News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys
What an amazing and successful night we had at our Frocktober Op Shop Ball, raising money for Ovarian Cancer Research Australia. It was a sellout night with 80 tickets sold and many others turning up for the auction and raffle.
Story and pics: p10/11...
Annmarie, Lavo N Stacey
GRESFORD DISTRICT COMMUNITY GROUP & GAPS PRESENT
SATURDAY
20 DECEMBER 2025 Markets from 5.00PM
Carols from 6.30PM
GRESFORD COMMUNITY PARK & ARBORETUM (NEXT TO THE GRESFORD SPORTS COMPLEX)
Bring along a picnic and enjoy an evening of fun and Christmas carols
The Gresford News Community Diary
Sat 1 Nov Junior Art Competition – OUR GALAXY awards & exhibition, Gresford Community Gallery, 2–4pm
Sun 2 Nov 2025 Vacy Country Carnival
Mon 3 Nov Gresford & District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm
Tues 4 Nov Melbourne Cup Luncheon, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club
Wed 5 Nov Gresford Friendship Group, Gresford Community Gallery, 10–12noon
Wed 5 Nov Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm
Fri 7 Nov 60 years celebration, Tocal College Foundation Day, 1.30pm
Sat 8 Nov Gresford Community Market, Gresford Community Park, 9–1
Sat 8 Nov Day on the green with Ryan Hemsworth & Mick Fetch & Red Dirt Band, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club
Sat 8 Nov Sketch Club, Gresford Community Gallery, 1–4pm
Sat 8 Nov CWA book club, CWA Hall, 2pm
Tues 11 Nov Remembrance Day Service, Gresford Memorial, School of Arts, 10.35am
Sat 15 Nov Gavin Fry talk – “Trash or Treasure? - the Pro Hart Enigma”, Gresford Community Gallery, 5pm
Sat 15 Nov Live music on the deck, Hotel Beatty, 8pm
Sun 16 Nov FREE Art Sunday for chiildren (primary school age), Gresford Community Gallery, 10-2
Fri 21 Nov CWA Craft Morning, CWA Hall, 9–12
Tues 25 Nov Radio Dungog new studios launch,Radio House, Dungog Showgrounds, 5pm
Tues 25 Nov Circle Dancing, Gresford Community Gallery, 4.30pm
Sat 29 Nov Dungog Housing & Infrastructure plan Community info sessions, Vacy School of Arts, 2–4pm
Sat 13 Dec Gresford Community Market, Gresford Community Park, 9–1
Sat 13 Dec Dungog Housing & Infrastructure plan Community info sessions, Paterson School of Arts, 10–12
Sat 13 Dec Dungog Housing & Infrastructure plan Community info sessions, Gresford School of Arts, 2–4
Sun 14 Dec Santa Run with Gresford Rural Fire Brigade, from Lostock to Gresford, 2–5pm, more details in Dec edition
Sat 20 Dec Special Twilight Market & Christmas Carols, Gresford Community Park, 5pm
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 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).
An extensive range of machines and earthmoving equipment to suit every aspect of the Building & Construction Industry
Supply all forms of quarry product
Contact: Paul Mastin 0418 499 471 Head Office 02 4938 8135
DIVISION OF DREEGAN BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION BASED IN THE HUNTER VALLEY ABN: 56137525494
Gresford News Notices
Gresford & District Community Group Meeting • Mon 3 Nov 6.30pm
2025 Vacy Country Carnival Sun 2 Nov
60 years celebration, Tocal College Foundation Day Fri 7 Nov 1.30pm
With a conversation on the early years including guest speakers: Prof Philip Cox AO, Architect on the design of the college & early Principal, staff & students.
Day on the Green Sat 8 Nov
Ryan Hemsworth 4pm Mick Fetch & Red Dirt Band 7.30pm Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club
Gresford Community Market
Sat 8 Nov & Sat 13 Dec
Gresford Community Market – second Saturday of each month at Gresford Community Park 9am–1pm gresfordcommunitymarket@outlook.com
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.
Creative activities at the Gresford Community Gallery
• Junior Art Competition –OUR GALAXY
Sat 1 Nov 2–4pm
The competition will be judged by local artists, & the winners announced at the Grand Opening. Entrants & their family & friends are invited to the Opening.
•
Gresford Friendship Group Wed 5 Nov 10–12noon
• Gavin Fry talk – “Trash or Treasure? - the Pro Hart Enigma” Sat 15 Nov 5pm
• November Sketch Club Sat 8 Nov 1–4pm
• Free Art Sunday for children Sun 16 Nov 10-2pm
Carols by Candlelight & special twilight Xmas Markets Sat 20 Dec from 5pm BYO Picnic, say hello to Santa & sing along with GAPS Gresford Community Park
Gresford School of Arts Remembrance Day Service Tues 11 Nov 10.35am
The Gresford RSL Sub Branch in conjunction with the Gresford Community Group will be conducting a Remembrance Day Service on the 11th November at the Gresford Memorial in front of the School of Arts. All are invited to attend the Ceremony. For further information contact Secretary Glenn Wall on 0428 389 462
Dungog Housing & Infrastructure
Master Plan • Public Exhibition Community info sessions Sat 29 Nov
Vacy School of Arts 2–4pm Sat 13 Dec
Paterson School of Arts, 10–12
Gresford School of Arts, 2–4
Radio Dungog new studios launch Tues 25 Nov 5pm
New 2DCR Radio Dungog studios at Radio House in the Dungog Showgrounds RSVP to email@radiodungog.org by 15 November 2025
Radio Dungog’s Signal Soars — Calling on Gresford, Vacy and Paterson for Feedback!
It’s been a long time coming, but the wait has paid off — Radio Dungog 2DCR 107.9FM is now broadcasting loud and proud from its brand-new transmitter on Cooreei Hill. After eight years of planning, fundraising and persistence, this long-term project came to life on 8 October 2025, and the results have been nothing short of amazing.
Listeners across the region have already reported crystal-clear reception from Main Creek, Bandon Grove, Halton, Chichester, Clarence Town, Fosterton and Bingleburra. Some have even picked up the signal as far away as Wallsend and Raymond Terrace! The stronger broadcast means more people than ever can now enjoy local music, news, community stories, and — importantly — reliable emergency information.
But the job isn’t done yet. Radio Dungog wants to hear especially from Gresford, Vacy and Paterson. This beautiful valley has always been part of the Shire’s heartland, and the station is eager to know if the new signal is finally reaching your homes, farms and cars.
You can help by tuning your radio to 107.9FM — whether you’re at home, in the shed or on the move — and letting the team know how well you’re receiving the
broadcast. Are you hearing us loud and clear, a little patchy, or not at all? Every bit of feedback counts! Simply message the Radio Dungog Facebook page or email email@radiodungog.org.
And that’s not the only exciting development. Thanks to NSW State Government grants, Radio Dungog has also moved into two brandnew studios at the Dungog Showground’s Guide Hall. After 12 years in a cramped booth behind the Dungog Visitors Centre — which had begun letting in both rain and wildlife — the new facilities are a breath of fresh air.
The new setup, which cost $250,000 to build and $120,000 to fit out, provides one studio for live broadcasting and another for recording and podcasting. The improved space will make it easier for locals to get involved — from school students wanting media experience to community members with a story to share or a love of music.
A grand opening and community open days are planned for November, and everyone is invited to come and see the transformation. With a stronger signal and modern studios, Radio Dungog is more connected than ever — and ready to serve every corner of our Shire, from Dungog to Gresford, Vacy to Paterson, and beyond.
AGM – The CWA year winds up at this time, with September marking the transition to the new year of membership with the AGM in October. Lyn Tunin was returned as President, and Glenda Smith as Secretary, but brand new member Sharon Dwyer was nominated for and accepted the role as Treasurer. Amorelle Dempster was returned as the Catering Officer, with Dottie Hilliard as Assistant Caterer. Mittie Osborne accepted the role of International Officer; Lyn Tunin of Agricultural Officer; Dot Coghlin of Handicrafts Officer and Dawn Thompson of Cultural Officer. Publicity will be covered by Dawn Thompson, Glenda Smith and Valarie Smith. Councillors and delegates for the group are Lyn Tunin, Sharon Dwyer and Dot Coghlin. The Branch is looking forward to a year of continuation and renewal.
Korean Lunch – We compensated for the washing out of our Korean Lunch plans by bringing Korean and Asian-inspired dishes for a shared lunch before our September meeting. The dishes included Beef Bulgogi; Kimchi Omelette; and noodle and rice dishes with spring rolls and sushi. The lunch and meeting were preceded by another working bee, whereby the rest of the trees provided by the Council via Riverdene were planted.
CWA NEWS
Inspiring Women – Dungog / Clarencetown CWA have been organising a series of talks by Inspiring Women. They were fortunate enough to engage Dr Annette Gero, who is a scientist who worked in immunology but is also an authority on historical quilts. This was an engaging, highly informed and entertaining address which took place at the James Theatre in Dungog.
September Markets – We almost had a clean sweep of our stall this month, with only four cupcakes remaining. Blueberry scones with a choice of conserves and whipped or clotted cream were the sensation of the day, but other favourites also sold well. The Spring resumption of the markets was a great success in general.
Craft Mornings – The Craft Morning this month attracted some new CWA members, but anyone is welcome to come simply for cheerful crafting and chat. Everyone is welcome to join us from 9-12 on the third Friday of the month, with the next one on 21st November. Members $5 and non-members $3, with morning tea and a door prize provided.
Book Club – We had two very different books to discuss because of the cancellation of the August meeting. Juice by Tim Winton is a dystopian novel dealing with the effects of climate change, while Crow Trap is a Vera Stanton murder mystery by Ann Cleeves. Discussion was lively and satisfying, with the very different nature of the books providing a good springboard. The final book for the year will be James by Percival Everett, which gives a different perspective on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
French Conversation – we have been discussing The Riviera, with insights into the life of glamour and sophistication in this part of France. Meetings take place on the first & third Mondays of the month, from 10am to 11:30. Please ring Glenda Smith (4938 9456 or 0400 108 079) if you are interested in joining us, as dates occasionally change.
Glenda & Mittie planting trees provided by Council.
What's On the Shelves? by Glenda Smith
The Mud House
Richard Glover
In spite of his occasional exaggeration, Richard Glover is an entertaining writer who delivers aspects of his life in spades –or in this case, buckets. It is the story of the mud brick house he built with his partner and a long-term friend, and is also the story of many owner-builders who ventured on similar projects in the seventies and eighties – though most of them, even amateur builders, would have had a much better idea of what they were doing.
Richard and his fellow-builder Philip eschewed such innovations as power tools, mostly because they were out of range of electricity, and did much of the building in the hard way, with hand tools. They later realised that hiring a generator would not have been a capitulation to weakness, but a smart move. After reading The Owner-Built Home he concedes - In retrospect, using hand tools was an act of selfdefeating insanity.
In general, the book is an honest account of an exciting project where much was learnt about building and the bush, and also himself. He had an unusual upbringing which made him doubt his ideas of masculinity. He discovered strengths in himself that he had never embraced. It is also a story of resilience, friendship and perseverance, and is a worthwhile read.
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
A question of style!
Every bowler has a unique distinctive style. Take the finishes of the two skips, Cliff Dunford and Bev Crouch, competing in the Gresford Pairs final as an example - Cliff with the ‘Swan Lake’ follow through graceful and elegant compared to Bev in the stretched out ‘crouch’ bend the knee configuration. Whose is more effective? Judging by the very close score of 15 to 14 in favour of Cliff and Mick Kealy against Bev and Danny Ross personal technique is whatever it needs to be.
The semi-finals and finals were played on the same day and all were closely contested. Cliff and Mick won in the morning 15-12 while Bev and Danny made it to the final with a 15-14 result.
Mick Kealy competed in his third final of the year and came out on top at last. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see him in the triples and fours finals coming soon. Congratulations Cliff and Mick on your victory after a long hard day on the green.
Peter Dreyer
NOVEMBER AT THE BEATTY
Saturday 15 November
Live Music on the deck from 8 pm till late
6 Days (closed Wed night) 6pm – 9pm
CULTURE VULTURE
Greetings to Culture Vulture readers.
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, clothing and jewellery. Five new amazing artists are exhibiting with the gallery – Gavin Fry, Michele Heibel, Pearl Moon, Ros Elkin & Gaye Evans.
Free Art Sunday for children
Third Sunday of the month 10am – 2pm. 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. Fun with Sun prints. Some wonderful plant prints, and amazing galaxies emerged from the wash during our Sun print workshop. Enquiries: Dawn Thompson 0428924800
Junior Art Competition – OUR GALAXY The competition will be judged by local artists, and the winners announced at the Grand Opening on 1st November 2025, 2-4pm. Entrants and their family and friends are invited to the Opening. Refreshments will be provided. 12 Park St, East Gresford. Enquiries: Dawn Thompson 0428924800
A new activity is about to commence at the Gallery is a friendship group. All are invited, especially those people new to the community, to meet over morning tea. The friendship group will meet 10am to noon every Wednesday morning at the Gallery commencing Wed 5 Nov. Bring something
to do, knitting, sketching, sewing, and a gold coin to cover the cost of morning tea. But most of all bring a smile and good conversation. All welcome. For any enquiries phone Janet Steele 4938 5923.
Gavin Fry’s next talk Sat 15 Nov, 5pm. “Trash or Treasure? - the Pro Hart Enigma” at Gresford Community Gallery. $10 - Cheese & glass of wine. Tea/coffee will be served.
NOVEMBER SKETCH CLUB
Next date – Sat 8 Nov, 1 – 4pm LANDSCAPE / PLEIN AIR – Gresford Valley. Everyone enjoys the creative, friendly atmosphere. Please join us at the next event, all welcome – beginners & professionals. Hosted by artist Christine Pike 0428 271 819. Please bring your own art supplies. Cost $10. Meet at the gallery 12.30pm. Outdoor venue – Gresford Valley (weather permitting).
Contact with Art News or enquiries about Gresford Community Gallery: Robyn Werkhoven Ph: 0417 686 816
Email: werkhovenr@hotmail.com
Open weekends 10am–4pm • 12 Park St East Gresford • gallerygresfordcommunity@gmail. com. Visit & like our Facebook page for news of exhibitions, workshops & features on artists.
DO YOU WORK FROM HOME AND WANTING TO SUPPLEMENT YOUR INCOME OR PAY FOR THOSE HOLIDAYS YOU’VE BEEN LOOKING FORWARD TO?
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*****SUBSIDISED LICENCE UPGRADES AND TRAINING ALSO AVAILABLE*****
Linq Buslines is looking for bus drivers to join our Gresford Team.
As a Linq Buslines member you will be operating our vehicles to transport passengers including school children on specified routes including school and charter services with the highest of safety and service.
Minimum MR licence, NSW Driver Authority and Working with Children Clearance (or the ability to obtain).
We are looking for people who have:
• Good communication skills
• Good driving history
• Good customer services and dealing with people
• Happy to work a flexible roster including broken shifts
For further information or to apply please contact us on 0249 389 394 or email info@linqbuslines.com.au
Robyn Werkhoven
Gresford Friendship Group
FROCKTOBER Op Shop Ball
What an amazing and successful night we had at our Frocktober Op Shop Ball, raising money for Ovarian Cancer Research Australia. It was a sell out night with 80 tickets sold and many others turning up for the auction & raffle. We even had the Full Throttle band dress up for the occasion, we had a surprise visit from Pluck-a-Duck & Lavo aka Belle the Princess.
A huge shout out to Shannon McCormack for jumping in and saving the night, being our auctioneer / judge for King & Queen of the ball. Our King Luke Clynch looked dashing in his yellow tartan pants & yellow western shirt, Queen Ruth Byrne looked glamorous in her white and gold gown they were both crowned & sashed by the judge & his assistants.
Everyone who helped set up & pack up the dining room you made it so much easier to organise, I don't know what I would have done with out you all. Mel & all the kitchen staff a massive thankyou our meals were delicious & the presentation was just beautiful, the efforts you all put into your outfits was just amazing.
Thankyou to everyone who donated prizes for the raffle & auction, our final tally would not have been possible without your generosity and support, with a total of $12,633.70 from
NEED IRRIGATION WATER?
Regulated Paterson River Water to Trade. Please contact Peter on 0401393974
our community is something to be very proud of & I can't thank everyone enough.
Ooops I nearly forgot about Bernie, Lee & Alysha without you guys we would've been a very thirsty crowd, you did amazing keeping up with us thankyou.
Again a huge thankyou to everyone for your help, generosity & support, events like this would not be possible without you. Frock up. Raise Funds. Frock Cancer.
Annmarie & Kelly
Bernie N Plucka King N Queen
The Barbarians Chamber Orchestra shines in the historic
Allynbrook’s beloved church came alive on Sunday 19 October, when The Barbarians Chamber Orchestra performed to a sold-out crowd for the Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn’s first major event. Visitors arrived from near and not so near, with plenty of familiar faces alongside many new ones discovering the magic of this place. Even the weather was perfect for the occasion, set on the banks of the Allyn River, the church’s elegant sandstone and soaring roofline created naturally impressive acoustics that let every note ring out. The orchestra’s program including “The Silver Swan,” “Café 1930s,” and “Here Comes the Sun” (among other favourites) drew adoring reviews. Many attendees remarked that it was a performance that gave them goosebumps—not only because of the orchestra’s extraordinary talent, but also because of the beauty of the historic church itself, especially its impressive architecture and river setting. Our group extends deep gratitude to the orchestra for their generosity, time and willingness to come to our church, perform so beautifully, and allow us the honour of hosting them.
Following the concert the celebration continued in the adjoining Church Hall with a spirited auction that showcased the valley’s talent and generosity. A beautiful painting of
the church by a talented local artist proved the buy of the day, purchased by James and Michelle, ensuring the artwork stays proudly in the Allyn Valley where it belongs. Bidding was just as enthusiastic for delicious goods donated by Jodi Pender of The Pothole Pantry, fine wines from Boydell’s winery, meat vouchers from Gresford Country Meats, and exquisite handcrafted cutting boards by David and Lynette Squires of CountrySquire, alongside a wonderful range of communitysourced produce and crafts. Our auctioneers, Trevor and Keith, kept the room buzzing and
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the laughter flowing—so much so that even the slightest hand raise or wink counted as a bid, and the crowd quickly learned to sit very, very still between flurries of action. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of donors and bidders, every dollar raised goes directly back into our projects to preserve and maintain the church, cemetery, grounds and hall.
Part of what made the day so special was the sense of continuity with the place’s rich story. St Mary-on-Allyn was built in 1840 and consecrated in 1845, its origins woven with love and promise when William Boydell
grounds of St Mary-on-Allyn
pledged to build a church so that Mary Phoebe Broughton would have a place to worship after their marriage—a gift that became the district’s enduring landmark. The surrounding cemetery, holds the names of local pioneers who shaped the valley, and the Church Hall still welcomes people for gatherings and events. For generations, the church has been a centre of faith, fellowship and craftsmanship; on this occasion it was also a concert hall and a meeting place where the community shared something memorable.
As a volunteer-run, not-for-profit group, the
Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn exists to care for this special place. Our work includes maintaining the grounds, ensuring the upkeep of the buildings, and preserving the cemetery—so the site remains welcoming for all visitors. As organisers, we were humbled that our first major event sold out and that so many people left saying what a great day it was. The warmth in the room, the quality of the music, and the generosity shown at the auction reminded us of what can be achieved when a community comes together in a treasured place. We are profoundly grateful
to the performers, donors, volunteers and guests who made it possible, and we’re already looking forward to our next event.
To keep up with future events, working bees and community gatherings, follow us on Facebook: “Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn.” You can also connect with us at our stall at the Gresford Community Markets, where our historic book “The Wood of the Cranes” by Christopher Fibbens, is available for purchase. The book tells the rich, complete history of the church and surrounds and is well worth the read for anyone who loves local history.
This month we were the guests of Kath and Pete MacDonald at their property at Underbank and although it was a bit of a hike for some, it was another glorious day for a drive in the country.
The PAGG weather magic worked again, slotting a wonderfully mild Spring day in between a couple of scorchers to provide the perfect conditions for our visit to the MacDonald’s working farm & especially, Kath’s country garden.
Once again, the lure of visiting a lovely garden, combined with the Annual PAGG Plant Sale, ensured a very pleasing attendance with 39 members & 5 visitors plus 2 new members, helping to raise funds for the various charitable causes supported by PAGG.
Pip interviewed Kath & Pete & found that the gardens, by necessity, are all low maintenance with the demands of running a
Paterson Allyn Garden Group
working cattle farm taking priority. There are a number of Chinese Elms, Ornamental Pear, Plum & Maple trees that have been planted over the years. There are also a couple of Date Palms that were grown from seeds brought back from The First World War that are a wonderful memorial to those that fought overseas.
An interesting item came out of the Q&A regarding destructive Bower Birds. Apparently they don’t like Russian Caravan tea & a solution sprayed around sensitive areas will keep them at bay.
Everyone enjoyed a walk around & the usual cup of tea & nibbles before Jillian closed the meeting.
Our next meeting will be 18th November with details to be advised prior & through the website.
Jillian (President - PAGG) and Cath & Pete (Property owners)
Early Literacy News
Over 110 Babies Now Enrolled in Dungog’s Early Literacy Program. Dungog’s youngest residents are growing up surrounded by stories, thanks to the success of Dungog Early Literacy Inc. and its partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL). As of late 2025, 110 babies and toddlers across the Dungog Shire are enrolled and receiving a free book each month — nurturing a lifelong love of reading right from the start.
Families from Alison, Allynbrook, Bandon Grove, Bendolba, Bingleburra, Brookfield, Carabolla, Clarence Town, Dungog, Eccleston, Glen Martin, Gresford, East Gresford, Hilldale, Marshdale, Martin’s Creek, Munni, Paterson, Salisbury, Sugarloaf, Vacy and Wirragulla are now part of the program. The group has built a strong partnership with Hunter New England Local Health District Child and Family Health Nurses, who distribute enrolment forms to new mums, ensuring families can easily get involved from day one.
The initiative began when a local book club, inspired by a shared passion for literacy, decided to make a difference in the community. Partnering with United Way Australia and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, they launched the program in
2024. It costs $108 per child per year, with generous local service organisations, businesses and individuals helping to fund this valuable cause.
To support ongoing growth, Friends of Dungog Shire Community Centre continue to raise funds through their second-hand bookstore, Books & More, located opposite the IGA in Dungog.
Adding to the excitement, Dungog Library now hosts a “Baby Book Club”, an initiative led by Kristen Kilpatrick, committee member of Dungog Early Literacy. Held bi-monthly on Thursday mornings, the sessions offer families a chance to enjoy story time and social interaction in a warm, welcoming environment — and it’s free to attend. “Early literacy is a cause true to my heart,” says Kristen. “Reading fosters connection and communication. As a mum of five, two with special needs, I see every book as an opportunity to learn, express and imagine together.”
Dungog’s Early Literacy team welcomes new families, volunteers and sponsors. To learn more or get involved, visit Dungog Early Literacy’s Facebook page or the Dungog Shire Council website. Together, Dungog is proving that the gift of reading truly lasts a lifetime.
DUNGOG HOUSING & INFRASTRUCTURE MASTER PLAN
Public Exhibition Community Information Sessions
SAVE THE DATE!
Council is preparing to bring the Dungog Housing & Infrastructure Master Plan to public exhibition — and we want your feedback on the draft strategies.
We’ll be holding a series of community information sessions soon to give residents the chance to learn more, ask questions, and share their thoug on the proposed plans.
Together, we’re planning for Dungog Shire's future. Stay tuned for furth updates on the sessions below and how you can get involved.
Please note: The decision to proceed with the public exhibition and community information sessions is subject to Council endorsement of the Dungog Housing and Infrastructure Master Plan at its meeting on Wednesday, 19 November. If Council endorses the exhibition, the draft strategies will be released for public comment shortly thereafter, and the information sessions will proceed as planned.
CLARENCE TOWN
Saturday 29 November 9.00am - 11.00am
Clarence Town Markets
Wednesday 3 December
4.30pm - 6.30pm
Doug Walters Pavilion
Saturday 29 November
2.00pm - 4.00pm
Vacy School of Arts Hall
VACY PATERSON
Saturday 13 December 10.00am - 12.00pm Paterson School of Arts Hall
Saturday 13 December 2.00pm - 4.00pm
Gresford School of Arts Hall
www.dungog.nsw.gov.au/HIMP
D4H Dozer
Highly pasture improved farm using organic practises. 90% arable. Running grass fed cattle and horses. Well-watered by town water, 8 good dams, 2 watercourses and a spring fed creek. Quality steel yards and cutting arena. Large machinery shed and huge open bay drive through shed/barn.
3 phase power to sheds, Single phase to the Home.
Only 1.79 klm to historic Paterson village. School buses at the front gate including Hunter Valley Grammar Bus. ” Arrawarra” Homestead is set in beautiful private country gardens. The property is exceptionally scenic and really captures the special magic of a productive, well cared for property.
6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, over 3 wings of impressive design features including large living areas, formal and informal entertainment areas, timber features, vaulted ceilings and 3 x stunning curved fireplaces reaching to the ceilings. A statement home, quality built. Sheltered by the neighbouring hills. The paddocks are level to gently undulating. The equine potential is obvious as you drive into this very special property. Phone
0427207542 to organise early priority inspections.
Gresford Community Market
As Gresford Community Market celebrated its first anniversary on October 11 it became apparent that its continued success was all about the people involved – the customers, the stallholders and the organisers behind the scenes.
“All stakeholders come together to support each other and the incredible produce and creative items that are on offer each month,” market social media manager Cheryl Royle said. “That’s a very special dynamic.”
A quick survey of customers at the October market showed there were plenty of locals taking advantage of a market on their doorstop, customers who travelled from nearby areas to explore the stalls, cricket families happy to find a thriving market right next door to their game and nearby campers soaking up the beautiful area and all it has to offer.
Some Christmas items are starting to creep onto stalls as customers make an early start on their gift-buying.
Stallholders are hopeful that the community will consider “buying local” as they start ticking off their Christmas shopping lists, with plenty on offer at the regular November 8 and December 13
markets and the special twilight market at the Gresford Carols by Candlelight event on December 20.
The monthly markets are held at Gresford Community Park between 9amand 1pm. Stallholder inquiries can be made via email: gresfordcommunitymarket@ outlook.com
Market grower Prue Doyle with daughter Lulu.
The Gresham family from Newcastle visited the market while on a camping trip at Lostock.
Stallholder Amanda had a range of handcrafted items on her Laney Edit stall.
DAVE LAYZELL
HOW I CAN HELP YOU
Gloucester
Dungog
Singleton
Muswellbrook
Merriwa
Murrurundi
Gresford
East
Vacy
Paterson
Lorn
Bolwarra
Gresford District Landcare Group
On 13th October, Gresford Landcare met at the property of James & Jane Slack at Eccleston for its first daylight savings meeting for 2025/26. As usual, for daylight savings months, it was an evening meeting. Also in attendance were members of the Allyn River Group who focus on the health of the Allyn River, working to eradicate troublesome vegetation from the river bank and revegetate it with appropriate species.
The focus of Monday evening's meeting was transforming waste to compost with presentations from Cleanaway representatives about its production of compost, for use in agriculture. They provided samples of the composted material and James gave a demonstration of the compost's application with a spreader. Printed material was made available to those who attended.
As always, we enjoyed a stimulating meeting providing new information for land owners interested in caring for their land. After the meeting we all enjoyed a drink and the usual sausages cooked on the barbecue provided by the Committee in a beautiful setting, which is the Slack property.
31st October - Halloween
31st October - $1500 Toy Raffle
2nd November – Calcutta
4th November – Melbourne Cup Luncheon
5th November – Trivia 6.30
8th November – Day on the Green 4pm Ryan Hemsworth
7.30pm Mick Fetch & Red Dirt Band
21st November – Pork, Ham & Turkey Raffle
3rd December – Trivia 6.30
12th December – Hamper Raffle
23rd December – Prawn & Oyster Raffle
Every Week at the Bowlo!!
HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAY 4.30 - 6.00
First Wednesday of the month
The Laughable Leigh Trivia Night from 6.30
Wednesday Night – Gift Voucher Raffles
Friday Night – Meat Tray Raffles and Members Draw
$25.00
General
New
Transpiration
What's on your funding list?
The Federal Member for Lyne, Alison Penfold MP, has announced she will prepare a pre-budget submission to the Albanese Government’s Treasury Department to highlight community and infrastructure funding needs across the Lyne electorate.
“The Albanese Government needs to hear loud and clear the extent of infrastructure and service challenges across the Lyne electorate,” Ms Penfold said. “Presently, there are almost no Australian Government funding programs available for regional and local infrastructure projects and social support needs. While the Australian Government has provided some disaster relief funding, it is allocated to the NSW Government, and only if requested. It has dropped many of the regional infrastructure funding programs, programs like the Building Better Regions Fund, Community Development Grants, and the Regional Accelerator Program, leaving us without our fair share of funding.
“By providing a pre-budget submission to Treasury officials, I hope to draw attention to our needs and encourage the government to make funding available to our area.
“I invite local organisations, businesses, community groups, and individuals to write or email with details about the project or need, cost estimates (if available), and how and why the funding will help their organisation and our community.
“I would like the submission to be as comprehensive as possible, and your contribution will make this happen.
Community input should be received by COB 14 November 2025 to enable the preparation of the pre-budget submission.
Please send your submissions to Alison.penfold.mp@aph.gov.au.
Dungog Shire Council News
Meeting highlights from Dungog Shire Council’s ordinary Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 October 2025:
SUBMISSION TO ROADS ACT REVIEW
Councillors have endorsed a draft submission on the NSW Government’s Review of the Roads Act 1993 – Options Paper. The submission reinforces a commitment to achieving legislative reform that delivers clear governance, efficient administrative processes, and sustainable outcomes for regional and rural communities.
In the response, Council outlines its support for the adoption of Model 2, the Plan-Led Framework, as the preferred reform option. This model provides the clearest pathway to addressing current governance and operational shortcomings. It also establishes a transparent system of shared responsibility between Transport for NSW and local government, introduces statutory road network plans to guide long-term investment, and integrates road management with land use planning through the Movement and Place framework.
Model 2 promotes consistency in road categorisation and recategorisation, ensuring that administrative responsibility and funding align with the actual function,
connectivity, and strategic importance of each road. However, Council cautions that without reliable and dedicated funding, the proposed reforms risk transferring responsibilities to local government without the necessary resources to fulfil them. The effectiveness of the revised Act will therefore depend on both governance reform and the establishment of appropriate funding mechanisms.
Council will also include in the submission its advocacy position: that State assets should be accessed by Statefunded roads. Dungog Shire Council, as the only Council within NSW without a State-funded road, has long voiced its opposition to having to shoulder the cost of maintaining infrastructure that primarily benefits the State’s economy and regional network resilience.
DRAFT - SPONSORSHIP POLICY FOR PUBLIC EXHIBITION
Council has endorsed placing the draft Sponsorship Policy on public exhibition. The draft Policy has been developed to provide a framework to support how Dungog Shire Council may support events, programs, and activities that deliver benefits to the local community.
The Draft Sponsorship Policy establishes a robust, transparent, accountable framework ensuring legislative compliance and managing corruption risks. Importantly, it distinguishes sponsorship as a commercial exchange from grant funding as philanthropic assistance, ensuring appropriate assessment focusing on recognition value, clear promotional expectations, efficient resource allocation, and helping organisations identify the most appropriate funding pathway.
Council currently provides community sponsorship on an ad-hoc basis without a comprehensive policy framework. This approach has resulted in:
• Inconsistent decision-making processes
• Limited transparency in how sponsorship decisions are made
• Absence of structured assessment criteria
• Limited accountability
• No strategic alignment with Community Strategic Plan objectives
• Potential compliance risks under Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993 The Draft Sponsorship Policy will be available on Dungog Shire Council’s website for the community to review for 28 days. Submissions will close on 14 November 2025 at 5pm.
Greetings & thank you.• Christmas is fast approaching, so when you are doing your shopping, think of the little ones whose parents can’t afford more than the basics. A container of long life custard, tinned fruit or perhaps a packet of mince tarts. Everything welcome, as there will be lots of hampers given out this year.• Bible study Thurs Vacy Store with coffee & chat 9.30am. • Rev. Mary continues her service at Lara Nursing Home every 2nd & 4th Thurs of the month at 2.30pm.•
Gresford Men’s breakfast Sat 8 Nov Twin Rivers Cafe 8.15am. Enjoy good companionship & food.• Fr. Peter’s next breakfast Sat 13 Dec St. Paul’s Hall 8am. All men most welcome.• Vacy Carnival Sun 2 Nov. The Parish is holding a cake & novelty stall in the grounds of the Vacy church. Come along for a bargain & some goodies to eat.• Paul O’Keefe’s next service:St. Paul’s Sun 9 Nov topic :”The Woke Movement - let’s talk about it”.
Church times for November: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. St. Paul’s Paterson 8.30am & St. Anne’s Gresford 10.30am. • Advance notice for Christmas Service times: Christmas Eve services :St. Mary on Allyn, Allynbrook 6.30pm & St. Paul’s Paterson 9pm. Christmas Day Service St. Anne’s Gresford 9am. For emergency help or food relief contact Rev. Mary 0418 611 778 or Beverley 4938 5223. 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 November Crossword
Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.
November 2025 crossword answers
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.
