WHAT TO DO IN AND AROUND STRATFORD
DAY 01
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
STRATFORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Stratford Historical Society is pleased to announce it is the recipient of a Grant from FRRR ( Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.) for a new ride on mower and Bushmaster multi tool, purchased from Peter at Stratford Mower and Chainsaw Repairs. These items will help our amazing volunteers to keep our grounds in pristine condition for visitors to enjoy. So thanks to FRRR and Peter for their welcome support and all who helped with our submission.
Martin Gallagher
PRESIDENT’S SAY
month we are proud to devote our front page and two inside stories to the Stratford RSL, whose members dedicate their time and energy to supporting past and current members of the Australian Defence Force and honouring those lost in conflicts since World War 1. 100 years of the Stratford RSL is something truly worthy of celebrating, albeit belatedly due to Covid restrictions. You can keep up to date with the Stratford RSL by having a conversation with one of their friendly members and via their Stratford RSL Facebook page. Thanks to Jennifer Wrigley for researching the history of Stratford RSL with the assistance of the branch members. Of course, as every year, the focus will also be remembrance at 11.00 am on Friday 11 November. If you possibly can, please purchase a poppy to support the valuable work of the RSL. For those who are not and have not been serving members of the defence force or their families, it can be too easy to forget or overlook conflicts past and conflicts currently raging in other parts of the world. But it can take very little, outside of our control, to disrupt the
peace and security we can all too easily take for granted. Thank you past and serving members and your families, and thank you Stratford RSL.
The Crier is also very proud to announce that at the annual CNAV (Community Newspapers of Victoria)
Conference and Awards held in October, we won the “Best writing by a person 18 years or younger” category, with an article by Ella Rose Spence. Remarkably, this is the second consecutive year Ella Rose’s writing has taken out this award. Ella Rose came to us as a result of winning our annual Literacy Award for her school several years ago. The Crier presents the Literacy Award annually to a grade 6 student in each of our three local schools, in order to celebrate and encourage writing by our local young people. Congratulations Ella Rose!
Judy Donoghue
The Women's Auxiliary is an integral part of the RSL and was first formed around the country by mothers, wives, widows, sisters, daughters and aunts of men who served in WW1. Women have played a central role in sustaining the activities of ex service organisations. The Auxiliaries are dedicated to fundraising, supporting the activities of their local RSL and caring for veterans in their wider community. Our group here in Stratford will celebrate 90 years in 2023 and a look back through the records reveals a very active group.
During the WW2 years activities included billeting servicemen’s children for holidays, catering for various events. Smoke and Dance nights were very popular. RSL balls and Christmas parties for children started in these years and were held into the 1960s. Card afternoons were held in the RSL Hall on market days when people would come to town to buy/sell cattle.
After WW2 there were 2 committees for a time one for
Stratford and one covering outlying areas.
Further fundraising events included fashion parades, card afternoons, lunches, coffee mornings, street stalls, raffles and Bingo.
Funds raised over the past 89 years have been donated to POW Fund, Nurses Fund, ANZAC House, Veterans Homes, Bundoora Hospital, Distressed Soldiers Fund, Care parcels for personnel serving overseas including Dogs and many more worthwhile causes.
Members also knitted socks during WW2 and skull caps to wear under helmets for personnel serving in Afghanistan.
The Auxiliary always caters for morning teas after Remembrance and ANZAC Day Ceremonies which can be up to 500 people and make wreaths for these ceremonies. For a time up to 45 wreaths were being made.
This story is another example of the wonderful voluntary work that has been going on in our community for many years.
Jennifer WrigleyTHE LIONS CLUB OF STRATFORD
The Lions Club of Stratford had a dinner on 29 September at the Inside Out Italian Cafe Restaurant. This was a very good meal and also good fellowship.
President Lindsay Ross presented to Stan Luxford the James D Richardson Honour Award. This was for recognition of support to the Stratford Lions Club and Community. Stan has provided for many years the wood for the yearly raffles. Some say that after the splitting and stacking of wood onto the trailer the refreshments provided by Stan made the job worthwhile.
President Lindsay Ross presented to Paul Wager the Melvin Jones Fellow for Dedicated Humanitarian Services from the Lions Club International Foundation. This award was presented for the work that Lion Paul has done over the years for the Lions Club of Stratford. Just to name a few Chairperson for the Lion Convention in 2017, organizing 3 Junior Public speaking events before Covid,
Lions Club of Stratford fundraising events including Cancer Council, Myeloma and Black Dog Institute and other events. He has been President of the Club 3 times, and now is Assistant Secretary. Over the years he has supported the concept that “We, as part of a team, can achieve anything”.
Lindsay Ross
REMEMBRANCE DAY
At 11.00am on 11 November, 1918 the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than 4 years of continuous warfare and so on the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month a minute’s silence is observed and dedicated to those soldiers who died in WW1, WW2 and all wars and conflicts since.
The community is invited to attend our own Remembrance Day ceremony. Please be at the park by 10.40am. Members of the community are invited to lay a
AVON COUNTRY WOMEN’S ASSOCIATIONAvon CWA recently held their AGM with Group President, Lesley Stergiopoulous presiding over the election of Office Bearers. Emma Brooks was re elected President, Lyn Mclindin was elected as Correspondence Secretary, Karen Hales was elected as Minute Secretary and Dianne Honey was elected as Treasurer. Lunch was had before the AGM with Group Secretary Yvonne Wade accompanying Group President Lesley to enjoy the delicious spread our members had prepared. It's that time of the year where members re join for a further year or decide, sadly to not re join. As in all organisations it’s a time of reflection. A time to look forward to the next year and a time to say ‘goodbye’ and thank you’ to those who have chosen not to re join. We will miss you!
Our Junior members, 8 years plus, meet on the second Saturday of each month. They must be
STRATFORD POLICE REPORT
Between approximately 11:45pm on Saturday 22 October and 1:00am on 23 October, 2 motor vehicles were observed driving in convoy in the vicinity of Peters Rd and Hobson St Stratford. During this time unknown offenders have gained entry into several vehicles prior to decamping. This incident is currently being investigated and any CCTV or witnesses are being encouraged to come forward and speak to Police. This is a timely reminder to ensure your vehicle or house is locked at all times and any valuables removed from your vehicle. As you may be aware thieves are opportunist, so let’s not give them the opportunity to take what we have worked hard for.
wreath and an open invitation is extended to morning tea at the RSL Hall afterwards. Following will be an invitation only lunch to celebrate 100 yrs of the RSL in Stratford. The RSL is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected organisations. It exists to support veterans and their dependants. A reminder to buy a poppy and wear it with pride. They are a symbol of remembrance and hope for a peaceful future and worn as a sign of support for the armed forces. The sale of poppies raises much needed funds to support returned soldiers and their families.
Jennifer Wrigleyaccompanied by an adult and please bring a small plate of food for a shared afternoon tea. There is a small cost of $5 to help cover the cost of the craft kits. Parents please RSVP to Emma a few days prior, on 0409 865 047 to ensure there are enough craft kits made up for everyone.
Avon CWA meets on the third Monday of each month at 10am followed by a BYO lunch and our monthly meeting. We meet in the Senior Citizen’s rooms at 5 Hobson St, Stratford. Our next meeting is on the 21st of November and this will be a planning meeting. Further enquiries can be made to Emma on
On that note I would like to introduce myself, my name is Senior Constable Shayne CROAKER, and I am your new full time Police Officer. It is such an honour to represent this magnificent community. Please do not hesitate when you see me to have a chat. I have only been in town for a very short period and have already been made to feel welcome.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Senior Constable Christopher MUTSCH as he has represented this community to a very exceptional standard for the last 9 months. I know many of you may be disappointed he was not selected but I will try my hardest to live up to his and your standards.
Shayne Croaker
STRATFORD LAWN BOWLS
The update of our facilities is continuing, and we are pleased to have support in the work we are doing. The Maffra Community Sports Club has given us $2500 towards the establishment of the Barbeque area which is a key ingredient in the success of our Crackerjack Competition. This Wednesday evening event proved so popular this year that 16 teams applied for 14 places. The lucky ones are out there on the green in the extended daylight hours, and the club is very grateful for the time given by members to run the competition. A special mention to our Sausage Chefs Val Townsend and Dick Savage. Plans are in hand for the painting of the exterior timber and spouting thanks to a grant
from the Wellington Shire Community Grants Program. $6000 has been awarded for this project which will take place in the coming months. We are extremely grateful to be recipients of this funding and appreciate the support of the Shire.
Kathy Hiscock won the final against Rhonda Hall in the Minor Singles, and the husband wife duo of Karen and Matt Telling (pictured) are representing our club in the
finals of the Gippsland Bowls Region Novice event to be played at Heyfield.
Pennant is underway and there have been some great wins for the Stratford teams. The Saturday division 1 team is on top of the ladder after 3 rounds and there have been some great bowls played in all sections.
Congratulations to Mick Dee and Wayne Marsden who are through to the finals in the over 60’s Men’s Pairs in the Gippsland Region.
Special mention of the work of our former President of the Ladies section Nola Wheeler. Thank you Nola for your contribution to our club over the last 5 years. New president Maureen Petty has stepped into the role and is already showing great leadership.
Margaret RobbinsMARDI GRAS
The Rotary Club of Maffra is bringing a CIRCUS theme to the Maffra Mardi Gras in March 2023!
For those who are new to the area, the purpose of the Mardi Gras is to provide an opportunity for community groups throughout Wellington Shire to raise funds for their organisation. One entrant from each organisation coordinates a fund raising activity leading up to the Mardi Gras. This culminates in a family friendly evening with a street parade, carnival rides, marching bands and floats, street and food stalls, entertainment and a lot of fun!
Community groups are now being asked to consider entering a contestant the entrant with the highest total funds reached will be named the Maffra Mardi Gras Winner for 2023. This is an especially good time to enter, as it has been difficult over the past few years to hold fund raising events. The closing date for applications is 11 November, as a time will be arranged for a meeting for all entrants in November, before the busy Christmas period, to explain the rules and answer questions. Entrants will have a six week window for fund raising, from early February leading up to the event.
Expressions of interest are also being sought from community groups and schools wishing to enter a float, with trophies awarded
best creative ideas to do with the circus! and food stall holders are also being asked for expressions of interest.
Get into the spirit of The Circus and note 18 March in your diaries, to bring back the Maffra Mardi Gras! Enter, or submit an expression of interest for a float or street stall, by sending an email to rcmafframardigras@gmail.com.
October was significant in Stratford for the “changing of the guard” from Senior Constable Chris Mutsch who has been acting in the role of our resident police officer, to Senior Constable Shayne Croaker. Our thanks go out again to Chris for his service to our community and our best wishes go to Senior Constable Croaker.
If you ever search Facebook for “Eyewatch Wellington Police Service Area”, you will notice immediately the advice “Do
not report crime via social media. Non urgent 131 444 Emergencies Triple Zero (000)”. While acknowledging that some social media posts about alleged crime can be appropriate and useful warnings, they are also very often fruitless, alarmist, misleading and possibly damaging. In one example of some time ago, I noted on an East Gippsland community page a photo of a car, the owner of which was alleged to have just stolen a dog. Checking other pages, I eventually found that the car driver had actually rescued the dog from being hit on the road and had delivered it safely to a
the damage to that driver s reputation was sealed on some of the other Facebook pages the allegation had been shared to. So do take heed and memorise that non urgent phone number, keep it in your phone or in your wallet.
Our next Stratford NHW meeting will be held at the Community Hub in the Library building on Thursday 1 December at 7.00pm. Please join us, and if his duties allow, you may be able to meet our new police officer and exchange thoughts and information on local crime and prevention.
Judy Donoghue
Landcare is a joint effort between the community, government, and business to protect and repair our environment. It began in 1986 and now involves thousands of Victorians and more than 600 groups working together to shape the future of our land, biodiversity and waterways.
Stratford’s Avon Landcare Group is a community group made up of enthusiastic, dedicated and skilled people who work together to protect, preserve, enhance and integrate the environment and recreational features of our township and its surrounding district. If you would like to get involved in this work, come along and find out more on Sunday 27 November at 5.00pm in Apex Park.
This will be a family friendly, free event with planting activities in one of the town’s favourite parks. There will be an opportunity to talk to experienced Landcare members and find out where you can help. A short AGM will be held with guest speaker Nic Rodderick the new Landcare Facilitator. We hope to see you there!
Did you know?
The stormwater drains take rainwater from our streets and gutters into the closest waterway, for Stratford that is the Avon River.
One of the main attractions of living in Stratford is the Avon River, it is a beautiful place to go for a walk, fish, listen to the birds, have a swim, kayak, or fossick for an interesting stone. So, it’s always disappointing when you come across rubbish floating in the water or washed up on the shore. Sometimes this rubbish has travelled from streets away via the storm water drains.
When it rains 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
STRATFORD CEMETERY
I have been asked by the Stratford Cemetery Trust Members to add printed excerpts from The Gippsland Times in our past that had local Stratford and district deaths as a matter of historical value.
Please be aware that some of the posts I will add here may have mention of past local names which may still have the family name and descendants present within the community and also the mention of suicide and other shocking deaths in this regard.
the garden including fertilisers and weed killer into the river, which flows into our lakes and then into the ocean.
We can all help stop this pollution and keep the Avon River beautiful by preventing it from getting into the water way in the first place.
Tips to reduce stormwater pollution: 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.
• 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.
Anna Roberts
Friday 7 November 1862
SUICIDE
On Wednesday evening last Edward Fielding who had been for some time residing at the Shakespeare Hotel, and acting in the capacity of bookkeeper, committed suicide. From what information we can glean, it would appear that deceased was sometimes in the habit of indulging freely in strong drink, and that afterwards he suffered much from the
depression of spirits consequent on the reaction produced by abstinence from the stimulants which had caused the previous excitement. A few days before hand the deceased had been drinking heavily, and up to the time of his committing the rash act which caused his death, he had been labouring slightly under the effects of the excitement produced by his previous drinking. On the evening of the melancholy catastrophe, the landlord, Mr Swan, whose kindness to deceased was proverbial, brought him some gruel to his bed, some of which he partook, and expressed to Mr Swan his thanks for the attention he received. About six clock, three hours after deceased had partaken of the gruel, Mr Swan went again to see him, and, to his horror, found Fielding on the bed deceased. On yesterday, the District Coroner, Dr Arbuckle, held an inquest on the body, when Mr Swan gave evidence as to deceased’s habits of life, and Dr Peck, who held a post mortem examination, described the cause of death which he believed must have been inflicted by deceased’s own act. The Jury, through their foreman Mr Cox, also returned a verdict to the effect that ‘Deceased committed suicide whilst labouring under the effects of delirium tremens’.
From what we can learn, Mr Fielding, the deceased, was sometime previously tutor at the Ridge station, and, it is believed, that he has no relations in this colony.
Alan Neaves
STRATFORD PLAYGROUP
Term 4 is now in full swing and we have enjoyed a busy few weeks of playgroup. The committee has been able to purchase a range of new play resources for indoor and outdoor play each week due to the ongoing community support and our recent fundraising efforts. Families and children are able to utilise these resources each week and the new cafe and home corner set up have been thoroughly enjoyed.
Coming up for the remainder of Term 4 at playgroup we will be having some Melbourne Cup themed craft, some Christmas craft and hopefully some sunny outdoor morning play if the weather starts to improve. We have been lucky to enjoy some outdoor morning teas in the sunshine this term.
welcome so come and see us in the final weeks of 2022 before we break for the school holidays. Our Facebook page is an easy way to contact us if you wish.
Stratford Primary School has made a fantastic start to our final term for 2022.
Congratulations to Josh Hall who made it to Regional Athletics in 12 year old boys Long Jump. In a competitive field, Josh brought home a 4th place something of which he should be immensely proud!
Our Stratford’s Got Talent Competition on Friday 7 October put Australia Talent to shame! We have a wealth of talented young people at our school. The judges and audience were treated to a range of singing, dancing and gymnastic routines, and a highly entertaining ventriloquist. I was extremely proud of the persistence, resilience and growth mindset shown by our competitors on the day our Stratford Primary ARCH values were forefront. Congratulations to our winners Kylie, Sophia C, Felicity and Summer.
A group of our Year 6 students took a trip back in time to Kinder on Thursday 20 October. These students thoughtfully collected a range of picture story books that
Kindergarten and read to the 4 year old group. This was a valuable experience for all, building relationships with our 2023 enrolments. It was lovely to see some of the Year 6 students reconnecting with the Kindergarten
On Friday 21 October our Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 students were treated to a Big Day Out to the Gippsland Aquatic Centre in Traralgon. This trip was made possible by the fundraising efforts of our school community. It was a raging success! Michelle, Adele, Alana, Kim and Mrs Steele shook the moths out of the bathers to take full advantage of the water slides and water tower. The children had a terrific time, showing their growth mindset to take on new experiences and challenges. Their manners were
Aquatic Centre staff. After a special lunch provided by the school, the bus home was very quiet. Tired and happy children on board!
I look forward to updating the community on our adventures at Stratford Primary in the next edition of the Town Crier.
AIRLY PRIMARY SCHOOL
The return of the Maffra and Sale Agricultural Shows hasn’t gone unnoticed at Airly. Students attended the School’s Program at Maffra and enjoyed making sustainable paper pots and trying their hand at woodwork. Students have also entered their latest photography and drawing art at Sale Show. The drawing was inspired by mindful observation of the school’s vegetable garden. It was impressive to see students from F 6 sitting in their own space and free drawing what they could see.
Mindfulness is an important part of the school’s wellbeing strategy which is based on the school’s values and the Resilience Project. Keeping the mind healthy is just as important as keeping the body healthy and Maffra Gymnastics has been a highly coveted part of our weekly routine. Engagement in the program is evident with the gigantic grins given by the kids. In other sporting news we are excited to announce that Mikio came fourth in his 1500m, race at the Gippsland Primary Region Athletics Championships held at Newborough.
schools including Bundy, Cobains, Cowwarr, Loch Sport, Seaspray and Wurruk. During Covid our students were isolated from this cluster. It was great to break that bubble and have everyone meet up for a collaborative day practicing teamwork skills. Students programmed robots, participated in drum groups, and enjoyed a Lord Somers camp immersion incursion.
cluster belongs to different schools, the land they lie on is identified as that which the Gunnai Kurnai called home. It was great to see Sianna, a current Airly student, bridging the gap between schools as representative. The different schools connect with Bundy through her role as dancer for Culture Connect at Bundalaguah Primary School’s 150th.
Geraldine Carter
A Lakes Entrance resident stopped his car as we were putting the trees and the bowling Santa on display last year and said “I love how your town has such a great Christmas display each year from simple ideas.”
“BULLOCK FLAT”
Located in the north of the former Avon Shire, Bullock Flat is situated along the Wonnangatta River. The spot seems to have been given its name as cattle would have been grazed there from the nearby Wonnangatta Station Run which was established in the 1860s. The site is now a camp site and popular Trout fishing spot.
BULLTOWN (NAARUN)”
residents in Raymond Street in 2021 attracted a lot of admirers with Santa appearing all along the street in his bath, fishing, gardening, golfing. Before you put out your old garden seat or bike or other items in the hard rubbish, think about how you might turn your unwanted gear into a Santa display with a bit of red paint and some creativity. (For safety, please consider your design in light of the rain and high winds we have been experiencing, and the safety and security of decorations near roads and footpaths. Make sure you have things tied down). We are planning to have the highway decorated for Christmas again this year and need help from the community to get things in place.
Located in the north of the former Avon Shire, Bulltown (aka Naarun) was established in 1861 after gold was discovered in the Crooked River by Alfred Howitt’s party in 1860. Shanties soon became a town with a butcher, blacksmith, public hall, several accommodation houses and Thomas Pratt’s “Civilised River Hotel”.
There is contention as to how the town got its name, one theory is that it was named after Agnes
JAZZ THORTON
Jazz Thornton, a mental health activist, has overcome a mentally challenging childhood due to trauma but has used her experiences to inspire people.
Jazz Thornton was born 29 March 1995. At the age of 3 Jazz was sexually assaulted by the men in her life.
Jazz suffered from depression and an eating disorder. Because of Jazz’s depression she tried to commit suicide 14 times, the first time at the age 12. In 2015, Jazz lost her friend Jessica to suicide, she was only 17.
When Jazz was 25 she was diagnosed with ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Jazz got through the rough times with her friend writing letters to help her cope with challenges. One titled “Open when you feel suicidal” helped her cope. Jazz also talked with a psychologist.
STRATFORD SCOUTS
December we will be seeking your help. Please watch for notices on our Stratford Community Notice Board on Facebook, and through your interest groups, such as Scouts, Lions Club, CWA, Overcoming Obstacles, and notices in the Library and Post Office.
Margaret Robbins
Stratforward Committee 0427 456 829
“Mother” Buntine’s bulls which had just been driven to the area to feed the miners. She is said to have been the first woman on the Crooked River Goldfields. Another theory is that the town was named after the American Civil War battle of Bulltown which occurred in 1863.
Nevertheless in 1862, the Bulltown Post Office was established, it operated until 1876. In 1864 gold was discovered in a quartz reef, this soon became preferred over the alluvial creek and river prospecting and the town began to slowly decline. Even so, local families remained living at the town and soon a school was needed. The Bulltown School #1533 was established 1 April 1875, and operated until it closed on 4 June 1885. By the 1890s the boom town of the 1860s was gone and only small holdings remained. Interestingly the town was never officially surveyed other then a reserve designated called “Naarun Reserve”, which consisted of a gazetted school reserve. Pictured is Mr and Mrs Pratt at Bulltown in about 1906.
Daniel Parker EstoppeyJazz has been on Dancing with the Stars and she has written 3 books, Letters to You, Stop Surviving and Start Fighting and My Journey Starts Here. Jazz has been in a few movies and made her own documentary Jessica's Tree which is all about her
If you need help it’s okay to ask. If you want to talk to an adult but you feel embarrassed, call Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.
Famous quotes by Jazz They would rather have you messy and alive than not there” s not about battling your past it’s about fighting for your future”.
Here's a quote I felt was Your words have the ability to be a part of changing someone's world worse or for better use them wisely”.
*Stratford Scouts Win DOUBLE Gold at Cohen Shield*
Over the weekend of 14 to 16 October, 8 Scouts from 1St Stratford Scout Group participated in the annual Cohen Shield. They were joined by scouts from Maffra, Sale, Bairnsdale and Traralgon. They participated in 5 stations across the day including Navigation, Scout Skills, Construction, Cooking and First Aid.
Navigation they had to Find dory’ and plot out coordinates on a piece of paper using a compass then plot those points on the ground to make a picture and use grid references to spell out a word.
Scout Skills they had to use the skills they have been learning to navigate safely and quietly around different
building a swing using correct knot tying and lashing of pieces of wood. Cooking was making some pancakes using correct hygiene and observing kitchen safety. And First Aid was acting out various injuries and using their skills to fix the injuries. Stratford scouts were split into two groups, one led by patrol Leader Brock and the other his sister Delilah. The patrol leaders
were assisted by Emma, Kylie, Zakyrah, Callum, Hailey and Chloe. Both earnt gold with Brocks patrol beating Delilahs team 445 to 430 out of 500.
They were the only patrols to earn gold out of the 7 patrols present over the weekend. We as leaders are very proud of our little troop and after the results on the weekend it proves that what we are doing is right.
They are a fun respectful and mature bunch and we look forward to seeing them grow as a troop and hopefully see some new faces at scouts over the coming years.
If you are interested in joining Stratford scouts, even just as a volunteer on the committee or as an Adult Helper email the Group Leader at gl.1ststratford@scoutsvictoria. com.au.
Jeremy Duncis
Someone once reflected that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday. “I’ve gone to church for 30 years now and in that time I have heard something like 3000 sermons but I can’t remember most of them, I’m wasting my time and the ministers are wasting theirs”
A reply “I’ve been married for 30 years now and in that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. For the life of me I cannot recall the entire menu for most of those meals, but I do know this They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to live my life. If I had not had these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!”
Something to think about You are always very welcome at the Uniting Church in Jones St Stratford. Sunday morning services start at 9.30am.
Now that the weather is warmer we will be meeting back in the church building. Games night continues on Wednesday nights to which you are also very welcome.
Are you over 55 and looking for somewhere to live? There are still a couple of units available for sale behind the church in Neil St. Contact Uniting.
It was really great to recently meet together with the 2 other churches in town for a combined service which incorporated The Least Coin which has been mentioned here previously. What is missing in CH__CH? UR!!
Jennifer Wrigley ANGLICAN PARISH OF AVON
The Parish's monthly Family Movie Night got off to a good start in September (plus the mandatory popcorn!) and an enjoyable time was had by all who attended, children and adults alike. The next Movie Night was held on Friday 28 October with the movie 'Sonic the Hedgehog 2' and again was well supported.
Our Blessing of the Animals service, in celebration of the feast of St. Francis on Sunday 2 October, was a joyous occasion. Guest speaker, Dr. Steve Postlethwaite gave us an inspirational talk.
Our Op Shop Fashion Show is still on track for Saturday afternoon 12 November. Our volunteers are working hard to make sure the event is even bigger and better than last time! Details will be publicized shortly. Watch out too for our annual Christmas raffle to start this month. Tickets will be available at the Op Shop.
The Parish's retiring offertory this month is in support of Anglicare.
Men's Breakfast and Women's Fellowship and Craft Groups: both groups continue with their monthly meetings and anyone interested is most welcome to come along. (Contact Paul 0457 329 919 for the Men's Breakfast Group and Sandra 0406 983 503 for the Women's Fellowship and Craft Group).
Worship Services: our regular Sunday services continue to be streamed via Facebook
ST PATRICK’S PRIMARY SCHOOL PJ DAY
St Patrick’s recently participated in Gippsland’s Biggest PJ Day. This was a fundraising event coordinated by the organisation ‘A Better Life for Foster Kids’. The aim of the day was to raise awareness and funds for those children in our community that are in foster care. In total, 38 primary schools from across Gippsland participated in the day, which was a great achievement. The money raised helps to provide foster children with essential items such as pyjamas, underwear and toiletries. Due to your generous donations, St Patrick’s raised $236, which will go a long way in helping these children. Andrew,
Who could forget Essie Davis playing private investigator Phryne Fisher of the 1920s? She survived the horrors of WW1 as an ambulance driver, afterwards relocating to Melbourne. Her tv costumes were stunning, so much so that Rippon Lea House in 2013 held a very popular display of them with over 30,000 people attending. Phryne’s appearance was based on author Kerry Greenwood’s sister Janet. But did you know Kerry Greenwood has written another “sleuth” series
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 via Zoom. Copies of our Order of Service are available at our parish website http:// anglicanavon.org.au/parishbulletin/ and Facebook.
St Francis Blessing of the Animals
On what was a perfect spring day, the Parish of Avon hosted its annual Blessing of the Animals service on Sunday 2 October at Holy Trinity Stratford. This traditionally occurs on the nearest Sunday to the Feast of St Francis.
Priest Dave Perryman, dressed in a dolphin costume, ably assisted by the Revd Anne Perryman dressed as a bee, led a wonderful service. The church was full of pet lovers plus many pets, including some stick insects and guinea pigs. All dogs behaved very well, despite being in an unfamiliar space, only the odd bark during singing was heard. All pets were duly blessed by Priest Dave after an inspiring address by guest speaker, Dr Steve Postlethwaite. Dr Steve spoke of the different pet owners he has met during his work as a vet and related this to our own faith journey.
Afterwards, all were invited to a sumptuous morning tea for the adults, plus appropriate treats for the pets, in the Parish Hall.
Gail Wager
from A Better Life for Foster Kids, visited St Patrick’s and attended a whole school assembly, which focused on the work that they do and the need for this fundraiser in our community.
Fundraising events such as this provide opportunities for us as a school to bring alive the principles of Catholic Social Teaching. Catholic Social
starring Corinna Chapman? This has a contemporary setting in Calico Alley Melbourne. Corinna owns a bakery called Earthly Delights and prides herself in baking “beautiful bread and bread products” and selling them to her loyal customers. (She even shares some of her recipes. Try one.) She has a heart as big as her dress size size 20 and gives so many young ones a chance to change their lives. Because of her unique friends and customers she gets to hear what’s happening on the streets and soon finds herself sleuthing many a mystery. Try one of the 7 books in her series.
Holy Trinity Stratford
Friday 11 Remembrance Day
Saturday 12 Op Shop Fashion Show Parish Hall
Saturday 19 Men's Breakfast Group, 8.30am at Parish Hall, Stratford
Friday 25 Family Movie Night
Saturday 26 Women's Fellowship and Craft Group 10.00am
Monday 29 Christmas Afternoon Tea for Volunteers
Teaching is rooted in Scripture, formed by the wisdom of Church leaders, and influenced by grassroots movements. It is our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world. Our faith calls us to love God and to love our neighbours in every situation, especially our sisters and brothers living in poverty.
FOOTY COLOURS DAY
On the last day of Term 3, St Patrick’s had a footy colours day. The students all proudly dressed in their favourite teams’ colours. A longest kick competition was held throughout the day with the winner receiving a certificate and a chocolate frog. The winners of the longest kick competition were:
Grade Girls Boys Foundation Evie Taylor & Harper Nicklen Zac Moore & Henry Alcock
Grade 1 Harri Spencer Bam Barberio Grade 2 Gemma Pattison Rocky Barberio Grade 3 Mila McLeod Max Bartlett Grade 4 Chloe Halligan Tyce Arndt Grade 5 Ruby Mowat Kit Barberio
6 Sara Spence Declan Wishart
As I write this I’m still buzzing after a wonderful weekend of music from The Maes. It was a privilege to be able to join in with their sublime harmonies in the vocal workshop that they ran on the Sunday morning following their performance.
We were very lucky to be able to bring this world class act to Stratford and we thank everyone who helped make both the performance and the workshop a success, and we look forward to bringing you more top class musicians.
SHAKESPEARE ASSOCIATION SHAKESPEARE'S LANGUAGE
CONTINUED
Modern English had come into practice about one hundred years before Shakespeare began writing. So, he inherited a " mobile" language. We have seen that he added to the vocabulary. But he had a wide reservoir of words that English people already could identify with. The English we use is not the same as that used in the seventeenth century. Languages are always changing. We use, in this modern technological age, words and phrases our grandparents would not have understood.
So the Bard, along with his literary contemporaries, was developing and exploiting a language undergoing real change.
As a playwright he really had two audiences. One was usually quite wealthy, educated and able to understand the more complex aspects of his speech and ideas he was exploring. The other, the poor, usually could not read or write. But, they could follow the simple dialogues and the crude jokes. The action
STRATFORD MEN’S SHED
With the world seemingly in upheaval on so many fronts it’s good to escape the News cycle at least for a brief period a couple of times per week. And what better way for a man to relax and enjoy the company of others than to spend some time with fellow compatriots than a few hours at the Men’s Shed?
Some come here to work on community projects, others to work on personal projects and gain access to the wealth of experience and help available, and some to simply enjoy a good chat. I’m sure that, with all of the restrictions imposed on us as a result of Covid over
2022/23
Segue Community Hub Gallery and Café are please to invite you to exhibit your photographic work during our community photographic Exhibition
The Segue Community Hub is excited to provide an opportunity for professional and amateur photographers to exhibit their work within a professional gallery space.
Monday 28 November 2022 through to Friday 3rd February 2023.
Doors open at 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start.
There will be an opportunity to meet the creators and cast after the show.
This is a Community Event and entry is FREE. Photographers may enter one photograph approximately 30cm x 40cm. Any variation regarding size and/or amount of photographs can to be negotiated with the gallery curator or SEGUE manager. Photographers may sell their work (no commission to Segue required).
Conditions of Entry
1. Display and arrangement of work is at the discretion of the curating team and every attempt will be made to maximise fair exposure of photographs for all participants.
2. Photographs need to arrive at Segue, and be ‘display’ ready, between 9.30 am Monday 28th November and 2.30 pm Friday 2nd December.
needed few words anyway. Sword fights or battles need little explanation.
If we look at his language many of the words are short, often monosyllables. And it is a measure of his success as a writer that his descriptions, create such evocative pictures. Words had to create effects in the absence of realistic props. In these speeches, the actor often involves us as listeners.
One interesting final point. Although lines in his plays were tightly organized, with a set rhythm, few of them actually rhymed. Rhyme was sometimes used to end a scene and to alert actors to be ready for the next scene. A bit confusing, perhaps, because there were no acts or scenes in the original plays.
So, after four hundred years of language and cultural change we can still admire his skills as a playwright and be captured by the world that he creates for us.
3. All entries must include a completed and signed official entry form which can be picked up from Segue Gallery and Café during normal operating hours.
4. Segue Community Hub staff and volunteers will take every care in handling all work but are in no way responsible for damage, theft or loss.
5. Photographers agree that Segue Community Hub has the right to reproduce for advertising and promotional purposes, but not for commercial gain, any photographs submitted.
If you are interested or have any questions please contact Steve Hall (Curator) stevephall742@gmail.com or Jess Darvill (Manager) manager@segue.org.au
We look forward to sharing an awesome Community Photographic Exhibition
the past two years there would be many men feeling alone and isolated. The solution to that lies within the walls of the local Men’s Shed. It’s a simple walk down the driveway at No13 Dixon St and you will be amongst friends. Monday and Friday mornings from 9.00am to noon. Mark it in your diary it's a date.
And, for those with a need to do something useful with their spare time there are always projects on the drawing board. We are currently involved in the preparation of wooden toys for Christmas give aways, the restoration of old bicycles to be sent to Vanuatu and building nesting boxes for wildlife.
Col Counsell
recycled bike.
