Gresford News Feb 2013

resford News G

The

News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys

February 2013

Therese Doyle Hall Past ~Present ~Future

Cover of brochure showing Lostock Dam when newly completed. (1971) Therese Doyle Community and Youth Hall front entrance as it is now.

Girl Guides ‘International Day’, (1990s) From left - Norma Rumbel, Aliza Bolsius, Breanna Newton, Heidi Newton, Jemima Murton, Briane Merriman front.

Ray Forbes constructing the access ramp.

O

ver the last fifty years, from its time as an amenities hall during the construction of the Lostock Dam, to Girl Guides Hall and now Community Hall this unassuming building has played an important social role within the Gresford community and no doubt holds many memories. It is now time to think about its future ...read more inside

The Gresford News is a Gresford Community Group project. Circulation 800 – Donations appreciated and most welcome. Thank you!

The Gresford News Community Diary CWA Gresford Branch – The Land Cookery Contest & first meeting, 9.30am CWA Book Club, CWA rooms, 3.00pm Wed 13 Feb Soccer registration, Gresford Bowls & Sporting Recreation Club, 3.15pm Sun 17 Feb Live music ‘Marriah’, Hotel Beatty, 2.00pm Mon 18 Feb Bulk waste collection begins in Gresford and across the shire Tues 19 Feb Paterson Allyn Garden Group meeting, 10.00am Sat 23 Feb St Anne’s market day Sun 3 Mar Clean up Gresford day Fri-Sat 8-9 Mar Gresford Show, Gresford Showground Sat 30 Mar Gresford Billy Cart Derby Sat-Sun 13-14 Apr Dungog-Gresford Hoof & Hook Group competition Tues 28 May CWA Gresford Branch – International Day (Morocco) Thurs

7 Feb

Sat

9 Feb

1st Mon each month

Gresford Community Group Meeting, 7.30pm, Hotel Beatty, all welcome! (not Jan) 1st Tues each month Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm (not Jan) 1st Wed each month Gresford Rural Fire Brigade meeting, station, 7.30pm 1st Thurs each month CWA Gresford Branch Meeting, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 9.30am (not Jan) 2nd Mon each month Gresford Historical Society Meeting, RSL Rooms, 2.00pm (not Dec, Jan or June) 2nd & 4th Mon each month Family & Child Health Clinic, Paterson school of Arts Hall, 4932 9768 for appt’s 2nd Sat each month Book Club, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 3.00pm (not Dec or Jan) Gresford Public School P&C Meeting, school library, 10.00am 3rd Fri each month 3rd Sun each month gresford Community Market, ‘Clevedon’, 9.00am to 2.00pm (not Dec, Christmas Fair 1st Sat) Last Thurs each month Gresford District Agricultural Society Meeting, Showground Luncheon Pavilion, 7.30pm Every Wed, Fri & Sun Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Raffles, from 6.30pm Every Mon & Fri (school terms) Gresford Pre-School, Gresford Community Hall, 4938 9288, 9.00am Every Thur Happy hour and free pool and jukebox at the Hotel Beatty Every Fri

Cricket Club Raffles at the Hotel Beatty Every Fri (school terms) Yoga for active bodies with Donna Cavanough, Therese Doyle Youth Hall, 9.00 – 10.30am Every Wed Gresford PlayTime, children 0-5 & carers, Gresford Community Hall, 4992 2401, 10.00am Every Sunday The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am

To contact Gresford News email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au or call Brian Doherty on 0412 372 687.

Postal Address: PO Box 99 East Gresford 2311 HELP! Could everyone Please have their copy in by the 20th of the month. With the newsletter now so large, we struggle to meet copying deadlines when items arrive after the 20th. Please use the box at East Gresford Post Office or, even better, email to the above address. For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred. Please keep us informed about activities in the area – a paragraph or two and photo.

Visit www.gresfordnsw.com.au for local information and the ‘Gresford News’ online

✃

finances resford News G

The

Please support your local newsletter and contribute anonymously or use the slip below and place your donations in the boxes provided in Gresford. I would like to make an annual donation to the Gresford News: Name

Address

Amount

Gresford News Notices GET READY FOR MARCH Clean Up Gresford Sun 3 March

Gresford Show Fri 8 and Sat 9 March It’s time to get you vegies, photos, sewing, jams, cooking & crafts organised so you can be part of the greatest little country show around.

For forms or info go to the website: www.gresfordshow.com

Gresford Billy Cart Derby

Easter Sat 30 March Easter is early this year so don’t delay getting you entry in.

LATER THIS YEAR

Passport Photos at Post Office The East Gresford Post Office has a new camera for taking ID photos for your Passport - Ask Sue Forbes

Neighbourcare Health Transport Dungog & District Neighbourcare has a small amount of Health funding to provide a transport service for those unable to access main stream transport to attend appointments at Public Health facilities eg: (Calvary Mater, Maitland Hospitals). We will need to ask you some questions to assess your eligibility to receive this service. If you require transport to a Hospital please contact the office on: ph: 49923348

Lawrence Family Reunion A Lawrence family reunion will be held at the Gresford Showground on Sunday 9 June 2013.

For more information call Delma Lawrence Ph 4938 9589

Gresford Rodeo Fri 30 and Sat 31 August 2013

local water carrier

CASSO’S WATER CARTAGE DOMESTIC & RURAL WATER SUPPLIES TANKS & POOLS FILLED CONTACT BRAD 4995 6053 0425 236 188

2013 Gresford Market Coordinator Required Gresford Community Group is looking for a volunteer to take over coordination of the Gresford Monthly Market Ph Martin Addison – 49389424

Under 16 years old ?

Enjoy taking videos on your Mobile Phone or Camera!

This is for YOU !

Gresford 81st Annual Show We invite you to create a 3 minute Video Clip and enter your movie into our Video Clip competition.

Great Prizes

camcorder or open order @ Harvey Norman Visit www.gresfordshow.com For more competition detail and download an Entry form Entries close 1st MARCH 2013

Family & Child Health Clinic Times for Gresford Parents & Babies Hunter New England Health clinic is open on the second & forth Monday of the month, in the back room of the Paterson school of Arts Hall, Duke St Paterson.

Phone no – 49329768 for appt’s

Clean up Gresford The Gresford Community Group will participate once again in Cleanup Australia Day on Sunday 3rd March.

We are looking for volunteers to help for a couple of hours from 9.30am and we shall meet at the Therese Doyle Youth Hall in Park Street at 9.30am for registration. This is such a great event for our community and we will concentrate on the roadway verges leading into and around East Gresford and Gresford.

PLEASE note this date in your diary.

Andrew Kidd Carpentry 0438 385 233 Lic No: 254417C ABN: 57 414 960 192

Contract Carpentry Decks & Pergolas Renovations Building & Maintenance andy_traceykidd@hotmail.com

26 Marquis Street, Paterson 2421

G resford News •

The

February 2013

What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

The Llama Parlour

– Kathy Lette

The author is well-known as co-author of Puberty Blues and the wife of crusading barrister Geoffrey Robertson, and has continued her writing career with a series of breezy and irreverent books. Her sense of humour is unashamedly brash, and she is very bold in her plot manipulation, making for entertaining light reading.

On the back of The Llama Parlour, Salman Rushdie is quoted as saying, ‘It cheered me up.’ It may well have, as it is full of bawdy detail and bouncy language. Lette is notorious for her puns, and her figurative language is cheeky and sometimes trashy. An account of trying to spear a piece of squid at an awkward luncheon includes – It was tough as a radial tyre.

Honestly, all it needed was a chassis and a tape deck and it could have driven itself back to the sea.

The Llama Parlour tells the story of a naive Australian, in love with all things American, who wins a walk-on part in a sitcom filmed in Los Angeles. Put down and ignored by the cast of her show, she befriends a good-time girl with a heart of gold, who involves her in a very tawdry situation. This book is not for everyone, and the effects are often laboured, but Lette is obviously in love with language, for which she can be forgiven a great deal.

Learn to move like La Bella Otero Dungog Community College is back in 2013 with new courses and old favourites. One course starting this month, though, is Belly Dancing.

Exotic, flowing, graceful, belly dance is one of the oldest forms of dance, as well as being a nonimpact, weight-bearing exercise suitable for all ages, with a whole range of benefits for health.

Above all, belly dance is fun, and a great way to meet others.

Over 7 weeks students will learn many of the classic moves, hip flicks, hip La Bella Otero, a dancer in Paris in 1901 turns, figure of 8s, even how to shimmy. The teacher, Sally O’Loughlin, has been dancing for 19 years and teaching for 17. She spent three years as part of a troupe and has taught in her own studio.

All ages are welcome but this course is for women only – you can expect a nurturing, no-fear environment. It will be on from 5.45 – 7.15pm starting Wednesday 27 February (TBC), at the Anglican Hall, Dowling St, Dungog. The cost is $120, concessions $105. Book with a friend to double your fun.

Info & bookings: www.dungogcommunitycollege.org.au, email education@dins.org.au, or ring 4992 1133.

G resford News •

The

February 2013

Christmas came to Gresford and Paterson Enthusiastic carol singing (as well as singing and dancing by the littlies) was evident at both Gresford and Paterson on 15th and 16th December 2012 The Gresford Amateur Performing Society (GAPS) presented a wonderful evening of carol singing at both events.

Over ninety people filled the Gresford School of Arts Hall on the Friday night to be entertained by GAPS singers as well as special local guests in the form of Megan Edwards and Sally Hunt and some very talented children.

The Gresford Community Group supported the Gresford Carols night by providing a Christmas community BBQ.

Special guest performers at the Gresford Carols. Thanks to Rosita Richardson for the photos.

All monies raised in the form of Then GAPS sang it all again on Sunday night at Paterson at the ‘Rotary Carols in donations and sale of raffle tickets will go towards the purchase of two the Park’. lightweight wheelchairs for temporary Attendance was again very high with use by residents of the Gresford and over 150 people showing that the Paterson districts. These two events Christmas spirit had truly arrived. brought to a close a very successful year for GAPS. We hope you all had a Santa made an appearance at the Paterson carols, this was a huge hit with wonderful Christmas and we wish you the very best during 2013.

Santa’s little BBQ helpers - David Wells, the children… he’s jolly old Santa!

Robert Richardson and Kell Merriman

Carbon pro Farming Systems Incorporating Yeomans Keyline concepts

Create deep rich healthy soils

Biological liquid injection

No kill deep tillage

Pasture Renovation

Prevent runoff

Eliminate erosion

Build organic matter dramatically increase yield and profit without the use of chemical based fertilisers for an obligation free on farm consultation PLEASE CALL 0429 960 287 OR EMAIL gerard@carbonfarmer.com Please ask about our other services & products.

G resford News •

The

Hoof & Hook Cattle Competition The Dungog - Gresford Hoof & Hook Group will be holding the annual hoof and carcass competition on the weekend of 13th - 14th April 2013 at the Dungog Saleyards. We are looking for new beef producers around the valley who would be interested in taking the opportunity to enter cattle and have them assessed on the hoof and also on the hook.

This year’s judge will be James Laurie from Gloucester, a renowned cattle producer and an excellent judge of cattle who has judged widely including the RAS Sydney.

He will be able to give informed feedback on the cattle as they are being judged whether they have taken a ribbon or not.

The cattle will be judged on the hook at Primo abattoirs Scone using the MSA system of judging and all producers will receive written feedback on each carcass. This feedback is vital to the on farm management of your cattle production and allows you to analyse information such as fat measurement, rib eye measurement, colour, muscle and other features.

There are 11 classes overall to enter from 300kgs (live weight) through to over 500kgs (live weight) for heifers, steers and pairs of animals. Also a class exists for the Asian Domestic Market for producers who would like to enter animals and gain feedback on the increasing market demand for lean meat in Asian style cooking.

For further information and entry forms contact either Nerelle Hand on Ph 4996 4142 or Peter Lawrence on Ph 4931 5257.

February 2013

Billy Cart Derby Easter Sat 30 March 2013 Saturday 30th March is race day and there is still time for you to get ready with a billy cart entry! For all design information go to the website: www.gresfordbillycartderby.wordpress.com.

This year’s Easter Fair and Billy Cart Derby will aid Junior Education in Gresford with the main beneficiaries to be the Gresford Pre-School and Gresford Public School.

Last year’s Derby saw many innovative billycart designs including Batman and Batmobile, [the winner of the best dressed cart) and Goldspring’s excavator driven by Bob Baldwin MP who is always hopeful that the bad road won’t cause him grief!

Emily Jane Foote reigns as Grand Champion after her dash in the stainless steel bullet. Her record time of 20.75 seconds will be hard to break.

Join the Organising Committee The organising committee is looking for some new faces to help with ideas that will make the 2013 Derby the best ever. Ken Chandler will chair the next meeting and his phone number is 4938 9189, or call Lawrence Thorsell on 4938 9248.

Please call and offer your support. You will not be thrown in at the deep end as there is a team who have been running the Derby for years, but they do need some fresh ideas and extra help.

VACY AND GRESFORD DANCE CENTRE Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant

Valentines Day Thursday 14 February Spoil that special someone with a $39pp 3 course dinner menu

Entree

MON–THUR SPECIALS NEW $15 Dinner Menu

Beef Tartare or the classic Prawn Cocktail

Full A la Carte Menu available 7 Days

Main Grilled Reef Fish with creamy Mash potato, broccoli, Champagne Beurre Blanc & Caviar OR

Herb crusted Lamb Rump with Wild Mushroom Risotto & Rosemary Sauce OR

Trading Hours Mon – Thurs 5pm – 10pm Fri – Sun 12 noon – 10pm Lunch & Dinner

CLASSES AVAILABLE: Jazz Tap Ballet Gymnastics Hip-Hop Cheerleading Zumba

802 Gresford Road – Vacy

Pumpkin Risotto with Feta Cheese

Phone 02 4938 8305

Dessert

info@flyingduckcafe.com.au

Lindt Chocolate Fondue for 2

Vacy School of Arts Gresford School of Arts

www.flyingduckcafe.com.au

For all enquires contact Brooke Holz Phone: 0437354577 Email: brookedance@bigpond.com

G resford News •

The

February 2013

Gresford Meals on Wheels Donation Just over 18 years ago the NSW Government initiated programme funding for Meals on Wheels services across the State. The existing services that had received a subsidy per meal from the Government were asked to combine with other like organisations, in their local shire, and as a result many small organisations ceased to exist. In the Dungog Shire, this change affected the Dungog Meals on Wheels who also administered both Dungog and Clarence Town meals services, Paterson Meals on Wheels and Gresford Meals on Wheels.

This was a difficult time of change as theses services were truly grass roots services, started by local people to assist local people. The change to full Government funding through the Home and Community Care Program was not an easy transition, but change has happened and Dungog and District Neighbourcare Inc. now provide the Meals on Wheels services for the whole Local Government Area.

Recently the Executive of the former Gresford Meals on Wheels Services resolved to finalise their accounts and pass onto Neighbourcare the remaining balance, for use in continuing to provide quality services to the Gresford area.

These funds have been set aside to provide a special project to the Gresford area.

The Board of Management at Dungog & District Neighbourcare would like to express their appreciation for this generous donation from the Gresford community.

Mary Kealy, from Gresford, presented the Cheque to Helen Martins, Care Coordinator for Meals on Wheels and the General Manager of Dungog & District Neighbourcare Kerry Broad.

Gresford Post Office Store Home of the Crossroads Cafe 162 Durham Road Gresford (Cnr Lostock & Durham Road)

Phone 4938 9239

Open 7 days from 7.00 am

Take Away food open for breakfast lunch and dinner Gourmet fresh cut sandwiches and real Milkshakes available – BBQ Chickens – Ice – DVDs – Grocery – Ice Creams – Drinks –

DVD Releases available in February • LAWLESS • ARBITRAGE • MENTAL • PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 4 • • KILLING THEM SOFTLY • THE WORDS • FRANKENWEENIE • RUBY SPARKS • • THE WEDDING PARTY • THE POSSESSION • 10 YEARS • TO ROME WITH LOVE • • THE ORANGES • SPARKLE • STRUCK BY LIGHTNING • 33 POSTCARDS • • THERE BE DRAGONS: BLOOD AND COUNTRY • DUSTY • TIMER •

G resford News •

The

February 2013

Down Memory Lane at the James Theatre Over the last year the James Theatre in Dungog has undergone an extraordinary transformation. It has been repainted and restored inside and out with the help of grants and many hours of both paid and volunteer labour.

It has also undergone a transformation in how it operates and as part of this there will be a special series of five all-time screen favourites shown at the James this year.

10% discount at selected local eateries and businesses on the day. You would have to agree that’s fantastic value but if you prefer, individual tickets will also be available on the day of screening.

Historic Spanish Mission facade of the newly painted and restored James Theatre

‘DOWN MEMORY LANE’ will be a rare chance to enjoy classic Hollywood fare on the big screen kicking off on Thursday 7 March with a screening of Casablanca, and there’ll be four other screenings through the year.

The full series will be Casablanca - Thurs 7 March My Fair Lady - Thurs 2 May African Queen - Thurs 27 June Singing in the Rain - Thurs 5 September An American in Paris – Thurs 7 November

The theatre will open at 10am on each Thursday. Local songstress Kathryn Abbott will perform a selection of old time classic songs before the curtain rises, and the films will be screened at 10.30am. You will of course be able to enjoy the James’ famous choc tops, as well as tea, filter coffee and slices from the kiosk.

A subscription pass to see all five movies is only $48 which also entitles you to a

For bookings and more information, contact Tina Overton on 4992 2295 or 0448 749 989, or Lisa Connors on 4992 2294 or 0408 272 197. Subscription tickets will be also be available at the Dungog Visitor Information Centre.

This series promises to be a treat for young and old alike. Even for those who are familiar with some of these great films, the big screen promises to bring them to new life - they were made for the cinema not television!

Why not arrange a party of friends to go along and catch some Hollywood legends in action, take a look at the newly painted James in its coat of many colours, and enjoy a great day out in Dungog.

SETTLERS ARMS Bar•Restaurant•Entertainment•Accommodation good food • good wine • good company February Fun At The Settlers

k Whacky Wednesdays - $10.00 main meals - bookings recommended Thirsty Thursdays - Happy hour 5-7 Friday Cocktail Hour - two for one between 9-10 pm Sunday Sessions - live jazz and blues from 4pm Please note we are closed on the 9th and 10th of February for a private function.

Open Wed – Sun • Dinner Wed – Sun • Lunch Fri – Sun

now open for lunch on fridays 45 Brown St Dungog•Ph 4992 1615•cheers@settlersarms.net.au www.settlersarms.net.au

G resford News •

The

February 2013

History, Tradition, Oranges and Plums Until a few years ago, I had only a passing interest in old fruit varieties, but then the management of the Hotel Beatty (the Gresford Pub) decided to update, improve and expand their facilities and unfortunately the pub’s orange tree was in the firing line. We estimate the orange tree was close to 100 years old and was unlikely to survive being moved so I was asked to propagate it as a safeguard.

Parramatta and then sent to the Paterson River area has some merit. These early seeds gave rise to a lot of very sour fruit. A later batch of seeds reputed to be from the Joppa Orange gave rise to a much sweeter range of fruits. DNA testing has confirmed this parentage. This story parallels that of the Bengal Lemon that arrived in Australia the same way as the oranges. Bengal Lemons were still widely grown in the Gresford area in the 1940s but have long since been replaced by modern cultivars.

- by Noel Jupp

gone along with any chance to give it a second go if our first attempt did not go well. We did not start breathing again until 30 of the 40 cuttings we took produced roots and grew like champions.

Dr Cameron Archer from Tocal College is emphatic that “tradition” is a four letter word that can hold up progress and I most heartily agree with him. History is not the same as tradition and if we study Modern citrus trees are normally budded the history of specific projects, that onto certified disease free understocks history can provide some great insights and it was the wrong season for budding Traditionally propagating mediums are into how to overcome problems like so there was a frantic search through the created by mixing various ingredients to propagating an orange tree in the wrong reference books (the older the better) and produce a mix that will suit the majority season and by the wrong method of plants. Modified propagation mixes are according to traditional publications. to my surprise I found that budding was sometimes needed to suit finicky species a relatively modern tradition and that it Around the same time as the pub orange and it is often a case of hit & miss if was customary to propagate citrus trees challenge was unfolding, another long propagations do not succeed with the by cuttings many years ago. Budding is time Gresford resident asked me if I was first recipe. Shortly before the challenge useful to extend the growing range of a willing to have a go at propagating some of the pub’s orange presented itself, we species by using the rootstock of a plant old cherry plum varieties for him. He said had begun trials with a new propagating that can tolerate a wider range of soils or he knew of an old tree at Glendonbrook medium made from coco-peat which is a a rootstock that causes a dwarfing effect that he could get cuttings from. This recycled waste product of coconut husks. on the growth so that it can be kept in a request prompted memories from my The coco-peat is thermo-formed into pot, but if neither was needed, then own childhood about eating deliciously solid plugs that have no variation in size propagation by cutting was possible. juicy cherry plums and sparked a quest to or consistency. The plugs slot into preWe are certain that the pub orange is a find some stock of the original fruiting formed reusable trays and our trials “Paterson River” seedling. The origin of species trees that have long since been seemed to give a reasonable consistency the Paterson River Orange has always been of propagating success so we drew a deep forgotten in favour of their more popular shrouded in a little mystery but the story ornamental cousins that are often grown breath (several in fact) and took cuttings that the first seeds were brought by ship for their striking black foliage. That of the pub orange tree at 7.30am one from South Africa and grown at morning and by 10.00am the tree was project is another story for another day.

FARMERS HOTEL VACY What’s on ??

Music Every 3rd Saturday Night Of The Month STARTS 8pm.

Music Every 1St Sunday Afternoon Of The Month STARTS 2pm TILL 6pm.

Farmers Hotel... where the beer is too good to spill! Ph 4938 8106

Terrace Mowers 21 Port Stephens Street Raymond Terrace • Ph 02 4987 3355 • sales@terracemowers.com.au

SUPER SPECIALS! for the month of February on the DIXON range of Ride-on Mowers

G resford News •

The

February 2013

Therese Doyle Hall, Past ~Present ~Future Community feature ...by Brian Doherty Lostock Dam Hall Therese Doyle Hall first did duty at the Lostock Dam site, possibly in the area identified as the ‘Village’ in the Mercury cover photograph.

The dam construction began in 1969 and was completed in 1971.

Peter Doyle, husband of Therese Doyle, described the building as an amenities building on the site.

He explained that the Girl Guides did the catering for the official opening in March 1972. His wife Therese was the District Commissioner of Girl Guides and used the opportunity to lobby the politicians to donate the hall to the Gresford Girl Guides. She was successful and the minister agreed to donate the hall and to move it to Gresford

Open: Tue,Thurs,Fri 9-­‐5 -­‐Wed 9-­‐8 Sat 8-­‐12 Call today for your appointment!!!

49388386

Under New Management ~ Rodney Crouch

Specials 4 ~ 16 February

Come into our friendly local salon today and enjoy one of our many services we offer. From amazing cut and colours to beautiful long lasting gel nails and amazing bridal packages.

We stock a large range of retail from the amazing keune and ghd to the new and fabulous silk eyelash extending mascara.

Come in today, you will be amazed!!

Rump Steak Crumbed Steak 2kg Thick Sausages Ph 4938 9710

$16.99/kg $9.99/kg $16.00/kg

G resford News •

The

G resford News •

The

December 2012

Girl Guide Hall The Gresford Guide Hall was officially opened by Joy Stacy, Guides State Secretary, on 14 July 1973. It remained as the centre of the Guide and Brownie movement in Gresford for the next 2 decades. I asked Peter Doyle what he thought the importance of the Guides was.

His answer... “The great thing about the Guides, and Scouts, is that they foster community spirit. It teaches people to look after each other” When I asked ex-guide Rosemary Wall why Guides was important she said “Back then there was very little for the girls to do. The boys had cricket.

There was an attempt to start

netball but there weren’t enough girls to make teams. Guides was good because it taught you responsibility” By the mid 1990s guide numbers had fallen and girls were allowed to join the Scouts. For a while it looked like the hall and land would be sold off for residential development but that stalled because of the proximity of the sports ground and cemetery.

Eventually Peter Doyle and an anonymous donor purchased the hall and determined to donate it to the community in recognition of all the work his wife, the Guides and Gresford community had put in to secure and develop the Hall.

from left - Kerrie Harvey, ?, Skye Starkey, Therese Doyle

from left - Amy Kemp, Katrina Whiteley, ?, Jemima Murton, Sue Forbes, Aliza Bolsius, Briane Merriman, Colleen Forbes, Sally Murton

Help plan the future

Community Hall The Gresford Community Group successfully obtained grants and other contributions to refurbish the Hall then officially opened the Therese Doyle Community and Youth Hall in February 2005.

Since 2005 the Hall has been widely used for community and youth functions. It was a venue for youth group activities for many years. The Gresford Public School holds the annual year 6 farewell there, it is used throughout the week for Yoga and Tai Chi classes and local artists often exhibit in the gallery established by Donna Cavanough.

February 2013

The Gresford Community Group would like to hear your ideas for the future development of the hall and grounds.

Peter Doyle in yoga class

Caitlin Thorsell fashion show

All ages enjoying local art

Marisa and Leon Groves cooking

They have received some suggestions already - a home for the historical Society and their exhibits, an outdoor events venue, a rainforest garden, historical planting of fruit trees once grown in the area, visitor centre, upgrading the kitchen etc.

Now is the time to have your say.

Speak to any Community Group member, go to a meeting (7:30pm first Monday of each month, at the Hotel Beatty), or send your ideas to PO Box 99 East Gresford.

Debt Collection Solutions AND ALL YOUR CREDIT MANAGEMENT NEEDS

David Cains - 0419 215 782 • Ph: 4926 2499 • Fax: 4929 5298 • Level 4, 6 Bolton Street Newcastle 2300

david@armsgroup.com www.gcsarms.com c8929022-9May

G resford News •

The

February 2013

q Gresford District Historical Society r The humorous and Tragic

Firstly

the tragedy.

John William Kevin was a school inspector who routinely boarded at the wine bar in the 1890s and very early 1900s. He used this as a base while travelling on horseback up and down the Allyn and Paterson rivers to the many single teacher schools that existed at that time. This was an immense job and Kevin notes in his report to the Ministry of Public Instruction in 1900 that he had (in the Dungog district), “107 schools under my charge”.

Last time we re-visited the interview Ellen Bird (of the Allynbrook wine bar) gave on the occasion of her 100th birthday (Dec 9th 1971). As a result of this two related stories came to hand one bush humour and one tragic.

Less well known is the fact that John Kevin was also a writer who contributed to the Bulletin and published under the name of “Arthur Ferres”. In his earlier days he had taught at Mudgee and is remembered by Henry Lawson in his poem, “In the old bush school”. Kevin’s published works include a book of poems called “The Free Selector and Other Poems” and a collection of short stories for boys entitled, “His First Kangaroo”. See the photo of Kevin posing as Ferres.

John Kevin’s memorial

Whilst staying at the wine bar, John Kevin apparently developed acute appendicitis. After much persuasion he consented eventually to having a doctor, who immediately insisted on his admission to hospital.

Graeme Ferguson

Providing professional taxation and accounting services to the Hunter Valley since 1946 including:        

Income Tax Returns Accounting Bookkeeping Audits Advice on buying and selling businesses Superannuation Advice and Self Managed Superannuation Funds Financial Planning Mortgage Broking

Gresford office Gresford officeisisopen openWednesday Monday, andTuesday other times by appointment and Wednesday at 1 Durham Road East Gresford Please call 4938 9284 or go to www.addisonpartners.com.au

Leona Leona Clements Clements (Bookkeeper) (Bookkeeper) Jane Thomson Westley Neilson(Director) (Director)

Registered Surveyor Consultant in surveying, planning and engineering * Portion Boundaries Remarked

* Identification Survey Reports * House Setouts

* Urban and Rural Subdivisions * Engineering Survey and Design * Topographic Surveys * Urban and Rural Road Design * Control Surveys

“Yatta” Torryburn Via Paterson 2421

Tel 4938 9448 Fax 4938 9626 Email yatta@hunterlink.net.au

G resford News •

The

February 2013

q “Our Stories” Feature r On the arrival of the horse drawn ambulance, Kevin refused to leave, probably aware that at that time (1903) little could be done for him locally and with knowledge that movement would only add to his suffering.

After several days of great agony he passed away and was buried in the Catholic cemetery in Gresford. He must have been held in high regard because his memorial records that it was “erected to his memory by his work colleagues and teachers of the Dungog district”. (historical note - one of the first appendectomy procedures was performed under general anaesthetic on the Prince of Wales in 1901).

The second

story is more lighthearted and concerns Frank White who you may remember featured in Ellen Bird’s interview as having ridden his horse right into the bar. Frank was one of the well known White family from Allynbrook. They were substantial land owners and the location of their family home (Mingpose) is now referenced by Whites Rd (Allynbrook).

The story has it that Frank and a group of Allynbrook men, (all well known to each other) were riding out to Allynbrook one afternoon. They had apparently been well fed and watered earlier at an establishment in Gresford and were in good spirits. For amusement Frank took to cantering out in front then standing in the stirrups and directing “rapid cannon fire” [sic] at the “troops”.

He performed this routine on a few occasions and decided on an encore just as the party arrived at the wine bar with refreshments on their minds.

As the “troops” dismounted they noted with concern that Frank appeared to have become “frozen” in position on the stirrups in the centre of the road with an expression suggestive of the most acute pain and discomfort. Their concern however turned to smiles and then broad grins as they began to suspect the possible cause of Frank’s predicament.

And those grins turned to great howls of laughter when Frank confirmed their suspicions by suddenly spurring his horse and galloping for home – still standing stiffly in the stirrups!

Stewart Everett mitsubishi ACN 000 905 395

For friendly service!

Agent for Mitsubishi Motor Vehicles NRMA Service Centre Caltex Distributors, Fuels, Oils Stihl Chainsaws and Accessories General Vet & Chemical Merchandise ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

We welcome all your NRMA insurance payments – let our staff look after you personally!

Contact Stewart or Scott

26 Durham Road, East Gresford NSW 2311

Ph. 4938 9204 Facsimile 4938 9517

No doubt this story has been embellished and gets better with the re-telling – but it has generated a lot of laughter over the year.

Next time we introduce a couple of the men who in the 1950s and 1960s drove the ex US Army Macks which kept the saw mills in the area and in Maitland supplied with saw logs from the forests of the Allyn and Paterson. This was a highly skilled occupation as on forest and mountain roads there were no second chances. As always this danger was met with dry humour which provides some good stories.

Please keep those stories coming because it is YOUR stories of characters, identities and events that add the human factor to our history.

As an incentive I will double the “bounty” for every story we publish in the Gresford News to $20. So, please pick up your biro, write down your story and send it to the Gresford District Historical Society Inc., P.O. Box 96 East Gresford.

Our next meeting is Monday, 11th February at 2pm in the RSL rooms.

G resford News •

The

February 2013

Phill Flanagan's

Earth Moving

Plumber Drainer Gas Fitter Roofer 3.5 t Excavator 8 t Tip Truck

Bob cat Excavator Traxcavator Grader Roller Rockhammer Borer Truck hire + attachments

SERVICING ALL AREAS

Mitch Ulrick 0421 014 789 LIC. NO. 198606C

VACY / ABN 67 123 581 183

EMAIL mju1@bigpond.com

4938 5153 Mob 0418 435 429 Duns Creek

Buy 1 x 45kg LP gas cylinder and get your 2nd cylinder FREE Regular price is $105 per cylinder.

Pensioners get an additional 5% OFF

Call Allgas supplies

(NSW) pty ltd

Ph: 02 49 66 4445 – 17 Beresford Ave Beresfield 2322 ABN 77 156104979

G resford News •

The

Gresford Vacy Football Club Inc WINTER COMP REGISTRATION DAYS 2013 SEASON Under 6’s to All Age Men’s & Women’s (Children turning 5 in 2013 can now play as Under 6’s) New players and beginners, male and female, are most welcome! Interested players are invited to register on the following days:

PATERSON Monday, 11th Feb, 2013 St Paul’s Church Hall 3:15 – 6 p.m.

VACY

REGISTRATION FEES

Friday, 15th Feb, 2013 Vacy School of Arts Hall 3:15 – 6 p.m.

Players 8-11 $80 Players 12-18 $95 Players All-Age $185

PLAY WITH GRESFORD VACY FC

All fees must be paid in-full by April 20th, 2013

“On-line” Registration is now possible Information and instructions will be found on the Gresford/Vacy website.

Go to: www.gresfordvacyfc.sportingpulse.net (yes, the address is fc dot sporting pulse not @ sporting pulse) or players may register on-line at the Registration Days

SPECIAL LIMITED OFFER UNDER 6’s & UNDER 7’s PAY NO REGISTRATION FEE save over $65.00 Includes free training ball and shin pads Sign up early as numbers are limited

2012 Registered players will receive an invitation by post.

GRESFORD Wednesday, 13th Feb, 2013 Gresford Sporting Complex 3:15 – 8 pm.

February 2013

More information: Contact our Player New players must provide a copy of their Registrar, Karen Sanders Phone 0429-022449 a.h.

Birth Certificate

FEBRUARY SERVICE TIMES Sunday Mornings

St Anne’s, Gresford St John’s, Vacy St Paul’s, Paterson Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson St Mary’s, Allynbrook Glendonbrook Road St John’s, Lostock Gresford NSW 2311 St James’, Martin’s Ck Telephone (02) 4938 9313

gresfordparish@bigpond.com

339 Torryburn Rd Torryburn

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

10

17

24

7.30 9

11.30

9.30

9.30

8.00

9.30

8.30

10.30

Weekday mornings St Anne’s, Gresford at 7.30am [Check weekly pew bulletin]

Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic

3

Same day Treatment - 7 days Workers Compensation Veterans Affairs Medicare (EPC) scheme (Costs $3) Massage & Acupuncture Student / Senior Discount Discounts for regular sessions Home / Onsite visits All health funds are covered 23 years experience Drs referral not always necessary

Call Billy Wrigley on 0414 849 670 or 4938 9729 to discuss your Muscle, Nerve, Joint or any other physical problem you may have to see if Physiotherapy can be of any help to you

EAST GRESFORD MASSAGE CLINIC

LEANNE ATKINS 0427 389 722 31 Durham Rd East Gresford

•

Therapeutic Massage Remedial Massage Pregnancy Massage Hot Rock Massage Health Fund Rebates •

Member: AAMT DIP R M

BR

Plumbing & Excavations Pty Ltd

General Plumbing & Drainage Gas Plumbing Drain Cleaning New houses, renovations & extensions Transpiration areas – upgrades & new 3 t & 5.5 t excavator with augers & rock breaker Bobcat 6 t & 13.9 t GVM tippers NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL SERVICING AREAS BETWEEN MAITLAND - SINGLETON - GRESFORD - VACY - PATERSON

BRIAN & JULIE REIBEL PH: 02 4930 9047 FAX: 4930 9046 15 Lerra Road, WINDELLA NSW 2320 ACN: 109 886 419 ABN: 81 109 886 419 Lic No. 167289C

ATTENTION: FARMERS, GRAZIERS AND HOBBY FARMERS ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR ACREAGE?

Direct Drilling

Slashing and Mulching

Cultivating and Discing

Tabletop Truck Hire

Fertilizer Spreading

Boomspraying

Round Baling: Hay and Silage Small Square Bales Mowing and Raking Whatever the job, get it done right and on time by your local bloke!

Your Local Rural Services Specialist. Competitive Rates!

Ring Rodney Richardson 'Penshurst' Mt Rivers Ph 02 4931 7125

G resford News •

The

February 2013

gresford CWA News

on February 7 with the Land Cookery Contest. Note: This contest is not restricted to CWA members, it is open to any person residing in NSW.

Welcome back to all our members and a Happy New Year to everyone. Let’s hope it’s a good one.

2012 ended on both a happy and sad note. Our Christmas Party held at the Twin Rivers Café was well attended and enjoyed by all – a happy occasion.

On December 13 we formed a Guard of Honour at the funeral in St. Anne’s Church for our member Sylvia Joliffe and afterwards helped with the catering in St Anne’s Hall.

Contact (Cookery Officer) Dotti Hilliard on 49 389483 for recipes and further information or download from the Web at www.cwaofnsw.org.au/committees/ theLandCookery.do#1 To be included in the judging, entries must be received in the CWA rooms between 8.30 and 9.00am on Thursday, February 7.

Thanks. I would like to take this opportunity to thank retiring Publicity Officer, Val Smith for the wonderful job she has done for many years in various roles for our branch – thank you Val.

Next Meeting. Thursday, Feb 7 at 9.30am.

Sylvia was an active member of CWA for 26 years and will be missed by all. We extend New Members. New members are most our deepest sympathy to her family. welcome – just come along. We meet the first Thursday of each month (not Salvation Army Christmas Hamper. A big January) at 9.30am in the CWA Rooms, thank you to all members who donated so 12 Durham Road, East Gresford. For generously to this worthy cause. more information ring (Secretary) Marie Land Cookery Contest 2013 is shaping Loveridge on 49 389441.

Jill Hancock, Publicity Officer up be another busy year for us and starts

  •

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

• PROUDLY SERVING THE PEOPLE OF THE HUNTER VALLEY, PORT STEPHENS & NEWCASTLE •

CALL TONY, MARGARET OR LINDSAY FRY 24 HOURS/7DAYS

•

PRE-ARRANGED FUNERALS

48 61

BANKS ST, EAST MAITLAND

PORT STEPHENS ST, RAYMOND TERRACE

97

NEW ENGLAND HWY, MAITLAND

WWW.FRYBROS.COM.AU

4933 6155

128 John St, Singleton

(Old Commonwealth Bank building)

Ph : (02) 6571 5582 E : shop@redbournberry.com.au www.redbournberry.com.au

G resford News •

The

Dungog

Chiropractic Clinic I treat most musculoskeletal complaints including back and neck pain, sciatica, headaches, migraines and limb pain and pins and needles.

HiCaps and eftpos facility is available so patients can claim direct from their healthfund and just pay the gap.

Located at Dungog Community Hospital on Hospital Road in Dungog phone no: 4992 3766

Shane Moss B.Sc. M.Chiro.

February 2013

Gresford Transport ABN - 76872263533

"Ser ving The Small Man On The Land" Livestock & general 8 ton capacity fully insured Gresford, Dungog Maitland, Singleton Stephen Hill for friendly and personal service Home - 02 49 389 349 Mobile - 0429389349

Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547

PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

‘Looking after people in business is our business’ Peter Evans is descended from a farming family located in the Gresford area prior to 1840 and is keen to assist residents, farmers and business in the area with all their legal needs.

We can help you with: Conveyancing, Subdivisions, Family Law, Business Law, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate and more PHONE: 4926 4788 www.evanslaw.com.au

Diesel Refueling – ON SITE West Tankers are a family owned and operated business servicing Newcastle, Hunter Valley and surrounding areas.

We are able to meet the requirements of specialised and remote customers.

Your fuel will be delivered on-site when you need it. We arrange our schedule to suit you. It doesn’t matter how remote you are, we pride ourselves in supporting remote customers and providing diesel when you need it – with delivery 7 days a week • Competitive Rates – reliable & efficient service • Servicing Earthmoving, Construction, Marine and Farming Industries • 11 Trucks – 7 Days • Emergency Service Available

WEED CONTROL SPRAYING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Over 15 years experience in weed spraying, Over 20 years experience with property management & maintenance Public Liability insurance, ABN: 14618007127

NO JOB TO BIG OR SMALL Call Jamie on 0427490547

Contact us on:

Phone: 4955 1620 Fax: 4995 1729 Or visit our web site

www.westtankers.com.au

G resford News •

The

February 2013

Gresford Community Group December meeting

Gresford Public School presentation night, Sponsorship and attendence of the presentation night confirmed.

Anzac Day 2015 Fr Stephen said the RSL sub-branch had formed a subcommittee, which he was chairing, to plan for activities for the centenary of the Gallipoli landings.

Cenotaph lighting – noted that the RSL sub-branch had resolved to reactivate the floodlighting of the cenotaph on a time-switch for two hours a night.

GAPS carols Advised the date of the carols changed to 14 Dec. BBQ again to be run by the community group.

Remembrance Day Remarked on the appealing wreath donated by Jane Chandler and Peter Morton, letter of thanks to be sent.

Solar power to be investigated for the hall and skateboard rink.

Cross Keys Road river crossing Letter to DSC noting concern on the lack of a decision on replacement or repair noting the need for residents, tourism and emergency vehicle access.

Gresford

HIRE

RICHARD WELLS UPHOLSTERY

Small Farm / Party Hire

Ph 4938 9505 NOW TRADING

• mobile coolrooms • stainless steel char grill • generators • industrial fans • umbrellas & stands • makita power tools • B.B.Qs • compressor • concrete mixers • wheel barrows • trailers (tip) assorted fencing, gardening and handy man equipment and much more

Lounges Automotive Antique Restoration French Polishing Canvas Annexes Horse Rug Repairs For all your upholstery needs ring Richard on

4938 9324

GUARANTEED QUALITY & SERVICE Pick up and delivery

K&T Contracting ABN: 55 435 533 454

PLANT HIRE & EQUIPMENT COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL RURAL

An extensive range of machines and earthmoving equipment to suit every aspect of the Building & Construction Industry Supply all forms of quarry product Contact:

Irrigation Installation and Maintenance Lawns – Gardens – Farm Irrigation New Systems or Upgrades Suppliers of Concrete & Poly Water Tanks, Poly/PVC Pipe & Poly/PVC Fittings Supplier of Grundfos Pumps Solar Water Pump Suppliers Servicing of all Pump types Subdivision water requirements advice.

Free Quotes

Paul Mastin 0418 499 471 Head Office 02 4938 8135

Green Card (OH&S) Certified Reasonable Rates from a Local Bloke

DIVISION OF DREEGAN BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION BASED IN THE HUNTER VALLEY

For all enquiries phone Ken or Terese on: Home 4938 9245 Fax 4938 9645 Mobile 0427 966 630 or 0428 351 498

ABN: 56137525494

G resford News •

The HEALTH FOCUS – SPEECH PATHOLOGY FOR CHILDREN Speech Pathology services for children are available from the Lower Hunter Community Health Services based at Dungog Hospital once a fortnight during school terms.

Parents and carers with referrals for children should call the intake service on 4931 2003. An assessment is then conducted, usually at East Maitland Community Health Centre, to describe the issue in detail and to determine what, if any, therapy may be required.

If therapy is required on a regular basis, this can be organised to be conducted at the Dungog Hospital.

Working with schools In 2012, Gresford Public School and Martins Creek Public School elected to participate in the Language Development Partnership. A speech pathologist from Lower Hunter Community Health Services worked with teachers to provide a specialist perspective to the classroom environment in the form of presentations to teachers and shared teaching. Feedback from teachers was positive.

Tina Sorenson, Communication Officer, Hunter New England Health

St Helen’s Catholic Parish Gresford WEEKEND MASS TIMES St Helen’s Gresford Saturday Vigil 6.30pm Local contact 4992 1477 Chisholm Region Office Contact 4933 8918 December 2012 crossword answers

February 2013

Gresford News February Crossword

Ph 49389368 Fax 49389165 Email gresfordbowlclub@bigpond.

CHINH and JIMS’

BISTRO OPEN 5-00pm WED to SUNDAY United Asian cuisine Last orders 8.00pm Australian Vietnamese. Thai and CHINIESE

POSITIONS VACANT

SPECIAL FUNCTIONS Planning a Special Function.

Why not have it at the Gresford Bowls Sports & Recreation Club

Wedding. Birthday, Engagement. Anniversary We assist with entertainment.

Conditions apply.

Book Keeper.

Book Keeper proficient with MYSOCIAL BOWLS OB required to assist in the keeping of our Financial Records and WEDNESDAYS; Wages on Mondays.

Starts at NOON CELLAR PERSON Cellar Person required, Duties FRIDAY EVENINGS; will include Stock control and or5-45 for a 6-00pm Start dering, the care of beer system and Bar Duties when required. No WEDNESDAY 7-00PM Experience required.

All training provided, must be FRIDAY 7-00PM prepared to gain RSA and RCG.

Apply in writing to GBSRC. Or phone Steven on 0427007680

SPONSERED BY 54 Glenwood Drive THORNTON

SUNDAY

7-00PM

WWW..hunterreadymixedconcrete.com.au