The Gwydir News - December 2022

DECIBELS, DECORATIONS, AND DONATIONS

Drawing to close a year which will perhaps be remembered for some less than radiant moments - record-breaking rain, bogged agricultural equipment, and the war in the Ukraine which has had global impacts, the last few weeks of 2022 in the Gwydir Shire have brought with them a multitude of reasons to be thankful we live where we do, with those we do. Sunshine, harvests, music, Christmas decorations, and seemingly endless donations of money, time and other resources have rounded out the year in typical positive Gwydir Shire fashion

Christmas parties have featured heavily to date on the Shire calendar - some an intimate affair, whilst others have been celebrated on a grander scale.

Bingara kicked off the festive celebrations as the sun set on Saturday November 26 at Geydir Oval with an impressive lineup of performers. Revellers, some of whom had travelled considerable distances, were treated to the dulcet tones of the Bingara Preschool students, Bingara Central School students, Lexi Hutton, Natalie Jane Baker, Larissa Cooper, rounded out with headliner band Thirsty Merc.

Music wasn’t the standalone highlight of the evening – the evening was well supported by food trucks and various stallholders selling everything from homemade preserves to handmade gifts. A one-off visit was made by Santa Claus, who ditched his sleigh in preference for a fire truck – much glee being brought to the faces of both young and less young in the crowd.

The night was the culmination of sound groundwork done by Georgia Standerwick, aided by the support of Gwydir Shire Council, the Bingara Special Events Committee, the NSW Government, the NSW Fire and Rescue Bingara Station, Dale Bladock, John Bishton and the Bingara IGA crew, Jen Mead, BW Welding, The Imperial Hotel, and of course, Santa and his many helpers.

On the subsequent Saturday 10 December 2022, the community of Warialda celebrated the end of the year and the start of their festive season at the Warialda Christmas Carnival. Event-goers were able to enjoy the balmy night at the Warialda Recreation Ground free of COVID-19 check-ins which made for a much more relaxed feel this year. Attendees made the most of the wonderful array of stallholders, food vendors, children’s rides and live music that was on offer at the Carnival.

Gwydir Shire Council and Regional Australia Bank made the event possible with their generous sponsorship towards the event. Several local and non-local businesses donated towards the raffle which included Spoilt, Roger Moores, Dubbo Zoo, Coffs Harbour Marine and the Warialda Newsagency. A big thank you to all the major sponsors and donations for showing their charitable support.

There was a very impressive line-up of performances and talented vocals at the event which included the Warialda Preschool, Warialda High School, Kyla-Belle and Savage Groove, just to name a few and they proved to be crowd favourites.

The big man himself ‘Father Christmas’ made a special appearance in the local fire truck. Santa was kept busy handing out lolly bags and posing for photos with very excited children. Luckily they were on the nice and not naughty list! The children also enjoyed the rides rides which are always al hit, with many laughs had on the Kids Bungee Run, Secret Life of Pets Castle, and Obstacle Course.

Another crowd favourite were the wonderful stallholders and food vendors who attended the evening. Each stallholder commits to giving 110% and the products on offer were a great opportunity to get in some last-minute shopping and the food was top notch.

Thank you to the Warialda community and all involved for supporting the event. A huge shout out to the Warialda Christmas Carnival Committee ladies which consist of Tash Price, Elisha Hayes, Chloe Rose, Abby Fenton and Courtney Loosemore from Gwydir Shire Council. Their efforts and hard work are appreciated

Plans are already in motion for bigger and better Christmas Carnivals in 2023 - we hope to see you there!

Above: Revellers enjoying the Christmas Carnival in Bingara. More photos page 17

Above: Enjoying the sunshine at the Warialda Christmas Carnival.

MAYORAL COLUMN

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The Bingara Office remains unusable due to the mould infestation and following a complete evaluation of the available options, it has been decided that the best, least cost option is to knock down and rebuild the office on the current site incorporating the former Adams Garage site. The Councillors will be having a workshop to discuss this issue during January 2023.

Despite the challenges presented during one of the wettest years recorded, the Council finalised or commenced many projects.

These projects included significant works undertaken at Nicholson Oval Warialda, Gwydir Oval Bingara, Gravesend Recreation Ground, a new caretaker residence and office at the Bingara Caravan Park, Bingara Showground improvements, Upper Horton solar bore and reservoir and Gwydir River foreshore picnic shelters (many damaged during the flooding event).

Project

• Completion of 10km of Horton Road Upgrade Project, including all drainage works

• Completion of I B Bore Road Upgrade drainage, completed by J K Williams

• Start of construction for I B Bore Road Upgrade Project

• Start of construction for Getta Getta Road Pavement Enhancement Project

• Start of construction for Blue Nobby Road Pavement Enhancement Project

• Completion of 3 x RMCC Project Final Seals (2 x Fossickers Way, 1 x Gwydir Highway)

• Completion of RMCC Project ‘Hadleigh Rehabilitation’, finalised by TfNSW crews

• Completion of RMCC Heavy Patching Program (3825.2 m2 on Fossickers Way, 1702.8 m2 on Gwydir Highway)

As the year closes it is a good time to reflect on the positive things achieved over the year, some of the challenges that have occurred and acknowledge the wonderful work undertaken by many of the staff on behalf of the Gwydir Community.

The highlight of the year was the opening of the Warialda Bypass by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC on 5 May 2022.

Another very important achievement was securing the Fire Break around Warialda. Although it wasn’t completely what the Council wanted, it is a great start.

The low point was the many natural disaster declarations during the year that caused considerable damage to the Council’s road network and recreational facilities. This was quite disheartening for the Council’s outdoor crews as they are often fixing roads that had only just been repaired from a prior storm event.

The Fairy Tree in Bingara was lost to the flooding in late September. The tree remains in the river, but the Council is hopeful that it can be salvaged and that the timber can be put to some worthwhile use as a reminder of its significance to many of the young and older residents of the Shire.

The Council continues to invest in its plant to ensure the outdoor staff has the equipment needed to undertake their construction and maintenance activities. The plant purchases during the year included:

• 3 prime movers

• 3 side tippers

• road train dolly

• 2 mini excavators

• new water truck

• new 140M grader

• new JCB 3CX backhoe

In addition to completing the Warialda Bypass, the outdoor Engineering staff have been extremely busy undertaking the following projects:

• Completion of Local Roads Community Infrastructure grant works (LRCI) resheeting at Agincourt Road, Gournama Road, Buckie Road, Pinecliff Road, Terry Hie Hie Road and The Forest Road

• Completion of Killarney Gap Road Box Culvert Upgrade Project

• Completion of Henry Dangar Bridge approaches and pavement rehabilitation

• Completion of Oregon Road Upgrade

• RMCC Project ‘Hollymount Rehabilitation’ Design issued for construction (Fossickers Way)

• RMCC Project ‘Upper Bingara Road North’ Rehabilitation Design issued for construction (Fossickers Way)

• Start of Bulk Metering Upgrade Project

• Completion of Emergency Works for two natural disaster events (September 22 and November 21)

• The continued hard work of our outdoor staff in responding to flooding in short timeframes and reinstating cut off areas as quickly as possible. The best example of this was the Gravesend bridge approaches in October, where the bridge approaches were rebuilt in less than a week, an outstanding effort.

• Outdoor staff have worked 15,000 hours of overtime.

• Excellent progress on the Horton Road

Fixing Local Roads project. 13km of 16km will be sealed before Christmas and the project is tracking well. It is within available budget, despite astronomical changes in material prices.

• Our engineering team’s hard work has meant that our disaster recovery effort, although huge, has not been hampered by

• Grants received this year have taken the total grant funding received by Council for roadwork over the last three years (including to disaster recovery) to nearly $70 million, or $14,000 per resident of the Shire.

Council’s staff continue to provide an excellent level of service across its many activity areas, which include:

• Caravan Parks at both Warialda and Bingara

• Swimming Pools at both Warialda and Bingara

• Cranky Rock Recreation Reserve

• Myall Creek Massacre Memorial Site

• The Roxy Complex

• Trade Training Centres including The Living Classroom Primary Industries TTC, Hospitality TTC and the Automotive TTC

• Community Events organisation

• Libraries

• Naroo

• Social Services

The Council’s swimming pools remain free for residents, which is especially important during periods of extreme hot weather.

During the year the service provider at the Bingara Medical Centre withdrew its support for the service. Luckily for the residents Cr (Dr) Chris Matthews has taken up the challenge to ensure the continuation of a medical practice in Bingara. The Bingara Community Practice commenced in October 2022. Chris is ably supported by a community-based Board.

Another important activity during the year was the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) Rally held in Bingara. This was one of the many community festivals and events supported by the Council through its Gwydir Media and Communications team.

This team also produces the regular monthly editions of the The Gwydir News publication, which has gone from strength to strength this year with a new format resulting in a significant increase in readership and an online presence.

During the year, the Council applied for grant funding under the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Program. This grant funding will result in declared emergency housing being available in Warialda and Bingara.

The Council’s Building Services has been busy undertaking planned and requested maintenance tasks during the year. This team of builders constructed the extension of the Bingara Preschool as well as the refurbishment of the Warialda Office Council Chambers, both excellent outcomes.

The Social Services area of Council has had a very busy year. The Council provides support across a diverse range of services. These include providing Gwydir Shire Birth Certificates to new babies, supported playgroups, Toy Libraries in both Warialda and Bingara, Centrelink access centres, Youth Services (including the Bingara Glow Girls program), Vacation Care, Bingara Preschool and Tharawonga Mobile Preschool.

The Gwydir Willoughby youth exchange continues to be a successful activity, which went into abeyance during COVID but is now up and running again. I was delighted to welcome the new Mayor from Willoughby City Council, Cr Tanya Taylor to the Shire as part of the exchange program during the Bingara Spring Fair.

Council’s Corporate Services team have flown through the 2022 year with smiles for all our customers. Throughout the year, Service NSW extended trading hours to be open 5 days per week in Warialda. From January 2023 Bingara will be open three days per week to provide an improved customer service.

Council has embraced technology and is now completing water meter reads via tablets to make the huge task of getting around to all the Shires water meters a much more efficient process.

Council has engaged an independent company for debt recover that focuses on early intervention for customers to help sort out issues before they become big problems.

I know that the Council’s Chief Finance Officer was as disappointed as I and the Councillors were when IPart announced a 0.07% allowable rate rise for the 2022/23 rating year. This decision will have an ongoing cumulative impact into the future.

The Council continues to provide Fitness Centres at both Bingara and Warialda. Each facility had new equipment delivered during the year. It is nice to see Gwydir having such a healthy community and I am even more delighted to advise that the fitness centres generate a profit through membership which will be put toward further equipment purchases.

Information Technology is no longer out of sight and out of mind. The data breaches that we hear about so regularly are a constant threat and the Council takes cyber security very seriously. The Council is extremely lucky to have competent and motivated employees within its Information Services team.

For the Council to perform it must have adequate systems and software to undertake the tasks required. We all rely on our IT team.

The Council is proud of Naroo, its frail aged home. The recent Royal Commission looking at the operation of nursing homes presented many troubling and horrific stories about nursing homes. Thankfully Naroo is one of the good ones.

Once again, the Council has good staff providing a first-class service to Naroo’s residents.

Despite the many challenges thrown our way this year, the Council did continue to perform and achieve.

Cr John Coulton

Gwydir Shire welcomes a new Australian

Congratulations to the Gwydir Shire’s newest Australian Citizen, Jenny Trigger. As a pleasant distraction from all things business at the Council meeting on 24 November, Jenny’s extended family and friends were able to actively participate in her Citizenship Ceremony, held in the Council Conference Room above the Roxy Theatre, Bingara.

Reciting the loyalty pledge to Australia and its values, Jenny was then welcomed as an official citizen. As part of the ceremony, she received a certificate and a native plant as a gift from Council. Food and drinks were offered to attendees, in a spread well beyond the ubiquitous lamingtons and sausage rolls one might expect at such an occasion.

Congratulations again Jenny, from the entire Gwydir Shire - as more than one attendee commented, you’ve been thought of as a local for a considerable time already.

COLLEGE CHAT

We would like to send a huge shout out and thanks to all our students, trainers, employers and stakeholders who took on numerous courses, classes and supported us in 2022. Without your commitment to the College the Warialda and Bingara campuses would not stay open to help our wonderful growing communities.

On a similar note, we would also like to wish all past, present and future students and everyone who supports us at the Warialda and Bingara Community College a very Merry Christmas and a safe and joyous New Year.

Keep an eye out in your letterboxes and online for our Term 1 flyer. Our campuses will be closed from Friday 16 December and will reopen on Monday 9 January.

Give us a call on 02 67241965, 02 6729 1487, pop down to one of our campuses or jump online at ccni.nsw.edu.au and have a look at what we have to offer. Look out for your flyer in the letterbox.

Please let us know if there is anything you are interested in or chasing and we shall see what we can arrange for you.

Ph 0438 546 519, 6724 1965 or 6729 1487

Monday–Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm or visit our website: www.communitycollegeni.nsw.edu.au/RTO 90027

Bingara and Warialda Community College with Jannette Tan

Jannette Tan excited about the open day.

DECEMBER

Above: Jenny Trigger and family with Cr John Coulton at Jenny’s Citizenship Ceremony

LOCAL PENSIONERS CAN EARN MORE

I’m pleased that pensioners across the Parkes electorate will now be able to earn an additional $4000 before their income has an impact on their pension rate.

The Nationals took this policy to the Jobs and Skills Summit, so it’s great to see it has now been adopted by the Labor Government.

The boost will see the income cap lifted from $7800 to $11,800 for eligible age and veteran pensioners, before their pension is reduced. This change allows pensioners to earn an extra $300 per fortnight before the income test is applied, which will provide some relief ahead of Christmas.

Not only will it help the hip pocket of pensioners who want to find some extra work, it will also help businesses that are desperate to hire reliable and experienced staff.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON COST OF LIVING PRESSURES

The rising cost of living is having a significant impact on household budgets, community groups and businesses across the Parkes electorate.

That is why the Coalition has established a Senate Select Committee on the Cost of Living to inquire into and report on the causes of cost of living pressures and how they are impacting Australians, as well as develop sensible solutions to address the issue.

The Select Committee wants to hear from a broad selection of Australians, so I encourage individuals, families and community organisations in the Parkes electorate to make a submission.

Submissions can be made via the Committee’s website: www.aph.gov.au/ parliamentary_business/committees/ senate/cost_of_living/costofliving

GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR LOCAL CARAVAN PARKS

Caravan parks in the Parkes electorate have just under a week left to apply for a share of $10 million to upgrade facilities.

Grants of up to $100,000 are available to assist caravan parks to upgrade or create new infrastructure and facilities to enhance visitor experience, including improvements to accessibility and environmental sustainability practices.

The Caravan Parks Grant Program closes at 4pm on Thursday 22 December. For more information or to apply, visit: www.grants. gov.au/Go/Show?GoUuid=d47452e10c29-4039-910b-00235e3adc2a

PADDOCKS, PATIENCE AND PRACTICE

‘Dinoga’ was a hive of activity on Saturday 3 December as a group of landholders (current and retired) and other interested parties gathered to learn all about grasses – so we know whether we should be encouraging them or controlling!

The Bingara Regen Farmers group and Northern Slopes Landcare received funding to facilitate this day through North West Local Land Services (NW LLS), delivered as part of the National Landcare Resilient Agriculture Program.

Warren Anderson, a member of Bingara Regen Farmers group, was the host and had done a great job clearing out the machinery shed and doing a bit of slashing to facilitate access. George Truman and Col Easton (NW LLS) ran the workshop (along with an array of very useful reference materials – grasses are extremely diverse and can be particularly hard to identify!).

The group of 26 spent time learning a bit of theory and some terminology and features designed to help us with grass identification. Thankfully, a range of samples were on hand to help with this process, and this proved invaluable in the latter part of the morning during which we had to name 15 grasses flagged in the stock reserve. To add a bit of lighthearted fun, there was time pressure as the first person to identify them all correctly was the recipient of a copy of one of the identification guides used earlier. Many of us were so absorbed in trying to identify them correctly that we dawdled through the process, losing any chance of winning that coveted prize!

No workshop is truly complete without some great food, and we were lucky to have it provided by Tiff Galvin from Meat on Maitland and Mandy and Jenny from Fresh Finds.

The morning was a lot of fun and I’m sure we all went home with new knowledge to take out into the field and continue our learning. With paddocks, patience and practice I am sure we’ll all get there! To help this process along, Northern Slopes Landcare has just purchased 20 copies of Grasses of the NSW Slopes and adjacent plains that will be available from our office to members at a special discount rate of $15 (full price is $25). Pre-order now by emailing Ali on coordinator@nsla.net.au. Nonmembers can join at any time, pro-rata.

submitted by Ali Biggs

Above: Col Easton and George Truman (both Local Land Services) and Elizabeth Adams

Above: Not a bad spot for some learning

Above: Col Easton (Local Land Services) and Warren Anderson (owner and host)

GWYDIR SHIRE COUNCIL UPDATE - FAIRY TREE AND COUNCIL OFFICES

The Gwydir News has been asked what is happening with the area in Bingara east of the Campbell Bridge, and the Bingara Council Office building.

When contacted, Council’s General Manager, Max Eastcott, stated regarding the riverfront, ‘Council staff successfully applied for funding to rehabilitate the site and have had an informal meeting with a representative of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Fisheries). The Department’s representative commented that the Fairy Tree may have to stay in the riverbed. A meeting has also been held with Officers of the NSW Soil Conservation Service and they will assist Council with a design for the redevelopment of the site, and to gain any necessary approvals from NSW Crown Lands, Fisheries, and native title and land claimants. The design work will start in late February 2023.

Council seeks ideas, information, and suggestions from the Gwydir community as to how the area and the tree could be used and reshaped. Through collaboration we will be able to ensure that the area remains a true community asset which can be enjoyed by all residents and our visitors.’

Mr Eastcott also commented on the vacated Bingara Council Chambers, ‘It has been 17 months since Council staff moved out of the office due to a mould infestation. Council has been negotiating with its insurers for much of this time to achieve the best outcome. The office remains unusable and following a complete evaluation of the available options it has been decided that the best, and least cost option is to knock down and rebuild the office on the current site incorporating the former Adams’ Garage site. Furthermore, there are no plans to close the Bingara Office. The Councillors will be having a workshop to discuss the issue during January 2023.’

If residents would like to contact Council with what they would like to see happen with the riverfront area and the Bingara Council Chambers please email, mail@gwydir.nsw.gov.au or telephone one of Council’s offices on 0267 293 000 or 0267 242 000 or write to Locked Bag 5, Bingara NSW 2404.

Koala Kiss Project comes to Warialda

A ground-breaking initiative to ensure the long-term survival of Koalas will be the focus of a momentous workshop in NSW’s Gwydir Shire - home of Australia’s first ‘Koala Kiss’ site.

Bringing together community members, land-owners and other key stakeholders, the workshop in Warialda will discuss how Human Plans of Management, rather than a Koala Plan of Management, can guarantee increased Koala numbers in the region 50 years from now.

Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) last month announced Gwydir Shire as the first Koala Kiss Site – part of the larger ‘Koala Kiss Project’, which aims to link fragmented Koala habitat from Cairns to Melbourne –because it contains secure habitat that can be connected.

But for that to happen, humans must act in unison.

“This workshop will not just be lamenting the loss of Koalas but inspiring abundance,’’ AKF Chair Deborah Tabart OAM said.

“We can do it if we all work together. We are welcoming everyone from all walks of life to join us at this two-day workshop in Warialda - to think through the complexities and also the excitement of thinking Koalas will be in the Gwydir Shire landscape in 2075.”

AKF’s landscape ecologist and AKF’s botanist will be visiting Warialda prior to and during the workshop and will be available for advice to landholders.

Ms Tabart said one of the workshop’s aims is to establish a Koala Kiss ranger based in Warialda, so potential candidates are welcome to attend.

“We have already opened an office in Warialda and have plans for a full-time Save the Koala Shop which should increase tourism into the town,” she said.

“AKF is all about recovery of the species – with the Federal Government officially listing the Koala as Endangered in parts of Australia earlier this year, a Koala Recovery Plan and EPBC Act waiting to be re-written, we’re not sitting idle.”

“Koalas bring money and attention and we are confident we can be the change that is needed to bring harmony. Governments have encouraged a ‘them and us’ attitude with regard to environmental issues. Time for us to work together – our planet needs us.”

“Imagine if we can achieve contiguous habitat across the entire stretch of the Koala range, and all creatures great and small could traverse through the bush unthreatened – that is the ultimate goal.”

The workshop will be held in Warialda on February 14-15 2023.

For further details and to register visit: https://www.savethekoala. com/our-work/warialda-workshop/

Gwydir NEWS

GWYDIR IN THE PINK - WHAT A NIGHT!

Gwydir Shire Council’s Events team, in collaboration with Chris Connor from Heatlhwise, organised ‘Gwydir in the Pink’, a rural women’s health event held in the Warialda Memorial Hall on Friday 18 November 2022.

The event was a huge success with in excess of 200 local women in attendance, who were entertained by the side splitting, somewhat irreverent, comedy of ‘Women Like Us’ duo Ellen Briggs and Mandy Nolan.

Attendees were also addressed by local health care professionals, Letitia Cross (Rural Adversity Mental Health Program), Margie Burns (Hunter New England Health), Shaen Frazer (Cancer Council), with presentations focusing on current women’s health and wellbeing issues.

The event was funded by the ‘Reconnecting Regional NSW Community Events Program’, a State Government initiative.

Review of Women Like Us, submitted by Gail Phillpott

The evening started with us learning a lot about our private parts, which, to this day, remain unseen to me, sorry no mirror for me. (those in attendance will get this)

The speakers were very informative about things, as women we need to know and talk about.

Dinner was delicious and plenty placed onto each table to share. Ellen hit the stage; first one of my very quiet and gentle friends bent over to me and said “did she just swear? My instant thought was “oh boy you are in for a wild ride”.

Mandy was hilarious ,had us all in stitches. What a cracker of a night. My face was hurting from all the laughing.

Our entire table, along with everyone in the hall, were laughing out loud. Such funny ladies. Thank you for a terrific night.

The entire set up was fantastic, I felt as though I was attending a wedding it was so beautifully set up.

The drive home was just as funny, recapping some of the jokes.

Women need to gather more and let their hair down. Thank you Gwydir Shire Council and Rural Women’s Health.

Left: Women from all walks of life enjoy the event Above, the girls who make up Women LIke Us - Ellen Briggs and Mandy Nolan.

BINGARA CENTRAL SCHOOL PINK FUNDRAISER

Bingara Central School students recently showed their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month which is held across the country in October each year.

Students were encouraged to dress in pink and donate to the international health campaign which is organised by major breast cancer charities to increase awareness of the disease and raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatmentt, and cure. Donations were collected in buckets not only within the school, but in various locations throughout Bingara. All monies riased were donated to Bingara Community Comfort who assist families with all types of cancer. A cheque for $1,047.10 was presented to Cr Catherine Egan from Bingara Central School students Tamiya McClyman, Zoe Allen and Blaine Jobson. A fabulous effort from all involved.

Bingara

Australia Day Awards January 26 2023 Nominations are now OPEN !!

Bingara Special Events Committee is calling for nominations for the 2022 Local Bingara Citizen of the Year Awards. The four (4) Award Categories for 2022 are:1) Citizen of the Year: Open to persons 26 years - older on January 26 2023.

2)Young Citizen of the Year: Open to persons 16 - 25 years of age on January 26 2023

3) Volunteer or Volunteer Team/Group of the Year

4) Community Event of the Year

Nomination forms and guidelines are available from, Bingara Visitor Information Centre, currently located in The Old Courthouse Art Gallery, at the corner of Maitland and Finch Street, Bingara – (not at the Roxy Complex).

Please send completed forms to: Gwydir Shire Council - Locked Bag 5, Bingara NSW 2404 or deliver to Gwydir Shire Council main office (not Bingara Visitor Information Centre) or email to mail@gwydir.nsw.gov.au

Winners will be announced on Australia Day, Thursday January 26 2023, during the local Bingara Award ceremony to be held in the Roxy Theatre.

Top: Bingara Central School students support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Credit: Facebook

Bottom: Cr Catherine Egan accepts a cheque on behalf of Bingara Community Care from Bingara Central School students Tamiya McClymont, Zoe Allen and Blaire Johnson

Australia Day Council of New South Wales

2023 Bingara Local Citizen of the Year nominations open

Gwydir Shire Council - Bingara Special Events Committee is searching for the Local Citizens of the Year for Australia Day 2023. Australia Day is a timely opportunity to honour and recognise the achievements of everyday Australians, and local residents are now invited to nominate remarkable community members of all ages for the Local Citizen of the Year Awards

• Do you know someone who has done countless volunteer hours for a service organisation, a local sporting or community group, or an educational facility?

• Do you know someone who has an outstanding achievement in their work or studies?

Gwydir Shire Council - Bingara Special Events Committee and the Australia Day Council of NSW invite your nominations for the 2023 Local Citizen of the Year Awards.

Awards are open in the following categories: The four (4) Award Categories for 2023 are:

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1 Citizen ofthe Year: Open to persons 26 years - older on January 26, 2023.

2 Young Citizen ofthe Year: Open to persons 16 - 25 years on January 26, 2023. .

3 Volunteer or Volunteer Team/Group of the Year

4 Community Event ofthe Year

The Bingara’s Australia Day celebration on Thursday January 26, 2023, will take place at the Roxy Theatre and will begin from 8.00am with the annual Community Breakfast BBQ, a partnership between several community groups.

The morning is hosted by Gwydir Shire CouncilBingara Special Events Committee, , catered for by the Lions Club of Bingara, with Bingara Historical Society supplying tea/coffee, water and cool drinks.

Breakfast will be followed at 9.15am by the official Bingara Awards Ceremony.

A Australia Day Council of NSW Chair, Andrew Parker said the Awards recognise the grassroots achievements of everyday Australians by honouring the importance of community and aim to instil a sense of support and trust within local areas as they work towards creating stronger communities.

“Our communities are full of upstanding individuals who merit the recognition for what they do for their regions. From volunteers to local sporting heroes to community legends or eco-warriors, the Local Citizen of the Year Awards have been a proud Australia Day tradition for local government areas throughout NSW for 17 years - and Australia Day 2023 presents an opportunity to acknowledge and thank exceptional community members in our midst.”

M Minister for Local Government, Wendy Tuckerman commended the long-running Awards and the important role they play in acknowledging dedicated members of communities across the state.

“I am always humbled by the efforts of individuals in their communities. The Local Citizen of the Year Awards enable communities to recognise and celebrate our local heroes for their contributions. Local government is the backbone of our state, and the communities within these regions contribute significantly to keep NSW thriving,” she said.

The local Bingara Australia Day Awards allow us to recognise the contributions that many individuals make to our local community each year.

For further information on the local Australia Day Awards nomination forms and guidelines contact Jen Mead, Tourist Officer, at Bingara Visitor Information Centre located in The Old Courthouse Art Gallery at the corner of Maitland Street and Finch Street, Bingara or by calling the Visitor Information Centre on 6724 0066

Completed nomination forms can be posted to Gwydir Shire Council - Locked Bag 5, Bingara NSW 2404 or delivered to Gwydir Shire Council main office (not dr opped into Bingara Visitor Inf ormation Centre) or emailed to mail@gwydir.nsw.gov.au

All completed nomination forms MUST be received no later than close of business (4.00pm) Thursday January 12, 2023.

2 BLIGH STREET WINNER OF ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD, BINGARA

Approaching number 2 Bligh Street in Area E, the judges felt enticed by the amazing colour and variety presented by Patsy and Tony Morehead in their lovingly tended cottage garden merging into the surrounding bushland.

At first glimpse, the creative structure of the garden was obvious with rock-edged gardens of all shapes , archways, trees, shrubs and well maintained lawn. Looking closer, the huge variety of plants – flowers and natives - were so colourful including salvia of various colours, pink and white butterfly bushes and a potato vine archway.

Of special mention was a circular bed of petunias in several different hues of blue. Magpies and starlings are regular well fed visitors. Truly a welcoming and restful garden!

Left: The winner of the Bingara Garden Club Encouragement Award at 2 Bligh Street, featuring a creative structure and well maintained lawn.

Image credit: Jan Rose

WARIALDA WARRIORS SUPERB EFFORT IN A 72 HOLE MARATHON TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CANCER

Throughout December, golfers across the New England and North West teed off for Cancer Council’s The Longest Day, which is a golf endurance event where teams and individuals take on the challenge of playing 72 holes of golf in one day to raise funds for the Cancer Council. These teams are supported by their local golf clubs who support the campaign by donating the green fees and carts.

Longest Day Local Legend, Toby Cooper and his team “The Warialda Warriors” said they signed up to take on the Longest Day for the challenge itself, and to make a positive difference for those in the community who have been affected by cancer. When interviewed, Toby commented, “The Longest Day sounded like a real challenge, so I’ve got a few people from the club on board and a couple of mates. It’s going to be a great day. We we’re hoping to raise around $4,000 but we have been blown away by the amazing support and donations we have received, and we are sitting at just over $21,000 raised so far for the Cancer Council.” Editor’s note: The team have now raised over $30,000.

All funds raised will fo towards Cancer Council’s life-saving cancer research, support services, and prevention programs.

Kate Dubois, Community Relations Coordinator from Cancer Council’s New England North West community thanked all the Local Legends and the Warialda Golf CLub for taking on this year’s challenge and getting involved in The Longest Day.

“Thanks to the generosity of the people like Toby and his team we can continue to support people impacted by cancer. It is the support from our community and the people who rally around them for these events and campaigns that allows us to continue our work,” said Kate.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing how our golfers and the supporting clubs will go in The Longest Day challenge. We also encourage the team and all golfers to keep sun safe and slip. slop slap, seek and slide, not only on The Longest Day, but each and every day. It will be great to see how our teams help to encourage more fundraising and awareness across the New England and North West community this year.”

The Warialda Warrors took to the Golf Course on Saturday 10 December, starting at 5.30am and finished around dusk. If you would like to support Toby and the Warialda Warriors further, you can go to https://www. longestday.org.au/fundraisers/WarialdaWarriors and give what you can to support a cancer free future.

Right, top: An early start to the day - the Warriors ready to tackle 72 holes

Right, middle: A stunning golfing day. Carts donated by Warialda Golf Club

Right, bottom: The Warriros still looking fresh after their first three rounds

News from Carinda

Carinda Shop is currently stocked with some unique and beautifully handcrafted items for visitors to choose that perfect gift for someone special this Christmas.

Perfect weather attracted a good crowd to the Twilight Markets on Saturday November 26t Patrons were able to peruse the stalls in the garden, have a wander through the shop and enjoy the BBQ evening meal. The cooks Bob, Bruce and Barry were certainly kept busy!

Carinda members were on hand to do the many jobs that had to be done during the evening. Many thanks to our Activities Officer, Lanna, for her wonderful organisation. Thank you also to the stall holders. There are some very creative, talented people out there in our small community.

So, if you are still looking to complete your Christmas shopping list, come along to Carinda and you will be amazed at what is on offer. Cakes, slices, biscuits and puddings from Jeanette and Margaret will also be available.

Carinda will close over the Christmas New Year period and reopen in mid-January 2023.

Members of Warialda Cultural Community Centre- Carinda- offer their thanks to the Warialda community for their continued support and wish everyone a safe, joyous Christmas and New Year with family and friends.

Succesful End of Year for Warialda Hospital Auxiliary

The Garden Party held on Saturday October 29 and the Market Night on Saturday November 12 were successful fundraisers for the Warialda Hospital Auxiliary.

The Garden Party held in the beautiful garden of Auxiliary Treasurer, Carmel Gobbert and husband Roger, involved much planning and many hours of hard work. So, thank you Carmel and Roger for your generosity in offering to hold the function to raise funds for our hospital.

Guests were treated to entertainment from Warialda High School musicians, stalls to peruse and tickets obtained in the wonderful raffles. A delicious lunch was prepared by Hospital Auxiliary members and lunch was followed by an interesting and informative talk from Greg and Sue Moran of Inverell Rotary. Greg and Sue spoke of their adventures in New Guinea helping to build hospitals, schools, nursing quarters with Rotary. This most important initiative is funded by Rotarians who give of their time voluntarily.

On the evening of Saturday November 12, the Market Night held at the Golf and Bowling Club attracted a very large crowd which appreciated the number of quality items available. Thanks are extended to the Golf and Bowling Club Board Members who helped with the organisation of the evening. Patrons enjoyed time with family and friends and the delicious food prepared by “Charlie”. The grocery raffle was wellsupported and 3 lucky people each took home a basket filled with grocery items

See you all in 2023!

On Friday November 25 the raffle of a garden bench and ornamental windmill weather station was drawn. Mitzy and Judy were kept very busy during the morning selling tickets in this great prize. Congratulations are extended to Tammy Taylor who was the delighted and excited winner.

The Auxiliary is very appreciative of the support given by the Warialda community in its fundraising efforts. All money raised is for the betterment of patients, doctors and staff at Warialda Hospital. Many thanks to the staff for their support in our fundraising events during the year.

On Saturday December 10 the Auxiliary held a Christmas get together lunch at the Sunflower Motel and celebrated achievements in 2022.

A happy, safe Christmas and New Year with family and friends to everyone from the Warialda Hospital Auxiliary.

THE VALUE OF VOLUNTEERING IN THE COMMUNITY

This month, the community and world at large paid tribute to volunteers in every capactiy as we celebrated International Volunteer Day on 5 December. This day was intended to raise awareness of the important role volunteers play in responding to challenges facing the world.

In support of this, The Gwydir News interviewed two volunteers in the community, to discuss what drives them to volunteer, what their organisation does, and what other needs are required within the organisation / group. This will henceforth become a feature of each issue of The Gwydir News, where a page will be dedicated to the stories of volunteers in our community..

Bingara Community Op Shop - WIll Schonewille

The Bingara Community Op Shop was the brainschild of Lynne Clarke and Bev Matthews following the closure of the Salvo’s Store early in 2020. Not affiliated with any other Op Shop, the store was established for the town and its visitors, with money from sales being distributed back into the community.

Will, originally from Victoria, moved to Queensland as an adult, before deciding to take off travelling with his wife. Whilst travelling through Western Australia, the couple happened upon a place for sale in Lightning Ridge, which they bought. As respite from the heat, they would make trips to Bingara by the Gwydir RIver to cool down. On one of those trips, they discovered a house for sale and decided to purchase it.

In true altruistic style, Will confesses his joy in helping other people. As such, the Bingara Community Op Shop offered the ideal platform to enable his desire to help others. Supported by other like-minded townfolk, the group conferred ideas in their first meeting a little over two years ago. Will has been helping ever since that day.

Spurred on by nothing more than seeing the smile on others’ faces Will says he has no plans to give up his volunteering any time soon (although wouldn’t mind a few extra hours in his weeks to get on top of his personal gardening challenges).

Warialda Little Athletics - Kahlia Whalan

Kahlia Whalan seems to be one of those people who can’t help but volunteer when the need arises. What a fabulous quality to have as a human! Having years of experience volunteering for both Junior League and League Tag, Kahlia felt that Inverell was too far for local children to travel in order to participate in Little Athletics.

By way of background, LIttle Athletics Australia’s mission states their aim is to deliver inclusive community-based activities that promote the foundation for an active and healthy lifestyle. Their objective is for everyone to “Be Your Best”. To that end, all athletes compete only against themselves, aiming to run faster, jump higher / further and throw further than they have before.

Kahlia asked the local community for feedback on the the idea of running Little Athletics in Warialda, and received enough support to start a centre in Warialda. As President, Kahlia is tasked with many jobs, but is ably supported by a core group of three other parents, and also often enlists the assistance of her two eldest sons.

Kahlia thoroughly enjoys the role and would happily welcome anyone in the community who would like to help in any manner, from running of Club nights every four weeks, to the simpler tasks of taking times, recording, or measuring. A relaxed atmosphere ensures that everyone who helps gets a kick out of the role they undertake.

Further information can be found here: https://lansw.com.au/warialdalittle-athletics-centre/ or call Kahlia on 0421 220 654.

Will points out that the Bingara Community Op Shop is in the fortunate position of having a healthy number of volunteers, many of whom work behind the scenes in the sorting room. The common thread that keeps the volunteers in a steady flux is that they all want to help and all enjoy seeing the joy on others’ faces.

Further information can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100066585256985

Above: :Kahlia accepts a cheque from Clarissa Barwick on behalf of Wariada Sports Council to assist with start up costs of the club.. Credit: Facebook

Left: Will Hard at work, assisting with construction of the Bingara Community Op SHop shed

Gwydir SCHOOL NEWS

BINGARA CENTRAL SCHOOL ST JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS DRESS UP DAY 2022

Staff and students at Bingara Central School enjoyed a colourful Christmas dress up day on Thursday 15 December.

TIME CAPSULE UNVEILING

The time capsule that Miss McCosker and her students buried in 2004 during St Joseph’s Warialda Centenary was recently dug up. Unfortunately, the seal wasn’t as tight as anticipated. As a result, all the letters and papers were wet and damaged. These will be restored and preserved.

2022 students will contribute to the time capsule and this will be handed to Mr Mills for reburial in 2023.

WARIALDA PUBLIC SCHOOL

TWILIGHT CONCERT 2022

After two years of being in the “COVID Wilderness”, Warialda Public School’s Twilight Concert, held on 11 December, returned with a bang. This year’s theme was an Australian Spectacular, with all of the items inspired by all things Australian.

NORTH STAR PUBLIC SCHOOL

QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE TREE PLANTING

On Friday 16 December a commemorative event at North Star Public School involved seven recentlyplanted snow pear trees being unveiled to the community. The trees were funded under the Australian Government’s Planting Trees for the Queen’s Jubilee program, to commemorate the service of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to the Commonwealth over the past 70 years.

North Star Parents and Citizens Association received a $5,800 grant which has been used to plant the seven trees – one for each decade of the late Queen’s reign. The trees have been planted around an old concrete slab in the playground, converting the space into a shaded outdoor learning area for the children and community to enjoy. It’s a fitting tribute for Queen Elizabeth II and will ensure her memory lives on at the school for decades to come.

GRAVESEND PUBLIC SCHOOL

FUN DAY 2022

On Friday 16 December, the staff and students wound up the year with a fun day. From all accounts, it was a fabulous way to wrap things up.

WARIALDA HIGH SCHOOL

MERRY MUSIC FOR MANY

Music students from Warialda High School entertained the residents and staff of Naroo and the Warialda MPS with their musical talents. Students were thankful for the opportunity to practise their performance skills to a small crowd.

WHAT’S ON!

Do you have an upcoming event, meeting or save the date you would like to list? Inclusion is free and available for all non-profit organisations and community events. AGM notices welcome. Please note all details are accurate at the time of publication, however may be subject to change.

DECEMBER 2022

21st Coolatai Family Carols and Lessons, 7pm

24th Family Christmas Eve Service, Warialda Anglican Church, 6pm

24th Traditional “Midnight” Service, Warialda Anglican Church, 11pm

25th Christmas Day

25th Christmas Day Holy Communion, Warialda Anglican Church, 9.30am

30th to 1/1 Upper Horton Rodeo and New Year’s Eve celebrations, Upper Horton Sports Club.

JANUARY 2023

9th-13th Warialda Vacation Care

16th-20th Bingara Vacation Care

21st Warialda Talent Quest

31st Bingara Central School Years 1-12 return to school

FEBRUARY 2023

6th Bingara Central School Kindergarten first day

7th Western Division Schools return to school

Church Notices

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Bingara: Worship at St John’s Anglican Parish, Bingara – Sunday 9:30am

Warialda: St Simon and St Jude Anglican Church, Warialda - Every Sunday - 9:30am

Coolatai: First Sunday each month3:30pm

Minister Steve Cimarosti, can be contacted on 6729 1501

CATHOLIC CHURCH PARISHES WEEKEND MASS SCHEDULES

Warialda: Saturday – 6:00pm, 4th weekend – 10:00am

Delungra: Sundays – 10:00am, 4th weekend – 6:00pm

Bingara: Every Sunday – 8:00am

WEEKDAY MASSES

Warialda: 1st and 3rd weeks, Mass 9:00am

Bingara: 2nd and 4th weeks, Rosary 9:30am/Mass 10:00am

Baptisms, Weddings, Funerals, Thanksgiving and Family Mass: By appointment 02 6729 1116

UNITING CHURCH

Inverell Uniting Church’s services are livestreamed at 9:00am on the Inverell Uniting Church Family private Facebook Group. These services are also recorded for later viewing – please search and join.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Bingara: Scots Presbyterian Church is open for worship at 10:00am every Sunday. Sunday School to be held each week.

Warialda: St Stephen’s Presbyterian Church has weekly worship services each Sunday at 10:00am. All welcome. Enquiries 6721 0511.

If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him.; if we deny Him, He will also deny us. 2 Timothy 2.12

WARIALDA SPORTS COUNCIL ANNUAL AWARDS

Warialda Sports Council recently held their Annual Awards night on 19 November at the Warialda Golf and Bowling Club. The event was well attended with a convival atmosphere enjoyed by all. Master of Ceremonies was Tim Cox, and special guest was Noel Cleal. Congratulations were passed to all of the nominees and major award winners.

The Warialda Sports Council Overall Sports Person of the Year went to Lilana Reardon. Liliana was proudly nominated by Warialda High School for her outstanding sporting achievements in the past twelve months. She has excelled in her chosen sport of Womens’ Rugby. She was a member of the NSW Open Girls’ Combined High Schools (CHS) 1s team for two years, 2021-2022, playing as a 16 and 17 year old in an under 18 competition, winning the title both years. Liliana was also selected to represent the NSW Open Girls’ 2s in the Australian selection titles for a second year in a row.

Liliana captained the Warialda High School Jammers to success at the Regional Championships, and also captained the open touch football team and the open cricket team. She was the Warialda High School Age Swimming and Athletics Champion. As such, she was a well deserved winner of the WSC Sports Person of the Year.

Other major winners were:

Sub Junior Sports Girl of the Year – Ellie Prescott (nominated by Warialda Swimming Club)

Sub Junior Sports Boy of the Year – Kingston Hall (Nominated by Warialda Public School)

Junior Sports Girl of the Year – Liliana Reardon (Nominated by Warialda High School)

Junior Sports of the Year – Os van Velthuizen (Nominated by Warialda High School)

Senior Sports Person of the Year – Dylan Butler (Nominated by Warialda Wombats Senior Rugby League)

Junior Sports Team of the Year – WPS Open Rugby League Team

Senior Sports Team of the Year – Warialda Wombats Ladies’ League Tag Team

Above: Warialda Sports Council Sports Person of the Year, Liliana Reardon

Below Left: The Awards evening was well attended, with special guest, Noel Cleal Below: Some of the major Award recipients

WARIALDA MENS’ GOLF REPORT 11 DECEMBER

2022

The always popular 4-man Christmas Countdown was played on Sunday 11 December, and once again the ‘old fellas’ got up to their usual tricks. Clem Gordon, Jim Lucas and Billy Reardon were steered around the course by the master, Gordon Cleal, to compile a great score of 92. In the runner-up position was the ‘Yetmanites’, Sam and Tom, along with the Smith brothers on 91.

With all teams receiving chocolates or lollies and trying to avoid the marshmallows, the next team with 84 on a countback was Rod Ireland, Kim Cleal, Dave Coulton and Don Stevenson. The Gravesend connection, also on 84, Joel Daley, Kurt Daley, Steve Power and Craig Lockhart finished fourth. Following them in on 83 was Lenny Turner, Wade Turner, Jesse Rowlings and Jason Manton. Rhys Aleckson, who has been away from the game for a while, teamed up with Lionel Cleal and John Phillips to come in with 75.

The marshmallows, the big prize on the day, went to the team with easily the lowest handicap - Justin Moxey, Phil O’Keeffe, Richard Gray and Tim O’Keeffe with a score of 72. Nearest the pins were won by Sam Dight on the A-grade third, Steve Power on the all-in fifth and Jesse Rowlings on the ninth.

The AGM, which was held prior to the Countdown, was very successful with more in attendance than last year, and all positions have been retained by their current holders. Thank you to President, Don Stevenson, and all the committee members for continuing in their roles.

Thought for the week: Golf can best be defined as an endless series of tragedies obscured by the occasional miracle.

BINGARA GOLF REPORT 11 DECEMBER 2022

It was great to see the turn out for the Sunday golf and presentation afternoon considering how busy this time of year is. We had 29 golfers with men and ladies competing in the monthly Medal with the men’s Medal of Medals.

Men’s winner with 66 nett was Robert Northcott.

Runner-up with 67 nett on a countback was John Robinson.

Ball comp down to 67 nett NTP 9/18 P Smith 7/16 C Maisey 2nd shot P Smith.

Medal of Medals Winner was Danny Capel

Ladies’ Winner with 67 nett was Judy Hall

Runner-up with 73 nett was Catherine Egan NTP 7/16 J Burling 9/18 B Houlahan

Jackpot ball Paul Bond DNP

The presentation was a great afternoon with all the winners through the year collecting their prizes. Congratulations to all!

A big thank you to all those that helped out with the food for presentation, particularly Jane with the awesome looking cake.

Congratulations to all the winners and thanks for all your support this year.

Ian was asked by a playing partner why he keeps looking at his watch, Ian replies, “it’s not a watch it’s a compass!”

Top :Tim Cox with Mens’ Winner, Robert Northcott

Above: Womens’ Winner Judy Hall with Judy Northcott

Top left :Winner 6-9 years, Eva Hodgkinson

Top right: Winner 9-12 years, Lauren

Above left: Joint winner over 12 years, Summer Sales

Above right: Winner under 6 years, Marcus Cimarosti

Left: Joint winner over 12 years, Alysha Clarke