resford News G
The
News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys May 2015
Billy Cart Derby – April 4 Gresford Billy Cart Derby Senior Champion Race. Photo Jane Richens
Floods – April 21 Allyn River Road Washout. Photo Rosita Richardson
ANZAC Centenary – April 25 ANZAC Centenary Commemoration. Photo Julie Hartigan
A
pril 2015 proved to be an eventful month with moments of celebration, hardship and remembrance. The community came together to organise and run the Easter Billy Cart Derby with the Derby race track an island of relative dry while the rain came down throughout the region. The floods that followed storms on Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st washed away roads and the Torryburn Bridge, leaving many stranded, without power, phone or internet connections. Then for a brief spell there was sunshine for the ANZAC Centenary remembrance services before rain returned at the end of the month.
Throughout the month the community came together and found many practical ways to support each other. From personal kindnesss and sharing to more public examples of community spirit like Kelly Hojer keeping the FoodWorks store open for much needed supplies, without power or the ability to process transactions while struggling to keep the water from coming in through the back door. Or the ingenuity of the Brown family using a bow and arrow to get a supply line across the Allyn River after the Torryburn Bridge collapsed. There are many such stories that together make this a resiliant community. More pics inside.
The Gresford News is a Gresford Community Group project. Circulation 800 – Donations appreciated and most welcome. Thank you!
The Gresford News Community Diary Sun
3 May Live music – Deano on the Deck, Hotel Beatty, 1.00pm
Sat
9 May CWA Book Club, Gresford CWA Rooms, 9.30am
Sat
16 May Landcare fieldday - rare plants with Noel Jupp, Riverdene Nursery East Gresford, 9.30am
Sat-Sun 16-17 May Gresford Working Hourse Competition & Team Penning, Gresford Showground Sun
17 May Gresford markets - put on by the Gresford District Historical Society, grounds of the Hotel Beatty, 9.00am
Tues
19 May Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am
Sat
23 May Halal Certification Information Day, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 4.00pm
Sun
24 May Live music – Neil Farmer, Hotel Beatty, 1.00pm
Fri-Sun 29-31 May Planet Dungog – live music & events around Dungog Sat
30 May 2015 Burr cutter's ball, Hotel Beatty
Tues
2 Jun
Sun
13 Jun
National Broadband Network Community Information Session, Gresford School of Arts Hall, 4.30-7.30pm Newcastle Jazz Club presents – Jim Lyons Jazz Band, Hotel Beatty, 1.00pm
Sun
20 Sep Vacy Village Country Carnival
Sat
24 Oct
Youth off the Streets charity dinner and auction
Tuesdays 12 May, 11 Aug & 10 Nov Gresford School of Arts Meeting, Gresford School of Arts Hall, 7.30pm 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, 10.30am (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 Tues each month
Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am (not 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 Every Sunday
Gresford PlayTime, children 0-5 & carers, Gresford Community Hall, 4992 2401, 10.00am 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. For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred (not in word). 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. Gresford News audio version available for visually impaired. Phone 0412 372 687 for this service.
G resford News finances
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Please support your local newsletter and contribute anonymously or use the slip below and place your donations in the boxes provided in Gresford.
Name
Amount
Address
Gresford District Landcare Group RARE PLANTS OF THE HUNTER REGION FREE FIELD DAY – SAT 16th MAY 2015 The free field day will begin at 9.30am at Riverdene Nursery, East Gresford. World renowned horticulturist and nurseryman Noel Jupp will guide us through identification, growth habits and propagation of rare and important plants of the hunter region. You will also be treated to a guided tour of a rainforest planting near the Allyn River. Wish to know the name of that unfamiliar tree or shrub? Bring a piece along for identification Morning tea and lunch will be provided free of charge. Please bring a chair and mug. RSVP Penny Kater 49389365 or Ken Chandler 49389189 Email: pennykater@gmail.com
Gresford General Store and Post Office Home of the Crossroads Cafe 162 Durham Road Gresford (Cnr Lostock & Durham Road)
Phone 4938 9239
Mon – Wed Thurs – Sun
Trading Hours Shop Cafe
7 am – 5 pm 7 am – 7 pm
8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 4 pm
Take Away
8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 7 pm
Gourmet fresh cut sandwiches and real Milkshakes available – BBQ Chickens – Ice – DVDs – Grocery – Ice Creams – Drinks – Pizza also available from 5pm Thursday–Sunday
DVD Releases - May
• THE IMITATION GAME • INTO THE WOODS • THE SALVATION • EVERLY • • THE CAPTIVE • UNBROKEN • DUMB AND DUMBER TO • THE GAMBLER • • THE WEDDING RINGER • 50 SHADES OF GREY • AMERICAN SNIPER • • LAST KNIGHTS • BLACK HAT • HOME SWEET HELL • CAMP X RAY •
Gresford Notices Planet Dungog
29-31 May around Dungog Pick up a program or download one at www.planetdungog.com Festival features: a huge lineup of over 55 live music acts over 3 days across 5 venues. Street concerts & stalls, film, comedy, bush poetry and kids activities.
Art zine
Robyn Werkhoven's latest art zine is now available online www.studiolaprimitive.net The ARTS ZINE features professional Hunter Valley, national and international visual artists, poets and writers, glimpses into their world of art.
2015 Burr Cutter's Ball
Sat 30 May, Hotel Beatty This year supporting Beyond Blue. Dance the night away to Huge Shoes. MC Paul Dooley returns for the monster auction.
Gresford Market Join the Historical Society for a great day out at our local markets in the grounds of the Beatty Hotel Sunday 17 May
KELZ carpet cleaning and cleaning services Domestic and Commercial carpets, lounges and rugs Friendly Service Call: Kelly Richardson Mobile 0437 395 585
Resource Pack for farmers and producers affected by Hunter flood and storms The Local Land Services (LLS) and NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) have developed a Resource Pack to assist farmers and primary producers who have been affected by the recent severe weather event in the region. The pack includes: Contact lists for key LLS and DPI staff and Factsheets: Help for flood affected primary producers; Rural Assistance Authority Natural Disaster Relief Scheme; Animal health problems; Buying Hay or silage after a flood; Pasture options; And other useful factsheets on a range of topics. The pack will be available at www.hunter.lls.nsw.gov.au. Queries regarding our flood assistance service, please telephone 4931 6615.
Gresford Rural Fire Brigade AGM 3 June 2015 at 7.30pm Gresford Fire Station Durham Road, Gresford All Welcome
Gresford Market presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.
Sunday 17 May 9am to 1.30pm at the
Beatty Hotel
........................... Features local stalls and produce, Great music Array of local goods and treats Attactions/local classic vehicles A little bit of history ........................... Further information contact George Sales 49389639
Gresford News CLASSIFIEDS LOST Chrome dress rim for a 15" car wheel Most likely came off the car sometime over the past couple of months between Glendon Brook village and Gresford. Contact Larry on 0416 217 201
Advertise in the GRESFORD NEWS CLASSIFIEDS Classified Ad Rates are: Standard line listing $2.50 a line or $10 for 5 lines
Historical Society Billy Cart Derby Raffle Winning tickets First prize - Green D65 Second prize - Green B15 Third prize - Green D40 Gresford District Historical Society PO Box 96 East Gresford 2311 georgesales@bigpond.com
Gresford News is available online – visit www.gresfordnsw.com.au
An audio version is also available for the visually impaired Phone 0412 372 687
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What’s on the Shelves? by Glenda Smith
A Dalgliesh Trilogy
P.D. James
The novels Shroud for a Nightingale, The Black Tower and Death of an Expert Witness comprise this trilogy, and make for an absorbing reading experience. The first one is set in a nurse training hospital where a student nurse is murdered during a practical exam; the second one unfolds with several deaths associated with a home for the disabled; and the third explores what is apparently the perfect murder in a forensic laboratory. In each case Adam Dalgliesh brings his training and insight to the investigation, and while a successful outcome is anticipated for all of them, the process is never laboured and the denouement never predictable. As with any good mystery, the tension is controlled and maintained to satisfying effect. James is known for her detailed backgrounds, and in these novels that reputation is sustained. She often establishes the context through secondary characters who are solid in their familiarity with the settings, even though they themselves are not the focus of the narrative. This solid volume is well-written and engrossing.
Halal Certification Information The Halal Information Day committee is holding a FREE and unbiased information day on the rapid increase of the halal certification of food and products throughout Australia. There will be a presentation at East Gresford Bowling Club at 4pm on 23rd May for anyone who is interested in finding out about halal certification. A guest speaker, Ms Marella Harris, will be travelling from Sydney and there will be a power point presentation which will include The Hon. George Christensen, Liberal Member of Dawson, The Hon. Andrew Lemming, Liberal member of Bowman, The Hon. Rev Fred Nile leader of the Christian Demoncrates, Hon. Jacquie Lambie, Independate for Tasmania, Ms Kirrialie Smith, founder of Halal Choices, Mr Mohamed El-Mouelhy, Chairman of Halal Certification Authority Australia and Mr Ahmed Kilanihis from the Halal Advisory panel. The group is emphatic that this is to be an unbiased presentation to help local people understand what halal certification is and why it is important to make an informed choice.
Halal simply means permissible in the Islamic religion while haram means not permissible. For food to be lawful it must comply with religious rituals and observances under sharia law. The halal certification was started in Australia in the 1980s and has been growing ever since. Some of the halal certified items that the group will have on display for the day includes items such as Vegemite, Coon cheese, Bega cheese, Kellogg's, Cadbury chocolates, Capilano Honey, King Island cheeses, Milo, Meadow Lea, Morpeth Sourdough, Hunter Valley Quality Meats, Byron Bay Cookies, Weis Bars, Nutella, Sanitarium Foods, Sara Lee and Colgate to name just a few. The group is saying that it is an undeniable reality that this subject warrants an open and honest discussion within Australia and these information days will be travelling around the Hunter Valley and Central Coast and eventually around Australia if it is found that the general public feel that it is informative and of interest. Judy Kennedy
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Local Learning In Dungog Shire Dowling St, where it'll be located at least until July.
We hope you were able to cope during the deluge - and for those who suffered losses, best wishes for the recovery. Remember there's lots of help for those who need it: pop into the Dungog Shire Community Centre at 103 Dowling St, or to the Recovery Centre in the Doug Walters Pavilion.
courses coming in June. You can: get a full certificate; renew your certificate if it's about to go out of date. This course is You can contact the Training also free for this year's "Drive For Coordinator Laura O'Leary on 1300 69 Survival" high school students. One 35 65, or get in touch with me. thing's been made extra clear – Managing Money in Small Business In emergencies happen. Get the skills so you know what to do when they do. other news, we are still intending to
As well as all the other front-line services I've seen in action over the last fortnight, counselling has been a stand-out as far as both the need and the response.
organise Managing Money In Small Business, a Certificate IV in Bookkeeping, with an information session sometime in the next four weeks and the course starting hopefully in June.
Masked Ball And although there are a lot of calls on the charity dollar around here, people are urging us to carry on with our own major fundraiser, the Dungog Masked Ball on 20 June. "Folks need their fun, life has to go on," Diploma of Counselling If you do have Disaster relief Disaster relief in Dungog is the general tenor. So, please, do shire continues unabated. The waters a sincere interest in becoming a continue to support us by coming to this may have subsided but the need has not, counsellor, it's not too late to enrol in unforgettable night of fun and food and nor will it for many months. To make a the full Diploma of Counselling, with fundraising and dancing, with clowns, donation, visit www.dins.org.au. Note face-to-face training from Tracy Cerff of the Ringadingadingling Brothers, a great that the disaster doesn't have Deductible BCA National, in 17 different units of band and much more. Get a table Gift Recipient status (DGR) – but may study. The next session is Monday 11 together – last year's event was a great soon. If you have stories from the May, which is the second class. You can success, and helped us keep going. storms to tell – maybe you've got a enrol while you're there, and ask Tracy photo that could tell a story, or some You can book tickets for the ball or find any questions you might have, including video, or a collection of snaps, or some out more inforamtion about our courses how to access VET Fee-Help, a loan memories you'd like to record, ABC at www.dungogcommunitycollege.org. system for students that makes courses Open is assisting the Dungog Shire au. You can contact me at education@ like this much more accessible. community to put together those stories. dscc.net.au or call 4992 1133. Thanks for The third session is 18 May, then every Stay tuned for more details. your time. See you on the course. second Monday. The venue has also First Aid There's two Provide First Aid John O'Brien, education@dscc.net.au moved - to the Anglican Hall in
Mobile Beauty Therapy By Samantha Enright
.,
Eyelash Extensions • Tanning Waxing • Tinting Make-up • Manicure Pedicure & More Phone: 0400 035 451 ABN: 79 143 158 726
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Gresford CWA News 3rd to 7th of May. We will be represented by Valarie Smith as a delegate and Elaine Mayo as an observer.
BOOK CLUB The Book Club next meets on May 9th. The book for this month is “The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion. BILLYCART DERBY The rain fell, We have a lively discussion and afternoon everyone was damp but had an amazing tea in the CWA ROOMS 12 Durham Road, time. The crowd enjoyed the billycarts and East Gresford. For further information call the many stalls and various activities Robbie Thornton 4938 9566 or email offered. Our members tested the new robynmthornton@bigpond.com. gazebo only to read the instructions while DID YOU KNOW The Newcastle Jazz packing up which said “protection from Society will be visiting East Gresford on the sun and not waterproof”. However it did just fine and baked goods, jams, pickles 13th June. Stopping in at Camyr Allyn wines for a wine tasting and a CWA and bric-a-brac sold well. We thank the morning tea the 50+ members will Billycart Derby Committee for the continue on to the Beatty Hotel for lunch opportunity to participate. and an afternoon of jazz. Everybody is ANZAC DAY It was our wish to knit or welcome to enjoy the afternoon at the crochet 80 poppies so each student at the Beatty. Gresford Public School would receive one. This target has been reached and with the NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the help of CWA friends and our own knitters Gresford CWA will be held in the rooms on Thursday 7th May at 9.30a.m. and crocheters we all have one to wear. A very attractive poppy wreath was laid by WEB For more information on our Dotti Hilluard at the Cenotaph. activities http:/gresfordcwa.wordpress.com or phone secretary Jill Hancock 49389 718. ANNUAL CONFERENCE The CWA of N.S.W. will be held in Tamworth from the Robyn Thornton, President
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
BR
MINESTRONE SOUP Ingredients 2 tomatoes 2 large carrots 1 piece of turnip 2 stalks of celery 2 medium onions Small cabbage heart 2 rashers of streaky bacon 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 litre of stock 2 Tbl.sps of broken spaghetti (or more) Salt and pepper Parsley and grated cheese for serving
Method: Skin the tomatoes and prepare other veg (do not cut too small). Cut up the bacon and cook in a large pan with vegies in hot oil 5 mins, moving them around in the saucepan. Add stock, Seasoning and spaghetti and cook slowly. Serve with parsley and grated cheese. This recipe was contributed to the CWA COOK BOOK by Judy Daly. The CWA Cook Book is vailable at Gresford Foodworks and the Gresford Store $13.00 per copy.
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
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
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
G resford News • May
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A little bit of Gresford represented at ANZAC Cove with channel 7s Melissa Doyle wearing one of the poppies knitted by the Gresford CWA. The CWA has knitted poppies for the Gresford school children to wear in the ANZAC parade. Melissa Doyle sent out wishes and thanks from Gallipoli to the CWA ladies on Wednesday when the community was under stress from the storm. You can see the original on Instagram melissadoyle7. The pic has had more than a 1000 likes. Thought it may be of interest and bolster the community spirit. With thanks, Catriona Dixon Top right: CWA wreath for Anzac Day. Right: Junior member Charlotte Thornton with Judy Daly at the Gresford Billy Cart Derby.
2015, p 9
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The Easter Bunny Comes to this year’s Gresford Billy Cart Derby No one could have predicted the outcome of this year’s Gresford Billy Cart Derby. The weather forecast was for rain and lots of it and the organisers were expecting the worst. A lot of time and effort goes into organising, promoting and ensuring we have all of the infrastructure in place ready for the thousands of people who regularly attend the billy cart races and Easter fair. Newcastle and the coast was inundated with pouring rain and extremely strong winds. Thankfully the weather was slow in making its way into Gresford. The morning of the derby was misty with light drizzle and we expected the forecasted heavy showers but they did not come or at least not until the racing was finished. The racing started at 9am as advertised with slightly less numbers of carts than previous years. Many market stall holders got there early and set up waiting for the crowd. By 10am the organising committee were worried that the weather forecast kept people at home as numbers of visitors were considerably below our expectations and things were not looking good. By 10.30am they started to arrive in droves, markets started to get busy, the gum
boot throwing was in full swing as was the cowpat lotto and the carts were putting on a great show. By 11am it was business as usual and while we still had occasional light drizzle no one seemed to notice and if anything this just made the day so much more fun. As usual we had a great selection and inventive billy carts, young drivers as young as eight and as old as... our past president (he is older than 3 score and ten years – not allowed to give his real age) who raced his billy cart “Passing Wind” and won his heat. Unfortunately he didn’t make the final. The Easter Bunny made an appearance and joined in the races with his giant carrot billy cart. His visit was a total surprise as we had no idea he was going to turn up – considering the hectic day he was going to have the following day! Kids were rewarded with easter eggs handed out by his helpers and he put on an incredible display of driving that left everyone agast, especially when he started to zig zag in and out of the bollards down the middle of the road. It was certainly a highlight for everyone and I understand he has booked his
place again next year. A special thankyou to Lake Timber and Hardware Mitre 10 Toronto for organising the Easter Bunny and Easter Eggs for all of the kids. The rain held off until the presentations when it finally hit us but people just ignored it and continued to enjoy themselves. Many people made their way to the Beatty Hotel for live music and to be entertained by the Amazing Jonathan with magic as he worked his way around the people in the Beatty. This just made the 2015 Gresford Billy Cart Derby so much more exceptional. We have a very special thankyou to Jaycar Maitland who built us a very sophisticated time keeping system with built in monitors showing the race times for each lane. They also went to the expense of having a large finish line banner made just for us. It was a very generous donation and added a touch of sophistication to a great local event. This year we have made a video of the day and these will be available for sale through our website. Paul Wright a local short film maker has generously donated his time to make the video for us. As soon as it has been finalised we will let
Australia’s broadband network is coming to Gresford Postponed community information session The nbn™ Fixed Wireless community information session scheduled for 7 May 2015 for the Gresford community will be postponed due to the recent floods. We will reschedule the information session for June and advise the new date in the coming weeks. nbn wishes the Gresford, Dungog and surrounding Upper Hunter communities well in the ongoing recovery following April’s devastating storms. We look forward to meeting Gresford residents in June.
For more information, visit nbn.com.au, call 1800 687 626 or email info@nbn.com.au
© 2015 nbn co limited. ‘nbn’, ‘bring it on’ and the Aurora device are trademarks of nbn co limited, ABN 86 136 533 741.
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everyone know the availability and cost. We especially want to thank everyone who attended and made this year’s event very successful and one to remember. We would like to thank our very important sponsors, Glencore Ravensworth for again being our major sponsor and continue to support our local community; the Beatty Hotel who is a great sponsor and is a long time supporter of the Derby; and we would also like to thank Blackwoods at Singleton for providing our first prize in our monster raffle. Our special thanks to the numerous other sponsors who make this day a great success.
Winners 2015
Senior and Grand Champion Phillip Foote from Morpeth. Photo Jane Chandler
Senior and Grand Champion Phillip Foote from Morpeth- time 19.76 sec
Runner Up Jason Rampling from VACY - time 20.87 sec
Junior Champion Joshua Stokes from Maitland - time 22.93 sec
We are planning a bigger and better year in 2016 and we are looking forward to seeing everyone back again. Graham Murphy, Event Coordinator
PS - For more photos check out the Gresford Billy Cart Derby page on Facebook.
Runner up Colby Davies from Gresford Most novel Cart - Riverstone Team Best Pit Crew - Mitre 10 Blackwoods Monster Raffle Winner Danny Lambkin from Newcastle
Joshua Stokes from Maitland presented with Junior Championship by Graham Murphy. Photo Jane Chandler
National Broadband Network high-speed broadband is coming to Gresford You are invited to a Community Information Session NBN Co’s fixed wireless wholesale service is being designed to provide access to fast, affordable and reliable internet services to Australians living in rural and regional areas. Gresford residents are set to experience the potential benefits of the National Broadband Network with the scheduled rollout of the fixed wireless service. We’re holding a Community Information Session to let you know the facts and potential benefits of the fixed wireless network.
Tuesday, 2nd June 2015 4:30pm - 7:30pm School of Arts Hall 42 Park Street East Gresford No need to make an appointment. Drop in at any time.
To find out more: Freecall: 1800 OUR NBN (1800 687 626) | www.nbnco.com.au | info@nbnco.com.au
NBN0036-XX-20x7-XXXX 200x260 Fixed Wireless Master v2.indd 1
1/05/2015 11:20:31 AM
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April 21 Flood
Flooding on Bingleburra Road. Photo Rosita Richardson
The downpour that caused widespread flooding on Tuesday 21st April created many challenges. Roads and bridges were damaged or destroyed. Power, landlines, mobile phones and the internet stopped working. Farm infrastructure and stock were lost.
sizzle on Tuesday and Wednesday and kept the bar open with stubbies only.
But for some the hard times continue. It's now two weeks after the flood and the approx. one hundred residents of Torryburn Road have only limited access to the world outside their valley. It is also these difficult times that bring people With the Torryburn bridge gone the only way together. When Rodney Crouch from Gresford in or out is via a private road through Gourmet Country Meats lost power on Tuesday Torryburn Stud. A Torryburn local, Peter Smith, he had a number of local people offer to explained that the access is limited to local provide temporary cold storage for the meat. residents only – no friends or trades people – Kelly Hojer kept the FoodWorks store open and is from 8am to 4pm on fine (rain free) without lights or the ability to process days only. People who have to travel to work transactions and relied on customers' honesty are in a difficult situation and sick people have to pay when the power came back on. And been taken out by helecopter. Peter was Bernie Lawler from the Hotel Beatty frustrated that a temporary 'Bailey' bridge commented it was just like the old days – open hadn't been put in and expected the situation fire and candle light. He put on a free sausage to remain very difficult for some time to come.
Kelly Hojer with dockets for credit sales during the power blackout. Photo Brian Doherty
Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant 4938 8305
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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
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Flood resources & assistance A range of flood resources and assistance have been announced for our shire. Announcements and updates have been circulated on FaceBook pages such as Dungog Shire Community Centre, Dungog Chronicle & Dungog District Chamber of Commerce. A selection follows:
was instrumental in organising Blazeaid to come to Dungog Shire. In other areas Blazeaid volunteers have not only assisted in re-building fences but also lift community spirit. They have worked in many areas across Australia. The basecamp will be located at the Dungog Showgrounds.
Affected farmers requiring assistance can register with Blazeaid by sending an email to blazeaid.dungog@gmail.com. Centre has been at the frontline They should include details of the providing assistance to our community. damage and when volunteers would be If you are storm affected – don't hesitate able to start working on their properties to contact the Dungog Shire Community given that some farms still have water Centre for support – call 4992 1133. logged soils and problems with access. Dungog wishes to thank everybody for Telstra Telstra announced assistance their love, help and kindness through this difficult time. Please keep us in your packages for customers who have lost services due to the floods. Short-term hearts. When the crisis has passed and packages include free call diversion. the rebuilding has started, further Long-term packages include one-off donations of cash, time and goods will credits, cancellation of a fixed phone be greatly appreciated. service at the affected address, with free Dungog Shire Relief Fund number reservation and free call Donations via Commonwealth Bank: If diversion. Contact 1800 557 709. you or anyone you know would like to help out, cash donations can be made at Scammers The Dungog Chronicle any Commonwealth Bank Please leave published an article warning of people the word ‘donation’ as a reference, and approaching residents about refunds on your name if you’d like. Bank details for utility bills or posing as assessors. The donations are: Account name – Dungog advise is to check a person's ID or Shire Community Centre Inc, BSB – contact the police. View the article at 062535, Account number – 00800580 www.dungog chronicle.com.au 30.4.15. Donations via Paypal: visit www.dins.org.au Please note we currently don’t have Stock loss Should you have lost stock deductible gift recipient (DGR) approved due to the floods please report any losses but should have within the next few to the Local Command Centre on 1800 days (as @ 27/04/15). 814 647. This includes any stock that you know have perished as a result of the BlazeAid coming to Dungog Shire flood. Having an accurate representation By Ivan Skaines, Economic Development of numbers of deceased stock will help and Tourism Co-ordinator with the Governments response. Blazeaid is coming to Dungog Shire with Alternatively you may have stray stock co-ordinators and others volunteers due that have come onto you land. Please to arrive around Monday, 11th May. report this to the number above. BlazeAid is a volunteer-based organisation Kyra O'Brien, Hunter Local Land Services that works with families and individuals in rural Australia after natural disasters such Natural Disaster Assistance as fires and floods. Volunteers coming to Schemes Local Government Areas Dungog Shire will work alongside local declared natural disasters are eligible for families, helping rebuild fences and other Natural Disaster Assistance Schemes. For structures that have been damaged or details: www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/ destroyed by the recent storm. nddassistance
Welfare Disaster Coordination Centre The Dungog Shire Community
Dungog Shire Council has made a commitment of $5,000 towards establishing Blazeaid in the area and this money would be used to help provide meals for the volunteers and other support. Local farmers will be asked to provide materials such as posts, wire and star pickets and appropriate machinery if larger wooden posts and strainers are going to be used in the fence. Dungog District Chamber of Commerce
Personal Hardship and Distress Assistance The Ministry for Police and Emergency Services can provide disaster relief grants to eligible individuals and families whose homes and essential household items have been destroyed or damaged by a natural disaster. People with limited financial resources and no insurance may be eligible for assistance for essential household items and structural repairs to the home. Contact
1800 018 444. Primary producers – Loans of up to $130,000. Contact NSW Rural Assistance Authority – 1800 678 593. Primary producers –Transport subsidies on the carriage of livestock and fodder are available to help primary producers. Contact NSW Rural Assistance Authority – 1800 678 593. Small businesses Loans of up to $130,000 are available at a concessional rate. Contact NSW Rural Assistance Authority – 1800 678 593. Also on this website is information for assistance for: Assistance for councils, Trustees of parks and reserves, Sporting clubs, Churches and voluntary nonprofit organisations, Motor Vehicle Stamp Duty Relief, Insurance and Legal Assistance through Legal Aid NSW.
Financial Assistance www.disasterassist.gov.au Disaster Recovery Payment (DRP) one-off financial assistance to eligible Australians adversely affected by the NSW East Coast Storms and Flooding in the local government areas including Dungog. The DRP rate is $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child. Claims for this payment can be lodged with the Department of Human Services (Centrelink) for a period up to six months. The DRP is available for people who have been seriously injured, who have lost their homes or whose homes have been directly damaged or the immediate family members of a person who has been killed by the NSW East Coast Storms and Flooding. Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) provides income support payments to employees, primary producers and sole traders who can demonstrate they have experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the NSW East Coast Storms and Flooding. The DRA provides fortnightly payments for up to 13 weeks equivalent to the applicable rate of Newstart or Youth Allowance, depending on the person's circumstances. The DRA is available to Australian residents who are older than 16. The DRA is not available to those already receiving another income support payment or pension such as the Age Pension, Newstart Allowance or Service Pension. You have until 23 October 2015 to lodge a claim for either DRP or DRA. For more information on eligibility, visit the Department of Human Services (Centrelink) website or contact the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 2266 for claims for assistance.
G resford News • May
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2015, p 14
Flying Fox Lifeline
Everyone knows what a great job the SES has done in the current emergency situation, but with the sweeping away of Torryburn Bridge, local residents summoned their initiative and ingenuity and created an old-fashioned device, a flying fox, to ferry groceries and medication across the river. They used new technology in the form of UHF radios, and old – a bow and arrow. Kath McCullen made chance contact with Neale Blackwell on UHF radio on Wednesday night and asked if he would help out the residents of Torryburn Rd. Once the idea of a flying fox had been mooted, Neale enlisted the help of his neighbour Ross Staines, and a rendezvous at the river was organised for the Thursday morning of the disastrous week. Lauren Brown, who enjoys archery, had the brilliant idea of using a bow and arrow to get the line across.
to his anchor man Neale at the top. In the meantime, Jim Doyle had arrived with his sons Lachlan and Jack, and they Ross and Neale set up a trestle to support added their muscles and enthusiasm to the task. On the other side, Steve Parsons the line, and Lauren’s brother Matt, assisted by their father Scott, was chosen was contributing his expertise to the to shoot the arrow across. After a couple project. In less than an hour and a half a milk crate was making its wobbly way of attempts he successfully snagged the across the chasm with some groceries arrow in a tree leaning out over the gathered from a neighbour’s pantry. water, and Ross climbed down the rubble-strewn bank to retrieve it, roped Since then orders have been taken and
Torryburn Bridge site. Photo Rosita Richardson
delivered, including veterinary supplies for sick animals. The flying fox has quickly proved useful, in both a practical and a morale-boosting way. It certainly has proved the adage – Where there’s a Will there’s a Way! The flying fox was a small triumph for community co-operation and goodwill – the kind of thing that is happening all around us.
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G resford News • May
The
Matt and Scott Brown getting ready to shoot a line across the river for a flying fox. Photo Glenda Smith
Ross Staines (L) and Neale Blackwell (R) after retrieving the rope shot across the river. Photo Glenda Smith Flying Fox at Torryburn Bridge. Photo Peter Brecknock
2015, p 15
G resford News • May
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2015, p 16
ANZAC DAY – Gresford Address FLTLT Stephen Moore, chaplain, 26 SQN, RAAF Williamtown
I
Gresford ANZAC Day Centenary Service. Photo Rosita Richardson
t’s easy enough to see why they went to war. In most minds, there could be no loyalty to Australia without loyalty to the British throne, and duty was a byword of such loyalty. They were British subjects, after all, and the army they joined was an imperial one. Not for nothing was it called the Australian Imperial Force. To not go was to forfeit a FLTLT Stephen Moore, chaplain, 26 SQN, RAAF place among the exalted, to be deemed Williamtown. Photo Julie Hartigan of a less manly cast, to be a shirker. The ANZAC Centenary services held at Men went to answer the call of their Gresford and Paterson on Saturday 25th king, to protect the honour of the of April were well attended despite the empire and their families, or as disruption of the floods earlier in the week redemption for misdeed, for adventure, and with some areas still being cut off. T or even for the money. Who knows how he ANZAC Day address by FLTLT Stephen many men joined up because their mates Moore (formerly Fr Stephen of the local did, died because their mates did. Mates Anglican parish) was particularly were not just the blokes you drank sheep appreciated for its local content. A number of people requested a copy of the address so with, but fellers you could go to battle we have decided to reprint it here. with. So they joined, hundreds of
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working class men and a handful of women, from up and down the Paterson and Allyn valleys, from Mt Rivers, Lostock, Carrabola, Eccleston, Halton, Allynbrook, Gresford and Torryburn. Their names are now memorialised and their stories make the Great War real. Stories like the Lostock station hand who became a camelier in the Imperial Camel Corps and was captured by the Turks, and the Glendonbrook labourer who died ingloriously in the mud in the Battle of Messines. It is their military ordinariness that gives their stories power. They and their comrades believed in the reasons why, or wanted to believe them, but by then end of it all nobody, certainly not those who had fought, could quite comprehend the enormity of what they had done: 37 million people killed or wounded. That is 50% more than the
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G resford News • May
The
ANZAC parade, Durham Road East Gresford. Photo Rosita Richardson
entire Australian population today. How could we have let this happen, wondered parents, politicians, teachers, public servants, pillars of community? How could we have stood by and watched the slaughter of the flower of manhood? Nobody had any answers to that terrible question.
Garth Carlson, Gresford RSL sub-branch. Photo Julie Hartigan
company and three others were recruited from Australian infantry battalions recuperating after Gallipoli.
The Corps’ operations in the Western Desert in 1916, alongside Lawrence of Arabia, were characterised by long patrols and brief skirmishes with the Senussi. British commanders in Egypt Australia, Britain and Western appreciated the fighting qualities of Europe – the self-declared glory of the Corps and in late-1916 it was civilisation, the provenance of the gentlest of faiths, a religion uniquely transferred to the Sinai desert to take part in operations against the distinguished by charity and Turkish army. Here the battalions compassion – had subjected the fought alongside Australian light world to a war that had literally consumed the best part of the entire horse units at Romani, Magdhaba and Rafa in cavalry charges against younger generation. Turkish positions. This means Such thoughts would have been the Kimber was fighting on camel-back last thing on the mind on those two with the district’s only winner of the nervous Anzacs, both in their Military Cross, Cliff Brown, of thirties when they enlisted, more Paterson. He was wounded as a light than 10 years the average age of horseman, but survived four desert those who fought. cavalry battles to later serve as a pilot in the Australian Flying Corps. How does Allan Kimber, a rouseabout farm hand from Lostock, As the Camel Corps moved into the end up riding a camel fighting the more fertile country of northern Jacko’s, as they called the Turks, in Palestine, its practicality declined. The the deserts of the Middle East? camels needed more fodder and water Palestine is about as far from here as than equivalent numbers of horses, you can get. and, unimpeded by the desert, horses could move much faster. The Camel Corps had a reputation as a ditty of the time recalls (see the The men of the Corps had a rough green breakout box). reputation, largely because when it The Imperial Camel Corps was formed was formed Australian battalion in January 1916 to deal with the revolt commanders had seized upon it as an opportunity to offload some of of pro-Turkish Senussi tribesmen in their more difficult characters. Egypt's Western Desert. Kimber’s
2015, p 17
Gresford Public School Students. Photo Julie Hartigan
The Camel Corps Timothy Hogg was a bold camelier From the land of the setting sun; And the girls gave Timmy a rousing cheer When he started to mop up the Hun. He trekked over Egypt and Sinai; He led the Jacko’s a dance, And he gleefully cried, as he winked his eye: “I’m lucky I’m not in France.” When Abdul came with a mighty charge, And Romani was fought and won, Tim stopped some shrapnel, good and large; For a while his work was done. They packed him of with his blood soaked gear In a ricketty ambulance; But the driver laughed, as the shells dropped near: “We’re lucky we’re not in France.” At Rafa and Maghdaba, Timothy fought, Got a holiday wound as well “It’s not such a joke as the home folk thought For Jacko can fight like hell.” He opened his mail in careless glee, Then swore, and looked askance. Said his “bint” and his Ma, and his sisters three: “You’re lucky you’re not in France. At Gaza’s heights the Light Horse dashed, Our Cameliers charged in vain: The Welsh were slaughtered, Scots were smashed; In the Wadi blood flowed like rain. Then Tim heard an officer – who at Mons Had stemmed the Huns’ advance – Exclaim, amid the roar of the murdering guns, “I wish I was back in France”
MaY SERVICE TIMES Sunday Mornings 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 Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson St John’s, Lostock 11.30 Glendonbrook Road St James’, Martin’s Ck 8 Gresford NSW 2311 St Mary’s, Allynbrook 10.30 Telephone (02) 4938 9313 St Paul’s, Eccleston gresfordparish@bigpond.com
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G resford News • May
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2015, p 18
Gresford Amateur Performing Society and guest singers provided entertainment at the community picnic after the service.
In 1917 a British supply dump at Rafa was warned to double their guards as the Corps was going to be camped nearby. Men like Kimber were, however, resourceful and effective. While defending a hill called Musallabeh near Gaza, some of them ran out of hand grenades. They resorted to heaving boulders down upon the attacking Turks and eventually fought them off.
diarrhoea and heat exhaustion in November 1916, and later for dysentery. He went on to fight in the Second Battle of Gaza the following April, two years after Gallipoli, and in the operations conducted in November to destroy the Turkish defensive line between Gaza and Beersheba. It was there that he and 12 mates were captured.
heart and soul was in the good work; however, I have to wait now. ‘I hope you and all at home are quiet; tell Ellie I love her still.’
Kimber, an Anglican, died in hospital from malaria later that month, to be buried by his Muslim Turkish captors ‘without formality’, says his service record in unique, convincing detail. His body was later exhumed and re-interred A postcard received by his sister, Kimber’s war was punctuated by sickness. Caroline, says: ‘We did our best and were with what was reported as ‘every measure of care and reverence’ in a mass He was admitted to a field hospital with overwhelmed. I feel it very much as my
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G resford News • May
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2015, p 19
On Friday 17 April members of Gresford District Landcare and Paterson Allyn Garden Group planted a grove of 48 Leatherwood trees opposite the skateboard rink in the Showground as a living memorial to local WWI soldiers and nurses. Photos Jane Chandler
grave for Commonwealth soldiers at the North Gate War Cemetery in Baghdad.
an exploding shell, in the head, back, legs and arms but was patched up to be sent back to the front line, and on the way to annihilation. The Battle of Messines in June 1917 was a disaster for his battalion, the 35th – 508 men crossed the start line out of the trenches, but only 90 returned. Cowley was not one of them. He was typical of the everyman soldier to volunteer from these parts.
While Kimber was fighting in the desert heat, Reg Cowley was knee deep in mud on the Western Front. The son of William Cowley, of Glendonbrook, he was a sick man before he fired a shot in anger. Admitted with bronchitis soon after docking in Plymouth after two months at sea, he was shipped to France in November 1916, only to be wounded in action four It is for men like Allan Kimber and Reg months later. He was injured, probably by Cowley that we stand here today.
Ordinary, unremarkable, decent and hard-working. They fought for a cause they believed was right and in doing so gave us te freedom to live in the best place in the world. Each of them, and the thousands they fought alongside, are individual presences, irreplaceable in the lives of the women, the families, the communities like ours across Australia. We should all be humbled into awe-filled silence at their un-selfishness, call to duty and sacrifice in our name. Thanks be to God.
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G resford News • May
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2015, p 20
q Gresford District Historical Society r Memories of old Gresford – Martin Prentice 1929
L
ast month we introduced Martin Prentice, the third police office to be stationed at Gresford. Martin came to Gresford in late 1884 and you may recall that his daughter married into a local family. As a result Martin retained a long association with the district. His extensive memoirs written in 1929 for the Gresford Centenary when he was in his seventies are a revealing look at a life and times in the Gresford community from over 100 years ago. Unfortunately we have no photo of Martin and little information about his police work at Gresford, so if any one can help the Historical Society with this we would be very grateful. Our story this month takes edited excerpts from these memoirs. You will note that he was a man given to “plain speaking” and there are also some minor historical errors in his account!
On the Gresford of the 1880s “Gresford West is on the Paterson River and it was here that the first Anglican church was erected many years ago. The
clergy travelled from Paterson or Maitland for a bi-weekly service. Subsequently a resident clergyman was appointed and after a time a rectory was provided. The first rector to occupy the new building was Rev. W Priest. About this time the Post office was transferred, (it had been near the Church) to a building opposite the school. The post mistress was Miss Bush and the teacher the late W. Parker.
Church, the Police station, a store and dwelling combined occupied by a man named Norrie and again by 2 brothers Creigh and the Hotel (Junction Inn). The Hotel was a wooden building in which cedar was used extensively. It was owned by the late John Beatty, father of the present proprietor of the Victoria. The late Mr Beatty besides running the hotel had a tobacco factory and employed several twisters. (twisters rolled the leaves together to The surrounding area was known as form “ropes” of tobacco) The old factory Gresford by reason of that being the has gone and all that remains of a once postal address of the population for important industry are the 4 presses miles around. At that time West Gresford which are decayed from exposure. had only a few inhabitants some 16 or In 1886, (actually 1885) J.W. Boydell had 17 in all and this remained so for years. a survey made where East Gresford now What is now known as East Gresford was stands. The lots were of various sizes. H originally known as Clevedon and by James Brunker (Brooker?) was the some of the ancients as “The Junction”. auctioneer. Before calling for bids he The reason for this name is not hard to delivered a long oration on the find. In the 1870’s a police station was possibilities of Gresford. The lots sold like established near where the present Court midwinter buns”. Jack Sullivan reports House stands and from that time the that those purchasing included: John locality was called Gresford. Beatty, Anne Norrie, Catherine Hipwell, Luke In the early 1880’s, East Gresford could Sullivan, Mary McNamara, Thomas boast of 4 buildings– the Catholic Hancock, William Smith and Francis Jarrett.
G resford News • May
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2015, p 21
Church St. West Gresford – early 1900s
On Characters in Gresford “There were a few hard boiled characters in this district. The most distinguished was a man named Caesar Brennan, an Irishman who had passed some of his early years in France where it seems he was sent to study medicine and qualify for a doctor – but missed out. He said the disturbed conditions in Ireland caused plans to miscarry and Caesar drifted. One of
Brennan’s characteristics was his strong aversion to footwear. Boots were gall to the man and as for walking that was out. Brennan’s gospel was man was created to run not to walk. He was never seen to walk and when on the road he would run for miles at a stretch. Consequently his feet would become very swollen and appeal would then be made to some Christian soul for a piece of fat, age or
smell of no importance. With the aid of a fire he would then anoint his feet until they refused to absorb any more. No apology for any fogs floating around. Another freak of Brennan’s was when he came to a gate or slip rails, for instead of passing through he would climb over or through and then open the gate to return and pass through again before continuing his journey.
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G resford News • May
The
2015, p 22
An early land auction in Gresford - photo taken from the Beatty. Courtesy of Bernie Lawler.
Not withstanding his eccentricities he was at intervals a very interesting man. He had an extensive acquaintance with the writings of many great poets and writers. He also spoke French fluently for which he had a great passion. However his religious principles were not in accordance with that taught by the one true and only Church and he maintained that the teaching of the Fathers was all rot! Perhaps his residence in France caused him to stray from the path?”
On the country around Gresford – Lewinsbrook and the Allyn “The country around about was in possession of some half dozen or less holders. Clevedon was at one time owned by a man named McCormick who bred horses on an extensive scale which were principally disposed of to the Indian Government. Upon McCormick’s death this splendid property was left to his daughter, Mrs Doyle who with her
husband held possession for years. Since the death of Mr. & Mrs Doyle the estate has been cut up and is now owned and worked by dairy farmers. Lewinsbrook to the East of Gresford was owned by Dr. Park and his brother who did a little cultivation. There was a fair sized vineyard, the fruit being made into wine and brandy. There was also an orangery said to be the largest in NSW at that time. The oranges were sold to
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G resford News • May
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2015, p 23
q “Our Stories” Feature r
vendors in Maitland and Newcastle – some going on to Sydney. The beautiful property has passed into other hands.
Perhaps the largest estate was Camyr Allyn a grant to Charles Boydell, father of the late J. W. Boydell. It has been greatly reduced by being cut up and sold for farming purposes viz; Thornleigh, Glenthorne, Whitfield, Mt Pleasant, Orange Grove and other smaller areas. Caergwrle is the next estate north of Camry Allyn. Originally purchased from the Government by Charles Boydell but then conveyed to his brother William. This estate has also been considerably reduced. Cross Keys comes next, once the property of the late W. White of “Kilkee” who was at one time a big buyer of tobacco and also did a considerable business as an auctioneer. At this time there were but few settlers between Cross keys and Halton the latter being owned by the late James Lawrie. Eccleston comes next the most important personage there being the father of Joe & Ruben Sivyer, a typical English gentleman and most enthusiastic cricketer. Another of the first settlers of Eccleston was a grand old pioneer Mr Jarrett – long deceased.”
On the country around Gresford – the Penshurst was next of importance. A Paterson “Before the first footbridge was very good property principally of grazing
land and at one time owned by a gentleman named Holden. The other side of the river was at one time owned by McNamara and close by was W O’Neill. Further on Lostock, some of which was in a way identified with Coulston. This locality was fairly settled with tobacco, maize, and other farm produce grown. Pigs were fattened and taken to Maitland for sale. From here almost to the face of the cedar scrub in The next place of importance is Cawarra, the Mt Royal ranges there were settlers. in days gone past famous for its wines. The furthest up was the late Oliver This estate was owned by Dr. Lindeman Cromwell Joliffe”. who erected wine cellars and built vats – some holding 1000s of gallons. The bounty is still $75 for a story built at West Gresford all traffic had to cross the river below where the bridge now stands or leans (which you like). On the Western side of the river was the road used for all kinds of traffic by the settlers of the Upper Paterson – that being the one and only route. Some 2 or 3 hundred yards along was a little store and tobacco factory on a small scale conducted by W Randall.
From Cawarra to Coulston along the river was occupied by farmers holding small areas. Coulston was a cattle run and at one time occupied by H. H. Brown who was supposed to represent the honesty and intelligence of County Durham in the legislative assembly of NSW. H.H.B was a roads and bridges man. He was never known to voluntarily register his dog and at that time Coulston could produce a pack – but the poor cockie had to be kept up to the ring!
(with photos) which features local characters and events that have become a part of our history. It doesn’t have to be typed and it will be edited before it is published. So please hunt out these old photos and find a biro and paper. Please send your contribution to the Historical Soc. PO Box 96 East Gresford – NOT to the Gresford News. If published it will be in the Gresford News later!
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G resford News • May
The
2015, p 24
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G resford News • May
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2015, p 25
Gresford Community Group April 2015 Meeting Minutes from the previous meeting: A note from Peter Doyle was tabled requesting an amendment to the Minutes of the previous meeting. The Amendment related to the acquisition of the Therese Doyle Hall. Amend ‘and TDH building purchased by GCG and registered in the name of the NSW Girl Guide Association’. To read: ‘and TDH building gifted by the NSW Minister for Conservation to the NSW Girl Guide Association’. It was noted that the GCG purchase was the land and the building. Subject to the above amendment the minutes were accepted.
Correspondence: Letter from Westpac regarding its community grants scheme. Martin to follow up for 2015/16 Email from Graham Murphy with attached quotes for TDH repairs and maintenance
Treasurer’s Report Report tabled and received.
Pedestrian Crossing in Park St Martin tabled a reply to the GCG letter to Dungog Council of the 10 March, 2015. After discussion it was resolved “That the Chairman write to Dungog
Council acknowledging the effect on parking of a pedestrian crossing, and suggestion to Dungog Council that alternative warnings of a dangerous crossing area be considered”.
Skateboard Park Quotes tabled for the erection of a solid shade covering for the skateboard park as distinct from shade cloth structures pervious quoted. Hunter Sheds: $25857.00 (4 metre eave) Hunter Sheds: $27612.00 (5 metre eave) Allgal: $43870.00 (4 metre eave)
Therese Doyle Hall Meeting held at 5.30pm between representatives of the GCG and the HS. A alternative proposal was put to the HS by the GCG and it was agreed that the HS would respond in due course. Maintenance: A comprehensive report by a qualified building assessor had been circulated and will be discussed at the next meeting. TDH Management Sub-Committee: The results of a meeting held on 30 March as well as matters arising from previous subcommittee meetings was tabled. The meeting agreed to consider the report with the Maintenance report
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Low stress and effective cattle handling Lessons Demonstrations Clinics Mike Doyle 0418 503 939
Purpose and philosophy of the GCG Committee members have been individually considering what the GCG should be doing and why it should select certain involvements. It was resolved that Martin and Brian should plan towards a well organised and hopefully productive public meeting. Time and place to be decided by them.
Police Report Noel advised he had conferred with Police Representative Kel Boek who will be providing information in an improved format. Noel will be having a special meeting with police in June. There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.20pm
Next Meeting First Monday of the month 7.30pm, Hotel Beatty
NW Hitchcock Carpentry & Tiling Service
MIKE DOYLE HORSEMANSHIP Starting horses on cattle to give them confidence
from Graham and the feedback from the HS. Noted that Brian would be vacating his position as convenor on 27 April.
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
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
G resford News • May
The
2015, p 26
St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill WEEKEND MASS TIMES St Helen’s Gresford Saturday Vigil 6.30pm 5th Sunday of the Month, no Mass at Gresford but Sacred Heart Church Summer Hill, time to be advised. Enquiries Parish Priest Fr. Paul Hopper 4992 1477
April 2015 crossword answers
Gresford News May Crossword
G resford News • May
The
2015, p 27