Molong Express 22 Dec 2022

Connecting the Community since 1876 AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

THURSDAY 22 December 2022

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

Molong Creek Railway Bridge Pressure mounts to correct a massive design failure

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The Thomas family of Molong - ‘And, then there were 16’

(Above) Brothers Sam (Maurice) Thomas and brother Barry Thomas.

The late Les Thomas now deceased, was another brother and well respected Molong resident who worked with the late Trevor Doulman and Malcolm Orringe, Herbie Crane and others training race horses (with many winners).

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Ph: 5325 5040 2 Bank St MOLONG 2 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 Decemberr 2022

(Above) Adrian Pryde, Carol Whiley, Barry Thomas, Keith Pryde - Descendants of the Thomas/ Whitehead family of Molong - with Molong Museum President, Bob Sullivan at the family presentation of a plaque to the people of town and district in memory of their family members.

Adrian and Keith Pryde are the sons of popular mine host, Hazel Pryde (nee Thomas of the Molong Freemasons Hotel and Stuart Town ‘Ironbark’.) Carol is the daughter of Maurice ‘Sammy’ Thomas of Molong. Barry is the youngest of the 16 children born to Netta Irene and Frederick Harold Thomas. Other family members are listed on the plaque and will be remembered by many family and friends in the local and district communities.

Adrian Pryde and Rozzi Smith (Molong Express) will be completing a project of the family history in 2023.

Netta Irene Thomas (nee Whitehead) was one of Molong’s earliest women (1904 - 1987) who raised large families often giving birth to one baby each year. Netta (gave birth to a family of 16) she worked hard, did not complain, probably had a full week, like other women of the time, standing over a hot copper heated from a woodfire underneath, washing mountains of clothes for her large family.

After hanging out baskets of washing to dry, there would be hungry mouths to feed, food to be made, homemade soups and stews boiling on the woodfired stove, cakes and damper in the oven, heavy iron kettle boiling on the stove - ready for when Netta could sit down for a welcomed cuppa and a breather. Monday was usually washing day for Molong’s early women, Tuesday ironing day, Wednesday baking day, Thursday washing, ironing, baking ... Friday shopping day, Saturday and Sunday - same as every other day.

For many women across Cabonne Country Sunday was also family church service day, often followed by a picnic with other families - or a baked lamb shoulder lunch served with home-grown vegies. Any leftover meat was served up the next day in school lunches ... and if any left on Monday night, minced and made into a family pie (with home-made pastry) for dinner.

Somehow these women kept on going - with each day welcoming the morning sun wondering if she could put food on the table for her growing family, perhaps feeding one baby whilst another was advising it was ready for birthing.

A message to the local midwife to come quickly was just another job for the day followed by hours of hard labour. . In later times, a quick trip to the Molong Cottage Hospital eventuated where nurses in starched white uniforms and bonnets conducted the deliveries. For Netta - her final ending to childbirth years came with the birth of Barry born in 1948.

Women like this were adored by their families, loved and respected. Their contribution to life and the local community was often overlooked by the times they lived in - and communities who expected that women’s place was in the home.

In later years, Netta and Fred and their family lived in Kite Street (a cottage no longer standing).

Fred ran a Pool Room (not the swimming type - one of long tables, cues and balls) located at the time on the corner of Bank and Gidley Streets currently housing the NRMA office and QT Beauty.

Two of Fred’s pool tables are still in town - one at the Molong RSL Club still in full use. Apparently the other was purchased

by Benny Caldwell.

The remarkable Netta, after raising her family, worked as a cleaner at the Molong Central School.

She passed away in 1987 at 83 years of age ... and some 19 years after Fred.

42 Bank Street Molong 6366 8800

Visit all our listings at townsendrealestate.com.au

Townsend & Molong Real Estate will be closed from 12:00pm On Friday 23 December till Monday 8:30am 9 January 2023.

facebook.com/ MolongRealestate

S FO A R LE

$425,000 - $450,000 Agent : Stephen Townsend Cottage Like Character Currently tenanted at $425.00 per week until October 2023, this property would be ideal as your first home or as the perfect investment.

With three large bedrooms, all with decorative cornices, the home takes on a country cottage-like charm. Enjoy a newly renovated kitchen and beautiful views of Molong from the windows in the large living room area.

Located in the higher part of the heart of Molong, the property is within walking distance of both schools, adjacent to a park and just three short blocks away from Molong's main street, shops & cafes.

LE FO A R S E

$420.00 per week Property Manager: Kerrianne Kelly Two-Bedroom Unit in CBD Location This two-bedroom unit is located in a quiet complex within walking distance to Orange High School, Elephant Park and Duntry League Golf Course. Both bedrooms are reasonably sized and have built in wardrobes. Open plan kitchen and living space, one main bathroom and car space, as well the unit has a split system of heating and air conditioning, perfect for the everchanging weather that we experience here in Orange.

12/98 Kenna Street, Orange

LE FO A R S E

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Property Manager: Kerrianne Kelly

Quiet Complex This two bedroom brick home is located off a quiet street and is within walking distance to the Robin Hood Hotel, Orange High School and Duntry League Golf Course. Both bedrooms have built in wardrobes, one main bathroom with a separate toilet.

The living and dining are combined, with the kitchen off to the side, presenting an open plan space. The kitchen comes with electric cooking and the home has reverse cycle air con throughout.

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42 BANK STREET, MOLONG

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GUDRUN RUEHMKORFF INSPECTIONS OFFICER

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

3

Molong Creek Railway Bridge Pressure mounts to correct a massive design failure

Original timber railway bridge circa 1880's (Baxter & Saddler, Contractors National Library Photo)

Pressure is mounting to finally deal with what has for decades been widely recognised as a major contributing factor to the level of flooding in Molong’s main street and surrounding precincts.

Replacement of the bridge has now been placed high on the agenda of main street business representatives and the Molong Flood Recovery Advisory Group.

Federal Member for Calare, Andrew Gee has already called on the NSW Government to urgently fix the rail bridge, and road bridge over the Molong Creek and to modify them to minimise impacts of storms and floods.

Expect to hear more on this in the lead up to the State elections due in March

Image credit: Murra Warra Wind Farm Project Co Pty Ltd

Kerrs Creek Wind Farm Project RES Australia are proposing to develop a wind farm project in Kerrs Creek, approximately 21km north of Orange, NSW. The wind farm will consist of 63 turbines with a total size of up to 550MW which will supply between 250,000 and 325,000 homes.

If developed, construction is proposed for late 2026, with an operational life of 35+ years.

4

Meet the project team RES are holding a community drop-in information session to provide the community more information on the project: • When: Monday 23 January 2023 2:00-7:00pm • Where: Euchareena Hall, Nubrigyn St, Euchareena Find out more: www.kerrscreek-renewableenergy.com

info@kerrscreek-renewableenergy.com

1800 118 737

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

The reconstructed steel replacement railway bridge circa 1980's

Some thoughts from an Express source learned in such things....

The original railway bridge opposite the caravan park in town was constructed of timber - this structure served very well for the rail traffic and loadings for just on about 100 yrs until it was replaced in or around 1980 with a new steel rail bridge structure including concrete supporting pier groups.

It is to be noted that the original timber railway bridge structure did not have any bridge superstructure above the level of the rail tracks. Therefore in FLOOD conveyance respects flood waters could flow both under the railway bridge openings and when more significant flood events occurred flood waters were able to flow immediately over the steel rail tracks.

The reconconstructed steel replacement railway bridge circa 1980's, whilst designed very well to cope with the imposed rail traffic loads and STRUCTURAL LOADS imposed by flood waters and the considerable flood debris loads imposed, it's redesign and reconstruction DID NOT ADEQUATELY consider or allow for the flood events that would overtop the railwal tracks BECAUSE the new replacement railway bridge, as it now exists was designed with significant additional structural steel girders ABOVE the height of the railway tracks THEREBY significantly impeading flood waters and flows which run deep enough to overtop the railway tracks.

It is also very noteworthy that the Molong lower residential area in Betts Street and surroundings together with all of the current business area buildings existed in the year that this railway bridge was reconstructed.

The imposed flood risk to these numerous properties, their occupants and business

assets were not given adequate consideration with respect to any negative flooding or flood flow modification resulting from the railway bridge redesign and reconstruction.

This reconstructed railway bridge, therefore, is considered to have less flood flow capicity during severe flood events, as recently experienced in Molong than the old timber railbridge structure that it replaced.

The railway asset owner should therefore accept reponsibility for such flooding consequences and urgently take steps to reconstruct this "flood inadequate waterway area railway bridge" by providing a rail bridge that caters adequately for similar flood events to reduce the considerable NEGATIVE FLOOD related impacts and consequences thereof upon resident and business owners/ operators in Molong.

A flood conveyance waterway area BENEATH any upgraded railway bridge MUST BE AT LEAST TWICE that or greater than that which currently exists and that any replacement railway bridge MUST NOT be designed with any structural elements rising above the existing rail track profile to ensure that when severe flood events occur they can pass over the rail tracks with minimal flood or debris blocking consequences.

These photos from the November flood - graphically demonstrate the design flaws of the current bridge and its propensity to block the creek with debris

Some good news for Christmas.

It’s been a tough few years, hasn’t it? Droughts, mouse plagues, COVID, floods, and that’s as a community, individually we would all have our own troubles as well.

So, how about some good news for a change?

This Sunday we celebrate Christmas, and over the years it has become many different things for each of us; holidays on the beach, time with the family, big dinners, and don’t forget the presents. I would just like to take a moment and share with you why I celebrate Christmas and the good news that it brings to me.

Just over two thousand years ago an angel announced the birth of a boy – Jesus. We know the story - Mary and Joseph, little baby Jesus in a manger. But listen to what the angel announced on his arrival Luke 2:10 – ‘I bring good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you’ That’s what I celebrate, that good news of joy has come into the world – and it was found in Jesus, and he came as our saviour – that’s where the joy is.

Jesus came to bring us back into relationship with God, no matter who you are, or what you’ve done –

Jesus came for you – good news of joy for all people.

So, when times are tough, I can take comfort in good news of joy – I can celebrate Jesus coming into the world to save me, to bring me into a relationship with God. If you would like to join me on Christmas day – 9:00am I will be celebrating this good news at the Baptist Church – I would love to share and celebrate this with you.

Rev. Wayne Spencer, Pastor – Molong Baptist Church

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

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CABONNE COUNCIL FLOOD UPDATE DECEMBER 2022

The last few weeks have been devastating for many across Cabonne . The communities of Canowindra, Cudal, Eugowra, Manildra, Molong, surrounding localities and rural landholders that have been impacted by the worst flooding event that has been experienced in recent history.

Tragically, two Cabonne residents lost their lives during this event. Cabonne Council, and the wider Cabonne community, offer our deepest condolences to the family, friends and community of Eugowra of Dianne and Les. Businesses, residential properties, Council infrastructure have been damaged, and in some instances, completely destroyed throughout this event.

The response from emergency services, volunteers, our communities, and Council staff has been absolutely amazing. I know that each Cabonne resident has been impacted by the events that took place in November and we can be so proud of the whole of our Cabonne communities’ efforts in supporting both the clean-up and recovery following these events.

Unfortunately, it will be a long recovery from this event and the reality is it is up to us to work together in the recovery. I, with the support of my fellow Councillors and Council staff, have spent the last weeks actively lobbying federal and state politicians for support for our communities as we move into recovery.

This has included road conditions, telecommunications, the voluntary purchasing scheme, better emergency warnings, releasing the back-home grants, additional funding for community assets, funding support for small-business and rural landholders, planning support for temporary housing, clean-up support from Defence, temporary business relocations, and both short and long-term solutions to the Molong Rail Bridge.

Already we have seen evidence of understanding and commitment in responsiveness across all levels of government in providing support for some of these matters, particularly in relation to additional road crew support.

This update is designed to provide the Cabonne community with an update following the flood event, and to outline some of the priorities and next steps in our recovery. Council has been working on solutions to some of these matters for long periods of time – but we need your support. We must work together in continuing to fight to see improvements to better prepare our communities for the next event.

I would also like to assure our people in our shire that have not been the focus of the recent disaster response, that we have not forgotten our responsibilities to provide services and support to you and recognise notwithstanding the flooding, we are all coming back from many challenges due to covid and significant weather events leading up to this event.

Council has the slogan, “Working with our communities”. In the last month, I truly believe this has been the case. We will not give up on our communities, and we will continue to work with you all as we not only recover from this flooding event, but as our Cabonne region continues to prosper and grow.

Finally, I want to wish you and your families a safe and happy Christmas and New Year. It will be a very difficult Christmas period for many across Cabonne, and I encourage you to reach out to support services if needed.

Actions taken to date: Whole of Shire Since the flooding events of 13 and 14 November 2022, Council has been actively working in each town and village impacted.

Council staff immediately supported cleanup efforts, including kerb-side rubbish collection, free waste disposal, reconnecting water and wastewater services, and provision of on-the-ground support to the community.

Throughout the recovery phase, Council is actively working with key government agencies - notably Resilience NSW - in the ongoing coordination of clean-up and waste disposal, undertaking building assessments, and facilitation of recovery meetings with community groups and businesses. Council has worked to ensure that impacted residents in all areas across Cabonne have access to support services, and the advice they need to assist in their recovery.

Through support provided by the NSW Government, Council and Transport for NSW have also been working on improvements to the road network throughout Cabonne. This includes an intensive pothole program, resheeting works, and road maintenance.

Council has been focusing these efforts on roads heavily utilised during harvest periods, but this has and will extend to roads right across the Shire.

Council received funding to host a series of events in Cudal, Molong, Canowindra, Cumnock, Nashdale, Cargo, Eugowra, Manildra, and Yeoval. This funding will also support events in 2023 in Mullion Creek, Lewis Ponds, Borenore and Ophir.

The Emergency Response On the night of Sunday, 13 November 2022, a significant weather event impacted the Cabonne Local Government Area.

First impacting the community of Canowindra, this event quickly caused flooding in Molong, Cudal, Manildra, and then into Eugowra on the morning of 14 November 2022. At the height of the event, more than 60 roads were closed across Cabonne.

Council with NSW Police Force opened the Emergency Operations Centre from 4:00am on 14 November 2022. This followed several hours of coordination of resources remotely, including State Emergency Services and Council workforce.

During the event, early warning of flooding, was one third of the timeframe of usual flood events.

The ferocity of water flow during the event caused issues of response from agencies to direct resources to those areas that needed assistance. Roadways into townships were impassable during these early hours, with many of the local volunteers being prevented from attending the emergency.

Aerial support was called in the early hours of Monday morning to assist with the rescue of isolated and those requiring rescue. At its peak, 18 helicopters were in operation across the Cabonne area assisting with evacuations.

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MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

Actions taken to date: Canowindra Cabonne Council has called on the NSW Government to assist in funding for an update to the Canowindra Flood Study and Risk Management Plan, with the latest flood study being from 2007.

An update to the flood study will assist with the development of new mitigation measures for the township.

Actions taken to date: Eugowra Voluntary Purchase Cabonne Council had called for expression of interest for voluntary purchase of high-risk residences on the Eugowra floodplain. Six applications have been received following the recent flood. Council has made a call to the State Government to extend and accelerate the program.

Puzzle Flat Creek Flood Levee The recent completion of the Puzzle Flat Creek flood levee provided protection to the Eugowra Showground which was prominent in the evacuation and initial recovery efforts for the town. Flood mapping has been completed for the Puzzle Flat Creek Levee which will assess the expected performance of the levee during flood.

Flood Study Cabonne Council has called on the NSW Government to assist in funding for an update to the Eugowra Flood Study and Risk Management Plan on the back of this unprecedented flood event. An update to the flood study and plan will provide upto-date data and mapping which will assist in delivering further flood mitigation works to reduce future impacts to the community.

Mayor Beatty with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

Actions taken to date: Manildra

Actions taken to date: Molong

Cabonne Council has been working with Manildra Group Mill to address the impacts of the flooding from the Mandagery Creek. The damage in this area is extensive, and the solutions will require environmental permits to undertake any remediation works.

Rail Bridge

Works have also begun to clear and address damage at Jack Huxley Oval and tennis courts, with help from volunteers and local contractors.

Actions taken to date: Cudal Cudal does not currently have a flood study for the Boree Creek floodplain, however Council will be undertaking consultation with the community to develop a flood study for the town. A flood study provides mitigation strategies against flooding, but can also provide constraints for future development within the floodplain.

Clean up works have begun in Boree Creek to remove flood debris, particularly upturned trees that could cause issues during future flooding works.

Council have worked with Service NSW and Service Australia to provide support in the community accessing advice and guidance regarding assistance in pop up face to face.

Council has made several representations to the State with regards to improvements sought for rail infrastructure in Molong. This has included several onsite meetings with the Deputy Premier, Transport Minister and representatives of the NSW rail maintenance contractors. The message from these meetings has been that the proposed solution is complex and will take time to deliver.

In the meantime, Council Officers have developed a project plan to dredge underneath the rail bridge so to maximise the under-structure area to promote water flow. Unfortunately, the ongoing high creek flows caused by ongoing rainfall have prevented machinery to the site.

Voluntary Purchase Cabonne Council has been undertaking voluntary purchase of residential properties within the Molong Floodplain, with four high risk properties being purchased and demolished since 2011. Council has programmed two further properties in its 2022/23 Operational Plan for Molong, dependent on funding administered through the Department Planning and Environment.

The latest round of expressions of interest called in October 2022 resulted in six properties being considered. All of these properties have been affected by the latest flood event. Council has made a call to the State Government to extend and accelerate the program.

Flood Study Council, through co-funding from the Department Planning and Environment has commenced a revision for the flood study and floodplain risk management plan for the Molong Township. This project is in progress, and is expected to be completed by the end of the 2023 calendar year.

An update to the flood study and plan will provide up-to-date data and mapping which will assist in delivering further flood mitigation works to reduce the impacts to the community.

council@cabonne.nsw.gov.au

(02) 6392 3200

@cabonne.council

Information on flood support can be found at: www.cabonne.nsw.gov.au/Floods MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

7

Bank St MOLONG PH 6366 8062

8

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

Town Talk Walking along Bank Street on Sunday night the Express noticed a few changes.

Kaye and Phillip of Wing Hang Chinese Restaurant and Take-Away have reopened after the November flood. Understandably it takes a lot of courage to re-open after the trauma and massive clean-up. However, as they do - Kaye and Phillip are devoted to the town and the residents - so they are back - and in time for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The bottom pub (Freemasons) has also reopened with the lights and Chrissie decorations adding colour to the corner. We hear there have been a few fabulous functions at the Freebo including a Christmas Toy night, the recent car and bike show with entertainment and food at the pub, and guest chef, John, weaving his magic with a delicious chicken dish. Just shows what can be achieved after the November flood surged through this Molong icon - destroying the dining room, kitchen, and once again forcing the removal of Kim’s new black carpet areas. Where is Kim? Read on further.

Bank Street looks wonderful at night - Robbie’s Molong Stores looks amazing with Rob’s style of Christmas decorations. The top pub (Telegraph Hotel) was also lit up after a day’s strong trade and food orders. Notice Jamie (Chef at the Freemasons) is cooking at the Telegraph with Mario and assistant Carol.

Then my little dog and I heard laughing coming from somewhere near IGA. The identifiable laugh of Lynn of Mid-West Signs and ‘Hoppa’ both residents of Molong and loved by all - could hardly be mistaken in the dark of the night.

Following the happy laughter, the Express found the pair, Hoppa up the ladder, Lynn handing him long white paper to place on the cane shop window. What were they doing? Read on further.

Right along Bank and Gidley Street (Wildflower and Summerhouse) Molong was enjoying full Christmas colour and joy. From the wonderful Christmas decorating effort of Molong families a few weeks ago (using their own decorations, trees and paintings - and love of their town) to Hoppa and Lynn’s ‘gift’ of window decorations and traders decos - the strength and joy of living as part of the Molong community filled me with much happiness. The Express team love this town and the people ... sense of community.

A large funeral service and committal was held for former local resident, Barry - a son of one of Molong’s oldest families ... the Lidster(s). His parents, Cec. and Mena lived and worked on a number of properties during their lifetime with their family, Cecily (Bolton), Tony, Chris (White of Molong), Barry, Di and Tim. They were a much loved family along with Cec’s parents who lived in Shields Lane. Barry had married Nerida (Bollinger of Molong) with the young family moving some years later. Barry is remembered

by Rozzi

as a “great kid” by other local 70+ year old “kids”.

We’re not sure whether Bruno Bennett’s home has ever flooded before in it’s long history in Gidley Street - the only comment made by the jovial much loved Bruno being “all I know is (referring to the November flood) it pushed me out the front door and took away the top of our Hill’s Clothes line. Not worried so much about the loss of floorcoverings, beds, furniture etc - all Bruno wants is the top of his clothesline back (maybe still sitting in the mud of the Molong Creek??)

See Bruno’s ad. in ‘Classifieds’ of this issue.

Hoppa and Lynne weave Christmas Magic in Bank Street

Where is Kim Stojanov of the Freemasons Hotel? In Wollongong making sure that her very sick son, Dragon’s footballer, Cody is being looked after at the ‘gong Hospital. The last report about Molong’s ‘boy’ is that he is progressing as well as can be expected at this stage of his recovery. We wish Cody, a more speedy and successful recovery. Love you Codes! Kim, Alize and Jamo and Cody’s grandmother Shirley are Molong’s Secret Santa, his trusty Ms Santa and workshop elves also being looked after extremely well by the have been bringing extra joy to Christmas 2022. Often in the dark of the night (yes, the Express has sighted them), this group of Molong Dragon’s management and players. residents have been decorating Bank Street windows (free of charge) What is going to happen to the medical with colourful Christmas images. It’s hard, almost impossible to get centre formerly occupied by Dr. Kapu. With a photo of the front of Molong’s Secret Santa - or at work. A gifted the doc. moving to Melbourne - locals are left signwriter in his second job, as we know - we only ever see the back wondering if the surgery will remain open - or of a signwriter at work! Thank you Santa and Ms Santa and your elves can be turned into something to help Bank ... Enjoy your cold beer Santa and Ms Santa. Don’t forget your elves!

Street’s businesses and shops move out of the flood prone buildings? The building on the corner Who are they? Hoppa and Lynne arrived from WA five years ago of Bank and Gidley Streets was apparently built to look at a business for sale in Orange, Mid-West Signs. They by the community to house Dr. Gabb and his decided to take a look at Molong and came across Kim Stojanov health team. Fully paid for - the building was who talked to them about the town being a great place to live. transferred to Cabonne Council community asset They found the right size home in town ... bought the Orange ownership a couple of year’s ago. Council will based business and then their Molong home. Both are popular need to communicate (listen and act) with local residents ... very loved ... and a great sense of shared humour residents to deliver the best outcome possible for that can fill a room with fun and entertainment.

Molong residents.

With the critical need to move local business to higher ground - eyes are looking at the brilliant site of the Molong Village Green, the Yarn Market’s CoachHouse, Cook House and office (former butcher shop), further up the hill the former Merrifulls bakery building, adjoining hairdresser shop operated by Pat Neville - and further up the hill, the Old Connelly store (currently housing Cabonne Council archives), the recently purchased Commonwealth Bank building, and of course, the new Council (almost completed) building. Plus the Molong Railway Station that could be easily re-purposed for community activity e.g. art/craft workshops, retail space, etc. etc. Let’s go Molong. In these times there are many opportunities to share linkages and resources (both private and community owned) for the greater good of the town and community.

The Express asked Molong’s Secret Santa (in the dark of the night whilst decorating the cane shop windows): “I was away in W.A. when the flood hit Molong. I felt really bad about not being here to help. When Lynn phoned and told me about the flood, and the damage to homes and businesses - and I found out about families heading to town to decorate shop windows, boarded up areas and brighten up Molong I decided to create happy Santa images on as many shops as I could. Being a Molong resident and owning Mid-West Signs in Orange - meant Lynne and I could work together to bring colour and happiness to Bank Street for Christmas and the holidays.”

Family Visiting? Residents on the move? The Express will be back on January 19 and would love to have photos of people and their memories, thoughts about the town they once called ‘home’.

2022 - Let’s not do this again!

by Rozzi (we lost our business premises and assets, home and assets in the November flood (and almost our lives).

Molong, Eugowra, Cudal, Manildra, Canowindra and many paddocks and farming lands in between suffered the loss of many hard earned $$’s in the November storms. As did residents in losing their homes. We can’t do this again! In these days of incredible access to technology, hydrologists, and other professionals it is hard to believe that in Molong, as an example, we found ourselves ‘sitting ducks’ so to speak - waiting to be hit - waiting ... wondering...and then we collectively suffered what amounts to $$$millions of investment and belief. Sadly, Cabonne towns and villages are living with antiquated infrastructure and services both above ground, and below ground. To become a town of the future, Cabonne Council and the NSW State Government/Cwealth Government must recognise that to rebuild business - for example in Molong - and to invest huge $$$’s (yet again) in rebuilding our town ... there is no point in building bling and glitz new biz activity on top of a failing base e.g. antiquated stormwater/ surface water systems, a horror bridge, a creek that needs expert hydrologists to figure out what to do - how to move low lying business and residential further up

the town. There’s more ... the above list is just a start. Personally I am really annoyed with Cabonne Council about the losses - considering that flood mitigation measures have been largely overlooked.

The item by Council in last week’s Express further adds to my annoyance and pain of personal loss. Strategies, Advisory Committees, is needed ... however, Councillors should never overlook the knowledge and information, and good ideas for mitigation etc that have been held in this community and talked about for generations. Could it be considered that those who have experienced need to be heard and have good ideas about how to fix the problem? More frustrating is the wealth of knowledge within Cabonne Council - the employees who understand the creek and waterways.

Have they ... or are they being heard today? Or should we just allow Cabonne Council to pay for even more expensive consultants ... and more ideas and ignore their recommendations anyway? The local community should be asking Cabonne Council for a copy of each and all of

the ‘shelf copies’ that consultants have put together - over the past years. And, judge the situation for themselves.

Is Molong on the right track? This community. all communities have the right to question and to demand fast and quick outcomes to ensure health and safety.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

9

Your Country Your Voice

Andrew GEE MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CALARE

FOR DAILY FLOOD AND RECOVERY UPDATES FOR EUGOWRA AND THE REGION, VISIT MY FACEBOOK PAGE

Merry

RUNS ON THE BOARD FOR CABONNE √ $2 billion for Great Western highway upgrade √ $40 million for Mitchell Highway upgrades between Orange and Molong √ $2.1 million for streetscape improvements in Molong and Canowindra √ $15 million for a new Molong Multipurpose Service

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

√ $492,410 for construction of the Eugowra Community Centre

MOLONG RAIL BRIDGE UPDATE

√ 24 hour rescue helicopter √ $408,000 for childcare/ early learning services in Molong √ $700,000 for Bangaroo Bridge Replacement

Andrew surveys the damaged bridge

√ $117,396 for resurfacing and new lighting at the East Molong Tennis Club

√ $390,210 for new lighting and nets at Molong Rec Ground Andrew and Neil Gill belt out some tunes

√ $2.5 million for an ambulance station in Molong √ $2.59 million for new overtaking lanes on the Cargo Road √ $185,764 for a new amenities block and support for the Molong Showground and Society √ 44 mobile phone towers and base stations for Calare √ Replacement $460,000 for an upgrade of The Escort Way near Eugowra √ $250,000 for

new amenities for Canowindra Showground

Andrew

REGIONAL RECONSTRUCTION FUND We urgently need the Regional Reconstrution Fund established to support homeowners, business owners and farmers in the Cabonne Shire and Wellington district who have lost homes or experienced considerable damage to their properties, businesses or farms.

To help minimise the impact of major storm/flood events the NSW Government needs to urgently fix the rail bridge over the creek (plus the road bridge). They need to be modified to allow the water to flow freely, and stop backing up in storm events.

I have raised this directly with the Premier however I am still waiting for his reponse. This isn't good enough, we need action, and soon...before the next disaster strikes.

I previously wrote to both Senator Murray Watt, the Federal Minister for Emergency Management, and Steph Cooke, the State Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Flood Recovery, calling for the establishment of this fund.

EUGOWRA SINGS!

√ $60,000 for the Molong water tank artwork

√ $308,175 for an education and info centre at the Australian National Field Days site at Borenore

Christmas!

There have been some incredible stories coming out of Molong, Eugowra, Cudal and Canowindra.

Stories of devastation and tragedy, and stories of courage and selflessness.

Stories of survival against great odds, like that of Smithy and Bootleg, and Ed the Sheep.

And stories of heroism despite the great danger… A list so long, I’d need a book to write them all.

They’re all stories of true Aussie spirit.

The tsunami smashed through many communities in our area.

While it tore apart our towns, it has also brought people together.

It’s been wonderful to see so many folks from our region and from afar step up, lend a hand, and dig deep to help those who’ve been devastated in the floods.

Thank you to everyone who’s given so generously. It’s greatly appreciated.

The rebuilding task is massive, and it’ll take more than a Christmas miracle to get through.

If we stick together and keep on keeping on, these stories won’t remain tragedies, they’ll be stories of triumph.

Visit my Facebook page to hear some of these incredible stories.

Eugowra locals getting into the spirit

Last week I got together with Neil Gill and The Band at The Fat Parcel in Eugowra. It was a chance for the locals to get together, relax, and belt out some good old country tunes.

After the recent storm and flood events, Eugowra hasn’t had a lot of reasons to celebrate lately, so it was an honour to be able to be a part of this small thing to put a smile on the faces of local residents.

While there’s still a long way to go with recovery, seeing the community come together to enjoy a drink, a sing and a dance was a wonderful thing. Together we can face anything!

FLOOD ASSISTANCE FOR VETERANS A $3,000 Disaster Relief Payment is available to anyone that has served in the armed forces, and who has been impacted by the recent storms and floods.

RSL LifeCare Veteran Services can provide disaster fund assistance to NSW based veterans and their families. Initial assistance is Andrew and Marc Mathews of the Molong RSL sub-branch limited to $3,000 per household.

Additional assistance may be available dependant on individual circumstances and will require a completed Application for Financial Assistance Form.

If you require further assistance, please contact Marc Mathews of the Molong RSL sub-branch on 0413 635 240 or email marc.mathews@outlook.com.

1/179A Anson Street PO Box 673 Orange NSW 2800

Let's Rebuild Molong!

Both levels of government previously jointly funded an $800 million Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Fund Package to help the 2,000 homeowners in flood-prone areas of the Northern Rivers repair, raise, retrofit or voluntarily participate in a home buy-back scheme after that flooding disaster earlier this year. We urgently need the same to support homeowners, business owners and farmers in the Cabonne Shire who have lost homes or experienced considerable damage to their properties, businesses or farms. I wont let this rest until we have a response.

BACK HOME GRANTS NEEDED NOW I am appalled that we still have had no action on the Back Home Grants.

These grants can provide affected residents with up to $20,000 to repair, replace and/or restore housing to a habitable condition.

I have written to both the Prime Minister and the Premier about these grants, however it seems to have fallen on deaf ears. We need to know if this funding is coming, and if not, why not?

Other communities have received this grant. When will it be our turn? Many residents and businesses have suffered significant losses, and are struggling. It's not good enough. We need action now!

HOW CAN YOU HELP? Molong donations www.gofundme.com/f/help-rebuild-molong Eugowra donations https://fundraise.givit.org.au/fundraisers/EPPA/eugowra-flood-appeal Canowindra donations https://chuffed.org/project/canowindra-flood-assistance Cudal donations https://fundraise.givit.org.au/fundraisers/Cudalbowlingclub/cudal-community-floodfundraising-appeal Follow my Facebook page for the most up-to-date assistance information

(02) 6361 7138 andrew.gee.mp@aph.gov.au www.andrewgeemp.com.au Authorised by Andrew Gee, Suite 1/179A Anson Street Orange, NSW 2800.

10

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

This fund is intended specifically for the Cabonne Shire and Wellington district to assist the hundreds of people left with damaged or uninhabitable homes as a result of the tragedy, as well as local businesses and farms.

For regular updates and news, follow me on Facebook and Instagram @andrewgeecalare

The fun of Christmas and Jingle Bells

Santa resting in Bali on the way home. Thank you Santa, Mrs Santa, Reindeers and Elves from Cabonne Countryr

Aubree and her little brother Carter were all smiles when they met Santa and sat with him on his famous red velvet throne. The children of Lannah and Cody these two gorgeous locals have already joined in the lead up fun to the big day. Aubree is very excited about what she might find under her family Christmas tree. Carter with his beautiful big smile is a happy little chappy and no doubt will be joyful to play with toys ... and pretty wrapping paper.

The Express wishes all residents and the children of Cabonne Country a wonderful time on Christmas day and a healthy and safe new year and holiday season. We love you all. xx

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

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The Express year THURSDAY 10 February 2022

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Why some towns thrive and others languish

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THURSDAY 17 February 2022

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MORE THAN THE NEWS A WEEK'S READING INSIDE

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

After a slow start following rain, Covid and more rain, the Molong Library and Community Centre starts to take shape with the pitched roof familiarity of the old Community Hall/School of Arts building it is replacing.

INSIDE

Molong Central School Captains

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60 Minutes’ Morrison interview was not journalism, it was pap LD

Rarely, if ever, seen in Molong, a swag of the town's larger buildings and businesses have all changed hands within weeks of each other.

(R) The Crich & Brennan families part with Spar after over 40 years (Far R) Graham Johns retires from his BP Servo.

(Below L) The "Bakery" and shop was picked up by investors.

(Below R) Similarly with the Commonealth Bank building. We'll keep you posted.

Rumour is that the "Sweetness" Cafe also has some serious lookers.

Millenials at the Press Club

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Go to www.issuu.com/ molongexpress

Paul Mullins

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(R) Audrey Kerr and piano accordion in front of the menu. Come early and get a meal with your poems. See P.2

New SPAR Owners ready to invest in our community

LD

Molong THIS Saturday (NIGHT) 12 Feb. 6pm-10pm in the courtyard of the the Freemasons Pub. ‘Molong Poetry Brawl’ - comedy at its best!

Lots of News & Features

THURSDAY 17 March 2022

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THURSDAY 7 April 2022

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Will trees divide Molong? INSIDE

Car crushing & other family fun This SATURDAY 19 MARCH 10 a.m. to 3 p.m

The Village Enhancement Project, which gets underway soon following public exhibition and feedback meetings last year, proposes several suitable trees along a Bank St safety median strip (flat, not raised) with large potted trees placed on the left and right pavements (note the redish examples above). This proposal rids the street of the dreaded double white lines and frees up some 20+ valuable car parking spaces in an increasingly congested "CBD". A godsend to business owners investing their money in Molong - and there is more than a few of them appearing - to the benefit of

locals and surrounding farm and rural dwellers alike.

All want a viable working local town centre.

Yet, opinion on the current trees is still divided. It's a hard one.

One view is that the trees lining the commercial end of Bank Street demonstrate an image of Molong as a 'charming village' during each of the four seasons. If they are removed this might be lost. Others feel that they might bump into the central trees (however narrow their trunks may be).

I am expecting a lot of blowback on this and welcome it - that's what the Express is here for - get to it!

(Far Right) Left to their own devices the trees will eventually "rise up", invade the drains and ruin the valuable street space around them.

Maybe OK for us locals who stroll down the street with no need to park. But for a prospective (or even current) business owner wishing to invest in Molong to keep our town viable, it would be be very offputting and send a strange message - especially when a reasonable alternative is available

Morning, Afternoon Tea & BBQ Lunch available SPECIAL SOUVENIR EDITION NEXT WEEKS EXPRESS

The event is a fundraiser to support local Mental Health programs and the Molong Pantry service (a volunteer food service helping district comunities) The familiar RUOK slogan has been mown into the property

Vale Bob Patfield Central School News PLUS Lots of News & Features

Paper Quality You may have noticed a drop in the quality of our paper stock and resulting effect on images etc. Just like local and world wide shortages of most other commodities we are not immune.

Our suppliers are working hard on it - please bear with us.

Molong's Jimmy Walker wins an "Unplugged" Elvis prize

INSIDE Plenty of Local News & Features

Molong “Rec” Ground Breakfast from 8.30 Stalls from 9.00

THURSDAY 12 May 2022

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WINTER SPORTS FEATURES

Junior Soccer - Wallas Rugby Union - Magpies Bulls - Bowls - Golf Reports & Photos Pages 8, 9, 10, 15

"Barnsey's" Changes Hands 6366 8017

molonge

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Growing the Community

Up it go since Yes - Molong is buzzing, yet again, 1876 es - final with the latest news of the sale of ly Bank Street's iconic 'Butler' building and the much loved Barnsey's/Be Tempted food, giftware, clothing business operating inside.

However, for the Laffin/Barnes families (the owners of the business and the building) - and their customers (local and travellers) the news is both positive and sad at the same time. As one local commented "it's good to see both families will be able to INSID E Molong take a well earned rest from the School Central Captain s long hours, 7 days a week (plus 60 Min utes’ Mor riso public holidays) operation. n intervie not jour w was But we will miss them - they it wasnalism, pap are an important part of the Millenia Pressls at the extended Molong family."

Club Lots of New "Selling Barnsey's has been Feature s & s a hard decision to make" said Molong Express 17 February - A wave of Jodie Laffin who added "but main street sales this year we're pleased to have been approached by local buyers who have the (R) Jodie and Robert Laffin drive and energy to take Barnseys to the and Robyn and Graham next level of success".

Barnes announcing the sale of Note: Barnsey's last day will be on Barnsey's.

Sunday 15th May at COB. Book in for a farewell lunch or pop in to wish them well.

AND WESTER

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HOME DELIVERY OF THE EXPRESS We can arrange it for you.

Call 6366 8017 or email: molongex@bigpond.net.au

See page 8

FUN FOR ALL !

THURSDAY 26 May 2022

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Bank Street Trees

Petition not accepted on technical grounds

Council resolves to further address Banks St trees and planning concerns

At its Tuesday meeting, Cabonne Council voted not to formally receive a petition from citizens concerning the proposed placement of trees in the centre of Bank Street. (see last week's Express).

The petition contained 197 signatures and 6 supporting letters objecting to the planting of trees in Bank Street, Molong, which is a component of the Molong Town Centre Plan.

While not tabling the petition due to technicalities (see box right) Council however confirmed that the issues will be addressed at the detailed design stage.

In moving that the petition not be formally accepted Cr Peter Batten said that the issue had been plagued by many reported widespread misunderstandings - including that parallel parking would be introduced, the street would be closed and turned into a "mall' among others.

Cr Batten said that there seemed to be a "lot of fiction over fact" and that there was no evidence that the petitioners had engaged with traffic design specialists [as Council had] before making assertions as to the viability of the proposals.

Nevertheless Council will hold a workshop detailing the design approach in June.

This will include elements raised in the petition itself.

Further, Council staff will be arranging a trip to Inverell to inspect its main street upgrade, which is of a similar style to that which is being proposed for Bank Street.

Councillors will be invited to attend. There will be an opportunity to provide further information to the community after this.

A detailed response to the concerns raised in the petition will be brought to council at its June Meeting.

WHERE TO GET YOUR EXPRESS

Molong: Molong Post Office and Newsagency, Bank St: BP Molong, Hill St Manildra: Coffer on Kiewa, BP Roadhouse Cumnock: Cumnock Store Cudal: Cudal Post Office Orange: Greengate Newsagency • Nextra Orange City Centre • Orange Central Newsagency • TJ's Downtown News - Summer St • North Orange Newsagency

Something for Everyone

Two candidate preferred figures for Calare on Saturday night

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

SEE PAGE 4

Junior Soccer Wallas Rugby Union Pages 8, 9, 10

Mother's Day at Eden Decor & Homewares Page 6

Growing the Community since 1876 AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

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Andrew Gee holds Calare with increased margin

Page 2 Time for family, travel... and something new ???

Molong's Jimmy Walker entered the Parkes Elvis Festival's 'Elvis Unplugged' competition on a whim - and was runner up in this elite event.

Growing the Community since 1876

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Huge Variety of Stalls

Baristas & BBQ 100 + booked variety Stalls • Artisan Products • Food • Gifts • Produce

18 April

Growing the Community since 1876

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NOW !

Easter Monday

Official Opening: Wed 23 March 10.30am Finals: Saturday 26 March

Covid

THURSDAY 28 April 2022

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(Right) The pavement under this tree outside McGrath Real Estate/ former Sweetness Cafe is buckling now.

MOLONG

Competitors from all States - Spectators welcome

g rain,

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ANZAC DAY - Read the fascinating stories - Photos - Pages 7, 10

by Paul Mullins

VILLAGE MARKETS

followin

Growing the Community since 1876

(Above) Many of the current trees have either died, "gone missing" or are small, leaving gaps in the streetscape.

Come and see what happens when one of Benny's wrecks gets in the road of the McKenzies' giant excavator. If you can't bear to watch, hop on the Merry-go-round.

Tues March 22, 2022 – Sat March 26, 2022 Dr Ross Memorial Recreation Ground, MOLONG

slow start

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Molong Water Supply

Features, Sport, Politics, Gardening - you name it - inside

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Crich Brennan & part with families Spar after over 40 Graham years (Far R) from his Johns retires BP (Below Servo.

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ONLINE Get the paper

SPECIAL REPORT

Plenty on in the district P2

Ph: (02)

(R) SPAR's assistant manager, Aaron Whiley and store manager, Nicole Gosper with Imran Ahmedi.

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"No! You can't bring your own car - no insurance jobs!" I was told when I heard that Benny and co. were going to demonstrate how to crush a wreck into a cube.

This is not your normal Open Garden, Classic Cars, Vintage Trucks and Tractors show.

Wendy and David McNab have planned a number of activities for every member of the family - from small children (merry-go-round rides, lucky dip, face painting) mums and dads and seniors.

The Open Garden will delight - then there’s the classic cars, vintage trucks and tractors, food in the outdoors, coffee and cool drinks, and some 20 market stalls booked in.

An incredible auction of donated goods at 1 p.m. will be another feature of the event - that the McNab’s have planned to support the Molong Pantry service and Mental Health (RUOK) Programs.

Directions: Follow Banjo Paterson Way from Molong towards Cumnock - head out over the railway crossing past the cemetery and pony club, travel a few kms to Spring Vale Lane (left hand side) - keep an eye out for the property which will be well sigposted on the day. Entry is a gold coin donation.

Plenty of parking, seats, warm welcomes ... and plenty to see and do.

Every town needs a football team - and a supermarket.

The Express met with Imran Ahmedi yesterday.

Imran's father Shakeel started his business some 25 years ago. Today with Imran's brother, Ghazanfar the trio have purchased Molong's SPAR supermarket (well it's not just Molong's - people come from all over the district) from the Crich and Brennan families who have served us well for over 40 years.

And they know what country towns are like.

The Ahmedis run the well known and popular IGA supermarkets in Gulgong and Kandos.

Imran spent his schooldays in Kandos.

The store's relationships with the community will continue, said Imran. We want to build the same confidence and relationships with the community and our customers.

Their stores, including the Gulgong store have won many awards and it is the intention of the team to reinvest in Molong, gradually making service, fitout and product improvements to keep the supermarket up to date and welcoming to all.

Welcome aboard.

Growing the Community since 1876

Growing the Community since 1876 Email: molongex@bigpond.net.au www.molongexpress.com.au

Hilarious take on us by Douglas Adams of "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" fame

Molong Golf Club reviving

O

and his sons - Jenny was as positive as always.

That meant that Jenny had no trouble getting an enthusiastic 2022 committee. Vice President is Liam Bridge, Treasurer, Kaylene Philpott & Tieke White, Secretary - Rach Geddes and Registrar - Deb Oates. First Aid Coordinator Lewis White Jenny offered a big thank you to outgoing committee members who helped keep the Molong Bulls up and running as a successful club. This included Todd Barrow (First Grade coach), Ged Fullwood (League Tag) and Mark Thomas (Youth League). Katie Fullwood was named Woodbridge Cup League Tag Player of the Year.

The Express will be covering the League and Union seasons. You can help. More on this next week.

Banjo’s Back!

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Email:

Australia and Australians

Floods, Climate Change and Cabonne: Feature

Wednesday.23 February. 6·8pm Crossroads. YEOVAL Thursday.

3 March. 6·8pm Yeoval Hall.

CARGO Monday. 7 March.

6·8pm Cargo Hall. BORENORE/ NASH DALE Tuesday. 8 March.

6·8pm Nashdale Hall. LEWIS PONDS/ OPHIR Wednesday. 9 March. 7·9pm Orange Clay Target Club. EUGOWRA Thursday,17 February, 6·8pm Showground.

MULLION CREEK Thursday.24 February. 7·9pm Mullion Creek Hall CANOWINDRA Wednesday,16 February, 6·8pm Age of Fishes Museum Register on Council's website or contct Cabonne Council's Community & Economy Team6392 3200.

There's movement in Molong as the word is passing around ...

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History: The 1962 Molong Popular Festival

And Molong has two.

After a year "from hell", both the Molong Bulls Rugby League and the Magpies Rugby Union sides are planning for the year ahead after a constricted season, all but destroyed by Covid-19.

The Molong Bulls held their Annual General Meeting on Monday. As ever, they are positive about the season ahead - especially after the heartbreaking late cancellation of the great Manildra Rhinos - Molong clash. A home game which would have attracted lots of fans - as it does in both towns. The season also saw the cancellation of three home games.

Jenny Barrow was re-elected President of the Molong Bulls. What can we say. While Jenny lost husband Dave - a former respected Bulls coach and player and great supporter of Jenny

Ph: (02) 6366 8017

THURSDAY 3 March 2022

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Up it goes - finally

S

Well, come and find out.

Cabonne Council is conducting Community BBQ & Consultations in each Cabonne town & village throughout February and March 2022.

Council's invitation says this is an opportunity for the community to enjoy a BBQ, understand the communities issues and priorities, and share Council's plans and projects for 2022 and beyond.

It will also be an opportunity for the community to provide feedback on the Cabonne Community Strategic Plan. This plan will set the direction for Cabonne by helping to determine what is most important to our community."

As Mayor Kevin Beatty said in the Plan released in 2020 "One of the most important roles of any council is to work with its community to develop a vision for the lifestyle, amenity and services the community wants in the future and to put in place a plan to achieve that vision.".

Sounds big stuff - but nothing gets done in a hurry. Have your say.

MOLONG Tuesday. 15 February, 6·8pm Council Chambers.

CUDAL Monday, 21 February.

6·8pm Cudal Hall' MANILDRA Tuesday. 22 February. 6·8pm Manildra Hall.

CUMNOCK

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Growing the Community since 1876

Growing the Community since 1876

Growing the Community since 1876

THURSDAY 16 June 2022

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INSIDE

• Betty Newstead OAM • Cabonne launches business hub • Molong CWA • Wedding PLUS Lots of News & Features

Mad Max stops over in Molong

by Paul Mullins

If you want to send a valid citizens petition to your council it's best to study the rules.

Cabonne, like all other councils (and Parliaments for that matter) have safeguards in place to ensure that formal petitions are the genuine voice of all the petitioners.

They take them seriously.

Which is why policies for petitions to local, state and federal governments contain minimum requirements for them to be accepted.

These include • A provision for the acceptance of publication details by the signatories - that they are aware that their information will be published.

• Name, address and signature of those people who support the petition. Address means address - not town.

Cabonne Councillors, given that the petition did not disclose to signatories that their information will be shared, were provided copies of the petition and the letters individually and thus the petition and accompanying letters were not published in the council's agenda papers.

A technicality perhaps - but its good to see the Council will act on the sentiments anyway even if they cannot publish them.

World Cup ... Here We Come

HISTORY OF CONSULTATION The draft Molong Town Centre Issues Paper was placed on public exhibition in early 2020.

Feedback was used to brief an urban designer to assist with design workshops and the development of the Molong Town Centre Plan.

Submissions to the issues paper were reported to council and uploaded to council’s website in April 2020.

Following the completion of the discussion paper and public exhibition the process of developing concept designs was carried out.

Council and consultant teams conducted a series of community consultation events in Molong on 24 - 25 August 2020. Drop in conversations were held over the two days in the kiosk on the main street and a community workshop was held at the Molong RSL Club.

Both council and consultants also received follow up emails and phone calls to make comment about the town centre.

A further round of consultation was carried out in Molong on 28 October 2020 at the kiosk on the main street and at the RSL when the Main Street Concept Designs were developed and put on public exhibition.

The project has also been subject of numerous reports by local media and social media posts when the grant funding was announced, updates to Molong Advancement Group and as part of recent community consultation in relation to the development of the Community Strategic Plan where it was outlined that further detailed design process will be undertaken which will provide further information for the community and stakeholders.

U5 Condors Soccer Player of the Week Henry Welsh Molong Bulls

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTY COMES TO MOLONG RUGBY LEAGUE UNDER LIGHTS

Molong Bulls Vs Bathurst CSU This Friday, 27 May 2022 Molong Recreation Ground

League Tag - 6pm First Grade - 7:15pm Gates open at 5pm - No admission before 5pm.

Both gates will be open with plenty of parking inside and around the ground. Full bar and canteen will be operating, with plenty of hot food and drinks available.

Adults $6 Pensioners $3 Under 16 FREE

Hope to see you all there as Molong Bulls make history with the first ever night games under the new lights.

Thank you to everyone who has helped to attain this wonderful new asset for our community, especially our Federal & State Government, Cabonne Council, Molong Advancement Group and the many local sporting organisations who supported it. The new lights will open up many opportunities for Dr Ross Memorial Recreation Ground.

A very big thank you to Cabonne Roos for allowing us the use of the ground on what would normally be their training night.

Join us back at The Telegraph Hotel, Molong after the game!

They're making a new Mad Max movie out Broken Hill way. You know, where Max hurls across the dessert in his big truck looking for fuel, then turns around and comes back again.

Well, Max's truck and a lot of other movie gear pulled into Molong the other night on the way back from the Hill for a stopover on the way to the next shooting location.

They arrived at night and were gone at dawn - but we managed to catch them near the Rec (and in the Freemasons pub with Deb the night before).

This is only half of the rigs that were carting the crazy vehicles and movie hardware but what a sight as they moved off at sun-up.

Stuck at home ?

HOME DELIVERY OF THE EXPRESS We can arrange it for you.

Call 6366 8017 or email: molongex@bigpond.net.au

WHERE TO GET YOUR EXPRESS

Molong: Molong Post Office and Newsagency, Bank St: BP Molong, Hill St Manildra: Coffer on Kiewa, BP Roadhouse Cumnock: Cumnock Store Cudal: Cudal Post Office Orange: Greengate Newsagency • Nextra Orange City Centre • Orange Central Newsagency • TJ's Downtown News - Summer St • North Orange Newsagency

The Express year Growing the Community since 1876

Growing the Community since 1876 AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

THURSDAY 28 July 2022

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Council responds to Bank St concerns

Pages 4-5 Mayors Letter & Council explainer Representations from some citizens and business owners for Cabonne Council to reconsider longstanding proposals for the upgrading of Molong's CBD, including the placement of trees in the centre of Bank Street, have been ongoing since a May petition and a Council Public Forum hearing on 14 July .

In moving to respond to the concerns, and settle the apparent many and widespread misunderstandings Council has published a Mayoral Letter and factsheet in an attempt to allay concerns and correct the record.

In his letter Mayor Beatty says: "The Molong CBD Activation Project aims to develop Molong as a key regional destination, leveraging off the town’s unique characteristics and offerings, to diversify the local economy and grow the town as a local business

and tourism hub.

The Molong CBD Activation Project includes removing old trees, new street plantings, new and updated street furniture, new pedestrian safe crossing points, lighting, and new open spaces.

This is a Project that Council has been working with the Molong community over a number of years to deliver – and we finally have the backing and support of both the Federal and NSW State Governments to undertake the project."

The letter and explainer are on pages 4-5.

Information on the project is also available on Council’s website – www.cabonne.nsw.gov.au (including a video of the Inverell project).

Manildra's Marian Duncan takes out 2022 Cabonne Acquisitive Art Prize P8

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OCTOB ER 2021 GRANT FUNDIN

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Aaron Whiley changing the signage light bulbs with Nicole Gosper his trades assistant! Great multi-skilling guys.

Soccer, Walla's P9 &10

Photos page 8

THURSDAY 6 October 2022

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Why has my cold dragged on so long?

And how do I know when it’s morphed into something more serious?

Electric utes unlikely to cart hay this year

NSW Open in Molong a huge success

teams to achieve their best for both their team, and their towns.

The Express would like to congratulate the Molong Magpies, Coach Peter Evans and the coaching team who all played a vital role in bringing the Grand Final home to Molong after 9 years. What a day, what a season, what a fantastic team, whata massive benefits the Grand Final brought home to Molong and District.

Peter Evans talks to the Express: "The support from the community was amazing with a crowd of 1500+cheering from the sidelines made up of both Molong Magpies supporters and Coonabarabran Kookas standing side by side cheering on their teams.

As far as the game ... Maggys were the dominant side but a couple of moments let us down. But I will say that it was a reflection on how the Magpies had the ability and the strength after going down - but then their positive team spirit and minds took over and they were able to come together again to show their determination and club spirit.

What the Molong Magpies benefit from is a good club - they have enjoyed the strong support from the Molong Magpies Rugby Club as hundreds of players have benefited from since the club formed back in the 1950's. At the GF on Saturday there were many former Molong Magpies representing generations/decades of Rugby Union in Molong.

The Juniors who played Wellington in the one

o'clock GF curtin-raiser are a good example of the strength of Rugby Union in Molong and the benefits of a good club strong enough to support each one of them (players) as they progress through Magpies RU teams.

It's hard, almost impossible, to field a good side if their club is not right there with them. In Molong - we have the club that is right there with us. It's a great club.

We (club, coaching team, players, supporters) have been building the 2022 Maggy's team over the last 3 years. We worked on a structure that took the team from 4th place during the season - to a fantastic win at Blayney a few weeks ago which won the opportunity for the Molong Grand Final.

It was a joint win for the Maggies's this year ... but next year will see 70 years of rugby and Molong Magpies. It will be one to really celebrate.

Thank you Molong and District for your amazing support during the 2022 season and particularly at last Saturday's Grand Final." (Evo)

SEE PHOTOS, P 9

A huge crowd at the sidelines witnessed Jordan Packham being Awarded Best Player for Magpies in the Grand Final "I thought Jordan was the best on the field on the day" said Coach Evo.

Rugby League

Manildra Rhinos off to Woodbridge Cup final

Molong Bulls Youth League head to Grand Final Following their 38 - 20 win over Grenfell on Sunday Minor Premiers will play the winner of the Grenfell and Condobolin match in the Grand Final at Grenfell on 4 September Gooo Bulls

PHOTOS PAGE

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THURSDAY 13 October 2022

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This ‘road’ leading into one of Molong’s most valuable tourism/visitor/ entertainment and sporting assets needs fixing upgrading - regular maintenance and ‘sealing’?

But apparently no-one is responsible.

SEE P 4

Teamsters and Trains

The Cumnock Railway Station Page 6-7

Connecting the Community since 1876 $2.00 inc gst

It's not over yet!

AND

Gorgeous Plants, Cakes & Incredible range of homemades/hand-made Crafts at the Coach House - See pg 10

AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

THURSDAY 1 December 2022

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

Aftermath

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This is not a "normal" edition of the Molong Express.

The Express' premises and entire contents were wiped out by the horrendous flood of 13-14 November. As were 80% of busineses in Molong's main street and surrounds. Not to mention resident's homes and community sporting and recreation facilities.

We will place on record the events and stories later. You will have already seen enough photos of the destruction and debris in online and other media. reports. Later we will attempt to deal with what happens next, and what should happen, in the longer term.

In the meantime, this special issue concentrates, as best we can in a short time, with the limited resources available to us, on the marvellous response of this community, its officials and citizens, to the immediate need to make-safe and clean up the devastation visited upon Molong & Cabonne. There are some heartwarming pages within.

There are so many heroes to acknowledge, from near and afar, who sprang into action. We mention only a few here - but we know you are out there. The stories will keep coming.

Please excuse shortcomings in layout or content quality. But it is good to be back. Enjoy your Express.

Paul Mullins & Rozzi Smith

Today is the 1st day of Summer and new beginnings -

Don't Forget Christmas Shopping Night tomorrow night

metres turned out to be a god-send, as the ever consistent Carter Kirby scooped it up and made a strong break down the sideline, before passing it on to Bailey Webb who went over putting the score at 16-14 .

This was followed by a brilliant pinpoint kick from Bailey Peschka, which again found our reliable Webby in the corner and he went in for his second try, and the conversion by Peschka had the scoreline at 20-16.

At this stage of the match both Grenfell and Molong played some exceptionally good football and Grenfell were not done yet and managed to find their way over our line and lock the scores up at 20-all with 14 minutes left on the clock.

Great work again by Jake Duncan had him rewarded with his second try of the day to bring the scoreline to 24-20 A wayward kick ended up bouncing in our favour and fleet footed Jett Fraser jumped on this ball and scooted away crossing the try line. A perfect kick from the sideline by Bailey Peschka increased our score line to 30-20.

Molong were then on the receiving end of a run of penalties against them and with only 6 minutes left on the clock Grenfell scored bringing the scoreline, again to a 6 point margin of 30 -24 . The game was hanging in the balance, but it was our unbelievable defence that had us able to hold onto this lead.

(Continued Page 8)

In Junior League, Cabonne Roos u17s tag team and the U16's are off to the Grand Final next Saturday in Grenfell.

Connecting the Community since 1876

THURSDAY 3 November 2022

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Halloween Photos P 8 -9

Yarn Market 50th P5 Hockey champs P2

A Night of Horror ?

Well it was supposed to be for the Halloween kids - then midnight came with the water Monday 31st October was the night of trick or treat - scary costumes, amazing make-up tricks and kids having fun in their neighbourhood.

Whilst the rain stopped for the trick'n'treaters to enjoy their fun night - our friend La Nina had different ideas as day turned into dark with the wind howling and the Molong Creek reaching peak flood levels in what seemed to be no time at all.

It wasn't long before the local rescue teams drove through the dark night ... lights flashing ... sirens sounding. "Creek's flooding" came the call as we jumped out of warm beds into the cold, dark night to start sandbagging.

By 2.30 am the floodwaters peaked - and receded. The night of trick and treating came to an end.

The effects of the night for Kaye and Phillip of Bank Street's Wing Hang Chinese Restaurant - left them with cleaning, mopping, and the loss of their pretty new red carpet replaced in June after the floods of November 2021.

The popular Molong residents were not the only ones who suffered - but their loss was indeed, significant.

It's not only Molong that is on the flood radar ... every other Cabonne town has been affected in one way or the other.

Neighbourhoods throughout Molong, and neighbouring Cabonne towns and villages have been suffering the invasion of endless surface water and mud entering their yards, sheds, garages and homes.

Like in other places it seems like we have to learn to 'live with it'.

INSIDE "What a Croc" - behind the NT News front pages

Pages of News & Great Reading

Barry (Baza) Porter of Molong lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Victoria last Friday afternoon.

He was a beautiful man, husband, father, son, sonin-law, nephew, cousin, good friend to many. He lived his 50 short years helping people in need. He was there when needed, he gave when needed, he lifted the hope and spirits of many others when needed. P.13

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

Ph: (02) 6366 8017

We won!!

Congratulations to our Youth League boys on their fantastic result from last Sunday, taking out the Under 19 Woodbridge Cup Premiership. Unless you were there, it is very hard to describe the intensity and competitiveness of the game, with the lead changing a couple of times and the score line being equal at 20-20 all at one point.

After a mistake by us from the first kick off, followed by two quick tries from Grenfell, things did not look good for the Bulls, with Grenfell taking the lead 100. A big dose of Grand final nerves had our boys making costly mistakes and not playing at all like we had witnessed all season.

However, a great try to Jake Duncan bridged the gap with the score at 10-4. A further 6 points to Grenfell made it 16-4, but we managed to claw our way back and when Bailey Peschka scored and converted his own try, we went into the sheds at half time, down by a margin of only 6 points with scores at 16-10.

Some wise words in the sheds from a couple of former first grade coaches and Bulls players and the positive encouragement of their ever calm and supportive coach Mark Thomas, had the boys keen to get on with the second half. Mark told the boys to believe in their own ability, give it their all and go out and have fun.

The boys came out in the second half, fired up and producing some of the brilliant football they had been known for all season. What initially looked like an error with a loose pass going back 20

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Connecting the Community since 1876

Photo Courtesy Maisie Jones

SEE PHOTOS P 8

Jen Barrow writes:

Its Showtime ?

What's On This Weekend

The Bureau of Meteorology is monitoring a weather system that has a high potential to bring widespread rainfall of between 50100mm over a seven-day period across inland NSW from Wednesday.

Increased thunderstorm activity is also likely with isolated heavy falls possible increasing the potential for localised flash flooding.

Several inland river systems already have moderate to major flooding.

Residents and visitors in the Central West and Western Plains need to closely monitor weather conditions and make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances.

This Upper and Lower Macquarie, Belubula, Bell, Castlereagh, Talbragar River and Molong and Mandagery Creek catchments may experience renewed river rises as a result of the forecast rainfall.

NSW river catchments remain saturated, with most major dams at or near capacity. Any further rainfall is likely to lead to flash flooding developing very quickly resulting in road closures without warning.

(R) Molong downtown 26 November 2021)

Minor Premiers Molong Bulls also won the 2022 Youth League Premiership defeating Grenfell 30 - 24 at Grenfell on Sunday.

Photo Courtesy Owen Murray, Manildra Matters

Cumnock Family Fun Day & Markets - See pg 14

Warnings for Cabonne rivers & creeks Page 5

Minor Premiers Manildra Rhinos won through to take out the 2022 1st Grade Premiership defeating Oberon 34 - 16 at Grenfell on Sunday.

(Above) Molong Magpies Coach, Peter Evans (Evo) with Dean Butler after Saturday's Grand Final.

Dean led the Molong Magpies in the epic 2014 Grand Final win at the Molong Rec. Ground.

SEE PAGE 2

Preparations underway in Molong Inland NSW warned to prepare for one month's rain in four days

ATTENTION CENTRAL WEST WESTERN PLAINS RESIDENTS

Yet Cabonne's Manildra Rhinos and Molong Bulls took out the top two grades in the Grand Finals played on sunday at Grenfell, winning First Grade and the Youth League trophies respectively

Molong SES Unit Commander Doug Watson (L) and SES members, community volunteers (including families), business and building owners came together last week to prepare against wild weather & possible flooding.

Widespread flood warning Residents in inland NSW are being warned to prepare for "a month's rain in just four days" with heavy falls forecast for already flood-affected communities.

The Bureau of Meteorology has briefed the SES as it prepares for another week of concerning conditions with much of the state's west already impacted by ongoing floods as rain falls on already full catchments and rivers.

Some rural residents remain cut off due to high floodwaters on their properties and impacted roads — in some cases for "three, four weeks already" — with farmers also concerned about keeping stock safe and potential crop losses.

Two separate fronts are expected to bring unwelcome, widespread deluges between Wednesday and Sunday.

"The bureau has said we're expecting one rain front this Wednesday that could drop 20–40mm across much of the inland western parts of NSW," SES spokesperson David Rankine said.

"There's a thunderstorm warning that comes with that and the risk of 50–80mm under those isolated storms.

"Unfortunately, there's a second front coming across the far west of NSW on Friday and could bring anywhere from 20–40mm of rain as it moves west into Saturday.

"Then on Sunday the northern inland and central west of NSW could experience another 20–40mm.

"That's a very broad part of the state about to receive all it's average rainfall for October in the next seven days.

For us, that's quite concerning."

The Express caught up with Magpies Grand Final Coach, Peter Evans (Evo) after Saturday's 'nail biting' game against the Coonabarabran Kookas. With a final score of 21-21 the 2022 Oilsplus Cup was awarded to both teams.

With some 1500+ supporters filling the Molong Rec. Grounds - there was a sense of relief throughout the crowd when the GF was finally over. Such was the strength of the game - the dedication of each and every player in both

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An expanded Woodbridge Cup Rugby League competition now stretches across the state from Bathurst to Condobolin - taking in most towns in between.

RUGBY UNION

Following their 32 - 18 win over Peak Hill at the weekend the Manildra Rhinos continue their march playing Canowindra in the Major final next Saturday.

The Rhinos League Tag team take on Orange United.

Gooo Rhinos

Guess which player has heard it all from the coach before.

Marian Duncan with her painting Canola at Boree Cabonne “I wanted the brilliance of the canola, the morning sunlight behind the gum trees, I tried to use a strong colour pallet, with blacks and yellow, with almost a design element. Painting horses is my usual subject but I also love the landscape of this district , which is home.

I found it more of a challenge than I expected, but I enjoyed creating it . To me this is Cabonne Country that I love.”

The Peoples Choice Award went to Molong's Jude Taylor for Perspective: Remarkable Australia Architecture.

Manildra & Molong sweep Woodbridge Cup

Three Finals Teams

Thank-you Molong

Molong now has its very own IGA - thanks to new owners of the popular Bank Street supermarket, the Ahmedi family.

With new signage, and a whole new look inside and out - both Managers, Nicole and Aaron have been kept busy adding final touches.

Every week there are noticeable changes to the store with new stock and brands arriving and a range of cost saving specials.

Free delivery within the town limits continues. Convenient phone in orders with pick-up at the rear of the building still available.

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Magpies Joint Premiers

E?

AUGUS COMMU NITY CONSU T 2020

THURSDAY 8 September 2022

Ph: (02) 6366 8017

Match report - Photos Page 8

GET HER

A series LTATIO consult N of comm ation events Molong unity were on 24 held in Drop in conver 25 August 2020. comm sations unity and worksh a op.

$2.00 inc gst

Cabonne's Footy Success

il will

be ks, not to adjust will also . less. result The remova to All drivers in additio l of ensure need nal users. safety to drive of themse to road lves andconditi ons, to ALL road

AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

THURSDAY 25 August 2022

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

Will the people centre trees to park? make

nity consult Centre Issues Plan, Paper,ment of both ation over $2M in Counci and a a Molong Federa grant l was succes Molong l Govern funding Town ment from sful The key to activat both is securin outcom e the the State g Enablin long es Molong and will the particu g existingof the project busine CBD. street Increas larly in the and new sses are: Will the be closed disrup busines retail Place-med access ted? s growth , and It is imposs ibility and tourism amenit aking: street median of and walkab sectors upgrad trees cause environ y, improvimproved ible in the aged, safety disrupt e or CBDto do any movem ments, ed cyclingbusiness ility disabl and crossi centre ion. activat main precinc Wider ent, andand health and pedest of ed, and street ion withou t ng issues the Counc other busineseconom reduced benefit t ic outcom noise s fromrian pedes minimi il is develo for service ses through trians? es for and dust active Ensurin pedest se disrupt ping a employs to new providi Cabon shared g equita busines ees. footpa rians, and ion to project plan ng ne ses andgoods and ble and As part vehicle use betwe therefo ths remaintraffic businesses, to their safe s is a require of the grant mainta re access open that will en pedes access priorit ensure d at ined. assessm to provide applica The projec to all all trians y for and busine times, and Counc suppor ent, evidenca sound tion, Counci Austra and During t has sses il. been will be works t, and an busines becau lian standa a block constru l was e of commu and costs outline s case of the ction, it accessse it incorp rds design ed lane nity/bu for and is main propos of the comple The Grant vehicle and shared orates underof the traffic was to siness streetplanned ed. traffic that s and te scope informa funding enhanselecte closed will have be alterna half use contro d pedes betwe ced at any of was succes Counci tion – includin Whilst one traffic. te routes l measu trians. en one State l is require media the term sful based availab res. Theretime and Federa d to g the street “media delivere which n is at The final le to regular trees on this througwill l Govern d. media ensure the same n” is used, ly being timing h s no mentsreport to and n, combi level Whilst will enable comm planned. of the works trip hazard as thethe as the both the ned permittminor change pedes to the encing Council project is curren with a s. Thisroad is if the ed, large neede trian to safer weighthe street enablewest of the works will be s to the tly flat project gain change d. at the funding scope accura Counc Gidley Street. refuge point for trees, is not upper s are il to be agreem delivere There more te estima not - of works are from a This block ent, fundingd in and therefo traffic tions able to givewill designwill also block”,intense line if busine of timing be an most re to the ated “pedes may with the advise with busine ss additio be withdra to Will delive drivew west of develo d as the sses area in the the nal wn. the trian crossin ay to project and comm “bottom ry vehicl closurep, and prior make increasuperm plan s.

The delive es be arket g point” to any continuunity se pedes able ries to schedu with deline ation es to Yes – to park trian local the trees, of led road safety slowin accessdelivery vehicle busine and the pavers . g and will a shared sses? either Bank Street s will , along recognresult in continu area. betweein the 45 with drivers ising e to n tree degree vehicle Bank plantin angled s able be able to Street In plannin gs in parkingto park as the street conside g the , or FEBRU locatio centre.

ARY 2020 require red busines n of tree OCTOB MOLON businesments, ses plantin heavy howeve ER 2020 G TOWN progres s owners r further vehicle gs, Counci CONCE ISSUES will continu ses. l Presen consult PT DESIGN PAPER ted to e as the ation Further Februa Counc CONSU project with

HOW

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Counc

contin as the ue to projec Artist provid questi t impress e update ons that continues ion to progre compr s to have ehensi been ss. These the comm ve list asked, unity of all but are are some questi of the ons. by no means it harde a Any change r for practic es wills to parking Why need are we The propos to be will mean upgra adjuste that Isn’t than ed parking parking this projec ding d. the minimu added the spaces t a waste Molong to the m, Followin the 45-deg will road and line through g extensi of money CBD? the existing ree to markinbe wider ve commu angledassist people gs will out Main ? carpar trees Street the develop parking

?

No – Bank Street is not The project too narrow dimens has .

Bank ions of been designe Bank Street the design d to fit (from Street.

The dimens within gutter Standa is compli the to combinrds. The ions of ant withgutter) width show parking ation with of Bank the Austral that 45-deg ensurin , meet Street, ian g that the Austral ree markedin the project ian Counci Standa angled is safe. rds ensure l have also underta require that the ments design ken testing and pedest will meet of access rians),users (includ the to ible for and a range ensurining motoris g that ts of vehicle parking types. is How

Growing the Community since 1876

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Molong families gathered in Bank Street last Sunday to bring colour and Christmas cheer to the flood damaged shops and buildings.

Organised by the Express, Kate Strahorn and Cass Sullivan, the children arrived with paints, brushes, and tinsel, christmas trees and baubles from their own homes to cheer up their town and as one little one said "to help bring smiles to sad faces".

Take a look at the awesome work in Bank Street with Christmas images painted on boarded up windows, the now empty shops, and flood damaged buildings.

Thank you to the wonderful local children and their parents, and the many other volunteers who have helped to bring the love, colour, joy and spirit to Molong.

More photos inside.

Click on the latest issue & click Subscribe for only $0.75c an issue ($37.50 per year) MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 22 December 2022

13

75 years ago this week Dec 24 1947 WHERE TO BUT THE

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Margaret,

Orange,

that

Sydney, Mr.1

parents,

is

with her Mr. Staying and. parents is Mrs. R. Easton .Edward of Street, Mrs. B. Head and small daughter Other Robin. and Mrs': visitors to Mr. Easton over the Season will Festive be Mr. and Mrs. Fred or Easton,

leave

vacation

school

,

Friday.

on

Pryde,

latter

Gavin, the

grandparents, C. of Buckley, who Buckley, last

E.

her

and

with

Mrs.

Molong.

Sydney,

season

and

engagement

late

F.

on

Sunday

oh

I I I

sister, Bank

their

brother

visiting

Albert,

Wellington

at

visiting

are

Mr;

Bailey plans Condobolin

holidays Mr.

spend

,

parents, of

the Christmas spend relatives here.

Pat

home

her

Perthville.

E.

are

Neutral spend

will

wjho

Coralie

Mrs.

College,

Les

The

Mrs.

of

completed

from

son

the

came

the

Street.

intends

spend

and

at Christmas

Thursday

honor

has

Christmas

Street.

Parker

with

W.

Miss

has

district..

Mr.

he

Gospcr, of is expoctocl

on'

in

Mr.

Street, her

from

at

with

the

lightning.

assisting the

is

for

Joseph's

St^,

Mrs.

of

Jean,

daughter to yesterday

Riddell

of

stated,

by

George Peter Bax

who

in-law, Bank

to

and

of

young

street

witnesses

Bax, of Sydney, brother-in-law' and'

was

visitor who Spain, with season

Leary.

Sydney

main

a

in.

man

of

A

remembered

be

A

light of portion tree pine

I

at

from

Bradney,

will

holidays

vacation

for

lnrvest

She

„

the

night's

and

Molong

bevy

Gordon,

England

Leary,

Mrs.

Mr.

in

casion

services*

Mrs

apple

by

Bright 'Young Things were entertained the week at through a at the home Christmas party cheery of Mr. and E. H. Scott.

The Mrs. oc-

under

patrons

church

mother, is Mrs.

Hamilton,

arrived

money

enable

a

One

seven-acre

-Farrell

her

and

A

School

be

received

ing.

Gosford.

will

''

damage.

struck

Miriam

j

home

of

.

?

Street. arrive

her

Fred Mrs. and Burgess family with and holidays Mr. spending' of Street.

E. R. Edward Burgess,

New

on

midnight

Bruce

from

Monday

Mr.

|

leave

the

Church

a

Manildra-

ruined

Stores

of

guest

Street.

at

Pat

period.

Miss

and

with

in

Dancing

Mollie

Christmas

Mrs.

1

at

came

Mr

(Wednesday),

the

her

W.

Miss 9

'

Miss

daughter

returned

held

to

the

Mrs.

Day.

No

the

as

Day: Open by postnen.

December

transacted

ns

to

11.30

Visiting

C.

for

a only friends

day.

and

will

time

some

be

Club.

Molong Street, Queanbeyan.

postmen.

Year's

Year's

before

New

9

Open

27th:

Sydney

the

hostilities. home for

Open

postmen.

delivery

on

.,

badly

will

home

and

has

will

tonight of auspices

till

?

postmen.

Monday, by

Town

arrive

Office

all

Bniley spending

attend

will

Post

Closed

Day:

delivery

Day)

which

Christnlas

8

the

P.

of was

Avhile

RUINED

a

apparently

Miss

Griffith.

dance

Youth

E.

announced

Day:

by

livery

for

L.

holidays.

Christmas 2

in

Mr.

MeMahon Christmas spend

Arts

as

Mrs.

tendered

(Boxing

will

A

and

tell house

the

of

some

Western

home

Mr.

are

of guests of Riddell

are

Connelly,

at

the

staying P. Mrs.

'

Gsirlick

to

after

is

arrived

Bathurst

I

Jack

with is

Nancy

Mrs.

H.

I

corres

also

crops

Street, in the

collapsed city after,

with

I

over

inter-

Cudal,

Orange, Saturday the front Struck Hit a 70ft. high

Summer

yesterday.

who

parents

In'

I

literally

for

A

CROP

completely

taxi—

by

H.

leave

Hamilton

Harry

.Miss tonight

has

the

Year

day,

Toynton

ana

weeks

from

Patricia, G. Mrs.

week

season

Mrs.

'

is stationed He Canberra.

Sydney

Mrs.

by

brightest

the

arrangements ihe observed by

be

providing

patient Hospital in

this

remembered

Postmaster,

Pritchard, following

for

until

be

May

the

Mr. and' parents, of West End

Visitors

yet.

Molong

those

a

will

Friday

on

Mr.

the

from

public

years, welcome

night.

the

inter has has pre

two

con

season's

of

Les

-'?'

nearly

advertisers, friends the

her

I

flattened.

share big orchardist had

spend

and

Molong

'Express' in

I I

thunder

areas.

APPLE

crop rain.

I

points.

district

crops

I

however,

rain

in.

I

rain

Office.

buckets' afterwards

the

Molong

Street, Mrs.

with

at

festive

five

Bruce

from

were

x'iiillip 'n

accompanied

and

of

v

in

some

district

I

9

of

over

and

from

of

number

points Post

severe

and

in

I

I

broke

unroofed

partly

ning

home

the

pondents damage

arrived

to

who

his

by

p.m.

down

hour, mittently.

Eeports

Mascot

holiday Brown.

Mr.

at

O'Donneli,

con

'came

was

on

Mr.

of

to night parents

of

weekend

the

Philpott, arrived

fiancee, to spend

the

continued

then

and

be

in

staff

or

Brown,

at

Jim

with

well

on

thanked

ladies

community

the

season

So

hor

'Sullivan,

Christmas Mrs. E.

O'Donnell, R.A.A.F.

POST OFFICE WILL OPEN ON SATURDAY

one

Connelly.'

was

with

amongst

a

be

confidence.

with

home

parents, Philpott

on

can

B.

Doris

Home

closed

1948

compliments.

all

excellent

mother, and tendered, he had gifts

had they beautiful

has

and

and

his

end

rationed.

management

heartiest

the

to

his

Eric Mr. Toynton, Military Concord

pairs compet each Saturday,

weather, and play

and

the

reply,

1947

Farrell,

Mr.

and

10

town

and

storm, 96 yielded

night's

it

about

Hill.

of Betts Robards, Christmas for guest of Newcastle.

her

the

paper several

for

M.

as'

mother, his

.family

I

caught

Friday

the

at

heavier

lightning,

of

the and

60

Accompanied

with W.

A.

Copper

I

many

over

on

pm.

Saturday

to

*

arrived

has

holidays Mrs.

with

:'Mj|S'.'

Miss

paper of the this

and

IVir.

circulation

that be

spend

D.

chairman

was

would

us

cheeriest

WELCOME TO RETURNED SOLDIER ON FRIDAY NIGHT

?

ition for

in

vote

to veys tributors

supper

an

supported Mr. Harry

was

,

The

about

character,

sure,

party.

Benger Hughes Cup. However, too Canowindra Strong, proved and after a contested closely the final were 82 to game figures of Canowindra.

77 in favor A

felt

to

be

it

Saturday,

from

to

had

and

many

for

may

by

issue

per

general.

'For

until

evening.

Noel

presentyi.-'particularly the

a.m.

f OR MOLONG '

the

party

by

shortly

delicious

a

heavy

had

note, anticipated

and

,sung

as, Leary acted tributes paid glowing

Noel,

the

GOOD

enjoyed

was

Sullivan

CANOWINDRA WAS

Fellow,'

.world.

Austin

So

Yuletide

said

the-

A

BOWLS

]T00

he of

the

by

Jack

and

ceived.

hall

served.

He

Hull,

the

it

happy

dancing Nettleton

Journal.'

Station

morning

Saturday

on

Christmas

Mrs.

'Western

tlie

the

so

issues

School last.

of

were

Phillip

expected

is

tomorrow

Trundle

.has

been

any

year became

Noel

has

Bunting,

Sydney

Street..

consolidated.

6,000

won

of

been

largest Western-produced the 'flush' during for advertising

been

-

our

publica

nleasine

and circulation

A

the

greeted

was

Good

when

mid-night,

R.

entered Noel

Jolly present.

was

treasurer]

until

he

9.30

Dancing

in

with

for

supplied

Langdon,

a

personality he who,

attractively

retiring

jMiss

|

of 11

about

at

supper

The

I'l]

and

When

He's those

disposed

were

evening,

'the

If

drinks

attended

was

N.

Gavin.

after

Dancing,

,:

H.

the

festivity

of

Music

Messrs

and

to

were young people with present. interspersed some and amusing games competitions the which .comprised program, was Mr. Norman /enjoyed by all.

Langdon the for music supplied dancing.

'%

1

the

bunches

comical

caps,

air

'general About

1

in

attractively with

flags, bowls

people to party birthday Sullivan in the Molong of Arts on night Friday 70

21st

and

occasion

Xmas

Hhorns

i

party

were

for

streamers,

['

Christmas

their

About

have

development

bi and

other

J..

I

23

for

broke

Saturday, recorded

a.m.,

of

holidays

I

the

first

unawares.

an

Vera

from

strong

in

Mrs.

is

Christmas spend the her and Mr parents, of Bunting, 'Studlea,' Mrs. K. Ryan and

the

the

of

B, Hayes, Tomsett,

Mrs.

daughter,

Street,

from

achievement.

.a major company's

case, 'rnis

3?articularlv

21ST BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR NOEL SULLIVAN

C.W.A. evening

the

Thursday

on

Rooms.

The

f,

of

birthday

13th

ij-

Set

held

C.W.A.

1

branch

increased,

her

Christinas

the

the

afternoon

many people Between 5

are

of

Sullivan,

I

De-

I

storm

Friday

on

the

son

been

of

one

for

December

heavy

was

Miss

result

\veokJy-securely ^^p^lifiJifld.,on a the placed paper economic footing.

That,

-:

over

and

Molong Younger

risen,

R.

Drummoyne.

gratifying. advertising

highly

has

Mrs.

Gidley

The of

The

A on

has since

is

totals of

rain

of

Molong

years.

Mr.

on

Mrs. Mr.

Spending

lines

years.

many conversion

in

display

on

draw.

a

last, Friday Jack Sullivan, Sullivan is a

son

a

and

with

conduct

the

Mr.

and

on

It

1.

highest days

of

Street.

obligation requirements

bi-weekly.

Circulation, has notably

the

C.W.A. YOUNGER SET HELD BRIGHT PARTY

for

was

the costs,

to

of

Mr

newsprint it be times,

changing

to a been

nas

?

the

birth

Annandale.

a

for

rising

impossibility along 'Express'

solution

re

morning organised

no

in

period..

it

but

cricket

not

the

regulations, and

paper

close

will

within

been

an

followed

wear, and

have been fixtures is believed bowling be will played.

tennis

down,

be

carnivals

holiday

No

came

next

Bott,

congratulations

Receiving

week

one

and

hours,

quotas

a

with

a par men's

will

important

had been window.

O'Connor's

E.

in

cember

Red

local

inches

recorded

com

the

winner

Seven

correct doll

the

by

Mrs.

the

was

1947

has

year With

Prices

of

avail

hard

and

p.m.

un.t^l

tne

the

on

but

5.30

.ftiitiV

sporting

mostly

was

to

in

branch.

Manildra, doll The

gave

cheertulness

'Joan'

organised

Cross

dur

.

closing

shorter to keep

the

particularly many problems. business houses

2)

particularly 'Express.'

were

was

usual,

_open

few

very

as

The

basis. suffered

petition

the

chose

people

of

name

of period rounded

a

experienced and months,

and

Three

end

New

(.January

toys, al

supply,

were

the

now,

happily

which

otf

possible,

goods,

pre-war

a

of

setback

Molong

the

on

gifts

Women's

as

were

were

not

presenteu

''

form

presents.

they

?

goods

years

which

commodities

majority

?'

of

lines

in

as

year,'

a

as

ensuing Year. is last issue in tne This Express'— of the '-Molong will be publication Friday

disap to buy

unable

'Christmas

witnessed

year

the

GOODS

fancy plentiful

once

festivity

were

FANCY

able. last

the

over

OF

Cotton

har

instead,

frequently

some

than

scarcer

the

SEVEN INCHES OF RAIN SINCE DECEMBER 1

those

since

years

Then,

STOPPED?

—

words,

but

of

owners

to

near

wanted.

were

severe

were

as

they

though

the

etc.,

?'

said

or

However,

through

able

they

PLENTY

my

people

and

that

exactly, what

weeks. of Christmas the buying has been over year spread weeks instead of the usual-last.

They

I

pointed

this

|few..day8.-'.';.':-;.::...;:.v-:.-.';

!

shop

300

over

written.

period

Molong

popular

most

;

rain, been

few

fast 'Thus,

feature conditions

passing. the

are

to

is

comes

this

same

several

etc.,

oustanding the weather

is

farmers

|

lastmin abnormal as has Christmas gifts most in previous years. attributed enough, they weather inclement recent no

said:

Mowing,

I

by

yesterday

voiced

was

..-»

}

I'j

the

during

was

It

weii-known

new

opinion

report for rushes

I'li^ I b-ten

there

Molong

./.

managers.

\They

|r

around

money

more

y

T

—

'

??

HAS IT FINALLY

.

?.:??'...-.

-

I switched all the labels on my wife's spice rack...

I'm not in trouble yest but the thyme is cumin.

Yesterday, I was cooking dinner, and my son came up to me and said, ''One day I will work and help you with the bills, the groceries, and the house expenses.''

My eyes started to tear up.

My baby will be 32 next month.

I took my suit to the cleaners,who wanted to charge me $23.1 gave my suit to Vinnies next door.

They cleaned and pressed it and put it ithe window.

I bought it for $4.50!

I wonder what my parents did to fight boredom before the internet...

I asked my 17 brothers and sisters, and they didn't know either A woman visits her husband in prison Before leaving, she tells a correction officer: "You shouldn't make my husband work like that. He's exhausted!"

The officer laughs, saying: "Are you kidding? He just eats and sleeps and stays in his own cell!"

"Rubbish! He just told me he's been digging a tunnel for months!"

A young artist exhibits his work for the first time... .. and a well known art critic is in attendance.

The critic says to the young artist, "would you like my opinion on your work?"

"Yes, " says the artist.

"It's worthless," says the critic The artist replies, "I know, but tell me anyway."

WORD SEARCH

Solutions page 14

QUICK CROSSWORD

REG’S BENCH A man come home from work one day... ... and asks his wife "Can you get me a beer, before it starts?"

The wife gets the beer and he drinks it in one chug.

He asks his wife again "Can you get me a beer, before it starts?"

Again, the wife gets the beer and he drinks it in one go.

Once more he asks his wife "Can you get me a beer, before it starts?"

At that point the wife says "Are you sure you want another beer? Isn't two enough for the evening?"

The man replies: "aaaand it started."

I told my boss that three companies were after me and I need a payrise....

My boss asked what companies?

Gas, water and electricity.

My friend keeps saying "cheer up man it could be worse, you could be stuck underground in a hole full of water" I know he means well...

Wife texts husband on a cold winter morning: "Windows frozen, won't open."

Husband texts back: "Gently pour some lukewarm water over it and then gently tap edges with hammer."

Wife texts back 10 minutes later: "Computer really messed up now."

Across 1 Network (4) 3 Winter month (8) 9 Mathematical proposition (7) 10 Layabout (5) 11 Follow as a result (5) 12 Lump of gold ore (6) 14 Place where food is kept (6) 16 Winner (6) 19 Resist (6) 21 Roman meeting-place (5) 24 Oily fruit (5) 25 Heavy gunfire (7) 26 Tolerable (8) 27 Item of footwear (4) Down 1 Maternal (8) 2 Appears to be (5) 4 Stoat fur (6) 5 Regretting (5) 6 Illness (7) 7 Three feet (4) 8 Gentle wind (6)

13 First showing of a film (8) 15 Facsimile (7) 17 Frail (6) 18 In words (6)

20 Last Greek letter (5) 22 Freshwater fish of the carp family (5) 23 Burial place (4)

4 Sensible share taken by Capone (8) 5 In the morning I race around a continent (7) 6 Composer frequently heard by another composer (9) 9 Youth's spell as a vegetarian? (5,4) 12 Metal lamp unit needing assembly (8) 14 Cotton on a reel is tangled (7)

16 Stop artist turning up with others (6) 19 Cobbler initially records footwear (5) 20 A little comb or electric drill (4)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD Across 1 Extended feast? It's all over! (10) 7 Leader of farmers is certain to provide ground rent! (7) 8 Bound to vary diet (4) 10 Watches showing end of time? Certainly! (4) 11 Cooking oil means food (8) 13 Just move by earl (6) 15 Hat found in canal (6) 17 Ships taking care of flowers (8) 18 Drug discovered by a police department (4) 21 Family with first of loaves in oven (4) 22 Thrift is the answer for company in money trouble (7) 23 Needlewoman making a mess mending lock (10) Down 1 Useless expenditure in central region, by the sound of it (5) 2 Duke with odd instrument (4) 3 Ed goes in four directions in the country (6)

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 22 December 2022

15

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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

info@molongsmashrepairs.com.au

GARDEN / GEN MAINTENANCE

Wr ght CONNECTIONS

OBLIGATION FREE QUOTE OVER 50 YEARS EXPERIENCE FULLY LICENCED & INSURED CALL BRYAN OR CLIVE NOW ON

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

(m)0468 962 162

14 Enterprise Place Molong NSW 2866

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

NOW CLEANING CHIMNEYS Avoid a fire !

Call Lenny Punch

M: 0481 119 039 T: 63 668 108

MARKS MOWING

& Home Repairs

Residential / Small Acreage

• Mowing & lawn care • Weed spraying • Mini excavation work, trenching • Post hole digging • Yard cleanups • Pressure cleaning • Handyman Services • Painting Locally owned & operated fully insured Pensioner Discounts Available

0467 604 470

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 December 2022

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CLASSIFIEDS

that work !

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

POSITIONS VACANT

CHURCH NOTICES

UNITING CHURCH Sunday 25 December

Traineeship – Office Administration

A full-time 12-month position based in Molong As a member of YBM’s Team you will provide support to our the YBM Partners, Accountants and Administration team ensuring the highest level of customer service always.

If you are an energetic and keen team player looking for a challenge for your gap year/s or have a passion to develop your career in administration and/or accounting, we would love for you to apply.

We are looking for a new team member – Administration Trainee – to join the admin team and develop a broad skill base across all our administration areas including “front of office” support to the wider team. This is a 12-month formal traineeship with immediate start, including the completion of a Cert III or Cert IV Administration through a supported traineeship program.

How you will engage with the role • This is a rewarding and fulfilling training role to provide you with a broad skillset across all areas of our Accounting Business • Use your bright and outgoing personality to engage and serve our clients • Use your “Yes I can” attitude to support the admin and accounting teams in their daily work • Be a resourceful and independent worker • Your time management & organisational skills will ensure accurate and timely completion of all administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities • Reception - Answering incoming telephone enquiries • Distributing mail • Stationary orders and supplies • Scanning and filing • Invoicing • Taking and processing payments • Basic cleaning tasks • General administrative duties as required Key attributes for the position To be successful in this exciting and rewarding role you will have the following: • Experience with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook,) • Basic data entry skills • Customer service experience • Positive and professional attitude • Self-starter/self-motivated • Takes ownership and initiative • Excellent communication skills - Verbal and Written • Well-spoken and articulate • Professional appearance/well presented • Flexibility/adaptability Benefits and Culture • YBM offers a rewarding role with career path opportunities and promotes a supportive team and work environment.

• We are committed to work/life balance and professional development opportunities.

About YBM YBM is one of the longest standing accounting firms in the Central West of NSW. We have a strong technical and dynamic accounting, super and financial planning team with offices in both Orange and Molong.

Still want more information Contact Cally Woodhouse or Karen Begnell on 02 6366 8049 for a confidential discussion.

How to Apply Please email your application to karen.begnell@ybm.com.au with a covering letter addressing what skills and attributes you would bring with you to this role and an up-todate resume.

YBM is an equal employment opportunity employer. We encourage applications from culturally diverse backgrounds including Indigenous Australians.

Closing Date: 13th January 2023

PARTS COORDINATOR

We are seeking a Parts Coordinator to join our team in Molong. This role can be learnt on the job. It involves but is not limited to packing of parts, organising the freight for outward goods, helping troubleshoot with customers, and keeping the workshop in good order. Computer skills are required.

This is a full time position, 38 hour week and start times can be discussed.

Please refer to our website for position descriptions and to apply: davimacgroup. com.au Apply to hr@ davimac.com.au or call our office on 6366 8584.

Christmas Day Molong 8.30 am: Gaynor Gibson Heather Woodhouse 63668218

MEMORIAM Cherished Memories of

Esther May Thomas 23.2.1940 - 4.1..2019

MOLONG COMMUNITY CHURCH

We think of you in silence We often speak your name But all we have are memories And your picture in a frame.

Your resting place we visit And put flowers there with care But no one knows the heartache As we turn and leave you there Always in our hearts Sammy, Carol, John, Kiah, Ashton, Huxley & Airlie

WANTED A HILL’S HOIST

(just the top half above the winder) Gone with the flood. Contact the Express on 0448231180

Molong Assemblies of God Contact Ps Deon Stapelberg Ph 0498 659 703 For meeting details Molong Churches Christmas Service Times

Cudal-Molong Anglican Church Christmas Eve - 6pm - St Luke’s Manildra Christmas Eve -11pm St John’s Molong Christmas Day - 8am - St John’s Molong Christmas Day - 10am St James’ Cudal Molong Baptist Church Christmas Day - 9.00am Molong Catholic Church Christmas Eve - 7.00pm Manildra Christmas Day - 10.00am Molong Molong Community Church Christmas Eve - ring Deon to confirm time (0498 659 703) Molong Uniting Church Christmas Day - 8.30

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

14

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 December 2022

QUICK CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

These Molong Marlinswere happy to be back in the pool again at the first small towns swimming carnival

(R) Upon hearing about the flood in Molong Russell Ott from the Tuggeranong Vikings rugby union club put the feelers out and through the generosity of the Tuggeranong Vikings community. Russell delivered training gear to the Magpies to ensure they are ready for the 2023 season.

Thank you Vikings.

Molong Golf

Gerard

Molong Sunday Golf Notes Sunday at the Royal Molong Golf Course saw an increase in numbers to fifteen for a twelve hole ambrose event with six teams of two and one team of three. A few regulars, including Stubba and Bell, were away.

There were a grandfather, son, grandson combination of Michael, Matt and Harry and a father son pair in Paul and Jack playing in this event.

After handicaps were deducted, divided, subtracted and the square root of the algorithm was taken into account it turned out the team of three in Justin, Bro and the Ghost Walker had won with Jess and Ged coming second.

It seems that Michael tried to claim a hole-inone off the seventh tee when as usual he put his tee shot over the fence but this time it landed in a pot-hole-in-one. He was lucky enough to find the ball.

I loathe to mention Al in the golf notes so frequently but he just gives me so much fodder.

This week we were in the group behind him and when they were playing the ninth hole I noticed he was walking a long way away from the green towards where all the caravans are parked.

I thought he must know someone over there camping but no he had put his tee shot right over near the camping area.

My brother-in-law was having troubles at home so he and his wife went to couples counseling.

The therapist mentioned that couples are so disconnected that eighty five percent don’t even know their wives favourite flower. He leans over to his wife and whispers: “It’s self rising, isn’t it?” His wife tells him she read that a man goes deaf if he takes viagra too often. He wanted to know who the hell is Jeff and whats he doing at Niagara.

No organised golf for Christmas Day but Stubba said last week that he’ll be out there if anyone wants to have a hit. This Saturday, Christmas Eve, there will be social golf at the Royal Molong Golf Course teeing off about 4pm for anyone that wants to play. A drinks cart may be out on the course. Merry Christmas to all and to Santa: this year I’d like a large bank account and a low golf score. Please don’t mix them up like last year!

22-24 RIDDELL ST MOLONG P:

It’s your club!

6366 8105

e:admin@molongrsl.com.au

BISTRO

LUNCH : Wed 12 - 2 Sun 12 - 2.30 DINNER : Wed - Sat 5.30-8.30 Closed Christmas Day Great specials and a menu to suit Bistro Closed from 24 Dec to 5 Jan everyone.

BAR: Mon Tues 3.00 - 9.00 WED 11.30 - BISTRO Wed 12.30-2.00 9.00 THU 12.00 - 10.00 FRI 12.00 - 11.00 & 5.30-8.30 Thu, Fri, Sat 5.30-8.30 SUN 12-2.30 SAT 11.00 - 10.00 SUN 11.00 - 8.00 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 December 2022

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From the team at Ray White Emms Mooney we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thank you to our valued clients, friends and family for your ongoing support, we look forward to an exciting 2023!

Our offices will be closed from Thursday 22nd December 2022 to Monday 9th January 2023.

Ray White Emms Mooney

34 Bank Street Molong NSW raywhiteemc.com 02 6366 9606 16

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 15 December 2022