Gresford News September 2015

resford News G

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News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys September 2015

Gresford School children with Jan Godwin International Officer.

Robbie Thornton with guest speaker Chris Iacona

Gresford CWA International Day This year the CWA International Day focus was on Italy. St Anne's Church Hall accommodated 80 guests from the local community and across the Hunter region. Guest speakers were Chris Iacona (Bunna Bunoo olives) and author Gasbrielle Conti talking about their experiences coming from Italy and becoming Australians.

Read more inside

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

The Gresford News Community Diary Mon Thurs

7 Sep FREE Women's health screening check, Williams Valley Pharmacy, Dungog, 10.00–2.00pm 10 Sep Tourism Industry Workshop, Gresford School of Arts, 6.00pm

Sun

13 Sep Riverbank Restoration Field Day - Local Land Services, Pound Crossing Rd, 9.30am

Tues

15 Sep Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Sat

19 Sep 'Grumpy Old Men' live music, Camyr Allyn Winery, 1.00pm

Sat

19 Sep Small animal management with permaculture workshop, Limestone Permaculture Garden, Stroud Road

Sun

20 Sep Gresford markets - put on by the Gresford District Historical Society, grounds of the Hotel Beatty, 9.00am

Sun

20 Sep Vacy Village Country Carnival

Sat

17 Oct

Gresford Public School P&C Association biennial fundraising ball, Las Vegas theme, Gresford School of Arts

Sat

17 Oct

Vacy Blues & Roots Festival, The Farmers Hotel, Vacy

Thurs-Sun 22-25 Oct

Dungog Festival

Sat

24 Oct

Youth off the Streets charity dinner and auction

Thurs

29 Oct

One-day Soils seminar – co-organised by Gresford District Landcare Group, Singleton, 8.30am

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

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, 9.00am, 4934 6725

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, 10.00am

Every Sunday

The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am

To contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au or call Brian Doherty on 0412 372 687 or Jane Richens on 0425 339 856. Postal Address: PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311. Deadline for stories and ads 20th of the month.

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.

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G resford News • September

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2015, p 4

Tourism Industry Workshop If you are in the tourism industry or a related industry, or simply very interested in the tourism future of the Shire, we want your input at a Tourism Strategy Workshop.

A working group of the Dungog Shire's Tourism Committee, in conjunction with the Dungog and District Chamber of Commerce are determined to improve the way we handle our tourism, but it needs the input and buy-in of the entire tourism community.

We are inviting you to attend a

Tourism Industry Workshop The objectives of the industry workshop are to: • Provide a briefing on the Tourism Strategic Business Plan currently being developed.

• Provide an opportunity for participation into the development of the plan's strategies.

Thursday September 10th, 6pm - 9pm, Gresford School of Arts Hall A light supper will be served.

To know how many to cater for please indicate your attendance to Ivan Skaines at ivanS@dungog.nsw.gov.au or on 4995 7777 This is important for the future of our shire, and we look forward to your participation and input.

New Roadside Markers Dungog Council has commenced the installation of distinctive orange posts at over 130 environmentally significant roadside sites in Dungog Shire. The posts are part of Council’s Roadside Environment Management Strategy and mark roadsides that have been listed as having special environmental significance.

The markers display colour coded stickers which indicate why the area is considered significant so that Council operational staff and others working in the road reserves can determine if any special measures need to be taken in conducting their work.

The roadside environmental marker system has become common practice for Councils and is promoted by the NSW Roadside Environment Committee, a NSW Government established body which is supported by the Roads and Maritime Services.

The existence of roadside markers has assisted in reducing unnecessary damage to significant roadside environments by civil works and maintenance of these areas. Residents should be aware that the posts indicate that the roadside is considered to have significance in relation to the existence of flora, fauna habitat or the presence of weeds.

The markers do not have any special implications for the land adjoining the road reserve but if any land owners have enquiries about them they may contact Council to clarify The installation of the marker posts at all listed significant sites is expected to be completed by the end of August.

Gresford News Notices New Anglican Service Times

Community Health reunion

40 year reunion of Community Health in the Lower Hunter. All people who In October and November the Parish have worked in the community health will be trialling new service times. There services in Maitland, Cessnock, Kurri, will be a service every Sunday at 8.30am Singleton, Dungog and Raymond at St Paul's Paterson and 10.30am at St Terrace between 1975 and 2015 are Anne's Gresford. On the 4th Sunday, invited to a 40 year reunion on Saturday there will be a Eucharist at St Mary on 24 October 2015 at East Maitland Allyn at 12.30pm followed by a bring Bowling Club, East Maitland, NSW and share lunch. On the 5th Sunday in 2323. Contact: chreunion@yahoo.com.

November, there will be one Eucharist au or phone Kel on 0417280851 Service in the Parish (time to be Facebook: Lower Hunter Community announced) and a meeting afterwards Health Remember for all Parishioners to review the trial period.

New Dry Cleaning Service Available

FREE Womens Health Screening Check

Monday 7th September 10am – 2pm Williams Valley Pharmacy The Gresford General Store will be 182 Dowling St Dungog providing a drop off and pick up point Health Screening Check for Women's for dry cleaning on a weekly basis. Items Health Week 7 – 11 September FREE dropped off before Tuesday will be health check by a university-qualified available for collection on Wednesday Dietitian. The health check includes: morning of the following week. having your weight, body mass index and waist circumference calculated, find out if your at risk of diabetes and learn more about local health services available to the community.

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

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

Gresford Market presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.

Sunday 20 Sept 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 WANTED Quiet, reliable, mature horse for teenage girl who has a mild physical disability. Needs to be sure footed for steeper country and used to cattle work 14-15 hands - happy to pay what is required for the right horse.

Please phone 0407 915 320

Advertise in the GRESFORD NEWS CLASSIFIEDS Classified Ad Rates are: Standard line listing $2.50 a line or $10 for 5 lines

Dungog Festival

Thurs to Sun 22 – 25 October Preparations are well under way in Dungog Festival world. We are very excited to announce that our Festival Lounge will officially open on Thursday, September 3. As last year it will be located in the former hardware store at 224 Dowling Street.

Visit www.dungogfestival.com.au to find out what is on offer or to volunteer at this year's festival.

Sunday 20th Sept 9am-3pm

Small Dog Races Stalls Galore Loads of Entertainment for All Thanks to all our sponsors & supporters

Bunna Bunoo Olive Grove Paterson Butchery | Paterson Service Station R I Advise | Cowlicks Hair Studio East Maitland Vet | Paterson Chemist Vacy Public School | Farmers Warehouse Courthouse Hotel

G resford News • September

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2015, p 6

Fit for the Future Conversation In the last week of August community engagement sessions were held at Paterson, Gresford, Dungog and Clarence Town to discuss Dungog Shire Council’s strategies for the Fit for the Future program.

Background The Fit for the Future (FFTF) program commenced four years ago with the recognition from all local government areas across the State that for councils to become strong and sustainable, both the NSW Government and the local government sector must be prepared to consider new ways of working and new structural arrangements. The FFTF program brings these changes together.

Celebrate Soil

Maitland City Council was not supportive of a merger with Dungog Shire Council.

Dungog Council, at an Extraordinary Meeting 29th June 2015, passed a motion that Dungog Shire Council not merge with Maitland City Council but would submit the Council Improvement Proposal to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) as set out in the report by Morrison Low. The Merger Business Case and the Dungog Shire Improvement Plan can be found at http:// www.dungog.nsw.gov.au/news/fit-future.

Where to from here?

IPART was able to request additional information from Councils until the end of August and by October 2015 The Local Government Independent IPART will provide its decision on Fit for Review Panel suggested in its 2013 the Future to the Minister for Local report that Dungog Shire Council merge Government. Council will keep the with Maitland City Council. Dungog Dungog Shire community updated Council passed a motion that Dungog about the outcome of the decision as Shire Council approach Maitland City soon as they become available.

Council to determine what a merger For more information about the Fit for would mean to both councils, both the Future process please contact your councils determined that we engage local Councillor, contact details are also advisors, Morrison Low to investigate available on Council’s website www. and advise the possibility of a merger dungog.nsw.gov.au and alternatives. The merger business case highlighted a negative outcome for Update from Dungog Shire Council a merger between the two Councils.

Gresford District Landcare Group is working with Singleton Shire Landcare Network to organise a one-day soil seminar to celebrate 2015 The International Year of Soils. The seminar will highlight the fundamental importance of soils to life: Building better knowledge and understanding of our soils, and helping land managers to improve soil health. The event will be opened by Major General Michael Jeffery who is the Australian Soils Advocate.

Thursday October 29th, 2015, 8.30am to 4.30pm, Northern Agricultural Association, NAA Pavilion, Bathurst Street, Singleton $15 pp. For Registration please go to: www.stickytickets.com.au/28745 Please book before October 22nd Topics include: • The condition of our Hunter Valley soils • The biology of soils • Soil carbon cycling and sequestration in pasture soils • Nitrogen cycling and deficiency • Alternative fertilisers for phosphorus and other nutrients • Rebuilding soils on mine sites • Managing soil carbon

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 NEW – Dry Cleaning service now available - ask Karin for details

DVD Releases – September • MAD MAX: FURY ROAD • SAN ANDREAS • AVENGERS: AGE OF VOLTRON • ENTOURAGE • • EX_MACHINA • THE AGE OF ADELINE • SHAUN THE SHEEP • UNFRIENDED • BIG GAME • • CHILD 44 • A ROYAL NIGHT OUT • BOOK OF LIFE • BARELY LETHAL • TIGER HOUSE • • THE LAST KEEPERS • THE THORN BIRDS • DARK HOUSE •

G resford News • September

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2015, p 7

Market Day Pet Show Shines The GDHSI Gresford Community Market Day for August 16th was bathed in sunshine. Perfect weather for a pet show competition. Organisers were impressed by the response from pet owners and their pets.

There were dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes: 2 guinea pigs "Chase" and "Paeso", 1 coastal carpet snake "Sandy" and "Pepper" the cat, who decided home was better.

The categories and winners were: Most colourfully presented 1st Nina West and "Oscar" 2nd Jake Edwards and "Sandy" 3rd Maclaine Spinks and "Paeso" 4th Sophie Crampton and "Emmy" Special performance / trick 1st Geoff Brown and "Rusty" 2nd Julie Duffy and "Bindi" 3rd Dorothy Duck and "Tess" 4th Dave Pittman and "Thunda"

7 categories existed to which our Honorary Judges Ms Helen Richardson, Mrs Georgina Richardson and Mr Stewart Everett had a very difficult job of choosing place getters.

All place getters received a coloured ribbon each. First prize winners a trophy each and there were certificates on hand.

Grand Champion "Pet of the Day" was awarded to a beautifully groomed Scottish Terrier "Jimmy" and Andrew Roberts. They received a very nice engraved pewter mug and special certificate. Two lovely bunches of cream flowers with a thank you certificate was handed to our lady judges while Stewart received a very neat metal flask with his certificate. Many thanks to "Generous George" for his ability to choose nice items.

Erin and her two beautiful small donkeys made a guest appearance. Erin spoke informatively about the wonderful voluntary work that is carried out by the 'Good Samaritan Donkey Sanctuary' at Glen William. A big 'Thank-you' to Erin and her donkeys.

Grand champion "Pet of the Day" "Jimmy" with owner Andrew Roberts and family.

items such as their native animal jewellery.

In total 19 stall holders were present.

GDHSI raffle winners were: 1st Oil painting/Country scene – Joy Lawrence, 2nd Koala 3D print – Kel Merriman, 3rd Wolverine 3D print – Dave Skelton and 4th Horses 3D print – Mavis Cameron.

One of our GDHSI market organisers Ellie McKinnon received a 'Birthday certificate' to help celebrate her special day. Thanks to her hubby Chris who lens a great helping hand on market days.

Our next market day will be Sunday 20th September. This will include the 6th Annual 'Show and Sine' day (classic vehicles). Two great band will play on the day. This includes the great duo 'Rusty A few new stall holders arrived on site Bucket'. A totally eventful day that should including Megan and Bill Edwards with their 'Special Barrington Honey' an Barb and not be missed.

Ed Ramsey with their beautiful carved wood GDHSI Sec. Lorraine Ashard

Cutest and Snuggliness 1st Alyssa Fear and "Charlie" 2nd Shaelyn Crouch and "Buddy" 3rd Verity Spinks and "Chase" 4th Robert Hawkins and "Minnie" Best Behaved 1st Andrew Roberts and "Jimmy" 2nd John Edwards and "Pig" 3rd Barb Ramsey and "Captain Thunderpants" 4th Toni Pittman and "Thunda" Personality Plus 1st John Genetzakis and "Lucy" 2nd Michelle Driscoll and "Vince" 3rd Phill Sawson and "Mack & Levi" 4th Mia Mackey and "Lucy" Name Choice – Why Chosen 1st Tammy Kirtley and "Rusty" 2nd Shaelyn Crouch and "Buddy" 3rd Sophie Crampton and "Emmy" 4th Dorothy Duck and "Tess" Best Outfit Worn 1st Nina West and "Oscar" 2nd Verity Spinks and "Chase" 3rd Wendy McLynch and "Bella" 4th Sophie Crampton and "Emmy"

G resford News • September

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2015, p 8

Gresford CWA News

INTERNATIONAL DAY – ITALY International Day was celebrated with 80 guests at St.Anne’s Church Hall. Many local organisations attended including the Tennis Club, Ladies Bowling Club, Anglican Guild and Catholic Ladies as well as guests from CWA branches all over the Hunter: Belmont, Cessnock Evening, Dungog/Clarencetown, Dungog Evening, Maitland City Evening, Merriwa, Muswellbrook, Medowie, Nelson, Newcastle Evening, Paterson and Singleton.

We were treated to a display of projects depicting Italy from the 4th, 5th and 6th class students of the Gresford Public School. The winning poster went to Jada Lawrie, 2nd place Jack Hodges, 3rd place Jack Hill. Jada’s poster now goes on to the final judging at the Hunter River Group AGM. Our guest speakers were Chris Iacona and Gasbrielle Conti talking about their experiences coming from Italy and becoming Australians. Gabriella has written a delightful book which can be purchased at Bunna Bunoo Olives. A delicious Italian luncheon was put on by Cookery Officer Dotti Hilliard and her band of helpers.

Specials ~ September 7 to 19 Pork Steaks - $18.99/kg Crumbed Steak - $9.99/kg Chicken Kebabs - $2.50 each

Ph 4938 9710

PROFILING A MEMBER Our members are varied, I would like to introduce you to Joyce Eargney. Joyce says: What connection could thre be between the CWA Book Club and Leprosy patients in India? A year ago I would have no idea!

My husband, Richard, and I settled in the Gresford area a year ago, and we found the Gresford News contained useful information about local community groups.

As a keen reader I joined the CWA Book Club. This has been a good way to meet people, enjoy a wide selection of books and discuss them with other people. At one meeting of the Book Club a colourful assortment of cotton knitting yarn appeared along with instructions and “would anyone like to knit bandages for leprosy patients in India?” As you can see we have enjoyed doing this and thanks to the Book Club, we can contribute our knitting to the health and well being of

Springtime Beauty We have a fabulous range of professional products at Cowlicks Studio that our clients all love and some new lines have just arrived.

We now have Uni Organics Skincare, Zuii Organics Cosmetics, Adorn Cosmetics and Eco Tan available for you to purchase.

Come in and chat to our friendly team about what will suit you best.

803A Gresford Rd Vacy. 49388386

irstudio.com www.cowlicksha

.au

G resford News • September

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others. It was explained to us that wearing colourful bandages helps bring a little joy to leprosy patients and being made of cotton the bandages are easily washed and re-used.

Richard and I have also joined St Anne’s church in Gresford, which is part of the Anglican parish of Gresford and Paterson. I have done some study in pastoral care and chaplaincy and am gratefull for the opportunity of joining the parish pastoral care team. As Pastoral carers we are available to visit, listen, care and support our neighbours and our community any way we can.

So thank you to this community, it is such a great place to live and enjoy together.

BOOK CLUB/CWA LIBRARY Four bags of almost new best sellers have been donated. Come and have a look!

Telephone Dotti Hilliard 4938 9483 to arrange a time.

The next Book Club meeting is September 12th. The book for discussion is “The Reluctant Fundamentalist” by Moshin Hamid. Come and enjoy some lively discussion and afternoon tea in the CWA rooms at 3.00pm.

NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Gresford CWA will be held in the rooms, 12 Durham Road, East Gresford on the 3rd September at 9.30am. Please come along and join us especially if you are new in town. For further information call Jill Hancock on 4938 9718 or look us up on http:/gresfordcwa.wordpress.com.

Robyn Thornton, President

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Contract advertising rates & sizes prices incl gst

1/6 page

b/w colour

$33

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

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

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

2015, p 9

CITRUS SELF-SAUCING PUDDING

Ingredients – Serves 6

1 ¼ cups self raising flour 1 ¼ cups raw sugar ½ cup ground almonds 2 lemons, rind finely grated 4 large oranges, rind finely grated 60g butter, melted 1 egg ½ cup milk 1 tablespoon corn flour Cream or ice cream to serve

Method: Preheat oven to 170C. Place a 4 cup (1 litre) oven proof dish onto a baking tray lined with baking paper. Sift flour into a large mixing bowl. Stir in ½ cup sugar, ground almonds and half the lemon and orange rind. Whisk melted butter, egg and milk in a bowl to combine. Add to flour mixture and stir until just combined. Spoon batter into the dish. To make the sauce, juice the lemons and the oranges. Combine ½ cup lemon juice, 1 cup orange juice and remaining lemon and orange rind in a small saucepan. Cook, stirring occasionally over a high heat for 3-4 minutes or until just comes to the boil.

Meanwhile, combine remaining ¾ cup sugar and cornflour and sprinkle over batter in the dish. Carefully pour hot juice mixture over sugar mixture. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden. Remove from oven and stand for 5 minutes. Spoon into serving bowls and serve with ice cream or cream.

This recipe was contributed to the CWA COOK BOOK by Jill Hancock. The Cook Book is available at Gresford Foodworks and the Gresford Store $13 per copy.

G resford News • September

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2015, p 10

What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

Life after Life

Kate Atkinson

In a world of writing where authors are always trying to grab the public imagination, or intrigue their readers in evolving ways, comes a novel experiment from this excellent writer. Atkinson depicts multiple lives for the one character – the heroine Ursula Todd. Ursula is born into a comfortable upper- middleclass family in an idyllic country house and setting. After an explosive foreword, she dies in the first chapter soon after she is born, but then lives a little longer in each succeeding chapter after she is born again. The doctor doesn’t arrive; the doctor arrives… and so on.

Ursula begins to recognise the history of her many deaths, and that of others, and takes steps to alter circumstances so that they don’t happen. In the meantime the family flourishes and goes through many different ‘lives’ according to what is happening around Ursula. She eventually decides to use her strange circumstances to try to alter history by killing Hitler. This is not really a spoiler – that’s what the foreword is about. This may sound like a very confusing book, but it’s cleverly done. Once the reader accepts the premise, in this impeccably backgrounded novel, there is a great deal of pleasure in the reading.

KELZ carpet cleaning and cleaning services Domestic and Commercial carpets, lounges and rugs Friendly Service Call: Kelly Richardson Mobile 0437 395 585

Coming Up – Don't Miss Out...

From now until Christmas things start to get busy. Here are some local opportunities you might like to consider...

Make a film to be shown at the Dungog Festival – themes from around the shire. It could be anything from a 6-second loop to an interview with a wonderful relative, a home movie of a fishing trip or a set of amazing photos put to music. We are asking youth from the shire but anyone who would like to shoot and submit something – or has something they shot that they think is interesting can submit. Get more information via john.o@dscc.net.au.

Riverbank Restoration Field Day – Hunter Local Land Services will present a Riverbank Restoration Field Day for flood affected landholders Sunday 13 September, 9.30 – 2pm. The field day will showcase three properties on the Paterson River. These landholders will share their experiences in riverbank rehabilitation and LLS staff will be available for specialist advice on riverbank erosion, weed control, tree planting and native species selection. RSVP by Wed 9 September. Call Mick Budden on ph: 4930 1030 or visit https:// hunterlls.wufoo.eu/forms/riverbank-restoration-field-day/ Small Animal Management with Permaculture – Brett Cooper and Peter Brecknock will run a workshop covering the selection, management and role of poultry, bees, pigs, goats & sheep and their integration into your farm & homestead garden. Cost $135, Sat 19 September 9am – 4pm contact Brett Cooper 0488 493 411 or Peter Brecknock 4938 9748 or www.limestonepermaculture.com Dungog Community College Courses: First Aid 17 October – This is a chance to renew – or get your certificate and be ready next time there's an emergency. Barista training – The next two courses are full but get on the short list by calling 4992 1133 or visiting the website http://dungogcommunitycollege.org.au/

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2015, p 11

Getting to know the locals... by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries EMMENOSPERMA ALPHITONIOIDES – Yellow Ash The Yellow Ash is closely allied to the Red Ash mentioned last month and is also known as Grey Ash, Mountain Ash, Yellow Rosewood, Yellow Almond, Bonewood and Pink Ooline. It is a medium sized tree and is a fast grower but is not quite as hardy as the Red Ash as it is more particular in its growing requirements. It does not like clay soils and needs plenty of water when it is young. It grows best on deep loams or on rocky sheltered hill sides where it can get its roots deep into the soil. The timber bends well but is heavy and difficult to work however it is quite durable and makes excellent tool handles and is used in boat building and for general building as well.

Although it occurs across a wide area, its presence is quite sparse. It makes a magnificent statement as it passes through the stages of flowering, fruiting and seeding. The orange fruit lasts for months and is very conspicuous, especially if it can be viewed from a location where the road runs above the

forest and you can look down on them.

The seed is regarded as hard to germinate but a friend of mine bought a river flat property on the upper reaches of the Allyn River and because the area may have been subject to inundation, he built a 2 storey house. The property was also home to a very old specimen of Emmenosperma on the riverbank and a younger seedling nearer the house site and it was a pleasure to sit on the top veranda with a drink in one hand and look down on the fruiting Yellow Ash. On one such peaceful afternoon, 3 or 4 black

magpies flew in and picked off 4-5 seeds, rolled them round and round their beaks and then spat them out. They repeated this several times which was both fascinating and intriguing. My friend’s brother was a researcher with the CSIRO at the time so the seeds were sent to him for analysis and it seems that the seeds contain a high concentration of salt which was what the Magpies were after. This also gave a clue to improving germination rates – by soaking the seed in water for several days (changing the water every day), a multitude of the seeds germinated readily – so many in fact that the excess was offered to State Forests for free but they declined the offer.

Both the Red and the Yellow Ash ripen their seed in a similar fashion. Their fruits are usually 2 celled with one seed per cell.

The outer fleshy part of the fruit dries and falls away leaving the seed enclosed in a hard shiny purse like structure called a “cocci”. Over time, the coccus also falls away and leaves the seeds hanging on a branch for up to 3 months.

Graeme Ferguson

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

* Identification Survey Reports * House Setouts

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

“Yatta” Torryburn Via Paterson 2421

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

G resford News • September

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Dear Garden Lovers, I am bemused! I have been perusing the letters that Edna Walling wrote back in 1945…60 years ago! I opened a page and read ” Well! I think I’ve got the hang of it!

Vegetable growing that is!

Apparently you have to do a little messing around each day or at least every other day, or they sulk! You have to mulch, mulch and mulch some more. They love it. Then you have to plant a hedge to protect them from the dreaded winds”.

2015, p 12

Paterson Allyn Garden Group and the new walk in the Chichester State Forest, Upper Allyn area. Mike Hill from Forestry Corporation unraveled the story behind the construction of the walk and with Penny Kater’s botanical knowledge, we learnt so much about the endemic species that thrive in that environment. From Alphitonia excelsa, Red Ash; Diplogottis australis, Native Tamarind; Toona ciiata, Red Cedar and a highlight the majestic Casuarina cunninghmania, the largest River Oak in NSW measuring 1.88mts diameter and 53mts high.

That’s when I started smiling, as I have just finished planting a new A drive up there with a picnic hedge on one side of my new hamper during the warmer months vegetable garden. The plant I chose seems like a great idea to me. Take a is Callistemon salignus. Great Balls Janie Chandler, Mike Hill from Forestry Corp NSW & Penny Kater swim and a walk and soak up the of Fire! I have spent some time with pure rainforest air.

The Paterson Allyn Garden Group has my no dig preparation…wet newspapers, had wonderful meetings throughout the Did you know….that Hardenbergias, biscuits of hay, mulch etc. Now I’ve winter months.

Casuarinas and Acacias all have nitrogen planted the little native plants 600mm apart. They grow to 1.5mts high and are The highlight of our June meeting was a fixing nodules on their root systems supposed to be hardy, dry and heat water-wise demonstration at Stevenson’s which help provide nitrogen for other plants close to them. tolerant! The new growth is their selling property Vacy. July found us with Noel point as the plant displays brilliant Jupp at his superb Nursery on the edge Yours perennially, flushes of cerise foliage. I am also told of East Gresford, and August involved a Janie Chandler, that they are easily grown!! stunning trip to Peach Tree picnic area Paterson Allyn Garden Group

G resford News • September

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the fabulous

Grumpy Old Men will be performing at the cellar door

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2015, p 13

G resford News • September

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2015, p 14

q Gresford District Historical Society r

Mackies Original Camp Oven Cookery - proudly helping the local community

Greg Priestly with banner at Vacy.

I

t all began at the pub ie 'The Farmers Hotel' in Vacy, where resident Pete

Mackie liked to have a drink (or two) with his mates. On one of these

Don Cant helping out at a Vacy Village Country Carnival day.

particular days, Pete hit Greg Priestley up with this: "Would you be interested in doing some camp-oven cooking at the Vacy Festival?". Greg replied "Yes, I

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G resford News • September

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2015, p 15

q “Our Stories” Feature r basic damper – recipe and method supplied by Norma Bowd. More as a trial exhibition. Some locals got to sample their cooking. A gold coin collection was gathered and donated to Vacy Red Cross.

Lorraine pointed out one of her posters to Pete. He said to her "you have spelt Mackie wrong. It should be an 'ie' ending not 'ey'". Lorraine said she immediately corrected the mis-spelling for him. Once again 'McMackie's' was a complete sell out, including the lamb stew.

Greg has continued to use Pete's campoven. Three good size legs of lamb can sit snugly within it.

2008 Mackie's became involved in supporting Vacy Public School. All The next year a mate kindly donated proceeds made were donated to the two big jumbucks from his property. school. This included the Vacy Before News was received, that Pete (Mackie) Peter Ernest Mackie died on 8th April and After School Care Service. With wasn't well. His legs had collapsed under 2009 from his illness. He was one of four assistance and volunteer help from the him and he was now is hospital. Pete brothers. Their father William (Bill) school and from friends, this support was diagnosed with liver disease. Vacy Mackie owned the Mackie's Furniture was carried on annually until 2013.

Village Country Carnival had friends Stores. In time the Mackie's were owners Another annual event during this time and the Vacy Cricket Club pitched in to of the Windsor Castle Hotel in East frame was the Vacy Cutting Day, to help turn the eight legs of camp-oven Maitland. Pete was a merchant seaman which Mackie's provided the camp-oven cooked mutton into mouthwatering and around the age of 30 years obtained lamb for yummy lamb and gravy sandwiches with gravy and/or mint his house right in the middle of Vacy. sandwiches. An absolute sell out each sauce. A very nourishing mutton, Within the following 20 years, Pete time, with the proceeds going to the vegetable, split pea and barley stew was (Mackie) transitioned between his work Vacy Public School. also cooked in a camp-oven. Everything and enjoying his life in the Vacy area.

Every year through Greg's efforts, the from 'McMackey's' was a sell-out success.

Like his father, Pete was a great generosity of local people and business All money made, was donated to Vacy supporter of the 'Rabbitohs', South houses within Paterson, Vacy and Cricket Club, which Pete supported well.

Sydney's Rugby League Club. Pete was Gresford have donated money to Mackie's 2007 saw Greg cooking up twenty four almost 52 years of age when he died. for the legs of lamb. The lamb being legs of lamb. This time, Pete was able to Later in the year, Pete's brother Bod (a purchased and supplied from Paterson attend Vacy Country Carnival. Although teacher) died in a tragic house fire in Valley Butchery. Approximately 36 legs of not well within himself, Pete was happy Newcastle. Pete's own large 17 quart lamb have been acquired each Vacy to have a lamb and gravy sandwich camp-oven originally obtained for him Village Country Carnival day since 2009. (without salt). It didn't take much to talk from Ballarat, was give to Greg from The popularity of these lamb and gravy Pete (Mackie) into having another one.

Bruce Mackie (brother). Every year since, sandwiches has been astounding. Once

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G resford News • September

The

2015, p 16

q “Our Stories” Feature r

the lamb is out of the camp ovens and sandwiches begin to be made, it virtually takes one hour for the whole lot to be sold. The aroma of the hot sizzling lamb legs is a real draw card within itself. To cook this amount, at least 16 big camp ovens are collected by Greg from generous persons around the Vacy area, who willingly lend their ovens.

proceeds will go to the Carnival Committee Fund and the Historical Society. Gresford District Historical Society Inc. helps to preserve history and relay information within our local areas.

As a point of historical interest, the large shed that stands within the middle of Vacy is situated on the house block where Pete Mackie lived. In the early 1900s Mr Angus McInnes and his family Firewood has always been kindly had lived in the house 'Inverness'. supplied by local grazier and friend Mr Delving into farming, Angus then Gordon Fraser. A good abundance of wood is required, as a lot of hot coals are established a carrying business to collect milk and cream can supplies from dairy necessary for cooking change-overs farms around the Vacy area. He during the cooking process. Voluntary transported these by horse and dray to help and support by local persons and the local creamery. In later years Angus friends has been given to Mackie's for each event held over the years. This has updated to lorries and trucks, as he had always been great and Greg and Lorraine also become a general carrier of goods.

Requiring a large shed to house his are very thankful of this. Without all of vehicles, Angus had local builders Arthur this assistance, Mackie's would not be and Darcy Crouch build the shed a short there for the local community in the distance away from 'Inverness' and the capacity that it always has been. adjoining post office. This was in 1930.

Last year, the Vacy Village Country Angus was also the local post master. He Carnival day was to see Mackie's split all had obtained this position in 1919 and proceeds made to Vacy Public School, retained the position up until his time of the Vacy Village Country Carnival death. The shed was re-roofed by Pete Committee and the Gresford District (Mackie) just before he died. The last Historical Society Incorporated. This year couple of sheets of iron on the eastern Sunday 20th September 2015, all

end of the roof remain original. This large shed is now 85 years old and continues to be used on the Vacy Village Country Carnival days.

The Vacy Village Country Carnival Committee Fund keeps Vacy's main event rolling on. The Carnival Committee Fund is also there to give financial aid to any local community group requiring support. Mackie is proud to help out. Ten years on, from just starting out with a few legs of lamb "Mackie's Original Vacy Camp-Oven Cookery will 'Celebrate a decade of cooking locally'.

Lorraine Ashard

The bounty is still $75 for a story (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 • September

The

2015, p 17

New Entrance Gate a Welcome Addition to the Park State member for Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen, and Karen Hancock, manager of the Dungog Branch of the Commonwealth Bank, formally opening the new entry gate to the Gresford Park on Thursday 20th August. The new entrance was made possible when the Gresford Park Trust won the Crown Reserve Community Trust Award of $5000 in 2012.

Trust secretary, Rosemary Wall, said "In reality, although the wording acknowledges the Trust as the recipients, the Park has always belonged to the Gresford Community and has always enjoyed the very strong support of that Community and it was that support and dedication that was rewarded by the 2012 award. The Trust thought that it was fitting that we use the winnings to create a visual reminder at the entrance to the Park to serve as a testament to the Before and after – the entry to the Gresford showground and park. involvement of the Gresford Community The gates were constructed and finished State Government grants. A grant of in the creation of a truly remakable by local tradesmen including J&J $33,762 for the installation of a new Community Asset."

Concreting from Vacy, Dave Jefferson & shower block and upgrade to the septic Rick Canon from Gresford. The only facilities and Paterson River Pony Club The award was sponsored by the product outsourced from the local area Commonwealth Bank and conducted by will receive $30,645 for a grandstand to be constructed adjacent to the campdraft was the lettering which was sourced the NSW Government. At the opening from the North Coast. competition area.

Michael Johnsen announced two new

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G resford News • September

The

2015, p 18

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G resford News • September

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2015, p 19

Gresford Junior Cricket

Give Local Young People a 'Chance' The 'CHANCES' program gives parents and carers the avenue to cater for their child’s interest in sport, dance or music.

It has been set up through the Dungog Shire Community Centre (DSCC).

We are now taking registrations for Junior Gresford cricket teams for ages 8 – 14 to be entered into the Maitland District Junior Association 2015/2016 season.

The program can support families and children in a range of ways, covering the cost of registration or weekly lessons for an agreed period of time, or providing the materials and equipment that a child may need, such as racquets, bats, boots and instruments.

The season will commence Saturday 10.10.15. Games begin at 8.30am and run for 1 ½ hours for under 10 and finishing by 11.30am for the older teams.

Giving every child a ‘CHANCE’ Being involved in activities or sports team raises a child's self esteem, self worth, physical skills, knowledge and makes them feel included with their peers in the community.

The Chances program offers educational, physical and social value to a child's life and wellbeing. This initiative has been designed to cater for children aged 3yrs – 18yrs.

How does it work? DSCC can offer payment for a child’s registration or lessons for sporting activities, dance or music and access to related equipment.

There are community donation boxes

located around the Shire at Preschools, Primary Schools, Dungog High School, IGA, DSCC and the Op Shop to collect equipment like football boots, tennis racquets, ballet shoes and instruments to help support the program.

How can you get assistance? Please contact: Dungog Shire Community Centre, 4992 1133 to arrange for an appointment or drop in to 103 Dowling St, Dungog – Tuesdays from 9-11am.

An interview will be conducted and your child’s needs & interests will be discussed. An application form, with terms & conditions, will be provided and each case will be confidentially assessed and considered.

Registration fees are $120 plus game day fees. The club will provide game day shirts and hats.

After running many successful years of The Milo Cricket Program our co-ordinator will no longer be available to run the Milo Cricket program on Friday afternoon for children aged 5-8 due to commitments to the emerging under 10 team, so we are seeking a new coordinator to take over the weekly sessions to keep the program running, they will be fully supported by the Junior Cricket Committee with step by step session guides available.

For registration details or further information please contact Stuart Craig – 0418 898 360 scraig@smartline.com.au or Hazel Craig – 0405 417 900 hazel.craig@hotmail.com

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G resford News • September

The

2015, p 20

EAST GRESFORD MASSAGE CLINIC

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G resford News • September

The

2015, p 21

Gresford Community Group August 2015 Meeting Terese Doyle Community Hall Martin Addison outlined the background of “Ex Gratia Payments”. A very thorough discussion followed and it was resolved: “That the lease between the Community Group and the Historical Society provide for an annual rental of $4,000 but also provide that should the Historicl Society give six months notice of its intention to vacate the premises no further rent will be payable beyond the end of the year during which the notice was given.”

The meeting then turned its attention to the further use of the site and it was resolved: “That a sub committee be formed with P Kater acting as convenor to prepare a proposal to further develop the site and in particular to consider a plan for an arboretum”.

The question of the safety of exiting through the southern gate on the road frontage was discussed and it was resolved: “That a ‘Stop’ sign be erected at the gateway to warn exiting drivers to proceed with care”.

G Murphy responded to queries about gutter guards and screen doors by providing details of type and cost and

said he would take another look at the Police presentation N Brown to screen door design. It was resolved that investigate and report back to the G Murphy be authorised to proceed with committee the project.

Presidents retirement Martin Addison Beautification of Gresford and East advised that he had served 5 years as President and his health meant he would Gresford a. Tree planting: The background to the item was explained. It not seek re-election at the AGM in October. was resolved that P Kater reconvene the original sub-committee and report back to the next meeting. b. Beautification of Secretary needed Noted that the entry to East Gresford from the South: L position of Secretary was still vacant. A Secretary is desperately needed.

Ashard outlined her thought on this matter and agreed to consult with others and report back to a subsequent meeting.

East Gresford Post Office The future of the postal services was discussed and it was agreed that Noel Brown should investigate the whole matter and report back to a subsequent meeting.

Defibrilator The meeting was reminded that the defibrillator at the Foodworks Store is due to be recalibrated. After discussion it was agreed that M Addison should search out the record of who had volunteered as a defibrillator operator and confirm who was still able to operate the machine. He is also to arrange for the necessary service.

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G resford News • September

The

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

August 2015 crossword answers

2015, p 22

Gresford News September Crossword

G resford News • September

The

september SERVICE TIMES Sunday Mornings 6 13 20 27

St Anne’s, Gresford 7.30 9.30 8.30 St Paul’s, Paterson 9.30 9.30 Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson St John’s, Vacy 9

Glendonbrook Road St John’s, Lostock 11.30 Gresford NSW 2311 St James’, Martin’s Ck 8 Telephone (02) 4938 9313 St Mary’s, Allynbrook 10.30 gresfordparish@bigpond.com

2015, p 23