News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys
The Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn are proud to present an unforgettable morning of music on Sunday 19th October 2025 at 11am. The renowned Barbarians Chamber Orchestra will perform in the stunning St Mary-on-Allyn Church, celebrated for its beautiful setting along the Allyn River and remarkable acoustics.
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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
The Gresford News Community Diary
Mon 1 Sep Gresford & District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm
Fri 5 Sept Talk on history of Quilts – Dr Annette Gero, James Theatre Dungog, 10.30am + Quilts on display Dungog CWA
Sat 6 Sep Liptember High Tea – fundraiser for women's mental health, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 12 noon
Sat 6 Sep Dungog Housing & Infrastructure Master Plan Community Focus Groups, Vacy 10.30-12.20 • Paterson 3-5
Mon 8 Sep Gresford District Landcare Group Meet up, contact Penny Kater for details 0488 371 589
Sat 13 Sep Gresford Community Market – winter market, Gresford Community Park, 9–1
Sat 13 Sep CWA book club, CWA Hall, 2pm
Sat 13 Sep Gavin Fry talk – about Australian landscape artist Kenneth Jack, Gresford Community Gallery, 2.30pm
Sat 13 Sep Live music – TNR Band, Hotel Beatty, 8 till late on the deck
Sun 14 Sep Postponed to 2 Nov – 2025 Vacy Country Carnival – due to extreme wet conditions
Fri 19 Sep CWA Craft Morning, CWA Hall, 9–12
Sat 20 Sep Gresford Men’s Breakfast, New date for Sept, Twin Rivers Cafe, 8.15am
Sun 21 Sep FREE Art Sunday for chiildren (primary school age), Gresford Community Gallery, 10-2
Sun 21 Sep Dime a Dozen Band – Live music on the deck, Hotel Beatty, 1 till 5pm on the deck
Tues 23 Sep Circle Dancing, Gresford Community Gallery, 4.30pm
Sat 27 Sep Spring exhibition opening, Gresford Community Gallery, 1–4pm
Sun 28 Sep Vacy Family Carp Muster, 9am
Sun 28 Sep Sketch Club, Gresford Community Gallery, 1–4pm
Wed 1 Oct Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm
Sat 11 Oct Naughty Numbers Bingo with a Twist, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm
Sun 12 Oct "Blessing of the animals" service, St Mary-on-Allyn, 10.30am
Sat 18 Oct Frocktober – Op Shop Ball fundraiser for Ovarian Cancer, Hotel Beatty, 6pm
Sun 19 Oct The Barbarians concert, St Mary-on-Allyn, The Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn, 10.30am - 2.00pm
Sun 2 Nov Rescheduled 2025 Vacy Country Carnival
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).
Gresford News Notices
Gresford & District Community Group Meeting • Mon 1 Sept 6.30pm
........
Dr Annette Gero Talk – The History in Quilts Fri 5 Sept 10.30am, James Theatre Dungog
Internationally recognised quilt historian, collector, & author, Annette has spent decades uncovering the hidden stories within quilts-records of women's lives, resilience, & creativity from convict times to the 1950s. Science Hub + Dungog CWA
Anglican Church Parish Service –‘Season of Creation’ Sun 7 Sept 10am, Arboretum
With BBQ lunch to follow. This will be the only service in the Parish this day.
Gresford Community Market Sat 13 Sept
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
• Artist & writer Gavin Fry talk about the Australian artist Kenneth Jack, Lost Master of the Australian Landscape Sat 13 Sept, 2.30pm
• Free Art Sunday for children Sun 21 Sept 10-2pm
• Spring Exhibition launch – First Birthday Celebration. Sat 27 Sept 2-4pm
• September Sketch Club Sun 28 Sept 1–4pm
Gresford Vacy Colts Junior Cricket Registrations Now Open! Blasters and Junior competition only 2 hours. Visit gresfordvacycolts.com.au to register. More details on Facebook
Gresford Men’s Breakfast
New date for Sept Sat 20 Sept 8.15am, Twin Rivers Cafe
Vacy Family Carp Muster
Sun 28 Sep, 9am
(pending riverbank safety) FREE event run by ozFish was driven by the kids of Vacy. Spend the day fishing on the river while raising awareness about this invasive species, helping to reduce their numbers, & testing the waters for a Barrington Rivers Carp Muster in 2026!
The Barbarians Concert Sun 19 Oct 19, 10.30am–2.00pm St Mary-on-Allyn
"Blessing of the animals" service Sun 12 Oct 10.30am, St Mary-on-Allyn Bring along your furry, feathered or scaley friends to celebrate God's creatures.
2025 Vacy Country Carnival Postponed to Sun 2 Nov due to extreme wet conditions on the Vacy Oval and swamping of our car parking paddocks
To find out more about events visit www.twinrivers.au/event-calendar
New Tourism Board to be Appointed
Dungog Regional Tourism Inc
The current three-year term of the Dungog Regional Tourism Inc (DRT) Board concludes at our 2025 Annual General Meeting in December. We are now seeking applications for a new skills-based board of seven directors committed to advancing tourism throughout the Dungog region.
DRT provides leadership and coordination of tourism initiatives through strategic partnerships with Dungog Shire Council, local tourism industry operators, and the Dungog Chamber of Commerce. Our goals are to:
•Develop the Dungog Region as a premier destination
• Increase visitor numbers to our region
• Enhance the visitor experience across all touchpoints
• Identify growth opportunities for individual tourism businesses
A dedicated selection committee will evaluate applications and recommend
directors for formal appointment by members at the Annual General Meeting. Requirements
• Knowledge and passion for tourism challenges and opportunities
• Demonstrated commitment to the Dungog region
• Skills in one or more key areas:
– Business development and operations
– Marketing and brand management
– Governance
– Financial management and planning
– Strategic planning and implementation
Commitment Required:
• Voluntary positions (no remuneration)
• Minimum 11 meetings per year
• Additional committee work and strategic initiatives
For detailed information about DRT and the application process go to the DRT website http://www.drt.org.au/ Applications close Friday (cob) 26 September
Quilt history talk, Fri 5 Sept, 10.30am, James Theatre
FREE talk with Dr Annette Gero, internationally renowned quilt historian, whose decades-long work has uncovered the hidden stories stitched into quilts—from convict women’s lives to rare military quilts. Also a pioneering scientist in anti-malarial drug research with the WHO & American Army, Annette reflects on how identity, gender, & personal drive shape a life woven from two extraordinary threads: science & stitching.
Gresford Community Market
Spring has finally sprung and that means Gresford Community Market is back!
The market will come to life at Gresford Community Park from 9am on Saturday, September 13, with a full range of boutique arts and crafts, home-grown fresh produce and delicious delicacies.
The ever-expanding Gresford Community Group stall will also be back, selling on behalf of individual community members.
“We encourage all growers and makers who don't have enough goods or produce to have their own stall to get in touch and we can offer them a space to sell their wares on the GCG stall,” market co-ordinator Pip Woods said.
Stallholders gave a sneak preview of their new stock and products when they came out of winter hibernation for the August market but cool weather and threatening skies limited customers on the day.
“It was nice to get back into the groove of the monthly market but we’re hoping for perfect weather on September 13 so the community can get a real sense of the creative talent that we have here,” stallholder Jules Hartigan said.
“It’ll be a perfect opportunity for the community to start their early Christmas shopping, organise teacher gifts or just pick up some special treats.”
Gresford Community Gallery will also be open during the market with some
stunning exhibitions from local artists. The market is at Gresford Community Park from 9am-1pm on the second Saturday of each month.
Inquiries: gresfordcommunitymarket@ outlook.com
CWA NEWS
Our activities for the month were affected by the weather – as many people’s were.
International Lunch – this was the weekend of torrential downpours, so the lunch was cancelled, as was the substitute meeting as too many people were cut off. The Branch will either do it
at a later date or have a small branchbased event.
Working Bee – a very small number turned up for this, so not as much was achieved as had been hoped, but the lawn was partly mown and over a third of the trees provided by Dungog Council from
D4H Dozer
Kerry and Lyn relaxing with their crafts.
Riverdene Nursery were planted. As a bonus, some assiduous weeding revealed that more of the previous plantings have survived the wet conditions than was thought.
Craft Mornings – these continue to be a pleasant event, with a diversity of crafts and conversation. Good company and interest in others’ skills are features of these gatherings. Everyone is welcome to join us from 9-12 on the third Friday of the month, with the next one on 19th September. Members $5 and non-members $3, with morning tea and a door prize provided.
Book Club – this meeting was cancelled once again, so there will be a pile-up of discussion in September. All are welcome to attend on the second Saturday of the month at 3pm, but please ring Glenda Smith (numbers below) in case there are unexpected variations.
French Conversation – we have been discussing French Cuisine over the past few months, with some new and interesting vocabulary. The French meetings take place on the first and third Mondays of the month, from 10am to 11:30. Please ring Glenda Smith (49389456 or 0400108079) if you are interested in joining us, as dates may change.
New Members – anyone interested in joining the CWA can join now and automatically become a member for next year. We are a small Branch and would welcome new members who wish to become part of a small community group and a large national organisation. Anyone interested can get in touch with Glenda Smith on the numbers provided above.
What's On the Shelves?
by Glenda Smith
The Family at Misrule
Ethel Turner
Lovers of Seven Little Australians should enjoy this novel, as it shows how life has continued at Misrule after the tragic death of Judy. Turner wrote the original in 1893, and apparently by 1994 was the only book by an Australian author to have continuously been in print for a hundred years.
The family still has bouts of ramshackle behaviour, but their growing age and gradual maturity changes the dynamic somewhat, and there is a new Baby in the family. There are two major events that shape the plot, and they are exploited to full sentimental value. Bunty, the lazy, greedy boy of the former novel, has a harsh awakening when he is accused of theft by a school enemy, while Nellie, through disobedience to Meg when their parents are away, brings the family close to tragedy again.
This novel, like its predecessor, recreates a former time, when bush still pervaded Sydney and social attitudes and expectations were more rigid. Turner’s work provides an intriguing insight into that time.
All books reviewed are from the CWA library on a separate shelf so they are easy to find plus the reviews are in a folder. Also visit our street library.
The Barbarians Chamber Orchestra at St Mary-on-Allyn
The Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn are proud to present an unforgettable morning of music on Sunday 19th October 2025 at 11am. The renowned Barbarians Chamber Orchestra will perform in the stunning St Mary-on-Allyn Church, celebrated for its beautiful setting along the Allyn River and remarkable acoustics.
After the performance, enjoy light refreshments in the church hall and take part in an auction of local produce (cash only). Every dollar raised goes directly towards our group’s effort of preserving, restoring and maintaining the church, hall, cemetery and grounds.
About Us: The Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn is a dedicated not-for-profit community group passionate about safeguarding the rich history of this remarkable site. This is our first major event as a group and we could not be more excited to invite the community to share this with us.
Event & Tickets:
When: Sunday 19 October 2025 – arrival from 10:00am, doors open 10:30am and performance beginning at 11am. Where: 841 Allyn River Road, Allynbrook.
Entry: $50 per person
Tickets: Are available via TryBooking (search The Barbarians at St Mary-onAllyn or scan the attached QR code) or cash at our next Gresford Community Markets stall in September or October.
Contact & Updates:
For more information follow us on Facebook at Friends of St Mary-on-Allyn, email us at friendsofsmoa@yahoo.com or contact 0428 389 146 / 0422 663 848.
COMING UP IN SEPTEMBER
Saturday 13 September TNR Band
8 till late on the deck
Sunday 21 September Dime a Dozen
1 till 5pm on the deck
6 Days (closed Wed night) 6pm – 9pm
Stan (2nd from left) Barbariaqns Chamber Orchestra music director who has been organising the concert with the Friends group.
The end of the 2025 soccer season is proving to be just as complicated as the rest of the wet and soggy season, with nearly 2000 games still to be played across the combined Hunter Valley-Newcastle-Lake Macquarie associations, an extra week of competition slotted into the program and a revamped finals series being announced.
Gresford Vacy Football Club is caught up in the end-of-season rush to complete all makeup games before the rescheduled finals series is due to begin in mid-September.
The home ground at Gresford Sporting Complex is holding up relatively well but the wet conditions have forced the postponement of games in the interest of player safety.
“It is important to emphasise that this situation is not the fault of any association, club, council, volunteer or participant,” a joint zone memo announced last week.
“Despite the best efforts of everyone involved in scheduling, ground preparation and communication, we cannot control or predict Mother Nature.”
While the club is hoping for sunshine and drying winds, players are readying themselves for a busy schedule of weekend and mid-week catch-up games.
Scorps News
At this stage, the revamped competition has semi-finals being played on the weekend of September 12-14 with grand finals to conclude the season on the weekend of September 19-21.
The Scorps will celebrate the brilliance and resilience of players, volunteers and officials with club presentation events on Sat 27 Sep.
Community Focus Groups
Dungog Shire is growing, and Council wants to make sure we do i
We are creating a long-term Housing and Infrastructure Master Plan that will help guide our growth and protect the things we love about and villages while planning for the homes, rural industries, ro services our communities need.
One of the best ways to get involved is by joining a community group. These interactive workshop sessions are your opportunity on what makes your area great, share local knowledge, and talk challenges and changes you are seeing. Whether it’s housing, infrastructure, transport, or rural lands, your insights will help shape a plan that reflects our local needs and priorities.
Register your interest to join us at one of the sessions below website: dungog.nsw.gov.au/HIMP
The juniors will come together at Gresford Sporting Complex in the morning and the seniors will share a few tall tales at Paterson Tavern in the evening.
Further details of season changes and the presentation will be made available through the Scorpions’ Facebook page and regular communication channels.
Annan Krick
CULTURE VULTURE
Greetings to Culture Vulture readers.
A busy month for the Gresford Community Gallery with many events.
The Gallery will present artist and writer Gavin Fry talking about the Australian artist Kenneth Jack, Lost Master of the Australian Landscape on Saturday 13th September at 2.30 pm.
Entry $5 – will include afternoon tea. At12 Park St East Gresford.
On the Saturday 27th of September 2-4pm.
The gallery launches the Spring Exhibition – First Birthday Celebration.
All are welcome to attend the afternoon. Gavin Fry will officially open the
exhibition. The gallery has a new selection of beautiful ceramics by Sandra Lee Brown and textiles and jewellery by Giselle Penn, paintings by Kristen Lethem and Robyn Werkhoven. Please drop by to view a stunning showcase of Hunter Valley artists.
The exhibition includes a great variety of quality art and craft, featuring painting, drawing, sculptures, ceramics, photography, fibre art and jewellery.
SEPTEMBER FEATURED ARTIST
GAYE SHIELD - is an award-winning artist who lives and works in Dungog, in the Hunter Valley.
Gaye has been exhibiting her art for thirty years, with highlights being a finalist in the Norvill Art Prize and Winning CRAG Art Prize 2019.
Gaye uses the local community and her love for nature as inspiration. “I began drawing at an early age and I remember many hours spent colouring in my mother’s recipe books. My grandmother wanted to encourage my artistic talent and bought me an oil painting box when I was eleven. This was great encouragement for me and later on I attended Grafton Technical College for lessons in oil painting.
PO Box 36 Branxton NSW 2335
Office: 0427 383 388
Email: Admin@HunterSL com au HUNTERSL COM AU
Painting is my passion and has been for as long as I can remember. I care deeply for those things around me – people, animals and the landscape – and I love to bring my representation of them alive for the viewer, often with a bit of humour, through use of colour and a variety of mediums.”
SEPTEMBER SKETCH CLUB 2025
The gallery holds Sketch Club each month. Everyone enjoys the creative, friendly
Multi Vendor Clearing S ale
Date: 13 September 2025 th Time: 10am
Location: 673 Summer Hill Road Vacy NSW
Contact Shannon 0488 114 7 7 7
Scan for further information
Robyn Werkhoven
Hens by Gaye Shield
atmosphere. Please join us at the next event, all welcome – beginners and professionals.
Next Sketch Club date – Sunday 28th September. Time: 1 – 4pm
Still Life – inspiration from Australian artist Kevin Connor.
Kevin Connor won the Archibald Prize twice and the Sulman. His work has largely been concerned with the life of the city and its people.
Hosted by artist Christine Pike. Please bring your own art supplies. Cost $10.
Venue: Gresford Community Gallery 12 Park St East Gresford.
Enquiries : gallerygresfordcommunity@gmail.com
Phone : 0428 271 819 Christine Pike
The Gallery has a Facebook page which will give regular news / updates of the Gallery’s forthcoming exhibitions, workshops and features on the artists. Please Like and follow our page.
Free Art Sunday for children at Gresford Community Gallery. On the third Sunday of the month between 10am and 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. Enquiries: Dawn Thompson 0428924800 Gresford Community Gallery is open weekends 10am - 4pm. at 12 Park Street East Gresford.
Don’t miss reading the locally published, independent art and literary online magazine Studio La Primitive Arts Zine September issue goes online 1st. September. The issue includes interviews and articles on Leading Australian artists – Sculptor Jimmy Rix, who’s fabulous Kangaroo sculpture is in the visitor’s park next to the gallery. Artist and writer Gavin Fry and Queensland painter Sarah Hickey, plus many more interesting items and poetry.
Contact with Art News or enquiries about Gresford Community Gallery: Robyn Werkhoven Ph: 0417 686 816 Email: werkhovenr@bigpond.com
SELL IN SPRING!
Kids Free Art Day at the gallery.
DAVE LAYZELL MP
Member
HOW I CAN HELP YOU
Gloucester
Dungog
Singleton
Muswellbrook
Merriwa
Murrurundi
Gresford
East Gresford
Vacy
Paterson
Lorn
Bolwarra
Phone
upperhunter@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Authorised
District Landcare Group
On Saturday 16 August, 2025 Gresford Landcare held its August meeting at Peter Dreyer's property at Mt Rivers. It was a combined meeting with The Grassgrowers Group to enable both groups to learn more about A Total Grazing Approach practiced by Peter Dreyer and to see a practical demonstration by Sam Porter from Hunter Land Services on the use of a soil microbiometer to measure vital soil biota at Peter's property. The microbiometer is advertised as an inexpensive, smart phone based on-site test for microbial biomass that was developed to facilitate the implementation of regenerative agricultural practices.
After tea and coffee were enjoyed, Peter spoke about the principles of Total Grazing before taking us on a walk around part of his property where he explained how he has broken his property into strips for cell grazing, moving his cattle regularly and after they have totally grazed a particular cell.
Sam Porter dug a soil sample from one of Peter's “cells” and took it back to the meeting for testing. Whilst waiting on the test results which takes about 10 minutes, the group enjoyed sandwiches for lunch before the weather changed and the meeting was concluded.
We were indeed fortunate to experience a morning of fine weather for such an interesting programme.
Bowlo News Jamie Atkins the Champ Again
Gentleman Jamie, the big man with the big yellow bowls and a deft touch is once again the Gresford Major Singles Champion. Jamie edged out a gallant Mick Kealy 25-20 in the final. Congratulations Jamie and commiserations Mick who made both the Minor and Major singles finals this year only to be pipped at the post both times. Better fortune next year Mick!
A lively Miller Park side visited on the 27th June resplendent in red shirts for a Sunday morning ‘friendly’. We played three bowl triples for about an hour and then a bunch of keen Gresford players joined in to make up four fours for another hour. The scoring got hectic and yours truly, the tallyer, befuddled, bemused and confused invoked executive privilege and called it a one all draw. After a steak, ably bbq’d by Tom Hojer, and salad lunch everyone went home happy.
Peter Dreyer
Hi All,
Action Plan for Youth Engagement
I’m pleased to share with you the draft Community-Wide Action Plan for Youth Engagement, developed from the Community Builders Program, our discussion on 30th July, and many further conversations since. We had fantastic contributions from young people, and their ideas, enthusiasm, and honesty have helped shape this plan.
We would really appreciate your feedback on this draft. Call me, talk to other young people about this, and share the plan widely. We need the whole community behind this so we can provide a great life for our young people right here at home.
Warm regards, Jim Doyle
This action plan embodies the collective vision and aspirations of the Dungog and Stroud regions to support and empower young people. Guided by the principle that “It takes a whole village to raise a child,” the plan outlines actionable steps to ensure youth are heard, equipped, healthy, and inspired to thrive and build fulfilling lives within their own community.
1. Youth Leadership, Evaluation, and Community Involvement
• Establish a Youth Leadership Group with representatives from schools, sports, business, creative arts, & youth advocates.
• Prepare for Peter Kenyon and Rural Aid’s return to facilitate the Youth Section of the Community Builders Program.
• Convene biannual community meetings focused on youth issues, progress, and new initiatives.
• Involve elected officials, educators, and community leaders in listening and support roles.
• Form a working group to monitor, review, and adapt this Action Plan as necessary.
• Collect ongoing feedback from young people to inform future planning and ensure accountability.
• Promote an open culture of continuous feedback and dialogue from youth and the broader community.
• Celebrate progress and share success stories to foster enthusiasm and momentum.
• Encourage inclusive leadership and connection to combat loneliness and support community well-being.
• Collaborate with all regional communities to actively support youth components within their Community Action Plans.
2. Communication and Awareness
• Develop a comprehensive communication strategy, including a community youth website and regular
event updates.
• Facilitate timely information sharing across towns, schools, organisations, and families.
• Empower young people to design, manage, and maintain communication tools to ensure relevance & engagement.
• Monitor the impact of social media age restrictions and adapt new communication strategies based on new communications methods adopted by young people.
3. Mental Health Awareness & Support
• Prioritise mental health as a cornerstone of youth engagement.
• Deliver mental health education through schools, clubs, and community groups.
• Promote inclusive activities—such as ParkRun, Touch Football, and Frisbee— for mental and physical wellbeing.
• Ensure access to local GPs, telehealth services, and peer support networks.
• Create “safe spaces” and encourage conversations that reduce stigma.
4. Early Literacy and Education
• Expand programs such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and involve youth as reading ambassadors.
• Collaborate with schools, libraries, and families to foster a lifelong love of reading and learning.
• Celebrate reading milestones and encourage intergenerational reading activities.
5. Parenting and Family Support
• Host community workshops on positive parenting and domestic violence prevention.
• Provide resources and networks to support parents and guardians in raising resilient youth.
• Encourage collaboration between schools, community services, & families.
6. Youth Centres & Community Hubs
• Establish Youth Centres in Dungog and Clarence Town, and a Community Hub in Paterson.
• Provide welcoming, inclusive spaces for youth engagement, programs, mentoring, and community connection.
7. Adventure & Experiential Learning
• Facilitate transformative outdoor experiences, such as the Wangat Lodge Youth Camp (April 2026) and Kokoda Track Expedition (July 2027).
• Promote character, leadership, & confidence through challenges & teamwork.
• Engage young people in the planning and delivery of these experiences.
8. Creative Arts and Expression
• Support workshops, music programs, &
community exhibitions tailored for youth.
• Foster collaboration between artists, galleries (e.g., Gresford Gallery), schools, and youth groups.
• Encourage intergenerational art projects and public creative expression.
9. Work, Career, & Vocational Training
• Advocate for a TAFE or vocational hub in Dungog, offering training in trades, business, health, and agriculture.
• Promote part-time jobs, apprenticeships, and industry placements for young people.
• Partner with schools & businesses to provide job-readiness training and career expos.
• Support youth pursuing upskilling or launching small enterprises.
10. Inspirational Speakers & Mentorship
• Host a series of inspirational speakers and mentorship programs in schools and community events.
• Empower youth to help select and organise events aligned with their interests and goals.
• Foster ongoing intergenerational mentoring relationships to provide realworld advice and encouragement.
• Encourage youth participation in programs such as Rotary Youth Exchange, RYPEN, RYLA, & other regional, national, or international initiatives.
• Promote nominations and community fundraising to support involvement.
• Prepare participants pre-program and conduct post-program debriefs to maximise leadership development.
• Showcase returning participants as peer role models and community presenters.
12. Sports and Physical Activities
• Increase community sport participation through local leagues and school partnerships.
• Establish a Regional Sports Group to coordinate events & promote inclusive activity.
• Highlight the benefits of physical activity for mental health, social connection, and leadership.
• Involve athletes and community volunteers as mentors.
This plan affirms our unwavering belief in the potential of young people and our collective duty to support them. The next step requires action from everyone— individuals, groups, and organisations alike. Every effort matters. Whether you initiate a project, offer work experience, mentor a young person, or simply extend a welcoming conversation, you are contributing to a stronger, more vibrant community.
National Youth Parliament – Get your EOI in!
The Department of the House of Representatives and the Y Australia are excited to announce Expressions of Interest are officially open for the National Youth Parliament 2026 and are inviting young people from all walks of life to engage directly with civics and the Parliament. This program aims to equip 16-17-year-olds with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to actively participate in Australia's democratic and parliamentary system.
Through hands-on learning experiences, including simulated parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders, and realworld policy challenges, students will gain a deeper understanding of how Parliament works and the process by which bills are drafted, debated and passed into law.
Youth Members will travel to Canberra for a five-day (four-night) program held across Australian Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House. All costs associated with the program including travel and accommodation are covered by the program.
The Department of the House of Representatives is working with
“We don’t just want young people to vote when they turn 18, we want them to understand why their vote matters, how decisions are made, and how they can influence them.”
Alexandra Ash, CEO of Y Australia
experienced Youth Parliament program provider, Y Australia to deliver the program. The Y has been running Youth Parliament programs for over four decades.
Expressions of Interest
150 motivated young Australians - one from every federal electorate - will be selected for the five-day residential program in Canberra in 2026. All young people who will be aged 16-17 and living in Australia in August 2026 are welcome to apply - regardless of background, education or experience.
Confirmation due (if selected): 20th of March, 2026
Possible program dates: 9th – 13th August or 16th – 20th August 2026 (inclusive, TBC)
Please note: If you’re selected, you’ll also be required to participate in online training and may be invited to consult with your community or local representatives.
For more information or to submit an EOI, students, parents and schools can visit nyp.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au
Dungog Shire Council News
Selection of meeting highlights from Dungog Shire Council’s ordinary Council meeting on Wednesday, 20 August 2025:
Development Report - April / June '25
Dungog Shire Council has reported a significant uplift in development activity, with 62 development applications (DA’s) determined – a notable increase from 47 in the same period last year. Lodgements also rose, with 63 applications submitted compared to 49 in the previous year.
Council also continues to demonstrate strong performance in its planning services. The median processing time for DA’s was 59 days, while the average number of assessment days was recorded at 88.1. Importantly, Dungog Shire Council has exceeded State expectations, with the average lodgement time for all development types sitting at just 9 days – well below the Minister’s benchmark of 14 days. Similarly, average assessment days for all development types as of 30 June 2025 were sitting at 97 days, below the Minister’s Expectations Order of 115 days.
Eoi Dungog Holiday And Caravan Park Project
Council has concluded its second Expression of Interest (EOI) process in four years for the
proposed Dungog Holiday and Caravan Park Project, determining that the two submissions received unfortunately did not meet the selection criteria outlined in the EOI.
Council will review options for the sites through its Strategic Property Program and the development of the Dungog Structure Plan, which forms part of the broader Shirewide Housing and Infrastructure Master Plan. Council also confirmed its intention to continue engaging with community groups to explore opportunities for alternative community benefit uses at the Abbots Flat site in line with the Recreation and Open Space Strategy.
Proposed Bar, Restaurant And Function Centre At 29-35 Grey Street, Clarence Town
Dungog Shire Council has approved a $6.02 million development application to construct and operate a new bar, restaurant and function centre at 29–35 Grey Street, Clarence Town. The proposal, lodged in February 2025, was brought before Council due to its high estimated development cost and the number of public submissions received. Twelve submissions were lodged, with ten in objection and two in support, primarily raising concerns around flooding, parking, access and stormwater
management. Council determined that these matters had been satisfactorily addressed through the assessment process and the inclusion of specific conditions of consent.
The development will feature a restaurant and bar with seating for around 60 patrons, complemented by a function centre capable of hosting approximately 200 guests.
Facilities will include a commercial kitchen, back-of-house amenities, landscaped areas, and two car parks providing a total of 57 spaces. Operating hours will be from midday to midnight, seven days a week. The site is zoned E1 Local Centre under the Dungog Local Environmental Plan 2014, with food and drink premises and function centres identified as permissible uses. The site’s heritage and flood-prone characteristics were carefully considered during assessment, with measures included to manage stormwater, protect the catchment and respect the Clarence Town Heritage Conservation Area.
External agencies were consulted during the process, including NSW Police who raised no objections, and Hunter Water who supported the development subject to conditions requiring revised landscape and stormwater plans.
Sun 7 Sept 10am, the Parish Service for the ‘Season of Creation’ is to be held at the Arboretum in Gresford with BBQ lunch to follow. This will be the only service in the Parish this day. • A Cake stall/ jams/trash&treasure stall will be held in the grounds of Vacy Church on Sun 14 Sept commencing 8.30am. This is Vacy Carnival Day. Come along, buy a lovely treat & enjoy the carnival.
• Our Family Friendly Service with Paul O’Keefe is also on Sun 14 Sept at St. Paul’s Paterson. These monthly services are bringing some new people, so come & join us for this alternate service – topic this month is ‘Eternity’. • New date for Sept – Gresford Men’s Breakfast is on Sat 20 Sept 8.15am at the Twin Rivers Cafe. • Everyone welcome to come along to Vacy Cafe on Thurs mornings at 9.30am for coffee & chat, then Bible study. • Rev. Mary continues services at Lara Nursing Home in Dungog on Wed every 2nd & 4th Thurs afternoons for residents, staff & relatives from 2.30pm. • Last month, we have received many kind gifts of food, blankets, rugs, beanies & gloves for the less fortunate people in our neighbourhood. Thank you most gratefully on their behalf.
Church times for September: 7 10am Gresford
Arboretum – only service in the parish • 14, 21, 28 St. Paul’s Paterson 8.30am & St. Anne’s Gresford 10.30am. Stay safe & look after each other. Blessings
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 September Crossword
kindly
September 2025 crossword answers
Crossword
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.
