Gresford News February 2016

resford News G

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News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys February 2016

Recognising Service to Community

Top: Gresford Community Group president Graham Murphy (at back) with Above left: Rosalie Lawrence arranging the smorgasbord lunch.

Award recipients L-R Delma Lawrence, Noel Jupp, Sue Forbes, Keith Litchfield, Above right: Some of the 50 local residants attending the luncheon.

Jane Richens, Donna Cavanough, Brian Doherty and Peter Lawrence.

T

he Gresford district Australia Day luncheon, organised by the Gresford community Group, was held at the Twin Rivers Cafe on 26 January. The Dungog Shire Mayor, Harold Johnson along with 50 residents enjoyed the fellowship of the occasion and a wonderful smorgasbord lunch.

At the conclusion of the luncheon there was the announcement and presentation of 8 Gresford District Australia Day Recognition Awards to individuals who had been nominated by the community for their special contributions.

Citations for the awards are included inside this issue.

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

Dungog

Chiropractic Clinic I treat most musculoskeletal complaints including back and neck pain, sciatica, headaches, migraines and limb pain and pins and needles.

HiCaps and eftpos facility is available so patients can claim direct from their healthfund and just pay the gap.

Located at Dungog Community Hospital on Hospital Road in Dungog phone no: 4992 3766

Shane Moss B.Sc. M.Chiro.

local water carrier

CASSO’S WATER CARTAGE DOMESTIC & RURAL WATER SUPPLIES TANKS & POOLS FILLED CONTACT 0400 294 436

Gresford Transport ABN - 76872263533

"Serving The Small Man On The Land"

Livestock, Hay and general, 8 ton capacity, fully insured Gresford, Dungog Maitland, Singleton Stephen Hill for friendly and personal service

Home - 02 49 389 349 Mobile - 0429389349

The Gresford News Community Diary Wed

3 Feb Yoga term starts, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.15am

Thurs

4 Feb Land Cookery Competition, CWA, 9.30am

Sat

6 Feb Films at the James Theatre Dungog: Snoopy 3pm, Sisters 7pm; more films on Sat 13, Sun 21 & 28

Tues Sat

9 Feb School of arts Committee Meeting, Gresford School of arts, 7.30pm 13 Feb CWA Book Club begins, CWA rooms, 3.00pm

Tues

16 Feb Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Tues

16 Feb Landcare meeting (Note change of date for this one), Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm

Sun

21 Feb Next Gresford markets, Gresford District Historical Society event, grounds of the Hotel Beatty, 9.00am

Thurs

23 Feb Special event: Free inspirational talk by Sam Cawthorn, Dungog RSL, 5.00pm

Sun

6 Mar Clean Up Gresford Day, meet at Therese Doyle Hall, 9.30am

Fri & Sat 11 & 12 Mar Gresford District Agricultural Show, Showground Fri

11 Mar Live music – Tanya Witton & Co, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club

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, Therese Doyle Hall, 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 Wed & Fri (school terms) Yoga with Donna Cavanough, Wed–gentle, Fri–general, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.15am 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.

For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred (not in word). Please keep us informed about activities in the area – a paragraph or two and photo.

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

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

finances resford News G

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Please support your local newsletter and contribute anonymously or use the slip below and place your donations in the boxes provided in Gresford.

Name

Amount

Address

EAST GRESFORD MASSAGE CLINIC

LEANNE ATKINS 0427 389 722 31 Durham Rd East Gresford

•

Therapeutic Massage Remedial Massage Pregnancy Massage Hot Rock Massage Health Fund Rebates •

Member: AAMT DIP R M

Gresford General Store and Post Office Home of the Crossroads Cafe 162 Durham Road Gresford (Cnr Lostock & Durham Road) Phone 4938 9239

Trading

Mon – Wed Thurs – Sun

Shop

7 am – 5 pm 7 am – 7 pm

Cafe

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 FRESH SEAFOOD available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Order on Mondays for Tuesday delivery and Wednesday for Thursday delivery. Bon apetit!

NEW – Dry Cleaning service now available - ask Karin for details DVD RELEASES – FEBRUARY • THE MARTIAN • THE DRESSMAKER • THE INTERN • THE LAST WITCH HUNTER • • BLACK MASS • BURNT • MISS YOU ALREADY • LEGEND • CRIMSON PEAK • CELL • • BEFORE WE GO • LEARNING TO DRIVE • QUEEN & COUNTRY • • ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROME • THE GAMES MAKER • SPARKS & EMBERS • •CHAIN OF COMMAND • UNBRANDED • THE FAMILY LAW • RODEO GIRL•

Gresford News Notices Clean up Gresford day

It's on again...Clean Up Australia in our area. Join Gresford and East Gresford residents as we spend a couple of hours on Sunday morning 6th March from 9.30am cleaning up our road verges and public areas.

We will meet at the Therese Doyle Hall, East Gresford for registration and then clean up designated areas. You will need to bring gloves, a hat, sunscreen and wear good sturdy boots. Please lend a hand.

Janie Chandler

Yoga Dungog (Anglican Hall 51 Dowling St): Tuesdays 10am Gentle; 5.30 pm General Vacy (School of Arts Hall): Wed 9.15am Gentle; Fri 9.15am General Cost: Casual price per person $20/$17 concession.

Term price: $16 per class (paid at beginning of each term) men & women & beginners welcome!

Donna Cavanough (15 years teaching in Dungog shire) 0407 290 293

Special event Inspirational speaker on resilience – Sam Cawthorn to visit Dungog in Feb Thurs 23 Feb, 5-6pm Dungog RSL, FREE

Sam Cawthorn is an amazing inspirational speaker. He is an expert in not only bouncing back but bouncing forward. He is obsessed with corporate and personal turnaround and was the 2009 Young Australian of the Year for Tasmania.

In October 2006 Sam’s life changed forever and it was this journey that enabled him to develop a mental resilience that gave him the tools to miraculously recover from his accident.

Sam will share what he discovered on his journey Sam is at the forefront of global trends and has the unique ability to transform impossibilities into possible realities.

Sam’s thought leadership is in corporate & personal turnarounds and

Gresford News

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

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

An audio version is also available for the visually impaired for information Phone

0412 372 687

his message called BOUNCE. He flies around the world sharing his expertise and his passion in ‘Bouncing Forward’.

In 2011 he partnered with Google Australia to run Australia's first Youth Speaking Event.

His powerful message will challenge his listeners to be truly who they are and to believe in all that they have to give.

He provides the skills to be resilient, overcome fears, and to achieve goals and dreams that we may think are unachievable.

Landcare update

Congratulations to Peter Laurence who received a local Australia Day Award for his commitment to his community by his community.

There is a clash of dates with the Land & Beef group & the usual Landcare meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of the month.So the first Landcare meeting will be on the 3rd Tuesday of February.

Tues 16 Feb, 7.30, Hotel Beatty.

We have been asked about a field day.

Please bring along suggestions to the meeting.

Gresford Market presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.

Starting Again Sunday 21 Feb. 9am to 1.30pm at the

Beatty Hotel

...........................

Features local stalls and produce, Great music local goods, treats, attactions and a little bit of history ...........................

Further information contact George Sales 49389639

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Letters To The Editor To the Dungog Shire Community from Linda Bowden, Councillor, C Ward NSW Government’s Dungog/Gloucester Merger Proposal On February 9 there will be a public inquiry into the Dungog/Gloucester merger proposal. This new merger was announced on 18 December 2015, when Council staff, Councillors, community members and business organisations were entering the Christmas break, and therefore had little time to respond. This is a common strategy of Government when major policy change is underway.

business case and evidence to ensure that there is no financial (or any other) risk to this community. Although our General Manager has contacted Morrison Low to embark on a financial analysis for the new merger proposal, it is doubtful, due to the timing of the Government’s announcement, whether Council can receive this critical advice before the inquiry on 9 February.

• Existing financial information points to a merger between Dungog and Gloucester as being unsuccessful. Both Councils were deemed ‘unfit’ under IPART’s criterion. Two ‘unfits’ don’t make a ‘fit’. There has been general recognition from the Dungog community that there needs to be a rate rise to become viable, however the merged entity would have a restricted capacity to increase rates for four years. The Government’s offer of a $15m funding package (includes $5m for merger costs) for the newly merged Council would also not address Council’s Throughout the Fit for the Future process, infrastructure backlog of $40m.

Councils have had difficulty getting • The Gloucester/Dungog merger isn’t information to the community, about improvements in services, as stated providing appropriate community in the Government’s Merger Proposal consultation and procuring evidenced based advice, due to the timelines set by Dungog Shire Council Gloucester Shire Council January 2016: ‘the proposed merger Government. The Government is now will create a council better able to meet the progressing towards mergers of 35 needs of the community into the future and Councils with little regard to their will provide significant benefits for the submissions to IPART. community’, its about cost cutting, job At the public hearing on 9 February at losses and erosions to service delivery. the Dungog Memorial Bowling Club, I • There are around 65 staff who work will be speaking against the Dungog out of the Dungog Shire Council and Gloucester merger. A few of my Chambers. Retention of staff is critical to reasons are listed below: the efficient/effective functioning of any • The Government’s modelling for the organisation and with any merger there Council amalgamation has been based is generally loss of staff, including on a report by a financial organisation, quality managerial positions under KPMG, which states that there will be a contract. Administration bases can also total financial benefit of $19m over 20 be at risk. It is therefore important to years to the new entity, including an maintain a focus for employment and expected financial savings of $4m over retain the Council office within the the same period. The Government is Dungog Shire. presently refusing to release the full • Both Councils are in distinctly KPMG report so that Council can different catchments and provide examine the modelling and determine services in very different ways. An whether there is agreement on these analysis of the health, policing, water/ savings. At present it looks like any savings will be eroded by merger costs, sewage operations, for example, demonstrate a potential difficulty in for example, organisational changes delivering these services in a manageable and new salary systems. and cost efficient manner.

• Council has a standing motion that • Two Councils merging means a loss of decisions regarding any merger with Councillor representation. There are another council have to be based on a Any Government recommended amalgamation should be based on evidence to demonstrate that it will work. Our Council did the right thing by commissioning Morrison Low to do a business case on the Government recommended Dungog/Maitland Councils' merger to determine the best way forward for our community. The result was that both Councils would be, amongst other things, at financial risk if a merger was to proceed.

larger distances to travel to support constituents and less time to support the community. The fact that there is no geographic cohesion makes service delivery difficult. The main arguments used in the past for the retention of small Council areas across NSW have been: the desire to keep government local, to maintain public interest and participation, incompatibility between some urban and rural areas and a desire for local democracy.

• Contrary to the Government’s Dungog Gloucester merger proposal which states, ‘The proposal has been informed by four years of extensive council and community consultation’, this merger proposal was never put forward by the NSW Government as an option during this time – although Council had had discussions with all neighbouring Councils to determine whether there was potential for an alternative merger option. There has been no time for Council to consult widely over this new proposal.

• Almost all existing academic literature (big literature in the US, case studies in Australia) find that amalgamations do not meet expectations and amalgamations, invariably, are badly underestimated. The Delatite de-amalgamation case on amalgamation shows loss of local identity can be significant if not understood and effectively addressed. Amalgamation advocates claim bigger is better, bigger is cheaper, bigger means better services.

This is not necessarily the case.

As stated, mergers are generally about cost cutting and erosion of services. They are not about improvements to service delivery or appropriate needs based funding. The solution is not in splitting Dungog Shire a number of ways and attaching segments to other Councils.

This would result in a loss of: our rural identity and LEP; voice in local government; and impact the businesses we so depend on for services and employment.

If this Council received appropriate, needs based funding, the basic wish of our residents for our roads to be fixed would be achieved.

Linda Bowden, Councillor, C Ward

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What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

Barracuda Christos Tsiolkas

(author of The Slap) Barracuda gives a searing insight into the nature of class in Australia and the dark side of athletic competition. Danny Kelly is a working class boy from an Irish/Greek background, who wins a scholarship to a prestigious school because of his swimming ability. He counters the physical and psychological intimidation of the other boys by assuming a ‘psycho’ persona in fights, which gives him apparent popularity and friendships, and his nickname of ‘Barracuda’. Danny also realises he is gay, which creates further problems for him.

Danny is a potential Olympian, and his fierce competitiveness takes a savage toll on his life and family. Tsiolkas’ writing is uncompromising in language and detail, which may deter some readers, but it is also very thought-provoking. It gives a behindthe-scenes look at the sacrifices athletes make, and the way they have to invest everything in success if they are to reach the upper echelons. This investment can come at the cost of identity. This is a very powerful book.

Paterson Allyn Garden Group mix, manure and finally hay. She finds this keeps the moisture in and the weeds down. She plants straight into this mix after it breaks down. Jane also The program of the day began with a commented that this could be the reason walk through the garden with Jane and that they lost seven trees in the big storm Peter. Upon return we collected our gifts in April; maybe it could be that they and enjoyed some dips and nibbles weren’t deep rooted. Her whole garden is whilst being entertained by Penny Kater, no dig. Her tip passed on to keep her Janie Chandler and John Evers hydrangeas free from sun burn was to accompanied in fine voice by Marty throw sheets over them on hot days.

Addison, Chris Wokes and Jan Delaney.

Jane then lead a walk and talk filling Those who could sing in tune were invited to join in the Christmas Carols. everyone in on how and when she laid each garden out. She even has a A special mention should be made purple garden in memory of her dear regarding Robert Smith, our diligent friend Deb. security officer as to his talent with his Janie was concerned about the clarinet. Robert at one time was a infestation of sawfly she has on her member of the Sydney Concert Band. plants and is seeking a cure without He entertained us during the day. having to spray with systemic Jane Hicks gave us a brief history of their insecticides that kill bees. She was also garden and we could all see the hard concerned that she has lost a Wisteria work that has gone into this beautiful that seems to have died for no reason. garden. Jane mentioned that it’s still a Any clues greatly appreciated. work in progress. She explained she Our thanks goes to all and sundry for doesn’t have to water excessively as she the organising especially Jane and works on keeping up a big layer of Peter for their enthusiasm and mulch. She starts laying thick wads of wonderful hospitality. newspaper, then piles rubbish from the Eileen, PAGG garden and scatters cat litter, potting The PAGG December Christmas party at Jane & Peter Hicks' garden near Vacy was an event not to be missed.

Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547

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Photos – clockwise from top left: Christmas garden hosts Jane and Peter Hicks Duelling guitars – John Evers and Penny Kater Libby Alison on the garden path Lunch time Christmas carols – Jan Delaney, Marty Addison, Chris Wokes and Janie Chandler

G resford News • February 2016

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q “Our Stories” Feature r The Gresford News - Celebrating 20 years

The Gresford News began when the Gresford Public School's Gresford Weekly and the Gresford Landcare Newsletter came together in 1997.

To celebrate 20 years of publishing we are reproducing an account of the early history of the News written in 2001 by then editor, Bruce Graham. This account was written at a significant turning point in the history of the news – when it was looking to be housed in the new Rural Transaction Centre and for volunteer staff to be paid a nominal fee.

The Gresford News: History & Position Statement, 1st November 2001 Bruce Graham In 1996, Gresford Public School was selected to join the Federal Government’s Disadvantaged Schools Program. This was a result of a community survey, confirmed by the Australian Taxation Office, that the district served by the school was disadvantaged in terms of (primarily) income and education, isolation, employment opportunities and household and work conditions.

As a result, Gresford PS received additional funding from the Federal Government. This was over and above that received regularly from the State Government and this extra funding was intended to serve three purposes: 1. improved teaching of literacy 2. improved learning of literacy 3. improved community attitude to literacy Clearly, the first two purposes were well served within the school and with the co-operation of the parent body. The ultimate proof of this was the awarding to Gresford PS of a National Award for the teaching of Literacy and Numeracy in 2001.

The Gresford Weekly, Thursday March 06. 1997. Recently donated to the Gresford District Historical Society by Ken Chandler.

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q “Our Stories” Feature r

The Gresford District Landcare Group Newsletter February 1995. Recently donated to the Gresford District Historical Society by Ken Chandler.

The third purpose was to be addressed by informing the community more clearly of what the school and its curriculum were about and by enabling a voice for community communication.

The vehicle of this two-way communication was determined to be a broadened school newsletter. In 1996, The Gresford Weekly was born. It was usually 4 to 6 pages in length. One page, at least,

First colour edition of the Gresford News, October 2010, featured a cover story about the GAPS production 'All Quiet on the Gresford Front'.

was the school newsletter. The other pages consisted of community news such as sports results, upcoming functions, local interest stories and some advertising.

The initial Federal funding only supported the initial part purchase (the school funded the other two thirds as the major user) of a photocopier. While the school met the cost of its page(s), the additional pages were supported by advertising and

donations. At all times, correct accounting and GST procedures have been met.

The Gresford Weekly was distributed through the parent body and local shops but struggled to cope with the weekly output of production and the weekly input of copy. It was also difficult to continue collecting donations from tins in the various commercial outlets which supported the paper.

G resford News • February 2016

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q “Our Stories” Feature r

During 1997, the group of volunteers that produced the Weekly, known as Panic Press, met with representatives of the Gresford and District Landcare Group Inc. During the meeting, it was suggested that the Landcare News, mailed out to around 600 local households once a month, be incorporated with The Gresford Weekly.

advertising and delivery to their door.

The professional look of the News also increased with the addition of digital photographs and a higher quality copier.

During the life of The Gresford News, Panic Press (a small collective of volunteer professionals) has continued to support the production of the paper at no cost to the school or The Gresford News. The only The Landcare News was already receiving Government funding to help with printing contribution from the school was the and mailing costs. The Landcare Group was accounting processes for advertising, etc and the time, space and use of the photocopier. not always happy with the results of the printers. Panic press suggested that it would There was even a small amount built into produce the Landcare News at the same cost the charging of The Gresford News by the school to cover the replacement cost of as the printers and that Landcare would the copier (and, of course, all the costs of continue to cover postage costs. paper and copying, etc).

Thus, The Gresford News was born. In the However, the greatest problem with The last week of each month (to coincide with the next week’s Landcare Meeting), Gresford News became its popularity.

Starting at 4 to 6 pages, it rapidly grew to The Gresford News was published and distributed by post to an area extending its current 20 to 24 pages each month.

Feedback from the community indicates from the northern parts of Paterson to an extremely high feeling of ownership the upper reaches of the Paterson and and value placed upon The Gresford News.

Allyn River Valleys.

Pony Club, The Hotel Beatty, the Junior Soccer Club, the Gresford Community Health Centre and numerous others.

Regular advertising (of between a quarter and a full page) from a wide range of commercial and volunteer groups ensures that each page has its costs covered. Advertising rates are based upon $24 per page plus GST. With the cost of production (per 600 copy edition) less than $12 per page, The Gresford News is self-supporting when it is less than half full of advertisements.

Unfortunately, the popularity of The Gresford News has caused problems at the school. Firstly, the higher than anticipated volume means that the school will need to look at replacing the current copier sooner than planned. Secondly, for three to five days each month, valuable school resources and space are completely overtaken by the production of this fairly large newsletter.

Thirdly, the school secretary has had to spend a deal of her time managing the accounts of The Gresford News. This Each month, there would be a front page Currently, The Gresford News is regularly includes sending out accounts, depositing supported editorially by the following local news or interest story, at least two and coping with GST requirements. When pages of Landcare news, a page of school entities: • Glenn Wall (former naval officer, The Gresford News began, these problems current Dungog Shire Councillor) • Gresford news and other pages of news or could not have been foreseen. & District Landcare Group Inc • The information from various community So, what do we have now? A selfGresford Community Group (written by groups as well as several advertisements supporting community newsletter that is Robert Richardson, JP, Mines Safety from entities such as the Hotel Beatty, highly valued and widely distributed.

Officer) • The Gresford Bowling Club • the Bowling Club and others.

The principal, staff, students and parents Unfortunately, we have also lost, through The Gresford News began life as a four to of Gresford Public School, and • Gresford nobody’s fault, the financial support of six page (double sided A4) newsletter but Cricket Club (written by local businessman the Gresford Landcare Group. Further, soon grew rapidly. Obviously, the the continued success of The Gresford Scott Everett) • as well as others such as the community appreciated the greater news Pre-school, Playgroup, the Gresford Amateur News is causing a strain on the personnel content, the variety, the increased and physical resources of the school.

Performing Society, Scouts and Cubs, the

G resford News • February 2016

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q “Our Stories” Feature r The most effective solution to this difficulty is to relocate The Gresford News in a new location with its own equipment. The Gresford Community group, over recent years, has successfully applied for Federal Government funding to support the construction and opening of the Gresford Rural Transaction Centre (RTC). Within this building, besides Credit Union and Medicare access, there are computer, printing, telephone and email/internet access facilities.

aggressive bargaining, has been able to secure a seven year warranty and service agreement period which will produce a much more favourable Asset Replacement Schedule, given that the photocopier is the most expensive and indispensable piece of equipment required.

For five years, the editor and the clerical assistant have worked purely on a volunteer basis. In order to secure a long term future for the PAVN, the Community Group believes that the value of these The Community Group is willing to make positions be recognised with some this space and its resources available to the payment, nominal at least in the editor’s position. Any person scrutinising the newsletter team, with a working title of budget for the PAVN must recognise that “The Paterson and Allyn Valley News” these two positions are volunteer based (PAVN), at a nominal cost. Furthermore, and there are a number of people in the community access and communication local community prepared to fill these would be greatly facilitated if the positions for a nominal, or no, payment. production of the paper was to take place within the Rural Transaction Centre. It In summary, The Gresford News has been would also confirm the value for money successfully produced for the past five aspect that the federal Government years by a dedicated and reliable group appreciates from grants of the sort that of volunteers. All that needs to be done established the RTC. to ensure the future of the PAVN is an All that remains to secure the future of the initial capital injection and a built in PAVN at the Gresford RTC is the purchase Replacement Schedule to secure the long-term viability and independence of of an appropriate photocopier. The best this valuable community asset. prices available are around $12,000 and the Community Group, through

Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant 4938 8305

Fast forward to 2016 The Gresford News continues to provide news of our area as a free publication mailed to local residents. It continues to publish contributions from local groups and individuals and continues to pay for itself with advertisements and donations from mainly local businesses.

• July 2005 Jane Richens took over from Bruce Graham as editor • 2010, the Gresford News went to a colour A3 folded to A4 format • November 2011 Brian Doherty became co-editor In addition to the printed edition, Gresford News is also freely available online at Issuu.com which can be accessed at the Gresford NSW website: www.gresfordnsw.com.au Each edition is also available as an audio version for the visually impaired thanks to the generosity and dedication of Ted Baker. If you know of someone who would like to receive an audio version please contact the editors: 0412 372 687.

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Gresford Billy Cart Derby and Easter Fair 2016 Sponsored by Glencore Ravensworth he will be bringing his carrotmobile billy cart. We are organising a brass band to start the racing at 9am and we will be bringing back the Amazing Jonathan, magician and street performer who will be wondering around keeping people entertained.

The old favourites will be there of course, the gumboot throwing competition, our favourite cowpat lotto, last year we had a horse but I’m told Betsy the cow will return this year and Get your cart ready for the Easter Billy Cart Derby... carry on her fine tradition. Our monster Hasn’t the year gone by so quickly, like a Blackwood’s Raffle, this one is for dad as we have a toolbox full of great tools and billy cart flying down the Gresford other exciting prizes for the family. raceway, it just seems like yesterday that Market stalls for mum to shop to her we were all crossing our fingers keeping hearts content, goodies for the kids as the rain away. Planning is in full steam well as carnival rides and the best BBQ for this year’s Billy Cart Derby on the you will eat anywhere in the Hunter 26th March 2016. cooked by our RFS volunteers. When the We have some great new attractions this racing is finished and you want to relax and have a cold drink and listen to great year to make the day more fun and live music then head up to the historic exciting for everyone from the kids to Hotel Beatty to finish off a perfect day. mum and dad. Lake Mitre 10 from Toronto introduced us to the Easter Billy carts are being designed and built Bunny handing out Easter eggs with his to get ready for another great day of helpers last year and he is planning racing, we always get the best and another surprise visit this year and I funniest designed billy carts and you even heard on the Easter egg grapevine have to be impressed by how clever

...And then get immortalised as the Grand Winner!

some entrants are. It’s all about fun, it’s all about the family getting together and having a great day and it’s all about supporting a great little village tacked up in the picturesque Allyn River Valley.

Where else would you want to be this coming Easter? We will look forward to seeing you there.

For more information please visit our website https://gresfordbillycartderby. wordpress.com or you can contact Graham Murphy on 0416 116 009 or Laurence Thorsell on 4938 9248 Happy carting, Graham Murphy, Event Co ordinator

The cowlicks team would like to wish you all a safe and happy new year for 2016.

Specials ~ February 1 to 13 Rump Steak - $18.99/kg 2kg Thick Sausages - $18

Ph 4938 9710

We are excited to let you all know that as of the end of January we will be offering Gel, Acrylic & Shilac nail services in salon. Lots of new and exciting things happening we look forward to sharing with you.

803A Gresford Rd Vacy. 49388386

irstudio.com www.cowlicksha

.au

G resford News • February 2016

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Gresford CWA News

BROCCOLI SALAD

Gresford CWA is looking forward to 2016 being a funfilled year. The Land cookery competition takes place in our rooms on February 4th. For recipes contact Dotti Hilliard 49338 9483. Entries to be delivered to the rooms by 9.00am. for judging by Ailsa Stewart cookery judge from Belmont you do not have to be a CWA member to enter.

Ingredients: Salad 3-4 flowers of broccoli cut into small pieces 3-4 slices of bacon, cooked until crunchy and cut into small pieces 1 red onion, chopped finely 11/2 cups grated cheese Dressing 1/4 cup sugar 1 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup malt vinegar Combine all ingredients and mix well.

CRAFT We are planning to conduct craft classes during the year covering, knitting, crocheting, felting, and card making.

Our contribution of wraps to 'Wrap With Love' grows each year and we are always looking for donations of 8 ply acrylic wool.

Method: Salad–Place broccoli,

Rob Thornton delivers Gresford CWA wraps to Daphne Liebman from Wrapped with love.

Knitting bandages for leprosy sufferers continues and donations of fine knitting cotton would be appreciated.

BOOK CLUB Meets on the second Saturday of each month in the CWA rooms at 3.00pm.

Afternoon tea and a lively discussion is assured. The book for February is “The Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith” by Thomas Keneally.

NEXT MEETING of the Gresford CWA will be held in the Twin Rivers Café at 9.30am on February 4th.

bacon, onion and cheese in a salad bowl. Pour dressing over just before serving, toss to combine.

This recipe was supplied by Jan Godwin for the CWA Recipe Book. The book is available at Gresford Foodworks and the Gresford Store. Cost $13.

Robyn Thornton, President

Graeme Ferguson

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G resford News • February 2016

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Getting to know the locals... by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries

VESSELOWSKYA VENUSTA – Barrington Tops Marara This Marara is named for a Russian plant morphologist by the name of E. Vesselowsky and the Latin word Venusta which means charming. This tree can grow up to 8m tall but is more often a large shrub up to 3m tall. According to the books, it typically grows overarching a creek line or gully in a rainforest dominated by Antarctic Beech. Having said that, my specimens were collected about mid-way along the road connecting the upper reaches of the Paterson River to the upper reaches of the Allyn River, at an elevation of around 300m which is well below the Beech forests. It needs a shaded and sheltered position to grow well but it is frost hardy. Plants of this species can be male or female.

Vesselowskya venusta occurs from the Barrington Tops to Werrikembie National Park south west of Port Macquarie and its alter ego Vesselowskya rubifolia occurs northwards from Cunnawarra National Park (south west of Dorrigo). The difference between these two species can be determined by close botanical scrutiny but is not obvious to the overall visual appearance of the species.

  

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G resford News • February 2016

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James Theatre – local films & events Once again the James Theatre has a calendar of exciting events. There are screenings of current film releases each month; a monthly film society screening of an arthouse film on the 3rd Sunday of the month; a series of movie classics Down Memory Lane on a Thursday; special film events including Flickerfest, AGOG & the Dungog Festival; concerts, performances and a masked ball.

Films coming up in February: Sat 6 Feb, 3pm Snoopy and Charlie

Dungog Community College is bringing • High Noon Thurs 30 June • How Green Was My Valley Thurs 1 Sept some heavily subsidised courses to Dungog Shire & they are starting now.

• Breakfast at Tiffany’s Thurs 3 Nov Subscriptions: $48 for all five movies Single: $13, Group: $15 Group Bookings include Morning Tea. 10% discount offered at selected local businesses with ticket.

Day time, Group bookings or further information contact Tina Overton 0448 749 989 / Stephen Orr 4992 2292

Flickerfest, Saturday 5 March 2016

Brown: The Peanuts Movie (G) Sat 6 Feb 7pm Sisters (MA 15+) Sat 13 Feb 7pm The Big Short (M) Sun 21 Feb 1.30pm Bullitt (1968) Presented by the Mustang Owners Club of Australia and the Friends of the James Theatre (includes afternoon tea). Stars Steve McQueen Sun 28 Feb 7pm Carol (M) Stars Cate Blanchett

Down Memory Lane 2016 Five all-time screen classics, showing through the year on Thursdays, with morning and evening sessions. Morning 10.30am with pre-movie entertainment at 10am, Evening 7pm • Roman Holiday Thurs 3 March • Vertigo Thurs 5 May

National tour of the 25th Flickerfest.

11am Best Of International 1 2pm Short Laughs Comedy 4pm Best Of Australian Shorts 7.30pm Best Of International 2 Tickets: $17 – 1 session / $34 – 2 sessions / $45 – 3 sessions / $55 – 4 sessions Dinner: 6.00pm / +$35

Dungog Film Society is a program of monthly film screenings usually (but not always) on the third Sunday of each month at 7pm. 2016 starts on Sunday 28 February, with Carol, followed by Brooklyn on 20 March.

Visit www.jamestheatre.com.au for the latest information about happenings at the theatre, and subscribe to receive the latest notices.

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G resford News • February 2016

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Gresford District Australia Day Recognition Award Citations The following people were recognised for their sevice to the communities of the Gresford district at the Australia Day luncheon.

Since 1994 both Sue and Ray have been members of the Gresford Rural Fire Brigade and Sue served as secretary of the Brigade for a number of years.

In the early 2000s Sue came to the aid of Sue Forbes the Gresford News when the Rural Proposed by Brian Doherty on behalf of the Transaction Center closed. The News Gresford Community Group needed a place to house its printer and Sue Sue Forbes and her husband Ray had offered a room at the back of the post been visiting this area from the 1970s office. More than 10 years later Sue is still originally because Sue’s cousin lived supporting the production of the Gresford here. They decided to move here News by providing her room and taking permanently in May 1988 and stayed care of the printing. For the two to three with friends for three months. Their first days each month that The News takes to venture was running the Vacy Shop print Sue is there to make sure it gets which they took over in July 1988. It printed and then delivered. Although it is was five years later that Sue first started mostly behind the scenes it is an essential to run the Post Office in East Gresford. It part of keeping the Gresford News going. was the 1st of December right in time We would like to thank Sue and recognise for the Christmas rush. her contribution to the Gresford district Throughout the 1990s Sue also devoted through all of her activities with this time to the community as a Brownies Australia Day recognition award. leader working alongside Michelle Gibson, Sally Merton and Therese Doyle. Keith Litchfield At that time her husband Ray was roped Proposed by Tim Capp on behalf of The into doing quite a bit of voluntary Gresford Show Society building and renovation work at the Keith’s philosophy that one should work Guides hall. In the late 1990s Sue was also involved with organising a Deb Ball hard in assisting local charities, groups and at the School of Arts Hall. organisations is shown by his commitment

to the Gresford Show Society, the Gresford Rodeo, Gresford Cricket Club and the local Anglican churches.

Keith has been on the Gresford Rodeo Committee since its inception and a member of the Gresford Show committee for almost 40 years. In 2013 Keith was made a Life member of the Show Society in recognition of his long years of support.

Keith is the announcer for the camp drafts at the Gresford, Dungog and Stroud Shows and the Gresford Rodeo, a position he has carried out for many, many years.

Keith is often found at local events, including the Harvest Festivals run by the local Anglican churches, auctioning and encouraging all to buy! At the Billy Cart Derby, you will find Keith beside the chocolate wheel in front the Beatty Hotel or running a large community raffle besides the School of Arts.

Keith was heavily involved with the building of the Gresford Sporting Complex. He then went on to be President of the Complex Committee for a number of years. Keith’s love of cricket saw him as coach of the John Bull Colts under21 team. Keith has also been President of the Gresford Bowling club and still is very

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G resford News • February 2016

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Gresford District Australia Day Recognition Award Citations supportive towards our local club.

The Gresford Show Society is proud to nominate Keith in recognition of his work and many hours of labour, instigating and supporting projects and developments in the Gresford district over many, many years.

Brian Doherty & Jane Richens Proposed by Carolyn Addison on behalf of the Gresford Community Group In 1999 Brian Doherty and Jane Richens bought their property ‘Tabbil Forest’ on the Bingleburra Road between Gresford and Dungog. Their property is natural bush and rainforest, high in the hills overlooking Dungog. Both had experienced country living and being part of a community and had found what they were looking for.

Before coming to Gresford, they had been working together in design and visual arts in Brisbane and Sydney so their expertise was what the Gresford Community Group required to publish a good monthly newsletter.

In July 2005, while still commuting from Sydney, Jane became editor of the Gresford News. In 2010, the Gresford News went to colour and continued to pay for itself with advertisements and donations from mainly local businesses. In

Gresford and District Historical Society.

Delma’s drive to make money to help this organisation is an example setter.

November 2011, Brian became a major player re the editing as Jane took on other jobs but now they mainly share the responsibility and we thank them both.

Jane works with the Dungog Community College and Brian is happy regenerating the property and they both give valuable time to the local Landcare group. If you visit the James Theatre in Dungog, you will probably find them also projecting the film you are seeing.

They have certainly become a valuable asset to our community and we thank them for all they have done since their arrival and I am pleased to see them presented with this well-deserved award.

Delma Lawrence Proposed by George Sales for the Gresford and District Historical Society Delma is an original founding member of the Gresford and District Historical Society and after 25 years she is still a very active member. For the time, effort and full commitment she has always given and still does, Delma has been made an honorary member. Delma’s excellent cooking; her jams and pickles, and her plants are part of the goods that help make up the local Community Market Days run by the

Delma and husband Darrell’s early involvement in their community began when their three children were attending the Eccleston Primary School. For this they both received a 25 year Membership Award in appreciation for their work with the P & C Assoc and the school.

Delma is a Patron and very active member for the Gresford Show Society, successfully exhibiting her flowers, jams, pickles, and cooking on a regular basis.

Delma is a committed and keen supporter of the Anglican Church, especially St Mary’s Anglican Church at Allynbrook and for over 40 years Delma was actively involved with St Paul’s Anglican Church at Eccleston. Delma has always actively supported the annual Church Harvest Festivals, with her famous cinnamon sponges being renowned for raising up to $400. Her involvement included the roles of Secretary and Treasurer on the Church Guild for many, many years.

Delma was a Foundation member of the Gresford Mothers Union (Christian care for families) and received a 40 year

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G resford News • February 2016

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Gresford District Australia Day Recognition Award Citations recognition certificate for her time, efforts and dedication. For many, many years Delma has helped run the Aged Day Care in Gresford, assisting with morning teas, lunches and playing cards.

world-wide use and his initiative, expertise and vast knowledge of Australian horticulture has seen him develop more than 70 new and innovative Australian native cultivars for use in Australian and overseas markets.

the main administrator and secretary/ treasurer for the trust has overseen the development of ongoing and significant improvements to the Trust’s properties.

The Park Trust is the only community trust in Dungog Shire and to date has maintained a remarkable level of selfNoel has also implemented strategies in sufficiency and under Noel’s guidance conjunction with horticultural has become the benchmark model for institutions to supply tube stock, which has included rare and endangered species, trust’s to operate in NSW. to assist rehabilitate pastoral properties As a tireless worker and with his and to restore areas of native rainforest dedicated involvement in a vast range of Delma is an incredible lady, who is still a through the Dungog and Hunter region. community organisations; his work with very pro-active member of the Gresford community – and – well – that’s our Delma. As a plant grower Noel’s expertise is keenly Trust and his services to Australian horticulture, Noel is a worthy recipient sought and he is regularly asked to speak Noel Jupp of this Australia Day Award. at garden club and landcare groups. He Proposed by Freda Collison on behalf of the unselfishly gives of his time and expertise Gresford Community Group Peter Lawrence • Proposed by Ken to pass on his vast knowledge to interested Chandler on behalf of the Gresford and parties. He also constantly donates plants Noel Jupp has proven he is worthy of District Landcare Group. to a wide range of organisations for fundrecognition by his community for his raising initiatives or revegetation projects. It is with great pleasure that on behalf of tireless dedication to the Australian horticultural industry and his exemplary the Landcare Group I nominate Peter While Noel has been widely recognised and commitment and devotion to the Lawrence for a Gresford District Australia acknowledged for his successful career in Gresford community with more than 65 Day Recognition Award. horticulture and that alone would qualify years service to community him for community acknowledgement, it is Giving freely of his time, Peter has been organisations throughout the Paterson his involvement with the Gresford continuously involved with Gresford and Allyn River valleys.

Showground and Recreation Reserve Trust Landcare since its inception 26 years that truly exemplifies his deep and special He is responsible for the cultivation of ago, holding both President and Vice involvement in the community. Noel as more than 35 orchid hybrid species for President positions to this day. The Turning 86 this January, her family, her church and helping others are extremely important to Delma who gives freely of her time to support local organisations and they are a very important aspect of Delma’s life.

G resford News • February 2016

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Gresford District Australia Day Recognition Award Citations Gresford News, formerly known as the Landcare News was born under Peter’s Presidency of the Landcare group.

last, but not least, on the Vestry and Maintenance Committee of St Mary on Allyn Anglican Church.

especially at the Gresford Show.

Donna was instrumental in setting up “The Art Carnival” workshops. These workshops give rural children the Peter, being a farmer, has an appreciation Peter was last recognised as an outstanding opportunity to explore different mediums, of how important farming and the Community member 13 years ago and, as environment are to each other and this is I have indicated, he is just as involved and including puppet making, sculpture, painting, drawing, photography and shown by the number of organisations he more active within even more electronic media using outside tutors. The has been, and is currently, involved in. To organisations today. Peter is a role model success of this program is evident by its mention a few: Gresford Show Society – for community involvement and it is a expansion to include students from the he is a long standing Committee person, great honour to have him once again Vacy and Paterson Public Schools. is in charge of the Produce Pavilion, as recognised for his community work. was his father before him. He is currently Donna’s constant commitment to the older Donna Cavanough • Proposed by President of the Dungog/Gresford Beef generation is significant as she continually Marcia Francis for the Gresford CWA and Land Management. Peter was also a promotes the importance of living a board member of the PP Board before it The Gresford CWA nominates Donna healthy lifestyle. Through her yoga classes was taken over by LLS. He is a member of Cavanough as a recipient for the 2016 Donna is providing many citizens, some as the Lower Hunter LLS Weeds Committee Gresford Australia Day Citizen Awards. old as 80, others with disabilities, with the and has been recently appointed to the ability to exercise and remain fit. The The members of the CWA believe Donna board. He is a committee member of the diversity of her classes gives an opportunity to be an outstanding member of the Dungog Council Weeds Committee and for young and older citizens to meet in a Gresford community through her current President of the Wild Dog contribution to a range of activities that welcoming environment to the benefit of Eradication Association and President of all. Some of Donna’s students have benefit both the younger and older the Allyn River Water users Association. attended her classes for over 12 years. members of the Gresford Community.

Peter has also been very involved with Gresford is fortunate to have many many other organisations in the district This contribution, centred on the welloutstanding citizens, and the Gresford being and empowerment of people is including the Gresford Cricket Club – CWA believe Donna Cavanough has made unparalleled and is displayed through where he is President and has been her introduction of art lessons, her yoga an exceptional contribution and believe involved for over 30 years, and he is she is worthy of being recognised as one of classes and through her involvement in currently a board member of the Gresford’s Australia Day Citizens of 2016.

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G resford News • February 2016

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Gresford Community Group December 2015 Meeting Special Guest Councillor Glen Wall

signed by GCG and the GDHS and has been sent back to the solicitors for Minutes from the previous meeting were registration. The GDHS has made their tabled and accepted with the following first annual lease payment to take effect correction: Robert Richardson is not a as of the 1st November 2015. Graham member of the Sub Committee to discuss Murphy to draw up boundary plans. the Anzac Commemorative trees.

2. TDH insurance to be increased based Correspondence:on information from Martin Addison.

In: – Roadwork funding for Gresford 3. Roads to Recovery funds of from Glen Wall $800,000 for East Gresford. Councillor Out: – Grant application for Southern Glen Wall explained the future plans are Phones, Smarty Grants. for late 2016 to upgrade Durham Road – Submission to Dungog Council and Parke Street. Substantial upgrading supporting merger of water services will take place at the – Invitation to Councillor Linda Bowden same time. Council to talk to GCG and for February meeting the community prior to commencing any work.

Election of Management Committee:Decided item be carried over to the next The NBN Tower has been approved for Gresford. The tower will feed everyone meeting as there appears to be 2 conflicting Constitutions. Motion passed within line of sight up to a distance of 5klm. Glen to send out a template to that – The Public Officer contact the Dep’t of Fair Trading to obtain a copy of make a submission to Bob Baldwin for Community progress. the Constitution that was originally lodged with them. Brian Doherty to General Business:review the Constitution and discuss • Glen Wall was able to give an changes that are more suitable for the indication to the Zoning of the TDH, he future of the GCG. believes it is zoned – Community Land

Matters arising 1. Therese Doyle Hall lease has been

and would have very little commercial value. Martin will try to identify a land

value for next meeting.

• The Park Trust sent an email stating that it did not require input from the GCG for future ANZAC memorial tree plantings. John Casey believes the GCG has a role to play. The subcommittee will stay in place until this matter is finalised.

• Australia Day Luncheon and recognition awards. Motion passed that “nominees will only be accepted if they have been an active part of the community for a minimum of three years”.

• Investigations continue to create a comprehensive list of past nominations.

• Gresford Foundation Day. This is to be investigated by GDHS for the day the town was gazetted, we can possibly use this day for future functions and picnic days.

• Motion passed to – Allocate $10,000 to co-fund the Smarty Grant.

• Proposed meeting with Mr Martin Falding offering our support for a merger of Forestry land to National Parks to take place on 14.12 15 at the Chandler’s home.

• GCG has registered to be a part of the Clean Up Australia Day in March Requires a $50 donation.

• Decided to thank Sue Forbes for assisting the production of the Gresford News.

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Gresford News February Crossword local police station is to be manned by a new officer, applications are now being received, extra drink driving patrols in the area, are aware of the problems in the Allyn Park and unmarked patrols of cars and bikes to monitor.

• GCG to organise for wheel chair access through doorways at TDH. • Suggestion to foreground Dorothea Mackellar in future planning for Gresford Tourism.

• Gresford Photographic Exhibition will be September 2016 • A possibiliy for the Bikers Thunderbolt Rally to come to Gresford.

• Graham spoke about plans to put up a Christmas tree and lights in the vicinity of the School of Arts hall for 2016 • We are now members of Dungog Radio.

Graham thanked everyone and wished them a Merry Christmas and invited everyone to stay for dinner which turned out to be a great night.

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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.

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