Gresford News August 2014

resford News G

The

News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys August 2014

Athletics Carnival

Alysha Cowley strides out in the 800m event.

Year 2 student Hayden Wilson gets some air in the sack race. Photos Julie Hartigan.

G

resford Public School athletics carnival was on Friday 18 July. It was a wintry day but that didn’t stop the young competitors from trying their best while at the same time having heaps of fun. The winning house was Paterson.

More photos inside.

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

The Gresford News Community Diary Fri Sat

1 Aug Muzza Harton – Bush Poet, Hotel Beatty, East Gresford 9 Aug Gresford CWA book club, Gresford CWA, 3.00pm

Tues

12 Aug Gresford School of Arts AGM, Gresford School of Arts Hall, East Gresford, 7.30pm

Sun

17 Aug Gresford Community Markets, Therese Doyle Hall, Gresford Rd, East Gresford

Tues

19 Aug CWA International Day, country of study is Botswana

Tues

19 Aug Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Thurs

21 Aug Gresford District Agricultural Society Inc AGM, Dining room, Gresford Showground, 7.30pm

Fri-Sat 29-30 Sept Gresford Rodeo and Campdraft, Gresford Showground Fri

29 Aug ’Mogo’ live band, Gresford Bowlling Club

Fri-Sun 29-31 Sept Dungog Festival – around Dungog, Gresford, Fosterton Thurs-Sun 28-31 Sept Mini Tractor Trek & Pop-up museum, Fosterton Fri

5 Sept Gresford Show Auxiliary AGM, Dining Room, Hotel Beatty (NB Change of venue), 4.00pm

Sat

13 Sept Presentation day & AGM, Gresford Vacy Football Club, Gresford Sporting Complex, 2.00pm

Sun

14 Sept Vacy Village Country Carnival, 9.00am

Sun

14 Sept Postie Bikes National Lunch Run visits the Hotel Beatty, East Gresford

Sat-Sun 13-14 Sept Polo, Tabbil Creek Polo Ground, Dungog Sun

21 Sept Car clubs visit the Gresford Community Markets, Hotel Beatty (change of venue), East Gresford

Sun

21 Sept GAPS’ latest play ‘Frost in Space’, Gresford School of Arts, 1.30pm

Fri 26 Sept, Sat 27 Sept, Fri 3 Oct, Sat 4 Oct GAPS’ latest play ‘Frost in Space’, Gresford School of Arts, all at 6.30pm Sat

11 Oct

Gresford Annual Y.O.T.S Dinner and Art Auction

Tuesdays

Spring/summer mixed Tuesday nights tennis, 7.30–9.30pm

Mon/Tues

Social ladies tennis starts, Mon or Tues mornings, Gresford Tennis Courts, 9.30–11.00am

Friday afternoons Junior tennis coaching, Gresford Tennis Courts 1st Mon each month

Gresford Community Group Meeting, 5.30pm, Hotel Beatty, all welcome! (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, 11.00am (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 Tues each month

Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm (not Jan)

2nd Sat each month

Book Club, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 3.00pm (not Dec or Jan)

3rd Fri each month Gresford Public School P&C Meeting, school library, 10.00am 3rd Sun each month

gresford Community Market, Therese Doyle Hall, 9 til 2 (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 or Jane Richens on 0425 339 856. Postal Address: PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311. Deadline for stories and ads 20th of the month.

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

Amount

Address

Gresford Notices A massive weekend in the shire Gresford Rodeo & Campdraft August 29-30 Campdrafting, bull riding, live entertainment, BBQ & Kiosk Gresford Showground

Dungog Festival August 28-31 Film, food, fresh air and fun.

There’s a ‘Green’ Carpet Gala Film, Drive-In movies, Kid’s flicks, short film competition, Flickering night markets on the Friday night, farmers markets, Rodeo at Gresford, Barefoot Lawn Bowls, Wine Tasting, art, craft and photographic gallery showings, Bingo, Trivia, Devonshire Teas.

Cost: all separately ticketed

www.dungogfestival.com.au Mini Tractor Trek August 28-31

Mini Tractor Trek & Pop-up museum Contribute or see some old machinery, pop by for a cuppa, Fosterton Loop Contact: Bob Lean 4992 1171

AGMs Gresford District Agricultural Society Inc will be holding it’s Annual General meeting on Thursday 21st August in the dining room at the Gresford Showground commencing at 7.30pm.

All are welcome. Further details contact Secretary (AH) 4931 5257 Rosalie Lawrence, Hon Sec GDAS

Gresford Show Auxiliary Annual Meeting on Friday, 5th September, at 4pm, at Dining Room, Hotel Beatty. (NB Change of venue) Ann Dent

Give Mountain Biking a go Spend a great morning enjoying this healthy, enlivening activity. With its low hills and scenery, Dungog Shire is a marvellous place to mountain-bike, and Dungog Common is a great place to try it out.

Bikes and safety gear are provided, but you can bring your own. Sat 23 Aug, 9.30-1 on the Dungog Common www.dungogcommunitycollege.org.au

MIKE DOYLE HORSEMANSHIP PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

Horse Starting (breaking)

‘Looking after people in business is our business’

Problem Horses

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

Starting horses on cattle to give them confidence Low stress and effective cattle handling Lessons Demonstrations Clinics Mike Doyle 0418 503 939

NW Hitchcock Carpentry & Tiling Service Wall & Floor Tiling Home Maintenance & Repairs Renovations Over 25 years experience Phone Neal 0418 684 985 49389125 ABN 95 790 884 781 Licence no. 111201C

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.

G resford News • August

The

2014, p 6

Christmas in July at Gresford Market

Once again the weather was against us for our ‘Christmas in July’ market. A thank you goes out to the faithful few who venturd out to support us. Foot tapping, hand clapping entertainment was enjoyed by every one when Dungog Ukelele Group took to the stage. Christmas carols by the group heralded the arrival of Santa. Young and not so young alike enjoyed Santa’s visit especially when Santa decided to join the ukelele singers with a song and a jig. Father Christmas was in top form warming hearts of all on a very cold and bleak day. Stall holders are always welcome. Contact 4938 9505 to book. $10 is all you pay for a site.

Judith Grant

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 7

Third Sunday of the month Therese Doyle Hall, Gresford Road, East Gresford

August markets - Sunday 17 ‘Pet Show Day’

Categories: Best dressed Best behaved, Best groomed Best vocal Most unusual Cutest Trophies and ribbons presented on the day. Bring the whole family for a fun day out.

BBQ, morning / afternoon teas, stalls galore to browse over.

Support your local markets Judging commences at 10.30 for Pet Show

September markets - Sunday 21 ‘Change of venue market’

✃

Cut out and put me on your fridge ...

This market will be held in the grounds of the Hotel Beatty – to coincide with the M.C.M.A Car Rally.

Entertainment by 2 jazz bands ‘Flying High’ and ‘John Ryll Band’.

BBQ and Bistro. All the usual stalls and more on mass!!

Enjoy a great day out in the idyllic grounds of the Hotel Beatty.

October markets - Sunday 12 (1 week early) to support Gresford Historical Society’s 25th Anniversary – more on this at a later date.

November markets - Sunday 16 Please support your Gresford markets • Contact Judith Grant 4938 9505

G resford News • August

The

2014, p 8

Dungog Festival is Coming

What’s on the Shelves?

Love film? Love a party? The inaugural Dungog Festival happens August 28 – 31. Four days of film, food, fresh air and fun.

by Glenda Smith

The Soldier’s Wife

Joanna Trollope

This novel is a low-key, but sufficiently absorbing exploration of the life of a British Army wife. The main interest is in how women’s expectations have changed, and how this has affected the relationships between soldiers and their spouses. It also covers a spectrum of British social privilege, and demonstrates the price that can be paid for some advantages.

The central character is Alexa Riley, whose ambitious and successful husband has just returned from Afghanistan. The Army families know that there are protocols to be observed in helping their partners to adjust to non-active life and Trollope observes the soldiers’ mind-sets in an intelligent and non-judgemental way, but it is clear that her sympathies lie with the wives, who are expected to cope with the absence and return in a totally supportive way, while meeting the needs of their children. Their own needs run a very poor third.

Alexa grows increasingly frustrated with the inability of her husband Dan to respond to her in a meaningful way. Alexa’s daughter Isabel, an unhappy runaway from boarding-school, seems to be one of the few characters who can penetrate Dan’s singlemindedness about his responsibilities. Trollope delineates the difficulties of a soldier’s life, but also manages to establish that they are operating in a new world, which must also be accommodated.

This is an interesting, rather than challenging novel.

Centred around the James Theatre, and extending across to Gresford and up the Fosterton Valley, the festival offers a feast of contemporary Australian and international film, exquisite food and excellent Hunter region wine.

There’s a ‘Green’ Carpet Gala Film, Drive-In movies, Kid’s flicks, short film competition, Flickering night markets, farmers markets, Barefoot Lawn bowls, Cheese Making Workshops, Wine Tasting, art, craft and photographic gallery showings, Bingo, Trivia, Devonshire Teas, and – music!

Dungog will be amping up with music acts peppered throughout the program. Catch a busker at our Friday Night Markets, enter yourself in our Open Mic Night or book your place at our massive Saturday Night Party featuring great new Australian bands.

Then there’s the Rodeo, happening at Gresford, so you can mix a little music and film with a great Sunday at the Rodeo. Or catch the Festival Tractor Trek at Bob Lean’s farm in the Fosterton Valley.

Stay tuned for line-up announcements from now on for all the Dungog Festival gigs and films by going to the website www.dungogfestival.com.au, where you can also book your seats for everything from the Opening film to camp sites to the Rodeo.

Nancy Knudsen

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 August • CAPTAIN AMERICA: WINTER SOLDIER • AMAZING SPIDERMAN 2 • NOAH • • NEED FOR SPEED • DIVERGENT • BAD NEIGHBOURS • IRON CLAD 2 • • MUPPETS MOST WANTED • TRANSCENDENCE • THE GRAND SEDUCTION • • THE ANGRIEST MAN IN BROOKLYN • BREAKAWAY • TWIXT •

G resford News • August

The

2014, p 10

Kel Merriman

Community feature ...by Rowena Dillon His service to the district was recognized in 2011 when he was awarded Citizen of the Year by the Dungog Shire Australia Day Committee. He was nominated for the award by The Gresford Amateur Performing Society (GAPS). Kel has been involved with GAPS for 17 years, both as a popular actor on stage, as well as working hard behind the scenes to ensure the success of GAPS productions.

Kel Merriman is certainly a community minded resident of the Gresford area. His dedication and enthusiasm are always evident and he has devoted much of his time to family, friends and community.

In their award nomination the GAPS committee also highlighted Kel’s work in his professional capacity and his commitment to the people of the Dungog Shire in health, safety and education. Kel has recently retired after 37 years working for Hunter New England Health. At retirement he held the position of Service Senior Clinical Psychologist in the Lower Hunter Cluster.

During his career Kel was involved with many innovative and valued projects. He has served on numerous committees over the years and was instrumental in developments such as the growth of Community Health Services (Maitland) within the Lower Hunter Sector from a team of around 12 staff to a service of

over 70 staff across various sites that delivered a large range of preventative, early intervention and treatment services.

Kel contributed to the development of Mental Health Disaster Response capability, being at the forefront of the Community and Mental Health Disaster Responses to many local incidents such as the Newcastle earthquake, Drayton’s Winery explosion, floods, accidents and fires.

In the Gresford community Kel has shown his devotion to youth by his service as a Scout leader for nine years for the 1st Gresford Scout group, after serving on the committee for several years. Kel was an active member of the Gresford School P & C Association when his children attended primary school as well as being appointed to the Gresford School Council when it was instigated.

He was involved with the development for FarmSafe, was Secretary and then President of the Hunter Organic Growers Group and he is currently Secretary of the Gresford School of Arts Committee, recognizing the School of Arts as a valuable public facility to be maintained.

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

49388386

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!!

G resford News •

The

After visiting for a picnic, Kel and his family were attracted by the beauty of the area and decided to move here. They must have been keen to come because they moved into temporary accommodation with three small children during a period of flooding rain, before they owner built their home over a number of years. When they came they were impressed by the friendly, welcoming people and the variety of activities available in such a small area.

passion for health. He uses the word appalling when talking about the decrease of health services over the years. This began with the loss of the local GP, to the closing of the Community Health Services and now the withdrawal of many of the services available to our residents. This makes it so much harder for families in the area.

He also makes reference to the difficulty residents with no private vehicles have Kel describes Gresford as an active, vibrant with our limited public transport. They community where people get involved and can be very isolated and find it difficult to access normal facilities and services. are prepared to give back to their Kel says that many of the “powers that community. He admires the social be” are not even aware that such connectedness of the Gresford people and the fact that they don’t wait for handouts – problems exist in country areas because they are prepared to get in and have a go to they have no real knowledge of life outside urban areas. achieve results. Kel believes Gresford has remained proactive and positive by looking Kel would like to see some sort of aged outwards, and embracing new members of care facility for Gresford so that the elderly the community with new ideas that means can stay connected with their homes, Gresford is not insular and that new people families and friends. This could be in the easily assimilate into the community and form of hostel accommodation or short projects are always evolving. term care. He would also like to see Scouts reformed or other activities for the young Some of the issues that Kel sees in the people instigated. Here Kel sees the young area obviously revolve around Kel’s

August 2014, p 11

families in the area being instrumental in becoming involved in organizing and running activities. Kel suggested that while he did not want large scale housing developments for the area, that some limited land release would bring new families and therefore new ideas.

Kel cites limited accommodation for visitors as an area for development. He suggests alternatives such as selfcontained accommodation, artists’ retreats and the like to let others experience the beauty of our area while supporting the local businesses. On the topic of local business development, Kel sees the lack of reliable mobile phone and internet connection as holding back home industries and local business. He advocates the development of an effective National Broadband Network to bring more small business to the area.

Kel has contributed much to the Gresford area both in a professional and voluntary capacity. The district is lucky that he and his family came on that picnic all those years ago and decided to make Gresford their home.

resford News G

The

2014 contract advertising rates & sizes prices incl gst

1/6 page

b/w colour

$33

$45

$38

$65

$57

$87

$75

$110

$110

$180

129.5mm (h) x 59mm (w)

1/4 page 129.5mm (h) x 89mm (w)

1/3 page 129.5mm (h) x 118mm (w)

1/2 page 129.5mm (h) x 180mm (w)

Full page 267mm (h) x 180mm (w) No bleed edges on full page ads

Inside front or back cover $200 267mm (h) x 180mm (w)

Casual ads add 15% to the above prices Formats EPS, Jpeg or PDF Design/ $44/half hour – billed separately Enquiries Brian Doherty gresfordnews@iinet.net.au

G resford News • August

The

2014, p 12

Buses in the Blood

Marie and Barry Gibson with one of the vans used to deliver the local post. Their day started at 2.30am and went through to 6pm.

Barry Gibson rang Gresford News after he read the History article in the July edition. He has a passion for collecting bus and truck memorabilia and had a newspaper clipping of Darryl Dark and Alex Brown standing next to the hay truck mentioned in the article. Many people would know Barry and Marie Gibson as the local Australia Post mail delivery contractors from 1993 to 2012. But their history with buses goes back to their childhood. Barry’s parents, Arthur and Kit Gibson, had a school bus run around Kyogle from the mid 1940s through to the 1960s and Marie can recall going to school in a Gibson bus. Apart from the school run the buses would be used on other runs like trips to Coolangatta beach on the weekends. In May 2013 Barry tracked down one of the buses, an Austin, his parents bought in 1953. It was found on a cattle station in Hughendon, central Queensland.

Darryl Dark (L) and Alex Brown (R) standing next to the truckload of hay mentioned in the Gresford News July edition history article.

Final resting place of the Austin bus bought by Arthur Gibson in September 1953 - found in 2013 sitting in a paddock in Hughendon Qld.

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

F A M I LY O W N E D & O P E R A T E D

• P R O U D LY S E R V I N G T H E P E O P L E O F T H E H U N T E R V A L L E Y, P O R T S T E P H E N S & N E W C A S T L E •

C A L L T O N Y, M A R G A R E T O R L I N D S AY F R Y 2 4 H O U R S / 7 D AY S

•

PRE-ARRANGED FUNERALS

48 61

B A N K S S T, E A S T M A I T L A N D

P O R T S T E P H E N S S T, R AY M O N D T E R R A C E

97

N E W E N G L A N D H W Y, M A I T L A N D

WWW.FRYBROS.COM.AU

4933 6155

   

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 13

Arthur Gibson with his first bus, a Morris Commercial, bought in 1946.

The Austin bus in the main Street of Kyogle (1950s).

The 1953 Austin unloading children at Kyogle Primary School.

The High School can be seen across the road in the background.

A beach trip in the Gibson’s second bus, a Ford bought in 1948.

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 14

ART

NEWS

On Saturday 12th July the BLOOD Exhibition opened with an appreciative crowd of artists and art lovers at Newcastle Art Space Gallery. The show featured many of our local artists from Gresford to Paterson, exhibiting their personal interpretations of Blood – see photos by Christine Pike.

Congratulations to artist Christine Pike, from Vacy, who has been selected as a Finalist in this years Mosman Art Prize.

Judy Henry – “Reflections Of Life and Landscape” Maitland Regional Art Gallery, 4th July – 14th September 2014 “Reflections you see on the surface of the water are more than a mirror image.

There is mystery, depth, elusiveness, a constant changing with myriad of colours. I feel as if I need to plunge in, to immerse myself deeper into the reflection, what secrets does it hold? Like life, the more you explore and submerge yourself, the more mystery and magic you find.” - Judy Henry.

Contact Robyn Werkhoven with art news at Email: werkhovenr@bigpond.com

Judy and Mal Henry Laura Jefferson

Dawn Thompson

Helen Brown & Christine Pike

Eric Werkhoven

Misha Moon

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

August 2014, p 15

Gresford Public School Athletics Carnival

Above: Kindergarten student Chase Hoffman in the under-6 boys orange race. Below: Ebony Briggs and Will Thiecke play their part in the junior relay. Photos Julie Hartigan

Mitch Bellamy leads Jake Hipwell in the senior skipping race.

Plumber Drainer Gas Fitter Roofer 3.5 t Excavator 8 t Tip Truck SERVICING ALL AREAS

Mitch Ulrick 0421 014 789

VACY LIC. NO. 198606C / ABN 67 123 581 183

EMAIL mju1@bigpond.com

G resford News • August

The

2014, p 16

q Gresford District Historical Society r Of drought and flooding rains ~ the promise of Lostock dam

H

otels tend to anchor country towns, providing not just a venue for social drinking but often a place for meetings, and community events. On occasion the hotels in Gresford have even been called upon to provide refuge from bushrangers and one periodically became a courtroom.

The Gresford district has always been well served with “watering holes” and in the early 1900’s four establishments operated concurrently. Easily the most enduring of these is the Beatty Hotel founded by John Beatty and still owned and operated by his family. John’s first recorded licence was at the “Half Way House Hotel “at Vacy in 1865. He then transferred to the Junction Inn at East Gresford around 1872. The “Junction Inn” stood where the Beatty car park is now and was a large weather board building which included under the one roof a hotel, pharmacy, saddlery and joinery works.

Junction Inn East Gresford

In 1883 a room in the hotel was leased to serve as a Court of Petty Sessions. The court was to sit every 2 weeks and was considered a great convenience to those who would otherwise have to travel to Paterson. The magistrates however found the inability to provide safe custody for prisoners brought up from Paterson a great inconvenience and this led to work beginning in 1884 on Gresford’s own court house and lockup.

An early photo of the Victoria with the Gresford/Paterson coach at the front

James Boydell meanwhile held a lease on the Junction Inn and as an investment built the present hotel. It is not known exactly when this building was completed but the Maitland Mercury in April 1901 reported that John Beatty had “transferred from his old rambling wooden premises” into the new building named the Victoria Hotel. James Boydell died in 1908

Cross Roads Hotel West Gresford

Sunday Mornings

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson Glendonbrook Road Gresford NSW 2311 Telephone (02) 4938 9313 gresfordparish@bigpond.com

August SERVICE TIMES 3

10

17

24

St Anne’s, Gresford 7.30 9.30 8.30 St Paul’s, Paterson 9.30 9.30 St John’s, Vacy 9.00 St John’s, Lostock 11.30 St James’, Martin’s Ck 8.00 St Mary’s, Allynbrook 10.30 St Paul’s, Eccleston Weekday mornings St Anne’s, Gresford at 7.30am

31 9

11.30

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 17

q “Our Stories” Feature r

On the evening of 17th May 1922, the proprietor and his family were next door at the School of Arts (St Anne’s hall) enjoying a concert when the fire alarm was raised. Willing volunteers rushed to help but despite their best efforts the building was gutted. Arson was suspected and further suspicions were raised about this when a fortnight later Bruce Dark’s general store at East Gresford was also gutted by a late evening fire. No one was ever apprehended.

Although the hotel building was insured John did not rebuild. Rumour has it that John and John Beatty had made an agreement that John (Hancock) would not rebuild the hotel. This rumour overlooks a Ellen Bird’s Allynbrook wine bar more reasonable explanation, for John at the time of the fire was already in his early The other hotel in Gresford was at West without issue and his property 60’s and not enjoying the best of health. A Gresford at the Crossroads and was commenced to be subdivided and sold. more likely scenario is that he was not well known as “The Crossroads”. It was The Beatty family were successful in enough to take on the task of rebuilding. business and John Beatty (Jnr) was able to established and operated by J. J. (John).

He died only a few years later in 1925.

Hancock although it is not known buy the freehold of the Victoria. As John The fire also hastened the relative decline exactly when it was built. Like the (Jnr) had 2 daughters he made the of West Gresford since East Gresford now Victoria Hotel it was also a haven for decision in the 1920’s to change the name to “The Beatty” in order to preserve local residents during the Governor Bros had the only hotel, as well as the majority of business and Government buildings. rampage in September 1900. his tradition and family name.

Graeme Ferguson

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 • August

The

2014, p 18

q “Our Stories” Feature r

Apart from these two hotels (Beatty and Crossroads) travellers did not need to venture far from Gresford to find further refreshment. Only 7 kms North of Gresford on the Allyn River Rd. they would come upon Ellen Bird’s Allynbrook wine bar and then just 4kms further on the Cross Keys Hotel.

Travellers always found Allynbrook a difficult place to negotiate usually requiring two stops – one at Ellen Birds and the other at Cross Keys.

Ellen’s wine bar has featured in earlier stories and in its heyday provided meals and board. It was also a focal point for news with messages being left for people who would eventually drop in and even hosted a “bush christening”! The Bird family held the licence for at least 85 years with Ellen being very much in charge for 73 of those years. When she was 95 (in 1966) she transferred the licence and retired, claiming most credibly to be the oldest licensee in Australia. The building dating from 1901 is still in use as a private home.

Cross Keys Hotel Allynbrook

accommodation and a shop including Hancock, (Uncle to John Hancock) on land which he had leased from the White lollies to pacify the kids while Dad had a family. Again it is not known exactly when glass of wine. it was built. A number of proprietors have Previous stories from this colum are been involved, with the Dungog Chronicle available as a book, “Gresford Connections of July 8th 1910 reporting that; “Mr Vol 1”, from McDonald Bros. Maitland Falconer’s hotel at which comfortable beds and local shops in Gresford at $15. Next and good meals beyond the ordinary may meeting of the Historical Society is the be obtained was formerly a wine saloon“.

The Cross Keys hotel on the corner of AGM, 10.30am, Mon 11 August in the Cross Keys Rd and Allyn River Rd was built Subsequently the Barling family took over RSL hall. and ran the business as a wine bar with and operated for a time by Robert

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

Contact us on:

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

www.westtankers.com.au

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 19

The Mud Run at Gresford The Mud Run held at Gresford Show Grounds recently is organised by Tony Webster, Joel Butcher and Stuart Campbell. It is a free ‘by invitation’ event which they hold each year at Gresford. It is designed to be a fun entertaining day where hotrod car and bike enthusiast’s can have races or just beat around the paddock. The direct opposite of the ‘shiney car shows and runs where cars line up for hours and people hang around leaning wherever they can for hours and then go home again! The Flattrakkers a Rockabilly Band were there on Saturday Night giving a world class performance into the darkness.

The day is run with the help of a number of sponsors and with money raised from the sale of food and t-shirts. If the main aim was entertainment and fun then it was a great success!

Phill Flanagan's

Earth Moving

Specials ~ August 4 to 16 Crumbed Steak - $9.99/kg 2kg Thin Sausages - $18 Marinated Chicken Wingthings - $5.99/kg

Ph 4938 9710

Bob cat Excavator Traxcavator Grader Roller Rockhammer Borer Truck hire + attachments 4938 5153 Mob 0418 435 429 Duns Creek

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 20

Gresford Vacy Football Club Inc

GRESFORD CWA NEWS

SUMMER SUPER 6’s SOCIAL SOCCER

International/Cultural Day Our International\Cultural Day is Tuesday,August 19 and commences at 10am in St. Anne’s Church Hall, Church Street, Gresford. Our country of study this year is Botswana. There will be Cultural, Ag\Environmental and Handicraft displays, a Trading Table as well as ‘hands on’ handicraft. A delicious three course luncheon with Botswanan flavours will follow.

Cost is $12 and includes morning tea. RSVP by August 10 to (Secretary) Valarie Smith on 49389364 or email gresfordcwa@ gmail.com

Next Meeting Our next meeting is Thursday, August 7 at 9.30am. New members are always welcome, just come along, make new friends, get involved in the community, learn new skills, share your skills, make a difference. You will find us at 12 Durham Road, East Gresford (next door to the Police Station). For more information visit our Web Site http:// gresfordcwa.wordpress.com

Book Club Our Book Club meets on the second Saturday of each month at 3.00pm in the CWA rooms and the good news is you do not have to be a member of CWA to attend.

Our next meeting is Saturday, August 9 and the book for discussion is Dear Life by Alice Munro.

Why not join us for afternoon tea and lively discussion!

Saying for the month “Even if you’re on the right track you’ll get run over if you just sit there. Will Rogers” Jill Hancock

Gresford Vacy is planning to conduct a twilight seven-week Soccer Super 6’s starting in late October and concluding before Christmas. The shorter comp. will have greater emphasis on social sport and fun with little importance on who wins. It will be organised into two grades, with Social/Mixed catering for family groups and the less experienced. Social/Competitive will cater for seasoned players. Players must be Year 7 and above.

Competition will be on Wednesday nights at the Gresford Sporting Complex between 6:30 and 9:00 pm. and will be played on a one-third size field with 20 minute halves. Teams are made up of five players plus a goalie and you can have four players on the bench for unlimited subs. All game fees and player registration must be paid upfront on-line before the comp. starts.

More information can be found on the GVFC website. www.gresfordvacyfc.sportingpulse.net ALL members & their guests please note

2014 PRESENTATION DAY & AGM Saturday afternoon/evening, September 13th, 2:00pm start, Gresford sporting complex All players will receive a trophy.

All players, supporters and their families (gran, pop, etc.) are welcome to attend.

Dinner will be provided by the club.

Families are encouraged to bring a cake/dessert to share.

Free Amusements & music by: Tropo Entertainment from 4:15pm Cactus Kabin Jumping Castle, Sumo Soccer, Tug-o-war. BYO esky, chairs, rug ~ Stay for a picnic with your team.

Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547

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

NO JOB TO BIG OR SMALL

Call Jamie on 0427490547

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 21

Vacy Village Country Carnival is on Again For 2014.

Bring your jack russell or dachshund to race No registration prior to the day. This year cost will be $5/dog/race only – but the dog must wear a muzzle (supplied on the day) and be small enough to fit in the starting boxes.

As in past years the usual attractions will be there. Rides on helicopters, camels and ponies, jumping castle and face painting for the children. Food glorious food will be aplenty with the camp oven lamb sandwiches a real hit, Vacy Red Cross delicious cakes and slices, Rotary steak sandwiches, cappuccino on the oval, Legacy sausage sandwiches. Vegetarians and gluten free will be done by the Donkey Welfare with Heart volunteers.

Market stalls will be spread throughout the village with many and varied items for sale. Arts and Crafts in the Vacy School of Arts Hall will get you in from spinners and weavers to cakes for sale on the Red Cross stall. On the stage out the front of

the Vacy Farmers Hotel the Vacy School Choir and Dancers will start proceedings and will be followed by the JOHN RYLL BAND with members of SANTANA MAGIC playing hits from Santana and the 70s and 80s. The BIG BAM BOOM drummers will entertain at lunchtime and will be followed by JUMPIN JUKE BOX who will play hits from the past.

NEW FOR 2014 MECHANICAL BULL RIDE IN THE OVAL If your are new to the area and are unsure what this day entails please do not hesitate to contact me on 0417 381 981 or Denis on 0418 678 411. We are always happy to speak to anyone who would like to sponsor the day. All monies raised go back into the Vacy community or community groups.

This is a big day for Vacy and the area but we can’t do it without your help. The Vacy Village Country Carnival will take place this year on the 14th September from 9am – 3pm.

Diane Denton Coordinator

Stewart Everett mitsubishi ACN 000 905 395

PLANT HIRE & EQUIPMENT COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL RURAL

An extensive range of machines and earthmoving equipment

For friendly service!

to suit every aspect of the Building & Construction Industry

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

Supply all forms of quarry product

◆ ◆ ◆

Contact:

◆

Paul Mastin 0418 499 471 Head Office 02 4938 8135

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

DIVISION OF DREEGAN BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION BASED IN THE HUNTER VALLEY

26 Durham Road, East Gresford NSW 2311

ABN: 56137525494

Contact Stewart or Scott

Ph. 4938 9204 Facsimile 4938 9517

G resford News • August

The

2014, p 22

Paterson Allyn Garden Group

Dear Garden Lovers In all of our meetings I have never seen such enthusiasm for knowledge. It was the ROSE that captured so many members attention and Barbara Horn was the most perfect tutor. She is so well known in the Hunter valley for her judging skills and the three beautiful books she has written over the years. Sheila Gailbraith was the illustrator and her botanical drawings and paintings are exquisite. It was such a pleasure to have both with us at our July walk and talk and Barbara gave us pruning demonstrations on various types of roses. I was bemused to listen to various members describe the way they prune a rose. One said that she whips across the top of them with the chain saw and they flower very well. I have been keeping the heavy grey stems thinking that it is important to do so. However, those thick grey stems just get weaker each year. I came home, sat in the middle of my rose garden and thought about the lesson I had with Barbara. She suggested that you should leave about three young green stems no thicker than your little finger and preferably Barbara Horn with rose lovers prune just above an out facing bud. As I have just spent 12 hours Spread horse or cow manure around the rose. Do not add No in one bed with 25 roses, I’ll tell you my story...

17 fertiliser until bud burst. This fertiliser is high in Potassium.

Watered the whole area. Barbara says by all means water the Spread some dolomite but not too close to stem. roses from a sprinkler in the early morning. It’s only humidity that brings on black spot so if the leaves dry out early in the I chopped up saved banana skins in blender, added to a day then they should be fine. bucket of water and spread around roses. Banana skins are full of potassium which roses love and our soils have little of.

Rake up all fallen leaves and burn ( that took me two hours)!

After I finished the above and my body ached from head to Prune to shape and get rid of any dead wood. foot, I opened a bottle of wine and wondered why I don’t just Spray with Lime sulphur. Barbara uses a very heavy dose..6 go and buy some good old natives. AH!! The lure of a parts lime sulphur to one part water! Spray soil around rose as beautiful ROSE! Yours perennially, Janie well as stems.

Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant 4938 8305

G resford News •

The

A Mini Tractor Trek The people who brought you the best Tractor Trek ever, are at it again. Dungog is doing a Festival. It will be on the last weekend in August, 28–31 of August. And the organising committee have asked the Hunter Valley Vintage Farm Machinery Club to do a reprise of the Tractor Trek of a few months ago. Obviously, the chief organisers will need to be the Dungog members of the HVVFMC. Dungog is generally well known to be up for a party, and the folk on whose shoulders the thing will fall, have said,”What a great idea”.

But, this one will be a bit different. You don’t want to be doing the same thing over and over, do you? So, that fountain of great ideas, Bob Lean, has suggested that the Festival Tractor Trek, be centred on his place, at Fosterton. For those of you who don’t know, Bob’s farm is about 6 or 7 kms. to the north of Dungog in the beautiful Fosterton Valley.

There would be plenty of room to camp, and no-one would need to pay camping fees. And, here’s the best part. Bob has a paddock where we can all try out or demonstrate, (as the case may be) our ploughing prowess. This will be a temporary working museum, open to the public. There will probably be a BBQ going, all weekend, and even a cup of tea or coffee.

Even, maybe, some of those magnificent slices that gained such acclaim, at the NHMA Trek.

So, there it is. Bring your tractor to Bob’s place. And, look, bring your wife, partner, significant other? He\she will enjoy it too. Oh! And there will be a Street Parade, as part of a Trek, on the Saturday morning. Sounds good, eh? Where else would you want to be. Ring Bob on 49921171, or Gary on 49959252, to let ‘em know you’re going to be there. They will want to know how many snags and pies to get in.

local water carrier

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

August 2014, p 23

Bob Baldwin Urging Youth to Accept This Challenge Member for Paterson, Bob Baldwin is urging university students in his region to accept the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Bronwyn Bishop’s challenge. “We want to get youth engaged with Federal Parliament and what better way to get them involved then by starting an argument with the Speaker?” said Mr Baldwin.

For this year’s University Challenge, the Speaker is asking university students to explore the topic: ‘Freedom of speech in a modern day democracy’. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon. Bronwyn Bishop, has challenged university students to put forward their arguments on what freedom of speech means in Australia’s democracy.

Students are being asked to make a three-minute video to present their case on the topic. Entries will be judged against a set of criteria which includes strength of the argument, original ideas and presentation, use of evidence and research, and a well-structured opening, body and conclusion.

As well as cash prizes on offer, the top three entrants will be flown to Canberra to join the Speaker for a formal function where the winner will be announced. You could win $500 and a trip to Canberra to meet the Speaker and other MPs at Parliament House.

For more information on how to enter, including terms and conditions, visit www.aph.gov.au/unichallenge Entries close on 15 August 2014. Contact: Bob Baldwin MP on 0419 694 620

RICHARD WELLS UPHOLSTERY

Gresford Transport ABN - 76872263533

"Serving The Small Man On The Land"

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

Livestock, Hay and general, 8 ton capacity, fully insured Gresford, Dungog Maitland, Singleton Stephen Hill for friendly and personal service

Home - 02 49 389 349 Mobile - 0429389349

G resford News • August

The

2014, p 24

Calculating The Cost Of Care The Paterson electorate has the fourthhighest median age in the country. In Port Stephens alone, they are projecting that the over-65 population is set to almost double in the next 20 years. As a result, many residents in the region may need to budget for aged care services.

description of key features of each type of accommodation room on offer.

People can call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to talk to a real person who will help them work through the Fee Estimator, or they can go online and use the Estimator themselves.

With this in mind, Member for Paterson, Bob Baldwin has welcomed the Aged Care Fee Estimator which will assist Paterson residents estimate their aged care costs.

“Generally we don’t start thinking about, or looking for, aged care services until something happens – such as a fall or adverse health event,” said Mr Baldwin. “But it’s important to start an “I understand that the Paterson early conversation about what care population is ageing and we are also options are available to you or a loved welcoming more retirees to the area, so one, because this will help ensure older this tool will be appreciated by those who people get the support and care they will soon need more assistance, said Mr need to keep them safe and living Baldwin. “The Fee Estimator will allow independently, or to find the residential people to enter their income and assets, aged care setting that’s right for them.” and receive an estimate of the fees they “The most important thing older people may be asked to pay when they enter and their families can do is learn about residential care or access home care.” the choices available, so they can plan and make the right decision.”

The Fee Estimator has been made available as part of the aged care changes Residents of Paterson who want to find that came into effect on 1 July. out more about what choices are Residential aged care providers are now available for them when it comes to required to publish the maximum aged care should visit www.myagedcare. accommodation prices they will charge, gov.au or call 1800 200 422. as well as payment options and a

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

Gresford News is available online – visit www.gresfordnsw.com.au

An audio version is also available for the visually impaired Phone 0412 372 687

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 25

Gresford Community Group – July meeting TD Hall legal issues Martin said the Historical Society had made suggestions about protections it needed in any legal arrangement it has with the community group. He said he had discussions with a firm prepared to do the legal work without cost, subject to the agreement of the firm’s partners.

The agreement would be in the form of a lease, and it would be able to incorporate any protections required.

Treasurer’s report The hall has been re-valued and the premium had been adjusted accordingly.

He advised the billy cart derby committee has made donations to the News and to the TD Hall. Ath News achieved its budget last financial year and Martin remarked the News was doing an exceptional job. The publishing committee were congratulated. Peter also referred to the need to purchase a replacement photocopier, discussed at the June meeting. The publishing committee was authorised to buy an appropriate copier that meets its specifications. The financial reports were adopted.

Markets’ report Judy asked about the status of the banners; Kirby said these were almost

finished. Judy gave quotes for display banners. She also suggested leaflets for distribution to local residents to be produced quarterly as a way of developing greater community involvement in addition to advertising in the News. This would be in place of the newspaper advertising, which is thought to be having little effect. Coming events – Christmas in July; pet show in August; car rally and historical society anniversary in September (in the Beatty grounds).

Approved purchase of a 2m banner, three smaller signs, and one ‘flexible’ sign.

News report Brian encouraged contributions from anyone in the community on topics that are of interest or concern to them.

Gresford News is a Community Magazine and welcomes community contributions. Noel offered to approach local police for a regular contribution to the News.

Martin tabled a fencing and gates quotes which were accepted

Insurance for the ANZAC 2015 picnic Confirmation by Elders that the event is covered by the Community Group’s policy.

Mould in the TD Hall Brian said moisture creating mould appeared to be coming through the ceiling, not rising from below. Brian to contact a builder/roofer to get an opinion on best course of action.

Allyn River camping No further developments.

Noel to follow up

Orana Park Kirby raised the issue of fencing of Orana Park on the roadside to protect children from running out onto the road.

Secretary/public officer position Position being advertised in the News.

Skate park Martin advised he had arranged a meeting on 15 July at the site to discuss shade cloth options for a revised installation protecting half the rink.

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

Direct Drilling

Report to August meeting.

Fence at TD Hall

Next General Meeting Mon 4 August at 5:30pm Hotel Beatty ALL WELCOME

EAST GRESFORD MASSAGE CLINIC

Slashing and Mulching

Cultivating and Discing

Tabletop Truck Hire

Fertilizer Spreading

Boomspraying

LEANNE ATKINS 0427 389 722 31 Durham Rd East Gresford

•

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

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

Member: AAMT DIP R M

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 26

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

July 2014 crossword answers

Gresford News August Crossword

G resford News •

The

August 2014, p 27