Gresford News July 2016

resford News G

The

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

Midmorning visitors inundate the new GDHS Museum.

Gresford Heritage Museum Opens M

embers of the Gresford District Historical Society are happy and appreciative at the success of the 'Official Opening Day' for their newly formed Heritage Museum and Information Centre on Sunday 12th June.

GDHSI President Mr George Sales gave thanks to all who attended and helped out. Mrs Alma Middlebrook from Myall Creek got to tell a little war story with a surprise twist at the end. This sent a bit of a giggle through the crowd.

Mrs Freda Collison was the special guest for the official opening of the new Museum. Freda spoke of her time with Gresford Girl Guides and of her assistance and commitment in helping to obtain and set up the Therese Doyle Community Hall as a Girl Guides Centre. Freda is also a founding member of the Gresford District Historical Society.

Councillor Glen Wall assisted Freda in cutting the 'Celebration Cake' and the 'Official Ribbon'. The Museum and Information Centre was declared 'Officially Open'! The President of the Gresford Community Group Mr Graham Murphy also spoke at the opening.

Some guest visitors included Dr Rosemary Sheather, Mrs Nola Dooley, historian Mr Jack Sullivan and two other history authors Mrs Lesley Gent and Ms Janice McDonald. In general, most people visiting had some family connection to the Gresford area. This in itself had a good impact on the day.

Even the weather was good. No winter blizzard and the sun shone during the 'Official Opening'.

Lorraine Ashard, GDHSI Secretary – More pics and story inside...

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

The Gresford News Community Diary Wed

6 Jul

French in the library, Gresford CWA, 11.00am

Fri

8 Jul

Community Table for dinner, Hotel Beatty

Sat

9 Jul

CWA book club, Gresford CWA, 3.00pm

Sun

10 Jul

Jason Carruthers & Band Performing Tribute Show, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 1.00pm

Sun

17 Jul

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

Sun

17 Jul Live music – Short & Curly Duo, Hotel Beatty, 11.00am

Tues

19 Jul

Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Wed

20 Jul

French in the library, Gresford CWA, 11.00am

Fri

22 Jul

Regional communications expert – PAW Science Hub event, James Theatre, Dungog, 7.00pm

Sun

31 Jul

Peek into the Past Day, Tocal

Tues

9 Aug CWA International Day - country of study Mongolia, St Anne's Hall, Gresford

Thurs

1 Sep Speaker from Devil Ark in the Barrington Tops, Gresford CWA

Sat

3 Sep Back to Allyn River Valley Reunion Day, Eccleston Fire Brigade shed

Claim these dates: Sun

18 Sep GAPS matinee play ‘Cirque Solamé’, Gresford School of Arts, 1.30pm

Sun

18 Sep Vacy Village Country Carnival

Fri, Sat, Fri, Sat 23, 24, 30 Sep & 1 Oct GAPS theatre restaurant play ‘Cirque Solamé’, Gresford School of Arts, all at 6.30pm Sat, Sun 24,25 Sep Gresford Photographic Exhibition, St Anne's Hall, Gresford 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 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.

Visit

www.gresfordnsw.com.au

for local information and the ‘Gresford News’ online.

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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.

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Address

Gresford News Notices A Circus is coming to Gresford

Back to Allyn River Valley Reunion Day

There is a rumour going around that a circus will be coming to town in September.

Which circus you might ask? The answer is ‘Cirque Solamé’!

Well….we hear that this is not quite the circus you may expect to visit Gresford, especially since the performances will all occur in the Gresford School of Arts Hall.

Yes, ‘Cirque Solamé’ is the latest play written and performed by Gresford Amateur Performing Society (GAPS). More information will be reported in later editions of The Gresford News.

Anon.

The Maitland & District Genealogical Society Inc. will have a stand there with volunteers to help anyone interested in researching their Family History.

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

Saturday 3rd September Eccleston Fire Brigade shed Besides being a reunion day it will be an information collecting day. So bring along your memories, any old memorabilia and photographs. We will have a scanning / printer machine there on the day. Pass the word on and help preserve valuable history within our local Allyn River area.

Morning tea and lunch will be available.

Vacy Village Country Carnival Sunday 18 September

Peek into the Past Day Tocal Sunday 31 July

Gresford Community Dinner Hotel Beatty

Start your pooch training now!

The best small dog races will be back again this year at Vacy - plus stalls Galore and loads of entertainment for all.

To book a stall, lend a hand or sponsor the event please email vacycc@gmail.com

NW Hitchcock Carpentry & Tiling Service Wall & Floor Tiling Home Maintenance & Repairs Renovations Over 25 years experience Phone Neal 0418 684 985 49389125 ABN 95 790 884 781 Licence no. 111201C

Our next dinner will be Friday 8 July at 6.30pm at the Beatty.

The reports were very favourable from those who attended the June community dinner. What made it special was the fact that one of the oldest families in the district came with one of the newest families who have bought a property nearby. This is what we are hoping to encourage as there are many new people in the area and this community welcomes them.

Bernie had the fire ablaze so it was a cosy atmosphere so contact him on 4938 9451 and enjoy a night out.

Carolyn Addison – Member of GDCG

Gresford Market presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.

Sunday 17 July 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

G resford News • July 2016

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Letter To The Editor Shire Rates Comparison

Dungog Shire Council has done a study of rates across a range of types of I am aware of a flyer accompanying the properties, comparing the current rates petition that is being circulated by the of Dungog, Maitland and Port Stephens.

Dungog Shire Community Group which See chart below. makes claims that are simply wrong and These figures will change if the land value misleading. is more than or less than the value listed.

The flyer accompanying the petition The petition also states that a merger claims that rates will double if Dungog with Maitland will remove democratic Shire Council merges with Maitland City Council. We need to be aware that local representation. The same will occur with a merger with Port Stephens. rates will also rise substantially if there is a merger with Port Stephens Council. Any merger will mean that the residents

of the current Dungog Shire will most likely achieve only one elected representative on a new Council.

The Minister for Local Government, on receipt of the advice of the delegate undertaking the inquiry, will make recommendations to the Governor of NSW as regards the number of Councillors to be elected to the newly merged Council and also what the name of the new Council shall be.

Clr Harold F Johnston Mayor, Dungog Shire Council

G resford News • July 2016

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Letter To The Editor THANK YOU from Rowena Dillon My family and I would like to say a huge THANK YOU to all involved with the fundraising day on Saturday 18th June to help me be part of the Australian team to compete in America at the National High Schools Rodeo Finals. The committees and members of Paterson River Pony Club and Valley Team Penning worked so hard to make the event such a success and I sincerely thank them all for their time and effort. To all those who donated cattle, transport and prizes to the team penning day; to those who donated goods and services to the raffle and auction; to those who bought tickets in the raffle and bought items at the auction; to those who put money in the tins around the town and to those you came along on the night the biggest THANK YOU! I was overwhelmed by the support and hope I will be able to do our town and country proud when I compete in Wyoming in July.

Rowena Dillon

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Science Hub Brings Regional Communications Expert Alun Davies to Dungog Dungog Shire community is lucky to have a public discussion lead by regional communications advocate Alun Davies as the first public event of the newly formed Paterson, Allyn, Williams, Science Hub. The presentation is scheduled for 7pm, Friday 22 July at the James Theatre, Dungog.

Alun Davies headed the successful NBN Lobby Group for New England, was a member of the Regional Telecommunication Review Committee and is Chair and Co-ordinator of the Armidale Digital Economy Implementation Group. His work has helped Armidale receive international recognition by being named in the top 21 Smart Communities for 2016.

of digital disruption technologies.

The discussion will include time to answer your questions.

The Paterson, Allyn, Williams Science Hub (originally Dungog Science Hub) has changed it's name to be more inclusive of the broader communities of the Dungog Shire. The Science Hub is a group of local organisations that are partnering with 'Inspiring Australia' to organise local events engaging science issues relevant to the community.

Future events this year will include participating in the launch of a local 'boomerang bags' initiative and soft plastics recycling scheme for Dungog Shire, a film program from the SCINEMA International Film Festival to screen at Alun's presentation will help to demystify the James Theatre Dungog during science week in August and a family friendly the NBN and explain why it matters for citizen science project during National both individuals and businesses in Bird Week in October. For information regional Australia. updates check the facebook page Some of the topics to be covered include: https://www.facebook.com/ the NBN explained – FTTP, FTTN, fixed PatersonAllynWilliamsScienceHub/ wireless and Sky Muster Satellite; cloud If you or your group would like to computing, 3D printers and robotics; partner with the Science Hub, please building a digital economy and what contact us at: education@dscc.net.au regional areas can do to take advantage

G resford News • July 2016

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G resford News • July 2016

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What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

All My Enemies

Barry Maitland

Published twenty years ago, this Brock/Kolla crime novel from Barry Maitland is well-crafted and suspenseful, and follows the conventions of the genre effectively. His more recent work, Crucifixion Creek, seems over-wrought in comparison.

Kathy Kolla is about to join New Scotland Yard when a grisly murder takes place. As the new girl on the block she has to temper her contributions but is able to give her theories substance as the narrative progresses. An innocuous young woman is murdered in her home, and the murder scene is harrowing. The team follows a lead which runs cold, but a suspected connection with theatre-going remains viable, and it becomes clear that they are dealing with a serial killer.

A lighter thread is the involvement of Kolla’s Aunt Mary, who has left her pig-headed husband after many years of being taken for granted.

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Children, Youth & Family careers opening up For the third year in a row, a diploma-level community services course is coming to Dungog. This time it’s the Diploma in Child, Youth & Family Intervention, a qualification designed for a crucial section of our society – at-risk young people and families.

especially working with at-risk folk.

But the other factor is: getting in there in the first place. We’re really pleased that students are required to do 200 hours of work placement in this diploma. That brings them into real workplaces and starts the networking going.”

Like the two diplomas before it, Community Services Work and Counselling, it will be presented

by BCA National for Dungog Community College. The trainer is Tracy Cerff, who brings the same real-life experiences and strong training history that she brought to the Counselling Diploma.

This latest diploma has attracted Smart & Skilled funding from the NSW government. “The cost of the course is significantly lower than our earlier diplomas. And with VET Fee-Help (the federal government’s student loan program) the course is accessible to people on a very low income.”

“Community services work is often highly sought after,” says the college’s John O’Brien. “I think it’s partly that the experience of living in an active community gets people’s caring reflex going. And There is a deftly engineered twist at the end, which makes they want to turn that experience into a career.” this a good example of well-sustained crime fiction.

But are there jobs in the field? “For All books reviewed are from the CWA library. They are the right people, yes,” says O’Brien. put on a separate shelf in the library so they are easy “There’s a fair turnover of to find plus the reviews are in a folder. People can call community services workers, Dotti Hilliard 49389 483 for access to the rooms.

Training will be include fortnightly face-to-face classes (“so you’re much more likely to finish the course and get answers to your questions” says O’Brien), and will run till March or April next year.

Interested? Contact BCA National on 1300 79 67 87 or Dungog Community College 4992 1133 ext 7, education@dscc.net.au or check out the website dungogcommunitycollege.org.au.

JASON CARRUTHERS & BAND PERFORMING TRIBUTE SHOW

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PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

‘Looking after people in business is our business’ Peter Evans is descended from a farming family located in the Gresford area prior to 1840 and is keen to assist residents, farmers and business in the area with all their legal needs.

We can help you with: Conveyancing, Subdivisions, Family Law, Business Law, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate and more PHONE: 4926 4788 www.evanslaw.com.au

G resford News • July 2016

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Gresford Historical Society Museum and Information Centre Opening

Official opening ceremony for the new GDHS Museum.

From 9am onwards, local townsfolk and visitors began arriving. Stall holders had set up their goods early in the grounds of the Therese Doyle Community Centre and among the early visitors were Sue and Bob Doyle with their daughter Prue.

Helen Doyle also came along for the day's celebration.

Last century items on display included: Halton's old telephone exchange with its plug in switchboard; a bullock yolk handmade by the legendary Gerald Capararo; membership badges (Gresford District Agricultural Show) and an elaborate belt buckle that belonged to Mr Jim Dooley. Many diverse local photographs (copies) lining the walls provided much interest as did numerous albums of past events and people. Allan Hancock's memorabilia of his father's sawmill was also of great interest. Large estate maps of original land holders laying on top of the recently received

members of the 'Dungog Rattlin Bones Tractor Club', Mervyn Turner and Rodney Hipwell plus co. 'Dungog In the adjoining little schoolroom, Historic Motor Club' members are also GDHSI archivist Mrs Delma Lawrence was thanked for having two beautifully kept busy with visitors taking a step back presented classic cars on display. in time. Writing with an ink nib provided Local talented Gresford Amateur a lot of memories. For the younger Performing Society (GAPS) members sang generation, curiosity and fun evolved. and performed a mixed array of great Most people were unaware that behind music. A big thank you is extended there the scene Mrs Jill hancock was diligently and to Paul and Jenny Wilson's extra preparing treats for the very popular tea input into the day's repertoire and and coffee tent outside. Newest GDHSI equipment setup. member Katie Farrell and her partner Jo Another very supportive group are our Munger were kept very busy indeed. local Tennis Club members with their Local identities Keith Litchfield and barbeque. Al Litchfield (Hey! Good Trevor Clements with the help of Greg Lookin, What you got Cookin?) was Priestley got the Chocolate Wheel up multitasking between the barbie plate and and spinning. This was well supported GAPS microphone. throughout the day.

Earlier in the day word was received that Reminiscent to the last century was a Captain Thunderbolt (in reincarnation) great display of well restored vintage with his trustworthy steed would be tractors. Many thanks is extended to section of the Beatty Hotel's ex-bar bench got visitors quite inquisitive.

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each on a can of lemonade, Dan and Ned headed outside. Before leaving the grounds, the Kelly Brothers made it known that they were more than happy to hand their takings over to the Gresford District Historical Society. A sum of $134 and 35c.

Dungog 'Rattlin Bones' Tractor club display.

making an unexpected visit. As the history books tell bushrangers often met with untimely incidents. Captain Thunderbolt did not appear.

Then low and behold who should turn up during chit chat and song? Dan and Ned Kelly! Wearing their metal helmets, drizabone coats and on foot. It was called on for the crowd to cooperate completely with these fearless young men. That is

exactly what happened. Notes and coins were handed freely and dropped into Dan Kelly's green bucket. No one took on the challenge of wrangling with these bushrangers from the past. Dan and Ned even took a visit into the new Museum.

Removing their metal head armour it could honestly be said that Dan looked like Scotty Shearer and Ned as Graham 'Butch' Butcher. Quenching their thirst,

We are constantly being asked by locals where they can purchase Camyr Allyn Wines now that the cellar door has closed.

You can buy bottle stocks in East Gresford at: Foodworks The Beatty Hotel Bowling Club Cases (six packs) can be ordered on line at www.camyrallynwines.com.au and will be delivered to the Post Office And of course you can just phone John on 0417389576 and he will deliver to your door.

It was a very memorable day! GDHS would welcome donations or loans of local artefacts, photographs and/or information to the Museum. New GDHSI members are also welcome. There are more very good event days coming up including the 'Back to Allyn River Valley Reunion Day' to be held Saturday 3rd September at the Eccleston Fire Brigade shed. Should you be connected to the Allyn River Valley in any way please make an effort to come along.

Besides being a reunion day it will be an information collecting day. So bring along your memories, any old memorabilia and photographs. We will have a scanning / printer machine there on the day. Pass the word on and help preserve valuable history within our local Allyn River area.

Morning tea and lunch will be available.

Lorraine Ashard, GDHSI Secretary PO Box 96 East Gresford 2311

G resford News • July 2016

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Community Matters – Gresford Community Group

Christmas lights for Gresford The Gresford Community Group would like to encourage the villages of Gresford and East Gresford to be more festive in December. It is proposed to run a competition for the best decorated house/yard in the villages. First prize will be $100 and second prize will be $50.

Judging will be done on the ‘Turn on the Lights Night’, 9 December with the winners being announced at the GAPS Carol Night. All residents, businesses, community groups and the school are invited to ‘dress’ their premises for the festive season. The Butcher’s shop, Beatty Hotel and Twin Rivers Café are Some of the diners at the June Commmunity Table at the Hotel Beatty. committed to setting up Christmas coloured lights, so let’s really light up outlook.com.au. The dinners are Gresford Beautification Project and 50 Gresford and East Gresford in December. designed to attract new residents and crepe myrtle trees will be purchased for locals alike to help them to get to know planting around the Gresford and East Community Dinner one another and to make new friends. It Gresford village.

The Gresford Community Group is is not just for new residents but for delighted to see so many new residents Penny also presented a draft plan for the anyone living within our community join them on the second Friday of each Gresford Community Group Arboretum who would like to attend. The Gresford month at their community table at to be planted on the grounds of the Community Group thanks the Beatty the Beatty Hotel. Having a data base has Therese Doyle Hall. The Arboretum will Hotel for their continued support. enabled some of these new residents to support many areas within the Gresford join and enquire about different community – as a tourist attraction to Gresford Beautification community services and groups, so if complement and work with the Gresford At the June meeting of the Gresford you haven’t already provided your Historical Society Museum, and as an Community Group, Penny Kater group’s information please email: gcg@ educational tool for local schools by reported a lot of interest for the

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G resford News • July 2016

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identifying local rainforest trees.

Gresford has a great community spirit and many community members work hard to make Gresford a better place for young families. Graham noted the beauty of Orana Park and suggested all take notice when driving or walking past as it is a great asset to our village.

Meeting the Community Noel Brown and Graham Murphy attended the Meet the Community meeting on 17 May with State Member for Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen and raised 3 major items:

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Upper Paterson/Allyn National Park proposal

Martin Fallding from the National Parks Association of NSW, Hunter Branch, attended the June monthly meeting of the Gresford Community Group to update and answer questions 1. The poor quality of land line on the submission being prepared for telephone services in the Gresford District and the long delays in having the boundary changes to the Barrington To assist with keeping our village tidy, land lines repaired once they are reported Tops National Park, Upper Paterson the Gresford Community Group would and Allyn River Valleys. like the skaters at the Skate Park to take “out of order” in many cases weeks will pass before repairs are carried out. home their rubbish. Previous rubbish This submission will be presented to the bins that had been placed there were 2. The Black Spot mobile problems Minister for the Environment and the used as skating objects or as rubbish bins experienced by the residents of the Minister for Primary Industries as by locals for their excess rubbish.

Gresford District especially in the currently individual areas are controlled Allynbrook Halton areas. These areas will by both NP and State Forest and parts Upgrade for Park Street not receive any benefit from the new If the current government is re-elected are Flora Reserve. The aim of the on 2 July, Federal MP for Lyne, Dr David NBN tower recently erected and still to submission is to bring all of the be commissioned in Gresford.

Gillespie, has pledged $1m to upgrade Chichester State forest west under the Park Street, with Gresford identifying control of the National Parks Dept.

3. The poor state of roads in the the Gresford Billy Cart Derby safety as Dungog Shire and the desperate need for Graham Murphy, as President of the the need for the work to be carried out. funding especially the main roads While it sounds wonderful, chances of through Gresford/East Gresford, Durham Gresford Community Group, congratulated Martin and National Parks upgrade work being done in Park Street, Road and Park Street. Park Street is the Association of NSW, Hunter Branch, on as was noted in the statement by Harold raceway for the Gresford Billy Cart the research and work that had gone Johnston, was that the work Derby, a major fund raiser each year, programmed will not happen until the attracting up to 5000 people every Easter into the proposal and stated that the Gresford Community Group would work full amount of $3m is fully funded spending many thousands of dollars in with and support the submission. our community. before any works will commence.

G resford News • July 2016

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Getting to know the locals... by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries HYMENOSPORUM FLAVUM Native Frangipani or QLD Frangipani.

This is a fairly common species that is hardy and fast growing and is grown over a wide area. There are magnificent examples of this tree growing at Tamworth. The name Hymenosporum refers to the winged seed and flavuum is from the Latin Flavus meaning yellow. It occurs naturally from the Grose Valley in the NSW Blue Mountains to Cooktown in Northern Queensland and then again in New Guinea. Because of the winged seed it comes up in the most surprising places.

This is an excellent plant for gardens and general planting.

The Cowlick's team has been super busy looking after all of our lovely clients in the salon over the past month.

Our new senior stylist Josie has settled in nicely and has been giving her clients fabulous new hairstyles and is available Wednesday to Saturday in the salon.

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G resford News • July 2016

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Paterson Allyn Garden Group – PAGG Finally last week I was able to wander a garden that has made me curious for the past twenty years. It’s always been open to the public, even free of charge, but somehow I have never managed to get there… until now. I am writing about Wendy Whiteley’s treasured garden at Lavender Bay in Sydney. It’s so close to the Harbour Bridge and right next door to Luna Park, but you would never know it was there unless you went looking for it.

Fifty Paterson Allyn Garden Group (PAGG) members and some friends experienced a day I believe they will never forget. Thanks to Christine Pike who I think has the determination of a ferret, she pulled off a double coup! Can you imagine our delight when Wendy walked out of her gate with her three full time gardeners in tow, to greet us, chat with us and then walk the garden with her long time gardeners. It was one of those surreal mornings.

I remember ten years ago Wendy came to stay at East Gresford with her close cousin. She had been invited to open the Allyn River Art Show in St Mary’s Hall.

We were able to show her stunning photographs of that home and garden in

the Royal Art Society in North Sydney.

They welcomed us with open arms thanks to Christine Pike and I can say with good authority that some of our members left with less money in their wallets than they started with!

PAGG has had a wonderful autumn wandering gardens in our own valleys.

We always meet in a garden somewhere and we are still steadily growing with almost 90 members. We are so fortunate to have members with a wealth of Wendy Whiteley, Christine Pike and Penny Kater horticultural knowledge. It makes such a Dog Trap Creek Road that she visited and difference when every question can be answered at each meeting. Penny Kater chat about times gone by. gave us a great lesson on taking cuttings After her husband, the famous artist Brett in autumn. The best advice of all was to Whitley died in 1992, Wendy found a take softwood cuttings in summer and new outlet for her creativity. In front of hardwood cuttings in winter. There is no her house was a Rail Corp rubbish dump, need to purchase hormone powder for strewn with old rail carriages, fridges, root stimulation. Take a cutting just weeds and lantana. It was an abandoned below a node, dip the cutting in honey site. The rail corporation helped her clear and bingo, roots and leaves by spring. the site of debris, and then Wendy started Hydrangeas are one shrub that flower to create her giant painting... a magical very quickly from a cutting. I’m digging garden. Twenty years on it is a paradise up Agapanthus at the moment, dividing and for the moment safe out of the hands with a flat edge spade and replanting in of developers. moist soil. Bring on more rain, sun and no winds! Happy gardening from Janie Following our garden walk we spent an hour or two wandering the galleries of Chandler, PAGG.

Graeme Ferguson

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G resford News • July 2016

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CULTURE VULTURE Nigel Stokes, blacksmith and owner of Phoenix Forge at Glen Oak. “I am sometimes asked why and when I became a blacksmith and was it something I always wanted to be. I could make up a fantastic story but the truth is a little different. I came from a coal mining family going back 5 generations in the UK, so it seemed the natural thing for me to do. At the interview for the National Coal Board, which was scary in itself for a 15 year old, I was given the option of coal miner, fitter or electrician. To be honest none of those filled me with enjoyment and wonder, so I was thinking carefully about my answer when one of the interviewers mentioned they were starting a new apprenticeship called a Blacksmith/Plater/Welder so I thought “hey why not” and 2 weeks later I was all signed up and officially in the workforce.”

Nigel Stokes

“Most coal mines in those days had blacksmiths, with the main work load being the forging of tools such as chisels, spanners, cold sets, brackets and pipe clamps among various other general items. Afternoon and night shifts were the

Clock by Nigel Stokes

resford News G

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G resford News • July 2016

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CULTURE VULTURE only times we could do foreign orders and fancy ironwork such as gates, hanging basket brackets and of course lots of fire tools, as everyone had coal fires in those days. I stayed in the industry for 7 years before deciding to have a change of direction which eventually brought me to where I am now.”

“It was 1982 and I was still working in the mining industry for a major equipment supplier which took me to India the US and Australia. My first trip here was in 1985 to Lithgow in winter, just like being at home, and then in 1986 to Wollongong in summer, now that’s more like it, but my next trip did not happen until 1994.

exhibit again when time and floor space permits. I currently sell some of my work through Dungog by Design, which is a “So where am I now as a blacksmith? wonderful mixture of local artisans so I I set up my forge around 6 years ago in a am hopeful that some of their artistic small shed at home with just the basic flair will stick to me. equipment. This allowed me to produce traditional items, but nothing too big Looking at the future, I am halfway due to lack of space. When I did need through the planning of a new the room I had to use the garage floor to workshop/forge and this will allow me to lay things out so not the best option. work on larger pieces that will be more contemporary, but the power hammer My next big step was and still is, going may upset the neighbours. Let’s see what from traditional to contemporary and this is a challenge for me. I look at some the future brings.” position of President for a few years and currently Treasurer.”

of the Association members and they turn out some great pieces of artwork.

For me it’s not the doing that causes the problem, it’s more around where the idea comes from. Is it left brain versus Cutting the story short we immigrated right brain and my engineering out to Australia in 1995, still with the background hardly helps as I see in same mining company for a brand new life. I had not picked up a hammer since straight lines. I suppose art is whatever is 1982 and had not really thought about it in the eye of the beholder, so hopefully I am an artist in someone’s eyes. The until I bumped into a blacksmith Association did have an exhibition of demonstrating at the Newcastle show work at the Manning Art Gallery in around the year 2003. After a short Taree a few years ago titled “Force”. The conversation I was invited to join the piece I put in the exhibition was called Artist Blacksmiths Association of NSW “Gravity is a Myth” which actually had who had their headquarters at Timber Town in Wauchope. Eventually I became bends in it not just straight lines. It was more involved with the group taking the good fun and we have been asked to

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"I enjoy many facets of the craft from traditional methods through to the modern art pieces and it is all about what your mind can perceive. Seeing a finished piece whether it is for home or a customer always brings a smile to my face."

- Nigel Stokes © 2016 Nigel Stokes work is available at DUNGOG BY DESIGN: 224-226 Dowling St, Dungog. The Artist Blacksmiths Association NSW is a group of amateur and professional blacksmiths who meet on a regular basis for hands on activities shaping hot iron. Check out the website. https://www.artistblacksmithnsw.com

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G resford News • July 2016

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Gresford CWA News

Alyssa Fear crochet cushion covers.

The renovation of the CWA kitchen will be under way this month and we are all very excited.

The up keep on our building is expensive and we will be applying for a grant to fix all the windows in the near future. A big thank you to Rob Tunin

Betty Kelehear "knitting".

brought her mum Marilyn Harrison, she now has the crochet bug and both have joined the CWA, a big welcome to them.

for keeping our lawns in shape and to Steve Lawrence for extra help when we have important visitors.

The Woolly Workshop has had many flow on effects and Judy Daly now has a pattern for knitted sox. Alyssa Fear

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G resford News • July 2016

The

Gresford CWA News VALE: Jan Godwin.

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our member Jan Godwin. Jan was recently awarded her 50 year of membership medallion by Tanya Cameron the then president of NSW CWA. Unfortunately she was in hospital but the Gresford CWA secretary wrote this citation: Jan began her CWA membership at Wedderburn and joined Gresford in April 1990. A very talented lady who took up leadership positions immediately. Over the years she was, International Officer, Handicraft Officer and Cultural Officer. Her combined International Days were a fantastic success seeing Gresford host up to 90 guests from all over the Hunter.

Jan involved the school children in the activities and to many was known as the "card lady" due to the popularity of her school holiday workshops. Jan insisted CWA was all about friendship. She will be missed by us all.

The book for discussion in July is Reckoning: A Memoir by Magda Szubanski.

This is a really interesting read. Lively discussion and afternoon tea.

FRENCH IN THE LIBRARY Glenda Smith will open the CWA library for borrowing books on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month 11.00am to 12.30.

At the same time she will conduct elementary French conversation. All welcome male and female.

A gold coin donation for conversation printed material would be appreciated.

INTERNATIONAL DAY CWA INTERNATIONAL DAY will be held on Tuesday 9th August at St. Anne's Hall. The country of study this year is Mongolia.

BOOK CLUB

The Gresford CWA meets on the 1st Thursday of the month at 9.30am.

In the rooms, 12 Durham Road, East Gresford.

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

Come along and see what we are about.

New members welcomed.

, p 19

CARAMEL & MACADAMIA SELF-SAUCING PUDDING Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups self raising flour, sifted 3/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup chopped macadamias 3/4 cup milk 50g butter Ice cream to serve CARAMEL SAUCE 1 1/2 cups boiling water 3/4 cup brown sugar 90g butter chopped

Method: Pre-heat oven. In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, macadamias, Milk and butter. Spoon into a lightly greased 2 litre ovenproof dish.

Caramel sauce: Combine all ingredients in a large jug, stirring until smooth. Pour caramel sauce carefully over the back of a spoon onto mixture.

Bake at 180degrees (fan force) for 30-40 minutes, until golden and firm.

Cool for 5 minutes. Serve with ice cream. Serves 4 to 8.

This recipe can be found in the CWA cook book available at Gresford Foodworks and The Gresford Store cost $13.

G resford News • July 2016

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Winter Warmer Menu Creamy Garlic Soup $16 Wild Mushroom soup $16 Hungarian Goulash Stew $26 Traditional Beef Stroganoff $26 7 Hour braised inn Shiraz Lamb Shank$32 Honey Mustard Glazed Duck Breast $36 Come in and warm up with our specials-

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G resford News • July 2016

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The World Is Coming To Gresford A world of photographs by internationally acclaimed photographers will be exhibiting their work this coming September in our small rural village at Gresford. The exhibition is being run to raise funds for the Gresford community.

opening starting at 6.30pm. The night is about fun, getting interviewed and photographed on the Red Carpet, Champagne, beer and an excellent range of finger food prepared by our own local experts using fresh local ingredients.

World class photographers, David Oliver and Peter Eastway are the only two Grand Master photographers in NSW and they will be there along with many other professional and amateur photographers.

Those attending will get a chance to buy some great photographs taken by David Oliver, Peter Eastway, Mike Cheeseman, Noel Winter at our auction, these will be sold for many dollars below normal retail value. We will have wine by the case, special gift packs as well as many other great items for sale. This night is limited to 150 guests only so if you want to attend you must book as early as possible with tickets at $20.00 each and these are going quickly.

“People and Places” will bring the world, through photography, to Gresford. Not only will you see these incredible images, you will also get a chance to talk to the photographers as well, let them tell you about the story behind the photograph.

History is recorded through photography, we have all seen breathtaking scenery photos, wildlife photos and award winning photos, the Gresford Photographic Exhibition will be showing many of these. This is certainly one of those events you do not want to miss.

General viewing is from Saturday the 24th through to Sunday the 25th September 10am to 4pm daily.

The exhibition starts on Friday night the 23rd September with a Red Carpet Gala

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Make a weekend of it in Gresford with many other activities and events also being held over the same weekend, we have beautiful and historic gardens open for display, the Natural Wood Furniture shop will open all weekend, the New Gresford Museum will show their new and exciting display of local history, make a visit to Bunna Bunoo Olive farm for tastings and purchases and then spend a fun night at the Gresford Amateur Performing Society with a live

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show on Saturday night in the local school of Arts Hall. See the suspension bridge near St Anne’s beautiful Historic Church and find the headstone in the cemetery of the soldier who fought in the Battle of Waterloo. For all information about food, accommodation and other sites to see while you are here go to www. apvt.com.au.

Visit our Facebook site – gresfordphotographic-exhibition. Our website will be updated in the coming week, check out www.3villageartfestival.com.au to follow the exhibition and latest up dates.

Our sponsorship is growing and I would like to thank these companies who have already made donations to ensure this unique event is a great success. Sentral Education, Gabes Cleaning Service, David Oliver Photography and Camyr Allyn Wines are all great companies who continue to give generously to our community. A special thank you to these companies.

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G resford News • July 2016

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G resford News • July 2016

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Gresford News July Crossword

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 4938 9313

church times are: Paterson 8.30am every Sunday Gresford 10.30am every Sunday Allynbrook 12 noon on the 4th Sunday of the month

St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill WEEKEND MASS TIMES St Helen’s Gresford Saturday Vigil 6.30pm 5th Sunday of the Month, no Mass at Gresford but Sacred Heart Church Summer Hill, time to be advised.

Enquiries Parish Priest Fr. Paul Hopper 4992 1477 June 2016 crossword answers

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