October 2022 Stratford Town Crier

REG No: A0052373W Editor: Leanne Dugan Co Editor: Shakira Dugan

2019

WHAT TO DO IN AND AROUND STRATFORD

DAY 01

Visit the Stratford Museum (Hobson St, Stratford) Open Tuesday & Sunday

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

PRESIDENT’S SAY

This month the Crier is proud to highlight the Stratford Fire Brigade. With the summer season ahead of us, and dreadful memories of some long, hot, dry, and sometimes tragic, summer seasons in the past, now is the time to be aware and be prepared. Never was the phrase “prevention is better than cure” more appropriate than when considering planning ahead for threatened or immediate fire danger.

STRATFORD BOOK OF POETRY

To support and encourage your creative talents the Town Crier wants to publish a book of Poetry to celebrate World Poetry Day on 21 March 2023. Here is a snippet for this month, by Alex from Stratford Primary school.

BACKROOMS

I see strange wall covered with yellow wallpaper Flashing lamps on the ceiling blinding me

When they flash

It's like a maze

It gets bigger Every time I think of it I hear strange screams Coming closer when I talk Trying to find me

I can taste the cold stained air Making me go crazy

And forgetting about my old life

It is a credit to the Stratford Fire Brigade that they have such a dedicated team of volunteers, some of them very long standing, as their recent service awards presentations attest.

However, as we are all well aware, Stratford and surrounds is in the midst of an unprecedented population boom. This means that demands on all resources will be higher. So whether you have lived locally for some time, or are a recent arrival, you are encouraged to consider making enquiries about how you could support the brigade that exists to protect us all.

I smell the damp air around me

Making me sick

I feel the strain of damp drowned mouldy water on the carpet

I feel something lurking behind me Watching every step I take

More Poems from local Primary School students on page 11.

Stratford Library)

Not all roles involve “holding the hose”. Other functions include communication, administration, publicity, etc. Have a look at the Stratford Fire Brigade Facebook page and contact friendly and obliging Captain Mark Jones whose number is included in our front page feature, to have a chat about where you might fit in.

Thank you Stratford Fire Brigade volunteers on behalf of the Stratford and surrounds community.

Judy Donoghue

STRATFORD

Between 2 and 6 of September 2022, unknown offenders have cut a hole in the back fence of the Stratford Hardware and Plumbing Supplies and gained entry into the yard but didn’t take anything significant. Anyone with information are encouraged to contact Stratford Police. Police have also increased patrols in the area.

On the 31 August 2022, an unknown offender has gained entry to a backyard in Fitzroy Street, Stratford and stolen a blue log splitter valued at $3400. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Stratford Police.

Lately, there has been an increased in scams either via phone

STRATFORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Recently we have had a visit from two classes of students from Stratford Primary School and a full day and a half from St Patrick’s. It was a pleasure to see them so interested and asking so many questions. They couldn't believe the "outside dunny" beside our original bark hut model, wonderfully made by our valued member, John Benson. Our display of horse bits was often mistaken for handcuffs.

In the Museum building, the railway display with the model trains and snake bone necklace were popular, and in George's Shed, the Blacksmith Shop, shearing shed, olden day bathroom and laundry items, kitchen with ice chest, lounge with no electricity and old school desks were also very popular.

STRATFORD LIONS

CLUB

The Lions Club of Stratford has been busy with the maintenance of the truck stop just outside Stratford. A team of 5 members went out and removed the rubbish and then cut the grass along each side of the truck stop. This is one of many projects that the club carries out each year.

To be able to maintain the help that Lions provide to the community we need new members

calls or online. Please be careful when doing anything online. Double check the link or website if entering bank details. If it’s to good to be true, it probably is.

Finally, by the time this is released, I would have worked my last shift in Stratford and back working at the Heyfield Police Station. It’s been an absolute honour serving this community. We are truly lucky to live in such a tight knit community. Continue to look after each other and if you see me around, don’t hesitate to say G’day. I would like to welcome Senior Constable Shayne Croaker to the town. Please treat him with the same respect as I have been given the last 9 months.

Christopher Mutsch

The design of the original logo of the "Avon Shire" was explained to them, and when the Shire ceased to exist, as shown on the clock on the mural outside the Stratford supermarket.

We sincerely thank the schools for their support and value their attendance. The future of our Society and Museum memorabilia will be in the hands of our younger generations.

The next meeting of the Historical Society will be held on Monday 24 October in the Museum at 7.30pm. The Museum will be open on Sunday 23 October between 2.00pm 4.00pm.

We look forward to sharing our memorabilia and historical records with more visitors to the Museum.

Jane Spice

and volunteers to be able to run our programs. If you are able to spare some time over the next couple of months please contact Paul 0457 329 919.

STRATFORD DOG AGILITY

I started dog agility 18 months ago with my Border Collie Indi, who is now 2 ½.

With a lot of practice and training, I feel like Indi and I are starting to get it, like I say, starting. There is so much to learn, with skill and precision required to manoeuvre over jumps, through tunnels, A frames, dog walks, see saws, broad jumps, and weaving through 12 poles. Hours are spent training dogs and owners. The intricacies of your body language and verbal cues direct the dog through the course, happening at a fast speed.

Teamwork and having a solid bond with your dog are needed. It is incredible to watch some dogs and owners running a course, they make it look easy like they are dancing together.

I long for that day when my dog and I can run a whole course. Stratford Dog Agility meets at Pine Lodge every Sunday morning at 8.30, everyone helps set up the equipment. It is quite a social morning, with dog agility being a lot of the conversation.

When I started, I was looking for fun things to do with my dog.

Dog agility is fun, I love it, I look forward to Sunday mornings. I didn’t know how hard dog agility would be when I started, it requires a lot of practice and training. I had never trained a dog before, and certainly not dog agility.

Most of the Stratford Dog Agility members travel all over the state competing regularly in dog agility trials. It is quite a commitment, a lifestyle.

Stratford Dog Agility is holding its annual trial in April 2023. This event brings hundreds of dog agility lovers and their dogs to Stratford for the weekend.

Most camp at the Pine Lodge cricket oval in their caravans or tents, it is a huge event. Over the weekend, the oval will have three different courses set up running at the same time. The courses change six times in each ring during the day. Each course requires judges, stewards, and scribes to keep each ring running smoothly. A huge amount of planning and organisation goes into running this event.

Anita Hensen

MHALL

The Munro Hall has just got better, recently two electric stoves have been installed in the kitchen of the hall.

The installation of these units was made possible due to the community receiving a Community Assistance Grant from Wellington Shire to value of $3998.

We wish to acknowledge Wellington Shire for this wonderful contribution to the catering facilities.

Munro Hall is a great venue, have you considered using this venue for your next function. Bookings welcome!

Jenny Dunsmuir

SCITIES

Stratford Victoria Sister Cities committee is busy planning the next reunion, we have quite a lot of delegates registered, there is still time to register if anyone is thinking of coming, the reunion will be held in Ontario 2 9 August 2023.

Memberships are now due and payable to Hilary Rash $10 per member 0409 186 956.

Please contact Sandra Meredith 0406 983 503 for any more information or help to register for the reunion.

Once all delegates are registered we will hold a delegates meeting to work out all the finer details.

Sandra Meredith

Paul Wager

The official club opening for 2022 23 took place on Sunday 4 September. Our new jackets arrived and gave us a very bright start to the new season. Draws took place for the first of the Club titles and pictured are the winners of the Ladies Triples (left to right) Anne Renehan, Chris Martin and Bev Thatcher. The Men’s triples are still underway.

During the winter break there have been a few renovations taking place. Some painting of the interior, new carpet in the clubrooms and a new barbeque area. We are grateful to have received a $5500 grant towards the cost of the carpet from the Maffra and District Community Bank. The new lounge chairs in the clubrooms have been funded

AVON LANDCARE

by our own club members. A massive thank you to these members for their generous contributions.

time sorting teams for the Saturday and Tuesday matches.

Crackerjack commences in October and provides a fun gathering on Wednesday evenings. The activity is providing a great way to meet new people and has been a pathway to full club membership and a new sport.

Pictured above are our 2 finalists in the Ladies Minor Singles. Kathy Hiscock (left) and Rhonda Hall will contest this title which is conducted especially for the newer members. Kathy and Rhonda have only been club members for the last 2 years and it is pleasing to have 10 other new members at Stratford for the coming season. Pennant starts in 2 weeks, and the selectors have had a busy

September was National Biodiversity month to promote awareness of the importance of protecting, conserving and improving biodiversity in our environment. Biodiversity encompasses all living things and their ecosystems. It is all the different kinds of life you’ll find in one area the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms like bacteria that make up our natural world. Each of these species and organisms work together in ecosystems, like an intricate web, to maintain balance and support life (including

on Saturday 3 September to plant out the thousands of local grassland grasses and wildflowers species seeded at the workshop in March. The wildflower species, which included Blue Pincushion propagated by John Topp, were planted quite densely and the grasses at 30 cm intervals to try to get a complete cover. We’ll be keeping an eye on the patch to see how it grows.

Landcare thanks the Heyfield Wetlands committee who support the goals of this project.

and conserving biodiversity in our local environment, read on to find out about two current projects and how you can get involved

Grassland Seeding Succession Project Update Seeding Succession Gippsland Red Gum and Grassy Woodland Seed Propagation Project aim is to create a seed bank for direct seed projects which in turn, will grow numbers of these bioregion plants in our environment. This project has just completed a full season cycle; in Spring we visit areas in the bush to see what’s flowering. Summer seed is collected. Autumn the seed is sorted, and plants propagated. Winter the seeds are raised and in early spring seedlings are planted into the seed production

You can get involved in this project by attending a one off workshops/working bee or raising seed/propagating. Please contact Rachel Steinmann for further information 0417 823 695

Gippsland Plants Reference Collection

The Heyfield Wetlands is establishing the ‘Gippsland Plants Reference Collection’, which will feature the ornamental or rare native plants of central and East Gippsland. These are being planted in multiple sites at the Wetlands, mostly on dry ridges and alongside walking paths. A new website will be established to aid identification, it will include names and characteristics of the species with an image. This project is aimed at increasing public awareness and preservation of the attractive flora of the region as well as encouraging more bird species to inhabit the site. This is an ongoing project with seasonal plantings when new plant species are ready to plant.

1You can get involved in this important project by helping with spring plantings on Saturdays 9.00am to 12.00pm. For more details contact Martin Swanson phone 0427 480 317.

BYO gardening gloves.

Margaret Robbins

Anna Roberts

WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

The Avon Juniors met on Saturday 10 September to make some beautiful jewellery items. They made earrings, bracelets and for some a necklace. Following their activity the girls enjoyed afternoon tea and chocolate milkshakes which I believe are their all time favourites. Next month, Emma is hopeful their activity will be wet felting but this is dependent upon the instructor being available.

month from 1.00pm until 4.00pm. They must be accompanied by an adult and bring a small plate of afternoon tea to share. There is usually a small cost involved for the craft materials that are used. Please book in with Emma on 0409 865 047.

The Annual General Meeting of the CWA Avon Branch will be held on Thursday 17 October in the Senior Citizen's rooms at 1pm which will be preceded by lunch. Bring your own lunch or something to share. Rooms will be opened from 11.30am.

STRATFORD CEMETERY

Last month we mentioned the great work of our caretaker for the last 13 years, Ben Davies. Ben is well known in the district for his work in the Lions Club and has given thousands of hours as a volunteer in his many roles. He is currently in the process of sharing his knowledge and expertise with Trust Members and another local person, Trevor Maxwell, with the plan to ease himself out of the bulk of the caretaking role in the coming months. Thank you Ben for taking our cemetery through a transformation in your years of service. No longer a back paddock full of blackberries and overgrown pines, and always plans for improvement.

The geophysical survey confirmed that there are 26 burials in the rear section of unmarked graves. We are fortunate that our secretaries over the years have maintained accurate records, and we appreciate families giving us extra details about their loved ones who are interred at Stratford Cemetery to add to the records.

One of the questions our secretary Kerry has to field is about memorials and plaques and who has the responsibility for management of

Are you looking for something to do? Avon CWA has several projects which non members can contribute to by knitting or sewing items for various charities. It could be beanies for the Seafarers Mission, blanket squares or fiddle mitts for people suffering from dementia. If this interests you, please phone Emma for more details on 0409 865 047.

Our monthly meetings are usually on the third Monday of each month, commencing at 10am with craft or a cuppa and chat followed by a BYO lunch and finally a meeting beginning at 1.00pm. If you’d like to pop in, you will find us at the Senior Citizens rooms. More information can be obtained by calling Lyn on 0408 393 338. You can find us on our Facebook page by searching Friends and Members of CWA Avon Branch.

Diane Honey

graves. This information comes directly from the Victorian Dept of Health website. There is a common misconception that the purchaser of a right of interment actually buys the land associated with a cemetery plot (grave), mausoleum crypt or cremation niche when a right of interment is purchased. This assumption is not correct because all public cemeteries in Victoria are situated on Crown land. What is actually purchased is the permit (right) to determine who can be interred in that grave (or other type of place of interment) and the type of memorialisation (if any) to be established at the place of interment (subject to any cemetery trust memorialisation policies or specifications).

Obligation to maintain memorials at the place of interment. The holder(s) of the right of interment must maintain any memorial established at the place of interment in a safe and proper condition. Where a memorial is not maintained in a safe and proper condition and the holder(s) cannot be contacted, the cemetery trust may repair, remove or dispose of the memorial and seek to recover the associated costs and expenses from the holder(s) of the right of interment.

Marion Stothers

At the Neighbourhood Watch meeting on 1 September, our acting police officer Senior Constable Christopher Mutsch’s crime report was very informative. Chris advised that there has been a recent spate of burglaries from farm sheds and from cars. So don’t be complacent, secure your sheds, other outbuildings, machinery, equipment and tools, lock your cars and don’t leave valuables in them. Chris also noted that there have been thefts of gas bottles from some of the new house builds under

aware of this and secure the bottles. Finally, Chris emphasised the rise in reported phone and online scams and advised the meeting to share his advice to “only pay on websites you know and trust”.

Attendees also took the usual opportunity provided at these meetings to share their own experiences and thoughts and to ask questions while enjoying the light supper provided. The meeting thanked Senior Constable Mutsch for his service, relaxed friendliness and approachability while he is acting in the role in Stratford. The permanent appointee will take up the position in October. Add the next NHW meeting to your diary and come along at 7.00pm on Thursday 1 December in the Community Hub room in the Library building.

Judy Donoghue

IT’S A GIRL’S LIFE - ELLA-ROSE SPENCE

Rest It's coming to an end, the Town Crier has been a part of my high school journey since the beginning and now I have 12 days left, but who’s counting. This year has been a blur. Now that I’m here I feel like I’ve been on autopilot all year, and our practice exams are next week, but I already would have completed them by the time you read this. I have been a stress head since day one, but now more than ever I am stressed!

A lot of unnecessary pressure is put on year 12, like studying and getting ‘that score’. I know the score is irrelevant after the day it comes out, but I’ve worked so hard to get this far, I want to finish it off well.

I said to myself at the start of the year I want to maintain a healthy balance with school, sport, social life etc. What I forgot was time for myself. It’s only now after the year is nearly over I realise this, and whilst my routine and timetable looks good on paper it was too much. I’m someone who holds high expectations for myself, but when reflecting I know I set the bar higher than what I was capable of achieving. However I didn’t give up any aspect, even when advised too, because I knew if I did I would be disappointed as each aspect was as important as the other in my mind. That's what

burnt me out, because for the majority of year 12, not that it's over yet, I was sick.

Many people suffer from sickness during year 12, especially this year coming out of Covid. My immune system was weak and I continued to be active, mentally and physically to reach my goals. Lots of parties, constant study and minimal rest. Even when I took days off, I was so sick that the moment I went back to school I was sick again, so I decided rest was no longer an option (silly mistake). The point is, a lesson was learnt. Rest is extremely important and planning time for yourself is just as important as work.

This goes for anyone, people starting high school, or heading into year 12, or even busy working parents. Don’t make the mistake of burning yourself out for something that isn’t worth the energy and always take the time to look after yourself. Goals are a great method of motivation (that's a whole new topic) but they must be practical and achievable.

AIRLY PRIMARY SCHOOL

Over 50 5/6 students and staff from Airly, Bundy, Cobains, Cowwarr, Loch Sport, Seaspray and Wurruk Primary Schools came together for their annual camp for the first time in three years! Meeting at the Greater Regional Sports Complex, students were ushered away by favourite bus driver, Pam, who took us to Buchan Caves. Everyone was awed by the limestone landscape and there was discussion over whether Smeagol or a team of fairies might be home to the small pools. Following that students survived the winding roads to Karoonda Park, Gelantipy. At camp, students enjoyed a magnificent Australiana landscape with a healthy population of koalas. They also enjoyed challenging themselves to take safe risks through abseiling down a rock face and zip lining. Their new addition, a low ropes course, was much more challenging than it seemed. A trivia night organised by Cowwarr’s Chanae Johns was also celebrated.

Airly students enjoyed the comfort of celebrating Gippsland’s Biggest PJ Day with thanks to the Junior School Council team. With a goal to raise funds for and awareness of the foster system, the team ran a rotation of events including a relay, noughts and crosses

fast growing snacks were tried raw and roasted. Some students liked the ‘juicy’, ‘crispy ‘peppery’ vegetables. We found that roasting the leftovers gave off a particular odour during cooking. (Similar to sulphur according to those using the office). Despite the smell, those who were willing to try likened them to ‘potato ‘sweet’. We encourage healthy eating for wellbeing at Airly by facilitating a vegetable garden as part of our wellbeing strategy. We also encourage students to eat the amazingly sweet fruit offered by FoodBank’s Breakfast Club Program. However, we can’t wait till we get our own oranges from two freshly planted trees. Looking forward, we are excited to visit Maffra Gymnastics for sessions funded by Sporting Schools and field two teams in the Annual Primary Schools’ Twilight Soccer Tournament, facilitated by Sale United FC and our parents and community.

Geraldine Carter

A busy term 3 saw us enjoying new play spaces, making new friends and welcoming new families including dads, grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins and even a brand new baby sister coming along to playgroup! We love seeing new people join in

resources and indoor toys, and we are excited to set these up ready for everyone to enjoy in term 4. These purchases are made possible by our fundraising efforts and from families' attendance each week, so thank you!

Term 4 playgroup begins on 4 October. We meet Tuesday mornings 9.30am 11.30am at 15 Dixon street, Stratford. Cost is $2 per family, first visit is free. No need to book, just turn up to a session. Please bring morning tea for your child. More information can be found on our Facebook page: Stratford Playgroup Victoria. We look forward to meeting you!

Kerry Muir

For over 60 years the Stratford Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary has consisted of a very committed group of local ladies. Of course faces have changed over the years but the commitment to the task has not.

The Auxiliary was formed to raise funds to support the Stratford Urban Fire Brigade which had already been operating for around 25 years. Subs were set at one shilling, tea and biscuits 6 pence.

Until this day catering has been the main way the Auxiliary raised money. The very first job was to provide afternoon tea for a cattle sale. This was served from a garage that was connected to the railway gate keepers house situated where the car park is at the fire station today.

The ladies then started catering at race meetings going half share with the sporting centre then the Mechanics Hall ladies. The next job taken on was providing a meal for the Apex Club at their meetings. The first meal was sandwiches, savouries and cakes at 3 shillings a head.

The first donations to the Brigade included a stop watch, lino, curtains and cupboard doors for the meeting room, materials for a reel trailer and a competition hose. Also purchased was a piano as they had decided to have euchre and dance nights which were a great success. In 1963 the Auxiliary even held their first Deb Ball. One interesting fundraiser was a competition to find the ugliest man! But there is no record who won.

As the years went on the auxiliary held cabaret balls, dinner dances, children’s fancy dress balls, cent nights and for many years a new years eve ball. Other catering jobs included 38 weddings, parties, funerals, Apex and Lions conventions, the BBQ at the Stratford Country Music Festival and the Sheep Breeders Association two day event in Sale.

In 2006 the ladies entered a team in the Relay for Life called “Shirl’s Hotsparks” in memory of Shirley Martin who was secretary for 40 years! Over $10,000 was raised. Three Biggest Morning Tea’s raised over $6,000 for cancer research.

For a number of years the Brigade had a Senior and Junior running team supported by funds the Auxiliary raised. The Auxiliary have always been on hand to provide food and drink for weary firemen, and have always assisted the community in times of crisis.

For many years the Auxiliary provided a Christmas Dinner for the Senior Citizens club and put on a concert afterwards. From all reports these concerts were hilarious times where you just never knew what the ladies were going to come up with next. There is a small group of ladies who still provide catering for funerals.

The Stratford Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary has always been a very dedicated group of women who have worked incredibly hard and have raised a huge amount of money to support our local Brigade.

Ladies past and present, THANKYOU. Jennifer Wrigley

STRATFORD HISTORY AVON SHIRE SHORT HISTORIES

SERIES

“BONEY POINT”

Located in the south east of the former Avon Shire, Boney Point is situated where the Perry and Avon Rivers join.

The Braiakaulung people camped, hunted game and fished in the area for generations. In late 1840, Angus McMillan and his stockmen drove cattle south to the Avon River, leaving his men there for several weeks until his return. On his return he was informed the Braiakaulung people had scattered the cattle and attacked them. In December 1840, McMillan gathered the stockmen and they made way to the Braiakaulung camp at the point, where they carried out a massacre in reprisal. On 25 August 1853, McMillan acknowledged in a letter to Governor LaTrobe, that attacks on his stockmen had occurred in October and November 1840, however he did not disclose the reprisal attack at Boney Point against the Braiakaulung people.

Unfortunately a second massacre is thought to have occurred on the point in 1842, when a hut keeper was discovered dead and sheep scattered on the point. During this time the point was part of William Odell Raymond’s “Strathfieldsaye Run”, he employed two shepherds and an indigenous man as hut keeper, who resided on the point where

STRATFORD COURTHOUSE

THEATRE

Is Jeanne Little coming to town?

Saturday 8 October at 7.30pm, The Stratford Courthouse Theatre welcomes “Darlin’ It’s the Jeanne Little Show”.

With amazing reviews from all around Australia, written and directed by award winning Melbourne playwright, Kieran Carroll, it is a portrait of one of Australia’s most loved entertainers, Gold Logie winner, Jeanne Little. Jeanne Little, rose to prominence in 1974 when she began regular appearances on The Mike Walsh Show. After becoming the most popular woman on Australian television in the 1970s, Jeanne’s talents and career blossomed in numerous ways. From appearances on numerous TV shows, to starring in the hit musical Jerry Girls, singing for Princess Diana and Prince Charles at the Sydney Opera House, to worldwide touring shows playing Marlene Dietrich and Marilyn Monroe, Jeanne Little’s contribution to Australian entertainment is immeasurable. Dahlin! it’s the Jeanne Little Show performed with great aplomb by Melbourne performer Caroline Ferguson traces Jeanne’s humble beginnings; raised by a single mum, her youthful years in London, her successful and loving marriage to interior designer, Barry Little, the many famous people she met along the

VICTORIAN SCULPTURE PRIZE

Highlighting some of the best Sculptors in Victoria The 2022 Victorian Sculpture Prize

The Association of Sculptors Victoria (ASV) and Wellington Shire Council (WSC) are partnering to present the second Victorian Sculpture Prize on Melbourne Cup Weekend 28 October to 1 November. The 5 day event will highlight work from sculptors both local and from across Victoria.

The Victorian Sculpture Prize will be run as a festival style arts spectacular, combining the new

2 June 1844, G. A. Robinson wrote of bones which remained in the area. Several bleaching bones were sighted in the grass and scrub on the point and surrounding area during the 1840s. These sightings are what gave the point the name “Boney Point”. In 1876, Thomas and Anna Baum arrived from Geelong taking up the land which they re named “The Point”. They soon established a productive farm and lived there for many years. In 1886 Thomas received the full title of the land which became Allotment 12, Sec 5, in the Parish of Yeerung. Anna died in 1888 and Thomas in 1893, both are buried in the Ramahyuck Cemetery. The family were well respected and well known in Perry Bridge, Stratford, Ramahyuck and Strathfieldsaye. The land is now private farm land.

Daniel Parker Estoppey

way and her attempts to be both mother and TV star. The stories are wrapped in warmth, with Jeanne’s own brand of zany and irrepressible humour always present. This high energy and fantastically funny show is the story of an Australian icon who did things her way.

Dahlin! It’s the Jeanne Little Show is a wonderful show for all. It will bring a smile, a laugh and joy to everyone.

Tickets are $25 full and $20 concession.

And the fun doesn’t stop there. We have Australian Folk Music’s most respected singers, songwriters and instrumentalists The Maes performing on Saturday 22 October at 7.00pm and they will then be holding a vocal workshop open to all on Sunday 23 October at 11.00am.

Tickets are $30 full and $25 concession. Tickets for the workshop are $20 full and $15 concession. All tickets available at www.stratfordcourthouse.com.au or you can phone 0431 513 579.

We would like to thank the community for all their support this year and hope you have enjoyed the shows we have brought you and we look forward to bringing you many more.

Aynslie Watson

state of the art Port of Sale precinct and the sculpture walk within the Botanical Gardens. An event unmatched by any other region in the State. Entry is free and all art works are for sale.

Don’t miss this opportunity to support our local artists which will include Kathy Luxford, Gavin Roberts, Chrystal Stubbs, Chris Stubbs, and Paul Gennings.

Anna Roberts

The “Fellowship of the Least Coin” is a world wide ecumenical (all denomination) movement of prayer for peace, justice and reconciliation. It was initiated by an Indian woman in 1956 after experiencing some discrimination. She challenged Christian women around the world to a project of prayer and positive action in which every woman could participate. Every time someone prayed they were to set aside a “least coin” of her currency. This was to demonstrate their unity in the Christian faith regardless of country or economic circumstances.

For over 30 years women (and some men) in Stratford from all the churches have been collecting their least coins 5c and 10c. Each year they are collected and together with money collected from around Australia and the world it is allocated to various projects that focus on literacy, justice, health

and much more. Pretty amazing to think that 5 cent pieces collected in Stratford can help to transform lives somewhere in the world.

A reminder that the Uniting Church meets at 9.30 every Sunday morning and there is a seat for anyone who would like to join us.

Every Wednesday night from 7.00pm you are welcome to join us for a night of board games or cards.

During October, 3 of our members will be heading to Vanuatu for a couple of weeks to touch base with the Eye Care and Potato projects.

There are 2 vacant units in Neil Street, behind the church. If you are over 55 and looking for somewhere to live you should check them out. Contact “Uniting” on 5145 6565.

Jennifer Wrigley

ANGLICAN PARISH OF AVON

Thank you to all who supported the Parish’s Trivia Night on Saturday 3 September to those who attended, helped with the organizing and those who donated raffle prizes. A great team effort! The evening turned out to be a time of fun, fellowship and community involvement. Congratulations to the winning team from the Maffra Anglican Parish and thank you to everyone else who made it a close run thing with only points between! Our Op Shop continues to serve our community and volunteers are always welcome. The Super Saturday opening is proving popular. These openings will happen each month,

STRATFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL

Term 2 proved to be another term of opportunity at Stratford Primary School. Thanks to our Family & Friends Club who provided Tuckshop Lunch on Friday 2 September. This was also our Footy Colours Day. It was great to see so many small supporters in their team colours. Unfortunately, none of them are going to pass their end of year reports because no one had the CORRECT team colours on (Geelong the greatest team of all). Luckily, Mr Jeffreys was in attendance. As much as the poor fellow barracks for Carlton, he did play for Geelong when he was younger. The students and staff

BOOK REVIEW By Turn the Page

Marmalade

Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Orange.

Marmalade is made with citrus fruits, sugar and water. It’s an alternative to jam on toast.

But that’s not the marmalade we’re going to look at. It is Marmalade: The Orange Panda by David Walliams, with the most colourful full page illustrations by Adam Stower. Some of the older children may have read David’s chapter books but this one is for younger readers (and the not so young) who appreciate wonderful word imagery; the likes of doink, sploshing, boing and splot to expand your littlies’ word banks.

25th Anniversary recently. Many have been helped with material aid and support to settle into life in Australia.

The Parish’s retiring offertory this month is in support of the Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation.

Men’s Breakfast and Women’s Fellowship and Craft Group: both groups continue with their monthly meetings and anyone interested is most welcome to come along.

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

Read it out loud to yourself first to get the excitement and feel for it and also to prepare you for the end message. Then share it with your little one. Check out this bright and happy book at Stratty Library. Ring Sarah on 5145 6403 and she will help you.

Can you match each animal with its group name?

There are alternatives for some, but I like these: Parrots court Camels pod Pandas murder Pelicans smack Penguins company Snakes embarrassment Jelly fish slither Crows squadron Kangaroos tuxedo Dolphins caravan

Parish Dates October (complying with current Covid restrictions)

Thursdays mainly music 9.30am in Parish Hall during School Term Sunday 2 10.00am All Age Family Worship at Holy Trinity with the Blessing of the Animals with Dr Steve Postlethwaite.

DAYLIGHT SAVING BEGINS.

Saturday 15 Men’s Breakfast Group, 8.30am at Parish Hall

Friday 28 Family Movie Night Saturday 29 Avon Parish Women’s

remainder of the year.

Congratulations to Josh Hall who will be competing at the Wellington District Athletics Monday 3 October. Josh will be competing in the 12 year old boys long jump. Good luck Josh! We have lots of opportunities to look forward to in term 4. Our Foundation, Year 1 and 2 students will go on their Big Day Out on Friday 21 October. We have Bike Ed booked in, as well as a free performance and our 3 6 Camp. Year 6 Graduation and our End of Year Celebration will be here before we know it!

memories, including the footy card that featured him and the newspaper pictures showing his marking prowess. Some of the Foundation students said it looked like Mr Jeffreys was flying!

On Friday 9 September, we took part in Gippsland’s biggest PJ Day. 38 schools across Gippsland took part in this fundraiser, aimed at supporting A Better Life for Foster Kids in the Gippsland region. We hosted special visitors

assembly about the work they do to help children in foster care. This includes the packing and provision of Crisis Cases so children going into care have all the little things the need to feel safe and welcome. Our amazing school raised $200 toward this worthy cause.

Term 4 begins on Monday 3 October. We will welcome new staff member Kyle Holmes to our school. Kyle will be teaching the Year 5 and 6 class for the

Kate Steele

Saturday 6.51am 1.32pm

Sunday 8.11am 1.34pm

Saturday 10.58am 3.38pm

Sunday 10.58am 2.20pm (bus) 9.37pm

Ruth

Mark

Entry is open to any primary school student from Stratford and surrounds. The Art Works will be displayed at the Segue Community Hub and Gallery and Stratford Library from 8 October until 26November.

ENTRY IS FREE

What you need to know

1. Collect an official entry form (one entry per person) from Segue Community Hub & Gallery. Segue is open Monday to Saturday 9.30am 2.30pm.

2. Create your (2 dimensional) art work on paper or canvas using any medium or combination of mediums.

3. Art work must not be larger than 400mm x 500mm.

3. Drop off your completed (and dry) finished artwork and entry form at Segue no later than 2.00pm on 7 October. (Please note that late entries will not be accepted after this time).

4. Bring your family and friends to the Stratford Library and the Segue Community Hub and Gallery to see your displayed artwork from 8 October 26 November.

SHAKESPEARE ASSOCIATION THE BARD AS WRITER

Language is always changing. The electronic and computer ages have needed a new kind of language. Teenagers have developed patterns of speech that we oldies struggle with. The work of the rap poets can be quite bewildering. And in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, when Shakespeare was writing, English was going through a very real transformation. We would have real difficulty understanding what is known now as Old English. But the poet Geoffrey Chaucer, in his long works, wrote in an everyday style that with a little help, we can follow and enjoy. Later Shakespeare was writing his plays largely for audiences who could not read or write. So, his language had to be understandable for people who came to be entertained and were not able to read the texts of his plays. Look at his conversations and

5. A panel of art professionals will judge the art work and winners for each year level will receive a trophy and a two hour masterclass workshop by a professional artist.

6. The award presentation for best artist for each year level will start at 11am on Saturday 26 November at the Segue Community Hub and Gallery in Stratford.

7. Please collect your artwork as soon as possible after the presentation ceremony on Saturday 26 November.

Conditions of Entry

1. The exhibition coordinators will take every care in handling the artwork but are in no way responsible for damage, theft or loss.

2. Artists agree that Segue Gallery has the right to reproduce any artwork submitted in any way for advertising and promotional purposes (but not for commercial gain).

3. It is up to the discretion of the competition coordinators to decide when, how and where each art work will be displayed.

Any enquiries please contact Steve stevephall742@gmail.com

you will find many, many short words. As well as appealing to the wealthy and perhaps well educated, he was also trying to entertain the illiterate. We see this in the famous porter's scene from "Macbeth" for example.

He played a very important part in the development of what we call Modern English, introducing at least 1700 words which have remained with us. Some words, as with every language, come and go.

We probably don't recognize the number of sayings we all use that came from the Bard over four hundred years ago. Expressions like Wild goose chase Love is blind The green eyed monster A sorry sight In a pickle And many others. We will talk more about his use of English later.

Bill Cotter

SPRING

Spring is like a warm summer day Spring is on its way

I love Spring

Spring is like a diamond ring Lets sing in harmony

The flowers are like an army by Bailiah

SUMMER

Summer's hot Summer is fun

Summer pools are great

Watching kids play pool

They scream in excitement and joy

Splash, Splosh, the kids like to plop

The summer is good for pools and ice cream

I love summer because I am a Summer Baby

By Jesse

SWORDSharp, Attack Cutting, stabbing, slicing Shark, metal, round, shiny Protecting, blocking, defending Block defends SHIELD

By Riley

DAYDREAMS

I sit here by myself a wonder away from a daydream

Although I know nothing is what it may seem People are not cruel they just choose to be mean Compared to the world I'm the size of a bean

The meaning of life is to strive towards your goals You can reach constellations not need to mine coal

You can change the world with your kind loving soul

By Lou

You are my light in the dark

You always look out for me

You help me through tough times

You lead me to the greatness in life

From your dearest friend

By Koby

BLUE

THUNDERThe blue flowers bloom Brighter than the moon

Blue is like a summer sky

I love blueberry pie by Bailiah

Steve Hall

THE ART COLT

Community of Lost Trades

Established in 2019 The Art COLT (Community of lost trades) is a micro arts initiative in partnership with the Stratford Shakespeare Festival designed to encourage artists to make, exhibit and share their skills. Situated in the restored 1856 Stratford Police stables at 20 Dixon Street, Stratford. Open to the public on Tuesdays or by appointment. The Art Colt includes an Art Trades library, Retail Gallery, 2 studios, group workshop space and a blacksmithing area with a coal forge. Past workshops have included Hebel carving with local artist Kathy Luxford, Glass etching with Peter Cummings and Blacksmithing. To find out about future workshops, follow ‘The Art Colt’ on Facebook.

The Whittle Spoon Colt meets every Tuesday from 10.00am to 1.00pm. This is an open, inclusive group for adults who are competent hand carvers and have their own equipment. The group was established 5 years ago and currently has 10 active members attending regularly. These talented carvers are currently working towards an exhibition at The Foundry in Bairnsdale (The Laneway, 75A Nicholson Street, Bairnsdale). The official opening of the groups exhibition ‘Spoon 200’ is on the 1st October at 5pm coincides with the Foundry’s 8th Birthday celebrations so promises to be a fun evening of art and music everyone

Stratford

Learn to Carve Beginners Course for 12 18-year-olds Term 4 Local artist Gavin Roberts will teach the basics of hand carving a wooden spoon. These workshops are for 12 18 year olds on a Monday afternoon from 4.30 5.30pm during Term 4 at the Art Colt. Cost $20/session and the

Foundry is open Tuesday to Friday 10am 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 1pm. For more information go to www.ifoundthefoundary.com

Upcoming Workshops

Learn to Carve Beginners Course for Adults Have you always enjoyed whittling wood by the campfire? It may be time to hone those skills into something more artistic and maybe even useful! Come along and learn to hand carve a wooden spoon on Saturday 15 October 10.00am 1.00pm at the Art Colt. Cost is $50 which includes personalised tutoring, all materials and use of tools. This workshop is for adults. Beginner carving kits will be available for purchase on the day or prior to the workshop via the website www.madebygav.com Bookings essential.

This full day course on Monday 19 December from 10.00am 4.00pm, will teach participants how to operate a gas and coal forge. The course includes tutoring in basic forge techniques, twisting, tapering and scrolling, you will take home your own handmade item at the end of the day. Cost $100 which includes all materials, use of tools, tea and coffee. BYO own lunch. Spaces limited, bookings essential for workshops: go to www.madebygav.com, The Art Colt Facebook page or call 0419 323 219.

Anna Roberts