Dunolly & District Community News
ISSN 2653-4754 Issue 40
Wednesday 9th November 2022
50 Cent Donation
New Artworks on show in Dunolly Bakery Rod from Dunolly Bakery has always been extremely accommodating in encouraging local artists to hang their work on the walls and once again there are new artworks being displayed. This time the work of Biin, our Welcome Stranger
Mural artist, and that of local artists Kerrie White and Jenny Gamble, are being showcased in an exhibition celebrating Dunolly’s history, from past to present. Continued on page 3
Remembrance Day in Dunolly On November 11th, please congregate at 10.30am at Dunolly Post Office Cenotaph, for the Service, which will commence at 10.40am. email:welcomerecords@iinet.net.au — website:dunollynews.org
Rosie’s Ramble
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Daughter Ramble was up this week ,so I had a couple of days out. I had an appointment in Maryborough, so we decided to have lunch at the Golf Club, then go on. On the way up Short St. I noticed a piece of "bark" on the road that looked a bit different, so I slowed down to have a look. It was a tiny dragon lizard. Daughter had not seen one before, so I turned around. The lizard of course raced off the road into the scrub. We turned around and came back and there was the reptile in the middle of the road again. She got out to shoo it off when I saw a stick on the road wriggling away. It was a small dark snake! I wonder if other people find slicing block cheese difficult. I find it nearly impossible to cut straight slices - I always end up with them wider at the bottom than at the top. In the dim dark days before sliced bread, I always ended up with a "door -stop" at the end of the loaf. I made money on the Melbourne Cup last week. For the first time for many years I did not condemn some poor horses to not winning - I did not have a bet. Daughter Ramble and I had an Italian meal the evening she came up - pizza and tiramisu. A shingle-back lizard had a lucky escape today. I was cutting the green leaves off the jonquils in the hope of killing them, starting at the gate and working along. When I decided to call it a day, I noticed the lizard lying very still, but alive at the other end of the bed. Could have been messy if I had begun at that end as I was using hedge clippers! Rosie
How to survive Australia Movies you missed on TV. Describe in meandering detail the circumstances that led you to come home late and catch only the last 10 minutes of the film. Lose interest if a person starts telling you the story. Robert Treborlang
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During election campaigns, all communications pertaining to candidates must have author's name and postcode published in accordance with electoral regulations. The Welcome Record aims to present a diversity of viewpoints which reflect the concerns and interests of the community. It will not print contributions which are defamatory or being used as an alternative to a personal approach in dealing with a personal issue.
Page 2 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
New Artworks on show in Dunolly Bakery Continued from Front Page In his latest work, Biin received inspiration from an Instagram post by Talina Edwards, who had captured a timeless photographic image of St Mary’s Catholic Church in Dunolly. Biin states “I believe in fate, that everything happens at the right time, to the right person and in the right place. In my art, a lingering bond with fate motivates me to pick up the brush, and this is how the Dunolly mural happened. The feeling returns when I see Talina’s beautiful photo of this 150-year-old building. Historic and desolate, yet magnificent, I am captured by its testimony to time.” Coincidentally, or once again due to a twist of fate, the photographer Talina, also happens to be the extremely talented architect daughter of well-known local, Jan Brock. Kerrie and Jenny have a diverse selection of their work on show at the Bakery and all pieces are priced for sale. Biin’s “St Mary’s Catholic Church, Dunolly” 2022 painting, oil on canvas, 70 x 70cm is priced at $750. The exhibition is to be ongoing, until further notice Jenny Scott Talina Edward’s comments: This little church is in the township of Dunolly in regional Vic (where my mum lives) and whenever I visit, I always take a photo as I’m drawn to how picturesque it is in the afternoon light – the stone amongst the dry earth & gum trees A Sydney artist @artbybiin contacted me after seeing my Instagram post and painted this lovely interpretation for an exhibition. Isn’t it sweet? From Talina Edwards Architecture: elemental design Instagram page
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 3
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Letter to the Editor Dear Editor My name is James Pettigrew. I live in the house next to the Bealiba Tennis Courts. In a conversation with another person living in Bealiba, I became aware that there was an unofficial network looking out for Margaret, my wife, who in her later years took to walking in the village and beyond, if I forgot to lock the doors. Simple things like hanging out the washing and with the full basket I did not lock the door. So I am writing to thank those people who looked out for Margaret and sometimes delivered her back home. Well her situation got “worse”, and I could no longer give her the care she needed, so she now lives at Havilah. The people there look after her better than I ever could. The staff are really magnificent, and I am allowed to have lunch with her on Mondays and Thursdays. They create a secluded place for us to have lunch and enjoy each other’s company. So I now live alone, but I have the comfort of knowing I have at least 2 good meals a week, in addition to the stuff I make myself. So to all those who looked out for Margaret, thank you. She is in a better place, and I really enjoy the time we have together. Regards, James R Pettigrew Bealiba
WE WANT YOU! Have you ever wanted to write? Be a design and lay-out artist? Publish your photography? Now you can! We can help and provide training and workshops. The Welcome Record needs voluntary contributors to provide stories, roving reporters, columnists, photographers, cartoonists, poets and volunteers to help with producing and distributing our community paper. If you can spare an hour, a few hours, half a day, a full day – whatever time you may have to help, we will find a role for you in line with your skills and interests. This can be done ‘in office’ or remotely. If you would like to join us, please email icanhelpTWR@gmail.com outlining your skills and interests, how much time you can give plus your contact name, number and we will contact you. Alternatively, you are most welcome to drop by the office to fill in a form. JOIN US TODAY!
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 5
Puzzleflat Art Gallery Puzzleflat Art Gallery launch of “Between Earth and Sky” is being held on Saturday 12th November at 1pm. The exhibition will feature six local artists who use textiles, paint, pastels and photography to explore their relationship with the landscape. A live free concert featuring folk and roots legend Skip Sail, Melbourne violinist Huich Goh and local vintage jazz drummer Matthew Bishop, will commence at 2pm. Matthew will be performing on a 100 year old drum set. Puzzleflat Art Galley is situated at 82 Broadway, Dunolly. Photo courtesy Matthew Bishop Facebook
Thespis Thespis – A fun musical comedy comes to Dunolly. The Gods Grown Old - Thespis is coming to the Dunolly Town Hall on Saturday 26th November. This light-hearted romp is perfect for all the family. Sponsored by Maldon & District Community Bank as a bit of pre-Christmas fun. Rumour has it that Rachel will make a cameo appearance as an aging Goddess. Tickets at the door or online – concessions available. Champagne served for your festive season enjoyment. This show is presented by the Dunolly Gilbert & Sullivan Society with well known Melbourne performers Richard Burman, Andrew McGrail and Ron Pidcock as well as many other of our favourite comedians. For those of you in Melbourne, the season will commence at Malvern Theatre in the preceding week. Not to be missed. Dunolly Town Hall 26th November 2pm Adults $30 Concession $25 Youth 16 and under $15 Tickets at the door or prebook at gsov.org.au Page 6 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
Dunolly and District Neighbourhood Centre We are located in the old Nurses’ Home beside the hospital on Havelock Street. Monday to Thursday 9am to 3pm (lunch break in the middle); and Dunolly Arts Hub, on the corner of Thompson and Alice Streets.
Monday ® ® ® ®
Ballroom dancing at St. John’s Hall, Barkly Street. Intermediate skills needed. “Whispering Weeders’ garden club - last Monday of the month. Mosaic making at the Arts Hub from 10am Card making and scrapbooking with Rhonda 3rd Monday of the month.
Tuesday ® ®
Woodwork shed from 9am. Family History group from 1pm.
® ®
Craft group from 10am. Table tennis 9am-2pm (Golf Course on Separation Road) Evening session available for interested people.
Wednesday
Thursday ®
Croquet from 10am - behind the Courthouse on Bull Street.
Sunday ®
We have chosen the day of the state election, as plenty of people will be out and about voting- so why not enjoy a garage sale or three, as well as a sausage from the CFA or RSL? Call me at the Centre if you’re keen to host a sale yourself. Help with online forms such as the Power Saving Bonus and Victorian Emergency Relief Payment. There is still time to apply for the power saving bonus of $250 - I’m happy to help you here at the Centre, and at the end of the application you’ll receive a printout of the different power company offers for your particular household. There’s no obligation to change companies, but it does pay to be aware of what’s on offer. If you’re a concession holder such as a pensioner, make sure you have applied for the energy concession through your provider to receive a 17% discount on your bill. There is a state government emergency relief payment available if you apply online - if you suffered hardship during the recent floods, you may be eligible. I’m happy to offer my assistance, and you’ll need ID and bank details for the application. So many applications are online now, so give me a call if you would like my help and we’ll make an appointment! Kath Ryan, Co-ordinator 18 Havelock Street Dunolly 5468 1511 admin@dunnhc.com.au
Golden Triangle Archers - 10am, 4th Sunday of the month (Archery Range behind Deledio Reserve; enter via Elgin Street).
Monday to Thursday 1.30-3pm Dunolly Neighbourhood Pantry. Dunolly Pantry “After Hours” is available all the time. Rooms available for small meetings/consultations. NBN internet and cosy lounge with split system with tea/coffee available to all residents. Drop in! Board games, jigsaw puzzles, and an expanding library await.
Coming up Art & Photography Exhibition at the Arts Hub: November 13th and 14th. Call Lynda on 0418 875 453 to exhibit. This is a terrific opportunity to showcase your work, or if you’re not artistically inclined, to come and view the work.
Whole Town Garage Sale new date Saturday November 26 from 8am. Over 40 households and businesses have registered for our Town Garage Sale ‘take two’! The Uniting Church op shop, the RSL Hall, the Arts Hub, the Neighbourhood Centre, Nik Nak Gallery, Betley Hall and All Day on Broadway are all signed up and ready to go., The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 7
Op Shop News
Teapots and more teapots
The Dunolly Op Shop played a part in a generous kind act last week. A couple came into the shop and purchased men’s, women’s and children’s clothing. Nothing “flash” just pyjamas, shirts, jeans and other everyday wear. They purchased over $80 worth and with the average price of our clothing at $3.50, that was a great deal of clothing. The clothing was bound for flood victims. How lovely to share in such generosity. Those tea pots were “flying” out of the Op Shop last week. Our packaging department could hardly keep up with the new paper padding, carefully wrapping pot and lid separately. The prize for the best one has to be the Octopus teapot. Four blue legs painted on one side of the pot, with three legs and the spout painted blue on the other. The best part was when the plain white china lid was lifted, two 20 cent size goggle eyes popped out of a second blue lid underneath. There was much laughter, and many customers came to see this extraordinary piece of handmade English china. It is only the second week in November, but Dunolly Op Shop has followed the big retailers. Christmas corner is on the right-hand side of the stage, near the change room. Mugs, table wear, single cards or packs and wrapping paper to suit all tastes. The Op Shop Team
Those of us who are familiar with the occasionally weird and wonderful collections which appear in Dunolly Uniting Church Op Shop from time to time, are never really surprised by what turns up! You can often find small collections of different animals or birds, in particular owls, which are always a favourite of collectors, while recently there was a collection of pottery oil and vinegar bottles. As people move on, downsize or deal with the estates of relatives, thankfully many consider donating the items to our local Op Shop, as they know they will be repurposed or go to new homes, at the same time One of the largest collections I have ever seen come into the shop over the years, was the recent donation of a huge and diverse selection of teapots. These boxes of teapots came in over several days and as fast as the individual teapots were priced, people pounced upon them, in many cases with a view to adding them to their own collections. Who knows how many new collections will be started just from this one donation? There are still many remaining though, so make sure you take the opportunity to grab one for yourself! Of course, don’t forget the wonderful range of clothing, books and household items that the Op Shop always has on offer as well, you never know what you will find! Op Shop hours are Tuesdays from 9am till 2pm and Thursdays and Fridays from 10am to 4pm. Jenny Scott
Page 8 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
Dunolly Arts Hub Art & Photography Exhibition This weekend I encourage you all to visit our art and photography exhibition. Held annually this two day event, is a very interesting snapshot of the calibre of Arts and Photography in the Goldfields Shire. In the past few years it has been challenging to hold events in such uncertain times but participating and attending exhibitions is a great way to lift the spirits and support local community spaces. We also have People’s Choice with three cash prizes to win, where you get to vote for your favourite exhibit. There will also be artworks for sale. Here are a few FAQ about this event. ® The exhibition is on November 13th and 14th between 10am and 4pm. ® Art/Photography drop off days are 11th and 12th 10am and 4pm. ® There is a limit of one entry per medium (type of art) so one artwork & one photograph. ® All entries must be able to be hung, or be in a frame with stand. ® What categories are there? All types of art, print works, sculptures, papier-mâché, mosaics, glass, automatons - if you can create it - it can be entered. Please get in touch if you have questions. Phone or message 0418 875 453 or email lynda.vater@gmail.com Lynda Vater Dunolly Arts Hub
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 9
Central Goldfields Shire Council Mayoral Column As Council approaches its halfway mark in its election cycle, we have taken the opportunity to review our goals, progress and critical deliverables. Other things have also necessitated review. The Dunolly and Carisbrook communities have provided important feedback into our collective emergency response after recent flooding and those valuable observations and suggestions will be fed through into a statewide review. This enables a continued improvement of these key processes and to ensure our emergency services teams who contribute so much, receive the support and resources they need. Council received and noted its 2021-2022 Annual Report at the October meeting. The report which is available on our website is packed with information and reviews what Council and its staff have delivered in projects and services, and our progress with key objectives. As we head towards the State election, Council will review the announcements and commitments made by the key parties and the result of our advocacy. We thank all candidates who took time to meet with us and consider and respond to the needs of our community. In March 2026 regional Victoria will host the Commonwealth Games with Ballarat and Bendigo, ,major hosts. $2.6 billion has been allocated to prepare for the Games by the Victorian Government and a further $111 million for tourism and events. Games legacy will be a key consideration. Council has already submitted its proposals to benefit from this significant event and over coming months will review and focus its advocacy to maximise opportunity and success. Cr Chris Meddows-Taylor
Road Management Plan Suspension Road Management Plan Suspension Due to the extensive flooding currently experienced within the Shire over recent weeks, we have suspended our Road Management Plan (RMP). This means that all intervention response time frames for road defects as stipulated within the RMP will not be applied from 28th October 2022 until 31st March 2023. This is required due to the extent of damage caused to our road network by the extensive flooding which impacts on our ability to make repairs in the timeframes outlined in the RMP. Council will continue to identify and rectify defects on a prioritised risk basis. Inspection and response to hazards will continue throughout the road network to meet a minimum level of community safety for users.
Energy Breakthrough Excitement is building for the return of Maryborough's biggest annual event, Energy Breakthrough, for the first time since 2019. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Princes Park will come alive again with more than 5,000 students from over 110 schools around Victoria. Local tourism, hospitality, accommodation, and retail businesses are set to benefit from an influx of visitors with a crowd of over 20,000 expected to attend the event, providing a much needed/ welcomed boost to the region’s economy. To find out more visit www.eb.org.au for more information.
Australia Day Award nominations now open Nominations are now open for the 2023 Central Goldfields Shire Australia Day Awards. The Awards recognise our hardworking volunteers and community groups and will be presented in the following three categories: • Citizen of the Year • Young Citizen of the Year • Community Event or Project of the Year To nominate someone, or form more information visit www.centralgoldfields.vic.au/australiaday2023
Page 10 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
Shrine of Remembrance In my last “looking back 1934” article, it mentioned that the main reason for the Duke of Gloucester’s visit was to open the newly built Shrine of Remembrance, which dominates the skyline as you drive down St Kilda Road from the City. In 1918, the form of a memorial was debated. At that time, most small towns had their memorials which displayed the names of the soldiers who had served in the Great War 1914-1918. In Melbourne, much discussion took place, some wanted a more practical thing such as a hospital, bridge or just a Cenotaph. Sir John Monash said it should be a permanent memorial. In 1922, a competition was held for the design of the Shrine of Remembrance; 83 designs were submitted. The winners were two Melbourne returned-soldier architects Phillip Hudson and James Wardrop. Their design was inspired by the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Again, a lot of debate and it is thanks to Sir John Monash who spoke to it on ANZAC Day 1927, supporting the winning design. In November 1927, the foundation stone was laid by the Governor of Victoria, Lieutenant-Colonel the Right Honourable Baron Somers. Tenders were called in 1928, with seven submissions received. Builders and stonemasons, Vaughan and Lodge were appointed. The concrete was poured and the seven-year construction began. The opening ceremony was 11th November 1934, the Duke of Gloucester, son of King George V, officially opened the Shrine before a crowd of 300,000 people. Second World War Memorial forecourt completed. The forecourt, which includes the Cenotaph and Eternal Flame was dedicated by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 1954. The Flame, which
symbolises eternal life, was lit by Her Majesty during the Dedication Over the years, many sculptures have been added in the surrounding gardens. In 2003, more redevelopment was completed, with the addition of the Shrine Visitors Centre, a new underground entry and also Galleries of Remembrance in this underground space. I have been there several times (in my younger days.) Once when I visited, most of the people on duty at the time were volunteers. We had one of the glass cases opened and whilst turning the pages, I saw my father’s name, John Catto, also his brother Rob who was killed while sheltering in a trench. Rob enlisted as a stretcher bearer as he had his beliefs (not to use a gun), the other brother only spent a few months over there. Another time there was a display of the 8th Light horse (my father went away with them) and it was interesting to see all the bits and pieces used by the men and their horses. Again, it was very fortunate that one of the ladies on duty wrapped the flag around me and then sent me the photo. On my last visit, Mrs Beryl Harnetty’s sister, who served as a volunteer for many years, took Barbara and I up the stairs and we viewed Melbourne from high up in the gallery. One must not forget the surrounding areas of the Shrine, wonderful statues, granite memorial horse trough and lone pine tree planted (memories of Gallipoli), the Man and his Donkey, Widow and Children, Cobbers sculptures. We are so fortunate to have that wonderful memorial and we thank our forebears for its establishment. Joyce Chivers Pictured below Joyce Chivers with the 8th Light Horse Flag in 2005.
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 11
Wilfred Ernest & Walter George Rokahr LEST WE FORGET Amongst the names that appear on the Memorial outside the Rene Fox Gardens are two brothers, both born and raised in Dunolly, who now lie beneath French soil. The Rokahr family’s Australian story began in 1859, when brothers, Ernst and Friederick Rokahr sailed from Hamburg in Germany, lured by reports of the gold nuggets to be found in Central Victoria. Ernst and Friederick arrived aboard the barque ‘Johannes’ 0n 31 March 1859 and soon made their way to the goldfields. On the passenger list, Ernst was listed as a seaman and Friederick a labourer, but they soon joined the ranks of miners trying their luck around Dunolly. In 1864 Ernst Rokahr married Emilie Sophia Brandt, who had arrived in Adelaide with her parents on the ‘Susanna’ from Hamburg in 1851. Emilie had already been married to a Swede, Sven Neilsson in 1857 in Adelaide and the couple had travelled soon after to Dunolly to try their luck. Unfortunately, Sven died in 1862 after the birth of a daughter, Maria Margaret Neilsson in Dunolly in 1857. Two years later Emelie married Ernst Rokahr in Dunolly, where they spent the rest of their lives. Ernst’s brother, Friederick, never married and died in Dunolly in 1897 aged 61. Ernst and Emelie had three children, Wilhelmina in 1864, George Christian in 1868 and Christian Ernest in 1871. Wilhelmina married Richard Arthur Leach in May 1888 and unfortunately died 6 years later, aged only 29, leaving three small children. Ernst Christian married Mary Cumper, one of 10 children born in Maryborough to John Henry Cumper and Margaret Mclean. The couple had two daughters, Dulcie and Wilhelmina and a son John. George Christian Rokahr married Mary Jane Jones from Kyneton, in 1894. They had 7 children in Dunolly, the eldest two being Wilfred Ernest and Walter George Rokahr. The family lived at Old Lead where George continued to mine. Wilfred Ernest Rokahr was born in 1895, to Ernst and Mary Rokahr. He attended school in Dunolly before leaving to become a labourer. His younger brother, Walter George was born 18 months later in 1896. In 1914 Dunolly, like the rest of the world, was rocked by the outbreak of WW1. The Rokahr brothers were understandably initially reluctant to join the fight against the country that their grandparents had emigrated from 56 years earlier. Walter found employment as a gardener in Melbourne and Wilfred as a labourer locally. However, the publicity given to the Gallipoli campaign and the birth of the Anzac legend no doubt led to Wilfred and Walter deciding to ‘do their bit’ for Australia. Given their German background, it would not have been an easy decision. Walter enlisted in Melbourne on 11th April 1916 and was assigned to the 21st reinforcements of the 6th Battalion AIF.
A month later, on 17th May 1916, Wilfred Rokahr also enlisted in the AIF in Bendigo and was likewise allocated to the 6th Battalion. Interestingly, both brothers had to attest on their enlistment papers that both their parents had been born in Australia. The brothers underwent their basic training together in Broadmeadows and sailed for England aboard the troop ship Nestor on 2nd October 1916, along with 2040 troops which included the 4th Light Horse Regiment, medical staff and the members of the 21st reinforcements. Conditions on the ship were cramped and uncomfortable and the journey to Plymouth, England took 6 weeks. On arrival the brothers spent 3 months in Fovant, one of the large military camps on the Salisbury Plains in Wiltshire. Almost 12 months after enlisting, Wilfred and Walter arrived in France and entered the mayhem that was the Western Front, at Mametz in Northern France. The 6th Battalion was one of many Allied Battalions spread along the Front, bogged down in the trench warfare that characterised the Somme area during 1916 and 1917. By September 1917, the Battalion had moved north to the town of Ypres in Belgium, where they were involved in the Battle of Menin Rd. This was the third battle around this once beautiful town, which left the town and landscape in complete ruins. Whilst the Battalion was involved in fighting around Ypres, Walter received a gunshot wound to his left leg and was evacuated to England to recover at Eastbourne Hospital.
Page 12 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
Wilfred Ernest Rokahr
Wilfred Ernest & Walter George Rokahr Wilfred was still in the firing line around Ypres and on 4th October, with Walter still recovering in England, Wilfred received a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was taken to a nearby Canadian Clearing Station at Remy Siding. Unfortunately, his wound proved fatal and Wilfred died the same day. He is buried at the Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, which was established at Remy Siding. It contains over 10,000 Allied and German troops who all died at the clearing stations located nearby. Walter returned to the front on 5th December 1917 and continued in the thick of the fighting until he was again wounded in June 1918. This time he was a victim of the poison gas shells that were used to terrorise and maim. There were 188,000 Allied troops affected by gas shells and despite the issuing of gas masks, many suffered permanently from the blistering and respiratory distress that the gas caused. Walter was sent to a hospital in Boulogne, France to recover, returning once again to the front on 4th July 1918. This was just in time to be part of the final Allied Offensive. After 4 years of being bogged down in trenches allied troops finally made consistent and impressive gains. The Battle of Amiens which started on 8th August was the beginning of the final defeat of Germany and the end of the War. Unfortunately, Walter Rokahr never lived to see the victory he had fought so hard for. He was killed in action in the Foucaucourt-en-Santerre region, east of Villers Bretonneux on 25th August 1918, after 17 months in France. Walter is just one of the 10,729 Allied soldiers that died in France and have no known graves. His name is inscribed on the memorial wall at Villers Bretonneux, which was constructed in 1938. The memorial was erected to commemorate all Australian soldiers who fought in France and Belgium during the First World War and especially to name those of the dead whose graves are not known. The anguish caused in Dunolly by the news that both Rokahr brothers had died, is conveyed in the following newspaper article. Dunolly & Bet Bet Shire Express 13 Sep 1918 “IN HONOUR'S CAUSE It is with sincere regret that we have to report that still another of Dunolly's fine young soldiers has been killed in action, the intimation for the public having been given on Wednesday by the hoisting half-mast of the flags in front of the town hall. A telegram was received on Wednesday morning by the Rev. H J Carr from the Defence authorities conveying the sad intelligence that Private W G Rokahr, son of Mr. and Mrs Geo. Rokahr, Old Lead, Dunolly, had been killed in action on 25th August and to Mr Carr was delegated the painful duty of informing the parents of the sad occurrence. Mr. and Mrs Rokahr, who are old established and most highly respected residents of Dunolly, whose
name is, in fact, a household word among us, have the most profound sympathy of the public in their bereavement, all the more effecting because of the previous loss sustained by them, another son having also been killed in action twelve months ago. Comparatively few can realize the extent and suffering of their heavy sacrifice in thus having lost two of their sons at the war. Private W G Rokahr was a lad held in very high estimation, worthy of all regard and respect, popular among young and old and worthy of all honor in his death at a comparatively early stage of the war to enlist and face all war's sufferings and dangers for country and Empire, and the freedom and safety of the world. How much does the country and the world owe to such lads! It is evident he had been taking a big part in the recent historic battle in France in the great Allied offensive, during which such marvellous distinction has been won by the gallant Australians. Mr and Mrs Rokahr have the sincere and earnest sympathy of the people, and, as the first pangs of grief subside, they will realise that both their boys died nobly and bravely fighting for honour, for freedom, for what is best and highest in the world. These sad announcements have been very frequent here of late”. That Wilfred and Walter Rokahr died whilst fighting German troops is one of the cruel ironies of WW1. They probably grew up in a house where German was spoken and where their grandparents corresponded with family back home in Germany. Among the enemy they faced across the trenches there may have been cousins! George and Mary Rokahr had 4 surviving children to care for and were left to continue their lives in Dunolly. Their younger children all married and went to live in Melbourne. This was where Mary Jane Rokahr died in 1941. George returned to Dunolly after her death but died in 1948 in St Kilda. Dunolly Family History Group
Troop ship Nestor 2 Oct 1916
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 13
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Page 14 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
Stories from Cynthia Halloween! That is one celebration that I have never embraced as I always have felt that it is not part of our culture but also because I am really not excited about skeletons, spooks and the living dead. Pumpkins are about the only facet of it that I have no argument with, but having said that, there I was last week on Halloween night handing out sweeties and teasing children. Yes, it’s true because Mel, my daughter who lives in Maryborough had been encouraged to take part by her neighbour as it was her little girl’s birthday, so they open up their door every year to the many little witches and ghouls who came visiting. Mel asked me to give her a hand and since I thought I should, I agreed. Mel had made a huge number of lolly bags and put on a scary mask while she plonked a big black witch’s hat on my head. I sat in the front window receiving many friendly waves and giggles from the passing parade of dressed up children carrying little buckets. I decided to have some fun with the kids, but choosing only the lively ones rather than the shy ones. When two bright little witches arrived, I asked them why they had come and when one little girl said with a big grin ‘trick or treat’. I said, ‘Oh that’s good because I am dying to see a trick, so what can you do?’ Quick as a wink, one little girl spotted the dog’s ball on the drive and placed it on the porch, then put her empty bucket over it and her friend placed her bucket beside it and then they swished the buckets round a few times in the old ‘guess which bucket’ trick hiding the ball. Mel picked the right one so we asked them for lollies and then, fun over, away they
ROD STRATFORD PLUMBING DUNOLLY AND DISTRICT
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went with lollies in their buckets. Children kept beating a path to the door in all sorts of amazing outfits. One faux pas I made was when a boy arrived wearing a cloak and a big metal face helmet and I asked him if he was Ned Kelly and Mel burst out laughing and said, “Don’t be silly. That’s Darth Vader.” Oh dear, I seem to be behind the times. Whole families would pile out of cars, some carrying babies and toddlers, one tiny little girl dressed as a pumpkin, and many parents also in costume. The next lot I decided to have fun with was a lively little threesome, from whom I requested a trick; I was quite astonished when the two girls, all dressed up, performed cartwheels down the drive. Bravo. Two little boys turned up, one dressed up and one not and when Mel asked him where his costume was, he replied, “I think I look scary enough without one”. Clever lad. We started at 5pm and by 6pm we had run out of the 90 lolly bags and had to put up a Sorry sign; however, Mel had also bought a lot of lollipops, so was able to hand them out as latecomers turned up. Surprisingly, the rain that had been falling all day, stopped shortly after 5pm and it was fine for the rest of the time for our little visitors. At the end of the evening, I had to admit that I had thoroughly enjoyed my first Halloween and was so impressed with the inventiveness of so many of the costumes. Cynthia Lindsay
IAN CAIN ELECTRICAL REC NO 13585 1 Short Street, Carisbrook 3464 Phone/Fax 5464 1402 Mobile 0418 388 226 Email: ices@westnet.com.au
® ® ® ®
Domestic Industrial Commercial Farming
Emergency Callout Service Upon Request The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 15
Australian Pollinator Week Australian Pollinator Week kicks off next week, and this year it’s all about focusing on the little things. The nine-day festival starts on 12 November and runs through to 20 November, and this year’s theme is Discover Pollinators, celebrating the rich and varied world of insect pollinators. This year marks the inaugural running of the Australian Pollinator Count, a long-term project to monitor the status and trends of insect pollinator populations. This includes about 2,000 species of bees, along with thousands of species of flies, butterflies, moths, wasps and beetles. Other activities include the 2022 Pollinator Photography Competition, Pollinator Picnics and Bee School, along with webinars on Powerful Pollinators, the Discover Bees campaign, Pollinator Photography and Bee Friendly Gardening, plus activities including bee hotel workshops, a native bees book launch and more. Australian Pollinator Week was founded by Dr Megan Halcroft and is dedicated to raising awareness of Australia’s unique pollinators and the role they play in supporting our local ecosystems. “Everyone loves honeybees, and it’s now more than ever quite clear that they are really important in our food production system. But most people don’t realise the importance of the thousands of other pollinators in Australia - beetles, flies, butterflies and moths, as well as native bees, which have adapted over 120 million years to pollinate our native plants.” Dr Halcroft said. Highlights on the Australian Pollinator Week calendar include Webinars such Learning simple strategies for encouraging native bees to your crop or garden. To register, visit: australianpollinatorweek.org.au
Photographs taken by Gary Taylor
Page 16 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
Church Notices Catholic Church, Dunolly There will be Mass at St Mary's Church on Sunday, 13th November at 8.30am. On 27th November Mass will be held at 12noon to celebrate 150th Anniversary. . R. Mecredy
St John's Anglican Church, Dunolly Rev Canon Heather Blackman Parish Office, Nightingale Street, Maryborough. Phone 5460 5964 The next Eucharist Service will be Thursday, 24th November at 10am Esmé Flett “I am the resurrection and the life,’ says the Lord. ‘Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” John 11.25–26.
49 Alma Street Maryborough 3465 We conduct a mobile veterinary service throughout the Maryborough area
DUNOLLY AREA EVERY SECOND TUESDAY We are available for ∑ House calls for small animal consultations, vaccinations etc. ∑ Routine farm consultations. ∑ Routine horse and farm visits including pregnancy testing and horse dentistry.
All appointments for call-outs must be made before midday on a Tuesday. Of ice hours - 5461 4466 After hours service available
Uniting Church, Dunolly Pastor Miriam Darlow will lead worship and Holy Communion on Sunday, 13th November at 9.30am. A meeting will be held after the service. KYB will be held in the church on Wednesday at 10.30am. Uniting emergency relief will be in Dunolly on Thursday, 17th November from 1.30pm. Op Shop is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am. Linda Pickering
St David’s Anglican Church, Bealiba Davies Street Bealiba Sunday Eucharist: 8am second and fourth Sundays of every month. Priest-in-Charge Reverend Judi Bird. Heather Cooper
DUNOLLY AND MARYBOROUGH DISTRICTS FUNERAL SERVICE Specialising in prepaid and prearranged funerals with special pensioner discounts
5461 1979 If no answer call: John: 0418 995 424 Jono: 0437 099 624
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 17
In the garden All frost tender plants or seeds can go in the soil now. November is the time to plant out all the varieties of the pumpkin family. Identical conditions are required for all these plants. They are heavy feeders so dig in at least half a bag of sheep or well-rotted manure into each of several, metre-wide circular seed beds, about three metres apart. The extra bulk creates low, fertile and perfectly-drained mounds. Push the seeds into the surface down to the first knuckle and cover. To be safe, sow several seeds in three groups spaced well apart in each mound. As they germinate, pinch out the weakest seedlings to leave just three strong plants to grow on. Tomato, capsicum, eggplant and chilli seedlings can be planted out now but be prepared to cover them if there are late frosts. Another easy grown tasty vegetable is the silver beet or chard. Rainbow chard is definitely the most attractive variety, stems have a range of colours, like orange, yellow and some gold colours. It adds some colour in the garden, and more tasty than silver beet. Parsnips sown now will be a good winter veggie and will have a better flavour after being hit by frosts. Beetroot will do well when sown now, it will grow well in most soils, and keep in the soil for a long period of time. If sown too early in the season, they are likely to bolt to seed, when the good growing weather sets in.
Sow dwarf beans from now until the end of February. To have a supply of beans over the summer months, a small sowing each month will give a regular picking supply. Beans like lime and some fertiliser added to the soil before sowing seeds. Seeds that contact with fertiliser or lime are likely to burn and not germinate. Butter beans are best left until later in the season as they will form small curly pod if planted early. To have a successful crop of sweet corn, the soil should be well fertilised at planting time, and during their growing period. Fowl manure is particularly valuable for this plant, if not available, blood and bone will give good results. For Fruit Trees Plant citrus trees after any likelihood of frost has passed. While many established citrus trees will tolerate light frosts, they do prefer a frost free environment. Plant in full sun and protect from strong winds which will cause damage to developing branches and may cause fruit to drop. You can grow citrus in pots and place them in a warm sunny position as required. Keep an eye out for aphid as they can do a lot of damage before they are seen. Maryborough & District Garden Club
Page 18 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
Crossword supplied by Puzzle Wizard
Solution 132
Sudoku 30
Solution 29
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 19
Central Goldfields Residents and Ratepayers Assoc. Inc. It is pleasing to see funding offered as an election promise for the Flynn Ward. Quite possibly this could be the only way concerns may be addressed. However, with the HUGE infrastructure repairs following the rain over the previous few months, we would question as to when these promises will be fulfilled. Promises have been offered before and not realised. With warmer weather forecast, hopefully this will permit more areas to be reached and maintenance done to repair the issues of the past, re property and roads. Keep in mind that quite possibly the rain has not left us quite yet. The warmer weather will encourage much more growth and we should all make sure that we keep our properties maintained, with grass cut to a reasonable height. There are a lot of roads and bridges across the Shire which have been badly damaged from the past events. We ask that the community please report any issues needing attention to Council or VicRoads and attempt to have these issues repaired. The Council roads can be found in this link https://www.centralgoldfields.vic.gov.au/CommunityServices/Roads-drains-and-footpaths/Whose-roadis-it. Council and VicRoads need to be informed so they can act.
A few dates to keep in mind are: November 15th: Council appointment of the next Mayor. November 22nd: 6 pm Council Ordinary Meeting December 6th: 7pm. CGR&RAI's AGM at the Maryborough Hub, Burns St, Maryborough. All positions will be vacated and resubmitted for nominations. This will be an open-to-the-public event. The concerns around the train to Dunolly appear to have gone quiet. We wonder if that (which was an election mention) will be back on the agenda. The Dunolly RTC (109 Broadway Dunolly) have a lot of community and visitor information, as well as a Friday bus to and from Maryborough The connection of all towns in the Shire with public shuttles should be seriously investigated, we wonder if this item could be back on the agenda. CGR&RAI's full weekly report will be available on Facebook here each Friday. Please have a look at https://www.facebook.com/ cgoldratepayers We thank you all for your efforts. Please keep safe and support others, working together. Wayne McKail President.
Page 20 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
CLASSIFIEDS AND NOTICES Help Needed
Remembrance Day in Dunolly
We are in desperate need of a large shed to house our community bus. Do you have an unused shed or carport we can use? We ask your assistance in providing this as a free service for our community. If you can help, please call the Rural Transaction Centre on 5468 1205. Suzy Anderson, Coordinator
On November 11th, please congregate at 10.30am at Dunolly Post Office Cenotaph, for the Service, which will commence at 10.40am. School children, guest speakers and the 11am bugler will all be in attendance. We must also be prepared in case there is flooding in Dunolly and surrounding districts; if there are road closures, this event will be cancelled. The weather is very challenging at the moment. You will have noticed that the Dunolly/Bealiba RSL Members have been selling the Poppy Appeal Badges. Last day for sales in Dunolly will be on Thursday from 10am until 1.30pm. We thank the community for your outstanding support. Members, please remember that, after the Service, the Monthly General meeting will follow at the RSL Hall. Rick Gale, President
Gold Rush Festival Merchandise
If anyone would like to purchase merchandise after the most successful return of this event last month, please contact Gayle on 0409 724 253. We have Tshirts, polos, caps, beanies, bucket hats and stubby holders all at very reasonable prices. Dunolly Gold Rush Festival Committee
Government services — closer than you think At the Rural Transaction Centre (RTC) we can help you with Centrelink, Medicare and other government programs and services. We’re a Services Australia Agent. Using our computers, you can log in to your myGov account and do your business on the spot. If you don’t have a myGov account, we’ll help you to set one up. There are phones for you to access phone self service or speak to us. If you’d rather use your mobile phone or tablet, we’ve got free Wi-Fi available 24/7. You don’t need a password so you can get online straight away.
You can also use the Wi-Fi to download and install the Express Plus mobile apps. We can help you set up your digital services if you’re not sure what to do. You can also lodge forms, get your identity documents certified and pick up brochures. So next time you need to do some government business, drop in and see us. We’re open Monday to Friday 10am to 3.30pm at 109 Broadway, Dunolly. Suzy Anderson Coordinator
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 21
Dunolly Bowls Club Saturday Pennant Teams Saturday 12th November 2022
Midweek Pennant Teams Tuesday 15th November 2022
Dunolly Blue
Dunolly Blue
Dunolly Blue v Avoca Red at Dunolly
Dunolly Blue v MHS Gold at MHS
Skipper Third Second Leader Manager
P Waters T Long F Mifsud S Wintle P Waters
E Weir G Dobbin A Weir J Smith
A Parkes T Galafaro D Wardell B Lanfranchie
Skipper Third Second Leader Manager
H Freemantle D Wardell R Pickering B Cann H Freemantle
Dunolly Gold J Fox A Britten A Mebbrey D Mortlock P Freemantle
B Mortlock G Davies R Mebbrey B Cann
P Freemantle R Pickering J Haigh K McKenzie
Dunolly Gold v Carisbrook at Dunolly Skipper J Haigh J Morse B Mortlock Third M Mortlock J Smith J Moir Second H Delconte K Waters S Caldecoat Leader H Weir C Kerr C Gordon Manager M Mortlock For emergencies please ring Robyn F 0419 595 521
Dunolly Green Dunolly Green v MHS White at Dunolly Skipper Third Second Leader Manager
P Chase J Morse R Cain C Spiteri
D Coe W Stephens G Cain D Price
T Galafaro S Chaplin C Williams K Stephens
Dunolly Gold
Dunolly Gold v MHS Red at MHS Skipper Third Second Leader Manager
M Davies G Dobbin F Mifsud A Raven
S Chaplin K Stephens S Caldecoat F Delconte
For emergencies please ring Robyn F 0419 595 521 All Information supplied by Dunolly Bowls Club
Bealiba Hall Indoor Carpet Bowls Our crazy weather hasn’t dampened the spirits of our bowlers but last week a new test emerged in the form of a power outage. Blinds were up and games commenced but half way through the second game when phone torches were needed to count the head it was decided that play would be abandoned. On one end, 16 bowls had been delivered but only six were on the mat, all from the same team. All teams scored one win and one loss. This week we faired much better, the lights were on and amazingly the bowling was of a much higher standard. The winning team was the pair of Shirley Coburn and Heather Cooper with two wins and a draw Players are reminded that on November 17th we will hold our AGM during supper. Happy Bowling Chris Evans Page 22 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022
C ommunity Guide Police
5468 1100
16 Bull St. Dunolly
Fire Brigade/SES
000
Dunolly Neighbourhood Centre
5468 1511
18 Havelock St. Dunolly
5468 1010
102 Broadway, Dunolly
5468 1054
83 Broadway, Dunolly
5468 1205
109 Broadway, Dunolly
Dunolly Medical Practice
5468 1104
24 Havelock St. Dunolly
Dunolly Hospital
5468 1000
24 Havelock St. Dunolly
Dunolly Pharmacy
5468 1522
119 Broadway, Dunolly
Dunolly Preschool
5468 1334
94 Maude St. Dunolly
Dunolly Primary School
5468 1111
8 Elgin St. Dunolly
Central Goldfields Wildlife Rescue Ranger
0409 654 950
Snake Removal - Hodgsons
0490 415 734
Mon - Thurs 9am to 3pm (lunch break in the middle) Dunolly Post Office Mon - Fri 9am to 4.30pm, Lunch break 12.30pm to 1.30pm The Welcome Record Tues & Wed 9.30am to 4pm Dunolly Rural Transaction Centre (Banking, VLine Centrelink Agent, Tourist Info.) Mon - Fri 10am to 3.30pm Other Services
Dunolly Community Garden Dunolly Library Tuesday 9am to 1pm Thursday 1pm to 5pm
94 Maude St. Dunolly 5461 0679
42 Market St. Dunolly
The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022 — Page 23
Prize-winning artist featured in Dunolly Art Trail Bendigo artist, Lauren Starr, the recent winner of the $150,000 bluethumb prize ensures her participation in the Dunolly Women’s Historical Art Trail feels even more special for our district. A multi-award winning artist practising on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, in Bendigo. is primarily a photographic artist; taking multiple photographs and layering them together to tell a story. She is inspired by literature, nature, spirituality, and telling stories from a female perspective. Lauren is currently researching untold stories of women on the Goldfields to bring to life in her artworks. The opportunity to work with the Dunolly Women's Art Trail aligned perfectly with her vision of putting women's stories at the forefront. Madame Charpiot
was the Dunolly woman Lauren chose to memorialise for the trail in a photographic animation. The Madame was a pioneer female photographer in the Goldfields. Lauren was drawn to her passion and determination, as well as the tragedy of Madame Charpiot's studio burning down in Tarnagulla and her retreat from photography. You can find Lauren's contribution to the Dunolly Womens Historical Art Trail embedded in Augmented Reality by accessing the website http://rockabilby.itch.io/dunolly whilst standing outside the Gold and Grain Cafe where Madame Charpiot's photographic studios once stood. Lauren’s Studio and Gallery is at 18 View Street Bendigo. Louise Cooper
Page 24 The Welcome Record — Wednesday 9th November 2022