Gresford News November 2013

resford News G

The

News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys

November 2013

Bull’s Horns Ball ...a Wild West Success

clockwise from above: P&C members Kerrie Challinor and Catherine Smith hard at work on the night.

Cowboy Chris Challinor “mossied” on in from Toronto.

Western folk Gavin Kelehear and Sylvia Lawrence.

T

he wild west came to Gresford on Saturday night when gunslingers, cowboys,

saloon girls, Mexicans, Indians and even a priest turned out for the Bull’s Horns Ball.

“It was a fabulous night; lots of fun,” P&C president Angela Kelehear said.

“Our aim was to raise $6000 but, thanks to the generosity of everyone on the night,

our final tally has reached just over $9,000.

Story and more photos inside.

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

GRESFORD

RURAL FIRE BRIGADE Thank You to the Community The Gresford Rural Fire Brigade has had a very busy few months in which we’ve had many multi day call outs in our area, as well as assisting other brigades.

Nev and the crew would like to thank the community for your wonderful support.

Now is the time to make sure your home is prepared. Follow your Bushfire Survival Plan.

For any queries please contact Captain Neville Lawrence on 0427 389 569 Or visit the NSW RFS website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au Brigade Meetings - 1st Wednesday of each month 7.30pm

New Members Welcome

The Gresford News Community Diary Thurs 7 Nov

Craft open house, CWA Hall, 1.00pm Mon 11 Nov Service of Rememberance & Wreath laying commemoration, Cenotaph, East Gresford, 10.30am Tue 12 Nov Gresford School of Arts Committee meeting, Gresford School of Arts Hall, 7.30pm Sat 16 Nov Family Fishing Comp, Lostock Dam, 5.00am Sat 16 Nov Masked Ball, James Theatre Dungog, 7.00pm Sun 17 Nov Gresford Community Market, Therese Doyle Hall, Park St East Gresford, 9.00am to 1.00pm Tues 19 Nov Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am Sat-Sun 30 Nov-1 Dec Team Penning, Gresford Showground Sat-Sun 30 Nov-1 Dec Shiloh Art Studio Christmas Exhibition, Martins Creek, from 10.00am Fri 6 Dec RSL Christmas Dinner, Gresford Bowling Club, 6.30pm 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, 7.30pm, Hotel Beatty, all welcome! (not Jan) Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm (not Jan) 1st Tues each month Gresford Rural Fire Brigade meeting, station, 7.30pm 1st Wed each month 1st Thurs each month CWA Gresford Branch Meeting, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 9.30am (not Jan) Gresford Historical Society Meeting, RSL Rooms, 11.00am (not Dec, Jan or June) 2nd Mon each month 2nd & 4th Mon each month Family & Child Health Clinic, Paterson school of Arts Hall, 4932 9768 for appt’s 2nd Sat each month Book Club, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 3.00pm (not Dec or Jan) Gresford Public School P&C Meeting, school library, 10.00am 3rd Fri each month 3rd Sun each month gresford Community Market, 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 99 East Gresford 2311. Deadline for stories and ads 20th of the month.

With the newsletter now so large, we struggle to meet copying deadlines when items arrive after the 20th. For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred. Please keep us informed about activities in the area – a paragraph or two and photo.

Visit

www.gresfordnsw.com.au

for local information and the ‘Gresford News’ online

Gresford News audio version available for visually impaired Contact Gresford News on 0412 372 687 for this service.

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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. I would like to make an annual donation to the Gresford News: Name

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Gresford News Notices Allyn, Paterson, Williams Wild Dog Control Association Notice for the

Annual General Meeting

7.30pm Monday 11 November at the RSL Club Dungog

Bush Fires and Stock The bush fires have certainly been an exhausting and stressful time especially for those directly affected.

We had some very close calls and it would be wise for all to consider some exit strategy not only for yourselves but also the stock.

A good site to check any fires is www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and click on current fires.

Ask yourself what would / could we do if a severe fire was challenging our holding. Is there a safe place we could locate the stock? Is one paddock safer than another? Compile lists of carriers and possible sites where stock can be relocated.

Digby Rayward, District Veterinarian LHPA

FOR SALE Charolais bull 5year old

Palgrove Charolais Bloodlines Sound Well Structured Bull

$1700 ONO

(purchase price $2500 when 2yo)

to veiw Ph 0428577811

G resford News •

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November 2013, p 6

What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

The Last of the Savages

Jay McInerney

Readers who enjoyed ‘On the Road’ would find similar energy and social history in this novel, but it is much less frenetic. It is narrated by Patrick Keane, who meets his lifelong friend Will Savage at Prep School, in America’s New England. As Patrick says, Although our new school was only forty miles from my home and a thousand miles from his, I’d traveled much farther than Will. This statement sets the tone of the novel and the friendship, with Patrick lacking in personal and social confidence, and Will brimming with it. Patrick is a selfdeprecating narrator who stands in awe of his friend, and sets his sights on attaining a higher social standing, while Will flouts convention and makes both a name and a fortune in the music industry.

What makes the novel interesting is that Patrick comes to Will’s rescue more than once, as Will ricochets through life in his sublime defiance of his family’s heritage as slave-owning Southerners, and comes into conflict with ‘respectable’ society in general. Both characters are intelligent with good moral impulses, and their friendship stands the test of time even though their lives take very different directions. Race relations and family loyalties are important themes, and the ending blends them nicely. McInerny is a stylish writer.

Vacy Blues and Roots Festival Viper Creek Band opened Vacy’s Blues and Roots Festival on Saturday 19th October with a bang. This band is a must see for any county music fan. The music continued on all afternoon and the 550 strong crowd enjoying every moment. People travelled from as far as Nowra, Tamworth, central and north coasts and all feedback has been very positive.

It was a great day out. Gates opened at 11am and music started at 12noon. Weather was ideal although very hot at 35 deg. The oval was covered with chairs and shelters of all descriptions with kids playing “tag” and “handball” which showed a true family atmosphere. To see this along with numerous hotspots of people dancing throughout the crowd was a indication of the fun everyone was having – a very memorable moment.

In total 7 bands and 10 hours of music and a great atmosphere with ensure this event will go ahead again next year. The bands that performed on the day were: Viper Creek Band • The Bad & The Ugly • Bella Dose • Voodoo Express • Justin Ngariki • Steve Edmonds Band • Freebird featuring Grant Walmsley from “the screeming jets”.

The festival was hosted by The Farmers Hotel. We would like to thank all the staff and volunteers for your hard work as this event would not have been the huge success it was without this help.

FARMERS HOTEL VACY Whats Happening at the Farmers...

Tuesday nights – social darts at the Farmers Hotel. Starts at 7pm $5 For 4 games Austar at the Farmers – Come and watch any of your favorite sports on our 3 TVs Thursday nights bistro – Lamb rumps with veg & mash or chips & salad $16 We now have a courtesy bus that will pick you up and drop you home, so just ring the pub.

Come into the famers and try our great food

NEW Bistro hours

open every day for lunch & Dinner from 6pm Summer menu for Mon - Wed nights

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS FUNCTION NOW!

New Years Eve – live Band BELLA DOSE has been booked also performing at the Vacy Blues N Roots Festival. Theme for New Years Party is ROCK N ROLL

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

G resford News •

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November 2013, p 7

Gresford Community Group takes up the fight for better Mobile Phone and Internet services The recent bush fires have highlighted the absolute necessity of good mobile phone and internet services for rural landholders.

Prior to the Federal election the Gresford Community Group presented community concerns over the lack of mobile phone coverage in our region to Local, State and Federal Government members. Concerns included the potential health risks of living and working on properties without mobile phone coverage and also the difficulty of running an efficient business when you have to travel to a different location to do something as simple as checking voice mail messages.

In reply the Department of Broadband, Communication and Digital Economy stated it had been advised that Telstra “has no current plans to improve mobile coverage in the Allyn Valley.”

New service provider may offer competition Last year Countrytell announced it planned to provide fast (4G) and affordable wireless internet services across Dungog Shire using WiMax technology.

This technology would allow for VOIP services like Skype so it may offer competition for fixed home phone services. But apart from that, the Unlimited Data services it advertises on its website starting at $39.99/mth with download speeds from 4–12 Mbps would be an improvement on what most people can access now. Gresford News has been told the roll out has taken longer than expected but they are hopeful the service will be available soon. We have asked Countrytell to supply answers to a range of questions that our readers would be interested in – including whether they will be able to deliver better coverage.

We should have the answers ready for the December issue ...stay tuned.

Gresford Community Group Mobile Phone and Internet Survey All questions are optional.

Your location is

MOBILE PHONE What company provides your mobile service Do you get reliable coverage at home.

Yes

No

Our survey shows 85% of responders don’t have reliable phone coverage across their property.

Do you get reliable coverage across your property.

Yes

No

Do you get reliable coverage when away from home in this region. Yes

No

In the last issue of the Gresford News readers were asked to provide details of their current mobile phone and internet survice. The response to date shows 71% don’t have a reliable mobile phone service at home and 85% don’t have reliable coverage across their property.

Do you use an alternative to a standard mobile phone for mobile communication.

If you haven’t already filled in and returned the survey please do it now – it won’t take long.

The Community Group would like to know what your experience is, of both mobile phone and internet broadband.

The more information we have the better for arguing to improve service delivery.

Use the form opposite or fill in the online form at the gresford website: www.gresfordnsw.com.au

Was your coverage better with the CDMA network. Yes Yes

No

No

Don’t know

If yes, what is it

What is the approximate monthly cost of your mobile service. $ Does your mobile access present problems for you.

Yes

No

Do you want access to a better mobile phone service.

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Does your internet access present problems for you.

Yes

No

Do you want access to a better internet service.

Yes

No

INTERNET Do you have access to the internet.

How do you connect to the internet (ADSL, satellite etc) Is your internet access reliable.

What is the monthly cost of your internet access. $

If you want to tell us anything else about your mobile or internet experience we would love to receive your thoughts along with the survey.

Send the completed form to: Gresford Community Group PO Box 99, East Gresford, NSW 2311

November SERVICE TIMES Sunday Mornings 3 10 17 24

St Anne’s, Gresford 7.30 9.30 8.30 St John’s, Vacy 9 St Paul’s, Paterson 9.30 9.30 Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson St Mary’s, Allynbrook 10.30 Glendonbrook Road

St John’s, Lostock 11.30 Gresford NSW 2311 St James’, Martin’s Ck 8 Telephone (02) 4938 9313 gresfordparish@bigpond.com

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

G resford News •

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November 2013, p 8

Last Market Before Christmas Only one market left for 2013 with Christmas just around the corner. You would be mad to miss all the delights and bargains you will find on offer on Sunday 17th November.

October we had 7 new stall holders adding to our already varied displays.

Opals (plain or set to impress), gold and exclusive jewellery (prices you won’t believe), one-off children’s clothes (beautifully made), Medowie macadamias (Christmas gifts or indulge), scented soaps (for all skin types), handmade silk flowers (unique gifts).

Two local young ladies have become stall holders catering for all ‘Little girl accessories’. You can’t miss the treasures Caurtney and Clare have on offer. Just look for the pink/white spotted flags.

Jim Doyle is still offering truck loads of soil for $180 (bargain price) delivered free. All the proceeds goes back to the hall fund. Just see Jim or myself (Judith) on the Sunday.

FREE Christmas gift wrapping will be available at the November markets (only if you purchase from the markets).

St Anne’s Guild ladies are making

Christmas cakes and puddings. But you will need to be there early as stocks will be limited.

No car boot market in December due to no response at all.

Now I’m up on my soap-box so to speak!! Please come along and support your local markets. Let all your friends and relatives know that the third Sunday of every month from February to November is a great day out in Gresford.

Since we began in June 2013 our loyal stall holders have injected over $3,000 to the Therese Doyle Hall Fund. St Anne’s Gild have raised $2,000, Gresford Tennis Association over $900. Total all up close to $6,000 for the Gresford community groups that work hard for the benefit of all people of Gresford and surrounds.

To continue this wonderful effort in 2014 we have to support our markets and our loyal stall holders. You have all heard of the saying ‘Follow the yellow brick road’. Well here’s Gresford’s version ‘Follow the banners and balloons’ to a great day out. Please join us on 17th November at the Gresford Markets.

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

Direct Drilling

Slashing and Mulching

Cultivating and Discing

Tabletop Truck Hire

Fertilizer Spreading

Boomspraying

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

Your Local Rural Services Specialist. Competitive Rates!

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

Judith and Lloyd

“Meet your friends at the market and make a day of it” Third Sunday of the month

Gresford Community Markets next market

Sunday 17 November Therese Doyle Hall Gresford Road, East Gresford Contact Judith Grant Ph 4938 9505

G resford News •

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November 2013, p 9

feature Team Penning and Arena Sorting – What’s That? Community

by Rowena Dillon Do you have an interest in horse events?

You are probably familiar with dressage, show jumping and camp drafting but maybe team penning and arena sorting are something new to you. These equestrian sports are rapidly growing in popularity in the Hunter Valley and indeed all over the state. With most other equine competitions being individual events, the team aspect and whole family involvement of these sports has captured the interest of many horse riding enthusiasts.

According to the Valley Team Penning website, team penning is a western equestrian sport that evolved from farm and station work involving separating cattle into pens for branding, vet care and transport. Today it is a fast-paced event that gives a team of three riders from 60 to 90 seconds (depending on the class or sanctioning of the event) to separate three cattle from the mob and put them into a pen at the opposite end of the arena. Timing starts once the line judge has dropped his flag as the lead horse crosses the line. At that time the announcer identifies the cattle to be separated by calling out a randomly drawn collar colour. The riders must cut out the three head that have been

nominated, take them to the opposite end of the arena, pen them and call for time. Teamwork is the key with all three riders working to cut out the correct cattle and drive them to the pen while keeping the rest of the mob back.

Like team penning, arena sorting also evolved from farm and station work. It is performed in two pens that have an opening between the pens. At the beginning there are 12 head of cattle at the end of one of the pens with numbered collars for identification. The team of three riders has to move the cattle one at a time from one pen to the other in numerical order, starting with a random number called by the judge. The fastest time wins and if one of the cattle gets from one pen to the other out of order the team is disqualified.

There are a large number of team penning clubs around the country and Valley Team Penning Association came about after a group of riders found there was a need for a club closer to Newcastle and the lower Hunter. Their first event was held at Gresford Showground in December 2011 and was a massive success. Since that time the club has grown to over 300 members aged from 5

all the way up to 75 years young. They run events once a month, over two days with team penning usually on Saturdays and arena sorting on Sundays. Events are held at different venues across the region including Merriwa, Branxton, Wingen, Singleton, Dungog and Gresford. There are also training days during the year.

The family involvement, supportive atmosphere, enjoyable weekends away and team bonding are some of the reasons that these sports have become so popular. Competitors feel that they don’t have to be the best rider or have the most expensive horse to enjoy their sport.There are many generous sponsors who support the Association with prizes for each event and of course the cattle suppliers and transporters are invaluable for their interest and involvement.

If you interested in finding out more about team penning and arena sorting, the Valley Team Penners will be running their final event for the year at Gresford Showground over the weekend of 30th November/1st December and spectators are most welcome. Alternatively contact Di Ryan on 0417 536150 or go to the website www.valleyteampenning.com.au for more information.

G resford News •

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November 2013, p 10

Gondoliers re-form to host “party of the year” The Masked Ball at the James Theatre Dungog is to be hosted by two old hands who’ve re-formed specially for the event.

Giovanni and Michelangelo Gondolieri have come out of retirement at the behest of Dungog Community College.

wolf-whistling, cat-calling, Lambrettariding, and so on. It beats punting tourists around the canals.”

people can still cut out a mask by clicking on a link on our website.” The ball’s main sponsor, BCA National, are also hoping to be able to provide souvenir masks for those who arrive without.

As well as the hosts, music will be provided by terrific Newcastle band Dr Zoom Duo and food by Blackbird Artisan All funds raised go to Dungog Community College: “They tell me they Bakery – light but yummy.

Says Jane Richens from the college: “We really need this fund-raiser to be great. want to make our first masked ball as The auction is also looking very Giovanni and I can only do so much, memorable as possible, and these two are intriguing. Says Jane: “Hugo Weaving you know. If you believe in education – exactly that.” Michelangelo agrees: has agreed to sign some posters, bless make the sacrifice of coming along, “Memorable? We will sear ourselves onto him, and others have stepped up too. laughing, dancing, eating and the brain of all who are there,” he says with Our own winemaker John Evers is attempting the seduction under the a strong Italian accent. donating an Introduction to Fly Fishing expert guidance of the two greatest and Martin Thorsby is giving a half hour The Gondoliers are the latest lovers the world has ever known,” says manifestation of Michael Winchester and chopper flight. There’s a beautiful piece Michelangelo a little too seriously. of art glass; a day of water skiing with John O’Brien, who made a name for Tickets for the ball are $80 each and themselves hosting functions in Gresford lunch; a couple of nights at Smith’s in recent years. Says Giovanni, “We want Lake, a set of courses at the Community available from the Dungog Visitor Information Centre or the Dungog to help the Community College, they are College, and a piece of sporting Community College website www. so worthy and they are also so poor. And memorabilia we’ve got our fingers dungogcommunitycollege.org.au, crossed on, so stay tuned.” we were inspired by their vision of a booking essential. Be there 7.00pm at night of revelry where people can frock The dress code for the ball is “up” but the the James Theatre Dungog on Saturday up, enjoy a show, have a light supper, organisers are realistic and are expecting 16 November. and dance the night away.” the full range, and that includes the masks. “I expect masks that are “Unfortunately,” according to something you’ve copied off the internet Michelangelo, “the people round here and cut out, and others that are just are often not so Italian, so we will have mind-blowing,” says Jane, who recently to teach everyone the essentials of held a mask-making workshop. “And romance ourselves: dancing, seduction,

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

Winter Trading Hours Mon – Tues Wed – Thur Friday Sat – Sun

Shop 7 am – 5 pm 7 am – 7 pm 7 am – 8 pm 7 am – 7 pm

Take Away 8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 7 pm 8.30 am – 8 pm 8.30 am – 7 pm

Cafe’ 8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 4 pm 8.30 am – 4 pm 8.30 am – 4 pm

Last pizza orders 30 minutes before closing time, grill and fry orders 15 minutes before closing time.

If on the night trade warrants, closing times will be extended

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

DVD Releases available in November

• MAN OF STEEL • WOLVERINE • PACIFIC RIM • THIS IS THE END • • MONSTERS UNIVERSITY • AFTER EARTH • THE CONJURING • THE WAY WAY BACK • • BEFORE MIDNIGHT • BEHIND THE CANDELABRA • THE LOOK OF LOVE • • ALMOST CHRISTMAS • NATIVITY 2 • STUCK IN LOVE • PARKLAND • PEEPLES • • BLOODY HOMECOMING • A COMMON MAN • SOMEDAY • CHILLY CHRISTMAS •

G resford News • NEWS The

ART

The NIGHTMARES Exhibition’s official opening was attended by a huge crowd of artists and art lovers. Michael Winchester gave a captivating and thrilling performance to open the show and our Hunter Valley artists were well represented by art works from Christine Pike, Katherine Sullivan, Judy Henry, Dawn Thompson, Laura Jefferson and Eric & Robyn Werkhoven.

Michael Winchester performing

This is the third exhibition curated by Eric & Robyn Werkhoven for Newcastle Art Space Gallery. In 2011 “Preparation For the Final Journey”- exhibition, artists created their personal receptacles to carry them into the hereafter or a conceptual work relating to death. In 2012 “A Fine Line Between Pleasure & Pain” revealed many edgy & outré artworks & now the present show – NIGHTMARES. Eric and Robyn’s aim is to specifically create an exhibition theme that is “cutting edge”, a taboo subject and provocative.

We want to challenge the artists and viewers to step outside of their comfort zone, and delve into the follies & foibles of the human psyche.

Christine Pike with her painting

Next year another provocative themed exhibition is planned – BLOOD, to be

November 2013, p 11

held at Newcastle Art Space Gallery 10-27 July, mark this date on your calendar.

ART NEWS: Studio La Primitive ARTS ZINE was launched on the 1st October and is now online at www.issuu.com. It has been received with enthusiastic interest by artists and art lovers state wide. The Zine includes artists interviews, exhibitions, art related articles, essays and poetry and features many of the Hunter Valley artists and writers.

Contact Robyn if you would like to be in ARTS ZINE. Deadline for Dec. ARTS ZINE is 15th November. Direct link: www. issuu.com/robynwerkhoven/docs/arts_ zine_issue_2_nov_2013

Shiloh Art Studio Christmas Exhibition Paintings, works on paper, watercolour, etching, encaustic, handcrafted books, woodwork, jewellery and unique gifts by Bernie Meyers, Darrell Meyers & Dawn Thompson. Sat 30 Nov & Sun 1 Dec 10am – 4pm, 303 Dungog Rd, Martins Creek (near Paterson) Contact 4938 8142, shilohartstudio@gmail.com, www. berniemeyers.com Art News: Robyn Werkhoven 49389 572 or email: werkhovenr@bigpond.com

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G resford News •

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November 2013, p 12

Paterson Allyn Garden Group

common problem. Hydrangeas are showing signs of stress and sap sucking crawlers (scale) are turning some leaves a silvery hue. This scale can be treated with white oil. Longicorn larvae is attacking a lot of stressed trees at the moment and the larvae likes to start at ground level.

Evidence of attack can also be seen along branches as well. You will see sawdust and round borer holes. The larvae chew PAGG members at Bolwarra House Bob Cameron, Janie Chandler, Paula Cameron at the cambium layer under the bark to Paula and Bob Cameron have owned Bolwarra is secluded and peaceful and get some nutrients and stressed shrubs quite obviously loved by the Camerons.

Bolwarra House for 20 years. “Our and trees can be ring barked. I have a few Passion” Bob says smiling. The original Eucalyptus Salignas (Sydney Bluegums) Almost 40 of our garden club members home was built on 2000 acres in 1836. A feel very privileged to have been able to that this has happened to. There is no magnificent Georgian structure of three useful chemical control. The tree or shrub wander and talk to Bob for two hours. stories but sadly over time the original He is passionate about the history of his needs to be watered and fertilised. I home has been changed dramatically. In thought hares were clawing at the bark of home and equally passionate about the 1856 the Dixons built a Victorian Villa my trees so I carefully constructed wire lovely old trees, the walk down to the which incorporated some of the original guards around them. That was a waste of river through the cottonwoods and the house and in 1887 Mr Pender worked on time and money! secluded courtyards that grace the sides the plans for the next stage of Bolwarra. of the home.

Our next meeting will be a question and The year 1919 saw two stories of the original home removed by Mr Pender Whilst at Bolwarra House we had time to answer chat and a wander around my Junior and the materials were used in discuss a few problems that are evident in garden just out of Gresford. Our two horticulturists Penny Kater and Peter another extension. Now Bolwarra sits on our gardens at the moment. We have Brecknock will be able to answer our 10acres and skirts the Hunter River. The become experts at mulching our plants walk in to the house from the road is and trees but with these extreme weather questions. If you would like to join us long and serene. The magnolia tree is conditions we have to be careful that the on Tuesday 19th November at 10am, majestic in size and stature and is over mulch is not tightly packed and stopping please contact me on 4938 9189. water from reaching the roots. This is a 100 years old. This special part of Janie Chandler

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G resford News •

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November 2013, p 13

Bull’s Horns Ball a Wild West Success The ball, an initiative of Gresford Public School P&C Association, transformed Gresford Bowling Club into a saloon with the ultimate aim of raising enough funds to replace some of the computers in the classrooms at Gresford Public School.

The exclusive 200 Club, only available to school families and guests at the ball, raised $1000 and the prize, a beautifully hand-crafted roo hide whip by Si Davey, was won by a very excited Rod Carusi on number 100.

“Our aim was to raise $6000 but, thanks to the generosity of everyone on the night, our final tally has reached just over $9000.” P&C president Angela Kelehear said. “That’s an incredible effort from everyone involved – the P&C, the school families who bought and sold raffle tickets, the sponsors who so generously donated items for prizes and the auction, and those who turned up on the night and dug deep for our little school.”

School principal Pauline Mitchell was called on to draw the major raffle. The winners were: First prize (Apple iPad), Andrew Batcheldor; Second prize (LG television), Cath Hines; Third prize (Jumbuck barbecue), Kirby Armstrong; and Fourth prize (dinner at Lizotte’s), Emilie Butcher.

The auction created plenty of interest with the 15 items going under the hammer of auctioneer Rodney McDonald fetching a combined total of $3600.

There was keen interest in a children’s bike donated by Drift Bikes at Kotara ($320) and a two-night stay at Heritage Retreat at Allynbrook ($500) but the top bids on the night were for two nights’ accommodation at Shoal Bay Resort ($650) and a signed and framed Newcastle Jets jersey ($600).

The best-dressed guests, as decided by a secret judge, were Mexican Jason Locke who won an Aird’s of Lochinvar voucher and Pocahontas Laura Wilson who picked up a voucher to Dusk Spa & Beauty.

Craig and Tracy Hickey, of Paxton, joined the night.

“The P&C members, who worked tirelessly on organising the ball, are so grateful to everyone who played a part in making it a success,” Angela said.

“The biannual fundraising initiative is so important to our school, and every one of the students, and it’s amazing to see how the community comes out to support it time after time.”

Sisters Nikki Jupp and Angela Kelehear turned out to support the school.

Graeme Ferguson

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G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 14

Vacy Shows Its Country Heart

by Penny Evans

Waiting finalists with the judge Jim Reidy

where 40 horses and riders competed over two rounds and a top 12 final for more than $3,000 worth of prizes. In the end it was the previous winner Andrew Schulz from Berry Park who again came out on top, with a big score of 75 in the The much needed funds will be put final on a mare named Delta’s Oak, towards buying new reading resources owned by Clarencetown’s Forest for the school, with an extra cheque Saunders and Kim Tahu that has also being sent to the chopper. Funds were previously won the event. Andrew not also raised for the local Playgroup and only cleaned up the buckle for first nearby Paterson Preschool. place, but came in second as well on his Although the mercury rose well above 30 family’s stallion Spin ‘n’ Gold. Third place went to Aaron Hausfeld from degrees, the real heat was in the arena The small community of Vacy came out in force on Saturday for the sixth annual Charity Snafflebit, raising more than $6,000 for the local primary school and the Hunter region Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Glendonbrook on Kwatchey. It was a closely contested final, with just four points separating the top eight riders.

The day was a great success thanks mostly to the hard work of the many parents and community members involved, but also due to the many sponsors. More than 30 businesses from across the valley provided donations and goods. There was great entertainment for the whole family, from a jumping castle through to some great country music from Rob Wilson at

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G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 15

Sixth Annual Charity Snafflebit

Sack race fun

Josh Evans on Smarty

lunch. And of course the catering was at its country best, with the famous lamb and gravy rolls, known as the ‘Vacy Mongrel’ selling out yet again.

The event could not proceed without the generous donation of cattle, with hundreds of head loaned by Gordon and Barbara Fraser from the Cardoness Pastoral Company, the Jones family of ‘Treyvallen’ at Gresford, and the Evans family. Riders drove 140 head of the Jones family cattle 17 kilometres along winding bush roads on Friday, to help save on trucking costs (see page 16). In a special touch, several members of the Paterson River Pony Club took part in the drive, being rewarded for their hard work with a sausage sizzle at the end of the day.

Organisers are already looking forward to next year, with hopes the event can continue to showcase the town’s renowned country hospitality and some great horse and rider action, while raising some much needed funds at the same time.

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G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 16

Droving To Vacy For The Cause

There was certainly movement at the farm when the crack horsemen and women gathered to drive the cattle down to Vacy village. The ride was under the control and directions of “The Masters of the Horse” Brad Brooker, himself a local Vacy school graduate and having a fearsome reputation amongst his peers in the horse fraternity, and Australian Mounted Games Horseman representitive Shaun Thompson. They had recruited some of the best from the local Paterson River Pony Club together with excellent district horseman and to make it even more interesting they had recruited some “City Slickers” from Sydney giving them a compliment of 19 riders to host the young cattle the 17 km from farm to farm. The long established practice of droving was reserected again where Gresford and Vacy Locals teamed up enabling this long tradition to give the young riders the skills needed to move cattle thus passing on this valuable skill.

by Darren Jones

Riders mounted ready for the ride.

The day was a huge success and shows how a small community is able to bond with a common goal ie serving their fellow Australian and raising money for a small but important local school.

Pony Club girls doing a great job in the timber with the cattle.

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G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 17

2013 Annual YOTS Auction in Gresford The 2013 annual charity auction for YOTS (Youth off the Streets) charity was held on October 12 in the Gresford School of Arts hall.

Catering was done by the Gresford Amateur Performing Society. Denise Sellens and the GAPS crew provided wonderful food and fantastic professional service.

No-one of the over 100 strong crowd went hungry, and compliments came thick and fast!

Local artists, James Casey and Jane Hicks very generously donated a beautiful oil painting each. As with previous years, these items generated very lively bidding. Mr Eddie Hunt of the Morpeth Men’s Shed also donated an eagerly sought after Red Gum Burl Bowl.

Maintaining his highly regarded reputation, Mr Brian Burke of Maitland was a most efficient and persuasive

auctioneer; 49 of 50 lots selling under his hammer!

As with all good events, our raffles were well supported, contributing to the over $15000 we raised for this most deserving charity.

The organising Committee extends thanks to everyone who participated in and contributed to this very successful night. We gratefully acknowledge the cash donation and the use of the cool room by Judy and Lloyd Grant of Gresford and GAPS as well as the

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recurring generous donations and assistance from the following businesses and individuals; Maitland Mutual Building Society, Hunter Family Jewellers, Maitland Framing Gallery, East Maitland Golf Club, Australian Rugby Union, Scullywags, John and Maureen Pryde, Sharon Bogan, Des Bailey and Nicole Hamilton.

We look forward to 2014 and another great event. Donations of works by local artists and artisans are always most welcome. See you all in 2014!

G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 18

New recycling bins available for local events from general waste at the source, enabling a reduction of waste materials that are disposed of to landfill.

Postie Bike Challenge Special Delivery

Council’s Manager of Environmental services Paul Minett said, “The grant funding is appreciated and will assist the Council to continually improve its waste diversion rate.” “For many people, the barrier to recycling when they are out and about is simply due to a lack of recycling bins in public places”, says Keep Australia Beautiful NSW CEO, David Imrie.

“When you consider that recycling 1 tonne of glass saves 1.1 tonnes of raw materials Bob Baldwin- Member for Paterson and Paul Minett- and 30% energy use, and recycling one Manager Environmental Services Dungog Council plastic drink bottle saves enough energy to with garbage bins displaying bin caps that promote the separation of waste from recyclables power a computer for 25 minutes, it’s clear at Special events. we need the right infrastructure in place to assist people with recycling”, he added.

Dungog Council has been awarded a $2179 Keep Australia Beautiful Beverage Since the community grants program Container Recycling Grant to assist in started, over $1.24 million has been the collection of recyclables at special distributed to over 190 projects, assisting events. The grant will enable the almost 3 million people to recycle their purchase of twenty high top bin caps, bottles and cans in public places. Last coloured red and yellow, to be placed year’s program resulted in 274 tonnes of over garbage receptacles at special events beverage containers being recovered and held in Dungog Shire. These will around 1380 new recycling bins being encourage patrons to separate recyclables installed in public places nationally.

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Riders across the Hunter are preparing for the Cystic Fibrosis Postie Bike Challenge next May. “Plenty of kicks in this ride!” says Stephen Hill as he drops off one of a load of five postie bikes at the Hotel Beatty.

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G resford News •

The

Ted’s Gresford News Audio Service Gets Thumbs Up

and produces a quality product from his home, using modern software technology. The discs are carried anywhere in NSW free of charge by Australia Post and the mailing pouches are returnable to him similarly free of postal charges. Although no longer Ted Baker, father of local Mary Horn, is associated with Vision Australia, he is on providing a free service to make the good terms with the organisation who Gresford News available to anyone with a have given him much help and reading difficulty. Chris Sellens explains: encouragement.

“I receive the audio version approximately one week after publishing. “It has been a pleasure to receive the Gresford News on a CD”, Chris The disc is in MP3 format, which many continued. “I don’t have to ask Neville modern CD and most modern DVD players can access. The audio is designed what is going on in Gresford any more, because I can now hear for myself. so that I can manage it myself. There is Thank you so much Ted.” an index on track 2 of the audio which lists the track number for each article, so If you know someone with vision I can go back to articles of interest with impairment who would like to keep up ease. I met Ted recently when he visited with what’s happening (even if they no me and he showed me how to do this longer live in the district) please contact and I am now getting used to my player them and ask them if they would be and can manage it for myself.” interested in receiving an audio version of the Gresford News, then contact Ted read for many years for the Royal Gresford Community Group, via Brian Blind Society (now Vision Australia) in their talking book program. When Vision Doherty on 0412 372 687. The service is Australia changed to CD media he resign absolutely free, there is no postage cost (thanks Australia Post) and Ted is a because he didn’t have the CD production equipment. But he has it now volunteer and makes no charge.

The first recipient of the Gresford News in audio format, Chris Sellens, is delighted with the service. “What a wonderful gift to have a voice like Ted Baker’s.” Chris remarked “He is a pleasure to listen to.”

November 2013, p 19

Training for Employment in the Community Services Sector

Would you like to work in the community services sector or do you already work in community services and want to get the right qualification?

Dungog Community College and BCA National are looking for students for a Diploma of Community Services to be taught in Dungog starting in December and running throughout 2014.

If you’re interested in being: a case worker, support facilitator, family support worker, pastoral care counsellor or manager, or many other roles in the field, this course might be just the right one for you. The course also qualifies for VET Fee Help, which means no payment need be made now. Find out more and get an information pack by visiting the website www. dungogcommunitycollege.org.au or phone 4992 1133 and ask for Dungog Community College. There is an information night coming up in mid November so please contact us to put your name on the list.

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G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 20

q Gresford District Historical Society r “Johnny”

Travelling salesmen were once commonplace in the country back when Australia prided itself on “riding on the sheep’s back”. The country then was relatively wealthy and the travelling salesman provided something of a service by supplying a range of items to country families. At that time the only other supply options were mail order or an often inconvenient and tiring trip to the nearest town. These days we rarely see travelling salesmen - and a good thing some say, although those we do see tend to be selling sanctity!

shows him with his wagon (and customer) at Cawarra (Gresford) around 1916. After Many of the earlier salesmen were hawkers who would carry a range of non WW2 the more ready availability of motor perishable items in a wagon - essentially a transport and the relative wealth of the mini travelling department store. They country with timber and dairying were often of Indian or Lebanese origin industries in our valleys saw a proliferation and of course they extracted a pricing of these salesmen selling everything from premium for their trouble. Some weren’t “cure all” ointment to saucepans, always totally scrupulous but the encyclopaedias to vacuum cleaners. These successful ones intuitively knew that just travellers were a hardy bunch and not one unhappy customer would prejudice only did they have to contend with the any return business in the area forever. roads, flies, heat and dogs - they were up against a country dweller with an inbuilt One well known Indian hawker in our aversion to being “sold”. It took a area was “Ramakhan” and the photo

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Hawker at Cawarra 1916

particularly shrewd and enterprising salesman to talk his “way in” and actually get them to part with their cash. Finding a “way in” was the key and some used the fact that they were representatives of large Sydney firms. Others would use a “local” to provide an introduction to the neighbours while others were sufficiently skilled to spot buying signals from one or other of husband or wife and use this to lead the decision maker into making an expensive purchase.

On occasion (as a child) I was often surprised when accompanying my

G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 21

q “Our Stories” Feature r parents to a rather modest house to see on proud display a particularly expensive set of new encyclopaedias or a set of “Rena ware” stainless saucepans or even an electric organ – all thanks to a most accomplished salesman. My own father who considered himself rather immune to the blandishments of salesmen was once sold a full tea chest of black tea on the basis of economy and quality. When it arrived it was discovered to be an exceptionally strong brew suitable only for those who enjoyed having their spoons stand up in their tea cups or in need of a “drawing poultice” for a nasty splinter. Realising that he had a several lifetimes supply of the stuff he tried to foist it off on unsuspecting neighbours and relatives- but with little success.

everyone and it seemed very comforting (and indeed fitting) that the man who had sold clothes to my father and to me as a boy was now selling jeans to my son and a hat to my wife.

John Sissian at Bill & Dulcie Eveleighs

(5/2/1940). He had also served in the AIF during WW2. As a salesman he was a natural who spoke with an easy re-assuring drawl and who appeared as he was – an honest man who sold good quality linen & men’s and boy’s clothing at a reasonable price. No one in the district could pronounce “Sissian” and it didn’t sound right anyway - so he was known as Johnny Sassan and then almost universally as “Johnny”.

He was a short portly man always well turned out with shiny black shoes a white shirt and tie all topped off with a short brimmed Trilby hat. He quickly gained an excellent reputation and indeed became an extended part of Rawleigh’s ointments many families and over the decades was trusted with all manner of confidences.

Many readers would remember the The photo shows Johnny with his Rawleigh’s man. Rawleighs was a well known brand and they produced a cure all trademark “big car” (in this case a Ford Customline) after at an overnight stay at medicated ointment, (something like Vicks) which was labelled as being “suitable Eveleigh’s on the Upper Paterson. for man or beast”. The range of suitable After an absence of many months during beasts was not specified but on this basis it which he was away travelling in other was considered “suitable for kids” and the regions or in Sydney at his suppliers he stuff was liberally applied to all manner of would suddenly appear to ask about the bumps, boils and bruises. It was especially health and welfare of all the family favoured for colds and kids’ chests would members. It was as if he had never been be plastered with this greasy compound away and then after recalling your sizes until they realised they needed to show and preferences he would haul from his signs of recovery. Those who were hooked large car cases carrying trousers and shirts on the product developed other uses and to fit. Very few had to concern themselves one man who worked at the Allynbrook about their sizes for Johnny appeared to sawmill would not come to work without carry everyone’s measurements in his it and the companion product, “Rawleighs head. If they didn’t fit- well that was no Ready Relief”- an aromatic compound problem - “we will exchange them next based on eucalyptus oil . He maintained time I’m around!” As a bachelor he was that the ointment when applied to his always aware that he occupied a trusted lunch bag kept the ants away and when position and carried only linen and men’s the noise of the saws gave him a headache and boy’s clothing. He would never enter a generous dab on the inner hat band gave the house unless the man of the house “relief”. When outside, he would apply was there and he never carried gossip.

“Ready Relief” to the hat to keep off the This continued for almost four decades bush flies. Aerogard of course hadn’t been until Johnny decided to retire from invented! travelling and make Gresford his home.

Easily the most successful and most He bought the “doctors” house almost enduring of all these travelling salesmen across the road from St Helens and opened was John Sissian. John had come from a men’s wear shop across the road from Lebanon as a child in the mid 1920’s. His the bank. At the time I was working in family had settled around Armidale and Sydney and on my trips home I would call he had become a naturalised Australian at Johnny’s for clothes. As always he knew

John Sission advertisment

Johnny remained a stalwart member of the community attending the various functions, shows, and school concerts and appeared to be on the best of terms with everyone. It always surprised me that we knew so little of the man who knew so much about us. He would have been (over three generations) not just aware of our measurements, but also very aware of our social and financial circumstances - and yet he was always discrete. It isn’t generally known that many families often relied on Johnny’s credit when cash was tight and his big Ford was often used to ferry people who had transport difficulties to medical appointments.

It seems to me to be very befitting that the man who clothed us, was our friend over four decades and who adopted our town in his retirement chose to be interred here in St Helen’s cemetery in 2000. He was aged 86.

Please keep those stories coming because it is YOUR stories of characters, identities and events that add the human factor to our history. The “bounty” for every story we publish in the Gresford News is now $50. So, there is a definite incentive to send your story in to the Gresford District Historical Society Inc., P.O. Box 96 East Gresford.

Please do not send them to the editor of the Gresford News.

Note, our next meeting is on Monday, 11 Nov at 10:30am in the RSL rooms.

G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 22

Gresford Tennis Association With a blast of summer type weather upon us, tennis is back in action. Since the last edition things have changed with the junior tennis coaching. After about 8-9 years of volunteer coaching Ken has decided that due to work commitments and knee problems, it was time to hand over to a professional coach for the juniors. We will still continue with tennis for senior primary and high school students after coaching from 6.15 to 7.30pm on Friday afternoons ably assisting by Christine Smith.

The new coaches are Jeff Eaton and his son, Shaun from Maitland Tennis Centre. They are coaching juniors 5 – 12+ years over 2 session on Friday afternoons from 4 – 6pm.

Contact details are 4934 5016 or 0412 882 055. Further details will be available in next months edition of news – hopefully including some holiday tennis clinics.

Mixed pairs competition on Tuesday nights has commenced with a good roll up of players. It is not too late to join in! Play starts at 7.30pm with a BBQ available. Finally ladies social tennis has also commenced on Tuesday mornings from 9.30 – 11am. If you have some spare time, come along and give it a go – especially if you would like some exercise and fun.

Contact numbers for further information on any of the above are 4938 9199, Ken 0427 389 199 or Karen 0438 389 199.

Kind regards, The ACE

Dungog

3 Village Art Festival

This is a unique art festival encompassing the three historic villages of Paterson, Vacy and Gresford in the beautiful Hunter Valley. The festival will combine with an art trail leading from village to village and visiting private galleries and studios along the way. There will be a major Aboriginal Art Exhibition run by the Wanaruah people with interactive displays by local artist.

The opening ceremony will be held at the Tocal Agriculture College with the welcoming by the Wanaruah Elder and a Smoking Ceremony followed by traditional Aboriginal dancing and entertainment. This will be in harmony with local entertainers bringing our two cultures together to make a fantastic opening to an exciting festival.

We are inviting all local artist to submit an “Expression of Interest” in wanting to show their art – photography – sculpture – glass – pottery and woodwork. The festival will be held over two weekends and during one week. The middle week will be open for our senior citizens, schools and service groups who can visit comfortably without the crowds.

Our Villages have a great array of very talented artist, great hospitality and an exciting history that we want to put on display and showcase to art lovers and visitors to our special valley so they can share in an experience that we enjoy every day.

For all artist who are interested please contact me: Graham Murphy, Mob: 0416 116 009, graham@gabes.com.au We look forward to hearing from you.

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G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 23

GRESFORD CWA NEWS Annual General Meeting Our AGM was held on Thursday, 3rd October and a good roll-up was recorded.

Reports from all our Officers were received, and what a busy year has been had! Our Treasurer reported that another successful year financially, with a major expense being that of renewing the dilapidated flooring in the rooms. Our donations to charities were enabled by our catering efforts and stalls at the Annual Gresford Show, International Day in July, Billy Cart Derby etc.

September School holiday workshops were held again this year, where we had a good ‘roll up’ for the Card Making and cooking days when children took home the fruits of their labours!

We mourned the loss of our dear Member, Sylvia Joliffe, who contributed so much, especially with her beautiful knitting for children. She was a great inspiration to us all.

Retiring President Margaret Dent thanked everyone for their enthusiasm and hard work, and declared all positions vacant. Election of Officers for the coming year resulted in: President: Robyn Thornton, Vice

BR

Presidents Jill Hancock, Deirdre Lawrence, Valarie Smith, Secretary: Marie Loveridge, Assistant Secretary, Valarie Smith, Treasurer: Judy Daly, Ag/ Environment and Archivist: Lyn Tunin, Cultural: Jan Godwin, Handicraft: Betty Kelehear, Cooking: Dorothy Hilliard, Publicity Officer Fiona Thomas/ Margaret Dent, International: Jan Godwin, Patrons: Rita Chick, Deirdre Lawrence and Verna Wells. We wish them well for the coming year.

Cookery Book Our new Cookery Book, produced by Jill Hancock, contains many superb recipes by members, their families and local sponsors to whom we thank. Get one while you can - available at all good stores in Gresford!!

Book Club meets 2nd Saturday in the

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month at 3pm - free choice for November. Our text for October was Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel, which stimulated much discussion on the ‘opulent brutal world of the Tudors to bloody, glittering life. It is the backfrop to the rise and rise of Thomas Cromwell: lowborn boy, charmer, bully, master of deadly intrigue, and, finally, most powerful of Henry V111’s courtiers.”

Wow! November meeting will also discuss our Christmas celebrations.

Cultural Report Report for this month The history of the shopping trolley invented in 1937 by Sylvan N. Goldman of Oklahoma, which did not make him

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Jan’s Saying For The Month “ Forgiveness and letting go are steps on our road back to Happiness”.

Our Branch looks forward to another successful and innovative year. ALL WELCOME to join us on the First Thursday each month at 9.30am.

Contact: Hon. Secretary, Marie Loveridge 49389441 for further details.

We extend our deepest sympathy to our valued member Valarie Smith, whose husband Lyndon recently passed away.

Margaret Dent, Publicity Officer, 49317116

G resford News •

The

November 2013, p 24

Book in for the Swim & Survive Program

Fuel availability around Dungog Shire

6 to 16 January 2014, 9am and 1.15pm In January, Sport and Recreation will once again deliver the Royal Life Saving Society’s ‘Swim and Survive’ Program at the Tocal Pool.

The programs are held each weekday for nine consecutive days and lesson time depends on the age group - either 30 or 40 mins.

There are two preschool programs known as ‘Wonder’ and ‘Courage’ as well as one school age program known as ‘Active’. Within each of these programs there are multiple stages that provide a clear progression path. The preschool program caters for children from 18 months to 5 years of age. Classes aim to build water confidence and develop skills through songs, games and fun activities and we require an adult to be in the water with each child for the duration of the lesson.

The schoolage program targets children 5 to 12 years and caters for all ability groups from water confidence to learn to swim, through to stroke correction (Active levels 1 to 3).

Instructors employed in the program are holders of the national accreditation of Austswim or equivalent.

For program enquiries contact Adrian Cappellacci on 4926 1633.

There have been a few changes in the operating hours of some businesses that sell fuel, so it is worth reminding visitors and locals that they might need to plan ahead especially on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. There is no LPG gas available in Dungog Shire and there is no fuel available in Clarence Town and no fuel at East Gresford on Sundays.

Dungog Fuel is available at Davey and Olsen (Dowling Street), Dowlings Caltex Service Station (cnr Hooke Street and Scott Avenue), Irwins Fuel and Food (15 Clarence Town Road) and Thompson’s Mitsubishi (23 Hooke Street). Irwins Fuel and Food has the longest trading hours: Monday to Friday – 5 am – 8.30 pm Saturday and Sunday – 6 am – 8.30 pm East Gresford Fuel is available at Stewart Everett Mitsubishi (26 Durham Road) between the following hours: Monday to Friday – 7.30 am – 5 pm Saturday – 7.30 am – 11 am Paterson Fuel is available at Paterson Service Station and River Café (26 King Street) and Stockers and Partridge (38 Paterson Road).

The Service Station has the longest trading hours: Monday to Saturday – 7 am – 6 pm Sunday – 8 am – 5 pm Vacy Fuel is available at Vacy General Store (Gresford Road) between the following hours: Monday – Friday – 7.30 am – 5pm Saturday and Sunday – 8 am – 2 pm

Ivan Skaines Economic Development & Tourism Co-ordinator, Dungog Shire Council

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G resford News •

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November 2013, p 25

Gresford Community Group – AGM & October meeting Highlights from the 2013 AGM President’s report Peter on Martin’s behalf said the year had been quiet although the upgrade of the youth hall was significant, partly as a result of re-locating the community markets. He commended Judy on her management of the markets. The markets’ income was greater at the new site than previously. A considerable amount had been spent on the hall (about $5500), and the question now was the next stage – perhaps developing the kitchen to commercial standard. The News has continued to consolidate its position: there had been more editorial coverage than in 2011-12, and advertising was reasonable but hard to secure. The Community Group had a falling membership; newcomers to Gresford were not being recruited and one of the tasks of the next 12 months was to find additional members.

Election of office-bearers President: Martin Addison; Vice-president: Kel Merriman; Secretary & Public Officer: Fr Stephen Moore; Treasurer: Peter Smith; Membership Officer: Graham Murphy has been appointed to a new position focusing on increasing membership.

October meeting: Community markets’ report The

local efforts. Kel and Graham to produce and distribute a petition for completion at local retailers.

ANZAC 2015 grant application Fr Stephen requested the Community Group apply for a federal grant, seconded Graham.

Art trail funding Graham reported the

application was premature and had been markets went smoothly and the feedback deferred for the time being. was very positive. Temporary fence to be erected for the markets only. Graham Dungog Shire Council business paper urged the resolution of the hall Status of Cross Keys Road crossing. management review.

Gresford District Historical Society Rink steel sale The Park Trust offer to buy In-principle support given to a request the steel was not accepted. Peter spoke in favour of a resolution. Robert Richardson said the offer could be reviewed.

for an extension to the TD Hall for a permanent home for historical items and as a multi-purpose venue.

Mobile phone coverage The issue of

Christmas Carols General support

coverage is especially relevant in Paterson and Paterson Pssst should be Committee reports GAPS – Kel outlined contacted to see if there can be a the success of GAPS events in the year, combined approach. The survey to be especially the Christmas carols enabling put on the Gresford website. Robert said it to buy two lightweight wheelchairs for Bob Baldwin MHR was highlighting the use at nominal cost in the community. It area’s telecommunications’ deficiencies had also made donations to the school to the Minister for Communications; and the School of Arts Hall. agreed letter be sent to him pointing out

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given to the idea of GAPS’ interest in re-locating to the TD Hall and surrounds.

Dump developments Robert spoke of the status of the former Gresford dump and the building recently erected on the site. Secretary to write to Dungog Shire Council to establish remediation status of the location.

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G resford News •

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November 2013, p 26

Copper Deficiency Research As part of an Honours project, run through the School of Animal and Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, the university is conducting a study into current strategies used to treat and prevent copper deficiency in beef cattle.

The understanding gained from the gathered information hopes to assess the efficacy of management and drive current treatment in a more strategic direction.

If you would like to participate please follow the link below and complete the online questionnaire which is anticipated to take 10 minutes to complete. The link is: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/DJ8BGLS By completing the questionnaire you are agreeing to freely volunteer to participate in the project. Any information or personal details gathered in the course of this research are confidential and no identifying information will be used or published without your written permission. informatin provided be Digby Rayward District Veterinarian VPB 1656 MidCoast Livestock Health and Pest Authority

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 October 2013 crossword answers

Gresford News November Crossword

G resford News •

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November 2013, p 27