resford News G
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News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys March 2016
Nothing Beats Home Cooking
Prize Winners. L–R. Dotti Hilliard, Ailsa Stewart judge, Lyn Tunin, Judy Daly, Betty Kelehear.
group stage of The Land newspaper’s Cookery Contest and if they win there they will progress to the state finals.
Mint Jelly. 1st place. Melanie Collingwood Boots Moroccan Tomato Chutney. 1st place. Robyn Thornton
T
he annual Land Cookery Competition judging was held at the Gresford CWA Rooms on February 4. The competition is open to anyone in NSW, not only CWA branch members, and has sections that are open to both young and old. This year's judge, Alysa Stewart from Belmont, believes the competition is a way to encourage cooks, providing tips to help them perfect their skills. Branch winners will go onto the
Cookery officer Dotti Hilliard is keen to see more entries in next years competition. In these days of convenience foods and rushed lifestyles it is an opportunity to share the fun of cooking and community spirit. This years honours go to... Betty Kelehear – first place for Sultana Cake, Gluten Free Carrot Cake Donna Latter – first place for Lemon sour cream cake Judy Daly – Chocolate Cake Dotti Hilliard – first place for Pear and Ginger Cake Melanie Collingwood Boots – first place for Mint Jelly Robyn Thornton – first place for Moroccan Tomato Relish Lyn Tunin – first place for Victoria Sponge
The Gresford News is a Gresford Community Group project. Circulation 800 – Donations appreciated and most welcome. Thank you!
The Gresford News Community Diary Fri
4 Mar World Day of Prayer, St Paul's Anglican Church Paterson, 11.00am
Sat
5 Mar Flickerfest, James Theatre, all day program of short films
Sun
6 Mar Clean Up Gresford Day, meet at Therese Doyle Hall, 9.30am
Tues
8 Mar Landcare meeting, Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm
Fri & Sat 11 & 12 Mar Gresford District Agricultural Show, Showground Fri
11 Mar Live music – Tanya Witton & Co, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club
Tues
15 Mar Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am
Sun
20 Mar Gresford markets, Gresford District Historical Society event, grounds of the Hotel Beatty, 9.00am
Sat
26 Mar Gresford Billy Cart Derby, Park St East Gresford, 9.00am
Fri Fri
8 Apr Inaugural Community Table for dinner, Hotel Beatty 13 May Community Table for dinner, Hotel Beatty
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.
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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
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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 – MARCH • BRIDGE OF SPIES • SPECTRE • NO ESCAPE • THE NEW HUNGER GAMES • • THE NIGHT BEFORE • HOTEL TRANSYLVANNIA 2 • SECRET IN THEIR EYES •
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Gresford News Notices March – busy month Clean up Gresford day Sunday morning 6 March from 9.30am Meet at the Therese Doyle Hall, East Gresford for registration and then clean up our road verges and public areas. You will need to bring gloves, a hat, sunscreen and wear good sturdy boots. Please lend a hand. Janie Chandler
Flickerfest
Gresford Show Fri 11 & Sat 12 March Get your entries ready. Visit www. gresfordshow.com.au to download schedules and entry forms. The Grand Parade— Saturday 2.30pm Saturday night fireworks followed by music
Gresford Billy Cart Derby
Saturday 5 March programs all day
Easter Saturday 26 March
Short film programs at the James Theatre Dungog.
Get your billy carts ready for the action! This year we are fortunate to have support from Lake Mitre 10. We were amazed last year with a surprise visit from the Mitre 10 Easter Bunny which was a crowd favourite especially when he started to hand out all of those great chocolate easter eggs. This year they are back and the Easter bunny is rumoured to be bringing his new Easter egg billy cart, more Easter eggs, some great prizes for our raffle and a full Mitre 10 barracking team. Thank you Mitre 10 for your great support in 2016 and for making this a special day for the kids.
World Day of Prayer Friday 4 March from 11am St Paul's Anglican Church Paterson A bring and share luncheon will ensue. Everybody is welcome to come.
Art Show Opening Thurs 10 March 6-8pm An Opening Night and Art Preview evening will be held in the Art and Craft Pavilion. Wine and Cheese Tasting $10 entry. ‘People’s choice’ drawn at the Preview Evening.
RICHARD WELLS UPHOLSTERY
KELZ carpet cleaning and cleaning services Domestic and Commercial carpets, lounges and rugs Friendly Service Call: Kelly Richardson Mobile 0437 395 585
Join us... 2nd Friday of the month for dinner at a Community Table I am writing this article as I suggested that there be a Community Table at the Hotel Beatty on the 2nd Friday of each month so if you wish to join others, you can ask to sit at this table. The Gresford News comes out the first week of the month to remind us of special dates so I chose the next week for the get together. Each month, the chef will have two specials for $20 and for Friday 8 April, our first night as the Gresford Show is in March, we shall advertise the specials with a reminder in the Gresford News. I hope that community members, old and new, will think this is worth trying. This innovation has occurred as people new to the area have mentioned they would like to feel the community spirit and become involved and the more they are involved, the better our community will be. Carolyn Addison, member of the Gresford District Community Group
Gresford Market presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.
Lounges Automotive Antique Restoration French Polishing Canvas Annexes Horse Rug Repairs For all your upholstery needs ring Richard on
4938 9324
GUARANTEED QUALITY & SERVICE Pick up and delivery
Sunday 20 Mar. 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
GRESFORD SHOW 11 & 12 MARCH TH
TH
A GREAT COUNTRY SHOW!* SATURDAY Fun with the
SKI-BOOM SKI & FLEA CIRCUS SHOW
Check website for details: www.gresfordshow.com.au
* Horses * Cattle * Goats * Poultry* * Cavys & Bunnies* Animal Nursery * * Post Splitting * Vintage Farm Machinery * * Horse Carriage Races* Bullock Ride* *Grand Parade (2.30pm)* The Ski-Boom Shows*
Saturday Night DJ– Kids Disco Fantastic Fireworks followed by music till late
Art Show Opening Night :Thursday 10th March 6pm - 8pm. $10 entry,
(NO ALCOHOL to be brought into the ground)
For information visit our website www.gresfordshow.com.au or Ph Sec (02) 49389380
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Community Matters I was fortunate enough to be elected as the President of the Gresford Community Group late last year after being a member for the past 4 years. I moved here 5 years ago from Ashtonfield and this was my first time living in a rural area. I was surprised by the great work done by a community group who over the years has done so much, most of it unknown for the residents of Gresford. I thought I might highlight some of the accomplishments by this dedicated group.
old water pipes at the same time spending another half a million dollars. Recently we have been lobbying against the unfair merger with Gloucester Council attending many meetings, writing submissions and doing a lot of radio and press interviews, we have been fighting for better communications in the Gresford area, both land lines and the very poor mobile network. We have made submissions to the Minister for Communications and we continue to ensure Gresford is not forgotten when funding is available. We have had meetings with our local State Member Michael Johnson and recently with the Minister for the Environment regarding the bad behaviour and poor upkeep of the Allyn River Forest Park. Another of our successes is finding a home for the Gresford Historical Society so they have a centre where they can set up a museum of historical collectables gathered over many years. They are looking to have their opening during the Billy Cart Derby and Easter Fair. Make sure you find time to go and have a look at their great displays.
The skateboard park near the showground, the toilet block and picnic grounds in Orana Park at the entrance to the showground, the pathway between Gresford and East Gresford, tree planting throughout East Gresford, the Australia Day Awards, these are just a few of their achievements. Behind the scenes we work hard to ensure a voice, on behalf of the residents is heard. Over the years our members, with the Help of Councillor Glen Wall, has secured a million dollars for road upgrades in both Park street and Durham Road East Gresford. This work is expected to commence in the next financial year (2016-17) along with You will all know about the Gresford Hunter Water who will upgrade all of the Billy Cart Derby and Easter Fair, Gresford
VACY AND GRESFORD DANCE CENTRE Vacy School of Arts Gresford School of Arts
Amateur Performing Society (GAPS) who organise Carols by Candlelight and their annual stage play in September, Anzac Day Ceremony and this year the Vacy Village Photographic Exhibition in late September. All of these groups and functions are a part of and supported by the Gresford Community Group. This group works for the community and they do not expect any recognition for their great efforts in the past or for the future. We have so many exciting plans for the future that we want you to be part of, we want your input, your ideas as to how we make Gresford a better place for us all. Each month I will write a section for the Gresford News where I will keep you updated about our group and what is happening now and our future plans. If you would like to be involved, be a part of our village’s future please feel free to come along and join us at our monthly meetings. We meet on the first Monday of each Month at the Beatty Hotel East Gresford at 5.30pm and after the meeting we do a little socialising in the restaurant. Let’s make our community an even better place to live. Graham Murphy Mob: 0416 116 009
Gresford District Bushman’s Carnival Association Inc Gresford Campdraft and Rodeo wish to thank everyone for the success of our 2016 event. We were able to donate to the Westpac rescue helicopter as well as our local charity The Gresford parents group fundraising for preschool and playgroup.
Our 2016 event is fast approaching and we are again looking for
Expression of interest Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Ballet Gymnastics and Adults Jazzercise Class For all enquires contact Brooke Via Facebook Phone: 0437354577 Email: brookedance@bigpond.com
Local charity and/or kiosk operator Gresford Campdraft and Rodeo August 26th and 27th 2016. Please apply in writing to the secretary – Tracy Merchant PO Box 67 East Gresford NSW 2311 Applications close 30/4/16
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Two events for landholders coming up in April
Community Weeds Event Day Saturday 2 April, Elderslie Hall, Elderslie, 9.30am
ideas and experiences in controlling weeds from local community members. Come along for all or part of the day.
This is a great networking opportunity Singleton Shire Landcare Network (SSLN) for those interested in getting on top of and neighbouring communities invite weeds, learning from others’ you to a free community event with a experiences, and getting advice on the focus on weeds. day via agency staff from Hunter Local Local communities and landholders in Land Services, Dept. of Primary the Singleton Shire and neighbouring Industries, Upper Hunter Weeds Dungog Shire areas have been working Authority and our local councils. on weed issues for many years. In many RSVP: By 28 March 2016 for further respects similar weed issues are common details and an event program to: across these rural areas. Steve Clarkson sclarkson@singleton.nsw. This weeds event has been planned by gov.au or 6578 7346 local community members for the Fully Catered – Morning Tea and Lunch wider community and will include provided free. speakers and demonstrations. Topics WEEDecks will be available for a covered will be invasive grasses, donation to the Childrens Cancer biological control, aquatic weeds, Institute Australia. riparian vine weeds, woody weeds, and weed management strategies. Demonstrations will cover different weed control methods including an unmanned aerial drone. Need a weed identified? Bring along a sample in a snap-lock bag for identification on the day. There will also be an opportunity to listen to and share
Hoof and Hook competition
judging on the Sunday. This year's event will see the introduction of classes specifically for grass-fed only finished cattle due to produces in the area who are marketing their cattle in this way. The three new grass-fed only classes consist of a heifer and steer class starting 301 to 425kg and also a steer class 426kg and over. A grassfed animal from these will be selected as a champion by the judge and will be eligible to compete for the Grand Champion overall. There will be open-fed classes as in previous years with minimum weights starting at 301kg for both heifers and steers. Chris Law from Quirindi will judge this year and is renowned for both hoof competitions and the show ring. He will give valuable feedback on market specifications as he judges each class.
Sunday 10 April, Dungog Saleyards, 9am Cattle will be killed at Wingham Exert The Dungog/Gresford Land and Beef group will hold its annual Hoof and Hook competition in April starting with a presentation dinner on Friday 8 April at Dungog RSL followed by the day of
Meats on Monday 11 April and the carcasses judged MSA. For information about the competition or entry forms email nerellehand@ hotmail.com
Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547
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General household pests: spiders, cockroaches, rodents. Termite inspections and treatment using environmentally friendly low odour chemicals and baits.
Call Barry Wilson 0429 317 154 pest management certificate number
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Call Jamie on 0427490547
G resford News • March 2016
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Clean up Gresford day – Sunday March 6 Join locals for a couple of hours on Sunday morning 6th March from 9.30am cleaning up our road verges and public areas as our contribution to Clean Up Australia. Meet at Therese Doyle Hall, East Gresford for registration. Bring gloves, a hat, sunscreen and wear good sturdy boots. Janie Chandler The image opposite went around Facebook recently. It shows how long a discarded item would take to break down in a marine environment. There was some online debate around the breakdown time. One reason the times are longer than expected is because most plastics don’t biodegrade, they degrade from exposure to the sun and the ocean is a cold dark place. There has also been discussion locally about the potential for plastic particles mixed with compost products to wash into our rivers and then accumulate in fish and other marine life. So, as we head into another Clean Up Australia event please consider not only how you dispose of something but also what you purchase in the first place. Jane Richens
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Gresford Public School news
Story and photos Julie Hartigan
initiatives, including Learning Support Officers in every classroom to support children’s literacy and numeracy needs, increased professional learning for all staff members, purchase of the latest Student numbers are steady for 2016 with information technology devices and the 79 children enrolled from Kindergarten to employment of a part-time Community Year 6. As well as 10 new Kindergarten Liaison Officer to assist us with school students who have settled well to school promotion and community engagement. routine, the school has also welcomed “All are having a significant impact on new Year 1/2 teacher Elise Davies. student engagement and, ultimately, “Our enthusiastic staff has been enriched learning,” Mrs Mitchell said. yet again with the appointment of Mrs “The year ahead has been mapped out Elise Davies, who was selected through with a full and enriched program of School captains Kayden Atkins and Alysha Cowley. merit as a permanent teacher to Gresford,” principal Pauline Mitchell said. learning for all members of our school Students have settled into the new community and the future looks bright “Elise brings with her a repertoire of school year at Gresford Public School for our wonderful little school.” skills, including specialised training in and are already engaged with a number The school’s P&C has also reconvened dance and fitness. of inspiring learning programs, including for the year and the dedicated members science with Dr Lesley Wright, a new “She will undertake professional learning will be out in the community raising student-led fitness program, swim school this year in the highly successful vital funds for a range of school at Singleton and study of Shakespeare’s ‘Literacy, Language and Learning’ programs and equipment. A Midsummer Night’s Dream. program which has been running for P&C members will help man the canteen two years at our school.” And there’s plenty more to come with at Gresford Show on March 11 and 12 excursions, visiting artists and Mrs Mitchell said additional Gonski and will be out in force again at Gresford musicians, celebration days and the funding had enabled the school to Billycart Derby and Easter Fair on March Term 3 Art Carnival that will see introduce and expand educational 26 with the fun “Pony Pat Lotto” event. students from all around the Hunter Valley gather at Gresford for a day of creativity and friendship. SWIM SCHOOL Students from Gresford Public Year 6 students Alysha Cowley and School have been enjoying Kayden Atkinson are the elected school two weeks of Swim School at captains and throughout the year their Singleton Gym & Swim. The leadership will be supported by the intensive swimming program school prefects and Student is designed to teach children Representative Council. vital water safety skills. “I’m glad to be school captain and I am really looking forward to the year ahead,” Alysha said. “I plan to be a confident leader for the school and I’m glad I am sharing the role with Kayden.” Sam and Hayden Kayden said: “It’s great that the students had the faith in us to make us captains. “I hope the students will see us as good role models.”
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Swim School
Maclaine
Connor
Dylan
Mathilda
Paige
Rose and Katharina
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CULTURE VULTURE Culture vulture will be featuring monthly an artist/artisan from Dungog by Design – Artisan Collective. “Dungog by Design is an artisan collective with over twenty creative members who live and work in the surrounding Dungog district, in the beautiful Hunter Valley. Exhibiting and selling their own contemporary designs, the artists are a diverse group of talented people. Including ceramics, textile and fibre art, hand bound books, jewellery, hanging work in ink, oils, watercolour and print, clothing and homewares, the shop is a treasure trove of original pieces. The Dungog by Design shop/gallery launch on September 25th 2015 marked the official beginning of a new step forward in Dungog: original, handmade and inspiring.” Address: 224-226 Dowling St, Dungog Mon–Fri 10am–4pm, (closed Tues & Wed) Sat–Sun 10am–3pm Enquiries dungogbydesign@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/ DungogArtisansCollective This month’s featured Dungog by Design member is painter Gaye Shield. Born in Grafton NSW, Gaye began painting at an early age, attending lessons at Grafton Technical College at age 11. After moving to Sydney, she continued with her painting and attended Meadowbank
Technical College whilst being mentored by Allan Fizzel. Now living in Dungog NSW, the local landscape in and around the Dungog Shire has been the main focus of her painting, she has won numerous awards and is a member of the Dungog and Maitland Arts Societies and an Exhibiting Member of the Royal Art Society, NSW. Her oil paintings have been successfully shown in galleries nationally, where the request for commissioned works are often sought. Gaye says, “Painting is my great love, second to my family especially, my beautiful granddaughters. I endeavour to create a feeling of movement in my work with brush strokes and vibrant colour. I love it; it is life, it lifts the spirit”. Gaye’s paintings are available at Dungog by Design.
Arts News Studio La Primitive Arts Zine
Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant 4938 8305
Gaye Shield, 'Vacy Scene', oil, 55 x 38cm
will be online 1st March. Featuring interviews with artists, poetry, essays, travel photography, art news from local and national artists. Produced locally at East Gresford, Editor Robyn Werkhoven. Available at www.studiolaprimitive.net www.issuu.com & Facebook. Art News contact Robyn Werkhoven email: werkhovenr@bigpond.com
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Great walks and talk – Blue Gum and Peach Tree
Walk Blue Gum Loop and Peach Tree Park Walk Blue Gum Loop (Upper Williams) and Peach Tree (Upper Allyn) on Sunday, 24 April to coincide with Australian Heritage Week and the National Trust 2016 Heritage Festival. The program for the day is:
10am – noon Blue Gum Walk, Williams River, Barrington Tops National Park (Salisbury) An easy walk lead by National Parks and Wildlife Volunteer Guides along rainforest tracks and near the spectacular cascades of the Williams River. This is one of 20 Great Hunter Region walks. Please note it is possible for people with limited mobility to of the Blue Gum Walk. BYO picnic experience a part of the walk along a lunch. The talk will be given by Dr wheelchair accessible path down to a Cameron Archer former Principal Tocal bridge over the Williams River. College, Paterson. Noon – 1pm Lunch and Heritage talk 2 – 3pm Peach Tree Walk, Allyn River, Hear about the cultural and natural Chichester State Forest (Upper Allyn) history of the Barrington Tops, and Drive 20 minutes across Williams Top Williams, Paterson and Allyn River Road to Peach Tree walk. Easy short walk valleys at the picnic area at the start
along a picturesque track and enjoy the forest and the Allyn River. Registrations are essential. Please contact the Dungog Shire Visitors Centre on 4992 2212 or wendyf@dungog.nsw.gov.au. This is a partnership between Dungog Shire Council, Forests NSW and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
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
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Getting to know the locals... by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries CALLITRIS MACLEAYEANA –Stringybark Pine, Brush Cypress or Kerosene Pine This species grows from Pine Brush near Clarence Town to Trinity bay in North Queensland or so the books advise, however Dr Cameron Archer and Greg Giles have uncovered records from the very first timber cutters on the Paterson River that show large quantities of Brush Cypress and Plum Pine were harvested on the Paterson and Allyn rivers and shipped to Sydney through the port at Morpeth. There are very few trees left in the wild because of the quality and versatility of the timber for use as weatherboards, cabinet work, joinery, lining, indoor fittings and fronts for violins. No-one thought to plant more at the time so their presence in this district was severely compromised. There are now around 6 plants reintroduced at Tocal and a further 20 here at Riverdene. In my opinion it is a much better tree than Arizona or Monterey Pines. It’s naturall habitat is poorer podsolic soils. It can reach up to 30m in the rainforest. A lot of people assume that the name macleayeana comes from the Macleay River however it is actually named after Sir William MacLeay, a plant collector who collected the first seeds near port Macquarie in the 19th Century.
Graeme Ferguson
Registered Surveyor Consultant in surveying, planning and engineering * Portion Boundaries Remarked
* Identification Survey Reports * House Setouts
* Urban and Rural Subdivisions * Engineering Survey and Design * Topographic Surveys * Urban and Rural Road Design * Control Surveys
“Yatta” Torryburn Via Paterson 2421
Tel 4938 9448 Fax 4938 9626 Email yatta@hunterlink.net.au
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Paterson Allyn Garden Group It's not often that we are able to watch closely an endangered species..right on our doorstep so to speak!! This we did on a board walk at the Hunter Wetlands. The Dinosaur duck is the only surviving species of an entire family group and it is quite distinct with its freckled feathers, the male with a red band on its beak. There was an abundance of wildlife to see whilst at the wetlands including the Purple Swamphen and Whistling Kite, but I must admit it was the meandering paths and boardwalks through the reclaimed wetlands that gave me the biggest buzz. So many volunteers help to keep the 45hectares in pristine condition. BHP and Brambles jointly reclaimed the wetlands from its use as a Marist Brother's Park... built on a rubbish tip. The Wetlands re-opened in 1986. There are now over 200 native species and our host for the day, Ken Bayliss, is absolutely hooked on growing natives from seed. His motto: Cuttings are an extension of life, seeds the beginning of a new life! The Australian Plant Society (Newcastle Branch) have a nursery at the Wetlands which is open to the public every Thursday from 9 am – 12 noon. Prior to
and essential oils. So you can see, it's a serious and successful attempt at rehabilitating a unique and diverse part of the Hunter Valley. Thanks so much Liz, Steve and Christine for making such a great morning possible. Next month on Tuesday 15th March we will be more central for you all and will spend a couple of hours with Susan Blain and John Booker at Duns Creek. Christine, Gail, Barbara, Brenda and Janie have all offered to bring along some morning tea. Ken Bayliss and Janie Chandler at the Wetlands
1988, Greening Australia (Hunter Valley), planted around 2,300 trees on the site and since then over 55,000 trees have been propagated, planted and documented. It's interesting to note that the two most valued tree species are Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) and Grey Ironbark (Eucalyptus paniculata). Both are endemic to our valleys and well worth mass planting. The beautiful Lemon Myrtle (Bachhausia citriodora) and the Lemon Scented Tea Tree (Leptospermum petersonii) are also abundant. The myrtle great for cooking
As I write this I am in Melbourne and happy to report that the weather down here is behaving itself. I've just been for a walk along the Merri Creek which runs into the Yarra. There are volunteers everywhere here reclaiming the riparian zone for many kilometres and doing great work. Even on the edge of footpaths vegetable patches spring up everywhere. Great idea don't you think. I'll look forward to seeing you all in March when the weather will be a little kinder to our gardens and ourselves! Yours perennially, Janie
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Great value Certificates
Letter To The Editor
Certificate IV in Disability (CHC43115) Be part of the new NDIS. The National Disability Insurance Scheme has started, enabling disabled people to create their own programs in consultation with case-workers and carers. Our certificate is the latest, designed to best respond to the NDIS. Subsidised & affordable: all enrolments are subsidised, and Centrelink participants could pay as little as $240 (or nothing).* Practical: includes 120 hours work placement for some serious real-world experience. The right skills: the Cert IV is the de facto new core qualification. Presented by Transformation Institute – Newcastle based Registered Training Organisation.
I note with interest two points raised in consumed. If you have a Curl Grub problem the Eco- neem can be applied the PAGG news item in the February as a drench to deal with them. edition of the Gresford News. Finally I have had a number of people remark that certain plants in their garden have been affected by spray drift from 2-4-D herbicide products or similar. Yes the symptoms are similar, but remember that these herbicides affect everything rather than just one plant here or there. Nine times out of The second point being Wisteria is a ten, the problem is caused by mites – little more complex. Usually they are not red spider but mites just the same hard to kill but two possibilities exist. and the problem seems to be The first possibility is the possible increasing predominantly because occurrence of Verticillium Wilt. Until nobody does anything to combat the some years ago this only affected Cherry problem because they mistakenly Trees that were pruned out of season, blame the damage on spray drift. however with the advent of extreme Mites can be controlled by spraying summer temperatures it appears to be with Eco-neem before new growth attacking a wider range of plants. There starts in the spring. Spray both upper is no effective control for this problem and lower leaf surfaces, trunk and at present so prevention is the best limbs. If the plant has rough bark option by ensuring good hygiene and to rather than green fleshy trunk then avoid pruning in winter. The second spray that as well and keep spraying possibility is the gardener’s old friend, every 10-14 days until the new growth the white curl grub. By the time you is well advanced. realise that something is amiss it is far Happy Gardening – Noel Jupp OAM, too late to save the plant because all the Dip Hort, QP Dep Ag & Fisheries feeder roots of your plant have been Firstly saw Flies can easily be controlled without harming bees. A good spray with Eco-Neem insecticide will do the trick. Alternatively you can use a liquid pyrethrum spray. Neither of these are systemic and both have a low toxicity and both appear on every organic list.
ATTENTION: FARMERS, GRAZIERS AND HOBBY FARMERS ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR ACREAGE?
Direct Drilling
Slashing and Mulching
Cultivating and Discing
Tabletop Truck Hire
Fertilizer Spreading
Boomspraying
Starts: Tues 6 April. Information session: 3.30pm Tues 22 March, Doug Walters Pavilion, McKay St Dungog. Blended training: one face-to-face session a month plus work placement and some on-line training, over a year. *Contact us to find out more about the subsidised price. The most you’ll pay is approx $2300 – still incredible value! Also coming up in the next few months are: Diploma of Child Youth & Family Intervention (CHC50313) & Barista. Interested? contact Jane or John 4992 1133 or education@dscc.net.au www.dungogcommunitycollege.org.au
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G resford News • March 2016
The
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Gresford CWA News
ONE CUP SLICE
Our country of study this year is Mongolia. It is proving very interesting with few people having been there or thought of going there. International Officer Jan Godwin and Secretary Valarie Smith spent a weekend in Canberra at the CWA of NSW International Conference. Coming back with heads full of knowledge and recipes for Cookery Officer Dotti Hilliard to ponder over for Internationa Day. SAVE THE DATE – Tuesday 9th August at St. Anne’s Hall.
situation call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency Department. NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 – a State wide 24 hour mental health service. Carers can also call for advice. Lifeline 13 11 14 a 24 hour 7 day a week, crisis support service. Kids Help Line 1800 55 1800 a counselling service for young people aged between 5 and 25. 1800 Respect 1800 737 732 the national sexual assault, domestic and RAS SHOW CATERING This is an family violence counselling service, amazing experience. Member Christine 24 hours a day, 7 days per week Pike wrote of her time in the CWA provides information and referrals to kitchen: “Busy but what a team. A services. production line with strict rules which I am glad to say keep the standard up. NEXT MEETING will be held in the We met ladies from other areas along rooms, 12 Durham Road, East Gresford with a bus load from the Hunter. All at 9.30 am on Thursday 3rd March. very friendly, we had a lot of laughs. WEB An experience I will never forget and For more information on our would recommend it to all but be activities http://gresfordcwa. aware you are on your feet for a long wordpress.com Time. I have never seen so many scones! CWA members home stay is GRESFORD SHOW – members and available for $25.00 per night B & B. non members can you spare some
HELP LINES If you, or someone you are with is in a life threatening
time to help out in the Tea Rooms? Telephone Dotti Hilliard on 49389 483 we need your help.
Ingredients: 1 cup S.R. Flour 1 cup milk 1 cup mixed Fruit 1 cup coconut 1 cup sugar
Method: Mix all together and spread into a slice pan that has been lined with bake paper. Cook at 180C for approx 30 min. When cooked, cool in pan and ice. Lemon or plain icing.
CORNFLAKE COOKIES 125g butter ½ cup sugar 2 teas vanilla 2 eggs 1 cup S.R.Flour 2 cups cornflakes ½ cup sultanas Extra cornflakes to roll them
Method: Beat butter and sugar with vanilla till light and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each egg. Add flour mix well. Stir in sultanas and cornflakes mix until combined. Roll into small balls about the size of walnuts. Roll in extra cornflakes, place on a lined tray allowing room to spread, press slightly to flatten. Bake at 180C for approx 18-20 min.
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G resford News • March 2016
The
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Not long now – Torryburn Bridge
Story and photos Peter Smith
For those who do not have a daily focus on the construction of the new Torryburn Bridge the latest information is that it will open for traffic on 11 March. This is around three weeks earlier than the previously advised completion date of 31 March. Which is very good news for the long suffering residents. The then wooden bridge disappeared downstream on 21 April 2015 as a result of extreme rain causing the Allyn River to reach unheard of heights. For the following two to three weeks there was very limited access in or out of Torryburn causing a great deal of hardship for some people and a lot of inconvenience for just Since that event access to the Gresford about everybody else. Road has been across three properties to reach Clements Road involving an additional fifteen to twenty minutes drive time depending on where a resident lives on Torryburn or adjacent roads. Whilst the distance is not great the slow speed required to avoid the ever deepening potholes tends to dictate the elapsed time. Most of the potholes are on Clements Road. The B2421 road connecting Torryburn Road to Clements Road
The new Torryburn Bridge. Photo: Peter Smith
will have a quick trip in to see and enjoy the delights of the Show.
STOP PRESS...STOP PRESS... The bridge became operational at 4.30pm on 26 February. However final roadworks will necessitate the closure of the bridge for up to two hours on some of the days during week commencing 29 February.
Congratulations to all concerned on March 11 is also the first day of the Gresford Show, so with luck the residents beating the deadlines.
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G resford News • March 2016
The
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Gresford Community Group February 2016 Meeting Correspondence and Actions 1. 8 Nominations for Australia Day Community Recognition Awards – letters of thanks sent to proposers. 2. Copy of Constitution - Request to Department of Fair Trading for copy, reply from Registry Searches with appropriate forms cost of $20 to obtain. Recommended rather than obtain this copy, Brian to submit recommended changes at next meeting for discussion and updated Constitution be prepared. 3. Thank you from GAPS for the BBQ at Carols Evening. Graham thanked Brian, Doug, Ken and Paul for assistance. 4. Invitation to Sportsman’s Dinner 5. Much information re. merger of Dungog and Gloucester Councils tabled. 6. Minutes and summary of the meeting at the NSW Office of Minister for Environment - tabled 10/11. Donations received – letter of thanks to be sent 12. Received valuation of land 12 Park St.
Matters arising: 1. Election of Management Committee and Updating GCG Constitution - Brian Doherty to recommend changes that are more suitable for the future of the GCG at March meeting 2. TDH
(a) GCG and the GDHS – lease signed. (b) GCG to organise wheel chair ramps. (c) TDH building insured. (d) GDHS to take over electricity costs. 3. NBN tower - Glenn to send out a template to make a submission to Bob Baldwin for Community progress. 4. ANZAC memorial trees – RSL submission to Park Trust to plant 3 trees. 5. Australia Day Luncheon held on the 26th January 2016 - event successful with good feedback of attendees. Final Nominees all noted. 6. Gresford Tourism - Gresford Foundation Day - GDHS to investigate the day Gresford/East Gresford was gazetted, future functions and picnic days. Dorothea Mackellar connection to the area could be investigated. 7. Update on Smarty Grants Grant – noted that the co-funding could be in-kind. Money to be used for beautification of town – suggestions include native trees for residents, more street plantings, tourism information boards, photos to be taken of current street scape for promotion. 8. Upper Allyn – summary of meeting with Ministers for the Environment tabled. Noted that National Parks cannot take over areas that have logging quotas.
Further talks to occur with Forestry and Primary Industry departments, highlight importance of rare/endangered species. 9. Registered for Clean Up Australia. 10. Police report – waiting on new police officer appointment, requested update for December and January. 11. Gresford Photographic Exhibition September 2016 – date to be finalised by March meeting 12. Bikers Thunderbolt Rally – update to be obtained from Glenn Wall 13. Christmas tree and lights in the vicinity of the School of Arts hall for 2016 – work in progress, contact GAPs 14. List of local organisations – Liz to start compiling 15. Community Table at Beatty on 2nd Friday of each month starting April – open to all, especially new residents. 16. First Aid Course – especially on local requirements ie snake bite. Noel to co-ordinate with Jane. Need to check batteries of defribulater. 17. Amalgamation – Dungog and Gloucester – long discussion raising points of concern: Bob Doyle - Hard to get information, little consultation - Disastrous concept, no merit
G resford News • March 2016
The
- Clarencetown proposal to relocate boundary and become part of Port Stephens – requires 10% of those on electoral roll - Maitland good option - No capacity to stand alone - People need to voice their opinion - Open forum on 9 Feb, Bob will present his point of view - Submission be prepared for 28 Feb to State Government Martin Addison - What is the best option for Gresford? - Require a process, suggest residents and the GCG write to Michael Johnsen voicing their objection to merger, - What other options are there? - Form a sub-committee - How political is this merger? Graham Murphy - Sub-committee formed: Bob Doyle (Chair), Noel and Ken - Work on submission – sub-committee - Letter to be prepared and sent to members of GCG, and do a letter drop, or each member to do their street for attachment to submission - Compile a list of options to gain understanding, show objections and solutions Jane Richens - Concerned that the GCG was being political It was resolved to make a submission against the merger between Dungog and Gloucester Shire - 13 members attending GCG February are against the merger Members to receive the list of options, with objections and solutions to alternate merger with Maitland, Singleton and/or moving boundary so our valleys are no longer with Dungog. Next Meeting 5:30pm Mon 7 March, Hotel Beatty ALL WELCOME
What’s on the Shelves? by Glenda Smith
Tenterfield Traveller Terence James The catchy title of this book obviously owes a debt to Peter Allen’s song, and may attract readers, but the context extends well beyond the New England area. Written and self-published by a local writer, it is the saga of Thomas Pitkin, who starts life as a peasant on the estate of the Duke of Buckingham. His skill as a bugler sees him taken to an abortive military campaign in New Orleans, and the motif of the bugle continues throughout his odyssey with his family to different parts of the world. The novel encompasses the riots from unemployed workers that greeted the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution, and moves ultimately, via the Isle of Skye, to the colony of New South Wales. There is a breadth and depth of research that makes this novel very attractive to those interested in historical fiction. The family and social dynamics are explored against a background that is convincing in its detail, and while there are elements of fictionalising of a family story, this has clearly been a labour of love for the writer. Readers will also find local references of great interest. All books reviewed are from the CWA library. They are put on a separate shelf in the library so they are easy to find plus the reviews are in a folder. People can call Dotti Hilliard 49389 483 for access to the rooms.
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Starting horses on cattle to give them confidence Low stress and effective cattle handling Lessons Demonstrations Clinics Mike Doyle 0418 503 939
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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
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
G resford News • March 2016
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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
local water carrier
CASSO’S WATER CARTAGE DOMESTIC & RURAL WATER SUPPLIES TANKS & POOLS FILLED
Shane Moss B.Sc. M.Chiro.
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
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An extensive range of machines and earthmoving equipment
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Agent for Mitsubishi Motor Vehicles NRMA Service Centre Caltex Distributors, Fuels, Oils Stihl Chainsaws and Accessories General Vet & Chemical Merchandise ◆
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DIVISION OF DREEGAN BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION BASED IN THE HUNTER VALLEY
26 Durham Road, East Gresford NSW 2311
ABN: 56137525494
Contact Stewart or Scott
Ph. 4938 9204 Facsimile 4938 9517
G resford News • March 2016
The Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 4938 9313
General Sunday church times are: 8.30am St Paul's Paterson and 10.30am St Anne's Gresford Easter period: Maundy Thursday 7.30pm St Paul's Paterson Good Friday 9.30am St Anne's Gresford, Passion Liturgy 10.30am St John's Vacy, Stations of the Cross Easter Sunday 8.30am St Paul's Paterson 10.30am St Anne's Gresford
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 February 2016 crossword answers
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Gresford News March Crossword