Central West Village Voice - Issue 102

WINTER SOLSTICE FESTIVAL

Lithgow

Oberon

Inspiring Leadership Celebrated at Forbes Australia Women’s Soirée

By Kellie Evans

The Forbes Australia Women’s Soirée lit up the Sydney CBD on Thursday, 12th June, with an evening of vibrant energy, powerful storytelling, and meaningful connections. The exclusive event brought together women from across industries for a night of inspiration, networking, and celebration.

At the heart of the evening was keynote speaker Imelda Roche AO, renowned Australian entrepreneur and co-founder of Nutrimetics. Introduced by Forbes Australia’s Editor-in-Chief Sarah O’Carroll, Roche captivated the audience with her candid reflections, business wisdom, and warm presence — all delivered with trademark authenticity and charm.

Now 89, Roche was joined by her son and grandchildren in the audience, a visible and touching symbol of the strong family foundation behind her success. Her remarks offered guests a rare glimpse into the mindset of a pioneering business leader who transformed a small venture into a global brand.

Drawing on her early days working in her father’s newspaper business in Newtown, Roche emphasised the value of hands-on experience and an entrepreneurial mindset. “Give a taste of the lifestyle you aspire to,” she urged, reinforcing the power of vision and determination.

She spoke of the early days of Nutrimetics, built on a belief in empowering others — especially women — to become independent entrepreneurs. “If it is to be, it’s up to me. You are the architect of your life,” she told the audience, echoing the self-belief that helped fuel the company’s explosive growth.

Reward and recognition, she noted, were central to the business model she and her late husband, Bill, championed. Their direct-selling structure not only provided products with value and benefit but also created pathways to financial freedom for countless women.

In a lighter moment, guests were delighted to learn that “Imelda is a hugger” — a playful fact that only added to her magnetic presence on stage.

Roche’s life story remains one of Australia's most iconic business journeys. From selling lamps door-to-door to leading a global skincare empire, her impact has been immense. Beyond business, she’s been a passionate advocate for women in leadership and a philanthropist focused on legacybuilding projects, including the acclaimed Hunter Valley Gardens.

The Forbes Australia Women’s Soirée not only honoured Imelda Roche’s extraordinary legacy but also celebrated the power of connection and community. With an atmosphere of shared stories and collective ambition, the evening left guests inspired — and reminded that leadership, at its core, begins with purpose and heart.

Pictured right: Another one for the Celebrity Selfie Wall! Imelda Roche and Kellie Evans.

Central West Village Voice

Publisher Rich Evans on behalf of Central West Media Pty Ltd

Emails: editor@villagevoice.net.au, sales@villagevoice.net.au

Office Details

Call our office on (02) 6355 4258

Office: 30 Williwa Street, Portland NSW 2847

Postal Address: PO Box 227, Portland NSW 2847 Visit our website at www.villagevoice.net.au

Notice to all advertisers and contributors

The Village Voice accepts no responsibility for any advertisement, submitted article or feedback published. Any advertisement, submitted article or feedback is published at the risk of the contributor, who accepts liability for any intended publication. By contributing to this publication, you agree to indemnify the publisher and warrant that the material is to the best of your knowledge accurate and is neither deceptive or misleading, in breach of copyright, or in breach of any other laws and regulations.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live, the Wiradjuri and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also

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submit your stories and read more at villagevoice.net.au

NEWBRIDGE WINTER SOLSTICE FESTIVAL

Make a Winter Solstice escape to Newbridge and witness the village transform into a world of fantasy, music and frivolity at the 2025 Newbridge Winter Solstice Festival.

Come and visit the quiet village of Newbridge on Saturday, 21st June. See the sleepy village, be inspired and come alive with exciting and colourful entertainment from 11am through to sunset.

Take a stroll through the Hammers of Thegn Viking village and see interesting artefacts for yourself. Observe the Hammers of Thegn blacksmith demonstrates his skills with fire and steel. At the Newbridge showground you can cheer for a favoured knight in the Nova Hollandia jousting competition. See the Knights in armour demonstrate archery skills at arms whilst astride their mighty steeds. Witness Vikings battle and Battlecry

TEN4TEN

Ralidor warriors train to develop fierce combat skills. Enrol your own Young Knight/s at Knight School and let them be inspired and introduced to the medieval world of knights. This is sure to be a favourite with the young visitors.

Throughout the Winter Solstice Day, the main street of Newbridge village will fill with music and dance, as talented, young dancers of Em Dance show their style. You will feel the rhythm of tribal belly dance group, Swish & Shimmy and Bashira. You can enjoy the toe tapping energy and colour of Black Joak Morris dancers. Then you can really get into the dancing spirit of the event, by dancing yourself, along with the Felix Albert & Gentlemanly Two as they perform on the Gladstone stage.

At 2pm, line the street and behold the magnificent costume parade as it moves through the street long marketplace, towards the Gladstone Stage. The parade, led by the Canobolas Pipe Band, will provide a spectacle of performers and enthusiastic Winter Solstice visitors wearing amazing, quirky and creative costumes. Costume prizes, sponsored by Blayney businesses,

Future Leaders Step Inside NSW Parliament

The 2025 cohort of the TEN4TEN Leadership Dialogue experienced democracy in action last week during a visit to NSW Parliament, where they explored the workings of state government and connected with Members of Parliament and key staff.

Now in its sixth year, TEN4TEN is an initiative of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Central West that pairs ten Year 11 students from across the region with ten local mentors to nurture leadership, civic engagement and professional and personal growth.

Hosted by Phil Donato MP, Member for Orange, the visit included a tour of the Legislative Council chamber and the Jubilee Room, meeting with local MPs and the opportunity to sit in on Question Time in the Legislative Assembly.

Mr Donato welcomed the group and shared his leadership journey over lunch, encouraging the students to stay involved in issues that affect their communities.

Josh Gordon, Director of RDA Central West, said that the NSW Parliament visit is one of the highlights of the TEN4TEN experience.

“Young people from the regions must have these experiences”, Mr Gordon continued, “We need their perspectives, energy and ideas to thrive”.

The TEN4TEN Leadership Dialogue continues to provide meaningful, real-world learning experiences to our next generation of leaders in the Central West.

For more information on the TEN4TEN Leadership Dialogue head to www.rdacentralwest.org.au.

Central West News

will be presented by Blayney Mayor, Cr. Bruce Reynolds.

To wind up the day, after the markets have closed and the Vikings have ceased to battle the Winter Solstice celebration winds down with fire twirling and drumming around the Gladstone Hotel Wickerman Bonfire. Come and feel its warmth. Toss your own mini wickerman, complete with your woes and wishes, into the bonfire. Watch the flames, feel the warmth and know you’ve had a fantastic day at the 2025 Newbridge Winter Solstice Festival.

The event hosted by Newbridge Progress Association, supported by Blayney Shire Council, Newmont/Orange 360 with sponsorship from Blayney Businesses (Bernardi Group, New Brite Electricals, Newmans Motor Service, Hutchisons Bakery, Squires Signs, Odd Sock Gallery, Railway Butcher, Gladstone Hotel, Bunnings -Bathurst).

Entry is just $10 (U16s free)

Central West News

NSW school principals tackle big issues at Bathurst conference

More than 250 secondary school principals from across NSW are attending the annual NSW Secondary Principals’ Council (SPC) Conference at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst from Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 June.

The annual NSW Secondary Principals’ Council (SPC) Conference at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst offers principals’ insights and motivation to advance key societal issues

Principals engage in professional reference group discussions, an Annual General Meeting of the SPC, trade exhibits and tours of the University campus and facilities

Keynote addresses by leaders in a range of fields and masterclasses by experts share insights and tools to bolster school executives’ capacities

More than 250 secondary school principals from across NSW are attending the annual NSW Secondary Principals’ Council (SPC) Conference at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst from Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 June.

The conference offers motivational keynote addresses and practical masterclasses and showcases Charles Sturt’s academic leadership, courses and campus facilities.

Charles Sturt Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Graham Brown (pictured left) said the conference comes at an important time with the conference program and setting offering principals the opportunity to gain insights and tools to grapple with abiding and near-future issues confronting the education system.

“Masterclasses by Charles Sturt University experts will address issues such as the shortage of teachers, racism, the impact of artificial intelligence and gender inequality in mathematics and science education,” Professor Brown said.

“Keynote addresses by leaders in a range of fields will motivate principals to bring fresh insights and practical initiatives to their schools and communities.

“Among keynote speakers are Adjunct Professor Murat Dizdar, PSM, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, and Ms Sharan Burrow, a former Bathurst resident and teacher

who became President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (2000-2010) and General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (2010-2022) based in Brussels, Belgium.”

The Deputy Premier of NSW and Minister for Education Ms Prue Car, MP, addressed the conference by video, and principals will engage in professional reference group discussions, an Annual General Meeting of the SPC, trade exhibits and tours of the University campus and facilities.

President of the NSW Secondary Principals’ Council Ms Denise Lofts said thriving school leadership is at the heart of a world class public education system.

“This conference is a pivotal event, in the Council’s role to enhance and elevate the effectiveness of NSW public secondary principals, through support, advocacy, professional learning and collegial networks,” Ms Lofts said. “It’s a role that leads to improved learning outcomes for students in NSW public schools.

“The 2025 conference is also a vital part of the Council’s continuing advocacy for solutions in response to the national data of the accumulated negative impact of the principal role and its complexities on the health and wellbeing of principals to ensure successful schools, positive student outcomes for students, and prosperity for the community more broadly.

“By working together at this conference, confronting the challenges and leveraging the opportunities we face, we aim to ensure the NSW public education system is one of the most highly regarded education systems both nationally and internationally.”

Among 18 Masterclasses available for principals at the conference, Program Lead for the Collaborative Teacher’s Aide Pathway (CTAP) Associate Professor Libbey Murray in the Charles Sturt School of Education will present ‘Strategic solutions for strengthening the teaching workforce: Building pathways from support roles to classroom leadership’.

Professor Murray said the University is working hard to guide existing school support staff to become qualified Primary and Secondary teachers to improve the supply of high-quality teachers across Australia.

“By valuing their current contributions to the profession, allowing them to study online while continuing to work in schools, and supporting their skill development to become qualified teachers, we are seeing outstanding results in this area,” Professor Murray said.

“Since launching in 2022, CTAP has more than 800 school support staff across Australia studying online to become Primary and Secondary school teachers.

“With an 85 per cent retention rate, this highly successful program will have over 40 graduates in 2025, all of whom are already dedicated to children, schools, communities and the profession.”

As well as the CTAP program, the University offers the Grow Your Own Teacher Training and Local Teacher Pipeline programs which have another 350 students, and a new Aspire to Teach program with another 50 students.

Other masterclasses delivered by Charles Sturt academics include:

Wiradyuri Elders Aunty Leanna Carr and Uncle Jade Flynn will discuss the Charles Sturt University First Nations Cultural Awareness Journey and why it is seen as such an impactful and important professional learning opportunity for educators.

Dr Natalie Thompson, School of Education: ‘Practical AI for school leaders: Navigating the digital shift’. The masterclass will explore how school leaders can harness the potential of AI to streamline administrative processes, improve decisionmaking and enhance teaching and learning outcomes. It will provide practical and ethical tools and strategies to lead schools confidently in the age of AI.

Dr Ryan Al-Natour, School of Education: ‘Anti-racist starting points in education systems: What should principals consider?’. In an era where one in five students across Australian schools have experienced racism, it is urgent that educators think about anti-racist initiatives. This seminar encourages principals to think about how they can approach anti-racism in schools today.

Dr Janelle Hill, School of Education: ‘Addressing gender inequality in mathematics and science education: The role of leadership’. Recent data shows gender differences in mathematics and science learning outcomes continue to widen among Australian students. In this masterclass, principals will be encouraged to challenge gender inequities in educational contexts and will be provided with strategies and resources that can be used to support girls to benefit in maths and science learning.

The annual 2025 NSW Secondary Principals’ Council (SPC) Conference is on Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 June at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst.

COLD MORNINGS, COLD ROADS

Upgrades to Trunkey Creek Hall’s AV system have been completed.

Reopening Bathurst Indoor Sports Stadium after $1.8 million upgrades

Celebrating 56 years of Lithgow View Club

Matt Moran Savours Local Flavours — and Sees Big Future for Central West Food Tourism

Celebrity chef and regional food advocate Matt Moran made a special visit to the Lithgow Workies this week, sampling dishes and championing the region’s emerging culinary scene. The visit formed part of NRMA’s 2025 Perfect Plate competition, which celebrates exceptional dishes across NSW clubs.

By Kellie Evans

For Moran, becoming an ambassador for Perfect Plate was personal. “I actually started cooking in a club,” he said. “Back then it was chicken schnitzels in the bain-marie and very average Chinese food — frozen vegetables, sweet-and-sour pork. Now there’s a real place for much better food in clubs. They need good food and beverage to attract people. If I can help promote better food in clubs — job done.”

He’s seeing a clear shift. “The clubs are getting very competitive, trying to better themselves all the time, and that’s fantastic for diners. I’ve seen some phenomenal food.”

At Lithgow Workies, Moran sampled a standout grilled barramundi with Sri Lankan potato tartlet, king prawn and curry sauces, followed by a towering lemon meringue pie — a dish he declared “beautiful — great flavour and a fantastic use of finger limes.”

Lithgow Workies

JOIN THE TEAM

We're Hiring a Community Manager!

Part-time | Contractor Role | Based in Lithgow, Bathurst, Oberon, Blayney and surrounds

Do you love your local community and want to help tell its stories? Are you a people person with a passion for connection, local pride, and positive change?

The Central West Village Voice is looking for a Community Manager to help us grow and deepen our impact across the region. This is more than just a job — it’s a chance to play a vital role in the cultural and economic transition of regional NSW by celebrating the people, places, and stories that matter.

Who We Are

We're an independent, purpose-driven media company that believes local voices matter. We've built a trusted platform by being deeply connected to our region and committed to telling the stories others overlook. Now, we're growing — and we want someone who shares our values to come on that journey with us.

About the Role

Executive Chef Tim

Standing said it was a career highlight. “It’s been fantastic to have Matt Moran visit. He’s been a bit of a hero of mine for years. To be able to showcase what we’re doing here is really exciting.”

“There’s a lot happening — new restaurants, wineries, distilleries — it’s going to drive more tourism. We’ve got to be ready for that big influx of people.”

— Matt Moran

But Moran sees more than great plates — he sees an opportunity to turn the Central West into a destination for food tourism. “I’m a big advocate for the Central West. I’ve invested quite heavily in the region already and I’m investing more,” he said. “With roads improving and the Highlands pricing getting out of hand, the Central West is becoming a real alternative.”

He believes the opportunity extends beyond the kitchen. “There’s a lot happening — boutique accommodation, new restaurants, wineries, gin distilleries — it’s all going to drive more tourism. We’ve got to be ready for that big influx of people.”

For local producers and chefs, Moran sees huge potential. “There’s a lot of opportunities out there now — and there’ll be a lot more to come. If you want to start something of your own — ring me. I’m always looking to partner with good young talent. We always need more chefs in the Central West.”

General Manager of Lithgow Workies, Geoff Wheeler, said Moran’s visit was an important vote of confidence. “It’s wonderful to have someone of Matt’s status here — and openly saying how good the food was. It means a lot.”

For Moran, the takeaway is simple: “It’s important for locals to support their clubs and their local businesses. Clubs put back into the community — but it’s also great when the food is this good.”

As our Community Manager, you’ll be the on-the-ground heartbeat of the Village Voice — connecting with contributors, advertisers, readers, and everyday locals to help bring our paper (and the stories behind it) to life.

What you’ll be doing

 Attend local events, visit businesses, and be present where things are happening

 Help coordinate and support contributors, story leads, and photo opportunities

 Grow community engagement and build loyalty across print, email, and social

 Gather news, photos, and community announcements for publication

 Support advertising partnerships and sponsorships (no hard sales required)

Who You Are

 A well-connected local with a genuine love for the region

 Warm, friendly, curious — people open up to you

 Organised, reliable, and able to meet deadlines with minimal fuss

 Comfortable working independently and remotely, but great in a collaborative team environment

 Passionate about regional storytelling and proud of where you live

Bonus points if you:

 Can take a decent photo or whip up a social post

 Happy to jump on camera for our promo videos

 Have experience in journalism, events, marketing, or community outreach

Why This Role Matters

This is a role with heart. It’s flexible, it’s real, and it makes a difference. You'll help shape the narrative of the Central West during a time of big changes — and you’ll be part of a small but mighty team who truly care about doing good work for the place they call home.

What’s in it for you

 Flexible hours (start with 1–2 days per week)

 3 month contract to start with intent to become a full time member of the team for the right person

 Mentorship and editorial support

 Creative input into stories, events, and projects

 The chance to grow with a company that’s going places

Ready to apply?

Email a short note about why you're the right fit and your CV (if you have one) to kellie@villagevoice.net.au. You can also message us on Facebook to chat more about the role.

Applications close 30 June — but we’re ready to hire the moment we find the right person.

Pictured above: Lithgow Workies Kitchen team Maheesh, Dilshan and Reneece, with chef Matt Moran.



VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA CELEBRATE 65 YEARS!

GAME ON, BATHURST! MAJOR BOOST FOR INDOOR SPORTS

Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program. And where possible all the work and materials were local.

The renovations include a new roof, and flooring, upgraded grandstands, new scoreboards and lighting, plus modern toilet amenities.

Stadium!

It was just in time for the John Martin Country Tournament!

For years, wet weather and a leaking roof disrupted local sport and saw tournaments and games cancelled. The flooring had electrical tape all over it to smooth out the kinks between the uneven floorboards.

Those problems are now a thing of the past.

It’s a $2 million upgrade with $400,000 from the Federal Government funding through the

Bathurst finally has a stadium that matches the passion of its sports community. It’s an outstanding result for the community!

From basketball and netball to volleyball, badminton, and even pickleball, this stadium will now be in action rain, hail or shine.

Congratulations to all involved in this transformation.

The next Opal, Boomer or Diamond could be right here in Bathurst.

Let’s play!

MEDICARE MENTAL HEALTH CENTRE

Recently we opened the new Medicare Bathurst Mental Health Centre.

Funded by the federal government, it’s an important new service that will make a real difference to the lives of many residents of our area.

It’s located at Shop 2, 52 Durham Street Bathurst (next to Pizza Hut).

The Centre is accessible to everyone and offers free mental health services for people 18 years and over including: mental health support for people with immediate needs

navigation to other suitable mental health services in the local community information and advice for family and friends of people experiencing mental illness

Consultations with mental health professionals and Telehealth

It’s open 11am–7pm weekdays and 4pm–8pm on weekends

No appointment or referral is necessary and remember, IT'S FREE!

For more information call: 1800 595 212 email: bathurst.mmhc@stride.com.au or visit www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au

Ijoined a big crowd at Bathurst RSL Club recently to see the new documentary: Bravery and Betrayal – The True Story of the SAS in Afghanistan.

The film has a strong local connection - being produced by Bathurst’s Emily Davis. Emily and her family were all present for the screening.

The SAS carried out thousands of missions in Afghanistan over many years. It was constant, daily combat requiring extraordinary courage, tenacity, endurance and bravery and this film takes you through what they experienced in their own words. They’re stories of service above self that our country needs to hear.

The lifesaving work of the military working dogs was also highlighted.

Three former Prime Ministers (Howard, Rudd and Abbott) feature prominently with their often moving perspectives and recollections as do American pilots who flew the SAS and commandos in and out of battle.

The heartbreaking stories of family members

of soldiers who lost their lives serving Australia are also told. Their words bring home the meaning of sacrifice, courage in the face of overwhelming loss, and the tragic cost of war. We ask so much of Australia’s men and women in uniform and this documentary also serves as a reminder that their care and welfare, as well as that of our veterans and defence force families, must always be of the highest priority for our nation.

Thank you to Emily, Director Simon J Heath and the SAS veterans who attended the screening and participated in the Q&A which the audience greatly appreciated.

Thank you also to the Bathurst RSL Sub branch for organising the event for our area and for all the work they continue to do to support our veterans.

If you’d like to support Australia’s special forces veterans and their families go to Wandering Warriors: https://wanderingwarriors.org/ As John Howard stated at the conclusion of the documentary: “Long may you Dare to Win”.

Andrew at the recent screening of "Bavery and Betrayal - The True Sry of the SAS in Afghanistan" with producer Emily Davis

Andrew with Acting Bathurst Mayor, Ben Fry at the offical opening of the recently upgraded Bathurst Indoor Sports Stadium

Andrew at the opening of the new Medicare Mental Health Centre – Bathurst

Andrew celebrates with VIEW Lithgow President Sue Giokaris (4th from the left) and the Hon Paul Toole MP

Young artists inspired at The Foundations foundry

In May, around 40 Year 9 and 10 Visual Arts students from Scots All Saints College had the rare opportunity to step inside artist Harrie Fasher’s working foundry at The Foundations in Portland.

The students were welcomed by Rich Evans, Chief Reactivation Officer at The Foundations, who shared some of the site’s rich history and stories of its industrial past.

The visit offered students an up-close look at Harrie’s creative world. As reported in the Scots All Saints newsletter:

"Harrie hosted a studio tour and discussion session in her enormous foundry studio, where her process and artworks were on display. Her generous hospitality and insight into leading discussions about the creative process and artistic voice was invaluable in nurturing our young artists’ own pathway and confidence in developing as artists.”

The group then split into two for hands-on workshops with Simone Darcy, who was the Squatter’s Cottage Artist in Residence at the time.

"Simone Darcy gave a hands-on workshop creating alternative photographs without a camera or darkroom. Her demonstrations led students to use natural materials and black and white photographic chemicals to generate abstract images of light and shade. These methods connected directly with the students’ current classroom practice and gave them extra skills and knowledge in ways art can stretch both tradition and technology," the school newsletter reported.

Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive with staff acknowledging “The kids enjoyed the magic.”

Before heading back, the students each left a personal Post-it note for Harrie, offering thanks for what one teacher described as “such a holistic and soul-filling experience.”

Our thanks go to Harrie Fasher and Simone Darcy for generously sharing their knowledge, creativity, and passion with this group of young artists.

Glenray along with Charles Sturt University (CSU) are excited to announce the 2025 recipient of the ‘Glenray Commitment Scholarship’, Ashlee Dineen.

Ashlee is a first year Bachelor of Computer Science student at the Bathurst Campus with a passion for music & software engineering, a career path she hopes to pursue in the future.

“This scholarship will take a significant financial burden off me, as I will be able to spend fewer hours working at my casual job, and more hours studying.” said scholarship recipient, Ashlee.

The ‘Glenray Commitment Scholarship’ was established in 2022 in partnership with Charles Sturt University, where a $7500 scholarship was created to support a student living with a disability to pursue tertiary education and help ease the pressure of studying and cover some of the unique costs a person with disability may incur in accessing further education.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s report on people with disability in Australia 2024 found that only ‘17% of people with disability aged 20 and over had completed a bachelor's degree or higher, compared with 35% of those without disability’ highlighting the additional challenges that some students face. This scholarship is aimed to help these students succeed in their studies and reduce the financial pressure involved in gaining a degree.

Glenray General Manager, Kath Graham said Glenray continues to support people of all abilities and this scholarship is an excellent opportunity to give back to the community and support social inclusion.

“Glenray are proud to be able to deliver this scholarship and provide a positive contribution to young people’s lives, supporting them to reach their education goals and removing barriers to access education for people living with a disability, we look forward to seeing Ashlee’s progress toward her degree and wish Ashlee all the best on her education journey” she said.

Glenray, is a not for profit organisation and has been committed to enhancing the lives of people living with

For further information on the next scholarship round, email Glenray Marketing & Communication Manager, Elisa Miller info@glenray.com.au or CSU scholarships www.study.csu.edu.au/get-support/scholarships

disability for over 65 years. Glenray’s mission continues to create opportunities to enhance the independence of people in our community continues, supporting people to embrace their tomorrow.

JOIN THE TEAM

We’re Hiring a Digital Media Assistant

Part-time | Contractor Role | Work Remotely

Are you a digital native with a flair for content, a love for local stories, and a knack for making things look good online?

Central West Village Voice is seeking a Digital Media Assistant to help us share the stories that matter across web, social, and email channels. This is a flexible, entry-level opportunity for someone who wants to build skills in digital media while supporting a values-driven independent publisher.

What You’ll Do

As our Digital Media Assistant, you’ll help keep our online presence sharp, engaging, and consistent. No two days are quite the same — but you’ll be:

 Uploading articles from the weekly print edition to our website

 Scheduling and captioning posts on Facebook and Instagram

 Creating simple graphics and quote cards using Canva

 Helping build and send email newsletters in Mailchimp

 Supporting audience engagement through polls, competitions, and post insights

Who We’re Looking For

 You’re confident using platforms like Adobe Suite, WordPress, Instagram, and Mailchimp (or keen to learn!)

 You love telling a good story — even in just a sentence or headline

 You’re reliable, organised, and comfortable managing small weekly tasks

 You care about the region and want to help promote its people, events, and businesses

 You want a flexible side hustle that could grow into more

Bonus Points if you:

 Have worked in publihing previously

 Have basic video editing (for Reels/Stories)

 Email list building and social analytics

 SEO or headline writing chops

What You Get

 Contractor rate per hour (with monthly invoice)

 Fully remote/flexible hours (approx. 6–10 hours a week to start)

 Mentoring and skill-building in digital publishing

 A chance to grow with an expanding media brand

 Purpose-driven work that makes a difference in your own backyard

To Apply:

Send a short intro about yourself, your experience (or interest) in digital media, and any links to work you’re proud of (even personal Instagram or portfolio examples!) to kellie@villagevoice.net.au

Applications close 30 June 2025. We’re ready to hire when the right person comes along.

Bus Stop Films’ first feature Boss Cat to begin production in June

Bus Stop Films has announced that its first feature film, Boss Cat, will begin filming in Australia’s Blue Mountains region in June - and they would like you to be part of it.

Written and directed by Genevieve Clay-Smith, with major production investment from Screen Australia, Boss Cat will star Olivia Hargroder, Penny Downie and Julia Savage. Olivia is a proud member of the Down Syndrome community, who earlier featured in the short film Sunshine, which Genevieve wrote. Julia made her feature film debut in Blaze, with television credits including The Clearing and Class of 07.

Boss Cat will be award-winning stage and screen actress Penny Downie's first Australian project for many years. With credits including The Diplomat, The Crown and Downton Abbey, Penny noted: “I am thrilled to be returning home to Australia to be part of this beautiful film. Genevieve's script captured me instantly, and I can't wait to be part of bringing this story to life.”

Boss Cat is the story of 23-year-old Sonja, a woman with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome), who, after her mother dies, campaigns against the plans of her estranged grandmother to sell the family home and send her away. In order to galvanise the support she needs, Sonja must first channel an explosive temper into something more positive... Krump dance.

Writer and director Genevieve Clay-Smith is a trailblazing filmmaker, renowned for her visionary directorial works which champion diversity and inclusion, including The Interviewer (Winner Short Shorts Film Festival and Asia 2013), Groundhog Night (Sydney Film Festival 2020) and I Am Emmanuel (Palm Springs Int. 2014). Genevieve’s work as the Series Writer and Director of the 26 x 11-episode series Fizzy and Suds (2024), has garnered global attention with three nominations at the 2024 Prix Jeunesse, one of those being the UNESCO Prize, intended to honour a children’s or youth programme that convincingly promotes a better understanding of people, of different cultures and experiences.

Genevieve pioneered the inclusive filmmaking movement in Australia in 2008 when she cofounded Bus Stop Films, alongside Producer Eleanor Winkler, with the duo winning Tropfest with the short film Be My Brother.

Bus Stop Films is a female, disability-led, not-for-profit social enterprise that uses filmmaking and the film industry to raise the profile of people living with disabilities and other marginalised groups, on both sides of the camera, through education, content creation, advocacy and employment. Through its Accessible Filmmaking Program, Bus Stop Films has, over the past 16 years, produced over 110 short films and supported thousands of workplace opportunities for people with disability through their Bus Stop Employment service.

Boss Cat will be produced by Deanne Weir, Eleanor Winkler and Bus Stop’s COO/Head of Screen Dianna La Grassa, with executive producers Tracey Corbin-Matchett OAM, Nathan Basha, and Mandela Mathia and co-producer Michele Turnure-Salleo of Feracious Entertainment.

As a Bus Stop Films production, Boss Cat will offer an end-to-end inclusive production pathway, creating distinctive on-screen and production roles for multiple young adults with disabilities. A tailored workplace program will be developed to enhance disability employment on the film, considering a candidate’s areas of interest, current skills, previous on-set experience and access requirements. Participants will then be placed in corresponding departments to work and learn, being mentored by the professional crew members.

Additionally, Bus Stop Films will support the professional cast and crew to feel confident in managing, working alongside and creatively collaborating with participants through the delivery of their Inclusion in Action workshop. The program is part of Bus Stop’s Inclusive Crewing Project, which is funded through a Building Employer Confidence grant from the Australian Government.

Genevieve Clay-Smith said: "I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has championed Boss Cat and helped bring this story to life. It’s a joy to collaborate with an extraordinary team of powerful, diverse women to elevate Bus Stop Films’ inclusive filmmaking to a feature film scale. I hope this film stirs hearts, shifts perspectives, and reshapes what people believe is possible for individuals with disability."

Screen Australia Director of Narrative Content Louise Gough said: "Boss Cat is an entertaining, essential story and we’re proud to support this groundbreaking project marking Genevieve’s debut feature. The team’s commitment to inclusive filmmaking – both on and off screen – blends seamlessly with an ultimately joyous, engaging narrative. With collaboration at every turn, the authenticity of this film will resonate deeply, celebrating community, amplifying vital voices, and leaving a lasting impact."

Producer Deanne Weir said: “Having followed Genevieve’s career and the amazing work of Bus Stop Films, first under Gen’s leadership and now under the guiding hand of the unstoppable Tracey Corbin-Matchett, I am thrilled to be working with this incredible team to bring Boss Cat to life, and to be a major investor through WeirAnderson Films. This is a film that will delight and entertain audiences across the globe and bring people to the cinema to share a moving ‘feel-good’ experience that we all need right now.”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Have you got a burning topic or something you would like to add to the conversation about Lithgow, Oberon, Blayney or Bathurst?

Please keep in mind that we are focussed on telling the stories that are important to our communities in a respectful and constructive manner. We don't all have to agree all the time, but by participating in genuine debate based on facts we can ensure we get the best outcomes for our community.

We'd love to hear from you email us: editor@villagevoice.net.au

Bus Stop Films’ CEO Tracey Corbin-Matchett said: “In our 16th year, Boss Cat celebrates our unwavering commitment to authenticity on both sides of the camera. I'm proud to see Bus Stop's global leadership in inclusive filmmaking recognised with the strong support for the project and for the intersectional team bringing this beautiful film to life. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our many philanthropic partners who have made it possible for us to do the work we do.” Minister for Social Services and the NDIS Amanda Rishworth said: “Inclusive and supportive industry organisations like Bus Stop Films are a gamechanger for people with disability. Not only do they provide amazing employment opportunities but they’re an avenue for people with disability to pursue their passions and express their creativity. I am committed to breaking down barriers so that people with disability can pursue their goals and build careers in the industry of their choice.”

EXTRAS CASTING CALL

Looking for Lithgow locals from the 7th–11th July.

For all enquiries, please contact: Helena Zadro-Jones – Casting Coordinator 0433 420 285 helenazadrojones41@gmail.com

Keeping the dream alive! Winter in Bathurst

Celebrate Winter in Bathurst at The Greens on William these July School Holidays, 4 to 20 July – the new home of the McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink!

While the Bathurst Winter Festival will not be taking place in its traditional format in 2025, a fresh new winter experience will be on offer for visitors with The Greens on William transforming into a sparkling wonderland featuring ice skating, food, wine and plenty of activities!

Highlights will include: The McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink – tickets on sale now; Themed days on the ice rink; Food and night markets; A Winter Ball; Live entertainment; Show rides – including the loved two-storey carousel; Family-friendly activities.

Whether you're gliding for the first time or a seasoned skater, the McDonald’s Bathurst Ice Rink will have something for everyone including exciting themed days. Grab your tickets and get ready for unforgettable school holiday memories with family and friends. Pre-booking your ice-skating session is recommended to avoid missing out.

Signature days across the two weeks will also feature an array of food and drink, live entertainment, markets, and plenty of affordable family fun.

• Armada Bathurst Brew & Bite Opening Weekend | Friday 4 July, 4pm – 9pm & Saturday 5 July, 12pm-9pm

• Kids Day brought to you by One Group Industries | Tuesday 8 & 15 July, 10am – 4pm

• All Abilities Day brought to you by One Group Industries & Spirit Ability | Wednesday 9 July, 10am – 4pm

• Winter Ball | Saturday 12 July, from 6pm

• Verto Brew & Bite Closing Weekend | Friday 18 July, 4pm – 9pm & Saturday 19 July, 12pm – 9pm

Plus, visitors can also look forward to a range of unique events and activations spread across the city. A full program is available on the Visit Bathurst Region website: www.bathurstregion.com.au/ winter-in-bathurst.

So, rug up, gather your crew, and plan your trip to Bathurst this July for two magical weeks of winter fun!

To stay up to date: Visit the website: www.thegreensonwilliam.com.au/winterinbathurst

UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS

Lions Club of Mount Panorama is seeking additional stallholders for future market days.

First Saturday of each month at Lions Berr y Park, Bathurst Come and be par t of the markets.

ther Details Email: mt.panoramalions@gmail.com

Frosty Finds Window Hunt

Bathurst Regional Council is inviting local businesses to join our Frosty Finds Window Hunt—a winter inspired activity designed to bring fun, excitement, and increased foot traffic to our Bathurst businesses! Running throughout the school holidays from 4 - 20 July.

Here’s how it works: Dress your window in a winter-themed display. Hide one unusual or silly object in your display (e.g. a beach ball in a blizzard!), We’ll add your business to our official Frosty Finds Window Hunt map & checklist.

Families and visitors will hunt for the odd object in each window for their chance to win a buy local gift card–it’s a fun way to increase foot traffic, visibility, and community involvement in town!

Register here https://bathurstliveinvest.com.au/event/frosty-finds-window-hunt/

Stannies Students Shine at CAPA Concert

The Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Faculty at St Stanislaus’ College held a highly successful concert on Wednesday night, 11th June, highlighting the exceptional talents of its students in music and drama.

The evening featured a dynamic program that reflected months of preparation, dedication, and collaboration across year groups. With a diverse range of performances, from solo musicianship to ensemble acts and dramatic pieces, the concert offered a well-rounded showcase of the artistic capabilities within the College.

Audience members were treated to powerful musical performances, demonstrating both technical skill and emotional depth. From instrumental solos and vocal pieces to group arrangements, the standard of musicianship was high, with students performing with confidence and flair. The drama segments were equally impressive, offering moments of humour, reflection, and theatrical energy that engaged the crowd throughout.

The CAPA concert not only provided students with the opportunity to perform live in front of their peers, families, and staff but also affirmed the importance of arts education as part of the broader school experience. For many students, it was a chance to step outside the classroom and express themselves in creative and meaningful ways.

The night was a testament to the passion and hard work of both students and staff involved in the CAPA program. Each performance reflected careful preparation and a strong commitment to excellence in the arts.

Congratulations are extended to all students who took part, as well as to the CAPA Faculty for facilitating such a memorable and inspiring event. The College community now looks ahead to future CAPA showcases that will continue to celebrate the vibrant creative spirit of Stannies.

“And I’ll blow your house down” said the Big Bad Wolf property developer and bacon fancier. Two of the three little pigs made a big mistake. But the third pig obviously settled in Bathurst where almost all the older houses are made out of red brick. Clever little pig, although he missed the lesson on brick houses cracking when built on clay.

Mrs Heritage tells me she can find only a handful of timber houses in central Bathurst, but no actual “stick” ones, and certainly no straw ones. I suppose wattle and daub houses have a lot of sticks in them, but the mud would defeat the wolf, at least wolves without hard hats. Ditto straw, where out on the Fish River Valley and up on The Plateau straw was and still is mixed with mud to make mud brick houses and the like – today it is all straw bale houses.

So, anyway, Mrs H found a superb group of five wooden houses in Devonshire Street (one is in our picture) right in the “high diddle diddle” of Bathurst. Incredibly modest, built in the 1880/90’s for the mill or railway workers (not miners as often described), there they are, just as in “Mary Mary Quite Contrary”, all in a row, cute as a button these days.

She did find two other excellent examples – see if you can, and let us know at … heritagebathurst@gmail.com.

Thought of the week …“quite rare Bathurst heritage items”

by a humble heritage advocate – June 2025, column#323

Picture supplied

Bathurst Men’s Walk and Talk adds monthly morning walk

We all know that exercise and social connection are good for the mind and body.

Bathurst Men’s Walk & Talk is introducing a monthly month walk every second Saturday of the month starting 14 June 2025, in addition to the weekly Thursday walk.

Bathurst Men’s Walk & Talk organiser Greg Sly said the walk is open to all men.

‘The Saturday walk will start - rain, hail or shine - in Keppel Street outside the Black Crow restaurant, and go for about an hour covering about 5kms.

‘We will loop back past the café at about half way for those that only want to complete a shorter walk’.

Once completed there will be a free hot beverage for walkers’.

‘We also welcome blokes that just want to come down for some fellowship but maybe can’t complete the walk’.

Bathurst Men’s Walk and Talk (BMWT) volunteers provide a weekly walk to support good health and mental wellbeing. Participation in the walk is free of charge and open to all men.

‘Due to increasing numbers and some additional projects we are undertaking we have just appointed SIX new joint coordinators (Yellow-Caps).

The New leaders are: Andrew Russ, Alan Pennykid, Chris McKay, Paul Griffin, Owen Brown, Chris Hagney.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of any organisation, and all our walkers and supporters are grateful for their support along with the local businesses who support with weekly sponsorship’.

BMWT is delivered entirely by volunteers, overseen by Lifeline Central West, and helped by local sponsors who pay for coffee and T-shirts.

The new walk will start in Keppel Street outside the Black Crow restaurant. Walkers should gather from 7.15am and the walk will commence at 7.30 sharp every second Saturday of the month, rain, hail or shine.

Council Tackles Antisocial Behaviour on Crown Reserves

Council condemns recent incidents of antisocial behaviour on Crown Reserves across the Bathurst Region.

Regular reports have been made of inconsiderate activity at popular camping grounds and holiday sites Turon River and the Bridle Track, including extensive littering and the unsafe use of off-road motor vehicles. These activities not only damage sensitive natural areas but also impact the enjoyment of the reserves for the wider community and local residents.

Acting Mayor, Cr Ben Fry, stated that such conduct will not be tolerated, alerting holiday-goers of regular police patrols throughout these destinations.

“I’m asking every visitor to treat our reserves like your own backyard; leave only footprints, not yesterday’s rubbish. Locals from Hill End through to Sofala have had a gutful of playing clean-up crew.

“Council has requested Chifley Police Command to boost resources and step up patrols in these hotspots, so anyone tempted to misbehave could be met with a blue uniform and a swift reminder of their manners,” commented Cr Fry.

Ahead of the long weekend, Council is encouraging all those visiting camping grounds and recreational areas throughout the region to take responsibility for their actions and respect the environment by ensuring all rubbish is properly disposed of.

Official Opening of Sofala’s All-new Big Oaky Creek Bridge

The construction of Sofala’s brand-new Big Oaky Creek Bridge on Upper Turon Road has recently been completed.

The bridge was officially opened on 10 June By Actong Bathurst Mayor, Ben Fry and Local Memeber Paul toole.

Cr Ben Fry, Acting Bathurst Mayor, noted the benefit of this infrastructure upgrade to the Sofala community and wider Bathurst Region.

“The old wooden bridge was rapidly approaching the end of its lifespan. Thanks to funding from the State Government's Fixing Country Bridges Program, this stretch of road has a new lease on life.

“The all-new concrete Big Oaky Creek Bridge is dual-lane, reducing an oft-challenging bottleneck, and has advanced hydraulics and a 300mm height increase, designed for a 1 in 50-years storm.

“The overall level of service and ease of use is vastly improved and delivers a futureproofed asset to all those travelling across the region,” said Cr Fry.

Member for Bathurst, The Hon. Paul Toole MP, remarked that safer and stronger bridges will help keep motorists moving around the Bathurst Region for generations to come.

“With each timber bridge replaced, we’re opening up more efficient routes for everyone from heavy freight vehicles to the local school bus and even RFS tankers to reach incidents quicker.

"Safer roads mean safer journeys for everyone,” said Mr Toole.

Pictured above: Turon River. Credit Bathurst Regional Council

Photo: Left to right: Morning Walk Participants

Council Appoints Interim Director Corporate Services and Finance

Bathurst Regional Council has announced that Peter Smith, a specialist in local government finance, will be joining Council as Interim Director Corporate Services and Finance, commencing Wednesday 11 June, following a search that General Manager David Sherley instigated in April.

Acting General Manager, Neil Southorn, noted that this interim appointment is to help Council in the pursuit of financial sustainability whilst recruitment for a permanent appointment gets underway.

“Peter comes to Council with more than two decades of senior management experience in rural and regional councils. He has extensive experience in financial planning, statutory reporting, compliance and governance, having served as an Interim Chief Financial Officer for multiple councils across Victoria and NSW. He holds a Bachelor of Business (Local Government), a Master of Business Administration and is a certified management accountant.

“We welcome the opportunity to introduce Peter to our operational team here at Council and are pleased to benefit from his level of experience in the local government sector,” remarked Mr Southorn.

Cr Ben Fry, Acting Bathurst Mayor, agreed that Peter’s experience will aid Council’s present position and provide valuable guidance for the short and long term.

“Peter’s brief is clear; steady the books, deliver a budget we can trust, and be another set of eyes for the Council. He has steered regional councils through tight spots before; that experience will serve Bathurst well.

“I have been calling for a fresh look at our finances; Peter brings that outside perspective. His interim title is deliberate - we want plain advice on what can be trimmed, where smart investment is needed, and how to sharpen our overall performance. This starts now while we recruit the permanent director,” said Cr Fry.

Interim Director, Peter Smith, thanked Council for the appointment and commented that there is great opportunity ahead to align Council with its financial and strategic goals.

“I am looking forward to working with the Bathurst Regional Council team as its Interim Director Corporate Services and Finance.

“Being responsible for this important portfolio is such an exciting opportunity and I am confident that our combined efforts will help to enable the General Manager and Council to deliver on the objectives in the Community Strategic Plan.

“From the outset, I will be working on the critical challenge of finding more ways to consolidate Council’s financial position,” said Mr Smith.

Council looks forward to introducing Peter to the wider team from next week.

Contemporary exhibition ESSSENSSSE

to open in Bathurst this July

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (BRAG) presents ESSSENSSSE, a joyful work about healing and new beginnings by acclaimed contemporary artist HOSSEI (NSW), guest curated by Tesha Malott.

ESSSENSSSE is an aquatic ecosystem that explores the tenacity of the human spirit, stripping away corporeal human qualities and revealing what’s underneath. ESSSENSSSE follows HOSSEI’s exploration of creating costumes that ‘heal’. Featuring a cast of 16 other-worldly sea creatures, ESSSENSSSE transitions from a series of dynamic and joyful performances into a sensory, largescale installation, in which visitors are surrounded by a playful, 100% tactile landscape.

ESSSENSSSE began when HOSSEI became fascinated by the sand dollar sea creatures— their shape, features, and how in mediaeval times it was truly believed that sand dollars were mermaid currency. When looking at the sand dollar, HOSSEI realised that if you were to remove the physical characteristics of a human body, you would be left with a mouth and an anus, just like the sand dollar. It is this idea that compelled HOSSEI to make the sand dollar an emblem of the show. An entry point and an exit, not just with food, but in the sense of discerning which energies come through and nourish the insides, and which are let out. ESSSENSSSE is about letting go and being one with the spirit and embracing its purity and vulnerability.

A Verge Gallery exhibition, touring in partnership with Museums & Galleries of NSW, supported by the University of Sydney and proudly funded by the NSW Government. Verge Gallery is supported by the University of Sydney Union.

Pictured Above: HOSSEI, ESSSENSSSE, 2023. Performer Lauren Booker. Dimensions variable.

Pictured below: HOSSEI, ESSSENSSSEV, erge Gallery, 2024. Image by Michael Cole, courtesy of USU.

Exhibition and event dates

Opening Night, Friday 4 July, 6-8pm Artist & Curator Talk, Saturday 5 July, 11aml Exhibition Tours, Saturdays, 11am Sunday Sketch & Make Sessions, Sundays, 10am-2pm Talks & Tea, Wednesday 9 July & Wednesday 13 August

School Holidays: Sew your own plush toy, Thursday 10 July, 10:30am

School Holidays: Make your own sea slime, Wednesday 16 July, 10:30am

More info at https://bathurstart.com.au/exhibitions-events/esssenssse/

25TH/26TH OCTOBER

For more information see our Web and Facebook pages

bathurstgardenclub org au The Bathurst Gardeners Club Spring Spectacular Larraine Griffin - larrieg20a@gmail com 0435786485 Raising monies for local charities

Photography by Jacquie Manning.

Help Preserve Bathurst’s Community History

Nominate a Pillar of Bathurst

Do you know someone who made a lasting impact

on the Bathurst region?

You can help honour their legacy by nominating them as a Pillar of Bathurst. Nominations for the 2025 Pillars are now open.

The Pillars of Bathurst project celebrates individuals who have made meaningful contributions to our community, offering inspiration to current and future generations. Bathurst Library is proud to preserve these stories as part of our shared local history.

Launched in 2015, the project began with 22 names displayed on cast-iron verandah posts from the historic Royal Hotel, located in the cultural heritage garden near the Macquarie Wambuul River.

In 2024, with all plaques filled, the project transitioned to a digital format on the Bathurst Library website. Manager of Library Services, Patou Clerc, emphasises the importance of continuing this initiative: “The library wants to preserve stories from all parts of the community, so our record of history reflects the rich heritage of the Bathurst region and its growing diversity”.

You can explore the 2024 Pillars of Bathurst by searching the Bathurst Library catalogue: https:// bathurst.spydus.com/

Nominations for the 2025 Pillars of Bathurst close 1 August 2025. To learn more or to submit a nomination, visit Bathurst Library in person at 70-78 Keppel Street, or online at www.library.bathurst.nsw.gov.au.

Manning Aquatic Centre Changeroom Upgrades

Upgrades to the changeroom facilities are soon to commence at Bathurst’s Manning Aquatic Centre.

Contractors are scheduled to commence the upgrade of the women’s changeroom facility on Monday 16 June and anticipate the completion of works by September this year. Works are to include the replacement of shower and toilet partitioning, installation of new shower heads & taps, basins, waterproofing, new toilets, wall tiling, and a new floor surfacing treatment. The upgrade of the men’s changeroom is envisaged to be undertaken in the 2025/26 financial year.

Acting Bathurst Mayor, Cr Ben Fry, commented that upgrades to the Aquatic Centre’s facilities have been planned for quite some time and will be of benefit to our growing

community.

“Bathurst swimmers should not have to suit up in yesterday’s changerooms. Local families, squads and schools rely on the Manning every week; new tiles, taps and waterproofing mean fewer leaks, better hygiene and a centre that keeps pace with our growing city,” Cr Fry noted.

Council advises that changes will be in place during the upgrade works in order to ensure that changeroom options are provided to all pool patrons utilising the Centre. Signage detailing temporary alternative changerooms will be displayed throughout the Centre.

$145,000 has been allocated for stage one of the changeroom upgrade project, as provisioned for in the 2024/2025 budget.

BOB McKINNON PRESENTS

Buzzing for a Cure: Charity Night to Raise Funds for Melanoma Research

A local fundraising group is calling on the community to rally behind a vital cause at Buzzing for a Cure—a special charity evening to be held on Saturday 12 July 2025, from 6:30pm at the Blayney Shire Community Centre.

The event is part of a broader initiative to support the team’s participation in this year’s City2Surf, where they will be running to raise funds for the Melanoma Institute Australia—an organisation dedicated to research, prevention, and treatment of melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer.

Raising awareness and vital funds for melanoma research, this event is also held in honour of Grant Lockwood, founder of the Beekeepers Inn and Goldfields Honey, whose memory continues to inspire those around him to support lifesaving work in melanoma prevention and treatment.

The evening promises to be more than just a fundraiser—it will be a community celebration of music, generosity and hope. Tickets include a full dinner and dessert, live music, and the chance to enjoy a relaxed and fun atmosphere in support of a deeply important cause.

A highlight of the night will be a charity auction, offering guests the opportunity to bid on a selection of donated goods and experiences, with all proceeds going directly to the fundraising campaign. A range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase throughout the night.

Organisers are encouraging locals to get involved, purchase tickets and help amplify the impact of their City2Surf campaign. Melona disease is an issue that touches many families, and the hope is by holding an event like this, awareness can be raised and some fund-raising can support research effort. Every ticket sold, every dollar raised, brings Researchers one step closer to better outcomes for people facing melanoma.

Whether you're looking for a great night out, want to show your support for a friend or family member affected by skin

cancer, or simply believe in the power of community-driven fundraising, Buzzing for a Cure offers the perfect opportunity to contribute.

All are welcome to come along and help make a difference in the fight against melanoma.

Tickets are available now via Humanitix: https://events.humanitix.com/buzzing-for-a-cure

Cut out the below Map for a full guide to your day out at Newbridge Winter Solstice Festival

FORTNIGHTLY FEATURE

Blayney Shire Waste Services Surveys

Waste Collection

Blayney Shire Council’s kerbside waste collection contract is due for renewal in 2028, giving the people of Blayney Shire the opportunity to have input into waste services through two surveys addressing both waste collection and waste services.

Visit

blayney.nsw.gov.au/wastesurvey (or scan QR Code)

If you would like a printed version of the survey, you can drop into our office at 91 Adelaide St or call us on 6368 2104 to have one mailed to you.

The surveys close 12pm Monday 30 June 2025.

Green Bin mandated: The NSW Government has legislated a weekly Green Bin (Food Organics and Garden Organics – FOGO) collection service will be required for households by July 2030.

With a new regional waste collection contract to commence in 2028, Council intends to align this new collection service, with this new contract.

The Green Bin service will result in an additional cost to ratepayers (exact cost will be determined in the tender of the new contract). Comparatively other nearby Councils currently charge up to $150 annually for a weekly Green Bin Service (collection and processing).

Bin Collection Frequencies: With the implementation of a Green Bin, Council has received advice from waste experts that a fortnightly red bin collection is best practice as it prioritises a greater focus on recycling and encourages higher use of the Green Bin for more than just garden clippings.

With the introduction of a green bin, Council, is reviewing our bin collection services seeking to identify options that have the least financial impact on residents.

Council is seeking community feedback on the following:
·

• Weekly Green Bin Collection (mandated)
·

• Fortnightly Red Bin Collection (optional Second Red Bin)
·

• Fortnightly Yellow Bin Collection

Please note:

• there are no changes to bin size proposed and

• changes are not proposed to be implemented until 2028.

Optional Second Red Bin: Many communities are moving to a fortnightly red bin collection, and it is acknowledged some households may have concerns about the change to a fortnightly red bin service. To address this, we are seeking feedback on the option of individual houses paying for a second red bin service (collected at the same time on the fortnightly schedule).

This user-pays model would allow households that need additional capacity, access to such a service, whilst not mandating the higher level of service (and additional cost) onto every household.

Note* It is estimated that a weekly red bin collection could be approximately $200 (TBC) more expensive per annum than a fortnightly red bin collection.

Waste Services

Separate to waste collection, Council provides a number of waste related services throughout the Shire, including:

• Recycle, Swap, Go - Swap a 240L bin of recyclables for an empty 240L bin at the Waste Facility.

• Free Green Waste & Recycling Drop off - Any residential recycling and green waste can be delivered to the Blayney Waste Facility at no cost.

• Household Chemical Clean Out - Annual day to drop off certain chemicals for free at the Waste Facility (limits and exclusions apply)

• Buy Back Shop - Secondhand shop at the Blayney Waste Facility

• Village Recycling Stations - A group of recycling bins located in each village primarily for rural residents to have a nearby recycling option.

Each of these services come at a cost to Council and to the ratepayer so it is important for Council to review their usage and seek input from the community.

Council News

Lease of Industrial Land for Agistment Purposes - EOI No. 12/2025

Council invites Expression of Interests from suitable persons or organisations wanting to lease vacant land, being Lot 2 and Lot 12, in the Blayney Shire Council Industrial Estate for agistment purposes.

Documentation may be obtained from: www.blayney.nsw.gov.au/your-council/tenders

Closing time: 5.00pm, Monday 30 June 2025 and thereafter until allocated. For all enquiries, contact Council on telephone (02) 6368 2104.

Public Exhibition

Following the May 2025 Ordinary Meeting, Council is seeking comment on the following policies which are on public exhibition;

• Asset Management Plan

• Disposal of Assets Policy

• Gifts and Benefits Policy

• Incentives for Medical Professionals Policy

• Notification Plan for Pesticide Use

• Related Party Disclosures Policy Statement of Business Ethics

These documents are available for viewing and downloading on Council’s website blayney.nsw.gov.au.

Council is inviting written submissions to be received prior to 5.00pm Thursday 3 July 2025.

Notice of Intention to Classify Land as Operational Land

In accordance with Division 1 of the Local Government Act, Blayney Shire Council hereby gives notice of its intention to classify land as described in Schedule A, as operational land.

Schedule A: Lot 1, DP 1314611 adjoining Lot 3, DP 1232898 – Richards Lane, Millthorpe.

Contact Us:

Council Office: 6368 2104

91 Adelaide Street, Blayney, NSW 2799

9:30am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday

council@blayney.nsw.gov.au blayney.nsw.gov.au PO Box 62, Blayney NSW 2799

Council Meeting

The June Ordinary Meeting of Council will be held in the Chambers, Blayney Shire Community Centre, on Monday 23 June 2025, commencing at 6.00pm. Members of the community are welcome to attend. A copy of the Business Paper will be available on Council’s website prior to the meeting. You can also tune in live at https://www.blayney.nsw.gov.au/council/council-meetings

Blayney Library - Be Connected: Free One-on-One Technology Help Sessions Free one-on-one assistance is available at Blayney Library for anyone who needs help with technology.

Please book your place by calling Blayney Library on 6368 2581 or call in to book your place for a 30 minute session on Thursday afternoons between 2pm – 4pm.

• Let us help you get the most from your device

• Learn more about your tablet, laptop or smartphone

Send photos via email to family and friends

• Set reminders, change your ringtone or make text larger

Don’t forget to bring along your device – laptop, mobile phone, ipad etc and ensure it is fully charged. And let us know what your questions are and what you would like assistance with.

Blayney Library also has three computers and free Wi-Fi for you to use and you can also get help with basic computer operations.

The Blayney Library team can also help you to use free Library Apps to search the catalogue, place reservations and access thousands of eaudiobooks, ebooks, comics, movie streaming and more, on your own device using your free Central West Libraries Membership Card.

Blayney Library is a welcoming space to read, relax, study and use the computers and free Wi-Fi.

Scan here for the online version with direct links

Blayney Shire Council

Could your school, hospital or community group benefit from Newmont Cadia’s Community Partnership Program?

Each year, Newmont Cadia (Cadia) provides financial and in-kind support to enhance community groups and organisations in the Blayney, Cabonne and Orange Local Government Areas (LGA's).

In 2024, Cadia worked hand-in-hand with local communities, investing more than $4 million into meaningful programs and infrastructure projects across the Blayney, Cabonne, and Orange LGA’s.

Cadia’s Community Partnership Program offers two funding opportunities – Cadia Cares, focusing on projects to help support the development of the community, and the Cadia Legacy Fund, larger funding opportunities which focus on leaving a lasting legacy in the local community.

Applications for the next round of Cadia Cares will close on Monday, 30 June 2025 and the Cadia Legacy Fund will close on Monday, 1 September 2025.

Please contact Nicole Morris for details on Cadia's Community Partnership Program on 0439 490 092 or nicole.morris@newmont.com and take a look at the opportunities available to your organisation via the Newmont Cadia website below.

Blayney Public School Canteen Now Brewing More Than Just Good Food

Blayney Public School’s canteen has added a warm and welcoming new offering to its menu — freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate, chai, and tea — now available for parents and families during school drop-off times.

Launching this new initiative with the cheerful message “Brew-tiful News from the Canteen!”, the school is inviting the community to enjoy a hot drink while supporting their local canteen operations. Whether heading into a school assembly or simply dropping the kids off for the day, parents can now grab a quality cuppa on-site to start their morning.

Currently operating on Monday and Friday mornings, the canteen’s coffee service is beginning modestly, with hopes to expand. If the school can attract more volunteer support, this service could be offered every school day in the near future.

The canteen has been equipped with a new easy-to-use coffee machine that delivers freshly ground bean coffee made with real milk. For those with a sweet tooth or a preference for noncaffeinated options, hot chocolate and chai are also on offer, along with traditional tea.

Adding to the appeal, freshly baked treats will also be available during service times, giving parents another reason to stop in, relax for a moment, and enjoy a quality break before the school day begins.

Canteen organisers are calling for more volunteers to help keep the service running smoothly — and potentially expand it. No previous experience is needed to get involved. Volunteers will receive a free hot drink as a small thank you for their time and support.

As with all food and beverage offerings at Blayney Public School, safety and age-appropriate service remain priorities. Coffee will not be sold to students under any circumstances. Hot chocolates may be purchased for students, but only in person by a parent or caregiver. Traditional hot Milo drinks also remain on the menu, available for $2.50 each.

The introduction of this coffee service marks another step in the school’s commitment to building a strong and supportive community environment. Parents are encouraged to pop in, lend a hand if they can, and enjoy the warm hospitality that’s brewing at the Blayney Public School canteen. Keep an eye out for updates as the service evolves — and don’t forget to bring your keep cup!

A Thousand Words Gallery Turns

the Page with a New Chapter in Carcoar

After a successful run in Blayney featuring six exhibitions, community celebrations, and strong local support, A Thousand Words Gallery has announced its relocation to the historic village of Carcoar, NSW.

This move signals not only a change of scenery but also a renewed dedication to the gallery’s mission of championing artists and sharing meaningful stories through visual art.

The transition to Carcoar represents a new chapter in the gallery’s evolving journey. Nestled in one of Australia’s best-preserved 19th-century villages, the new location offers a fitting backdrop for the gallery’s next phase — one that embraces history, creativity, and connection.

To mark this quiet but significant beginning, the gallery will host a soft opening exhibition titled Gathered. Running from Saturday 5 July to Sunday 13 July, the exhibition will be open Fridays to Sundays from 11am to 3pm, with private viewings available by appointment. Gathered brings together a curated mix of returning favourites and new artistic voices. Displayed with care and intention, the works serve as a tribute to the gallery’s journey so far and a preview of what’s to come.

Following the soft opening, the gallery will close from 14 to 31 July to prepare for its full reopening on Friday 1 August. Regular hours will resume on weekends, with appointments available for midweek visits.

The gallery’s official launch in Carcoar will be marked by a Grand Opening Event at 2pm on Saturday 20 September. Invitations for this celebration will be shared with supporters in the coming weeks.

The team at A Thousand Words Gallery sees this move as a bold and exciting step forward — a chance to build new connections, support emerging and established artists, and continue shaping a creative space where stories can unfold.

Visitors and supporters are warmly encouraged to be part of this next chapter, as A Thousand Words Gallery begins its new life in Carcoar.

OUT OF THE STUDIO is back!

The artists who came along to the very first social and professional networking event for artists last month had such a valuable experience that it's happening again.

Tue 24 June at 10am - 2pm

Platform Arts Hub: Blayney Railway Station Blayney Railway Station, Blayney, NSW, Australia

Working professionally in fine arts? Feeling isolated? Looking for your 'tribe'? Want to be part of a group that makes new professional relationships, shares knowledge, build skills and generates discussion? Just want to get out of the studio for a bit?

This will be an artist-led group, facilitated initially by Arts OutWest and Caroline Smith, an artist-resident at Side Track Arts (the artists studios at Platform Arts Hub Blayney).

The idea is to develop relationships between artists, share knowledge, build skills and generate discussion. How the group develops, or whether there is even a desire for such a group is to be worked out as we go along.

We’ll start with show and tell about your current work or arts practice, have some lunch together, and then hear about what you’d love from this kind of group. Arts OutWest invites working visual artists in the Blayney, Orange and Bathurst areas to an inaugural gathering of an artist led networking and support group.

RSVP for the FREE event

Please RSVP with a quick email to artsoutwest@csu.edu.au

6:30pm

Next Ordinary Council Meeting

Members of the community wishing to address the Council meeting are required to register by midday on the day of the meeting. Register online at: www.council.lithgowcom/addressing-council. Copies of the agenda can be found on the website.

Works Update

Upcoming works commencing 16 June

Maintenance grading of Blackheath Creek Road

• Jetpatching on on Tarana Rd and Magpie Hollow Road.

Col Drewe Drive Road Works

Nightworks have commenced on Col Drewe Drive, South Bowenfels on Wednesday the 18th of June at 7.00pm, from the Great Western Highway to the roundabout at the entry at Treeview Estates Retirement Village.

To minimise disruption to this busy precinct, the majority of works will be occurring at night with one day of road sealing occurring during daytime hours.

All earthworks will occur as night works, starting at 7.00pm and finishing by 5.00am. Access to the hospital, businesses, and residences will remain accessible under the guidance of traffic controllers.

One dayshift will occur to seal the road, taking place between 7.00am to 5.00pm. Again, at all times access to hospital, businesses and residents remain, under guidance from traffic controllers.

Road Pavement Testing

Council’s contractor, Durkin have commenced Stage 1 of Road Pavement Testing from Monday the 16th June for a period of 3 weeks (day and night, weather permitting) in over 60 different locations in various streets in across Lithgow, Wallerawang, Portland, Hampton, Little Hartley, Capertee, Rydal, Kanimbla and Lowther.

The testing is to give Council Engineers an understanding of what various roads are made up of, how stable they are and what life expectancy they have remaining.

This information is being collected as part of Councils commitment to improve decision making and process associated with road renewals across the region. This type of testing occurs with no excavation, minimal traffic disruption and each site is assessed in a short period of time. The data collected will inform planning for road repairs and rehabilitation to the road network over the coming years.

All works are dependent on favourable weather conditions.

Scan here to keep up to date with all key projects

COUNCIL COLUMN

On Exhibition

The Council has the following items currently on exhibition:

• Development Proposal – DA063/25

• Development Proposal – DA038/25

Scan here for more information about items on exhibition

Reduce Speed. Icy Conditions

Icy conditions are on the way; it is time to rug up and SLOW DOWN

With winter upon us, here are a few reminders:

• Winter weather is unpredictable.

• There can be sudden drops in temperature and road conditions can change quickly.

• Driving on icy roads can be challenging - even for experienced drivers.

Quick checklist for Safe Motoring icy conditions

1. Be alert for ice on the road particularly in shaded or low lying areas

2. Drive with your headlights on 3. Obey speed advisory signs and be prepared to reduce speed in line with the conditions

4. If you do hit ice, traveling at a reduced speed will help you to maintain control of the vehicle and reduce the force of

Doing business with Council Attention trade services

Lithgow City Council has a system in place called VendorPanel, which is used by contractors to upload and maintain copies of their insurance certificates in order to gain pre-qualification to work for Council.

More information can be found on Council’s website under ‘Doing Business with Council’ or by contacting Council’s Purchasing Coordinator on (02) 6354 9999.

Scan here for more information

Events @ the Libraries

Booklovers Book Club

When: Monday, 6pm

Come along to the Lithgow Library and discuss your latest read or your favourite book. There is no requirement to read a set book as the club is about sharing widely. This weekly get together is free and tea and coffee will be provided.

After-School Academy

When: Thursday, 4-5pm.

La Salle Academy are working in partnership with Lithgow City Council Libraries to deliver the “After School Academy” which provides homework help and support for the transition to high school for children in primary school from years 4-6.

Scan here to find out more about the what you can do to be a part of the Libraries

If you’re over 55 and looking to make a connection, the iconic Lithgow Union Theatre is hosting a series of unique events, exclusive to seniors, until the end of 2025. 10am – 12 noon (on the First Wednesday of each month)

Morning tea provided after each performance. Events are FREE but bookings essential. Upcoming events include:

Comedy Gala - Wednesday 2 July

Come and laugh with Mitch Garling at the Connecting Seniors Comedy Gala including local performers Martin Curtis and Marty Bright.

Ukulele muster - Wednesday 6 August

Lithgow’s Ukulele groups will be brought together for a one-time only performance. Bring your ukulele (if you have one) and or just join in the fun.

Scan here for more information about Connecting Seniors events and to book your ticket.

PCYC Lithgow Opens Doors and Looks to the Future

On Tuesday 17th June, PCYC Lithgow welcomed the community through its doors for a vibrant and purposeful Open Day, offering not only a chance to see the club in action but also a broader call to collaboration and community investment.

With rising cost-of-living pressures affecting households, businesses, and organisations alike, PCYC Lithgow finds itself at a pivotal moment. Club President Paul Phillips, who is also the owner of A Readers Heaven in Lithgow, addressed these challenges head-on during the event.

“We are here today at PCYC Lithgow, as we are at a pivotal moment with the cost-of-living pressures affecting families across our community, and budgets tightening for businesses, community groups and all levels of government,” Mr Phillips said.

“At the same time, we are dealing with the perception that PCYC is a place for young kids, despite having senior classes for judo, karate, parkour, boot camp, and, of course, our indoor soccer. We see these challenges and are thinking outside the box to try and address them.”

Part of that response is a fresh and strategic approach to sponsorship—one that links community needs directly with business contributions.

“Our new sponsorship approaches bring the needs together,” Mr Phillips explained. “Even small sponsorships can directly ease burdens for families, while businesses see their investments creating immediate impact by removing those roadblocks and allowing more kids to participate and begin that journey of friendship and belonging. It’s about addressing the perception and challenges and better engaging older youth.”

Club Manager Chris Wade echoed this sentiment, noting the club’s rapid growth as evidence of strong community demand.

“We have seen significant increases in our junior membership and with our adult membership, an increase of 235%,” he said. “We have potential pathways forward and are actively looking for sponsorships and grants to see us continue to provide these important programs and have expansion opportunities realised for the Lithgow community.”

The Open Day was also a platform for outreach to key community stakeholders. Attendees were invited to explore partnership opportunities that can deliver lasting, tangible change for Lithgow’s young people. PCYC showcased its diverse range of current programs and presented its strategic vision for the future, emphasising how collaborative investment can deliver measurable benefits across the region.

“Come share knowledge, discuss resources and discover how your organisation can contribute to building stronger pathways for our young people,” was the club’s message to those in attendance. “Together, through shared expertise and commitment, we can create a brighter future for Lithgow’s next generation.”

PCYC Lithgow is more than just a gym or activity centre—it’s becoming a cornerstone for community connection, inclusion, and opportunity. With the support of sponsors, local leaders, and residents alike, the club is set on a course to expand its impact and help shape a stronger future for all.

Story and photos by Kellie Evans

Pictured Above: PCYC Staff, Paul Toole, Snr Constable Jacob Hammonds, Mayor Cassandra Coleman & PCYC Operations Manager Richard Gurnett

Pictured below : One of the spaces that is available at the centre used for out of school hours programs.

MESSAGE FROM PRINCIPAL MATT QUIRK

We're already more than halfway through Term 2, and it's been a busy and rewarding few weeks at Portland Central School. A warm welcome to all the new students, families and staff who have joined us this term. It's been great to see everyone settling in so well. From assemblies and excursions to strong classroom learning, it's been a positive start, and we look forward to continuing the momentum through the rest of the term.

We recently held our Week 5 whole-school assembly, where we celebrated student achievements across a range of areas. Awards were presented for academic effort, leadership, and positive contributions to our school wellbeing goals. Our newly formed student leadership group was also acknowledged. As part of the assembly, we recognised National Sorry Day with a thoughtful presentation and reflection led by students, reinforcing the importance of truth-telling, respect, and reconciliation within our school community.

Australia's Biggest Morning Tea

We’re excited to share that our Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser was a great success, raising $715 for the Cancer Council. A huge thank you to our amazing staff, students, and parents for your generous donations and delicious food contributions. Your support created a warm, enjoyable atmosphere and helped us make a meaningful impact. It was a wonderful way to come together as a community and support a cause that touches so many lives.

Visit our website for more information https://portland-c.schools.nsw.gov.au

AI and Social Media Strategist

Laurel Papworth to Present Free Business Workshop in Lithgow

The Lithgow District Chamber of Commerce is set to host an exciting and informative event on Thursday, 17 July, with internationally recognised Social Media Strategist and AI expert Laurel Papworth presenting a two-hour workshop at Lithgow Workmen’s Club.

Free to attend, this special session—Social Media and AI for Your Business—will run from 6pm to 8pm and is designed to empower local business owners with practical tools and insights into using artificial intelligence to enhance their digital presence and marketing effectiveness.

In today’s fast-moving digital landscape, AI is more than just a buzzword—it’s a powerful tool that businesses can leverage for efficiency, automation, and strategic growth. From analysing website performance and improving SEO, to creating compelling social content and interpreting social media and business analytics, the possibilities are rapidly expanding. This workshop will provide attendees with actionable knowledge to integrate AI into their everyday operations.

The Lithgow Business District Chamber is thrilled to welcome Laurel Papworth for this event. Based in Mount Victoria, Papworth is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading authorities on social media strategy. She was named one of Forbes Magazine’s Top 50 Social Media Influencers globally, thanks to her deep understanding of algorithms and her ability to forecast digital trends before they reach the mainstream.

Her client list spans governments, non-profits, and major corporations, and she brings a wealth of experience in helping organisations large and small understand how to harness digital tools to build relationships and drive growth.

“We are so excited to have Laurel Papworth join us,” said Steve Ring, Chamber President. “Her insight into AI and digital marketing will be invaluable for our local businesses who are keen to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving online environment.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the future of business marketing and AI.

This free session is open to all members of the local business community, but seats are limited and registration is essential.

Event details:

What: Social Media and AI for Your Business with Laurel Papworth

When: Thursday, 17 July 2025, 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Where: Lithgow Workies, 3–7 Tank Street, Lithgow

Cost: Free

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/social-media-and-ai-for-your-business/tickets

End of an Era for The Bay Tree Nursery in Clarence

After many seasons of growth, change, and community connection, Bill is preparing to retire from The Bay Tree Nursery in Clarence. With his decision to wind down operations, the nursery will hold a major retirement clearance sale running Wednesdays to Sundays from 10am to 4pm until 30th June.

A long-time fixture in the Clarence region, The Bay Tree Nursery has become known not only for its high-quality plants—including rare and hard-to-find varieties—but also for Bill’s deep horticultural knowledge and personal service. Bill moved the nursery from the Mountains to the Clarence location in June 2019, just before the Black Summer bushfires, although his involvement in the industry and the broader community extends well beyond that, working for the government maintaining gardens at Parliament House and also the magnificent Kirribilli House!

Reflecting on his time at the nursery, Bill said, “It’s been a great run and I’ve really appreciated the support from everyone—locals, regulars, and even visitors just passing through. It’s time for me to step back a bit, but I won’t be giving up the plants entirely.”

The Bay Tree Nursery will formally cease trading under its current name at the end of the month. After that, Bill isn’t leaving the plant world behind entirely. He plans to stay involved in the region’s lively market scene, particularly the Oberon Farmers Market and the Tarana Community Farmers Market, starting from August as well as selling his rare plants via wholesale.

“I’ll still be growing and selling some of the more unusual perennials and shrubs that you can’t easily find elsewhere,” he said. “Things like anti-pyretic plants and other rarities I’ve always loved working with.”

Bill’s phone number will remain active until at least Christmas, and he encourages anyone who has regularly purchased from him to reach out if they’re looking for something specific. “I might even do a couple of open weekends if the interest is there,” he added.

While The Bay Tree Nursery is winding down, the Clarence community can expect to see Bill’s familiar face at seasonal events, such as the popular The Foundations in Portland’s Christmas Twilight Market in December. “Those events are great because they’re not just markets—they’re activations,” he said. “Bonfires, fireworks, food trucks—people come out for the whole experience. If I’ve still got some stock, I’ll definitely think about having a stall.”

The transition marks the end of a beloved local institution, but not the end of Bill’s contributions to the gardening and growing community. “It’s time for a change, but I’ll still be around—just in a different way.”

As for the clearance sale, plant lovers have just a short window to take advantage of great deals on a wide range of plants before the nursery’s final day. Whether you're a long-time customer or a firsttime visitor, this is your chance to pick up something special and bid farewell to one of the region’s most passionate and knowledgeable growers.

The Bay Tree Nursery Retirement Sale runs through to Sunday 30th June, open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am–4pm. Don’t miss it. Pop in to 855 Chifley Rd, Clarence. Phone 0400 347 694.

Editors Note: We would like to thank Bill for his long term support of the publication, we wish you well for your retirement and look forward to seeing what comes next for you.

Lithgow High School Invites Community to Magical Musical Journey

Lithgow High School is delighted to invite the community to its upcoming musical production — Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr., a colourful and energetic stage adaptation of the classic 1951 Disney animated film. Featuring the talents of students across the school’s Creative and Performing Arts programs, the production promises an imaginative theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.

Opening on Thursday 26 June 2025, Alice in Wonderland Jr. is the latest in a long line of successful musicals produced by Lithgow High School. These productions form a vital part of the school’s commitment to fostering creativity, confidence, and collaboration among students through the performing arts.

This year’s show will transport audiences down the rabbit hole with Alice as she encounters a world of curious creatures, eccentric characters, and unexpected adventures. With updated music and lyrics from Disney’s original film — written by renowned composers Sammy Fain, Bob Hilliard, Oliver Wallace, Cy Coban, Allie Wrubel, and Ted Sears — the show delivers a fast-paced, fun-filled interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale.

The performance schedule kicks off with an Opening Night Extravaganza on Thursday 26 June, featuring pre-show entertainment by Lithgow High’s Music, Dance and Drama students. Evening performances follow on Friday 27 June and Saturday 28 June at 7:00pm, with a matinee on Sunday 29 June at 2:00pm.

Held on campus at Lithgow High School, the production offers a showcase of the school’s artistic talent and the dedication of students, staff and volunteers who have worked together to bring Wonderland to life on stage. The performance combines vibrant staging, dynamic choreography, and memorable music to capture the whimsy and wonder of the original story.

The school extends a warm invitation to families, friends, and community members to join in celebrating this highlight of the school calendar. The production reflects the strength of Lithgow High School’s performing arts program and the creative spirit of its students.

The production is led by Deputy Principal Brett Jeffers, CAPA Head Teacher Lauren Aldrick, and HT Administration and Choreographer Deb Farebrother, who have supported and guided the student cast and crew throughout the rehearsal process.

Tickets are available through the school office or by going to trybooking.com/DCBST. This is a wonderful opportunity to support local students and enjoy a vibrant evening of family-friendly entertainment.

Pictured top: Big Alice is April Birkett Yr 10, Alice is Marijke McLoughlan Yr 12 and Short Alice is Makayla Martin Yr 10.

Pictured below: Ensemble Cast - Lara Fullgrabe, Violet Younger, Makayla Martin, Marijke McLoughlan, April Birkett, Amelie Aldridge & Javee Barretto

Wallerawang’s Crib Room Restaurant a Hit with Locals and Travellers Alike

Story By Kellie Evans. Photos Supplied

At the edge of Lithgow’s western corridor, an unassuming town is home to one of the region’s most talked-about dining experiences. Black Gold Motel’s Crib Room Restaurant in Wallerawang has quietly built a reputation as a standout on the local culinary map, earning the number one ranking on TripAdvisor and drawing praise from both residents and visiting guests.

Named in honour of the traditional "crib rooms" where coal miners took their breaks, the restaurant blends local heritage with a modern approach to casual Australian dining. The restaurant’s entry is marked by “Bob” Miller, a life-size statue of a coal miner, standing proudly in tribute to the workers who shaped the Central Tablelands and coalfields around the world.

While Bob may stand still, things inside the Crib Room Restaurant are far from static. The kitchen serves up a thoughtfully curated menu of hearty meals, local produce and crowd-pleasing favourites. Signature dishes such as the Rib Eye Steak, Lamb Cutlets and Crumbed Beef Sausages are regular draws, served with the restaurant’s distinctive “black glove” service—a nod to their attention to detail.

Next door, the Lamp Room Lounge & Bar provides a relaxed setting for pre-dinner cocktails or evening drinks, offering sweeping views across the old school grounds that the Black Gold site once was. The bar is stocked with local wines and craft beers, and the cocktail list—featuring the much-recommended French Martini—is proving to be a favourite among guests.

According to General Manager Brad Cluff, it’s the consistency in both service and quality that keeps diners coming back. “We want people to feel welcome, whether they’re locals out for a quiet night or guests passing through the region.” Brad also said “Good food, good service, and a nod to the area’s history—that’s what we’re about.”

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday, and breakfast five mornings a week, the Crib Room caters to a wide variety of tastes and dietary needs. Vegan and gluten-free meals are available, and there are options specifically designed for seniors and children. Whether you're visiting from Lithgow, Portland, Hartley, Rydal,

or even further afield like the Wolgan Valley or Capertee, the restaurant provides a reliable and well-reviewed choice for families, groups, and solo diners alike.

The breakfast menu, served in the airy Lamp Room Lounge, is especially popular among early risers, corporate guests, and weekend travellers. Locally sourced ingredients and wellexecuted classics form the foundation of the breakfast offering, which many regulars describe as a hidden gem.

While Wallerawang may not be the first place that comes to mind for standout dining in the Central Tablelands, the Crib Room Restaurant continues to challenge that assumption— earning its place not only as a top-rated venue online but as a dining room where locals and visitors alike feel at home.

Opening Hours:

• Dinner: Monday to Saturday, 5:30pm – 8:30pm

• Breakfast:

Tuesday to Friday: 5:30am – 9:30am

Saturday & Sunday: 8:00am – 11:00am

Closed Mondays

Black Gold is located at 121 Main Street, Wallerawang. To book, contact the team on 655 7305. Follow along with the socials facebook.com/blackgoldmotel or instagram.com/ sblackgoldmotel/

HAPPY 56TH BIRTHDAY LITHGOW VIEW CLUB.

On june 11th the members of Lithgow VIEW Club celebrated their 56th Birthday.

Our Special Guests included Andrew Gee MP, Paul Toole MP, Maree Statham and also members of Upper Blue Mountains, Springwood, Richmond/Windsor and Bathurst VIEW Clubs. Members from The Red Cross, Quota, Can Assist and Inner Wheel also joined in our celebrations.

We were blessed with music and singing by our Guest Entertainer, Annalie.

Friends caught up with each other and a very happy atmosphere filled the room. Everyone had a wonderful time.

OBERON COUNCIL UPDATE

FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK

Oberon Mayor’s Column 17 June 2025

The Country Mayors Association (CMA) held a transport forum for Mayors and General Managers in Orange on 12 June with Minister Jenny Atchison addressing the forum and answering questions. The crucial “White Paper’ on connectivity to Sydney across the Blue Mountains is still to be issued midyear. UGL, which managers Country Rail for Transport for NSW, also made a presentation and updated the attendees on new level Crossing upgrades proposed to be installed. Participants asked why more freight could not be transported by rail and UGL stated more intermodals were required to allow freight on trucks to be transferred to rail cheaply and e ciently. The issue of closed freight rail lines such as the Blayney to Demondrille (Cowra)line were also raised.

Following the CMA meeting Mayors from Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange, Oberon, and Dubbo met with the Mayor of Armidale to understand how the New England had dealt with and negotiated with the renewable companies in the New England area. The establishment of a wealth fund that Renewable companies contributed to yearly and that generated income to pay for amenities, so all the community bene ted, was of particular interest.

The Pines Windfarm (Stromlo/Tag), which is proposing to construct 250 turbines in Forestry Corp managed Pine plantations, held a quarterly brie ng with Council on 10 June and answered many questions concerning the project. These questions and answers are being published on the Pines Windfarm website. A rescission Motion has been tabled for 17 June Council Meeting to rescind the previous Development Approval resolution, passed at the May meeting of Council, for 3 anemometer towers for measuring wind speed, frequency and velocity in the vicinity of these pine plantations.

In the last few weeks GPG the proponent for the Paling Yards Windfarm has disclosed its preferred transport route for freighting the turbines, blades and tower components to Paling yards for installation, this has caused considerable community concern in Oberon and in Bathurst Council areas. At the 17 June Meeting of Oberon Council, Council is being requested to consider modi cations to the O’Connell Rd to allow for these large Multi wheeled vehicles to navigate the road.

The cold weather has hit home with Oberon and Black Springs having their rst snow falls for the season. There has been a continuous period of early morning frosts and fog with the coldest morning for two years being recorded on Monday 16 June. It is time for all of us to start celebrating the bene ts of our cold climate with Christmas in July events, concerts and Bon res. I urge everyone to support our businesses and community events during this winter period and to enjoy the bene ts of winter.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Waste to Art 2025.

Everyone from local schools and the wider community is invited to take part in the Waste to Art exhibition. This year's theme is "Year of Toys" – create art from broken or discarded toys. Entry forms are available at Oberon Library, Visitor Centre, and Council Chambers. Alternatively make a request library@oberon.nsw.gov.au

Christmas in July Dinner – Black Springs Please Note this event has been cancelled.

Burraga Sport and Recreation Club Family Bingo Saturday 21 June. Starts at 2pm $12 tickets

Allegri Singers at The Uniting Church Oberon Saturday 5thJuly at 2.30pm

Christmas in July Milbrey Café Saturday 5th July

What’s Happening in Burraga and at the Sports & Recreation Club

The town of Burraga and their much loved Sports & Recreation Club has a busy calendar ahead, offering a warm welcome and a wide range of events for locals and visitors alike. With activities to suit all ages and interests, the Club continues to be a central hub of community life.

Christmas in July – Saturday 26th July

Mark your calendar for a festive mid-year celebration at the Club’s popular Christmas in July event. Set for Saturday 26th July, the evening promises good food, great company and plenty of Christmas cheer. Guests will enjoy a two-course meal, entertainment, a lucky door prize, and a raffle. Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for children aged 5 to 16, and $10 for children under 4. The event starts at 6pm, and bookings are essential by Friday 19th July.

Bingo – Saturday 21st June

If you're looking for a fun, social afternoon, head to the Club on Saturday 21st June for Bingo. Books are available from 2pm with the first game starting at 3pm. Prices are $12 for a full book of 20 games or $5 for a half book of 10 games. Enjoy tasty snacks along with tea and coffee while trying your luck in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Burraga Sheep Show – Saturday 30th August

The much-loved Burraga Sheep Show is returning on Saturday 30th August. Organisers are currently seeking stallholders – tables are available for $10 or $15 for powered indoor spots. Food vendors are especially welcome. Local businesses interested in sponsoring the event are encouraged to contact Michelle for details. This is a key event on the regional calendar and an excellent opportunity to support and engage with the community.

Fishing Club – Catch & Remove Competition

The Burraga Fishing Club’s next Catch & Remove competition will take place at Burraga Dam from 9am Saturday 25th October to 9am Sunday 26th October. The event will include food and raffles, with prizes awarded for the biggest Redfin, biggest Carp, most Redfin, and most Carp in the under 12s category. Membership to the Club is just $10. For more information, search “Burraga Fishing Club” on Facebook.

Regular Weekly Activities

The Club hosts Meat Raffles every Friday night from 5pm, and Indoor Bowls on Wednesday nights from 8pm. These regular events continue to draw a loyal crowd and offer something fun to look forward to each week.

Opening Hours

The Burraga Sports & Recreation Club is open:

• Wednesday: 9am to 3pm and 7pm to 10pm

• Friday: 9am to 3pm and 5pm till close

• Saturday & Sunday: 2pm to 6pm

The Club is located at 81–139 Lloyd Street, Burraga. For event bookings or general enquiries, contact Michelle on 0457 770 179. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, there’s always something happening at the Burraga Sports & Recreation Club.

Nominate Your Favourite Local Business for the 2025 Oberon Business Awards

The countdown is on for one of the region’s most anticipated celebrations of enterprise and service — the 2025 Oberon Business Awards. Nominations are now open, offering the public a chance to recognise and support the local businesses, tradespeople, and organisations that contribute to making Oberon a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.

Whether it's a warm smile at your local café, outstanding service from a tradie, or an unforgettable visitor experience at a local attraction, this is your opportunity to show your appreciation. Nominations close on Monday, June 24, and with just one vote needed for a business to progress to the next round, every nomination counts.

Hosted by the Oberon Business and Tourism Association Inc. (OBTA), the awards shine a spotlight on business excellence across a diverse range of categories. All local businesses — not just OBTA members — are eligible to be nominated, either by the public or by self-nomination.

Award Categories

The 2025 awards feature a mix of judged and people’s choice categories, reflecting the wideranging impact of businesses and community groups in the Oberon region.

Judged Categories:

• Outstanding New Business (operating for less than 2 years)

• Outstanding Visitor Experience

• Outstanding Community Organisation

• Employer of Choice

• Excellence in Micro Business (1–4 employees)

• Excellence in Small Business (5–19 employees)

• Excellence in Large Business (20+ employees)

People’s Choice Categories:

• Favourite Tradie (including barbers, hairdressers, and other trade services)

• Favourite Hospitality Venue (motel, accommodation, café, pub, fast food outlet)

• Service with a Smile (individuals who consistently deliver friendly and outstanding service)

“This year’s awards are a celebration of the dedication, resilience and creativity that define our local business community. We encourage everyone to take a few minutes to nominate — it’s a powerful way to show appreciation and support for those who make Oberon such a special place,” said Tatiana Coulter, President of the Oberon Business and Tourism Association.

Celebrating 2024’s Standouts

Last year’s award recipients showcased the strength, diversity, and innovation within Oberon’s business landscape. The 2024 winners included:

• Mawhoods IGA + Liquor – Employer of Choice

• Oberon Earthmoving – Excellence in Large Business

• Plateau Garden Landscapes – Excellence in Micro Business

• Oberon Rodeo – Outstanding Community Organisation

• Reno Spares – Outstanding New Business

• Essington Park – Outstanding Visitor Experience

These businesses were recognised not only for their operational excellence, but also for the passion, service, and resilience they demonstrate every day.

To nominate, simply visit: https://tatiana8974.survey.fm/2025-oberon-business-awards

The awards are a fantastic way to bring positive attention to businesses that go the extra mile — those who invest in their staff, foster strong community ties, or provide unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Save the Date

Winners of the 2025 Oberon Business Awards will be announced at a celebratory Awards Night on Friday, 5th September at the Oberon RSL. The evening promises to be a memorable occasion, bringing together the people behind Oberon’s most admired enterprises and organisations.

Let’s Celebrate Local

The Oberon Business Awards are more than a trophy on a shelf — they represent recognition, encouragement, and community pride. Every nomination contributes to a culture that celebrates local effort and enterprise. If there's a business, service provider, or community organisation that has impressed you this year, take a moment to nominate them.

Help spread the word by tagging your favourites on social media, encouraging others to vote, and sharing the nomination link. Let’s come together to celebrate the people and businesses who help shape Oberon’s identity and success.

Nominations close June 24 — don’t miss your chance to get involved!

Honouring Middle East Service at Oberon Memorial

The Oberon RSL Sub-Branch will host a special sunset memorial service to honour all Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who served in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) between 2002 and 2022.

The service will take place at the Oberon War Memorial on Friday 11 July 2025, commencing at 4:30pm. It will acknowledge the two decades of significant ADF involvement in the region, including operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and surrounding areas, as part of Australia’s contribution to international peacekeeping and security efforts.

The MEAO service is an important opportunity for the Oberon community to reflect on the sacrifices made and to recognise the contribution of both current and former service men and women. This period represents one of the longest continuous operational commitments in Australia’s military history, and many veterans, including those from regional areas like Oberon, played a vital role.

The Oberon RSL Sub-Branch invites all current and ex-serving ADF personnel, their families, and members of the public to attend. The sunset timing of the service has been chosen for its symbolism—offering a moment of stillness and reflection as the day draws to a close.

Events like this reinforce the significance of local commemorations, providing a respectful space for remembrance and community support. In towns like Oberon, where military service has long been a part of the community fabric, such ceremonies are a chance to honour not just national service, but the local stories and sacrifices behind it.

The Sub-Branch encourages those wishing to attend or seeking further information to get in touch by calling 0438 615 653.

This commemorative event stands as a public acknowledgment of duty, resilience, and the enduring legacy of Australia’s involvement in the Middle East. All are welcome to pay their respects and stand in solidarity with those who served.

Information supplied: Neville Stapleton on behalf of the Oberon RSL Sub-Branch Image credit: Oberon RSL

Oberon NAIDOC Art Exhibition 2025

From 7th to 17th July 2025

On display at the Oberon Library & Community Centre

Celebrate the Indigenous artists from around our region. Opportunity to purchase unique and original artworks

Entries - Scan the QR Code, Enter the details of your entry by selecting “get tickets’, then select one free general admission art entry per art exhibit

Lifestyle

SWhy

The World of Interiors

with Marnee Fox

thoughtful design has a huge impact on our well-being.

ome of my warmest childhood memories are of regularly rearranging my bedroom furniture, painting murals on the back of doors (I’m GenX so my parents were fairly loose), and doing up old furniture with the help of my dad.

The end result, a fresh new space which gave me a huge sense of satisfaction and an immense feeling of calm. This was a big deal for such an anxious, overthinking kid. It was no surprise then that this love of recreating spaces travelled into adulthood, across the globe and into a career as an interior stylist. It is my belief that a space created with instinct, thoughtfulness and love will encourage its inhabitants to live their best lives.

The design of the places we inhabit such as our homes, work and community spaces have a profound impact on our mental health and overall well-being. The layout of a space can influence our mood, productivity, stress levels, and even our relationships. By understanding the psychology of space, we can create environments that promote comfort, happiness, and a sense of well-being.

If our toilet is blocked we call the plumber. The lights go out, we summons the electrician. When our car isn’t running smoothly we take it to the mechanic, yet even though we spend the vast amount of our time in our homes and workplace, when these spaces are not functioning at their best we tend to just make do. Like engaging a sparky to rewire your house so all the lights can turn on, seeking professional advice from an interior stylist can greatly improve the mechanisms of a happy healthy living space.

So beginning with some of my favourite design advice when it comes to improving our interior spaces, let’s get started.

Colour Psychology:

Colours can evoke different emotions and influence mood. Soft, neutral colours like blues and greens promote calmness so they are perfect for relaxation areas like reading nooks and bedrooms, unless of course you want to really spice things up by using vibrant colours like red and yellow which can energise and stimulate. These colours are best used on front doors or in high energy areas. Choose colours that align with the desired mood for each room, and of course the colours that make your heart sing.

Spatial design and flow:

Layout and orientation are important considerations when it comes to your interior. In residential designs, creating a sense of flow between different areas – particularly communal and private spaces – is key to fostering mental well-being.

Open plan living promotes interaction and connection while a closed space offers privacy and retreat. Getting the right balance can enhance both social well-being and a sense of personal safety and comfort.

Ensuring clear pathways, enough access and minimal clutter can reduce stress and improve flow.

Bring nature in:

Natural light, views of nature and house plants are essential elements for a calm inducing environment. Having plants in your space has been proven to improve air quality and mental health. If you don’t have a view you can create your own with nature photography and artwork and there are lots of plants that can thrive with minimal sunlight such as Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa), Polka dot plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya), Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae genera), Ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata), Money tree (Pachira aquatica) and Peace lily (Spathiphyllum spp.) just to name a few.

As our awareness of the connection between living spaces and mental health grows, we’ll likely see increasing emphasis on designing homes and communities that prioritise well-being. In the meantime, we can all take small steps to improve our living spaces and enhance our mental well-being. And who doesn’t want to be in a space they feel fabulous in.

Over the coming months I’ll be sharing some of my favourite style subjects including, upcycling for interior design, permaculture principles for sustainable interiors, how to support local designers and artists and a deep dive into how to choose the right colours and pieces for your space. I can’t wait.

Pictured: Colour psychology - Marnee uses bold emotive colours in all her work. Bringing nature inside gives life to a space.

is Marnee Fox?

Marnee is an interior stylist, event designer, and multi disciplined creative based in beautiful Lithgow. She has over 20 years of experience crafting soulful, sustainable spaces. Her work reflects a deep love for the planet, art, and intentional living. She also has a talent for making boozy jams which are currently only available at ‘The Pottery’ in Lithgow and runs seasonal wild food events at The Gang Gang Gallery with husband ‘The Weedy One’, Diego Bonetto.

For more info or to get in touch check out www.marneefox. com or email Marnee at marnee@marneefox.com

Style over fashion, always!

Who

WOODBRIDGE CUP RUGBY LEAGUE UPDATE

Story and Photo by John Fitzgerald

Oberon Tigers are safely ensconced among the top teams in the Woodbridge Cup after last week’s 40-0 defeat of Molong Bulls.

The Tigers at no stage were troubled by the Bulls who came to Oberon just one competition point behind the three leading teams Manildra, Oberon and Cowra, now all on 14 points.

Manildra and Cowra won their matches also, the Rhinos 28-12 winners over Eugowra, and Cowra 32-20 over Orange United.

With the top three clubs winning their round 8 games the status quote remains and their wins reinforcing their positions at the head of the competition table.

Canowindra are fighting back after some early indifferent performances and are sitting on 10 points with Orange and Condobolin.

This week’s round 9 has Oberon at home to Grenfell Goannas on Saturday, the game, expected to be contested strongly by the Tigers, coinciding with the home side’s annual Can Assist charity day.

The Goannas are in 12th spot on the ladder but any team can be a danger in this competition if not afforded respect.

A jersey auction will be conducted at the conclusion of the game.

Manildra and Cowra are also playing low-placed sides this weekend and their positions at the top of the table are not expected to be challenged.

The Tigers leaguetag side were disappointed with their two-point loss to Molong after their energetic display against the seventh-placed Bulls.

Next week Oberon are away to Cargo, the match set down for the Sunday.

Community Battery Trial

Observant readers may have noticed some large grey boxes mounted on some of the electricity poles around Bathurst in recent months. What are they for?

They are known as a Community Battery, and they are being trialed by Essential Energy in partnership with Origin Energy. A community Battery stores the excess energy generated by household solar panels in the middle of sunny days and makes it available to the community at night. It’s very much like a battery you might have at home, except that it’s operated by the electricity provider. It also helps the electricity provider to even out the load on their network.

They are offering consumers the chance to participate in the trial. For $15 per month, you will receive 4 KWh (KiloWatt hours) of electricity per day. 1 KWh will run a 1-bar heater for an hour, a TV for about 12 hours or a fridge for around 4-5 hours. At normal rates you’ll pay around 36c for 1 KWh, so if you use all of the 4 KW that you get for free, you’ll save around $1.44 per day or $43 per month. For the $15 that you pay, that’s not a bad deal.

There are a couple of conditions in the fine print. If you already have solar panels, you will only receive the free 4 KWH if you feed at least that amount into the grid on that day. If you don’t have solar panels, you get the 4 KWh with no conditions.

You don’t have to be an Origin Energy customer to participate in the trial, and you can do so even if you rent your house, as long as you have an electricity bill in your name.

I think this is an exciting initiative. Much has been made of the difficulty of using excess solar generation in the middle of the day, and this is a first-class way to use it. By putting the batteries on existing electricity poles, they don’t take up any extra room. It allows renters and those who don’t have the funds to install their own solar panels and batteries to benefit from solar generated electricity. And it’s scalable if the trial is successful – there are a lot of power poles around the town!

I have solar panels and am looking at installing my own battery, but I’ve signed up for the trial. There’s no time commitment so you can pull out at any time. In Bathurst, the trial area is West Bathurst and Windradyne, but there are other trials in Armidale, Dubbo, Port Macquarie and Wagga Wagga. You can get more information on the Essential Energy and Origin Energy websites – search on “community battery”.

David Ashton is a member of Bathurst Community Climate Action Network (BCCAN). Disclaimer – I have previously worked for Essential Energy.

Caption: Pole Mounted Battery installation. Source: Ecojoule (manufacturer)

Have you got a burning topic or something you would like to add to the conversation about Lithgow, Oberon, Blayney or Bathurst?

Please keep in mind that we are focussed on telling the stories that are important to our communities in a respectful and constructive manner. We don't all have to agree all the time, but by participating in genuine debate based on facts we can ensure we get the best outcomes for our community.

We'd love to hear from you email us: editor@villagevoice.net.au

Warm Winter Notes from Lithgow City Orchestra

By Peter Avery

As winter settles across the Central Tablelands, bringing with it crisp mornings and icy evenings, the Lithgow City Orchestra (LCO) is offering the perfect remedy—a heartwarming afternoon of live music. Their Winter Concert will be held on Sunday 29th June at 2pm, providing the community with a rich and varied musical experience at Notre Dame University's concert hall, located near Lithgow Hospital.

This free event invites all residents and visitors to enjoy an engaging and diverse musical program in the comfort of a warm and welcoming venue. The LCO will perform an expansive selection of pieces that cross genres and centuries. Audiences can expect classical favourites by Dvorak, Sibelius, Strauss, Elgar, and J.S. Bach, alongside moving works such as Mascagni’s Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana. Contemporary pieces will also feature, including Archie Roach’s poignant storytelling, the haunting traditional ballad House of the Rising Sun, and the cinematic favourite “My Heart Will Go On” from Titanic.

In a special addition to the program, the concert will feature guest performers The Lounge Room Piano Trio, comprising Andrew Wilson (piano), Nicky Wilson (cello), and Peter Avery (violin). The trio will showcase a collection of original works by Andrew Wilson, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience new, locally composed music within the concert’s classical context.

More than just a musical event, the Winter Concert is a celebration of community, creativity, and the shared joy of live performance. The orchestra continues to provide opportunities for both seasoned and emerging musicians in Lithgow and surrounding areas, while enriching the cultural life of the region.

Admission is free, and refreshments will be served following the performance, offering attendees a chance to meet the musicians and mingle with fellow concert-goers.

Whether you are a long-time supporter of the arts or simply looking for a warm and uplifting way to spend a winter afternoon, the Lithgow City Orchestra’s Winter Concert promises a memorable experience.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a cherished local tradition and enjoy an afternoon of inspiring music. All are welcome.

Famous gift, ... Horse

TV charity appeals

Classic portrait, ... Lisa

Doorbell trigger

As a gamble, on ...

Acute anxiety

Flight staff

Established practice

Scratches out

Solid ground, ... firma

At an angle

Misplacing

Untrue statement

Compass direction (1,1,1)

Authorised

Rumpled

Sets of documents

Assist (4,3)

Fashionable, ... mode (1,2)

Attention

Changed fabric colour

Romeo’s lover

Want badly

Cinema gangway

Welsh poet, ... Thomas

Intimate (thoughts) 10. S American animals

Damage

Allocation

Include

On end

British anthem, ... Queen (3,4,3)

Renounce

Suffer (over)

Fight instigators 26. Long-haired hunting dogs (5,7) 29. In ABC order 37. Headlong surge

Burn slowly

Overeating

Patellas

Analyses

Oxygenate (water)

Snowy peaks

Back of neck 57. Contactable (2,4)

One or the other

Scraping by, ... out a living

Gain knowledge

Artistically (pleasing)

73. Interest rate units

Quizzes

Cake layer 79. Temporary debarments

CD brand (1,1,1)

Showy flowers

Smiled mockingly

Retaliates for

Spiritualists

Towered over

Stifling

Once more

Intended

Keyboard operator’s complaint (1,1,1)

Gent

No trouble

Carry

Kick out

Moves closer to

Shout

Charged atoms

Panache

Hard-earned cash

Stops

Furnaces

Organisations

129. Gym garments

130. Commercial traveller 131. Veils

132. Cap & coat rack (3,5)

138. Single-celled organism

139. Numerical records

143. Isolates

144. Shirked

146. Cain’s biblical brother

149. Tomato variety

155. Information banks

157. Alfresco (4-3)

159. Tennis bat

161. Shipboard emergency floats (4,5)

165. Socially refined

169. Confines

171. Betrayed, ... on 172. Sulked

175. Livestock sheds

176. Hymn, Amazing ...

177. Overalls, bib & ...

178. Diagonal weave

181. Cover with gold

184. Discontinued (project)

186. South African political party (1,1,1)

190. I have (1’2)

W H AT ’ S O N

Central NSW calendar of ar ts and cultural events

EXHIBITIONS

A Thousand Words Gallery

New location: The Saddlery 11 Icely Street, Carcoar

Gathered

Opens Sat 5 July

July 5 to July 13

Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, Bathurst

New exhibition: Critical Minerals

Bathurst Regional

Art Gallery

Esssenssse

July 5- September 7

An aquatic ecosystem that explores the tenacity of the human spirit

Mystery of Missing Westerlies

July 5- September 7

A BRAG Foyer Space Exhibition by Ecological Gyre Theory

Bathurst Arts Trail

Sat 5 July - Sun 6 July,

10am-4pm

Artist studios open around Bathurst, Peel, Newbridge, Millthorpe

Gang Gang Gallery, Lithgow

New exhibitions coming soon

Hill End Art Gallery

From the Studio

Weekends to 20 July, 11am-3pm

Lithgow Union Theatre Gallery

Waste to Art

23 June – 31 August

Oberon Library

NAIDOC Art Exhibition

Mon 7 July - Thu 17 July

Perthville Artisan Market

Perthville Community Hall

Sat 12 July, 9am-2 30pm

T.Arts Gallery, Bathurst

The Not Too Good The Not Too Bad and The Not Too Ugly

Sat 5 July - Mon 21 July

Artist Ross Roorda

BOOKS

Bathurst Library

Book Talk – The Journey:

The Art & Life of Patrick Carroll

Wed July 9, 6pm

Sally Gould In Conversation

Thu 24 July 6pm

lots for families & the school holidays

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Abercrombie House

Teddy Bears Picnic

Thu 10 July, 10am-4pm

Kids' Night Tours

Wed 9 July 5 30pm - 6 45pm

Lithgow Library & Learning Centre

Winter Wonderland Slime

Mon 7 July 3pm - 4:30pm

Paint a Snowflake Canvas Painting

Thu 10 July 10:30am - 12pm

Robotics Workshop for Ages 5-7

Mon 14 July, 9 30am-11am

Robotics Workshop for Ages 8-14

Mon 14 July, 2pm-4 30pm

Bathurst Memorial

Entertainment Centre

Adam Mada’s Magic Taster

Workshop

Sun 13 July 10:30am - 11:30am

Panthers Bathurst

The Baby Dino Show

Thur 17 July, 11am - 12pm

Bathurst Regional

Art Gallery

Workshops 10 & 16 July

Bathurst Library

BIG Yellow Submarine

with Fiona Howle

Mon 7 July 10 30am-12 30

History Hill Museum, Hill End

Mon 7 July - Sun 20 July daily

Gang Gang Gallery Lithgow

Steampunk Character Creation

Tues 15 July, 1-3pm

WORKSHOPS

t arts Gallery, Bathurst

Bronze Sculptures Workshop

Sat 12 July - Sun 13 July

Gang Gang Gallery Lithgow

Saturday Art Club with Wendy Carlson

Sat 26 July, 3pm

Life Drawing / Still Life

Wed 30 July, 10am-1pm

Lithgow Library & Learning Centre

Introduction to Fine Art Classes Tuesdays 10am-1pm

MUSIC & THEATRE

Bathurst Memorial

Entertainment Centre

Good Old Days of Rock n Roll

Fri 4 July 2pm

Lube Me Alone

Fri 11 July 7:30pm

Mada’s Magic Marvels

Sat 12 July, 11am, 3pm For kids

Bonnie & Clyde – Live on Screen

Sun 13 July, 1pm

Mzaza Singing & Instrumental Workshops

Fri 18 July 5 30pm

Mzaza: The Birth and Death of Stars

Fri 18 July 7:30pm

Lee Kernaghan:

Boys From the Bush

Sun 20 July, 7 30pm

Seen: The Film

Wed 23 July, 6 30pm

Dr Strangelove – Live on Screen

Sun 27 July, 1pm

1984 By George Orwell

Tue 29 July, 7pm

From Shake and Stir

Reckless Brewery, Bathurst

Jazz

Wed 2 July, 6:pm

Reckless Western Winter

Fri 11 July - Sun 13 July

Local beer wine food and live music

Little Alberts @ The Victoria

Bathurst

Jhana Allan with Alice Blackwood

Sun July 6, 1pm

Jenny Mitchell

Sun 13 July at 2:30pm

Very Open Mic Night

Tue 15 July, 6pm

Oberon Uniting Church Hall

Allegri Singers:

Eat, Sing & Be Merry

Sat 5 July 2 30pm

Art House at the Pottery Lithgow Tribute To Jim Low Album Launch

Sun 13 July, 11am-1pm

Bathurst RSL

Dreams Fleetwood Mac and Stevie

Nicks Tribute Show

Fri July 18 8 30pm

More regular classes, groups and workshops to join on the calendar

MUSIC

& THEATRE

Keystone 1889 Bathurst

Allegri Singers:

Eat, Sing & Be Merry

Sun 6 July 2:30pm

Lenny s Toddler Techno Tour

Sat 12 July, 10am & 1pm

Creedence Clearwater Revival

Sat July 19 6pm

Star for a Night

26 July

Bathurst Panthers

Gavin Bowles

Sat July 12, 7 30pm

The Tay Tay Tribute Show

Sun 13 July, 3pm

Band of Brothers

Sat 26 July 7:30pm

Club Lithgow

Morning Melodies

Wed 16 July 10am - 12:30pm

Malachi Gilmour Hall, Oberon Ensemble Offspring To Listen to Sing Sat 19 July, 3pm

All Saints Anglican Cathedral, Bathurst

Heather Lloyd Trio: Laments & Lullabies

Sun 27 July 3pm

Lithgow Workies

Colin Yule Sat 5 July 7 30pm

Mick Vawdon, Sat 12 July, 7 30pm

Quakkas, Sat 19 July 7 30pm

Born Jovi, Sat 26 July, 8pm

Morning Melodies

Wed 30 July, doors 10 30am

The DonnyBrook Hotel

Live Music - Fridays

FESTIVALS

Winter at The Greens on William

Fri 4 July - Fri 18 July

The Greens on William, Bathurst

Winter Fire Festival

Fri 1 August, 5-9 30pm

Millthorpe

JOIN

Seven Valleys Creatives Forum

Tue 15 July 7pm

Club Lithgow

For creators, makers, arts lovers

Add your listing or see full details of these and 100s more arts and cultural events, gigs and regular activities plus interactive maps of galleries, heritage, handmade, public art and Aboriginal culture at Arts OutWest’s Culture Maps Central NSW:

REGIONAL

Back to Buckinbah Festival

Fri 4 July - Sun 6 July

Yeoval

Family fun event Market stalls, live music, Cobb & Co rides, camp oven cook off, local game of rugby, bush dance gold panning lawn bowls and more

Orange Regional Museum

Creative Collections Showcase

Fri 4 July 6pm - 8pm

On the Move

Sat 28 June - 12 Oct

Journey into an interactive world of transport in this new children's exhibition

Cowra Regional Art Gallery

Vibrations in Australian Drawing Until Sun 13 July

Orange Regional Gallery

Hidden Treasures Art Sale

25 July - 27 July

Mudgee Arts Precinct

The Indivisible 25 July – 14 September

New Paintings by Kandos artists

Gabrielle Bates, Leo Cremonese and Georgina Pollard

Orange Civic Thearre Honk! Jnr

Fri 11 July - Sun 13 July

Orange Theatre Company

Arts OutWest is the Central West NSW Regional Arts Development Organisation supported by the NSW Government, the Australian Government, 12 member councils and Charles Sturt University. What’s On is one of our free regional services

Submit your August listings by July 13 for consideration