October 2026
News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys
Daine Patrick - winner open bulls
Gresford Rodeo Returns in Spectacular Style
Gresford came alive on Saturday 29 August, as the Gresford Rodeo made a spectacular return, drawing record crowds and more than 400 competitors for a huge day of rodeo action and entertainment. – Story and pics pp 10/11 New email address for the Gresford News: editorgresfordnews@gmail.com The Gresford News is a Gresford District Community Group project – Donations appreciated & most welcome.
• October 2026, p 2 Dungog Early Literacy Tribute
We are very sad to hear of Dolly Parton’s Passing. Dolly was kind, generous and authentic and we thank her generosity in setting up such an amazing Literacy program which now benefits children she never knew across the world. There are 142 babies across Dungog Shire receiving free books every month for 5 years because of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. What a woman. She set up her Program motivated by her father’s lack of reading ability. 300,000,000 million books have been sent to children worldwide over the 30 years it has been operating. 2,000,000 in Australia. The benefit of the shared reading taking place in our Shire will benefit the future learning of our children. Dungog Early Literacy has been assured from Dolly’s Australian Partner United Way Australia that the program will continue unchanged Thank you Dolly… Rest in Peace.
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• October 2026, p 3 The Gresford News Community Diary
Wed 30 Sept Kids Holiday Art Workshops: Draw with Ric Woods, Gresford Community Gallery, 10-12 Sun 4 Oct Live music on the deck – Loose Change, 2–6pm, 7 – late – N.R.L. Grand Final, Hotel Beatty Tues 6 Oct Gresford & District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm Thurs 8 Oct Kids Holiday Art Workshops: Draw with Ric Woods, Gresford Community Gallery, 10-12 Sat 10 Oct Gresford Community Market is returning, 9-1 Sat 10 Oct Kids Art Club – with Dawn Thompson, Gresford Community Gallery, 9-12 Sat 10 Oct Book club, CWA Hall, 2pm Wed 14 Oct Laughable Leigh Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm Fri 16 Oct Craft, CWA Hall Sun 18 Oct Live music on the deck –T.N.R. Band, Hotel Beatty, 2–6pm Thurs 22 Oct Sketch Club – Still Life/Figurative, Gresford Community Gallery, 1pm, Contact Christine Pike 0428 271 819 Sun 25 Oct En Plein Air Sketch Club – Paterson, Contact Christine Pike 0428 271 819 Fri 30 Oct Live music with Faith Williams, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Fri-Sun 30 Oct-1 Nov Gresford Campdraft, Gresford Showground Sat 31 Oct Halloween 'we will have lollies', Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Sun 1 Nov Calcutta auction, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 7.30pm Tues 3 Nov Melbourne Cup Lunch, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Fri 27 Nov Live music with Richie, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Tues 8 Dec AGM: Gresford & District Community Group Meeting, Hotel Beatty, 6.30pm Sat 12 Dec Xmas market, Gresford Community Market, 9-1 Fri 18 Dec Live music with Abbie Ferris, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Every Wed Happy hour + Gift Voucher Raffles, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 4.30–6pm Every Thurs Mass, St Helen's Catholic Church, East Gresford, 9.30am Every Thur Happy hour, free pool & jukebox, Hotel Beatty, 5.30–7pm Every Fri (school terms) Yoga with Donna Cavanough, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.30–11am & live zoom online Tues, Wed, Fri, 7.30am Every Fri Twilight Bowls, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 5.30pm Most Fri afternoons Friends of the Arboretum activities, times vary seasonally, contact Penny Kater for details 0488 371 589 Every Fri Cricket Club Raffles, Hotel Beatty Sat-Sun Gresford Community Gallery open, 12 Park St, East Gresford, 10-4 or by appt phone Robyn 0417 686 816 Sat Mass, St Helen's Catholic Church, East Gresford, 5.30pm (except 2nd Sat of month) Every Sun Anglican Church services, dates & locations vary–see ad, St Paul’s Paterson, 8.30am • St Anne’s Gresford, 10.30am Every Sun The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am Every Sun Social Bowls +, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, from 4pm 1st Mon each month Gresford District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm, all welcome! (not Jan) 1st & 3rd Mon each month French conversation, CWA Hall, 10–11.30 1st Tues each month Circle Dancing, 4.30pm – to book in & check location phone Pip on 0493 388 889 1st Wed each month Gresford Rural Fire Brigade, at the station, 7pm 2nd Wed each month Laughable Leigh Trivia Night, Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm 2nd Thurs each month Pool Comp with prizes at the Hotel Beatty 6.30pm 2nd Sat each month Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, 9.30am (not Jan), contact Penny Kater for details 0488 371 589 2nd Sat each month CWA Book Club, CWA Hall, 3pm 2nd Sun each month Mass, Sacred Heart, Summer Hill, 11.30am 3rd Tues each month Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10am (not Jan or Feb), contact Chris Walker for details 0401 566 180 3rd Thurs each month Trivia Night at the Hotel Beatty 6.30pm 3rd Fri each month CWA Craft Morning, CWA Hall, 9–12 3rd Sun each month Vacy & Surrounds Crop Swap, alongside Vacy General Store, 9.30am 3rd Sun each month 'Vacy beach' riverbank Landcare working bee, 2pm 3rd Sun each month Entertainment at the Hotel Beatty 3rd Sun each month Kids Free Art Club (except when Gresford Markets are held we will have in conjunction with Markets, 9:30am till 1pm)
PUT YOUR EVENT IN THE COMMUNITY DIARY:
Contact Gresford News: email: editorgresfordnews@gmail.com • Brian Doherty 0412 372 687 • Jane Richens 0425 339 856 has always been created by the community for the community. The content is provided by individuals and community organisations to keep the community informed about activities in the area. Your contributions are always welcome! Deadline for stories & ads 20th of the month. For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred (not in word).
New email address for the Gresford News: editorgresfordnews@
gmail.com
• October 2026, p 4 Help Shape the Future of Gresford The Gresford Community Group is achieving a great deal, but its real strength comes from local people contributing their ideas, knowledge and enthusiasm. The group supports important community initiatives, including the art gallery, Gresford Community Markets, the Arboretum, Christmas carols and community dinners. It also advocates for our district, raises local issues with decision makers and works to secure improvements that benefit the whole community.
discuss ideas for the future of our area. Meetings are held every second month at the Beatty Hotel. They are relaxed, welcoming and social. You are welcome to enjoy a beer or another drink during the meeting, with food and an opportunity to catch up often following afterwards.
The Community Group believes it has nominations or expressions of interest for most committee positions. However, Jim Doyle, the current President, will be stepping down, and the group will be If there is something you would like changed, seeking a new President. Anyone interested in the role, joining the committee or improved or introduced in Gresford, the Community Group gives you an opportunity becoming involved in any way is warmly to help make it happen. It is also a great way encouraged to attend. to become involved in your local community, Official AGM Notice meet new people and socialise. Notice is hereby given that the Gresford You do not need committee experience or Community Group Annual General a great deal of spare time. You can attend Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 8 a meeting, share an idea, raise an issue or December 2026, at 6.30 pm, at the Beatty become involved in a project that Hotel, Gresford. interests you. A pre-meeting will be held at 6.00 pm to discuss any issues leading up to the AGM. Councillors Alexandria Carruthers and Everyone is welcome to attend either or Fred Paton regularly participate in our both meetings. meetings, giving residents a valuable opportunity to speak directly with their For further information, please call local representatives, ask questions and Stephen Johnston on 0409 620 019.
THE GRESFORD NEWS Gresford News: News of the communities of the Paterson & Allyn River Valleys, has been published by the Gresford & District Community Group since 2002. As a not-for-profit community association any profits go towards supporting community projects.
IT'S YOUR NEWS The Gresford News has always been created by the community for the community. The content is provided by individuals and community organisations – Your contributions are always welcome!
IS YOUR NEWS BEING DELIVERED? Gresford News is delivered to letterboxes on the main road north of Paterson and roadside in the Vacy and Gresford postal districts to the top of the Paterson and Allyn Rivers. PLEASE let us now if you do not recieve your NEWS – we will see if there is a problem we can fix.
• October 2026, p 5 Gresford News Notices New meeting time: Gresford & District Community Group Meeting 1st Tues of the month – 6 Oct 6.30pm Hotel Beatty
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Gresford Community Market RETURNS – Sat 10 Oct, 9-1
12 Park Street, East Gresford between Gresford Community Gallery & Gresford Sporting Complex Support small local businesses.
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Xmas market, Gresford Community Market, Sat 12 Dec, 9-1
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Gresford Campdraft Fri 30 Oct – Sun 1 Nov
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A great weekend of competition planned.
Dungog Tip Shop Mon, Thurs, Fri 8–5 • Sat, Sun 8–12 Dungog Tip Shop: recycle your unwanted things or pick up a handy bargain
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Live music •
@ THE BEATTY Sun 4 October – Long Weekend Loose Change on the deck 2–6pm 7 – late – N.R.L. Grand Final Sun 18 October 2–6pm T.N.R. Band on the deck
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@ THE BOWLO Fri 30 Oct Live music with Faith Williams Fri 27 Nov Live music with Richie
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Gresford School of Arts
Need a venue for a function or event? The Gresford School of Arts facility may be just what you need. Many people have used the facilities for a child or adult’s birthday party; a dance; an organisation’s meeting, seminar or workshop; or something else that is special. The hire rates are very affordable. Kel Merriman (0417 280 851), Secretary
Creative activities at the Gresford Community Gallery
• Kids Holiday Workshops: • Draw with Ric Woods 30 Sept 10-12
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Make A Wooden Toy with Laurence Thorssell 8 Oct 10-12.
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Kids Art Club Sat 10 Oct 9-12
In conjunction with the markets
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Sketch Club–Plein Air – Paterson Sun 25 Oct from 9.45am 10 mins drive to historic house
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Sketch Club–Still Life/Figurative Thurs 22 Oct – Gallery, 12-4pm
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New email addr ess fo Gresford News: r the editorgresfordnew
s@gmail.com
• October 2026, p 6 ADVERTISEMENT
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• October 2026, p 7 Gresford Market returns with a fresh new chapter There’s a familiar buzz returning to East Gresford on October 10, with the muchloved Gresford Community Market set to bring locals and visitors together once again. After a break, the market is back and the community is invited to come along, browse the stalls, enjoy live music and rediscover all the things that make a local market special. Returning to its home at 12 Park Street, East Gresford, between the Gresford Community Gallery and Gresford Sporting Complex, the market will showcase an enticing collection of handmade, locally produced and creative treasures. Expect everything from art and crafts to jewellery, homewares and personal care products, alongside fresh local produce and Trotter selling hot and cold drinks and plenty of opportunities to support small food; WINC (Wildlife in Need of Care) info local businesses. booth; the CWA with local home-baked And, of course, there’ll be music to add to goods and crafts; and a photographer with the atmosphere and Sophie the market mini Christmas photo sessions. fairy will be on site for face painting and kids’ tattoos. More than simply a place to shop, the There will be about 25 stalls operating on the day, including the Gresford P&C barbecue; Gresford RFS with their fire trucks, info stall and kids’ activities; Happy
Gresford Community Market is a celebration of the people, creativity and produce that make the local area so special. It’s an opportunity to catch up with friends, meet
local makers, discover something you won’t find in a chain store and enjoy a relaxed morning in beautiful rural surroundings. Whether you’re searching for an unusual gift, looking for something special for yourself, keen to fill the pantry with local goodies or already thinking about Christmas presents, there will be plenty to tempt you. Enquiries: GresfordCM@protonmail.com
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CWA News Public Event/Book Club – Tony Cavanaugh delivered his talk about a True Crime series he is working on about a murder in a Cat Appreciation Society in Queensland with his usual energy and quirky panache. The numbers were smaller than hoped for, but enabled a more conversational grouping during the sumptuous afternoon tea, which Tony and other visitors appreciated. Apparently this murder involved one of the first investigative uses of DNA, which broadened the outcome significantly. Book club, CWA members and visitors expressed their gratitude to Tony for his time and sharing of experiences. The book for October is A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman – the tale of an unlikely hero. Anyone interested is welcome to join us on 10th October at 3pm at the CWA Hall or to use the opportunity to borrow from the CWA Library, which we consider to be a community resource.
Craft Mornings – The next meeting will be on 16th October, and we welcome anyone interested in craft and a friendly chat. A door prize and morning tea are provided with a cost of $5 for nonmembers, and $3 for CWA members. Attendees work on an interesting range of projects, and crafters are always happy to share their expertise and show an interest in each other’s work.
RFS Talk – We will be visited by the
Captain of thelocal fire brigade to talk about fire safety and precautions for our Hall on 7th November at 2pm. As this is an important topic of general interest, members of the public are very welcome to attend.
French Conversation – takes place on
the first and third Mondays of the month from 10 – 11:30 am. Please ring Glenda Smith (0400108079 or 49389456) if you are interested, as sometimes there are Morning Tea at the CWA Craft Morning changes to our planned meeting times. Our yoghurt salad; roast sweet potato and roti, current topic is Regional Specialties. Fijian-style Lunch – Members followed by tropical desserts. Our treasurer celebrated the culture of the CWA’s country Sharon was able to show some Fijian Gresford Community Market of study, Fiji, with a lunch of culturally – We will have a stall at the October artefacts and photos from her own appropriate foods after the September experiences and connections with Fiji. She Market, where we will be selling cakes, meeting. There was Palusami (a corned slices and other goodies. We hope to see was also able to give inside knowledge beef and coconut cream dish wrapped in you there. about life on the islands. spinach leaves and baked); a fish curry;
What’s On the Shelves? by Glenda Smith
After You’d Gone GRESFORD BOWLS SPORT & RECREATION CLUB 38 PARK ST EAST GRESFORD 49389368
Friday 25th September – Live music with HENDO! October 30th – Live music with FAITH WILLIAMS! Saturday 31st October – Halloween “we will have lollies” Saturday 31st - $1500 Toy Raffle Tickets on sale 6.30 Sunday 1st November – Calcutta Auction 7.30 Tuesday 3rd November- Melbourne Cup lunch Friday 27th November - $1500 Pork & Ham Raffle. Friday 27th November – Live Music with RICHIE! Friday 18th December - $1000 Gift Voucher Raffle Friday 18th December – Live music with ABBIE FERRIS! Wednesday 23rd December - $1500 Prawn & Oyster Raffle Every Week at the Bowlo!! WEDNESDAY SOCIAL BOWLS FROM 12.30 HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAY 4.30 - 6.00 Second Wednesday of the month The Laughable Leigh Trivia Night from 6.30 Wednesday Night –Raffles tickets on sale from 6.30 Friday Night – Meat Tray Raffles, 1 Fruit & Veg Tray Members Draw Sunday Night - Raffles Tickets on sale 6.30 & Members Draw Members Draw - if not won goes up $25.00 on Sunday night, must be here to WIN! Like us on Facebook “Support your Club, It’s your club” Best In our town,
Maggie O’Farrell This is the first novel by the writer of Hamnet, which had extensive coverage when it was made into a film. After You’d Gone is written with similar mastery of narrative complexity and character. It starts with a mention of suicide, with the protagonist Alice ending up in a coma. The background and events that led her to this point are slowly unravelled in a tension-filled denouement, filtered through Alice’s intermittent consciousness and growing understanding. Alice’s family life has secrets, and she experiences a love fraught with its own mysteries and heartaches. She is an appealing character and the reader feels for her to the end, throughout the flashbacks to her childhood and her involvement with John. O’Farrell’s writing is absorbing and sustaining, coaxing readers to gradually make their way to the poetically gentle ending. It is a novel which defies easy summary because of the intricate structure, but is a rewarding reading experience. All books reviewed are in the CWA library–see separate shelf so they are easy to find. Find reviews in a folder. Also visit our street library.
• October 2026, p 9 Gresford PS Students Shine at Youyoong AECG Deadly Awards
Gresford Public School proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of three of its students who were honoured at the annual Youyoong AECG Deadly Awards. This esteemed event recognises the successes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff, and community members across schools in the Dungog and Port Stephens region.
In the senior years, Year 6 student RyleeGrace Walters received an award recognising her outstanding leadership and contribution to Aboriginal culture within the school community. Mr Stewart remarked, "Rylee-Grace has driven a positive affirmation of Aboriginal culture at our school this year through outstanding leadership. She regularly delivers an acknowledgement of country at school and community events with pride and is a great role model for her younger peers, who really look up to her." Rylee-Grace’s leadership continues to inspire students across all year groups.
The awards ceremony took place on Wednesday, 16th September at the Murrook Cultural Centre, bringing together community members, educators, and leaders to acknowledge the dedication and accomplishments of young Indigenous talents. Kindergarten student Georgie Catlett received the "Love of Learning" award in recognition of her outstanding effort and progress. Kindergarten teacher Katie Dunn shared, "Georgie approaches all of her learning with a positive attitude and knows all of the high frequency words taught so far, which is helping her read more fluently." Georgie's enthusiasm for learning shines brightly and sets a wonderful example for her peers. Year 3 student Zenaya Apthorpe was also honoured with a "Love of Learning" award. Teacher Sue Dillon commented, "Zenayah
Georgie Catlett received the "Love of Learning" award
The evening was further enriched by guest speaker Dr Joel Wenitong, a renowned musician and now general practitioner. Dr Wenitong shared his inspiring story of growing up in the Hunter region and emphasised how "having a crack at things" has been a fundamental driver of his success across diverse fields.
works well both independently and collaboratively, contributing thoughtfully to class discussions." Zenaya’s commitment to her education and her ability to engage meaningfully with others highlight her as a dedicated and capable learner.
Gresford Public School is immensely proud of Georgie, Zenaya, and RyleeGrace’s achievements. The school remains committed to fostering an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.
Alf Conroy Alf is a wonderfully kind, caring and considerate student who always thinks of others and treats everyone with genuine respect. His beautiful manners, thoughtful nature and willingness to help make him a very special member of our school. Alf consistently follows our school rules and takes great pride in doing the right thing. Alf also has a great sense of humour and his quick wit always has his friends laughing. He loves playing games and sports during break times, especially in the rainforest, and has a great imagination that brings a lot of fun to those games with his peers. We are very proud of you, Alf!
August 2026
• October 2026, p 10 Gresford Rodeo Returns in Spectacular Style
Gresford came alive on Saturday 29 August, as the Gresford Rodeo made a spectacular return, drawing record crowds and more than 400 competitors for a huge day of rodeo action and entertainment. After being forced to take a two-year break due to wet weather, the Gresford Rodeo was back with a bang — and the conditions couldn’t have been better. Under perfect rodeo weather, competitors and spectators
turned out in record numbers to celebrate the return of one of the region’s muchloved events. With more than 400 competitors taking to the arena throughout the day, there was plenty of action from start to finish, with the skill, courage and determination of the competitors on full display. The excitement reached another level at 5.30pm when the main event got
underway, delivering all the thrills and spills rodeo fans had been waiting for. The crowd was treated to spectacular team roping, saddle bronc riding and the open bull finals, with plenty of action keeping spectators on the edge of their seats. Following the rodeo action, the celebrations continued well into the evening, with Mick Fetch and the Red Dirt Band getting the crowd on their feet and
• October 2026, p 11 keeping the party going. The successful return of the Gresford Rodeo was not only a celebration of rodeo, but also a celebration of the community that makes the event possible. A huge thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers, competitors, spectators and the wider Gresford community for their incredible support. An event of this size takes an enormous amount of work behind the scenes, and we simply couldn’t do it without the many people who give their time, resources and support. After two years away, Saturday proved just how much the Gresford Rodeo means to the community, with the record crowds creating an incredible atmosphere and ensuring the rodeo returned in style. And the action isn’t over yet! The Gresford Campdraft is coming up from Friday, 30 October through to Sunday, 1 November, with another great weekend of competition planned. We can’t wait for next year! Brittany Crouch, Secretary, Gresford District Bushman's Carnival Assoc. Erin Williams - winner steer undecorating
PO Box 36 Branxton NSW 2335 Office: 0427 383 388 Email: Admin@HunterSL.com.au HUNTERSL.COM.AU
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• October 2026, p 12 Gresford Landcare
Gresford Landcare met at Chris & Julia Wokes' property “Duninald” at Paterson for its September meeting. The topic for the day was Birds of the Lower Hunter and we enjoyed a presentation by Helen McCall and Miranda Moore from the Hunter Bird Observers Group. Helen brought along a number of colour photographs of various birds, native to the area, to assist us with identification. She also recommended phone apps to assist with identification of bird calls.
Following her very informative talk, we walked through Duninald's 25 acre woodland which has some trees, estimated to be between 100 & 150 years of age, planted by William Dunn. Then from about 1970 until 2000, Duninald was fortunate enough to be owned by Sid Reynolds and his family who operated a native tree nursery and Duninald has many trees planted during this time. Since Chris and Julia have owned the property they have worked to extensively revegetate the area, initially with rainforest
species and more laterly with trees normally found in dry rain forests of the lower hunter, with the intention of making the woodland more resilient in a warming and possibly drying environment. Helen and Miranda were able to identify many native birds, alive and well in the woodland. After our excursion we enjoyed BBQ sausage sandwiches on the Wokes' verandah and more sweet treats provided by members.
• October 2026, p 13 CULTURE
The Gresford Community Gallery features an exciting collection of contemporary & traditional Hunter Valley artists’ work. Two new artists have just joined the gallery stable Annie Huthnance & Jackie Maundrell Hall. We exhibit a great variety of quality art & craft – painting, drawing, sculptures, ceramics, photography, fibre art, glass work, jewellery, lead light work & unique gift cards. 12 Park St East Gresford • Weekends 10-4
Kids Free Art Club at the Gallery . . . . . . ... . .. . . ... . .. . . ... . . ... . Holiday Workshops:
friendly atmosphere. All welcome – beginners & professionals. Cost: $10 pp Hosted by Christine Pike 0428 271 819
VULTURE
Robyn Werkhoven
Still Life – Thurs 22 Oct – Gallery
12-1 Beginners class – draw with ink part II 1-4 Sketch Club. Inspirational Artist: Helen Goldsmith. BYO mug or cup, art materials, protective clothing e.g. apron) & lunch. Afternoon tea provided.
Plein Air- Sunday 25 October
Meet Paterson Post Office. 9.45am – 10-minute drive to historic home, Drawing with Ric Woods – 30 Sept 10-12 billabong, small flower garden to shaded rainforest, wetlands & rural views. Make A Wooden Toy with Laurence Inspirational artist Mary Tonkin. Thorssell – 8 Oct 10-12. . . . . . . ... . .. . . ... . .. . . ... . . ... . BYO drawing & painting materials, backing Kids Free Art Club SAT 10 OCT 9-12. board & dog clips. Sturdy walking shoes Hosted by artist Dawn Thompson & (uneven ground & could be wet underfoot), Artist Chloe Hooper at Synery Exhibition Laurence Thorssell Ph: Dawn 0428924800 hat, chair, water bottle, lunch, & BYO MUG During these hours children of primary or CUP. Morning & afternoon tea provided. UPDATE ON FILM/DOCO – Eric & Robyn and the Mythical Beasts, by film school age accompanied by an adult will be FEATURED GALLERY ARTIST – producers Nicky Elliott, Pete Delahunty and able to use the art equipment supplied to Tom Zubrycki. Eric and Robyn Werkhoven ANNIE HUTHNANCE Annie is the create their own art. Our friendly Gallery have lived in East Gresford since 1990. The Owner/Practitioner at Still Point Healing, helpers will be on hand to assist. documentary that takes life, love, art and Hunter Valley. She is a Contemporary SKETCH CLUB OCTOBER beasts and rolls them all up into a fierce Visionary Artist, using Intentional 2 Sketch Clubs each month –Plein Air Creativity to bring about inner stillness and bundle of joy, is LIVE - right now! - as part visits stunning scenic locations in the of the Sydney Lift-Off Film Festival. It's only healing. She loves to use large canvas and Hunter Valley & Still life/figurative is online till 11th October. Get your ticket here large brushes because it gives her the held at the gallery. Enjoy the creative, freedom to express herself with the images https://checkout.liftoff.network/localarising from within. Bringing herself to the filmmakers-sydney.../ Please vote after viewing the film. Still Point, that place between breaths. Her work expresses healing & passion with glimpses of the mystical and magical. She loves to try different ways of experimenting with ideas and materials which illustrates her ideas appropriately, usually through drawing and acrylic painting. Her artwork tells a story, communicating an idea or feeling represented by marks or symbols which she wants the viewer to interpret the work that may represent something else to them. Colour is very important in her work, creating an effect or emotion within the viewer. Colour can create a new meaning altogether.
D4H Dozer
Visit our Facebook + Instagram pages for news, exhibitions, workshops + artist features. Artists and craft people interested to exhibit in our gallery, please email gallery for information. If you would love to join our team as a volunteer, meet artists and learn about their art practices and enjoy 'PERFORMERS' by Robyn Werkhoven the world of art, please contact us! Info: gallerygresfordcommunity@gmail.com Their next art exhibition – ANTICS – STUDIO LA PRIMITIVE opens Sat 7 Nov OTHER NEWS – Gresford Community 2-4pm at CStudios Gallery, Newcastle. Gallery artists are in the limelight – Opened by Dr John Barnes. Mark it on Congratulations to artist and jewellery your calendar…. All welcome. designer Barbara Nanshe who has work in the 25th Venice International Art Fair, Italy. Contact with Art News for Culture Vulture Artist Chloe Hooper features her stunning or enquiries about Gresford Community paintings in the exhibition Synergy at Gallery: Robyn Werkhoven 0417 686 816 Newcastle University Gallery till 11 Nov. Email: werkhovenr@bigpond.com
• October 2026, p 14
• October 2026, p 15 Bowlo News – Farmers Play Bowls
September the 7th dawned a beautiful day for the annual Farmers Day bowls. Players came from clubs all around to make up a full green. Teams played two matches of 13 ends followed by a delicious lunch, speeches, and a huge meat tray raffle. Then all assembled outside for a group photo. Social bowls with an escalating jackpot is on Saturday afternoons. The way it works: The ‘management’ select the skips then randomly allocates the remaining players to the skips. Games are in pairs or triples over 21 ends. Each team is assigned a playing card number (eg Ace of Diamonds) and after the game one card is drawn from the pack. If it matches your number and you are a winning team then the jackpot is yours. If you’re a losing team you get half the jackpot. So you can lose and still win. Suffice to say the jackpot is climbing with no winner yet. Put your name on the notice board in the club or just show up at 12 noon for a game. Come on down.
Peter Dreyer
AT THE BEATTY
Sun 4 October – Long Weekend Loose Change on the deck 2–6pm 7 – late – N.R.L. Grand Final
QUALITY SERVICES
Sun 18 October T.N.R. Band on the deck 2–6pm Guinness – On Tap NOW!!
The Hotel Bistro is OPEN! Breakfast + Lunch 7 Days 7am –2pm Dinner 6 Days (closed Wed night) 6pm – 9pm
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• October 2026, p 16 Paterson Allyn Garden Group – Paterson Wholesale Nursery
The beginning of Spring and the warmer weather encouraged 44 members, (including 2 new members) to visit the Paterson Wholesale Nursery where Nick Adamson gave a brief overview of the current difficulties in marketing plants to retailers. The nursery has now reduced their range and variety of plants due to larger retailers, being more selective in their choices and not specialising in some species. Larger nurseries often grow many of their
own plants which limits the markets for wholesalers like Nick, however local nursery ‘The Dirty Gardener’ supports his business. Some interstate wholesalers are supplying plants to retailers which may not be suitable to our local conditions which can result in plants either dying or doing poorly. Nick then spoke about some of the more popular and interesting plants which are grown at the nursery followed by a walk through of his private home garden, which
was such a contrast to the hundreds of young new plants being nurtured in the sheds. Jillian presented Nick with a gift for hosting our group and generously offering plants for sale. Quite a few members took advantage of the wholesale pricing and will be spending some time in the garden over the next few days! Welcome to our new members on the day, Miranda Moore and Sharon Barker.
• October 2026, p 17 Dungog Shire Council News
Highlights from Dungog Shire Council’s Ordinary Council Meeting on Wed 16 Sept.
The Minister confirmed that alternative funding arrangements beyond 2026–27 were being considered as part of the NSW Local Weeds and Biosecurity Advisory Government’s broader strategic and budget Committee Expressions of Interest planning processes. Council will call for Expressions of Interest from community members interested in Local Government Grants joining its Local Weeds and Biosecurity Council welcomed a proposed overhaul of Advisory Committee, following the the methodology used to distribute conclusion of the existing members’ two-year Commonwealth Financial Assistance appointment period. The Committee Grants across NSW councils. Under the provides community input and advice to proposed methodology, Dungog Shire Council on weed management and Council’s indicative annual Financial biosecurity issues affecting the Dungog Shire. Assistance Grant would have increased from approximately $3.91 million to $6.12 Election of the Deputy Mayor million based on 2025–26 figures. The Council conducted its annual election for the position of Deputy Mayor in accordance proposed model takes greater account of factors including population, remoteness, with the Local Government Act and Local Government (General) Regulation, with Cr expenditure needs and councils’ capacity to raise revenue. Fred Paton elected. Council thanked Cr
the end of March. The remaining 24 actions were carried forward, on hold or remained in progress, with resourcing and funding constraints identified as the major factor affecting delivery.
Customer Experience Strategy
Council endorsed its Draft Customer Experience Strategy 2026–2029 to go on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days, providing the community with an opportunity to review and comment on the proposed approach. The Strategy has been developed to establish a consistent, organisation-wide approach to the way Council delivers services and interacts with its customers. It provides a framework for improving the customer experience across Council, with a focus on making interactions simpler, more consistent and responsive, regardless of Liam Ley for his duties as Deputy Mayor Delivery Program 2025–2029 how people choose to contact or engage over the previous 12 months. Council received its end-of-year review of with Council. the 2025–2029 Delivery Program and The Strategy recognises that customer Regional Road Funding experience extends beyond the initial Council welcomed a significant breakthrough 2025–26 Operational Plan, showing in its ongoing advocacy for fairer regional road significant progress across Council’s works point of contact and encompasses the full program during the final quarter of the journey a customer has with Council. funding, following formal acknowledgement financial year. Of the 81 actions included in Following the public exhibition period, from NSW Minister for Roads and Regional the Operational Plan, 57 actions (70 per community feedback will be considered Transport Jenny Aitchison of the challenges cent) were completed by 30 June 2026, before the Strategy is returned to Council smaller regional councils face under the compared with 15 per cent completed at current Block Grants funding methodology. for final consideration and adoption.
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• October 2026, p 18 Gresford News October Crossword The food & blankets that you have given for the needy in our community have been very well received by so many. • Fr. Peter’s men’s breakfast is at St.Paul’s Hall on Sat 10 Oct commencing at 8 am. Everyone is most welcome to come along, have a good chat whilst having a cooked breakfast. • Paul O’Keefe is unable to have a Service in October. His next Service is in November. • Bishop Peter will be attending the Parish on 11 Oct, with a service in St. Paul’s 8.30am & a service at St. Mary on Allyn Church, Allynbrook at 10.30am. This service will have the Blessings of the Animals. Bring your pets along for a blessing. There will not be a service at St.Anne’s Gresford on 11. Oct. • Rev. Mary has been invited to Hilldale Union Church on 12 Oct to give a talk at the Churches Anniversary at 11am. • Bible study continues on Thursday the 15 Oct, after the school holiday break. Venue to be announced on the Parish’s Churches Facebook page. • Rev. Mary continues her service at Lara Nursing Home in Dungog on the second & fourth Thursdays of the month at 2.30 pm. Church times for October : 4, 11, 18, 25. St.Paul’s at 8.30am & St.Anne’s at 10.30am. St.Mary on Allyn on 11 Oct . If anyone needs support, please contact Rev. Mary on 0418 611 778. Stay safe and look after each other. Blessings Beverley.
Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.
Gresford
Congregational Church 30 Durham Rd Gresford Services Each Sunday 10.30am ALL WELCOME
October 2026 crossword answers
Catholic Parish of Gresford Mass at St. Helen's, East Gresford Saturday – 5:30 pm (except 2nd Sat. of month) Thursday – 9.30am Mass at Sacred Heart, Summer Hill Sunday – 11:30 am (2nd Sunday of month) All enquiries to Fr. Andrew Doohan, Parish Priest, on 4992 1477 or dungog.parish@mn.catholic.org.au
• October 2026, p 19
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