Molong Express 15 April 2021

AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

THURSDAY 15 April 2021

Ph: (02) 6366 8017

Email: molongex@bigpond.net.au www.molongexpress.com.au

Beyond frustration for our visitors’ experience

Council Mayors across the region have expressed their disappointment on hearing reports that visitors' journeys over the Easter long weekend took an extra 3-5 hours travel time.

“It’s been frustrating to hear these reports and the effects on our reputation. We don’t want to deter visitors from coming back.

We need to fast track a safe, swift link from Sydney to Central NSW” said Cr John Medcalf OAM, Chair of Central NSW Joint Organisation, Mayor of Lachlan Shire Council.

“Currently the Bells Line of Road is either closed or open to one lane, and while we welcome the $2.5 billion spend on the Great Western Highway improvements, the community along the GWH can’t be happy with the gridlock situation either” said Cr Medcalf.

The Central NSW JO Councils are seeking to work with the Western Sydney Councils and key stakeholders for solutions before the next Federal election. “The many existing State and Federal transport plans acknowledge the need for a safe swift link in the

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longer term – whenever that is.

For over a decade NSW Regional Transport Plans have talked about a long term solution - but we are no closer" said Cr Medcalf.

While the immediate issue is to enable tourism, a safe swift link is required for freight and the economic development of this region. “Looking at the recent flooding events in Western Sydney we know they need better evacuation routes. At the moment we have a corridor for a future upgrade ending in the Nepean. That is hardly a flood evacuation route.”

“We need a time-frame and action now so that we can support in achieving that timeframe."

“In the meantime we need to work with our friends and relatives in Sydney to encourage them to stay an extra night or two to avoid the traffic jam in both directions.”

NEXT WEEK: The road "that will never be built". Years of promises and no action.

David Isbester's “Time to go Home” won the "Peoples Choice" award in the 2021 Cabonne Acquisitive Art Prize exhibition held over the last two weeks.

Acquisition Prize and School winners - Page 9

Molong St Joseph's end of term

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MCS Wellnes Hub opens

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Pages of ne ws, features & photos

"The Pet that Ra ces, and donates" wins

Over 800 orient Molong/Gumble/Ma eers travelled to the End Orienteering nildra distric parts of Austra t from all Club - the family lia to complete of four of the local the challenges travelled in their camper Gumb van orienteering map. le Pinnacle, Noah's Ark kms to participate in the local thousands of challenge.

Eleanor was With various catego thrilled with her run to complete own winning ries for the elite to the less the girls/boys orienteer under challenging tracks 10 year old and run. Whilst Heidi and families to for children took participate in part event for 3 year in the - the was described olds (accompanied special as "difficult, enjoya local map parents).

Meet 'Tomm by her easy going and ble, rocky, y Shelby' fun" - and the Lachlan had magnificent - a 2021 the day as "hot" weather during a and for some Open category successful win in the Mens greyhound whothree year old Final. Ladbroke Gold Easter Egg nights as cool campers - the (21+ has returned to cold.

Toby Weeke to Keen orienteers age group).

With s' Molong This delightful in the Top End, Canya tucked $750,000 prize-money family enjoyed this lovely Greyhound Complex away in his travel Eleanor Hallet family from Darwin (l to comin with his g owner to Molong and campi r) in the local t /traine bag caravan park.

(3 years old) (6 years old), Heidi Hallet ng best mate) r (not forgetting his win on Saturday night will place - a Both Susanne t Lachlan 'blue' greyho travelled thousa Steve Wither have und in the statistthe and Touring with with their s of Perth. books the parents, Lachla nds of kms overseas eventscompeted, successfully , in circuit with east coast Group 1 Greyh as one of 3 in Austra ics Susanne Casan n Hallett and as memb Steve - 'Tomm lian ers of Austra ound racing ova to compe y Shelby lian has challenge. te in the local teams. Susanne winning major orienteering of already notched up a numbe ' achieve race winnings history to events includ of $1 million wins including ing World Junior r Active memb Steve and his ers and organ the prestigious Champion and 2021 Austra mate share their. isers of the Top Seniors championships. winnin lia Cup. There's gs with charity "Orien for the whole more!

This . See next week's Saturd family" said Elean teering is fun (11 'Tommy Shelby ay or.

April) Shelby Express. (Above) 'Tommy ' with ' will be racing Wenthworth Park at and Canya Steve Withers (left) competing in the owner/traine Greyhound Complex r, Toby Weeke s.

OMolong NLIN Canya Greyhound Complex boarder and West Australian superstar 'Tommy Shelby' has become greyhound Get the paperE Go to exactly as it was wwbrilliant racing's latest millionaire with a all the way win in one of the sport's majors, the 2021 Ladbrokes Golden Easter Egg w.issuu printed molonge .com/ on your phone, Click on the xpress latest issue final at Wentworth Park last Saturday. tablet orheld computer & click Subscription for $0.

Dubbed the people’s dog because his amazing popularity around the nation, Tommy Shelby joined the likes of superstars an issueof 75c Fanta Bale, Fernando Bale and just a handful of others to have won more than $1 million in Australian greyhound racing, when he was able to lead throughout and claim the prestigious trophy and the accompanying $250,000 first prize.

Trainer Steve Withers wanted to return home to Perth and contest that State biggest event the Perth Cup, an event which suddenly clashed with the Egg final after the week’s delay. Withers revealed he was actually out voted by the dog’s other owners in the decision to stay or go home. It has proven to be a marvellous decision.

So he came to Molong. (Above) The Tommy Shelby 'cheer squad' of owners, trainers and family members.

INSIDE

Water tank painting update P4

F.O.O.D week in Molong

Jean Bennet's story

Pages of news & features

Gwen Hayes celebrates a new birthday Congratulations to the delightful Gwen Hayes who celebrated her 90th birthday with family and friends at the Coach House last Saturday.

Gwen is one of those wonderful women with a ready smile, an infectious laugh and an endearing and warm personality that demonstrates her strong and unconditional love of family, life and community.

A resident of Manildra and Molong, Gwen now spends her days in a comfortable suite as a ‘family member’ and resident of Yuranigh House.

Nieces and nephews, close friends travelled to town to be with Gwen on her special day. “She is a wonderful woman and friend” was the comment of the day.

Daughter, Viv Sharpless organised the gathering for her mum. Both Viv and her brother Keith said “she is the best mum, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother. “She is always there for us - in both the good times and to help pick us up in the tougher times.”

“The Coach House was the perfect venue for mum’s celebration” said Viv. “Thank you to Barb. Strong and the Yarn Market members who served the delicious lunch. They do a marvellous job in the community” said Viv.

Gwen with her daughter Viv and family (l to r) Tracey and Daniel Sharpless, Viv and Joe Sharpless, with their daughter Chloe and Joe Carfi (front l to r) great-grandchildren Huxley and Coco Sharpless, Gwen, Mason and Alexia Carfi.

Gwen with her son, Keith Hayes, his daughter, Rebecca, and Gwen’s two greatgrandchildren at the party.

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Set on an elevated 1467m2 established yard overlooking Molong is this unique spacious family home consisting of 5 bedrooms 2 bathrooms 2 separate living areas. Double carport to the front + a great 2 bay shed and workshop with rear yard access.

• Spacious formal and casual living spaces • Large kitchen with double oven, gas cooktop overlooking the huge back yard • 3 bedrooms downstairs main with ensuite & walk in robe. Upstairs there are 2 good size bedrooms + office space • Main family bathroom has bath & separate shower • Beautiful North facing covered front veranda • Rear covered back entertaining area • Large double carport at the front with lock up shed space • Double shed and large workshop For Sale $480,000 to $500,000 2 5 4 Mark Howes 0427 668 800

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• Cute country cottage with front bullnose verandas • Wide timber floorboards throughout the living areas • 3 bedrooms 2 with built in robes • Open plan spacious kitchen • Good size loungeroom with reverse cycle air • Shared bathroom & laundry space • Fully fenced & secured yard approx. 733 sqm For Sale $250,000 to $270,000 1 3 0 Mark Howes 0427 668 800

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• Cudal Gardens Estate Lifestyle Block 4774m2 • Close proximity to the town centre • Elevated with great rural views • Affordable building for those wanting a larger allotment • No covenants allowing you more flexibility in building • Zoned R5 Large Lot Residential - Power available • Build your dream with plenty of space and just 25 mins to Orange.

For Sale $120,000 Mark Howes 0427 668 800

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With such strong buyer enquiry, if you have been thinking of selling there is no better time than now.

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MARK HOWES LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT 0427 668 880

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JULIE KENT PROPERTY MANAGER 6366 8800

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

3

News & Happenings

Easter Market growMOLONG’s Chair reports on progress of the water tank art success Bronwyn Dowling MAG volunteer, Laura Lewis-Minogue & Rebecca Johnson volunteers from Cabonne Council on the BBQ at the markets

Community volunteers came forward to help out at the Molong Village Markets held at the Rec. on Easter Monday - “we owe the success of the day to them” said MAG Chairperson, Peter Batten.

(Above) Bron Dowling and Cabonne Council’s events and marketing team members Laura Lewis-Minogue & Rebecca Johnson helping out at the BBQ. Volunteers are welcome for the June markets.

Janine Marriott, MAG Secretary and President Peter Batten report: “The Molong Village Markets came ‘Roaring Back with a Vengeance ‘ on Monday 5 April when the Rec came alive with stalls again which haven’t been seen since October 2019. The perfect weather & with restricted Covid travel we saw an influx of visitors not normally seen. Visitors from Sydney, Melbourne , Canberra & as far away as Hobart & many places in between, Molong was able to show it’s beauty & diversity. As one local stated ’the main street is crazy’.

But this would not have happened without the army of workers/volunteers & to them we owe the success of the day.

Anthony Fitzsimon who climbed from his sick bed & put together the artwork for the flyers & posters, great job. Carl Gosper from the Molong Rural Fire Brigade & his small team of Firies did an amazing job of managing the traffic flow, a necessary part of keeping us all calm & in control.

The Covid Marshalls that offered to help on the day. Nic Parr & her daughter Georgy manned the very busy side gate & were a very friendly welcome to visitors. Peter Batten our MAG Chairman & his family ‘The Batten Brigade’ who are always there to support Peter from set up to clean up, we owe them a great deal. We certainly couldn’t do

it without them.

During the busy part of the morning with the BBQ running at full pace the power outage was dealt with by Craig Troth of Cabonne Council & Rob Ferguson from ATS Electrical Services so the popular bacon & egg rolls could continue on the menu. Alex Dowling who slaved in the kitchen & to all the BBQ chefs & slaves worked solidly from 8am to 2pm in the heat of the day, a sterling job. Certainly a very popular place to eat at the markets.

All ably managed by Heather Woodhouse.

We also have to thank the Cabonne Council for all they provide to help with the markets. From the signs on Hill St, the putting out of bins & picking them up again full to overflowing & for clean toilets. All done for Molong by the residents of Molong.

Also to Marj Bollinger for her guidance & expertise as this was her last market as Market Co-ordinator.

Marj handing over the reins to Jen Willox but we are hoping that Marj will continue to act as Gatekeeper as she has the knowledge & rapport with the stallholders.

The MAG executive extend a big thank you to all the willing workers & stall holders ( & any that I have forgotten) that came on the day.

Hope to see you all back for the next market on the 14 June.”

Cumnock Markets this Saturday 17 April 9 12 noon main street 4 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

Why does it take so long to gain approvals to replace an ugly disused railway water tank with fabulous art?

‘Good question’ will comment the Chair of growMOLONG Les Dean, and members of the group.

Luckily, the long-time (forever in fact) Molong resident and members of the group do not give up on what the wider community considers to be a fabulous idea to brighten up the entrance to Molong.

At this month’s meeting, Les will be able to advise that after 12 months of seeking the approval of the John Holland group (current NSW Government’s contracted railways asset manager) to paint the concrete tank ... a positive response has finally been received.

With a grant of $60,000 growMOLONG was able to secure for the project still waiting patiently to be spent in the community organisation’s bank account - time is of the essence for the project to be finalised.

Well done to Les and Julie Dean and growMOLONG members who have never, ever given up on the idea to add public art and the Molong story to the former railways water tank (corner Watson and highway).

Well-Being workshops in Cabonne

Looking after your well-being and connecting with others is even more important when there is a lot of uncertainty. Funded by the NSW Government Local Drought Stimulus, Cabonne Council is hosting well-being workshops in Cabonne, targeted at using positive psychology techniques to boost your well-being.

Join guest speaker Cynthia Mahoney on a powerful, creative, fun and interactive journey as you learn to identify personal warning signs during times of stress and develop strategies for managing yourself through tough times.

The workshops are taking place in Molong on Thursday 22 April, with two sessions being held.

Details for the sessions are below: Lunch time session Where: Cabonne Council Chambers – 101 Bank Street Molong

When: 11:00am-1.30pm Evening session Where: Lime and Stone Café – 47 Bank Street Molong When: 5:30pm-8pm Enjoy the connection and support of other women, and return from your Well-being Vacation feeling focused, inspired, supported and connected, more in control, and ready to take action for change!

Light refreshments will be served at both events, so come out and take the opportunity to spend some time on you.

For more information and to reserve your seat, please check out Cabonne Council’s Facebook Page or follow this link: https://www.trybooking. com/BQFCP

Local university student Sam Mac Smith has been announced as one of 20 recipients of the 2021 Horizon Scholarship, an initiative supported by six Research and Development Corporations (RDC’s), along with Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia and FMC Australasia to develop the next generation of rural leaders.

Following an extensive judging process focused on the applicants’ commitment to agriculture, leadership potential and career aspirations, 20 students from around the country have been awarded an AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship.

Mr Mac Smith is sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation and will receive a $10,000 bursary over two years, and plenty of opportunities to develop his leadership skills and expand his networks. On top of the bursary, he will also attend an annual four-day professional development workshop and complete two weeks

of industry placement, all of which is covered by the support of their sponsor.

Mr Mac Smith who is studying a Bachelor of Science/ Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Agriculture) at The University of Sydney was thrilled to receive the scholarship and thanked Grains Research & Development Corporation who will support his Horizon journey.

“It’s an honour to receive the scholarship, not only will it open doors and connect me with industry professionals, but I will gain valuable experience in the grains industry,” said Mr Mac Smith.

All students involved with the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship program will attend a fourday workshop in July focused on leadership and personal development.

Cudal student awarded 2021 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship

‘Cumnock ... The little town with a BIG warm heart’ monthly markets are on again this Saturday 17 April 9.00 a.m. to 12 noon at the delightful local gardens in the main street. Enjoy purchasing real country baked cakes, biscuits and other delicious home-made yummies - cooked by the brilliant town and country cooks. Not forgetting the home-made jams, chutneys, lemon butter ... and more.

Enjoy this small, but very friendly market - run by local people who work hard to raise $$’s to keep their local church going - and community building projects. (Right l to r) The best cooks ... (not forgetting great women) Cathy, Mary, Shirley Downey- Sandra, Barb, Elaine, Maureen.

Get in early ... cakes etc are sold quickly ... bacon and egg rolls available at the BBQ stand, delicious coffee available at the Cumnock General Store (opposite). Toilets and playgrounds for the children within the market site. Enjoy this ‘little town with a BIG warm heart!

Your say

THE PEOPLES VOICE IN CABONNE

Txt the editor

0492 439 786

HEY ! Are you over making great comments and posts on the zillions of Facebook sites around here?

Here's another way.

Send a text message to 0492 439 786 on whatever cheers you up or makes your blood boil.

They'll be read all over Orange & Cabonne.

Here's this weeks interesting crop..

THE Molong Markets were a massive success this year thanks to all involved and managing.

Recently moved here from Sydney and have been very happy with the country lifestyle so far.

Like Jim n Dot I'll bet all the people complaining about the "delay" with the vaccine still have a linen cupboard full of toilet paper PM, Molong With shows like MAFS, the Bachelor, Bachelorette is it any wonder as to what is appropriate or acceptable behaviour between males and females. I’d be ashamed if any of my family behaved like these people.

Grr, Sydney Seeing that “Ever Given” is the largest container ship in the world then logically it can “easily afford” to go around Africa to ship its goods. Well we can always wish.

JC, Molong When the feds talk about transparency, does that mean we can see right through them? Cos we do!

Marc, Molong The rollout of covid vaccine, the perfect example of counting chickens b4 they hatch.

Another perfect example of talkin' the talk from feds!

WM, ORANGE With all the mice running around everywhere on the roads theres a lot of dead snakes for this time of year.

JT, Molong Seen Jack Frost over the hill the other day said he is coming to our region early this season.

Jack, Molong The old saying is "just not cricket" and to me these new rules and the Speed of League now 'is just not footy.' Stop the clock when the ball is dead but please bring back our old game, the human body will never cope and down the track if you get 50 games in a career you've done well.

CD, Molong Good luck "Bulls" your gonna need it this season.

Jason, Molong To those who didn't know also congratulations to Canowindra for taking out this years Molong Cricket Competition. BJ Molong

Winter is coming: Flu vaccine season is underway

While COVID vaccinations have been the focus of attention this year, your regular flu vaccination remains as important as ever.

Dr John Hall, President of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) says that it is not the year to overlook this important health update.

“With life returning to a more normal routine and people moving about the country again, we are starting to see a resurgence of the usual colds, viruses and flus that circulate in the community.

“Flu vaccinations can help you to get through a winter without becoming really ill with a nasty virus, so we want to remind everyone that they still need to get this vaccine in addition to the COVID vaccine as they become eligible.

“Unfortunately, we can’t administer them at the same time – there needs to be a two-week gap between each jab – so if you aren’t eligible for the COVID vaccine just yet, or if it is not available in your community, now is the perfect

time to get your flu shot done.

“If you are in the middle of your two COVID vaccinations, you can still get your flu shot as well, just provided it is two weeks from your other appointments.

“Flus remain a nasty illness to have and many older people suffer badly with them in particular. The last thing we want to see is people getting so focused on the COVID vaccination that they neglect this important annual health update.

“The more people who are vaccinated for flu, the less it will circulate in the community, and that improves the health outcomes for everyone.

“Also, getting a flu vaccine may also mean you can escape the COVID poker up the nose and down the throat due to flu-like symptoms, which doctors through out the pandemic have indicated is often the trigger for someone to get a COVID test.”

RDAA is also reassuring rural and

remote Australians that their COVID vaccine is on the way.

“There is limited supply and it simply cannot rollout everywhere at once,” Dr Hall said.

“We are working hard to make sure that vaccines are being made available across rural and remote areas as quickly as we can, and it is not being focused on just metropolitan or large regional areas.

“Rural and remote areas are getting vaccinated at a similar rate to everyone else… it just takes time. If your regular GP is not providing the COVID vaccine or appointments are booked well into the future, it might be worthwhile reaching out to a GP Respiratory Clinic if you have one in your community.

“But in the meantime, make sure you are getting other health care needs, such as your flu vaccination, up to date to protect you as much as possible,” Dr Hall said.

Call for the Funeral Industry to be more transparent The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has found that the funeral industry currently doesn’t provide consumers with enough information about funeral prices, at a time when they are making decisions under stress and time pressure.

The finding is contained in a draft report on costs, pricing and competition within the NSW funeral industry.

“We found that only two thirds of funeral providers had any price information on their websites at all, and less than half publish all the information they are required to.

“For consumers to be able to get the right funeral for them at a price they can afford, they need to be able to access that information quickly and easily, so they can compare providers,” said Acting Chair Deborah Cope.

There are wide variations in price to navigate, with even a ‘no service no attendance’ simple cremation without

a ceremony ranging from less than $2,000 to more than $7,000, and a standard funeral with a service ranging from $5,000 to around $9,000 (not including burial costs).

IPART’s funeral review is looking at affordability and choice for funeral services in rural and regional NSW, as well as across Sydney.

“We found that most people in NSW have access to a choice of funeral providers and products and a range of funeral services that meet their needs.

“Most people are satisfied with the funerals they purchase. However, people told us that the process of organising a funeral can be confusing, and that more information would help,” said Ms Cope.

IPART has made draft recommendations that focus on improving the information available to help with organising a funeral: - Consolidating the information about organising a funeral that is currently

spread across multiple government websites and making it easier for consumers to find - Developing a consumer guide that helps people compare funeral providers and understand their rights, responsibilities and choices when it comes to organising a funeral - Ensuring that funeral providers publish their prices, as legally required, in a prominent position on their website, if they have one.

Ms Cope said “Some people called for more regulation of the industry, but we found that this would likely only add to the costs of a funeral without increasing industry standards.”

IPART is seeking feedback on its draft recommendations until 14 May 2021.

The Draft Report is available at www. ipart.nsw.gov.au.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

5

It’s F.O.O.D. Week in Molong Orange and District F.O.O.D Week is Australia’s longest running regional food festival and has been acclaimed as one of Australia’s top ten food festivals. 2021 will mark the 30th anniversary of this important (and growing) regional food and wine festival that delivers a rich tapestry of events held over 10 days each April, during the region’s Autumn harvest and vintage season.

The participation of Molong and Cabonne Country towns and villages in this event continues to gain interest. Whilst this region is representative of ‘quiet achievers’ local producers and food value-adders are now hopping on board the annual F.O.O.D. week program - proud to ‘showcase’ what the local paddocks and hardworking farmers, graziers, growers are capable of producing for the local, state, national and international markets.

There are many untold stories of the early growers in the Molong District and Cabonne Country region - and where this region’s food production and trade first started.

Stories that represent the soil coming together with the sun, the rain, and the hardworking hands of the first food growers.

Stories that relate to horses pulling simple farm machinery - and of heavy cast iron pots simmering over open fires and fuel stoves filled to the brim with fresh on-farm slaughtered meats and home-grown vegies. With the delicious aroma of simple loaves of bread baking in the oven made with the wheat flour and grains grown in the surrounding paddocks.

The Express is drawing together these untold stories. Here is a glimpse of one. Keep an eye out in the Molong Express for more.

Jean Bennett & Molong’s table grapes and orchard

“Spending time with Molong’s Jean Bennett talking about her life growing up on the Langdon family farm and then working alongside her husband, David, on the Bennett family property ‘Vine Slopes’ (Sandy Creek Road) growing and producing fresh foods is a time I enjoy immensely” said Express feature writer, Rozzi Smith.

“Jean is one of the most modest, unassuming women I have come across. To me, Jeanie is the link with the soil and the planting and growing of food that I love to discover. Her hands have worked hard nurturing what I call the ‘foods of

A familiar sight leaving the Molong Railway Station was the steam driven produce train - that would load up the handmade timber fruit boxes filled with quality fruits (stone fruits, apples, pears, grapes etc) grown in the fertile soils of the district.

Steam trains like this one (above) headed over the mountains to the city markets where vendors and fruit shop owners eagerly awaited what was grown by family orchardists along the Sandy Creek Road, Manildra Road, Cumnock Road, and other parts of town and district.

Handmade timber fruit boxes with colourful labels were hand loaded onto the Bennett family truck to be taken into the Molong Railway Station for the produce train. Trucks, like the Bennett’s would queue up at the station to be unloaded.

Jean and her late husband, David - worked together on their property - in the orchard where they grew stone fruits, apples, pears, grapes etc - in the vegie garden, and on their mixed farm. They (by today’s standards), worked a relatively small acreage working from early mornings to late nights via their own ‘horsepower’ (so to speak).

Jean (standing above right) supervising the ‘grape clippers’ surrounded by cane baskets loaded with grapes from David’s early morning pick. Local women (in their dresses, cardigans and aprons) were pleased to have seasonal work in the Bennett’s shed clipping the grape bunches to ensure only the best were packed ready for the Sydney market.

6 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

the soul’ which have nurtured and built not only her own family - but thousands of others who have enjoyed the mouth watering fruits - and health benefits - achieved by nature’s very own formulae - the soil, the sun, the rain ... and the careful tending by gifted hands.

Jean’s story is longer than what I have written below - it is a beautiful story about a hardworking, wife, mother, grandmother, friend who has lived a good life, a worthwhile one growing and valueadding foods. More of that story later.

Jean Bennett was born 82 years ago into one of district’s early settler family’s, the Langdon’s of ‘Springside’. Her mother, Winifred (nee Langdon) and father Kenneth Bennett were both raised on local farms. With the untimely passing of her mother when Jean was 4 months old - her grandmother, and spinister Aunt, Ada, raised her until laters years and her marriage to David Bennett.

Jean has fond memories growing up on the family Jean Bennett stands next to the orchard’s truck with the table property roaming the 350 top filling with the morning’s pick - ready for grape clipping and acres under the watchful packing. eye of Aunty Ada, and so to speak. A time where families worked side the Langdon brothers, Mick and Bill. “My earliest memory of life at by side building, growing, achieving together, ‘Springside’ was pushing chooks around in my touching the soil together, helping each other doll’s pram and playing with my pet lambs”. and their neighbours.

The days were busy throughout the seasons Whilst living as the only child in the family of grown-ups with neighbours living a distance growing, picking, packing, delivering, pruning. away - Jean remembers those years as “I loved No one day was the same - but there was, in the farm - the animals, my pets, wandering Jean’s words “always something to do”.

Jean’s days started early - raising the family, around the paddocks, picking wildflowers...I was never lonely”. It was a simple life for the little preparing food for the family table, growing girl - where she developed a love of the natural vegies, working alongside David in the packing environment, farm animals and an introduction shed and the orchard - washing, cooking, cleaning...and making clothes for their growing to the growing of food.

Like other kids living on local farms - Jean family. “It was a busy life” said Jean who now developed a number of practical skills and in her retirement years is well looked after by knowledge about food growing, food preparation, her family in the home she and David built in slow cooking, sewing and embroidery skills ... Molong.

It was not an unusual life for women in those and the selling of farm produce. She enviably times.

There was work to be done - money to (by today’s standards) lived a life surrounded by fresh food - milk, cream and butter, fresh meats, be made to raise a family and to keep the farm fresh vegetables and fruit, large cast iron pots going. Still, Jean saw her life as no different simmering on the wood-fired stove, breads and from other women - her neighbours - who they cakes baking in the oven, and serving all things managed to visit often on weekend nights to enjoy each other’s company, share conversation fresh to the family.

In later years, Jean and David Bennett of the ... and enjoy a home-made supper together nearby farm, ‘Vine Slopes’ noticed each other that each family would contribute to. A simple, and after a long courtship and engagement the country life of hardwork and plenty of changing young couple married and moved to the Bennett times, weather patterns and economic highs and property of orchards and mixed farming. “We lows. Still they coped because they knew how to built our own home out of timber cut from the grow food - source markets and to sell to other families. nearby trees”.

They lived the philosophy of solid country Eventually the young couple were joined by their three daughters who also learnt from a people who found their way through the most young age how to cook, help in the orchards challenging times, wartime, drought, changing and on the property. Whilst there was limited economic times - and still they faced every day mechanical help available at the time - ‘Vine with new hope, knowing that hardwork and good Slopes’ in those times meant ‘all hands on deck’ planning would help find the answers.

Jasmin Bond showcases Molong at Orange and District F.O.O.D. week Well done to Molong’s Jasmin Bond of GreenTrees Gourmet Preserves (photographed right) who has built a fine reputation for value-adding the fruits and vegetables grown in the fertile soils of Cabonne Country.

Jasmin’s commercial kitchen is a hive of activity every month of the year as the dedicated creator of delicious jams, chutneys, relishes, sauces, preserves, and fruit cakes and her small team of ‘foodies’ stir large pots of bubbling ‘fruits of the earth’. Travelling many kms throughout Cabonne Country and the wider Orange region - Jasmin loves nothing better than to find fruit bearing trees and vines. Armed with buckets and boxes, she eagerly picks the fruits returning to her kitchen where her team are ready to peel, cut and create.

With a number of events on this year’s Orange and District F.O.O.D. Week calendar, Jasmin has been working at speedy momentum.

Last Friday her first preserving class was held at the Coach House in Molong. With participants from Newcastle, Sydney, Orange - Jasmin spun her magic which thrilled the visiting foodies. Saturday she set up her stall at the Orange Food Markets. Monday was another preserving demonstration in Orange. Wednesday she answered questions about her business at a Farm to Organisation seminar. Today (Thursday) she will be presenting at a luncheon. Friday another preserving demo in Molong.

WOW - Now that’s ‘bizzeee! Showcasing Molong meant the need for local volunteers to help who willingly came forward to help. Thank-you to local volunteers Kath Boyan (photographed left with her famous homemade scones), Eliza and Deon Stapelberg, Cathy Farlow, Jack, Maya, Stephanie Treacy who happily helped Jas. and Molong.

Victor John Oates

Bill Oates tells the Express his Dad, Victor’s story

My grandfather enlisted in WWI in Milthorpe but lived with us in Gidley Street before he died. Dad was always keen that as a historian I focus on WWI and grandfather. Knowing what grandfather had seen in WWI, it must have been hard on him letting his only child enlist.

“Victor was the only child of Aubrey and Irene Oates.

He was named after a fallen comrade of Aubrey’s from the 1st Machine Gun Battalion AIF who was killed in France. The family lived on various farm locations around the Molong and Millthorpe Districts of NSW. It was hoped that Vic would gain a good education and follow the example of his uncle Ken Oates in becoming a Chemist in Orange.

War intervened and Vic enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force the moment he was old enough - without finishing his leaving certificate. This lack of qualification may have been an obstacle however Victor dealt with this in his typical fashion. While almost every other teenager arrived in the RAAF entrance interview and volunteered to be a fighter pilot, Vic confessed to an interest in Radio and asked to be a Radio Operator. He recalled how this surprised the interview panel and immediately gained the attention of the Radio Officer who had been half asleep through the steam of hopeful Spitfire pilots. Immediate entry to Parkes Radio School was assured for Victor and he passed both wireless and air gunnery courses there during 1943.

The air war over Europe was a brutal exercise in mathematics that required a flow of skilled airmen to replace the constant attrition of crew through both training and fighting. The better the technology and the training, hopefully the fewer fatalities. So, a vast training pipeline from the British Empire through Canada to

operations in the United Kingdom was created as the war progressed. Decades on we often fail to identify the trail of military cemeteries across Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom bearing those killed in numerous training accidents.

Victor did more training in Canada in heavy bombers before being transferred to Operational Training in Scotland in mid-1944 and finally to 77 Squadron RAF at Driffield outside the English city of York. His crew consisted of 4 Canadians, 2 Australians and an Englishman. They flew the Halifax heavy bomber and mainly conducted night raids over Germany until the war ended in 1945. Victor was obviously very competent in aircrew and was given a battlefield commission to end the war (Above, Right) Lorraine Oates, wife of the late Victor Oates with Vic’s a Flying Officer. His crew were both daughter, Julie Lawrie, standing next to the portrait painted by Annie skillful and lucky in surviving for over Ingham at the Molong RSL Portrait Gallery.

20 missions by wars end. of having participated in the ruin of European cities and I was luckier than most in sharing part of the memories that my father had from the war. Even causing enormous casualties.

In this there was a quiet veterans relationship shared then I was the historian reviewing a big adventure where with hindsight terrible casualties had occurred amongst by my father and grandfather that no-one else could Dad’s friends. Coupled to that was the sure knowledge share. Aubrey died in Molong in 1970.

(L) Parkes Radio School, his crew in 77 Squadron RAF and outside his quarters before he was commissioned.

The chat was that Dad rebuilt a damaged radio after putting out a fire during a mission. He was able to get a signal and navigational bearings with the repaired radio. This allowed the crew to safely return. Years later, the Canadians told Dad that they tried not to let him know how bad things were outside, so Dad could concentrate without distraction inside.

Dad was very cranky that the RAF fined him for returning damaged flying gloves at the end of the war. The gloves were charred by the fire caused by the flack over Germany.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

7

Packham Pears are ready Loved by foodies around the world - Garra/Molong residents can be proud of one of their own, the Packham Triumph Pear, propagated by local orchadist, Charles Henry Packham back in the early 1900’s.

Now written in the food history books - the few remaining local trees are producing some of the best of the Packham ‘descendants’ this year. Lush, juicy and HUGE (just ask John and Val Packham about the fruits of their labour!).

Charles Henry would be most pleased with the 2021 results.

When is the Packham Pear ready to eat, cook and enjoy?

The skin of the Packham is green and the shape is not the most ‘perfect’ when standing alongside the perfect shape varieties that today’s buyers seem to prefer.

Well, that’s because the Packham

Triumph is like the region where it was created - a bit on the rough side, bumpy on the outside, but with a heart that is creamy, smooth in texture, sweet and nurturing.

The Packham is ready to eat when the skin turns a golden yellow - although with today’s cold storage processes - don’t overlook the green skins on offer. A bit more on the crunchy side but a good exercise for buiding stronger teeth.

Eat as is - let the juice moisturise your weather beaten hands - or poach, add cinamon and brown sugar, cream for a delightful dessert, add to your favourite cake recipe, or make a salad of fresh rocket leaves, baby spinach, camembert or brie, Packham Pear slices, grapes, add a sweet balsamic dressing.

Perfecto!

Phil Donato MP Member for Orange

Your voice in NSW Parliament Get in touch: M: 123 Byng Street Orange T: 02 6362 5199 E: orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Philip Donato MP, Member for Orange, produced using parliamentary entitlements

Bank St MOLONG

PH 6366 8062

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Limit of 12 per special per customer. Discount only on cash/card transactions, no accounts

8 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

SPAR Molong’s special Easter Bunny, Viv Sharpless, hopped around local schools before the holidays to present awards to children who had entered the Easter colouring-in competition.

The children of Manildra’s St. Joseph’s Primary School were thrilled to see Viv (in her Easter bonnet and suit) and pleased with the recognition.

Awards for the Cabonne 2021 Acquisitive Art Prize The winner of the Acquisitive Prize: Amanda Holman "Storms gathering Over Mt. Canobolas" Highly Commended Phillip Jeffery "Something in the Air" Lily Matthews “Dust Washes Over Drought” Primary School 1st Prize Macey Armstrong, Cumnock Public School Year 5 "Cabonne Cockatoo" 2nd Prize Sienna Lewis, Cumnock Public School Year 4 "The Hot Sun in Cabonne" 3rd Prize Te Paea Pineaha, Molong Central School "town I live

in" my expression of Place of many rocks (Sculpture) Secondary School 1st Prize Morgan Romer Molong Central School Year 12 "Swirling into Reality" 2nd Prize Lily Matthews Molong Central School Year 12 "A Witful, Lavish Land" 3rd Prize Korro Bangoura Molong Central School Year 12 "Piece of Shit" People’s Choice David Isbester “Time to go Home”

The winning entry in the 2021 Acquisitive Prize by Amanda Holman “Storms gathering over Mt. Canobolas” took the judges eye.

(L) Amanda (far right) with Cr. Libby Oldham. Cabonne Council sponsored the competition

Morgan Romer (Molong Central School) took out the 1st prize in the Secondary Schools section with a clever installation "Swirling into Reality"

Mayor Kevin Beatty (second row left)and Joy Engelman (judge of the children/youth art competition) with the winners of the 2021 competition - (l to r) David Isbester, Amanda Holman, (Cr. Libby Oldham), Phillip Jeffery, Te Paea Pineaha, Macey Armstrong, Sienna Lewis (front) , Morgan Romer (back), Lily Matthews, Korro Bangoura. A large crowd attended the awards presentation held at the Molong RSL Club which was attended by families and school reprentatives including art teachers from the Molong Central School and the Cumnock Primary School. Well done and congratulations to this year’s winners - and to Cabonne Council for supporting this fabulous art event to showcase the work of artists and students from across the region.

Macey Armstrong of the Cumnock Public School received First Prize in the Primary School section with her fantastic painting. Macey is photographed with the judge Joy Engelman who is a popular and respected Orange artist.

Lily Matthews standing with Joy Engelman and her Year 12 Art Teacher at the Molong Central School, Clare Ryan. Lily received a highly commended award for her work in the adult section and a second in the High School section. More photos next week

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

9

Remembering: Max Wood Eileen & Roger, Max & Alice Wood’s daugher and son have kindly provided this eulogy on the Wonderful Life of James Harris Maxwell Wood, or Max as he was known to all.

“Max was born in Molong on the 14th of September 1926, to Gladys and Harold Wood of “Golden Glen” Garra. He had two older sisters, Daphne and Doreen (who still lives in Newcastle) and a younger brother Stan.

Dad started school at Garra Public School at the age of 7 and left at 14.

He used to walk to school through the paddocks. He often used to relate tales of the teachers that he had at school. One in particular must have been very strict as both Dad and Aunty Doreen said he was a “horrible man” (and I seem to recall Aunty Daphne agreeing), as he used to wack all and sundry over the back of the knuckles with the edge of a ruler on frequent occasions. From what I gathered from their stories, many of the children used to play a few tricks on that teacher in order to get their own back.

Dad’s first job was on a neighbouring property helping with farm work and digging out rabbits.

He joined the Garra Junior Farmers group and his major project was growing vegetables. That must have been when he developed his vegetable growing skills as he always had a very productive and wonderful vegetable garden.

Dad used to ride his bike to Molong on Saturday afternoons and ride back at night on a gravel road without a light. When courting Mum, he used to ride his pushbike to Mum’s family home at ‘Rosedale’ at Garra, and they would drive to Molong with Mum’s Father’s horse and sulky to attend dances and balls. Sometimes, in winter, the poor old horse would be white with frost when they went home at 1-2 o’clock in the morning. When they got back to Garra, Dad would then ride his bike back to ‘Golden Glen’.

Mum and Dad loved to dance and were beautiful dancers. Dad did try to teach me when, as children we were allowed to attend the early parts of a dance in the Garra Hall, before we were packed off to sleep in the back of the car.

Dad married his school girl sweetheart on 22nd March 1947 in the Garra Methodist Church. This day was the date that Ma and Pa (Dad’s Mother and Father), were married 25 years before. Dad has said that he never actually MET Alice – he grew up with her as they lived all their young lives together in the Garra district – as babies, as school children, as teenagers and were still together after 74 years of marriage. Dad often said that he caught Mum because he could run faster than the other boys at school!

After their wedding, Dad and Mum went to Reefton (near Temora) to work on a Corriedale Sheep Stud property. He worked there for 4 years and then they returned to Garra (with a 2 year old me) at Christmas 1951 to work the family farm. I was born in Temora and Roger was born exactly 6 years later in Orange. On return to Golden Glen, Mum and Dad built the home that they remained in until the end of 2019.

After Mum had a stroke in October 2019, Dad knew that they

would have to move off the farm and they moved to Bathurst to an Aged Care Facility.

Much of Dad’s life that wasn’t filled with his farm work and sport was spent volunteering in the community. Dad was in the Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade and received his 50 year service medal with them. He was very much involved with the UPA and was a member of the foundation committee for developing and maintaining Prunus Lodge and the Hostel for Aged Care in Molong.

He was keenly involved in activities to raise funds for charity. Dad and Mum, along with a few other dedicated volunteers used to man the Driver/Reviver van in Molong right from its very beginning until just a few years ago.

Dad was a great one for quoting poetry and rhymes, especially little sayings or ditties. He had a saying for just about every occasion or happening in life. We have all been wracking our brains trying to remember some of these, but there were so many, that we couldn’t come up with a favourite – unlike Dad whose memory for these sayings and some Australian Poetry was absolutely phenomenal.

Mum and Dad loved to travel and went on quite a few bus trips to all corners of Australia eg from Kakadu and Catherine Gorge to Tasmania, and lots of places in between, from Perth to Norfolk Island. They also attended many conferences; UPA and CWA (Dad sometimes went along to these for the ride). They visited Ken and me in the UK in 1982.The flight to Sydney from Cudal with Hazelton’s airlines, in a small plane, was the first time Dad had been in an aeroplane. After we had climbed a few towers on historic buildings when they got to us in UK, I learned that Dad did not like heights!

Dad’s love of nature, the bush, the animals and birds that lived there inspired in me a similar love of these. He knew the names of all the different species of trees, varieties of birds and their calls and as children we were fascinated to see all of the things he would point out to us – such as a hole in a big granite rock that contained water and was worn smooth by the native animals drinking there.

Dad was quietly proud of Roger and me, his grandchildren, great grandchildren and nieces and nephews and all of our achievements. He was the epitomy of the true gentleman. He didn’t raise his voice to any, he allowed differences of opinion, even if he didn’t agree. He always looked out for those around him, especially those who were old or frail. He hated to see people or animals suffer. He opened doors for women and when we walked with him, he always walked on the street side of the path in order to protect us. He raised his hat to people in greeting.

In other words he was a wonderful role model to all of us, his children and their children. We will all miss him greatly.”

10 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

A Wood family gathering - Centre: Alice (red cardigan) and Max (grey suit) Roger Wood I began working with Dad in 1974 and I can’t remember when he retired, but I worked with him for at least 37 years. In that time we did not have an argument or any harsh words and if we did they would have been mine. This in itself shows Dad’s mild mannered disposition.

During his working life he wore out several 2 wheeled motorbikes and about 4 – 4 wheelers.

Several accidents and a few stitches came about from his riding bikes – recalling once when we were both on a 2 wheeler and going through a gully when it reared up and tipped Dad off the back, landing in the bottom of the gully with the dog licking his face and laughing his head off.

Another incident not involving a motorbike, but one that displayed the seriousness he showed towards his task. We were ripping rabbits on the edge of a large gully, I was in the tractor, Dad was supervising with a shovel, out jumped a rabbit and Dad took a step back to give himself some room to get a good swing at the rabbit and then all I saw were 2 feet go over the side of the gully. It was about a 6 meter drop, but this time there was no laughing, but much blinking and “where am I”, he was very lucky to get out of that with only a few bruises that day.

Dad always worked hard from the old kerosene John Deere to the modern tractors of today. He had little to do with horses “thank goodness” to his own admission. After the introduction of 4 wheelers, and as he got older he would spend half a day burr cutting or picking up paddy melons, these were his appointed jobs.

Dad took pride in the stock and had a love of fine white wool. He liked all animals, in fact I still look after the final 4 chooks that have not laid an egg for twelve months because of their age, but I carry on the tradition. Dad always

milked a cow until about 1990. We decided to sell all the cows, though there was one calf called Daisy. The kids were told Daisy would be sold, but when they came home from school there was Daisy – “she wouldn’t fit in the truck”. Daisy lived a long life of luxury, never once meeting a bull.

Dad had a great knowledge of birds and native animals and loved being out the back in the scrub at Garra.

He usually had a snake story or 2 and I couldn’t tell you how many he killed in his beloved old chook house.

Another major part of Dad’s life was his sport.

I remember a photo – taken with a box-brownie – no less, of Dad riding a pushbike with Mum on the handlebars heading to tennis in Reefton.

After they moved back to Garra Dad would organize many of the tennis tournaments and us kids learnt to play tennis too. Dad played night tennis with Uncle Roy down at the old Rec courts and every Anzac Day a tournament at the Methodists courts. Mum and Dad played with Ann and I at our home court too. Dad again played night tennis at East Molong with Uncle Stan, Norm Bloomfield and myself – good times.

Dad played cricket for Garra early on, and then with Gumble in the Saturday afternoon comp in Molong. Dad would open the batting and I would open the bowling on opposing teams, however, Dad usually won the contest.

Dad played cricket till he was 53 or 54. I only lasted till I was 30, which is testament to his love of the game.

Later in life Dad played bowls for several years, but only at a social level on a Wednesday afternoon. However, he did have a competitive streak, but a fairer man could not be found.

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QUICK CROSSWORD

REG’S BENCH As I was getting into bed, she said, "You're drunk'.

I said, "How do you know?"

She said, "you live next door."

Paddy loses his dog, he's inconsolable!

His wife says "Put an advert in the paper". 2 weeks pass and still nothing, wife asks "What did you write in the paper?"

Paddy replies "Here Boy!" My wife yelled at me that I was a lazy slob and she deserved better I couldnt believe that she woke me up at 3 in the afternoon to tell me that.

There was an old couple who went to the store. The old couple took a can of peaches. They got arrested and went in front of a judge. The judge said open up the can of peaches and count how many pieces are in the can.

The old man said there are 6 pieces.

The judge says then you have to be in jail for 6 days.

Then the old man said that his wife took a can of peas too Husband and wife were asleep in the bed when the phone rang. The husband rolled over and grabbed it.

"Hello?" He answered and listened.

"How the hell am I supposed to know?!"

He continued."that's like 300 miles from here!" Angrily he hung up the phone.

"Who was that honey?" His wife asked him.

"I don't know." He muttered." Some guy wanting to know if the coast is clear!"

Absolutely devastated. A very sad day today.

After 7 years of medical training and hard work, a very good friend of mine has been struck off after one minor indiscretion - and why during this terrible time?

He slept with one of his patients (they were good friends) and can now no longer work in the profession he loves.

What a waste of time, effort, training and money. A genuinely nice guy and a brilliant vet.

A pastor, who shall we say was “humor impaired,” attended a conference to help encourage and better equip pastors for their ministry.

Among the speakers were many well known and dynamic speakers.

One such boldly approached the pulpit and, gathering the entire crowd’s

attention, said, “The best years of my life were spent in the arms of a woman that wasn’t my wife!”

The crowd was shocked! He followed up by saying, “And that woman was my mother!”

– The crowd burst into laughter and delivered the rest of his talk, which went over quite well.

The next week, the pastor decided he’d give this humor thing a try, and use that joke in his sermon.

As he surely approached the pulpit that sunny Sunday, he tried to rehearse the joke in his head. It suddenly seemed a bit foggy to him.

Getting to the microphone he said loudly, “The greatest years of my life were spent in the arms of another woman that was not my wife!”

The congregation inhaled half the air in the room.

After standing there for almost 10 seconds in the stunned silence, trying to recall the second half of the joke, the pastor finally blurted out, “…and I can’t remember who she was!”

A man asked his doctor if he thought he’d live to be a hundred.

The doctor asked the man, “Do you smoke or drink?”

“No,” he replied, “I’ve never done either.”

“Do you gamble, drive fast cars, and fool around with women? ” inquired the doctor.

“No, I’ve never done any of those things either.”

“Well then,” said the doctor, “what do you want to live to be a hundred for?

Solutions page 14

ACROSS 1 Quarter of a pint (4) 3 London rail terminus (8) 9 Labour (7) 10 Quibble (5) 11 Sandy common (5) 12 Systematic procedure (6) 14 Quarrelsome (13) 17 Altitude (6) 19 Concise, pithy (5) 22 Criminal organisation (5) 23 Pariah (7) 24 Award for selling many records (4,4) 25 Among (4) DOWN

1 Make progress (3,5) 2 Long-necked woolly animal (5) 4 Lights (13) 5 Implicitly understood (5) 6 Pasta dish (7) 7 Proficient (4)

8 A depth of six feet (6) 13 Beaten (8) 15 Joyous (7) 16 Shrewd (6) 18 Stately, splendid (5)

20 Domain (5) 21 Self-satisfied (4)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Language involved n her web (6) 4 Is saga about tennis star? (6) 8 Raises backs (5) 9 Rail cut may be cut short (7) 10 Sausages from a Greek island (7) 11 A toff - one who acts for another (5) 12 Glasses needed to see ships? (9) 17 A civic dignitary for a month or more? (5) 19 A terribly nice part of the bible - very old (7) 21 Having any time free is a convenience (7) 22 School housing head of Little John (5) 23 Kings and queens coming from Stroud (6) 24 Remained sober, so we hear (6) DOWN 1 Sarah's resolved to annoy (6) 2 Dogs start barking in front of birds (7) 3 Poems misquoted in Surrey? (5) 5 A letter from Berlin, perhaps, may be

relevant (7) 6 Financial interest in the post? (5) 7 Listen out for openings (6) 9 Scout turning to girl as usual (9) 13 It's more difficult holding one that's stronger (7) 14 We enter in style,

somehow, in a charming manner (7) 15 I'm standing by agreement with striking effect (6) 16 Made amends for a noted error (6) 18 Return and surrender (5) 20 One hundred remaining to be split (5)

WORD SEARCH

SODUKU Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9, with no number repeated.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

11

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MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

Daryl Byrne

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CABLE/ PIPE LOCATIONS TREES LOPPED / REMOVED TRENCHING / YARDS CLEANED PHONES / CABLES REPAIRED PHONE / TV EXTENSIONS ANY TIME ANY WHERE

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Smash Repairs Quality Smash Repairs

• Insurance & Private Work • All vehicle makes & models • Custom work and paint

• Hotrods/Restoration/Vintage vehicles • Motor bikes/boats and all marine vessels

Ph: 6366 8208

(m)0468 962 162

14 Enterprise Place Molong NSW 2866 info@molongsmashrepairs.com.au

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WELDING & FABRICATION FIXED & MOBILE PLANT MAINTENANCE MOBILE WELDING SERVICE

PROMPT, PROFESSIONAL & RELIABLE SERVICE

0409 041 659 email: srdwelding@bigpond.com

6366 5220

Sam & Jacqui Duncan

Go to www.issuu.com/molongexpress

Click on the latest issue & click Subscribe for only $0.75c an issue ($37.50 per year) MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

13

CLASSIFIEDS

that work !

PHONE: 02 6366 8017 • Email: molongex@bigpond.net.au

POSITIONS VACANT

PUBLIC NOTICES

Cumnock Markets

at the Crossroads Park (next to Playground, main street)

St Joseph's Catholic primary School Molong NSW

Learning Support/ Teacher's Aide

Applications close 6 April 2021 Part Time Temporary Position 21 hours per fortnight Working With Children Check required Commencing 19.4.2021 - 17.1 2.2021 Applications are invited for the above position.

Purpose of the Position To contribute to the provision of the Catholic education through: • Providing effective assistance to teachers, students and school executive • Supporting the delivery of learning through in-class support • Supporting the ethos of the Catholic School through word and action The role of the Teacher's Aide is to work under the direction of a teacher to support students learning and development by applying teaching and learning strategies to students with learning needs, disabilities or disorders. They will also assist the teacher with the monitoring and management of student behaviours as well as undertake logistical tasks to ensure the efficient operation of the classroom Further details of this position may be obtained by contacting the school on {02) 6366 8306 Applications are to be submitted to: The Principal m.french@bthcatholic.edu.au St Joseph's School Edward St MOLONG 2866

SHORT TERM WORK AVAILABLE

SATURDAY 17 APRIL

9 a.m. to 12 noon

Home-made cakes, jams, chutneys & lots of local market treasures in a friendly country atmosphere.

Winter is coming ... But there is no need to hibernate and lose touch with your community.

Molong residents: Enjoy croquet, golf, disc golf, bowls, tennis, enjoy a meal or coffee with friends, a drink and meal at the RSL club, bowling club, Freemasons or Telegraph Hotel, support your local footy, hockey, soccer..

Get ready for the MAG Molong Village Markets - long weekend in June.

Cumnock residents: Enjoy your bowling club, meals and coffee at the General Store, bowls, golf, markets.

Manildra residents: Enjoy a game of bowls, golf, tennis, follow your local footy, eat out at the bowlo, hotel, Coffee on Kiewa, take-away at the Servo etc.

Cudal residents: Enjoy bowls, the local bowling club, Corden’s General Store, food at the local cafe.

There’s plenty to do in your own town ... and surrounding towns and villages in Cabonne Country.

MEMORIAL The family of the (Late)

UNITING CHURCH

Of Edward Street, Molong advise we will be having a

Sunday 18 April

Rob Burgess

Memorial Gathering 0n Saturday 24/4/2O21 At 2.00pm in the Molong Lawn Cemetery.

Friends and Relatives welcome.

We will be mindful of Covid 19 Regulations and also, should you need to be seated, please bring a chair.

The Molong Express, on behalf of local and district families extend sincere sympathy to Alice and the Wood family on the passing of Max. A kind gentleman, Max led a worthwhile life as a local farmer, sportsman, church member and community leader.

We would also like to extend our thoughts to Ted Lamb and the Lamb family on the passing of Allan Lamb - a former resident of Shield’s Lane and student of the Molong Central School.

QUICK CROSSWORD

14

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

Welcome MOLONG & DISTRICT BAPTIST CHURCH

Now streaming 10Sunday am services Sunday WorshipSunday Service & School 10 am Visit www.mdbc.org.au - click online.

Weekly Activities on livestream, to For linkAll toAge the Groups online Wayne Spencer (Pastor) Ph: 63669376 platform.

MOLONG COMMUNITY CHURCH YOU ARE NOT A MISTAKE

Sunday 10 am: Celebration & Sunday School

All Welcome

For more information contact Deon Stapelberg Ph: 0498 659 703 1 Edward St, Molong (opp Police Stn)

Sunday 9 May - Spoil your mum Shop local, coffee local, lunch or dine local, enjoy local in your town and village and help ‘local’ to grow.

Click on the latest issue & click Subscription for $0.75c an issue CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Heather Woodhouse 63668218 Helen Houghton 63668020

Wednesday Night 7 pm: Connect Group

Go to www.issuu.com/ molongexpress

exactly as it was printed on your phone, tablet or computer

Manildra 9 am Rev Ross Godfrey Molong 11.00 am Rev Ross Godfrey

(Ages 3 & up)

Suit young person with ute. Cutting burrs and rolling up wire.

Ph: 0457 601 997

ONLINE Get the paper

CHURCH NOTICES

Claim the date – 2020 Send your 2021 dates to molongexpress@bigpond.net.au

April 15 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 17 Cumnock Markets 9 - 12 May 3 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 6 Molong Men’s Shed meets 6 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 11 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club 13 Molong Advancement Group RSL 20 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 22 Cumnock Markets 9 - 12 June 3 Molong Men’s Shed meets 3 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 7 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 8 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club 10 Molong Advancement Group RSL 14 Molong Village Markets Molong Rec Ground 17 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 19 Cumnock Markets 9 - 12 July 1 Molong Men’s Shed meets 5 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 8 Molong Advancement Group RSL 13 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club August 2 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 5 Molong Men’s Shed meets 10 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club September 2 Molong Men’s Shed meets 6 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 14 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club 19 157th Molong Annual Show, Showground 8am October 7 Molong Men’s Shed AGM 12 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club November 1 Molong Show Wind-Up Meeting, Showground 7.30pm

Sport

Rugby League

Molong Bowls Annabelles Kitchen

Come long and enjoy a delicious meal

made by Annabelle and her team. 6pm Saturdays - take-away also available.

Early season match fitness saw the Molong Bulls go down to Trundle on Sunday. Molong largely dominated in the first half but an agile Trundle team scored a string of tries in the second to win 32-10.

Meanwhile at Manildra Mully reports that Peak Hill came with

Molong Women’s Bowls Ladies Pennants Tuesday 6/4/21 Tuesday’s Pennants team consisted of Hazel Hamilton, Marianne Riley, Bron Trethowan and Janelle Fessey. The team was scheduled to compete against Cowra Bowling Club Ladies Bowling Club at Manildra Bowling Club.

The game was very competitive with many great bowls put down by both teams. As an example, Molong team member Bron Trethowan touched the jack and continued to the ditch deemed a live bowl, securing the point. Next Molong player, Marianne also touched the jack and continued to rest against Bron’s bowl in the ditch. As bad luck would have it the second bowl

Bulls go down but Manildra comes back

propelled jack away from the two Molong live bowls, to the opposition who ended secure a vital win for the end.

The Cowra ladies Manildra Bowls took the lead half way through the game and could not be pinned back, resulting in a Cowra Firstly, the bowlo held their win on the day.

AGM on Sunday with a nice result Also, a big thankyou to all the lady’s at Manildra achieved financially. for their hospitality and providing competitive The club is on the way up and greens. we have a wonderful committee with Ben Allcorn back as President,

a very fast side and soon jumped ahead 10-nil.

“But the Luke Petrie coached Rhinos showed staying power finishing well to win 26-14.

“Can’t go into who I thought was the best because it was a great all round effort from all.” Mully

Graeme Fliedner as Vice President and new Treasurer Margaret Rodwell with her finger on the pulse. A very strong committee is in place as well.

Molong Golf Ladies There were 5 ladies at golf on Wednesday enjoying 9 holes. Next Wednesday 21st we will be traveling to Yeoval for our monthly combined clubs day, 9.00am for 9.30 tee off.

Sunday Mixed Thirteen hardy players endured the cold wind and a couple of showers to play a nine hole stableford on Sunday, with Quinney being the winner with twenty one points and Balley showing some form again and coming second on eighteen points.

Apparently he is safe from the sharp pencil of the handicapper for his next game.

Troy didn‘t want it mentioned, so I won’t say what happened on the par 3 twelfth hole but golfers sometimes yell out “fore” but Troy quietly said “five”.

Darren has found out that golf is a hard game to figure.

One Sunday he goes out and he’ll slice it and

Croquet

shank it, hit it into all the trees and miss every green. The next Sunday he goes out and for no reason at all he really stinks at it.

President Bro is still out of action but should shortly be released from hospital.

Some golfers are looking forward to his return to Sunday golf as they think he might be a bit rusty and they’ll have someone to beat.

He told me his Doctor said he can’t play golf. I replied “oh, he’s played golf with you, too, eh.

Golf is on again this Sunday at 8.30am for 9am and hopefully the weather will be kind to us.

We are going to play a two person Ambrose, draw for partners.

You don’t have to be a golfer to come and have a hit because plenty of us who play certainly aren’t golfers. But we have a good time so come and join us.

We have started playing at 3.00pm now. New players always welcome at the Molong Bowling Club every Saturday afternoon.

LANDMARK TABLELANDS LIVESTOCK

We offer Auction Plus assessments on both sheep and cattle.

Direct paddock sales, over the hook rates, Weekly stock sales in Carcoar (CTLX), Forbes, Dubbo & Wagga saleyards. Contact one of our Landmark Tablelands Livestock team.

Paul Glynn (Molong & surrounding districts) – 0428 168 638 CATTLE 6 APRIL 2021

The quality of the yarding was back a little though there were still good numbers of young cattle to suit the feeders and processors. There was also a good selection of well finished grown steers and heifers, and there were around 350 cows yarded, which were mostly in prime condition.

Most of the regular buyers were in attendance and operating. Young cattle to the trade were 8c dearer with prime vealers selling from 425c to 492c/kg. Prime steer yearlings sold from 400c to 481c, while the prime heifer yearlings sold to 466c/ kg. Feeder steers were 7c to 12c cheaper, while the feeder heifers were 18c to 22c/kg cheaper. Feeder steers sold from 410c to 476c while the feeder heifers sold from 390c to 448c/kg. Young cattle to the restockers remained strong with the young steers selling to 550c, while the young heifers sold to 538c/kg. Steer yearlings to the restockers sold to 488c/kg.

Grown steers and heifers were firm to 5c dearer with the prime grown steers selling from 320c to 410c/kg. The prime grown heifers sold from 310c to 400c/kg. Cows were 3c cheaper with the 2 and 3 scores selling from 240c to 300c/kg. The prime heavy weight cows sold from 285c to 320c to average 310c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to 315c/kg.

SHEEP 31 March 2021 It was a very good quality yarding with good numbers of properly finished heavy weight lambs along with odd pens of trade weights.

There were also a few lots of well finished Merino lambs along with some lightweight Merinos to suit the restockers. Most of the usual buyers were in attendance including the return of a southern processor though a major supermarket operator remains absent.

Trade lambs were firm to $3 cheaper with the shorn lambs selling from $160 to $210 to average between 830c and 860c/kg cwt. Heavy weight lambs were firm to $4 dearer with the 24kg to 30kg lambs selling from $200 to $244 to average between 785c and 825c while the lambs over 30kg sold from $246 to $254 to average 775c/kg cwt. Merino lambs were $10 dearer on quality with the trade weights selling from $170 to $193 while heavier weight Merino lambs sold for $203/head. Crossbred lambs to the restockers were $3 to $6 dearer selling from $148 to $195 while young Merino lambs to the restockers sold from $60 to $113/head. Hoggets sold to $216/head.

It was a mixed yarding of mutton where most grades were $6 to $8/head dearer. Merino ewes sold from $128 to $176 while crossbred ewes sold from $125 to $240/head. Merino wethers sold from $140 to $210/head. Carcass prices ranged from 630c to 675c/kg cwt. The restockers were active paying $139 and $187/ head for Merino ewes.

MOLONG BULLS 2021 SEASON DRAW FIRST GRADE & LEAGUE TAG DATE

DAY

OPPOSITION

WHERE

11-04-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Trundle

Molong (Home)

18-04-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Canowindra

Canowindra (Away)

24-04-2021

Saturday

Molong vs Cargo

Cargo (Away)

01-05-2021

Saturday

Molong vs Peak Hill

Peak Hill (Away)

09-05-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Grenfell

Molong (Home)

16-05-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Manildra

Manildra (Away)

23-05-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Eugowra

Molong (Home)

30-05-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Condobolin

Condobolin (Away)

06-06-2021

Molong BYE

13-06-2021

General Bye for Long Weekend

20-06-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Trundle

Trundle (Away)

26-06-2021

Saturday

Molong vs Canowindra

Molong (Home)

04-07-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Cargo

Molong (Home)

10-07-2021

Saturday

Molong vs Peak Hill

Molong (Home)

18-07-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Grenfell

Grenfell (Away)

25-07-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Manildra

Molong (Home)

01-08-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Eugowra

Eugowra (Away)

08-08-2021

Sunday

Molong vs Condobolin

Molong (Home)

15-08-2021

Molong BYE

FINALS Week One

Saturday, 21st August and Sunday, 22nd August 2021

Week Two

Saturday, 28th August and Sunday, 29th August 2021

Week Three

Sunday, 5th September 2021

Grand Final

Sunday, 12th September 2021

It’s your club!

22-24 RIDDELL ST MOLONG

P: 6366 8105

e:admin@molongrsl.com.au

BISTRO

Service NSW Dine & Discover Vouchers Accepted BAR: Mon Tues 3.00 - 8.00 WED 1.00 - BISTRO Mon -Tues 6-8 pm Wed-Thu 6-8.30 pm 10.00 THU 1.00 - 10.00 FRI 1.00 - 11.00 Fri-Sat 5.30-8.30 pm SAT 1.00 - 10.00 SUN 12.00 - 8.00 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021

15

Rare Opportunity - Large Land Release!

Auction Friday 14th May Orange, “Kangaroo Vale”, “The Weir” & “Billy’s Gully”, Adair Drive 152 William St, Bathurst at One of the Orange regions only large land releases in recent times. Here is your chance to buy that vacant land you have dreamt of. 10:30am

These blocks all offer their own piece of paradise, be it breath taking views, fertile grazing land or just the space you desire.

Ben Redfern We offer 3 separate blocks, “Billy’s Gully”, “The Weir” & “Kangaroo Vale”. Ranging from 7ha to 101Ha, these blocks are sealed road 0457 770 062

frontage, power connected and building entitlement. All within an easy drive less than 10 mins from the city of Orange.

Michael Kennedy 0428 243 222

Our appraisals are on the house so what are you waiting for?

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Ben Redfern 0457 770 062

Sale

The Perfect Hobby Farm - 100 Acres!

Auction Friday 30 April Lidster “Palmerston” 152 William St ‘Palmerston’ homestead has four large bedrooms, open Bathurst at 10:30am

plan living, modern kitchen with excellent appliances, library/gym plus study, three bathrooms, wonderful View outdoor entertaining areas and indoor heated pool. By Appointment “Palmerston” will run approximately 25 breeding cows Peter Crampton or equivalent and has excellent infrastructure 0409 132 269

Ray White Emms Mooney

34 Bank Street Molong | 02 6366 9606 | raywhiteemc.com

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MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 April 2021