Gresford News February 2021

resford News G

The

February 2021

News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys

Bishop Sonia Roulston took the commemorative service with Fr Peter Rothnie assisting.

175th Celebration at St Mary-on-Allyn Church, Allynbrook On Sunday 29th November, 2020 a commemorative service was held at St Mary-on-Allyn church to celebrate 175 years since it was first consecrated by Bishop William Broughton on November 26th 1845. See page 11 inside to find out more.

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

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Gresford News Notices Coming up in February Ash Wednesday Service

Wed 17 February On the 17th February it is Ash Wednesday – the beginning of Lent. We are holding a Service on Ash Wednesday at 10.30am at St Anne’s Church Gresford. It has been a few years since this has been offered.

Mary Horn

Backyard Bash

Gresford Show will go ahead as planned, on 12 and 13 March 2021.

Our committee recently met and decided with the help of our community respecting all health guidelines and maintaining social distancing advice we will be able to proceed.

There will be some elements of the show we need to vary to meet the current restrictions, so please stay tuned for updates in coming weeks as all events and competitions may be subject to change depending on the latest NSW government health advice.

Sun 21 February The Hotel Beatty is holding a Backyard Bash for Pink Stumps Day with proceeds We are obviously very mindful many going to the McGrath Foundation. shows are not proceeding this year and Come along for some fun and join a wish their committees and communities team. Kids gam starts at 11.30am. the very best. We have chosen to Main event – Hotel Beatty vs Gresford continue with our show, in the Gorillas – starts at 1.30pm. knowledge we will do everything we Band, sausage sizzle, prizes. can to make it a safe environment and minimise risks to our district.

Coming up in March Gresford Show

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We thank you for your cooperation and look forward to opening the gates in March for another great show!

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Community Access Defibrilator is located outside the East Gresford Police Station. Sudden Cardiac Arrest is one of the leading causes of death in Australia. A defibrillator can make the difference between life and death and can save a life prior to the ambulance arriving.

The Gresford News is a great way to reach out to our community. Our content is created by members of the community – people just like you. If you have something to say please send in your contribution To contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au • Brian Doherty 0412 372 687 • Jane Richens 0425 339 856 • PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311.

Deadline for stories & ads 20th of the month.

Visit www.gresfordnsw.com.au for local information & the ‘Gresford News’ online.

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James Theatre news Films have started again this year at the James Theatre in Dungog. Visit the website to find out what is coming up.

Special event – Live Concert Wednesday 21 April, 7.30 pm The Australian Chamber Orchestra performs in concert in Dungog for the first time. The ACO is renowned for inspired programming and unrivalled virtuosity, energy and individuality.

Under the artistic direction of outstanding Australian violinist Richard Tognetti, the Orchestra has been transformed into a vibrant ensemble that has become famous around the world. The Guardian called the ACO “one of the greatest chamber orchestras in the world’. Led by Tognetti, the concert will feature works by Bach, Mendelssohn, Finnish composer Rautavaara, and Tchaikovsky.

This major concert in our historic theatre is proudly hosted by The Friends of the James Theatre, with support from the Dungog Arts Foundation. Tickets to the concert are only available on-line at this link from February 4: www.trybooking.com/ BOFXH]. We expect tickets to sell quickly, so don't delay.

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Paterson Historic Society news Paterson Historic Walk 2021

collection of rail motors. www.

This year’s Paterson Historic Walk railmotorsociety.org.au will be held on Sunday 28 March Cost for the walk is $5 per adult at 1pm, hosted by Dr Cameron including museum entry and Archer AM, President of Paterson afternoon tea. There is no charge Historical Society. for children. Bookings are not The walk will take visitors around required. The walk starts at the museum at 1pm. A hat and the centre of the village and walking shoes are recommended. describe the origins of European settlement. The Paterson is Online book store bountiful and would have Paterson Historical Society's new supported a considerable online book store has proved population of Aboriginal people popular since its launch in but sadly few records are available December. The Society's regarding their lives in the area. publications can now be purchased ‘We do know that the Aboriginal quickly and easily by mail order name for the river was Yimmang and credit card. The website is and that Tocal is derived from an patersonmuseum.square.site.

Aboriginal word meaning large or plenty’ Dr Archer said.

Self-guided walk app The Paterson Courthouse Museum with its extensive display of district history and memorabilia will be open.

Another feature of this year’s event is that after the walk participants can visit the adjacent Rail Motor Society Museum and depot to view its interesting

The Society has also worked with "CYA On The Road" to produce the Paterson Town Walk as an "app" for mobile phones. The selfguided walk is free and provides information on Paterson's many heritage treasures. You can download it from the App Store or Google Play (just search for CYA On The Road).

Vacy General Store will continue to be open for all.

We will be doing takeaway food, Pizza, and coffee. Australia post will be open as normal.

We will have fresh bread and milk and your essential grocery needs and fuel are all available from 7am to 7pm. We ask if you would like take away food, pizza or coffee please ring your order through and we will have it ready. Also we ask if you drop in to shop we would appreciate you keeping in mind everyone's personal space.

Thank you for your support – Jo & Ian

NEW Phone Number: 4938 8425

• February 2021, p 5

On the Shelves

by Glenda Smith The Dressmaker’s Secret

by Rosalie Ham

Readers who enjoyed The Dressmaker may (but equally may not) enjoy this sequel. This follow-up takes the characters away from Dungatar, where they all deal with the aftermath of the first novel. The effects of the devastating events play out in Melbourne, with the eccentricities of the minor characters being given full rein.

Tilly and the Sergeant do their best to prevail against the malice and hypocrisy of both old and new characters, while attempting to protect the secret of the title. They have their allies, and some new champions, but the melodrama seems to be even more extreme. There is worthwhile philosophising about the value of haute couture, and the end is possibly even more spectacular than the ending of the first book, but the parallels are strong.

The freshness of the first novel may have come from its originality, but Ham demonstrates her era and material well, and was possibly unable to let go of her creations just yet.

All books reviewed are from the CWA library on a separate shelf in the library so they are easy to find plus the reviews are in a folder. There has been a recent donation of mysteries and thrillers to the library in addition to the Lee Child donation, and some of the donated romance novels are now available in the street library.

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KERBSIDE BULKY WASTE & SCRAP METAL CLEAN-UP 8 to 19 February 2021 Dungog Shire Council is providing a Bulky Waste & Scrap Metal Clean-Up for all residential properties currently receiving a weekly waste collection.

Collections will commence on Monday the 8th of February.

Residents are requested to put their waste out the weekend before. Clean-up material should be placed at the location of your regular waste collection. Waste material deposited in any other location will be considered to be illegally dumped and action may be taken against persons responsible.

NOTE: Collections will only consist of a single pass per property for bulky waste and a separate single pass for metal. Waste or metal placed after these passes will not be collected. Collection vehicles record the date and time of each pass. Collections may occur at any time during the allotted time period. The volume of waste collected from any one property shall not exceed two cubic metres.

Bulky waste includes larger items of household waste.

Acceptable items are: • Household appliances and whitegoods (all doors must be removed) • Furniture, painted wooden products and fittings • Pottery, ceramics and chinaware • Tools, scrap metal, empty tins (lids off) and drums. (Sorted separate to other Bulky Waste) • Other bulky household items • Items must be able to be handled by two people • Loose items must be bundled or contained • Wire, must be rolled and tied securely

These materials will NOT be collected: • Mattresses • Building and demolition materials, concrete, bricks, tiles, fencing and plumbing fixtures • Trade, industrial and shop waste • Motor vehicles, engines, car parts, batteries and tyres • Commercial and hazardous waste including asbestos, insulation batts and fibro • Gas bottles and fire extinguishers • Fuels, oils, paint and vessels or machinery containing liquids eg. mowers, oil heaters etc.

• Cement bags and large carpet rolls • Windows or sliding doors that contain glass, glass table tops and broken glass.

• Green Waste including tree roots and branches • Small loose items will not be accepted • Material suitable for placement in the resident’s MGBs such as food scraps, recyclable material, household garbage.

• Fencing in large quantities and wire that is not rolled and tied securely • Lengths of material longer than 1.8m (excluding lounges etc.)

• Hot water systems larger than 260 litres.

Enquiries ~ JR RICHARDS & SONS ~ 1300 343 507

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Dungog Golf Club commencing in February & we would love for you to come & join our group of friendly members – our rates are among the most competitive in the area, with Full Membership allowing you to play in all competitions as well as unlimited access to the course for practice rounds. We also have Junior, up to 18, Intermediate 18 – 25 & Pensioner rates available

Attention – ALL golfers of the Gresford area. Dungog Golf Club would like to welcome you to come & play at our delightful course, just 20 minutes from Gresford. Come for a practice hit or join in one of our social competitions. We have a Day Light Savings game on Wednesday afternoons, with some nibbles afterwards or, The Bacon & Egg Roll Golf on Sunday morning. Both events are over a friendly 9 Holes with the chance to win a Fruit & Vegie tray.

The Saturday morning competition is for those of you who like to take things a little more seriously & will provide a good test of skill & ability – all within a friendly, competitive atmosphere, with players covering a range of grades & talents. Our Vet’s Competition is played on Thursday mornings, with the only qualification being that you must be over 50. In all competitions, if you don’t have handicap or Golf Link number already, we will help you complete the necessary requirements to obtain one.

If you just want to have an occasional practice round, on your own or with friends, our green fees are very reasonable – $15 for nine holes & $20 for eighteen holes.

Good Sense of Humour – clubs & balls can be supplied or you can BYO. $10 gets you a hit of golf, a complimentary drink of your choice & some nibbles after the game. The next ‘Champagne For the Ladies, we have recently held our Golf’ event is planned for the 5th second ‘Champagne Golf Evening’ with February 2021 – come along, bring some almost 60 girls taking part, with a fine mates for a bit of fun. time had by all. The golf is played over 6 Par 3 Holes & all you need to bring is a Membership is open, with the 2021 year

Dungog Golf course is wholely run & maintained by Voluntary labour, with a number of members devoting their time & energies in keeping the course in excellent condition. Currently, it has been observed by many people, both locals & visitors that the course is in the best shape that it has been in for many, many years.

So come & enjoy the course, but please respect the effort that our Volunteers have put in to make your experience as enjoyable as we can make it – the golf is up to you!

Wishing you the very best for the Christmas–New Year period & thank you for your support in 2020.

We are fully stocked up with Husqvarna stock, produce, farming supplies, animal products and many other goodies. We will be closed Christmas Eve and New years eve and will not be open on the public holidays. We will be open for usual business outside these times.

26 Durham Rd, East Gresford 4938 9204. Mon-Fri 7.30am to 5.30pm, Sat 8am to 12pm, Sun closed

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Gresford Arboretum local flora – Lomandra Lomandra longifolia, is a perennial, rhizomatous herb found throughout eastern Australia, and was used by Aborigines to create baskets and from this Lomandra is also known as Basket Grass, Spiny-head mat-rush, or spikyheaded mat-rush.

Lomandra is a genus of the native Australian ‘strappy or grass-like plants’ with over 50 naturally occurring varieties which grow throughout Australia except for the Northern Territory. It grows in a variety of soil types, is frost, heat, and drought tolerant. ‘With a huge range of cultivars, this has increased the diversity of the plant range offering a wealth of variation in colour, (www.ozbreed.com. au/lomandras/).

The Lomandra is an elegant native grass, with leaves between 40 and 80cm in length and generally 8 to 12mm wide, growing as large rounded open tufts with green-yellow flowering spikes. The spikes of the Lomandra may not be as traditionally showy as other native grasses yet they are distinctive and interesting (even in a vase) and attract native birds to their small fragrant flowers.

Lomandra requires little garden maintenance, are frost tolerant, drought resistant, and will grow just about anywhere in your garden – in wet areas and dry ones, in shade under trees and in full sun and in a variety of soils.

When mature, clumps of Lomandra can be dug up, divided, and directly transplanted into moist soil, while the Lomandra spike can also be planted directly into the ground when flowering ceases or alternatively the seeds can be planted directly into the soil.

The Lomandra is one of the most hardy and versatile native grasses growing in the Gresford Arboretum and very suitable for any numbers of situations within a garden either as mass planting, as an accent plant, in a pot, or even a

border/edge along a path or garden edge.

Perhaps the main benefit of this native grass is as an ideal plant for revegetation work along riverbanks and creek beds. It has an excellent root system which binds loose soil together, helping to prevent erosion; and getting a toehold on sloping sites and uneven locations and with challenging windy positions not being a problem.

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Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

HAPPY NEW YEAR Over Christmas Charlotte and I have been blessed to spend time with our children Isabelle, Oliver and Alice and their partners.

I hope like us you have had a chance to relax and unwind from what was a very challenging year.

2021 brings new hope, and I am pleased to report several Covid19 vaccines are in final trials and production - and the Australian Government has secured supply of 138 million doses.

There are many exciting projects big and small across our towns and villages that are taking shape thanks to the Federal Governments record investment in our region.

• Clarence Town Road Upgrade works continue • Local road and community infrastructure upgrades If I can be of assistance please feel free to contact my office and I look forward to getting out and about listening to the issues that are important to you, your family and our community.

The new year will see my focus remain on assisting our farmers who are still battling the drought and working with our towns and villages to rebuild following the bushfires.

Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

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Gresford Rural Fire Brigade News The Gresford Rural Fire Brigade members, would like to extend to the Communities of the Paterson and Allyn River valleys our sincere thanks and gratitude for your continuing support of the Brigade over so many years.

With the Brigade's formation in the early 1950s, Brigade contributions and income had to be derived from the community and Council. Volunteer Brigade members had to not only generate income but also procure new equipment. As new tankers were introduced into service at Gresford, Brigade members were solely responsible for the purchase, refurbishment and conversion of these vehicles.

During 1985 the Brigade embarked on an ambitious project to refurbish the existing Gresford Station to incorporate meeting facilities, amenities and the construction of a new two bay shed to accommodate fire fighting vehicles. This enormous project was fully funded and financed by the Gresford Brigade, with members being the driving force in all fund raising activities including Friday night raffles at the Gresford Bowling Club, operating the barbeque at the Annual Gresford Billy Cart Derby and catering and providing services at local functions. These fund raising

ventures extended over a 20 year period with the Station improvements being completed with an additional bay added to the two bay shed in 2002; with a total capital cost of approximately $240,000.

Today’s Brigade in comparison to the 1950s – whilst still dedicated to the preservation of life and property – is somewhat different. Our appliances and equipment are supplied by the NSW Rural Fire Service. But there is still a genuine need to be self-reliant.

With the advent of the devastating fires

during 2019/2020, again our community came to the fore and business houses and generous families and individuals again committed food, water, sustenance and contributions to allow us to not only sustain firefighting activities during this horrendous period, but also continue improving our facilities and ability to provide fire protection.

The projects that we have completed from funds contributed by the Community: a $10,000 grant from the NSW RFS & Brigades Public Fund Trust and funding from the Hon. Michael Johnson MP have been to upgrade our training facilities incorporating modern information technology, install a closed circuit security system and upgrade all our appliance bay and external lighting to new low-energyuse LED components. We have also installed roof ventilators in the appliance bays, added safe storage for flammable liquids and installed air-conditioning in the kitchenette and office area.

In summation, with the ongoing support of our community, our capacity to provide fire protection to our community continues to be preserved and maintained and steadfast involvement by all ensures the longevity of our Brigade. It is only through the benevolence of people within our community, the needs of our volunteer firefighters are being met and your exemplary commitment to our Brigade is an inspiration to us all, and not only brings credit upon yourselves as a greater community, but also ensures the fabric of our rural heritage is maintained.

If anyone in our community is interested in becoming a member of our Brigade or wishes to discuss our Brigade activities please contact: Captain Rick Cannon – 0428 389 332 or Brigade President Neville Lawrence OAM – 0492 830 554

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A new PAD for music gigs at the Royal Hotel in Dungog.

They’ll be on the third Sunday of the month, from 4pm, to be confirmed.

First up is the Sneaky Freakers on 21 Feb. They’re a funky soulful band from Newie with strong Dungog roots. They’ve formed out of former members of the Buzzard Mix, that popular ska and party band.

Later gigs include The Story Of Jazz, Folk & Traditions, and Theatricality.

If you’d like to get on the mailing list for more details as The PAD @ The Royal – great live music of a brand new community group, the they arise and to have a chance of Performing Artists of Dungog. Its dream booking, email donnacavanough@gmail.

The PAD @ The Royal is a new music is to reinvigorate the live performance com. and performance venue, the brainchild scene in Dungog shire, starting with four Spaces will be limited (hello, Covid).

The committee behind the Performing Artists of Dungog making a complete hash of YMCA.

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• February 2021, p 13

175th Celebration at St Mary-on-Allyn Church, Allynbrook restrictions). A bronze plaque has been placed at the base of the oak tree adjacent to the church marking the celebration. It was unveiled by Ian Bird at the conclusion of the service.

Members of the Boydell family attended as did a number of past Allynbrook community members. There was a lot of catching up done over light refreshments which were served in the grounds of the hall and church yard for those who chose to stay after the service. Thank goodness the service was at 9am as the day became very warm later on. It was a wonderful celebration of a truly unique historical gem.

On Sunday 29th November, 2020 a commemorative service was held at St Mary-on-Allyn church to celebrate 175 years since it was first consecrated by Bishop William Broughton on November 26th 1845.

The story behind the building of the church by William Boydell for his betrothed Mary Phoebe Broughton is well known. A shipboard romance that lead to a promise to build a church for the Bishop’s daughter, along with the

local community, to worship in has been recorded in historical books and information relating to the Gresford area.

The commemorative service was taken by Bishop Sonia Roulston with Fr Peter Rothnie assisting. Approximately 50 people attended the celebration with some seated outside (due to COVID

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Local trio Fancy release two new songs – Hammock and Attitude announced Hammock as a song about climate change and the menopause. It’s about rising temperatures and not doing anything about it. Why? Because we’re in our hammock and we can’t be bothered.”

Donna wrote the song while being mentored by Vacy musician and teacher John Holder. “John Holder is an exceptional teacher. He guided the writing without ever taking over. The song is dedicated to his wise musical help.”

John O’Brien writes about two new songs and the defining issue of our times...

chatter and the futility of action. Now it’s the key question facing the planet.

You know that famous old joke, “Everybody talks about the weather but nobody does anything about it”? It’s a quote (attributed variously to Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner) that’s gained in value, perhaps at the expense of its original “light” meaning over time.

In the 19th century the writer was making a clever punning line about idle

So it was that our trio Fancy released two new songs on 7 November, speaking to these desperate themes for our times.

Written by vocalist Donna Cavanough, Hammock is a bluesy melodic creation, the sort of thing you might drink a cocktail to.

But it has a dark message. “When we’ve played it live,” says Donna, “I’ve always

The issue of climate change complacency may be as crucial as that of climate change denial. “I wanted to paint a picture of the powerlessness we all feel, without making the song preachy in any way,” says Donna. “But I want people to get a jolt when they realise the message.

Don’t be a frog in a saucepan, do something. Anything.”

Hammock's nicely swung guitar is by the trio’s guitarist Lenny Burgess. He is also the composer of the other new track, Attitude, an elegant arrangement of jazzy chords and a heartfelt tune inspired by Keb Mo. Both songs and their videos were produced by me, the band’s Pianica and Vibes player.

We recorded the video for Attitude while we

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• February 2021, p 15

the essence of “can’t be bothered”. Our son Gus’s colourist work has enhanced the burnt-edge feel to the imagery.

To add to the pathos, I put out a request on Facebook for shots from friends showing the bushfire and climate emergency in their backyard. Although you would have seen more spectacular bushfire images on the news, these everyday shots have a grim sadness about them.

were recording the sound – those are the actual musical takes! It’s a fun way to get a music video but in the low light of Lenny’s lodgings the footage was kind of grainy. My priority was the music, after all!

To make a virtue of this limitation, I decided to make the video smaller in the screen and announce the chords in the margins. Half the pleasure of this song is those gorgeous chords. The other half is Lenny’s philosophical musings on having

the right attitude while playing great guitar with that honest singing style of his.

And for me there’s a certain poignancy to my crazy Pianica solo in the middle.

There I am walking around our dam floor, playing an instrument that once belonged to my father, a grazier who didn’t live to see the depredations that global warming has wrought on our world. He would have liked the music, at least. We hope you do too!

Hammock with Attitude – the two songs are available on Spotify, iTunes, Google The music video for Hammock was shot Play, Amazon Music and other outlets. in our actual hammock, over our actual You can watch all our Fancy videos here: nearly dry dam (two weeks later it was dead dry). The video was inspired by one www.youtube.com/channel/ UCypoaS4V6TccpbNkYzXO42Q/ of Donna’s favourite photos, André You can also check out our two videos as Kertész’s Satiric Dancer.Our goal was to a duo, The De Factos, here: www.youtube. have a clip so laid-back we barely made com/channel/ an effort – you can’t even see Donna’s UCxbkJgF6gwuSjTu4mYup3aA mouth for most of it – which is kind of

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iNaturalist App makes it easy to identify plants, animals and fungi

Participants at Frank Robinson park after the talk looking for interesting life to photograph and upload.

The last Paterson Allyn Williams Science Hub (PAWSH) gathering of 2020 was enjoyed by about 20 well-spaced-out people in the Dungog CWA Hall on Sunday December 20th. The focus of the day was to explore the amazing range of capabilities offered by the iNaturalist app, presented by Jane Richens. For many people the initial benefit of using

the app would be to get help with the with the geo-tag information, will be identification of a plant, animal or fungi. upgraded to 'research grade' where it can be used by scientists and organisations Ease of use is a feature of the smart to compare with other sightings and phone app. Simply take a photo, record diversity and distribution preferably with the location information information for research projects. turned on, and then upload the image.

Once the image is uploaded other users For instance, the information can help will provide an identification and once to reveal seasonal variations and raise enough users agree, your image, along awareness of the dispersal of weeds.

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G resford News

The

• February 2021, p 17

Ros explained how much she appreciates her Google pixel 3 smart phone camera compared with the heavy camera and lenses she used to carry around.

She showed us wonderful pictures of huge clusters of so-called solitary bees waking up and interacting, an ant passing food into another ant, beautiful filaments of pink wax on the carapace of a beetle, a colourful lacewing and an emerging cicada. There was a close up of a dragonfly with dew covered wings spreading them out, helicopter wise, to dry.

The magnifying capability of the camera showed us the details of colours in caterpillars and a centipede, that we One of Ros Runciman's incredible photographs of the small things that we usually don't see. would usually overlook. We saw an enamel spider – they are more common iNaturalist has strong ties with scientific Photos can also be uploaded from a than we realise and this one was found computer to the iNaturalist web page, organisations that support the app which provides even more options than on a fruit bowl in a shed! including the Californian Academy of Sciences and National Geographic and in the smart phone app. Whether using the All these beautiful pictures help to make app or the website, iNaturalist makes it Australia the CSIRO and the Atlas of us aware of the range of living things in easy for everyone to engage more with Living Australia. our surroundings that we usually the natural world while contributing overlook. Thank you Ros! Most records can be shared with all the vital data for our understanding of it. other users of the app and this facilitates Because of Covid restrictions on a lot of interactions. However, some data The day also featured a talk by Ros attendance, PAWSH will run this are available only to scientists on request Runciman, well known locally for her program again in 2021. and the location of rare and endangered stunning photographs of animals, usually quite tiny, that we are often unaware of.

Ruth Dircks species is not revealed.

Sun 14 Feb – Back by popular demand Markins Band supported by Hotel resident band Barflyz.

Sun 21 Feb – Pink Stumps Day Backyard Bash. Kids ame 11:30 am 7-12 yo - wanted 2 teams of 7 players. Main event 1:30pm Hotel Gresford v's Gresford Gorillas. Red Dirt Road Band at 2 pm with special guests Bingleburra Barflyz. Sausage sizzle, Best Dressed, Raffles.

Sun 28 Feb – Peter Steffenson returns on the deck 2–6 pm.

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G resford News • February 2021

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, p 18

CWA News Gresford CWA meets on the first Thursday of the month.

WHERE: In the CWA rooms 12 Durham Road, East Gresford.

TIME: 9.30am New in town come and join us, social distancing observed.

BOOK CLUB: Next meeting, Saturday 13th February, we are reading “Boy Swallowed the Universe” by Trent Dalton. Come along and enjoy lively discussion, social distancing observed.

LITERARY MOCKTAILS: What do you get when you cross literary favourites with delicious, thirst quenching concoctions?

A SIDECAR NAMED DESIRE: Ginger Beer, juice ½ lime, ice, lime wedges for garnish Method: Fill a glass with ice. Squeeze lime over ice. Pour in ginger beer and mix gently. Garnish with lime wedges.

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G resford News

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• February 2021, p 19

A story to share FRENCH CONVERSATION: First and third Wednesday of the month 11.30am. Please ring Glenda Smith on 4938 9456 for further information. Held in the CWA rooms, ladies, gentlemen and students very welcome.

COUNTRY OF STUDY ECUADOR: TOURIST ACTIVITIES IN ECUADOR: Ecuador Travel: https.ecuador.travel DIVING: One of the best destinations in the world to explore under water, because the beauty of the entire South Pacific is concentrated in its colourful marine fauna.

MOUNTAINEERING: In Ecuador, you will find many options for this activity in the Highlands. The main destinations from the capitol Quito are: The Antisana and the Laguna de la Mica, the Pita River canyon, the Molinuco waterfall.

You can never underestimate the impact Gresford has on the wider community.

The Gresford CWA OPEN LIBRARY, set up and maintained by Glenda Smith, has been a hit during the pandemic, providing easy access reading opportunities for adults and kids alike.

But this week, the ripple effect of the library took a surprising turn when Victorian author Caroline De Costa sent the CWA three of her own books, after experiencing the joys of the library while traveling through the district.

Dear Gresford CWA members,

particularly in the pub and cafe in East Gresford. I discovered your free book exchange at the front of the hall and in it ‘The Complete Book of the Cat’ – this seemed to me perfect for a friend’s six year old daughter in Melbourne and this has proved to be the case. I also found a Robert Drewe novel for another friend.

I had no books with me that day to leave in return so I am now enclosing copies of three crime fiction novels I have published, which may be of interest to some members, or might go into your free exchange, which I think is a wonderful idea.

Kind regards, I had the pleasure of visiting Gresford and Caroline De Costa East Gresford early this month. I really loved These books will be available to borrow the area and the way history has been so from the CWA library. well preserved and acknowledged,

Join us on Thursday, February 4th at 9.30am. We are planning a light meeting with the focus on catching up, enjoying each others company and being enthusiastic for what is ahead.

Robyn Thornton, Secretary

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G resford News • February 2021

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, p 20

Council Happenings

Message from the Mayor 22 January 2021 As we approach the eve of what is for many, the Australia Day long weekend, we acknowledge that celebrations and ceremonies may look a little different this year for us all.

Like many councils across the state, late last year, our Australia Day Committee had to make the difficult decision to cancel our usual Australia Day activities on 26 January.

Our priority is always to keep our community COVID-Safe, and ensure we're adhering to the latest Public Health Orders and following the most up-to-date advice available from NSW Health.

Calling All Superstar Candidates DUNGOG SHIRE COUNCIL IS NOW RECRUITING: Do you know a superstar candidate who is currently on the job hunt?

We're looking for a Civil Works – Team Leader, Plant Operator – Team Leader, and Labourer Operator – General, to join our busy team.

If you know someone who might be the perfect fit for any of these roles, please share or direct them to the address below.

This a great opportunity to live and work in this growing region and provide essential services to our vibrant community.

Assistance Grants and the NSW Government’s Roads to Recovery program.

Dungog Showground – Top dressing of the Showground has been completed with seeding now undertaken as scheduled.

Clarence Town Sporting Facility – Construction continues on this $2M community sporting and recreational asset, with completion anticipated for September 2021. This project is funded under the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 2.

Survey Off to a 'Flying' Start We were thrilled to receive more than 50 responses to our recent online survey about flying-foxes in Dungog Shire.

And just for taking the time to fill out the Visit council's website to learn more about these positions, and find out how survey, we're happy to announce that Haley Cox and Ros Runciman Fortunately, while our formal to apply. each won a $100 voucher to be spent at a ceremonies will not be held, we can still Weekly Works Update business of their choice in Dungog Shire! come together and celebrate safely as a Works happening across the Shire this community, with FREE entry to both The survey’s results will provide a past week have included: Dungog and Clarence Town Pools this valuable insight into the community's Tuesday 26 January! (See our Facebook attitudes toward flying-foxes, and guide Maintenance: post for full details). the Dungog Flying-Fox Advisory Maintenance works on many unsealed Committee as they develop our draft roads including Allyn River Road, So while Australia Day may look a little Dungog Flying-Fox Management Plan.

Vogeles Road and roads in the Main different for us this year, this is still a Creek /Skimmings Gap Area. time to reflect, respect, and safely The Committee met late last year to celebrate everything that makes our consider the results of the survey and start Tar patching on various roads, most nation great – and maybe make a splash! notably Paterson River Road and putting together the Management Plan.

Webbers Creek Road, which was Being COVID-Safe and reducing the At this stage, it's expected that a draft spread is a responsibility we all share, so significantly impacted by the recent will be available for council to consider weather events. please make sure you know what you at a meeting in February. can and can't do under the rules if you Roadside slashing has been choose to host a small outdoor To find out more, visit council’s website. undertaken on Gresford Road and is gathering or visit family and friends on scheduled to continue in the Gresford Information for Visitors to our Region Australia Day. area next week.

For anyone who is thinking of For anyone staying home, I encourage you to tune into the fantastic broadcasts of the WugulOra Morning Ceremony, Salute to Australia and Australia Day Live at the Sydney Opera House on ABC TV or iview.

For the latest advice and information, visit the NSW Government's Australia Day website.

For any other activities, events or happenings around our shire, remember you can always contact me by phone on 4995 7777 or by email on shirecouncil@dungog.nsw.gov.au I look forward to hearing from you.

Happy Australia Day! JOHN CONNORS Mayor

Capital works: Clarence Town Road (Union Bridge to Parers Hill) – With works commencing in December following official approval, crews continued work on this $13.3M infrastructure upgrade, for which funding has been provided by both the Australian ($10.7M) and NSW ($2.67M) governments.

Black Spot Works: Bingleburra Road (Turnbull’s Road end) – Crews continued to work on these $1.67M upgrades, which are nearing completion. Black Spot Works funding is provided by the Australian Government to improve safety at identified crash locations.

Durham Road & Paterson River Road Intersection – Installation of kerb and guttering outside Gresford Public School.

This work is jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Financial

camping or holidaying in or around the Dungog region, please ensure that you first visit the Visit NSW State Forests Facebook page.

There, you'll find all the latest updates on road and camping ground closures in place as a result of recent wet weather events in the area.

Camping at Dungog Showground Council has approved Development Application for a primitive camping ground, comprising 16 sites at the Dungog Showground.

Location of the sites has been chosen following the preparation and adoption of an updated Plan of Management for the showground, which has recently been approved through an expedited process by Crown Lands.

This Plan enables council to manage the land through the Dungog Showground

G resford News

The

and Recreation Reserve Management Committee, on behalf of the Crown.

It is anticipated that camping at Dungog Showground will positively impact the economy and tourism potential of the Dungog Township.

In addition to the DA, council has been working on QR registration codes, a contact-free online booking system and signage for Showground visitors, to enable camping for showground visitors as soon as possible.

Cities Power Partnership Membership Dungog Shire will join the Cities Power Partnership – Australia’s largest local government climate network, made up of 123 councils from across the country and representing almost 11 million Australians.

The Partnership provides resources to councils and communities to transform their energy usage and encourages pledges in areas including renewable energy, efficiency, transport and partnerships to tackle climate change.

Membership is aimed at benefiting the wider community through addressing the impacts of climate change through councils’ energy usage activities.

A report will be provided to council within six months, to determine the specific pledges to be made under the partnership.

Visit the Cities Power Partnership website for more information.

Gresford District Agricultural Show

• February 2021, p 21

Community Grants There are increasing opportunities for community Groups to apply for Government grants but how do you find out about them?

Dr David Gillespie MP has recently launched an online 'Grant Finder' providing a comprehensive list of grant and funding opportunities available to all local businesses, community groups, not-for-profits and individuals.

This free service means you will never miss a grant opportunity again. You can register to receive emailed alerts for new grants, save your favourites and manage your funding application process. See helpful Videos, Top Tips and Grants Explained for further information and advice on how to write a winning grant. Go to: https://davidgillespie.grantguru.com.au/

STRONGER COMMUNITIES FUNDING Community and Volunteer Groups are now able to apply for their share of $150,000 in funding under the Stronger Communities Programme (SCP).

The programme will fund up to 20 local community infrastructure projects across the region, with grants ranging from $2,500 to $20,000.

Our local volunteers and community groups are the backbone of Australia and this investment in local projects under the SCP is about invigorating these towns and villages. The last round of the SCP was hugely popular and saw funding for groups including: Diamond Beach & Redhead Rural Fire Brigade Hawks Nest Golf Club Comboyne Tennis Club Lorn Park Bowls Sport and Recreation Club Kendall Community preschool and Killabakh community association For more information on this and other grants community groups are encouraged to register at Gillespie Grant Finder. Eligible organisations can lodge an expression of interest on or before Sunday 14th February 2021.

BUILDING BETTER REGIONS FUND IS NOW OPEN This round of funding includes $100 million in dedicated funding for tourism-related infrastructure boosting our regional tourism recovery, while maintaining $100 million for broader community infrastructure and investment.

Community groups in our region are encouraged to apply for both streams to enhance community facilities and create much-needed jobs.

Council has resolved to provide $250 in support of the Art and Photography sections for the 2021 Gresford District Agricultural Show.

Our region has already benefited from previous rounds of the BBRF with investments in projects such as Kew Main Street upgrade, Dungog CBD Beautification and the Valley Industries Jennison Centre, delivering lasting benefits to our towns.

Originating in 1927, Gresford’s Annual Show attracts visitors to the region by showcasing the agricultural, horticulture and pastoral interests within the area.

Grant funding between $5,000 to $1 million is available to cover 50% or more of eligible project costs. Applications close on 5 March 2021. For more information on this and other grants community groups are encouraged to register at Gillespie Grant Finder.

This popular and historic community event will next be held on 12-13 March 2021 at Gresford Showground.

Fixing Country Roads program.

Previously, restrictions to access for heavy vehicles, especially during last summer’s The design and construction of drought conditions, made the transport two new bridges – Spooner and Coulston of stock feed and water both difficult and – located on Paterson River Road expensive for local producers. between Gresford and Lostock, has Replacement of the two existing been completed with funding provided dilapidated timber structures has under the NSW Government’s

Bridge Improvements

allowed load limits to be removed and opened up more efficient transport opportunities for our local farming and agricultural communities.

Safety has also been improved with guard railing designed to current specifications, including a high hand rail for cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians.

G resford News • February 2021

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, p 22

Gresford News February Crossword

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson Weekly Services 10.30am Sundays at St Annes COVID safe practices in place CONTACT Fr Peter Rothnie 0438 413 007, email priest@gpanglican.com.au

St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill Saturday Vigil Mass at St. Helen's church Sat. evening at 5:30 pm ( except 2nd Sat. of month).

Sunday Morning Mass at Summer Hill on the 2nd Sun. of each month at 11:30 am.

All enquiries to Fr. Derek Garner, Parish Priest, on 4992 1477.

December 2020 crossword answers

Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.

resford News • February 2021 G RECENT COUNTRY SALES by PAMELA MUNSON The

, p 23

50 Keppies Road, Paterson SOLD $1.3 Million 3 acres. 6 bedrooms

18 Lochgoyle Drive, Woodville. SOLD $1.1 Million 3 acres. 3 bedrooms plus loft

THE RURAL MARKET IS SELLING FAST!

Resulting in high demand and fewer local listings available. After the Christmas and New Year break Buyers are back in force looking for Country properties. Vacant land, Houses in Villages, luxury Homes on small acreage, retreats, grazing land, Productive Farms, Riverfronts…all are in demand in Gresford, East Gresford, Dungog, Vacy, Paterson areas.

I am here to help you, free advice, free appraisals.

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