10.30am ALL WELCOME
Catholic Parish of Gresford
Mass at St. Helen's, East Gresford
Saturday – 5:30 pm (except 2nd Sat. of month)
Thursday – 9.30am
Mass at Sacred Heart, Summer Hill
Sunday – 11:30 am (2nd Sunday of month)
All enquiries to Fr. Andrew Doohan, Parish Priest, on 4992 1477 or dungog.parish@mn.catholic.org.au
Gresford News April Crossword
April 2026 crossword answers
Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.
Gresford Meat Co., a newly established butcher shop in East Gresford, is proud to bring premium, locally sourced meats to the community. Under new local ownership, the store is committed to delivering the finest locally grown beef and a variety of quality meats and produce. The owners of Gresford Meat Co. have deep roots in the Gresford area, and strong ties within the
Mon-Fri: 8am-5:30pm Saturday: 8am-1pm
community. Their Angus beef is sourced from local producer Glenroy Cattle Co., ensuring that customers receive the freshest and most flavorful meats available. Visit Gresford Meat Co. today to experience the best in local butchery and support a business that truly values its community connections.
