Pictured: Stephen Cavanagh and Aliesha Lonsdale from ArtsOutWest. Photo by Chris Gleisner
Central West News
Local Government Elections From the editor
By Rich Evans
Thank you to all that have reached out since I published the article around my health journey in a previous issue.
It is a long road and one that has many twists and turns, but one thing I want to highlight is the mental health aspects of situations like this. It is not only the person going through it, but their family, their friends and their wider community.
One of the most common things I hear is “I don’t know what to say”
I get it, there is not really much anyone can say, and like most mental health situations, the saying is not the important part, it is the listening. I am grateful to my friends and support network that give me space to talk with out judgement, and don’t try and say anything. There are also many days I don’t want to talk.
Mental Health awareness has come a long way in recent years but we still have a long way to go, and I hope to be part of the committed community doing so much great work in this space locally in our region for as long as I can. Stories of lived experience are some of the most powerful to share.
As I said in that same article, despite the challenges that lay ahead, we have no intention of not doing everything we can for our community in the mean time, and we have a very large announcement coming in the next 2 weeks about some exciting changes coming for this publication.
Some will think we are crazy, but as long time readers of this publication know, I am a big fan of Steve Jobs, and paraphrasing his words, the crazy ones are the ones that change the world because they are crazy enough tot think they can. I’ll just focus on our region though and see how we go.
You will see a link below, it is a link to support the work we are doing in this challenging time, if you feel so inclined and can afford to do so, we appreciate any support you can offer. Free papers are not free to produce, and we are trialling this new Pay What You Like Model as a way to ensure we can avoid putting paywalls on our website and make sure the paper stays free forever.
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
Local Government elections are just 1 month away, to be held on 14 September.
In both Bathurst and Lithgow there are a number of new candidates standing as well a number of experienced Councillors stepping up once again.
As at the time of publishing the official Electoral website listed 19 candidates for Bathurst and a staggering 39 for Lithgow, however late nominations may have common prior to the August 14 deadline that are yet to be published.
Ballot draws will take place in coming days and there will be clear indication of who is running and on what tickets once the ballots are confirmed.
Whatever may come, it is with great hope we can have elections that focus on driving the LGAs of our region forward and not resort to the petty popularity politics we see playing out on the world stage at this point in history.
The responsibility of public office is to work for the people, and that is especially true of the Local Government, whilst people are quick to blame Council for everything, it should be recognised that the entire country is in an economic storm at the moment, and Councils are no different. Costs are rising, money is tight, and whilst they don't always get it right, supporting them is far more beneficial than fighting them.
I’d like to personally wish all the candidates
the best for their campaigns and open the offer that our publication will happily run positive forward looking statements of how you will impact your community if elected.
Registered candidates for Lithgow in alphabetical order: David Adams, Jesebel Boff Villoz, Marilyn Boundy, Jacob Bray, Almudena Bryce, Cassandra Coleman, Mathew Conlon, Jon Cronin, Scott Davies, Tom Evangelidis, Tenille Evans, Natalie Foodey, Darryl Goodwin, Graham Healey, Kylie Holmes, Joshua Howarth, Lucille Hoy, Stephen Lesslie, Dennis Limbert, Zoe Macartney, Eric Mahony, Mark McAulay, Daniel Mortell, Johan Nillson, Col O’Connor, Mathew Palmer, Melanie Palmer, Samuel Palmer, Gregory Perevil-Guest, Diane Plaza, Steven Ring, Kyle Rollinson, Catherine Rookyard, Macgregor Ross, Louis Sander, Karen Seita, Ray Smith, Maree Statham, Martin Ticehurst.
Registered candidates for Bathurst in alphabetical order: Anne Balcomb, Rowan Bracken, Natalie Cranston, Stuart Driver, Geoffrey Fry, Anthony Gullifer, Margaret Hargans, Jess Jennings, Juanita Kwok, Larry Lewis, Michael McCormick, Jeffery Muir, Ian North, Liam O’Hara, Marilyn Osborne, Stuart Pearson, Robert Quinn, Sharon Sewell, Sophie Wright
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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 work and live on this land.
Pictured: Kellie and I were very honoured to attend the opening of the ArtsOutWest exhibitions in Parliament last week. The silver lining of being in Sydney for medical appointments.
RCentral West Artists showcased at NSW Parliament
egional arts organisation Arts OutWest opened two art exhibitions of work by NSW Central West artists at NSW Parliament House on Wednesday 7 August.
The While the World Waits exhibition features 20 artists and has previously toured to 12 galleries and venues across the Central West from March 2022 to July 2023.
The exhibition Beyond: Aboriginal Arts and Culture in Regional NSW features new work by nine artists and groups, curated by Arts OutWest’s Aboriginal Arts Development Officer Aleshia Lonsdale. This exhibition is on the special Reconciliation Wall exhibition area at NSW Parliament House.
The exhibitions were opened by NSW Minister for the Arts John Graham and are hosted by Ben Franklin MLC, President of the NSW Legislative Assembly.
Performing at the opening was Lithgow-Bathurst folkcountry duo Smith & Jones who featured on the original While the World Waits compilation album.
“It's fantastic to have these works here in the State parliament. They’re works that reflect the thoughts, the ideas, the stories, and the culture of artists from regional New South Wales," said Minister for the Arts John Graham during his opening address.
“We're surrounded at this point on Macquarie Street by some of the major art institutions… and I think you can be left with the impression that the city is the Centre of the art world. But if you look around at the work that's on the walls… it’s a big reminder of how important the stories are from over the Blue Mountains, over the Great Dividing Range, to the history and to the imagination of our state. Arts OutWest have played a very important part of continuing that legacy by fostering the artistic communities of the Central West for 50 years, the oldest of the regional arts development organisations.” said Minister Graham
“Since I've become president has been a real focus of my to ensure that this building is truly open to all and it's the Parliament of New South Wales not just the Parliament of Sydney. What better way to do that than to showcase a range of art from across regional New South Wales,” said President of the Legislative Assembly Ben Franklin.
“I love Arts OutWest, I love all the RADOs … and I'm totally committed to the phenomenal work that they do around the state and supporting and nurturing and inspiring us across NSW.”
Arts OutWest executive director Kylie Shead said drew attention particularly to the Beyond exhibition of First Nations artists in the region, acknowledging the partnership with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Kew-Y-Ahn Aboriginal Art Gallery at Hartley Historic Site ran in partnership with Arts OutWest," he continued.
“This exhibition comes a comes together at a time that is of great importance as we commemorate 200 years since martial
Central West News
law was declared on Wiradjuri people,” Ms Shead said
“We are especially excited to be showing contemporary Aboriginal art from our region. The style and the quality of art by First Nations artists in regional NSW is not always known or understood,” Ms Shead said.
The Beyond exhibition celebrates the diversity of contemporary artistic practice of Aboriginal artists from beyond the sandstone curtain. It will include 2D works, weaving, photography, and a possum skin cloak.
“From the legacy of colonisation to cultural revitalisation and environmental issues these messages amplify Aboriginal voices and showcase the ongoing development of artistic expression which is informed by the diverse traditions, histories and worldviews of First Peoples of NSW,” curator Aleshia Lonsdale said.
McMillan (Kandos), Shani Nottingham (Cowra), Timothy Seager (Bathurst), Henry Simmons and the River Yarners (Bathurst), Bridget Thomas (Bathurst), Jane Tonks (Orange), Heather Vallance (Orange), Stephan de Wit (Parkes).
The While the World Waits exhibition sprung from a Covidera music project where songwriters from the region were asked to reflect on the years 2020-2021. The conversation was then opened up to visual artists who were asked to respond to both the album of original music and their own experiences. Works in the exhibition include painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics, photography, glass and textiles. The original exhibition also included moving image and animation, these will be featured in the Sydney exhibition as still images.
“It has been a privilege and joy to work with so many artists right across our region to deliver such a high quality exhibition. The work is full of heart and optimism. These 20 artists show us that the level of work being produced in regional NSW is just so exciting to experience,” says artist and While the World Waits curator Steven Cavanagh.
Artists featured in While the World Waits are Gus Armstrong (Rylstone), Laura Baker (Blayney), Helen Carpenter (Grenfell), Steven Cavanagh (Hill End), Gemma Clipsham (Bathurst), Bev Coe (Condobolin), Heather Dunn (Bathurst), Lise Edwards (Lithgow), Harrie Fasher (Portland), Robert Hirschmann (Portland), Cate McCarthy (Yetholme), Hugh McKinnon (Orange), Christine
Artists featured in Beyond are Nyree Reynolds (Blayney), Sonia Cox (Lithgow), Jessica Ann Leffley (Lidsdale), Irene Ridgeway (Parkes), Ronda Sharpe (Parkes), Tanya Stevens (Gulgong), Jason Wing (Kandos), Brett Groves (Lithgow), Aleshia Lonsdale (Mudgee).
Arts OutWest is the peak arts body and regional arts development organisation for the NSW Central West. Arts OutWest partners with local councils and services the local government areas of Bathurst Region, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Lachlan, Lithgow, Mid-Western Regional, Oberon, Orange, Parkes and Weddin.
Arts OutWest is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW, the Australian Government through the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support, partner councils and Charles Sturt University.
The exhibitions are hosted in the central Fountain Court at NSW Parliament House, Macquarie St Sydney and run until 29 August. They mark Arts OutWest 50th anniversary year.
Pictured: Kylie Shead and Aliesha Lonsdale at the opening. Photo by Chris Gleisner
Central West News
Agribusiness Today Forum 2024 takes centre stage for Central West Ag community
The Agribusiness Today Forum 2024 was held in Orange on Thursday, 1 August, bringing together livestock industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders at the Australian National Field Days Function Centre in Borenore. Organized by Regional Development Australia Central West (RDA Central West), the event delved into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of agribusiness for livestock producers.
A lineup of 22 speakers, panelists, and breakout session facilitators flew into Orange from as far as Brisbane. The event, in its 29th year, was supported in 2024 by a $25,000 Agrifutures grant from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry as part of its Support Regional Trade Events Program.
The theme of this year’s forum was “Livestock in Focus,” but it also touched on key issues affecting farming communities, such as mental health. This included welcoming the co-founder of the successful TIACS (This is a Conversation Starter) initiative to talk about free mental health support services available during tough times.
RDA Central West Director of Regional Development, Josh Gordon, mentioned that this year’s event welcomed over 100 attendees, highlighting key areas for driving agriculture forward for the Central West livestock industry.
“The Agribusiness Today Forum is a fantastic platform to highlight the agriculture sector and the developing research and new innovations driving the industry,” said Mr. Gordon. “Livestock farming is a major pillar in the region’s economy, and we have brought together a diverse range of industry experts to educate Central West livestock producers.”
Key topics on the agenda included agtech in the livestock industry, market trends, genetic improvement, assessing on-farm investments, exploring agritourism opportunities, and maximizing reproductive potential. Participants had ample opportunities to network, with morning tea and lunch included in the $49 ticket price, made affordable through the Agrifutures grant and supporting partners nbn local and Rabobank.
The Agribusiness Today Forum 2024 was open to professionals across the agricultural value chain, including farmers, researchers, investors, and agricultural technology providers. The forum, established in 1995, is an initiative of RDA Central West, Charles Sturt University, Local Land Services, and Central West Farming Systems.
TOOLE TIME
ST. JOHN’S AMBULANCE
St. John’s Ambulance is celebrating 140 years in operation in Australia this year. They are the embodiment of community spirit and have strengthened community resilience throughout the decades of operation.
St. John’s began as part of the ‘aid to the injured’ movement where volunteer doctors taught first aid to workers on the nation’s railway. They have grown to more than 20,000 volunteers and staff across the nation in every town and city.
Volunteers are the heart of our community, and like many other organisations St. John’s Ambulance play a crucial role in the community by:
• Assisting in disaster response and recovery efforts, providing care and support to those affected by disasters like fires and floods.
• Providing first aid services at public events, ensuring safety and immediate medical response.
• Offering first aid training to schools, businesses, and community groups, empowering individuals with lifesaving skills.
The dedication of St. John’s volunteers not only saves lives but also plays an important role in alleviating the burden on our healthcare system, ensuring that medical resources are available for those in critical need.
St. John’s needs more local volunteers to join their team and your support could make a significant difference. Every new volunteer means another local resident is trained, equipped and ready to respond to the evolving needs of their community. But it doesn’t stop at first aid response, there are a variety of volunteer roles that also include managing logistics, event organisation, youth programs and community support.
Head to St John’s website to learn more about volunteering and explore the range of flexible volunteering options here: https://stjohnnsw.com.au/volunteering
NSW LOCAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Nominations for the Local Woman of the Year Awards 2025 are now open!
The Local Woman of the Year Awards is an annual program that provides each electorate in NSW with the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions of a remarkable local woman in their community.
Do you know an inspirational local woman who is doing great things in her field of work or in the community? Have her recognised with this prestigious award.
Please email bathurst@parliament.nsw.gov.au with information on your nominee or drop into my office at 1/229 Howick Street, Bathurst NSW 2795 to discuss. Nominations are open until October 2024.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole with members of St. John Ambulance at their 140th celebrations.
Photo ssupplied by RDA
Locals encouraged to participate in Sunny Corner Wind Farm survey
Mainstream Renewable Power ("Mainstream") and Someva Renewables ("Someva"), the renewable companies jointly awarded a permit to investigate a wind farm at Sunny Corner State Forest, are encouraging local residents to contribute to a community survey to better understand the community’s views, priorities, and perspectives regarding the proposed wind farm.
This survey is part of an ongoing consultation program by Mainstream and Someva and the findings will help ensure the project team has a detailed understanding of local issues and can tailor future community benefits programs to align with the community’s needs and preferences. The survey, which takes approximately five minutes to complete, can be accessed online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/Sunny_Corner_Wind_Farm.
Jamie Chivers, Managing Director of Someva Renewables, emphasised the importance of genuine community participation and collaboration as part of the investigative process.
“We are encouraging all locals to participate in our community survey and share their views. We have distributed a physical copy of the survey to households close to the wind farm investigation area. The information gathered will be crucial in shaping the project, and any feedback will also help guide us in addressing community priorities and tailoring future community benefits programs to meet local needs,” said Mr Chivers. All responses to the survey will be handled in accordance with Australia’s Privacy Act 1988 and the Ethical Guidelines of the Australian Evaluation Society.
In May, Forestry Corporation of NSW announced Someva and Mainstream had been awarded a permit to explore a wind farm in Sunny Corner State Forest that will co-exist with softwood plantation trees. If approved, the wind farm will generate about 500MW of electricity – enough to power up to 280,000 homes with affordable, clean, and reliable energy for 30 years.
In the short time since the announcement of the investigative permit, Someva and Mainstream have hosted a dropin information hub at Portland Library, held meetings with Bathurst and Lithgow Councils, the Sunny Corner Progress Association, First Nations and community groups; conducted face-to-face introductions and door knocks in the Sunny Corner area, and responded directly to communication from community members.
Someva and Mainstream will continue preliminary investigations over the coming months, with further consultation and information hubs planned.
Stay up to date on the investigation of Sunny Corner Wind Farm by visiting www. somevarenewables.com.au/sunnycorner, or by emailing community@someva.com.au.
Ignite Conference 2024 Empowering Women in Business to Connect, Collaborate, and Create
This September, Orange, NSW, will host the fifth annual Ignite Regional Conference, organized by Women With Altitude. The event, taking place on September 6, 2024, at Duntryleague Guest House, is focused on supporting women entrepreneurs and expanding their business networks.
The conference’s theme, "Connect, Collaborate, Create," reflects its mission to help women build stronger connections, work together on new initiatives, and grow their businesses.
Andrea Turner-Boys, founder of Women With Altitude, emphasizes the importance of the event: "Ignite Regional aims to bridge the gap between local communities, fostering a broader network where shared experiences and strategies benefit all participants."
Key features of the conference include:
Local and Regional Speakers: Attendees will hear from successful women across different areas, offering practical insights and diverse perspectives.
Interactive Workshops: These sessions will cover essential topics like marketing, productivity, and business strategy, tailored specifically for regional businesses.
Networking Opportunities: The event provides a platform for women to connect with entrepreneurs from other regions, opening up new possibilities for collaboration and growth.
Inspirational Stories: Participants will have the chance to share and learn from stories of overcoming challenges and achieving success in regional settings.
Ignite Regional 2024 is a valuable opportunity for women looking to enhance their business skills, expand their networks, and gain new insights tailored to the realities of regional business. It’s a straightforward, practical event designed to make a real impact on the participants' professional lives.
Tickets available from https://wwaignite2024.my.canva.site/
Authorised by S Ring, 16 Rowsell St, Portland.
Andrew
GEE
MP INDEPENDENT FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CALARE
Your Country Your Voice
NATIONAL PARTY MUST NOT GAME THE SYSTEM
It's no surprise that the National Party has preselected its candidate for the Federal seat of Calare.
The fact that the candidate is a sitting member of the NSW Legislative Council (upper house) raises a couple important questions and actions the National Party must now take.
Firstly, their candidate, Mr Farraway, must resign from the NSW Parliament.
If you're being paid over $240,000
per year to represent the people of NSW full time, you can't campaign for a Federal seat at the NSW taxpayers' expense.
A Federal election could be nine months away. Keeping your NSW salary while you're campaigning federally would be gaming the system.
Secondly, the NSW Nationals must then immediately appoint a replacement to fill the NSW upper house vacancy that will be created by the resignation.
If the National Party's plan is to leave the Upper House vacancy
COMMUNITY WORKING HARD FOR THE NGUYEN FAMILY
Recently, I caught up with Duc Nguyen and community supporters to discuss the progress of his family’s bid to stay in Australia.
The Nguyen family operates the popular Anam Vietnamese Restaurant in Bathurst. They are well known and much-loved in the Bathurst area. They work extraordinarily hard, but through no fault of their own, their work visas have been knocked back.
The community has rallied around the Nguyen family to support their bid to remain in Australia.
Their campaign has now entered its final and decisive phase. A Federal Court appeal that had been lodged has been discontinued to better focus on the process of Ministerial Intervention.
This is where the Minister for Immigration and Home Affairs has the power to allow the family to stay if it is deemed in the public interest.
The documentation for this process is being finalised, and I will soon be presenting the Nguyen’s case to the Federal Government.
It’s a very difficult and worrying time for the family, and there is still a lot of work to do.
A big thank you to all the kind-hearted community members who’ve worked with the legal team to ensure the family receives the best possible advice.
You can support the Nguyens by signing the Change.org petition here: www.change.org/p/pleasehelp-my-family-and-anamrestaurant-remain-in-australiaour-home-for-last-10-years
You can also sign the petition at the restaurant.
I’ll keep the community posted on our progress.
Well done to the Lithgow & District Rescue Squad who have been awarded a $2,000 Volunteer Grant!
Made up of specialist rescue operators, the squad is focused on community safety and plays a crucial role in emergency management and response in the region.
Recently, I met with Captain Ian Bennett and Nathan Mas-Stephens to congratulate them on the funding and discuss what the funds will be used for.
This grant will directly contribute to acquiring much needed gear and providing essential training for their dedicated team of
volunteers. A new washing machine is also on the shopping list for the team!
Every dollar of this funding is a step toward ensuring the Lithgow Rescue Squad is well-equipped and ready to respond to emergencies.
The team does an incredible job serving our community, and this grant is a testament to the importance of their work.
Well done to Ian, Nathan, and all of the operators of the squad!
Congratulations to the Lithgow & District Rescue Squad on this well deserved grant!
If you are interested in supporting the squad or joining as a volunteer, visit their website: www.rescue.org.au
open so that their candidate can be parachuted back into the NSW Parliament if his Federal tilt doesn't work out, then this would also be gaming the system.
How the National Party responds to these issues will be very telling. No wonder people get cynical about major parties.
POLITICAL SHENANIGANS
Another reason people get cynical with political parties is leadership shenanigans. Because something Mr Farraway doesn’t appear to have done is support Paul Toole in last year’s leadership contest for the
NSW National Party.
Paul was Sam’s mate and mentor. But in a leadership spill where every single vote was crucial and Paul really needed him, Sam’s support just doesn’t seem to have been there.
I spoke to Paul about this recently and I think Paul feels deeply betrayed. There’s a reason you don’t see Sam Farraway and Paul in photos together anymore.
Politics can be an ugly game, and that leadership contest is a case in point.
This ugliness is why the factions now running the National Party don’t like people talking about what actually happened.
My community consultations in the Lithgow area on the Coalition’s proposed nuclear reactor have been very productive and I’ll be continuing them.
While there are people for and against on either side of the ledger, there are a whole lot of people who are wanting more information on what the policy is all about before they would support it.
I think it’s really odd that there was no consultation with the community before the policy was announced and there hasn’t been any in the nearly two months since the announcement either.
Whether people are for or against, the message that is coming through to me is that this lack of consultation is increasingly being seen as disrespectful. People want to know the details.
For example, when I was in Parliament recently, a staff member and I met with the Shadow Minister for Energy who told me that the nuclear waste from the reactor would be stored at Mt Piper for the life of the proposed plant which is 80 to 100 years. Why hasn’t
this information been explained to the public? What are the impacts of having a nuclear waste storage site in the area?
People are also saying that they want answers to questions like whether it’s safe, the cost, the timeline, environmental impacts, when the promised jobs are coming and how many jobs there will actually be.
I’m not against nuclear power. But like a lot of people I’m scratching my head as to why nobody from the Coalition has been to Lithgow to explain the policy. What’s going on with that? How can the community be asked to support something when they don’t know what it is that’s planned for them? When will all of these questions be publicly answered?
Andrew with community helpers Juanita Kwok, Pauline Graf and Duc Nguyen
Statement from Blayney Mayor Scott Feguson
As we look towards the upcoming local government elections in September, after careful consideration with my family, I have decided not to stand for re-election as a councillor and finish my time as mayor of Blayney Shire Council.
Over the last 25 years it has been the greatest pleasure to have been elected as a councillor, including the opportunity to be Mayor for the last 12 years, and I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout this time.
I have deeply valued the trust and confidence you have all placed in me with my role as a councillor and mayor.
Over these years, I have been surrounded by many wonderful councillors and staff who have all contributed to helping and encouraging me in my mayoral duties as we have worked together to deliver a stable, reliable and proactive Council.
I have had the opportunity to work with six general managers, numerous councillors and three former mayors in Bruce Kingham, Ted Wilson and John Davis, who had all made significant contributions to the success of our community and inspired me to follow in their footsteps.
with many of our wonderful volunteers and community organisations and the work they do in making our shire a better place to live.
It's been an honour to represent and advocate for our community with successive state and federal governments and work closely with our neighbouring councils to support and grow our beautiful region.
Over the last 12 years as mayor, I would particularly like to thank and acknowledge my three deputy mayors, David Kingham, Allan Ewin, and David Somervaille, for their steadfast support and friendship.
I have also been fortunate in my mayoral role to be involved
As councillors, we are continually planning and looking towards the future, but recently, I have been proudly reflecting on our past and the many accomplishments of our small rural council.
We have seen major improvements and upgrades to our community facilities and have supported growth and investment throughout the shire.
Blayney Shire Council has a very bright future serving our community. It has dedicated staff and the newly elected Council will continue our success into the future.
If you are interested in running for Council, I encourage you to stand and represent our community in this upcoming election. I am happy to talk with anyone who has any questions about local government. The lodgment of nominations for elections is now open, with registrations closing at noon on Wednesday 14 August.
Finally, my deepest thanks and love to my wife Michelle and my family, who have supported me throughout my local government journey, through all the ups and downs, countless meetings and functions, and lots of time away from home. I wish nothing more, than for our community to be safe
BLAYNEY JUNIOR SOCCER CLUB
KICKING FUNDING GOALS
Blayney Junior Soccer Club has secured $6,000 from the Local Sports Grant Program for new seating at their home ground Napier Oval on Hobby Yards Road.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole knows how important sport is to society in keeping locals active and engaged with the community.
“Running clubs like Blayney Junior Soccer Club really is a team effort, from the players, referees and coaches to the parents and families who run the canteen, bring the soccer balls and keep score, even to the local businesses that provide sponsorship and council who mow the grass, everyone plays a vital role in keeping these clubs running,” Mr Toole said.
“The new seating will allow for more spectators to enjoy the game in comfort and bigger crowds when it comes to finals.
“Congratulations to the club’s committee on this successful grant application, I am sure it will be put to good use.”
The funding will be used to purchase tiered grandstand seating.
Blayney Junior Soccer Club President James Stanbridge said it was an exciting time for the club.
“We have grown in numbers and are entering finals time for this season,” Mr Stanbridge said.
“The club is very grateful for this support from Mr Toole and the NSW Government.”
2024 Cabonne Acquisitive Art Prize Winner announced
Newbridge artist David Lake F.R.A.S. has been announced the winner of the 2024 Cabonne Council Acquisitive Art Prize. The competition, open to artists who live in Cabonne and surrounding local government areas, showcases the creative talent in this wide region.
David is a Fellow of the Royal Art Society of NSW and has participated in group and solo exhibitions over the past thirty years. He is one of the founding members of the Olde Bridge Gallery Co-operative, where his artworks can be seen in the gallery at 1 Caloola St, Newbridge (Saturdays and Sundays 11am-3pm), as well as in his Newbridge studio as part of the Bathurst Arts Trail on the first weekend of every month (10am-4pm).
We encourage you to participate in our survey for
Sunny Corner Wind Farm community survey is
Bathurst News
Dhuluny 2024 Honoring Wiradyuri Resilience and Truth-Telling in Bathurst
The Dhuluny events in Bathurst this August mark a significant and poignant moment in Australia's journey towards truth-telling and reconciliation. Commemorating the 200th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in Bathurst in 1824, these events are not only a reflection of the past but also a beacon of hope and resilience for the future.
At the heart of these commemorations is the Dhuluny Conference, to be held at Charles Sturt University on August 15 and 16, 2024. The conference, titled “Dhuluny 1824-2024: 200 Years of Wiradyuri Resistance,” brings together scholars, Elders, and community leaders to discuss the impacts of colonial violence and the ongoing process of restitution and justice for Aboriginal peoples. The word "Dhuluny" itself, meaning truth or rectitude in the Wiradyuri language, encapsulates the essence of the weeklong series of events dedicated to sharing the true history of the Wiradyuri Nation and broader Indigenous experiences.
The significance of the Dhuluny events cannot be understated. The declaration of Martial Law in 1824 was a dark chapter in Australia's history, leading to violent conflicts known as the Wiradyuri homeland wars. These events devastated the Wiradyuri people and left lasting scars on the region. However, the Dhuluny Project transforms this painful history into a powerful narrative of survival and resistance. It offers a platform for contemporary Wiradyuri voices, ensuring that the stories and experiences of Aboriginal people are acknowledged and respected.
One of the key highlights is the major exhibition "Dhuluny: The War That Never Ended" at the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery. Curated by prominent Wiradyuri/Kamilaroi artist Jonathan Jones and Wirribee Aunty Leanna Carr, the exhibition showcases works by both historical and contemporary Wiradyuri artists. These pieces, alongside colonial-era artworks, provide a compelling visual narrative of the region's tumultuous past and the enduring strength of its people. The exhibition, running from July through September, is a profound tribute to the resilience of the Wiradyuri Nation and a vital opportunity for education and reflection.
In addition to the conference and exhibition, the Dhuluny events include a range of community activities, such as smoking ceremonies, panel discussions, and workshops. These activities are designed to foster understanding and dialogue, bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in a spirit
of reconciliation. The involvement of the Wiradyuri Traditional Owners Central West Aboriginal Corporation in organizing these events underscores the importance of Indigenous leadership in shaping and telling their own stories.
The Dhuluny Project is more than a commemoration; it is a call to action. It invites all Australians to engage with the complex and often painful truths of the nation’s history, while also celebrating the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities.
The events in Bathurst this August are a testament to the power of truth-telling in healing and unifying a nation. As the Dhuluny events unfold, they offer a vital reminder that the path to reconciliation is one that must be walked together, with respect, understanding, and a commitment to justice.
For more information visit https://www.dhuluny.com.au
Photo (L - R): Wiradyuri Elders Yanhadarrambal Uncle Jade Flynn, Wirribee Aunty Leanna Carr-Smith, and Dinawan Dyirribang Uncle Bill Allen
Photo Credits: Top of page supplied by CSU. Other photos corutesy of Andrew Gee MP
Meet The Candidates
The Bathurst Business Chamber is pleased to announce an opportunity for the community to engage with their future leaders.
The Bathurst Business Chamber will host a "Meet the Candidates" evening at the Bathurst RSL Club on August 20th, starting at 6:00 PM!
Facilitated by Janeen Hosemans, this event will allow Bathurst residents to meet the candidates standing for the upcoming council elections. Each lead candidate will be invited to speak for a few minutes, ensuring fair and balanced representation.
Don't miss this chance to hear directly from each candidate about their platforms, visions, and plans for the future of our city. The evening will conclude with a Q&A session, providing a valuable opportunity for the community to ask questions and seek clarifications on key issues.
Event Details:
Date: August 20, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Bathurst RSL Club, 114 Rankin St, Bathurst NSW 2795
Free to attend, open to everyone
The Bathurst Business Chamber is committed to fostering informed and active participation in our local government. We believe this event will be instrumental in helping our community make educated choices in the upcoming elections.
2024/25 Sporting Association Grants
Each year Bathurst Regional Council provides a grant scheme to assist local sporting organisations to undertake specific works or purchase equipment for the advancement of sport in the Bathurst Region.
Sporting organisations that are affiliated with the Bathurst District Sport and Recreation Council are eligible to apply for these grants. A total of $10,000 has been allocated to this scheme.
Applications must be submitted by 10am Tuesday 24 September 2024.
To apply > https://www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/Council/Grants-Donations/202425Sporting-Association-Grant
For further information contact Council’s Recreation Section on (02) 6333 6285.
KIDS TO SCOOT, CYCLE, AND SKATE AT RALPH CAMERON OVAL
A new playground is open for use at Ralph Cameron Oval in Raglan, enhancing recreational opportunities for families and youth in the region.
This new facility has introduced a new bike and scooter track as well as play equipment and better accessibility, all made possible through a Stronger Country Communities Round 5 grant worth $447,581 under the former NSW Government.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole commented on the project's importance.
"The Stronger Country Communities Fund was all about improving the lives of regional communities, and this project is a perfect example of that mission in action. I'm proud to see that this space will promote active lifestyles and community engagement,” Mr Toole said.
“Spaces like Ralph Cameron Oval turn a residential area into lifelong homes for families that can enjoy these green spaces at their doorsteps.
“Raglan is a great place to live and it is a growing suburb of Bathurst that’s why I am pleased to provide facilities that accommodate for this growth.”
The project involved the construction of a modular multiuse track designed for scooters, bikes, and skaters. This new addition has been strategically located adjacent to the existing community hall car parking area, ensuring easy access for all. The development plan also includes the installation of a new shade shelter and seating areas, alongside significant upgrades to the multi-purpose play equipment.
A
Point of View - by
Stuart Pearson A few of my favourite things
In the Sound of Music, the newly appointed governess to the Von Trapp family calms the children by singing about her favourite things. Maria speaks about raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens.
I am no poet or songwriter, but I would also like to mention some of my favourite things about this brilliant, remarkable Bathurst region.
• Sounds of the Carillon bells floating through the Town square, while couples and families relax under the trees in Kings Parade.
• Visiting the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (BRAG) and viewing art that emotional connects with people.
• Walking past Miss Traill’s house (the only National Trust building in Bathurst) while a wedding party was having their photos taken. Beautiful couple, gorgeous location.
• Seeing another business, or another factory open in the area bringing economic vibrancy, diversity and jobs to Bathurst.
• Carols in Machattie Park, where family, friends and individuals gather to sing, play and share love. The wide-eyed innocent beauty of young children waiting expectantly for the arrival of Santa.
Ah, the villages. So magical, so cute and so accessible to locals and visitors alike.
• Relishing the delicious taste of tree-ripened peaches, nectarines, cherries, figs and apricots from local growers.
• The heritage architecture, which abounds in almost every street and suburb of Bathurst and its villages. Abercrombie house alone is one of the State’s greatest architectural assets and deserves to be a major tourism drawcard for the region.
A proper Devonshire tea (with scones, jam, cream and a lovely pot of Darjeeling tea) at one of Bathurst’s delightful tea and coffee houses
Bathurst, you are a wonderfully brilliant city. But promise me this; that on your way to become the major regional centre for the Central West of New South Wales you never lose the essence of what is so great about you. Your economic dynamism and your growing appreciation that culture is of equal importance as sport. But most importantly, being such a warm and welcoming community.
Bathurst’s First House
Back in 2017 a dedicated group laid markers delineating the very first European family home in inland Australia.
The house was built under the orders of Lachlan Macquarie primarily for the superintendents who were sent to the settlement of Bathurst. It was located near the Macquarie River, near the corner of William Street and Elizabeth Street, adjoining the present day swimming pool. The land now is vacant and is known as Elizabeth Park, named for Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Bathurst in 1954.
The first occupants were Superintendent Richard Lewis, his wife Mary Ann and their three young children, in 1816. Lewis was one of five men who accompanied George Evans on his 1813 expedition. He also worked on the 1814/15 road over the mountains with William Cox, as one of his senior men. He was subsequently made Superintendent of the new settlement at Bathurst, and the house was built for him.
It was a single storey house, nine metres by seven metres in size, with four whitewashed rooms. One room was a pantry, another a large common room with a fire place, and two smaller rooms as bedrooms. The house was built of locally made bricks, with a wooden shingled roof, glazed windows, with a boarded loft, and all the iron work for the locks, bolts and ‘ketches’ (as described by Evans in a report dated April 1818) would have been worked locally.
Imagine, 208 years ago, the very first family Christmas in inland Australia happened in this little building.
This project has been to evoke a memory of the first house by placing corner stones and a threshold stone as a footprint where the house once stood. Go and have a look.
With acknowledgement to the late Robin McLachlan who did the research and identified the site.
Thought of the week … “thanks to our National Trust for helping enhance this important element of our heritage”
by a humble heritage advocate – August 2024 column #305
BATHURST TENNIS CLUB HIT ACE WITH FUNDING
The Bathurst Carillon City Tennis Club have been rewarded with a NSW Government Community Building Partnership grant to make improvements to their club house.
The grant of $12,000 will fund the purchase of a new PA system that will bring the club’s announcing capabilities to a high standard that meets the needs of major tournaments where players fight for Australian rankings and qualifications.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said this was a great win for the club and the community.
“The Bathurst Carillon City Tennis Club have done well with the 50-year-old system they have but it is time for an upgrade for equipment they use up to 5 days each week,” Mr Toole said.
“Tennis has always been a strong sport for Bathurst with many locals going on to play nationally and internationally, it is only with well-equipped and passionate clubs like this that we can continue to nurture rising sporting stars.
“It’s important to remember that this is more than just a PA System, it’s a benefit to the wider community as well. The ripple effect of bringing major sporting events to town means more people to house, feed and entertain and those other industries will benefit just as much.”
Club Manager Andrew Mitton said the funding means a lot to the club.
“The current PA system we are using was originally from Randwick Racecourse and was donated here when the race track was upgraded around 50 years ago,” Mr Mitton said.
“It has definitely seen better days and it is time for an upgrade that without this grant funding we wouldn’t have been able to do.
“The new system will comply with Tennis Australia standards so we will be able to host more national and state tournaments.”
Mr Mitton also noted that during a national tournament event, this system will be used every minute of the day and that a new, reliable PA system will be a game changer to the management and organisation of these events.
Bathurst Carillon City Tennis Club aims to have the new system installed ahead of a national tournament to be held in September and an upcoming Junior National Tournament later this year.
Pictured: Member for Bathurst Paul Toole with Club Manager Andrew Mitton.
Bathurst Access Improvement Grants
Bathurst Regional Council in partnership with the Bathurst Regional Access Committee provides grants to assist local businesses, community organisations and sporting groups in the local area to improve access for all members of the community.
Businesses, community organisations and sporting groups within the Bathurst region may apply for funding of 50% of project costs up to a maximum of $5,000 on a dollar for dollar basis. Bathurst Regional Access Committee provide recommendations to Council for consideration to allocate the funding.
Projects must be completed within the current 2024/2025 financial year to be eligible to apply for a grant.
Applications close at 4pm on Friday 6 September 2024.
To apply > https://www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/Council/GrantsDonations/Bathurst-Access-Improvement-Grants
2024 Bathurst Gardeners’ Club Spring Spectacular
The 2024 Bathurst Gardeners’ Club Spring Spectacular will be held on Saturday the 26th and Sunday the 27th of October.
Eight beautiful gardens will be open to the public, ranging from suburban to large country gardens. Gardens will be open from 9.30am to 5pm both days. This is an event not to be missed for anyone who enjoys gardening, wants inspiration for their own garden or just enjoys looking at gardens.
Members of Bathurst Gardeners’ Club have been busy propagating plants for their ever-popular Monster Plant Stall. This will be held on Saturday 26th only in the park adjacent to Bathurst Visitor Information Centre from 9.00am to 4.30pm or until stocks run out.
Music will be provided by local musicians and students of Mitchell Conservatorium of Music and refreshments will be available at some gardens.
Tickets are $25 per person (this ticket covers both days) and can be purchased online from mid September.
All monies raised from the Spring Spectacular are donated to local charities.
Go to bathurstgardenclub.org.
au or follow Bathurst Gardeners’ Club Spring Spectacular on Facebook for updates.
Picture supplied: The spectacular Euarra will be one of the gardens on display
KART CLUB OFFICIALLY OPEN NEW RACE TOWER
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has joined Lithgow Mayor and the Combined Districts Kart Club trackside to officially open a new race tower for the complex at Marangaroo.
The $101,120 worth of NSW Government funded improvements included the replacement of dilapidated race control tower, a technical inspection building, plus some landscaping and electrics works.
The Club have also recently upgraded their display board to a new digital display board with a $14,640 grant thanks to the former NSW Government’s Local Sports Grant Program 2021-2022.
Combined Districts Kart Club delivers quality race meetings that caters for all levels of ability and provide a family friendly activity for locals of the Lithgow region and beyond.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the upgrades
means the club will now have the equipment needed for more competitions.
“Lithgow’s kart racing is a growing sport in the region with more and more individuals testing out the sport. Now the Combined District Kart Club will have high quality facility and equipment for competitive drivers to compete in races,” Mr Toole said.
“This will make the sport more enjoyable and allow regional players to experience using the same equipment as those in the big leagues.”
Combined District Kart Club President Russell Becker said the club is excited for the upgraded equipment.
“We have grown exponentially in the last few years and when it comes to providing good quality races for both training and competition this helping hand from the NSW Government is much appreciated,” Mr Becker said.
Thinking of the future at upcoming event
Lithgow Community Power Project is hosting an information session and community discussion on Thursday 22 August, at 6 pm at the Workies.
Chaired by David Peters from Lithgow/Hartley Vale, the event features an outstanding panel of independent experts.
Speakers include ANU Professor Ken Baldwin, Australia Institute’s Dr Matthew Ryan, Hay Shire Councillor Alison McLean, Lithgow expert Dr Michelle Zeibots (UTS).
It will be a great opportunity to hear the facts on nuclear and renewable energy alternatives — and therfore the economy, jobs and opportunities. As context, there will be a fascinating case study on reopening the mothballed Lithgow Rail Yards for industries doing innovative work relating to energy and rail transport — the solar tourist train running in Byron was Lithgow designed and made.
The audience will also hear from Hay Council’s Economic Development Manager on how their region has responded so positively to the opportunities of becoming a Renewable Energy zone. Altogether it should be a great night that people can bring their questions to and get answers.
Don’t be the fire risk to your community
Residents and landholders are reminded of the requirement to notify fire agencies before lighting hazard reductions and pile burns.
A Rural Fire Service (RFS) online portal provides NSW residents the ability to notify fire services quickly and easily when they are planning to use fire on their property.
Using their mobile phone, tablet or computer, residents and landholders can lodge their notification of a planned hazard reduction or burn off 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via the RFS portal.
RFS Superintendent John Bennett said that by notifying their neighbours and using the online tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify, users can help prevent unnecessary emergency calls.
“Over coming months many landholders may take the opportunity to burn off – but they are responsible for ensuring it is done safely and let us and their neighbours know,”
Superintendent John Bennett said.
“While we are not currently in the official Bush Fire Danger Period, landholders still need to make sure they have obtained any required permits and permissions, as well as notifying neighbours and fire authorities 24 hours before lighting up.
“The online tool makes it easier to notify the RFS before conducting your burn.
“If fire services know about a planned burn, it can help prevent unnecessary responses from local firefighters when we know it is planned and controlled.
By using the online notification tool, landholders will also be notified of any Total Fire Bans or restrictions and if so, will be advised to not proceed with their burn.
Garry Grant from the NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee said while landholders are encouraged to reduce fuel loads on their property, it is vital that it is done so safely and legally.
“Before lighting any fire, you need to have adequately prepared fire breaks and have firefighting equipment on hand to ensure the fire does not escape,” Mr Grant said.
“Don’t forget there are also a number of effective alternatives to burning such as hand clearing, mowing, or slashing.
“Every landholder has a legal responsibility to prevent fire spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences if people light fires and leave them unattended.”
To notify of your intent to burn off, use the online burn notification tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify.
Landholders can still notify the NSW RFS by contacting their local Fire Control Centre.
Recognition for local educators
In recent weeks, the Director of Educational Leadership in the Lithgow Network, Mrs DebbieLee Hughes has acknowledged Amanda Brown and Matt Quirk for their service to public education. It was extra special for them both with the presentation being made by Murat Dizdar - Secretary - NSW Department of Education as part of the Rural and Remote Roadshow.
The Lithgow community thanks these valued educators for their outstanding service to public education and we are incredibly lucky to have the calibre of these leaders in the Lithgow network. Our students, your children Learn, Grow and Belong under the outstanding system of public education and these educators.
Pictured (L-R): Jenny Lamborn, Principal Wallerawang Public School; Amanda Brown; Matt Quirk, Principal Portland Central School; Debbie Lee-Hughs, Director Educational Leadership
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.
Road Works
Browns Gap Road:
The Council is continuing to monitor Browns Gap Road with the area showing good stability at this point. The Council is currently planning to undertake works to rectify damage caused by slope movements to the stormwater pipelines.
The current traffic arrangements remain in place.
Coxs River Road:
Earthworks on Coxs River Road near the Duddewarra Bridge have been completed. The site will be left for a few weeks for the stabilised area to settle. Sealing of the site will then take place completing the works.
Grading works:
grading work are continuing in the following locations
• Genowlan/ Huntingdale Roads, Glen Alice
• Jerry Meadows Road, Sodwalls
• Various roads in the Hartley Valley
• Marsden Swamp Road
• Clarke Simpson Road, Kanimbla Valley High Street, Portland
Capital works are due to start on High Street, Portland between Williwa Street and Roxburgh Street on the 26th of August, (weather permitting). This will include the rehabilitation and stabilisation of the road pavement.
A single coat seal will be applied over the area for a few weeks while it settles. The road will then be sealed once the road pavement is ready. These works will take approximately 4 weeks during which time residents are asked to not park on the road shoulders between 7.30 and 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. A letter will be provided to residents of High Street, prior to works commencing.
McKane Falls Road, South Bowenfels
Works will start on McKane’s Falls Road in the week starting 19th August to reinstate drainage lines and repair the road surface. These works will take approximately 4 weeks and road users are asked to take care during this time as traffic control will be in place.
Line marking
Line marking works have just been completed in Lithgow Street, Lithgow, Magpie Hollow Road, Bowenfels, Main Street, Wallerawang and the intersection of Tank/Sandford and McCauley Streets, Lithgow.
Other minor works will be continuing around the LGA including drain repairs, concreting works and general maintenance.
Tender
Request for Tender - Sewer Mains Relining
Lithgow City Council invites submissions from suitably qualified and experienced contractors to submit a tender for Sewer Mains Relining.
Documentation containing further information in relation to this Tender can be obtained free of charge Via Council’s Electronic Tenderbox: www.vendorpanel.com.au/marketplace.aspx
Documentation will be available from 19th August at 5pm and submissions will be received up until 20th September at 5pm.
Submissions are to be delivered by the means described in the documents and must be received by the specified closing time. Late submissions will not be accepted.
For further information, please contact Council via the online portal in VendorPanel. Contacting Councillors or Council staff other than the designated contact person directly will result in disqualification from the tender process.
COUNCIL COLUMN
On Exhibition
Exhibition of updated Policy 10.20 - Leasing and Licencing
At the ordinary meeting of Council on 22 July 2024, Council resolved to place its updated Policy 10.20 –Leasing and Licensing on public exhibition for a period of 28 days. Submissions will be received until 4pm on Wednesday 28 August 2024.
Exhibition of updated Policy 5.9 – Onsite Sewage Management
At the ordinary meeting of Council on 24 June 2024, Council resolved to place its updated Policy 5.0 – Onsite Sewage Management on public exhibition for a period of 28 days.
The public are invited to make submissions in relation to the updated Policy, Submissions will be received until 4pm on Wednesday 28 August 2024.
Development Proposal – DA101 24 Proposed Eco-tourist facility
Council is in receipt of a development application for a PROPOSED Eco-tourist Facility – 9 x 2 bed cabins, 8 x 1 bed cabins, common building/bushfire refuge & managers residence at Lot 152 DP 659519 – 51 Atkinson Street LITHGOW NSW 2790 submissions will be recieved until 29 August 2024
Scan here for more information or to make a submission
Waste Update
Upgrade of the Meadow Flat Transfer Station
Lithgow City Council is upgrading the Meadow Flat Transfer Station. The works will include replacement of the shed structure and upgrade of the unloading area. The Meadow Flat transfer station will remain open as usual during the upgrade; however, there will be some changes to the skip bin.
A temporary skip bin will be located on the site, away from the works. A small-sided skip bin will be used so that the unloading height will remain the same as the existing setup. It is estimated that the upgrade will take 3 months to complete, weather permitting.
The upgrades will provide a more user-friendly facility for the community and combined with the recent installation of CCTV, will assist Council to monitor the sites to reduce the occurrence of illegal dumping providing a better service for residents.
Events @ the Union Theatre
WOMAN - 28 September, 7:30pm
WOMAN is a special charity concert event celebrating some of the most beloved female performers through the ages including the music of Adele, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Lady GaGa, Miley Cyrus and more, performed by talented members of the local community and featuring dancers from Pure Imagination Performing Arts.
Proceeds will go to support Veritas House and their programs to reduce youth homelessness.
Eishan Ensemble - 8th September
Led by acclaimed Persian-Australian tar player and composer, Hamed Sadeghi, the ARIA nominated ensemble draws on contemporary and classical music traditions of both east and west. Playing for one night only at the Union Theatre
Scan here Visit the Union Theatre on Facebook for details
Events @ the Library
110 years of the Australian Red Cross
For the month of August the Lithgow Library is hosting an exhibition on the Australian Red Cross as they celebrate their 110 year aniversary. Featuring items from the Lithgow Library’s local history collection the exhbition covers a century of Red Cross history.
Dorothy West author talk
Lithgow Library is thrilled to be hosting author Dorothy West. Dorothy will be visiting the library on Saturday 7th September from 10am till 11.30am to talk about her book “A Step Towards Freedom.” A story of courage, learning that everyone has flaws and that self-healing can only happen if you move forward.
Biodiversity Month Events
Wattle Day Celebrations Lithgow and District Community Nursery 10.00am - 2.00pm Friday 30 August
Frog Walk and talk with the Australian Museum + Follow the River Film Screening Thursday 5 September at Lake Pillans and Lithgow transformation Hub 5.00pm - 8.30p
Message of the Lyrebird film Screening and Q&A with Carol Proberts Lithgow Transformation Hub 6.30pm - 9.00pm Thursday 12 September
Purple Copper Butterfly Field Day Grants Travelling Stock Reserve Rydal 10.00am - 1.00pm Monday 16 September
Great Southern Bioblitz Launch + Dinner
Vale Community Hall 6.30pm - 9.30pm Friday 20 September
Biodiversity Month Wrap Up + Dinner
Lithgow Transformation Hub 6.30pm - 9.30pm Thursday 26 September
Scan here for more information
Community Events
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Scan here for more information or to apply
Emergency Planning Workshop - Glen Davis Workshop assisting residents to create their own Person-Centred Emergency Plans (P-CEP) to help better prepare for disaster events,. includes a free lunch, 10:30am August 25 at the Glen Davis Community Hall.
RSVP gregory.thurling@lithgow.nsw.gov.au
Born To Run Festival 2024
The 2024 Born To Run Festival is fast approaching, and is once again expected to attract trail runners from near and far.
The local running festival, held in Portland at The Foundations, is held annually on the Saturday of the October Long Weekend. Once again, there will be four races on offer – 2k Kids (12yrs and under), 5k Trail, 10k Trail and the Trail Half Marathon.
Race Director and ANT Fitness owner, Andrew Neville, is excited to be offering trail running in the Central West. “Last year was our biggest event yet, and we are keen to continue to improve and offer the best race experience to all participants”.
The running festival, provides walkers and runners with the opportunity to run on the trails inside the old historic Portland Cement Works, now being redeveloped by The Foundations. “The races offer a bit of everything” says Andrew Neville, “From starting beneath the majestic Silo Art (painted by Guido van Helten), to running through history as you circumnavigate the lakes which were once Limestone Quarries, past the Bottle Kilns, and of course there’s the wildlife”.
This is the third year the Born To Run Festival has been held on the October Long Weekend and Andrew is confident of its continual growth, “Portland is situated so close to Sydney and is the ideal location either for a day trip or a weekend getaway”.
“It is a 2hr drive from Western Sydney, and once here there is so much to do in the region, and Portland is very central to what is on offer. Just allow yourself time for your short run on the Saturday morning first before you go exploring” he adds.
The Born To Run Festival will be held on Saturday 5th October 2024, with the first race, the Half Marathon, starting at 8am.
Entries are now open and are limited to a total of 200 runners across all four events so runners are encouraged to be register early to secure their spot on the start line.
For more information and to enter, runners can visit the website: www.borntorunfestival.com.au
Celebrating 110 years for Red Cross
On 13 August 1914, nine days after the outbreak of the First World War, Lady Helen Munro Ferguson, the wife of the Governor-General, formed the first Australian Red Cross branch. 110 years later, Australian Red Cross continues to act locally and connect globally to deliver what’s needed, when and where it’s needed most.
The chimney on the Powerhouse at The Foundations was lit up red in celebration of this milestone and to recognise the long history of Red Cross in our local region.
The Lithgow branch of the Red Cross has been in operation for 88 years.
A morning tea was held at Lithgow Library on Tuesday to celebrate the occasion.
A huge thank you to all our local Red Cross volunteers and members for the work they continue to do in our community
The history of Red Cross in Lithgow
During World War II, the Lithgow branch played an active role in knitting socks and preparing other comfort items for soldiers. A depot was set up on Main Street to manage these activities, and the branch was heavily involved in fundraising to support these efforts. Members of the community, including local families, were encouraged to contribute regularly to support these initiatives, highlighting a strong sense of local solidarity and patriotism. *
The branch's activities weren't limited to knitting; they also organised fundraising events like cabaret dances and street collections to gather funds for their ongoing work. By 1942, the branch was involved in the Prisoner-of-War Adoption Scheme, where local residents were encouraged to financially support Australian soldiers who were held captive, ensuring that they received necessary supplies while in enemy hands. *
* Information from Trove (https://trove.nla.gov.au)
Pictured: Mayor Maree Statham and Lithgow Red Cross members at the morning tea.
Photo Courtesy of Maree Statham
Blast Furnace Park works.
Works at the Blast Furnace Park and Lake Pillans Wetlands are continuing this week to provide better public safety and accessibility to Lake Pillans Wetland area.
Work has been done to widen the pedestrian and cycle paths and create new paths with improved accessibility by reducing the gradient down to the Lake making it more accessible to people with mobility limitations and wheelchair users.
The Council has also broken ground on a new parking area on the far side of Lake Pillans which will allow more vehicles to safely park at the Lake and enjoy the recreation area.
Installation of the new architectural lighting at the Blast Furnace Park is also currently underway this week with electricians installing elements of the lighting system throughout the Blast Furnace site. The installation of this automated lighting system will illuminate significant elements of the Blast Furnace site making a dazzling attraction day and night for local people and visitors.
The Council would like to remind the public that while these works are exciting there will be limited access to Lake Pillans while upgrade works are underway.
The works have been funded through Round 5 of the NSW Government Stronger Country Communities Fund
The works are expected to take up to 4 months to complete however not all areas will be restricted for the duration of the works, and there will still be access between Blast Furnace and Lake Pillans. The Blast Furnace access road and carpark will remain open.
The public is asked to not enter fenced areas and to observe any warning signage
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Education Week assembly, open classrooms, and BBQ! It was a fantastic day celebrating our school community and the theme "Proud to Belong." We were thrilled to present awards to our outstanding students and recognise our dedicated staff, including Mr. Kuma for 20 years of service and Mrs. Whitelock for an incredible 30 years of commitment to our school.
A special thank you to all the parents and carers who attended—your support means the world to us and plays a vital role in the success of our students and school.
Photo Credit:Jason Vanajek / Shutterstock.com
Cass Coleman Community Group Campaign Launch.
I was recently asked why am I running for council once again? What would your goals be for another term?
This was my response.
As a Councillor you represent the views of the community that elects you.
A Councillor provides a bridge between council and community.
A Councillor can also provide a bridge between the community and the current State and Federal Government.
It is no secret that I am the President of the local branch of the Australian Labor Party and I use that position to strongly advocate for our region at every opportunity.
The past three years that bridge between community and council is in a state of disrepair. The lack of respect for the community that I have witnessed has been deplorable, no one is listening.
The community has been very clear regarding the special rate variation, the waste incinerator and the Lake Lyell pumped hydro project.
The goal of my vibrant, fresh, community focused team is to ensure that those currently underrepresented are heard.
The community can trust that our team will stand by our strong values and remain committed to working for the people.
Statement and image supplied by Cass Coleman
I have a proven record of always advocating to the best of my ability what is best for Greater Lithgow after listening to the community who have chosen to engage with me.
I also am very aware of ensuring that projects that benefit all the community are given priority.
We have a responsibility not to waste public money on frivolous activities that are simply window dressing.
We also believe that it is so important that each member of the community feels listened to and supported.
My goal is simply working towards a better today for tomorrow by supporting the community.
If you are interested in knowing more, please join Jon Cronin, Tenille Evans, Kylie Holmes, Mark McAulay and I this Friday 16 August 2024 5.30pm at Secret Creek Café and Restaurant.
Central West Comedy shows for Lithgow & Bathurst
Two headliner high profile comedians are coming to town! You would normally need to travel to a capital city to see these festival-award winning shows, but we are bringing them to your door!
Luke Heggie recently discovered that a slip of the tongue is now more commonly known as “his true colours” and that salted caramel was not just a fad. He’d like for these things to be rectified, but stopping short of standing in a major intersection waving around a plank with nails sticking out of it, there is nothing that can be done. This show is not recommended for anyone who was brought up to believe nothing is their fault. Most things are your fault. No lowbreeds please.
Honest, engaging, whip smart and a damn funny dude, Dave Thornton has built a reputation as one of our country’s best stand-up comedians.
With over 20 years in the game, he’s spent more than half his life doing what he loves, performing to crowds across Australia, and globally including Edinburgh, Montreal Singapore and New York. A regular co-host of The Project, Dave’s TV credentials also include hosting Channel 9’s 20 to 1 and Network 10’s This Week Live appearances on ABC TV’s Spicks and Specks and Agony Uncles, Channel 9’s The Hundred’s with Andy Lee and Network Ten’s Would I Lie To You Australia and Hughesy We Have a Problem.
Dave is also a prolific figure online, with his stand-up clips garnering millions of views from around the world, He is back on tour in 2024 with his new show Nothing’s Unpossible, exploring
fatherhood and family life, in a way that only he can.
Our next show features 'Chopper', Heath Franklin is an Australian cultural and comedy icon. With his own TV show, four live comedy specials, 2 ARIA nominations, 1 Logie nomination and over 500,000 tickets sold worldwide, Chopper has nearly done it all. The man behind the tatts and 'stache, Heath Franklin, is an Australian actor, comedic performer, improviser and writer. He is currently working on new TV and stage projects, and is a highly sought after corporate event speaker.
Ivan Aristeguieta has been winning over Australia with his vibrant, energetic brand of comedy since immigrating from Venezuela a decade ago. He has gathered a mass of fans for his trademark cheerful and naive rejoicing in the troubles and joys of living in the lucky country. You may have seen me on the telly or online, performing at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala (2016-2022), as well as the Just For Laughs Montreal Comedy Festival, or as guest panelist on shows including Have You Been Paying Attention?, The Project, The Weekly, Hughesy, We Have A Problem and The Living Room.
Luke and David will be at the Reckless Brewing Co, 2A Piper St, Bathurst on Friday 16 August and The Lithgow Tin Shed, 69 Bridge St, Lithgow on Saturday 17th August at 6:00 PM.
Heath and Ivan will be at the Reckless Brewing Co, 2A Piper St, Bathurst on Friday 23 August and The Lithgow Tin Shed, 69 Bridge St, Lithgow on Saturday 24th August at 6:00 PM.
We are all about value at Central West Comedy so we are offering 4 great headliner comedians at $20 for each head you see.
We are giving you a $20 DISCOUNT when you buy tickets for both the August shows together. See Luke Heggie & Dave Thornton (16th August) and Ivan Aristeguieta & Heath Franklins 'Chopper' (23rd August) for $80.
your tickets https://linktr.ee/Centralwestcomedy
Last week we held our 2024 NSW Public Education Week Assembly. This years theme was 'Proud to Belong'. We had a wonderful whole school assembly attended by a very large crowd of family and friends from our community.
Thank you to Mr Brad Cluff for sharing your inspirational words and all students and staff for your contributions making this an extra special celebratory event of NSW Public Education.
Pictured left to right.
Mark McAulay, Tenille Evans, Cass Coleman, Jon Cronin and Kylie Holmes
Whole school celebrations were held at Wallerawang Public School to celebrate Public Education Week.
Spring in to Art Newbridge
Spring into Art at Newbridge is back for 2024, with a new name for the art show – previously Back Creek, now Newbridge Art Show – and a dedicated website.
Art show entries open on August 1, 2024 with familiar categories including the prestigious Eutick Still Life, Open art, Open photography, Newbridge art, Newbridge photography (images to be from within 10km of Newbridge village) and digital art photography. Entries can be submitted via www.newbridgeartshow.com
New award categories in 2024 include Mini, for artworks not exceeding 300 square centimetres, and native flora or fauna photography.
Last year’s show, only held for the second time, attracted 116 entries. Organisers are looking to improve on that this year, with two buildings at the Newbridge Showground now dedicated to hanging art for the Newbridge Art Show and an opening night on Friday October 18.
Other events that weekend will include new Open Gardens and Jazz in the Gardens performances on October 19 and 20.
Pictured top: One of the category winners in the 2023 art show
Pictured Bottom: Organisers are expecting over 100 entries in the 2024 art show
Last chance to enter Textures of one 2024!!
Textures of One Art Prize returns in 2024 with a 10th anniversary celebration! To honour ten years, and all of the volunteers, community groups and local artists that have participated over the past decade, the motif of TIN has been selected. We can't wait to see TIN included in creative new ways in this years entries.
The Opening Night and Awards Presentation will be held at Platform Arts Hub Blayney on Saturday 24 August from 6pm-8pm. Join us for a night of art, music, drinks, canapes, and more!
IMPORTANT DATES:
Entries close: Midnight 16 August 2024 - NEW DATE!
Artwork Delivery: 21 to 22 August 2024
Exhibition: 24 August to 8 September 2024
Opening and Prize Announcement: 24 August 2024
The 2024 exhibition will be held across Platform Arts Hub Blayney and The Odd Sock Gallery with the $1000 acquisitive prize sponsored by Blayney Shire Council.
Young musicians shine at Allegri Singers’ concerts.
As part of their winter concerts, ‘Seasons of the Earth and Heart’, Bathurst’s Allegri Singers welcomed three young solo musicians to share their eclectic program of ancient and modern, sacred and secular works.
At Keystone in Bathurst, and the Malachi Hall in Oberon, audiences gave an enthusiastic reception to the choir, and especially to the highly accomplished young soloists.
Lani Muller, guitarist, from Mackillop College, Paris Masters, harpist, a student at Mitchell Conservatorium, and Lucy Ashton, pianist, from Kinross Wolaroi School, played their respective instruments with a level of skill, poise and grace that belied their youth.
Allegri Singers hope to repeat and expand on this experience, involving young musicians in performing before an audience. The choir is keen to recruit new members, and to instil the joys of choral singing into people of all ages.
The choir rehearses each Tuesday of school term time, from 6.30 to 8.30 pm, in the Walshaw Hall, next to All Saints’ Anglican Cathedral.
Anyone interested in joining is welcome to drop into a rehearsal, or contact the choir via their website: allegrisingers.org.au
Allegri Singers’ next event will be on October 20th at Keystone, in Bathurst, where they have been invited to join the Sydney Male Choir, who will be on tour.
The final performances of 2024 for Allegri Singers, will be on November 16 and 17, in Lithgow and Bathurst. The program will include Henry Purcell’s ‘Come Ye Sons of Art’ for which rehearsals are already under way.
LEO, ROVING REPORTER
Report from: My desk Story filed: Getting a Licence to Drive
Hey there folks. I'm getting kinda old, well not that old but old enough that I can now apply for my drivers licence. I haven't actually applied for it yet as I'm still completing the online DKT test, the driver knowledge test. I have to pass that before I can apply for a driver's licence as I'm sure many of you know.
I like the online test better than going into a transport office and doing it in person because if you make a mistake you can just try again and again until you get it right plus you only pay for it once when you pass.
There's a couple of components to the online test, there are different sections on different topics with different stages in them. Complete all those and their respective quizzes then you can unlock a key.
In total there are three sections and three keys you need in order to be able to take the final test and apply for your licence.
So far I'm nearly done with the final section and onto the final test. I'm looking forward to being able to apply for a driver's license as I'm kinda sick of walking everywhere.
Until next time
Leo Roving Reporter
Mrs Pamela Joy Reece (Nee Olley) 02.02.41 - 08.08.24
Passed away peacefully at Lithgow Hospital surrounded by family Loving Wife of David Reece (dec).
Caring Mother & Mother-In-Law of Scott, Leanne & Carleen and partners. Wonderful Grandmother/Nan, Great Grandmother/Great Nan and Foster Mum.
A Funeral Service will be held at Leura Memorial Gardens and Crematorium Friday 16/8/24 at 1pm.
ROTARY AND KIRANA PROPERTY RESCUES OVER A QUARTER OF A MILLION FROM LANDFILL!
What do you do with hundreds of nursing beds, shower chairs, walking frames and other equipment in a decommissioned aged care facility in Bathurst? Donate it to a developing country - but how?!
When St Catherine's Aged Care relocated from Havannah Street to Gorman's Hill in 2017, large quantities of equipment were left behind in favour of upgrades in the new facility. They have sat there untouched for the last six years and might have ended in landfill were it not for the efforts of Rotary and the developer of the site and Kirana founder, Andrew Evetts. Working together with another Australian Rotary organisation, RARE (Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment), any working and useable items will now be shipped to developing countries around the world where they will help to save lives.
On Saturday July 20, members of the Rotary Club of Bathurst Daybreak (RCOBD) spent a daywith Andrew in the cold, testing and stocktaking equipment - electric beds, shower chairs, walkers and furniture. Over 80 beds were found to be in working condition and much other equipment was still serviceable. The items would cost well over $300,000 to purchase new today. Instead of ending in landfill because of difficulties selling and relocating such equipment here in Australia, they will soon be shipped to RARE's central processing facility in outer Sydney where yet more Rotary volunteers will arrange for their delivery to countries in need.
The Rotary Club of Bathurst Daybreak may be better known around town for serving gozlemes at the Farmers' Markets and sizzling sausages at Bunnings BBQs however its members regularly engage in other less visible community service projects such as the repurposing of medical equipment. The club meets at the Panorama Motel at 0715 every Wednesday morning and welcomes visitors and new members who would like to know more and to engage in the spirit of community service.
MONSTER TRACTOR RAFFLE TO DRIVE CHANGE ACROSS REGIONAL AUSTRALIA
Tickets are now on sale for one the country’s biggest and most unique raffles, raising money for Active Farmers, a not-for-profit charity that addresses the poor mental health in rural Australia.
With the generous support of sponsors Delta, FMC, and Australian John Deere Dealerships, ticket holders go in the draw to win a 6140M John Deere Tractor with 643R Loader, valued at a whopping $280,716.
This is not just any raffle prize—it's a symbol of strength, resilience, and community spirit. By participating, you're not only getting a chance to win a top-of-the-line tractor, but also contributing to the positive impact Active Farmers has in building stronger, healthier, and more resilient rural communities.
Active Farmers takes a grassroots approach to rural health and wellbeing by providing regular group fitness sessions designed to be accessible and beneficial for everyone, regardless of fitness level. These sessions help improve physical health, reduce stress, and foster a stronger sense of community.
Each and every month across all corners of the country, Active Farmers runs more than 300 classes in 65 small farming communities, drawing more than 1500 participants.
Purchasing a ticket will allow Active Farmers to help deliver on its goal to grow to be servicing more than 100 small farming communities nationally for more than 2,000 people in the next 12 months - and ultimately save more lives.
Active Farmers CEO Mark Slater said the program helps enhance the quality of life in rural areas by fostering community spirit and encouraging healthy lifestyles.
“Sport is such a huge part of the social fabric of rural and regional communities, but as we get older, hang up the boots or retire the netball bib, it’s important adults also stay active, healthy, and more importantly, connected to our community,” Mr Slater said.
“Active Farmers does that by building resilience and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of people in small
rural communities through regular group fitness programs.
“By participating in the raffle, you are supporting the expansion of our network, allowing more people to receive the support they need and ensuring the sustainability of our services in small communities indefinitely.
“A ticket doesn’t just get you in with the chance to win a tractorbut also helps save lives.”
For nearly a decade, the notfor-profit charity has taken a grassroots approach to rural health and wellbeing, with a focus on addressing the concerning issues of poor mental health and alarming suicide rates in rural Australia.
• One-in-three Aussie farmers have reported a decline in their mental health in the past few years.
• 45% of Aussie farmers have felt depressed, with 64% experiencing anxiety. For one in seven, it’s a frequent experience.
• 45% of Aussie farmers have had thoughts of self harm or suicide, while 30% have attempted self harm or suicide. Picture yourself cruising through your paddocks, tackling tasks with ease, all while knowing you've supported a cause that truly makes a difference.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to win big while
supporting a cause that's close to the heart of rural Australia. Let's drive change together, one tractor raffle ticket at a time.
Tickets can be purchased at https://rafflelink. com.au/afraffle2024 until November 21.
Pictured left - Rotarian Irene Jones leads the team assessing furniture at St Catherine's. Rotarian Molly Banks joined the team at St Catherine's Pictured right: The equipment that might have ended up in landfill!
Puzzles
1. Very hard wood
5. Sympathy
11. Warmed (6,2)
15. Fire residue
16. From the menu, ... carte (1,2)
17. Swerved
19. Smell
21. Biff
23. TV watcher
25. Magnified map section
27. More foolish
28. Formerly Ceylon, Sri ...
30. Enthusiast
31. Chargers
32. Marijuana cigarette
33. Reproduced
34. Public service
35. Rarer
36. Dublin republic
38. Rugged peak
40. Robin or swallow
42. Probability
44. Defendant’s bond money
45. Butchered
46. Eye membrane
48. Shorten
49. As far as (2,2)
50. Farm produce
51. Earmarked
52. Opposed to
53. Swollen heads, big ...
54. Musical symbol
55. Departure
56. Cancel out
58. Oppress
59. Underground storage room
61. Proverb
63. British award (1,1,1)
64. Informer
65. Romantic poet, Lord ...
67. Sharp crest
69. Bloodsucking insects
71. Russian mountains
73. Painter, Leonardo da ...
74. Intrusively
76. Baggier
78. Green shade
80. Stage scenes
82. Observation platform
83. Sheep clipper
85. Prepares (oneself)
89. Finest
91. Tabloid tell-all
93. Flavour enhancer (1,1,1)
94. Cottage pie topping
96. Worried
98. Clean-up, working ...
99. Non-governmental organisation (1,1,1)
100. Unspecified person
102. Icing utensil
103. Four-stringed guitar
104. Invitation holder
105. US media baron, ... Turner
106. Naval exercises
107. Give authority to
108. Shaggy-haired dog
110. ... de toilette
112. Exhilarated
114. Gain from benefactor
117. Willing torturers
120. Peeks
123. Herr & ...
125. Smallgoods shop
127. Taunts
128. Pose
131. Tropical fruit
133. Mexican farewell
134. Dutch bulb flower
135. Picasso’s homeland
136. Not mistaken
137. Marshal’s reinforcements
140. Olympic Games body (1,1,1)
141. Horse-like animal
142. White heron
145. Undercoat
147. Investing as Sir
148. Look over
150. Huge
151. Monopoly street, Pall ...
152. Coil
153. Actress, Meg ...
154. Avoidance of responsibility (3-3)
156. Invisible emanation
158. Tomato variety
160. Mrs Marcos
162. Manifestation
163. Fossil resin
164. Floor rugs
165. Geological eras
166. Adds soundtrack to
167. Rests on chair
168. Yorkshire valley
170. The Netherlands
172. Eve’s cover (3,4)
173. Wine, ... spumante
174. Presentations
177. Wedding attendant,
... of honour
179. Oil cartel
180. Light scarf fabric
182. Unsurpassed (favourite) (3-4)
183. Inuit snow shelter
185. Struggle roughly
187. North African nation
188. Argentina’s Buenos ...
189. Suspended above ground
191. Nocturnal bird
192. Bind
193. Sang in unison
194. Holiness
195. Filthiest
1. Transportable
2. Fuss, ... & cry 3. Supplements in food 4. Starchy tubers 5. Conversational 6. Gallows halter 7. Spoken exams
Afoot 9. Case-harden 10. Italian seaport
11. Actress, Goldie ... 12. Moving forward 13. Droplets on lawn
14. Processions
18. Stopping for gas
20. Jordan/Kuwait region
22. Taking notice of 24. Petit point
26. Matrimonial split-up
29. Building design
37. Pressed (clothes)
38. Huddles closely
39. Throughout the world
40. Every second year
Perceives 43. Actor, Danny ...
Fleshy sugar source
Strongroom
Weirder
Soak up
Cowgirl, ... Oakley
Bring up (children)
Discourteous
Chimney 70. Single
Admitting
Envisaging
Norwegian capital
77. Revise
Business ventures
Audio discs (1,2)
Fatuous
Partial refunds
Rectified 87. Magma-based rock
Wives 90. Recline (3,4)
Employee’s itinerary
In comparison to
