February 2011

Liquor Application Abandoned

The packed liquor license application for Shops 2 and 3, 20-24 Walker Street, Helensburgh has been withdrawn by the Attorney acting for Woolworth’s liquor group BWS. Local Businesses and residents are to be commended for looking beyond immediate and short lived gains of greater competition and considering the impact an additional Liquor license would have on a small town.

Helensburgh is home to just 5,500 residents around 30% of whom are under the age of 16 and is already serviced by a Hotel, 2 liquor stores, a licensed club and at least 2 sporting clubs with licences. In neighbouring Stanwell Park there is an additional liquor licence and a Woolworths Liquor Store is already located in nearby Engadine.

The mandatory community impact statement prepared by Back Schwartz Vaughan Solicitors on behalf of BWS, stated it would create three full time and five part time positions.

Does the ‘Gong love the ‘Burgh?

Page 5

“It was a surprise to have residents raise their concerns at the neighbourhood forum meeting before I had the chance” said Ms Collins of the Centennial Hotel.

After hearing community concerns local Independent Candidate for Heathcote, Greg Petty offered assistance collecting signatures over the Christmas period in opposition to an additional liquor license in Helensburgh.

Back Schwartz Vaughan Associate, Brett Tobin stated on January 14, “Our client has confirmed that the application for the grant of the liquor licence at Helensburgh is no longer being proceeded with”.

In response to the application withdrawal Mr. Petty stated “This is a great example of community empowerment and the community working together”.

Local Country Singer/Songwriter Page 11

Cheers & Jeers here to stay!

Page 18

do you have an unhappy computer? ring Chris @

HELENSBURGH COMPUTERS 42941051 or 0415797885

on-site computer repairs, new systems, internet issues 49 Parkes St (nearest X street Old Farm Rd)

Helensburgh & District Herald 1

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Letter from the Editor

Angela Fagerstrom Co-ordinator of the new Helensburgh & District Herald Pty Ltd

Community participation in this monthly newsletter is encouraged.

Contributors should keep stories to a maximum of 200 words if possible. The editor reserves the right to edit according to space restrictions. Contributors should include contact details for clarification. The Contributor’s drop box is located at Helensburgh Newsagency, or post to P.O. Box 248 Helensburgh, 2508.

DEADLINE FOR CONTRIBUTIONS IS 5pm, 18th OF THE MONTH Editor@ HelensburghDistrictHerald.com.au Disclamer: The views expressed in the letters published in this issue do not reflect those of the editor. All graphics remain the property of Helensburgh & District Herald Pty Ltd unless otherwise supplied.

IN THIS ISSUE...

News Letters Community News Youth News Spotlight on local business Cheers & Jeers Classifieds Bluegum Diary Service Directory Sport 2 Helensburgh & District Herald

1-8 14 13, 22 & 33 24 16-17, 20-21 18 26 12 27-30 34-36

Hello and welcome to the launch edition of the Helensburgh and District Herald.

My involvement with community newspapers began in 2007 not long after moving to the area.

There was a small article in the Helensburgh and District News asking for a volunteer designer to assist while their regular designer was on leave.

I liked receiving the community newsletter and thought helping the HDN was a great way to contribute to the community as commuting to work in Sydney prevented me from being involved in much else.

I developed a real affection for the newsletter and the position that it held in the community.

I never get tired of people joking about reading the ‘jeers’ with a smile and trepidation that someday it may be them!

Interestingly, the ‘Cheers and Jeers’ section has infiltrated the local vernacular and have witnessed a few occasions where people have used the verb ‘to jeers’ or as in the past tense, been “jeersed”.

The relationship of locals to the publication is special and endearing so it has been sad to witness the volunteer associated incorporation cease its operations.

After a few years and the wearing of a couple of different ‘hats’ for the HDN, it felt like a very natural progression to start a small business to keep the ‘essence’ of a local paper alive for the community.

While it has a new name, community news is still the focus of the new Helensburgh and District Herald and aims to connect local services and businesses to those who need them.

A BIG ‘Thank You’ to the Contributors for this months edtion!!

Your support has been outstanding!

There are many wonderful people in this area and I’m sure you will have a great many stories to tell.

So, if you do have a story that others should know about or would be interested in, then let’s talk!

Angela Fagerstrom, Editor

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

NEWS

Dangerous Bus Route Overlooked Federally funded road works planned for the section of Postman’s Track between The Crescent and Vera Street, are the subject of scrutiny by the Convenor of the Neighbourhood Forum (NF.1), Pauline Lacelles-Smith and local Independent Candidate for Heathcote and Helensburgh resident, Greg Petty.

They ask Wollongong City Council . . . Why? Why was a non-thoroughfare which services only cul-de-sac residents selected, while the bus route to Helensburgh Station, so urgently in need of work overlooked?

Wollongong City Council was unable to answer this question or explain their selection criteria in a meeting with Ms Lacelles-Smith and Mr Petty held on January 20th. Council’s response to issues raised are pending.

A positive outcome from the meeting was that Wollongong City Council agreed to contact Railcorp to ascertain if the bus interchange can be moved to the Wilson’s Creek side of Station (as was originally proposed). In addition Council will put forth the proposal that Railcorp construct a third tower to Wilson’s Creek Road or replace the steps down to Helensburgh Station which were removed in the station access upgrade.

Ms Lacellles-Smith also took the opportunity to reiterate the dire need of a traffic plan for Helensburgh CBD at the January 20th meeting.

The draft plan for Postman’s track, set out

by Wollongong City Council details at least one hundred and fifty thousand dollars worth of construction including; kerbing along the eastern side of the road, repairs to the existing open drain, installation of wheel stops on the western side, formal car park areas, a new retaining wall and finally asphalt and resurfacing of the road.

Since 2007, NF.1 has been forwarding concerns regarding all roads leading to Helensburgh Station, especially the ones used for bus routes.

NF.1 will be inviting residents along the bus routes to attend an upcoming NF1 meeting to discuss the traffic issues and to participate in finding a workable solution to Helensburgh’s traffic woes.

The next NF1 meeting will be held at 7pm, on Wednesday, 9th February at the Helensburgh Community Centre.

Cause and Effect: Cause - RailCorp design and location of the bus interchange at Helensburgh Railway Station.

Effect - is the substandard roads and dangerous bus route.

Helensburgh & District Herald 3

NEWS

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

Alarm raised over leak

Renting laws are changing

Otford resident and President of the Otford Protection Society, Natasha Watson has brought to the attention of Sydney Water, discharge from the low pressure sewerage pumping station in Lady Carrington Road, Otford.

A series of ‘before and after’ photos taken

by Natasha Watson of the creek and river at the Pumping Station have been forwarded to Sydney Water to officially document the pollution. The photos graphically record how suspected raw sewerage left untreated can so quickly pollute the pristine water of the Hacking River.

“Sydney Water crews scratched their heads trying to locate the overflow pipe underneath all the prickly weeds” reported Ms Watson.

Recent inspections of the site by Stanwell Park resident Mr. Warwick Erwin and Independent Candidate for Heathcote, Greg Petty, showed no sign of Sydney Water’s physical activity to rectify the problem, despite a second crew attending the site.

Community groups have emailed Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water for urgent action, escalating the matter past Sydney Water.

Mr. Petty asked, “Does WCC have current records of all the bores, springs and creeks that are tributaries to the Hacking River – let alone is routine monitoring being conducted? If the answer is no, how does and how did it assess the environmental impact of any development application in this environmentally sensitive region?”.

“Sydney Water should also be conducting regular tests of the creek to ensure that the system is operating efficiently and the individual waste pots that pump to the street and onto the station are working correctly” noted Ms Watson.

Ms Watson added “The rear of the pumping station was, as of yesterday (Jan 23) still heavily infested with weeds and including the prickly Scottish thistle, making regular visual inspection of the overflow pipe impossible”.

The overgrowth has lead resident to believe that it’s been years since such tests have been conducted. However, “Sydney Water has assured me that the pumping station isn’t leaking” reports Ms Watson.

The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 was passed by Parliament in June 2010. The Act and its associated Regulation will commence on 31 January 2011.

The new Act follows a review of the existing tenancy laws including more than 100 reforms.

The changes include arrangements for rent payments, early termination by tenants, ‘nogrounds’ evictions, alterations by tenants, rent arrears, sub-letting, shared housing, security and tenancy databases.

Tenants get more time to move out: If a tenant is no longer under a fixed term agreement and the landlord wants the tenant to move out ‘without grounds’, the notice period increases from 60 to 90 days.

If notice is given by a landlord just before the end of the lease, the notice period increases from 14 to 30 days.

Greater certainty for landlords: If a tenant no longer on a lease does not move out after being given a ‘no grounds’ notice to vacate, the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal must terminate the agreement and return possession of the property to the landlord. The only exception to this is if the tenant can show that the notice was retaliatory.

Tenants can ‘catch up’: If a tenant catches up on overdue rent, or follows a repayment plan agreed with the landlord, termination action will be cancelled. This will not apply if the tenant is shown to have frequently failed to pay their rent on time.

Faster rent arrears eviction process: Landlords will be able to cut 2 weeks from the eviction process by applying to the Tribunal for orders at the same time as giving a termination notice to the tenant.

To view more of the key reforms or for more information go to; www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au

Are you interested in advertising?

Contact the Editor Editor@HelensburghDistrictHerald.com.au

4 Helensburgh & District Herald

NEWS

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

We love the ‘Gong, but does the ‘Gong love the ‘Burgh?

Residents of the Helensburgh area could be forgiven for thinking that the tourism Wollongong tagline doesn’t include them.

The keyword “Helensburgh” when used to search the ‘Visit Wollongong’ website yields zero search results across the categories; “Accommodation, Activities, Attractions, Eating Out and Conferences and Events.”

Using the ‘interactive maps’ section of the site reveals the only ‘place of interest’ in Helensburgh is the Helensburgh Community Health Centre, which is listed at an address that is not only wrong, but does not exist.

“12 East King Street, Helensburgh NSW 2508”.

Similarly, if a search is conducted using one of the information kiosks at the Southern Gateway Centre the result is poor. According to the information kiosk the only ‘attraction’ in Helensburgh is a General Practitioner.

Congratulations Stanwell Park, your keyword search revealed twenty five ‘hits’! Darkes Forrest scored one, Otford had two ‘hits’ and Stanwell Tops resulted in seven ‘hits’.

Tourism Wollongong is a member based organisation. If you have a business that should be listed on the Tourism Wollongong website you can contact them with membership enquiries at: PO Box 379, Wollongong, NSW 2520.

The HDH is calling on the community to help compile a list of places/ attractions in Helensburgh that should appear on the Visit Wollongong website and information kiosks.

Please send your suggestions to the Editor@ HelensburghDistrictHerald.com.au or PO Box 243 Helensburgh, 2508.

Maybe one day Helensburgh might even be able to claim “public toilets” as a place of interest!

Helensburgh & District Herald 5

NEWS

Gaslands Illawarra

By Peter Turner, ABC Four Corners is expected soon to air an edition on the increasingly contentious issue of coal seam gas (CSG) mining in Australia. This reflects rising public concern and the impact of the documentary films; Gaslands and Split Estate, which provide disturbing insights into shale gas mining practices in the US. Earlier this year fears that gas mining would damage and contaminate New York State water supply catchments led to a moratorium on gas drilling in the vicinity of catchment areas.

Similarly a recently released report from the Tyndall Centre at Manchester University calls for a halt to shale gas mining in the UK. In Australia the NSW Farmers Association, the Greens, wine growers, tourism operators and more than 20 NGO (Non-Government Organisations) and grass-roots groups are likewise calling for a halt to CSG mining.

As the October 2010 edition of the Helensburgh and District News highlighted, CSG exploration work is underway in the Illawarra. Otford Protection Society secretary Natasha Watson, independent Heathcote candidate Greg Petty and others have exposed APEX Energy plans and information not otherwise made available, and have been campaigning for proper approval procedures that include open disclosure and community consultation. Peppered across the northern Illawarra, the CSG wells will be drilled down to 50 metres below the Illawarra coal measures.

To date 15 Illawarra wells have been approved, with an additional well application currently before the NSW Department of Planning. APEX plans also call for a 415 MW gas-fired power station near Helensburgh and a pipeline skirting the edge of the town.

The additional well site being proposed lies immediately to the south of the Metropolitan mine workings, and is one of at least five sites APEX anticipates will be suitable for commercial gas production. Coal seam gas and shale gas mining have in common a mining technique known as horizontal hydro-fracturing, or fracking, which is used to release and harvest trapped gas. This controversial technique will be used in the Illawarra by APEX, should the exploration wells prove commercially viable.

6 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD Fracking involves the high pressure injection of large volumes of water carrying sand and a small quantity of chemical additives that enhance seam fracturing, change the surface tension of water, prevent corrosion and provide lubrication.

The chemical additives typically make up no more than 0.5% of the fracking fluid, but the volumes of fluid used are so high that significant surface and ground water contamination can occur. While some of the contaminated water remains underground, where it may leak into drinking water sources, the rest is returned to the surface as ‘produced water’ to be trucked away or held in open pits which pose a leakage risk while awaiting either disposal or treatment.

The use of some of the hazardous additives used in the US has been banned in Queensland, but not in NSW. A recent study by JPMorgan suggests environmental risks may undermine the viability of coal seam gas mining.

Natural gas combustion produces around half as much carbon dioxide as coal combustion, and is widely viewed as a cost effective and flexible ‘transitional’ energy source in progressively moving to a low carbon economy.

Recent full life-cycle studies however, suggest the benefit is significantly undermined, and perhaps negated, by energy consumption for mining, produced water treatment and transportation, and the leakage of methane gas from well sites, containers and pipelines.

Methane is a much more potent green-house gas than is carbon dioxide. The Federal government’s Cleaner Power Stations program, which requires new power stations to be carbon capture and storage ‘ready’, does not include gas fired power stations.

The APEX application for the additional well site in the Illawarra is about to be made available for public comment by the Department of Planning, providing an opportunity for you to have your say; http://bit.ly/APEX_DoP. Greg and Natasha will provide e-sign submissions on their websites; www.gregpetty.com.au or www. otfordeco.com.au The HDH is monthly!

Deadline for material is 18th of each month.

Contributions should be sent to; Editor@HelensburghDistrictHerald.com.au

NEWS

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

Food Safe in the Northern Illawarra

Clean-Up Australia Day

New food handling laws introduced in NSW require businesses across the hospitality and retail food service sector to appoint at least one trained Food Safety Supervisor.

As many of the member businesses of the Northern Illawarra Chamber of Commerce (NICC) fall into the hospitality/retail food area, NICC is organising local training courses in Helensburgh and Thirroul not only for their members but all food/tourism outlets in the area.

The courses offered by the NICC will be run by registered trainers, approved by the NSW Food Authority and will commence in late February and March.

To register for any/all of the three mandatory courses; “Follow workplace hygiene procedures”, “Implement food safety procedures” and/or “Apply retail food safety practices” Contact president@nicc.net.au or call 4294 1243 to register.

Clean-Up Australia Day takes place every year on the first Sunday of March. From Perth to Penrith, hundreds of thousands of Australians get stuck in and Clean Up their local environment by collecting and removing rubbish on Clean Up Australia Day. In 2010 more than 588,000 volunteers across Australia helped to celebrate 20 years of CleanUp Australia by donning gloves and filling up Clean-Up Australia Day rubbish bags with an estimated 15,560 tonnes of rubbish at 7,073 registered Sites across Australia.

On Sunday 6 March 2011, why don’t you come along and help clean up Helensburgh!

Register at the Old Mine Surgery, corner of Parkes and Junction Streets between 9 am and 1 pm and we’ll give you a bag to fill with rubbish.

Clean up an area of your choice, or we can suggest an area to clean up. Bring your own gloves, hat and sturdy shoes. For further information ring Merilyn or Allan on 4294 1829.

Helensburgh and District Landcare Group. www.helensburghlandcare.org.au

Helensburgh & District Herald 7

NEWS The real price of my chocolate treat

By Gina Grohn I’m an avowed chocoholic but I’ve become increasingly concerned about the darker side of the chocolate industry. I shouldn’t have to consider the issues of child slavery, brutal regimes and the decimation of a species and its habitat when I’m choosing a chocolate bar but, thanks to the decisions and actions of transnationals that put profit well ahead of people and the environment, I’m the one forced to take these things into account when I’m in the supermarket.

The US State Department estimates 100,000 children work on Ivory Coast chocolate plantations. True, not all are slaves but there is no opportunity to attend school and escape a life of low paid unskilled labour. And so, as the child slave earns a beating and the cocoa farmer earns less for a kilo of beans than we pay for a Snickers bar, the cycle of poverty for these people continues while the companies buying the beans earn billions. That Snickers bar is looking less appealing.

The Ivory Coast’s former President Laurent Gbagbo lost the 2010 democratic election but maintains power by funding his brutal army with cocoa revenues and tariffs. Avaaz.org’s campaign is asking international cocoa buyers including Cadbury, Ferrero, Hershey’s, Kraft, M&M/ Mars, and Nestlé, to stop buying from Gbagbo.

At this point, I have to leave the confectionary isle, empty-handed.

In 2009, after consumer backlash, Cadbury NZ/Australia announced it would stop using palm oil in its Dairy Milk chocolate. Consumers didn’t like the new taste or that palm oil production involved worker exploitation, massive deforestation (a significant contributor to climate change) and the slaughter of orang-utans (now facing possible extinction within 20 years).

Palm oil and its derivatives are present in 50% of all packaged foods on our shelves, often labelled as ‘vegetable oil’ and is in anything from bread, biscuits, chocolate, chips, sandwich spreads and ice cream to shower cream and shampoo. The entire supermarket range is looking grimmer by the minute.

Rather than give up chocolate (and most other packaged food), I’ve started asking companies about the ingredients used and how they are sourced.

8 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD So far, apart from Cadbury, I’ve had no satisfactory answers to direct emails although company websites assure me that they are ‘working with suppliers to promote the elimination of child labour’ and they will ‘endeavour to use only sustainable palm oil’ within the next few years.

Call me a sceptic but it sounds like they’re passing the buck back down the supply chain.

So, if chocolate companies won’t take responsibility for the full production cost of their product, I will take responsibility for my purchase as I slip back into the confectionary isle and take a small Fair Trade Dairy Milk to savour while I start another email.

Symbio Tiger Update After much hard work and preparations, on the 23rd of December 2010 a pair of Sumatran Tigers finally arrived at Symbio Wildlife Park.

The two and a half year old siblings have come to Symbio from New Zealand and are settling into their new life in Helensburgh very well.

Symbio Director, John Radnidge describes their arrival as “an honour and a privilege” and Mr Radnidge has appointed their enclosure accordingly, complete with exotic foliage, play areas, pool and waterfall.

The magnificent male is named Jalur (meaning stripes) and his beautiful sister is named Cinta (meaning love). They each have unique personality traits, Park Manager Matt Radnidge describes Jalur as “easy going and motivated by food” while his sister is more aware of her surrounds and is less likely to be tempted with food. This would account for the size difference in the two beasts, Jalur is around 130 kgs while Cinta is closer to 100 kgs.

As impressive as their size may be, at the end of the day for a special treat they enjoy supermarket variety ‘cat milk’.

The pair are part of an international breeding program to help this critically endangered species. The breeding program involves the challenging task of moving the beasts within participating parks to ensure genetic diversity.

It is hoped in the not- too distant future, Symbio will be further privileged with the ‘pitter-patter’ of tiny paws.

ADVERTISEMENT

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

www.gregpetty.com.au greg@gregpetty.com.au

"I look forward to representing the whole community, from Loftus to Bulli.

At last residents in the electorate have a candidate prepared to represent the community, environment and small business with a commitment to full open transparency, honesty and altruistic goals.

Through community consultation solutions can be found to any problem, we just need the desire in our Members of Parliament.

Most importantly, I want to hear from you on issues concerning you�.

Greg Petty’s Priorities Include: To represent "Heathcote" in an open and unbiased way, free of party politics, by signing a set of principles of integrity, honesty and accountability in performance of duties Protecting the Royal National Park, its catchment and the surrounding environment Protecting the Sydney Water Catchment area and the surrounding environment, including the Woronora Dam, and Illawarra escarpment To campaign against the Coal Seam Gas (methane) mining and power station technology that is already showing irreversible environmental and human health impacts To maintain the previous high environmental protection 7d zoning placed on the area

Supported by Legendary corruption fighter and former member for the South Coast, John Hatton Authorised by Greg Petty, 130 Walker Street Helensburgh NSW, 2508

Helensburgh & District Herald 9

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL BUSINESS ‘THE BAKER’S DOZEN’ - QUIZ

QUESTIONS 1. Name the sculptor of the “Helensburgh Miner.”

2. In what year did Hollywood star, Marilyn Monroe die?

3. How many ships were in the First Fleet?

4. Which actor is the voice of Homer Simpson?

5. What is the name of the Rolls Royce mascot?

6. Finish this saying: “As old as . . .”

7. Where was Justin Bieber Born?

8. What is the number on Thomas the Tank’s Engine?

9. Who won the NRL Grand Final in 2008?

10. In what year did Helensburgh Public School open?

11. Which words appear under the floral emblem of Heathcote High School?

12. Which current event is on display until March 13th 2011, at the Art Gallery NSW? 13. What is a demilune?

Answers on Page 13

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD ‘Switched on’ to customer service Helensburgh Mechanic, Brook Cheffirs from ‘Switched On Mechanical’, was presented with the ‘Pride of Workmanship Award’ from the Rotary Club of Bulli & Northern Illawarra in late 2010.

Brook Cheffirs receiving the Rotary Club’s ‘Pride of Service award’ at the Thirroul Bowling Club in November 2010.

This Rotary award gives public recognition to individuals who have consistently exceeded the expectations of their customers, displayed outstanding attitude, dedication and commitment to their profession. Brook displays outstanding customer service and is a skilled, reliable and hardworking mechanic and was honoured to be recognised for his efforts.

NEW STORE OPENING SOON!

193 Parkes St, Helensburgh

Open 7 days

10 Helensburgh & District Herald

ENTERTAINMENT

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

Country music success started at home It has been a steady rise for local singer/ songwriter Jackie Dee since winning an Illawarra songwriters competition in 2008 held at the Helensburgh Workers’ club.

The performance of her song “A few wrong turns” gave her the title of ‘overall competition winner’ judged by Colin Buchanan.

This recognition inspired Jackie to enter the Telstra Road to Tamworth competition in 2008 where she was successfully chosen as one of the fourteen heat finalists for the entire Sydney region. Jackie has since gone on to play support for stars like; Rick Price, Ray Beadle and Catherine Britt.

In April 2010 as an independent artist, Jackie took to the studio to produce something special.

Her debut EP TIDE is Aussie Alt-Country and its best described as taking the listener on an insightful and heartfelt journey.

It is now a very busy time for the hard working and determined artist. Jackie played at the Illawarra folk festival on Sunday the 16th January and the following week was off to Tamworth as a feature artist with her four piece band.

Things have certainly accerlerated for Jackie since winning the Illawarra singwriters’ contest, yet she has been performing and writing songs since the age of 13.

Jackie’s first single “a few wrong turns” will appear on an ABC compilation album ‘Country 4 Mum’ being released in April 2011 along with some of the biggest names in Country Music.

Jackie Dee’s debut EP ‘Tide’ is available on itunes and also on hard copy at ‘Oat and Honey’ and through her website www.jackiedee.net. left; the cover of Jackie Dee’s EP ‘Tide’ and below; Singer/Songwriter Jackie Dee

Helensburgh & District Herald 11

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

BLUEGUM DIARY/ NEWS

HDH Online

Blue Gum Diary 9 FEBRUARY - NF1. Meeting at the Helensburgh Community Centre, 7pm.

11 FEBRUARY - Jackie Dee Performs at the Heritage Hotel, Bulli.

13 FEBRUARY - WAVES 2508 AGM and Committee Elections, Helensburgh Workers club, 10.30am.

15 FEBRUARY - VIEW, Meeting and Lunch, 11am, Centennial Hotel.

6 MARCH - CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY Register at the Old Mine Surgery.

COMING SOON - Helensburgh Markets Second Sunday of each month!

(Outside the Centennial Hotel)

From the March 2010 edition the Helensburgh and District Herald will be available straight to your inbox.

The newsletter emails will be limited to once a month, so there won’t be an overload of newsfeeds in your inbox.

It will look and ‘feel’ very similar to the Helensburgh and District Herald and is complemented with the HDH website which has the popular service directory online (coming mid Feb).

All businesses which advertise with the printed HDH receive free online listings.

If you are feeling exceptionally ‘green’ email the editor and it can be arranged that your household receives only the e-copy of the HDH. Want to ‘like’ the Helensburgh and District Herald?

Find it on Facebook - ‘Helensburgh District Herald’.

Have you been affected by graffiti?

Southern SportS

phySiotherapy Bill La palombara

SPORTS INJURY? YOU Need the expert care Of the ONLY qUalified SpOrtS phYSiO iN heleNSbUrgh! = Bill La Palombara

• Sport/Work injuries • accupuncture • Massage • podiatry • Back/neck pain • Fibreglass Casts Call now and get back on track FAST! helensburgh

engadine

4294 4953 134 parkes St. (opp. Shell Garage)

9520 4953

Cnr Caldarra & Station St.

Visit our Website for our complete range of services & products

www.southernsportsphysio.com.au

12 Helensburgh & District Herald

Wollongong city council has a Graffiti Prevention Management Plan to address this growing social issue.

The management plan recognises rapid removal of graffiti as an important step in preventing it.

Graffiti services provided; • A dedicated Reporting Line for reporting graffiti (Monday to Friday 9am-5pm) • Advice on the removal of Graffiti and preventative measures.

• A complimentary removal/paint over service to local residents and business operators.

• Graffiti audits in affected areas.

• Coordination of appropriate action in ‘hot spot’ identified areas.

• Coordination and implementation of legal art opportunities Report graffiti to the: GraffitiLine - 4227 7816, graffiti@wollongong.nsw.gov.au

COMMUNITY NEWS Award winning ‘hobby’ Local resident Chris Trigg has been receiving National accolades for his skill in brewing beer.

The process Chris uses to construct the perfect brew is far more involved than the typical home brew kit.

Chris uses an ‘all grain’ brewing method called ‘mashing’ in which precise quantities of grain, malt, hops and strains of yeast are mixed and brewed over several hours. The ‘recipes’ are entered into a software program which allows Chris to replicate each particular beer with exact results.

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD The Baker’s Dozen - answers (From Page 10) 1. Gaye Porter 2. 1952 3. Eleven (11) 4. Dan Castellaneta 5. “Spirit of Ecstasy” 6. Methuselah 7. Ontario, Canada 8. One (1) 9. Manly 10. 1887 11. “Persevere and Conquer” 12. The Terracotta Warriors from China 13. A crescent moon or half moon If we get it wrong at any time, let us know and we will gladly update our database.

Chris Trigg with one of his famous brews

Among the beers Chris holds in his recipe library are; Japanese lagers, an American pale ale and robust stout brews. Chris also says that the quality of the water has a big role to play in the taste and brew of the finished beer, “the water in Helensburgh is relatively ‘soft’ after purifying it, I add minerals to make the water just right for the brewing process, temperature also play a huge part, it’s a lot like cooking” Chris adds.

Chris has been perfecting his brewing techniques using the full grain method over the last four to five years and has only entered amateur competitions in the last two years.

In late 2010 Chris won 3rd place in the Australian Amateur Brewing Championships for his “Strong Stout” which he affectionately calls “The Coalminer’s Breakfast”.

Chris plans to enter again in 2011, but must first make it through the NSW round of selection.

Helensburgh & District Herald says good luck and “Cheers” to that!

NEIL LYON Solicitor • Conveyancing • Wills • Administration of Deceased Estates • Challenging and Defending Wills • Power of Attorney • Enduring Guardianship • Family Law • Litigation

5 Walker Street, Helensburgh PO Box 99 Helensburgh Upstairs above the liquor shop Tel (02) 4294 2076 Fax (02) 4294 2238 Email: nlyonhelensburgh@bigpond.com Helensburgh & District Herald 13

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR All letters must carry the sender’s home address and a contact number for verification.

Please limit letters to 300 words. By submitting your letter for publication, you agree that we may edit the letter for legal, space or other reasonable reasons.

Editor.

Dear Editor, I wish to clear my name since the article printed in the Pictorial News (January 2010) by Sergeant Lawrie Drury.

My van was stolen from the front of my house to be used, I presume, regarding a stolen motor bike by the same persons. There has been some vicious and incorrect rumours made at me about this incident saying I was involved.

My van was stolen at 4.55am and recovered at 5.05am and the incident was reported to the Police at the time. I was not involved in the theft of these bikes and nor was my van.

I would like the people involved in spreading these cruel rumours to stop and consider how much damage it does to peoples reputations.

Name and address witheld.

Dear Editor, On Friday night the 21 January a vicious assault took place in the middle of the town by a pack of youths.

Two men walking back from the club around midnight were taunted by a group of teenagers and set upon when the men tried to walk away.

By the time they got to the Pizza shop the youths set on them by physically punching and kicking, screaming abuse and making threats.

During this encounter neighbours went to their aid and the youths dispersed only to wait in ambush under the large fig tree on the corner of Lilyvale Street where they continued their assault down to Whitty Road.

No names have been mentioned in this letter but the Police have been informed and I expect a few doors would have been knocked on by now.

To the residents of Helensburgh please report all incidents, no matter how trivial, we need to stand firm against this type of behaviour which is not acceptable in our lovely town.

Name and address witheld.

14 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD Dear Editor, Sometimes when we are close up to a situation we fail to see a problem. I am referring to the sub-standard road system leading to and from the Helensburgh Station.

As a regular visitor to the “Burgh” I am appalled at the single lane road system, shared by buses, cars and pedestrians at the busy morning and evening periods.

One can see that this road system has evolved over a long period of time, since early settlement and is now totally inadequate for two-way traffic in this busy Twenty-first century.

I cannot believe the local residents are happy with this present arrangement.

If this existing system was being proposed as a new private development, what would your town planning system requirements be? I could not imagine it would begin to satisfy the minimum safety standards required by law.

So what to do even short term? I am suggesting a one way system of roads (lanes, as they exist at present) leading to and from the station precinct.

This would allow busses and cars to negotiate with safety.

The residents living close to the station may object to this proposal, but please stop and think for a moment.

And . . . signs to the station. I have a theory that road signs are exclusively for people who know the way to a given location and don’t need them. The signs directing traffic to Helensburgh station prove my point!

D Bevitt, Kempsey

THE TECHNOLOGIST The Technologist

By Quentin Field Gem, 7Two, OneHD and ABC3…gone are the days of just 4 ‘free to airs’ being our viewing options…new channels are constantly being created and they’re making a big change to Television as we know it.

Analogue has been our viewing ally since 1956, but with better quality image and superior sound, digital is the new kid on the technical block..but the question is; are you really ready?

To answer this question we need to examine what is required in your home or business to make you digital ready.

A digital installation consists of an antenna, cabling, splitters, amplifiers, wall plates and fly leads leading to the digital reception equipment (e.g. TV, set-top box).

Problems with receiving digital services may occur in one or more parts of the antenna system.

An initial assessment should be made of each part of the existing system to find out whether an upgrade is required.

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD The level of upgrading necessary will vary depending on what equipment is used in the existing antenna system. This initial assessment is best performed by an antenna installer who specialises in digital installations and upgrades, but if you are a capable DIYer, then you may be able to access each individual part of your tv antenna system and determine what is required for yourself.

If you decide to take on the task yourself, why not take a photo of each part of the installation so it will make it easier for you to discuss your requirements with your chosen supplier. I prefer Jaycar or JR Turks but any electrical or electronics supplier can help.

When purchasing new televisions or television equipment always make sure it is labelled with the new digital ready logo or ask the sales assistant if the product is digital ready.

The next big question - When do you need to be ready?

Helensburgh like many regional areas receives television signals from two areas.

For those who receive the Sydney channels the changeover is set for December 2013 and for those who receive the Wollongong / Illawarra regional signals the changeover is set for the first half of 2012.

So in the next 12 months get ready and prepare to be dazzled by digital! Need more information? www.thetechnologist.com.au or http://www. digitalready.gov.au/

A thank you to local businesses

By Kerrie Belter, Secretary of Otford RFS In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Otford Rural Fire Brigade coordinated very successful raffles at the Centennial Hotel, raising money to assist the brigade.

We would like to thank the Centennial Hotel as your ongoing support is invaluable.

Thanks should also be extended to Al of Al & Lissa’s Family Meats & Warren & Kevin of WAVES for your assistance. Thanks guys.

Peter Doak of Centennial Cellars is another local business that has always been more than generous to the brigade. Thank you to the community also, for buying tickets in the raffles & I encourage you all to support local businesses who are continually supporting our community.

Helensburgh & District Herald 15

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL BUSINESS

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

‘Happy Hearts’ in Helensburgh On January the 24th ‘Gumtrees’ officially changed ownership and the new owners Alf and Antoinette Holmes renamed the centre ‘Happy Hearts Academy Early Learning Centre’.

Antoinette is a local girl who has worked in many different childcare settings and holds a Diploma in Children’s services and a current first aid certificate. Antoinette is no stranger to the centre, having worked there three years ago “it is a centre that I have always loved and has held a place in my heart for years” recalls Antoinette.

The program being offered at ‘Happy Hearts’ is influenced by the philosophy of Reggio Emilia (Emergent Curriculum), the AntiBias curriculum and The Early years learning framework for Australia.

The learning environment at ‘Happy Hearts’ reflects the view that children are capable learners and that educators are facilitators in the process. Happy Hearts also has a school readiness program, concentrating on the teaching of name recognition, mathematic skills, reading, social skills and more.

All of the educators working at Gumtrees are staying on with Antoinette, making the transition for currently enrolled children seamless.

Antoinette also plans to initiate more training for the staff, so they achieve over and above the minimum accreditation requirements.

There are limited vacancies for all ages between 0 – school age. Happy Hearts will be holding an Open Day in the coming weeks so parents and future ‘Happy Hearts’ can come along, see the centre and meet the teachers.

If you would like more information or would like to attend the open day, email happyheartsacadamy@yahoo.com.au

Do you have a story you want to share?

Contact the Editor Editor@HelensburghDistrictHerald.com.au 16 Helensburgh & District Herald

Antoinette Holmes at ‘Happy Hearts Academy’ (formerly Gumtrees)

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL BUSINESS Think Well, Be Well: Valentine’s Day

By Alison Rowe – Child and Adult Psychologist This time of the year the commercial world reminds us of our obligation to buy something special for our loved ones. Unfortunately, buying your loved one something special once a year on Valentine’s Day is not sufficient to nurture a long term relationship. Maintaining healthy relationships requires a lot of hard work and ongoing effort by both parties but as they say “nothing worthwhile comes easy”.

If you feel that your relationship needs to be nurtured here are some useful strategies to get you started. Ensure that you do or give something special to your partner on a regular basis throughout the year when they least expect it as we all like surprises, big or small.

Spend quality time together on a regular basis doing special activities that you both enjoy.

Activities do not have to be expensive or too time consuming. Have a bath or shower together, a candle light dinner, give each other a massage, share an interest or hobby together, return to a

Lic 151773C

Obligation Free Quotes • • • • • • • •

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD destination that brings back positive memories about your relationship or write endearing notes or letters to one another. Swap regular routine activities or chores or better still do them together.

Always remember that a little bit of time and money spent on your loved one is a better investment than the cost of a divorce. All relationships also require opportunities for each individual to pursue personal interests and develop their own friendships.

There will always be a behaviour or habit that your loved one displays that irritates the hell out of you or a moral or value that clashes with yours.

This is not surprising given that every individual has a different family and cultural background where standards of cleanliness, religion, dressing and general living vary significantly.

In order to develop a thorough understanding of these individual differences communication between partners is a necessity. Each partner needs to be willing to make slight changes in order to develop agreed upon goals and living standards. A bit of give and take is an essential ingredient of all relationships.

Every individual has weaknesses and strengths. In order to maintain a relationship with a loved one we need to focus on each other’s strengths and build upon these rather than focusing on one another’s weaknesses. See your local psychologist about other useful strategies to help nurture your relationship with a loved one or if you are having relationship difficulties.

Contact Alison on 0409602430, or alirowe@ tpg.com.au

Retaining Walls Pergolas Decking Water Features Paving Landscaping Concreting Complete Yard Makeovers

Call Daniel 0422 503 193 Helensburgh & District Herald 17

CHEERS & JEERS CHEERS to the kind resident near Junction Street who found a wrapped baby’s gift and placed it against the primary school fence - to be later found by it’s owner. This gift was dropped by a visitor from the Netherlands who will take home with her the memory of this kind act by a Helensburgh local.

CHEERS to the local GP who attended to a very unwell person on Boxing Day. I hope next year you get the day off!

JEERS to the litter found at ‘little dam’. This includes alcohol bottles, cans and plastic. If you like going there – take your rubbish home!!

CHEERS to the monthly markets coming to Helensburgh! It has taken much hard work from Ronda Collins of the Centennial Hotel to have the markets approved – show your support on the 2nd Sunday of each month!

HAIR 10 HAIR DESIGN PACKAGES REGROWTH & TOP FOILS $95 CUT, TOP FOILS & B/DRY $95 FULL HEAD FOILS & B/DRY $125

4294 1487 3/115-119 PARKES ST HELENSBURGH

‘The Best in the Burgh’ 18 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD JEERS to the person who dumped a large amount of household rubbish next to the Wilson’s Creek rail bridge - shame on you!

CHEERS to the Guys at Grima’s for the terrific moustaches they grew for Movember last November. Great effort in raising funds for a very good cause.

JEERS to the Helensburgh Workers Club’s administrators who want to sell off the spacious car park for a quick return and be given Crown (ie. community) land to build another 84 space car park.

Why not spend a bit of money and lay a decent path from the existing car park to the front of the Club? Don’t make the community pay for bad planning and design.

JEERS to the lazy fisherman who ‘parked’ his 4WD on Stanwell Park beach and got bogged. The Spanish translation for ‘Prado’ is ‘field’, not beach, you idiot!

CHEERS to the Helensburgh and Stanwell Park SLSC and it’s wonderful members. They are to be commended for their heroic efforts during the January 21 tragedy at Stanwell Park. Without their amazing efforts more lives would have been lost. Each day during the summer period there are more than 10 volunteers patrolling the beach.

The community thanks you!

CHURCH NEWS

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

With Thanks

Holy Cross Catholic Parish

Margaret, Lance, Kate & Alex Delehunt would like to thank everyone for their love and support, cards and flowers, following the death of our beloved dad and poppy, Tom Maguire.

Holy Cross Catholic Church, 4 McMillan Street Helensburgh.

Tel: 4294 1009 Fax: 4294 9180 Parish Priest - Fr. Francis Tran Weekend Mass Times; Holy Cross Helensburgh, Saturday Vigil - 5.30pm, Sunday 9.30am. Confessions: Saturday - 5pm St Bernadette’s Stanwell Park: Sunday - 8am Weekday Mass Times: Holy Cross Helensburgh, 9am Wednesdays, 10am Thursdays (Preceeded by Rosary 9.30am) 9.15am Fridays.

10am each First Saturday of the month Garrawarra Aged Care Centre.

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will be on every first Friday of the month at 8.45 followed

by Mass at 9.15am.

Holy Cross Catholic School: Principal - Mrs Mary Bryant, Tel: 4294 1588

Coastlands Church Coastlands Church face an exciting new adventure together. This year Coastlands Church are moving their meeting location to Helensburgh Public School. The hall is an excellent facility, recently built and has plenty of room, has access for all including the disabled, and is in a central location to Helensburgh.

For the month of February we will be offering a fresh and encouraging service at 9:30am, with a children's church program for families.

We invite you to join us for a service. If you have a question, any pastoral needs or would like somebody to talk to you can contact 02 4294 9596 during the week at anytime. Join Coastlands Church at Helensburgh Public School, 9:30 Sunday morning, Fletcher Street, Helensburgh.

Hillcrest Christian Fellowship Hillcrest House (Hillcrest Retirement Village), Railway Crescent, Stanwell Park. 6pm each Sunday.

Phone Graeme Ratten on 4294 3153.

Helensburgh Baptist Church Helensburgh Baptist Church (HBC) is a group of locals who believe that God can make a difference to the world. Hard to believe perhaps, but who else can you count on doing it? Working within the deepest parts of our lives God can bring about real and lasting change. God has radically changed our lives and we know he wants to change yours too.

If you have ever thought about how God and faith can make a difference in your life why not find out how. HBC is a friendly and laidback Church with a Sunday meeting held at the Community Centre on Walker St at 10am.

Contact James Ramsay with any further questions on (02) 4294 8459.

Helensburgh & Stanwell Park Anglican Church Bible based, Jesus focussed. Religion is out, grace is in! You're always welcome at your local Anglican church, where there is a wide range of groups and ministries for all ages. See the website (below) for more.

Our service times are: 8.15am Stanwell Park, for all age Prayer Book service. 10am Helensburgh-Family service with Kids' Club and Creche. 5pm Helensburgh-Sunday Night Live (catch the bus from Stanni Anglican at 4:45) for dinner, games and a more relaxed youth-oriented service. For more information, visit www. helensburghanglican.org

Helensburgh Bushland Chapel Uniting Church Bushland Chapel, 94 Parkes Street Helensburgh.Uniting Church in Australia Sunday 9.30, 1st and 3rd of month, congregational meetings 4th of month, guest speaker and communion.

Bushwalks 2pm 4th Sunday - explore your natural district! Performance and other activities see www.helensburgh.net.au/ bushchapelInquiriesincluding use of chapel 948329 or 941695 Helensburgh & District Herald 19

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL BUSINESS Pets in an emergency

By Karen Bestell, ‘The Pet Nanny’ After watching the tragedy unfold in Queensland and with bush fires an ever present threat locally, I wondered how many homes have an emergency plan and would this include our pets?

It is important to prepare for the safety and welfare of your pets in case of an emergency.

Planning now will lessen the stress during an emergency on both you and your animals.

Be prepared: *Make sure you include animals in household emergency plans. *Properly identify your pets, always have a name tag and ensure they are micro-chipped. *An emergency kit is great short term survival pack. Write a list of what your emergency kit would contain – making sure you include some pet food in this. *Have a pet carrier handy in case you need to leave your home. *Keep a list of emergency phone numbers somewhere handy.

Are you happy with your current Property Manager?

Call Meegan for a confidential chat

Reputation and Results...

LJ Hooker goes above & beyond your expectations in all we do.

Call now to see why “nobody does it better” 4294 9800 Julie Humphries 0405 128 070 1/114a Parkes St, Helensburgh www.ljhooker.com.au/helensburgh 20 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD *Keep in mind some evacuations centres may not accept animals, so plan alternatives accordingly.

Act early: If you are going to move animals to a safer place, do so early to avoid unnecessary risk.

Ensure they have access to plenty of food and water. If you choose to stay at home, make sure you secure your animals in good time so that they do not take ‘flight’.

Be considerate: If you have to leave your pets behind: *If possible, it is best to leave your pets indoors *Place pets in separate rooms, eg laundry or bathrooms. *Provide adequate food and water in large heavy bowls. *If left outside it is very important no to tie them up. *Do not leave animals unattended in a motor vehicle during an emergency.

By following these tips, you give your pet the best chance of survival in an emergency.

Massage Therapy Myofasical Dry Needling Trigger Point Therapy

ADAM JARRETT

Dip. Sports Massage Therapist • Member of ATMS

Appointments by phone

4294 8112

Health Funds Claimable adamjarrettsmassage@bigpond.com

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL BUSINESS A tour of the Burgh Tunnels with an ‘orb – vious’ difference!

Since July 2010, Psychic Mediator, Danielle has been running Spook Central Ghost Tours, a unique look at our town and it’s Heritage.

“I had an association with Darkes Forest and over the years had visited Helensburgh on many occasions. I spoke with some of the people at Darkes Forest and after my telling them my idea of starting a Ghost Tour business they informed me of the tunnels down there in Helensburgh....

I was so excited!” recalls Danielle.

She started to research the area in late 2008 and after being struck with the ambience of the town, moved there in January 2009. Danielle spent around two years living in Helensburgh however, for family reasons is now based in Engadine.

“The tours in Helensburgh started on the 31st July 2010 and I haven’t looked back” adds Ms. Lee.

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD “I am motivated to teach people about the town as well as the connection to spirits. I love to have a sceptic on the tour and then have them be the one who captures the most orbs on the night (an orb is a spirit/ghost and it comes through in photography as a spherical shape). When they are zoomed in on majority of the time you can see a face or two in them”.

“I also get personal messages from loved ones of some of the people on the tour and pass them on. I teach people how to differentiate between an orb and dust/rain/fog or any light or reflection to find the source of the image on the shot” There are tours running on 20th February, 4th March and the 26th March (to be confirmed).

Danielle is also available for personal readings by appointment only; 0419 28 48 24 (during business hours).

For more information go to www. spookcentralghosttours.com or email spookcentral@live.com

What history can the Helensburgh Rail Tunnels reveal?

Need a better

Home loan?

Discover why we are so highly recommended Call Ray Khalil today

0410 624 370 rkhalil@smartline.com.au 89 Walker St Helensburgh 2508 Helensburgh & District Herald 21

COMMUNITY NEWS Social mud, bringing us together Former Stanwell Park resident, David Mitsak is back on our shores and has recently hosted one of his ‘festive earthen’ building events. Some of our readers may remember the last time David organised a festive mud event with SPAT back in 2009.

On the 29th of January, David and his locally based helpers invited people of all ages and interests to attend the building of a ‘mud cubby’.

David uses this fun and tactile approach to build bonds and a sense of community where he has lived in the US for the past 15 years, involving youth groups and community groups in the traditionally Caribbean American city of Newark.

David describes the process as a bringing the natural and built/man-made environments together in an empowering and social experience.

Measures for success for a festive earthen building event include: 1. A diverse gathering of people - all ages, interests and reasons for being there.

2. An event with lots of memory weight (remembered by many for a long time) 3. The mud bricks (already made) are used in the building /sculpture process 4. People feeling empowered with a strengthened sense of community 5. The lines between work and play are blurred David is heading back to his home in the US at the end of February but is happy to speak with

Jane Graves

[B.Sc.(Anatomy), M.Chiropractic)

* Over 17 years experience * University Program Head and Lecturer Located at Helensburgh Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic 22 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD anyone interested in the events online; mitsack.ratsack.david@gmail.com and www. mudsunfun.org.

David has also found some willing recruits based in the Helensburgh area, to find out more contact the editor@HelensburghDistrictHerald. com.au

No Buzz in the Burgh in 2011 The Helensburgh Lions Club has to announce, unfortunately, that the 7th annual Buzz in the Burgh will not be going ahead this March, mainly due to the lack of volunteers to help organise the event.

While it has been fantastic to see the Buzz develop over the years, its growth has increased the organisational work necessary to run the event but with no additional volunteer resources.

Work for the 2012 Buzz will start later this year (volunteer numbers permitting!), so if you have organisational, media or administrative skills that could be put to good use for a great community event, please email details to events@helensburghlions.org.au

2508 IS GREAT People who make “2508 GREAT”

The Helensburgh / Stanwell Park Surf Life Savings Club (“The Club”) currently has approximately 130 volunteer members undertaking beach patrols and 100 junior lifesavers learning water safety. These men, women and children provide an essential service to our community and make swimming at Stanwell Park considerably safer.

The club has a very proud history, over 103 years it has produced two world champions (Graham Mercer and Simon Harris), a Commonwealth games gold medalist (Rochelle Gilmore) an Olympic bronze medalist (Alichia McMormack), Olympians (Fred Casey and Brian Morton) and countless State and Regional champions.

This month we look at the life of one of these lifesavers who has faithfully served this community in a voluntary capacity for over 58 years. He is one of the people that make 2508 great.

Name: Evan Griffiths Age: 76 Family: Married 36 years to his wife Marion, 2 sons & 1 daughter, 7 grandchildren & 5 siblings (including an identical twin brother, Bob).

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD Heritage: Born in Helensburgh, 4th generation to live in Helensburgh.

Work: Retired. Evan worked as a shipping clerk for 50 years.

Club History: Obtained his bronze medallion in 1952, became a life time member in 1976 and still going strong.

Awards: Order of Australia medal, Hughes Community award, Australian sports medal, Citation of merit (International life saving federation), Certificates of appreciation from Illawarra surf life saving and too many more to mention.

Current position: Assessor for bronze medallion and advanced resuscitation courses.

Previous positions held in surf life saving movement: Junior National and State Superintendant Memorable moment: It happened at the National junior SLS titles at Narabeen in 1994.

The Carnival went on despite a bushfire that was burning nearby. The sand was too hot to stand on and the march pass was cancelled but the rest of the events went on. Evan recalled how the flags event was conducted in the wet sand to avoid the kids burning their feet.

As a life saver: “I’m an ordinary old life saver”. He has saved countless people who had been caught in rips.

What’s changed: “There were a lot more sharks years ago and they were a lot bigger.

There was a shark alarm every week. I don’t think people would know what to do if an alarm went off now.”

What I like about SLS: “You make a lot of genuine friendships with people from all walks of life......and they all mix together and there is no highfalutin.”

What I have got out of SLS: Travelled to every state except Western Australia and many fond memories.

Regrets: none.

Evan, the residents of 2508 thank you for your tireless efforts over many years.

If you would like to nominate someone who may feature in future articles, please email Lionel Rattenbury at lr@armstronglegal.com.au

Helensburgh & District Herald 23

YOUTH NEWS Heathcote High School News: 2010 HSC a Success!

By G Dodds, Pricipal Our HSC results are in and they tell a very good story about our school.

Our most academically able students have done really well. Our highest achiever was Cassie Austen, a Helensburgh local. Her result was truly outstanding, with an ATAR of 99.05.

Cassie’s individual results included four subjects with marks in the 90’s, including an astonishing 97 in the very demanding Mathematics Extension 1 course. Cassie has the tertiary world at her feet and will have a difficult choice as to which university she attends in 2011.

Cassie was followed by three other students who all scored ATAR’s above 95.00 – Harley Broer (96.60), Laura Pierce (95.40) and Frank Li (95.05). Lachlan Hay came close with 94.15.

Laura is also a Helensburgh local.

Many other students achieved excellent ATARs in the 90’s and 80’s. Some of them also featured on our ‘distinguished achievers’ list for

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD attaining a mark of 90 or equivalent in one or more of their courses. Other than Cassie, Harley and Laura, two other students achieved this excellent result in two or more of their subjects – Ryan Godfrey and Madelyn Grant.

The school is proud of these students and all others who have worked hard and achieved good results in the HSC. Not all can be high fliers, but many others reached their ‘personal best’ result and are looking forward to bright futures in university studies, TAFE, apprenticeships and employment.

They are a fine group of young people and we wish them all well for the future.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A “Proud Mum” tells the HDH Cassie has been awarded a Scholarship with Sydney University, studying a Bachelor of Commerce.

Helensburgh Student, Cassandra Austen

24 Helensburgh & District Herald

CLUB NEWS

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

STAY YOUNG & ACTIVE, JOIN O.W.N.

HELENSBURGH DAYTIME VIEW CLUB

Women who want to stay young and socially active can join the Older Women’s Network (OWN) Wellness Centre in Sutherland and participate in the Centre’s relaxing exercise programs.

Programs offered include Tai Chi, strengthening exercises, Feldenkrais, international dancing, gentle exercises and drumming. The Centre also has a fantastic performance group which is often invited to sing and dance at community events.

Free computer courses with the Technical and Further Education (TAFE) are arranged for members who wish to become computer literate and, in addition, monthly luncheons with visiting speakers are held at local clubs which provides members with a further social outlet.

The Older Women’s Network (NSW) is a state-wide, self-help, not-for-profit organisation focusing solely on the needs and concerns of older women. It presents women with a different model of health and provides a holistic approach to promote health and wellbeing in a supportive environment.

The Centre’s aim is to provide an outlet for older women to share their skills and maintain their health and wellbeing in an all-inclusive and welcoming environment.

The Centre is managed and run on a day-today basis by volunteers, and operates under the philosophy ‘For Older Women, by Older Women’. Its Management Committee is open to any OWN member who wishes to participate in running the Centre.

The Older Women’s Network is sponsored by the Sutherland Shire Council and the Sutherland United Services Club, and funded by Sutherland District Trade Union Club and participants donations.

A donation of $35 per term from each member enables them to participate in as many of the programs and activities as they wish.

For more information call Pat on (02) 9526 5746 or 0431 036 127, or Margaret on (02) 4294 1997 or Office Mobile 0431 036 127

Helensburgh VIEW club ended the year with a delicious Christmas lunch at the Centennial Hotel, provided by Ronda & Co., followed by various other delicacies, poems and anecdotes by VIEW members, and with bon bons and carols.

Our little VIEW Club was able to raise sufficient funds to continue to support our "Learning For Life" student, as well as sending substantial donations of goods for Christmas distribution. Congratulations one and all.

Our longest-serving Secretary, June Perry, was presented with a Certificate of Thanks and a potted orchid. June has served on VIEW Committees since our first meeting 19 years ago. The day was complete with a visit by Santa who distributed gifts and told jokes in his usual inimitable style.

Bookings are still available for our Theatre Parties to "Mary Poppins", and "Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber", please phone Chris 42941103.

Our meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month and our next meeting is 15 February 2011, at 11am for 11:15am start. New members are most welcome. For bookings and cancellations for that meeting please phone Nerida 0429004298 by the Wednesday before the meeting.

WILLCAM EXCAVATION SERVICES Pty Ltd GERALD CAMPTON

0413 376 379

*Contractor/Sub-Contractor *Pipe Laying *Service Location & Pot Holing *Tight Access Specialist *Compressor & Jack Hammers *1.5t Excavator & 2t Tipper *Site Clean-Ups Fax: 4294 1487 PO Box 490 Helensburgh 2508 geraldcampton@hotmail.com

Helensburgh & District Herald 25

CLASSIFIEDS Rates: Up to 20 words > $5

21-30 words > $6

31-40 words (max) > $7 ALISON ROWE PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES: Local child & adult psychologist performs assessments, counselling, behaviour management, parenting skills, lifestyle coaching, legal & workers compensation reports, education and training. Medicare & health fund rebates available. Contact Alison 0409 602 430 or alisonrowe@tpg.com.au WANTED - Children’s cubby house. Wooden with doors and windows. Call Billy 4294 8402.

BIOPET ORGANIC DOG FOOD Adult – 4 x 1.25kg $24.90 or ($6.90 per bag) Puppy – 6 x 1.25kg $38.90 or ($7.30 per bag) Vegan – 6 x 1.25kg $34.90 or ($6.90 per bag) Adult – 8kg bag $26.90, Puppy – 8kg bag $28.90 When you spend over $50.00 on an order receive a box of bones complimentary!!

Free delivery - call Karen’s Pet Care 0419 432 482 or email kpetcare@tpg.com.au FACE PAINTING, GLITTER TATTOOS, BALLOON TWISTING, SPECIAL FX FACES. Available for birthday parties, fetes, preschools and special events. Fully insured.

Contact Raeleen 4294 2135. stretch strengthen relax *1st class ½ price *based on tai chi, yoga and pilates *all classes 1 hr $55 x 5 classes or $14 per class casual When: Tuesday 9.30am & 7.30pm; Thursday 7.30pm;; Sunday 4.30pm.

Where: Stanwell Park Childrens Centre, Stanwell Ave, Stanwell Park. Call Karen on 0403 789617 or 42943344. (call to book) www.stanwellpark.net.au/taichiyogapilates FOR SALE - Timber Dining Table & six chairs $400 Glass Door and Timber Cabinet $150 Black Timber and Glass coffee table $50 + curtains - carpet squares other items.

Phone 4294 1917 FENCING: Timber and colorbond fencing.

All work guaranteed. Quality workmanship for a fair price. phone John on 0466340280.

26 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD AUTHORISED CIVIL MARRIAGE CELEBRANT: My name is Barbara Bell, an authorised civil celebrant. I offer my clients professional and friendly service. I am experienced in conducting Marriage ceremonies, Baby Namings, Reaffirmations and Funerals.

Contact (02) 9520 7180 or email:celebrnt@ ozemail.com.au.

CLOTHING ALTERATIONS: Zippers replaced. Hems taken up, minor repairs fixed.

Reasonable rates. Call Melinda 0419 977 658 or 4294 1619.

LAWNMOW: A reliable short back and sides lawn tidy. Whippersnip; catching or mulching lawns, etc. One off or regular. Free Quotes!

Burgh local resident. Est. 2001. PH. Alan 4231 4019 or 0429 030 220.

DOMESTIC CLEANING SERVICE Free quotes – 6 years experience- quality service – competitive rates- all products and equipment provided – excellent references from existing clients call Bob on 0400791951 RUBBISH REMOVAL: Lawn mowing and garden care. Fully insured, Pensioner discounts and Obligation free quotes call 0421 730 271 DRUM LESSONS – drummer with 35 years playing and 15 years teaching experience. Most styles. Phone Pete 4294 8253 or 0418 258 758.

USBORNE BOOKS AT HOME - service offers you the chance to browse through a selection of titles from a leading publisher in your own home or work place and be rewarded for doing so. Fundraising options available.

Please contact Annalyssa Fardell. 0408 216 331.

Email annalyssafardell3@hotmail.com.

DIAMOND DOG WASH SALON IN HELENSBURGH offering heated hydrobath, grooming and full clipping services since 2006.

Phone Robyn for appointment 0428 829 788.

PLAYGROUP - STANWELL PARK Fridays 930-12am. Friendly relaxed atmosphere, meet other mums while the kids play and have fun. Stanwell Park Childrens Centre Stanwell Ave. Contact Monique 0425 320 597.

FACE PAINTING: For Kids’ parties or special events – fairies, cats, bats and more.

Fully insured. Dressed as fairy or clownish.

Phone Monica on 0427 991 673.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

Computer Services

Hair and Beauty

HAIR 10 HAIR DESIGN

STANWELL TOPS TECHNICAL SERVICES

Home and Small Business Systems Local Support

‘The best in the Burgh’

0419 413 935 Microsoft Small Business Specialist Microsoft Certified & Microsoft Partner

Entertainment

4294 1487

3/115-119 PARKES ST, HELENSBURGH We guarantee 100% all our services or your money back.

heybeautiful

HAIR SALON ph 4294 1985 14a Walker St Helensburgh Formally trading as Lisa’s Hair Fashions

Rojo’s Riding 4 U! Walker Street, Helensburgh • riding tuition • beginners to intermediate • ponies supplied

Relax

Unwind

Rejuvenate

Indulge

Robyn Johnson 0411 147 643 Automotive

NAK Hair Products available from

heybeautiful

Vehicle Maintenance & Repairs • Affordable Tyres Pink Slips (E-Safety Checks)

HAIR SALON ph 4294 1985 14a Walker St Helensburgh

Ph: 4294 2222

www.switchedonmechanical.com.au

Helensburgh Car Services Tune & Service • E Safety Checks • All Makes & Models •Child Restraints Fitted John Hine (Proprietor)

4294 2930

187 Parkes St Helensburgh 2508

makeup ~ massages ~ pedicure spa ~ spa beds ~ hot rocks~ gel & acrylic nails ~ spray tanning ~ Reflexology ~ laser hair removal

REMINDER... the next edition of HDH will be out in March Deadline for material is 18th of February.

Helensburgh & District Herald 27

SERVICE DIRECTORY Media and Communication

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD Domestic Services

www.OurHelensburgh.com.au

FREE

Community Classifieds Services

Pets

Call Shelley 1300 857 100

embroideryplus@optusnet.com.au Fax: 02 4294 8564

Dog washing, grooming & clipping Salon in Helensburgh since 2006

Ph Robyn: 0428 829 788

0

28 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

SERVICE DIRECTORY

CARPENTER

Trades

Specialising in Decks, Pergolas, Renovations, Gyprock & Plastering, Maintenance, Ins. Work.

Mob: 0418 299 805

J & D CARPENTRY John McKinlay Lic No: 46961c Ph: 0419 970 902 or 4294 4748

SPLIT SYSTEM SPECIALIST

Wilcock Electrical & Air Conditioning Services

*FULLY LICENCED FOR ALL AIR CONDITIONING & ELECTRICAL *NEW SYSTEMS SUPPLIED *ALL BRANDS INSTALLED

0418 660 835

Harry Wilcock - Lic# 210923C . L006256 . AU03162

Andrew Dove

0417 776 577

Phone: 0417 822 232

Helensburgh & District Herald 29

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

SERVICE FOOD FORDIRECTORY THOUGHT

MARK JONES BUILDER • New Homes • First Floor Additions • Decks & Pergolas Ph: 02 4294 9242 Alt Ph/Fax 02 9233 6847

Trading as M&B Jones Building

0419 448 696 or 42942078 Est. 1985 Lic No. 143571c

PEST CONTROL

Specialist in the management of all pests, weeds and termites • Free quotes Pre-purchase & termite inspections 18 yrs industry exp • Authorised exterra installer • Lic No. 1277

Travel, Transport and Storage

Jamme Constructions Available for Contracting 10 Tonne Truck 10m Reach, 1.2T Call Jammu Fagerstrom

0418 968 913

PH 4294 9503 • MOB 0437 377 180

Owner Operator ABN 27 612 476 381 Timber Floor Preparation, Floor Sanding & Polishing, Level Sanding - Repairs, Carpet & Lino Lifts - Removal, New Floors Installed - Overlays.

FREE QUOTES - GIVE US A CALL

30 Helensburgh & District Herald

Self Storage LIC. 74557 C

TIMBER FLOORS

ABN: 61 001 666 182

• Available Now • Clean & Secure

• Easy Access • Short & Long Term

0418 276 158 • 4294 1917

Did you miss out?

If you missed out and would like your ad to be in the service directory please contact the editor: 0409 065 500 or editor@ helensburghdistrictherald.com.au

CLUB NEWS

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

Fellowship of the First Fleeters, South Coast Chapter

Northern Illawarra Neighbour Aid We have Moved!

I would like to tell you about my First Fleeter.

His name was Peter Hibbs and he was born in Ramsgate, England. Peter joined the crew of the Sirius, flag ship of the first Fleet, for the voyage to found the colony at Botany Bay and was on the Sirius when she was wrecked on Norfolk Island.

He eventually received a land grant of 60 acres.

In June 1790, the Lady Julianna sailed through the Sydney Heads with a cargo of convict women.

On board was Mary Pardoe, aged 17 years. She had been convicted of stealing six shillings from a man’s pocket. For this, she was transported for seven years.

Mary was sent to Norfolk Island where she met Peter Hibbs. In 1792 a son, George, was born to them. In 1797 and 1798, a sloop of 25 tons – the Norfolk - was constructed of Norfolk pine by convict labour. In 1798, the Norfolk, with Peter Hibbs as her Master, sailed to Sydney to be fitted out. Matthew Flinders had proposed a voyage around Van Dieman’s Land (later Tasmania) to prove that it was an island. Flinders held Peter Hibbs in high regards and he named many landmarks after him – Point Hibbs, Hibbs River, Hibbs Bay and Hibbs Pyramid were just a few.

Peter and Mary returned to Sydney and Peter received land grants around the Hawkesbury River. On 6 February, 1806 Peter and Mary’s only daughter, Sarah, was born. I am descended from Sarah. Peter was declared bankrupt due to record floods in 1810. In 1844, Mary died and in 1847 Peter followed her. Both are buried in Laughtondale Cemetery beside the Hawkesbury River.

Peter was illiterate but as a sailor, he had no equal. A 50c coin depicting the voyage around Tasmania was struck in 1998 – a great honour!

Peter and Mary now have thousands of descendants and among them is Silas Matthew Warn, my great grandson, born just five months ago.

Our office is now located at 18 Walker St, Helensburgh (same phone number - 42941900) and there is a new Assistant Manager, Tracey Schroder.

NINA would like to thank all of our wonderful volunteers who assisted with the move in December, it was huge task to undertake right before Christmas!

The services we continue to provide for frail older people and younger people with disabilities include; individual transport to medical appointments, group transport (outings and shopping), social support service including home visits and the Cafe-Club weekly social group.

The Cafe Club meets Thursday’s for lunch for entertainment, activities, information and guest speakers.

NINA relies on a dedicated group of volunteers and are always keen to expand our pool of volunteers, if you would like to know more about the organisation, our services or becoming a volunteer, please come in to the new office or give us a call.

REMINDER... the next edition of Helensburgh & District Herald will be out in March Deadline for material is 18th of February.

Helensburgh & District Herald 31

CLUB NEWS W.A.V.E.S. 2508

By Brian Taylor, Vice President This year will be our third year of operation and we are always on the lookout for any new War Widows and Veterans who have moved into this area to come along and join us.

There is a great feeling of camaraderie and new friendships have developed over the short time we have been in existence, so if you know of anyone in the 2508 area that has served or currently serving in a combat zone or any War Widows please let us know by getting in touch with Dianne Oldfield, our current and hopefully continuing Secretary (42942518), in the first instance.

We work to ensure that members receive the correct rate of pension and any benefits or equipment that they are entitled to via the Dept of Veterans Affairs. Support is also given to the families and carers of the members.

We have meetings every three months with guest speakers who cover a range of topics which are of great interest & benefit to our members.

The committee meets each month, but are usually in contact on a daily basis to keep ahead of any member requirements.

Fund raising is organised by the committee and include a Friday night raffle at the Centennial Hotel (We receive fantastic support from Bernie and Rhonda at the Hotel and the members receive many benefits from the money raised).

We also have two major raffles with the support of Bi-LO. This year they will be around Mothers Day & Fathers Day so keep your eye’s open.

Winners in our Xmas raffle : 1st red ticket 43A Bill Trayhurn, 2nd Red ticket 82E S. Wright, 3rd Blue ticket 35A Joan Newton, 4th Red ticket 42A J. Grant, 5th Black Ticket 10A Mr. Longshaw.

All prizes have been claimed and WAVES would like to thank the community for the support given throughout the year, without this support we would not be able to give the members the benefits they deserve for the sacrifices they have made.

Our fundraising efforts in 2010 were very satisfying. All monies raised goes back to the members in the way of bus outings to places of interest, cooking courses and a Christmas gettogether in December. A nice Xmas hamper is also delivered to war widows and older veterans homes.

32 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD On their birthday each member receives a birthday card with reward included ; a new reward in 2011 so check your mail if your birthday is near‌ With generous donations of food, stationary and toiletry items from our members, 45 parcels were sent to our local troops serving in Afghanistan and this is ongoing. Our thanks must also go to those members who have taken it upon themselves to raise money at events such as Bingo. This type of fundraising is used solely to buy goods for our parcels to Afghanistan.

All positions on the committee are non - paying positions, all time is volunteered and elections are held at our annual general meeting (AGM) in February each year.

Our next meeting for members will be held on Sunday 13th February 2011 at the Helensburgh Workers Sport and Social Club, time 10.30am.

There will be no guest speakers on the day as it is our AGM and electing of committee members.

Any prospective new member will be most welcome.

COMMUNITY NEWS Around the shores: An introduction

By Poseidon’s attaché Around the shores is a new column for the Helensburgh and District Herald. The purpose of the column is to give some insight into the life and activities of local marine flora and fauna common to the waters off the Royal National Park and North Wollongong, including issues arising in our local marine environment.

The Royal National Park is unique in Sydney, as the relative isolation of the shoreline adjacent to the Park means that the localised anthropogenic threats faced by many marine species and habitats elsewhere are somewhat reduced. With the exception of Garie Beach and Wattamolla, most of the coastline between Stanwell Park and Bundeena can only be accessed by boat (with the nearest ramps in Port Hacking or Wollongong), or a lengthy bushwalk. Consequently, much of the coastline is only frequented by hardened naturalists or anglers, the occasional tourist, and of course, locals.

Many marine fish species that may be difficult to catch elsewhere around Sydney are found in good numbers in our area – this will be no secret to any angler who has battled a good size salmon, tailor, or jewfish at Garie Beach. The promise of a large fish and a good battle often entices keen anglers to camp locally and brave the wind and surf for days on end to bag a catch.

Our local coastline does not escape completely unscathed from human impacts. A visit to the sand dunes at Marley Beach will reveal a diversity of flotsam and jetsam; from myriad types of fishing gear, old plastics, to aluminium soft drink and beer cans bearing brand names which disappeared from our supermarkets decades ago.

Unfortunately, similar debris washes up at Garie Beach and North Era, in fact North Era experiences some of the greatest densities of marine debris in the greater Sydney area. Whilst many of the items pose no threat other than spoiling the natural beauty of the area, some of the debris can cause injury and fatality to vertebrate marine life through ingestion or entanglement.

The various threats and issues relating to marine species in our local area will be addressed in ‘around the shores’ as they arise. In the next instalment of ‘around the shores’, I will introduce you to the life history, ecology, and some of the secret habits of a species I have had the pleasure

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD to work with during my career.

Many of you will know of the jewfish or mulloway, some of you may have captured one, and many that have will consider this a highlight of angling life. In future issues, I will be happy to write about any species for which I can find information; so if you have a request for future issues, please do not hesitate to contact the editor; Editor@HelensburghDistrictherald.com.au

‘Mindful Moments’ and Meditation in Helensburgh Are you interested in gaining skills for calming the mind and its inner chatter, improving health, managing stress, developing meaningful relationships and cultivating compassion and acceptance towards others?

Local resident Dean Crabb is starting a meditation drop-in class in the comfort of a private setting, central to Helensburgh.

Dean has 14 years of experience in Buddhist meditation and takes a “practical and explorative approach while showing how to apply mindfulness to our life for a greater sense of happiness and peace”.

Monday Nights 7:45pm - 9:15pm ($10 per session) Please call to find out more 040 339 7000 www.themindfulmoment.com

Your Solar Electricity Consultant

Helensburgh & District Herald 33

SPORT HELENSBURGH WOMEN’S BOWLING CLUB

By Beatrice Gallagher LADIES! Do you want some moderate exercise? Looking for a social group? Got some time on your hands on a Tuesday?

If you answer YES to any of these questions, come along and give bowls a go.

Our friendly ladies who enjoy bowling and the social company of fellow bowlers would be more than happy to welcome new members. Our secretary Lenore Bartlem can be contacted on 4294 1472 for any enquiries or we can be found at the Workers Club bowling green from 9.30am each Tuesday morning.

Our end of year report did not get published in the last edition of the Helensburgh News so the results of our 2010 as listed below. We all enjoyed a wonderful year bowling both here and at the clubs we visited along with the friendships extended to all within our club.

Major Singles: Winner: Lenore Bartlem

Runner Up: Helen Haynes Minor Singles: Winner: June Killham Runner Up: Elaine Smith Consistency: Winner: Shirley Cassidy Runner Up: Beatrice Gallagher Nominated Pairs: Winners: Rhonda Christie and Shirley Cassidy Runners Up: Carol Dixon and Wendy Britten Congratulations to the winners, runners-up and all participants – it’s this great combination that may our days such fun! The ladies finished off the year with a rousing Christmas Party/ Presentation Day... many thanks Judith and Wendy for the catering, to Robyn Single for her creative organisational skills along with all the ladies who added their efforts to make the day such a celebration!

Our congratulations also to the mixed pairs winners June Killham and Peter Bratz and to runners up Shirley and Bob Cassidy.

Many thanks to the men’s bowling club who invited us to part of this competition and the work put in by Paul Keyes to ensure it was successful.

I am sure the ladies will be happy to support it again next year.

34 Helensburgh & District Herald

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD Joan Gardner is very proud of the eight pin presented to her and her mixed pairs partner Clarrie Whitten for their great score and thanks to Kevin Rhodes for chasing this up.

To our President Shirley, Secretary Lenore, Treasurer Wendy, Bowls Organiser Rhonda, Social Organiser Robyn, Catering Judith and our members, thanks for the fun and friendship throughout last year and may the New Year be full of Good Health and Happiness and GREAT BOWLING!!

We cannot let the New Year get on its way without extending our appreciation to our greenkeeper, Matty Sargeant and the members of the men’s bowling club who always work hard to keep our green at its best. The amount of hard work (a lot of time done in the very hot weather) these men have done over the break is a great achievement..the green is looking it’s best!

This is our first report in the new publication, Helensburgh & District Herald (HDH) and we wish it every success as it strives to keep the local community informed.

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

SPORT Sunday golf club.com

By Vicki ‘the hair’ Little Happy New Year to our readers and happy golfers!

Back in December (which I hardly remember due to way too much Christmas cheer and all the rest of it) we played golf on the 5th of December followed by the Christmas party and presentation day.

Golf was very exciting with Maree ‘ozzy ozzy ozzy oi oi oi’ smashing Johnny P (who is still in rehab) by winning the yearly match-play tournament. Go girl power!

In our Stableford game Rodger ‘the dodger’ Hendry was the winner of the day, with Greg Crip close behind and Trev Chipper third.

Our Christmas party was far from boring with Tony Prez Gersback, entertaining us (give the boy a stage), good food and wine was enjoyed by everyone. Very well done to all those who helped to organise the Xmas party.

January the 16th was played with some ‘newcomers’ to the club, Debbie Ross (sister of ‘the hair’) and Craig ‘Kung- Fu’ Nicoll - Cheers guys!

We played Stableford and surprise surprise....

Tony Prez Gersback was in his glory, 2nd was Travis Chipperfield and 3rd – Tony ‘lovely’ English – they all won great prizes. I’d like to add, Lance ‘eagle’ Delehunt did extremely well on the 11th hole – well done!

Our ‘strike-it-lucky’ hole is still currently at $50, increasing every month.

So...If you are feeling competitive and like a bit of a challenge with your golf, come along on the first Sunday of the month to Royal Boomerang, bring a friend or rekindle some old friendships.

We do have a small joining fee of $20. If interested put in a call to Vicki ‘the hair’ Little on 4294 2580 or Tony ‘Prez’ Gersback on 4294 2696. Get in the swing of it!! www.sundaygolf.com

Seacliff Hockey Club Expects Another Successful Year!

Seacliff Hockey Club was formed two years ago to give hockey players from Helensburgh, Otford, Stanwell Tops and Stanwell Park an identity that was local.

Building on success achieved during its inaugural year Seacliff fielded three senior women’s teams, one senior men’s team, and five junior teams in 2010. The junior teams included the modified versions of hockey called Minkeys and Sevens which are aimed at early primary school aged children.

In 2010 the Seacliff junior teams walked away with 3 minor premierships with two of these going on to become outright premiers in their grades.

A highlight for the 4th grade Mermaids team was having the honour of escorting the Australian men’s team, The Kookaburras, out onto the pitch at Homebush for their match against Argentina. Also many Seacliff players competed in Sutherland teams at NSW State Championship level with three junior players selected in the City squads to play Country.

The local interest in hockey has grown during Seacliff’s first two years and with the exciting addition of a boy’s competition we can now provide the opportunity for primary school aged boys to continue playing hockey in the local area without having to travel all over Sydney.

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED PLAYING HOCKEY FOR YOUR WINTER SPORT IN 2011?

Want a sport that is fast? Want a sport that utilises many skills? Want to play an international sport? Want to play a sport that is fun?

Then hockey is the sport for you – it is a ‘game for everyone’ – it is a sport that is accessible and enjoyable for both males and females of all ages and backgrounds. Want to know more?

Come and talk to us on registration days.

When: Saturday 5th and 12th February 2011 between 9am and midday Where: outside of Bi-Lo, Walker Street, Helensburgh.

Helensburgh & District Herald 35

HELENSBURGH&DISTRICTHERALD

SPORT

Helensburgh - Stanwell Park SLSC members to be praised!

By Carl Williams, President Around 4pm on Friday January 21, a large set of waves washed around 20 swimmers out of the flagged area at Stanwell Park beach into deep water.

At the time three Wollongong City Council lifeguards were on duty at the beach, and responded swiftly using the jet ski and rescue boards.

Also at the beach at the time were Club members Kevin Morton, Lloyd Griffiths, Murray Dowling and Ben Dowling, Cadet Member April Boughton, and 11-year old Junior member Kurt Warnes. Isaac Ridley who was a Junior member last season was also there.

Kevin and Lloyd commenced resuscitation on one swimmer as soon as he was brought from the water and continued resuscitation until paramedics arrived, whilst Murray and Ben assisted other swimmers with first aid.

Kurt and Isaac were able to help some swimmers in difficulty and assist them to return to shore whilst April helped swimmers from the

water and made them comfortable on the beach.

As Adam Thompson arrived at the northern headland on his way for a surf, he became aware of the situation on the beach and quickly raced to the scene to assist, spending some time resuscitating one patient until paramedics arrived.

Sadly the incident resulted in loss of one life, and one patient is still in a serious condition in hospital.

Much praise has been directed by the media towards all who played a part on the day, rescuing swimmers from the deep water and then treating and caring for those who needed first aid and other attention.

Whilst some Club members have been specifically named by the media, the Club Executive extends congratulations and thanks to all members who played a part for their brave and considerate efforts helping fellow members of the community. Thank you to all who helped out in some way or other to uphold the traditions of Surf Life Saving.

$5 DISCOUNT COUPON Bring this coupon in to receive $5 off any initial physiotherapy consultation. Not valid for any standard physiotherapy consultations, chiropractic or podiatry consultations

Open late Monday – Friday & Open Saturdays Shop 5, 115 Parkes St, Helensburgh 2508 (opposite the pub)

4294 9990 36 Helensburgh & District Herald

Proud sponsor of The Helensburgh Tigers R.L.F.C