Beagle Weekender Vol 291 December 30th 2022

Welcome to this week’s editorial, Over the next twenty four hours or more we are going to be offered countless “Happy New Year” gree ngs. From friends, neighbours and family to those we pass in the street.

From the day we are born we are reminded that the current day’s date is an ascending count from Year 0, Day 1. Today’s date of December 30th 2022 is li le more than a con nual reminder of how many days, months and years it has been since Jesus was born. (The actual number of days so far since he allegedly arrived with his guiding star and three wise men is 738519)

Tomorrow will be 1 /01/ 2023 AD ("anno Domini nostri Jesu Chris ", which translates to "in the year of our Lord Jesus Christ").

But what if you aren’t Chris an? What year is it for non-Chris ans? Does anyone else on the planet have a different calendar?

Under the Islamic Hijri Calendar, a lunar calendar consis ng of 12 lunar months in a year of 354 or 355 days, it is Tullimbar - 6 Jumada Al-Akhirah, 1444 .

Meanwhile the current year in Ethiopia is 2015. The Ethiopian year starts on 11th of September or on the 12th September in a Gregorian leap year. It is seven to eight years behind the Gregorian year owing to alternate calcula ons in determining the date of the annuncia on of the birth of Jesus.

My favourite is the Nepali Calendar. The current Nepali Year in Nepali is Nepali calendar 2079 due to the fact that their calendar is approximately 56 years and 8 and months ahead. In Nepal the new year starts from the middle of April.

For those fortunate to have visited Nepal one of the best takeaways from the country is their expression “Ke Garne” that roughly translates into “it is what it is”.

The road or path you are travelling on is cut by a landslide and might take a week to repair— “Ke Garne” The electricity has been cut and will stay off for some me—“Ke Garne”

The cow has eaten the vegetables—“Ke Garne”

As I reflect on the expression “Happy New Year” I remind myself of the images that go with it. Clocks, me, calendars… there is even a countdown as if we are willing the year that was to vanish as we “Welcome in the New Year”. There are hugs, kisses, the clinking of champagne glasses.

But why do we stop at “Happy”? Instead of Happy why don’t we actually aspire to a bit more. Some folks a empt to by using alternates such as “Prosperous” but surely we can go beyond that as well. Surely we want more than just happiness and prosperity?

How about wishing for a New Year that is frui ul, gra fying, produc ve, sa sfying, valuable, worthwhile, edifying and fulfilling. A year that is eco-friendly and sustainable and healthy?

It is me to set the bar higher. For ourselves and our expecta ons. I think, for too long, we have said in our own way “Ke Garne”(it is what it is).

Let’s see the year ahead, being 1444, 2015, 2023 or 2079, as the year we aspired to be more than just “Happy”.

I do hope however that the year ahead is far less “interes ng” than the last. For all of us.

Princes Highway closed at Narooma due to accident

CRASH 3 vehicles (Persons Trapped) Heavy traffic condi ons Narooma, Princes Highway at Old South Coast Road Started today (30/12) 4:51pm Last checked today 7:30pm.

Highway closed in both direc ons. A ending: Emergency services and Transport for NSW Advice Use diversions, Expect delays, Delay your journey Other Advice Ongoing police inves ga ons are expected to take some me.

Diversions Light vehicles can use Old South Coast Rd (the old Princes Highway). Heavy vehicles are diverted southbound via Kings Highway, Cooma-Braidwood Rd, Monaro Hwy and Snowy Mountains Hwy. Northbound via Snowy Mountains Hwy, Monaro Hwy, Cooma-Braidwood Rd and Kings Hwy. Follow for updates: h ps://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/145535

New Year brings new hope for the region

Repurposing for Resilience [RfR] Eurobodalla, on the NSW far South Coast, is rapidly developing recogni on for working outside the box in the waste management sector.

Established in 2022 as a not-for-profit incorporated associa on, RfR is championing the reuse and repurposing of solar panels and associated industry e-waste in the region.

To address the lack of any competent Industry exit plan for this kind of waste, this small but innova ve en ty is tackling the issue, reducing landfill, crea ng industry and working towards a circular economy RfR is, by default, part of a much larger movement commi ed to finding solu ons to problems created by the ‘throw-away economy’. “We’re focusing primarily (but not exclusively) on the solar PV industry” says President Stephen Cornthwaite. “The irony is that, despite its mo va ng impetus to be part of an environmental solu on, growth in the solar PV industry creates a landfill burden from s ll-func oning equipment”.

To maintain integrity of purpose, solar panels must be able to pay back the embedded environmental deficit involved with manufacture and implementa on with a minimum number of years in service. Sending a working solar panel to landfill or an industrial materials recycling plant

just makes the resultant environmental deficit larger.

Although our primary mo vator is dealing with solar industry waste our commitment to contribu ng parochially means we’re becoming involved in a wider area of interests as we develop methodologies, processes and local networks here in the Eurobodalla. RfR was successful with funding through the powerhouse Worldwide Fund for Nature [WWF]. This project was the first if its kind to receive funding in Round 1 of the Innovate to Regenerate program, established for innova ve solu ons to regenerate and future-proof Australia’s precious natural environment and communi es. The base level funding will assist RfR to operate over a two-year pilot, proving feasibility for the ini a ve at a grassroots level.

RfR will kick into ac on in 2023 in support of the Nature Coast Marine Group’s [NCMG] inaugural ‘what’s under the wharf’ event, to be held in Narooma on 09 January. RfR has created a series of marine-themed cri ers common to the area from discarded fluorescent light fi ngs. These were removed from the CWA Moruya & Narooma buildings as a part of solar and electrical upgrade works and were des ned for landfill. A customised CNC [Computer Numerical Control] machine put together under the direc on of member Ben Tindale of Tindale Systems was used to create the icons that will be available for sale at the event. Proceeds from the sale of these wonderful pieces will go towards assis ng the NCMG in its efforts to ensure the unique local biodiversity is preserved during the development/replacement of the old wharf.

WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN 2023?

With the support and encouragement of the Eurobodalla Shire Council, RfR an cipates establishing a presence at the Moruya transfer sta on, where PV panels and associated components can be dropped off free of charge, to be tested, processed, and stored ready for reuse or repurposing. An essen al part of the RFR program includes the establishment of a local training facility and a publicly accessible shop front/gallery presence.

Given a suitable venue, RFR plans to develop a series of exhibi ons, workshops and training events for the local region.

More importantly, RFR an cipates bringing much-needed, na onally recognised, accredited training courses to the local community. Currently, Eurobodalla locals are required to travel to Canberra, Sydney or Nowra for mandatory industry training. RFR is working with a NFP Registered Training Organisa on to develop the requisite courses for our growing local industries and is seeking assistance from local government and business philanthropists interested in contribu ng to a be er future for our region.

If you are able to help with a suitable space or wish to join as a member or become involved, please get in touch via rfreurobodalla@gmail.com or visit www.rfreurobodalla.com.au

Cheers For Observa on Point Opening

Batemans Bay Rotarians sent up cheers when it was announced that Observa on Point would be open before Christmas, prior to the comple on of final works on the site in 2023.

Neil Simpson, Secretary of Batemans Bay Rotary Club said "In 2012, our Rotary Club contacted the Eurobodalla Shire Council (ESC) about the appalling state of Observa on Point lookout. The area was trampled, with damaged vegeta on leading to an unsafe, sloping viewing area. The exis ng ring mesh fencing around the parking area was damaged and missing. The carpark was ill defined and potholed.

"Even though the concept plan for the Coastal Headlands Walking Trail had been approved by Council in 2010, it hardly men oned Observa on Point. In 2010, the construc on of the Coastal Trail was es mated to cost around $2m.

"Through representa on to ESC and the then State Member Andrew Constance, Rotary Batemans Bay suggested that the headland should be upgraded to promote out beau ful coastline and provide a safe lookout. Back then our idea was to construct accessible walkways that would lead to three accessible viewing pla orms, looking north, west and south east. The project was to include the remedia on of the headland with appropriate replan ng and removal of invasive weeds.

"A er alloca ng Rotary funding to support the project, we gained support through the State Government Community Building Partnerships Program in 2017.

"The ra onale for the Community Building Partnership stated: The need to upgrade our recrea onal facili es to provide free access to those with mobility impairments will not only enrich the lives of our community, it will also enhance the Eurobodalla as a tourist des na on for people with disabili es. The added benefits of this project include the need to protect the vegeta on at a headland that currently does not have any infrastructure, as well as providing a safe viewing pla orm near the cliff’s edge.

"A er much frustra on about the lack of progress on Observa on Point, Rotary agreed that the funds be

used to provide the stairway from Corrigans Beach up to Observa on Point. This stairway was completed in 2019.

"Since then, our Rotary Club has consistently reminded ESC of its commitment to Observa on Point. Following the bush fires, significant funds were allocated from State and Commonwealth Government and the project finally opened on Christmas Eve 2022. The total cost of the Observa on Point upgrade and walking trail combined will be around $6.5m.

"It has a two-level viewing pla orm at the end of an accessible walkway leading from the parking area. The viewing pla orm is fully accessible, with ramps and sea ng to present outstanding views of nearby islands, Batemans Bay and new bridge and the Clyde Mountain. The deck, designed to hold up to 100 guests will be bookable for wedding and events.

"There is coach and car parking, sea ng, a bespoke shade structure, yarning circle with sea ng and several smaller viewing areas. In its final design, informa on provided by our Rotary signage team informed the planners of the significance of Observa on Point to our Walbunga people. It pleasing to see how our ideas has been integrated into the design with Dhurga language interpre ve signs.

"Observa on Point is now an asset to the community and a welcoming place for all locals and visitors alike. Congratula ons to Eurobodalla Shire Council for delivering it before Christmas!", said Neil Simpson, Secretary of Batemans Bay Rotary Club.

This year's Broulee NYE Sandcastle compe on has been postponed for 2022.

Organisers say "Due to the high de in the a ernoon, there will not be enough room to hold the event on North Broulee Beach. We are looking to reschedule the event in early 2023. Thank you all for your understanding.".

For further informa on please contact Jill or Shane at Broulee Surf School 44 717 370. Stay tuned to The Beagle for announcement of a new date.

Planning for the next Australia Day celebra on, Thursday 26 January 2023, is well underway. The venue, as in past years, will be Russ Mar n Park on the south eastern side of the Moruya River near the bridge.

Proceedings will commence at 8.30 am with the Moruya Lions and Rotary Clubs’ Australian breakfast barbecue, an egg and bacon roll and tea, coffee and juice, at a cost of five dollars. Complimented by the Elka Coffee Van.

Throughout the morning three of the Country Pumpkins Band will entertain with Australian music and Deb Diggins’ ukulele group will play three songs. The Na onal Anthem will be led by Steve Johnson. There will be Community Displays by Moruya Surf Club, Army Cadets and Carers Accommoda on Eurobodalla Regional Hospital.

Cra ac vi es for children include decora ng Arno ’s biscuits, pain ng plaster of paris shells and sea creatures, ta oos, puzzles and colouring. The Pet Parade, decorated bike and poster compe on will not run this year.

There will be two compe ons. Popular with all age groups is the Horse Shoe Throwing Compe on. The Best Australia Day Hat is sun smart and a chance to show your crea vity. The prizes are $25 for first and $10 for second.

The ‘Celebra on of Us – let’s get together and feel alright’, will commence at 10.30 am.

For the first me the professional Galadha Gamara, ‘Wise woman, Wise man’, will perform a smoking ceremony and tradi onal dance. The local Army Cadets Unit will, once again, raise the flag, demonstrate parade skills and a cannon will fire.

FYI Brigadier Sue Melo e will give the Moruya Australia Day Address. Brigadier Sue has drama cally transformed the old Moruya Cheese Factory into the impressive Quantum Brewing which is expected to open near Australia Day. Sue is a cap va ng speaker and was part of NATO during the finally stages of Afghanistan.

The Lions/Rotary Moruya Ci zen of the Year Award recognises the great contribu on made to our community by a large number of people who selflessly give their own me to make our District a be er place.

In 2019 Phil Smith was the last person awarded for 20 years of contribu on to: Broulee Soccer Club, the Men’s Hockey Club, Broulee Nippers and the Olympic Torch Relay. Rotary as Youth Director, Treasurer and host to Interna onal Students. And to Legacy, St Vincent de Paul, the Breakfast Program at Moruya School and singer in a Barbershop Quartet that performs in re rement villages. In 2019 the successful runner, Jaylah HancockCameron, was the recipient. (Right) It is heart-warming and inspiring to see so many good works. Unfortunately, only one Award can be given for each category, but the individuals appointed represent all those who have materially contributed to our vibrant community by their par cipa on in, for example: the spor ng, cultural, educa onal, environmental or service sectors. Nomina ons for Ci zen of the Year can be made by anyone but the nominee must be a resident of Post Code Districts 2537 or 2545.

For further informa on and nomina on forms contact the Australia Day Commi ee Coordinator 0419 404 220

community

Free Saturday show entry

There’s free entry for all to the 2023 Eurobodalla Agricultural Show at the Moruya Showground on Saturday 21 January, 2023.

Eurobodalla Council’s community recovery officer Linda Wilton said the complimentary entry was possible thanks to bushfire recovery funding from the Na onal Emergency Management Agency and the NSW Government, which also funded a Community Preparedness Expo to be run in conjunc on with the show. “This is great news for our community and should encourage people to get out and enjoy our wonderful annual show, which has always been a crowd favourite and now back up and running a er a few difficult years,” Ms Wilton said.

“This funding means anyone and everyone can come along for free on Saturday, from 9am to 8pm, and enjoy all the show ac vi es: from the livestock judging to sideshow alley, from the motorcycle gymkhana to dog high jump.”

Ms Wilton will be coordina ng the Community Preparedness Expo during the show from 9am to 4pm and located just outside the basketball stadium.

“This is an opportunity for the community to get up-to-date with personal and community preparedness around emergencies and natural disasters,” she said.

“We’ll have a range of services and providers on site with informa on, demonstra ons and ac vi es. For example, the new fire-danger ra ng system, bushfire survival plans, flood awareness and how to get involved in community-led resilience. There’ll also be fun, down-to-earth or light-hearted ac vi es for kids and kids at heart, like drama games, community art installa ons, smokehouse demonstra ons and virtual reality headsets.”

Free entry is for Saturday only – normal gate fees will apply on Sunday 22 January 2023. For more informa on on the Community Preparedness Expo visit www.esc.nsw.gov.au/events or contact Linda

Teensafe is planning the next safe-driver course in the school holidays on Thursday 19 January 2023 at Moruya Speedway (weather and Covid permi ng).

Teensafe specialises in prac cal behind-the-wheel safe driver instruc on for L and P licenced drivers. To book a place and access a registra on form, email garys.home@bigpond.com or go to www.teensafemoruya.org for more info.

The Teensafe team is considering a driver course for seniors who feel the need to refresh their driving ability and skills using your own vehicle with an instructor alongside at Moruya Speedway.

Any enquiries or support for this road safety ini a ve welcome.

www.iga.com.au/

SHASA delivers in 2022

The Southcoast Health and Sustainability Alliance (SHASA) has been very busy undertaking prac cal projects to achieve a more resilient community and low carbon economy in the Eurobodalla in 2022 said Kathryn Maxwell, President of SHASA .

Highlights include:

● Running an EV Day – Electrify Everything Expo at Corrigans Beach, Batemans Bay which provided an opportunity to chat with 17 local owners of a range of electric vehicles. Over 1000 people a ended including Fiona Phillips, MP for Gilmore and Michael Holland, MP for Bega.

● Upgrading CWA Moruya, CWA Narooma and Batemans Bay Uni ng Church to operate as Heatwave and Bushfire Havens. The solar and ba ery systems will significantly reduce their day to day running costs.

● Providing leadership training for 24 locals through the Regenerate Eurobodalla Program.

● Installing solar and ba eries at Marine Rescue Batemans Bay

● Engaging with six communi es across the Eurobodalla to co-design microgrid feasibility business cases.

● Developing a Heatwave and Bushfire Haven Strategy for the Eurobodalla with detailed cos ngs to upgrade 13 addi onal community facili es and 7 Council facili es.

● Making available a mobile generator for bushfire vic ms in the Bodalla region at no cost, and ren ng it out to community groups to use at community events.

● Securing funding for electronic jacks for Rally for Recovery.

● Providing a weekly bag of healthy food to 20 families in Moruya.

● Running the 5th year of the solar bulk buy with MESA for roo op solar, ba eries and EV chargers.

SHASA has plenty planned for 2023 including:

● Hos ng EV Day – Electrify Everything 2023 on 12 March at Hanging Rock;

● Running EV test drive days in Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma,

● Installing solar and ba eries on the Tuross/Moruya Marine Rescue building at Tuross Head

● Installing LED signage for emergency communica on and public informa on at Bodalla

● Upgrading the Tilba Halls to a heatwave haven.

● Running stalls at the Batemans Bay Markets (3 rd Sunday of the month)

● Hos ng a Climate Forum.

● Running a partnership with the Good Car Company which sells second hand Nissan LEAFs.

● Working with the Eurobodalla Council to achieve a more resilient community.

● Running a SHASA stall at the Community Unity Collec ve Fes val 12 February Riverside Park Moruya

Would you like to be part of the team that delivers all of these prac cal projects for our Shire? To join as a volunteer, or just find out more about SHASA please send an email to contact.shasa@gmail.com or ring Kathryn Maxwell on 0467 558 645. People with all sorts of skills,

2023 eurobodalla food guide OUT NOW

Terrific to see the interest that is building around the upcoming holidays. The online South Coast Travel Guide website that showcases the Eurobodalla region is going gangbusters at the moment in the leadup. Pleasingly there is a high visita on to our eurobodalla food guide which indicates that our visitors are interested in more than the beach and the waves. There is so much to enjoy on the coast. We have great produce and terrific outlets that celebrate our products.

While the eurobodalla is famous for its oysters and dairy there is much more to discover for those who enjoy knowing where their food comes from and for those who relish the quality of produce you can only find at the farmgate, a market or served by a takeaway, café or restaurant.

The eurobodalla food guide promotes those local businesses and providores who qualify to be included and who showcase our wonderful local produce and the wealth of value added product we believe reflects the sen ment of eurobodalla…. all kinds of natural.

Have you discovered the South Coast Travel Guide website yet? You might be surprised at what gems can enjoy of your own backyard. Given that we no longer have Council run tourist Informa on centres the South Coast Travel Guide, owned by The Beagle, is fast becoming the go-to for visitors to the region.

Dec 31st - Pearlerz – Harrington Motel, Narooma (noon)

Dec 31st - Richard Cooke – Harrington Motel, Narooma (3.30pm)

Dec 31st - Steve Benic – Club Tuross (5pm)

Dec 31st - Flock of Haircuts are playing live & FREE at the Moruya Golfie. Star ng at 5pm and finishing at 8pm this is for all ages.

Dec 31st - Tomakin Social Club - fireworks at 9pm & again at 12pm as well as live music by Ashleigh Chapman

NYE Party Moruya Waterfront Hotel

19-Twenty • Fractured Minds • Eklypse • Angus Murray

Orphan Music & Moruya Waterfront Hotel presents - 2022 New Years Eve Party ! Over 5 hours of live music! 19-Twenty, Eklypse, Fractured Minds & Angus Murray.

Original Rock & Roots + one of the best covers bands ever to grace the stage at the Moruya Waterfront. Watch the sunset & enjoy the best way to bring in 2023, LIVE MUSIC & CLOSE FRIENDS!

Tickets: h ps://events.humani x.com/moruyawaterfront-hotel-nye-party-2022-w-19-twentyeklypse-fractured-minds-and-angus-murray

Dec 31st - Drive Time at Club Tuross - Drive Time is a 4-piece band based around the vast experience of lead guitarist and singer Rick Bamford who is a regular at Club Tuross as a solo ar st. Other members of the band are Adam Twyford on drums, Paul Leeder on bass and James "Hoogie" Hoogstad on harmonica and saxophone.

Dec 31st - This New Years Eve Bay Soldiers is going back to the 80's with a fun 1980's themed party.

Tall Puppy Syndrome will be performing live from 8pm on the night, playing a great range of 80's hits and party rock through the night. there will be fun prizes for 80's themed fancy dress on the night too, so come back to the 80's with us this New Years Eve!

New Years at the Adelaide Hotel with the Spindri Saga - Tickets $40

Jan 1st -Kelesi Woodhouse – Harrington Motel, Narooma (noon)

Jan 1st - Rick Bamford – Harrington Motel, Narooma (3.30pm)

Jan 1st - Pearlerz – Club Tuross (4pm)

Jan 7th - Alan Wa s Blues Band at One Tree Inn, Tuross

Jan 7th - Vinyl Rain – Club Catalina (7.30pm)

Jan 7th - Steve Benic – Club Tuross (7.30pm)

Reading Gadfly 268

By Robert Macklin

Screenwriters often talk about their main character’s ‘arc’. I first heard it during my Fellowship to the Australian Film and Television School. It’s a nifty shorthand to describe the principal’s role in the story, the ups and downs before the big climax and the happy ending.

Hollywood has a few favored conventions for that trajectory, but not one comes close to the wild parabola of Kevin Rudd’s journey to the latest plot point in his story: appointment as Australia’s Ambassador to the United States.

In 2007, I spent many pleasant hours with Kevin at his Brisbane home and in Canberra researching his biography. It was published by Penguin that year, and a second edition arrived in 2008 when he snatched The Lodge from the gnarled claws of John Winston Howard.

Since then. Kevin’s arc has taken some wild twists and turns. And part of the reason is what I divined from those long talks. For Kevin - like his successors Tony Abbott and especially Scott Morrison - believes he’s on a mission from God. It began in early childhood in a divided home where the young Kev was the favoured son of a devout Catholic mother to whom he was deeply attached.

They shared the horror of homelessness after the death of his father, spending nights sleeping in the family car. Indeed, after she died, he wore her wedding ring on his little finger. And though he later presented as nondenominational, it was this religious passion that motivated his unrestrained outrage at Julia Gillard’s ‘coup’ that untimely ripped him from The Lodge.

Fellow God-botherer Tony Abbott was happy to turn the misogynistic screws until Julia was broken by Labor’s hard men and Kevin returned to ‘save the furniture’

That was yet another plot point in the Rudd screenplay on the public stage. But already a new prayerful pathway was taking shape. It was one that I suspected had long been dormant in his imaginings: He’d become SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations. Now that was a big one. It would at last allow him to shout like Jimmy Cagney in the climax to his arc in the classic White Heat – ‘Made it, Ma, top of the world!’ So it was off to America where the former First Lady soon to turn Presidential candidate, Hilary Clinton became the target of his undoubted charm. He even crossed the political line back home and lobbied the new PM, Malcolm Turnbull for support. But then, from the depths of hell came Donald J Trump and the whole delicate fabric collapsed. By now Kevin’s arc was coming to resemble that of the Prophet Job and he even grew a white beard to accompany Job’s anguished appeal in Chapter 30 verses 20-30: ‘I cry out to you God but you do not answer…You turn on me ruthlessly; you snatch me up and drive me before the wind; you toss me about in the storm…’

But then, Hosannah! The latest rival God-botherer, Scott Morrison surrenders to his own religious mania and gathers more Ministries than even the Good Lord himself could juggle, then he crashes to earth, almost squashing an eight-year-old boy. And Lo! The happy warrior Anthony Albanese, whom Kevin had made Deputy PM while saving the furniture is now in The Lodge.

Redemption!

So, from Ambo to Washington DC and the final prize beckons once more, the golden orb atop Jacob’s ladderthe UN Secretary-Generalship.

Hollywood hasn’t seen an arc like it since Cecil B DeMille.

robert@robertmacklin.com

Reading—A beer with Baz

Three full schooners remained untouched on the bar table and the owners’ eyes focused on the wide flat screen television in the front bar. The cricket commentators were intent on filling every moment with babble as Dave Warner stalled on 196 runs. References to ‘snicko’, ‘DRS” and ‘spider cam’ had Bazza shaking his head. At least Richie Benaud would remain silent, at key points in the game, and let the cricket ‘do the commentating’.

Warner finally sliced the ball through slips for four runs.

The commentators went ballistic and the television lit up like a poker machine at its most dishonest. A kaleidoscope of colours and figures flashed across the screen. The shrill of the commentators mimicked a jackpot, with the cheating incident in South Africa in 2018 now hero washed into a ‘mistake’.

As Warner leapt skywards, three schooners left the table with the speed of a cover drive, clinked and rehydrated the slips cordon around the television with a generous pour.

Mick beamed.

“Howzat eh? Well…..that has to go down as the greatest sporting achievement of 2022. What a way to end a run of low scores……..The media wrote him off and Warner scores a double ton in the heat.”

Bazza took a long sip.

“Ah……you’re seduced by the moment, Mick. I would rate Ash Barty’s win at the Australian Open in January higher. You know……an Australian woman had not won the Open since 1978. She showed incredible discipline and skill over two weeks and a ton of grace in victory.”

Mick began a verbal backhand but ‘Know All’ Ron silenced him with a clearing of his throat.

“Listen up you blokes…….”

Bazza and Mick leaned in.

“There is no doubt both were outstanding achievements but cricket and tennis are limited international sports.”

‘Know All’ Ron paused and took control of the conversation in Lionel Messi like fashion, before striking. “Now……. soccer, or or more correctly football, is a world game. The Socceroos achievement at this year’s World Cup is, hands down, the international achievement of the year.”

The speed and certainty of ‘Know All’ Ron’s comment had both stretching their necks.

Silence.

Bella, the publican, approached and began wiping their table.

Bazza looked up.

“Now Bella…….we are just chatting about the best Australian international achievement in 2022. What do you reckon; the double ton Warner just scored in a furnace at the MCG, Ash Barty’s victory at the Australian Open in January or the Socceroos efforts at the World Cup earlier this month?”

Bella screwed her face.

“Are you blokes kidding? Best Australian international achievement in 2022?……… well without question it has to be …….Penny Wong.”

Bazza grinned and Mick raised his eyebrows.

“Penny Wong?……who does she play for, Bella?”

“Australia, Mick……but she never bowled a cricket ball, picked up a tennis racquet or kicked a round ball. In fact, she managed to do it without playing any games at all.”

Have a beer with Bazza at john.longhurst59@gmail.com

The Jermyn motoring family

by Wendy Simes Journal of the Moruya & District Historical Society Inc. September 2022

In a lis ng of car number plates registered in Moruya to the end of 1919 one car owner’s name stands out. It is that of Irene F Jermyn. She is the only female on the list. Her car is listed as a Studebaker.

It is doub ul that Irene was s ll driving the car in 1919 as in February 1918 she was the driver of a car involved in a fatal accident. In all there were 7 people on board when Irene lost control about two to three miles south of Moruya on the road to Bodalla. In her evidence to the Magisterial enquiry Irene basically said she made a correc on to the steering as she thought she was too close to the embankment but must have over corrected and lost control of the vehicle which rolled throwing the occupants out. She said she had four months of experience driving having had instruc on from three men from the garage at Goulburn and had experience driving on country roads. Sergeant Michael Kea ng examined the accident site and saw tracks of the car some 150 yards back from the accident which showed the car appeared to be swerving from side to side of the road. Mrs Isabelle Macartney-Noake one of the passengers had been thrown from the car and died from a broken neck at the scene. The other passengers all escaped with slight injuries. Rev. Macartney-Noakes, his son John, Mrs Robert Dawson and Cathleen and Beryl Jermyn were the other passengers. The Magistrate on the inquiry returned a verdict of accidental death. In spite of the severity of the accident the car was not badly damaged and was driven back to Moruya.

Which model Studebaker Irene was driving is not known. The above image is from Wikipedia.

Rev. Mcartney-Noakes le the district a er the accident but the Jermyn family remained as Willoughby Jermyn was the Shire Clerk. During 1919 Irene is men oned in the paper as the Supervisor of the Red Cross Spinning Circle but no further men on is made of her driving. In October 1919 she died suddenly at home, somehow managing to break her neck in a fall in the bedroom.

Mr Jermyn was evidently not put off driving as in the Moruya Examiner of the 22nd January 1921 he is reported as leaving Moruya at 5.20am in his Studebaker motor car (presumably the same car) with eight occupants and luggage. He arrived in Goulburn in me for his passengers to catch the mid-day train from Goulburn. He returned to Moruya the same day with a short break at Braidwood and Araluen.

The Jermyn’s son Hugh also evidently enjoyed his driving. In February 1937 Hugh William Jermyn, solicitor of O’Connell Street was fined £10 for having driven a car at a dangerous speed on the Princes Highway. He was reported to have come down Bulli Pass at about 45mph (72km) and drove from Bulli to Woonona increasing his speed to 50 mph (80km).

Some of the fabulous photos you can find in the Face Book Group Narooma History in Photos

The Book Of Roads And Kingdoms

by Richard Fidler

A lost imperial city, full of wonder and marvels. An empire that was the largest the world had ever seen, established with astonishing speed. A people obsessed with travel, knowledge and adventure.

When Richard Fidler came across the account of Ibn Fadlana tenth-century Arab diplomat who travelled all the way from Baghdad to the cold riverlands of modern-day Russia - he was struck by how modern his voice was, like that of a twentyfirst century me-traveller dropped into a medieval wilderness. On further inves ga on, Fidler discovered this was just one of countless reports from Arab and Persian travellers of their adventures in medieval China, India, Africa and Byzan um. Put together, he saw these stories formed a crazy quilt picture of a lost world.

The Book of Roads & Kingdoms is the story of the medieval wanderers who travelled out to the edges of the known world during Islam's fabled Golden Age; an era when the caliphs of Baghdad presided over a dominion greater than the Roman Empire at its peak, stretching from North Africa to India. Imperial Baghdad, founded as the 'City of Peace', quickly became the biggest and richest metropolis in the world. Standing atop one of the city's four gates, its founder proclaimed: Here is the Tigris River, and nothing stands between it and China.

In a flourishing culture of science, literature and philosophy, the ci zens of Baghdad were fascinated by the world and everything in it. Inspired by their Prophet's commandment to seek knowledge all over the world, these traders, diplomats, soldiers and scien sts le behind the cosmopolitan pleasures of Baghdad to venture by camel, horse and boat into the unknown. Those who returned from these distant foreign lands wrote accounts of their adventures, both realis c and fantas cal - tales of wonder and horror and delight.

Fidler expertly weaves together these beau ful and thrilling pictures of a dazzling lost world with the story of an empire's rise and u erly devasta ng fall.

The South Coast Pastel Society 2022 Summer Exhibi on and Sale

returns this January with a diverse range of pain ngs in pastel, oils, acrylics and watercolour.

The art works reflect the diversity of New South Wales' South Coast and adjoining regions and showcase the talent and crea vity of the region's ar sts.

The exhibi on features spectacular landscapes and seascapes, beau ful studies of flora and fauna as well as well as wonderfully calming s ll life studies. Visitors to previous events have commented on the depth and vibrancy achieved by each ar st as well as the breadth of subject ma er exhibited across the exhibi on.

Visitors to the exhibi on also have the opportunity to meet with members of the Pastel Society who are all prac cing ar sts and happy to discuss their work and the pain ngs on exhibit.

A er many years exhibi ng at the Surf Club in Malua Bay, this year the society's exhibi on moves to the Sunshine Bay Public School, Beach Road, Sunshine Bay.

The school's hall is a great venue for exhibi ng art, with plenty of space to view the pain ngs and ideal ligh ng that allows visitors to see the colour and detail of each work. Entry is by gold coin dona on with the proceeds going to the School.

The exhibi on will be open from 1:30pm to 4pm on Saturday 14 January and from 10am to 4pm each day therea er un l Sunday 23 January at the Sunshine Bay Public School, Beach Road, Sunshine Bay.

Jus n Pearson's outstanding collec on of landscapes "A Cluster of Green" commences next week at Gallery Bodalla from Thursday 5 January 2023 to Sunday 5 February.

Expressive and invi ng, Jus n's rich oils are full of movement and nuance, brought together skilfully with the most beau ful use of colour.

Please join for opening drinks on the side deck with Jus n on Saturday 7 January at 3pm. "Pear"Richard Lawson on guitar with Elizabeth Walton on piano & percussion - will play jazz improvisa on inspired by Jus n's work.

Gallery Bodalla is open Thursday to Sunday 11am4pm and by appointment, post office 66a Princes Hwy, Bodalla ph 0421 238 174. Visit the exhibi on at www.gallerybodalla.com.au

The 38th Annual Art and Cra Exhibi on will be on at the Batemans Bay High School Auditorium from December 23rd to January 8th, except for Christmas Day.

Open from 10am to 4pm daily, over 100 pieces of art, plus sculpture and cra to admire and also for sale.

sports

Broulee Runners Wed 28th

Dec 2022

Tonight, was the first test of the New Course at peak me with lots of visitors and sunny weather. Parking was the major problem and nego a ng the traffic of people on the bridge over the Candlagan Creek. The event went off very successfully with outstanding numbers and results. There were lots of old faces, who previously contested the old course. They welcomed not having to run up and down the treacherous kno y path.

Samson Kennedy added the 2-kilometres record to his 3-kilometres record. He joins Lily McIntosh as the joint holders of the male and female records for the 2-& 3-kilometres records. Outstanding young athlete Thomas Menzies Stegbauer knocked 40 seconds from the record he set for the 4-kilometres last week.

In the 2-kilometres personal best me were recorded by Emma Holland and Emma Kennedy.

We acknowledged the magnificent achievement of Andrew McPherson who ran his 300th run this evening. Andrew and his family have been great supporters of the event and his wife Michelle and son Declan, and daughter Nina add another 234 runs to the family total.

Congratula ons also went to Emma Kennedy having achieved her 30th run with

son Samson and daughter Mollie add another 132 runs to her total.

the group. Father Anthony,

Moruya River.

Sorry for the late report, the shop has been and is quiet busy at the moment. There have been good catches of flathead, bream, tailor and trevally throughout the river this week. The airport flats have been producing some nice flathead for the holiday crowds, while around the quarry wharf there have been some nice catches of bream and Trevally. The trevally have at mes been very hard to get a bait or so plas c past. It’s a good thing they are a tasty feed.

The town bridge has been holding numbers of flathead, bream and Trevally, with the south side of the river holding estuary perch over the weeds beds a er dark. Up around hospital, there have been numbers of bream and Trevally holding in the deeper holes. Further upstream around Yarragee bend, good numbers of flathead and the odd bream have been caught over the sand and gravel beds.

Tuross River.

The flathead have been on fire throughout the last week in Tuross despite the water temp hasn’t really climbed past 18deg. The potato point side of Tuross has been holding some flathead and bream, while the boat shed area has also had a similar presence of both flathead and also bream. Up around four ways, bream estuary perch, and the king of Tuross the humble flathead have all been regular catches.

The Teal bridge up Bodalla way con nues to hold good numbers of fish, with flat head over the sand flats and bream in the snags that line the river banks along this stretch of river. Snake flat, just upstream of the Bodalla bridge, is also holding all of the previously men oned species. Rock and beach.

Now that the winds have eased a bit, beach fishing will be a more enjoyable op on this weekend. There have been plenty of salmon on the beaches, while the bream and whi ng are s ll a li le on the scares side as a result of the pool of cooler water that is holding offshore, and won’t seem to budge. Moruya breakwall, con nues to be a popular loca on this me of the year, with 30+ anglers regularly seen lined up along its length. There have been the usual suspects being caught, with salmon, bream, flathead and Trevally all making an appearance at mes.

Offshore.

The weather gods have smiled this week, with flat seas allowing boa es to get out and enjoy the condi ons.

Snapper have been coming boatside in the magic 30-40m mark, while the sand and ger flathead have been coming from as li le as 15m right through to 40m mark.

I haven’t heard of anything note worthy on the game fish scene of late, so I have nothing to report on that front.

Don’t forget that double demerit points are in force this weekend as well.

Stay safe everyone and remember, “every days a good day for fishing…”

Team Tackle World Moruya.

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