Gresford News September 2017

resford News G

The

News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys September 2017

Action from the novice bull ride on Saturday afternoon. Photo Julie Hartigan

Gresford Rodeo & Campdraft Action Story and pictorial inside ‌

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

Gresford General Store and Post Office Home of the Crossroads Cafe 162 Durham Road Gresford (Cnr Lostock & Durham Road) Phone 4938 9239

Trading

Shop

Mon – Thurs 7 am – 5 pm Fri – Sun 7 am – 7 pm

Cafe

Take Away

8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 4 pm

8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 7 pm

Gourmet fresh cut sandwiches and real Milkshakes available – BBQ Chickens – Ice – Grocery – Ice Creams – Drinks – Pizza available from 4pm Friday–Sunday

✱

NEW! Freshly baked sourdough bread

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 Katie or Joe for details

Book Now

The Crossroads Cafe Dine in - Theme Night: CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICAN Three courses for $35 pp (Children $10 each & have the option to choose from our takeaway menu)

6.30pm Saturday October 28th

The Gresford News Community Diary Fri

1 Sep Bowling Club AGM, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 1.00pm

Mon

4 Sep Biosecurity Planning Workshop–Local Land Services, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 2.00pm

Fri

8 Sep Community Table Dinner, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 6.30pm

Fri-Sun 8-10 Sep Dungog Pedalfest & Bingleburra Challenge, around Dungog & Bingleburra Sat

9 Sep Dungog Shire Election

Sat-Sun 16-17 Sep Pryde’s Easifeed Hunter Polo Challenge, Wirragulla Polo Ground, Dungog Sun

17 Sep Community Markets, Hotel Beatty, 9.00am

Sun

17 Sep Maitland Classic Motor Assn Car Show + Live music – Sun Rockets, Hotel Beatty

Tues

19 Sep Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Sat

23 Sep Dungog Country Garden Ramble, 9.30am

Sat

23 Sep Pink socks bowls day, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 1.00pm

Sun

24 Sep Live music – Bo Jenkins, Hotel Beatty, 8.00pm

Sat

7 Oct War on Weeds Fieldday – Gresford District Landcare Group, St Anne's Hall, Gresford, 9.30am

Sat

14 Oct Yabby Race Day, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 2.00pm

Sat

14 Oct

Youth Off The Streets Annual ‘YOTS’ Charity Dinner & Art Auction, Paterson School of Arts hall, 6.30pm

Sat

21 Oct

Denim & Diamonds, Gresford Public School Fundraiser, Gresford School of Arts hall, 6.30pm

Sun

22 Oct

Back To Gresford Day, Gresford District Historical Society Museum Grounds

Sun

22 Oct

St Helen's Church celebrates 150 years

Sat

4 Nov Gresford Family Country Dance, Gresford Showground, 6.30pm

Mon/Tues

Social ladies tennis starts, Mon or Tues mornings, Gresford Tennis Courts, 9.30–11.00am

Tuesdays

Spring/summer mixed Tuesday nights tennis, 7.30–9.30pm

Mondays

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Vacy School of Arts Hall

Tues, Wed, Thurs

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Gresford School of Arts Hall

Friday afternoons

Junior tennis coaching, Gresford Tennis Courts

1st Mon each month

Gresford District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm, Hotel Beatty, all welcome! (not Jan)

1st Wed each month

Gresford Rural Fire Brigade meeting, station, 7.30pm

1st Thurs each month

CWA Gresford Branch Meeting, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 9.30am (not Jan)

2nd Mon each month

Gresford Historical Society Meeting, Therese Doyle Hall, 10.30am (not Dec, Jan or June)

2nd Tues each month

Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm (not Jan)

2nd Sat each month

Book Club, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 3.00pm (not Dec or Jan)

3rd Tues each month

Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am (not Jan)

3rd Fri each month

Gresford Public School P&C Meeting, school library, 10.00am

Last Thurs each month

Gresford District Agricultural Society Meeting, Showground Luncheon Pavilion, 7.30pm

Every Wed, Fri & Sun

Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Raffles, from 6.30pm

Every Mon (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.00am 49346725 Every Tue & Fri (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Gresford School of Arts, 9.00am 49346725 Every Thur

Happy hour and free pool and jukebox at the Hotel Beatty

Every Fri

Cricket Club Raffles at the Hotel Beatty

Every Wed & Fri (school terms) Yoga with Donna Cavanough, Wed–gentle, Fri–general, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.15am Every Wed

Gresford PlayTime, children 0-5 & carers, Gresford School of Arts, 10.00am

Every Sunday

The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am

To contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au or call Brian Doherty on 0412 372 687

Visit

www.gresfordnsw.com.au

for local information and the ‘Gresford News’ online.

finances resford News G

The

✃

Please support your local newsletter and contribute anonymously or use the slip below and place your donations in the boxes provided in Gresford.

Name Address

Amount

James Hopson

Candidate for Council Elections September 9, 2017 C Ward 5th Generation in the Allyn and Williams Valleys Retired dairy farmer Community involvement: *Life Member Dungog Apex Club, District Governor *Chairman Williams River Total Catchment Management Committee *Secretary Williams River Water Users Assoc. which negotiated increased access to irrigation water in exchange for adoption of sound environmental practices *Member Hunter Water Community Consultative Forum I believe in bringing people together to get things done. We need to put the past behind us and work towards a cohesive future. A key decision of the new council will be to appoint a General Manager who can foster an attitude of "how can we help" In C Ward we have a large number of bridges with low load limits, some needing urgent repairs (e.g Wheelabout Bridge). If elected securing funding for bridge repair and replacement will be a priority.

Local character referees: Keith Kelly (Paterson); Robert Richardson and David Wells (Gresford); David Williams (Vacy).

Authorised by James Hopson, 430 Fosterton Road, Dungog 2420. Telephone 49922243

G resford News

The

• September 2017, p 5

Gresford News Notices A busy September around the Shire

Dungog Garden Ramble

Saturday 23 Sept from 9.30am – 4.30pm The Williams River Gardeners will present their inaugural Dungog Country Garden Ramble.

Gresford District Community Dinner

Friday 8 September 2017 at 6.30pm Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Please book with the Club on 49389166 Eleven local gardens will be open to Second Weekend: 8-10 Sep, Pedalfest: or Lucy 0418289028 as it makes visitors, showcasing beauty and character cycling, music, dancing and food, catering much easier. that are the result of a combination of Dungog, Bingleburra, Bandon Grove Our curry dinner with Joe & Katie was design, serendipity and sheer hard work 8-17 Sep: Dungog Arts Society Art Show, very special with two new couples to – and sometimes even history. Gardens 96 Dowling St, cocktail party opening the area joining in the community on display will include the new and old, Third Weekend: 16-17 Sep: The Hunter spirit.

Thank you to our hosts for their large and small, colourful and green.

Polo Challenge, picnic polo at Wirragulla great effort. We look forward to seeing Refreshments will be available at some Polo Club – fast, exciting, with world some of you back again in September. gardens and picnickers will also be class players and over 200 horses. welcome at 4 designated venues. Bring Carolyn Addison – Member of GDGC 17 Sep: Maitland Classic Motor Assn your own picnic and spread your rug in Car Show, Community Markets & live delightful surroundings, for an music, Hotel Beatty, East Gresford additional gold-coin donation.

Learn locally with Smart & Skilled Fourth weekend: 23 Sep: Cost: $2 per garden or $15 all-inclusive. subsidy available: Certificate III in Dungog Country Garden Ramble...

All funds raised will go to Carrie’s Place Individual Support (Ageing). peek into 11 stunning gardens. and the Dungog Hospital Auxiliary.

Information session mid Sep, course 23 Sep: Pink socks bowls day, Gresford Tickets can be purchased now at starts in Oct. For information visit Sport & Recreation Club Dungog Visitor Information Centre www.dungogcommunitycollege.org.au 23 Sep: Valley Team Penning Arena Sorting or at any garden on the day. or email education@dscc.net.au Fifth Weekend: 30 Sep: Australian Stock For more information, see visitnsw.com Horse Show – Dungog Show Ground. or our dedicated website https:// 30 Sep: Octoberfest at Wallarobba Hall.

Sat 9 September avrinaschiller.wixsite.com/ Roll up and enjoy the fun and music.

Pre-polling avail at Dungog Council. countrygardenramble.

First weekend: 1-2 Sep: AGOG, A Feast of Foreign Films, Supper behind the screen, James Theatre Dungog

Aged Care Certificate

Dungog Shire Election

attention young and old

Back To Gresford Day Sunday 22 October at Gresford District Historical Society Museum Grounds Gresford Road next to Sporting Complex

Round up your Ancestors, Family and Friends.

Anyone who has been associated with our local area throughout time. All visitors welcome.

Help to celebrate early settlement in our local area Step back in time, take in some local history, enjoy a good chit-chat great food and activities, help celebrate the Gresford area's past history and join in with some traditional fun.

Contact members of the Gresford District Historical Society Inc: George Sales, Delma Lawrence, Lorraine Ashard, Allan Hancock, Paul & Gail Wright, David Wells, Katie Farrell

Vacy General Store Looking for something different why not check out Vacy General Store. Beautiful little Country Store now Serving Breakfast on weekends.

A little bit of what you can get at our country Store: NUNDLE Smoked Trout, Frozen Salmon portions Hunter Belle Cheese, Beautiful gift lines Rawleigh Products, Great Coffee & Cakes Cards & Wrapping, Convenience Grocery Lines Great range of Magazines & Newspapers Wallarobba Free Range eggs, Local Honey Hot BBQ Chooks on Saturday or Sunday Clarencetown Bread, Fresh sliced meat Olives, Oils, Chutneys and sauces Premium fuel Why not drop in for morning tea or lunch.

Sandwiches fresh or toasted focaccia's quiche or lasagna home made pies & family Pie

G resford News • September 2017

The

,p6

G resford News

The

• September 2017, p 7

Letter To The Editor

Gresford Market

A Good Team Is Needed Our Council is trying to do more and more with less and less – and the community is suffering. On Saturday the 9th of September, it’s your job to pick a good team to help.

My name is Kate Murphy and I am standing for Dungog Council in C Ward. I have lived in Dungog Shire for 22 years. I brought up my kids here, I’ve run my businesses here, I’ve battled illness here, lived through storms here – all while being supported by the wonderful community here.

But now Dungog Shire is facing enormous challenges. Delivery of service to residents has reduced, retention of council staff is a problem, roads, bridges and other infrastructure are in crisis and the financial situation has gone beyond critical. It’s time for us all to draw together to turn this around and help our community. On September 9th we need to elect a group of

Councillors who will agree to put aside their individual agendas or party politics and work together as a team. To get the best result for the residents of Dungog Shire.

I want to help and I certainly hope I’m one of the candidates you choose in C ward when you pick your team.

Kate Murphy, C Ward candidate

presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.

Sunday 17 Sept 9am to 1.30pm

Gresford News welcomes letters and community stories.

Please send contributions to Gresford News, PO Box 73, East Gresford, NSW 2311 or email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au

at the Beatty Hotel

...........................

Features local stalls and produce, Great music local goods, treats, attactions and a little bit of history ...........................

Further information contact George Sales 4938 9639

Daniel and Jane Maroulis are the proud owners of Boydell’s Vineyard located at Camyr Allyn North, East Gresford.

The Boydells wine is available locally at Loveys IGA, Hotel Beatty and Gresford foodworks. You can also order directly from us www.boydells.com.au; 0417747454; daniel@Boydells.com.au Free local delivery. More exciting varieties to come this vintage!

G resford News • September 2017

The

,p8

SAVE THE DATE SATURDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER @ 1pm

  $20 p/p inc HBCF socks

• Best dressed team

• Raffles

• Lucky Door Prize

• Live Band 8pm

• Lots of Fun

• Everyone Welcome

Gresford Bowling Club

G resford News • September 2017

The

,p9

Mayoral Update Until after the 9th September election, Council is in 'caretaker mode'. No large contracts or controversial decisions can occur until the new Council is appointed. But that doesn't mean other great things can't happen, for instance...

Great Ideas can attract big Grants: Have a great idea for a new Sportsground, a Skywalk in the Barringtons, Open Air Opera in the Common in a new Amphitheatre? Even a great new Dungog Shire Cultural Centre? Don't delay if you have a great idea and think your organisation might be eligible. A total of $1.3billion, yes 'billion' not million, is to be invested in the Regions via a grants from the NSW State Government. Here are the categories: Regional Sports Infrastructure; Community facilities or playgrounds; Investment for Arts and Culture; Improved Voice and Data connectivity; Projects to support job creation and economic growth. For details go to www. nsw.gov.au/regionalgrowth. Some of the deadlines are quite soon, so don't delay.

Wheelabout Bridge: The Council is currently inspecting several bridges across the Shire and we have received some bad news on the 39 metre

Wheelabout Bridge on Allyn River Road, which has been identified as having significant issues with the superstructure, particularly in one 13 metre span. The good news is that the fault is discovered and Assets Manager Steve Hitchens is pulling out all stops to do the repairs as soon as possible. The bad news is that in the meantime it is limited to 5 tonnes.

All those that we know might be affected have been contacted to find solutions, including the milk truck and the school bus.

Paying up the promise: The Federal Member of Lyne, Dr David Gillespie, met our Mayor in Gresford to announce that the State Government had 'approved' a $1million upgrade to fix the road at the corner of Park Street and Durham Road.

It was money promised last year and is almost spent. This was in addition to the $923,000 already spent on the same area, so almost $2 million on about 600 metres of roadworks. The final layer of bitumen should be looking great by November.

Frank Robinson Park: free overnight stays for Grey Nomads – coming soon.

Some time ago, the Council voted to turn part of Frank Robinson Park – the old camping ground by the river – into

Roadside Rest Area, with free stays up to two nights for self-contained vehicles.

Approvals have been provided to us and road widening plans are complete.

Registration of the plans and the associated gazetting is expected in late September meaning the rest area should be operational in October, just in time for summer!

Bridging the Gaps: Innovation Fund Council has been successful in gaining $105,000 under the NSW OLG Innovation Fund on a 70:30 funding for the replacement of a small timber bridge structure. Council is currently finalising agreements. Not a lot of money, in the world of bridge building, but every little counts...more info soon.

Bravo NRMA

The NRMA is calling for a long term road funding plan across all levels of government including delivering a share of the fuel excise levy to local councils and providing local councils with low interest infrastructure and specific investment funds. Bravo NRMA for helping to highlight our issues. Go to: https://www. mynrma.com.au/community/news-andmedia-centre/infrastructure-backlog-dataa reveals-holes-in-roads-funding

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 10

 

 







     



G resford News

The

War On Weeds Field Day Gresford District Landcare will be holding a Weeds Action Field Day for all local landholders in October.

Weeds are currently estimated to cost the Australian economy up to $4 billion each year.

According to the NSW DPI early detection and surveillance offer the most strategic and cost effective form of weeds management. Early detection of weeds increases the likelihood that control will be successful and reduces costs as infestations can be treated when they are less extensive.

The Gresford Landcare Group Field Day will include presentations by a number of experts who will outline weed identification and management strategies. They include:

Harry Rose, of the Department of Primary Industries, will discuss and identify weeds and outline the options for weeds management.

Peter Lawrence, a local landholder, will review and discuss the weeds that are particularly harmful to stock.

Field Day attendees are invited to bring along a problem weed (in a zip bag please) for identification and discussion.

The Field Day will be held at St Anne’s Hall, Church St, Gresford on Saturday, 7 October from 9.30am till 2pm. A free sausage sizzle will be held at the conclusion.

For further details or to book a place contact Julia Wokes at 49385112 or juliawokes@hotmail.com

Dungog Shire Council

GREEN WASTE CLEAN UP 3 TO 6 October 2017 Dungog Shire Council is providing a Kerbside Green Waste Clean-up for Residential premises within the 50km SIGN POSTED town areas of the following villages: Dungog, Clarence Town, Gresford, East Gresford, Paterson, Vacy and Martins Creek.

Collections will commence on Tuesday 3 October. Residents are requested to put their Green Waste out the weekend before, at their normal weekly collection point.

2 cubic metres of green waste will be accepted from each household.

Acceptable items are: • Garden Prunings and tree limbs no longer than 1.8 metres and 250mm in diameter.

• Lawn clippings and loose material must be in sturdy cardboard boxes.

• All green waste must be securely tied with rope or string (not wire) into bundles.

• All material must be of a manageable size for one person to lift.

Unacceptable Items: • Large tree trunks & thorny bushes • Items in plastic bags (including woven poly bags) • Tree Stumps larger than 250mm in diameter • Timber with bolts, brackets etc.

• Sawdust • Bundles secured with wire • Loose items • Any items other than Green Waste The contractor and Council have the right to reject any material that they consider unacceptable.

Enquiries ~ JR RICHARDS & SONS ~ 1300 343 507

• September 2017, p 11

Farm Biosecurity Plan Help Assisting cattle producers with farm biosecurity planning Hunter Local Land Services is offering advice through a series of free information sessions over coming weeks to assist livestock producers to be prepared for the new Johne’s Beef Assurance System (J-BAS) and changes to the Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) system, both of which require producers to have a documented Farm Biosecurity Plan.

From 1 October, producers will need to complete a Biosecurity Plan for accreditation under the Livestock Production Assurance program (LPA). Accreditation with LPA is a crucial part of Australia’s red meat food safety system and is required for continued use of National Vendor Declarations (NVDs).

The need for a farm Biosecurity plan is also a part of the new industry-driven approach to managing Bovine Johne’s Diseases in Australia. Producers who opt to have a J-BAS score will need to have a farm Biosecurity plan in place. The JBAS is an important tool to help producers manage the risk of introducing Bovine Johne’s Disease into their herd and to communicate their herd’s status to buyers of their cattle.

As a third incentive, a farm Biosecurity plan will also help producers fulfil their General Biosecurity Duty under the new Biosecurity legislation that came into force last month. The workshop will explain these three changes and help producers to find and use available biosecurity planning resources.

Workshops:

Gresford Bowling Club 4 Sept 2-4pm, Wallarobba Hall 6 Sept 10am-12.

Numbers are limited, RSVPs essential please call 4932 8866.

Vote Number 1

Kate Murphy Your Candidate for C Ward Dungog Council Elections 9th September 2017 Our Council is trying to do more and more with less and less - and the community is suffering. On election day, it’s your job to pick a good team to help.

Visit my Facebook page at

www.facebook.com/katemurphyforcouncil/

Integrity Team Work Advocacy Consultation Communication Authorised by Kate Murphy 59 Abelard St Dungog NSW 2420

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 12

Rodeo Runs Through Town!

Warwick Lawrence

Open placegetters

Given the complications with the new Gresford once again proved it’s one of bridge load limits up the Allyn River, the friendliest and most enthusiastic communities on the rodeo circuit, with a organisers were thankful to Murray Schaefer and National Stockyards Systems huge turnout for the annual Gresford for being able to supply more than 300 Rodeo and Campdraft on the last head of cattle for competitors to use in the weekend in August.

Novice and Open events on short notice.

After weeks of dry weather threats of An increasingly popular junior rodeo rain did not put off a great turnout for the campdraft on Friday. A few scudding event on the Friday night drew a strong contingent of both local and visiting showers dampened down the dust for the drafters, and only improved the well- competitors and did not disappoint, putting on a great show. prepared surface and camp.

Saturday brought perfect weather for both competitors and the crowd, with a big audience enjoying the many vantage points around the ground from early in the day to watch both the rodeo events and the campdraft.

The crowd swelled as the afternoon drew on, with many drawn to watch the final of the Lawrence Livestock Open Campdraft, which was won by wellknown competitor Warwick Lawrence.

The action then heated up in the main

Stewart Everett Mitsubishi Your local Fuel Caltex Service Station

All Mechanical repairs Rego Inspections & blue slips Origin Gas Agent Maxxis Tyres and Speedy Wheels agent Stockist of all oils for your car and gardening equipment Bulk Fuel deliveries to you/farm

Also stocking: Stihl Chainsaws, brush cutters, vacuums and accessories Thunderbird Electric Fencing Fencing supplies Large Animal First Aid Cattle Vaccines, Drenches & Pour ons Motor Vehicle accessories Philmac Poly pipe fittings Apparent Weed control chemicals Bare-co/Farming equipment suppliers Masport Mowers Agent NRMA agent

If we don't have it we can get it!!

26 Durham Rd, East Gresford 02 4938 9204

Mon-Fri 7.30am to 5pm Sat 7.30 to 11am

G resford News

The

Gregg Merchant

arena, with the hard-fought Open Bull Ride eventually won by Steve Mason and Tyson Smith. While the popular poley buckjump was won by Blayne Roberts.

However, the crowd favourites for the night were definitely the kids! The Under-8 barrel racers, including plenty of local competitors like Tiahnee Eldridge and Lucia and Pippa Merchant, were a huge hit for the three thousand strong crowd as they pushed their horses around the course. They drew massive

cheers, as did the under-8 poddy calf riders, who were resplendent in their chaps and helmets as they rattled across the arena on the bucking calves.

A trial mobile mustering robot on display from Sydney Univeristy sure drew some interest, as local producers imagined a future where they didn’t have to head out into the paddock in the chill of winter, or heat of summer.

The organisers want to extend a massive thank you to all the generous sponsors

• September 2017, p 13

Jack Whiteley-Eldridge

and donors, who once again made the event a huge success. However, it could not have happened of course, without the dedication and commitment of the many volunteers and people behind the scenes, from the people mustering cattle for the campdraft, working in the yards or manning the camp gate and of course the ticket gate, through to the canteens and bar – it is truly and event won and run by the community, that requires a huge effort from everyone to be a success.



 



 





 

 

     

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 15

Country Picnic Polo At It’s Best On Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September the Wirragulla Polo Club in Dungog will host The Pryde’s Easifeed Hunter Polo Challenge – an event that unites country folk and urbanites, all seeking the sociable, relaxed, weekend fun that that only a polo tournament can provide. Wirragulla Polo Club has been hosting polo games for nearly 100 years, with ‘The Hunter Polo Challenge’ having taken place for the past 8 years.

Beau Blundell, President of Wirragulla Polo Club, and former Director of NSW Polo Association, and Australian Polo Federation coach says “We are a not-­forprofit sporting club that endeavours to promote the game of polo for competition as well as a social or spectator sport that can be enjoyed by sporting enthusiasts, corporates, young professionals and families ie Everyone”.

For anyone wondering just what a game of polo is like, Blundell says “Polo requires teamwork, gamesmanship, athleticism and agile ponies with plenty of stamina and a keen sense of the game; there is no place for the faint hearted.” “The experience for spectators is an exciting one, hearing the thundering of hooves, clashing of sticks and thud of players colliding.”

Cowlicks Hair Studio has had some really exciting changes happening over the past few months.

Our little salon has had a big name change and we would love to introduce Quaint The Salon.

Still the same Amazing service and Fabulous team all here ready to take great care of you.

There has also been an addition to our team. We are super excited to introduce you all to Nicole.

Please join us in welcoming her to the salon.

Thank you to all of our beautiful guests for your ongoing support and we look forward to being able to pamper you all soon.

Andrea, Josie, Annette, Kelly & Nicole 803A Gresford Rd Vacy.

Ph: 49 388 386

guests can expect gourmet food vendors, an all-­day BBQ, well-­stocked licensed bar, plenty of outdoor space for the kids to run around, as well as activities to get the crowd involved such as the quintessential ‘stomping of the divots’, fashions on the field, and prizes in abundance.

Blundell welcomes all to come along to The Hunter Polo Challenge; “it’s a really great day out for everyone. Bring your picnic, The Club Captain of Wirragulla Polo Club chairs and rugs and relax on the sidelines with a group of friends or the family. We is Jock Mackay, grandson of one of the provide programs with information about founding members of Wirragulla Polo Club, and a key member of the Australian the different players, teams, rules of the sport and prizes, which will be furthermore polo team. Jock will be working his best explained by the commentator.” polo skills at The Hunter Polo Challenge in the run-­up to The Polo World The Pryde’s Easifeed Hunter Polo Championships in Sydney this October, Challenge is a unique form of for which he has been selected a member entertainment, showcasing a sport not the Australian squad. often available to the wider community.

“The 2017 Hunter Polo Challenge is looking to be the biggest yet” Mackay says.

“We currently have 12 teams from around NSW booked to play, which is a good indication of the anticipation of our event.

The level of polo will be high, with some competitors very keen to win trophies and defeat previous winning opponents.”

Entrance is $10, children under 16 free.

We have some wonderful sponsors on board this year including Pryde’s, Boydell’s Wine, McGrath Estate Agents in Newcastle, Cyclone and Godolphin. Proceeds from The Hunter Valley Challenge will go to The Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

For more information, visit www.

In addition to the polo that will be played, wirragullapoloclub.com.au

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 16

ADDISONS ALEXANDERS ALLISON P & J ALLISON L & D CASEYS CHANDLERS C-BOOTS DALY EDMONDS HARRIS HODGES JONES KATERS LEE & EDWARD MORTON MURPHYS OLIVERS GRESFORD OSBORNES J & K

SAT 4 NOV - 6:30PM

family

COUNTRY

DANCE SHOWGROUND

PHILLIPA

Sw am p daw ki ns band SMITHS STEVENSONS $50 per fami ly TARJANS 2 adults & 2 children - ADDITIONAL CHILDREN $5 Each THORNTONSWOKES

Gresford Family Country Dance www.trybooking.com/RGRJ Dress - country

G resford News

The

• September 2017, p 17

Community Matters The Gresford District Community Group has four major Community events happening between now and 26 January, 2018 which we encourage everyone to be involved.

1. Gresford Family Country Dance – 4 November – Gresford Showground from 6.30pm - Tickets available from: https://www. trybooking.com/303299 - Ticket must be printed out and brought with you to the Country Dance - No ‘door sale’ of tickets - Scarecrow competition entry form with conditions and winning prizes – in October Gresford News - Dance steps to be taught by the Swamp Dawkins Band on the night - Dinner and a soft drink/water included in ticket price - Alcohol for sale Being a non-fund raising Community Event we are hoping for local Sports and Community Groups to assist with serving food and drinks. If you would like to be part of this Community toe tapping event, as an example perhaps donate an hour to assist with canteen service please contact Louise on 0408 209 282 or Liz on 0434 198 874 – it would be really appreciated.

2. Christmas Lights Competition – Winners announced 16 December What a fantastic effort members of the Gresford villages did last year with the inaugural Christmas Lights Competition – the judges found it extremely hard to find the winners. So this year the Gresford District Community Group are inviting you, the Community to assist by giving everyone a chance to vote for your favourite house by entering into our

Carolyn Addison introducing Gresford to scarecrows Jeb and Jed

People’s Choice category.

The Christmas Lights Competition will run from Friday 1 December. Judging will commence on Monday 11 December with the Community Group judges starting the difficult task of finding winners.

The People’s Choice nominations will be required to be lodged by Wednesday 13 December. All category winners will be announced at the Carols by Candlelight evening on Saturday 16 December.

Categories: • Best Novelty display – $50 to winner • Best Lighting display – $50 to winner • People’s Choice of ‘Overall winner’ $100. Restriction of one vote per household!

• $50 for a name pulled out of the entrants who nominate the winner of the People’s Choice Guidelines and where to lodge your nomination for the People’s Choice category will be published in the November issue of the Gresford News, properties within the Gresford, East Gresford and Vacy villages will be eligible to enter.

3. Carols by Candlelight – 16 December After the wonderful success and Community involvement last year, Saturday 16 December will again see many locals gathering at the Therese Doyle Hall grounds for the Carols by Candlelight evening. If your Community Group or Sports Club would be interested in having a stall please contact the Secretary of the Gresford District Community Group, Sarah Sivyer on 0439 043 974 or SarahSivyer@gmail.com

4. Australia Day Luncheon – 26 January, 2018 Now is the time to start thinking about your nomination for the Gresford District Community Group Australia Day awards. This is bi-annual event designed to recognise, acknowledge and pay tribute to members of our Community who give willing of their time or make a significant contribution to our region. Nomination forms will be in the Gresford News editions November and December.

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 18

Gresford CWA News

Joe Monger, Wendy Thursdon, Marcia Francis, Pam Williams, Jill Hancock, Chris Walker.

FELTING WORKSHOP A very successful felting workshop was held on Saturday 5th August. With instructions from Marcia Francis and assisted by Betty Kelehear, all participants took home a completed hat made from raw wool. You may well catch Joe Monger wearing his in the village.

Gresford Public School children with prayer flags from Nepal and certificates of appreciation.

Sixty people plus members attended and applauded a magnificent presentation on Nepal by 20 school students from Gresford Public School. The poster competition was of a very high standard and prizes were awarded: 1st Sam INTERNATIONAL DAY: NEPAL A cultural Hartigan, 2nd Cameron Jupp, 3rd Jack event supported by handicraft displays, Hill. Hon. Mention Amber Smith. Our agricultural displays and scrap booking. guests came from all over the Hunter

local water carrier

CASSO’S WATER CARTAGE DOMESTIC & RURAL WATER SUPPLIES TANKS & POOLS FILLED CONTACT 0400 294 436

and also included many local groups.

Our speakers were inspiring. Both live in Nepal part of the year and locally to us part of the year. Peggy Franks is medically trained and known by many locals for her work as a nurse in our area, works with The International Nepal Fellowship. Linda Harwood a Maitland resident works with the Umbrella

G resford News

The

Dessert is served.

Foundation. A non profit organisation supporting children against trafficking and illegal orphanages in Nepal. This organisation is made up of volunteers from Ireland, Holland, Hong Kong, U.K., U.S.A. and Australia.

October. Keep up to date with announcements by checking their website https://womencultureland2017. wordpress.com.

RAS Our CWA Tea Room was very successful this year with a record number of scones made 53,872 and winning a NSW RURAL WOMEN’S GATHERING Gold Ribbon for the Commercial The NSW Rural Women’s Gathering is an Exhibition Award for Catering outlets annual event organised by local above 7m. committees with support from the Rural Women’s Network and this year it is BOOK CLUB Our next meeting is being held in Narrandera on 27-29 Saturday September 9th 3pm in the

Graeme Ferguson

• September 2017, p 19

Display of Nepalese handicraft.

CWA rooms. The book for this month is True Pleasures: A memoir of Women in Paris – Lucinda Holdforth an ex-Canberra journalist.

The Gresford CWA meets on the first Thursday of the month at 9.30am. We welcome new members to come along and join us. Next meeting Thursday 7th September. All enquiries to Secretary, Marg Hill 0400 358 827 or gresfordcwa@ gmail.com.

Robyn Thornton President

Dungog

Chiropractic Clinic Registered Surveyor Consultant in surveying, planning and engineering * Portion Boundaries Remarked

* Identification Survey Reports * House Setouts

* Urban and Rural Subdivisions * Engineering Survey and Design * Topographic Surveys * Urban and Rural Road Design * Control Surveys

“Yatta” Torryburn Via Paterson 2421

Tel 4938 9448 Email yatta2@bigpond.com

I treat most musculoskeletal complaints including back and neck pain, sciatica, headaches, migraines and limb pain and pins and needles.

HiCaps and eftpos facility is available so patients can claim direct from their healthfund and just pay the gap.

Located at Dungog Community Hospital on Hospital Road in Dungog phone no: 4992 3766

Shane Moss B.Sc. M.Chiro.

Servicing & Repairs Car, Ute, Truck, Agricultural, Earthmoving & Civil Equipment Field Service Our mechanics are locals who know and live in the local area Rebuilds & Larger Repairs Office & Workshop in Singleton Rego Checks Car, Trailer, Bike & Truck Pink Slips Blue Slips (Unregistered)

Contact Us Today!

20A Enterprise Crescent Singleton (Maison Dieu Industrial Estate) Phone: (02) 6572 3626 Email: office@ausmechservices.com.au

www.ausmechservices.com.au

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 20

Private Kill Welcome

Packed and labeled ready for the freezer and your convenience.

Aged for 7–10 days to develop the best flavour your beef has to offer.

Ph 4938 9710

JET Security Services 0458915902 Email: jason@jetss.com.au www.jetss.com.au Security & Investigative Services ML: 000101174 Security Services

Are you in need of an Electrician?

Maybe you need some Excavation work done, Even just a load of soil or gravel.

Please call Gregg, local reliable and trustworthy

Ph. 0429389473

www.merchantindustries.com.au No: 296114c Lic

ABN: 96 611 109 972

CAPI: 411556134 Investigative Services

Mobile Patrols Accounting Fraud Crowd Control Insurance Fraud CIT (Cash In Transit) Employee Fraud Static Work Accidents K9 Units Bodyguard Other Services Risk Assessments Security Audits Event & Project Management First Aid Units Call Jason for a free no obligation quote for your security needs

G resford News

The

• September 2017, p 21

CULTURE VULTURE Greetings Culture Vulture readers.

Artist Gaye Shield’s home and studio is in Dungog. Gaye enjoys portraying the local landscape in and around the Dungog Shire, it has been the main focus of her painting. She has won numerous awards and is a member of the Dungog and Maitland Arts Societies and an exhibiting member of the Royal Art Society, NSW.

NSW, finding disparate family members settling in the Hunter today. – Maitland Regional Art Gallery.

ART NEWS

Studio La Primitive Arts Zine, an online Art and Literary magazine, produced in Gresford is continuing to expand its public popularity with an ever growing list of Her oil paintings have been interviews from local and successfully shown in galleries nationally recognised nationally, where the request for artists. This year we have commissioned works are often Swimming with the Fishes, Gaye Shield featured in the May issue, sought.

Gaye Shield and Julie Hosking were an in depth exclusive Gaye says: “I endeavour to create a unaware of their close family interview with the indomitable artist feeling of movement in my work with connections but they recently discovered George Gittoes, with the establishing of brush strokes and vibrant colour. I love that their great grandfathers were the Yellow House in Afghanistan, their it; it is life, it lifts the spirit”. brothers. Inspired by their joint and continual battle with the Taliban and Gaye’s paintings are available at Dungog individual family histories Gaye and Isis. The July issue included the fabulous Julie have joined creative forces to

by Design, 124 Dowling St. Dungog. conceptual realist artist based in present an exhibition of new art work Melbourne, Matthew Quick.

FERTILE GROUND 29 Jul – 22 Oct which seeks to acknowledge and At present Gaye Shield is exhibiting with imaginatively celebrate a shared family Don’t miss out reading the September 1st Newcastle artist Julie Hosking at past. This new body of work will feature issue – available at web sites below Maitland Regional Art Gallery, 230 High images of the landscape which follow All issues since 2013 are available at www. studiolaprimitive.net or www.issuu.com Street, Maitland. this families’ respective journey across

Caring for the families of the Hunter since 1889

  

   

48 Banks Street, East Maitland 97 New England Highway, Maitland 61 Port Stephens Street, Raymond Terrace www.frybros.com.au

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 22

ATTENTION: FARMERS, GRAZIERS AND HOBBY FARMERS ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR ACREAGE?

Direct Drilling

Slashing and Mulching

Cultivating and Discing

Tabletop Truck Hire

Fertilizer Spreading

Boomspraying

PLANT HIRE & EQUIPMENT COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL RURAL

An extensive range of machines and earthmoving equipment to suit every aspect of the Building & Construction Industry

Round Baling: Hay and Silage Small Square Bales Mowing and Raking Whatever the job, get it done right and on time by your local bloke!

Your Local Rural Services Specialist. Competitive Rates!

Ring Rodney Richardson 'Penshurst' Mt Rivers Ph 02 4931 7125

Supply all forms of quarry product Contact:

Paul Mastin 0418 499 471 Head Office 02 4938 8135 DIVISION OF DREEGAN BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION BASED IN THE HUNTER VALLEY ABN: 56137525494

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

The

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

• September 2017, p 23

What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

Lara Anna Pasternak The sub-title to this book is ‘The Untold Love Story That Inspired Doctor Zhivago,’ and it is indeed the searing story of Olga Ivinskaya who was both muse and scapegoat for Boris Pasternak, who won the Nobel Prize, primarily for this novel, but was forced to repudiate it by the Soviets.

Written by his great-niece, who has no great illusions about her uncle’s character, this book is both absorbing and authoritative. Because Pasternak had already left one marriage for the wife of his best friend, whom he subsequently married, he had no stomach for breaking up his family again when he met the love of his life. For Olga, being without the protection of his name was disastrous. She was sentenced twice to terms in the gulag because of her association with him, while he was cushioned by his fame both in Russia and abroad.

Pasternak comes across as both a man of courage and integrity, and one of extreme naivety. By the end of the book the author develops a tolerant affection for him, saying, As Boris began to write Doctor Zhivago, refusing to be crushed by the pressure of the Soviet state, I grew in admiration for him. Nevertheless, it was Olga and her daughter Irina who paid the price exacted by the Soviets. As well as the story of these two lovers, it is the story of a political machine that created a great deal of suffering – which Pasternak showed to the world, and which Olga lived through in a very real way, with her own courage and integrity. It is a fascinating read, superbly illustrated by family photos.

All books reviewed are from the CWA library. They are put on a separate shelf in the library so they are easy to find plus the reviews are in a folder.

Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant 4938 8305

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 24

BR

Plumbing & Excavations Pty Ltd

Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547

General Plumbing & Drainage Gas Plumbing Drain Cleaning New houses, renovations & extensions Transpiration areas – upgrades & new 3 t & 5.5 t excavator with augers & rock breaker Bobcat 6 t & 13.9 t GVM tippers NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL SERVICING AREAS BETWEEN MAITLAND - SINGLETON - GRESFORD - VACY - PATERSON

BRIAN & JULIE REIBEL PH: 02 4930 9047 FAX: 4930 9046 15 Lerra Road, WINDELLA NSW 2320 ACN: 109 886 419 ABN: 81 109 886 419 Lic No. 167289C

WEED CONTROL SPRAYING BOOM SPRAYING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PROPERTY MAINTENANCE I have over 15 years experience in weed spraying, Over 20 years experience on property management & maintenance Public Liability insurance ABN: 14618007127

NO JOB TO BIG OR SMALL

Call Jamie on 0427490547

PEST CONTROL SERVICES locally owned and operated

General household pests: spiders, cockroaches, rodents.

Termite inspections and treatment using environmentally friendly low odour chemicals and baits.

Call Barry Wilson 0429 317 154 pest management certificate number

15-102220-001

G resford News

The

• September 2017, p 25

Gresford Family Country Dance Date: 4 November, 2017 Venue: Gresford Showground Time: from 6.30pm Get ready for Gresford’s ‘country hoedown’ - a family dance with a difference. We will feed you, teach you the dance steps, and give you a wonderful evening where you can twist and twirl the night away while having fun with the lively The Swamp Dawkins Band https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=u5QAKFuSLYY Tickets can only be purchased through: https://www.trybooking.com/303299 You will need to bring a printed ticket with you on the evening.

If you are unable to purchase your tickets please contact either Louise 0408 209 282 or Liz 0434 198 874 Remember to like us on FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/GresfordFamily-CountryDance-277866622692808/ Gresford Family Country Dance Tickets are $50 per family (2 adults and 2 children, with additional children $5 each and single adults $25 each) and this includes dinner, non-alcohol drink and

icecream. Alcohol drinks will be available to purchase.

Events like the Gresford Family Country Dance require lots of community involvement and as this is not a fundraiser the Gresford District Community Group would really appreciate the support from local community organisations and sports clubs – not financial just bodies please. If you would like to be part of this Community toe tapping event, as an example perhaps donate an hour to assist with canteen service, please contact Louise on 0408 209 282 or Liz on 0434 198 874

Competitions All entry forms will be found in the October Gresford News or on our Facebook page Gresford Family Country Dance.

Scarecrow making competition Have you started thinking or making your scarecrow for the competition?

Here are a few sites that show how easy and fun it can be: http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/ make-and-decorate/crafts/making-a-

scarecrow http://www.wikihow.com/Make-aScarecrow http://www.front-porch-ideas-and-more. com/how-to-build-a-scarecrow.html

Guidelines: Scarecrows need to consist mainly of straw or similar materials Scarecrows to be delivered to Gresford Show Ground on Friday 3 November from 8am until 5pm No cost to enter Scarecrows need to be life size and maybe animal or human The ‘Owner’ needs to be present at the Gresford Family Country Dance to collect prize

Find the scarecrow Scarecrows will be placed around the Gresford and Vacy Villages during October. The Competition will be to find the scarecrow each week, list the answers on the entry form and submit the entry form at the Gresford Family Country Dance. The Winner needs to be present at the Gresford Family Country Dance to collect their prize..

G resford News • September 2017

The

, p 26

Gresford Transport ABN - 76872263533

Livestock, Hay and General Transport

Gresford, Dungog Maitland, Singleton 8 ton capacity fully insured

Stephen Hill for friendly and personal service Home - 02 49 389 349 Mobile - 0429389349

KELZ

PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

Domestic and Commercial

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.

carpet cleaning and cleaning services

carpets, lounges and rugs Friendly Service Call: Kelly Richardson Mobile 0437 395 585

‘Looking after people in business is our business’

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

Diesel Refueling – ON SITE West Tankers are a family owned and operated business servicing Newcastle, Hunter Valley and surrounding areas.

We are able to meet the requirements of specialised and remote customers.

Your fuel will be delivered on-site when you need it. We arrange our schedule to suit you. It doesn’t matter how remote you are, we pride ourselves in supporting remote customers and providing diesel when you need it – with delivery 7 days a week • Competitive Rates – reliable & efficient service • Servicing Earthmoving, Construction, Marine and Farming Industries • 11 Trucks – 7 Days • Emergency Service Available

Contact us on:

Phone: 4955 1620 Fax: 4995 1729 Or visit our web site

www.westtankers.com.au

G resford News

• September 2017, p 27 Gresford News September Crossword The

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 0458 146 152

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

St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill WEEKEND MASS TIMES St Helen’s Gresford Saturday Vigil 5.30pm 5th Sunday of the Month, no Mass at Gresford but Sacred Heart Church Summer Hill, time to be advised.

Enquiries Parish Priest Fr. Derek Garner 4992 1477 August 2017 crossword answers

Your Readymixed Concrete Supplier Locally Owned Independently Operated Supporting the Gresford Community

54 Glenwood Drive, Thornton Phone (02) 4966 3711 www.hunterreadymixedconcrete.com.au