Central West Village Voice - Issue 043

Above: The woodchop was a popular attraction. Photo by Wade Jackson

UNDER CONTRACT

2 2 1 1

$629,000

Gorgeous villa with internal garage plus separate internal laundry. Features include high ceilings, living flame gas fire and a large rear garden.

The large lounge/dining room and master bedroom enjoy stunning views of the surrounding undulating hills with a lovely private courtyard area. The master bedroom also boasts an ensuite bathroom plus an entire wall of built-in wardrobes.

2 2 1 1

$629,000

This villa is something to behold. With 2 gorgeous bedrooms, each with private bathroom and the best in modern fixtures and fittings. The master bedroom is furnished with walk-in robes and has a private ensuite.

The single garage gives you direct access to the home which makes access a breeze. It has a natural living flame gas fire in the living area and zoned heating and air conditioning throughout.

2 2 1 1

$579,000

A refurbished freestanding villa with a private courtyard and attached garage, it boasts three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a spacious living area and newly designed modern open kitchen. Reverse cycle air conditioning and flued gas heating are included.

You will love the private courtyard that is perfect for that mid-morning, relaxing coffee.

2 2 1 1

$569,000

The Megalong-style villa packs a huge range of features into its cleverly designed layout with the very best in modern fixtures and fittings. It boasts 2 large bedrooms, the master with walk-in robes and private ensuite. The second bathroom is perfect for guests. The single garage has easy access directly into the home, which has a living flame gas fire in the living area and zoned heating and air conditioning throughout.

3 2 1

$639,000

This stunning home has the best of open-plan living areas. Each bedroom has its own ensuite, essentially creating two separate private wings. The master bedroom has built-in wardrobes, and there is a cozy gas fire in the living area for those winter nights. The kitchen is equipped with stone bench tops, dishwasher, oven and cooktop. The home has fully ducted and zoned air-conditioning throughout. The single garage is fitted with an automatic roller door.

$579,000 2 2 1 NEW

This ingenious floor-plan offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms and an internal single garage. The master bedroom has walk-in wardrobes and its own ensuite. The second bedroom also has an ensuite, which creates two separate living quarters. The superb kitchen is equipped with stone benchtops, dishwasher, oven and cooktop.

The living room boasts a cosy living gas fire, and it has fully ducted and zoned heating and cooling throughout.

“KURRAJONG” VILLA

“JAMISON” VILLA

100th Rydal Show

The 100th Annual Rydal Show was held on Saturday 4th February and was a huge success.

We had a massive crowd through the gate (a record) with the line of traffic reaching back into the main street and not a parking spot to be had for miles around.

Thursday night and Friday morning saw large queue of people waiting to enter exhibits. Entries were up in all sections with the best of the district on display. The pavilions were packed with flowers, fruit and vegetables, wool, cooking, needlework, art and crafts and photography along with a large display of schoolwork.

The scone section was hotly contested, especially the special politician’s class which saw Councillor Cassandra Coleman take out 1st place followed by Federal member Andrew Gee in 2nd and Councillor Stuart McGhie coming in 3rd.

All our animal exhibits including the ring were very popular with horse numbers up which was great to see. The Topsy Turvy ring for our youngest riders had a large number of entries with lots of ribbons awarded and a bag of lollies to top off their show day.

Andrew from Live Reptile Displays was very popular with his snakes, lizards, and a crocodile. It was standing room only around the pit during his shows. There was a large variety of stalls which seemed to all be doing a roaring trade as did George with his amusement rides and the animal nursery was a must see for kids and parents alike. Lithgow City Band entertained the crowd and Lithgow Living History roamed around all day in their fabulous costumes with the ladies dressed in 1920s style, in keeping with what would have been worn at our first show.

A large number of ex-military vehicles came along for a display, including a DUWK ( amphibious truck) , Machine Gun

Carrier and a jeep which served in WW11 , was used in Maralinga and was the first car driven on Lake Eyre in 1954.

The Dining room, back to the usual sit-down format after covid restrictions last year, was packed to capacity all day with show goers enjoying beautiful morning and afternoon teas and delicious home-made lunches. The kiosk did a roaring trade and the coffee machines never stopped.

The bar was busy all day and was a popular spot to stop off before moving on to watch the ever-popular woodchop and yard dog trials. Also drawing a large crowd was the Dog High jump, which in its first year at Rydal had a large number of entries and by all accounts was very good to watch.

Mr Ian Litchfield OAM, our oldest member opened the show and spoke a little about the history of the Rydal show, its links to the RAS and how this show is one of the few that has stayed true to its agricultural roots.

Life membership was awarded to Liz and Ross Fragar, Charles Applin, Rachael and Mark Young and our President Brett Radburn for their many years of volunteer work with the show society. Andrew Martin was awarded the RAS medal for his long-term support and work with the show society and Kirilee Scott was awarded the Nex Gen Ribbon, which is given to a young person for their efforts in helping put on the show.

We had four lovely ladies enter our Rydal Show Young Woman Ambassador competition with Grace Hadley from Rydal being sashed as our 2023 winner. Thanks also go to Hayley Bennett, Kate Mannell and Jaime Balzke for taking part in our Rydal Show Young Woman Ambassador competition.

Our junior Ambassador was Dylan Grant who works tirelessly each year to make the show a success.

As part of our 100th show celebrations we invited all our previous showgirls back to the show and we were delighted to

welcome 22 lovely ladies back, including our first show girl from 1965.

The Rydal Show Society would like to thank all our sponsors who have supported us for many years, including this year. Without their generosity we could not put on such a wonderful event.

We cannot thank enough our awesome volunteers. They are the backbone of our show society and without them we could not have achieved this wonderful milestone of 100 shows. Rydal is only a small community, but its members come out each year and work tirelessly to put on an event to be proud of and we look forward to continuing for another 100 years.

Thank you to the members of the public who come through the gate, you too have played your part in making Rydal show the” Biggest Little Show in the West” and helping us reach our 100th show.

Bathurst’s Summer Arts Festival

Story and photos supplied by Rachael Young

“The Biggest Little Show in the West”

Above: 2017 Showgirl Alana Black with son Arthur. Photo Supplied

More photos on page 18

Pre-retirement Planning

Retirement Planning

De ned Bene ts Super

Daniel Crump Financial Planning can help you:

• prepare for retirement

• manage your money so that you don’t run out

• legally manage your tax and maximise your age pension entitlements.

NO HIDDEN AGENDAS. We are not owned by any financial institutions or super funds who might want to bias our advice.

Regional NSW residents encouraged to reach out for support as cost of living continues to rise

Not-for-profit employment, training and apprenticeships provider VERTO is today encouraging private tenants and residents of regional NSW facing financial distress to access its free financial counselling service as the cost of living rises.

As a recent report from the Australian National University highlights, a quarter of Australians are under financial stress, and the need for support services is growing.

According to VERTO CEO Ron Maxwell, financial counselling is among the most beneficial services to those facing financial stress. However, it's a service many people don't realise they can access.

"A financial counsellor is trained to help people navigate this difficult time on every level, with advice and support that can be life-changing. It's a free, confidential service, and is not means-tested. It's open to anyone in the community facing financial difficulties," he said.

Mr Maxwell added that while VERTO has seen an increase in uptake of its financial counselling service, many more could benefit.

"With the announcement last week that the RBA has again increased interest rates, individuals and families are continuing to feel mounting financial pressures. Rents are rising rapidly, too, with sharp increases of up to 15% in some areas. Here in the Central West, Forbes has risen by 14.3%, Orange by 8.3% and Cowra by 7.7%.

and certified financial counsellors trained to support people through difficult times. Among the services available, a financial counsellor can create money plans, negotiate with creditors, identify priority debts and assist with access to dispute resolution services.

"If you are struggling with the cost of living, you are certainly not alone, and support is out there, so please get in touch. It won't cost you a cent, but it could make a big difference to almost every aspect of your life," he concluded.

Appointments are now available in Lithgow and Bathurst. To book please call 0418 148 622 or visit danielcrumpfp.com.au for more information.

D Crump & Co Pty Ltd t/as Daniel Crump Financial Planning (ABN 83 642 812 904) is an authorised representative of Catalpa Pty Ltd AFSL 530665 ABN 57 648 557 340

"An increase in housing costs can be untenable for anyone, and it can be devastating for those already facing financial or employment challenges."

Mr Maxwell encouraged those facing difficulties to reach out for support.

"If you are struggling to pay bills, losing sleep over money, behind on rent or mortgage payments, constantly borrowing from one source to pay another or running out of money before payday, our financial counselling service can help you."

VERTO's free, confidential service is run by professional

CREATING STRONGER COMMUNITIES FOR THE FUTURE

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

First Saturday of each month at Lions Berry Park, Bathurst Come and be part of the markets.

Fur ther Details

Email: macquarielions@gmail com facebook com/riversidemarketsbathurst

A re-elected Liberal and Nationals Government will commit a further $90 million to the Stronger Country Communities Fund to continue building the projects that make regional NSW the best place to live, work and raise a family.

In the past five years, the Stronger Country Communities Fund has delivered more than 2,500 grassroots projects benefitting every regional LGA in the State.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the further $90 million commitment would take the total investment in the fund to three quarters of a billion dollars.

“Everywhere I go, people tell me about the big difference these Stronger Country Communities projects make to everyday life - whether it’s a new skate park that kids love, a new community hall, upgrades to the main street or programs that make living in the regions even better,” Mr Toole said.

“We aren’t just building playgrounds and sporting ovals,

Central West Media has consolidated its two previous publications into the new Central West Village Voice, Covering the entire Lithgow and Bathurst region, and distributed fortnightly on Thursdays.

If you are looking for a way to grow your business, speak to one of our friendly team and they will design a marketing plan that suits your budget and gets results.

Central West Village Voice

Publisher Rich Evans on behalf of Central West Media Pty Ltd Emails: editor@villagevoice.net.au sales@villagevoice.net.au

we’re building communities to be proud of.

“It’s the little things that make a big difference to the way we all work, live, play and do business, and the NSW Liberals and Nationals Government is delivering the projects that make a difference to everyday life right across regional NSW, from Byron Bay to Bega to Broken Hill.

“Not only do these projects improve life for those who already call regional NSW home, but they also act as a major drawcard for those visiting to consider staying longer term.”

The Stronger Country Communities Fund is part of the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies and improve services and community infrastructure in the regions.

For more information, visit: nsw.gov.au/sccf

Office Details

Call our office on (02) 6355 4258

Office: 35 Wolgan Street, Portland NSW 2847

Postal Address: PO Box 227, Portland NSW 2847

Visit our website at www.villagevoice.net.au

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WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS REACH MORE LOCAL READERS EVERY WEEK FROM BATHURST TO BLACKHEATH

ICONIC BRIDLE TRACK REOPENS

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole and Bathurst Mayor Robert Taylor shared in the honour of officially reopening the road and were the first to drive the new two-kilometer diversion stretching above Monaghan’s Bluff and rejoins the road towards Hill End.

For years the Bridle Track linking Bathurst and Hill End has been closed to traffic due to rockslides, which has made the road impassable at Monaghan’s Bluff. The new diversion has been constructed to rejoin Bathurst to Hill End.

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said it has been a drawn-out process as there were a number of significant steps that had to be followed to get this stage.

“The NSW Government committed $2 million for this iconic road to be reopened,” Mr Toole said.

“The funding was made available to Bathurst Regional Council to go towards allowing vehicles to once again complete the 60 km journey between Bathurst and Hill End.

“It is fantastic to be here today to see this track finally reopened. This has been a goal of mine since becoming local member twelve years ago.

“The Bridle Track is a favourite with four-wheel-drive enthusiasts, campers and anglers and is an example of how heritage tourism can benefit the region.

Bathurst Mayor Robert Taylor was impressed with the new diversion.

“Reopening the Bridle Track brings with it significant economic benefits to the region, including the village of Hill End,” said Mr Taylor.

“The campgrounds along the route are a lure for locals and visitors alike and present a number of opportunities to bring outdoor enthusiasts to the area.”

The Bridle Track’s history dates back in the early 1800s when it was a horse route for stockman but become a very busy

transport corridor when gold was discovered in the Turon Valley and was used by those wanting to strike it rich during the gold rush.

$1 BILLION TO BUILD BETTER BUSH ROADS AND RAIL

Are-elected Liberal and Nationals Government will invest $1 billion in the regions to upgrade the roads communities use every day, fast-track freight and rebuild transport infrastructure after disaster.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the landmark commitment would improve the resilience of the road and rail network right across NSW, benefitting the regions for generations to come.

“This is a state-building initiative that will drive safety and drive productivity, ensuring people and products get where they need to –and that when disaster strikes, communities and supply chains remain connected,” Mr Toole said.

“In 2019, we made history with a $500 million investment to help regional councils fix their local roads. It’s improved thousands of kilometres of the local roads our communities use every day and benefitted every regional LGA in the State.

“We’ve heard loud and clear that there’s more to do which is why we’ll inject an extra $400 million into the Fixing Local Roads program so we can help councils turbocharge their efforts on road maintenance.

“We’ll also invest a further $600 million in the road and rail network through a new Fast Tracking Freight program and a Build Back Better program.

“We want a road and rail network built for the long-term with the capacity and strength to survive fire and floods, to meet the growing freight

task and to get product to market cheaper and more efficiently.

“As anyone in the bush knows, we can’t keep replacing these roads and rail lines and expecting something different the next time a disaster rolls through – we have to put in the money now to keep our State moving forward.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said on the back of the Covid-19 pandemic and recent floods forward thinking was needed to strengthen the state’s supply chain.

“Betterment isn’t a last minute thought bubble or cash splash. This has been a 12-month journey since I signed the first co funded betterment pilot in the country to rebuild infrastructure in the northern NSW post floods,” Mr Farraway said.

“This is what the community expects and this is the policy direction we need to move in when it comes to disaster recovery.

“International studies have shown for every $1 spent on mitigation, you save $10 in recovery.

A NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will invest that dollar now when others won’t, because we are serious about delivering the projects that matter to regional communities.

“Freight is worth $66 billion a year to the NSW economy and the freight task is only growing.

“Our new Fast Tracking Freight program will make it easier for rail freight projects to get off the ground and get our food and fibre from paddock to port.”

After 13 long years the Bridle Track has reopened to traffic from this week.

KINGS PARADE SPRINGS TO LIFE WITH A RANGE OF EXCITING FREE FESTIVAL ENTERTAINMENT

KINGS PARADE SPRINGS TO LIFE WITH A RANGE OF EXCITING FREE FESTIVAL ENTERTAINMENT

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Overview

Seeking a qualified or partly qualified beauty therapist to join our incredible team located in Forbes.

– Above award wages

– Flexible working hours

Our Approach

Owner and Salon Director, Melissa Gaffney is extremely passionate about her business and it's reputation. Taking pride in all aspects of her salon, not just by providing quality treatments but also ensuring guests feel extremely welcomed and comfortable.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide our guests with a broad range of quality beauty treatments and high end products in the heart of the central west NSW. To leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and beautiful. We pride ourselves on taking good care of all guests and we are extremely grateful to each and every client who walks through our doors.

To Apply

Please submit your details and resume to melissa @blushorganicbeauty.net at your earliest convenience.

To Learn More

Thanks to a grant from the NSW Government, street and circus performers, flamenco dancing and live musicians create a fun, family festival atmosphere for the free events in Kings Parade as part of the Inland Sea of Sound summer arts festival in Bathurst, NSW February 24 and 25, 2023.

Ignite your imagination with the genuinely wonderful Lollipop Ladies who interact with audiences in playful games as they wander throughout the Kings Parade precinct. Meanwhile, the English Bobbies will have everyone laughing from hilarious slapstick, comic timing and occasional buffoonery.

Thanks to a grant from the NSW Government, street and circus performers, flamenco dancing live musicians create a fun, family festival atmosphere for the free events in Kings Parade as of the Inland Sea of Sound summer arts festival in Bathurst, NSW February 24 and 25, 2023.

As the sun sets on Saturday the night comes to life with more fabulous performances. Annalouise Paul will take to the stage on Saturday evening with Flamenco Red. The powerful and passionate art of flamenco is a living tradition of Spain. Audiences will be swept away with the strong rhythms, songs and dances of this intoxicating artform.

Kicking off on Friday night audiences will be entertained by Molly Little’s unique and mesmerising fire performance. It will be nothing short of hot, hot, hot! Having travelled the world dragging suitcases of shenanigans behind them, The Gagliardies, are a quirky comedy duo presenting mix of variety, vaudeville and circus who will bring giggles to large turnout of locals and visitors

Want to know more about our gorgeous business, check out our website or socials: https://www.blushorganicbeauty.net

Kicking off on Friday night audiences will be entertained by Molly Little’s unique and mesmerising fire performance. It will be nothing short of hot, hot, hot! Having travelled the world dragging suitcases of shenanigans behind them, The Gagliardies, are a quirky comedy duo presenting a mix of variety, vaudeville and circus who will bring giggles to large turnout of locals and visitors.

Fancy a dip? On Saturday afternoon Sync or Swim, a group of 1952 Olympic synchronised swim team hopefuls, prepare for the upcoming gold medal competition. Bringing a splash of the fabulous with strong sculls and unbeatable eggbeater kicks, families will love these very funny street performers.

Corey Pickett will thrill audiences with a display of exceptional tricks, circus stunts and high energy. Using audience participation the audience will be whipped into a frenzy, screaming for more.

Fancy a dip? On Saturday afternoon Sync or Swim, a group of 1952 Olympic synchronised team hopefuls, prepare for the upcoming gold medal competition Bringing a splash of the fabulous with strong sculls and unbeatable eggbeater kicks, families will love these very funny street performers.

https://www.facebook.com/blushforbes

Plus the schedule of free events includes a number of local emerging artists.

HUGE GLOBAL AUDIENCES LAP UP LIQUI MOLY BATHURST 12 HOUR

Ignite your imagination with the genuinely wonderful Lollipop Ladies who interact with audiences playful games as they wander throughout the Kings Parade precinct. Meanwhile, the English Bobbies will have everyone laughing from hilarious slapstick, comic timing and occasional buffoonery

As the sun sets on Saturday the night comes to life with more fabulous performances. Annalouise Paul will take to the The powerful and passionate art of flamenco Audiences will be swept away with the strong rhythms, songs and dances

Corey Pickett and high energy. Using audience participation the audience screaming more.

Plus the schedule of free events includes a number of

HUGE audiences in Australia and around the world have consumed the 2023 running of the LIQUI MOLY Bathurst 12 Hour.

A national TV audience of over 334,000 consumed the entire race on Sunday, including 239,000 watching on the Seven Network.

Seven's broadcast alone reached more than 1.7 million people on Sunday, a 17% increase year on year.

Meanwhile, Fox Sports recorded a more than 40% increase on their coverage of the 2020 race - the last held on the traditional February date.

Saturday's thrilling and record-smashing Pirelli Shootout was seen by more than 240,000 people nationally on Fox and Seven around Australia. (These numbers do not include those viewing on Fox Sports and 7plus).

The race had an enormous digital audience in Australia and around the world thanks to people watching via Kayo,

7plus and international streaming partners.

More than 1.2 million viewers watched more than 224,000 hours of the event via the official B12hr YouTube channel, which offered free streaming around the world across Saturday and Sunday.

A further 4.5 million video views were recorded across Bathurst 12 hour and Supercars digital media channels throughout the event period.

At the circuit, the three-day event attendance of 53,446 was 24% higher than the previous record for a three-day event, and 8% larger than the previous record set in 2019 when the event was run over four days.

More than 2500 campgrounds were sold out by race week - a record for the event - while more than 180 accredited media attended, with 30 traveling from overseas to attend. The date for the 2024 event will be announced in the coming months.

Schools invited to help grow the next generation of environmental champions with Woolworths and Landcare Australia

Woolworths and Landcare Australia are on the lookout for primary schools and early learning centres across Lithgow with ideas to help connect young generations with nature and inspire them to play an active role in ensuring the safe future of their environment.

The latest round of the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program is now open, offering primary schools and early learning centres the chance to share in $1 million to support the development of hands-on environmental learning projects.

Grants of up to $1,000 are on offer for projects focussed on sustainable food production, improving waste management practices, enhancing native habitats and deepening First Nations perspectives. This could include planting native herbs and plants like Merindah Children’s Centre in New South Wales has done, helping children learn more about different species of plants, and their connection to the land and its people.

Woolworths Lithgow Store Manager, Hugh Stewart, said: “Getting children involved with hands-on activities in and around nature is an incredible way to help them explore sustainability in action.

“Over the years, we’ve seen some great ideas from schools and early learning centres across New South Wales that were brought to life through our Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program, encouraging kids to explore, appreciate and care for the environment around them. No idea is too small, and we can’t wait to see what’s ahead for this next round of applications.”

Through its Junior Landcare program, Landcare Australia has also worked closely with First Nations educator and Wiradjuri man Adam Shipp to develop environmental learning activities for educators and children to learn more about how they can have a connection to Country.

The activities range from exploring First Nations weather to creating an Indigenous plant-use garden and exploring a First Nations peoples’ languages map.

Adam Shipp, First Nations educator with Landcare Australia, said: “As a proud Wiradjuri man, I believe it is extremely important that environmental based organisations recognise and work with First Nations groups.

“By teaching younger generations about traditional ways

of caring for Country, we can deepen knowledge of and respect for First Nations culture and practices. I look forward to seeing how Lithgow students and teachers use the new Junior Landcare resources.”

Landcare Australia CEO, Dr Shane Norrish, said: “Junior Landcare has always recognised the vital role children play in taking care of the natural environment and, thanks to the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program, we look forward to seeing even more children have the opportunity to take on this role.

"Moreover, as we continue to grow the number of First Nations perspective resources on the Junior Landcare Learning Centre, we are thrilled to be able to support Lithgow children and educators in building their knowledge of Traditional Land

Bathurst Celebrates Local

In the first business focus for 2023, we get to learn more about BooksPlus Bathurst and long-time owner Kathryn Bancroft.

When did BooksPlus begin and what was the reason behind its inception?

In March 2023 I will have been part of BooksPlus for 35 years. I can date it clearly because it was the week my daughter was born. A very busy time!

What has been the biggest win over the last few years?

The unwavering support of the Bathurst community. It helped us survive as an independently owned bookshop, not just during recent COVID years but through all the ups and downs of the last 35 years.

What has been the biggest challenge over the last few years?

Our biggest challenge is being tackled right now, that is to bring BooksPlus into the 21st century. The hardest part for me was knowing where to start and finding someone to drive the changes. Now that we’ve started, I’m excited about all the ways we can do more for our customers.

What was the best business advise you’ve ever been given?

Be passionate about anything you take on. It will become your life, so you may as well enjoy doing it. If you enjoy doing it, it will show.

What’s your favourite thing about Bathurst?

I came to work in Bathurst, planning to stay 2 or 3 years. 46 years on I am still here and that says it all.

Final thoughts…

BooksPlus is a long-time partner of the brilliant Bathurst Writer’s & Reader’s Festival which takes place in May each year. As well, we are great supporters of the Bathurst council’s Buy Local gift card scheme, both selling and redeeming cards.

I believe the strength of BooksPlus has is really the strength of our team of booksellers and the relationships they forge with our customers. The object of any changes we are making now is to ensure BooksPlus continues to be an integral part of this community while I work my way into a lovely retirement – in Bathurst.

To get in touch with Kathryn and her awesome team at BooksPlus Bathurst, please phone 6331 5994 or pop in to the store at 157 Howick Street!

Management and Cultural Heritage when it comes to caring for our land and water.”

Since launching the program in 2018, the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program, in partnership with Landcare Australia, has supported over 3,814 school groups with more than $4 million in funding to help kids all across the country get hands-on with caring for the natural environment.

Applications for the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants are open now and close 17 March 2023. To find out more about the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants Program and to apply, visit juniorlandcare.org.au.

A Bathurst Regional Council / Bathurst Business Hub initiative

In partnership with Central West Village Voice, we want to celebrate the stories and successes of our local Bathurst Region businesses. From our local retailers and foodies through to our industrial and construction firms, we are looking to celebrate the wide variety of businesses that make up our strong, diverse economy.

The Books Plus team with Author Nikki Gemmell

DISTRICT WELCOMES RECORD NUMBER OF GRADUATE NURSES

Arecord number of graduate nurses will begin their careers at Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) hospitals and health facilities this year, in a major workforce boost.

Adrian Fahy, WNSWLHD Director of Quality, Clinical Safety and Nursing, extended a warm welcome to this year’s intake of 168 graduate nurses, which marks a significant increase from last year.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome such a big group of graduate nurses, many of whom have already started work in the District this week through their orientation process,” Mr Fahy said.

“To continue building our nursing workforce, we significantly increased the number of graduate nurse positions available in 2023, and have an additional 67 compared to last year’s intake of 101.

“We’re also thrilled that more than 50 of this year’s intake will begin their career in small, rural facilities, which will provide an incredible boost to those areas and their communities.

“Over the next 12 months our new nurses will gain valuable experience across a range of different areas of nursing, and in many specialities we have not been able to offer before.”

Isabella Meere is one of the 53 graduate nurses that will begin in a rural facility. Following orientation in Dubbo, Ms Meere will spend the next 12 months working at Walgett Multipurpose Service.

“I’m from Canberra originally, but I did two professional experience placements in my third year at Walgett with uni and I absolutely loved it. I learned so much and wanted to spend 12 months there to further build my skills,” Ms Meere said.

“They have an emergency department, a renal dialysis unit, residential aged-care and community health service, all operating from the MPS, which is a really good opportunity for career growth.”

Shai Ramien, originally from Coonamble, will begin work as a graduate nurse at Mudgee Hospital this year, after finding

inspiration to become a nurse while working with the LHD on her gap year.

“I have worked in health for a little while now. I was previously an Aboriginal Health Practitioner with this LHD. It started as a gap year that turned into two years, I think I just found my passion,” Ms Ramien said.

“I really like working in rural and regional areas, with vulnerable communities. I’m definitely more drawn, through just the experience I’ve had as a student, to smaller communities.”

Of the 168 graduate nurses, 82 will work across Orange Health Service, Bathurst Health Service and Dubbo Hospital, 29 in mental health at Bloomfield and another four as part of the rural-metro exchange with Sydney LHD.

Additionally, six graduate Enrolled Nurses have also commenced a transition to practice program and will also begin orientation in the District this week.

Between mid-2012 and mid-2022 the WNSWLHD increased its workforce by an additional 701 full time equivalent staff - an increase of 14.6% including 136 more doctors, 216 more nurses and midwives, and 143 more allied health staff.

The NSW Government recently announced the largest workforce boost in the nation’s history in the 2022-23 Budget with a $4.5 billion investment over four years for 10,148 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff to hospitals and health services across NSW.

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES

NOTICE OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION NO: 2022/553, LOT: 33 DP:1124644 180 SYDNEY ROAD KELSO , MR G BAXTER, MOTOR VEHICLE SHOWROOM WITH SERVICE CENTRE & BASEMENT CARPARK.

Exhibition period: 13 February to 13 March 2023. Development application 2022/553 is an INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT. Approval is also required under the Water Management Act 2000.

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION NO 2023/22, LOT: 1 DP: 736491 169 STEWART STREET BATHURST. DEMOLITION OF AN EXISTING DWELLING, THREE SINGLE STOREY RESIDENTIAL UNITS AND A THREE LOT STRATA SUBDIVISION.

Exhibition period: 13 February 2023 to 27 February 2023. Plans (excluding residential floor plans) and documentation submitted with this application can be viewed on Council’s online DA tracking system (http://masterview.bathurst.nsw.gov. au) or at the Civic Centre during business hours.

Any submissions may be included without alteration in public reports, on Council’s website and to the applicant for comment.

EVENTS

LIBRARY

Rainbow Families Storytime

A special story time with Betty Confetti will be held at the Library celebrating diversity and inclusion on Friday, 17 February at 10.30 am. Phone 6333 6281 to book.

Literary Trivia and Bingo

A trivia night hosted by Betty Confetti will be held at the Library on Friday 17 February at 6.00 pm. The event is for 18 plus and a complimentary drink will be available on arrival. Tickets are $5pp. For more information call 6333 6281.

Art Gallery

Archie 100: A Centenary of the Archibald Prize

26 January – 26 March

The exhibition at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery includes the work of Australia’s most famous artists including William Dobell, Wendy Sharpe, Ben Quilty and Vincent Namatjira – the first Indigenous artist to win the Archibald Prize in its history in 2020.

is closed to public but accessible to residents with a Vehicle Access Pass:

- Conrod Straight

CAREERS @ COUNCIL

Working for Council is a stimulating and rewarding career option, providing the opportunity to be part of a team contributing to shaping the success and future of our Region.

Please visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/careers for a full list of current vacancies.

2022/2023 BATHURST CCTV FUNDING PROGRAM - ROUND 2

Bathurst Regional Council is providing funding to assist local businesses improve security and community safety.

Businesses may apply for funding up to a maximum of $500 on a dollar-for-dollar basis, under the criteria of the Bathurst CCTV Funding Program.

For further information, please contact Council’s Cultural & Community Services Department on 6333 6523 or Council’s Website www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au.

Applications close 4.00 pm Friday 17 March 2023.

YOUTH OF THE YEAR REPORT 2023

The Lions clubs of Australia have been promoting the Youth of The Year (YOTY) Quest since 1964 so this year is the sixtieth time the quest has been run. The aim has always been to find an outstanding all-rounder among the 15 to 18 year-olds in the nation and Territories, not just one with particular sporting or academic strengths.

Tens of thousands of students have taken part in this great quest over the decades. The quest is run at four stages, the local club, then a Zone, followed by a District competition leading to the State level. From here the six or seven State candidates go to the Lions National Convention to compete for the National title of Australian YOTY. in 2021, local student Zoe Peters was selected as the National Youth of The Year winner.

Last Sunday the Mount Panorama Lions ran their Club round at their premises in Stanley Street. In the morning, four remarkable young ladies from local schools were interviewed to assess their suitability by the judges, Lesley Bull, Angus McKibbin and Millaine Longmore, before taking part in a public speaking event in the afternoon. In front of an audience of parents and Lions members they were asked two impromptu questions about mobile phones at school and where in the world they would like you travel. Each then presented a five minute prepared speech on such diverse topics as the threat to privacy of smart devices, the importance of music, access to legal representation, and why we strive for perfection. These were both informative and entertaining.

The four girls, Hannah Howes, Ella Kay, Ava Meares and Chloe Tayler, stunned the judges and audience with their personalities, knowledge, passion, confidence and ability to express their ideas and hopes for the future. In a very close decision Ava Meares was selected as the Public Speaking winner and Ella Kay as the overall club representative. Ella will represent the Mount Panorama Lions Club at the District Final in Gilgandra on March 11th where a small contingent of club members will be there to support her. The club wishes Ella all the very best for this round.

Literature trivia with a twist of glamour at Bathurst Library

Bring your book knowledge and sense of humour to the library on Friday 17 February as Mardi Gras celebrations take centre stage at a special Literary Trivia & Bingo, hosted by local performer Betty Confetti.

Starting at 6pm the night will feature a pub-style trivia set up where participants may work as a team or individually to play Trivia through a free app called Mentimetre. Special guest and host of the night Betty Confetti will lead participants in Trivia, Bingo and will delight the audience with a special performance.

Bathurst Library is delighted to be included in our community Mardi Gras celebrations, and thus showcasing the library as a welcoming and vibrant space for all members of the community, and a place for nonjudgemental learning and entertainment.

Patou Clerc, Manager of Bathurst Library, is eagerly anticipating the community event. “We are looking forward to the opportunity to work closely with Betty Confetti on this wonderful, fun and inclusive event. It is important that we reflect the communities we are part of. Libraries are places for everyone, and we wanted to reflect this in our programming”, she said.

Friday 17 February will also feature a special Rainbow Families Storytime with Betty Confetti as the special guest reader. Starting at 10.30am the library team, along with Betty, will read stories, and sing songs and rhymes. Aimed at pre-school aged children and their families, the storytime will be a fun and colourful chance for families to build on their children’s early literacy skills.

The Literary Trivia and Bingo night is an adult only event. Tickets are $5 per person. Bookings and payment can be made over the phone on 6333 6281 or by visiting the staff at the library front desk. The Rainbow Families Storytime is a free event, bookings essential.

A Point of View - by Stuart Pearson

Council is Adrift

Over the last few months, a number of people have spoken to me about a lack of a vision for the Bathurst region. Others have used phrases like “a lack of forward thinking” and a “lack of goal setting”. They are all the same thing – a lack of STRATEGIC PLANNING.

Even a very senior member of the National Party lamented to me recently that Bathurst Regional Council had “lost its direction and didn’t know what it’s priorities were”. Again, symptoms of a lack of Strategic Planning.

I am reminded of the famous scene out of Alice in Wonderland, where the Cheshire cat says to a disoriented Alice, “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll never get there!”

In the opinion of many, Bathurst has been drifting for years, not knowing what it wants to be, let alone how to get there. Without an agreed upon Strategic Plan for the long-term future, Bathurst Council has instead given approval for the demolition of a number of heritage houses; sanctioned trees to be felled overnight without public notice; divided the community over a proposal for a go-cart track on scenic and sensitive

Aboriginal land; and authorised the ever-expanding urban sprawl instead of preserving our vital and productive rural land.

The Councillors of Bathurst are effectively sitting as the elected Board of Directors of a major corporation. A major corporation that in the case of Bathurst Regional Council, has an annual turnover of $120m, assets of $1.6bn and employs over 400 staff.

Bathurst Council needs to imagine, and then lead the development of how Bathurst would look like in 30, 40, and 50 years’ time. Yet there is little, or no evidence of Council being led in any particular strategic direction. So, like a rudderless ship, Bathurst Regional Council is adrift on an ocean, heading nowhere in particular.

Unless Bathurst has a Council of intelligent, experienced and forward-thinking people who SET A CLEAR PATH FOR THE FUTURE, then the drift may continue and the community, like Alice, will not know where it’s going.

Pictured above: Contestants Chloe Tayler, Ella Kay, Ava Meares and Hannah Howes

Pictured: Mount Panorama Lions Club President Roger Thomas

Pictured: YOTY judges Millaine Longmore, Lesley Bull and Angus McKibbin

for playground equipment in Bathurst

√ $954,250 for construction of Bathurst Rail Museum

√ $650,000 for replacing footpaths in Bathurst

√ $300,000 for upgrades to the Civic Ballroom at Lithgow for use as an evacuation centre

√ $205,000 for upgrades to Machattie Park

√ $54 million for the CSU Medical School

BATHURST 12 HOUR DRIVES VISITORS TO BATHURST

DUCKING IN FOR A CUPPA

I always enjoy our summer weather and checking out what our small businesses are up to. On the weekend I stopped in at George Street’s Drake & Duck Cafe!

Arecord crowd of 53,446 turned out for the Bathurst 12 Hour!

Congratulations to all the hardworking staff at Bathurst Regional Council for this wonderful achievement and building this race into the international success it has become!

Congratulations also to SunEnergy1 Racing for going back-to-back and defending their crown and drivers Jules Gounon, Kenny Habul and Luca Stoltz!

DROP IN TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

It was great to catch up with the team from Bathurst and Oberon Neighbourhood Centre at the recent Oberon show. The Neighbourhood Centre does great work connecting people, resources and ideas to support people and strengthen the local communities.

If you are not sure where to go for help or you would like to become more active in the community, The Neighbourhood Centre has a huge array of information about local associations, interest groups, leisure activities, self-help groups and community services.

The Neighbourhood Centre has a jam packed event schedule for 2023. Check out their Facebook page for details. The Neighbourhood Centre is open Wednesday to Friday morning and is located at 12 Ross Street, Oberon.

JOIN ST JOHN AMBULANCE, MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Do you want to learn skills that could save a life, go to different events and administer first aid, and be part of your local community?

Join the St John Ambulance! They offer free training, free uniforms and, most importantly build friendships for life.

They help out at major incidents like floods, fires, droughts.

The Bathurst Division of St John Ambulance meets every Tuesday night 7:00pm-8:30pm at the Old Raglan Public School or call today on 0407 594 478.

Great to catchup with the amazing team at the Neighbourhood Centre

LOCAL SOIL SCIENCE YIELDS BIG CARBON DIVIDENDS FOR FARMERS

Did you know that the Central West is home to the second biggest soils analysis lab in Australia?

In a humble-looking shed on the outskirts of Orange, you’ll find an international team of top scientists looking at how soil (yes, soil!) can help farmers earn some extra dough, and give the planet a bit of a hand, too.

Recently, I got the chance to visit the lab and meet the team at Loam Bio, who are developing soil products that make it easy for cropping farmers to participate in carbon farming. The team have developed a seed treatment which enables soil to store more carbon, cutting the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Farmers can then sell carbon credits, and also

increase their yield per acre.

Loam is one of Australia’s fastest growing agritech companies, with offices and labs in Canada, the US, and Central Western NSW! A big thank you to Tegan Nock, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer at Loam, who gave a fascinating presentation and tour of the labs! It’s great to see worldleading innovation taking place in the bush!

The Australian Government is supporting Loam Bio support our farmers with a $9.3 million grant through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation. I was very impressed with what I saw there during my visit. This is a game changing opportunity for our local farmers and our country.

Andrew with Wendy MacDougall, Robyn Doig, and Robert “Stumpy” Taylor

Andrew with St John Bathurst Ambulance Superintendent Debbie Benham and St John Bathurst Ambulance Officer Rory Hock

L-R: Andrew with Dr Neeraj Prurshotham, Senator Deborah O'Neill, and CPO and Co-founder of Loam Bio Tegan Nock

Andrew and the Australia themed classic sports car

The vintage Porsches on display were a car lovers dream

The Bulgarian SIN R1 GT4 brought a touch of Formula 2 to Mount Panorama

GEE MP FEDERAL

100 YEARS OF THE RYDAL SHOW

The 100th Rydal Show was a very special one!

The Rydal AH&P Society fittingly inducted six new life members including President Brett Radburn who has led the show since 1991. He started his volunteer work in 1975. This is sadly his final year at the helm.

A large number of former and current Rydal Showgirl/Young Woman Ambassador winners were also in attendance to help make the centenary show extra special!

And the scone comp?

Well I entered two plates. One in the open section where I sadly crashed out.

The second plate was in the section for pollies. Lithgow councillor Cass Coleman took out the blue ribbon (her scones are very hard to beat!) but I was pretty happy with my red ribbon for second! Well done Cass and also Councillor Stuart McGhie who podiumed with 3rd!

Congratulations to the Rydal Show Committee and all the volunteers for making the 100th so memorable. You just can’t beat a country show!

WOLGAN GAP ROAD MAKES PROGRESS, RESPECTS HISTORY

It was great to get out to the Wolgan Valley to meet up with Aunty Helen, Aunty Sharon and Patsy.

We had a great discussion on progressing the Indigenous Voice to Parliament in our local area.

We also checked out the incredible work going on for the new road at Wolgan Gap which was made necessary because of the dangerous condition of the old one which is closed permanently.

It’s the only entry and exit into this beautiful valley.

Aunty Helen, Aunty Sharon and Patsy explained to me the significance of the site of the new road as an important pre-European settlement travelling corridor for Wiradjuri people.

Mingaan Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation is working closely with Gracey & Son Earthmoving to identify and preserve local cultural heritage at the site. This is a major piece of engineering work that should be complete in April.

Thank you to Mingaan Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation and Gracey & Son Earthmoving for the important work that they are undertaking.

RUNS ON THE BOARD FOR BATHURST AND LITHGOW

√ $14 million for highway upgrades between Lithgow, Bathurst and Orange

√ $181,818 for Bathurst’s War Memorial Carillon

√ $11.4 million for expanding and supporting aged care facilities in Lithgow

√ $398,500 for crisis accommodation in Bathurst

√ $1.2 million for CCTV in Bathurst and Calare communities

√ $200,000 for new synthetic courts at Wattle Flat Recreation Ground

√ $480,000 for Wallerawang Community & Sports Club

√ $19.75 million in federal funding for bushfire recovery projects in Lithgow and Calare communities

√ More than $1.6 million for supporting childcare centres in Calare, including Bathurst Family Day Care

√ $925,000 for the Bathurst Animal Rehoming Centre

√ $60 million for drought and COVID-19 recovery to our local councils for local projects

√ Record

Australian Government funding for hospitals, schools, childcare and the NDIS

√ $125,000 for canteen facilities at Bathurst Sportsground

√ New headspace service for Lithgow

√ 47 mobile phone towers and base stations for Calare

Andrew cooking up a storm in preparation for the Rydal Show

Andrew with Margie Lowe and Rydal Show President, and Life Member, Brett Radburn

Andrew with the Rydal Showgirl/Young Woman Ambassador winners. Congratulations to these accomplished young women!

Andrew with Aunty Helen, Aunty Sharon and Patsy Riley

Yes, it’s just as steep as it looks

The sweeping curves of the new Wolgan Gap Road is a feat of engineering!

BRINGING BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY TOGETHER!

On Thursday 2 February Lithgow District Chamber of Commerce hosted a stakeholder engagement meeting to discuss the Chamber’s upcoming Expo and Investor Promotion. The Expo and Investor Promotion are the last two events to be held as part of the BLER funding that was awarded to the Chamber in September 2021.

The meeting was extremely successful with The Chamber, Regional NSW, Council, Western Sydney University, and representatives from several Lithgow regional larger businesses including Westfund, Greenspot, The Foundations Portland, Black Gold and Timberfix at the table.

Chamber President Johanna Koleda said ‘the feedback from the meeting was positive and is a step in the right direction for the Lithgow region community. The meeting highlighted the importance and need for collaboration in order to work towards a sustainable future for the area.’

She said, ‘we all have a part to play in the community’s future. We need to start by looking at the bigger picture not

just staying in silos. This meeting was about starting the conversation to work collaboratively with some of the key stakeholders in the Lithgow Region, including Local and State Government. By combining our efforts and working together we can become stronger as a community. Whilst the meeting was only a small step, it was a step in the right direction’.

This was the first meeting of its kind for the Lithgow region and the Chamber is envisaging that these kind of round table meetings will become a regular event for the Lithgow business community.

The Chamber welcomes any ideas, concerns or suggestions. People can contact the Chamber via email at president@lithgow.org.au.

Lithgow Community Private welcomes new visiting Dermatologist

Community Private welcomes new visiting Dermatologist

Dr Phillip Artemi Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon Lithgow Community Private are pleased welcome Dr Phillip Artemi to the list of consulting specialists who provide specialist medical services for the Lithgow Community. Dermatology is a new service for the Lithgow community and complements the eighteen other specialty services available at Lithgow Community Private.

Lithgow Community Private are pleased welcome Dr Phillip Artemi to the list of consulting who provide specialist medical services for the Lithgow Community. Dermatology for the Lithgow community and complements the eighteen other specialty services Lithgow Community Private.

Dr Artemi is a Fellow of the Australasian Collage of Dermatologists, a Mohs Surgeon, and International Fellow of the American Society of Dermatological Surgeons. He is one of Australia’s leading Dermatologists in the areas of Skin Cancer Management, Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Surgery. He has a special interest in the treatment of acne and acne scarring.

Dr Artemi is a Fellow of the Australasian Collage of Dermatologists, a Mohs Surgeon, International Fellow of the American Society of Dermatological Surgeons . He is one leading Dermatologists in the areas of Skin Cancer Ma nagement, Cosmetic Dermatologic Laser Surgery. He has a special interest in the treatment of acne and acne scar ring.

The Lithgow Regional Business and Lifestyle Expo 2023 is part of the Revive Regional Business in Lithgow project that has been funded under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, cofunded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

“This is an important new service for our region because people won’t have to travel long distances to get the medical services they need” said Rob Swinton, Chair of Lithgow Community Private.

“This is an important new service for our region because people won’t have t o travel to get the medical services they need” said Rob Swinton, Chair of Lithgow Community

Patients can make an appointment by calling Lithgow Community Private Specialist Centre on

Patients can make an appointment by calling Lithgow Community Private Specialist

6350 2550

Lithgow

Dr Phillip Artemi Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon

Portland Central HSC Success

Portland Central School had only a few students sit the HSC in 2022 but one of their students, Angela Shlimon, applied for a University ranking and did very well in her exams. It shows that with some hard work, small class sizes and extra help offered by the Teaching staff, that these types of results are possible. Angela scored 3 marks in the mid 80’s (or Band 5) with her other marks in the mid to high 70’s! These marks are certainly enough to qualify Angela for many University courses.

Also, another student from the 2022 cohort, Raymond Callaghan, earned an early round offer to study Criminal Justice at CSU Bathurst. Students and teachers are looking forward to similar results with this year’s cohort. PCS Teachers and Staff wish them all the best for a great 2023.

THE BIGGEST BUSINESS EVENT TO HIT THE LITHGOW REGION!

The Lithgow District Chamber of Commerce is excited to be calling on all Lithgow region businesses and lifestyle, sporting, recreational and cultural services to be part of the biggest business event to ever be held in the Lithgow region!

This is the first business and lifestyle expo to be held in the region and the Chamber is proud to be able to give business and lifestyle organisations the opportunity to showcase their products and services at the Lithgow Region Business & Lifestyle Expo 2023.

The Expo is an opportunity for business owners and managers to come together, network, connect and create opportunities for collaboration. The Expo is also about increasing awareness of Lithgow regional products, services and lifestyle opportunities.

Chamber Vice-President and BLER funding program Director Steve Ring said, “The exhibition booth, furniture and promotions for the event, valued at $5,000 are being offered to Lithgow region businesses for a nominal cost of $100 to cover the cost of front display signage, which the Chamber wants to organise to keep Expo branding consistent”.

“This is a nominal cost given that the Chamber is planning a comprehensive marketing and communications campaign targeting Greater Sydney and some Regional NSW areas to attract 3000 – 5000 visitors over the weekend of 6 – 7 May. Sydney metro and Regional NSW advertising placement is targeted and expensive, but the Chamber is rolling up its sleeves and doing a lot of work to promote and support products and services from and in the Lithgow region.”

Most Expos charge between $5,000-$10,000 per business display. This is a huge cost for individual micro, small and even medium businesses. That’s why the Chamber submitted a grant for the BLER funding in the first place, to assist and revive local Lithgow region businesses after fires, floods and Covid 19 lockdowns, so

that they could promote themselves on a large-scale level, but not have to pay a large bill.”

“The Expo is the biggest of our revival projects”, he said. “While the Black Rose Excellence in Business Awards were a successful celebration of our Lithgow region businesses, the Expo will go one step further and celebrate and promote business as well as our sporting, cultural, outdoor, educational, heritage and other aspects of Lithgow region’s lifestyle to the outside world. The Expo will be a microcosm of the entire community in the one place, for the world to see who and what we are, and the unique products, services and lifestyles we have on offer”.

Businesses will need to have an office, shop front or home-based office at a Lithgow region address to be able to participate in the Lithgow Region Business & Lifestyle Expo. Participating businesses and groups will need to bring their products, brochures, and banners, as required for their stall.

2 The Chamber anticipates that many businesses will come on board and is urging businesses to get in quickly as there are only 100 exhibition booths available. Bookings close Friday 31 March.

The Chamber is also requesting all participating businesses to send the Chamber a contact list of 10 business associates they work with from the Greater Sydney and Regional NSW areas, so that the Chamber can invite those businesses to the Expo over that weekend.

BOOK YOUR BUSINESS & LIFESTYLE DISPLAY ON THE CHAMBER WEBSITE – WWW.LITHGOW.ORG.AU

Mayoral Message

I am very excited to announce the Waste to Art Community Art Competition is back and the theme this year is Textiles!

Waste 2 Art is a FREE waste inspired art competition and exhibition sponsored by NetWaste and Lithgow City Council that celebrates the reuse and recycling of waste in the Lithgow/ Seven Valleys region. The focus of Waste 2 Art is to challenge the way we look at waste –and have fun producing creative and innovative ways to reuse, repurpose and upcycle materials that might otherwise end up in landfill. We have an exciting program of events, workshops and exhibitions coming up over the next few months, and would love to hear from local creatives, textiles artists and community groups interested in being part of the program.

Lithgow City Council has been studying the conditions of Browns Gap Road and have identified three hazards; a sinkhole, downslope tension and a joint/tension crack. The road embankment has been affected by the considerable rainfall across the city and the underground mine workings next to the road have threatened the stability of the road above. Council has been pushing for Subsidence Advisory NSW, a department of the NSW Government, to respond more quickly with their restoration works. Until these hazards are resolved, a road closure is the only method available to reduce risk to motorists to an acceptable level. The Council remains committed to re-opening the road.

There has been several water mains breaks in the LGA which have caused disruption. The largest was a mains break that was on the WaterNSW trunk supply line that required a large repair. Dirty water supplied by WaterNSW entered the Lithgow Council system. Council and WaterNSW worked together to rectify this issue through a large watermains flushing program and constant testing of water to Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. The Council took over supply of the full system last week and the treated, cleaner water from the Council’s Lithgow supply is across the network fully. Over this previous weekend Council has also been repairing mains

break in the North East Portland area that caused outages over night with crews working from late in the night to the early hours of the morning to return service. Other breaks have occurred in the area such as in Caroline Avenue. Each of these breaks, including the WaterNSW supply line breakage, could have occurred for any number of reasons and do occur on watermains occasionally however Council’s twenty four hour/ seven day a week service is able to repair and maintain the system to ensure they are repaired in a timely matter.

Bi-annual Clean-up

Join our team

New YEAR, new JOB, new YOU?

Lithgow City Council has a range of positions available across its outdoor workforce.

Do you love the outdoors, country lifestyle?

Do you enjoy working as part of varied, multi-disciplined teams?

Are you looking for stable, long-term employment?

Do you want opportunities to upskill and try different jobs?

Reminder

The 3rd Instalment of Council rates are due for payment on 28 February 2023.

Lithgow City Council offer several options to make rates payments easier:

• Sign up to receive the Rates and Water notices electronically. Visit www.lithgow.enotices.com.au/

• Make direct debit payments by either bank account or credit card. Visit www.council.lithgow.com/directdebits/ to register.

Pay by one-off online payments. Visit www.council. lithgow.com/online-payments/ (have the account available to quote the reference number).

• Contact the friendly Customer Service team at Council on 6354 9999 for payment over the phone or to discuss different options.

Council can also help with tailored payment arrangements if a person is experiencing difficulty paying rates or water accounts.

On Exhibition

Council is inviting you to have your say on the following:

• Community land

• Proposed Road Naming - Carriers Arms Close and Ostler Place, Lidsdale

Should you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Council on 6354 9999.

These documents will be available on council’s website and at the Council’s Administration Building during the exhibition period.

Submissions can be made either by letter or via email to council@lithgow.nsw.gov.au

Written submissions should be forwarded to: General Manger, Lithgow City Council, PO Box 19, LITHGOW NSW 2790

Th

Tre e N u rs e r y

WANG COMMUNITY & SPORTS CLUB SPONSOR KHANA SERIES

Lithgow District Car Club is very proud to announce that the Wallerawang Community & Sports Club has taken up sponsorship of their seven round khana series for 2023.

The first round,a khanacross, will be held on Sunday 6th March followed by a motorkhana on 2nd April,a khanacross on 21st May,a motorkhana on 25th June then a short recess for the winter months.

The action continues with a khanacross on 10th September,a motorkhana on 22nd October and ending up with khanacross on Sunday 5th November.

Our hugely popular and successful Christmas “come & try” fun-khana and end of year presentation is set down for Saturday 2nd December all at the Yvonne Martyn Memorial Motorsport Park at Portland.

The seven rounds will be known as the Wallerawang Community & Sports Club Khana Series with many thanks going Graham Glazebrook,Steve Jackson,the Directors and members for their much appreciated support.

LDCC members competing in the Series will be vying for the Brian Edwards Memorial Club Champion Trophy,the Taylor’s Ladies Trophy and the new Les Taylor Junior Trophy.

Yearly trophies will be presented for the first time since 2000 when the club conducted the very last Lap Dash at Katoomba’s Catalina Park.

Graham ’ s advertising campaign was first class and exceeded my expectations.

A quick sale resulted and my wife and I were very happy with the whole experience.

RESOURCES FOR REGIONS DELIVERS NEW PARK FOR PORTLAND COMMUNITY

Portland Central School has been successful in receiving funding for a project that will benefit the whole Portland community.

The Portland Central Park project is a complete redesign of the recreation space at Portland Central School. The new park will be open to not only students of the school but also the wider community making Portal Central Park the new place to be.

The primary school playground is old and damaged while the secondary school has never in fact had a space designed specifically for them. The new green space will accommodate for both plus some new additions including an edible veggie garden, sports courts and more plants and grassed areas.

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has announced Resources for Regions grant of $672,375 to fund the project.

Mr Toole said the support from the NSW Government will take the community park from a pipedream to a reality.

“This is such a fantastic initiative from Portal Central School to create a space for the whole community to enjoy,” Mr Toole said.

“The new park will give young people and children a place to go, hang out and play outside of school hours and in holiday times."

Portland Central School Principal Matt Quirk said the new outdoor space will transform the school’s playground areas.

“Portland Central School is an active Share our Space school and as such a refurbished recreational space will be valuable asset to students and families of the school as well as the whole community,” Mr Quirk said.

“They will also have access to events and programs run with the new infrastructure.”

“We are so grateful for Paul Toole and the NSW Government’s for supporting us in this project.”

The project funding includes co-contributions from the Department of Education and the Parent and Citizens

Applications for

Association.

Active Share our Space schools open their playgrounds and other facilities to the public during holiday periods for families to come and visit their local school, and for children and residents to stay active and enjoy the fantastic playgrounds and spaces these schools have to offer.

The Liberals and Nationals Government’s Share Our Space program has targeted schools where there is a need to

provide greater access for families and residents with outdoor green space and naturally shaded play areas. It’s a way of ensuring that communities get as much use out of their local public schools as possible

The local infrastructure improvements like this project in Lithgow region are a key to helping the community and come thanks to the NSW Government’s $75 million Resources for Regions, Round Eight.

Lithgow Medical Clinic

Lithgow Medical Clinic continues to put the needs of our patients before our own. Despite many medical centres charging gap fees for consults and procedures and closing on weekends due to rising operational costs.

WE continue to bulk bill all patient consults and procedures

WE continue to open 7 days a week.

WE absorb the costs – to ensure YOU are not out-of-pocket, whilst maintaining our high standard of health care.

‘Healthcare that’s Personal’ is our motto and service guarantee, we look forward to seeing you back in the clinic soon.

DEDICATED WALK IN ONLY DOCTORS

WE WISH TO WELCOME NEW MALE GP DR PIOTR LEMEISZEK TO OUR TEAM FROM JANUARY 23RD!

GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

Dr Lupisan

Dr Alivio

Dr Austria

Dr Chang

Dr Munoz

Dr Canada Dr Yu Dr Tsukanov

Dr Lemieszek

SPECIALIST/ANCILLARY SERVICES

Dr Nehme (Cardiologist)

Dr Omar Sawan (Podiatrist)

Thomas Hungerford (Physiotherapist)

Veronica Davison (Dietitian)

Lithgow Council steps in to supply cleaner water to the villages of Portland and Wallerawang

Lithgow Council has intervened to address discolouration of the potable water supply to the villages of Portland and Wallerawang.

The water is treated and provided by Water NSW as potable water to the reservoirs that service the villages.

On the 29th of January, WaterNSW found they had a large break in their water supply line in the Sodwalls area that required repair. With the repair completed Water NSW started resupplying their water to the reservoirs.

On the 4th of February, discolouration was detected. The process of recharging water supply lines can release sediment off pipes into the system and this may be the cause of the discolouration. Flushing of their system was commenced by Water NSW.

Lithgow Council is not satisfied with the pace at which the discoloured water is being removed out of the system. As a result, the

Council has intervened to supply clean water out of their Oakey Park water treatment plant. Flushing of the water mains will continue across the villages until the dirty water is completely removed from the system. Unfortunately, residents the areas of Portland, Wallerawang and Marrangaroo may experience a reduction in water pressure or no water during this period.

Before using the water for domestic purposes, residents are advised to run the first tap that services their property (usually external to the house) to ensure the water is clean and any remaining dirty water has been flushed before running internal taps. If you continue to experience issues of dirty water, please contact Council.

Council apologises for any inconvenience and assures residents that the service will be returned as soon as possible.

Recognition Well Overdue for local league legend

Story By John Fitzgerald. Picture Supplied

Marjorie Jackson is Lithgow’s international sporting hero, the worldacclaimed multiple Olympic gold medal athlete, and honoured with her statue in Cook Street Plaza fronting Lithgow’s Main Street.

Her feats are legendary, and her statue in the centre of town is appreciation of the local community of one of their own.

Another local sports person, now overdue for consideration for similar recognition is rugby league’s Barry Rushworth.

Also a Lithgow native, Barry, in his sporting evolution playing for his local club, at 21 moved to the Parramatta Eels from where, within 12 months, he attained international status.

(During his football training sessions as a youth in Lithgow he was occasionally joined by Marjorie Jackson.)

Ten years of selection in the top Parramatta Eels’ team was followed a few years after retirement with a single-year stint alongside many anonymous players in the giant-killing Western Division team which annexed the the midweek Amco Cup against formidable Sydney first grade combinations in 1974.

Barry never strayed far from Lithgow, working for 50 years behind the bar at his Lithgow and Wallerawang pubs and quietly sponsoring local sporting teams until his

Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Community drop - in sessions

EnergyAustralia is in the very early stages of investigating a pumped hydro energy storage project that will utilise existing energy infrastructure to assist in the transition to cleaner energy for NSW customers

Detailed assessments and field work studies will start in the first half of this year to fully understand what environmental and social impacts may result from a project of this scale.

This is an opportunity to share your views with us so that issues that are important to you are included in our assessments and planning.

We’re continuing our series of drop - in sessions in and around Lithg o w R ep rese n tatives from the Lake Lyell P umped Hydro Energy S to rage team will be available to share in form ation and answer your questions.

Lithgow:

Portland: Wallerawang:

Monday 20th February 4pm – 7pm at the Hoskins Memorial Church Hall

Tuesday 21st February 9am – 1pm at the Annexe Found a tions

Tuesday 21st February 2pm – 5pm at Wallerawang Library

Lake Lyell Pumped | HydroEnergyAustralia

For more information about the project and to sign up for project updates please email community@energyaustralia.com.au or call 1800 574 947

Tradesperson Electrical Full Time Permanent

The purpose of this role is to provide a quality and safe electrical maintance service on plant and equipment at EnergyAustralia, Mt Piper Power Station, Portland, NSW, in accordance with policies and procedures, safe work practices and the environment.

We encourage people from all backgrounds and ages to join us. For Health & Safety reasons the Applicant must reside within approximately 1 hour travel to Mt Piper.

www.EnergyAustralia.com.au/about-us/careers/

support a campaign to have Barry Rushworth’s accomplishments as a true Lithgowite recognised with a statue, perhaps in the vacant space alongside and complementary to Marjorie Jackson’s statue.

Rydal Show Picture Gallery

Pictured above clockwise from top row: Prize Winners. Second Row: 2022 Rydal showgirl Lizzy Tracy, 2023 entrant Hayley Bennett, 2023 Rydal Show Young Woman Ambassador Grace Hadley, Deputy Premier Paul Toole, 2023 entrants Kate Mannell and Jaime Balzke, Lithgow Mayor Maree Statham. 100th show birthday cake cut at the President's afternoon tea. 2011 showgirl Rachel Nicoll with show Patron Mrs Maisie Scott. Next Gen ribbon winner Kirilee Scott with Next Gen President Isabel Hawken. Photos Supplied by Rachael Young

Working dog trials are always a great event. Photo by Wade Jackson Lithgow Living History dressed for the show. Photo by Wade Jackson

Browns Gap Road

Council’s continued response to the effects of natural disaster

Council submits application for Special Rate Variation to IPART to secure the future of Lithgow.

Lithgow City Council has submitted its application to increase land rates to the Independent Planning and Regulatory Tribunal for independent review.

Lithgow City Council Mayor, Maree Statham commented “This is a major step towards maintaining the city’s roads and other infrastructure, growing the number and choice of work related positions in the local economy and improving services for the whole community.”

The overall income from land rates is proposed to increase by 45.7% (including 3.7% rate peg). Council has committed to limiting any increase in the residential, farming and business (general) rating categories to 27.7% (including the 3.7% rate peg) with the balance of the increase to be levied against the business power generation sub-category, mining category and a new quarrying business sub-category or sub-categories.

Lithgow City Council has expressed frustration at the slow pace of a government agency to repair subsidence which has forced the closure of Browns Gap Road. Underground mine workings next to the road have threatened the stability of the road above. The Council has been pushing for Subsidence Advisory NSW, a department of the NSW Government, to respond more quickly with their restoration works.

Council has studied the road embankment conditions as they have been affected by the considerable rainfall across the city . Three hazards were identified. These hazards pose a large risk to road users.

In order of risk significance, the first identified hazard is a sinkhole within the road reserve which is related to mine workings below the road. The second hazard, which cannot acted on until the first is resolved, is a downslope tension crack which is approximately 20 metres long, 1 metre deep and 0.5 metres wide. The last identified hazard is a joint/ tension crack, estimated to be in excess of 50 metres in length and 0.5m in width) in the rock outcrops high above the road surface.

The Council is readying for their work to commence as soon as Subsidence Advisory NSW repair the mine subsidence. A slope risk assessment and remediation plans are being developed. These plans will also establish the safety requirements so workers can safely access the site for mapping and rock scaling the frail embankments.

Until these hazards are resolved, at least in part through the rehabilitation of the mine subsidence, a road closure is the only method available to reduce risk to motorists to an acceptable level. The Council remains committed to re-opening the road.

“I am confident this proposal will make a big and positive difference to this local government area. We need to significantly transform the local economy because mining and power generation will reduce in output over time. We need more jobs in sectors that will exist well into the future. The community has also asked us to increase spending up to the real cost of maintaining community assets (especially roads) and services. A maintenance and renewal backlog has been created because of damage from continuous storms and a lack of available funds. This legacy cannot be avoided for future generations to pay for. These are the key things that we have heard time and time again from the community during our extensive consultation program” said Mayor Maree Statham.

The Council’s General Manager, Craig Butler highlighted “We are acutely aware that some residents do experience financial hardship. It was very important to the Council that this be accounted for. For this reason, the Council specifically limited the increase in the residential, farming and business (general) rating categories to 27.7% (including the 3.7% rate peg). Also, the pensioner rate concession was increased by $50, to $300 per annum, commencing from the 2023/24 financial year.”

Lithgow Council is one of 17 Council’s to notify IPART its intention to apply for a special rate variation. Council’s application has now been submitted to IPART and is available to view on www.ourplaceourfuture. lithgow.com.

IPART will soon place the application on public exhibition and call for submissions from the public. Submissions must be made online using the IPART Submission form. Council will be notified of the outcome of the application in May 2023.

Pictured top: Full extent of downslope tension crack, approximately 20m long Pictured bottom: Detail of the downslope tension crack

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HERITAGE MATTERS

Pubs for Us

What my mate Mick, the Sage of Wisemain’s Creek, likes about Bathurst is The Pubs. He’s not a coffee person, but I am, and he particularly likes a pub crawl which he can do on foot in our city, so Plan B works for him OK. All twelve of our city pubs are different and every one is a heritage building – what other city can say that? So, on every argument Mick says save the pubs.

Mind you we used to have a lot more pubs and a lot less people, so what does that say? But some of the historic buildings that were pubs still stand and have been adaptively re-used for other purposes. The wonderful Royal Hotel in William Street is probably the best example –fallen into disarray over fifteen years of vacant neglect, and about to be bulldozed as an eyesore in the 1990’s, it was saved and reinstated by a visionary, and we should be ever grateful for his leadership. One man’s eyesore is another’s vision perhaps?

We did lose our brewery on the Dairy Farmers site many years ago - Walkers brewery operated there from 1895 to 1926, but despite

Leo, Roving Reporter

Report from: BMEC Story filed: In the footlights

Hi people. It’s Leo here. This week is show week for the Pirates of Penzance musical that I am in. Fun fact: so many fictional pirate characters speak with a Cornish accent because during the Golden Age of Piracy, in the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, many English pirates came from this region like Bristol, Devon, and Cornwall. Penzance is in Cornwall near the towns of Mousehole, Boscean, Porthcurno, Zenor, Relubbus, Raginnis, Mulfra, Crowles and Lands End to name a few. One of my favourite all time movies is Band of Pirates but I am not sure if any of these pirates are from Cornwall. Anyway, come and see the show this week at BMEC - it’s a comedy!

Until next time

Local Artists, Makers and Producers work For Sale.

Art and Sculpture on Exhibition, Information about The Foundations Development

everything the heritage Tower remains (see pic), and we need a visionary to adaptively reuse it in a creative innovative way. However not all is lost, we do now have a new micro brewery, Reckless, in the heritage listed Crago Mill, and Fish River Valley Brewing at historic Locksley. We like Ian’s Cosmo brewing too. Mick says, is that good news or what?

Thought of the week …

“Our thanks as a heritage city should go to the publicans who look after such an important element of Bathurst’s heritage” (and by the way boys do me and Mick get free beers for the plugs?)”

by a humble heritage advocate February 2023 column #270

Crazy Hat Day is the theme for the Hoskins Fete which is being held on Saturday 25th February from 9am to 1pm. The fete is a major fundraiser for the parish and this year we have been overwhelmed by support from local businesses and community groups, who have donated goods and vouchers for Crazy Hat Day prizes and the raffle. As result there will be two monster raffles with great prizes for 1st to 6th place in each.

The Lithgow Lions BBQ will be selling delicious egg and bacon rolls, sausage and steak sandwiches and soft drinks from 9am. Enjoy a coffee from the Buzz Café or tea and scones or sandwiches from the Devonshire Café.

Check out the stalls selling cakes, plants, books and jams. Browse through the bric-abrac, furniture and other goods on the white elephant stall. The Nemo jumping castle and face painting will keep the young ones busy.

Entertainment will include the very talented Highland dancers and the ever-popular Lithgow City Band.

For the younger ones there will be facepainting and a jumping castle. Come along and join in the fun of the fete, wear a crazy hat and you might even win a prize for the best hat.

CORNER OF BRIDGE AND MORT STREETS, LITHGOW

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lithgow City Tennis Club Annual General Meeting

1st March, 2023 at 7pm

To be held in the Top Clubhouse at the City Courts. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Lithgow Red Cross Branch Market Day

Saturday 18th March - 9am - 2pm

Red Cross Hall 225 Main St, Lithgow

(Next to Queen Elizabeth Park)

Home baked cakes, Hand Made goods, 2nd hand goods ( crockery, books, homewares, bric a brac etc ), BBQ

Proceeds from the day for RED CROSS CALLING

LITHGOW VALLEY FILM SOCIETY

Celebrating 21st Anniversary

Sunday 19 February 2.00pm

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

A true story about Frank Abagnale Jr. who, before his 19th birthday , successfully conned millions of dollars worth of checks as a Pan Am pilot , doctor and legal prosecutor. An FBI agent makes it his mission to put him behind bars . But frank not only eludes capture , he revels in the pursuit.

STARS: LEONARDO DICAPRIO, TOM HANKS

Sunday 26th February 2.00pm

ART SUNDAY SPECIAL PROGRAM

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

Violinist Erique Claudin is dismissed from Paris Opera House after the fingers of his left hand. Unbeknownst to the conductor, who assumes Claudin can support himself ,the musician has used all his money to help anonymously fund voice lessons for Christine Dubois, a young soprano to whom he is devoted.

Meanwhile, Christine is pressured by Inspector Raoul Dubert to quit the opera and marry him. But famed opera baritone Anatole Garron hopes to win Christine’s heart. Christine considers both of them good friends but doesn’t openly express if she loves them.

STARS: NELSON EDDY, SUSANNA FOSTER, CLAUDE RAINS, EDGAR BARRIER

16 Main Street, Lithgow

ST DAVID'S DAY

We are hoping that Welsh people, people of Welsh descent or anyone interested in the National Day of Wales, held on March 1, but we are celebrating on March 3, will come and enjoy

We have a local harpist, Bethany CarterSherlock who will be playing Welsh music and there will be an opportunity to hear some Welsh songs and for people to join in. There will be some people in Welsh costume, and food with a Welsh heritage and flavour such as Bara Brith (a fruit loaf), Welsh cakes, leek and cheese tarts, lamb pies and sausage rolls and Welsh cheeses. The celebration is from 5pm, when the club has Happy Hour and entry is by donation.

Please contact Viv Llewellyn on 0404806403 or taffyllew@icloud. for further information or to RSVP by February 24.

147. Peace prize city

Costly

Quarrel

Operator

Timber fasteners 158. Peruses 160. Impoverished 162. Pimply condition 164. Arabian folk hero, ... Baba

Rock band equipment

Postponed

Painter, Leonardo ... (2,5)

Car for hire

Military operations

Chopped down

Fixate

Culturally revered

Fine gravel

Fantasy

Thin mortar

Confederation

Raise up

Trifled (with)

Wise saying

Balanced

Ballet skirts 187. Harvard’s rival 189. Unfluctuating

Last week's solutions

Paul TOOLE Vote

Authorised by J Lundy, National Party of Australia – NSW, Level 2, 107 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000