August 2026
News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys
Inspiration from our local vegetation
Last month local rainforest species Hibiscus heterophyllus (native rosella) took centre stage in Bingleburra artist Jane Richens' solo exhibition 'Call & Response' at the National Trust's Brough House in Maitland. Created during her 2026 Artist-in-Residence, the exhibition explored how the plant's bark could be transformed into textile. Through a full-size garment, sculptural botanical forms and large textile maps, Richens also uncovered the story of Maitland's once-extensive rainforest ecosystem, revealing the deep connections between native plants, local history and contemporary fibre art. Jane also has artworks in the ‘Upriver Downriver’ exhibition at Maitland Regional Art Gallery until October.
The Gresford News is a Gresford District Community Group project – Donations appreciated & most welcome.
THE GRESFORD NEWS
Gresford News: News of the communities of the Paterson & Allyn River Valleys, has been published by the Gresford & District Community Group since 2002. As a not-for-profit community association any profits go towards supporting community projects.
IT'S YOUR NEWS
The Gresford News has always been created by the community for the community. The content is provided by individuals and community organisations – Your contributions are always welcome!
IS YOUR NEWS BEING DELIVERED?
Gresford News is delivered to letterboxes on the main road north of Paterson and roadside in the Vacy and Gresford postal districts to the top of the Paterson and Allyn Rivers. PLEASE let us now if you do not recieve your NEWS – we will see if there is a problem we can fix.
Sat 1 Aug
The Gresford News Community Diary
Gresford Public School P&C – Inaugural Gresford Cup, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 1-6pm
Sat 1 Aug Gresford Book Club, CWA Hall, 2–4 – Open to general public (NB change of date due to talk on 8 Aug)
Tues 4 Aug
Gresford & District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm
Thurs 6 Aug Lexus 2026 Melbourne Cup, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 10am morning event, 6.30pm dinner
Sat 8 Aug
Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, 9.30am – email Penny Kater for details pennykater@gmail.com
Sat 8 Aug CWA Special Public Event: Talk by Amorelle Dempster about her wide experiences in catering, CWA Hall, 2pm
Wed 12 Aug Laughable Leigh Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm
Fri 14 Aug AGM, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 7.30pm
Sat 15 Aug 'Defashion Dungog', James Theatre, 6pm, details www.pawsciencehub.com
Sun 16 Aug Kids Club – cyanotype– with Dawn Thompson, Gresford Community Gallery, 10-2
Sun 16 Aug Live music on the deck – Dan Runchel Band returns, Hotel Beatty, 1-5pm
Sun 16 Aug Launch of Cameron Archer's book Personalities, Purpose & Place: The Making of Tocal College, Tocal College, 2pm
Tues 18 Aug Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet & plant sale, 10am, contact Chris Walker for details 0401 566 180
Fri 21 Aug Craft, CWA Hall
Sat 22 Aug Hymnfest, St Anne's Anglican Church, Gresford, 2pm
Sun 23 Aug En Plein Air Sketch Club – Allynbrook, Contact Christine Pike 0428 271 819
Fri 28 Aug Sketch Club – Still Life/Figurative, Gresford Community Gallery, 1pm, Contact Christine Pike 0428 271 819
Fri 28 Aug Rodeo night – Adam Wilton's "Red Dirt Country Band", Hotel Beatty, 8pm
Sat 29 Aug Gresford Rodeo and Campdraft, Gresford Showground 9-13 Sept Dungog Tea Party, James Theatre, Dungog
Sat 10 Oct Gresford Community Market is returning, 9-1
Every Mon Fitness A GoGo with Donna! class, Gresford Community Gallery, 3.30pm
Every Wed Happy hour + Gift Voucher Raffles, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 4.30–6pm
Every Thurs Mass, St Helen's Catholic Church, East Gresford, 9.30am
Every Thur Happy hour, free pool & jukebox, Hotel Beatty, 5.30–7pm
Every Fri (school terms) Yoga with Donna Cavanough, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.30–11am & live zoom online Tues, Wed, Fri, 7.30am
Every Fri Twilight Bowls, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 5.30pm
Most Fri afternoons Friends of the Arboretum activities, times vary seasonally, contact Penny Kater for details 0488 371 589
Every Fri Cricket Club Raffles, Hotel Beatty
Sat-Sun
Gresford Community Gallery open, 12 Park St, East Gresford, 10-4 or by appt phone Robyn 0417 686 816
Sat Mass, St Helen's Catholic Church, East Gresford, 5.30pm (except 2nd Sat of month)
Every Sun Anglican Church services, dates & locations vary–see ad, St Paul’s Paterson, 8.30am • St Anne’s Gresford, 10.30am
Every Sun The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am
Every Sun Social Bowls +, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, from 4pm
1st Mon each month
Gresford District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm, all welcome! (not Jan)
1st & 3rd Mon each month French conversation, CWA Hall, 10–11.30
1st Tues each month Circle Dancing, 4.30pm – to book in & check location phone Pip on 0493 388 889
1st Wed each month Gresford Rural Fire Brigade, at the station, 7pm
2nd Wed each month Laughable Leigh Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm
2nd Thurs each month Pool Comp with prizes at the Hotel Beatty 6.30pm
2nd Sat each month Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, 9.30am (not Jan), contact Penny Kater for details 0488 371 589
2nd Sat each month CWA Book Club, CWA Hall, 3pm
2nd Sun each month Mass, Sacred Heart, Summer Hill, 11.30am
3rd Tues each month Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10am (not Jan or Feb), contact Chris Walker for details 0401 566 180
3rd Thurs each month Trivia Night at the Hotel Beatty 6.30pm
3rd Fri each month CWA Craft Morning, CWA Hall, 9–12
3rd Sun each month Vacy & Surrounds Crop Swap, alongside Vacy General Store, 9.30am
3rd Sun each month 'Vacy beach' riverbank Landcare working bee, 2pm
3rd Sun each month Entertainment at the Hotel Beatty
PUT YOUR EVENT IN THE COMMUNITY DIARY:
Contact Gresford News: email: editorgresfordnews@gmail.com • Brian Doherty 0412 372 687 • Jane Richens 0425 339 856 has always been created by the community for the community. The content is provided by individuals and community organisations to keep the community informed about activities in the area. Your contributions are always welcome! Deadline for stories & ads 20th of the month. For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred (not in word).
COMMERCIAL
An extensive range of machines and earthmoving equipment to suit every aspect of the Building & Construction Industry
Supply all forms of quarry product
Contact: Paul Mastin 0418 499 471
Head Office 02 4938 8135
Plumbing & Excavations Pty Ltd
General Plumbing & Drainage
Gas Plumbing
Drain Cleaning
New houses, renovations & extensions
Transpiration areas – upgrades & new
3 t & 5.5 t excavator with augers & rock breaker
Bobcat
6 t & 13.9 t GVM tippers
NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL
SERVICING AREAS BETWEEN MAITLAND - SINGLETON - GRESFORD - VACYPATERSON BRIAN &
Gresford News Notices
New meeting time: Gresford & District Community Group Meeting
1st Tues of the month – 4 Aug 6.30pm Hotel Beatty
Gresford Public School P&C fundraiser – Inaugural Gresford Cup Sat 1 Aug, 1-6pm, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club
Great food, fashion, sweeps, prizes, fun
CWA Special Public Events
Sat 8 Aug 2pm • Talk by Amorelle Dempster about her experiences in catering. • Sept • Tony Cavanough discusses Crime Fiction. Tea & chat follows events.
Defashion Dungog
Sat 15 Aug, James Theatre
Join the sustainable style celebration. Wanted:
creative upcycled garments & models – contact pawsciencehub@gmail.com
Launch of Cameron Archer's book Personalities, Purpose & Place: The Making of Tocal College Tocal College, 2pm
Creative activities at the Gresford Community Gallery
Kids Club – cyanotypes Sun 16 Aug 10-12
• Sketch Club–Plein Air –Allynbrook Sun 23 Aug
• Sketch Club–Still Life/Figurative Fri 28 Aug
Live music @ THE BEATTY Sun 16 August 1-5
Dan Runchel Band returns – On the deck
• Fri 28 Aug 8 – late Rodeo night – Adam Wilton's "Red Dirt Country Band"
Gresford Rodeo & Campdraft
Sat 29 Aug
Gresford Showground
Watch the action! Gates open 8am main performance 5pm live band 9pm
Gresford School of Arts
Need a venue for a function or event? The Gresford School of Arts facility may be just what you need. The hire rates are very affordable. Many people have used the facilities for a child or adult’s birthday party; a dance, organisation’s meeting, seminar or workshop, or something else that is special.
Kel Merriman Secretary 0417 280 851
Dungog Tip Shop
Mon, Thurs, Fri 8–5 • Sat, Sun 8–12
Dungog Tip Shop: recycle your unwanted things or pick up a handy bargain
Community roundtable brings Gresford together
The recent Gresford Community Roundtable was an outstanding success, bringing together 55 people representing 34 community organisations for an evening focused on stronger connections, greater collaboration and building an even stronger community.
Each organisation introduced itself, explained what it does, and shared its achievements and challenges. One of the greatest successes, however, was simply bringing so many people together in the same room.
Many participants met organisations and people they had never heard of or had never had the opportunity to speak with before. The conversations continued well after the formal presentations finished, with people staying back to share ideas and discuss how they could support one another.
There was a real sense of positive energy, synergy and optimism throughout the evening. A particular focus was how we can better support our young people and, especially, how the wider community can support Gresford Public School. There was strong interest in finding practical ways for local organisations, families, volunteers and community members to work together to create more opportunities for students
and strengthen the school community. The evening also highlighted the enormous contribution of volunteers who quietly help make Gresford such a strong and welcoming community. It reinforced just how much can be achieved when people share ideas, support one another and work towards common goals.
Local organisations are also encouraged to make use of the Gresford News to promote their activities, celebrate their achievements, advertise upcoming events and let the wider community know how people can become involved.
Anyone who would like to help is encouraged to look up the local organisations, make contact and find a
Saturday 25th July – Mystic Nomads 11.00-5.00
Sunday 26th July – Mystic Nomads 11.00-5.00 to book please phone or Message Lisa 0402 222 650
Thursday 6th August – Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour 2026 10.00 Morning event 6.30 Lexus Melbourne Cup Dinner $80.00 please see club Friday 14th August – AGM 7.30
Every Week at the Bowlo!!
WEDNESDAY SOCIAL BOWLS FROM 12.30 HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAY 4.30 - 6.00
Second Wednesday of the month
The Laughable Leigh Trivia Night from 6.30
Wednesday Night – Meat Trays & IGA pack Raffles tickets on sale from 6.30
Friday Night – Meat Tray Raffles, 1 Fruit & Veg Tray Members Draw Sunday NightRaffles Tickets on sale 6.30 Drawn 7.00 Members Draw Members Draw - if not won goes up $25.00 on Sunday night, must be here to WIN!
Like us on Facebook “Support your Club, It’s your club” Best In our town,
group that matches their interests, skills or experience. Even a small contribution can make a real difference.
A special thank you goes to the Gresford Bowling Club for generously hosting the evening and Boydell's for generously sponsoring the champagne on arrival.
There was also strong support afterwards for making the Community Roundtable an annual event which could include actionfocused discussion, identifying opportunities for organisations to work together on projects and continue strengthening support for Gresford and, in particular, our young people.
Jim Doyle – ph: 0407307800
Community Roundtable hosted at the Gresford Bowling Club.
Paterson Allyn Garden Group – Bolwarra Bonsai
The Garden Gods were very generous in providing a beautiful day for our July meeting & while we all love getting some nice rain for the garden, you can’t beat a good, sunny mid-winters day to warm our bones.
Once again, the PAGG coordinators have managed to do an about face with their garden selection.
Following last month’s visit to the extensive garden at Mt. Olive, this month we travelled to the comparatively compact garden created by Jerry Cassidy in Bolwarra. Although the property is smaller in size, the amount & variety of plants on show certainly loses nothing by comparison.
Jillian opened proceedings, welcoming the 43 members, 1 new member, welcome Lynne & 4 visitors in attendance. Lisa then discussed the dire situation of a beautiful, 300 year old tree near Dungog Hospital that, although diagnosed as being perfectly healthy, the council is considering taking down due to some damage to a bitumen roadway. A petition was passed around for everyone to sign & Lisa asked for our members to lodge Individual Submissions to council to save this important monument to Dungog’s history.
Jerry first moved to Bolwarra 40 years ago & has since established an incredible Bonsai garden in his 2,000 sq/m suburban block. He has around 1,000 carefully nurtured plants & trees, grown & sculptured over a 30 year period. Jerry has followed the centuries old principles & methods of the Japanese Bonsai masters in the painstaking manipulation of his plants in developing his amazing collection of miniature examples of over 40 different species, including Fig, Privet, Crepe Myrtle as well as flowering varieties such as Camelia & Azalea.
Although originally a Chinese art, Bonsai is considered a Japanese speciality, exemplifying the Zen Buddhist ideals of simplicity & restraint. Ideals that we should all try to achieve in our lives, certainly something a few of the world’s politicians could do well to consider.
Jerry explained that the Bonsai technique can be applied to any plant, but if not tendered to regularly, plants will always return to their natural form. This requires constant maintenance to ensure the ongoing health of his plants. Watering, trimming, re-potting takes up much of Jerry’s time & energy. However, he does have some assistance from friends who
Jerry Cassidy and Jillian Stibbard (PAGG President)
spend their Monday mornings, during Spring & Summer, helping Jerry to tend to the needs of so many Bonsai.
Apart from the time & effort involved in his passion, there is a large financial cost in creating & maintaining his plants, not least of this is obtaining the amazing number of specialised pots required to house his babies. The pots form a very important part of the plants presentation & appeal. Even though a 700 year old Bonsai sold in Japan for over a million dollars, Jerry does not sell any of his plants but prefers to give some away in special circumstances, including one he donated to the club as a lucky door prize, won by a very appreciative Julie.
Jillian closed the meeting & everyone loved the opportunity to wander around the garden, admiring the vast array of Bonsai on display & being in awe of the dedication needed to create this incredible hidden jewel.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 18th August our Annual Plant Sale will be held on the day, with further details to be announced prior to the meeting. Don’t forget to check the website – pagardengroup.org
The Making of Tocal College
You are invited to the launch of Cameron Archer's new book Personalities, Purpose and Place: The Making of Tocal College, 2pm Sunday 16 August, at Tocal College CB Alexander Campus, 815 Tocal Road, Paterson. (Please book: https://www. trybooking.com/DNPGX)
It is 60 years since Tocal College opened and 90 years since the Alexander family started preparing their wills and considering how their wealth could be used to benefit destitute children in the context of agricultural education. It is now one of only two solely vocational-level agricultural colleges in Australia (down from around 10 or more 50 years ago) making this story even more significant.
Dr Cameron Archer arrived as a lecturer in 1975 and served as Principal from 1987 to 2015. He knew many of the key figures personally and witnessed firsthand the College’s evolution over four decades. Drawing on oral histories, personal interviews, archival documents and his own memories, Archer weaves together the voices of those that made Tocal possible. "I have had the privilege of spending my career at Tocal, and this book is an attempt to comprehensively describe how and why Tocal came about."
PO Box 36 Branxton NSW 2335 Office: 0427 383 388
Email: Admin@HunterSL com au HUNTERSL COM AU
Connecting People, Property &
Livestock
At Hunter Stock & Land, we are proud to support our clients with a full suite of professional services across property and livestock Our experienced team is committed to delivering practical advice, strong market knowledge, and dependable results
Our services include:
Rural & Residential Property Sales – Expert guidance to help you buy or sell with confidence
Weekly Prime Sales at HRLX Singleton – Every Wednesday, providing a trusted and consistent marketplace
Direct Sales – Streamlined transactions connecting buyers and sellers efficiently
Clearing Sales – End-to-end assistance to plan, manage and conduct successful clearings
Livestock Management – Tailored support designed to enhance productivity and performance
�� Feature Weaner Sale – 27 March at HRLX Singleton
Our first feature weaner sale of the season will be held on Thursday, 27 March
Contact the Hunter Stock & Land team for bookings and enquiries
With hands-on service and a genuine understanding of rural industries, Hunter Stock & Land looks forward to supporting you throughout the 2026 season
THE MAKING OF TOCAL COLLEGE PERSONALITIES, PURPOSE AND PLACE
CAMERON ARCHER
The Tocal launch will be addressed by Mr Darren Bayley, Principal Tocal College Director of Education and NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. Edward Hunt MBE commissioned a film about the College’s establishment, which can be viewed at this link: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=YN4VGjvdeI0
Craft Mornings – July’s Craft Morning was quiet in comparison to last month’s, but cosy and satisfying. The next Craft Morning will be on the 21st August and we welcome anyone interested in a delicious morning tea, individual craft, a friendly chat and a door prize. It is always interesting to see what attendees are working on, and crafters are always helpful with advice and demonstration. Members $3 and non-members $5. There is a basket of craft works in the Twin Rivers café, for the public to peruse and purchase for the benefit of CWA fundraising if they wish.
Public Events – our next public event will be a talk by Amorelle Dempster on 8th August at 2pm, when Amorelle will share some of her experiences in the world of cooking. Come and hear a local treasure speak! This will be combined with a thankyou to our Show Volunteers. The talk will be followed by afternoon tea with a request for a $5 donation, except for the volunteers, who have well and truly paid their dues.
The next event, organised by the Book Club and supported by the CWA, will be a visit by Tony Cavanough in September, who will talk about Crime Fiction at 2pm on 12th September, with afternoon tea to follow.
CWA News
Tony’s visit last year was a great success. He is an engaging and entertaining speaker.
Book Club – July’s choice, Mother Mary Comes to Me, Arundhati Roy’s biography of her own life and her mother’s, was greatly enjoyed by attending members. It is a wellwritten book with a great deal of depthpersonal, social and historical. The choice for August is another classic – Anne Bronte’s The Tenant of Wildfell Hall
New members to Book Club are always welcome – male or female. It is generally held at 3pm on the second Saturday of the month in the CWA Hall. Book Club is run in association with the CWA as a cultural activity, and membership of the Branch is not required. N.B. The meeting will take place on 1st August this month, because of Amorelle Dempster’s talk on the 8th.
CWA Library – members of the public are very welcome to use the library in addition to the street library. The best times to visit are when the hall is in use with Book Club (3-4pm on the second Saturday of the month), and during the Craft Mornings (9-12am on the third Friday of the month). Please ring Glenda Smith (0400 108 079 or 4938 9456) for information on other times the hall may be open, as usage can differ.
French Conversation – takes place on the first and third Mondays of the month from 10 – 11:30 am, and will resume on 3rd August. Please ring Glenda Smith (numbers above) if you are interested, as sometimes there are changes to our planned meeting times. Our new topic is Regional Specialties.
Karla with basket work.
What’s On the Shelves? by Glenda Smith
Brother and Sister Joanna Trollope
Joanna Trollope specialises in domestic dramas and interrelationships, and this novel has plenty to offer on that score. It involves the search for their history by two adopted children in the same family – Nathalie and David – who grew up in a loving household and seem to be confident in their contentment with the status quo. Nathalie has always expressed a lack of concern or curiosity about her background, with David seeming to agree, while holding a grudge about a woman who would give up her child.
The complication arises with a medical situation with Nathalie’s daughter and an interview with a researcher on adoption. Nathalie reluctantly recognises that she does want to find her mother, and persuades David to join her by looking for his. They are both in stable marriages, but their search puts a strain on both families and on their adoptive parents, as well as their birth mothers themselves and their families.
Trollope explores the dynamics well, especially the feelings of guilt, sorrow, grief and anger. The search complicates their lives and that of others, but ultimately forces changes that are both painful and liberating. The character s are well-drawn and the ramifications of the searches are believable.
All books reviewed are in the CWA library–see separate shelf so they are easy to find. Find reviews in a folder. Also visit our street library.
Climate Choices series launched
The Paterson Allyn Williams Science & Ideas Hub launched its Climate Choices series with an informative and thought-provoking afternoon at the James Theatre in Dungog, bringing together community members to learn more about the science of climate change and the decisions that will shape the future. The event featured two respected speakers who offered complementary perspectives on climate science and weather.
Retired CSIRO atmospheric scientist Dr Dennys Angove presented an accessible overview of the science behind modern climate change, explaining how human activities—particularly the burning of fossil fuels—have increased greenhouse gas concentrations and intensified the natural greenhouse effect. Drawing on decades of research and evidence from organisations including CSIRO, NASA and the IPCC, he outlined the multiple lines of scientific evidence linking rising atmospheric carbon dioxide to global warming. Dr Angove also addressed common misconceptions, explaining how carbon isotope studies, declining atmospheric oxygen and cooling in the stratosphere provide clear evidence that the recent increase in carbon dioxide is primarily the result of human activity.
Weather communicator Graham Creed explored the science of weather, forecasting and climate modelling, highlighting how advances in forecasting can help communities make informed longterm decisions and build greater resilience to increasingly variable weather conditions.
The presentations concluded with an engaging panel discussion and question-and-answer session, followed by afternoon tea, giving attendees the opportunity to continue the conversation, ask questions and reflect on the practical choices communities can make in response to a changing climate.
CULTURE VULTURE
Gresford Community Gallery
Updates:
12 Park Street East GresfordWeekends 10am-4pm.
The opening celebration for the Winter Exhibition at the gallery was a great success with a most enjoyable afternoon.The exhibition features new vibrant works by our artists and introduces five new artists who have joined the gallery.
Please drop by to view an exciting collection of contemporary and traditional Hunter Valley artists’ work. The exhibition includes a great variety of quality art and craft, featuring painting, drawing, sculptures, ceramics, photography, fibre art, glass work, jewellery and Stained Glass/lead light work.
Sketch Club August 2026
your own drawing and or painting materials, backing board & dog clips.
Sturdy walking shoes, hat, chair, water bottle, lunch, & BYO MUG.
Plein Air - Sunday 23rd August 2026
Inspirational artist Arthur Boyd.
Meet Gresford Community Gallery 9.45 am to 3 pm. Travel via your car or carpool to our location at a private working rural property at Allynbrook.
We will be in a fabulous location spoilt by choice. Think riverbank, rocks, bush vegetation and amazing rural views. Bring
Tea/Coffee morning & afternoon tea provided. Cost: $10 per person.
Hosted by Christine Pike Ph: 0428 271 819
Still Life - Friday 28th August 2026
Gresford Community Gallery
Noon to 1 pm Beginners class - Ink 1 - 4 pm Sketch Club.
Inspirational Artist: Brett Whitely Bring your own art materials, protective clothing e.g. apron (especially if using ink)
& lunch. Afternoon Tea/ Coffee provided.
Robyn Werkhoven
Cost: $10 per person. Hosted by Christine Pike Ph: 0428 271 819
Kids Art Club 16th August –Cyanotype Printing
Free Art Sunday for children at Gresford Community Gallery 10am and 2pm on the third Sunday of the month.
During these hours children of primary school age accompanied by an adult will be able to use the art equipment supplied to create their own art. Our friendly Gallery helpers will be on hand to assist. Hosted by artist Dawn Thompson Ph: 0428924800
Face Book and Instagram
The Gallery has Face Book and Instagram pages which will give regular news / updates of the Gallery’s forthcoming exhibitions, workshops and features on the artists. Please Like and follow our pages.
Artists and craft people interested to exhibit in our gallery, please email gallery for information.
If you would love to join our team as a volunteer, meet artists and learn about
Pushing the Pequod, an end to the coal era by Kate Belton
their art practices and enjoy the world of art, please contact us! Email: gallerygresfordcommunity@ gmail.com
Featured Gallery Artist
Kate Belton
Kate Belton is an artist, teacher, gallery owner and community leader in the arts at Lake Macquarie NSW.
Kate, the founder of Tinkat Alley Art Studio, is a visionary artist whose work has captivated audiences around the world. With a passion for blending traditional techniques with modern creativity, Kate's studio fosters artistic growth and community. She is best known for her work painting with inks and mixed media on canvas as well as her teaching in the decorative arts and crafts. Kate has spent the better part of two decades living and working at Lake Macquarie.
Kate exhibits and sells her work in Sydney and Newcastle. Her work is highly sought after and can be found in private collections both in Australia and in the United States. Kate is currently working with inks and texture to create works representative
of the local environment, flora and fauna of the Hunter Region. The colours and textures of the natural world feature predominately in Kate’s works. Her work is available at Gresford Community Gallery.
Other News
Congratulations to Dungog based artist Helene Leanne whose painting has been selected as a Finalist in the Broken Hill City Art Gallery’s Pro Hart Outback Art Prize.
Fifty artists were selected showcasing contemporary outback interpretations. Helene’s paintings and prints are available at Gresford Community Gallery.
If you get a chance visit the Maitland Regional Art Gallery to see the fabulous exhibition UPRIVER DOWNRIVER July 11 — October 11 2026. John Barnes, Michele Heibel and Jane Richens all have works in the show.
Contact with Art News for Culture Vulture or enquiries about Gresford Community Gallery: Robyn Werkhoven Ph: 0417 686 816 Email: werkhovenr@bigpond.com
Blister Pack Recycling
A new blister pack recycling initiative by the Dungog Shire Council will see recycled Cardboard bins placed in East Gresford Post Office, Williams Valley Pharmacy (Dungog) and Paterson Chemist. Collected blister packs will be sent to Dungog Waste Management Facility and ReSmart will collect them along with the soft plastics. ReSmart sorts the plastics and aluminium from the blister packs, and upcycle them or reuse the materials. This initiative is part of this year’s (2026) Plastic-free July, and more waste diversions like polystyrene recycling, paint recycling etc will be organised in the coming months.
Gresford Landcare
Gresford Landcare members gathered at Janet Piper's property on the Paterson River for their July meeting to learn more about riverbank erosion and restoration – an issue familiar to many local landholders.While the group has explored this topic before, members welcomed the opportunity to visit another riverside property and see firsthand how different approaches can help protect riverbanks. Every stretch of river is unique, and it is always valuable to share experiences of managing the challenges and rewards of living beside the river.
Janet's dedication to restoring her riverbank
impressed everyone. Over many years she has devoted countless hours to planting native species along the steep bank, knowing that every flood reshapes the landscape. Floods can wash away vegetation, erode land and create ongoing work for those caring for the river. Among the many species she has planted, Janet says the Watergum has proven to be the most reliable. Its strong root system enables it to remain firmly anchored, even after being flattened by fast-flowing floodwaters, while many other plants have been washed away. We are certainly fortunate to have the likes of Janet in our community, caring for our natural environment for future generations.
The Gresford Community Market is returning and we are seeking local talent to provide entertainment for our shoppers at our upcoming markets between 9am to 1pm. We will be hosting special event markets on the following dates:
- October 10, 2026
- December 12, 2026
- December 19, 2026
- February 13, 2027
- May 8, 2027
- July 10, 2027
- September 18, 2027
- December 11, 2027
If you would like more information or are interested in performing, please email us at GresfordCM@protonmail.com.
For stallholders, we will be sending an email and posting on Facebook in the coming weeks to invite submissions and provide more details. We look forward to hearing from you!
Dan
Front row: L-R Peter Burnett, Barbara Burnett, Jillian Stibbard, Jenny Creal & Cas Addison
Back row: L-R Jane Slack, Chris Andrews, Julie McCackney, Bob McCackney & Penny Callum
World Circle Dancing Day Bowlo News
What do East Gresford, Melbourne, Hobart and the Adelaide Hills have in common? We all celebrated World Circle Dancing Day on 6th July, along with many other countries around the world, who celebrated the day with the same three dances. What made East Gresford special was the serendipitous presence in the arboretum area of a busload of students who were here as part of their
volunteering travels around the state. Most of them were international students, who willingly joined the dance. We all felt the magic of this connection as we danced together in three concentric circles, laughing, stepping and enjoying the experience. It truly personified World Circle Dancing Day and added something extraordinary to their trip, as well as to our own pleasure in the day.
The sad tale of three Petes
Gresford teams have participated keenly in the Shire bowls competition held at Clarence Town Bowling Club. July saw the completion of the triples competition. Three Gresford sides made it to the semi-finals and one, the three Petes (Peter Clements, Peter Lawrence and Peter Dreyer) made it to the decider. With the Petes leading 16 to 12 after 17 ends the tenacious Clarence Town players won each of the last four ends by one shot forcing the game to a 22nd end. Sadly for the Petes, holding two shots in the last end, Clarence Town played a great final shot to clinch the deal. Well done Matt Bagnall, Darrin Patfield and Kerry Danaher on their victory.
A new innovation for the club is an eight week Saturday social bowls competition. Devised by Tom Everett and Will Osmond all players are welcome and are randomly picked each Saturday into teams of triples or pairs. Points are awarded to each player based on a win for their team and total ends won regardless of team win or lose status. Six of the eight games will count for the eventual winner. The turnout has been great and it will be interesting to see who the eventual winner will be in August.
Peter Dreyer
Photo by Ric Woods.
Dungog Shire Council News
Highlights from Dungog Shire Council’s Ordinary Council Meeting on Wed 15 July
PROPOSED ROAD NAMING AT EAST GRESFORD
Council endorsed submitting two options to the Geographical Names Board for the naming of a road within a residential subdivision at East Gresford.
The two options for consideration, in order of preference, are:
Yuruga Lane
Ironbark Grove,
The two options were selected to reflect the local landscape and character, while meeting the NSW Addressing User Manual and Council's Street Naming Policy.
24-HOUR CARAVAN AND RV PARKING: SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
Council received a report assessing potential locations for additional 24-hour caravan and recreational vehicle (RV) parking across the Shire.
The report confirmed that Frank Robinson Reserve will remain Council's existing designated RV parking location and identified Bandon Grove Park and Vacy Memorial Green as the most suitable locations for future consideration, subject
to detailed assessment and any required approvals.
Council also noted that any future expansion of overnight RV facilities will be considered through future budget processes and grant funding opportunities..
ESSENTIAL PUBLIC ASSETS RESTORATION PROGRAM
Following Council's acceptance of an $8.76 million Essential Public Assets Restoration (EPAR) funding package from the NSW Reconstruction Authority in June, Councillors considered the governance framework that will guide delivery of the significant reconstruction program. The program will restore 11 disaster-damaged road, bridge and drainage assets across the Shire, ensuring they are returned to their pre-disaster function while meeting all funding, legislative and reporting requirements. Council endorsed the AGRN 1170 EPAR Project Management Plan, which establishes a structured framework for governance, financial management, procurement, risk management and project reporting. The works will be delivered through a staged approach comprising three packages Minor Repairs, Major Reconstruction and Road
Pavements - allowing investigations, design and construction activities to progress efficiently while minimising impacts on Council's existing Capital Works Program..
The disaster-damaged assets included in the $8.76 million AGRN 1170 Essential Public Assets Restoration (EPAR) Program are:
Masseys Creek Road – Drainage
Dog Trap Creek Road – Drainage
Glendonbrook Road – Embankment
Shellbrook Creek Road – Drainage
Myall Creek Road – Embankment
Majors Creek Road – Culvert replacement
Stroud Hill Road – Embankment
Park Street, East Gresford – Stormwater
CHICHESTER DAM ROAD FUNDING
Council reaffirmed its advocacy for funding to repair and maintain Chichester Dam Road following the NSW Minister for Roads' advice that no funding is currently available. Expressing disappointment with the response, the Mayor called on the Minister to reconsider the request outside the usual funding programs, recognising the road's critical role in providing access to Chichester Dam, which supplies around 80 per cent of the Lower Hunter's drinking water.
The generosity of so many people who donated the rugs and warm clothing for the needy in our areas has been overwhelming and greatly appreciated by so many. Thank you all so much. • Fr. Peter’s next men’s breakfast is on Sat 8 Aug in St. Paul’s hall, commencing at 8am. Come along & bring a friend for a good breakfast & good companionship. • Paul O’Keefe’s next service at St. Paul’s Paterson is on Sun 9 Aug at 8.30am. This is family friendly service. Come along & hear Paul’s message, the topic is “Who am I?”. • Bible study continues on Thurs at 9.30 am. Anyone who wants to know more about the bible is most welcome. Venue will be on our Facebook page. • The Parish of Gresford Paterson is holding a Hymnfest on Sat afternoon at St. Anne’s Gresford . The date is 22 Aug, no cost & afternoon tea will be provided.= See special notice in this paper. • On Sun 16 Aug St. Mary on Allyn Church will be holding their Patronal Festival commencing at 10.30am. No service at St. Anne’s that day. • If you or anyone you know needs support in these trying times, please contact Rev. Mary on 0418 611 778 , or Beverley on 4938 5223. Service times for July: 2, 9, 16 & 23, 30. St.Paul’s Paterson 8.30am & St.Anne’s Gresford 10.30am except 16th as this service will be at St.Mary on Allyn Church.
Gresford
Congregational Church
30 Durham Rd Gresford
Services Each Sunday 10.30am ALL WELCOME
Catholic Parish of Gresford
Mass at St. Helen's, East Gresford
Saturday – 5:30 pm (except 2nd Sat. of month)
Thursday – 9.30am
Mass at Sacred Heart, Summer Hill
Sunday – 11:30 am (2nd Sunday of month)
All enquiries to Fr. Andrew Doohan, Parish Priest, on 4992 1477 or dungog.parish@mn.catholic.org.au
Gresford News August Crossword
August 2026 crossword answers
Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.
Gresford Meat Co., a newly established butcher shop in East Gresford, is proud to bring premium, locally sourced meats to the community. Under new local ownership, the store is committed to delivering the finest locally grown beef and a variety of quality meats and produce. The owners of Gresford Meat Co. have deep roots in the Gresford area, and strong ties within the
Mon-Fri: 8am-5:30pm Saturday: 8am-1pm
community. Their Angus beef is sourced from local producer Glenroy Cattle Co., ensuring that customers receive the freshest and most flavorful meats available. Visit Gresford Meat Co. today to experience the best in local butchery and support a business that truly values its community connections.
