resford News G
The
News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys December 2015
"It only seems like yesterday" The graduating Year 6 students (standing) with some of the Kindergarten students of 2016. Story and photo by Julie Hartigan.
I
t’s a busy time at Gresford Public School with preparations to farewell the six Year 6 students and fun orientation activities to welcome the new crop of Kindergarten students who are ready to start “big school” in 2016. The year 6 students – Hamish, Liza, Ryan, Shaelyn, Jack and Alana – were given a fun send-off at their farewell dinner at Gresford Bowling Club on November 25 and over the next few weeks they will visit Dungog High School as part of the orientation process. In the classroom they have been busy with assessments while also savouring their last few weeks with younger friends at Gresford Public School. "It only seems like yesterday that these lovely young people toddled in to Kindergarten,” principal Pauline Mitchell said. “We have watched them grow and learn and they have done our school proud. Their diligent attitudes to learning, their keen exploits on the
sporting fields, their creativity and talents, as well as friendliness to us all, will be missed." Next year’s Kindergarten students have attended several orientation sessions at the school designed to give them the chance to meet Kindergarten teacher Miss Mac, as well as their fellow students, while exploring the beautiful surroundings at the school. "We have welcomed another group of kindys into the friendly fold of Gresford School,” Mrs Mitchell said. “Their faces shine with excitement as they explore their new environment and meet their big Year 5 buddies who will take great care of them for the first few days next year. We welcome too their mums and dads who will also join the fold of friendly parent faces." At this stage, 10 children are enrolled to start Kindergarten next year but enrolments are still being accepted. To enrol your child, phone the school on 4938 9304.
The Gresford News is a Gresford Community Group project. Circulation 800 – Donations appreciated and most welcome. Thank you!
The Gresford News Community Diary Thurs
3 Dec CWA Christmas lunch
Fri
4 Dec RSL Sub-branch Christmas dinner, Gresford Bowls, Sports & Rec Club, 6.30pm
Sun
6 Dec Carol Service at St John's, Vacy, 5pm
Sat
12 Dec Member's Christmas dinner & presentation, Gresford Bowls, Sports & Rec Club
Sun
13 Dec Kids Christmas party & Santa, Gresford Bowls, Sports & Rec Club, 2.00pm
Sat
19 Dec Gresford Carols with GAPS & Community BBQ, Gresford School of Arts Hall, 6.30pm
Sun
20 Dec Live music – Deano on the Deck, Hotel Beatty
Sun
20 Dec Gresford Congregational Church Christmas carol evening & supper, 6.30pm
Thurs
24 Dec Christmas eve mass, St Helens Church
Thurs
31 Dec New Year's Eve Karaoke, Hotel Beatty
Thurs
31 Dec Paterson New Year's Eve Festival, Tucker Park, Paterson, 6.00pm
Thurs
31 Dec New Year's Eve party, Barrington Country Retreat
Tues
26 Jan
Thurs Sun
Australia Day Australia Day Luncheon, Twin Rivers Café
4 Feb Land Cookery Competition, CWA, 9.30am 20 Feb Next Gresford markets, Gresford District Historical Society event, grounds of the Hotel Beatty, 9.00am
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 Fri (school terms)
Yoga for active bodies with Donna Cavanough, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.00 – 10.30am
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. Gresford News audio version available for visually impaired. Phone 0412 372 687 for this service.
finances resford News G
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Gresford News Notices
Gresford News CLASSIFIEDS
Christmas Eve Mass
Everyone is invited to Christmas Eve Mass to be held in the grounds of St Helen's Catholic Church (inside the Church if weather is inclement) at 9pm. Please bring a chair. For further information phone Maureen Reynolds 4938 8019 or Trish Bogan 4938 9571
WANTED Caretaker position
Paterson Festival
Join us on New Year’s Eve at Tucker Park, Paterson for an exciting evening of live music, fireworks, carnival fun, kids’ entertainment, singing, dancing and games. $15 family, $5 adult. Gates open at 4pm, children’s program starts at 6pm, main fireworks display at 9pm, with live music through till the midnight fireworks. Food and drinks are available to purchase. Outback Hippies are back by popular demand with a fun-filled kids’ Nominations are open for the Gresford program, as well as some great rock, Australia Day awards sponsored by blues and country music. The Paterson Gresford Community Group. The awards are nominated by any local club Festival is organised by volunteers from Paterson Rotary Club and the or organisation to individuals it believes community, and sponsored by local has made a significant community contribution. A nomination form is on businesses and companies who believe in supporting their local community. p25 of this Gresford News and will also be available from local shops.
Gresford District Australia Day award nominations
Closing date for nominations is 31 December 2015. The awards will be presented at the Australia Day lunch on 26 January 2016.
Best wishes to all for the festive season! Thank you to our readers, contributors and advertisers for your support. Thanks also to Sue & Terese for printing assistance & Peter Smith for financial admin.
Couple looking for a ceretaker position in the Gresford, Vacy, Paterson or surrounding areas. We have been in a position for 9 years and would like to stay in the district. Contact 0407 913 010.
residence needed Part-time worker/pensioner and two boys seeking rural residence locally by Jan. 2016 2 or 3 bedroom (have caravan for extra room) Prefer long term if possible. Currently in Gresford area. Keep mixed poultry and have materials to build fowl yards Phone 4938 9782
Advertise in the GRESFORD NEWS CLASSIFIEDS Classified Ad Rates are: Standard line listing $2.50 a line or $10 for 5 lines
Jane Richens & Brian Doherty
Australia Day Luncheon Twin Rivers Café, 26 January 2016 an invitation to all residents and families of the Gresford district Gresford Community Group recognises Australia Day as a significant and important event for our district. As part of our celebration we are holding our Australia Day smorgasbord luncheon, starting at 12 noon. We hope you, your family, friends and especially newcomers to the area will come along and share in this happy occasion. A highlight of our gathering is the announcement and presentation of Gresford community recognition awards to those residents who have been nominated for making a special contribution to our community.
Arrange a Group Table
Tickets on sale now from local shops – $30.00 per person includes a two course meal with cold meat and salads followed by desert
Australia Day Recognition Award The Gresford Community Group is calling for community organisations and clubs to nominate individuals who have made a significant community contribution. A nomination form is available on p25 of this Gresford News.
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 6
Community Wheelchair for Hire
Letters To The Editor Broadband – too narrow Living at Allynbrook has some challenges when it comes to communications. I like many others in our area have been complaining over the terrible state of broadband services for a long time. For several months the service from Mt Richardson has been on and off then a few weeks ago shut down completely. After many hours on the phone with Telstra’s technical support and trying to connect new modems (plural) that they sent me I was finally notified that the tower was faulty, however there was no estimate on when it would be repaired. I placed complaints with Telstra and contacted Bob Baldwin’s office for help. Through his contacts I was provide with a Telstra Case Manager who, I must applaud, did pursue the matter and became as frustrated as I was in trying to get a definitive answer on our situation.
I think it worth sharing the latest report, provided by local network tech support. The tower has been reinstated after recent problems but is only running at 3G or less and it does not have the capacity to cope with the number of users (not sure where they all are). The good news is that the tower is scheduled – in February 2016 – to have a major upgrade to increase its capacity and provide a 4G signal; this may mean we have to upgrade our equipment to receive 4G.
We are coming into the hectic time of the year, unfortunately accidents may happen and a wheel chair could be a great help. We have a wheelchair available to the residents of the Gresford area. Yes, the community of Gresford has access to a sturdy, light weight wheelchair for short term hire only. A refundable deposit of $30 is required plus a cost of $1 for each day of hire. Immediate pick up may be arranged pending availability. If you or a member of your family requires the use of the wheelchair then please contact Sharon Lawrence on 4938 9493 or 0427490549, Kel Merriman on 4938 9564, Rosita Richardson on 4938 9552 or Denise Sellens on 4938 9144.
So keep your fingers crossed and we will believe it when it happens. Regards, Peter Brecknock
Gresford News welcomes letters and community stories. Please send your contributions to Gresford News, PO Box 73, East Gresford, NSW 2311
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
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 7
Gresford Racers Return To Cessnock Postie Grand Prix Sunday 1st November saw the Beatty Hotel sponsored Burrcutter Racing team return to the streets of Cessnock for the second annual Postie grand Prix.
enough to finish the two hour 60 lap race, starting at 3pm. Rider changes happen every 10 laps and the little Hondas only get one short compulsory fuel stop.
The 2015 event, was again organized with the cooperation of the Cessnock council, Cessnock motor cycle club, motor cycle Australia and Tourism NSW. 70 teams competed for a position on the race grid comprising of 28 spots. Once again the Burrcutter Racing team consisting of local legends Steve Turnbull Mick Laurie ( riders) with Grahame “ Blackie” Roper and Ben Cant ( pit crew) and Bernie Lawler ( team manager) were keen to make the cut against some of Australia’s finest riders and teams. With the weather fine and mild with a top of 24º, the riders were much more comfortable than 42º plus of last years race. Though the weather was better, the boys knew they still had a huge challenge just to qualify for the race. Honda and Yamaha both had their full factory race team resources available to them and the boys were also up against former world superbike and super sport champions. The three qualifying rounds would yield 9 finalist from each, and a wildcard rider
The Cessnock street circuit has many good vantage points to see all the action, and the 12,000 strong crowd saw plenty of that. Our boys had Go Pro cameras on their bikes and they are in the process of getting the action packed footage together. Although the lap times reduced considerably throughout the race the boys had to settle for 17th out of 22 finishers. Postie Pilots – Mick Laurie & Steve Turnbull
would make up the 28 strong grid. Burrcutter racing qualified 7th out of 9 and therefore lined up in the final against 27 other Honda CT110’s with the 17th best qualifying time on bike number 9. On the starting grid were well know motor cycle riders Chris Watson ,Mark Kirkness , Kevin Curtain - Australian super sport champion and Troy Bayliss- 3 times world superbike champion. Also world speedway champions Chris Holder and Jason Crump had entered the fray. The Postie GP is an endurance race and if you are good enough to qualify you hope you are good
“Even finishing the race is an achievement" said team manager Bernie Lawler. "Sure would have liked to have finished in the top 10, but still I am very proud of our team. Everyone put in 110%. Our doctor Mak engine prepared number 9 bike didn’t even look like letting us down and ran a flawless race to the end." "We are all proud to be able to represent Gresford at an event like this and are already making plans for our next attempt in 2016." Note Coming soon to the Hotel Beatty all the Postie GP action on the big screen. (Check your local guides or the pub)
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 8
Gresford General Store, Post Office & Cafe Xmas and New Year Holiday Trading
SHOP
CAFE
TAKE AWAY
POST OFFICE
Thurs 24/12 (Xmas Eve) 7am – 4pm 8.30am – 3pm 8.30am – 3pm 8.30am – 4pm Friday 25/12 (Xmas Day) Closed Closed Closed Closed Saturday 26/12 7am – 12N Closed Closed 8.30am – 12N Thursday 31/12 (Ny Eve) 7am – 7pm 8.30am – 7pm 8.30am – 7pm 8.30am – 7pm Friday 01/01 (Ny Day) 7am – 3pm 8.30am – 2.30pm 8.30am – 2.30pm 8.30am – 3pm Cut Off Dates For Xmas Orders Are
Product
Order By
Pick Up
Fresh Seafood Bbq Chickens Salads Fruit And Veg Bread Rolls Ice
Wed 23 Dec Mon 21 Dec Wed 23 Dec Wed 23 Dec Wed 23 Dec Wed 23 Dec
Thurs 24 Dec Thurs 24 Dec Thurs 24 Dec Thurs 24 Dec Thurs 24 Dec Thurs 23 Dec
**WISH I NG YOU ALL A SAFE A ND HA PPY H OLIDAY SEASON** Al l t h e gi r ls at t h e C or ne r St ore
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 – December • Mission Impossible – Rogue Nation • Vacation • Ant-Man • Southpaw • Pan • • Maze Runner: Scorch Trials • Fantastic Four • Pixels • Last Cab To Darwin • Paper Towns • Man From U.n.c.l.e • • Oddball • Pan • The Gift • Ricki And The Flash • Momentum • Knock Knock • Survivor • Max • DVD Releases – January • Sicario • Everest • Straight Outta Compton • Hitman: Agent 47 • The Visit • • Bone Tomahawk • Blinky Bill The Movie • Trnasporter Refueled • Z For Zachariah • Walk In The Woods • • American Ultra • Stalkher • Bus 657 • Two Men In Town • Little Boy • She’s Funny That Way • Irrational Man • • Me & Earl And The Dying Girl • Diary Of A Teenage Girl • Kajaki • In Your Eyes •
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 9
Paterson Allyn Garden Group
wander the ground floor of the 52 room mansion (yes, I do mean 52 room, that architect JW Pender from Maitland designed) and spend some time in the well preserved shearing shed that saw 100 workers toiling away in the days when wool bought one Australian pound, for a pound in weight of wool. The 1960s brought the decline of wool prices and a change at 'Belltrees' from 180,000 sheep to the current 5,000 head of Angus cattle. The garden consists mainly of sweeping lawns and magnificent trees that frame the grandeur of the homestead. Cottonwoods, Carob trees, and some very old Hackberry’s (Celtis sp.) grow prolifically and a stunning special Coral tree adorns the front lawn. We are extremely fortunate to have many members of our club willing to let us had a taste of over 40 degree heat and I’m wander their gardens and last month we As I write we have but a week left of Spring. Would you call this season a 1 in thinking, how could I have be so naïve visited Elaine and Don Fosters clever 10 year bonanza? With so much rain and after all these years! garden at Vacy. I say clever, because of so little westerly wind, I’ve recently dug their plantings. Roses with the right aspect We have just returned from a wonderful another garden bed thinking to myself.. and no competition, irises, daylilies, excursion to "Belltrees", the magnificent ’this is so easy, all I have to do is lay the lavenders, and citrus all growing in historical property east of Scone. The White healthy soil that the Fosters trucked in newspaper on green grass, then biscuits family have owned this property for five of hay and compost, plant my cuttings many years ago. I must say that I have before the heavens open again and bingo! generations and continue to nurture the never seen such a fabulous display of Stags Instant garden. My memory seems to suit legacy they have inherited with amazing and Elks that line their outside verandah. the moment and not history! Now we’ve energy and pride. We were fortunate to Janie Chandler, President, PAGG. Belltrees Homestead Scone
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 10
Sustainable Living From The Garden Up
Rain Puts Damper On Market Day
Back in August we ran a story about two enthusiastic gardeners, Peter Brecknock from Allynbrook and Brett Cooper from Stroud Road, who were starting up a series of workshops to teach the rest of us the secrets of practical permaculture and more sustainable living.
To some extent this was the scenario the morning of Sunday 15th November. On the other hand, nice rain fell to which we are thankful for. To have the countryside flourishing green is great for this time of the year. Our water supplies are topped up good. Almost a Xmas present within itself many would say. A pre-Xmas theme was set for our GDHSI Community Market Day but with the rain it was pack up time by 11.00ish. Some people dropped in with some goodies sold. 11 stalls were present.
It seems like their combined skills and enthusiasm have proven to be a successful formula. They have now run 6 weekend workshops covering topics like 'Productive Vegetable Gardening', 'Healthy Soils and Composting', "Introduction to Permaculture' and 'Small Animal Management' and all have been booked out. If you are looking for some gardening tips and missed out this year Peter assures me they will me back next year with a new and expanded program. You can check out details at www.limestonepermaculture.com or www.allynriverpermaculture.com.au
The GDHSI raffle consisted of a paring / a country scene which was won by Dave Littlejohn of Lostock. Second prize a nice floral crockery tea-set was won by Bruce Saxby. Later in the day some good music was heard from the Frohlic Brothers as they played and sang Celtic, folk, rock blues within the Beatty Hotel. Throughout the year especially on market days talented and diverse musicians have been present. On behalf of the GDHSI Community Market organisers a big thank you and best wishes is extended to all. No market days will occur in December and January. The next market day will be Sunday 20th February 2016.
CHRISTMAS RECIPES SHORTBREAD BISCUITS Ingredients: 250 g butter ¾ cup caster sugar 2 cups plain flour ¾ cup ground rice Pinch of salt
Method: Beat butter and sugar to a cream, add flour, rice and salt. Knead well. Cut into shapes. Cook in a very slow oven on baking paper about 1 hour. These recipes can be found on page 53 of the CWA COOK BOOK available at Gresford Foodworks and The Gresford Store $13.00 per copy.
Lorraine Ashard, GDHSI Secretary
Order Now for Christmas Leg Hams, Bone Rolled Pork, Chicken Turkey, Smoked Chicken
Ph 4938 9710
Springtime Beauty We have a fabulous range of professional products at Cowlicks Studio that our clients all love and some new lines have just arrived. We now have Uni Organics Skincare, Zuii Organics Cosmetics, Adorn Cosmetics and Eco Tan available for you to purchase. Come in and chat to our friendly team about what will suit you best. 803A Gresford Rd Vacy. 49388386
irstudio.com www.cowlicksha
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G resford News • November
The
Gresford CWA News
for the Gresford News by Glenda is The end of the year is approaching with our last meeting on Thursday 3rd available from our library. December at 9.30am in the rooms, THE LAND COOKERY 12 Durham Road, East Gresford. COMPETITION Judging will take A Christmas luncheon will be held at place on Thursday 4th February. 12 noon at “The Burra”, Bingelburra Please have your cakes, chutneys and Road, East Gresford. jams in the rooms by 9.30am. Recipes Please RSVP Judy Daly 4938 9624, for the cakes, macaroons, chutneys judydaly@hotmail.com.au. and jams are on the CWA website or call Cookery Officer Dotti Hilliard BOOK CLUB/ CWA LIBRARY If you 4938 9483 and she will get them to would like to borrow a book from you. (many thanks to Chrissie Smith our library please phone Dotti for saving the coupons for us.) Hilliard on 4938 9483 and she will arrange a time to meet you. NEXT MEETING The next meeting The next Book Club meeting is on Saturday 13th February. The book being discussed is “The Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith” by Thomas Keneally. We meet at 3pm and finish at 4pm approx. Afternoon tea and a lively discussion guaranteed. The book for March is “Tirra Lirra by the River” Jessica Anderson. Book Club leader Glenda Smith will pick up copies of this book and hand them out at the February meeting. We meet the second Saturday of the month unless it coincides with the Gresford Show. The book reviewed each month
of the Gresford CWA will be held on Thursday 4th of February. 2016. Due to The Land Cookery Competition being judged an alternative venue will be advised. For further information call Robbie Thornton on 4938 9566 or look us up http:/ gresfordcwa.wordpress.com. BEST WISHES TO ALL FOR A HAPPY AND SAFE FESTIVE SEASON. Robyn Thornton, President
Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant 4938 8305
2015, p 11
CHRISTMAS RECIPES RICH FRUIT CAKE
Ingredients:
250gms each sultanas and currants 125g chopped mixed peel 90g blanched almonds 250g plain flour ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 250g soft brown sugar ½ teaspoon lemon essence or grated lemon rind 4 large eggs 250g chopped raisins 90g chopped red glace cherries 1/3 cup sherry or brandy 60g self raising flour ¼ teaspoon ground ginger 250g butter ½ teaspoon each of almond & vanilla essence
Method: Mix together all the fruits and nuts and sprinkle with the sherry or brandy. Cover and leave for at least one hour or overnight. Sift together the flour and spices. Cream together the butter and sugar with the essences. Add the eggs one at a time beating well, then alternatively add fruit and flour mixtures. Mix thoroughly. The mixture should be stiff enough to support a wooden spoon. Place the mixture into prepared tin no larger than 20cm (8”). Bake in slow oven for approx 3-4 hours. Cool in tin.
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 12
Students of Gresford Public School sang Spirit of the Anzacs by Lee Kernaghan. Music provided by teacher Shayne Taylor on guitar, Hayden Gardiner on drums and Liza Edwards on bass guitar.
school captains Liza Edwards and Hamish Jupp
singing Spirit of the Anzacs. Photos by Julie Hartigan and Doug Daly.
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 13
Remembrance Day at Gresford 2015 On the 11th November Remembrance Day was officiated by Robert Richardson, assisted by John Casey of Gresford Sub Branch RSL at The Cenotaph in Gresford. This was a service of remembrance and wreath laying commemoration. John Casey provided an outline of the meaning of Remembrance Day. This was followed by the traditional Wreath Laying Ceremony, Highland Lament, a Student Presentation, Ode of Remembrance including the Last Post, One Minute’s Silence and Reveille. Bishop Brian Farran gave Prayers and Students of Gresford Public School sang 'Spirit of the Anzacs' by Lee Kernaghan, conducted by School Principal Pauline Mitchell. The School Pledge followed then the Benediction given by Bishop Farran, with all in attendance joining the students in singing the National Anthem.
Bishop Brian Farran from Newcastle, Shayne Taylor who provided the PA System and LINQ Bus Line who provided transport support to the school. He also thanked all members of the Gresford District who had chosen to attend and support the RSL’s tribute to Remembrance Day. Robert emphasised the support given by local resident’s means much to all who take part in this annual service. All in attendance enjoyed morning tea after the service. The Gresford Sub Branch RSL are to be congratulated for their professional organisation in conducting this important annual service in Gresford.
carpet cleaning and cleaning services Domestic and Commercial carpets, lounges and rugs Friendly Service Call: Kelly Richardson Mobile 0437 395 585
The red remembrance poppy has become a familiar emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem “In Flanders Fields”. These poppies bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of Flanders in World War I; their brilliant red colour became a symbol for the blood spilled in the war.
In Australia, Remembrance Day is always observed on 11 November, regardless of the day of the week, and is not a public holiday; it is a time when people can Doug Daly pay their respects to the substantial number of soldiers who died in battle.
Extract taken from the presentation given by John Casey on the meaning of Remembrance Day.
Remembrance Day (sometimes known as Poppy Day) is a memorial day observed Robert Richardson gave special thanks to in Commonwealth Nations member states since the end of the First World the Gresford Community Group, Gresford Public School with the growing War to remember the members of their armed forces who have died in the line interest by the students each year, the of duty. Remembrance Day is observed Catafalque Party from RAAF Base on 11 November in most countries to Williamstown, The RSL Ladies Guild,
KELZ
recall the end of hostilities of World War I on that date in 1918. Hostilities formally ended “at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month”.
We at Gresford will observed oneminute silence at 11am. The “Last Post” will be sounded by a bugler or a recording and a one-minute silence will be observed. The one-minute silence will be followed by “Reveille”. The Last Post was a common bugle call at the end of the military day, Reveille being the first bugle call in the morning.
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 14
Gresford Vacy Colts
Harrison Sellens
For the first time in many years, Gresford’s junior cricketers are back on the pitch. It’s been nine years since Gresford has seen a junior cricket team in action, however the 2015/16 season has seen a resurgence in participation with two new teams representing the area in the Maitland District Junior Cricket competition.
Under 12s team with club president Stuart Craig and coaches Tom Everett and Beau Cowley.
“We started by forming an under-10 team from the older children moving on from the Milo Cricket program,” Gresford Junior Cricket Club president Stuart Craig said. “Then we found we had so much interest from the surrounding areas, we were also able to make an under-12 team.”
Playing in royal blue and gold as the Gresford Vacy Colts, the team comprises children from Gresford, Vacy, Dungog, Paterson and Wallarobba. “Both teams are making the club proud with their ever-growing enthusiasm and the sportsmanship they are displaying,” Stuart said.
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 15
Rugby World Cup... Confusion Reigns On Bingleburra Road
Spot the Wallaby on Bingleburra Road
Last month it was reported that motorists passing along Bingleburra Road, Gresford were amused, perplexed, bewildered and confused whilst the cattle within Robert Richardson’s property Woodlyn could not understand the displayed decorations to the fence line. Sam Hartigan.
The success of the teams is bolstered by the efforts of coaches Tom Everett, Beau Cowley and Brendon Sellens and the generous sponsorship of Twin Rivers Café, Dave’s Hardwood – Vacy, Lawrence Livestock and Maitland Mutual. Photos by Julie Hartigan
London, migrated by way of visiting the 1968 Mexico Olympic Games to Sydney and proudly became an Australian Citizen four years ago in Dungog on Australia Day.
The resident assured the Editor he was always “barracking” for the Wallabies as he is now a “true blue’ Australian and A resident at the entry to his property, pointed out he had lived the majority of passing through Woodlyn, had his life in what he described as a “truly displayed a number of large Australian wonderful country”. He also added he and Scottish Flags before the “big” cleaned up on bets with his Scottish based game which the Wallabies won by a controversial penalty kick in the closing friends but unfortunately they pay in Scottish Pounds (each bank in Scotland minutes of the game, permitting has their own notes) which are often not Australia to move to the semi-finals. recognised in our banks in Australia! Do you know this resident? Doug Daly Clues:- Born in Scotland, raised in
G resford News • December
The
2015, p 16
q Gresford District Historical Society r
Y
A short history of our bush schools – part 2, Paterson valley schools
ou may recall from part 1 of this series that the impetus for the growth in these bush schools was the 1866 Public Schools Act which largely broke the monopoly of the church schools. As in the Allyn valley the residents of the Paterson valley were also very proactive in using this new legislation to seek a Government school education for their children.
teachers to have horsemanship and orienteering skills as the country between Carrabolla and the Upper Allyn was, (and still is) a mountain wilderness.
Strathisla school (1896-1927) Strathisla
is the area now in the northern section of Lostock dam and its catchment. A community once flourished here and this even ran to a public pound which was Around 1895 numbers increased at both established on 19th March 1850 with John sites and Carrabolla returned to Brooker as pound keeper. The first school provisional status till 1910. After that it returned to half time status, this time with began here in May 1896 as a provisional school with Arthur Munday in charge. Carrowbrook and in 1912 with Strathisla. Arthur was later to transfer to Coulston On the Paterson there were schools at In wet weather, travel in these remote areas where he remained for 9 years. Carrabolla, Strathisla, Lostock, Mt Rivers, could be especially hazardous and indeed Strathisla school struggled with low Coulston, Gresford and Fishers Hill. Of one of the teachers at Carrabolla, (Miss numbers and reopened in 1909 as a half these only Gresford still survives! Annie MacInnes) who was appointed in time school with Carrowbrook and with Feb 1898, drowned some 7 months later Carrabolla school (1882-1945) while attempting to ford the Paterson river Carrabolla from 1912. It did regain Carrabolla school on the Upper Paterson provisional status for a short period but at Strathisla. She was buried in Lostock opened as a provisional school in August cemetery and is remembered by a it was eventually closed in 1918. 1882 with George Moore as teacher. headstone and a rather sentimental poem A subsidised school was later opened with by the school inspector of the time - John Like many other remote schools a succession of teachers. Perhaps the best Carrabolla struggled for numbers and by Kevin. Kevin who published his poems and known of these was Edith Elkin who stories under the name of “Arthur Ferris” 1885 was in a half time arrangement arrived in 1923. Edith stayed for several with a school at “Wortwell” (now Marilla was then a widower and the young lady years before retraining as a nurse. She later may well have “taken his eye”. Park) on the Upper Allyn. When became Mrs. Edith Wilson of “Lonou” Wortwell closed this half time Trevallyn. As Sister Wilson, Edith was a In Sept 1915 Carrabolla closed but this arrangement continued with Halton wasn’t to be the end and it was re-opened very welcome sight at Clevedon hospital school. Undertaking these “half time” in Gresford for locals brought in for as a subsidized school. This arrangement continued on and off until the mid 1940s. “patching” after some farm incident. rides between the schools required
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G resford News • December
The
2015, p 17
q “Our Stories” Feature r
with a similar school at Tea Tree, (Mirannie) some 8 miles away. The teacher, Edward Tomkins who lived at Lostock would ride across the range to Tea Tree after lunch and return to Lostock in the evening. This was however only a temporary setback and by 1902 enrolments had recovered and Lostock was again upgraded to public school status. By 1934, the 1883 building was in a dire state of repair. A cheap solution was found by taking the materials from the old Strathisla school and the 1883 Lostock school and using these to build The 1883 Lostock school & residence c 1918. Thomas Scott teacher a new school. James W Bourne was appointed as the first Lostock school continued till 1978 when Strathisla subsidised school closed teacher in Aug 1878 and by 1880 sometime around 1927 and children it was closed and the children transferred enrolments had reached the level required to Mt Rivers. either took correspondence lessons or for the school to be upgraded to a public rode to Lostock school. Can anyone help Some 33 teachers were in charge at with a photo and a location for this school? school. H.H. Brown was vindicated! Lostock over the years. Thomas Scott A new school and residence was erected provided the longest period of service at Lostock School (1878-1978) In May 1878 an application was made to establish in 1883. During the 1890s however 19 years (1912-1931). Glen Clarke was enrolments declined and Lostock for a a provisional school with local families the last teacher at Lostock. committing to sending 16 children to the time (1901-2) was operated half time school. Inspector J. D Bradley was asked to report on the suitability of the building provided by the community and the school's viability. He was not impressed by the building which was in fact the old Wesleyan Chapel and in regular use for a service each Sunday. In addition he found that 6 of the children committed by local families were actually attending Mt Rivers school and on this basis he concluded that; "the establishment of a school (at Lostock) is of doubtful expedience". The local member H.H. Brown intervened and a school was established in July 1878. Inspector Bradley was very annoyed at this political interference and did his best to have the decision overturned – but to no avail.
Lostock school late 1970s
G resford News • December
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2015, p 18
q “Our Stories” Feature r
Somehow Ellen McNamara squeezed in nearly 20 pupils. The good lady was described by the inspector as; "a native of the place, staid and elderly, of good moral character, respectable in appearance but deficient in attainments and practical skill" By the late 1890s the population had shifted southwards towards the Penshurst homestead and there was agitation for a new building in a more central position. The site chosen was on the opposite side of the road to the Penshurst homestead. The owner Mr. Holden however objected vigorously and the Inspector was sent in to adjudicate. He reported that he could see little in the objection; "except a certain fastidiousness at the proximity of such a plebeian institution as a public school".
Mt Rivers school c1970s
Holden however steadfastly refused to
Mt Rivers School (1875-1981) In 1875, Rivers school commenced as a provisional sell the site and the Minister was obliged
the residents of the area applied for Government aid for their private school which had been operating for several months. Inspector J.S. Jones had no hesitation in supporting the application on condition that suitable furniture was provided by the residents and a larger schoolroom was erected within 3 months. This all occurred and in Nov 1875 Mt
school on Frank McNamara’s land on the Northern side of the Paterson river crossing. Miss Ellen McNamara was appointed as teacher.
to resume the land in 1906. The new school was completed in 1906 and the then teacher Miss Scott and her pupils moved in. Enrolments varied greatly and in the 1920s the school lost its status and The building was not palatial and was described as a slab hut 12 feet by 10 with closed for a number of years. By the end of an earth floor and with one window and the 1930s it was able to re-open and it remained open until 1981 when it was one door. finally closed.
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G resford News • December
The
2015, p 19
q “Our Stories” Feature r
In all some 31 teachers served at Mt Rivers. Mrs. Hazel Hancock served for the longest period teaching at Mt Rivers on 4 occasions- initially in 1950 and then in 195153, 1964 and 1972-1981.
Colstoun school (1883-1932) Colstoun is the area to the south of Mt Rivers. A provisional school existed here from 1883 on property owned by the Chesworth family. The first teacher was a William Cordell. He must have been capable of sustaining attendances of the at least 20 then required because the school was upgraded to full public status in Oct 1883. Cordell stayed until being transferred in 1885. A succession of teachers followed (some 18 in all), the last teacher being John Ward who remained for 5 years from 1928 to 1932. At that time the attendance had dropped below the required minimum and as there was considered to be no prospect of the enrolment figures improving the school was closed in Dec 1932 and sold as building materials. Does anyone have a photo of this school?
above: Gresford school 1914 below: Gresford School 1988 Yrs 4,5,6 - Phil Dingle teacher
Gresford school (1868 - ) A group of local citizens made application for a provisional school at Gresford in 1868. The parish school had closed but fortunately the school building and residence was available as was the previous teacher – John Bush. Inspector Dwyer was sent to investigate and the application was approved along with the appointment of John Bush who also doubled as the postmaster.
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G resford News • December
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2015, p 20
q “Our Stories” Feature r
Inspector Dwyer commented that, "the premises are passable; the teacher is not competent, but his general character is very good and he is likely to exert some amount of beneficial influence over the children committed to his care"
Despite these reservations about Bush’s competence the school progressed and by Oct 1879 achieved public school status. During 1880 John Bush lost the use of one of his arms through illness and although he remained as postmaster he gave up his teaching career in 1881 – some 12 years. The present brick building was opened in 1881 along with a comfortable residence and William Parker was appointed as teacher. He remained till 1903 – a period of almost 22 years and worked extensively for the development and upkeep of the school. Parker then taught at Allynbrook. By 1931 enrolments had exceeded 100 and a 3rd teacher was appointed. In 1934 the building was extended. Charles Clark was appointed head master in 1941. He and his wife who also taught at Gresford remained till 1954. Gresford school increasingly became the regional school from the 1970's as the
Fishers' Hill students at an International day event at Vacy 1950
was changed to Fisher's Hill, apparently to avoid confusion with places of similar names.
outlying schools struggled for numbers and were closed. Children are now "bussed in" to the Gresford school from all the outlying areas. Of the 14 or so schools opened in the area from the 1850's, Gresford is the sole survivor!
Fisher's Hill School/ Bunnabunoo/ Summer Hill (1871- 1975) Summer Hill provisional school was established in Mar 1871. The name was changed to Bunnabunoo in 1884 and in 1934
Application for the 1st school was supported by the Rev William Stone with 8 parents promising to send children. Inspector Dwyer visited the school and gave approval to the selection of Thomas Fitzgerald as the teacher. Inspector Dwyer noted; "the teacher is disabled on one side of his body, but his manner is tolerably intelligent, and he shows a moderate knowledge of grammar and
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G resford News • December
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2015, p 21
q “Our Stories” Feature r
child care arrangements. Being made a fuss of by the girls and having a “nap” on a bed at the back of the classroom in the afternoon was (I believe) the ideal educational experience – and one I persisted with for years! In 1957 Fisher's Hill regained public school status with Clyde Sparke as teacher and remained so until it closed (finally) in 1975.
Fishers Hill 1964–Clyde Sparke teacher
arithmetic and reads pretty well" He described the school as, "a rough slab hut 24 feet by 16 feet with a shingled roof and slab floor". By 1880 the school was upgraded to public status and in 1883 a new brick school and residence was constructed on 3 acres of land purchased from Mr. W Kealy for £30. Mrs. Rose O'Brien had been appointed in 1879. She had taught in Liverpool but as she had no testimonials she was obliged to train at the Girls' public School at Maitland for 2 months. She
remained as teacher till 1894. Maurice Collins was appointed teacher in 1894 and remained for 23 years. By 1943 numbers had declined and the school was closed. It was reopened with provisional status in April 1950 with Mrs. Hazel Hancock as teacher. Having been closed for 7 years the school was in very run down condition as it had been used as a camp by rabbit trappers who had used the furniture and fittings as fuel! It was in 1950 that I first attended this school in a very “unofficial” capacity as Hazel had returned to teaching with no
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This will my last story for a while so I thank you all for your interest over the last 3 years. If you have enjoyed the articles they are now available in 2 volumes (Gresford Connections 1 & 2) with extra pictures and information. These are available from the Gresford Historical Soc. and would make an ideal gift for someone who retains “connections” to the Gresford district. Also, our 2016 calendar will be available before Christmas. Our end of year dinner will be on Mon 14th Dec in St Anne’s hall from 6:30pm. Every one is invited and we ask you please to RSVP to Lorraine Ashard (secretary ) on 0428385259 so we can arrange the catering . Cost is $25 (less than last year)
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G resford News • December
The
2015, p 22
Getting to know the locals... by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries
AKAMA PANICULOSA (previously known as CALDCLUVIA PANICULOSA) – Rose Leafed Marara Other common names for this one include Corkwood, Brown Alder or Sugarbark. This species can grow to 40 meters in the competitive confines of a rainforest but in the open it is more likely to be 10-15 meters making it a good tree for the larger backyard. Some gardening books denote this tree as frost tender, however it grows from the Hawkesbury River to the south of the Hunter Valley through to the Eugenella Range in tropical North Queensland. If you source trees from the North Coast or Queensland areas, then the specimens are likely to be frost tender, however the specimens from The Paterson, Allyn and Williams River are frost hardy. The new growth is a dark red and very attractive. The flowers are massed in creamy white panicles and each flower forms a small capsule that slowly turns red. The flowers appear in November and the capsules remain on the tree until February or March. The seed themselves are very small black dots and need to be sown on top of the seed raising mix. The word Marara is a word in the Hununòo language of the Philippines and commonly refers to the relative presence of red.
Above Rose Leafed Marara in flower. Right Each flower forms a small capsule that slowly turns red
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G resford News • December
The
2015, p 23
Subsidised Training For Popular Certificates Next year there will be subsidised local training for several popular certificates with great career prospects. There will be a Certificate III in Individual Care. This is the new qualification that replaces the old Aged Care, Home & Community Care and Disability courses. This course has been tailored to respond to local employment opportunities. We plan to offer: - Aged Care AND Home & Community Care in the one certificate - a cut-price First Aid certificate - and a cut-price unit "Assist Clients With Medication" This will also constitute about 3/4 of a Certificate III in Disability. The registered training organisation presenting the course will be WEA Hunter, who have been very generous and flexible. Training will be 2 days a week face-to-face starting February and finishing November. There's 120 hours of work placement (which is one of the best ways to get work in the industry). Best of all, the price is very affordable. For those on most Centrelink benefits*, the core course will be only $240 and the extra two units $80. For Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander* students it will be free, apart from the extra units. For Disabled students or the carers of disabled people, it will be free, apart from the extra units*. For others, the course will cost either $1,400 or $1,730, depending on prior qualifications*. (* Contact us for more on who qualifies for the various subsidies.) If you know someone who may be interested, get back to us at Dungog Community College – education@dscc.net.au or ph 4992 1133 – with a name, an email address and a phone number. We intend holding an Information Session in late January and starting the course in February. Also this month there are both RSA (4 Dec) and RCG (11 Dec) courses. Contact us if you are interested.
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G resford News • December
The
2015, p 24
Gresford Community Group November Once again the Community Group is pleased to sponsor the Australian Day lunch being held at the Twin Rivers Café on 26 January, 2016. The Gresford District Australia Day Awards were established over 15 years ago by John Edmonds and Clem Varley in recognition of community members who have given their time to the Gresford community. Delma Lawrence from the Historical Society has offered to research the records and copies of the Gresford News to find and compile a full list of all past nominees for the Gresford Awards and it will be published in the February edition of the Gresford News. If you know of or would like to have someone recognised for service to our community please contact Liz Jones, Secretary, Community Group either by email gcg@gresfordnsw.com.au or by completing the nomination form opposite and sending it to The Secretary, Gresford Community Group, P.O. Box 99, Gresford, 2421 by 31 December 2015. The Community Group encourages all Community Groups, whether social, sporting, church, and school to come and show their appreciation to our
recipients of the Gresford District Australia Day Award. And while thinking about who you would nominate you can also place nominations for the Dungog Council Australia Day Awards. It was suggested that future Australia Day Luncheon be held as a picnic day. Ken Chandler proposed a street party/ picnic and spoke of previous successful Australia Day celebrations where streets in our community had enormous fun getting together and getting to know their neighbours. This is great idea to bring our community together. At the monthly meeting, held at the Beatty Hotel on Monday 2 November, John Casey from the Gresford RSL Subbranch spoke about the ANZAC Commemorative Trees and gave a full breakdown of the plantings and how they were organised. The Community Group and the RSL Sub-branch were concerned about the loss of many of the trees and a sub-committee led by Penny Kater will liaise with the RSL and the Park Trust to resolve replacement of these trees. John took the opportunity to invite members of the Community Group and
members of the community to attend the RSL dinner on the 4th December 6.30 for 7pm. Booking can be made by ringing Garth Carlson on 4996 3303. Janie Chandler gave us a breakdown on the continuation of tree planting throughout Gresford/East Gresford and a look around the streets of East Gresford show how successful this has been. So successful it’s time to start a new round of plantings to enhance the streets of our community. This has the backing of the Community Group, and works with the proposed plans to make our village more attractive and hopefully attract more tourism. Janie also suggested that we get behind the ‘Clean Up Australia’ day early next year and will co-ordinate this to get it up and running. Anyone interested in assisting Janie please contact her on 4938 9189 Janie Chandler has been working with Graham Murphy, Noel Brown and Penny Kater to ‘clean up the Allyn’ and reported her disappointment in the Member for Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen’s lack of response to the Upper
G resford News • December
The
Allyn clean-up and suggested perhaps involving the media. It is vital that we look after this beautiful valley not only for now but also into the future. The Community Group has asked Janie to now lead this Sub-Committee under the auspices of the Community Group. Sunday, 8 November saw members of the Gresford Community Group, Gresford District Historical Society and Paterson Allyn Garden Group (PAGG) attending a working bee to ensure the Therese Doyle Hall garden area was in tip top shape for the beginning of the lease between the Community Group and the Historical Society. Rain held off for the two hour working bee with workers leaving feeling decidedly happy with their accomplishment. While Penny Kater organised and managed the pruning of the overgrown shrubs, Sue Murphy drove the lawn mower like it was jet propelled.
Next General Meeting Mon 7 December at 5:30pm Hotel Beatty ALL WELCOME
NOMINATION FORM – GRESFORD DISTRICT AUSTRALIA DAY RECOGNITION AWARDS To be presented at the Australia Day Gresford Lunch, 26 January 2016
Name of Organisation
Name of Nominee
Position of Nominee in your Organisation Information in support of your nomination
Name of Proposer
Date
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Please forward your nomination to the Secretary, Gresford Community Group, PO Box 99 Gresford 2311 or email gcg@gresfordnsw.com.au by no later than 31 December 2015
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2015, p 25
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
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G resford News • December
The
2015, p 26
Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 4938 9313
Since April the Gresford Paterson Parish has been blessed by having Bishop Brian Farren and Reverend Rosemary Gillham as our locum priests. Their pastoral visits, friendliness and guidance have been welcomed by all. The Anglican Community is alive and well in this Parish with services at St Paul's Paterson every Sunday at 8.30am and at St. Anne's Gresford every Sunday at 10.30am An ecumenical service was held at St John's Vacy on 6th Nov. and was well attended by both Anglicans and Catholics. Last Sunday the first "Alive at Five" Service for families was held at St Paul's Paterson with 50 plus attending. This was an alternate service for young people as well as their parents and friends. Sausage sizzle followed the service. Another "Alive at Five" service will be held in the New Year. There will be a Carol Service at St John's Vacy on Sunday 6th December at 5pm for children, families and friends. Everyone very welcome. Supper afterwards. The Reverend Ray Manual will become the next locum priest from 10th January. 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. Enquiries Parish Priest Fr. Paul Hopper 4992 1477 November 2015 crossword answers
Gresford News December Crossword