Gwydir News May 2023

Community Questions, Concerns and Comments at Meetings

As this issue of The Gwydir News comes off the printing press, the initial five in a series of six Community Meetings have been undertaken by councillors and several staff of Gwydir Shire Council. The Gwydir News attended all bar the Gravesend meeting, in part to gain insights into some of the issues each community felt strongly about.

Heading to North Star on Wednesday 27 April, the first meeting was hosted at the Sporting Club. Attendance numbers were strong given the small population of ~300 and geographical distances to overcome to get to the club. As predicted, topics of interest focused on funding, safety and timelines for roadworks, and the use (or lack thereof) of the Inland Rail project. Another concerning issue raised was that of crime in the area - from fuel theft to the unauthorised entering of property.

With regards to all things Inland Rail, Alex Eddy, Gwydir Shire Council’s Engineering Services Director pointed out that there are issues having both an existing rail corridor and an existing road corridor. Problems are further exacerbated when contacts within Inland Rail are changed – very rarely do council have the opportunity to speak with the same person twice about an ongoing issue.

Roads are understandably a priority currently, both within council and the community. With a plethora of funding having been granted, there has been a disproportionate availability of assets available to fix the roads, from human resources to lime and suitable gravel aggregate. This is being rectified as expeditiously as possible. The worst affected high traffic roads are being attended to initially so that routes become safer for all motorists.

Alex pointed out that if there is an urgent safety issue such as a deep pot hole that has not been repaired, residents are urged to call council customer service for a case to be added to the Customer Request Management system. It will be treated with urgency.

Croppa Creek was the next port of call, with the meeting held at the Bowling Club. Again, the focus was primarily on Inland Rail and the road network. Several sections of the road network were identified as needing immediate attention, including the “Humpty Dumpty causeway”. In addition, residents raised the issues regarding the poor thought and execution of Inland Rail projects such as the “footpath to nowhere”. In response, Alex Eddy was able to provide assurances that both roads and rail are being addressed as best as council is able. Of further concern was the lack of childcare in the area. Mayor, Cr John Coulton encouraged those in attendance to undertake the current online survey being done by council to determine the childcare needs of families in the Gwydir Shire, found here: https://tinyurl.com/3jvdkt5e

Above and below left: North Star in all its glor.y. Below: the “Humpty Dumpty” causeway at Croppa Creek

The third round of Community Meetings was held in the Roxy Theatre, Bingara on Tuesday 2 May. In contrast to its Northern village counterparts, Bingara heralded a switch to “town mode”, as questions and discussion shifted towards buildings, the emergency services levy, storm water and speed limits on town roads.

Endearment and passion for a town monument then became the focal point of the evening, as the future of the Soldiers Memorial Hall in Bingara, which had most recently been utilised as the Gwydir Shire Council offices was raised.

General Manager, Max Eastcott detailed the damage done to the buidling due to the damp course being completely eroded. This has had a flow-on effect, with the locally produced bricks thus acting like sponges, absorbing water and allowing mould to infiltrate.

Upon realising that the only long-term solution was to replace the building, consultation for plans were sought. A draft proposal of a new layout, incorporating the Adams Garage was presented to those in attendance at the meeting.

Whilst not feasible to maintain the complete façade, it is expected that the crest and the name will be saved, embedding them into the new forecourt area.

The development application for the proferred new building has just been lodged, so the community will soon have the opportunity to give feedback, suggestions and potential opposition about its planned construction.

The Warialda Community Meeting was held Thursday 4 May at the Warialda Town Hall. Topics brought up were again heavily focused on town issues - from trucks driving through town, to the maintenance of town footpaths, to the fire break that has been cleared around the outskirts of town.

It was agreed that the Warialda Bypass has greatly reduced the number of trucks traversing through town. A small number prevail, although a portion of those will be for local deliveries.

Council have agreed to commit to a more regular cleaning of the main street footpaths, and also encouraged local businesses to undertake their own cleaning protocols of the shared spaces.

The planned green space project was discussed, covering issues such as security, access granted to recreational vehicles, and the impact on the town in general. Parallels in that instance were drawn with Bingara’s Fay Park which is utilised as a cool, communal green space.

The common thread that raised in each of the meetings was the need for locals to consider running for council at the Local Government elections in 2024. Seven of the nine councillors will be stepping down at that time, and thus a need for other individuals to nominate themselves in the vacant positions.

Council advised that current priority for roads is primarily on the Northern end of the Shire and the Upper Horton, A widespread action plan for all areas within the shire will be on the agenda next financial year, and an expenditure of $600,000 to $800,000 per week to be spent on road repair and maintenance.

The Community Meetings certainly met their brief of providing insights into the concerns and questions held by those in the relevant towns and villages. Open feedback to and from Gwydir Shire Council in forums such as these should be encouraged.

Above : The “footpath to nowhere” at Croppa Creek

Above : Bingara’s Soldiers Memorial Hall

MAYORAL COLUMN

The council has been active in the community conducting the annual community meetings.

One theme that has come through loud and clear is that of the enormous increase in rural crime. The holdings in the north of our shire are being targeted with an increase in incidents of stolen and burnt out vehicles. What is more worrying is the entry into rural homes. I am fearful of a terrible outcome if this continues.

The police have been working hard on the problem however it is a large area to patrol and distances prevent immediate presence when an offence occurs.

I have spoken to to our Federal and State members of parliament and hopefully a solution can be found.

On the farming scene the winter crop is being planted. Most operators are looking to the sky as there is a lack of moisture on top of a good moisture profile. A good fall of rain in the next couple of weeks would be most welcome and set things up for a good crop.

The road construction and repair program is in full swing with fine weather, steady progress is being made. The sealed road into Upper Horton is nearing completion and congratulations to the crew for bringing the job in under budget. This will allow for some sealing of the town streets.

This publication will soon become a weekly newsletter which will enable the content to be more current. Thank you Sally Robertson for the top effort you put into the publication on a daily basis.

Gravesend residents will see an improvement in the towns water quality as the installation of a filtration system is in sight. This $4M project is possible with a high proportion of grant funding.

An alarming situation is the tips that have been catching on fire lately. It is believed it is the work of an arsonist. I ask residents to keep an eye out so that the perpetrator can be apprehended. Every landfill fire has to be reported to the EPA and if the fires continue the Council may be forced to close the outlying tips.

The show season is upon us - I hope you are all enjoying them.

- Cr John Coulton.

Letter from the Editor

Welcome to the final monthly issue of The Gwydir News in its current format.

It has been the intention of every Editor of The Gwydir News to bring the best version of the publication to the people of the Gwydir Shire. As such, following feedback from both residents and those with an interest in the Shire, whether that be business, family ties, or a historical interest, the decision has been made to henceforth publish the paper on a weekly basis. Further, many have indicated that they would rather read a hard copy of the paper than accessing it online.

That said, there are many within the community, particularly those in younger age brackets, who, whilst often less vocal than other demographics, have advised they enjoy the paper in its current format, supplemented with Facebook posts as a means of keeping abreast of current events and news stories relevant to them.

It will therefore be a challenge to meet the wishes of all in the Shire by moving to a weekly issue. Whilst feedback indicates a strong interest in a weekly publication, there are conflicting ideas as to what should be printed, how much detail needs to be included, and the most efficient way to distribute the paper.

It is envisaged that the paper in its new format will be much smaller - a handful of pages as opposed to the current 28-36. Content will include current political and news press releases, relevant current and planned council works, a continuation of the “What’s On” pages, a Hatch, Match and Dispatch section, stock report links and submitted sports results. Further, it will be printed in black and white only.

What is certain is that the paper will be more heavily reliant on the community to provide accurate content for inclusion. Copy deadlines will not be variable, and there will be less editorauthored content. The paper is produced wholly and solely by a part-time employee of one.

In terms of distribution, the paper will be available for pick up from various council-owned outlets in addition to retailers throughout the Gwydir Shire. An electronic version will still be emailed to those on the current subscriber list.

The weekly issues are intended to commence from the first week in June, allowing a window for logistics to be finalised.

As always, constructive feedback is welcome, by email editor@thegwydirnews.com.au, phone 0436 934 099 or in person at the Bingara Library

COLLEGE CHAT

Bingara and Warialda Community College with Jannette Tan MAY 2023

Hi all, have you all seen the new Term 2 Flyer out and about? Did it arrive in your letter box?

Let us know if you haven’t received one, this will help with our distribution, we have some at the campus, so pop down and grab one. We will soon be delivering out to Croppa Creek and North Star residents, how exciting is that!

Does anyone recognise the young chap on the cover, per below?

John McMaster is recognised locally and internationally as a master stockwhip maker. He has sold his whips throughout Australia and all over the world with many of his devoted buyers enrolling in workshops to learn his timeless leatherwork skills. John believes he can express creativity in his plaiting, and he loves to inspire the same creativity in others. We hold many of John’s classes at our Warialda campus. So, if you are interested in learning how to make a belt, hat band, lanyard, Red Hide whip, Roo hide whip or even a 12 strand Roo Hide, give us a call.

Call me on 02 67241965 or 02 6729 1487, or alternatively go online at ccni.nsw.edu.au and have a look at what we have to offer.

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

REGIONAL AUSTRALIA NEGLECTED BY LABOR BUDGET

Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton has had his fears about Labor’s neglect of regional areas confirmed in Labor’s release of their first main Budget last night.

Labor Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ Budget involved spending rather than investment, without a clear strategic direction to steer Australia out of inflation and into a sustainable future.

With high cost of living and inflation putting pressure on all Australians, there has been very little in the Budget which will ease the burden for the majority of middle-income, working Australians and even less for regional areas.

“In the Treasurer’s speech last night there was almost no mention of regional Australia and zero mention of roads, rail, agriculture or infrastructure,” Mr Coulton said.

“The further we unpack this Budget the more it becomes clear that the Labor Government has taken regional Australia and working Australians absolutely for granted.

“While the Treasurer was very happy to announce a small surplus in his speech, he neglected to mention the role that the resources sector, based largely in our regions, played in creating that income.

“The Treasurer has introduced cuts and taxes which regional Australia, including the Parkes electorate, will bear the brunt of, with almost no acknowledgement of the ways in which our regions contribute to the strength of the national economy.

“The new tax on farmers to pay for the biosecurity risk of international imports and increasing the heavy vehicle road user charge for truck drivers will both directly impact our regions and the wider cost of food.

“The last thing our farmers need is to be taxed for what their competitors bring into the country; the last thing that our regions need is a higher tax on truck drivers already struggling with the price of fuel.

“It seems that Labor doesn’t understand that the food we buy at the grocery store is produced by our farmers and transported on our trucks. Introducing these taxes will not bring prices down for people at the checkout, either in the regions or the cities.

“Labor has also displayed an appalling lack of respect for local governments and community groups across our regional areas by not providing certainty around the future of funding for the vital Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program and discontinuing the Stronger Communities Program (SCP), which were both massive boosts for our towns.

“These cuts will devastate councils in my electorate, and it’s unclear whether this crucial, directly beneficial funding will be replaced,” Mr Coulton said.

With much of regional infrastructure stripped out or pushed back, many communities across the Parkes electorate will be left in a state of uncertainty about whether they will receive any of the funding they had previously relied on for local projects.

Mr Coulton has also expressed concerns about the measures Labor is undertaking to bring down expenses for Australians.

“While I welcome some of Labor’s healthcare policy changes, they have neglected the fact that in remote and regional areas the issue is not just affordability, but access,” Mr Coulton said.

“Higher bulk billing is wonderful for the limited group of eligible people who can access a GP who bulk bills, but it won’t help you if the books are closed due to workforce shortages.

“Likewise, lower costs for childcare is wonderful if your child already has a place, however Labor has not added a single new childcare place to address shortages across the Parkes electorate.

“Regional Australia and working Australians are where our economic strength lies,” Mr Coulton said.

“Labor has again demonstrated that they are quite willing to spend money taken out of regional Australia, but they aren’t willing to put it back in.”

CELEBRATING 150 YEARS SINCE IT BEGAN

Blessed with superb Autumnal weather, the Warialda Show celebrated 150 years since its inception in its 118th show from 11 to 13 May. A culmination of work by the Pastoral and Agricultural Association (P and A), Gwydir Shire Council, and a plethora of workers, volunteers and supporters, the show is the hallmark of the town.

From the ubiquitous baking competitions to the more quirky weed compilation competitions to the “you know what I mean” announcements over the microphone, the entire show was one the town can be proud of. Certainly that was the collective thought of those who were questioned by The Gwydir News.

Friday events included cut-outs, school cattle competition, heifer show, rodeo, yard dog trial, sciene education shows and pyrotechnics. The Showground was abuzz in every nook and cranny, surrounded by dozens of horse floats from near and far.

Saturday is always the largest crowd day, and attendees were offered a wide line-up of entertainment over the course of the day and evening. Events included cattle judging, a pet show, more horse events, a Mini Rural Girl competition, the grand parade and an unforgettable display of spectacular fireworks..

Please find following the Warialda Show report, submitted by David Coulton, Secretary of the Warialda P and A.

In the Hack events Sarah Young of Moree cleaned up all three majors - Grand Champion Hack of Show (Col Cleal Memorial Trophy) on Extra Rushes of Sefton: Grand Champion Rider of Show (Norma Cleal Memorial Trophy) and Grand Champion Show Hunter Hack on Macarthur Park Regal Secret.

Not to be outdone, Abby Young collected the Grand Champion Bird of Show in the poultry Section with a brown/red Pekin Pullet.

Stud Cattle saw a record entry of 154 animals and this year conducted a feature Braford Show with 10 Braford studs from Coonabarabran to Kingaroy (Qld) and across to Casino represented. Little Valley Grazing Co. Casino cleaned up by winning the Supreme Braford Exhibit and then went on to win Grand Champion Beast of Show with sire Little Valley Nathan.

Prime cattle featured 70 entries with Grand Champion Beast won by Tyson & Courtney Will’s exhibit and long time exhibitor David Schouten from Gravesend was once again the winner of the Most Successful Exhibitor trophy, a trophy he has won many times over his years of exhibiting.

Prime Sheep featured only a small complement of exhibitors with John & Kerry Coulton exhibiting their Aussie White Lambs to collect Champion Pen of 3 and Champion Lamb of Show.

Grand Champion Photo of the Show was won by Jenny Trigger from Bingara.

Grand Champion Painting in the Art Section went to Stephen Tann’s Landscape.

Grand Champion Fleece of Show was exhibited by R. E. Kent from Koloona with the Champion Pair of Fleeces exhibited by K & E Brown of Gravesend.

The Most Successful over the five Pavillion Sections went to Louise Jackson who had great success in the Horticulture and Farm Produce sections to record 37 overall points with the next best point score being 28.

After no Campdraft events at the last two Warialda Shows there was a welcome return at this year’s Show with a one day event being held on Friday with excellent entries. The Open draft was won by Robbie Bloch and the Jackpot draft prizemoney was collected by John Saunders.

In the Showjumping arena there were excellent nominations competing for increased prize money this year.The four open events that were contested were AM5 Open 1.1 to 1.2 metre and this was won by Jacqueline Coombes on Rainman (Bingara); AM5 1.25metre went to Sammy Moffitt riding Sausalito: Light Horse memorial 6 Bar went to William Wood riding Joselands Patrick and the feature event Grand Prix was won by Emily Patterson and her mount Libertarian.

And last but by no means least was the Yard Dog (Sheep) Competition which didn’t get the competitor numbers for previous years due to a clash with a competition in Armdale but what dogs did come were of excellent quality and performed accordingly. In the open section Matt Eshman’s nomination Wazza with Matt were the winners with a point score of 187 out of 200 (over two runs) to pip the second placegetter by one point.

Crop Competition winners, for crops grown in the 2022 season, were David Smith (Bristol Farming - Crooble) winning both the Wheat and Barley comps. The Sorghum comp was a very tight contest with the judges being unable to split two growers so joint winners were added to the trophy they being Millgalarr Past Co (D & A Horne) and I J Davidson & Co (Peter Davidson) with both growers in the east Yallaroi area and almost next door neighbours; The Chickpea competition went to the Woods family from Rockwell, Yallaroi.

The Show was officially opened on Saturday by Mr. Larry Acton, Patron of The Australian Braford Society with other members of the official party being Hon. Mark Coulton (Federal Member for Parkes), Hon. Adam Marshall (State Member for Northern Tablelands). A couple of special presentations were made during the opening ceremony with David Moor being presented with a plaque & certificate to commemorate his 50 years of continuous service to Warialda P & A. Presentations were also made to Clayton Taylor for his many years of loyalty in bringing Sideshows to our Show and Pam Bertalli and her father who have been selling potato chips as well as sponsoring events for almost 40 years.

Don Stevenson, in his final year as President of Warialda P & A, heralded the Show another great success and sincerely thanked the hard working committee and volunteers that brought it all together.

Top left: Cut-out competition

Middle left: Photography competition

Second from bottom, left: Sernior Young Woman winner Laura Lockhart with other contestants

Bottom left: Motor actiony

Top: Grand Champion Rider, Sarah Young, presented by Wendy Tom

Above: It’s a cow’s life.

Weeds as Indicators

Northern Slopes Landcare Association and the North West Regional Agricultural Landcare facilitator (RALF) invite you to join us for this informative workshop. Learn how to use weeds to help diagnose soil issues, and how they can help us better understand our soil health, and how to transition your soil to it’s ultimate health and productivity. We will take a close look at a range of weeds, both in the classroom and in the paddock, to increase our understanding of the messages they are sending us in relation to of soil health.

We will delve into how to take a soil test and various the methods of helping diagnose your soils and we’ll start you on the journey of developing a holistic soil health restoration action plan.

A bit about our presenter:

Kim Deans loves working with innovative farmers who are disillusioned with the high input, industrial farming model to tailor a unique strategy for reinventing their agricultural business.

The reinvention process has been a recurring theme of Kim’s 30 year career in agriculture and she has worked closely with hundreds of farming businesses through processes of change. Alongside her work with farmers Kim and husband Angus have been implementing methods now known as “regenerative” agriculture on their property in NSW over the past 17 years.

Morning teac and lunch will be provided,.

MARSHALL QUESTIONS MINISTER ON FUTURE OF BINGARA FIRE STATION

NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has moved swiftly to secure the future of the Bingara Fire & Rescue NSW station, today putting down a question on the notice paper to the Minister for Emergency Services, during the first formal sitting day of the 58th State Parliament.

In February this year, covert plans by Fire & Rescue NSW to close the Bingara station were blocked by the former Deputy Premier and Emergency Services Minister, but with a change of government and a fresh Minister, Mr Marshall said he wants a “cast iron guarantee” that a closure is still not on the cards.

“I’m seeking a formal and written assurance from the Minister that the new government has no plans to close the Bingara Fire Station,” Mr Marshall said.

“While a move to close it was defeated earlier this year, Gwydir Shire Council and many in the Bingara community are concerned that with a new government and a new Minister, Fire & Rescue NSW might try once more to withdraw its coverage and services.

“Under no circumstances can a closure of the station be allowed.”

Mr Marshall has also asked the Minister when Fire & Rescue NSW will commence a community wide recruitment campaign for retained firefighters to staff the fire station.

“I have heard from a number of locals who in the last six months have approached Fire & Rescue NSW to sign up and train as a retained firefighter to staff the Bingara station, only to be told they are currently not recruiting,” Mr Marshall said.

“The community not only wants the Fire & Rescue NSW pencil pushers and bean counters from Sydney keep their hands off Bingara Fire Station, they want a comprehensive recruitment campaign to begin so we can once more have local firefighters on duty at the station.

“Gwydir Shire Council, the local community and I are in lockstep on this one – we’ll never allow the station to close and services to be withdrawn from the community.

“Bingara may be small but lives out here are just as important as ones in the big city and just as deserving of adequate fire protection.

“The community and I will be watching Fire & Rescue’s actions closely as we now eagerly await the Minister’s formal reply.”

The Minister for Emergency Services now has 35 calendar days respond in writing to the Parliament to Mr Marshall’s question.

COTTON PICKING COMMENCEMENT

Picking has begun in most of Australia’s cotton growing region with positive signs emerging that the flooding and farm damage late last year may not have been as devastating as first feared, aided by dryer and warmer conditions since Christmas.

While the impact varied from state to state and region to region, some farmers were forced to scale back their plantings, particularly in the Southern Valleys and Macquarie where farmers couldn’t get on their paddocks to plant and subsequently missed their window of opportunity.

Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said with favourable conditions across most of the 65 plus local government areas growing cotton this year, growers are reassessing yield and quality.

“To appreciate where we are now you first have to acknowledge where we were. Last November every inland river catchment was full or flooded from the Queensland border to Victoria and around 100 active warnings were in place.”

One area impacted by the wet weather is the Southern Valleys where defoliation is just starting after late planting. Wet weather at planting stage resulted in a one-third reduction in crop planted.

In the Macquarie Valley picking has just started north of Warren after farmers reported a 30% crop reduction due to the well-above rain recorded in 2022. The upside is that quality is expected to be good, and above average temperatures in February and March have provided very good boll filling conditions for crops.

In the Gwydir Valley early dryland is being picked and yielding up to seven bales per hectare with around double that for irrigated cotton. The cotton not impacted by spray drift is around the 14 bales per hectare and about 15% is picked at this stage in the Gwydir with 30 % picked in the lower Namoi, 5 % in the Upper Namoi and picking has just started in Walgett and Bourke with yield predictions difficult, particularly in drift impacted areas.

In the MacIntyre Valley, 44,000ha irrigated cotton and 8,000ha dryland has been planted with 15% picked already and activity hitting full capacity this week. While the dryland cotton could have used some late rain, the irrigated is looking very positive. While the gins are not yet operational the cotton being delivered is looking to be high quality.

Picking is in full swing in St George, Dirranbandi & Mungindi with the majority of the early crop to be picked over the next two weeks and later crops a month away from picking. Growers are reporting good yields and quality and while early indications are good, ginners are just starting so there are no results to confirm the optimistic outlook at this stage.

On the Darling Downs growers are up to the defoliation stage of the season mostly and a few have started picking the early planted fields. Due to full storages and full water allocations at the beginning of the season as well as a full soil moisture profile, larger than average areas were planted, around 75% irrigated fields and 25% rain-fed. Gins are predicting they will start full operation this week.

In the Lockyer Valley, 10 growers have planted approximately 1,500 ha of cotton and that’s up from previous years driven by price, crop rotation practices and growing conditions. At Maryborough three growers have planted 500 ha.

In the Central Highlands both gins are operational with the cotton clean but no yield information yet, however early crops are reporting up to 13 bales per ha irrigated. A number of growers are still irrigating and will push through until June picking.

Mr Kay said Cotton Australia was forecasting a crop around 5.2 million bales for 2023. “This will result in around 1.2 million tonnes of fibre and 1.4 million tonnes of cottonseed. Every bale of cotton and every tonne of seed will be sold, given the demand for the Australian grown product. The Murray Darling Basin Authority reports that the major water storages in the basin are at around 90% capacity meaning that the outlook for the next season is positive as well.

“It’s good news for local communities because figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2021 Agricultural Census revealed that cotton was grown in 65 local government areas with more than 75% of cotton grower business expenses spent locally,” Mr Kay said.

Above : Cotton, ready for picking at Yallaroi

15% WAGE INCREASE FOR AGED CARE SECTOR

The Fair Work Commission (the Commission) has made a decision to increase minimum wages by 15% for some employees working in aged care.

The Commission is the national workplace tribunal. They set minimum award pay rates and entitlements.

This increase applies to eligible employees covered by the Aged Care Award, Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry (SCHADS) Award and Nurses Award.

It takes effect from the start of the employee’s first full pay period on or after 30 June 2023. The increase applies to direct care employees working in aged care. Direct care employees are those who work in caring roles in the following award classifications:

- Aged Care Award: personal care workers (PCWs) and recreation/ lifestyle activities officers

- Nurses Award: nursing assistants, enrolled nurses, registered nurses, nurse practitioners working in aged care

- SCHADS Award: home care workers working in aged care.

The 15% increase also applies to the most senior food services employee (levels 4-7):covered by the Aged Care Award working at a particular aged care facility or site.

The increase in minimum pay rates applies to these three awards only. As a general rule, the increase won’t be automatically applied to rates in agreements. However, the minimum pay rate in an agreement can’t be less than the new minimum award rates.

The Commission has been reviewing wages in these three awards as part of a work value case for the aged care sector.

On 4 November 2022, the Commission issued a decision to grant a 15% interim increase in minimum wages for affected aged care employees in the three awards. They confirmed this increase by issuing a final decision on 21 February 2023.

The Commission is still considering some other issues in the work value case. This includes: classification definitions and structures in the 3 awardswages adjustments for some other aged care employees that may be justified on work value grounds.

These initiatives will help relieve workforce pressures and support the sector to increase average care minutes and ensure a nurse is available 24/7..

Warialda Hospital Auxiliary Update

Warialda Hospital Auxiliary members met at Warialda MPS on Monday 17 April for their second meeting of the year.

The meeting discussed the very successful Street Stall held on Saturday 25 March. Many thanks to members and Warialda locals who contributed and supported the Street Stall. Five beautiful bird sketches, drawn by local artist Eddie Ladmore, were on display for members to view before being presented to the hospital as a gift from Eddie. These sketches will join the sketch previously gifted by Eddie which hangs in the hallway at the MPS. The Auxiliary is very appreciative of this generous gift and our heartfelt thanks go to Eddie.

The raffle of three $100 vouchers (IGA, Gwydir Meats and Roger Moore [fuel]) will be drawn soon so if you haven’t already purchased tickets look for the ladies selling at the IGA or Newsagency.

The popular Market Night has been booked at the Warialda Golf and Bowling Club for Saturday 11 November. Certainly a must to go on your calendar!

The next meeting of the Auxiliary will be held at the MPS on Monday 3 July commencing at 2:00pm. This meeting will also be the Annual General Meeting.

We look forward to welcoming new members to the Auxiliary which has now been active in the Warialda community for 82 years.

- Submitted by Marilyn Stubbins

the lamp of service for the welfare of our hospitals.”

Bingara Womens Bowling Club Celebrate 70 years

Bingara Womens’ Bowling Club held a very successful 70th Anniversary 27 April in superb sunshine. Twenty teams participated from Armidale, Kootingal, Manilla, Barraba, Inverell, Delungra, Guyra, Moree, Paxton and Bingara. The winners were Armidale with Delungra runners-up.

The anniversary cake was baked, decorated and kindly donated by Penny O’Dell, with Bingara’s life member Wendy Reading having the honour of cutting it.

Thank you to all who helped make this such a wonderful, successful and memorable day. Special mention to our male volunteers who ensured the condition of our greens was superb. They are fast becoming known among the best in the northwest.

The ladies all look forward to many more competitions and special events such as these.

“Let us hold high

- Submitted by Gail Galvin

Above: Bird sketches gifted by Eddie Ladmore.

Right: the anniversary cake - baked, decorated and kindly donated by Penny O’Dell

Far right, top: the Bingara ladies who played at the 70th anniversary day

Far right, bottom: members of the Bingara Ladies Bowling Club, in attendance at the 70th anniversary

THE BINGARA RADIANCE CLUB INCORPORATED

The Bingara Radiance Club was formed by Miss Helen Kingsley on the 14th of May 1938.

From what we understand, the object of the club was to initially knit socks and cook fruit cakes to send to the men serving overseas.

Later, from notes we were able to find, the Club raised funds from ‘Housie Competitions’, catering at the Bingara Agriculture Show and later through a shop near the Newsagency selling clothing and linen. The funds were accumulated and when the opportunity became available the Radiance Club, with the help of a loan from Mrs Vera King, were able to purchase what was once a guesthouse. This present building still exists in Cunningham Street and was initially part of the Roxy complex. It was then converted to self-contained flats for low income earners.

From reading previous Minutes which date back to the 6 February 1976, catering for the Bingara Agriculture Show brought in money to pay the rates and insurance for the home. The Radiance Club also owned the small Druid Hall in Maitland Street opposite the Medical Centre car park, and ‘Housie Parties’ paid the way at the Hall.

All catering and work at the shop was done by a very small band of volunteers. Each lady worked with her fellow volunteers to ensure the shop was kept open each day.

A very workable but flexible roster system was in place and anytime there was sickness or a reason someone not to man the shop, there was always someone willing to help to keep everything running smoothly, unfortunately this shop has since closed.

- Submitted by Judi Peterson

Some of the names found mentioned in the minute book included:

Vera King, M Wade, Ivy Forster, Nell Broadie, Joan Burns, Ruby Hogg, M Bilsborough, Mavis Peterson, Betty Hayes, A Fletcher, Pat McGowan, H Corcoran, June Hills , Kath Taylor, Eileen King, Dot Jeffries, Iris Cooper, Alf King, Stan Cleal, Mavis Brien, V Choice, Beryl Anderson, Phyllis Makepeace, Pat Connelly. Mrs Vera King was Secretary/Treasurer for over 30 years.

In June 1981 Mr Walter Galvin began work on building a cottage next to the Druid Hall which has been known as the craft shop in Maitland Street.

This extra housing for the aged was because the Club had raised enough money to fund this expense, the cost being $17,000 for this little cottage.

Miss Gwen Park was the first to rent the cottage. Since then, another house next to the Medical Centre has been purchased and renovated and is currently rented.

The Bingara Radiance Club Incorporated is a not-for-profit organization as all funds raised previously from the shop and rent from the residents is invested back into the flats and cottages. The committee is continually working to make life better for its residents.

The Radiance Club also donated $15,000 to Touriandi Lodge when it was fundraising.

As with most committees we struggle to exist with a limited number or workers and committee members.

Many times, we are asked what the Radiance Club is all about and I trust this will give you some insight into its purpose.

Left: The Roxy Boarding House, as it stands today.

John Sullivan presented with Premiership Cap

- Submitted by Paul Bourke

Bingara resident John (Sully) Sullivan enjoyed an outstanding career in Sydney Premier First Grade Cricket as an aggressive fast bowler. He played eight seasons with Petersham-Marrickville before joining Campbelltown, where he lived. Campbelltown entered the competition in the 1985/6 season. During his career (1977-1987) John took 283 First Grade wickets, at 23.46 runs per wicket, with 5/22 his best return.

In John’s final season (1986/7) Campbelltown were runners-up in the Belvidere Cup (two day competition) and premiers in the Limited Overs and then became NSW Limited Overs Champions when they defeated Newcastle in the State Challenge. Both Sydney Finals were against Northern Districts, whose team included five First Class players including test stars Mark and Peter Taylor. The two finals were titanic contests with a 34 run loss and a win with three balls and three wickets in hand. John was the leader of the attack, taking the new ball and could always be relied upon to either take early wickets or set up batsman to be dismissed by his bowling partner. He could bowl short spells with serious pace but always bowled his heart out when he returned for spells later in the day. His team mates had the highest regard for his skill, whole-hearted efforts and his wonderful contributions to team spirit. It was no surprise when he was awarded Club Player of the Year for Campbelltown in 1986/7. Commonly referred to as “Sully”, John was treasured by his team mates and always respected by his opponents. In summary, he was a very good cricketer and a top bloke.

In recent years the Limited Overs Competitions (T20 and 50 overs) statistics have been added to players’ official cricket statistics and clubs have then awarded premiership caps to the winning Limited Overs teams. John was unable to attend our presentation of caps in 2022 and therefore his Captain Paul Bourke recently travelled to Bingara to catch up and present his cap

Above right: Paul Bourke presents John “Sully” Sullivan with his Premiership cap. .

Right: The cap’s stitching, which outlines the details of Campbelltown Camden as the Limited Overs Champions in 1986-87.

WARIALDA SIBLINGS TAKE TO THE SPEEDWAY

- Submitted by Rick Turner

Speedway racing in Australia is an extremely exciting form of motor sport and very family-orientated. Over any weekend mainly during the summer months there could be up to a dozen tracks running a Speedway meeting across this vast country with thousands of spectators enjoying the thrill of various types of cars racing on an approximate 400 metre circuit in close proximity where the entire race can be seen from any position in the spectator area.

Whilst the racing of between 10 and 20 cars on such a small, tight, dirt track, wheel to wheel and sideways for most of the time is exciting enough, the suspense of knowing that at any moment, with a slight mistake or a wrong move, an incident, small or major could evolve. Of course, the cars are built to ensure the safety of the driver and it is very seldom an injury will result. Nevertheless, as with any motor sport, the danger is ever present.

Who then, would expect that children between the ages of 10 and 16 could or would compete in such a hostile environment? But they can and do, in a class known as Junior Sedans. The cars themselves are 4-cylinder, 1500cc sedans and no modifications to hot up the motors are allowed. The class is strictly controlled by the governing bodies, Speedway Australia and Speedway Sedans Australia. The safety standards are second to none. There are hundreds of Juniors racing throughout the country and can be seen at most events. The knowledge and experience gained is invaluable in making them better and safer drivers on the road.

Warialda siblings, Brooklyn and Damien Acres are two such Juniors who have only recently begun competing and are classed as ‘New Stars’.

‘Top Stars’ are Juniors who have been racing more than 2 years. Their grandfather, who used to race sedans in the 60s, 70s and 80s bought them a car which they share. Brooklyn will race at a venue one week and Damien at another the next. The closest tracks, Tamworth and Narrabri are 200 kilometres away and only operate every couple of months. Therefore, to race they have to travel vast distances. So far, they have raced at Toowoomba, Kingaroy, Gatton, Gympie, Lismore, Grafton, Gunnedah and Tamworth.

Brooklyn is 16 and once she turns 17, she can no longer race as a Junior. She can however, join the Senior ranks and race with older drivers in another class. Damien, who is only 14 has a couple more years as a Junior and will be a Top Star at the end of next season.

Brooklyn has already raced in the NSW RSA Junior Sedan Championship at Tamworth Speedway and placed fourth of the New Stars. She recently competed in the Queensland Championship at Gympie but unfortunately rolled the car after an incident in the third heat race and was unable to compete in the Championship final.

With grandpop’s help, the kids had the car ready for Damien to race in the NSW SSA Junior Championship at Lismore on April 22 and 23. Unfortunately, after only two Heat races the meeting had to be abandoned because of the heavy rainfall.

Nevertheless, the Acres duo will continue with their racing. They are both loving the experience and with each race meeting they are just getting better and better drivers – and faster.

Top: Damien ready to race. The safety standards are second to none. Above, middle: Brooklyn in a spot of bother at Gympie Speedway (rollover).

Above, bottom: Brooklyn (69) mixing it with other drivers at Tamworth Speedway

Junior Jivers bringing community of all ages together

Victor Hugo is credited with the saying “Music expresses that which cannot be put into words.”

How many of us know a young person who is utterly frustrated by their lack of communicative skills which then leads to a meltdown worthy of a Golden Globe award? What do we do to alleviate the tantrum? How many of us turn to music, movement and community? Fortunately, there’s a new group in Warialda which offers 0 to 5 year olds the opportunity to express themselves musically.

Once the Cimarosti family of Warialda had settled into life in town, Louise felt there was an opening for a communty group that would offer its members the opportunity to come together on a weekly basis in a fun, musical and immersive experience. Drawing on her experience with a similar group on the NSW coast, Louise facilitates the newly formed Warialda Junior Jivers on a weekly basis, run at the Anglican Church Hall on Wednesday mornings during school term time.

Junior Jivers is a music and movement program which aims to Provide a fun, educational and enjoyable experience for the underfives and their carers. Each term is underpinned by a theme, with the singing, dancing, craft and play structured around that theme. Term One’s theme was “when I grow up”, and term two is focusing on “our bodies”. Last term, the group were visited by the crew at Fire and Rescue Warialda, and this term they had a visit from some healthcare professionals.

The group is run entirely by volunteers from the Warialda Anglican Church, and is open to anyone who cares for an child under the age of five. There is no requirement to have any level of musical training - just a desire to be involved and have a go. If you’d like to come along, simply turn up to the Wanglican Church at 9.30am on a Wednesday with $2 to Right: Junior Jivers and their carers enjoy a visit from the crew at Fire and Rescue NSW Warialda.

Australia’s leading koala conservation organisation sets up base in Gwydir Shire: Warialda at the heart of the mission to save iconic animal

The Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is excited to officially call the Gwydir Shire home after moving its Save the Koala Shop and warehouse from Brisbane to Warialda.

The decision reflects the Gwydir Shire’s key role in protecting the koala, with AKF last year choosing theregion as the nation’s first Koala Kiss Site due to its rare secure habitat that can be connected.

The Save the Koala Shop, now located at 23 Stephen St, Warialda, offers a range of koala-themed merchandise including clothing, gifts and souvenirs.

All proceeds go towards supporting AKF’s tireless conservation efforts and research.

“We are delighted to set up the Save the Koala Shop in Warialda, where we hosted a landmark workshop to discuss saving the koala in February,” AKF chair Deborah Tabart OAM said.

“It was clear during the workshop that Warialda is a welcoming community willing to do what’s best for the koala and the environment at large.

“We selected the beautiful Gwydir Shire as our first Koala Kiss Site because it possesses prime landscape that is ‘kissing’ and can be joined. It’s the initial step in fulfilling the overarching Koala Kiss Project.”

With small groups of koalas currently doing well in the Gwydir Shire, the region should host healthy populations of the endangered native animal in 50 years if people act now to reduce threats.

AKF is thus overseeing the implementation of a first-of-its-kind Human Plan of Management, which involves relying on the community to be environmental stewards.

Through the Koala Kiss Project, AKF ultimately aims to create a 2,543km conservation corridor from Cairns to Melbourne by linking fragmented habitat like that of the Gwydir Shire.

“It was crucial for AKF to establish a base in Warialda to ensure the success of our Human Plan of Management and the Koala Kiss Project,” Ms Tabart added.

“The best way for AKF to succeed is to be hands-on and immersed in the community.

“We encourage anyone visiting the Gwydir Shire to stop into the Save The Koala Shop and support our mission to safeguard the beloved koala.

“The support we’ve received from locals has been brilliant and we look forward to furthering thoserelationships as we work together to save the koala.”

To find out more about AKF’s new vision for the koala visit savethekoala.com/our-work/kiss

Above: a quiet nook, just for children.

Left: the Australian Koala Foundation team in Warialda

- Chirstopher Kwan (Retail and Online)

- Danny McCudden (Koala Kiss Ranger)

- Deborah Tabart (Chairman)

- Jill Brocklebank (Brisbane Save the Koala shop Manager)

- Tracey Pinkerton (Retail and Online)

PASSING OF THE TORCH FOR RENRUT HAIR

- Submitted by Charlotte Bonford

Renrut Hair, a beloved and trusted hairdressing salon, has proudly served the vibrant community of Warialda for an impressive 17 years. Building a reputation for excellence in hairstyling and customer care, Renrut Hair has been a go-to destination for all things hair-related. Now, as an exciting new era dawns upon the salon, Jackie Smith, the previous owner, has gracefully passed the torch to the dynamic duo of Josiah and Charlotte Bomford.

With their commitment to providing exceptional service, Josiah and Charlotte are thrilled to carry on Renrut Hair’s legacy of creating stunning transformations and delivering personalised experiences to each and every client. As they embark on this thrilling journey, the future of Renrut Hair shines brightly, promising continued excellence and innovation in hairstyling for the loyal clientele of Warialda and beyond.”

Bingara CWA makes generous donation to Bingara Toy Library

Always supportive of local groups, the Bingara CWA proudly donated a new LifeVac device to the Bingara Toy Library. With some regular members in attendance, Bingara Toy Librarian, Tania Brennan was presented with the airway clearance device by Bingara CWA President Marg Foster and member Bev Spollen.

With choking being the second leading accidental cause of death in children under 14 years and the leading accidental cause of death in children under 1 year old, it is an omnipresent concern of those who work with or are in the company of young children. The LifeVac device quickly and easily removes obstructions from the airway of a choking victim, and can be used on any person, irrespective of age. It can be used on a person in any position.

Tania acknowledged the CWA for their kind gesture and ongoing support of the families who utilise the Bingara Toy Library, and stated that the device will bring peace of mind to all who attend.

Above: Bingara CWA President, Marg Foster presents the LifeVac to Bingara Toy Library’s Tania Brennan, with Bingara CWA member Bev Spollen..

North West Theatre Company Film Club MOVIE OF THE MONTH

Submitted by Rick Hutton – NWTC Film Club Secretary

May’s Film Cub offering is Saturday Night Fever

The North-West Theatre Company Film Club has selected a fantastic film for the onset of winter. “Saturday Night Fever” is a 1977 American dance drama film directed by John Badham and produced by Robert Stigwood. It stars John Travolta as Tony Manero, a young Italian-American man who spends his weekends dancing and drinking at a local discothèque while dealing with social tensions and disillusionment in his working-class ethnic neighbourhood in Brooklyn.

The story is based on “Tribal Rites of the New Saturday Night”, a mostly fictional 1976 article by music writer Nik Cohn, and it became a major critical and commercial success. It also had a tremendous impact on the popular music and dance culture of the late 1970s.

“Saturday Night Fever” helped popularize disco around the world and initiated a series of collaborations between film studios and record labels. It made John Travolta, already well known from his role in the TV sitcom ‘Welcome Back, Kotter’, a household name. He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance, becoming the fifth-youngest nominee in the category. The film showcases aspects of the music, dancing, and subculture surrounding the disco era, including symphony-orchestrated melodies, haute couture styles of clothing, pre-AIDS sexual promiscuity, and graceful choreography.

The “Saturday Night Fever” soundtrack, featuring songs by the Bee Gees, is one of the best-selling soundtrack albums worldwide. Travolta reprised his role of Tony Manero in “Staying Alive” in 1983, which was panned by critics despite being successful at the box office.

In 2010, Saturday Night Fever was deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” by the Library of Congress and selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry.

The disco beat of “Saturday Night Fever” makes it almost impossible to sit still in your cinema seat, so come along to the Roxy in Bingara on Sunday May 28, and expect to squirm a little or a lot as you enjoy this great “movie”!

COPETON DAM LEVELS (as at 12 May 2023)

Percent Full: 93.4% Inflow: 0.68GL

Current Release: 1.37GL

CERAMIC BREAK SCULPTURE PARK MYALL CREEK MEMORIAL EXHIBITION

It’s a pleasure to invite you all to our Myall Creek Memorial exhibition at Ceramic Break Sculpture Park on Saturday June 10th from 11am – 5 pm. This year we have lined up a nice collection of Indigenous Australian art. The exhibition opens early at 11 am in case visitors want to also attend the Myall Creek concert that is scheduled that afternoon at the Roxy Theatre in Bingara.

Richard Trudgen, our guest speaker, will talk about his 42 years of work for social justice for the Yolngu community in Northeast Arnhem Land. Richard’s talk is scheduled for 2 pm.

Artists include painter, sculptor Simon Munro, who had a cracker of an exhibition at the Bingara Courthouse Gallery before the gallery closed. Simon is working on his PHD which includes some of his tree sculptures that he’ll display at the park.

Adele ‘Waabi’ Chapman-Burgess is a custodian of Aboriginal lore, culture and language who earned a BA with Honours from the University of Sydney. She is not only an educator but weaves and paints on canvas and sometimes on possum skins!

Jen Martin is based in Texas, QLD where she creates her colourful paintings. She’s exhibited in 3 consecutive Granite Belt Art Trails, Art Works exhibition at the Stanthorpe Regional Gallery and the Remarkable Women exhibition throughout the years. Her work is part of private collections in France, Italy, South America, England, Scotland, Ireland and Australia.

Kyair Gordon, an emerging artist from Lismore will also have a collection of hand painted carved wood birds on display for the duration of the exhibition.

Drop in – Should be fun! Entry by gold coin donation, food and drinks provided. Exhibition continues through July.

For more information call 6729 4147, check out our website, www. cbreaksculpturepark.com.au or our Ceramic Break Sculpture Park Facebook page

NEV’S COMIC CORNER

BINGARA CENTRAL SCHOOL

STAFF RECOGNITION - 50 YEARS COMBINED

Mrs Craddock and Ms Moore were presented their service awards on Monday 8 May by Mrs Wall.

Mrs Craddock has imparted her knowledge across infants and primary school. After transitioning her skills from the infants’ years early on in her career, Mrs Craddock has found her passion at the upper end of primary.

ST JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

ST JOSEPH’S STUDENTS LEARN BUSH DANCE

All students at St Joseph’s Warialda are learning the ‘Brown Jug Polka,’ a heel toe bush dance. As you can see there’s a lot of concentration and patience going on.

NORTH STAR PUBLIC SCHOOL

Ms Moore began her career in the field of PDHPE and later retained in Mathematics. She has worked in many schools in our area, but the majority of her time has been here with us at Bingara Central School.

Bingara Central School are lucky to have such dedicated and experienced teaching staff working with our students.

Congratulations Mrs Craddock and Ms Moore

A GEM OF A DAY!

On Thursday 11 May, North Star students had a wonderful day of Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness, dancing, mindfulness yoga and even a lunch time game of league tag with some dads getting in on the action.

Thank you to all the mums, dads and grandparents for coming along and joining in on our GEM day. Thank you to the P&C for the delicious lunch!

WARIALDA PUBLIC SCHOOL CROPPA CREEK PUBLIC SCHOOL

WARIALDA PUBLIC SCHOOL SHOW SUCCESS

Warialda Public School students loved the opportunity to enter the many classes of competition at our local show. Everywhere you looked, you could see our students with their artwork, cooking, photography, cattle, horses, chooks or just carving up on the rides!

A big shout out to our Stage 3 students who were awarded Most Successful Exhibitor - Junior Cooking.

Once again, a big thanks to the amazing committee that do all the hard work behind the scenes to make the Warialda Show happen!

MACINTYRE CROSS COUNTRY

Congratulations to all Croppa Creek students who participated in the Macintyre Cross Country at North Star on 4 May. It was a lovely day with all students trying their best. Thanks to North Star Public School for hosting the carnival, thanks to the staff and parents who manned the course and made the day run so well and Mrs Siddins and Miss Stibbard who trained our runners.

WARIALDA HIGH SCHOOL

DEADLY DELIGHTS

Tuesday 16 March was a slithering success for Stage 4, who were treated to a show of all things slimy, slinking and squirming at a presentation on Deadly Australian Animals. Marc Dorse from Deadly Australians, regaled students with stories, pictures and facts about a variety of creepy crawlies from around the country. Students displayed the courage to smell turtles, wear slithering necklaces and get up close and personal with very- friendly and (not-at-all) terrifying serpents!

GRAVESEND PUBLIC SCHOOL

COLLABORATIVE LEARNING GROUPS

Recently, Gravesend students could be found in the kitchen with Miss Irvine, making a delicious meal of curried sausages using carrots, snow peas and spring onions from the garden. Mr Mac continued working with the children helping with their leatherwork pieces. Mrs Ellis helped finish off some special sewing creations and Miss Atkins got out the Makey Makey’s and we learnt how to play a piano using playdough for the keys.

WARIALDA BOWLS REPORT

April was a busy month for Bowls in Warialda with a couple of events taking place.

The Warialda Bowls, Warialda Community Health Fund Charity afternoon resulted in $500 being raised for this great cause. A great afternoon was had on the bowling green with two games of ten ends being held. There were many non-bowlers participating which was fantastic to see and bowlers also travelling from Pallamallawa to get involved. Many thanks to Michael Rolfe who donated a major prize in the raffle and to all who supported the day.

Last week the very enjoyable Inter town Bowls Day was held at Delungra. This day was started by Warialda about three years ago and is held in turn between Warialda, Delungra, Ashford and Bingara. A great day was had by all and Delungra as per usual put on a great day of bowls and catering. Warialda was successful in winning the shield and look forward to the next game to be hosted by Ashford.

The Warialda – Croppa Creek game that is held a few times a year was unfortunately postponed due to wet weather. We look forward to heading up to our friends at Croppa Creek soon to play bowls.

Social Bowls is held every Saturday at 2pm with names to be in by 1.45pm please. Cost is $10 and this includes a BBQ after the game if there are enough players. We can supply bowls if needed and it is very casual so no pressure if you have not played before.

WARIALDA GOLF REPORT

Warialda Men’s Golf Report – 14 May 2023

Sunday’s event was a 2-man Ambrose Stroke sponsored by Men’s Golf. There was an excellent field of players, meaning a lot of mums had an enjoyable Mother’s Day while their husbands were on the golf course!

With an odd number of players, Rod Ireland was drawn as the swinger and he played with Kim Cleal and Josh Watson. This proved very good for Rod as he was in the winning team with Kim and the runner-up team with Josh. I

n the ball run-down the father and son combination of Phil and Tim O’Keeffe won the first ball with a score of 64½, followed by Gordon Cleal and Clem Gordon with 66. Phil O’Keeffe rounded out a good day at the office winning the nearest the pins on the third and the all-in fifth. Clem Gordon cleaned up on the ninth with one of his classic left-to-right drives.

There are several good games coming up over the next few weeks:

- Sunday 21 May - 4BBB Stroke vs Par, which is also the qualifying event for the NSW Men’s 4BBB

- Sunday 28 May - the prestigious 27-Hole RK Smith Memorial Individual Stableford, with a 10am start

Gwydir CLASSIFIEDS

Gwydir CLASSIFIEDS

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.

Email: editor@thegwydirnews.com.au

MAY 2023

19th The Jungle Books performance, 7.30pm, The Roxy Theatre, Bingara

http://www.roxybingara.com.au/the-jungle-books/

20th The Jungle Books performance, 1.00pm, The Roxy Theatre, Bingara

http://www.roxybingara.com.au/the-jungle-books/

20th-21st Bingara Show, Bingara Showground

https://tinyurl.com/3mhf2anf

20th-21st Coolatai Vintage Tractor Pull. Contact Chris Gooda for information 0437 600 914

https://tinyurl.com/2p8xa8tn

24th Weeds as Indicators of Soi Health - Kim Deans, 9.30am-3.30pm, The Living Classroom, Bingara

25th Neighbourhood Watch Program Meeting, 10am or 6pm, 32 Hope Street Warialda

25th-26th Sydney Writers’ Festival screening at the Bingara Library, 10am-5pm https://tinyurl.com/bejzzu8x

27th-28th Upper Horton Trail Ride https://tinyurl.com/2v8jt4xy

28th Saturday Night Fever Film, The Roxy Theatre Bingara, North West Theatre Company Film Club

JUNE 2023

2nd Bingara Business Growth in Challenging Times Session 2. https://tinyurl.com/2c4tr7y4

6th Warialda Business Growth in Challenging Times Session 2. https://tinyurl.com/2c4tr7y4

10th-12th Bingara Bush Bash 2023 Tennis Open. Entries online www.92computing.com.au/bushbashentry.htm

30th Orange Picking and Movie Night, Bingara Orange Festival.

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.

JULY 2023

1st Orange Festival, Bingara. Details TBA

13th Bingara Disability Inclusion Advisory Committee Meeting, 11am, Bingara Public Library

22nd A Very Merry Christmas in July, Warialda Golf and Bowling Club, 6pm.

30th Potluck Community Dinner, Warialda Anglican Church Hall 6pm. All welcome.

SEPTEMBER 2023

15-17th Warialda Off-Road. Details TBA.

OCTOBER 2023

14th Warialda Community Fund and Westpac Helicopter Masquerade Ball, 7pm-12am, Warialda Town Hall

19th Warialda Disability Inclusion Advisory Committe Meeting, 11am, Warialda Council Chambers

21st Warialda Honey Festival, Warialda Recreation Ground. Details TBA.

29th Potluck Community Dinner, Warialda Anglican Church Hall 6pm. All welcome.

NOVEMBER 2023

11th Warialda Hospital Auxiliary Market Night, Warialda Golf and Bowling Club

DECEMBER 2023

1st Bingara Special Events Christmas Festival, 6pm. Further details TBA

8th Warialda Christmas Carnival, Details TBA

10th Bingara Carols by Candlelight, Bingara MPS, 6pm

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.

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free..

John 8:32