Gwydir News November 2022

DAMNED IF YOU DO, AND DAMNED IF YOU DON’T

This seems to be an apt mantra for those who manage the water releases from Copeton Dam.

In a year which has been marked by record-breaking voluminous rainfall, WaterNSW has been left trying to appease both townfolk and irrigators by deftly managing water storage levels against daily release rates, all bounded within a legal and engineering framework. A difficult task by anyone’s measure.

In determining how this is affecting Gwydir Shire residents, a short background on Copeton Dam’s existence may be an appropriate place to begin.

Per WaterNSW’s publicly accessible website, Copeton Dam was borne out of a desire to assist town water supplies and to boost agricultural production in the Gwydir Valley. With construction finalised in 1973, the Dam provides irrigation to various growers - primarily cotton, lucerne, cereals, oilseed, pecan, wheat and vegetables. It also provides environmental flows to the Gwydir Wetlands near Moree to maintain downstream river health such as the reduction of aquatic weeds and the frequency of algal blooms.

Furthermore, the Dam provides water for Inverell, Warialda, and Bingara, industry and domestic requirements, flood mitigation and recreation. Finally, a 21 megawatt hydroelectric power station operated by AGL, is utilised when there are summer irrigation releases, environmental flows and flood mitigation releases. It is able to supply power to 10,000 people annually.

It is worth clarifying that flood mitigation is the management and control of flood water movement such as redirecting flood run-off through the use of floodwalls and flood gates, rather than trying to prevent floods altogether. It also involves the management of people, through measure such as evacuation and dry/wet proofing properties.

As an addition, to ensure Dam safety in the event of a rare and extreme flood, a 250 metre wide and 11 metre deep fuse plug was constructed in 2013 just east of the Dam wall. This would allow floodwaters to be diverted around the dam.

In a pleasing move by WaterNSW, in particular by the new Water Operations Manager, Northern, Mahmood Khan, there is now to be a monthly airspace reference panel meeting of various stakeholders who may be affected by release strategies undertaken at Copeton Dam. In the first of those meetings held on November 2, participants included irrigators, landholders, agencies and councils. The meetings are also a chance for WaterNSW to: provide members with airspace scenarios/aerial correlations for discussion and feedback as to what the storage level target should be to accommodate future inflows; obtain localised knowledge to make more informed/better choices; and ascertain how landholders/ water users are being affected.

Flood operations are managed utilising multifarious inputs, namely: a seven day rainfall forecast, airspace operations / pre-releases; flood operations; and evacuation of surcharge. It is imperative to note that when WaterNSW know there are rain events coming (through the BOM forecast), there is opportunity to create a little more airspace if there is confidence the storage will be refilled before irrigation demand starts.

The seasonal outlook for the region presents us with a pattern of above median rainfall for our catchment in November with a reduction in probabilities for December. By January, outlooks are generally trending towards neutral conditions. It was also noted that due to soil saturation for upper soil, lower soil and deep soil all sitting above 99%, there is potential for most rainfall received across the catchment to convert into runoff and enter the storage system.

Ken Gee, from WaterNSW, when asked where future releases will be directed, noted that it will depend on the rate of release. Anything above 20 GL/day arriving at Tareelaroi Weir cannot be regulated. That is a major consideration in terms of the channel restrictions downstream and it is an ongoing problem for WaterNSW. The question then becomes whether people, affected by the releases, want a shorter, higher flood or a longer, lower flood. Regardless of what WaterNSW do, the large majority of water will flow to the Gwydir/Gingham Wetlands.

It was expressed by all in attendance that it has been an extremely wet period - from August to the start of November there had been over 2 million megalitres past Pallamallawa gauge. There is no mitigation of that volume in three months past that gauge. Indeed, the combined months of September and October were the wettest on record.

In concluding the meeting, Mahmood conveyed that the team will endeavour to add extra information in their communications to assist with public understanding of releases, particularly with the correlation between volumes and river/estuary heights.

Above: Release of 150000 ML from Copeton Dam, 22 October 2022.

Image credit: Michael Grills

MAYORAL COLUMN

However, the significant downpours have created less than favourable conditions for our roads with over 2000 road damages recorded across the Shire over the two years.

With four flood events declared as natural disasters by the State Government, Council has been able to access significant funding to repair these damages. Currently, Council has over $13 million in repairs approved for the first two events, with a further $12 million expected for the third and fourth events.

Council’s priority is to restore all weather access to residents who live on gravel roads. Since securing the funds, Council has been carrying out about $90,000 worth of repairs each week for the past year, mostly on these unsealed roads.

We appreciate the patience of our residents with the changed traffic conditions while Council addresses the damages.

On a brighter note, there is much to look forward to over the coming months as we hurtle towards Christmas with a host of fantastic events on offer throughout the Shire thanks to the NSW State Government’s Regional Events Acceleration Fund and Gwydir Shire Council.

Kicking off the program of events is the Bingara Christmas Carnival taking place at the end of November featuring popular Australian band Thirsty Merc, with the Warialda and Warialda Rail Christmas Carnival events taking place later in the year. Keep an eye out for other great events coming to your town or village soon.

Upper Horton mobile win

Following a ten year wait for improved mobile phone coverage, the vil lage of Upper Horton have successfully received funding in round two of the Regional Connectivity Program. Barnaby Joyce MP attended the Upper Horton Sports Club on 20 October to confirm the announce ment to locals.

COLLEGE CHAT

What’s on for the rest of Term 4?:

- Working at Heights 22 November

- White Card 23 November

- First Aid 2 December

Class News:

We would like to send out a huge “Congratulations” to two of our students who are always attending our leather classes that we hold frequently in Warialda. Both Nicole and Kylie took out place ribbons at the Australian Plaiters and Whip Makers Association Championships in Glen Innes on 15 October.

Rainfall over the past two years has ensured the replenishment of dams, rivers and creeks and the restoration of ground water levels across the Shire. The countryside is looking magnificent, with picture postcard views at every turn.

Council’s yearly roads budget is normally around $6 million, so to add in another $25 million in road damage repairs and several other major grant funded road projects is a huge challenge. Council crews are doing everything they can to manage this huge workload with additional graders, contractors and 25 additional staff employed. Council road construction staff have worked a staggering 15,000 hours of overtime since the first flood event

I would also like to take a moment to commend those involved in the establishment of the Bingara Community Practice and the smooth transition during a tumultuous time. A special mention must go to Dr Chris Matthews, Practice Manager, Ann-Maree Anderson and all the community members who have taken on roles as Directors on the newly formed board.

It was remarked by those in attendance that there have been occasions during rodeos and motorbike events where access to adequate mobile reception is imperative. Attendance at these events can reach 2,000, so removing blackspots from the area is crucial.

Nicole presented a hat band, belt and decorative roo hide whip and Kylie presented a roo hide whip. Well done, we are so proud of you.

The community received $261300 to deploy a new Telstra small cell mobile site, which will provide improved handheld coverage and connectivity to the village. Ranging in size from a large shoebox to a cricket bat, they are considerably smaller than a regular base station. Their small size allows them to be mounted on street lights or power poles which allows them to blend more discreetly into their surround ings.

On closing proceedings, Mr Joyce announced that $800,000 had been set aside to improve Horton Road between Upper Horton and Terry Hie Hie. We look forward to sharing progress on that project with you.

If this is something that interests you, our next lot of classes with John McMaster are as follows:

Plaiting Workshop 11-12 February 2023;

Red Hide Whip 18-19 March 2023;

Eight Strand Roo Hide Whip 17-18 June 2023;

Twelve Strand Roo Hide Whip 29-30 July 2023

To be advised 16-17 September 2023

To be advised 18-19 November 2023

Give us a call on 02 6724 1965, 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.

Above: Barnaby Joyce MP and Upper Horton discussing improved communications

UP

GRANTS FOR FLOOD-AFFECTED PRIMARY PRODUCERS

I’m pleased that flood-affected primary producers in the Parkes electorate can apply for recovery grants of up to $25,000 as part of the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

The grants are now available for eligible primary producers in the Local Government Areas that have been disaster declared from the most recent storm and flood event. This includes the Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina,

Central Darling, Cobar, Coonamble, Dubbo Regional, Gilgandra, Gunnedah, Gwydir, Lachlan, Moree Plains, Narrabri, Narromine, Walgett, Warren and Warrumbungle LGAs in the Parkes electorate.

The assistance is available for the immediate clean-up and recovery costs to repair extensive damage to properties.

Our farmers have been among the hardest hit by flooding this year, with recent floods destroying or downgrading millions of dollars’ worth of crops across the Parkes electorate just before harvest season. I know these grants will be very welcomed to help farmers get back on their feet after a challenging few months.

For more information, or to lodge an application, visit the NSW Rural Assistance Authority website at www.raa.nsw.gov.au or call the RAA on 1800 678 593 If you are a farmer or a member of the community requiring an emergency response regarding livestock or animals, call 1800 814 647.

BUDGET BLOW TO PARKES ELECTORATE

Sadly, the Parkes electorate was one of the biggest losers in Labor’s Federal Budget, which delivered several blows to our regions.

The slashing of the highly popular Building Better Regions Fund was the most obvious insult, but after further digging I’m also disappointed to find out that Labor will not be continuing the apprenticeship wage subsidy and instant asset write-off programs which made such a difference in my electorate, helping local businesses put on more apprentices and invest in new equipment.

While childcare has been trumpeted as a winner in this Budget, it is not the case for regional Australia where affordability is not the main issue for our families – accessibility is. Funding rebates does nothing to help those families in the Parkes electorate who are unable to return to work because they can’t access childcare in their town. But not a cent will be spent on creating one single additional childcare place.

Families will also be $2,000 worse off by Christmas as electricity and gas prices continue to rise, along with interest rates and grocery bills.

And the prospect of water buybacks is extremely worrying for Basin communities across the Parkes electorate.

After 10 years in opposition, Labor is clearly taking out its frustration on regional Australia, scrapping programs and funding that had significant benefit to the bush

CMCA difficulty leaving Bingara behind

Both an emotional and physical bond was formed between CMCA rally-goers and Bingara during the recent annual CMCA rally. Whilst the emotional bond was developed out of a love for the town and the region-at-large, the physical bond was less lovingly-inspiredmore a forced connection due to axle attraction to mud.

Despite late week weather conditions being slightly less than ideal (read: abysmal), attendees of the rally were treated to all that the region had to offer, in terms of destinations, activites, and the warm personalities they encountered.

First-time rally-goers were granted early entry on 15 October to acclimate to the structure and routine of the Rally. Siting of motorhomes and campervans was undertaken with military-type precision - once parked, then parked (read: bogged) they stayed. Movement of persons during the week was then purely ambulatory or by way of mini bus or golf cart.

Jen Mead, Tourist Officer and Sue Maisey, Casual Tourist Officer at the Bingara Visitor Information Centre were kept on their toes with a continual progression of rally attendees calling into the Centre. On several days during the week, the team assisted in excess of 100 visitors a day. Many wished to do self-guided tours of Bingara and the Gwydir Shire as a whole, purchasing merchandise or just calling in to say help.

Of the local and regional tour destinations booked by rally attendees, the following proved to be the most popular - Wyoming Lavendar Farm at Mount Russell, followed by the Transport Museum and Pioneer Village trip, then local Property Living Off Grid, the Roxy Theatre tour and New England Woodturning and Sculptures.

Finally, a number of CMCA members remarked they would like to come back individually and spend more time in the district.

MIGHTY RIVER RED GUM SUCCUMBS TO WATER

Whilst known affectionately amongst locals as the Fairy Tree, the Hobbit Tree or the Gnome Tree, in reality, it was first and foremost a Eucalyptus camaldulensis - a mighty river red gum tree.

Planted firmly on the banks of the Gwydir River in the town of Bingara some 200-odd years ago, it was a town icon - the birthplace of many a child’s imagination about fairies and other small-statured creatures. Statuesque in its presence, primarily due to its extensive exposed root system, it was also host to a slew of photographic moments ranging from weddings to christenings to ubiquitous tourist shots.

Unfortunately, the recent October rain events and subsequent release of water from Cope ton Dam meant an untimely demise for the tree.

Locals and those from afar who had fond memories of the tree, either as a youngster playing within the cavernous underside of its trunk, or as an adult, admiring the gangly assortment of roots, were heartbroken at the news. Most felt confident the tree would withstand the deluge of water that pummelled the flora of the river.

Hobbits and fairies aside, perhaps not many are aware just how remarkable the river red gum tree really is.

Usually found along the banks and flood plains of watercourses, their subjection to regular flooding allows for the sub-soil to be recharged.

River red gums can tolerate immersion in flood waters for up to nine months due to the extensive roots which contain a spongy, air-filled tissue that allows for the accumula tion and transport of much-needed oxygen in waterlogged soils.

Used extensively by Indigenous people, it can be shaped into canoes, bowls, shields and other utensils. The wood, which is red when freshly cut, contains high levels of natural chemicals such as polyphenols which are become an antibiotic agent when combined with air.

These chemicals have the combined proper ties of making the timber very durable and aid in the tree’s protection from particular diseases and pest attacks.

With all these resilient attributes, it’s little wonder that river red gum trees can live up to a thousand years.

guess that’s of small comfort to those who loved Bingara’s special tree, which seemingly had its life cut remarkably short. What we can all be thankful for is that it brought joy to many, and lives on in the minds of those who enjoyed its presence. No doubt a talking point for many years to come.

Above Left: The mighty River Red - photo taken May 2022

Above Middle: The Hobbit Tree, photo courtesy Kimberly Apthorpe

Above and Left: Down, yet still majestic.

COUNCIL UPDATES - POOLS AND BINGARA RIVERSIDE

CARAVAN PARK

In October and December 2021 Council entered into a grant agreement with the Federal Government through its COVID-19 Stimulus Package - LRCI Phase 3 program and its Sustainable Rural Water Use and Infrastructure program. From this funding an amount of $790,000 has been allocated to project at the Bingara Riverside Caravan Park and Bingara swimming pool complex.

The first of the projects will see the demolition of the existing amenities, and the purchase and installation of an all-access facility with storage, and laundry. It is planned that the demolition and installation will occur over the winter of 2023 when the adjacent swimming pool complex is closed. This is to allow the caravan park patrons to use the pool amenities during this time.

The second project is the upgrade of low voltage and high voltage electrical supply to the caravan park and pool sites.

The third project is the installation of lighting, a PA system and NBN at the pool.

If all things had gone to plan, the second and third projects should have been completed before the pool opened on the October long weekend. However, substantial delays have occurred due to the site being Crown Lands and that the electrical designs had to be submitted to and approved by several parties. The upgrade is essential to run the heating pumps which were purchased and installed when the 25-metre pool was constructed. Council is hopeful that these pumps will be operational at the end of the 2023 swimming season.

When the swimming pool complex was opened in November 2020 there were other tasks that needed to be completed in addition to the installation of lighting, and the electrical supply upgrade to allow for the operation of the heating pumps. Such tasks included the heating of the splash program pool, the replacement of the water features and the installation of an all-access entry into the splash program pool. Council is still regularly contacting the pool contractors to ensure that these are completed.

The caravan park and pool sites are important Gwydir assets with both contributing to the tourism economy. The pool hosted several early aqua aerobics sessions for the CMCA Rally visitors. The pool is a vital community hub. The award winning Aquafit classes, which are run by Bingara Multi-Purpose Service staff, commenced this month. These classes take place before the pool opens at least twice a week. Swimming Club has started for the season on Wednesday nights.

In the weeks before the opening of the Warialda swimming pool complex, the 50-metre pool was repainted. In addition, the wading pool tiles were ground, and a resin applied. The wading pool was then also painted. Unfortunately, the painting proved unsatisfactory, and the contractor had to redo some of the painting works. This delayed the opening of the pool.

A replacement foot valve was also fitted by Council staff. The pool opened on Friday 28 October and is expecting a very busy season with people visiting from across the region especially from Moree and district as its 50-metre pool remains closed. The Warialda swimming squad has commenced training again and are hoping to build on their successful 2021/22 season. Last season over 20 squad members qualified for the PSSA State Swimming Championships.

Celebrate a Country Christmas at Warialda

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

It seems the years go by quicker and quicker the older you get. In some ways it feels like yesterday that we all began to pack away the Christmas decorations and get ready for the year ahead. Yet here we are again, looking at the end of another jam-packed year and setting up for the festive season once more. Gwydir Shire Council and the Warialda Christmas Carnival Committee particularly enjoy this time of year and the detailed planning that goes into making the Warialda Christmas Carnival a magical night for the community. The team have been eagerly preparing and cannot wait to showcase what will be on offer. Event goers will be happy to know that this year they will be free from COVID-19 check-ins and confirmation of vaccination statuses. This has been a thorn in the side for the organisers the past couple of years so it is with much relief that attendees will be able to move freely throughout the evening.

Event goers will be treated to performances by the Warialda Preschool, St Joseph’s Primary School, Warialda Primary School and Warialda High School which are always crowd favourites. The popular band Fatman Don’t Dance is set to please the crowd with their talented vocals for the later half of the evening. Be sure to grab your mates and set up camp in the entertainment area, as this will be the centre of the experience and will provide a wonderful opportunity to relax in the balmy afternoon weather and enjoy the event atmosphere.

The big man himself ‘Father Christmas’ is set to make a special appearance and we all know by now that Santa likes to make a grand entrance in the local fire truck. Keep an ear out for the sirens on the afternoon of the event and be sure to remind children about Santa’s naughty or nice list, as they will need to be on their best behaviour to receive any gifts on the day.

Another crowd pleaser are the wonderful stallholders who come to this event. Each stallholder puts in a lot of preparation for occasions like this and the products on offer are always 10/10. What a great opportunity to treat yourself or get in some last-minute Christmas shopping for your loved ones.

Back by popular demand are the amusement devices which are a real hit with school aged children. This year there will be a Kids Bungee Run, Secret Life of Pets Castle and an Obstacle Course. For just $15, children will be able to access the rides all afternoon.

Bring an esky and a picnic blanket and set yourself up in front of the stage and enjoy what the Warialda Christmas Carnival has to offer on Saturday 10 December at the Warialda Recreation Grounds.

For stallholder applications, please contact Courtney Loosemore on 02 6729 3001 or cloosemore@gwydir.nsw.gov.au

Niche business opens in Warialda

Following a horrific car accident years ago, Kerrie O’Rourke was left unable to work. In contrast, a more recent minor car incident was just the catalyst Kerrie needed to get back to giving back to the community. Unsure of where to start, Kerrie would ask friends and family when she was out for dinner or whilst shopping what type of business they would like to see in Warialda.

Based on this feedback, Kerrie made the decision to open Kezzie’s Krystal Kave earlier this month and hasn’t looked back since. Kerrie has been overwhelmed by the response she has received from the local community and even has customers travelling from neighbouring towns to check out the new store.

You can expect to find something for everyone at Kezzie’s Krystal Kave with items to cater to all budgets. Event balloons, toolkits, puzzles, home décor items, clothes, slippers, and those last-minute gift ideas are just some of the pieces available in the store. However, the main feature of the shop is the extensive array of crystals on offer.

Most would say diamonds are a girl’s best friend but, in this case, crystals serve the same purpose for Kerrie. An interest sparked at just 15 years of age, Kerrie has such an intense passion for gemstones and their healing properties, that she wanted to be sure that at least half the shop encompassed her love for these rocks.

Kerrie has spent the last 45-plus years researching the properties of gems and is a real advocate for their benefits. Depending on what you believe there are crystals which can assist with sleep, anxiety, concentration, headaches, blood pressure, hormones, memory and so much more. The crystals also look stunning in a decorative sense, adding colour and form when furbishing a home.

If you are interested in learning about the healing powers of crystals or perhaps you are after a present for someone special, Kerrie would love for you to call in and see her at 70 Hope Street Warialda

WARIALDA HIGH SCHOOL CAREERS ADVISOR AWARDED FOR YEARS OF EXEMPLARY SERVICE

Whilst the saying may sound trite, it most certainly applies to the wholistic education of a school student... “it takes a village to raise a child”. A verdant supporter of the saying is the Careers Advisor at Warialda High School, Martin Bower. He is the first to espouse and praise the virtues of having many people, from various walks of life, being able to positively guide, influence and support a young person in their journey towards a working life beyond, or whilst at, school.

For some 32 years, Mr Bower has been the Careers Advisor at Warialda High School. In that time, he has taught, mentored, and facilitated the “village” for students, current and past, many of whom are now the parents of present students. Not content with figuratively “waving goodbye” at the end of a student’s school career, Martin has been available for all residents in Warialda for advice well beyond the scope of a Careers Advisor.

To that end, Principal of the school, Shelly Way, felt it was time Martin was recognised for his service to both the school and the community and thus nominated him for Careers Advisor of the Year.

Speaking to Shelly, it becomes clear how the school and the town as a collective feel about his commitment to achieving the best outcome for everyone, in every circumstance. Examples of where Martin has gone “above and beyond” include: fielding phone calls from parents well outside of work hours; ensuring that every student who walks out of the school has a career mapped out; and working with local businesses to ensure a successful outcome for all parties in employing locals.

Answerable to the community as much as the NSW Department of Education, the local community/mob are the people who keep Martin on his toes and guide him in decision-making situations.

Given special mention by Martin were Max Eastcott, Wayne Squires, Margaret Smith and Shelly Way. Working with these indviduals, amongst others, have been highlights in his career.

Irrespective of the influence and support of others, it certainly becomes clear that Martin is most assuredly in a league of his own, and is thus a much deserved recipient of NSW Careers Advisor of the Year for 2022.

GWYDIR AGEING AND DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN

The purpose of this plan is to encourage, recognise and promote an active commitment to eliminating ageing and disability discrimination in our community.

The plan sets out Gwydir Shire Council’s strategies for identifying and addressing practices which might result in discrimination, and details how Council is making its workplace, services, and community more accessible.

It will also provide strategies and actions that Council will deliver in the next four years, to work toward achieving a truly inclusive community.

To better understand the needs of our community, Council has developed an ageing and disability survey and is urging all residents who face these barriers to take part in the survey.

The survey has been distributed to Gwydir ageing and disability services, libraries, health and home care providers, schools and is available online.

For those who don’t have access to the internet, can’t access a paper copy, or need assistance completing the survey, an over the phone survey can be requested.

To access the survey

Online: www.gwydir.nsw.gov.au

Request a phone survey: Contact Sarah Butler at Naroo Frail Aged Care (02) 6729 1314

Hardcopy: Visit your local Commonwealth Home Support Program office or Gwydir Library.

The survey will be open until Friday 9 December 2022.

Martin himself is a little more pragmatic about the award. Humbled by the recognition (and the size of the cheque!), Martin attests much of the award to the support of the “village”. The ability to work with like-minded people with a shared vision means he is able to put into place plans and ideas without having to tackle (too much) bureaucracy.

Left Kerrie with some of her wares at Kezzie’s Krystal Kave Abiove and Right: crystals and gifts aplenty.

Above: Martin Bower with trophy and cheque as recipient of the 2022 NSW Careers Advisor of the Year.

COUNCIL NOMINATED IN NATIONAL LGA AWARDS

Gwydir Shire Council’s Gwydir Career Start Program was recently nominated in the Career Starter category of the 2022 National Awards for Local Government.

The National Awards for Local Government are an annual celebration of the best Australian Local Government achievements. The awards highlight innovative and resourceful solutions implemented by Local Governments that make a difference to their local communities.

Although not being named the winner, the program received an honourable mention from The Hon Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories.

The nomination that was submitted by Council follows: In 2019, Council launched the Gwydir Career Start Initiative, a promotion and more focused approach to our already successful trainee and apprenticeship program.

The program provides an exceptional opportunity for local school students and job seekers to gain valuable skills and work experience in a local government environment while studying to obtain a nationally recognised qualification.

The program gives Council the ability to train, develop and mould their school based and mainstream trainees and apprentices into valuable, qualified and productive employees, whilst also meeting Council’s succession planning goals. – put simply, it allows us to ‘grow our own’!

Distance, financial restraints and the nature of rural life can be deterrents for residents to pursue further education and training. Our program aims to alleviate these challenges by providing guidance and opportunities enabling participants to reach their full potential and enhance their employability.

Gwydir Shire Council is fortunate to have an excellent working relationship with local schools who are very supportive of the School Based Trainees (SBTs) and provide assistance well above expectation to ensure their success.

Our current cluster, ageing from 15 to 54, includes 7 SBTs, 5 trainees and 8 apprentices, who are working towards qualifications in the following vocations: Horticulture, Carpentry, Water Operations, Automotive, Information Services, Business Administration, Plumbing, Aged Care and Plant Operation.

The Council has sponsored a considerable number of staff in Certificate IV Assessment and Workplace Training to ensure that the employees who support trainees and apprentices in their learning and act as mentors are skilled and confident. This initiative is one of the contributing factors to the success of the Gwydir Career Start Program.

Vocational education is the catalyst to developing confident, competent and constructive employees, in turn ensuring productive and successful workplaces.

Gwydir Shire Council considers its employees as its most valuable asset and this statement is supported by the investment the organisation makes in the development and well being of all its staff.

The Gwydir Career Start Program directly contributes to Gwydir Shire Council fulfilling its Corporate Vision; ‘ To be the recognised leader in Local Government through continuous learning and sustainability’

Warialda Historical Society Open Day

Warialda Historical Society members were delighted to host an open day at the museum on Saturday 15 October.

The day was sponsored by the Society in conjunction with funding from the Be Connected “Get Online” program.

Attendees discovered the facilities that the Society has available for public use including access to and help with computers researching local and family history, with free access to Ancestry Worldwide.

For many attending the day it was a first time viewing the museum.

The Society meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 5.30pm at the Museum, Plunkett Street, Warialda. The Museum is open to the public every Saturday from 10am to 12 noon, or by appointment.

For further information, please contact Fay Cains (President) on 02 6729 0045 or email waraialdahistoricalsociety@ gmail.com

Top: Warialda Workshop - SBT Caleb Withers, Anthony Logan. Apprentice Andrew Marle and Brent Andrews

Bottom:Water and Sewerage Based Trainee Elijah Lane with Murray Rose and Mick Todd

Top right: Tim Smith, Georgina Smith, Fay Cains, Sue Morris and Margaret Mariner

Above: Attendees at the Open Day, and the Museum

SOMETHING “OLD” AND SOMETHING “NEW”

There is no denying it is a huge task to take on a new business venture but is another to run two enterprises at the same time. Well, Daryn and Cheryl Cornelius have jumped at the opportunity to pack up their life in South Australia and move to Warialda to take on running their existing company, Mannum Wholesalers but to also take on ownership of the Warialda Post Office.

Daryn and Cheryl are currently learning the ropes at the Post Office un der the wonderful guidance of Fiona, Al, Emma and Richard. Daryn and Cheryl officially took on ownership of the establishment on 1 November 2022 and are enjoying every minute of the challenge. For the curious reader, you will be happy to know that all the current staff at the Post Of fice will also be remaining with the business for as long as they like.

“We wanted to make sure there was no interruption to the running of the Post Office and that the community would not be impacted by the change in ownership, so it was a very easy decision to keep all the present staff on board,” said Daryn.

Daryn and Cheryl want to make a few minor changes and updates to the Post Office to best serve the community of Warialda and the sur rounding district. This is a big part of the reason they moved to the area, because they wanted to be more involved in a small-town region.

“In the not-too-distant future we hope to do a little renovating here and there. We also want to get the Facebook page up and running, to keep everyone informed of any updates. The Post Office will still offer all the current Australia Post services and we are open to special requests on items or services which may have not traditionally been an option before. Cheryl and I really want to accommodate the public as best we can.”

Customers can also expect to find some of Mannum Wholesalers prod ucts available in the Post Office. The shop itself is located on the corner of Hope and Stephen Streets and the opening of the store front is likely to tentatively be Friday 18 November and operate a few days a week.

Mannum Wholesalers deals in licensed products of work by Jenny Sand ers and Paul Harvey, just to name a few. There is full range of promotion items for the NRL and Horse Racing available, which includes pens, stubbie coolers, coffee mugs, magnets and polos shirts. Merchandise is supplied all around Australia to newsagencies, zoos and National Motor Museums.

There is also an opportunity to sit down with Daryn and go over a personalised design for a wedding gift or even a local sporting team can opt to arrange the seasons playing shirts. Mugs and ceramics alike are printed in Warialda and the larger items are either outsourced overseas or in Australia where possible, for a very competitive price and the turna round is typically 14-21 days.

“We can print just about anything and if we can’t, we will know some body who can, and we are happy to point people in the right direction. People are more than welcome to call in and say g’day, as well as see what we have on offer. We are really looking forward to meeting and working with everyone in the area.”

To view Mannum Wholesalers range of products or to simply get a feel for what they are about please visit www.mannumwholesalers.com.au

BINGARA + BAND + BOUNTIFUL + BRIGHT = CHRISTMAS WITH A BANG

You don’t need to drive hours to the next big town or city to witness one of Australia’s most successful live music acts.

Australian rock band Thirsty Merc have been pa tiently waiting the last two years for the chance to get back on the road and play live again… and now the time has come.

Thirsty Merc announced a new album and tour which will see the guys get back on the tour bus and back on stage. One of those stages will be at the Bingara Christmas Carnival concert on Saturday 26 November.

The band will be performing their much-loved hits, alongside songs from their new album ‘Cel ebration’ which was released in June this year.

Front man Rai Thistlethwayte says “It’s been an extremely rewarding experience for us to ex plore some of the best Aussie songs on the new album. Perhaps the biggest celebration though, is for all live music fans. After a few crazy years, we’re all still here together. Gigs are back… and we can’t wait to be in Bingara to help you let your hair down!”.

Accompanying Thirsty Merc on stage will be some home-grown talent with the Bingara Cen tral School and Preschool students, and Bingara born and bred performers Natalie Baker who is now based in Tamworth. Also returning to Bingara for an Aussie Christmas is Berlin based opera singer Lexi Hutton.

Gwydir Shire Council Media and Communica tions Team Leader Georgia Standerwick said it is very exciting to be able to offer such as tal ented line up of performers for one of Bingara’s much loved family events.

“The Bingara Christmas Carnival has a long tradition and has been an annual event on the Bingara calendar for as long as can remember. The Bingara Special Events Committee are de lighted to be able to present such a talented line up of performers for the whole of the Gwydir community to enjoy,” said Georgia.

“The Christmas Carnival is for our community. It is about celebrating our achievements and reflect ing on the challenges and coming together for a relaxed and fun family friendly night out”.

The event has been made possible through the NSW State Government’s Regional Events Accelera tion Fund, Gwydir Shire Council, the Bingara Lions Club and assistance from local Bingara business man John Bishton from the Bingara IGA and Hardware.

The event will take place at Gwydir Oval and will feature market and food stalls and a visit from Santa.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or a picnic blanket and their own alcohol but are reminded that no glass is to be brought into the facility.

For more information visit https://www.gwydir. nsw.gov.au/Council/Events-Directory

Top left: Daryn and Cheryl Cornelius outside the Warialda Post Office

Top right: Happy Post Office owners and employees

Bottom: Some of the wares available through Mannum Wholesalers

Help Create a Community Hub in Warialda

Gwydir Shire Council has recently secured funding to create a town square in the main street of Warialda that will act as community meeting place and an inviting gateway for the town and district.

The proposed site for the development is Council owned land located across from the Warialda Soldiers’ Memorial Hall in Hope Street.

It is envisaged that the double fronted block will not only act as a town square but will also make a suitable location for caravan and RV park ing, creating a welcoming and convenient location for these visitors to access the local shops and services and helping to boosting the local visitor economy.

Council is urging Warialda residents to come forward with their ideas and suggestions for the new space and is hosting a two-day ideas drop in session.

Deputy General Manager Leeah Daley says the development is a space for the community to enjoy and wants strong involvement from the community in the creation of the master plan.

“We need the community’s ideas to make the town square a place which reflects our community’s needs, local history, landscape and provides points of interest for visitors and residents,” Ms Daley said.

John Mongard from John Mongard Landscape Architects was the mas termind behind the initial Warialda Community Plan developed in 2008 and has been tasked with the job of turning the community’s ideas for the town square into reality.

John will be in Warialda from Tuesday 22 November to Wednesday 23 November hosting an ideas drop-in session where the Warialda com munity can view plans of the overall town square strategy and have the opportunity to comment and add suggestions.

The ideas drop-in session will take place at the Warialda Soldiers’ Me morial Hall on Tuesday 22 November to Wednesday 23 Nov from 10 am to 4 pm each day.

NATIONAL ASBESTOS AWARENESS MONTH

With deadly asbestos remaining hidden in one third of Aussie homes and with the popularity of renovating continuing to grow as homeowners are gripped by interest rate hikes combined with an unprecedented lack of tradespeople and the rising costs of labour, concerns are growing that homeowners are taking avoidable risks with asbestos, jeop ardising their health and the health of others when doing do-it-yourself renovations.

Over 4,000 Australians die every year from asbestos-related diseases - 265% more than the annual national road toll. So as londg as asbestos-containing materials remain in homes built or renovated prior to 1990, it is vital that do-it-yourself homeowners, renovators and tradies heed the warnings and learn to respect the serious dangers of asbestos to help save lives.

Asbestos can be in any brick, weatherboard, fibro or clad home built or renovated before 1990. It was used everywhere - so it lurking under floor coverings including carpets, lino leum and vinyl tiles, behind wall and floor tiles, in cement floors, internal and external walls. The list extends to ceilings and ceiling space (insulation), eaves, garages, roofs, around hot water pipes, fences, home extensions, garages, outdoor toilets, backyard and farm structures, chook sheds and even dog kennels.

For more information, please visit www.asbestosawareness.com.au

NRAR COMMENDS GWYDIR REGION

In a letter recently received from Grant Barnes, who is the Chief Regulatory Officer for the Natural Resources Access Regulator, the Gwydir region was commended for its ability to abide by water usage regulations. The letter reads:

Letter to the Editor

Less than 2% of investigations result in fines

The release of the Natural Resources Access Regulator’s (NRAR) annual progress report is not usually something to set hearts racing, but there’s a lot to celebrate for the water using communities of the Gwydir region.

Our work in your region from June 2021 to June 2022 confirms something we have always known – and that is most people want to do the right thing and abide by NSW water rules

During this period, less than 2% of investiga tions we completed in your region resulted in a fine being issued, and we can only thank the majority of law-abiding water users for that.

The release of our progress report marks a strong change of direction and emphasis by the independent water regulator as we go about the business of enforcing the state’s water laws.

We’ve restructured the organisation so that what we do is even more closely aligned with our fundamental purpose: to encourage, enable and educate water users to follow the water rules because they want to, because it matters, because it’s right.

The progress report is our commitment to being transparent about what’s been achieved in the last 12 months, what we have planned

for the next 12 months, and the processes we use to make sure everyone gets a fair share of water resources – communities, the environ ment and industry.

You can download our progress report from our website: www.nrar.nsw.gov.au/progressand-outcomes/progress-reports

Grant Barnes

Chief Regulatory Officer.

BINGARA ANGLICAN FLOWER SHOW BLOOMIN’ WELL

Submitted by Narelle Watts

After two years of not having a Flower Show due to COVID, it was lovely to see the Wiseman Crowley Hall buzzing with activity. The smell of roses as you entered the hall was wonderful.

Thank you to so many people outside our Church community who helped make the day a huge success, as the saying goes ‘many hands make light work’. A big thank you to our Judge Peter Ranger who always gives his time willingly.

Everyone agreed that the roast of the day was delicious, so thank you to all involved in the kitchen. The stalls were full of wonderful jams, pickles and plants. The cake stall was overflowing with local homemade biscuits, slices and cakes. Bric a brac made some wonderful sales.

Thank you to Lenore from Dewberry Lane, our local fashion boutique, for a very professional parade. Lenore put so much time and effort in to make this event come together. Everyone commented how colourful and elegant the models were during the fashion parade. One particular model had paraded on the Myers Catwalk at the Melbourne Cup only days before.

A special mention to our local business houses Sew Much More, IGA, Meat on Maitland and our community people Gail and Aileen Galvin for their donations towards the vouchers for the Flower Champions.

We really could not have managed without the assistance of the Local Library Staff. We had a few stops and starts with the weather patterns but everything was made easy due to our helpful Library.

At the conclusion of the day, flowers and posies were presented to Lenore and all models. These were kindly made by Denise Danby and Alec Luckie.

North West Theatre Company Film Club

MOVIE OF THE MONTH

November’s Film Cub offering is The Book Thief. The North West Theatre Company’s feature movie for November is adapted from the historical fiction novel by Australian author Markus Zusak, The Book Thief

The novel is Zusak’s most popular book. Published in 2005, The Book Thief became an international bestseller and was translated into 63 languages and sold 16 million copies.

The movie, filmed in 2013, is a war drama film directed by Brian Percival and starring Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson, and Sophie Nélisse. The film is about a young girl living with her adoptive German family during the Nazi era. Taught to read by her kindhearted foster father, the girl begins “borrowing” books and sharing them with the Jewish refugee being sheltered by her foster parents in their home.

The Book Thief premiered at the Mill Valley Film Festival on October 3, 2013, and was released for general distribution in the United States on November 8, 2013. The film received mixed reviews upon its theatrical release with some reviewers praising its “fresher perspective on the war” and its focus on the “consistent thread of humanity” in the story, with other critics faulting the film’s “wishful narrative”. With a budget of $19 million, the film was successful at the box office, earning over $76 million.

The film features a musical score by Oscar-winning composer John Williams. The Book Thief received Oscar, Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations for its score. For her performance in the film, Sophie Nélisse won the Hollywood Film Festival Spotlight Award, the Satellite Newcomer Award, and the Phoenix Film Critics Society Award for Best Performance by a Youth in a Lead or Supporting Role – Female.

The plot begins in February 1938, where the character Death tells about how a young girl called Liesel Meminger had piqued his interest. In one of the opening scenes, twelve-year-old Liesel is travelling with her mother and younger brother on a train. On the way, her brother dies and is buried next to the tracks. Liesel steals her first book, titled The Grave Digger’s Handbook, when it falls out of the gravedigger’s pocket.

Liesel is then brought to her new home in Munich, where she meets her new foster parents Rosa Hubermann (Emily Watson) and Hans Hubermann (Geoffrey Rush). The Australian author of the bestselling, award-winning book on which the film is based, confirmed on his blog that the film would be narrated by the character of “Death”, as was the novel. English actor Roger Allam of Game of Thrones portrays Death in the film.

In her review for the New Empress Magazine, Mairéad Roche praised the film for providing a “fresher perspective on the war” through the

experiences of ordinary Germans who lived through the Nazi era. In addition to the “Oscar-baiting beautiful” cinematography and John Williams’s film score that contribute to the film’s emotional appeal, Roche singled out the performance of young Sophie Nélisse as Liesel that “matches the well-measured and seemingly effortless efforts of both Rush and Watson”.

Roche concluded, ”The Book Thief weaves a consistent thread of humanity through its narrative via the commonality of Death, storytelling and the concept of free will. The disturbing sight of children in Hitler Youth uniforms and Allied blanket bombing, when shown through the innocence of a child, humanises the German generation just living their lives without the hindsight of history. A blurring of vision due to tears is to be expected, but that effect is delivered with respect and dignity to the audience.”

The Book Thief will be screened at the Roxy Theatre on Sunday November 27 at 4pm. New members are welcome.

Submitted by Rick Hutton – NWTC Film Club Secretary

Gordon Stewart, our local Anglican Minister, announced and presented the 2022 Champions of our Flower Show.

Boots, boxes, bottles and beats.

Alliteration aside, an intimate audience were entertained and enthralled from start to finish with unique engagement and action from the four performers who call themselves the Jonkyard Beats, on stage at the Roxy on 26 October.

The use of verbal language throughout the show was intentionally nonsensical - any “words” uttered were not generally translatable to spoken English. What then became the focus was the intonation and volume of what was “said”. With that, audience members were able to allude to what message was being delivered.

Without the distraction of verbal language, audience members - both adults and children alike, were told “stories” through “instruments. Not the type of instruments one forks out four figure sums for, however. Performers utilised boxes, bottles, piping, and kitchen utensils to generate all manner of tones and vibrations, which, when combined, produced hypnotic sounds.

Attendees were also encouraged to “get rhythmical” through various mediums - use of hands, mouths and plastic bags were some of the instruments of choice. Most of these were undertaken with fervour, if not childish enthusiasm.

Of course, one of the star attractions of the show was the venue itself. What a stunning facility the Roxy Theatre in Bingara is!

From all accounts, everyone who attended the show thoroughly enjoyed it - so much so that some audience members took it upon themselves to emulated the on-stage performance in other locations after the show had finished.

It had been noted by a few that the cost and timing were prohibitive for many to attend, and that will be taken into consideration for future events.

Directed by: Nigel Turner-Carroll

Written by: Oded Prior and Nigel Turner-Carroll

Producer/Founder: Oded Prior

Performers: Oded Prior, Marina Da-Silva, Theo Fontes, Lucas Nadin, Tania Gould and Leslie Marsh.

Above: Kindergarten students delve into various worldwide celebrations

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

NOVEMBER 2022

22nd Social Tennis, Upper Horton Sports Club from 5pm

26th Bingara Lions Markets - from 8:30am, Maitland Street, Bingara

26th Bingara Christmas Carnival Concert, Gwydir Oval

26th Carinda House Twilight Markets

27th Warialda Golf and Bowling Club AGM

29th Northern Slopes Landcare AGM

29th Social Tennis, Upper Horton Sports Club from 5pm

30th Touriandi AGM, Imperial Hotel, 6pm

DECEMBER 2022

3rd Warialda Rail Community Christmas Carnival

3rd Barney’sDay golf tournament, Bingara Sporting Club

7th North West Theatre Company AGM, Imperial Hotel 6pm

10th Warialda Christmas Carnival, Warialda Recreation Ground.

16th Last Day of School, 2022

25th Christmas Day

31st Upper Horton Rodeo and New Year’s Eve celebrations, Upper Horton Sports Club.

Above: :The stunning flannel flowers, captured on Dogleg Drive on the Warialda Bypass Submitted be John and Kerry Coulton

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.

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12

GWYDIR RIVER AND BARRABA RAMS RATS END OF SEASON UPDATE

The Gwydir River Rats and Barraba Rams 2022 season came to an end on Friday 8 October when the annual presentation night was held. This year the men played in the Reserve Grade competition and stuck it out through trying times, finishing in 3rd place when they went down against Pirates in Narrabri. The ladies just narrowly missing a finals spot, finishing in 5th place. Well done to both teams on their accomplishments this year and a thank you to Garry Walsh (Men’s Coach) and Jack McCarthy (Women’s Coach) for a great year.

Womens’ Trophies:

* Best and Fairest - Donated by PJK Law

- Recipient Kaila Gillogly

* Most Consistent - Donated by S and K Hudson

- Recipient Amie Middlemiss

* Coach’s Player Award - Donated by Richard Whitten

- Recipient Jess Hall

* Player’s Player Award - Donated by G.Bowman

- Recipient Natalie Phillpott

* Highest Point Scorer - Donated by Brianna Mack

- Recipient Kiah Newell

General Club Trophies - Barraba

* Rookie of the Year - Donated by Bruce McNeil

- Recipient Jake Ward

* Pig of the Year - Donated by Pete Spencer

- Recipient Will Robinson

* Rep. Player of the Year - Donated by J & S Middlemiss

- Recipient Jemma McDouall

* Best Trainer of the Year - Donated by Ros Peake

- Recipient Emily Kelso

* Guy Derrick Memorial - Spirit of Rugby - Donated by RhondaPhillips

- Recipient Shayne Middlemiss

* Club Person of the Year Barraba - Donated by B and S Bucknell

- Recipient Garry Walsh

General Club Trophies - Gwydir

* Gwydir President’s Award - Donated by Tex Wright

Recipient Alex Abra

Mens’ Trophies:

* Best and Fairest - Donated by Snow Kelly

- Recipient Jock Robinson

* Highest Point Scorer - Donated by Richard Doyle

- Recipient Jake Rafter

* Reserve Grade Player’s Player - Donated by R and H Bridges

- Recipient Will Robinson

* Coach’s Award - Donated by Adrian Spencer

- Recipient Mark O’Neile

* Trent O’Dell Moemotial Trophy - Defensive Player of the Year

- Donated by the O’Dell Family

- Recipient Connor Rogers

* Best Back - Donated by K and J Bishton

- Recipient Jesse Rogers

* Best Forward - Donated by J and T Wauch

- Recipient Nick Sweeney

* Strapper of the Year - Donated by Amie Middlemiss

- Recipient Steve Ward

* Reserve Grade Coach - Donated by Bill McKid P/L

- Recipient Garry Walsh

* Spirit of Rugby Award - Donated by G & R Sherman

- Recipient Josh Layton

* Club Person of the Year Gwydir - Donated by Ratliff Family

- Recipient Alex Abra

* Gwydir River Rats Life Member - Recipient: Tex Wright

- Recipient: Ken Holden

- Recipient: Stumpy Allen

Well done and congratulations to all.

On Sunday 30 October, the Gwydir River Rats held their Annual General Meeting. Thank you to the outgoing committee for all your hard work and efforts throughout the 2022 season. We would like to welcome some new faces to the committee and thank you to those for staying on board and helping. The Rats 2023 Committee is:

President: Josh Layton Secretary: Emily Kelso

Vice President: Jason Lewis Publicity Officer: Chloe Taylor

Treasurer: Tex Wright

General Committee: Jamie Wilson, Ned Abra, Alex Abra and Gerard Sherman.

If any new players or coaches are interested in being a part of the club, please do not hesitate to call Josh Layton on 0427 169 904.

RATS TEAM PHOTOS

BINGARA GOLF REPORT

G’day Golfers

Hope everyone’s enjoying the great conditions both weather and course, Sunday 13 November saw an awesome turnout of golfers - 41 in total to play Roses Day. A great time was had by all, with Bingara winning the day by .04 of a shot but that wasn’t enough to run down Warialda who held onto their lead from the first leg to win overall by 1.7 shots.

Congratulations Warialda.

The daily winners were: S Pleffer with 42 pts and J Moxey with 37 pts

Nearest To Pin: 2/11 B Galvin 4/13 R Northcott 7/16 S Thompson 9/18 S Pleffer

2nd Shot Matt Reece

Jackpot ball: G Amer 3 balls

Thursday Chook run winner: Gerry Amer 24 pts and Bernie Houlahan 22 pts.

Congratulations to all the winners - well done!!!

The weekend of November 20 was the Monthly Medal - watch the next issue of the Gwydir News for an update.

Golf Joke of the Week: The other day Ian asked his golf coach “What’s going wrong with my game” His coach replied “You’re standing too close to the ball after you hit it”

- Cameron Maisey

Above: Barraba Gwydir Ram Rats 2022 Men’s Reserve Grade

Back L to R: Jason Lewis (Rats Vice President), Ned Abra, Josh Austin, Rory Stains, Jack Robinson, Mark O’Neile, Ashlee Crouch, William Robinson, Simon Koopman (Rams President), Jesse Rogers, Jake Rafter, David Brown, Garry Walsh (Coach).

Middle L to R: Tom Mellor, Josh Freeman, Ben Freeman, Thabiso Msiza, Harry Brain, Josh Sloan, Matthew Pfingst, Alex Abra, Mackenzie Austin, Josh Layton. Front L to R: Harry Preston, Eric O’Sullivan, Nick Sweeney, Jack Ward. Absent: Tex Wright (Rats President), Connor Rodgers, Hugh Spencer, Jack McCarthy, Liam Mack, Nick Penrose.

Barraba Gwydir Ram Rats 2022 Women’s 10s

Back L to R: Shayne Middlemiss (Strapper), Ally Johnson, Katie Sweeney, Jemma McDouall, Katie Fisher, Hannah Mallise, Natalie Phillpott, Lana Allen, Jack McCarthy (Coach), Lou Gilfeather-Wilson (Manager).

Front L to R: Brianna Mack, Kiah Newell, Jessica Kelso, Kaila Gillogly, Jess Hall, Emily Kelso, Amie Middlemiss

Above: Roses Day winner, presented by L. Rose

LOCAL FOCUS FOR SEASON

Welcome to the first of our monthly features, which will showcase timespecific events or a subject of interest. Combined with these features will be the opportunity to purchase an advertising package that directly relates to the feature.

This month we are highlighting local businesses in the lead up to the festive season. With lead times for orders closing and posting deadlines on doorsteps, it is indeed now that festive purchases be made and services booked.

As someone new to the Gwydir Shire myself, I am bowled over by the comraderie, the support and the happy demeanour of its residents. What better way to support the community than by utilising local busi nesses for the festive season?

BOUTIQUE BEFORE BRICKS

Mrs. Mack is one of the new kids on the proverbial block. Opening a mere three weeks ago, the store has already established itself as a popular shopping venue on Maitland Street, Bingara.

Effervescent owner, Brianna Mack, had long held the notion of becoming a business owner. So much so, that as a child, she would often play “shops” with friends - the catchy store name being Junk Plus. Her best friend’s mother owned a business very similar to Mrs Mack’s and Brianna wanted to offer Bingara the same type of enterprise.

Aiding in the business coming to fruition was chatting with Brianna’s friends which then

progressed to research of potential products, followed in quick succession to colourful branding. A bold yet brave move, particularly given the lack of a physical premises and absence social media presence.

Now that both the name and enterprise has evolved, Biranna is excited about her new ven ture which she hopes will thrive, both in the Gwydir community and online. The concept was developed in-depth in the last decade, with Brianna’s vision becoming clearer. The only hurdles to establishing the business were children and drought.

Mrs Mack stocks a gorgeous range of clothing, jewellery, gifts, and homewares for women, men and little ones alike..

Brianna has clear, succinct goals - that is, to keep providing Bingara and the on line community with quality products, variety and some laughs. She will also be addressing that time old problem - what to give the Mere Male in our lives, with an expan sion into a larger range of mens gifts and clothing.

One final point... how did Brianna come up with the name for the shop? Well, we’re hoping that’s obvious. In any case, it’s most certainly classic and catchy!

COLOURING COMPETITION

REIKI - A GIFT “OUTSIDE THE BOX”

Sue Smoothy has been interested in, and been the recipient of, alternate therapies for years and gained her Reiki training in 2013.

Having worked full time in community services since that time, Sue has not been able to dedicate the requisite resources to developing a business around her Reiki and has mostly provided her services to friends and families. Sue is relatively new to the Gwydir Shire, now working less hours, she feels it is time to share her skills in her new community.

Sue specifically works on balancing the Chakras and opening people up to hidden issues and supports. The process can take one and a half to two hours, with participants required to simply lie on their back, fully clothed and relax.

As the end result can leave people so relaxed they are a little ‘spacey’, Sue prefers to provide the service in people’s home, hence the name “Reiki to you”.

All bookings made, or gift vouchers purchased, before Christmas will receive a 50% discount on the usual $80 fee. Contact Sue from “Reiki to you”.on 0427 414 616 or email sue_smoothy@hotmail.com

It’s More “Newsworthy” Than That

Martin, however, is keen to take his enthu saiasm onto other pursuits in life, so has the Newsagency listed for sale. Hoping to find a like-minded person with similar business acu men, he would love to hand over the reigns to a new owner / operator.

Owned and run by Martin Bell, the Newsa gency really is so much more than its name implies. The business comes into its own in the lead up to the festive season. Toys, gifts and sweets are all available, and Martin exudes the kind of enthusiasm that befits any shopkeeper in the business of keeping people happy at

Christmas. He goes to great measure to order products in that suit the demographic of shop pers in Warialda.

In the interim, Martin will keep greeting cus tomers with a smile, a “how can I help you?” demeanour, and a desire to see them walk out the door with what they need and / or want.

Be sure to pop into the Warialda this festive season. Perhaps stay a litte longer this time, and check out some of the items that may have escaped your attention the last time you were there. The Warialda Newsagency is located at 38 Hope Street Warialda. Phone 6729 1049.

There’s a chance you’ve popped into Warialda Newsagency at some point. Possibly in a hurry, you’ve been in and out in a heartbeat, lottery ticket or magazine in hand, without taking in any of the other goodies that adorn the double shop-fronted business.

Gwydir CHRISTMAS

WORKING CAPITAL FOR GRAZIERS... IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

This is without doubt one of the best seasons Graziers have wit nessed in the Valley. Conditions can only be described as perfect. What can be better than perfect?

Well, perhaps when Graziers have great conditions, and, can fully stock their properties with calves for fattening ... free-of-charge.

A new and innovative supply chain is operating in the Gwydir. 100% Australian owned, Highland Beef, secures orders for its US Beef cus tomers, converts those orders into cattle numbers, Weaners are then purchased to fulfill the orders and supplied free-of charge to Highland Beef Partner Graziers for fattening.

“We looked at the Beef Supply Chain and saw how combative it was,” said Highland Beef Managing Director. “We saw that needless competi tion was actually hurting supply chain participants. We thought there had to be a better way, so we went out and built Highland Beef”

“The Highland Beef model treats every link in the Beef supply chain as a valuable and respected contributor in delivering the highest quality Beef to consumers, such that every participant in the supply chain benefits along the way.” he said.

Murray says, “In the end we’re all food producers.”

“We provide food supply chain surety and security. Graziers receive a known and defined cash flow for no capital outlay, for doing what they do best, Farming. For the US, they receive a known supply of Beef at a known cost. It’s Win:Win,” he said.

After signing on to the Highland Beef program, Graziers are supplied an agreed number of quality weaners to fatten. The stock arrive fully financed, fully insured, with even tagging, drenching and induction costs covered. Graziers manage the grow-out, just as they would their own herds.

At target weight, the finished stock are transported from the property and replaced with the next agreed mob, and the process starts again. Graziers receive monthly payments along the way and a final weight gain fee when the finished stock are consigned.

“I’ve worked more years than I can remember in the livestock industry,” said Highland Beefs National Herd Manager, Tony Speer. “I’ve never seen a supply chain model like Highland Beef that mitigates price risk while delivering so much good for Graziers, the Industry and for the Bush.”

“The US are probably the most efficient lot feeders in the world,” he said, “But they can’t produce life-time traceable, genuine certified pas ture raised beef at scale.”

“We operate right along most of Australia’s East Coast fattening areas, but the Gwydir offers an unbelievable combination of outstanding growing conditions, outstanding Graziers and outstanding Properties. This Valley is truly unique. Truly special”

Will Mewburn, a recent arrival to Warialda said “We operate 3 family properties across QLD and NSW. When we extended our operation into this area, we sought to not only look for alternative income streams but also to build a relationship with an established grassfed supply chain. By aligning with a supply chain like Highland beef we can make more informative breeding and operational decisions.”

“With a Highland Beef herd right alongside our own cattle, we are utilizing the property to its full potential. The model also shelters our business from any market volatility, creating strong cashflow projec tions, which we are using to invest back into property improvements. Being in a cashflow positive position to fast track these improvements will hopefully see a more productive and efficient property, holding us in good stead for years to come.”

“I encourage any produces looking to diversify their business to check out the Highland Beef Ad in the classified section,” says Will.

For the Mewburn’s and other Graziers in the District it will indeed be a Merry Christmas.