February 2023 of the Stratford Town Crier

DAY 01

WHAT TO DO IN AND AROUND STRATFORD

Visit the Stratford Museum (Hobson St, Stratford) Open Tuesday & the 4th Sunday of the month

Bike ride along the Rail Trail to Maffra (10km each way).

Drive to Briagolong Quarries (20 km return)

DAY 02

Walk/Ride the Arts Trail through the streets of Stratford. More information at Segue.

Drive to Sale (20 km each way) and walk/ride around Lake Guthridge and Lake Guyatt.

DAY 03

Walk/Ride the Blackall Creek Reserve alongside Merrick St, Stratford.

Drive to the Glenmaggie Weir (BYO Barbeque or Picnic).

DAY 04

Walk/Ride to The Knob Reserve (Old Redbank Rd, Stratford).

Drive to the Blue Pool, Briagolong for a swim.

DAY 05

Walk/Ride to the Apex Park (Tyers St)

Memorial Park (Tyers St)

Market Reserve (Hobson St)

Mary Treasure Reserve (Hobson St)

Visit the Maffra Car Museum

COMMUNITY PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION 2022/23

From Monday 28 November 2022 through toSunday 29 January 2023 Segue Community Hub Gallery and Café was excited to provide professional and amateur photographers an opportunity to exhibit their work within our gallery space.

PRESIDENT’S SAY

As we don’t publish a January Stratford Town Crier, I will take this first opportunity of the year to wish all our readers, article contributors and advertisers a very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2023.

On Australian Day I attended the Citizenship Ceremony of a friend who is a well-loved Stratford resident. The ceremony, for 40 new Australian citizens, was very moving, and a reminder of what a privilege it is to live in Australia, with, broadly speaking, a standard of living and lifestyle that so many around the world can only dream of. Something that perhaps too many of us take for granted. It causes me to reflect,

The event was well supported and the creative talents of our participating photographers were very much appreciated by Segue visitors. A special thank you to Vicki Jones, Rachael Macreadie and Anthony Madden for giving us the chance to appreciate their wonderful photography.

perhaps even more than usual, on how fortunate we all are to live in this time and this place, when so many around the world are struggling so desperately. Times are always troubled in one way or another and personal circumstances vary. There will always be struggles, grievances, and disagreements, and of course there is always room for improvement and advancement in so many ways. But overall, I imagine that there are very few among us who would choose to live anywhere else but in this beautiful country and in the warm and friendly environs of Stratford and surrounds.

Judy Donoghue

STRATFORD SISTER CITIES

Our AGM will be held on Tuesday 28 February at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 26 McFarlane Street, Stratford at 7.00pm. All are welcome. Nomination forms for positions are available from Sandra Meredith on 0406 983 503. You must be a paid up member to nominate, the cost is $10 per year.

We are very excited to have 11 Delegates heading to Ontario for the reunion in August. The trips are all booked and there is a very full week planned in Stratford Ontario, where delegates are billeted with host families. Then our delegates are off travelling the globe. Some will go to Disneyland and others are on a cruise and two are even going to Scotland. We look forward to receiving their photos and hearing stories of their adventures.

RCH GOOD FRIDAY APPEAL

This year Easter is early in April and I am looking for help with the Annual Door Knock. The more help I am able to get will make it easier for everyone. If you are able to assist you may contact me on 0400 692 294. We have raised over $2000.00 since the Fire Brigade has been helping.

Val Mildenhall

STRATFORD RSL

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the cessation of the Korean War which unofficially ended on 27 July 1953 fought between North and South Korea when a truce was negotiated. On 25 June 1950 the North, supported by Russian and Chinese forces, attacked a largely unprepared South and quickly gained ground prior to United Nations forces from around the globe becoming involved in assisting the South. Over 3 years of bitter conflict an estimated 5 million civilians and service personnel from both sides were killed. 17000 Australian service personnel served with the UN forces with 340 killed, 1216 wounded and a further 29 captured. As one of our members is a Korean War veteran it may be

from 10 to 80 who pay their own fares and the reunion cost is $420 for the week. This includes theatre shows, a stay in a host family’s home for 7 nights, food and tours in Stratford. It is a wonderful experience and a great way to make friends overseas. There is a committee that meets regularly and Zoom calls with all six Stratfords participating 4 times a year.

The six Sister cities hold a reunion every two years each time in a different Stratford.

Sandra Meredith

STRATFORD RED CROSS

Welcome to 2023Stratford friends of Red Cross will hold their first meeting on Tuesday 7 February 11.30 am for a meeting followed by lunch at the Avon Hotel. New and old members most welcome. Membership is $10 per year. Many thanks to all who supported our raffle day which was conducted in Stratford and Maffra 10 November - winners notified.

STRATFORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY

We were saddened with the recent sudden loss of a valued active member and friend, John Benson. His many contributions to the Society include the model of an authentic bark hut in the Museum, which visiting children enjoy looking at. John had a great love and knowledge of the area and was always happy to share this with us. He will be missed.

The annual Red Cross March Appeal “Bingo” will be held at the Sale Greyhounds on Thursday 2 March Volunteers and helpers be there by 6.30pm please. Lots of great prizes being organised for the night. We would appreciate your attendance to this event. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to family and friends of our beloved longtime past member, Isobel Hamlyn who passed away recently.

Dianne Semmens

between the pair. Please come and have a look on Tuesdays at the Museum, but be warned the Museum will not be liable for bitten fingers or the loss of limbs, please do not feed the lions, let our local Lions Club members feed you instead at their weekend barbeques!

fitting that we have a commemoration in July. Our Christmas breakup BBQ was held early December and an enjoyable social evening was had by all those who attended. Our AGM is to be held on 13 February and I would urge all members to attend this important meeting and be prepared to put names forward for executive positions. After 4 satisfying years at the helm in which much has been achieved, despite the challenges presented by Covid, I have decided to step down from the position of president although I will continue to be involved with the sub branch. I thank all those within and outside of the sub branch for their support over the past 4 years.

Gary Tobin

Its official!! The lion statues from the front entrance to the Knob Reserve have made themselves a new home in the grounds of the Stratford Museum. The statues were originally donated to the Knob Reserve by Harold McLeod, a local Lions Club member, and for many years had pride of place at the entrance to the Knob Reserve, in recognition of the years that the Stratford Lions Club oversaw the Reserve’s running. They were kindly donated to the Museum to preserve this history and are now seated on a platform made from reclaimed local bricks with two original headstones beside them from the Stratford Cemetery. The bricks have been laid so the local stamps can be read.

A plaque with the lion statues history and their local significance, will be arranged soon and will go on a stone which has been placed

BOOKS BY TURN THE PAGE

James Craig, 26, farmer from Stratford visited Scotland in 1891, where a milking machine had been invented by a Mr. John Gray, Agricultural Implement Maker at Stranraer, South West Scotland. James purchased a twenty cow milking machine which he installed at his farm," Craiglea", opposite the Stratford Cemetery. It was the first milking machine in Victoria, if not Australia.

Recently we were given a garden hoe, possibly called a “Dutch Stirrup” with a brass plate attached inscribed with John Gray Stranraers. What a surprising coincidence that this was handed to us!

Stratford Historical Society has produced 2 booklets on Dairy Factories in the Avon Shire including a story on “Craiglea”. Our first meeting for the year will be held at the Museum on Monday 27 February at 7.30pm. Visitors are very welcome. The Museum is open every Tuesday between 10.00am - 3.00pm.

Jane Spice

THE NUTMEG TRAIL

BY ELEANOR FORD

The bright pink cover of this book was certainly eye catching and the title had me wondering about the story within. On closer inspection I found it wasn’t a thriller set in Asian markets but an in depth and readable history of how spices came from their places of origin to be in our pantry. Not only that but there are recipes from easy to those a

little more complex using all these wonderful tasting and smelling spices.

Do yourself a favour and go into one of the amazingly stocked Asian, African, or Indian shops to smell the spices and come home with a couple of new ones to try. We are lucky to have these shops locally or there is Hindustan Spice Market in Dandenong, plus a lot of smaller ones there too.

Sarah Hurley

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STRATFORD LAWN BOWLS

On Sunday 22 January the Men’s Final was played between Col Russell and Robert Grant, and Jack Marsden and Ivan Cartledge. Jack and Ivan got away to a clear lead by the 10th end but Robert and Col gradually overtook them to be the eventual winners by 2 shots. A similar match result followed in the Ladies, with June Richardson and Joy Nowak holding the lead, then the score all tied up on the 12th end. Leonie and Kirsten won the last 2 ends, giving them the title. These pairs played many other matches through the rounds and we thank all the members who participated. Winners of these 2 Club titles go on to represent our club in the regional events.

The update of our facilities is continuing, and we are pleased to have support in the work we are doing. A big thank you to the Wellington Shire for the Community Grant

the painting of the exterior. Many favourable comments have been received about the “ received with the new colour.

saddened by the news of the death of David Chapman who was a social member at our Club. David had only joined the club in recent months following a move from Dubbo to live with his daughter, Leanne Dugan here in Stratford. He had endeared himself to the Friday night social group in that short time, and we pass on our condolences to his family. Pennant season finishes and finals begin at the start of

GOODSAM - THE ULTIMATE WAY TO HELP IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Every week 125 Victorians suffer a cardiac arrest but only 7 survive. You can help improve these statistics.

GoodSAM is a smartphone app that alerts up to 3 registered trusted responders in proximity to a cardiac arrest patient following a Triple Zero (000) call.

The technology aims to provide rapid assistance to patients in the critical minutes before emergency services arrive. A person’s chance of surviving a cardiac arrest reduces by up to 10% for every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation

An ambulance will always be on its way. GoodSAM is about getting cardiac arrest patients the fastest CPR and defibrillation wherever possible, prior to ambulance arrival. Any adult (over the age of 18) who is willing and able to provide CPR and is familiar with the use of an Automated External Defibrillator

STRATFORD S.E.S.

Near the end of November, members were paged to a car crash near Tinamba. The only occupant the driver, had self-released when we arrived, members helped paramedics and police.

A week later and the unit was paged to a fallen tree, which had blocked a road in a local town. The same day and another fallen tree, which was blocking access to a house in Stratford. The tree was cut up with a chainsaw, and the remaining wood moved.

Early in December and members were called to remove a large branch of a tree which had fallen onto a

February. Our Division 1 team on Saturdays remain on top of the ladder and Division 3 in the Midweek Competition are also on top of their ladder. The remaining teams will have to win some crucial games in the last rounds to earn a spot in the finals.

Crackerjack teams are also chasing top spots for the finals which begin in 4 weeks. Great job Gordon, Andy and Mick Dee for organising these fun games on a Wednesday evening.

(AED) can become a GoodSAM responder. You do not need a first aid qualification, just be willing to have a go. Basic training in performing chest compressions and using an AED can be provided if there is enough interest. Please contact Karen Telling 0418 175 504 or Maffra paramedic Jo O’Doherty 0418 358 586 if interested.

You can register to be a GoodSAM responder at www.goodsamapp.org or by scanning the QR code below.

Josephine O’Doherty

vehicle. This again was cut up and removed from the vehicle.

A few days later and there was a car crash the other side of Licola. A vehicle had failed to negotiate a bend in the road and had driven off the edge and landed in the scrub down below. Together with

another SES unit and CFA members, the occupants were carried to nearby ambulances. These were then driven to Licola and the injured were transferred to air ambulances and then flown to Melbourne. Late in December, the Stratford members were paged to assist paramedics with a casualty who had fallen off a footpath at a local tourist spot and sustained possible back injuries. The injured person had to be lifted into a stretcher then moved using a wheeled device called a ‘Mule’ approximately 150 metres to the ambulance.

David Smith

Servicing all Brands, Suzuki, Mercury, Yamaha, Honda, Evenrude, Tohatsu, Mercruiser and more !!!

Pictured are our Men’s and Ladies Champion Pairs for season 2022-2023. Leonie Flynn, Kirstie White, Col Russell and Robert Grant. Congratulations.

AVON LANDCARE

Did you set any New Year’s resolutions for 2023?

Along with the usual resolutions to ‘Get fit’, ‘Save for a holiday’ I hope you had some aspirations to help save the planet!

Each one of us can act right now to save our planet from being drowned in waste and you don’t have to work it out by yourself, this year Avon Landcare will be providing opportunities for you to get involved in projects that will make a difference in our community that you can see right away. For more information on these projects keep reading our monthly articles here in the Town Crier and follow us on Facebook.

Did you know there are platypus in the Dooyeedang (Avon River)? In November we published an article about the importance of clean rainwater entering the storm water drains, the article was called ‘Only Rain Down the Drain’. The article talked about how the stormwater drains the rain and everything else that is lying on the street with it including litter such as bottles, cans, wrappers, cigarette butts, oil and grease from cars, soil and leaves from the garden including fertilisers and weed killer into the river, which flows into our lakes and then into the ocean.

We all enjoy time fishing, swimming, boating and picnicking, the last thing we

litter or pollution. Clean storm water flowing into our river is also important because the river is habitat to one of Australia's most unique and endangered fauna – the platypus!

Platypus have been sighted in the Avon River recently. Would you like to work with Avon Landcare to monitor sightings of our “Stratty Platties” and to help maintain the river as a pristine safe home for these adorable animals?

Here’s what you can do now

Join Avon Landcare ($20 per year for a family membership) this gets you the quarterly Landcare Magazine and regular updates via Maffra and Districts Landcare Network ENews as well as Avon Landcare local family friendly activities notices. Contact Beth 0427 456 094 for further information.

• Always put your litter in a bin and pick up litter if you see it in the street.

• Wash your car on the grass or at a car wash that recycles the water.

• Make sure your car isn’t leaking any fluids.

• Compost your leaves and garden clippings to stop them going into drains.

STRATFORD CEMETERY

We are continuing the stories of people buried in the Stratford Cemetery. The floods in the area have claimed lives over many, many years.

Gippsland Times, Friday 27 February 1863

Page 3

“

We have now to record another painful and fatal occurrence. A workman of Mr. Angus McMillan's, named George Stretton, had been to Sale on some business. On Tuesday he returned in the evening in time to rescue his wife and three children from imminent danger on Nuntin Flat. And the poor fellow was overjoyed at his good fortune at returning so opportunely. On Thursday morning (after the flood had considerably abated, and danger seemed to have passed away), he went to Mr. Monaghan's paddock a distance of about a quarter of a mile for his horse. He got the horse, got on it bare backed, and proceeded to his

STRATFORD NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Are you interested in CRIME and it’s prevention in Stratford and surrounds? Do you worry about whether CRIME may escalate as our population is rapidly increasing? Have you met our new POLICE OFFICER? Do you know the correct way to deal with suspected CRIME? Does CYBERCRIME concern you? Would you appreciate first hand tips on SECURITY?

Clean paint brushes in a sink so the chemicals don’t contaminate stormwater. Clean up after your dog to reduce harmful bacteria entering the waterways. Avoid using weed killer when it’s going to rain or be windy.

• Sweep the footpath and put waste into a bin rather than using a hose.

• Use native plants in your garden as they don’t need as much water or fertiliser.

• Never dump garden waste, garbage, dead fish, or animals near the river.

Here’s what you can get involved in during 2023

Clean up Australia Day – Join Avon Landcare on Sunday 5 March – come along with family and friends to clean up Stratford, the Avon River and local creeks. You’ll be helping to keep tonnes of plastic, bottles, cans, cigarette butts and other waste out of our parks, rivers and waterways and putting them where they belong. It’s an easy, fun and effective way to make a difference. Keep an eye out for further information on our Facebook page. Come along to a Platypus Survey Event – Join Avon Landcare for an afternoon learning about this shy Australian icon. Then if your game, join the experts to survey parts of the river and we may just spot one! Further details for this event will be published in the Town Crier and on the Avon Landcare Facebook page.

Anna Roberts

dwelling. Some few hours afterwards the horse was found in Mr. Monaghan's paddock, but no tidings could be heard of the man. On Friday and Saturday every likely place was dragged for the body, and some local indigenous people were diving in Nuntin Creek searching, but to no purpose. The feelings of the poor wife under these trying circumstances can be readily imagined, but we forbear to intrude upon private sorrow, especially where it falls so heavily and so remorselessly. The body was not found till Sunday afternoon, when it was discovered in a water hole in Mr. Craig's lower paddock. The unfortunate widow is left with three young children. We hope the inhabitants of Stratford will take example by those of Sale and come forward generously with subscriptions to help the unfortunate. “

George is buried in the Monumental section of the cemetery.

Marion Stothers and Alan Neeves

If your answer to any of the above is “YES!”, please come along and join other community minded residents at the Stratford Neighbourhood Watch annual general meeting on Thursday 9 February. Stratford is very fortunate to have an existing Neighbourhood Watch group and a new opportunity exists for the group to be rejuvenated in 2023 with new members and new office bearers, brimming with new ideas! The door is open to determining the future direction of the group and you

could be part of that. At the meetings attendees get to hear what our police officer Shayne Croaker has to report, which is always of interest, and the opportunity to ask questions. His answers and suggestions are always very helpful. Meeting day, time and place: The Community Hub space in the library building, 7.00pm Thursday 9 February.

Judy Donoghue

THE WELLINGTON AMATEUR THEATRE AWARDS

In November 2022 the local theatre groups of Wellington amassed to celebrate the Fourth Wellington Amateur Theatre Awards (TWATS). It is a night to celebrate local theatrical performances in the Wellington Shire, the thespians themselves and all the backstage crew that ensure the show goes on. This includes celebrating the highs, lows and every challenge in between, to have a laugh about what didn’t quite go to plan and enjoy looking back on the year of creative theatre making.

The nominations for 2022 were many and included the “What are you doing Saturday Night” Award for those that find them in a show at the last minute, the “Where am I and what am I doing?” Award for those thrust into multiple jobs, the “Whose Line is it Anyway” Award for creative improvisation,

the most to say, the “It seemed like a good idea at the time” Award and the “Who can I be now” Award for Breakout performers. There are also a couple of serious awards just to keep things official – the Gold TWAT for sustained exceptional Performance and the Brendan Peters Memorial Award who supported both professional and amateur theatre in Wellington Shire for years.

The Brendan Peters perpetual award is given to those who are selfless, helpful, kind, passionate and have made an impact on the theatre community just as Brendan did. Brendan was exceptionally generous with his time and technical expertise, he continues to be remembered fondly by us all. Gavin Roberts was honoured to receive this

award for his countless volunteer hours he has given to assist theatre productions in the Wellington Shire. When receiving the award Gavin spoke about how grateful he was for the technical assistance and friendship from Brendan during his time as Manager of the Stratford Courthouse.

David Luxford was the recipient of the ‘Seemed like a good idea at the time’ TWAT award. This was in acknowledgement of the incredible ‘Mad Max car’ used in The Macbeths’ Shakespeare community play in 2022. “To receive such a ‘prestigious award’ is very special acknowledgement of the work that goes into making props for theatre productions’ said David who has been making props for Stratford Theatre productions for over 20 years. David’s sensational Elephant made for Eye 2 Eye’s production of ‘Moulin Rouge’ is still of legendary standing in the theatre circles today.

Anna Roberts

Have you walked past the Stratford Playgroup building recently? You may have noticed the beautiful new plants in our front garden. These were all very generously donated by Stratford library's wonderful librarian, Sarah. Thank you so much Sarah! A huge thank you also to Beth and Josh, along with their budding gardeners Rory and Charlie, who have worked very hard to plant and tend the garden and get it looking great!

If you are looking for a good excuse for an evening out, we invite you to come along to the Avon Pub on Friday 17 February. Enjoy a meal or drink and buy some raffle tickets for our playgroup fund-raiser! Prizes include two $50 vouchers kindly donated by Bunnings, meat trays, six packs and more! Funds raised will help cover our running costs.

Tuesday 7 February is our first playgroup session for the year. All children from birth to five years and their carers are welcome to come along - no need to book. Playgroup is held at 15 Dixon Street, Stratford. We open 9.30am -11.30am on Tuesdays during school terms. Cost is $2 per family, first visit is free. More information can be found on our Facebook page.

We are excited to begin another big year of fun at playgroup and look forward to meeting you!

Kerry Muir

ST PATRICK’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

2022 Grade 6 Graduation

At the end of the 2022 school year, St Patrick’s celebrated the Grade 6 Graduation. This was a fabulous evening where we recognised the contribution our 20 Grade 6 students have made to St Patrick’s over a number of years.

Our Graduating students for 2022 were: Jessica Boyd, Ben Brickley, Zane Bruce, Sophie Clutterbuck, Chloe Dean, Cooper Dorning, Evan Evgenias, Gracie Gartung, Eliza Hughes, Anna Jose, Rusty Krouwer, Isabella Nash, Lavinia Ross, Roger Sears, Sarah Spence, Bella Stothers, Cooper Strickland, Ella Theodore, Preston Tuau and Declan Wishart.

Patrick’s. Our award winners for 2022 were:

AIRLY PRIMARY SCHOOL

Airly Primary School closed 2022 with a spectacular concert filled with plays, music, Santa and Community Awards.

for Academic Achievement

• Isabella Nash – Tom Supplitt

Academic Endeavour Award

• Rusty Krouwer – P&F

Encouragement Award

• Cooper Dorning – Tom Fleming Sports Award

Anna Jose – Shakespeare

Arts Award

Gracie Gartung – Stratford Town Crier Award

Lavinia Ross – Lions

Citizenship Award

Ben Brickley – RSL Award

On the night we acknowledged all Grade 6 students and presented them with their graduation certificate. We also presented individual awards to a number of students who have demonstrated strengths across their time at St

We wish all our Grade 6 graduates the best for the future and know that the education that they have gained at St Patrick’s will hold them in good stead as they move onto secondary school.

Joel Brayshaw

gifts for every child. Following that we celebrated some awards generously donated by The Stratford Lions Club, Stratford CWA and of course, this very masthead, The Stratford Crier. Thanks so much to those organisations for keep the community links real. Adara won the Literacy Award and is looking forward to participating in the SEAL program at Sale College. The night closed with past and present students signing and singing War is Over, Merry Xmas. We are very excited to start 2023 with a focus on strong relationships, academic challenge and resilience building. We will also start with succulent

patch thanks to the amazing community members who kept up the water over summer. This year we also start with seven grade six students. One of the great things about our school is that every grade six is given the role of school leader and we are excited to see how the magnificent seven take that up. Did you know that Airly Primary School turns 100 next year? Throughout this year we will be recording the school’s narrative, so if you know any tales of the past, please let us know.

Geraldine Carter

HISTORY OF “INVERBROOM” IN STRATFORD

In late 2022 I learnt that the new owner of a property in Stratford was searching for information on the history of a property once called Inverbroom, located on Inverbroom Road, and those who settled it in the 1860’s.

My late mother, Lorna Ida Lillian Little had referred to Inverbroom, as the settler in question was her grandfather, William Little. I had never seen the property, originally a 1,200 acre spread, but was aware William Little and one of his sons, William Parker Little, my grandfather, were buried in the Stratford Cemetery.

My wife learnt through social media of the new owner’s interest in the history as she has been involved in our family tree research for some time. She made contact and we subsequently visited the property in late December and spent several hours with Lauren Daly and her family at their nearby property, Dalrose Farm.

The Daly’s purchased a small parcel of the original property and on this parcel was the remains of the original homestead of my great grandfather, beyond repair but full of history and containing relics of this bygone era, many unearthed by local history buffs I believe.

After a couple of hours walking the property with Lauren we realised her passion for the property and her plans to develop it using as much of the old materials as possible such as the nearly 170 year old hand made bricks which have been incorporated into a new building along with the original chimneys, now expertly restored.

Aside from being a pioneering pastoralist in the Stratford district William Parker was a local councillor and Shire President and with his son Frederick constructed an advanced irrigation system at Inverbroom to provide much needed water for the property. William Little was also one of the founders and Trustees of the

AVOICE FOR OUR TOWN

Towns right across Gippsland have different forums and groups with their own unique focus. Boosting tourism, operating markets, investigating solar hubs, restoring former recreation facilities, influencing signage for the town, coordinating festivals. The list can be extensive. Our town has a current Community Representative Group “Stratforward”.

It was set up as a group to identify key issues and concerns for our town and to assist with the community planning process. In the past the group has acted as a liaison between the Stratford Community and the Wellington Shire and other agencies, lobbying for new footpaths, pursuing grants and working to hold festivals and events. It is made up of a group of volunteer residents and traders committed to working with the Stratford Community. Maybe it needs a new name. What should be the

Street Melbourne and Wesley College in St Kilda Road, which opened in 1866.

Thanks to the Daly’s, I believe the property, when complete, will make an attractive tourist attraction in Stratford whilst maintaining a strong connection to its history.

My next job is the restoration of the graves of William Little and his son William Parker Little (mistakenly listed as William Peter Little). We owe much to the pioneers of this country but we are also grateful to those who maintain the links to our past.

Warren Gibson

focus for 2023 and beyond?

Stratforward has been in recess during the past 3 years, apart from coordinating the Christmas decorations in the main street. It is time to charge it up again.

New to town or long time residents - here is a chance to gather and work towards goals you may have for the area.

If you are interested in being part of this group the Annual General Meeting is to be held on Monday 20 March at 7.00pm. Venue - Meeting Room at the Mechanics Hall (rear entry off Raymond Street)

Hopefully you have new ideas and energy to offer, and would like to be part of this group.

If you have any questions contact Marg Robbins on 0427 456 829 Email: fmrobbins@hotmail.com

Our local Stratty girl

Nickyra Burley won Miss Priscilla 2023 ‘Face Of The Festival’ at the Parkes Elvis Festival in N.S.W. It’s the biggest Elvis Festival in the World and this year they celebrated their 30th

Local and National Media, attend photographic and Promotional Film sessions. A Media Frenzy took place at ‘The Dish’ Parkes Radio Telescope with International Elvis Tribute Artists attending.

Miss Priscilla participated in the North Mines Street Parade seated high in the back of a Black Bentley. At Goodsell Machinery she started a Yellow McLaren Sports Car for a Sponsor Photoshoot.

Miss Priscilla attended the official opening on stage at Cooke Park with VIP dignitaries including Deputy Premier Hon. Paul Toole.

Miss Priscilla walked brides down the wedding aisle and witnessed the renewal of vows ceremony. She farewelled the Elvis fans on their departure aboard the Elvis Express train at Parkes Railway Station.

Nickyra’s highlight was meeting Elvis’s bodyguard and close friend, Sam Thompson a nd Elvis’s tour producer, Charles Stone.

Nickyra was in awe when Sam Thompson mentioned that he was amazed by how similar she looked to the young Priscilla Presley.

Nickyra said it was truly an honour to be the Miss Priscilla 2023, she will hand over the Miss Priscilla title at the next Elvis Festival ‘Jailhouse Rock’ themed event on 10 –14 January 2024.

Kelly Burley

SMALL TOWN BIG SCREEN

Film lovers are well catered for in our area by not only our local cinemas, but also two film societies that locals are able to join.

Films at the Bundy was created in 2021, having previously existed as the Stratford Film Society for many years. They screen a range of Indie and Arthouse new release films monthly at the much-loved Bundy Hall, including many of the award winners from Cannes and Sundance film festivals. Next season includes Franklin which explores the most significant environmental protest in Australia’s history, French comedy The Villa, Romanian thriller RMN, award winning Iranian comedy-drama Hit the Road and the Japanese drama Drive my Car.

Film nights at the Bundy are the fourth Wednesday of the month and memberships are available via trybooking/…. Sale Film Society also screens films monthly at The

STRATFORD SINGER SONGWRITERS

The Stratford Singer Songwriters is looking forward to an exciting 2023, our next night is on 31 March at The Stratford Courthouse. In our 12 years, we have created a hub of original songwriters who come together to share music and to create culture. There will be a variety of musical genres performed and something for everybody, with up to a minimum of 15 different acts

John Leslie theatre at the Wedge and is another well established group, bringing together film enthusiasts to watch foreign and Arthouse films along with some classics. Details of their 2023 season and how to purchase memberships are available at thewedge.com.au.

Both film societies carefully avoid new release blockbuster hits that are likely to screen locally in order to support the wonderful service Sale Cinema provides. Session times can be accessed online at salecinema.com.au

Whilst streaming services provide seemingly unlimited access to high quality films in our homes, the shared experience of the big screen and the opportunity to debrief and discuss films with other like-minded folk remain highly valued elements of the cinema experience. Memberships and tickets are often given as gifts and could help to fill the stocking this Christmas!

on the night. We can claim to be one of the longest-running, original songwriting Open Mics in Victoria. Regulars:

JAM Trees, Swamp Crawlers and Mafeking Hillbillies are just some of the quality ensembles that will entertain you.

Come along, doors open at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Performers get your name on the board. Witts End Bar open and, FREE ENTRY.

Anita Hensen

ANGLICAN PARISH OF AVON

At the start of another new year, we pray for a blessed, healthy and safe 2023 for us all, whilst giving thanks for all past achievements in 2022.

The Stratford Community Christmas Celebration(Formerly known as 'Carols by Candlelight') held on Sunday 11 December was well supported despite the last-minute change of venue to the Stratford Mechanics Hall, due to inclement weather. A big thank you to all who came and supported this Community Celebration and to Darren McCubbin for being such an energetic MC!

Parish Op Shop - The Christmas 2022 Raffle winners were Denise V. and Darcy D. Both winners were very appreciative of their prize. After a couple of days closure over the

AVON SHIRE SHORT HISTORIES SERIES “CASTLEBURN”

Located in the north of the former Avon Shire, Castleburn is situated on the bank of Bulgaback Creek on the original road to Grant.

The property was established in 1851 consisting of 16,000 acres, occupied by Henry Duncan Church. It was transferred to James Carr in 1855 and then to John Foster in 1857. The name Castleburn is thought to have originated in about 1863-64. The creek running from Castle Hill became the Castle Burn after the Scottish word for stream. It is around 1863 when the Bulgoback Hotel (pictured) was established nearby and the small Bulgoback village was established as a stage for the Dargo mail coach, and overnight stop for drovers taking cattle from Cobungra to Maffra.

In 1865 the Gippsland Times advertised Castleburn for Sale. In 1869, John Edward Cranston McDonald “Old Bulgoback” was granted license of the Castleburn Run at Bulgoback creek in conjunction with Peter Long. By 1886, Messers Gove and Evans were grazing

ST ANDREWS UNITING CHURCH

Every month Uniting Church members meet together for afternoon tea to celebrate the birthdays of that month. Pictured are the group who met in January.

Donated goods are currently being sorted and packed into a container to be sent to Vanuatu. Included in this load are close to 300 bras of all shapes, sizes and colours. In Vanuatu in the Bislama language a bra is known as “basket belong titty”!! They are a much sought after item by the local ladies – one very important reason is to prevent tropical ulcers. Thankyou to all those in the community who continue to donate all sorts of useful stuff. Stratford is making a real difference in Vanuatu.

Games night every Wednesday beginning at 7.00pm. It’s a great social night and is open to anyone from the

Christmas period, the opening hours are back to the usual times.

Volunteers are always very welcome and so if you or anyone you know is interested in becoming part of the dedicated team, please contact Bev (040 004 5646) or Kim (040 998 6871). (On-site training is given.)

The Parish's retiring offertory last month was in support of the local 'Better Life for Foster Kids' in Sale.

Worship Services - Our regular Sunday services continue to be streamed via Facebook and Zoom as follows: For Facebook search for ‘Anglican Parish of Avon’; services go live 5 minutes before commencement. Please email Priest Dave Perryman (email: davidjrperryman@gmail.com) for details to join

cattle on the property, which in 1888 was officially forfeited. Ten years later in 1898 the Castleburn School opened. By 1905, the Treasure family had selected land at Castleburn, of which the family had selected the first 2 available blocks. Over the next couple of years they began to purchase other blocks from local families who included Longs, Hardys, Bryces and Sutherlands. 1907 Harry brought out his brothers who moved to Queensland, he commenced the Castleburn homestead which was partially completed by 1916. The family would came down to Castleburn for the winter to shelter their cattle after grazing the High Plains over the summer.

Daniel Parker-Estoppey

community. Come along and meet some new people while having a bit of fun. The Uniting Church meets for a service every Sunday morning at 9.30am. You are so welcome to join us. Maybe 2023 could be the year you find yourself in Church?

Need to contact the church?

uca.stratford@gmail.com

Jennifer Wrigley

via Zoom. Copies of our Order of Service are available at our parish website http:// anglicanavon.org.au/parishbulletin/ and Facebook.

Gail Wager

Parish Dates – February

Thursdays mainly music 9.30am in Parish Hall during School Term.

Fridays 9.30am Morning Prayer at Holy Trinity. Mondays 7.30pm Bible Study.

Sunday 5 - 5th Sunday after Epiphany. David and Prue Boyd sharing with the Parish. 10.00am All Age Family Worship at Holy Trinity. 2pm All Saints Briagolong.

Friday 10 - Summer Parish Dinner at the Briagolong Hotel.

Sunday 12 - Healing Service

Saturday 18, 8.30am - Men's Breakfast Group

Tuesday 21 - Shrove Tuesday. Pancakes to the Community

Wednesday 22 - Ash Wednesday. Imposition of Ashes 7.30pm Holy Trinity.

Friday 24 - Family Movie Night

Saturday 25, 10.00am - 3.00pm Women's Craft Group

Sunday 26 - 1st Sunday in Lent

Community Information

COPY FOR MARCH 2023 ISSUE

Deadline for ARTICLES and ADVERTISING

TUESDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2023 by 5.00pm

Delivery starts 28 FEBRUARY 2023

Articles and adverts are to be submitted to: Leanne Dugan, Editor at: 1-3 Bolden Street, Stratford Phone: 0419 518 277

Email: stratfordtowncrier@gmail.com

Effective 31 January 2021

Leaving Stratford going to Melbourne

Facebook: Stratford Town Crier

All articles must have a contact name and phone number.

All payments to: The Treasurer Stratford Town Crier P.O. Box 70, Stratford VIC 3862

Stratford Library

I awake in my bed and look to my black alarm clock, in neon green digits reads 3:37 am. My door begins creaking, so I sit up in bed. Phew! just muffin, “hey muffin you scared me,” my voice echoes. I’m never going to go back to sleep until this case is reopened, my baby sister deserves justice. Later that night I was dead asleep in the morning I woke to my alarm clock screaming ugh I head down to the kitchen for breakfast it's been 45 minutes jeep time goes by no breakfast today I ran out of my house I have a job interview in New York I don't think being late would be a good first impression. Open the double doors to the company, solo.mk with the CEO coming to greet me, “hello it is Rylo and you are Kassie” he says while taking me into his office pulling out a chair gesturing for me to sit. “I would like to say sorry for your sister Angela so young such tragic way to die” he sobbed.

Yeah” I mumbled.

“Sorry anyways have you done any work experience it says on your resume that you have done some work in an art studio” he says.

“Oh yes' 'I say enthusiastically, acting like he didn't just bring up my sister's death.

“Do you think you would be a good lawyer?” he questions

“absolutely ever since I was little I was so interested in criminal cases” I replied.

“Oh goody I think you will be perfect for this position I hope to see you

STRATFORD SHAKESPEARE ASSOCIATION SHAKESPEARE’S LANGUAGE AND US

So, a new year starts and Will rides again. But, from the Shakespeare Association, something different to start the year.. Many of us will probably not have read any of Shakespeare’s poems or seen any of his plays.. But, because so many of his sayings or lines have become embedded in our modern language, we are probably a little more familiar with his words than we might think. See if you can fill in the missing words from the list below. No information is given about the source of these lines. This will be given in the next issue.

1`”A drum, a drum! Macbeth doth . “

2 “Stars, hide your fires, Let not light see my black and deep .”

3”If it were done, when ’t’is , Then ‘t were well It were done .”

4”Where we are

BARRY & ANNETTE LETT FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Care, compassion and service With dignity, for the people of Gippsland

67 Macarthur Street, Sale, 3850 Tel: 5143 1232

around I will email all the details let me know when you can start “ he says

“Sure,” I said happily.

I stand up from my chair and he leads me to the door I walk past the other employees glued to their chairs and at desk number 55 this one woman that stands out to me by her dark crimson hair, silver jewellery, siren eyes glaring at you like she's about to murder you, as soon as she saw me staring she smiled and went to back clicking her black nails on the keyboard. “This will be your work space “ he said snapping me out of my hypnosis.

“Yeah right can't wait” I replied acting like I was listening. He then takes me to the doors and exits me out. I get in my black jeep turning the vehicle pressing down on the clutch pedal getting out of that place it felt eerily to me that woman she's so scary I think I am being way to dramatic I think it's just her makeup I'm sure she will have a nice personality later that evening I got an email it read:

Dear Kassie, You are hired to Solo.mk

As you will work as an lawyer having your own desk number 56 And if happy with you starting on Monday - Friday the 13th of September, if any problems call 8600 6700

Yours sincerely Rylo

To be continued.

By Rylo Spence, aged 12

There’s in men’s smiles.”

5 “To be , or to be, that is the .”

6 “ All the world’s a .”

7 “O, Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou ?”

8 “Is this a which I see before me?

9 “ The course of true never did run smooth.”

10 “ If be the of love, play, on.”

11 “Shall I thee to a summer’s day?”

12 “ Double, double, toil and ,, Fire and caldron .”

13 “My kingdom for a .”

14 Now is the winter of our

Made glorious by this sun of York.”

ILLING KATIE

CONFESSIONS OF A BOOK CLUB A PLAY BY STRATFORD COURT IN THE ACT THEATRE COMPANY

Killing Katie –Confessions of a book club comes to Stratford this February.

Local Stratford Theatre ensemble “Court in the Act Theatre” will perform “Killing Katie” this February at the Stratford Courthouse Theatre. Directed by Gavin Roberts and starring a great all local female ensemble Killing Katie will bring the house down with its clever witty script and “who done it” plot. Katie is dead. Physically at least. However, over a decade later, she is still very much alive in the minds of the four women who witnessed her shocking death at book club. None of them have met again or dared whisper her name.

Killing Katie explores the intricacies, depths and power plays of female friendship groups. How does the arrival of a new member upset the balance? How do the others respond? How did Katie die? And who should feel guilty? A shocking, laugh out loud funny and brutally honest play, Killing Katie will resonate with any anyone who doesn’t want to end up dead on a coffee table.

Performed by Court in the Act Theatre Company

Written by Tracey Trinder

Directed by Gavin Roberts

Performance Dates

February 2, 3, 4 at 7.30pm

February 5 at 2.30pm Tickets through www.stratfordcourthouse.com.au

Photography by Lisa Hayman Photography

Anna Roberts - Katie (yep the one who dies) spoiler

Jill McCubbin - Sam

Robyn - Aynslie Watson

Angela - Beth Ripper

Linda - Emma Barber

We love our local theatre - Thanks so much in advance.

Gavin Roberts

STRATFORD COURTHOUSE THEATRE

We’re very excited that some of the hard work our team has put into applying for grants will soon pay off. We’ve been successful in securing funding from Regional Arts Australia under their Cultural Tourism Generator program. As a result we’ll be hosting two great performances, one theatre and one music, in February and March.

With assistance from local MP Darren Chester we’ve secured funding to build an outdoor stage so that we can hold events in the car park area at the rear of the Courthouse. We are hoping to have construction completed before the end of February.

Killing Katie

Katie is dead. Physically at least. However, over a decade later, she is still very much alive in the minds of the four women who witnessed her shocking death at book club. None of them have met again or dared whisper her name.

Killing Katie explores the intricacies, depths and power plays of female friendship groups. A shocking, laugh out loud funny and brutally honest play that will resonate with any anyone who doesn’t want to end up dead on a coffee table.

Performed by Court in the Act Theatre Company and written by Tracey Trinder, this show runs from Thursday, 2 February until Sunday 5 February. Tickets $30 ($25 concession).

Lab Kelpie Theatre Company Monologue Masterclass

Conducted by professional actor Lyall Brooks this masterclass aims to challenge and inspire participants – within a supportive, fun atmosphere – to each learn, rehearse and polish an assigned monologue, then present it in front of an audience during “Act II” of a A

Prudent Man on Saturday 18 February 7.30pm at The Stratford Courthouse Theatre.

Each 2-5minute solo piece will be allocated beforehand by the Lab Kelpie team. Lyall will work with each participant to interrogate the text and finesse their performance, then assist the group to assemble the pieces into an affecting structure ready to perform. Note: Participants will be allocated monologues at least a week prior to the masterclass and are expected to have learned or be extremely familiar with the material, ready to work on the floor. Participants are expected to, participate in feedback and contribute to the formation of the group project.

The workshops will be conducted as individual 45 minute sessions starting from 7.00 pm on

Friday 17 February. The cost is $40 per person which includes a ticket to see A Prudent Man on Saturday 18 February.

A Prudent Man

A conservative politician, a leader, a man in a snappy suit, an athlete in a bad tracksuit. Meet A Prudent Man –an amalgamation of the right-wing politician that haunts us all.

Written and directed by Green Room nominated playwright Katy Warner and performed by Lyall Brooks, A Prudent Man takes an unapologetic look at a man both in control and on the edge.

This darkly comedic political thriller explores what it means to be right in more ways than one.

This is a speculative piece inspired by real life events and people. Audience advice: Strong language

and adult themes.

Saturday, 18 February. 7.30 pm start. Tickets $30 ($25 concession). Bring a friend from outside the 3862 postcode at no extra charge.

God of Carnage

What happens when two sets of parents meet up to deal with the unruly behaviour of their children?

A calm and rational debate between grown-ups about the need to teach kids how to behave properly? Or a hysterical night of name-calling, tantrums and tears before bedtime? Boys will be boys, but the adults are usually worse - much worse. Mature language warning. Runtime 2 hours with interval

Tickets full $30 and Concession $25 Doors open at 7 for a 7.30pm start.

Steve Laws