resford News G
The
News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys February 2019
from right...
Stewart and Scott Everett with new owners Nathan McInnes and Phillip Clements
New Owners for the Gresford Garage January 25 was an emotional day for two generations of the Everett family when they officially handed over to the new owners of the Gresford Garage, Nathan McInnes and Phillip Clements. Stewart Everett told me he remembered when the building (across the road from his family home) was used as a cinema. "There has been a lot of changes." he said "Families from the surrounding district would come on their horses and carts to go to the cinema. After that it was used as a panel beating shop." Stewart, as one half of the Collison & Everett partnership, started the current business in April 1960. Over the intervening 58 years Stewart, aided by his son Scott, have grown and diversified the business while supporting the local community, employing local people, selling fuel, new and used vehicles, insurance and farming products, servicing vehicles and providing NRMA road service and more. The new owners are keen to assure customers the garage will remain a professional and service lead business and will be open 7 days a week. Phillip Clements grew up in Vacy and spent many years farming before starting his own transport and water cartage business. His special contribution to the ongoing business will be his range of experience with farm equipment and irrigation supplies as well as the transport industry. Nathan McInnes started his working career with Toyota and even headed off to Japan to represent Toyota Australia. For the past 5 years Nathan has managed an automotive repair business and is looking forward to bringing his knowledge to Gresford Garage and Rural.
The Gresford News is a Gresford District Community Group project. Circulation 800 – Donations appreciated and most welcome. Thank you!
Fully Licenced CafĂŠ / Restaurant 4938 8305
The Gresford News Community Diary Sat 8 Feb Moving out sale, Bingleburra, 8.00am Mon 11 Feb Bulky & Scrap Metal Clean-Up, Dungog Shire, collection of larger items and will enable items suitable for recycling to be diverted from landfill Sun 17 Feb Community Markets, Hotel Beatty, 9.00am Sun 17 Feb Live music – Too stuffed to jump, Hotel Beatty, 2.00pm Sun 17 Feb Soccer registrations, Gresford Sports Complex, 8.00am Thurs 28 Feb Meet the candidate, Dungog RSL, DDCC event, 6.30pm Fri-Sat 8-9 Mar Gresford Show, Gresford Showground Sun 7 Apr Garden Ramble around the Paterson, Allyn Rivers Sat 20 Apr Gresford Billy Cart Derby, Park St, East Gresford Sat 27 Apr John Lill only Australian concert, St Marys on Allyn, 8.00pm Sat 1, Fri 7, Sat 8 evenings & Sun 2 matinee GAPS new show Tuesdays Social ladies tennis, every week of school term all year, Gresford Tennis Courts, 9.00–10.30am Mon & Wed Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Vacy School of Arts Hall Tuesdays Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Gresford School of Arts Hall Friday afternoons Junior tennis coaching, every week of school term, Gresford Tennis Courts, 4.00pm 1st Sun each month Fresh Home Grown Produce Day at Vacy General Store. Money goes back to grower. 1st Mon each month Gresford District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm, 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) 1st & 2nd Sun each month Gresford Historical Centre (Therese Doyle Hall) 10am-2pm & by appt. Ph George Sales 4938 9639 2nd Mon each month Gresford Historical Society Meeting, Therese Doyle Hall, 10.30am (not Dec, Jan or June) 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 & Thur (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.00am 49346725 Every Tue & Fri (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Gresford School of Arts, 9.00am 49346725 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 School of Arts, 10.00am Every Sunday The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am
To contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au • Brian Doherty 0412 372 687 • Jane Richens 0425 339 856 Postal Address: PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311. Deadline for stories & 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.
resford News finances G
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G resford News
The
• February 2019, p 5
Gresford News Notices Moving out sale
8am to 3pm Saturday, February 16 Silverware, dinner sets, books, CDs, LP records, photo frames, bar stools, jewellery, children's toys, homemaker items, cushions, throws and kitchen items just to name a few. O'Neills 1226 Bingleburra Road, Bingleburra NSW.
Gresford District Community Dinner The Christmas Community dinner at the Hotel Beatty was a great success with over 60 people attending. Twice as many as had actually booked which made catering difficult!
off with a clean cloth. • After you defrost your fridge or freezer spray the inside with a little cooking oil. The next time you defrost it the ice will fall off much more easily. • Slices of stale bread are great for picking up tiny pieces of broken glass. • Empty cat litter into nappy bags. They're scented and will prevent it from smelling.
We encourage members of the community to attend CDCG meetings on the first Monday of each month at 6.30pm followed by a casual dinner if desired, so I am looking for photos of any information The Dungog Medical Practice operates a you can help decide what projects & on the white Bedford bus that the late Mr clinic which is located inside the events you would like have happen. Look Kelly Crouch used to drive to convey Veterinary Clinic in Durham Road, forward to having your involvement. children to and from Vacy school and then Gresford on Monday, Thursday in later years was used on Toryburn and Friday mornings. A gentle reminder that the news is a primary school run. Finally sold off by GDCG project and as we have lost our Please note that as this is a clinic only, Millers Coaches in approximately 1989 to main benefactor who paid for all the certain medical treatments including 1992. The bus was purchased for Gresford postage, donation boxes are in local childhood immunisations, cannot be District by Mr Paul Simpson in the early shops to help pay for this now. done here but can be accommodated at 1970s. It had a petrol 300cc motor and ran Carolyn Addison – Member of GDCG the Dungog Surgery. on 16 wheels. The body was built by Superior Bodyworks Brisbane Queensland. Dr Leon Sykes consults on Monday This company no longer exists. and Friday mornings: 8.50 – 9.30am • A few drops of oil of cloves added to I am an avid collector of bus information Dr Duncan Dew consults on Thursday warm water and applied with a soft cloth of all types so would appreciate any photos mornings: 8.30 – 9.30am will help control bathroom mould. or literature at all. Will gladly pay for copies • Eggs are great for cleaning leather. All Please phone the Dungog Surgery to so your material can be returned to you. make an appointment on 4992 1739. you have to do is beat the white to a Any help will be thankfully received. froth and rub it into leather then wipe Barry Gibson phone 0429 452 039.
Bus photos wanted
Gresford Clinic hours
Household hints
local water carrier
CASSO’S WATER CARTAGE DOMESTIC & RURAL WATER SUPPLIES TANKS & POOLS FILLED CONTACT 0400 294 436
G resford News • February 2019
The
,p6
Sculpture on the Farm 2019
Gresford Billy Cart Derby 2019 20th Anniversary
Seeking Expressions of Interest – Opens March 1 Exhibition during the Dungog Festival October Long Weekend 4 - 7 October 2019.
Gresford Billy Cart Derby turns 20 this year and to help us celebrate we are asking all drivers to dress their carts with a 20th anniversary theme. There will be a cash prize for the best entered cart. Of course this is not compulsory as we still want to see other fantastic looking carts and best dressed teams there as well. the characters in the book. The reason this book is so special because it’s about To make this year even more special we have a number of new attractions off the a little boy and his dad building a billy cart and the adventures along the way. track to keep everyone entertained Great story written and told by author throughout the day. We will have new Katrina McKelvey. Be one of the first to rides, new food, new activities along with our favourites – Gumboot throwing purchase her new book before they are officially released. competition, Dummy Spitting, which was a huge hit last year, pony pat lotto, our huge Monster Raffle, The Amazing Jonathan, our pet Llamas all dressed up for their special outing, the list goes on and on. Dad can visit the classic cars while mum shops to her hearts content in the many and varied markets and the kids can visit Ruby the Clown for that very special face painting. Our special treat this year is one of our local authors will be pre releasing her new children’s book with readings every hour while illustrator Kirrili Lonergan will be teaching the kids how to draw
Start making preparations for your submissions. We are looking not only for smaller indoor and garden works but also monumental works which will be positioned in the surreal rural landscape of the picturesque cattle property "Fosterton". For all information visit www.sculptureonthefarm.com This year more than 100 sculptures will be showcased in the gardens, galleries and paddocks of the Williams River rural property of "Fosterton", Dungog.
There has been a number of changes to the specifications and the number of races we will be running. You can view all of this information on our facebook site www.facebook.com –gresford-billycart-derby or our website www. gresfordbillycartderby.wordpress.com For all market stall enquiries please contact Laurence Thorssell on 4938 9248 or email laurenceanddawn@harboursat.com.au Book this date and start building your billy carts now and get ready for another great time at the Gresford Billy Cart Derby.
BR
For those who didn't make it to Dungog for the inaugural Sculpture on the Farm in 2018, we were blessed with sensational weather and we welcomed over 2,200 visitors over the weekend. This not-forprofit exhibition was a huge success, culminating in the awarding of the $10,000 Sculpture on the Farm Acquisitive Prize to Braddon Snape for his work, Nothin' but Sky, which will soon be installed in Dungog for all to see. Please share this info with others whom you think might be interested. We will keep you abreast of information about the prizes for SOF2019.
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G resford News
The
• February 2019, p 7
Labor pledges $10.5 million for Dungog Shire roads It is good to see the concerns of Dungog Shire voters are finally getting some political recognition. It is also good to see the message has been received that a simple one-off grant, while both necessary and achievable, will not solve the road funding problem. The infrastructure backlog will return if it's causes are not addressed and that means reviewing and changing the road funding formula.
On Thursday 29 November last year, just nineteen days after being elected to lead the NSW Labor party into the 23 March State election, Michael Daley decided to visit Dungog. His deputy leader, Penny Sharp, and shadow minister for rural affairs, Mick Veitch, were also here in an impressive show of force to deliver their pitch for our votes in March. Mr Daley committed a NSW Labour government to spending $10.5 million to halve Dungog Shire Council’s road infrastructure backlog as well as committing to review road classification across NSW.
Congratulations to our local Councillors, members of the Gresford Community Group, and those of you who took the opportunity to write to State politicians to put this on the agenda.
“NSW Labor’s priorities are schools, hospitals and infrastructure, not Sydney stadiums. That’s why we’re committed to spending $10.5 million to reduce the road maintenance backlog in Dungog Shire." Mr Daley said.
“I know that people in rural and regional NSW want to see a government that takes real action on jobs, healthcare and infrastructure and makes sure rural and regional NSW gets its fair share of infrastructure funding."
With the Upper Hunter one of the State's most marginal seats I think we could reasonably expect some attention. The LNP have been talking to Dungog Council (see the Mayoral Update on page 19) but as this edition goes to print no public announcement has been made. Brian Doherty
N EW
O W N ER S
“Dungog Shire Council is the only council in NSW without a State or Federal road. NSW Labor will implement a review into road classification and work to ease the burden Dungog Shire Council, and other councils like it, have to bear in terms of spending on rural and regional roads.
Lets continue to tell the politicians what we want. NSW Labor are off the starting blocks and running. Meanwhile the incumbent Liberal/National coalition government is still considering what to do.
from us at GGR we wish the Everett's the best for retirement and future endeavours and thank you for your service to the community over the years. Irrigation Supplies, Fencing Supplies, Water Tanks & Fittings, Spray Units, Livestock Feeders, Livestock Drenching & Ear Tags, Chemical Supplies, Domestic Animal Feed In Bulk, Household Gas 9Kg And 45Kg With Delivery Service, Hardware, 4X4 Parts, Accessories And Installation, Bulk Fuel Delivery, Stihl Agency, Masport Mowers, Garden Supplies, Tyre Sales And Fitting, Century Batteries, Rego Checks Inc Floats, Trailers & Caravans, Bagged Ice, All Mechanical Repairs, Parts & Servicing Including Chainsaws, Brushcutters, Mowers & Atv
26 Durham Rd, East Gresford 02 4938 9204
Mon-Fri 7.30am to 5.30pm Sat 8am to 1pm, Sun 10am to 1pm
GRESFORD SHOW th th 8 & 9 March * A Great Country Show!* Proudly Sponsored by
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* Grand Parade (2.30pm) * AFMXA Bike Team shows
Saturday Night DJ – Kids Disco Fantastic Fireworks followed by music till late Art Show Opening Night :Thursday 7th March 6pm - 8pm. (NO ALCOHOL to be brought into the ground)
For information visit our website www.gresfordshow.com.au or follow us on facebook. Ph Sec (02) 49389380 for details
G resford News
The
• February 2019, p 9
The Christmas Spirit Came to Paterson Paterson Rotary again hosted Carols in the Park at Paterson on the 23rd December 2018 to great success. Tucker Park was filled with over 400 people, many from surrounding villages such as Gresford and Vacy. Carol singing was again led by members of the Gresford Amateur Performing Society (GAPS). They performed a
wonderful selection of carols both traditional and modern. The audience responded with very enthusiastic singing and we can't forget the singing and dancing by the littlies. The children were also delighted when Santa arrived on his motorcycle. Many people later stated that the Christmas spirit had truly arrived that night.
G resford News • February 2019
The
, p 10
CWA News THE LAND COOKERY CONTEST:
WOOL & KNITTING COTTON If during
Thursday, February 7th. Can you cook? This event is open to all members of the Gresford community. Fruit Cakes, Butter Cakes, Date Loaf, Petticoat Tail Shortbread, Honey Jumbles, Chocolate Sponge, Gluten Free Lamingtons, Steamed Fruit Pudding. Jams, Pickles and Relish Strawberry Jam, Pomegranate Jelly, Pickled Pears. Cake decorations and Sugar Art six categories: Fruit and Foliage, Pearls and Pansies, Nursery Rhyme, Miniature decorated cakewedding cake, Sugar Art Plaque-Marine Life. Novice Section-Bold and beautiful. Recipes and further information available from Cookery Officer, Teena Inkster 0427 076 003 or Dotti Hilliard 4938 9483. Download from the web www.cwaofnsw. org.au/page.php?id=42.
your summer clean up you find 8ply acrylic wool and any knitting cotton – not necessarily full balls – we have members who will knit them up for squares to go to Wrap With Love and bandages for Leprosy.
AWARDS: We are very proud to sponsor awards to Gresford school students on their Presentation Night. One of the recipients Elizabeth Venter is pictured with her certificate. We were also nominated for Volunteer of the Year. CWA OF NSW DROUGHT UPDATE Drought advocacy work and relief payments are continuing into 2019. Thanks to the donations into the CWA of NSW Disaster Relief Fund, Over $7.3
BOOK CLUB meets at 3pm. on the second Saturday of the month. The book for discussion on February 9th is “The Dry” by Jane Harper. Afternoon tea plus a lively discussion with an interesting group. New members very welcome. 2019 book list will be put on our website: www.gresfordcwa@wordpress.com.
FRENCH CONVERSATION with Glenda Smith. In the CWA rooms on the first and 3rd Wednesdays at 11am. Gentlemen and ladies all welcome. The rooms are airconditioned. Glenda caters for all standards.
Next meeting on Thursday 7th February million has been distributed, 4418 applications been processed since the work started mid last year. CWA of NSW still has at least $3 million to distribute (which changes daily due to donations which are still coming in) so work will continue on this at least for the first quarter of 2019.
at 9.30am will be held at the Twin Rivers café. The CWA rooms hosting the Land Cookery competition. We will the walk up the hill to hear the judges verdict and get some handy hints. Robyn Thornton, President.
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G resford News
The
• February 2019, p 11
Caring for the families of the Hunter since 1889
On the Shelves by Glenda Smith Saints of the Shadow Bible
Ian Rankin
Rankin’s non-conformist hero John Rebus is confronted by a situation involving past colleagues, who adhered to their own dodgy rules to achieve what they perceived as justice. They were the Saints of the Shadow Bible of the title, and they were old hands when a younger Rebus joined their ranks. A possible conspiracy by this group emerges as Rebus and his now superior, Siobhan Clarke, investigate a suspicious car crash. Rebus is interviewed by his old adversary Malcolm Fox from Internal Affairs, and needs to tread a careful line. A complex storyline develops against the background of the Scottish Independence referendum, with Rebus keeping his own counsel as much as possible, while dealing with a demotion from his pre-retirement rank, and a murky past. Revelations keep coming, and Rankin keeps the reader entertained, involved and guessing – an effective crime fiction formula. 48 Banks Street, East Maitland 97 New England Highway, Maitland 61 Port Stephens Street, Raymond Terrace
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.
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G resford News • February 2019
The
, p 12
Private Kill Welcome
Packed and labelled ready for the freezer and your convenience. Aged for 7–10 days to develop the best flavour your beef has to offer.
Ph 4938 9710
Sunday 17 February: Too Stuffed to Jump band 2–6pm.
G resford News
The
• February 2019, p 13
Paterson/Allyn Garden Ramble – Sun 7 April Only 9 weeks to go until the Paterson/Allyn garden ramble! From late February locals will begin to see an amazing array of giant butterflies, ladybirds, bees and flowers sprouting from the waysides all around our Shire, but especially up and down the Paterson and Allyn River valleys. For locals and visitors alike, a daily reminder that the inaugural Paterson Allyn Garden Club ramble is taking place on Sun 7 April from 9am until 5pm. There are some very special gardens for visitors to enjoy and, in particular, two with a wealth of history behind them. For those visitors coming from the South, the first garden is located just outside Paterson on one of the Hunter Valley’s oldest properties “Duninald”. Current owners, Julia and Chris Wokes, regard themselves as the interim custodians of a garden which has been in the making since the Dun family acquired their land grant in 1822.
a number of very old historical trees. The trees include a number of Norfolk Island hibiscus, which, according to family lore, came originally from seeds given to William Dun in 1921 by Governor Macquarie. The one in front of “Old Duninald” is close to 200 years old; with others not so much younger. And Duninald is only the first garden. As visitors work their way up the Julia in front of Old Duninald and oldest Norfolk Island Hibiscus valleys, further delights await them, at the The original house constructed in 1823, following 4 gardens. Local eateries in now known as “Old Duninald” and Paterson, Vacy and Gresford are primed lovingly restored by the Wokes, is situated to provide appetizing refreshments and on the edge of a substantial woodland lunches, some of which can be ordered created from the 1960s onwards by one of in advance. As an additional attraction, the descendants of the Dun family, Sidney the Paterson/Allyn garden club members Reynolds. With over 200 trees, including will run a plant stall at St. Mary’s on local natives, Australian natives and exotics, Allyn for visitors to take home an extra visitors can wander through the wood plant for their gardens. down towards the scenic billabong, home to a large number and variety of birds, and Any profits will go to supporting and admire this wide variety of trees, which extending the Gresford arboretum at the includes 3 rare and endangered species and back of the Therese Doyle Hall.
NEW YEAR NEWS FLASH! EXCITING NEW LISTING Brand new to the market. Allynbrook via East Gresford 150 acres with breathtaking frontage to the Allyn River. Listed $1.45 Million. Stunning lifestyle environment. Pasture country rising to pasture ridges, very scenic Valley. Elevated, panoramic valley views. Farmhouse positioned high to capture this magic setting.
NOW is the time to list your Farm and Country properties of all sizes. Enquiry is always strongest from early February through Autumn, and Winter. Buyers have enjoyed a long Summer holiday and they are now back in buying mode after the long December and January break. Don’t make the mistake of waiting to list next Spring as you then only have a few weeks before the annual quietest time for sales…the December and January holiday exodus of buyers out of the market. In our Valleys, most Sales are made during Autumn and Winter leading into Spring each year. Free and honest advice in preparing your property for the market. Proven sales success over 20 years of selling country.
call Pamela Munson 0427 207542
G resford News • February 2019
The
, p 14
Weed to watch for!... by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries
Verbena hispida – Rough Verbena Native of South America – Present in the Hunter Valley and Sydney area to Lake Stewart. Recorded from the North Coast, Central Coast, North West Slopes, Central West Slopes, North West Plains, South West Plains and North Far West Plains. Flowers throughout the year, flowers purplish. Described as a spreading or decumbent perennial herb. This weed has been present on the Allyn River for a long while, I have a patch on my riverbank that I thought I had eliminated three times with RoundUp but no, it keeps coming back. The problem is that if you let it get too big you have to kill a lot of grass to kill the weed. It does look as though we will have to look at other ways to kill it. It is described as invading disturbed sites but my patch is growing in a healthy patch of couch grass in sandy loam. I have tried digging out one or two small pieces but only eliminated one. I even tried scooping up a whole bucket full with the tractor and dropping in on a hot fire. Worked well but it did leave a big hole. The weather this year has been ideal for it. So far customers have bought in 4 lots to be identified so it is widespread and in these present weather conditions it will become
RoundUp. He leaves everything in place until the RoundUp dries then goes to the next one. This protects the grass or other plants that are growing underneath the Verbena. I haven’t been back to see how successful it was as it certainly kills the plant but it can take 12 to 24 months for One landowner in the Maitland area has any regeneration to occur. The same adopted an unusual way of trying to applies to digging it up, any small pieces control it. He mixes up double strength of the rhizome or roots that are missed RoundUp, grabs a large paintbrush and can take a long while to regenerate so puts the RoundUp in a can or bucket. He you have to be observant. Note there are then lifts the Verbena on top of a sheet of other species of Verbena present as weeds Masonite or cardboard (usually cut in two in the area so be aware of them all. pieces) then paints it liberally with the a serious problem. It needs to be looked at in depth to exercise some control over it. I have no information as to its toxicity to livestock but I do know that it can cause allergic reactions in some people so handle with caution.
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G resford News
The
• February 2019, p 15
2019 SEASON Soccer WINTER COMP refund, 2nd prize = half rego Soccer Registrations rego refund. Must be registered and paid in full to be eligible for Major prizes. Eligible Kids play Else Rego Days: Sun 17 Feb 3-5pm, FREE! Under 6’s to All Age Men’s & Women’s – Gresford Vacy Football Club. Children turning 5 in 2019 can
play as Under 6's. We cater for junior Mixed and Girls only Teams. ‘Eligible Kids’ are school aged children between 5 – 11 years old where their family has utilised the governments’ $100 Active Kids Voucher from Service NSW. Preschool & 12-18 year olds. Childrens cost is $50 upfront. For voucher info: www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/ apply-active-kids-voucher.
You must register online at: playfootball.com.au
WIN rebel vouchers & refunds !!!
4x weekly prize draws of vouchers and merchandise during Feb – All registered players eligible. Major prizes drawn on March 1st. Juniors Major prize is Rebel Vouchers – 1st $150, 2nd $75, 3rd $50. Seniors Major prize is – 1st prize = full
Gresford Sports Complex AND Fri 22 Feb 4-6pm, Vacy Sportsground.
NB: New players MUST bring a copy of their For more information or help contact: Club President Jim Doyle: 0407 307 800, birth certificate. Club Secretary Jack Cowled: 0427 385 Every player receives a playing strip & 603 dress shirt. NB: all juniors receive a free Web: www.scorps.com.au Email: gresfordvacyfc@outlook.com training ball too. Category
GVFC rego fee
Less Active Kids $100 Voucher
GVFC Game fees
Season Total Cost
Entry 5 years (Preschool)
$50
NA – Still $50
nil, zero, zilch, nothing, $0
Only $50 Rego – No game fees
Entry 5 - 11 years
$100
$0
nil, zero, zilch, nothing, $0
Nothing if Service NSW $100 Active Kids voucher utilised – else $100
Youth 12 18 years
$100
$0
$50 upfront or $5 per game
Only $50 Games fees upfront if Service NSW $100 Active Kids voucher utilised
Senior Amateur
$230
NA – Still $230
Sat & Sun: $100 upfront or $10 per game Friday nights: $130 upfront or $13 per game
Sat & Sun: $330 upfront for rego and games fees inc Friday nights: $360 upfront
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G resford News • February 2019
The
Mayoral Update 21 January 2019 Visit by Deputy Premier Early last week the Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, and State Local Member for the Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen, met with Deputy Mayor, Digby Rayward; General Manager (GM), Coralie Nichols; Executive Manager of Infrastructure and Assets, Steve Hitchens, and myself at Dungog Council Chambers. The purpose of the meeting appeared to be for the Deputy Premier, to have a first-hand understanding of the unique situation that exists for Dungog Shire Council, and to finesse a proposed funding package for Dungog.
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Tracy Norman, Mayor Dungog Shire Council all of the measures must be implemented I would like to thank Mr Johnsen and the State Government for this very for it to work. welcome announcement. I would also He also appreciated the need for a strong like to commend and congratulate Steve partnership between local governments Hitchens and his team, for the great and State Government and commended work they put into the grant Council on the work we have been applications. A tremendous amount of doing. We spoke about where Council work goes into each and every grant was at, and where it was heading, he application, so it’s wonderful when this commented that the strength in the work comes to fruition. leadership of the new Council was being noticed at the State level. Meet the Candidates
We discussed the idea of receiving a dividend payment from Hunter Water Corporation (HWC). I have previously raised this with Jim Bentley from HWC, as well as discussing the possibility with Michael Johnsen and other politicians. It’s The Deputy Premier showed a real a subject that frequently raised its head at understanding of our issues, and could our community meetings regarding the relate to them as he faced similar issues SRV, and has been the subject of lobbying as a Councillor in his region (he served on Queenbeyan City Council). Naturally, from previous councils. The Deputy Premier has been considering the idea of our focus was on roads and timber bridges infrastructure backlogs, however Resources for Regions funding being expanded beyond coal, as issues we also covered a raft of other issues, around state-owned corporations being such as our discussions around the exempt from rates have been raised future of agriculture, and our desire to increase our rate base while maintaining with him by the Country Mayors working group on unrateable land. His our rural amenity. district has no coal mining, but has He was well-versed with the problems we water as a resource, through the Snowy face re the lack of a state road. He has Hydro Scheme, so he was definitely been working towards a solution to this sympathetic to the argument. and is confident that there will be some Overall the meeting was productive and movement. the Deputy Premier was very engaged. I He specifically asked about Clarence feel positive about the potential Town’s Brig O’ Johnson Bridge, and outcomes for the Dungog Shire in showed genuine concern about the relation to support from the NSW State proposed expenditure of $14-17 million Government. of tax-payers money on the repairs, while still leaving the bridge not-fit-for-purpose Funding for Tillegra Bridge Local State Member, Michael Johnsen, for Clarence Town and Dungog Shire in general. The GM explained the proximity has announced a $1 million funding to go towards the replacement of Tillegra of Clarence Town to Newcastle Airport Bridge under the Fixing Country Roads and Williamtown, where the creation of program. Mr Johnsen commented: 8000 new jobs is anticipated as part of the Snowy River Hydro Legacy Fund, The replacement of the Tillegra Bridge which could really affect residential over the Williams River will benefit demand in and around Clarence Town. Dungog and the Region by The Deputy Premier definitely understood accommodating loads over 40 tonnes, and was supportive of the need for a which no longer needs to be split in more optimal solution. order to use the bridge, and improve the route’s freight capacity and allow heavy We spoke at length about Council’s vehicles to access the Williams Valley decision in relation to the Special Rates Variation (SRV). The Deputy Premier This replacement bridge will also reduce asked what effect a funding package the current average large Heavy Vehicle would have on the SRV. We explained transport distance from 166km round that Council’s strategy is focused on a trip to 101km round trip. raft of measures that we are introducing Our freight trucks and trains carry our to head toward a more sustainable food, produce and raw materials that future, including the SRV and grant support our local Dungog community. funding. He understood and was These projects will ensure freight supportive of the fact that there are several pieces to the Dungog puzzle, and vehicles get to where they need to be.
The Dungog District Chamber of Commerce has organised a Meet the Candidate night, and has invited all candidates standing in the Upper Hunter Electorate at the up-coming state election to address the meeting. The event will take place 6.30 pm, Thursday 28 February at Dungog RSL. Candidates will be given 15 minutes to address the meeting. There will be time to catch up with them one on one, after all candidates have spoken. Bookings are essential and can be made by either emailing secretary@ddcc.org.au or at: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/meet-thecandidates-tickets-54957149313
14 January 2019 Meeting with Shooter Fishers and Farmers Party Deputy Mayor, Cr Digby Rayward and General Manager, Coralie Nichols met with Shooters Fishers and Farmers MLC, Robert Brown, and State Local Candidate, Lee Watt to discuss the critical issues for Dungog Shire Council and for our priorities to deal with these issues. Council has previously met with Local Member, Michael Johnsen and Labor candidate, Martin Rush. We have presented the priorities listed below to each of the candidates and the Member, as follows: 1. Council is seeking a commitment to a one-off bulk roads and bridges funding package for Dungog Shire Council through the Fixing Country Roads Program, to help ensure Council benefits equitably in the same way as comparable local government areas via RMS maintenance of State-classified roads. Council values it’s road maintenance backlog at $21 million for road and $16 million for timber bridges. 2. Council is seeking a commitment to review in a timely manner the Block Grant Allocation formula. 3. Council is seeking the NSW
G resford News
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Government to conduct a formal evaluation of the financial, operational and community impacts of Council’s proposal to reclassify the Maitland to Dungog Main Road (MR101) to ‘State’ classification under the Roads Act 1993. 4. Dungog Shire Council is seeking the NSW Government, to conduct a formal financial and legislative evaluation of potential options and alternatives, to restoring the State heritage-listed Brig O’Johnson Bridge at Clarence Town.
positive feedback about the night and I’d like to thank Coralie and Steve, as well as those residents who participated in a well-run and informative session. Due to the overwhelming interest in this issue, Council has extended the exhibition period for the two options. Submissions will be accepted until 18 January 2019. Please send your submissions to the General Manager, Dungog Shire Council, PO Box 95, Dungog 2420 or email to shirecouncouncil@dungog.nsw.gov.au. Concept plans on both options have been updated and are available at https://www.dungog.nsw.gov.au/news/ dowling-street-roadworks-between-maryand-mackay-streets.
5. Dungog Shire Council is formally requesting, that the NSW Government commit to a blanket application for ‘hardship’ (either time-limited or permanent), applying to all Regional Meeting with Scot MacDonald Growth Fund applications put forward by This meeting was a follow up from our Dungog Council, to alleviate the burden meetings in Canberra, to update of financing grant co-contribution. Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald, on these meetings and Update on Martins Creek Quarry to garner support from the State The Land and Environment Court has extended the stay to the quarry until 12 Government for a tripartite agreement between the Hunter Joint Organisation, March 2019, albeit with stricter Federal Government and State provisions than the temporary Government. We discussed next steps in Environmental Management Plan allowed. The interim provisions allow for engaging the two levels of government in cooperating and accepting the the following: priorities identified in the Greater * no more than 449 000 tonnes in any Newcastle Metropolitan Plan and the 12 month period to be dispatched from Intergovernmental Partnerships Project. the quarry by road, down from 650 000 Also in attendance was representatives tonnes; from the Department of Premier and * no more than 90 laden trucks will be Cabinet and from Hunter Central Coast dispatched from the quarry in any one Development Corporation. calendar day, down from 130; I took the opportunity to thank Mr * no more than 20 laden trucks will be MacDonald for his intervention with the dispatched from the quarry in any one train timetable changes. His words of hour period, down from 30. advice to me were to “use it or lose it”. I have had preliminary discussions with Daracon is also required to pay a contribution to Council of 50c per tonne Dungog District Chamber of Commerce President, Jenny Lewis, about a direct of product transported by road, on a marketing campaign around the monthly basis. timetable changes, and have also been Daracon has submitted a Notice of approached by various people suggesting Intention to Appeal, which is listed for itinerary ideas for day-trippers. directions on 13 February in the Supreme Court of NSW. Council has not made any December Ordinary Meeting of Council decisions regarding this appeal. A significant item on the Council’s 20 December 2018 agenda on Wednesday night was the proposed Special Rates Variation (SRV).
Dowling St Upgrade
At my request, Dungog Shire Council’s General Manager (GM), Coralie Nichols, and Executive Manager of Infrastructure and Assets, Steve Hitchens, hosted a community conversation regarding the Dowling St upgrade last week at the Doug Walters Pavilion. More than 100 residents heard from Mr Hitchens and asked questions about the two options for the upgrade. I’ve had some very
The officer’s recommendation was that Council apply to the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a tapered SRV over a 7-year period. The proposed rate increase that Council discussed was 15% (including the 2.5% rate peg amount) for years 1 & 2, followed by 10% (including the 2.5% rate peg amount) for years 3, 4 & 5 and 6% (including the 2.5% rate peg
• February 2019, p 17
amount) for years 6 & 7. This is a cumulative SRV amount of 79%, which when combined with the 19% rate peg set by IPART will result in a 98% rate rise over 7 years. Council engaged an independent company called Micromex Research to undertake a randomised phone survey of 302 residents in the Shire to seek their views on the proposed SRV versus a base case approach, otherwise know as business as usual. The survey also canvassed resident satisfaction with the services that Council provides, and asked residents to provide feedback on the priorities that they think Council should be concentrating on. The results of this survey are reliable and statistically significant, in fact, if they conducted the survey again, Micromex would obtain the same result 19 out of 20 times. The results of the Micromex survey were included in the Business Paper at the Ordinary Meeting of Council. Interestingly, 48% of respondents stated that roads (quality/maintenance) were what concerns them most about living in Dungog Shire. No other concern came anywhere near that concern. 98% of respondents responded that roads are the priority and 80% of respondents also put bridges, public toilets and economic development as priorities. I have looked back on my records regarding visitors to my Mobile Office over the year. By far the most pertinent issue that people come to see me about is the poor state of our roads. Around 60% of visitors to my Mobile Office in the past year have expressed concern regarding the state of our roads. Council deliberated for a number of hours on the SRV report and each and every Councillor respectfully had their say. I am proud to report that the officer’s recommendation was adopted by Council. It was a difficult, but definitely the right decision. The next step in this process is for IPART to consider Council’s request for a rates rise and should it be adopted I believe that, along with the implementation of a number of other strategies devised by this Council, that we will be well-placed to deliver overdue and much needed improvements to our roads and bridges infrastructure. In essence we will have a Shire that provides a safe, accessible and functional network for our road and bridge users, a place that makes us proud.
G resford News • February 2019
The
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Hunter New England Local Health District has today welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of more than 250 scholarships to study nursing and start a career with NSW Health.
the health care team, caring for people when they are feeling most vulnerable, across a variety of clinical settings including acute medical and surgical units, operating theatres and mental health.”
Elizabeth Grist, Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery, said the Enrolled Nurse Scholarships are aimed at school leavers wanting to start nursing careers or people seeking an exciting career change. “The Scholarships are a great opportunity for anyone in the local community, young or old, considering a career in nursing. If you’re looking for a rewarding job where you can give back to your local community, don’t hesitate – apply for a nursing scholarship. Nursing is an exciting career with so much opportunity.”
In 2018/19, the NSW Government is boosting frontline clinicians across the state, with an additional 950 nurses and midwives. This includes investing an extra $8.1 million for 80 new specialised nursing midwifery and support positions. The scholarships for the Diploma of Nursing are available at 24 campuses, 7 in metropolitan Sydney and 17 across each and every regional and rural Local Health District in NSW.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said more than $1.5 million will be spent by the NSW Government on the 2019 Enrolled Nurse Scholarship program. “This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in pursuing a rewarding career as a nurse at one of our public health facilities or hospitals,” Mr Hazzard said. “Not only does the scholarship include course fees for a Diploma of Nursing but there is a guaranteed job offer at the end of it. Enrolled Nurses are a valued part of
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G resford News
• February 2019, p 19 Gresford News February Crossword The
Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 0458 146 152
regular church times
Paterson 8.30am every Sunday Gresford 10.30am every Sunday Allynbrook 12 noon 4th Sunday of month
St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill WEEKEND MASS TIMES
St Helen’s Gresford Saturday Vigil 5.30pm (6.30pm from 13 October 2018) 5th Sunday of the Month, no Mass at Gresford but Sacred Heart Church Summer Hill, time to be advised.
Enquiries Parish Priest, Fr. Derek Garner 4992 1477
December 2018 crossword answers
Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.
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