#29 Regional Lifestyle | Winter 2020

WINTER

Hilltops Feature Young • Boorowa • Harden Murrumburrah & Jugiong

Grenfell’s Silo Art

COUNTRY EVENTS:

Mudgee Races Jugiong Art Show

Garden Beauty at The Glen, Bathurst

Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales

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CONTENT COVERAGE AREA

trading as Regional Lifestyle Magazine ABN 151 6322 9418 ADDRESS PO BOX 1050 DUBBO NSW 2830 PHONE 0429 441 086 FAX 02 6867 9895 WEBSITE www.lifestylemagazine.net.au FACEBOOK @RegionalLifestyleMagazine INSTAGRAM @RegionalLifestyleMagazine PUBLISHERS, ACCOUNTS & ADVERTISING Elizabeth & Alex Tickle info@lifestylemagazine.net.au EDITOR Elizabeth Tickle editor@lifestylemagazine.net.au CHIEF WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER Jake Lindsay shotbyjake@outlook.com.au ART DIRECTOR Zora Regulic artdirector@lifestylemagazine.net.au

DISTRIBUTION Regional Lifestyle Magazine is published quarterly (available at the beginning of each season) and distributed to selected newsagents and retail outlets within the Central West and in the surrounding regions of the Far West, New England & North West, Riverina & Southern Slopes, the Monaro, Southern Highlands, Canberra, Northern and Eastern suburbs of Sydney, in addition to a selection of other rural and coastal areas of New South Wales.

Subscriptions and back issues are also available to read online, on desktop and mobile devices.

Unsold magazines are distributed to cafes, health waiting rooms, quality hotels/motels, bed and breakfast establishments, hair and beauty salons and tourist outlets.

Regional Lifestyle showcases authentic content from across rural and regional New South Wales. The heart of the magazine is in the Central West of the state, but a great story knows no boundaries.

We are continually amazed by the innovation, inspiration and spirit that we find time and time again in communities both within the Central West and further afield. It is our passion and privilege to bring these stories to you.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE To order a subscription or back issue (mailed or online), visit www.lifestylemagazine.net.au. © Central West Lifestyle Pty Ltd 2020 All Rights Reserved No part of this magazine may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

While every care is taken in the publication of Regional Lifestyle Magazine, the publishers will not be held responsible for omissions, errors or their subsequent effects.

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CONTENTS ISSUE 29 WINTER 2020

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104

80

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64 136

110 TOWN FEATURE

HILLTOPS YOUNG, BOOROWA, HARDEN, MURRUMBURRAH & JUGIONG With so much to showcase in the Hilltops Region, RLM revisits the area to explore a little further.

Known for its fresh produce, rich history in gold and agriculture, its natural beauty and cool-climate wines, the Hilltops also harbours an abundance of extraordinary constituents with a story to tell. STARTS PAGE 14.

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story name W I N T E R

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172 212

204 COUNTRY RECIPES

188 W INTER WONDERS The cooler months call for hearty, no-fuss recipes that are bound to please.

WINTER

Hilltops Feature Young • Boorowa • Harden Murrumburrah & Jugiong

GARDEN

190 P EACE AND QUIET When Jayne and Simon Beverly created their three-acre garden, it wasn’t just about beautifying the landscape.

Grenfell’s Silo Art

COUNTRY EVENTS:

THE LAST WORD

224 TOWN TREASURE Nothing can slow down great grandmother Mary Corcoran.

Garden Beauty at The Glen, Bathurst

>

196 HAPPY SNAPS Check out who attended the RLM Autumn 2020 Launch, Mudgee Races and Jugiong Art Exhibition.

212 WEDDINGS Gorgeous photographs of happy, handsome country couples tying the knot.

Mudgee Races Jugiong Art Show WINTER 2020 VOLUME 29 608002

EVENTS

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160 WONDER WALLS Muralist Heesco’s extraordinary images loom large and linger in the minds of those who view them.

164 THE GOOD DOCTOR Highly respected general physician and gastroenterologist Dr Joe Canalese has for decades been an integral part of the medical, sporting, cultural and social fabric of Dubbo.

168 LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL Gulargambone farmer Stephen Rae makes every moment count in a second chance at life.

172 TWO OF A KIND Identical twins David and Matthew Hall share much more in common than their looks. We visit their stylish home in Young.

182 DRAWN TO DRAW Drawing and painting are as natural as breathing for talented Central West artist Karen James.

Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales

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COUNTRY CHARACTERS

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ON THE COVER

Clifton House and Gardens This Circa 1890 Victorian style homestead near Young is a renowned local landmark and function centre. (Hilltops Council Feature, Page 28).

Image: Jennifer Harden

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W I N T E R publishers’ letter

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

stay safe, stay strong “Like tiny seeds with potent power to push through tough ground and become mighty trees, we hold innate reserves of unimaginable strength. We are resilient.”

– Catherine DeVrye, The Gift of Nature

Welcome to Winter 2020!

We have all had a very challenging and worrying time with COVID-19, accompanied by real uncertainties. So many lives have been impacted, and the effects are being felt right across our society.

Our wish is that you have been keeping safe and well and supporting one another in positive ways. We hope we will all come through this with an inner strength that will underpin our journey forward.

Autumn 2020 Launch A wonderful night of celebration was enjoyed by over 80 guests in the stunning Forbes Town Hall. Even though this was the second time we had featured Forbes and Parkes, plenty of local heroes and charismatic characters (as well as innovative businesses) were found to showcase across 113 pages of our publication.

The highlight of the launch evening was a very moving presentation by indigenous Forbes songman Yarangirri Holmes and the River Spirit Dancers.

Drought-breaking rain Much of our state has received welcome rainfall since our last publication. It is so wonderful to see lush feed in many areas and livestock and crops taking centre stage once again.

Winter 2020 Feature You may recall we featured Young in Spring 2015 (Edition 10) and Boorowa in Winter 2016 (Edition 13). These editions were very well received and so the Hilltops Council had no hesitation in collaborating with Regional Lifestyle once again. For that we are most grateful.

We were given a wonderful opportunity to revisit many of our favourite places, meet familiar faces (but lots of new ones as well) and generally take a trip down memory lane. Lots of new things have been happening here in the Hilltops Region and it is just as productive and beautiful as ever. We were most fortunate to meet some incredibly hard-working people, some local heroes and others who are innovative and visionary.

Regional Lifestyle Magazine team members at the Forbes Launch: Back: Jo McKinnon, Heather Crosby, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle, Sue Meikle, Zora Regulic, Anna Tickle, John Curley. Front: Mayor of Forbes Shire Council Cr Phyllis Miller OAM and Mayor of Parkes Shire Council Cr Ken Keith OAM.

Edition number 30 – Spring 2020 It is hard to believe that soon we will have produced 30 editions of our magazine! That’s 7½ years since we took our first tentative steps in Winter 2013. Even though this is, in theory, our job, we often talk about it as a journey, the trip of a lifetime and an incredible privilege. Thank you to the many councils, advertisers, newsagencies and you, the readers, for supporting us throughout this epic ride!

Edition number 30 will feature the Queanbeyan-Palerang Council area (Queanbeyan, Braidwood , Bungendore and villages).

This area was devastated by bushfires earlier in the year but there is a definite strong recovery occurring. A massive thanks to QPRC and Bendigo Bank for their foresight and generosity in providing substantial funding to the many advertisers who came on board for the Spring Feature.

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You can look forward to 120+ pages profiling many amazing aspects of this region. We can strongly recommend that this area should be on your bucket list of places to visit.

Enjoy the beauty of winter, the cosy crackling wood fires and the company of family and good friends.

Warm regards, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle Please note: At the time of going to press, the COVID-19 government restrictions were in place. Thank you for taking this into consideration and making allowances when you read our content.

We recommend that you check with event organisers before you make any travel arrangements.

W I N T E R Jake’s message

from the boundary fence Greetings, esteemed reader.

Mother Nature has been working overtime, creating havoc in the bush that’s already copped a battering. We’ve had the full gamut – drought, fire, massive dust storms, record temperatures and flooding.

Now we can add the Coronavirus to the equation, and what a drama of epic proportions. It was 101 years ago the world faced the 1918-19 influenza pandemic that claimed more lives (between 20 million and 40 million people) than WW1. These are serious times indeed. While we are all bunkered down, let’s remember the frontline health staff who continue putting their lives on the line every day to help the rest of us.

On a lighter note, thankfully we’re easing into the cooler winter months, which means there’s no better time to plonk yourself down in front of the fire, clutching your latest Lifestyle. Like longlost cousins, we are revisiting the Hilltops Region, specifically Young, Boorowa, Harden-Murrumburrah and Jugiong.

During my travels, I attended the 70th Cherry Festival. I dip my lid to the organisers, who combined the markets with never-ending music, a colourful sideshow alley, street parade, fireworks and, of course, long-standing competitions like cherry pip spitting, cherry pie munching and the most important one of all, cherry picking!

The district’s cherry farmers are a cheerful lot. It was great catching up with various members of the Mullany tribe at the Ballinaclash and Grove Estate cellar doors.

I managed to catch up with some legendary bush characters – all with big hearts, bold dreams and positive outlooks.

Men of the calibre of John Dunk, who built an insurance broking empire on the strength of his handshake, old-fashioned service (he brings out a Wilders cake to all his rural clients) and a shared love of sport.

And Greg Haines, a former shearer who crafts beautiful knives from old files and blade shears. Actually, I met a handful of old shearers this time around, including John Stephens, still working in his 80s and fitter than most blokes half his age.

Then there are the Goodman brothers, who pedalled their way across Australia to raise funds for charity. Age shall not weary them – they performed the same feat 40 years ago!

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We’re delighted to revisit the iconic Iandra Castle, where big things are happening. A younger generation with new dreams is reshaping the fortunes of one of the country’s few genuine castles.

During an aerial flight from Young to Boorowa, it was hard not feeling despondent taking in the barren landscape below. In a good season, it rates as some of the top farming country in Australia.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Hilltops Region but businesses in these parts, like everywhere, are feeling the ongoing effects of the drought, bushfires and pandemic. You and your credit card need to go exploring, possibly online. There’s never been a better time or reason.

The golden gong for my favourite spot is the happening little village of Jugiong. It’s in these tiny little outback gems you find the best people – and you’ll be reading about their fascinating lives in the following pages.

Sermon for the day: Remember to live each day as though it were your last. Think about this for a second. One day, perhaps when you least expect it, it will be game over. End of your innings.

I thought my time on this planet was up after a sudden and scary asthma attack. Fortunately, I pulled through but a few of my mates, in recent times, haven’t been so fortunate.

Each day becomes more special as we realise our vulnerability. You can multiply that feeling by 10 for our older folk and those battling illness. So, dear reader, be compassionate and live life to the full as you strap yourself in for an invigorating Hilltops experience.

You’ll be travelling first class all the way, and don’t forget to send a postcard when you get there!

Jake

PS Since I started writing this we’ve copped about 10 inches of good, soaking rain in Coonabarabran. The catheads have gone gangbusters and life goes on. Please take care in these perilous times and remember, more than ever, to take care of our old and vulnerable.

ABOVE: A recent aerial shot of Young, showing the diversity of orchards and wineries; cherries are synonymous with Young, featured in this issue.

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WINTER 2020 CONTRIBUTORS

meet your team

ELIZABETH TICKLE

GINA CRANSON

Sub-Editor & Proofreader

JAKE LINDSAY

Publisher, Distribution, Advertising

Chief Writer & Photographer

ZORA REGULIC

JENNIFER HARDEN

JANE SANDERSON

ANNA TICKLE

Art Director & Social Media Manager

Home & Style Writer, Photographer

Wedding Writer

Writer

Writer

SALLY MARCEAU

MELISSA DUNKERLEY

ZENIO LAPKA

Advertising Designer

Photographer

KATE BOSHAMMER

Advertising Designer

ELIZABETH SWANE

ROSIE O’KEEFFE

ROBERT I BRUCE

CATHERINE PLAYER

JO McKINNON

SUE MEIKLE

JOHN CURLEY

HEATHER CROSBY

Garden Writer

Writer

LORRAINE HILLS

Country Cuisine Writer

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ALEX TICKLE

Publisher, Editor, Advertising

Photographer

Social Photographer

Writer

RLM Accountant

Website Developer

Writer

62 Byng Street Orange New South Wales 2800 P 02 5317 8200 info@byngstreethotel.com.au

byngstreethotel.com.au

W I N T E R feedback

your letters On behalf of a grateful community, I thank and congratulate Elizabeth and Alex and their Regional Lifestyle Magazine team for the magnificent work in compiling the latest feature on Parkes and Forbes. This is the second time Parkes has been featured, with the Winter 2015 edition showcasing our shire. Tourism is an economic driver in our shire with events like the Elvis Festival in Parkes and the ABBA Festival in Trundle. During these challenging years of drought and the COVID-19 pandemic, we can look to bounce back on the exposure given to our community through this quality magazine. It has been a delight to work with such a professional and dedicated team and I wish them every success in the future.

Cr Ken Keith OAM, Mayor of Parkes Shire

Congratulations to Elizabeth and Alex Tickle on the magnificent job they have done in compiling the Autumn edition of Regional Lifestyle Magazine featuring Forbes and Parkes. The stories are a true reflection of our life here in the Central West of NSW and the photography is exemplary. Readers get an in-depth look into the lives of the amazing people in our region, who are incredibly proud to call Forbes home. Their life stories will no doubt inspire others and encourage people to visit our beautiful district and discover even more. I have followed the incredible journey of this magazine over the seven years it has been in production and, without fail, each edition brings the most amazing and interesting stories to life. I look forward to reading about all the other incredible communities our state has to offer.

Cr Phyllis Miller OAM, Mayor of Forbes Shire

Regional Lifestyle Magazine gives our family great joy to read, creating visual appeal as it is displayed centre stage on our coffee table. It inspires dynamic topics of stimulating conversation from the beautifully written articles. There is nothing better than discussing artwork or a unique regional location. An extra buzz of joy is generated when we spot a friend in the magazine. Country farming articles are read with great interest. Thank you for such a fabulous magazine, capturing wonderful country locations.

Sarah Robson, Tamworth

I recently purchased my first copy of your magazine and was immediately impressed. Your articles tell unique stories complemented with great pictures, understanding people’s commitment, struggles and achievements without becoming overwhelmed with too much detail. I have found it particularly useful to the community visitors scheme that I volunteer with, as we visit people that are isolated or do not have regular contact with family or friends. We empower them by listening to their life stories and history. This magazine gives us the opportunity to share your stories and it will help volunteers to gain knowledge about other towns, assisting the friendship bond. I bought every back issue of the magazine that I could. I would like to thank Elizabeth and Alex Tickle for supplying me with early issues of the magazine that I couldn’t purchase. I was truly overwhelmed by them doing this.

Congratulations on such a wonderful informative magazine.

Gwen Yelverton, Dubbo

As a proud owner and avid reader of all 28 editions of Central West Lifestyle and its successor Regional Lifestyle published so far, I have watched the beauty, history and spirit of regional NSW come alive over seven years. My eyes, mind and heart have been taken to so many towns and districts, homes and properties, large and small, near and far. There I have met ordinary Australians going about their daily lives, some of them doing extraordinary things.

The fascinating human interest stories, enhanced by crisp, moodcapturing photographs, have given me a deeper understanding and greater appreciation of life beyond the coastal cities. The regional focus in each edition, together with other varied content, is strengthened by a bright and contemporary graphic design and high-quality production values – even the advertisements look good! This magazine is truly a celebration of our great state and its people. It is a tribute also to those women and men whose faces and names appear on the staff pages of this and previous editions.

Their combined efforts have successfully captured our unique regional lifestyle in words and images for present-day readers, and the well-researched historical narratives have given us a glimpse of those on whose shoulders we stand. Congratulations and thank you to all. May there be many more editions to impress and inspire.

Paul Smith, Campbelltown

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HILLTOPS COUN CIL FE ATUR E WORDS & IMAGES: JAKE LINDSAY

the hills are alive from the Mayor of Hilltops Council Welcome to the Hilltops Region, among rolling hills, orchards, canola and wheat just over an hour north of the nation’s capital.

The growing Hilltops Region is renowned for its award-winning food, wine and produce, wide-open spaces and amazing sunsets.

Including the thriving towns of Young, Harden-Murrumburrah and Boorowa, along with many unique villages, Hilltops has something for everyone. Our region is located along a strategic transport corridor, including the Hume Highway, the busiest interstate road freight corridor in Australia. This closely connects us to major markets including Sydney and Canberra.

With excellent accommodation options along with great food and wine, Hilltops is a convenient and welcoming destination for those wanting to enjoy fresh local produce, explore a rich history of gold and agriculture, discover the region’s natural beauty and wide-open spaces or just relax and unwind. The arts and culture of the region’s towns and villages are also a key drawcard for our residents and guests to enjoy.

Hilltops is one of the state’s most exciting new wine regions, with cool-climate conditions allowing for the production of elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, which is

powerful yet balanced and with proven ageing capabilities. The first vines were planted in the Hilltops Region as early as the 1860s.

As a region, we are known for our diverse agricultural sector that includes the production of wheat, fruit, prime lamb, wool, pork, eggs, poultry and much more. Hilltops is home to innovative businesses in the fields of research, technology, milling, genetics, accounting, telecommunications, construction, sustainability, concreting, mining and biogas.

As a council, we have a focus on infrastructure projects that will set a solid foundation for our future as a recently merged Local Government Area. We have over 75 community projects funded up to 2022 and continue to work closely with the Canberra Airport around regional tourism and export freight opportunities to make our region a place that our residents love to live in, tourists love to visit, and where our businesses thrive.

We are grateful for our relaxed country lifestyle and peace and quiet, which are the things that people love most about living in the region. I invite visitors to escape to the Hilltops, discover our region’s rich history, natural beauty and unique country hospitality.

Cr Brian Ingram, Hilltops Council Mayor

“As a region, we are known for our diverse agricultural sector that includes the production of wheat, fruit, prime lamb, wool, pork, eggs, poultry and much more.

land of plenty The towns and villages of the Hilltops Region are an easy drive from the busy cities of Sydney and Canberra, but a gear change down from the stress of urban living.

The Hilltops Region, reached from the Hume Highway in just over an hour from Canberra and 20 minutes from Gundagai, has everything for the tourist who wants to sample great wines, try delicious food, shop, exercise, rest, and explore Australia’s history and rural life.

The Hilltops Council area is home to both the Wiradjuri and Ngunnawal tribes. Travelling through the picturesque landscapes to the broad streets and historic buildings of the Hilltops towns, you will find farm-gate produce, antique shops, boutiques, and welcoming hotels and cafes.

Thousands visit the region’s festivals, celebrating histories of Chinese migration, the gold rush, the wool industry, and the waves of newcomers from across the globe, who brought their skills to develop pastoral, mining, agricultural and horticultural industries.

The thriving towns of Boorowa, Harden-Murrumburrah and Young and villages such as Jugiong offer unique experiences of rural life. Hilltops is convenient to escape the stress of work, to shop in an unhurried and uncrowded street. Enjoy a facial or have your hair done, explore our history, enjoy innovative or traditional meals matched with award-winning coffee and wine.

The twin towns of Harden-Murrumburrah feature distinctive church spires and Italianate-style buildings that showcase the rich history of the area. The Light Horse Memorial honours the district’s contribution to Australian military history. Harden is home to the annual kite festival, which sees thousands of kite enthusiasts converge on the racecourse for a day of flying and fun.

Boorowa boasts a proud Irish heritage, which brings many travellers from the homeland. Boorowa is home to the annual Irish Woolfest, a unique celebration of the town’s Irish heritage

and production of fine Merino wool. The running of the sheep is a feature on the Woolfest program not to be missed.

In the late 1800s, Lambing Flat attracted miners from around the world ready to try their luck on the goldfields. A clash of cultures resulted in a riot to rid the area of Chinese miners.

Lambing Flat was renamed Young and today we embrace and celebrate our rich Chinese heritage through the Lambing Flat Chinese Festival held in March.

Following the gold rush, Young was identified as suitable for growing cherries, eventually becoming the biggest cherry producer in Australia, and so the title of Cherry Capital was born. The harvest is celebrated on the first weekend in December, with the National Cherry Festival uniting locals, visitors, seasonal workers and growers.

The Hilltops landscape changes with the seasons. Orchards, grapevines and olive groves decorate the slopes. The area boasts spectacular vistas featuring dramatic hills, distant forest ranges and misty valleys.

The colours change constantly: greens of pasture and growing crops; sweet pink and white almond, apple and cherry blossoms; bright gold ripe canola and pale gold of wheat ready for harvest; luscious red cherries; purple plums; and orange apricots.

Visit, relax, unwind and enjoy. RLM Image: Cherries, Destination NSW

ABOVE: Seasonal crops make beautiful backdrops; Young is the official Cherry Capital of Australia where picking your own cherries is a popular activity.

BELOW: Farming is the backbone of the Hilltops Region; the cherry blossoms line the roads in spring.

YOUNG TOWN FE ATURE WORDS & IMAGES: JAKE LINDSAY

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forever Young

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E 1

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The Hilltops Heritage Rally breathes new life into old engines.

A grand tally of 125 vintage stationary engines, many well over 100 years old, highlighted the 2019 Hilltops Heritage Rally in Young.

Also on display were six vintage air compressor exhibits, four collectables displays, three old trucks, one motorcycle, one vintage mower collection and 17 historic tractors.

Many of the tractors featured in the Cherry Festival street parade, including two century-old work horses owned by the museum but under custodianship to Cherry Capital Collectors Club members who restored them to their glory.

“For once, the weather gods were smiling on us,” club secretary David Curtis says. “Our last rally two years ago was washed out with over 100mm of rain. This year temperatures were high 20s/low30s, which was fantastic considering our position in Carrington Park under the shade of the very large trees.”

Exhibitors came from near and far, including Walcha, Newcastle, Sydney, Eden, Albury and Echuca and lots of places in between.

“It was a great rally, perfect weather with plenty of different engines and exhibits on display. I cannot recall anyone having too much trouble with their machines not running – a rarity considering their age.”

The Saturday night dinner attracted over 80 enthusiasts with lucky door prizes including a 5kg box of cherries, fuel, M-10, hotel and bakery vouchers and a stack of giveaways from Young and Harden’s auto supply stores and local business houses.

“A huge shout out to all of the Cherry Capital Collectors Club members who helped make this a great rally,” David says. RLM

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1. A Star petrol engine.

2. Ian Browning, Arcadia, Dennis Coopes, Bathurst, and Roy White, Canowindra.

3. David Curtis with a Macson water pump.

4. Gordon Wise, Warren, with a 1942 Lister petrol kerosene engine.

5. Coleen Southwell and Allen Hillard from the Highlands Vintage Machinery Club, Mittagong, with a 1937 Lister.

6. Justin Wentworth, Mullion Creek, with his Star petrol engine.

7. Young collectors Mark Hall and Lindsay Crowe with Peter Nixon, Queanbeyan.

8. Hans Broers, Canberra, with a 1932 two-horsepower open crank engine.

9. Richard Dillon, Goulburn, talks with Cherry Capital Collectors Club president Kim Davidson.

10. Athol Moorby, Keith Croker, Peter Brough, Milton Moorby and Justin Taylor from the Cherry Capital Collectors Club.

11. The day was a huge success.

12. Sydney machinist Adam Benson with a Blackstone oil engine.

13. Stephen Carter, Harden, with his cream separator.

YOUNG RLM 19

take your

pick

Young’s National Cherry Festival offers a cornucopia of pleasures.

They are sweet, juicy, taste divine, and people over the world love to pick and consume them straight from the tree.

A hugely popular fruit, cherries are at the heart of the National Cherry Festival held annually in Young, centre of the Hilltops Region in the Southern Tablelands.

The National Cherry Festival is held on the first weekend in December. This year, it is scheduled for December 4, 5 and 6. It’s one of Australia’s best-known harvest festivals, drawing thousands of people to celebrate another delicious crop.

The three-day festival brings together people of many nationalities, ages, backgrounds and beliefs as they seize the opportunity to take part in the cherry harvest and immerse themselves in the town’s friendly hospitality.

Over the seven decades since its foundation, the festival has always been about the cherry, which was first planted in the area in gold rush times back in the 1860s.

Traditionally, cherries are front and centre of the festival, and some of the most memorable activities for those attending have been cherry inspired, including the quirky cherry pie eating and cherry pip spit events. These competitions always attract big crowds to watch participants with some humorous commentary helping to inject laughter and drama into the program.

Other attractions include a fireworks display, the state’s longest street parade, buskers, stalls, farmers markets, live bands, quick shear, a car show, combined pipe bands, a big breakfast, bush poets, kelpie demonstrations and an art exhibition.

The pick-your-own-cherry experience in orchards around the district are another attraction that keeps growing in popularity.

The annual cherry harvest usually starts around Melbourne Cup time in November and finishes at Christmas time.

Whether it’s a visit to Hilltops to pick your own cherries during the weeks of harvest, or a plan to attend the December National Cherry Festival itself, make Young in the Hilltops Region your destination to visit in 2020. RLM The National Cherry Festival is set down for December 4 to 6, 2020.

For more information visit: nationalcherryfestival.com.au.

LEFT: The 2019 Cherry Festival was one of the best in years with plenty of entertainment on show; Cherry King David Munnerley; Viebke Mason from Vagabond Travel Gear was one of the many stall holders.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The festival drew huge crowds; Emily Page, Layla Ali and Erin Cox were kept busy at their drive-in orchard stand; the woodchop in action; contestants in the cherry pie eating contest; Jasmin Bond from Molong with her Greentrees Gourmet Preserves; Roseann Seery, David Butt, Jacinta Edgerton and Michelle Duggan from Woolworths.

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cheers to the

CHERRY The National Cherry Festival is a celebration like no other and a major highlight on Young’s calendar.

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

pause & reflect The Chinese Tribute Gardens acknowledge a dark chapter in the area’s history.

The tranquil Chinese Tribute Gardens near Young are a place of reflection. It was through here in June 1861 that Chinese miners passed, fleeing for their lives from rioting mobs.

Today the gardens offer peace and relaxation but 160 years ago it was a very different story. Gold had been discovered in Lambing Flat and men from all walks of life and nationalities were trying to strike it rich.

By mid 1861, tensions had reached boiling point. Several times the Chinese were forced off the gold field. After the violent riot of June 30, 1861, the Chinese sought refuge on James Roberts’s Currawong property, 20km to the south.

That riot shocked the colony and triggered a major legislative response from the NSW Government to restore and maintain law and order on the goldfields.

This occurred at the expense of the rights of the Chinese – the innocent victims of the attack. It didn’t help that Lambing Flat was located in one of the most inclement parts of NSW.

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“In the middle of winter, over 1000 of those unfortunate individuals, without covering, food or shelter, were driven off into the wilds to live or die as they might,” noted one speaker during a fiery parliamentary debate.

“Mr Roberts supplied them with flour, beef and what clothing he could. Up to the present time, no measures appear to have been taken by the authorities for arresting the leaders of this diabolical outrage.”

It was noted that Roberts had claimed rations from the government to care for 1206 Chinese.

The anti-Chinese riots associated with the gold rush played an enormous part in Young’s development. Chinamans Dam was constructed by German brothers Hermann and Johann Tiedemann, with the help of others, to provide water for sluicing on their Victoria Hill gold claim.

During the 1870s the brothers sold the dam and the surrounding area to a Chinese group who worked the site. The sale was never documented and the land has always remained Crown Land.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

From 1885 until 1901 the NSW Railway used the dam to replenish the water supplies of their trains on the line. In 1901 the NSW Railway built a 20,000-gallon water tank at Young Station, however, water from Chinamans Dam was still used to supply the tank.

The dam’s capacity was enlarged in 1911. By 1937 the water was supplied from Burrinjuck Dam on the Murrumbidgee River.

In 1963 a 15-hectare reserve was declared, with the shire council being the trustees.

For years it was used as a recreation reserve and unofficial swimming hole, until an unfortunate death put an end to the practice.

The town constructed the Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Garden in 1992 as a tribute to the enormous contribution of the Chinese people to Young and the rest of the country.

Today the gardens feature bronze and marble sculptures, a water mill, rock formations, winding paths and a selection of plants that change with the seasons.

The gardens won’t keep you busy for an entire day but are a great spot to relax or enjoy a picnic. Barbecue facilities are available. RLM

RIGHT: The Chinese Tribute Gardens began in 1992 as a way of recognising the huge contribution of the Chinese community to the settlement of Young in the 1860s.

FACING PAGE: The garden is set in a relaxing and picturesque site, the perfect getaway for an idyllic family picnic or barbecue.

The Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens are at the Chinamans Dam reserve just four kilometres from the town centre. The gardens are open every day until sunset.

For more information visit: visithilltopsregion.com.au.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

golden memories The Lambing Flat Folk Museum gives visitors a fascinating insight into the region’s rich history.

The Young Historical Society Inc. Lambing Flat Folk Museum is located in what was the third public school built in Young in 1883.

By the 1970s it had become too small and a new public school was built. The society was able to rent five rooms of the building for the museum.

The infamous history of the discovery of gold and the riots that occurred during this time are displayed in the Gold Room along with their main exhibit, the Roll Up Flag.

“We now have on display in this room a Mongolian outfit donated to the museum by the Chinese Embassy in Canberra,” secretary Sandra Jenner says.

The museum displays the history of the area from the influence of the local Indigenous people, the first convict settlers who made their home here and bushranger activity.

Another area is devoted to those who served their country in the various wars,

26 RLM YOUNG

with beautiful textiles that would have been sewn by lamplight by the early women settlers.

“We are supported by the people of the area with all their donations of items and adding to the displays,” Sandra says.

Recent new displays feature the history of boxing in the area and items of Helmut Hiebl, a glass blower and engraver who lived in Murringo. His items have been commissioned by the Government as gifts for the Queen and others.

After visiting the museum, wander around the historic area of Carrington Park, and the now high school that was the third courthouse to be built in the town.

A bit further down are the gates and buildings of the old gaol, now the TAFE campus. This is where the troopers were in the gold rush days along Campbell Street and where the Riot Act was read.

Campbell Street received its name from a bell being rung if there was trouble evident in the gold field or if dinner was ready.

Then walk around the back of the building along the Burrangong Creek to where gold was discovered.

The museum is a must-see for visitors to appreciate the rich history of this vibrant Hilltops town. RLM The museum can be found at the Community Arts Centre, Campbell Street, Young, and is open daily from 10am to 4pm, and other times by arrangement. For more information: lambingflatmuseum.webs.com.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

ABOVE: The Lambing Flat Folk Museum features many historical items dating back to the gold rush days. Many historical photos line the walls, with rooms full of treasures from a bygone era.

FACING PAGE: The museum is a “must-see” tourist attraction; Sue Chapman and Sandra Jenner greet museum visitors.

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hospitality with

HEART

Very few historic homesteads open to the public but Clifton House & Gardens bucked the trend and opened for business.

Nestled among 10 hectares of pristine gardens 12km from Young, Clifton House & Gardens has become the go-to place for functions, events and garden weddings.

Completed in 1890, the imposing Victorian-style homestead was crafted from granite quarried on the property, with huge sandstone slabs carted in bullock drays from the Southern Highlands.

The six-bedroom home was built for longevity, comfort and lavish entertaining, with enclosed verandas, courtyard, conservatory, gazebo, swimming pool and tennis court.

Original features include the classical marble hallway – wide enough for drays to bring in stone during construction – along with 4.2m decorative ceilings, cedar joinery and exquisite marble fireplaces in every room.

Proud owners David and Rebecca McMillan share a thing or two in common with the original builder. For a start, neither owners ever called it home.

Richard Hutchinson-Roberts built it as an extravagant wedding present for his daughter while the latest custodians live in a modern two-storey home they built on nearby “Mt Quamby”.

This could only be great news for the local and wider community, meaning the 130-year-old homestead has been put to a variety of uses while being enjoyed by all and sundry.

A LONG HISTORY Rebecca was recovering from a serious car accident when David entered her life. With a shared passion for high performance cattle and a genuine love of the land, the sparks were flying.

By the time she was 20, Rebecca was married and ready to fulfil her dream career in agriculture. David, barely a year older, had already finished his building apprenticeship and constructed a new home for his parents.

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The McMillan family have been farming around Young since the late 1800s. David’s great grandfather was said to have delivered the first load of cherries to Sydney – an onerous two-month trip (one way) on the back of a bullock wagon.

The newlyweds’ first farm was on Moppitty Road. A few years later, they purchased the bulk of the old McMillan farm across the road. Next came a block in Greenethorpe before selling the lot to consolidate on “Mt Quamby”, south of Young.

While raising their two children and tending to their various livestock enterprises, they often thought about the rolling hills of “Clifton” and that glorious homestead.

Eight years ago, the planets aligned and David and Rebecca expanded their rural holdings by a further 225 hectares. With land in the Young district always tightly held, it was a rare opportunity to buy a block close to home with brown granite soils covered in pastures of phalaris, clover and rye.

“So, we now had this beautiful historic building,” Rebecca sighs.

“From the very start we felt we had a tremendous opportunity to share it with the community.”

With no need for a home, the pair soon got to thinking about capitalising on the homestead and function centre. It was only a matter of time before they diversified into farm stays and weddings.

The granite stables and coach house were built in 1889, a year before the homestead. The previous owners had transformed the area into a magical place to host family weddings and charity functions.

The indoor/outdoor function centre comes with a commercial kitchen and seating for up to 150 people. The McMillans have finished it off splendidly, with a big tick of approval from council and the licensing board. > ABOVE: Clifton House & Gardens looks great from any angle.

FACING PAGE: The gardens are immaculately maintained, making it an ideal spot for a wedding or function. Owners David and Rebecca McMillan with son Hugh on a specially made chair fit for royalty.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

Landmark & Historical Place Function Centre Farmstay Accommodation Specialising in garden weddings & private dining

Ph. 0408 249 954 cliftonhouseandgardens@gmail.com www.cliftonhouseandgardens.com

94 Maimuru SS Road, Young, NSW, 2594

Since opening in 2018, Rebecca’s abilities in the kitchen have become legendary. “She’s a very handy cook,” David confirms.

Rebecca prepares all meals at functions and tailors meals to individuals with food allergies.

Expect delicious dishes and generous country servings that accommodate your dietary requirements, from canapés all the way to cake and coffee.

They make 90 per cent of the food they serve, with a strong emphasis on freshness and whole foods. It’s all about value-adding to their farming enterprise.

Know that you will be feasting on Rapalong Mandalong Specials beef, bred and raised on “Clifton”. It’s quite the story and one they love to share.

“Everybody has heard the paddock to plate concept – we’ve just taken it a step further, using a beef producing animal developed in Australia by my father in the 1960s,” Rebecca says.

Made from the best attributes of five breeds, Mandalong Specials have snared the prestigious Hordern Trophy at Sydney Royal (for supreme exhibit) on numerous occasions.

The family sell about 30 bulls each year from the “Mt Quamby” 400-strong cow herd. Semen from their top stud sires is exported all over the world.

The fun-loving pair started with Poll Herefords, then Romagnola, an Italian breed Rebecca’s father brought out from his Italian homeland, before converting to their beloved Mandalong Specials.

In between, there’s always been room for some sheep trading.

David buys in about 10,000 lambs each year to finish on the property’s rich lucerne flats along the Burrangong Creek.

They are purchased at about 30kg and sent out the gate at 50-60kg. David aims to double his investment every 2½ months.

It’s getting harder with the big dry. Despite hand-feeding for the past 18 months, the McMillans continue to grow their unique hospitality business.

“We produce what is served on the plate and conduct farm tours for our guests,” Rebecca says. “It gives them a greater appreciation of how their food is produced.”

Complementing their foray into tourism is an olive grove. The family produce their own organic extra virgin olive oil, which Rebecca swears by in her kitchen.

Hugh, 12, is the young man of the family and throws himself enthusiastically into all farming operations. Endowed with his mother’s keen sense of humour, he doubles as the food service man and “bouncer” at functions.

Big sister Marina, 24, works at the Galong Lime Mine but enjoys coming home to run the bar at big gatherings. The family are looking forward to hosting international guests attending the 2021 World Angus Forum, during their visit to the region.

“We always work as a family when we’re staging a wedding or function. It gets us all together and takes our minds off the farm and dry conditions. It’s our relief, and we have as much fun as our guests!”

There’s no doubt this property is fabulously set up, delivering first class country hospitality in the most rustic of settings.

Attention to detail is second to none.

With a fully licensed bar offering local wines and regional beer and cider, there are many reasons why nobody wants to go home.

“Clifton” is the ultimate country wedding venue but is equally popular for family get-togethers, corporate functions, civic receptions, community workshops and meetings.

“We’re close to town, an airport and abattoir. ‘Clifton’ is more than just a destination, it’s an experience to savour,” says Rebecca, who is simply relieved and thrilled that her dream is finally happening. RLM

Opening hours by appointment

ABOVE LEFT: All the rooms feature high ceilings with opulent furnishings.

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Shop Online

Farmgate Shop

Deliciousness delivered

Homemade goodness

Ballinaclash products available online anytime. Sweet and savoury jams and sauces, gourmet prune range, verjuice, wines and more.

Taste the ever-growing range of Ballinaclash house made, fruit inspired products. Book in for a cherry pie making class or try a delicious cherry ice cream cone.

Available all year round ballinaclash.com.au/store

Pick Your Own Authentic farm experience

The Mullany family invite you to pick your own flavoursome, sun-ripened cherries and stone fruit at Ballinaclash, in the heart of the Hilltops Region.

Cellar Door

Award-winning wines Taste the highly acclaimed Ballinaclash single vineyard, cool climate wines. Wine tasting experiences available for both small and large groups.

Cellar Door specials

Available during cherry season

4321-4335 Olympic Highway (South), Young, NSW 2594 • P: 0418 271 770 • www.ballinaclash.com.au Cherry Season 7 days 8am–5pm • Rest of year Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10am–4pm • Other times by appointment YOUNG RLM 31

in the long run It may have taken them 32 years but viticulturist Brian Mullany and wife Sue have transformed a bare block into one of Young’s main tourist attractions and premium wine destinations.

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With wine sales to China and cellar doors in both Young and Jugiong, Grove Estate is one of the great cool climate wineries in the Hilltops Region.

When Lifestyle dropped in for a visit, Xiao Xiao (pronounced Shoy-Shoy) Liu is holding the fort. Her family grows vines in China and she enjoys running the cellar door on weekends.

Speaking fluent Mandarin, she is also a great help when Brian Mullany, her adopted dad, is sourcing new Asian markets.

Brian and Sue make a formidable team and know a thing or two about big families. Brian is one of 11 Mullany children to grow up in Young. After a six-year stint at Joeys, he thought engineering might be a good university subject.

After six months, he returned home to the family’s Ballinaclash orchard to start a career in growing things.

After five years, the opportunity came to buy a bare block a few clicks out of town on land that is steeped in history. Vineyards were first established in 1865 before all evidence was wiped clear a century later.

Brian and his dedicated team are back with a vengeance. The cellar door and gift shop features local produce from the Hilltops Region, with an assortment of jams, garlic, olive oils, soaps and bees wax products, not to mention the huge wine selection.

A swag of new awards, including two gold medals at the Chinese Wine and Spirits Awards in Shanghai, has given them added confidence they’re on the right track.

Brian made three visits to China in 2019 and says the country is their biggest overseas trading partner, buying 40,000 bottles a year and growing.

Last year he combined with sister Michelle Fernon and husband Vince to buy out the original partners, including Brian’s brotherin-law Mark Flanders (a Young optometrist) and John Kirkwood (a pathologist mate of his father’s).

It’s been a long and mostly satisfying haul for Brian and Sue, who met during a B&S gathering in Young and are still going strong in their fourth decade together.

Sue had grown up in the nearby village of Murringo but the two had never bumped into each other. She travelled the world before settling down with a bloke who, at that stage, had barely left town.

Brian can never forget his 1989 wedding. He’s always possessed a healthy work ethic, which naturally extended to his wedding day.

“I was planting our first vines the morning of the wedding,” he confesses. “It was a hot, dry afternoon but that night it rained on the plantings – surely a blessing on our marriage and future prospects.”

The vines all died but the marriage thrived with three daughters Alexandria (employed by Melbourne University), Lavinia (with Qantas, Canberra) and Harriet (studying surveying at Toowoomba).

“We’re hoping that at least one of our girls may show some interest in what’s become our lifetime’s work,” laughs Brian, tongue-in-cheek. No pressure on anyone – it’s that old Irish humour bubbling to the surface. Again.

To demonstrate how good his wines are perceived, Brian tells the story of taking his young family to the Sydney Royal Show at Homebush.

They somehow lost a kid at the show before trudging miles back to the car, which had been broken into. The heartless thieves took everything but left a case of Grove Estate wine on the back seat.

“It was the most disappointing day of my life,” Brian roars with laughter.

Right now, the problem is the Big Dry that’s knocked them for six.

Only 40 per cent of the vineyard will be picked with lower yields.

Times are tough but the Mullany family are resilient and will bounce back. They’ve survived three decades in the wine business and, unlike the aforementioned thieves, appreciate a good drop when they see one. RLM ABOVE: Fun-loving pair Brian and Sue Mullany have been producing awardwinning wine for decades; Xiao Xiao “Audrey” Liu has become a vital part of the team; Grove wines ready to find new homes.

FACING PAGE: It’s all about the grapes; the Jugiong cellar door; Jackie Honner at work in Jugiong; the cellar door outside of Young; Brian keeps a close watch on his vineyard.

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is there a doctor in

THE HOUSE Dr Mike Mullany’s life is as intriguing and eventful as it is long and fruitful.

Former Young doctor and orchardist Mike Mullany OAM is baffled as to how he’s still alive and kicking at 92 years of age.

His life has been furnished with incidents that nearly prevented him from moving beyond his toddler years. As a child in Ireland, his nanny rescued him from a tub of boiling water. She thought he was dead.

He nearly burnt to death as a young graduate working in the Obstetrical Flying Squad, attending patients from the Dublin slums. While delivering a baby in a house without electricity, his nurse’s starched uniform caught fire as she held a lamp to provide light for a procedure. He put out the fire but his injuries were severe.

Mike was practising medicine in London when he met Bernie O’Brien, an Aussie on her European holiday. They married and sailed to Australia on the Oronsay via South Africa.

After docking in Pyrmont they were met

by Dr Charles Rowe, whom Mike would work with in Young. Dr Rowe drove them across the Pyrmont Bridge, which was crawling with traffic and pedestrians, one of whom was hit by a steel pole protruding from a truck.

Upon reaching him, Mike realised nothing could be done. His foray as a doctor in Australia was off to a shaky start but a bad rehearsal makes for a good performance and his medical practice thrived.

Bernie, an expert in strategy, arranged to have the world’s longest telephone cord going from the home to the tennis court, thereby saving police from traipsing through the home in emergencies.

One day in the early 1960s, Mike received a call from a woman but all he could hear was a breathless “Doctor!”. He charged down to the local telephone exchange and traced the phone number to a few blocks.

He knew his patients in each block and went from door to door to check on them.

At one house there was no answer so he went around the back and found a collapsed elderly lady who was rushed to hospital.

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Mike delivered generations of babies in Young and surrounding districts and made many visits to clinics in outlying districts like Quandialla.

He did the rounds at the hospital each morning with matron and nurses in tow, updating patient charts. Patients and staff remember his tremendous energy, humour, diagnostic abilities and thoroughness. He was always singing through the wards and his enthusiasm for life was infectious.

Nothing was ever too much trouble.

His practice with Dr Rowe built over time to include more female doctors, and the surgery moved from Boorowa Street to its current site.

His efforts were recognised by being awarded GP of the Year and later in 2008 he

received the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to health, in particular for the aged and disabled in the Young community.

He changed Mount St Joseph’s Home into a regional retirement village and served on the committee that started a workshop for young and disabled community members – a place where they could acquire skills and enjoy a quality of life while maintaining some independence.

Alongside his medicine, Mike’s other passion was building up the farm with help from his wife and 11 children. He developed one of the first trickle irrigated cherry orchards before branching into vineyards.

Ballinaclash now has over 10,000 fruit trees – mainly cherries but also peaches, plums, apricots and nectarines.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

There’s also 130 hectares of wine grapes, incorporating Ballinaclash, Grove Estate and Bit O’ Heaven vineyards. Collectively, his family wines have received over 100 gold, silver and bronze medals.

STARTING OFF

Growing up the son of a doctor and farmer in Ireland, Mike was determined to learn how to farm Down Under, a whole new ball game when it came to soil types, climate and livestock. He couldn’t wait to get his country practice growing alongside his cherry orchard and sheep and cattle enterprises.

Mike remembers butchering his first beast. “We had a hundred plastic bags and twisties to tie them up, a hired saw and a book from the library How To Butcher A Beast, borrowed by Bernie, and old Ruben, an ancient ex-butcher organised by me, who sat on an upright chair in the shed to provide expertise.”

In 1970, Mike travelled to research new and different farming methods, taking Bernie and eldest daughter Michelle on a trip that included Italian and Californian cherry orchards.

Despite a hectic schedule, there was always time for an active social life.

New homes and renovations in Young & district

“As kids, we always loved the way he and Mum laughed together as they nutted out the cryptic crossword daily,” daughter Bridget says. “They were a hugely intelligent, inspirational force.”

Getting away to their beach house in Broulee usually included a break at Braidwood, with a count-off when everyone got back in the car. If everyone kept their elbows in they could usually squeeze six kids across the back of the Chevy.

“We could be 20km down the road before we realised someone was left behind,” she laughs. “Eventually we got two cars, then two cars and a boat, and finally a convoy.

The beach house grew from a two-bedroom cottage with six lots of bunk beds to a house that can accommodate several families.”

In 1987 Mike spent several weeks with Mother Teresa’s mission in Calcutta.

He instructed the student nurses on medical procedures and in return learned intriguing cultural ways to prepare the dying. He came back full of wonderful stories and a theory that the Hindi and Irish languages shared a common origin.

Vital, highly respected and valued, Mike has been integral with the evolution and progression of the Hilltops community that he proudly calls home.

HIA Member No. 840458 Licence No. 136330C

Growing up the son of a doctor and farmer in Ireland, Mike was determined to learn how to farm Down Under, a whole new ball game when it came to soil types, climate and livestock.

His relentless energy and inner drive provided a humane and progressive thinking ideology for his family, which includes children Michelle, Siobhan, Peter, Angela, Brian, Edwina, Patrick, Bridget, Charlie, Claudia and Dominica. Sadly, Mike’s wife Bernie died in 2019 and is sorely missed.

“Do not be afraid of life or change,” concludes the hearty doctor as he tackles another day of a beautiful life. RLM

FACING PAGE: Dr Mike Mullany with daughter Dr Michelle Fernon, Wagga Wagga.

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YOUNG RLM 35

it’s all happening here Family, fresh cherries and award-winning wine have paved the way forward for the Mullany family of Young, well-known for their pick-your-own orchard, vineyard and cellar door and farm gate shop.

Ballinaclash was established in 1965

by Irish doctor Mike Mullany, now 92, who moved to the other side of the world to practise as a rural GP. He named his block after the dairy farm he grew up in Clashmore, County Waterford.

Along with wife Bernie and a ready workforce of 11 children, Mike ran Ballinaclash as a wholesale cherry business.

In the late 1980s, eldest son Peter and wife Cath moved back to help run the orchard.

The fun-loving pair met at the Sons of the Soil Hotel in Coonamble during their shearing and teaching days. In the early days, they concentrated all their energies on cherries but having all their eggs in one basket proved a nightmare.

“Our yearly income came in the space of a few weeks, which was always incredibly stressful,” Cath says. “You could lose your crop in a 10-minute hailstorm and be left with no income for the year.”

That happened once too often but instead of walking away, it re-energised them. As part of a diversification plan, grape vines were planted in 1997 and the first wine produced in 2005.

The cool-climate and red-granite soils of the Hilltops Region have proven to be ideal for premium-quality grape growing.

Each year, Ballinaclash enters its wines in a number of wine shows. They have consistently received awards including trophies for Champion Wine of Show at 2017 Canberra and Region, Best Cabernet at NSW Wine Awards and Best Shiraz at NSW Small Wine Makers. >

LEFT: Cherry growers and wine makers Peter and Cath Mullany love having their family involved in their business.

FACING PAGE: Most of the Mullany clan: Joe (seated) with Ned, Jack, Cath, Peter, Maddy and Eleanor – only Tom was missing from the muster; a recent aerial shot of some of their country.

36 RLM YOUNG

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

The winery has earned a reputation among prominent wine aficionados, including Huon Hooke, who has put the vineyard in his Top 100 Wineries for the past two years.

In 2017, Peter and Cath were joined by son Ned, 29, one of their six children. Ned studied Ag Science at Sydney Uni before running a Sydney gardening business. He is helped by his siblings during the busy cherry season.

Ned is ambitious in his own right, having taken over the Weddin Border Leicester stud with about 300 ewes. It’s the vines and cherries, however, that keep him and the family focused.

“We take the utmost care in the nurturing and growing of the grapes, along with meticulous wine-making practises,” Cath says.

The winery has earned a reputation among prominent wine aficionados, including Huon Hooke, who has put the vineyard in his Top 100 Wineries for the past two years – quite an accomplishment for a small, family owned and operated business.

Over the years, the team has continued to diversify, becoming an agritourism business attracting not only local visitors but also travellers from all over Australia and overseas.

Today, their business comprises a pickyour-own orchard, cellar door and farm gate shop, selling the ever-growing list of products made from their own fruit.

A visit gives you the opportunity to taste not only their award-winning wines but also jams, sauces, verjuice, cherry cordial and cherry ice-creams. The family are also developing quite a name for their cherry pies and cherry pie making classes.

38 RLM YOUNG

A visit to Ballinaclash is a great day out for the whole family. Strolling among thousands of trees, there is nothing as delicious as fresh fruit plucked straight from the tree.

Enjoy the clean country air and friendly hospitality. There’s a shady picnic area with tables, seating and free electric barbecue, clean toilets and plenty of parking.

Ballinaclash is a one-stop shop for Christmas, where you can buy delicious gifts for your festivities, including prepacked cherries, apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, loquats and figs in season as well as Coolamon Cheese and other local products.

“During the cherry season (November/ December) we are open seven days a week from 8am to 5pm. For the rest of the year our cellar door and farm gate shop open from Friday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm or by appointment,” Cath says.

You will love meeting the farmers who grow your food and are only too happy to have a yarn about how they run their farm.

Ballinaclash is more than just a business, it’s the Mullany family’s passion and way of life they can’t wait to share with you. RLM

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Cath Mullany meets many interesting characters at the Ballinaclash cellar door and farm gate shop; sisters Eleanor and Maddy Mullany making their famous cherry pie.

During the Cherry Festival the family were baking hundreds of pies each day; a cherry tree; Annie Scott serves cherry ice-cream to Sydney lad Alex Compton.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

young at heart Connecticut born and bred photographer Jen Harden has found a happy home on the other side of the world.

Growing up less than an hour from the Big Apple, I believed I would meet a nice Italian or Greek boy from Long Island or Connecticut and settle in for the long haul.

But on December 31, 2007, I had tickets to a New Year’s Eve party at a club called “Love” in lower Manhattan.

Despite my friends and I not being in the mood to go out, we decided to pop some champagne and try to muster up some excitement for the new year. That night I crossed paths with a handsome, tall, pale guy with an intriguing accent.

I didn’t know the difference between a British and Australian accent. When my Michael told me he lived in London, I assumed he was English.

The two of us, living on opposite sides of the Atlantic, hit it off.

Our long-distance relationship was playing out just on the cusp of video chatting being completely normal.

We still wrote lots and lots of emails to each other. For this hopeless romantic, who grew up on a diet of old Hollywood musicals, it was pretty much the next best thing to sending love letters via air mail across the ocean.

When my dad heard Michael’s voice for the first time even he warned me: “Don’t fall for that Cary Grant stuff!” but it was way too late. I was in deep.

I visited Mick in London and by July he was living with me in Queens and looking for someone to sponsor him on a visa. He had to return to Sydney after 90 days in late 2008 and, naturally, I followed. > ABOVE: Layla, Oliver and Georgia Harden enjoy a colourful snack at home in Connecticut. “While at the time, life seemed so hectic, when I look back we actually had a lot of fun. Having a two year old and then a surprise set of twins come along was an adventure we never expected.”

YOUNG RLM 39

“I already loved Mick but this is where I found out that Australia was part of the package. I fell absolutely head over heels for this country.”

I already loved Mick but this is where I found out that Australia was part of the package. I fell absolutely head over heels for this country. Sydney charmed me with the harbour and lights, the old pubs and terrace houses. Then I was introduced to the South Coast – the best spot on earth, sparkling, uncrowded and absolutely magical.

Despite our happiness in Australia, family circumstances brought us back to the States in 2010 where we were lucky enough to have three beautiful, healthy children, including a surprise set of twins.

Previously I had enjoyed taking photos of still life moments that struck me – like a canoe quietly waiting by a lake or a beautiful flower. After our first daughter Layla was born, I started taking more photos of people – actually one person, her.

I dabbled in this for the next two years when our twins Oliver and Georgia were born. This really kicked my desire to capture everyday moments into high gear. >

ABOVE: Having lost my only sister in 2009 I prayed for Layla to have a sister.

They don’t always get along, so moments like this are really special.

LEFT: The Harden family at home in Young. From left, Layla, Georgia, Michael, Oliver, Boon and Jennifer.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Our German Shorthaired Pointer Boon as a puppy. Since Boonie came to us from Tasmania he was named after famed cricketer and Tasmanian native David Boon; Oliver and Boon; a kooky line-up of cousins in costume on Halloween; the freedom and carefree nature of an Aussie childhood – the kids spend hours playing outside, on bikes, scooters, skateboards and playing games of front yard footy and cricket; Georgia on a rainy day in our little rental on Boorowa Street; sweet Layla on her eighth birthday. This photo was taken in my dining room minutes before her party was set to start.

40 RLM YOUNG

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

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I started out with my phone and moved to a point-and-shoot camera, but after digging out my Nikon DSLR that had been cast aside after moving home from Sydney, I became addicted to the clarity and quality of the images.

Once I discovered post processing, it was all over. I was obsessed with the artistic process of editing, altering colours and sharpness and cropping to frame images exactly how you wanted. I loved how you could subtly alter the image to enhance it.

It was during this time playing around with images of my own kids that I received positive attention on social media and decided to give taking photos of other people’s kids a go. Over the next four years I was able to build a decent business doing family photo shoots, learning the entire time. I loved being able to capture little moments for other people like I did for myself.

During this time, I also couldn’t shake the idea of Australia, the lifestyle, the work-life balance and the laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. It was easy for my friends and family to blame wanting to move back to Australia on Mick but the truth of the matter was that I couldn’t shake the country.

I constantly thought about what life with our three kids would be like there. One of the things about being in an international relationship is you have to be open to living in both places, and Michael and I always said we would be wherever worked the best for us at any point in time.

So we made the very long and agonising decision to jump ship and head to the southern hemisphere. I knew I could take my photography with me, which was great.

About a year ago I was lucky enough for my sister-in-law to send me an advertisement for a magazine looking for someone to write and take photos for home and style stories. I loved the idea and decided to take a chance on applying. To my surprise, I was given the position as a contributor.

I majored in Anthropology in college and have had a fascination with other cultures, ancient and modern, from a young age. This has stayed with me and I still find much joy in discovering what makes people and the places they come from unique.

I like to think that at my best, this is the lens through which I view the world around me – my camera is just one way to capture what I see and my words another.

Nearly three years in and there’s no turning back yet. I am absolutely grateful for the lifestyle that living in Young affords us. Everything is five minutes away, our children have eight cousins that same distance and my husband comes home for his lunch hour every day at noon.

Where we were living in the rush of the outskirts of New York City, that is unheard of – and that is not lost on me. Sure, going down the street in Young doesn’t have quite the buzz of crossing the bridge into Manhattan on a Friday night but my kids can play cricket in the street with the neighbours for hours.

Everywhere you go there is a friendly face to say ‘Hey!’ to. I feared the isolation of the countryside but have never felt more connected.

Mick’s friend, who he was on vacation in New York with when we met, always said in the early days it was going to “end in tears”. While there have been a few tears it has yet to end – although sometimes I do look around me and have a moment of “Where the heck am I?” Never in my wildest dreams. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

LEFT FROM TOP: While our first wedding took place at the Registry Office in Sydney, our second more formal wedding was back in Connecticut a few years later. Having Greek heritage, when we saw this sculpture to the Greek Goddess of Fertility we had to stop and tempt fate. Photo by Andy Todes; we went to Hawaii for the first time this year and were completely enthralled with the Aloha Spirit. We met my dad and his partner there. It has been hard being so far from my parents but it has opened up the door to new adventures with them, which I am thankful for.

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pms black

pms 1807 CP

pms 431 CP

pms 7501 CP

VISION splendid Young Eyes have their sights firmly set on helping to improve your vision.

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As her high school graduation was looming, a young Janine Hobson knew she had to come up with a plan for university, and quick.

Medicine was out, too much blood, and pharmacy could be OK. However, a childhood memory of appointments with her optometrist Brian Webster in Cowra gave her another idea altogether. Janine recalls: “He seemed to love his job, so I thought ‘Let’s do that’.” And just like that, she was off to university to learn a discipline she could love.

In 1990, Janine graduated from university and flew across the country to Perth to work at a practice whose patient base varied significantly. One branch had Janine flying north to remote areas of Western Australia to help miners with interesting eye troubles.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

Another saw her working with professional athletes, testing their spatial capabilities.

“The other section was dealing with children that had difficulties with learning at school and this is the part that I loved,” Janine says.

Her love of working with children to improve their eyesight and enhance their learning has followed her throughout her career and continues at Young Eyes today. Children today and future generations are 60 per cent more likely to need a vision-correcting device than previous generations. We owe this to our beloved electronic devices. “My passion is to educate the children, parents and grandparents about the importance of spending time outside and away from their phones,” Janine says.

The Young Eyes team is much loved by patients young and old. Jeanette Elliot, Melissa Oldfield, Nicole Martin and Catherine Miller have been an integral part of Young Eyes for a decade, ensuring a familiar face is always there to greet you.

Glasses are now a sought-after fashion accessory and the team at Young Eyes are up for the task of matching you with your perfect frame. The goal? “Making everyone look fabulous,” Janine says. “Sometimes that involves wearing the brightest frame we can find and other times it’s being very subtle.” Some of the brands they carry include Face to Face, handmade in France, Gucci from Italy and Prodesign from Denmark. Also keen to keep your eyes safe in the sun, Young Eyes carries a range of sunglasses including American brands Maui Jim and the classic Ray-Bans.

Their motto “to make your eyes young again” is taken seriously and with stateof-the-art equipment like their newly upgraded Colourimeter, it is possible. The Colourimeter is able to determine what colour lens will give the wearer the best possible visual outcomes.

On occasion, Janine takes her expertise further afield, travelling as part of an aid program to the islands of Indonesia. Here Janine helped to provide spectacles to the people on the island of Sumba and assisted in organising patients for cataract surgery.

In what she calls the most difficult and rewarding day of her optometry life, she visited an orphanage where every student was vision impaired. Working to improve their lives through helping them see properly again has been a poignant and life-affirming experience.

Janine’s bright energy and clear passion for her chosen field creates a wonderful environment in her practice that we can all benefit from. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

FACING PAGE: Janine Hobson, optometrist at Young Eyes.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Long-time employee Catherine helping to get just the right fit; the sleek and modern interior of Young Eyes offers clients world class care and a fashionable array of frames to choose from; the Hobson family at home in Young, pictured from left, Edwina, Simon, Beatrice and Janine. (absent, son Henry); tools of the trade.

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LET’S DO LUNCH

One of the most sensational Hilltops Region events on the calendar is the Cherry Blossom Long Lazy Lunch.

The Cherry Blossom Long Lazy Lunch is held in a breathtaking landscape amid the white blossoms of flowering cherry trees as part of the Hilltops Food and Wine Weekend.

The magical springtime event is held in a mystery cherry orchard near Young, with patrons bussed to and from the venue.

The lunch launches the region’s blossom time and this year’s event is scheduled for Sunday, September 20.

The long lazy lunch features Hilltops wine and food, wine tastings, live music, lots of laughter and good company.

The natural orchard ambience will be enhanced with the sounds of local musicians and meet-and-greet with National Cherry Festival king and queen entrants.

With a strict cap on numbers, people planning to attend are invited to ring the Young Visitor Information Centre on 1800 628 233 and place their name on the pre-registration list. Payment and ticket allocation can be finalised later on Eventbrite. RLM Images: Jennifer Harden

Fayrouz Harake, Sydney, with Lisa Rutkowski, Canberra.

Back: Hilltops Council Mayor Brian Ingram, Chris and Maryann Harrison, Renee Hoskins and Val Cruickshank, all from Young.

Front: Janet Ingram, Patricia Reynolds and Jason Reynolds.

Erwin Way and Kate Roberts, Coolangatta.

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Mark Mahony, Goulburn, and Gordon Douglass, Pitt Town.

Back: Nikki Waterhouse, Rosalind Black and Zoe Thompson, all from Canberra, with Janine and Simon Hobson, Young. Front: Lauren Peach, Edwina Sargeant and Stacey Bancroft-Fisher, all from Canberra.

Johanna Vrolyk and Armando Reviglio, Shoalhaven Heads.

Murray Fleming and Annie Fleming, Queanbeyan.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

Cherry King and Queen entrants Brianah Griffin, Kate Cruickshank, David Munnerley, Laura Ower and Tasman Coulter, all from Young.

Karen Ower, Tammy Terry, Jodie Shaw, Lauren Ower, Kaye Ower, Catherine Roppa, and Bec Woods, all from Young.

Marg Roles, Young, Anita Zeman, Blakehurst, and John Roles, Young.

Cath Mullany from Ballinaclash Winery, Young, Rupert Hyde, Allambie Orchards, Wombat, and Karen Green, Trandari Wines, Young.

Sally Cartwright, Young, with Belinda, Josephine and Dan Owens, all from Bathurst.

Beatrice Smith, Kat Vincent, Adrienne Carey and Anna Trundle, all from Canberra.

Bec Woods, Tammy Terry and Karen Ower, all from Young.

Alicia Barnes, Bathurst, with David Coombes and Scott Murray, Young.

Kate and Val Cruickshank, Young.

Jamie and Michael Harden, Young.

Monique and Brianah Griffin, Young.

Jane Smith and Larissa Mahony, Maleny, Queensland, and Golden Doodle Luna.

Mel Ford, Sarah Karaitiana and Emma Hill, from Hilltops Council.

Pat and Bob Cowburn, Canberra.

Jamie Harden, Young, Melissa Prescott, Cowra, Taylor Galley, Sydney, and Cameron Prescott, Cowra.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

accommodating

CREATIVITY A rustic studio smack in the middle of a Hilltops farm will in the future be attracting artists from all over the country.

Exciting renovations are taking place in the upper section of the historic horse stables at “Springfield”, Young. For many years, the loft was home to young grooms whose job was to feed and water the horses.

Towards the end of 2020, host Victoria Anderson plans to conduct art workshops in the inspiring space. The added bonus is that you won’t have to go back into town at the end of the day.

There’s plenty of on-farm accommodation for visiting artists, even talk of having an artist in residence. Apart from the stables (located below the studio), Victoria has tastefully refurbished three cottages – Bill’s Cottage, made of stone in the 1850s; Gabby’s Cottage, a one-bedroom former gardener’s cottage; and the Manager’s Cottage, a bungalow built by her parents in the early 1960s.

All options, including the houses in town, are impeccably clean and come with Victoria’s elegant style.

When the art workshop dream is finally realised, Victoria anticipates plenty of great nights in the dining room of the old family homestead. It’s a room full of character and history, where generations of her family have entertained with gusto.

Her latest project is close to her heart. The stables were built in 1901 by her great grandfather, Sam Tout, who ran a wellknown hackney stud.

Seeing it put to use again means a lot to Victoria, who has painted all her life, including 25 years as an art teacher at local high schools. Victoria is an artist who loves acrylics and paints large-scale cows, sheep and flowers.

“I was a glass blower by trade but became a painter,” she says over a wine. “After school I went to the School of Art, Canberra, where I learnt to be a glass artist but found myself more drawn to the painting.”

Tradies have been kept busy on the job, building wide steps out the back, all under Victoria’s watchful eye. Being an artist, she’s ensured the studio will be bathed in natural light.

The “Springfield” property once stretched 20km to Murringo, being settled by her family in the 1850s. Her three sons, Riley, 17, Archie, 16, and Darcy, 13, are seventh generation on the farm and are enjoying being educated at Knox Grammar, Wahroonga.

At the moment, the big dry is on everybody’s lips. Nobody can remember it being this bad. Sheep numbers have been slashed to a third, leaving 1300 ewes to be handfed three times a week. They are all that’s left of 30 years of selective breeding. Victoria is determined to keep them going, despite mounting feed bills.

Farmers are good at developing their own strategies when combating stress.

In the hot summer months, Victoria takes in 20 laps at the local swimming pool. It helps clears the brain when dealing with life’s big issues like raising three teenage sons, keeping her sheep alive and providing quality accommodation for visitors.

“It’s a matter of just bunkering down and riding out these very testing times,” she says with an optimistic grin. RLM Images: Jennifer Harden

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A comfortable spot to sit and take in the panoramic view from the wall of windows at the Manager’s Cottage; Victoria Anderson surrounded by her stunning artwork in her studio at Springfield; the original stables are available for accommodation and upstairs has begun a transformation into what will be a space for art workshops; all of Victoria’s homes on offer are clean and comfortable spaces to refresh yourself with a weekend in the countryside; the generous dining room table at the Manager’s Cottage, a wonderful spot to take in a meal with friends or family. An artwork by another local artist, Megan Holt, keeps an eye on the space.

Springfield

GUEST COTTAGES

a perfect retreat for couples and families

Relax in one of our charming farm cottages, surrounded by lush gardens and rolling farmland.

We also have luxurious cottages available in the town of Young.

Phone. 0439 823 799 victoriaanderson@bigpond.com

2964 Moppity Road Young NSW 2594

YOUNG RLM 49 Enjoy the quiet of the countryside in an historic stone cottage,

ready, willing

& ABLE

Natalie Giacomin’s work involves changing people’s lives for the better on a daily basis so job satisfaction is guaranteed.

Former Hilltops resident Natalie Giacomin is devoting her life to helping others achieve mobility and independence.

One patient she recently helped had a partial foot amputation and for many years used a moonboot instead of a normal shoe. His goal was to walk with a matching pair of shoes and take his wife dancing on their anniversary.

“I was able to make a partial foot prosthesis, which fitted into a shoe and proved comfortable. The patient was able to take his wife on that highly anticipated date,” Natalie says with a satisfied grin.

“We become very close with our patients, many of whom are with us for life,” she says. Minor adjustments are made to custommade sockets every few months and major ones every few years due to weight fluctuations and general wear and tear.

“Another patient, in her 40s, we hope to have competing in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. I feel blessed helping patients get back to activities they did before their amputation.”

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Natalie works in a small team that makes hundreds of limbs each year from fibreglass or the stronger and lighter carbon fibre.

Amputations and prostheses date back to ancient times, with advances that were heralded as life-changing, just as they are today. Think of pirates and peg legs hand-carved from a single block of wood.

Trauma injuries account for 20 per cent of the work but nearly half of Natalie’s patients have Type 2 diabetes, experiencing poor circulation and loss of blood flow to their feet.

Whenever she needs a break, Natalie heads to Temora, where her parents, Fabio and Anne Giacomin, have retired. Her father emigrated from Italy when he was four and worked as a civil engineer on the Harden and Temora councils.

Her siblings include elder sister Kylie Bloor, Wombat; twin Melanie in Temora and younger brother Jamie, a chemical analyst in New Zealand.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

Growing up, the 80km daily drive to Hennessey Catholic College in Young meant 6am starts and long days. It helped having Mum on the teaching staff.

After school, Natalie studied for a Bachelor of Exercise Science Rehabilitation at Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, as a back door into physiotherapy.

Her plans were dashed after a sickening horse fall resulted in a dislocated ankle with three fractures. Natalie’s injuries required multiple surgeries and extensive rehab, sending her study plans into free fall.

“During my healing phase I began to realise I wanted to do more than just physiotherapy – I wanted to help provide mobility solutions to those in need.”

After some research, Natalie found a degree that would assist community members regaining their independence. It also involved being creative with her hands.

In 2011 she commenced a Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics (the only course of its kind in Australia at the time).

Natalie learnt to make and fit prostheses (artificial limbs) for amputees and orthoses (supportive devices) for people with musculoskeletal weakness or neurological disorders.

After graduating in 2016, she found work at Sydney firm OAPL, where she feels blessed working with inspiring colleagues and patients.

“I’ve had the pleasure of making below and above the knee prostheses, partial foot and hand prostheses for Sydney amputees,” she says. “I particularly like being able to help patients discover and improve their independence and mobility.”

One example involves a man who Natalie was able to assist with the all-important task of holding a beer.

“I strongly believe in the saying ‘If you love your job you will never work a day in your life’.”

“Sometimes it’s these little things which can mean the most to a person’s independence. We were able to assist with a carbon fibre partial hand socket using passive manipulated fingers,” she says.

“I’ve also been involved in making realistic silicon partial feet.

These feet not only act as a prosthesis to improve their mobility but also replace the anatomy missing in a realistic manner.”

Natalie says her unusual occupation enables her to go to work knowing she will be helping someone continue or regain mobility and independence in their life.

“I have a strong passion to strive and improve my skills continually as things are always evolving in the prosthetics industry,” she says.

By year’s end Natalie will commence work on fitting I-digit limbs (bionic) powered from muscles in the arm.

“I strongly believe in the saying ‘If you love your job you will never work a day in your life’. This saying sums up my view on my job.

“I love the work, the people and meeting new and interesting patients. In the future I can’t wait to become more involved with children.”

And for the record, Natalie did climb back on her horse 18 months after the accident that changed her life. RLM FACING PAGE: Prosthetist Natalie Giacomin with her sisters Melanie Giacomin and Kylie Bloor.

visithilltopsregion.com.au

LAMBING FLAT CHINESE FESTIVAL

Discover

NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL FIRST WEEKEND IN DECEMBER

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MARCH

Lambing Flat Chinese Festival

HARDEN KITE FESTIVAL OCTOBER

BOOROWA IRISH WOOLFEST OCTOBER LONG WEEKEND irishwoolfest.com.au

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YOUNG RLM 51

T O W N F E AT U R E Young

sweet as

Poppa’s Fudge and Jam Factory is celebrating 20 years of bringing sheer joy to thousands of customers.

After a lifetime heading up the family electrical contracting business, sparkie Kevin Powderly was excited by the prospect of spending more time with his “slow trotters” in retirement.

Those fanciful plans were dashed when wife Vicki opened a gift and homeware store in Young in 1999, fulfilling a dream made after her five children left the nest.

“In 2005 along came fudge, to add to our thriving business,” Vicki says. “It was a game-changer and caught us completely off guard. It didn’t take long for us to tap into the tourism industry, with the concept taking off like a hot Interdomion pacer.

We are now known as the sweetest tourist attraction in town!”

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It’s been a great success story, the enterprise twice winning the Hilltops Australia Day Business of the Year award.

These days over 100 coaches drop in to visit Poppa’s Fudge and Jam Factory every year. The team make everything by hand – fresh fudges, chocolates, jams, sauces, chutneys and, of course, cherry pies and chocolate-coated cherries.

“We grow our own fruit and vegetables and if we don’t, we source locally,” Vicki says.

“The Cherry Festival is the biggest time of the year, selling 200 cherry pies a day along with 100kg of fudge.”

The fudge and jams have made them famous and Poppa Fudge, aka Kevin, has become somewhat of a local celebrity.

With sampling described as a “must” before buying, travellers can expect an immersive culinary experience complemented by a diverse range of gifts and homewares.

Vicki was slowed up for most of 2019 with bad back problems but after surgery is almost back on deck, with more energy than ever.

Kevin has tried retirement a few times but always make a miraculous comeback.

At 72, he is having too much fun with his secret recipes to give up now.

“Young has been very good to us over the years,” he says. “We believe you get back when you give and we love giving back to a town we’re so passionate about.” RLM

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

The team make everything by hand – fresh fudges, chocolates, jams, sauces, chutneys and, of course, cherry pies and chocolate-coated cherries.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Manager Tish Healey; Kevin “Poppa Fudge” Powderly making another batch of tomatoe sauce; the shop exterior.

FACING PAGE: Vicki and Kevin Powderly have put a smile on thousands of customers at Poppa’s Fudge and Jam Factory. In 2018 they were awarded Business of the Year for the Hilltops Region.

Poppa’s Fudge and Jam Factory From Paddock to Plate we grow our own produce to ensure the freshest ingredients.

We make all our products by hand, over 100 lines of jams, sauces and chutneys and over 50 varieties of fudge.

Huge gift emporium in store.

Open 7 days Shop 1, 21 Lovell St, Young

Phone: 02 6382 5854

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

making

THE CUT

Knife maker Greg Haines is carving out an enviable reputation as the sharpest tool in the shed.

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Former shearer Greg Haines handcrafts exquisite knives and magnificent cutlery from old rusty files and hand shears.

Greg’s office is a former laundromat in a Young backyard. It’s been transformed into a shed you’d find on any outback station, complete with a forge for his steel.

It’s where the keen-eyed craftsman concentrates his energy on quietly churning out his knives, each piece taking up to a day and a half to fashion.

“I guess it all started when an old bloke told me you can make great knives out of old files,” he reveals with a grin. “I started

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

experimenting with different files and old hand shears. I find them at swap meets and they’re all made from top grade steel.”

The knives are mainly sold by word of mouth, although you’ll find Platypus Knives at the Bundanoon hand-made markets, the Cherry Festival in Young and the town’s General Store.

Greg invites me into his comfortable 85-year-old home to continue our conversation. It’s warm and inviting, much like Greg and wife Michelle.

The unconventional pair “met” in the most unlikely fashion. It was a hot summer’s evening a lifetime ago when Greg took his sister out for tea at Young’s Town House Motel.

While tucking into his lamb chops and listening to his sibling’s gripping tales, he couldn’t take his eyes off the waitress. By the end of his meal the young shearer had made up his mind – every time he spotted her little Corolla hatchback, he left a singlestemmed red rose on the windscreen.

This went on for months, and Michelle still had no idea as to the identity of her secret admirer. The romance, developing at a snail’s pace, went up a notch when Michelle eventually agreed to a dinner date at Dove’s Restaurant.

They shared much in common. Michelle left school at 14 years – as one of six girls, she was doing her bit to ease the financial burden on her family. One day she plans to start making children’s furniture, including dolls houses and wooden prams – items that will outlast the plastics of today.

After 32 years they are still in awe of each other and thankful for their three grown lads Ben, Michael and Daniel. The boys have all moved away but come home when time permits.

Michelle and Greg have enjoyed an interesting and satisfying life, thanks in part to Greg’s ability to turn his hand to almost anything.

Like Michelle, he joined the workforce at age 14 and spent the next five years working on a cherry orchard and local car and tractor dealership. He was an enthusiastic detailer and handy for a grease and oil but dreamt of better days.

One day he was washing cars when he noticed shearing contractor Bernie Goodman walk past.

“I inquired if there was any work going in the sheds and he said something I’ve never forgotten: ‘Young fella, stay where you are.

Half a loaf of bread is better than none at all’.”

Undaunted by these remarks, Greg learnt to shear by the time he was 19. Bernie gave him a start and soon the young lad was working in sheds all over the district.

“The atmosphere and mateship in the shed was magical,” he says. “On my first

After 32 years they are still in awe of each other and thankful for their three grown lads. day proper I shore 46 sheep and was so exhausted I could hardly drive my HR Holden ute home.”

Over time he learnt to comfortably shear 140 a day, with trips to Queensland and Tasmania. After 14 years on the boards he walked away.

“The size of the sheep today is virtually killing blokes,” he tells me, shaking his head. “I really believe farmers have to look at maybe running three smaller animals rather than two big ones.”

Apart from shearing, Greg spent years lumping 80kg wheat bags, spray painting at Curruthers Machinery and working on farms. For a while he even went back to shearing, which he gave up for good in 2018.

“Shearing has been good to me and my family but after 30 years in sheds and a near crook shoulder, it was time to give it away.”

At one stage Greg and Michelle ran a prune orchard before the bottom fell out of the industry. Making crafty knives, he says, is a far more satisfying way to earn a crust.

Rising before the sun each morning, he stokes the fire before donning his old leather apron and gets to work. There are many laborious processes to get through and each has to be done just right.

“I don’t like calling myself a knife maker,” he admits, choosing his words carefully.

“I’ve done no courses and don’t particularly want to be influenced by other techniques.

I’m just happy doing it my way.”

Early family life While he works away, Greg reveals his early days growing up in Young. Born into a family of six children, his father Les was

a fettler on the railway. After serving his country in New Guinea he came home to trap rabbits in the district.

“At one stage he had 300 traps. Going trapping or gold panning with Dad were among the best times of my life.”

His grandfather, on his mother’s side, had a huge impact on his life. Beekeeper Harry Goodwin was famous for having nine kids and about as many homes but lived in a shed with his beloved bees.

“I’ve taught myself most things but I reckon Harry passed on a lot of practical bush knowledge. He was always good with his hands,” Greg says.

“We used to sit on his lap during our visits. He’d whisker us – rub his face up against ours – and laugh his guts out. I do exactly the same thing with our grandchild.”

Greg and Michelle are happy and content living in Young. After 14 years at their current address, they have moved in for the long haul.

In many ways their lifestyles are like the platypus, which carries their trade name.

“The platypus is a hard to find, elusive animal, different than any other,” Greg says with a grin.

“Like the platypus, I’m a bit of a hermit but we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Although I live in town, when I’m working out the back I feel a million miles from nowhere.” RLM FACING PAGE: Greg Haines loves working in his backyard shed; the finished article; the prized workshop; some of his trademark knives started life as rusty old files.

ABOVE: Greg and Michelle Haines have set up a beautiful country home and workshop within the city limits.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

MOTORING ON The HGH Motor Group is still running like a well-oiled machine.

In December 1978, Richard Harden arrived in Young with his wife and three young children aged four, two and two months. He had started his career working as a mechanic and then salesman at Geissler Motors in his hometown of Goulburn. Opportunity arose to purchase the R.L. Howard Holden Dealership at the top of the town in Young and he and his former partner Warren Geelan decided to take a chance, going out on their own.

Forty years have now passed and while many things have changed, HGH Motor Group is still at the top of the town committed to serving Young and the surrounding area. Over the past few years, HGH Motor Group has brought on new brands, acquiring Young Mitsubishi in 2016 and Young Hyundai late in 2019, giving their loyal customer base more choice, with the same team they have grown to trust over the past four decades.

At its heart, HGH Motor Group is a family company run by father and son Richard and Jamie Harden. Jamie, the dealer principal, began his career at HGH in February 1993, starting in the NRMA Insurance Centre that used to be housed within the dealership. Not long after, an opportunity presented itself for him to move into a sales role, as one of the long-time salesmen was ready to retire. In 2008, Richard Harden was ready to step down after 30 years at the helm and Jamie was there to take the reins. After the purchase of Young Mitsubishi,

56 RLM YOUNG

Jamie’s brother Michael returned from the US to work in sales, transitioning into the role of manager of Young Mitsubishi shortly thereafter.

While the boys are now completely grown up with families of their own, the brothers can remember their first job at Harden Geelan. It involved riding their pushbikes all over town to deliver invoices to customers. Their mum would diligently put the envelopes in order of their route around town or at least she tried to. Jamie can recall one day flying down the hill at William Street only to reach the bottom and realise one envelope had been placed out of order. It was a tough and grumbly pedal back up that steep hill.

Payment was 20 cents per delivered envelope, just about the going rate for a postage stamp of course.

The team at HGH Motor Group has worked hard to maintain their loyal customer base. The Harden family has also been fortunate to have many staff members who have stayed with them since the early days as well. HGH Motor Group is able to offer customers a range of services to take them from pre purchase to thousands of kilometres down the road. Finance and insurance are offered on site as well as service, smash repairs and detailing.

HGH Motor Group is proud to have served the community in the past and they look forward to continuing to serve you in the future. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

Over the past few years, HGH Motor Group has brought on new brands, acquiring Young Mitsubishi in 2016 and Young Hyundai late in 2019.

CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT: Michael Harden, manager of Young Mitsubishi, and his brother Jamie Harden, dealer principal of HGH Motor Group; a line-up of new vehicles at Young Mitsubishi; body shop manager Mark “Robbo” Robertson and workshop foreman Kevin Watson have been employed with HGH Motor Group for 32 and 44 years respectively; Kylie McFadyen, financial controller and business manager.

DRIVING YOUR CHOICE

PROUDLY SERVING THE HILLTOPS REGION SINCE 1978

P: 02 6382 1155 30 Boorowa Street ‘Top Of The Town’ Young

hghmotorgroup.com.au

CREMA DE LA CRÈME Adrian and Gabrielle Capra’s commitment to good coffee is unquestionable and all-encompassing.

Few can match Adrian Capra’s boundless energy for coffee.

His infinite talent and knowledge within the coffee industry have seen him grow from master roaster, barista, trainer and technician to company director and entrepreneur.

It’s all thanks to his Italian heritage.

Adrian was born with espresso in his blood, no doubt helped by his nonna, who topped his morning cereal with espresso coffee.

“At Art of Espresso we believe there’s always a better way,” he says emphatically, while discussing plans to make the world a better place.

Since his 1996 foray into the coffee business, all efforts have been focused on changing the perception of coffee in the bush. The word “respect” is often bandied about at his popular retail outlet in Young.

“Respect, support and human relations are the core values around here,” he says with a grin. “It’s about having a deep and profound respect for Mother Earth and the rainbow of cultures we’re connected with.”

There’s no doubting his genuine passion.

The Art of Espresso’s approach to life is fun, loose and organic, with a healthy love

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and respect of music, especially vinyls, Kombi vans and flannelette shirts.

Adrian and wife Gabrielle are an engaging and highly motivated couple who have amassed over 50 national and international coffee awards. Each week they are producing almost two tonnes of select blends for their customers.

It’s a long way from when the intrepid coffee connoiseurs first took to the road with a single mobile coffee cart, selling top-shelf espresso coffee at prestigious and hightraffic events across the eastern seaboard.

After a life-changing trip to Italy, the spiritual home of espresso, they returned home to the Hilltops, had their first child and branched out on their own. Their future would now be entirely at the mercy of Art of Espresso.

With this faith came many sleepless nights. In 2005, a second child joined the party as they began roasting coffee in a 3kg Diedrich roaster, installed in a purpose-built shed on their Greenethorpe farm.

By 2009, the family and business were both growing at a phenomenal rate. Their third child entered the world around the

same time the Capras set up their flagship espresso bar, dedicated barista school and coffee roastery in Young – complete with an automated commercial 24kg roaster.

It was planned as a cellar door for the brand – a unique concept for regional NSW and, in their eyes, a risk worth taking.

With fresh roasted coffee and a newly created blend under their belt, Art of Espresso continued to travel, make coffee and develop new friendships, all the while preaching and teaching the espresso coffee gospel to anyone who’d listen.

Adrian established the first TAFE Barista school in Orange, while becoming a member and regional trainer through AASCA. >

ABOVE: The Blues Nespresso compatible biodegradable and compostable pods now available online; classic Art of Espresso flat white.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Bags of organic coffee beans; Gabrielle and Adrian Capra; Adrian with a Guatemalan coffee farm hand at Terra Negra Estate; the 2018 AOE first ever Direct Trade origin trip to India at Elephant Hills Estate; fresh roasted coffee from the Diedrich roaster.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

IN 2016, THEY SCORED GOLD AT THE SYDNEY ROYAL EASTER SHOW AND WERE LATER AWARDED CHAMPION COFFEE IN THE AUSTRALIAN CLASS AT THE 2016 SYDNEY ROYAL FINE FOODS.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The AOE Bean Team; a bag of Elephant Hills Estate coffee from India; classic AOE piccolo coffee made with an exclusive single origin from Bali; the new Blues blend is also available as a coffee scrub soap.

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The pair also created their second awardwinning blend, the Caffe Grande, following the earlier success of Caffe Royale, which won the brand’s first Gold Medal at the 2007 Golden Bean.

Many of their exquisite blends have gone on to become medal winners in some of Australia’s most prestigious coffee competitions. In 2016, they scored gold at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and were later awarded champion coffee in the Australian class at the 2016 Sydney Royal Fine Foods.

With an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Adrian and Gabrielle began a quest to further improve the quality of their own coffees, this time from the ground up.

The further they went forward in the business, the further they were drawn back to the roots of the bean. It was a journey that took Adrian to coffee plantations in India, Vanuatu, Colombia and Guatemala.

“We felt a genuine obligation as coffee roasters to acknowledge and give credit and respect to the farmers who grow and supply the beautiful coffees we choose to roast,” Adrian says.

Adrian’s personal highlight was hosting a Direct Trade Origin trip to India in 2018.

Adrian and Gabrielle took 16 fellow coffee lovers and customers to Thalanar Estate in southern India, meeting coffee growing farmers and their families.

The tour’s fee also included a contribution towards the farmers and their children at a special Hindu ceremony, where each person presented gifts to the workers. It was an emotional and moving experience for all those on the tour.

“Respect, support and compassion form the basis of all good relationships,” Adrian says. “This is not a religion or some feelgood trip – it’s a real and positive movement helping those a little less fortunate.”

Gabrielle agrees. “Just as our business philosophy supports coffee growers and their families socially, ethically and sustainably, Human Beans for Peace is our way of reconnecting with Mother Earth and each other in real and positive ways.”

Music plays a big role in the family business, giving a firm nod to Australian independent roots music, with artists of the calibre of Tim Rogers, Adalita, Mia Dyson, Ella Hooper, The Waifs, Vikki Thorn, The Audreys, Deborah Conway, Abbe May, Harry Hookey, Bill Chambers and Mama Kin. With a cosy 50-seat capacity, guests experience a professional gig with a licensed bar serving local beer and wine, light meals, cakes and outstanding coffee.

“We thank our Mother Earth for life, love and for providing a happy place to live, roast coffee and raise children,” Adrian says with a smile. RLM

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MULTI AWARD WINNING AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT COFFEE ROASTER

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• Est. 1999 • Roasted in Young • Live Music • Espresso bar • Barista training Phone: 02 6382 1151 35 Main Street, Young, New South Wales, 2594

www.artofespresso.com.au

Promote healthy living soils with YLAD Humus Compost • • • •

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YLAD have solutions for all farming enterprises and all soil types, give it a try!

To start transforming healthy soil into healthy profit, call us today 1300 811 681 email info@yladlivingsoils.com.au or visit www.yladlivingsoils.com.au YOUNG RLM 61

T O W N F E AT U R E Young

the good soil Rhonda and Bill Daly continue to dig deep to restore the health of the land.

Twenty years ago, Young farmer Rhonda Daly was suffering from meningitis caused by chemical poisoning. That’s when she had an epiphany to heal soils and help others.

The near-death experience propelled Rhonda and husband Bill to start YLAD Living Soils to help farmers inject life back into their land. They would start with their own farm, “Milgadara”, which has been in the Daly family for over a century.

By the late 1990s, they knew their soils were on a steep downward spiral.

Like countless district farmers, they had followed the rule book and adopted standard management practices.

“We were using excessive tillage and stubble burning in our cropping program, later learning this was causing a huge reduction in our organic matter and soil biology levels,” Rhonda says.

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“Of course, when something is ‘sick’, all the drugs or bandaids get thrown at it. Enter artificial fertilisers and herbicides in an attempt to grow the same yield and maintain production.”

For the past 18 years, Bill and Rhonda have worked passionately with Australian farmers to reverse soil degradation and build resilience back into farming systems.

One of the most beneficial programs is using Aeromaster composting equipment to produce humus compost and tea extraction units to turn it into liquid extracted compost tea.

With over 130 pieces of equipment around Australia, YLAD Living Soils has positively helped restore hundreds of thousands of hectares in many different enterprises.

“You can’t show people what’s around the corner until they reach the corner,” Rhonda

says. “More and more people are reaching the corner and realising they need to change and integrate new practices if they are to save the farm and remain profitable.”

Education, she says, is the best way to help producers move around the corner.

“I’ve never known any agricultural product to correct the physical, chemical and biological aspects of the soil quicker than humus compost – a natural compost made from local waste that’s changed the terracotta tile soils into fluffy chocolate cakes.”

The Dalys have the same passion to help farmers as they did when kicking off in 2002. In that time, they’ve witnessed phenomenal results, not only improving the soil but the mental, physical, financial and spiritual health of their customers.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

The move When Rhonda came to “Milgadara” in 1976 after her marriage to Bill, her other great love was working with clay. She converted an early 1900s workman’s cottage into the “Pottery Hut”, spending countless hours absorbed in creating wheel-thrown pieces and creating her own glazes using molecular formulas.

“For five years, I dedicated my life to helping on the farm and pursuing my pottery, holding exhibitions in Young and nurturing my creative side,” she says.

In 2019, Rhonda decided it was time to move the YLAD office into the old cottage at home.

While close to the stone house they had built years earlier, it had become a dumping ground for dust and unwanted treasures.

“I had no experience in restoring heritage buildings but did much research to ensure the integrity of the cottage was maintained while adding some creature comforts and technology to run the office,” she says.

“We found a special builder, Roy Jewitt, and other passionate and patient tradesmen who were willing to work with me closely to gain the look and feel I desired.”

The four-room cottage was built of stringy bark trees cut from their range and lined with pine weather boards that were sanded and lightly lime washed.

A small kitchenette was created in the laundry area, leaving her gas kiln for the day she finds time to return to pottery or sculpture. Original stringy bark poles support the easterly facing veranda. It’s a beautiful spot to sit on a sunny morning contemplating the world.

“I feel that Bill and I have restored part of our Australian heritage while retaining the integrity of the building, blending rustic and modern together,” she says proudly.

“I’m sure Bill would love to remove my batteries and have me slow down a little, but the reverse is happening and I’m getting more passionate and fired up.”

Rhonda says the new space puts her closer to the workings of the farm, her grandchildren, compost site and operations in general. The hour she spends not travelling is devoted to her spiritual practices of yoga and meditation.

In recent years, Rhonda has travelled to Spain, the US, Nepal and Chile to speak at biological soil conferences. She outlines the role of soil microbiology and increasing soil resilience to ensure communities will thrive and not just survive.

“Bill and I will definitely be continuing on our education path both locally and internationally,” she says. “It is through learning we develop a sense of purpose and

“We continue to build diversity and a model farm for farmers to visit.

They can see what can be done and how to do it.” direction. It grows your ability to positively influence the world around you – your ability to be an earth agent.”

Rhonda feels the Pottery Hut is the ideal place to write her book, The earth agent: Creating living soils for a healthy planet.

“Sharing this book will allow my legacy to continue. It will be used to heal millions of hectares of soils worldwide and inspire younger people to take charge and be the change.” RLM ABOVE: Rhonda and Bill Daly inside their new YLAD office; Bill gets his hands dirty with rich compost; the old cottage has been transformed into an efficient and cosy office.

FACING PAGE: Standing in front of the new office, Rhonda and Bill Daly are dedicated to restoring the health of the land.

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a match made in

HEAVEN

After 140 years, the iconic Iandra Castle is finally opening its doors for weddings.

It’s all thanks to a changing of the guard at the historic landmark that attracts 15,000 visitors annually to its open days.

Located near Greenethorpe, about 20 minutes from Young, Iandra Castle is about to reinvent itself as a dream wedding destination, thanks to the bold dreams of one man.

After studying Animal and Vet Science at university, 30-year-old Nick Kershaw came home to “Iandra” three years ago to help parents Rod and Bev on the farm.

Now he feels ready to steer the castle into wedding mode.

To iron out any problems and feel the magic first-hand, he staged his own wedding in March 2020 to Verity Scandrett, of Watsons Bay, now practising law in Canberra.

The pair were both in the wedding party of Verity’s sister (who had married Nick’s best mate) in 2016 and sparks flew, culminating in their own big bash, played out recently on the castle’s front lawn.

It wasn’t the first Kershaw wedding at Iandra. Nick’s sister Emily’s wedding was in the bush chapel in 2018.

“The castle has always been part of the local community,” Nick says. “Opening it to weddings and functions is another way of showcasing its rich and vibrant history.”

Nick expects it to be a logistical nightmare but will undertake the work in stages, forever thankful for the highly qualified wife by his side. > LEFT: The bride, Verity, in Iandra Castle’s ‘Withdrawing Room’ - a light-filled space where ladies would once retreat to after dinner. The Yard Studio created the most beautiful florals for the day, including the bridal bouquets and ceremony arbour.

FACING PAGE: The bridal party had so much fun having their photos taken in the castle grounds and the weather couldn’t have been better for the early autumn wedding; wedding guests arriving and waiting for the ceremony to begin, with the most picturesque backdrop all around them.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

“We are excited to host weddings, corporate events, private functions – we have so much to offer.�

Iandra Castle

iandracastle.com.au

Open days in 2020 to be advised.

Weddings ¡ Special Family Occasions ¡ Select Event Hire

66 RLM YOUNG

“We are excited to host weddings, corporate events, private functions – we have so much to offer,� says Verity, who will no doubt be lending her organisational and creative skills to the project. “Although the castle is state heritage listed, we don’t receive any grants to help maintain the building,� Nick continues. “By adding weddings to the equation we are hoping to generate another stream of income to help offset the major and minor problems associated with maintaining such an old and significant structure.�

Through good years and bad, the Kershaw family have guided Iandra’s fortunes for 27 years.

Now they are offering the rare opportunity to begin married life in a castle. For many, it will be a fairytale come true. RLM Images: Robert Meredith

ABOVE, FROM TOP: Nick and Verity’s reception was held on the old croquet court, with a clear marquee and open-air dance floor. Verity’s sister and brother-in-law arranged a Hilltops Glamping tent (see story on opposite page) as a surprise on their wedding night; saying “I do� on the lawn, in front of the century-old Morton Bay Fig tree.

STAY

in style Imagine attending a country wedding and not having to worry about the late-night drive home. Hilltops Glamping brings luxurious accommodation to you.

Nicole Mangelsdorf is the creative mind behind Hilltops Glamping, and she has a lot in common with other mothers who moonlight as entrepreneurs across Australia. With four little ones at home under the age of seven, there is no doubt that she needed an outlet for herself.

Nicole, having grown up in Young, and her husband Ben, hailing from West Wyalong, met during their time at university in Wagga.

Since those early days, they have settled in Tubbul, just west of Young, buying a farm and working it themselves while raising their family.

Hilltops Glamping may have in part been born out of the desire to provide additional support to her family during the drought, but Nicole admits she had another reason for taking the leap to start her own business. That reason being a place to channel her penchant for redecorating and rearranging her own home.

She describes the look on her husband’s face when he arrives home to find a heavy piece of furniture on the other side of the room … again. How does she do it? The answer is simply don’t get in the way of a determined woman.

The Hilltops is full of beautiful properties with spectacular rural views. As Nicole watched wedding after wedding being held in paddocks across the area, she thought it would be such an added bonus if the bride and groom, wedding party or guests could stay at the location of the wedding. This idea led to the purchase of four large bell tents suitable for just such an occasion.

Hilltops Glamping delivers your tent or tents to the location of your choice. Once set up, Nicole will fit out the interior in your choice of style from rustic to boho to glam. No matter the location or chosen style, you can expect high-quality bedding and linens as well as layers of luxurious pattern and texture by way of rugs, cushions and accessories.

Hilltops Glamping delivers your tent or tents to the location of your choice. Nicole will fit out the interior in your choice of style from rustic to boho to glam.

Every tent is set up with care and attention to detail. While her tents have been very popular at weddings, they are just as comfortable at hen’s parties, buck’s nights, teen soirees and slumber parties.

Nicole loves to help you add value to your experience and she is excited about now being able to offer her glampers an outdoor projector and movie screen, turning any property into a theatre under the stars. RLM Words: Jen Harden

FROM TOP: A Hilltops Glamping tent set for a hens party at Grove Estate winery, Young; Nicole Mangelsdorf, creator of Hilltops Glamping.

We come to you!

WEDDINGS • HENS • BIRTHDAYS • PICNICS • PROPOSALS

0428 833 810 hilltopsglamping@outlook.com.au hilltopsglamping.com.au

4 TENTS AVAILABLE

YOUNG RLM 67

HISTORY &

INTRIGUE It’s time to get lost in the magical Rustic Maze in Monteagle.

Created from over 800 sheets of corrugated iron, the Rustic Maze and Country Garden is perfect for family gatherings, weddings and high teas.

Located on “Lower Coologong”, a 970ha farm in Monteagle, the maze is the brainchild of Jane Costello, a passionate gardener who once dreamt of being a north coast hippy.

Instead, she married local farmer Jodie Costello, whom she met while both were working at NSW Ag in Cowra.

“My friends and co-workers were totally convinced I’d marry a farmer,” she laughs as she leads me into the maze. “It wasn’t my original plan but here I am 30 years later.”

From the outside it looks deceptively simple – but don’t be fooled, any wrong move and you end up in one of the many dead

68 RLM YOUNG

ends. Each dead end houses a relic from the past that is also part of solving a riddle.

The smart ones will edge their way to the centre viewing platform with views to the 1890s shearing shed and productive farming land all the way to the Weddin Mountains.

Outside the maze, we wander into beautiful gardens with more fun activities to be discovered and ground-based puzzles ready to be solved. Kids can play hopscotch or chess on a large outdoor board, and jump on the big trampoline.

Jane conducts tours for groups and organisations who share her passion for history and great country gardens. The homestead, built in 1910 for Jodie’s grandparents after their marriage, is the first thing she likes talking about.

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The massive home proved a financial nightmare for all involved.

Family folklore has it that three different builders went bankrupt in the building process. It’s a far cry from the 35-acre fruit farm she grew up on.

Moving onto a much larger farm was always going to be challenging.

After attempting to wrap an air-seeder around a tree, Jane vowed never again to sit behind the wheel of an expensive tractor.

Perhaps it was time to adhere to her mother-in-law’s cautionary words, first uttered prior to her wedding.

“She announced, light heartedly, to never make myself too useful on the farming front. I followed her advice implicitly,” she grins.

Jane threw herself into gardening, starting with little more than the existing pepper trees. The vision and drive came in stages.

“In the early days with the drought, my enthusiasm waned but over time I have become almost obsessive. Once we got out of cross-bred sheep it was full steam ahead,” she confesses.

“The garden is constantly growing, much to my husband’s disbelief. Since moving out here we’ve worked hard at redesigning and establishing the garden but Mother Nature hasn’t always been on our side.”

The property goes back to before the beginnings of Young.

“Lower Coologong” was settled in the 1850s before the town’s first surveyor’s peg was knocked into the ground.

“It continues to be held by descendants of the original settlers, the Maroney family,” Jane says. “It’s been a huge family effort and the grand vision is starting to take shape. It’s been a hard but rewarding slog and we’re confident we’ve created a unique experience on our farm.”

Her three-hectare garden now includes the maze, mosaic garden, winter Iris labyrinth, garden rooms and cafe.

THE PROPERTY GOES BACK TO BEFORE THE BEGINNINGS OF YOUNG. “My next venture will be the transformation of the tennis court into a hidden garden,” Jane says. “My dream is to make it a beautiful wedding venue, while slowly restoring our old home.”

History, riddles and country views to die for – the Rustic Maze has it all.

“The garden and maze are my passions,” declares the ebullient host, who flatly refuses to be photographed. “I look forward to sharing 160 years of family history with you.” RLM

ABOVE: The historic “Lower Coolagong” homestead is in the process of being restored.

FACING PAGE: The Rustic Maze brings joy to people of all ages; the former shearers’ quarters has been transformed into a delightful bush cafe; chess on a giant scale is one of many activities found on the working farm.

Looking for a unique location for your wedding?

Nestled in the Hilltops Region near Young, The Rustic Maze is set on a working farm settled in the 1850's.

With picturesque views, this lovingly created venture is a must to experience. Wander through the many beautiful garden rooms and explore the maze with its hidden treasures and riddles. A photographers dream location.

CAFE

-

GARDEN - MAZE - PUZZLES

Open by appointment for groups, family gatherings, functions, high teas and so much more...

Open to the public 4-6 times a year. Be sure to check our website and social media for upcoming dates or call Jane for a chat and for more information.

www.therusticmaze.com.au

Jerrybang Lane Monteagle

Ph. 0429 834 217

YOUNG RLM 69

T O W N F E AT U R E Young

bond of BROTHERS The Fowler family of Monteagle has grown and prospered over generations in an environment of mutual love and respect.

There’s something very special about running a family partnership, particularly when it relates to prime farming country.

The Fowler family has always been part of the rural landscape at Monteagle, south of Young. Tony and Mary-Louise are at “Rosewood” while John and Mandy live on neighbouring property “Coolegong”.

Like their father and uncle before them, they’ve worked together nearly all their lives. Tony, 71, admits their partnership was a success thanks to open communication, mutual respect and a level of fairness.

Family unity was central to the philosophy handed down from their parents, Max and Joy. “Over the years we’ve seen many good partnerships in the district,” Tony says. “In many ways a good partnership is like marriage – you have to be committed to make it work, with all the give and take the process entails.”

It helps that the brothers share a good work ethic and, of equal importance, a healthy sense of humour.

Sitting around the kitchen table at “Rosewood”, both families have learnt to get along. Over a cuppa and morning tea it’s easy to see Tony as a man of great integrity and faith. He also likes taking photographs.

By the mid 1970s, the 35mm format was gaining traction, thanks largely to Kodak. The resulting colour slides gave rise to the notoriously boring “slide night” in the family lounge room for a generation of children.

Every year, Tony’s beloved mother invited the residents of Mt St Joseph’s out to “Rosewood” for a pre-Christmas afternoon tea, where the dutiful son would snap them having a sandwich while soaking up some fresh country rays.

Weeks later, when the slides had been processed and posted back home, Tony took much pleasure in projecting the images onto a screen at the nursing home.

On one particular occasion, he was extra nervous – and it wasn’t just the old girls in the nursing home giving him curry. Keeping a close watch on proceedings was the new occupational therapist.

Mary-Louise Heffernan had grown up on the family farm in Junee and loved her new job but was ready to settle down to a life on the land.

After their marriage 41 years ago, they moved into the “Melrose” cottage before upgrading to the “Rosewood” homestead 12 years later. By then the family had grown to four children – sons Richard, David and Tim, and daughter Stephanie.

When the time was right, the children shot through like a Bondi tram but Stephanie and husband Mike Colman, who grow barley for brewing, are hoping to return one day.

“We felt it was important to let them do whatever they wanted with their lives,” Tony says. “Naturally it’s a bit disappointing, considering our long family history but it is what it is.”

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“We can certainly relate to the Queen and Prince Charles at this moment,” Mary-Louise quips, referring to Harry and Meghan’s withdrawal from royal duties.

Down the road, John and Mandy have four grown daughters – Sara, Rachel, Emily and Kate. They have fingers crossed Emily might be interested in coming home.

John’s big brother was the first to come back to “Rosewood” in 1969 – the year of Woodstock, man landing on the moon and the Vietnam War. After school, Tony looked at Law, but not for long. There was always an expectation the boys would return home to help their parents, who worked in partnership with their uncle Jack on the two properties.

In 1982 John finally joined the team after a stint at Orange Ag College. He met his wife Mandy at a local ball.

Their father and uncle ran the business most of their lives and Tony and John felt they could do the same. The brothers worked alongside each other for decades –Tony on the livestock side with John handling the cropping.

In mid 2019 the partnership was finally dissolved. Succession planning can be a huge emotional rollercoaster for all concerned, with countless trips to the accountants and lawyers. To complicate matters, the brothers have three sisters – Frances Fisher, Anne Dwyer and Pauline Larkins – all living in Sydney.

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BOTH FAMILIES SHARE A GREAT BOND THAT CONTINUES THROUGH THEIR EIGHT CHILDREN AND EXTENDED FAMILY. All parties agreed it was time for the inevitable. Today they run their own operations but are still there for each other when needed.

“While this partnership has been dissolved the boys still collaborate together,” Mary-Louise says. “They share knowledge, equipment and infrastructure.”

The Fowler brothers have enjoyed equally long relationships with their long-term offsiders. Steve Dawe has spent 35 years working alongside Tony, coming to “Rosewood” when he was 19 and never leaving. Coincidentally, John’s main man is Stephen’s brother, Kelvin.

Mother Nature at her worst For more than a century and a half, the Fowlers have battled grassfires, floods, droughts, accidents, and now old age, but nothing prepared them for the devastating 2014 storm that engulfed the farm.

“We were putting on Christmas carols at the church when we noticed the blackest clouds we’d ever laid eyes on,” Mary-Louise says.

“We got home just in time to be hit by three twisters, which lifted the roof off the 125-year-old woolshed and threw field bins over a line of trees and up a hill before smashing them into the next paddock.

“Savage winds ripped through the property taking a cottage, sheds, auger and miles of trees and fencing.”

Tony has always had a soft spot for the old shed, and seeing it in such a perilous state brought a few tears. Although badly damaged, it was faithfully restored, thanks to the efforts of a local builder.

The solid old homestead suffered no such dramas. Built from granite in 1890, it represented the Fowler family’s struggles and triumphs, of starting from nothing in a new land.

Job Fowler had come out with his family from Somerset on the good ship Mary in 1839 before making his way to Young with his two brothers. The land was passed down from Job to Stan and then to Max and Jack.

A younger brother, Billie, died of peritonitis in the 1930s, aged six. May Fowler (Tony and John’s grandmother and little Billie’s mother) was so deeply distressed, the whole family embarked on a round-the-world trip to take her mind off the tragedy.

While in Scotland, they decided to purchase a Clydesdale mare and stallion to breed for heavy horse work back home.

Max subsequently developed a real passion and renowned gift for breeding and judging Clydesdales. He was awarded an AM for his contribution to the Clydesdale industry in Australia.

On his death, two horses from Coopers Brewery plus the beer trolley (wagon) travelled to Young to take Max to his final resting place as a mark of respect and gratitude. Neither Tony nor John inherited Max’s gift with Clydesdales.

Mary-Louise discovered her Irish grandfather was born on “Rosewood” in 1864, when it was a goldfield called the 16 Mile Rush.

It was startling news and only discovered during an in-depth study of her family tree.

Both families share a great bond that continues through their eight children and extended family. The Fowlers love nothing more than a big family picnic or bonfire in the paddock, but virtually any excuse will suffice for a family get-together.

They all know, without saying anything, that the long and successful partnership was pivotal in bringing them together. RLM ABOVE: John and Tony Fowler with their wives Mandy and Mary-Louise in front of the old homestead.

FACING PAGE: Tony has been working with his offsider Steve Dawe for decades.

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PEDAL POWER Shearing brothers Max and Kevin Goodman embarked on an extraordinary bike ride across Australia back in 1979. Forty years later, they were crazy enough to do it again.

Mobile phones, lycra clothing and bicycle helmets were unheard of when shearers Max and Kevin “Lefty” Goodman rode their bicycles from Perth to Bondi in 1979.

Without any professional training, the fun-loving brothers pedalled across the continent on heavy bikes purchased barely a year before.

Their father kept the lads fed and watered from his tiny caravan.

Every two hours he put on a spread of bread rolls with ham, bully beef, cheese and Vegemite, all carefully prepared on a fold-out card table in the shade of the caravan.

The young men resumed the journey while their father drove ahead to prepare for their next pit stop. A beer was enjoyed at the end of a long day before showering under a bucket of water warmed by the fire.

Thankfully, years of shearing had toughened them up mentally and physically for their ordeal.

The Goodman brothers clocked up 4153km from ocean to ocean in just 15 days, averaging 290km a day with little more than zinc cream on their noses and a never-say-die attitude. They were hoping to create a record through the Speedwheel cycle company, meaning they passed through each capital city with their times checked by Speedwheel representatives. The record was never verified as the officer in charge of the Police Boys Club was transferred and the paper work never submitted.

This never stopped a hearty welcome home from the mayor and a wreath tossed around their necks. Family and friends figured the ride would be a one-off affair. And it may well have been, had Lefty not come up with the idea of a re-enactment, 40 years on. It would be fun, they said. Until then, family life and work had dominated their lives and neither man had ridden a bike for decades. Lefty took up serious training in his mid 50s and started racing again in 2010.

Max was nearly 60 by the time he climbed back in the saddle. He was still finding his mojo when he hit a small object on the road sending him flying over the handlebars. With two fractured vertebrae, six smashed ribs and a punctured lung, he was told his shearing and cycling days were over. They obviously didn’t take into account the “mongrel” in Max. The second attempt was intended to be a small family affair, undertaken as a physical and personal challenge. Somehow, along the way, it became a much bigger and more complicated affair. By late 2019, the brothers were as ready as they were ever going to be. This time, a well-organised support team, complete with masseur, followed their every move for 22 days over 5000km. Instead of squeezing into a cramped caravan or enduring rough outdoor showers, they were pampered by their finer halves, Anne and Sandy, in a comfortable Winnebago with its own kitchen and bathroom.

When Lifestyle dropped in a month later, the trip was still a hot topic of conversation. Lefty has just arrived home after a long and hot day in a local shearing shed. He’s been a shearing contractor for a long time but it’s been over a decade since he’s been this physical, classing the wool and pressing in a tin shed hitting 45 degrees.

“Shearing has always been physically demanding but these days it’s bordering on the ridiculous,” he says, shaking his head. “Some ewes

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are 70 to 80 kilograms and weigh more than half the shearers, while the crossbreds can be another 10 kilograms heavier and the rams over 100 kilograms. The wrinkles may be gone but sheer weight is making it hard yakka just getting them out of the holding pen.”

Work is flat strap, with four sheds on the go. Such is the life of a shearing contractor. Both Max and Lefty are fourth generation shearers, starting with their great grandfather who rode his horse throughout Queensland during the days of blade shearing.

Grandfather Jack Goodman was a shearing contractor in Young, as was their father, who joined the family business after being discharged from the war.

We steer the conversation back to the “long ride” and the inevitable comparisons to four decades earlier. This time they had two welcome rest days, helping prepare them for the hellish stretch across the barren Nullarbor Plain.

In moments like this, both men found inspiration in sportsmen who never quit. Max admires the tenacity of Tiger Woods while Lefty is a big fan of Lance Armstrong, minus the fallout. Both remember Nick Rawlins, the plucky bloke from Harden who cycled from Perth to Young and planted the seed in their heads.

Max, 69, recalls tackling the long stretch of highway that rolls on without a single deviation for hundreds of miles. Battling 40-degree heat, 30km cross winds and huge road trains with four trailers, there was still plenty of time for thinking. His thoughts drifted back to 1978 when the brothers bought a bike to keep fit and build up their “skinny” legs. One day they were out on a leisurely ride when they got caught up in a race with the local cycling club.

The brothers romped home ahead of the pack and kept on winning.

Before long they were representing Young in competitions.

“We kept on doing well, which gave us a real thirst for the sport but it wasn’t just about winning races,” Max says. “We wanted to challenge ourselves and find out what we were capable of.” Scarcely six months after starting, Lefty blitzed the Goulburn to Sydney bike race, riding 200km on one bottle of water.

Forty years ago, they were fit and lean shearers in the prime of their lives. Now the stakes were much higher. Beards and long hair were out and lighter carbon fibre bikes were in. Although fit as a Mallee bull and winner of dozens of cycling trophies, Lefty knew it was no walk in the park.

“We had some injuries last time,” he admits. “The equipment has greatly improved with modern saddle seats and shammy cream to stop sores developing. We also had a few more helpers to maintain momentum with less effort. More people linked up throughout the ride – about 20 with about eight full-time riders.”

Surprisingly, neither of the brothers suffered a puncture, while everybody else had at least one, if not three or four punctures. Max can now claim to having ridden his way across Australia twice without a single blowout!

In the process they raised $110,000 for the Black Dog Institute, the Jane McGrath Foundation and Give Me 5 For Kids. Local charities, the Young Hospital and Young Crisis Accommodation Centre were also provided for.

With their love of cycling, this won’t be the last of the brothers’ madcap adventures. Already Lefty is thinking about a 50-year reunion. Max rolls his eyes. “By then I’ll be needing a gopher,” he laughs. RLM FACING PAGE: Lefty and Max Goodman holding a framed photograph of themselves after riding from Perth to Sydney 40 years earlier.

ABOVE: Ten exhausted riders made it to Sydney safe and sound after pedalling their way across the country.

A GROUP EFFORT “As a group, we have always said there are two stories to this epic ride,” explains Chris Duff, one of the 10 riders making the epic trip.

“There’s the Lefty and Max story and then there’s the importance of the charity component. Without question, their second crossing is a remarkable story, particularly at their age.”

Young boasts a strong cycling group with all 80 members regular weekly riders. When Lefty and Max mentioned they might undertake the trip, there was already a group with a strong interest in doing the same.

The Goodman brothers provided the trigger point for others to follow their dream.

The brothers were joined by Young locals John Coulter (who had ridden solo from Perth to Sydney six years earlier), Ross Turner, Chris Duff, Jimmy Slender, Doug Anderson (the oldest rider at 70) and John Hayes. Great mates Joe Grasso (Perth) and Simon Logan (Walgett) also made the trek.

“There’s no question the primary kicker to get involved was the personal challenge but a close second were the charities, which gave the ride more purpose, context and value,” Chris says.

“The ride was always conducted as a group event and it was about ensuring everyone was able to achieve their goal and get home in one piece. We always rode as a group and looked after one another.”

The group was particularly safety conscious. Two support vehicles were driven by Shaun Sullivan and Nevin Holland, who generously gave up their time so the rest of the team could pursue their dreams.

“In the physical and mental department, we all drew inspiration from Max and Lefty’s feat 40 years ago,” he says. “The group’s camaraderie gave us extra energy on those tough weather days across the Nullarbor.”

Chris says the ride delivered a strong underlying level of personal reward.

“Knowing you have crossed the country on two wheels and to have done that with a group of mates, it really was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“Many people contributed to make this happen. A special bond was produced as we rode into Martin Place as a team, knowing we had reached our end goal safe and sound.” RLM

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Young Workwear offers an ever-expanding range of quality country clothes, shoes and accessories.

After spending a couple of years working in the local workwear store, Kai Levett was given the opportunity to buy the business and expand both the store and product range.

The original store (near the Commonwealth Bank) opened in April 2011, selling workwear and operating as Young Workwear.

Over the years, Kai continued to introduce new lines to the store, with the addition of country wear including Thomas Cook and Wrangler to start.

In 2017, with the addition of more lines and running out of space in the original store, Kai made the decision to expand into the shop across the road.

Kai moved all the workwear into the new store and continued to grow the range in the original store now known as Young Workwear Country and Gifts.

Young Workwear has continued to grow and is now like a mini department store. It carries a huge range of items from workwear, country wear, work, dress and western boots, giftware, handbags, wallets and jewellery.

There is also cast-iron furniture, kitchenware and a range of toys including Lego.

Kai is always on the lookout for new lines to introduce to the ever-evolving store. RLM

50 + 53 Boorowa Street, Young NSW 2594 02 6382 2289 • youngworkwear@gmail.com ABOVE: Kai Levett with daughters Amye and Rebekah and daughter-in-law Jessica.

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

QUILT

culture Fabric Sauce is so much more than a quilting shop, creating community as well as beautiful fabric art.

For the past two years, Mandy Schiller has run Fabric Sauce, a shop for all your quilting needs, from her home in Milvale.

It may be small, but Fabric Sauce packs an absolute punch, offering hundreds of fabric choices in every colour of the rainbow and a plethora of patterns.

Also on offer is a pleasing range of solids to temper your mix of patterned fabric.

Mandy describes her space as a ‘‘lolly shop”, and with all that eye candy she is on the mark. While fabric is the show stopper, she also has threads in every colour as well as quilting patterns and kits.

To satisfy your quilting sweet tooth, there are also plenty of “layer cakes”, “jelly rolls” and “fat quarters” in all the latest designer brands.

While her physical shop is open to the public by appointment only, she has a very active online store where you can browse and order from the comfort of your own home. Mandy is a passionate and diligent online shop keeper with expert responsiveness and attention to detail when fulfilling orders. Her new compostable packaging, complete with fabric scrap bow, adds a lovely eco touch to look forward to in the post.

Mandy stays up on the latest trends in quilting by taking educator courses every year. She enjoys sharing what she learns with her local quilters by offering weekly classes with a welcoming country touch right from her own dining room table. These classes not only produce gorgeous works of fabric art but also create a wonderful community for the women who live on farms in the surrounding area, a place to gather and talk about all things relating to life on the land.

One of the most spectacular projects undertaken is what Mandy calls The Farmer’s Wife Sampler Quilt. A group of women met monthly for a year, each working on her own piece. The final outcome of this project is a stunning collection of queen-sized quilts created over 12 months with lots of love, support and countless cups of tea and coffee going into each one. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

FROM TOP LEFT: Online orders all wrapped up in eco-friendly packaging and ready to ship; an intricate quilt in progress, created during one of Fabric Sauce’s workshops; Mandy keeps busy in her shop fulfilling orders and teaching classes.

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YOUNG RLM 75

playing A PART

The Young Regional School of Music has for decades been instrumental in honing the skills and enriching the lives of young and old.

The Young Regional School of Music (YRSM) started after a group of parents came together to seek tuition for their children.

Lessons commenced in 1984 with 40 students and three tutors travelling from Canberra each fortnight to teach piano, violin and cello.

Thirty-six years later, numbers have grown to 20 tutors and 530 students ranging in age from toddlers to senior citizens.

“With all the local schools, our reach is 1000 kids,” says CEO Matt Bolger, who joined the team in 2018 after a lengthy career in the banking industry.

Acquiring a “home” for the music school in 1996 was a significant event. The old headmaster’s residence was initially used before the historic police residence was acquired in Campbell Street.

“It’s a unique not-for-profit organisation in our region,” Matt says.

“We are part of the Association of Regional Conservatoriums across NSW and are partly funded by the Department of Education.”

Matt says YRSM is fortunate to have tutors of the calibre of Mark Brooker, who relocated from Brisbane with wife Emily, a fellow musician and tutor.

Mark has always been drawn to music, growing up in town choirs and local bands. He started with the trumpet and euphonium but is now equally adept with the tuba, trombone, French horn, clarinet and saxophone – all of which are taught through band programs at 21 local schools.

“I was here (in Young) tutoring for five years before furthering my training in Brisbane,” he says. “In the end I had the choice of going to either Young or Munich. I came to Young due to the high quality of musicians based here – in fact they are some of the finest musicians I’ve ever worked with.”

Equally important to Mark was helping country children in their musical endeavours.

“I was thrilled to work in a small country community. It’s given me the opportunity to give back what I got as a kid growing up in New Zealand.”

As an opera singer, Mark has sung on international stages for over two decades, including two years in Munich.

“It’s a city well known for food and beer and a strong culture for music and live opera, much like in Australia.”

Mark says it’s never too late to start learning an instrument.

“It’s a well-documented fact that music is very good for the soul,” he laughs.

YRSM continues to grow, with a highly anticipated concert held towards the end of each year at the town hall, featuring all the topend players. RLM For more information go to: www.yrsm.org.au

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TOP: CEO Matt Bolger brings a new and focused direction to the Young Regional School of Music.

ABOVE: Multi-talented musician Mark Brooker teaches from the heart.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

SHOPPERS’ DELIGHT Young has always been a great town for retail therapy, thanks to shops like Annie B’s Full House.

Annie B’s Full House has been operating for 16 years under the umbrella of Annie and Gerald Bassingthwaighte, who have assembled a huge range of helpful household products, including many Australian made.

Annie B’s is the only stockist of Maxwell & Williams in town along with a great range of kitchenware including Scanpan, Avanti, Chasseur, Mundial, Good Grips/Oxo, Zyliss, Savannah and Victorinox.

Other well-known products include Glasshouse Candles, MOR Marshmallow, Willow Tree, Moss St Fragrances, Spode, Didgeridoonas, Hagerty’s, Howards Products and Whitehill.

Loyal staff member Deb Barton has worked with Annie since the very beginning.

“Deb is a dedicated and talented staff member and certainly an integral part of our business,” Annie says.

Deb is responsible for changing the front window on a regular basis.

“This enables the good folk of Young to check out our latest products while on their daily walk,” Annie laughs. “We feel our front window is our silent salesperson!”

Staff can make or break a business but Annie has the best.

Annie and her team – Deb, Viarna, Leanne and Tracee – are all experienced in retail and offer great customer service.

“The customer is always first,” she says. “We support our local community and hope that they, in turn, support us.”

Annie loves being in Young, describing it as a wonderful town with excellent facilities and great location – less than two hours from the ACT, Wagga Wagga and Orange.

The business community is made up of many locally owned businesses that offer diversity and choice.

Annie thanks the many people who have shopped at Annie B’s over the past 16 years along with past and present team members.

“So many local customers have supported us throughout our retail experience,” she says.

“I would like to urge the community to continue to shop local, to ensure that small business is retained in country towns. It’s vital for our success and future.” RLM

“We support our local community and hope that they, in turn, support us.”

ABOVE: Annie Bassingthwaighte from Annie B’s Full House.

RIGHT: Annie and her faithful assistant Deb Barton have been a great team from the very beginning.

Gifts | Kitchenware |Collectables | Local Produce

Annie B’s FULL HOUSE

102 Boorowa Street, YOUNG Ph. 02 6382 5970 jaynesfullhouse@hotmail.com

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Annie B’s Full House focuses on customer service and hope to deliver an exciting shopping experience. Only stockist of Maxwell & Williams in Young as well as Glasshouse, Willow Tree, MOR, Scanpan, Avanti, Zyliss just to name a few.

OPEN 7 DAYS

Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm Sat 9am-1pm Sun 10am-12noon

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buzzworthy business

Bees rule the world – just ask proud owners of Hilltops Honey, Tony and Jane Sibley.

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

“We’re based in Young but our passion takes us across country NSW to source quality, pure honey.”

Beekeeping has been a long-standing tradition in the Sibley family, starting with grandfather Albert Sibley, who recognised the importance of bees in the food chain while still a young tacker.

Over the years, he built up a large collection of hives, working for a long time with his brother George from their base in Gundaroo. They carted their bees around the district, moving them to follow a honey flow.

The Sibley brothers travelled to the South Coast as well as to Jugiong and Gundagai, often packing up their families for months at a time. It wasn’t unusual to change their children’s schools as they followed their beloved bees.

Albert and George’s honey label was quite the mouthful: Sibley’s Queen-Bee-Anne Honey. Tony and Jane feel blessed to have been gifted a jar of their honey, discovered by accident while cleaning out a shed.

Tony’s father, John, helped out with the bees when he was young but took to shearing to make ends meet. He returned to beekeeping after a long break and passed his love of bees on to Tony and Jane and grandchildren Kelsey and Darcy.

Tony was also a shearer for two decades before taking on the bees full time. It felt like a natural progression.

“Tony and I started with our first bee hives 23 years ago,” Queen Bee Jane says. “We’ve always been fascinated by the little bees and are continually learning from them.”

Over the years, the pair have built up the number of hives to around 500, making them a smaller-sized, full-time bee operation.

“We’re based in Young but our passion takes us across country NSW to source quality, pure honey,” Jane says. “We mostly collect Eucalyptus tree varieties of honey from the Snowy Mountains, South Coast between Ulladulla and Moruya and around the Young/Temora area.”

Tony says the best part of working with bees is spending so much time in nature.

“Over the years we have learnt so much about different trees and plants and the environments in which they grow – which trees are better for nectar and which ones are better for pollen for our bees.”

In 2014, the Sibley family started selling pure raw honey under their own label, Hilltops Honey, at local markets.

Today Hilltops Honey offers a wide range of honey and beeswax products, including beeswax lip balm, beeswax lotion bar and pure honey products.

The honey is completely raw and natural, containing no additives, preservatives, added sugars, artificial flavourings or colourings.

“We’ve developed an online business and our product range has grown to over 60 items, all lovingly handmade with the utmost care and attention to detail,” Jane says.

“As our children grow, it’s lovely watching them share their love of bees with their partners and families.” RLM CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Working on country hives; Tony and Jane Sibley are great promoters of their product; bee wraps are becoming increasingly popular.

FACING PAGE: The hard-working couple suited up; the Sibleys have long known the importance of bees in the chain of life.

Hilltops Honey

Honey fresh from our bees to you!

Share our passion for bees and honey with our new honey recipe book “A Love of Bees and Honey” Check out our online store at www.hilltopshoney.com Phone 0429 405 889

YOUNG RLM 79

T O W N F E AT U R E Young

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

living the

dream Suez Hardy and husband Craig have made a commitment to living a life less ordinary that involves doing what they love.

Dressed in a divine shade of sea foam, she leaves her studio in Young to travel to regional markets offering upcycled jewellery creations. She moves at a pace a bit slower than is typical nowadays. Taking in the passing scenery, even a kangaroo can hop out of the way faster than she can approach. She, too, is an upcycled beauty, having been lovingly restored piece by piece until she shone. Her name is Lottie, a 1973 Volkswagen Bus, and she belongs to the equally charming and unique Suez Hardy, the creative heart behind Green Glass Studio.

Not unlike her beloved Lottie, Suez has also undergone a beautiful evolution, deciding after years of working and excelling in a number of fields to follow her heart. “I have always been a creative, painting and making,” says Suez. So, following this path, while not without a lot of careful consideration, absolutely made sense. > FACING PAGE: Suez Hardy right at home in her beautiful bright studio.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Craig and Suez Hardy pose with ‘Lottie’; recycled copper bangles; Suez using one of her tools to heat and shape recycled silver into a new piece of jewellery; Suez loves the patina and colour of old green glass bottles; a rustic sign welcomes visitors to the studio.

YOUNG RLM 81

“Choose a Greener Creation” is the Green Glass Studio motto and the compass by which Suez is guided in all she does.

“Choose a Greener Creation” is the Green Glass Studio motto and the compass by which Suez is guided in all she does. “My recycled copper scrap is from the metal recycler on Temora Road, my leather is locally sourced from Richard Taubman in Murringo and my glass to make beads is from Peter Minson in Binalong,” she says. Vintage Australian coins become charms dangling from bracelets, necklaces and atop rings. She turns waste into want, ingeniously crafting earrings out of discarded coffee pods and takeaway coffee cups. Her ingenuity is boundless. If an idea strikes, she finds a way to make it happen, teaching herself how to shape, stamp and roll metals.

“I began making jewellery with truck sockets,” she says, adding she has only just begun to replace these with jewellery-specific tools.

Suez’s personality is vibrant and kind, and that flows through her work and on to her “Eco Tribe”, avid collectors of her pieces who wear them proudly. While Suez loves crafting collections by following her creative spirit, she also loves working with clients to custom design that special piece.

It is with these one-on-one consulting appointments in mind that she has decided to open her studio to the public by appointment. She and husband Craig have created an outdoor space to complement the warm and welcoming environment of her studio. It has a fire pit for the cooler months and the shade of an old gum tree for warmer days, and Suez looks forward to welcoming people not only to her studio but to the Hilltops Region.

Suez came to Bribaree in 1973, arriving from England with her parents and little sister. Her father’s job with the Electricity Commission of NSW brought them to Young where she began Year 3 at one of the local primary schools. A few years down the track, she met lifelong Young resident Craig Hardy while attending a concert at the local S&C club. Nearly four decades later, Suez and Craig have created a wonderful life together, making a home, raising four children, running a business and now enjoying their seven grandchildren.

82 RLM YOUNG

Ten years ago, Craig also decided to change up his day to day in a big way, choosing to sell their quarry and follow his lifelong passion for horses. Growing up, Craig always spent time around horses and his family was part of the trotting community in Young. While all horses are admirable, Craig was particularly taken with thoroughbreds, their size, make-up and stunning beauty. It all started when Craig bought shares in a stallion, Bon Hoffa, from Bowness Stud, purchasing mares to suit his type and breeding profile. Since those early days, Craig has continued to be involved in every step of the process. Keeping the mares close by after they come back from stud, he is on call to help them birth their foals. The mothers and young spend time in the paddock right next door to their family home, until the foals are old enough to head out to their larger farm where they can run and play. Here, Craig helps to raise them until they are ready to go off to trainers and begin the next chapter of their lives. His gentleness and love towards the horses is clear. He knows each one’s name, personality and family tree.

Next up, the pair intend to restore a historic inn on their property in town. They have great hopes for bringing to light its history as a stopoff for travellers during the late 1800s. Not one to be deterred by heaps of patina, Suez can’t wait to help it shine again. What exactly it will be is not yet certain but her imagination and determination will no doubt create something wonderful for all of us to enjoy.

Craig and Suez have confidently stepped into the next phase of their life, continuing to learn and grow, and taking time to explore interests that have followed them throughout their lives. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Suez’s pieces shine in the sunlight at her studio. A custom artwork by Steph Corkhill Hyles depicts a magpie searching for treasures; one of Craig’s beautiful yearlings, a filly whose paddock name is Porsha; pieces of copper, silver, leather and glass all creatively displayed and materials locally sourced; Suez taking in the history in the circa late 1800s inn on their property, the next project for the couple.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

Dunk Insurance has been helping individuals, property and business owners protect their assets for over 30 years, all over the Central West and beyond.

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Phone: 1800 219 496 or Email: youngmail@dunkinsurance.com.au

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2016 NSW/ACT National Insurance Brokers Association General Insurance Broker of the Year – John Dunk

2017 NSW/ACT National Insurance Brokers Association General Insurance Broker of the Year – James Dunk

Commercial Agri

Commercial Agri

Commercial YOUNG RLM 83

sporting

GESTURES

John Dunk has always been a man on a mission, and he has no plans to slow down.

John Dunk always packs a fresh batch of cakes or cherry pies when visiting his many rural-based clients.

“We normally sit down for a cuppa and have a yarn about things. I always say ‘If you deal with us, you can have your cake and eat it too’,” he laughs, from John Dunk headquarters in Young.

The 2016 NSW Broker of the Year has been making this simple gesture for decades and it never fails to impress – even if it is common knowledge his wife runs a wellknown bakery in town.

When John was growing up on Warroo station, Hungerford, the local Dalgety man always brought out a fresh loaf of bread on his visits, a small but highly appreciated gesture.

John has never forgotten the little things in life and understands, better than most, the challenges of running a sprawling station with its northern border the dingo fence separating NSW and Queensland.

The station has been in the Dunk family for 97 years and helps John connect with other farmers and graziers.

“When potential clients find out I’m from up north, it changes things – it’s the unknown, the back of Bourke, the other side of the Black Stump,” he says with his trademark grin.

“Most people have no idea of the vastness, hardships or geographical isolation of stations west of Woop Woop.”

John enjoys mixing it with country folk, most of whom marvel at his integrity, high work load, generosity and zest for life.

He’s known to treat valued clients like family. For the past two decades many have been treated to a cricket Test or tennis at the Australian Open, or maybe a State of Origin match or rugby league grand final.

Son James, who joined the business after years on the station, continues the proud tradition. His clients might find themselves at the Bledisloe Cup.

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Sporting memorabilia adorns the walls of Dunk Insurance. John Dunk always attends the Bradman Foundation (where Test cricketers are inducted into the hall of fame) and generally comes home with a new addition for the wall; John runs the business with the help of his son James, a real chip off the old block.

FACING PAGE: John has always loved his tennis, with the great Roger Federer his favourite player; Dunk Insurance has grown phenomenally in recent years. The leaf motif on the logo represents the regional nature of the business and client base. Colours are sympathetic to the bush as well as symbolising growth.

“They converge from all over the country and stay at the same place. We do everything together and just love it,” enthuses John, a team player from way back.

The big man has always been a fiercely competitive sportsman and is highly regarded in local sporting circles.

“I suppose you could say cricket has been my favourite sport but I equally love my tennis,” he says.

He was unbeaten for eight consecutive years in the Young Men’s Tennis Championships and won his fair share of mixed doubles tournaments with wife Wendy.

In 2019, the Young Tennis Club celebrated its centenary, providing a great chance for the sports-mad pair to reflect on their all-conquering days.

When it comes to cricket, John has a few runs on the board. In one year, he held an unbelievable batting average of 501, batting from number three.

“I made that many runs for the year,” he grins, “being dismissed only once in the season.”

Sport has always been a great leveller, and over the years the Dunks have cemented some great friendships.

John still loves his cricket, despite a knee replacement a few years ago. At 70, he still puts on the pads for the John Dunk Cup at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where he’s been a loyal member for 58 years.

There’s no talk of retirement, not while he’s having so much fun. In fact, his attitude is not to retire, it’s to refire!

“I reckon I’ve been retired for 40 years since taking up the insurance game,” he says with another big laugh.

Station life, however, is in the blood.

Sometimes he’ll drive 780km all night long to make it home to his outback station. The water run alone is 100km and John likes to check it himself. Then he’ll drive home, having barely slept.

John wouldn’t have it any other way. His mother started the Hungerford Field Days in 1981, held biennially in June.

“We love taking staff up there and always have a stand,” John says.

“Everybody has a great time.”

On alternate years they have a stand at the Louth Field Days. Dunk Insurance are also proud sponsors of the Tullibigeal, Enngonia and Boorowa Picnic Races.

It’s a hectic lifestyle but one in which John clearly thrives. Instead of slowing down, he is doing the opposite. In 2017 he bought a brokerage in Bathurst to complement head office and the Cootamundra branch.

Around the same time, James joined his father as a partner in the business, basing himself and his family in Cootamundra.

He visits HQ several times a week, enabling John to take to the road.

Daughter Sarah is a nursing sister in Germany, where she has lived for the past 25 years. In addition to his own children, there are three fine stepsons from wife Wendy, owner of Wilders Bakery.

A fulfilling career John began work with Australian Eagle at West Wyalong in 1981. With zero experience but the right temperament and an eagerness to learn, young Dunk was on his way.

In Young, four years later, things were also happening. QBE took over Australian Eagle, John married his tennis partner and in 1997, with Wendy’s support, kicked off John Dunk Insurance.

In 2014 the business moved into spacious new premises, the former Tourist Information Centre, offering the only water views in town.

During nearly 40 years of insurance, John has witnessed great change in the insurance business. He’s gone from having one female assistant to a devoted staff of 24, whom he considers his extended family and very much responsible for the success of the business.

Then there are authorised reps in West Wyalong, Temora, Wagga Wagga, Goulburn, Canberra, Narromine, Dubbo, Forbes, Wauchope and Circular Quay.

Business is strong in all quarters. Last year, Dunk Insurance turned over $20 million in revenue. The company has always been predominantly rural based but with branches in Sydney, Bathurst and Canberra there’s a more balanced portfolio of farming and commercial.

John’s latest project is finishing a new home at the edge of town. The first thing to go in was, naturally, a synthetic tennis court.

The grandfather of eight wants everyone to know that it’s game on for young and old. RLM

YOUNG RLM 85

outstanding in the field

Ray White Young principal David Coombes has recruited agricultural specialist Rachelle Barnett to spearhead an expansion into rural sales.

To celebrate their 10-year tenure with the Ray White network, the Young agency’s new rural franchise will service the needs of the rural community surrounding Young and neighbouring towns.

Ray White Young are market leaders, boasting a dominant sales market share with a rapidly growing rental management business.

“I am thrilled to welcome Rachelle into our team,” David says.

“Rachelle is a rural specialist and consistent performer who has an absolute passion for real estate and agriculture.

“She comes with a wealth of knowledge in selling rural properties around the Riverina for the past six years. Rachelle will be servicing all size farms, from the smaller lifestyle properties up to the broad acres of grazing, cropping, irrigation and mixed farming.”

Despite the fluctuating seasons, David says the rural market remains strong. Properties are selling for a premium with all-time high prices but admits there’s a limited supply of listings.

Young is marketed as the Cherry Capital of Australia, located on the Olympic Highway, about two hours’ drive from Canberra, Wagga Wagga, Bathurst and Orange.

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“While we are renowned for our cherries and stone fruits, our district is quite rurally diverse,” says David, who has lived in Young for 20 years and witnessed great change.

“Rachelle’s primary focus will be farm and lifestyle sales in Young and surrounding towns, while continuing to service existing clients in Gundagai, Tumut and Temora.”

David says the south-west region of NSW has always attracted interest and investment from Sydney, the Southland Highlands, Canberra and the South Coast.

“Many locals continue to show confidence, which is vitally important to the local economy,” he says. “Retirees are also influencing our market as they position themselves centrally to family or return to Young.

“Young’s lifestyle and hobby farm market in the $500,000 to $850,000 range is very much the flavour and we are experiencing consistent sales and price increases.”

Ray White Rural NSW state manager Chris Malone says he is thrilled to welcome Rachelle into the broader Ray White family.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

“The south-west region of NSW has always attracted interest and investment from Sydney, the Southland Highlands, Canberra and the South Coast.”

“Rachelle knows the area from Temora to Gundagai like the back of her hand and will be a real asset in Young,” he says.

“With impressive sales history in Temora, Gumly Gumly, Gundagai, Tumut, Tarcutta, Cootamundra, Jugiong and now servicing the Young region, Rachelle understands the value of hard work and building quality relationships.

“She has excellent marketing skills and keeps on top of market trends to maximise the best outcome for the vendor.”

Rachelle has been in the real estate industry for over 13 years in South Australia, Victoria and NSW, bringing with her a broad knowledge of leading edge and innovative marketing strategies.

She was excited by the opportunity to join the family-focused franchise group.

“I moved to Young in 2019 after a thorough search of the Riverina to find a town that had the right property,” she says.

“Young showed positive growth and development, which was the perfect fit to settle in. I am passionate about my local community.”

Outside of real estate, Rachelle enjoys training and competing her horses and working around her farm. RLM

FACING PAGE: Ray White principal David Coombes with office manager Robyn Brown. Back row: Gin Perrett, Matt Murray, Laura Ower, Adam Strong; Dick Cummins, Denni Butt and Paula Bennett-Brown.

RIGHT: David welcomes Rachelle Barnett to the team.

5

1

1

1

“Koepang”, Wallendbeen

Approx. 105.26ha (260.1ac) on several titles, currently run as a mixed farming operation, including fine wool, cropping & cherries. It features 2 fully equipped irrigation dams plus 2 stock dams and absolute potential to expand the orchard.

Highly developed, state-of-the-art cherry packing shed & facilities with 3 phase 275kVA power, 2 coolrooms & 4 hydrocoolers.

Long-held and built by this family in 1950, its gracious, double brick homestead retains charm and originality. Extended over time offering 5 bedrooms + office, single bathroom, formal lounge & dining, vast open plan casual living & sunroom with ducted cooling & wood heating.

Your closer inspection of this magnificent working property is strongly recommended to realise its true potential and in anticipation of this seasons cherry harvest.

The opportunity to a acquire such property of this nature and prominence is indeed rare.

DAVID COOMBES 0417 263 978 ● RACHELLE BARNETT 0418 611 610

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can-do

ATTITUDE

Volunteer extraordinaire Heather Ruhl says being an active member of the Hilltops community is reward enough.

“I’m grateful for my health and the opportunity to participate,” says tireless worker Heather Ruhl, who has helped on many community projects through her childcare business and volunteer work.

Her big heart was nurtured on the family farm, growing up with five siblings and neighbours who genuinely cared.

“I learnt to live in a community of farming families, all of us sharing the workload,” she remembers.

“When something needed to be done, everyone pitched in and got it done. From harvesting crops, shearing sheep and ploughing paddocks to sharing a meal, it was

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always a team effort – especially when faced with the effects of fires, flood and drought.”

Her own family farm’s isolation was heightened during the wet winter months when the creeks flooded and cut them off from town.

During such times, her three older siblings stayed with their grandparents in Young. After their passing, however, Heather’s mother had no choice but to teach her younger children through Blackfriars Distant Education Correspondence School.

At its height, Blackfriars boasted more than 400 teachers while reaching 7000 pupils in isolated areas.

Heather left home at age 13 to work as a live-in mother’s helper. Although poorly educated, she learnt valuable lessons from the people around her. Within two years she was a wards maid at the Young District Hospital.

Surrounded by good people, she was encouraged to complete the Red Cross Home Nursing Certificate, which led her to Sydney as a nurses aid. Heather attended night school to improve her education.

A change of working hours saw her enter childcare, as an aid in a nursery school, which in turn led to teaching Kindergarten in a small school.

Young T O W N F E AT U R E

Armed with some childcare and nursing experience, it was time to see the world on an extended working holiday. Heather found work as a home nurse in the Scottish Highlands, headed by a highly spirited woman.

“She was a woman of action, devoting her life to the local village community and the people who worked on her estate,” Heather reflects.

Her door was always open to people from all walks of life and she regularly hosted school holiday camps for underprivileged children. This was where Heather met her Australian husband Tony.

“Together we witnessed the power of giving. From a young age I learnt from strangers, from people I would never meet again, the value of paying forward,” she says.

“When I asked one stranger how I could repay him for helping me he simply told me to pay it forward to someone else in need.”

The pair returned to Young to work and raise three sons, who have all reaped the benefits of belonging to a community.

A team effort Heather’s been involved with the Neighbourhood Centre, community cinema, parent support groups, Baby Bounce program and, for many years, the Young Society of Artists.

“Being part of a community means there’s always been a group, team or committee of people with me,” she says.

“When I’m cooking for a fundraiser or hanging art for an exhibition, I’m never on my own. What a flop it would be if I was – there would be no master of ceremonies, not enough food and art would still be leaning against the wall. It takes more than one to stage an event or exhibition.”

Every day she sees the faces of community-minded people. A community, she says, thrives on the good work of volunteers – from the food hall to the sports grounds, from the individuals who pick up rubbish on their morning walks to those who support people with high needs.

“When any of us step ups to join a group or to volunteer, we do it first out of selfinterest,” she continues.

“By that I mean you won’t see me running kids onto a football field. I don’t have the ability to mount a disabled child onto a horse or the knowledge to teach English to a new Australian – nor the energy to plant out 100 trees for Landcare.”

Heather says she works because she is genuinely interested and because she can.

“But I can only do so much – there is so much more I’m interested in, so much more I believe to be a worthy cause,” she says.

“Remember, it’s not any one or two people or one group or another that makes our community a great place to live – it takes all of us, from all walks of life and age groups.”

One of her great joys is helping out at the annual Cherry Festival Art Exhibition, which draws artists from a 120km radius and attracts up to 1500 visitors, including many from Sydney and Canberra.

“Our city visitors know the importance of spending money in small rural communities suffering from the drought and fires,” she says with a knowing smile.

Heather can’t explain her attraction to art but clearly enjoys dabbling with the brush.

“I cannot sing a note or take a decent photo but I love being creative and trying out new things. I learn through this process, which often surprises me.”

In 2018, Heather opened the art room for a 90-year-old tutor. She’s had teenagers carry her bags and six-year-olds asking if she needed a cuddle because she looked sad.

“Community is that great feeling of being able to give or create something to share with others,” she says.

“No matter how different, or strange, or isolated you may feel it doesn’t matter.

Indulging yourself in the community will take away stress and often pain.”

Heather considers herself fortunate to be living in the Hilltops community of Young, surrounded by friends and family.

“Humanity really is a wonderful thing,” she smiles sweetly, knowing she will never stop paying it back. RLM

ABOVE: Artist and community stalwart Heather Ruhl at the Cherry Festival art exhibition; two of Heather’s colourful creations; Heather with president of the Young Society of Artists Sue Stevens-Jones, who painted Heather’s portrait in the portrait challenge.

FACING PAGE: Heather stresses the importance of being connected to your local community.

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pretty in

PINK The green and serene Pink Pot Garden Spot is a pleasure to visit and offers a plethora of plants and accessories for your patch.

For years, Fiona Walsh dreamed of opening a garden shop, and not just any garden shop, “The Pink Pot Garden Spot�. Along with the dream, she had the name ready and waiting for nearly a decade.

At long last in 2016, the perfect space presented itself and with the encouragement and support from Brian Eastlake, in September of that year her dream was presented to the public.

Over the past four years her shop with its pink doors and black and white striped awnings has delivered French flower shop vibes to Lovell Street in Young. Over time, the inside of the shop has grown into a verdant conservatory of sorts, offering customers a beautifully curated collection of plants and trees, spanning from natives, to the unique and hard to find, as well as proven classics such as hydrangeas.

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

FACING PAGE: Beautiful specimens overflow from the Pink Pot Garden Spot out onto Lovell Street in Young, with the black and white awning beckoning visitors to this hidden gem; cyclamen in every shade of pink adds a pop to gardens, flowering in the autumn and winter months.

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Fiona strives to source unique, quality items including pots, baskets, garden ornaments and tools; the shop is a green oasis in town boasting a variety of flowers, plants and trees from classics such as hydrangeas to plants proven to flourish in our unique climate.

The living elements are complemented by a high-quality array of items for the garden and home as well as other miscellaneous treasures. Over time, Fiona’s shop has become a haven for customers who often wander into the lush surrounds during their lunch break.

While Fiona likes to stay behind the scenes, creating an air of mystery and whimsy, it must be said that she is a sweet spirit who finds much joy and satisfaction in helping people find the perfect plants for their garden.

Come into the shop with some information about what bare patch you are hoping to fill and what aesthetic you are hoping to achieve, and Fiona will give you expert suggestions based on direction, shade, sun and soil.

To Fiona’s delight, many people come back to show her pictures and let her know how well the plants they chose are thriving. Fiona says this is the greatest reward and her favourite part of owning the shop.

In reminiscing about where her love of gardening started, she recalls one of her earliest memories of weeding her grandmother’s garden. While many children might find pulling weeds nothing more than a mundane chore, a young Fiona found happiness in it.

At home on their property just outside of Young, she continues to nurture her own garden, creating a happy oasis in the dry for her and Brian.

The suggestion that her shop is evocative of The Secret Garden lights up Fiona’s face; it was a favourite book as a child.

The message the book holds of the transformative power of putting your energy into loving and tending to something really resonates. Not only will plants grow and change when nurtured but so too can the people who toil away in the garden.

So next time you are in town and are in need of the perfect pot and plant combo, a unique gift, a practical yet pretty set of secateurs for yourself or just need a moment to take a deep breath among the greenery, call in to The Pink Pot and say hi. RLM

A plethora of plants!

We have a large range of beautiful trees, lovely native plant varieties and lush indoor plants, with an eclectic range of quality giftware, pots, planters and garden tools.

Come and say hello and wander through our unique space!

44E Lovell Street, Young NSW 2594

Ph. 0447 750 369

Words: Jennifer Harden

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

personality

PLUS Berry & Bramble in Young is brimming with character and timeless charm.

Moving from the Gold Coast to Young two years ago would have been quite the change for Alison, who traded the buzz of the coastal metropolis for country simplicity.

Since her day job involved travel all over NSW, coming home to her 1930s bungalow on a quiet street in Young is just the kind of peace she was looking for.

It was during her constant travel for work that she developed the habit of visiting the small independent stores that brighten up towns all over Australia. She admired how the shop keeper’s personality and style would shine through the things they filled their shelves with.

While travelling for work could be tiresome, these spots became her happy place. For years, she dreamt not only of having her own shop but that it, too, might become a happy place for her future customers.

In September last year, she took the leap, opening her first shop, Berry & Bramble, named after her great grandparents’ farm in Bundarra of a similar name “Brambleberry”. The shop is housed in the old Commercial Bank building on Boorowa Street, Young. Built during the 1880s, it is flush with character.

On the outside, its old colonial Grecian style features ornate columns and carvings that continue on the inside with intricate trim work, ceiling roses and a marble fireplace.

To fill her shop, Alison has simply looked for things that she loves. When asked to describe Berry & Bramble, one of her dear friends says matter of factly, “It is just such an Alison shop”.

Her love of hunting for and repurposing secondhand treasures is evident throughout the store.

Beautiful linens, throw rugs and cushions are displayed in an antique iron cot. An old steamer trunk becomes a cabinet for showcasing pot holders and tea towels. A vintage ironing board is a shelf for artwork and candles.

Her soft, pleasing colour palette of sage greens, duck egg blues, and dusty pinks flows throughout and is not unlike the colours in her own home. Her affection for classically appealing clear glassware and white ceramic are evident.

Alison strives to source unique offerings as well as locally made products such as candles poured in Canowindra and screenprinted art from Cootamundra.

Berry & Bramble is open from Wednesday to Saturday and is full of gorgeousness perfect for gifting to yourself and others. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

ABOVE, FROM TOP: Detail on the door at Berry & Bramble hints at its early history as a bank; cloth napkins in classic stripes and patterned aprons.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: These tea towels are just a few of the locally sourced items on offer in the shop; Berry & Bramble is housed in the old Commercial Bank of Australia building; Alison’s soothing colour palette flows throughout the homewares displayed in the shop; throw rugs, linens and cushions displayed in an antique cot; white ceramics and unique carved wooden spoons.

GIFTS • HOMEWARES • DECORATOR ITEMS • NAPERY • TABLEWARE • LOCALLY MADE JAMS AND PICKLES • STICKY BALSAMIC DRESSINGS • MORELLA GROVE OLIVE OIL PRODUCED IN THE RIVERINA • MUCH MORE

Hours: Wed & Thurs 10am-4pm

Fri 9am -5pm

Sat 9am-1pm

Sun 10am-12pm

Ph. 02 6382 4276

91 Boorowa Street Young, NSW, 2594

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T O W N F E AT U R E Young

A TASTY tradition

Wilders Bakery has been part and parcel of Young’s day to day for the past seven decades.

Wilders Bakery is celebrating 70 years in business, and proud owner Wendy Dunk is over the moon.

“It’s constant, hard work but what a great outcome for our town,” Wendy beams, as we meet some of the 28 staff and many regulars at Young’s largest, brightest and oldest bakery.

Tradesmen come in from six each morning, shopkeepers and their workers, farming families and people from out of town who have come to shop or are passing through.

Wendy’s parents, Milty and Olga Wilder, started the bakery in 1950.

Wendy imagines they would be very proud knowing the equivalent of Young’s population passes through the doors each week.

As a little girl, Wendy used to sleep where the coffee machine now sits.

“Yep, that was my bedroom,” she remembers fondly. “I can never forget those days when my parents worked such long and hard hours, all the while instilling in us the value of hard work.

“My play area was in the shop’s small backyard, which I shared with the Greek children whose parents ran the cafe down the road.

Riding my bike, playing tennis, swimming in the town pool and watching the weekly matinee were my forms of entertainment, only, of course, after I’d finished all my chores for the day.”

Wendy can still vividly recall playing in the flour in the bakehouse.

Now nearly 60 years later, she watches her granddaughter delight in the same mischief.

“My dad was a stickler for excellence in product. It’s difficult to replicate the exact recipes, because most of the ingredient quantities related to a handful or two of flour, sugar or whatever else made up the batch. Our sausage rolls are the length they are because that was his hand span.

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“He was a softie, loved a beer and regularly gave pies to the blokes staggering into the bakehouse in the early hours of the morning, probably a nuisance but never any trouble.”

Wendy’s mother was always in a hurry.

“Like me, she was short and had little steps but boy, she covered a lot of ground. She helped so many people, always with her trademark smile, which people still talk about today.”

Wendy admits her favourite compliment is when someone says she reminds them of her mother.

“They are hard shoes to fill but I do my best,” she jokes.

“I just love Young and adore my staff and customers who are many and varied. Some people have been coming here all their life, sit at the same table and bring their dishes back to the kitchen.

“They are part of the family and we always worry when they don’t turn up.”

Wilders Bakery still supplies most of the sporting clubs with its famous pies and, of course, the cherry pies are always a big hit.

“Every second weekend we transport our cherry and apple pies and other products to Sydney to my son, who operates at the Castle Hill markets,” Wendy says. “This is extremely popular and has now been going for eight years”.

Wendy says it’s great having a third generation in the business.

“Shaun runs the bakehouse and I hope that one day in the future he will be proudly sharing his own bakehouse memories while espousing the virtues of our heritage.” RLM

ABOVE: Wilders Bakery has been a Young institution since 1950; charismatic Wendy Dunk has been involved with the bakery with her brother since 1989.

Baked and raised from humble beginnings in 1950, Wilders is much more than “just a bakery” it is a long-established bakery/ café where all products are made on premises.

Supplying the original “cherry pie” cakes, meat pies, breads, coffee hot meals and sandwiches all freshly baked and made inhouse.

The Bakery has several seating areas providing a comfortable dining experience, upstairs with balcony, private seating areas, a children’s playroom and downstairs dining we can seat 150 guests.

We have a large range of homewares and stock locally made jams, honey and produce.

At Wilders, we have something for everyone.

“More than just a bakery” www.wilders.com.au

Wilders Bakery Pty Ltd Our Opening Hours 207 Boorowa Street, Young P: 02 6382 1275

Monday to Friday: 6am to 5.30pm Saturday and Sunday: 8am to 3pm

T O W N F E AT U R E Young

bringing out

THE BEST in everyone

Every student matters at Young High School, a vibrant Year 7 to 12 education community with a culture of opportunity, diversity and inclusivity.

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Young T O W N F E AT U R E

With 580 students and 70 staff, Young High is the biggest public high school in the Hilltops local government area.

The school plays a significant role in the community. The magnificent and historic courthouse building constructed in the 1880s is the main entrance to the school.

Embodying the values of Respect, Responsibility and Care, the school is committed to both teaching excellence and student wellbeing, while being focused on providing academic pathways and vocational opportunities for students to meet their aspirations.

The school has continued to build on its core principles to support the strong wellbeing programs that benefit the entire school community while driving student outcomes. Students participate in vertical care group sessions, fostering positive relationships and connection to school.

Young High was most fortunate to be involved in a pilot program in conjunction with the Department of Health to establish our Care Connect wellbeing facility. This was established through consultation with the student leadership team, parents and the school community to assist and support student wellbeing.

A sense of belonging for the students has been created through the house system.

This has motivated and increased student pride and participation at school events, and increases school community engagement.

The students and staff constantly find creative ways to earn more points for their respective houses through participation and excellence. Young High buzzes with enthusiasm to win the ultimate house champion each year.

The leadership team provides opportunities to help young people find their voices and participate in decisions on student partnership and ownership of programs within the school. Students are encouraged to be leaders in their houses, the classroom and playground and through involvement in academic, sporting, musical and cultural events as well as in the wider community. The leadership team consists of students from Years 7 to 12 with the prefect team consisting of students from Years 10 to 12.

The Aboriginal education programs are outstanding and provide the opportunity to study Wiradjuri (the local Indigenous language) as part of the Stage 4 Language Other Than English (LOTE) program, after which students can continue to study Wiradjuri as an elective.

School-based interest electives have been introduced into the stage 5 curriculum.

These electives have been created through student feedback and focus on work education and employability skills. Students have the opportunity to gain qualifications and participate in voluntary work placement within these courses.

Young High has a strong sporting culture and success is achieved at local, district and state levels in rugby league, touch, equestrian, gymnastics, swimming, athletics and cross country.

The Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) program is built on staff expertise and motivation. Students have opportunities to perform at school and beyond through the Music Art Dance and Drama (MADD) evening, eisteddfods, community events and on international platforms. “We promote and foster opportunity, diversity and inclusivity throughout all programs at the school,� relieving principal Anna Barker says. RLM ABOVE: Young High School relieving principal Anna Barker with 2020 school captains Abigail Daniels and Blake Apps.

FACING PAGE: Students assemble outside the former courthouse built in 1886. Ownership was transferred to the then Department of Education in 1924, with Young High School officially opened in 1947.

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BOOROWA TOWN FE ATURE WORDS & IMAGES: JAKE LINDSAY

beloved Boorowa

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Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

a great day out,

TO BE SURE

Preparation is under way for the Boorowa Community Bank’s Irish Woolfest on Sunday, October 4, when Boorowa will celebrate its Irish heritage and fine Merino wool.

The Irish Woolfest is a country street festival in Boorowa, a little gem of a town just over an hour north of Canberra in the Hilltops Region.

This event is now a regional tourism event and has developed as a key economic development tool for the Hilltops Region, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The committee is once again offering a fullday program of entertainment and activities.

A Blessing of the Day will be held prior to the feature event, the Running of the Sheep at noon. The crowd will gather to see a mob of woolly Merinos from the renowned Merryville Merino Stud frolic down the main street of the town. This will be followed by a colourful street parade featuring some 40 floats unique to Boorowa and surrounds.

The Irish Woolfest is a free family fun event with non-stop entertainment through the day.

You will be entertained with Celtic music to soothe your soul and take you back to the green fields of Ireland in days gone by. The Canberra Celtic Pipe Band and Canabolas Highland Pipe Band will also perform throughout the day.

The Old Kentucky Animal Farm is always a favourite with the children, with a menagerie of animals to discover and plenty of other amusements available on site for the children, including face painting and rides.

The Off the Sheep’s Back Fashion Parade will showcase the latest woollen fashions.

There will be plenty of stalls to browse with almost 80 stallholders displaying their wares and a growers market.

Boutique products as well as fashion, produce, plants, an array of food and treats, many handcrafted items, garden features and much more will be on offer to entice the shopper.

Another attraction throughout the weekend will be the St John’s Art Show in the Old Court House Building in Marsden Street. RLM Visit www.irishwoolfest.com.au or call Hilltops Region Team on 1800 628 233.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: The Merinos head down the main street; an astute sheep dog shows how it’s done; shearing, the old way, with hand shears; a wool spinning demonstration.

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the way

we were

The Boorowa and District Historical Museum houses a wealth of information about the area’s intriguing past.

The rich history of Boorowa is well documented at the Boorowa and District Historical Museum.

“Located in a historic 1882 building owned by council, it was formerly a store, home and undertakers before becoming a museum in 1975,” museum and historical society vice president Stephen Meere says.

Today it’s run by 18 volunteers, including Stephen and wife Sharon, the museum secretary. The pair moved to Boorowa 12 years ago, after an impulsive decision to leave Canberra in search of a quieter lifestyle.

Both enjoy studying the local history.

The original custodians of the land, the Wiradjuri people, witnessed the first Europeans arrive in the district nearly 200 years ago.

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When James White, the first white man in the district, wanted to graze his sheep and cattle, he negotiated with the First People, who learnt to ride horses and become pastoral workers.

Throughout this period, they maintained the ceremonies and connection to the land nurtured for thousands of years before European settlement.

When gold was discovered in the 1860s, many workers left the land to seek their fortune.

Gold brought people together from all over the world, including the Chinese, who diligently worked in close teams on the diggings.

After the gold ran out, many miners stayed on, as huge pastoral properties were being broken up. Close farming settlement remained around the towns and villages near Young and Harden after the mining rushes.

This was the birth of horticulture, with cherries and other fruits planted on an industrial scale. The railway arrived from the late 1870s to transport goods to market, further boosting the economy and population.

After WW1, soldier-settlement areas were established in the region and the rural population continued to flourish. Young became the region’s major commercial and business hub while Harden developed as a major railway centre. Nearby Boorowa remains a pastoral economy with broad acre farming.

The museum documents all of this history.

“We had over 200 visitors during Woolfest,” Stephen says. “People are always interested in the history of one of Australia’s premier wool-growing districts.”

A new room out the back was opened in early 2020 following a $70,000 government grant and features an early printing press from the Boorowa News.

Boorowa is a twin city with Clonoulty in Tipperary, courtesy of Irish men Roger Corcoran and Ned Ryan, who arrived in the district in the 1820s.

“The town was once separated by Ryans Creek, with the Catholics on one side and the Protestants on the other,” Stephen says. “They used to stand on opposite sides of the creek and throw rocks at each other, a practice that continued until there was a fatality.”

It perhaps explains why the two Protestant churches are on one side of town and St Patrick’s, the first catholic church this side of the Blue Mountains, on the other. RLM

Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

Boorowa is a twin city with Clonoulty in Tipperary, courtesy of Irish men Roger Corcoran and Ned Ryan, who arrived in the district in the 1820s.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Images highlight Boorowa’s rich rural history; Stephen Meere with an early printing press from the Boorowa News; the exterior of the museum; various rooms depict different themes; an old bullock wagon made locally at Rye Park.

FACING PAGE: Stephen and Sharon Meere inside the museum.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

LOVE

IS IN THE AIR

If you fancy the idea of tying the knot on the lawns of a historic Hilltops property, then “Corcoran’s Plains” might well be your perfect country wedding destination.

Five minutes from Boorowa, the magnificent Corcoran’s Plains will ensure your big day is memorable. You will fall in love the moment you drive through the gate and up the farm driveway, past the marquee and on to manicured gardens, fountains and ponds.

The historic homestead comes with four beautifully appointed bedrooms, luxurious bathroom, living area and a dedicated bridal dressing room.

Proud owner Eddie Corcoran has a story as interesting as the homestead. Born during WW2, one of six children to Clarence and Eileen Corcoran, he was bundled off at age six to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Bowral, before completing his secondary education at Riverview.

While settling into life at Lane Cove, Clarence was seeking radiation treatment in America for cancer, losing his battle in 1956.

After finishing his intermediate, Eddie returned home to help run “Corcoran’s Plains” with cousin Jim, who had been managing the place since his father’s untimely death. Although barely 16, he was a quick learner and by the mid 1960s was running the property with his brothers Roger and Michael.

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They were the glory days of wool, and Eddie, known for his hard partying ways, was kicking goals both on and off the field.

Rugby was never far from his mind. In the early days he laced up the boots for the Young Yabbies in the Riverina competition.

All that changed in 1969, when Boorowa got its own rugby club. Eddie and fellow grazier Joe McInnes felt a new club in the recently formed south-west competition would help unify the community.

Known affectionately as the Goldies, the club celebrated 50 golden years in 2019.

Eddie played in the forward pack until his mid 30s, with many great friendships born out of the game they play in heaven.

Never one to rush into things, Eddie married at 40 and was later instrumental in starting the Irish Woolfest.

“Boorowa is traditionally Irish, with many fine wool studs in the district – it was a marriage made in heaven. It was like running the bulls in Pamplona but instead of bulls we used to run between 400-500 sheep down the main street.”

Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

With neither of his daughters, Emma and Sophie, interested in pursuing life on the land, Eddie, now single and in his 70s, is enjoying sharing the spacious home with others. A few years ago he sold the farm but retained the homestead on 100 acres. He came home in 2018 after running Eddie’s Gardening Angels in Bowral for 15 years.

“During those years I became aware of wedding venues,” he says. “I thought our place presented an excellent opportunity to combine the decor of our historic homestead with the gardens – and all within two hours of Canberra.”

A permanent marquee has been erected on the old tennis courts and has already hosted some fine southern-style weddings, largely designed by the brides themselves. Guests love the relaxed pace and beautiful surroundings.

Eddie’s favourite spot is the veranda on the eastern side facing the tranquil Boorowa River. It’s a great place for reflection and a quiet beer as parrots drink from the fountain and the sun slowly sinks into the horizon.

At moments like these, it’s hard not thinking of Roger Corcoran, his Irish ancestor who spawned a dynasty in a new land so far from home. >

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Corcoran’s Plains homestead has been home to generations of the Corcoran family; a country wedding with the permanent marquee in the background; local character and custodian Eddie Corcoran; here comes the bride!

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T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

Eddie’s favourite spot is the veranda on the eastern side facing the tranquil Boorowa River.

It’s a great place for reflection and a quiet beer as parrots drink from the fountain and the sun slowly sinks into the horizon.

GRIT AND DETERMINATION

Convicted of crimes punishable by transportation, Eddie’s great grandfather arrived in Port Jackson in 1816 to commence a 14-year sentence. Hard work and a strong faith saw him set up a new life in a new town that, like him, was only just beginning to flex its muscle.

A journalist writing for the Sydney Mail wrote of the character of the small town of Burrowa, as Boorowa was then known. The distinctiveness of the town, he said, was due to most settlers in the district coming from one little Isle of the Shamrock – particularly from the parish of Clonoulty in County Tipperary.

The chain migration was due in no small measure to Roger’s settlement in the area in the late 1820s. As the first landholder in the district, he lived on the Burroway Run until marrying fellow convict Mary Murphy in 1834.

After her death, Roger married a second time, his much younger Irish wife, Catherine, bearing him a further six children. She was a busy woman, also caring for the four surviving children from her husband’s first marriage.

Although they lived in slab huts, things were looking up with 50 acres under wheat and hay, 22 horses, 360 cattle, 1100 sheep and a dairy producing three tonnes of cheese. All in all, a mighty effort for a bloke who couldn’t read or write.

Within a few years, stock numbers tripled on the property, then estimated to be more than 31,000 acres. Roger lived to see the discovery of gold and the rapid expansion of agriculture in the Boorowa district. In 1859, he died from influenza, aged 67, and was buried in the idyllic cemetery at nearby Galong.

Catherine took up the challenge of running the property while raising her large brood on what became known as “Corcoran’s Plains”. Over the next 30 years, the family matriarch became the largest female landholder in the district.

During her reign, sheep numbers in NSW exploded, increasing from six to 62 million, while the size of the average fleece doubled to three kilograms.

The extreme isolation and loneliness faced by these early pioneering women is unimaginable. Attending Sunday church provided some relief and the church became the social hub of the community. When St Patrick’s was built in the 1870s, Catherine had a stained glass window made in memory of her dearly departed husband.

Roger’s son, Jeremiah, and wife Ellen, also gave generously to the church, donating money for the purchase of white Italian marble altars, when the church was refurbished in 1929.

Which brings us back to Eddie and his grand plan of sharing the homestead with wedding groups. He’s sure his mother, who died in her 96th year after a lifetime on the property, would have approved.

Thanks to Eddie’s cousin and family historian Frances Corcoran for sharing family history outlined in this article from her 2012 book From Clonoulty to Boorowa. RLM

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The homestead at sunset; brides love getting ready in the historic home; the front of the homestead; a beautiful room for the newlyweds; the home is spacious and comfortable.

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Historic country property offering a range of outdoor settings for your ceremony and photography.

Large reception marquee with a screened off area for your caterer.

Accommodation available in the homestead for bride and groom, also for bride and her attendants the evening before. Includes continental breakfasts.

Photograph by Camilla Duffy Photograph by J McGrath

Individual packages tailored to suit your needs.

Situated just out of Boorowa - 1½ hrs from Canberra & 3 hrs from Sydney.

288 Cunningar Road Boorowa, New South Wales 2586 Ph. 0408 677 940

COURT WA H O

E US O

BOO R

corcoranplains.com.au

Photograph by Camilla Duffy

BOOROWA COURT HOUSE ARTS & CRAFTS CO-OP Quality Arts And Craft, Magistrate’s Tea Room

Quality ArtsOPEN And Craft, Magistrate’s Tea Room 10.00am TO 5.00pm Daily OPEN 10.00 TO 5.00 Daily

PO BOX 65, Marsden St, Boorowa NSW 2856 02 6385 3885 boorowacraftshop@outlook.com

Kind words from some of our valued customers — “Wonderful scones and great service.”

“What a wonderful place and marvellous volunteers.”

“So many beautiful things, thank you.”

“Love your arts and crafts and beautiful building”

PO BOX 65, Marsden St, Boorowa NSW 2856 02 6385 3885 boorowacraftshop@outlook.com

BOO AR

Quality A

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GUILTY

pleasures

The Boorowa Court House might have made criminals quake in their boots in the past, but these days it’s a place of warm welcome and respite for weary travellers and locals alike.

The Boorowa Court House, which opened in 1886 and continued operation until 1988, now houses the Boorowa Arts and Crafts Cooperative.

The cooperative, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2019, was the brainchild of its founder and then Boorowa Shire Counsellor, Dawn Barton. Dawn recognised the need to provide talented townsfolk with an opportunity to display and sell their art and crafts, provide delicious Devonshire teas to weary travellers and, more recently, to deliver a professional visitor information service.

The cooperative consists of 35 local members who range in age from 30 to 80 years and beyond. Members work at the court house on a voluntary basis, and their talents are wide and varied. Some provide fresh eggs for sale from their farms, some make jams, pickles and chutneys, some make delicate jewellery, and there are always fresh cakes, slices and biscuits for customers to sample and buy. There are many fine knitters and crocheters among the members, which is evident in the beautiful collection of jumpers and hats for all members of the family. The range of homemade babies’ and children’s clothing, shawls, quilts and bootees is impressive, and many customers shop here especially to buy gifts for newborns.

The cooperative’s tea room is located in what used to be the Magistrate’s Office.

While the menu includes light lunches and snacks, it is fair to say that the crème de la creme is the Devonshire tea.

Award-winning scones are cooked on the premises and served with thick fresh cream and locally produced jam. Just like the best tea shops in Ireland and the United Kingdom, the tea is loose leaf and is always served with an extra pot of hot water

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just in case customers wish to refresh their original pot.

The cooperative is headed by an executive that includes president Regina Procter, secretary Lorna Spackman and store manager Karen Smith.

Regina and her husband retired to the beautiful Boorowa area five years ago. Farm life was too quiet and Regina needed an avenue to make friends in the area, so the cooperative was an attractive option for her. As Regina puts it, “Sheep are cute, but they don’t talk and don’t listen very well!”

Regina enjoys helping the travelling public and also making many and varied items for the shop.

Lorna is one of the long-standing members of the cooperative, and over the years has held executive positions as secretary, treasurer, and secretary/ treasurer. Her current tenure as secretary has lasted five years. The cooperative has been a source of enjoyment and friendship since she joined. Lorna is one of the renowned scone makers in the cooperative and has been known to win first prize in the scone section at the annual Boorowa Show.

Karen is one of the newest members of the cooperative, having sought a tree change in April 2019 after retiring from a busy job in Canberra. Karen is a seamstress and traditional Irish cook and has found the cooperative a great way of making friends in her new town and sharing the beauty of Boorowa and its attractions to visitors.

The Boorowa Arts and Crafts Cooperative is a firm favourite with travellers, as this comment from the visitor’s book attests: “What would we do without our lovely stopover at the Boorowa Court House”. In fact, one could say that it would be a crime to miss it. RLM

Award-winning scones are cooked on the premises and served with thick fresh cream and locally produced jam.

FACING PAGE: Boorowa Court House; Regina Procter, Karen Smith, Fay Carey, Lorna Spackman and Dawn Barton with a batch of their famous scones.

ABOVE: The cooperative secretary Lorna Spackman. The famous scones, ready and waiting.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

it takes two

TO TARENGO Restoring Boorowa’s historic “Tarengo” homestead was always going to be a labour of love for semi-retired graziers Roger and Lis Webster.

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Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

When they became only the third owners in the “Tarengo” homestead’s 144-year history, Roger and Lis Webster knew they were in for one big, beautiful headache.

The homestead was built by Fred Hume, nephew of explorer Hamilton Hume, in 1876.

He was determined to leave his own mark for future generations – and what better way than an impressive Victorian homestead with Georgian influences.

Each of the 22 outside doors comes with sturdy barrel bolts, a legacy of bushrangers in the area.

With 17,000 acres of fertile sheep country on the Boorowa River and a stunning new home, Fred wasn’t about to let a few outlaws dampen his enthusiasm for entertaining.

With his children gearing up for marriage, he roofed in the central courtyard, transforming the space into a magnificent ballroom complete with balcony to house the orchestra.

Upstairs was an attic and above that, an enclosed tower where Fred could take in his vast holdings (and keep an eye out for those pesky bushrangers). >

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: The imposing “Tarengo” homestead was built to last; all the rooms have been tastefully decorated; custodians Roger and Lis Webster inspect old photos of the homestead.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

“The rumour goes that the town band would walk out from Boorowa, play all night for the guests, then walk home,” Roger says. “Others swam across the river, with clothes held above their heads, to attend dances.”

According to Stuart Hume’s book Beyond The Borders, the good times came to an abrupt halt in 1907, when Fred, convinced he was going broke, tragically slashed his throat in a deranged moment.

In 1976, after a century in the Hume family, “Tarengo” was sold to a Sydney doctor as an investment property. By the time Roger and Lis took over the reins in 2009, the homestead’s halcyon days were long gone.

Taking on the homestead was always going to be a daunting task but the Websters are practical people and made of stern stuff.

“Roger said he was interested in the dirt and location while I loved the homestead,” says Lis, who knew it would take at least a decade of hard work to make it compatible with 21st century living.

The massive undertaking involved a new roof, plumbing, wiring, guttering and flooring – before the endless paint job. One of the biggest jobs was removing the historic ballroom or pavilion, which had deteriorated past the point of no return.

Building works were finally completed in 2019 with the restoration of the old school house that had blown down in a furious storm. It features a stunning open plan that could well become their new residence – especially if any of their three daughters and their families decide to return.

Until then, Alice Ramsay, “Homedale”, Garah (near Moree), Jane Corkhill, “Dryburgh”, Reids Flat, and Associate Professor Lucy Webster, Cootamundra, and their seven grandchildren, are frequent visitors.

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Early days Roger was born in 1938 at Cowra and raised on the family farm ”Woodlands”, Reids Flat. School lessons were frequently interrupted by Merino activities.

“I always shot through whenever I saw a mob of sheep,” he grins. “Mother persevered for three years with correspondence but eventually figured out the only way to acquire an education was to send me away.”

For eight years he boarded at Sydney’s Newington College, starting in primary school.

While he enjoyed his studies and time in the “Big Smoke” he was always expected to come home to the farm.

Roger commenced full-time work in 1956 when 40 inches of rain wreaked havoc on the Lachlan River. Although it flooded nine times in 13 weeks, the water did little to stem the rabbit population, which had grown to plague proportions.

“We could run two or three sheep to the acre but the rabbits forced us into a drought every February, even in a good season,” Roger says.

“There were no pasture improvement programs in those days and our biggest threat were the rabbits. The big knockout blow was myxomatosis, and before long we more than doubled the carrying capacity.”

The next big thing was meeting his future wife at a Canberra wedding.

“I remember my mother introducing me to Roger as the baby of the family, failing to mention my recent big trip around Australia,” laughs Lis, herself a country girl who, like the Hume family, can trace her family back to the Borders district of Scotland.

The Websters stayed on “Woodlands” before moving onto neighbouring property “Dryburgh”, where they grazed sheep for four decades.

At one stage their farm had a temporary police station, erected to help catch marauding bushrangers like Frank Gardiner and Ben Hall.

The police station and all the outbuildings washed down the Lachlan River in the mighty 1870 floods.

In 2008 they sold some land to move into their dream home, discovered quite by accident while travelling to the coast for a weekend to see Roger’s 99-year-old aunt.

“It was very dilapidated and we probably spent as much on the renovations as we did the property,” Lis admits. It turned out to be a shrewd investment – land values have soared in the area, in some cases doubling within the past five years.

After a wonderful morning, it’s time to go.

There’s plenty of laughter and good wishes.

“We’re not up the race yet,” Roger grins, referring to his love of old wool sheds and their advancing years. “Maybe we’re in the catching pen but we haven’t been caught yet.”

“Maybe at our age, we’re the hardest to shear,” offers his wife and best mate of 47 years.

It’s this ability to laugh at themselves that keeps these remarkable farmers young at heart while enjoying every moment in their delightful, resurrected home. RLM

ABOVE: Roger Webster is the quintessential farmer and grazier with no plans of retirement.

LEFT: The wide, sweeping verandahs are a feature of the homestead.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The old school house has been beautifully restored; inside the historic school house; the homestead seems to go on forever; the shearing shed is still in remarkable condition for its age.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

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Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

all hands ON DECK Legendary Boorowa wool classer John Stephens has spent a lifetime working in woolsheds throughout the district and beyond. This is his story.

The Shearing Contractor Most blokes in their 80s are quietly enjoying their retirement years but John Stephens has bucked the trend and lives to work.

The Boorowa shearing contractor is one of a rare breed of men who ploughed on past the usual knock-off date of 65 years.

When Lifestyle turned up at “Dovers Flat”, a few miles out of town, the energetic 81-year-old was throwing fleeces, penning up sheep, classing and pressing with the gusto of a man half his age.

Although he swapped the handpiece for a contractor’s hat nearly 40 years ago, he’s never been afraid to roll up his sleeves and have a go.

With no prompting or fanfare, John wrestled a big ewe onto the board before getting down to work. It was champagne shearing, no nicks and long smooth blows – all achieved in a calm manner without raising a sweat.

It’s been that way since entering the world in 1939, the fourth and last child of Henry and Annie Stephens, who met while working at Raby Station, Warren.

“All I ever wanted to do was shear sheep and ride horses,” John explains during smoke-oh. “I told my father school was a waste of time and money – I just wanted to get out into the real world and start earning a pay check.”

By the time he was 15, John was roustabouting on a place out on the Bullagreen, north of Warren. It was his first job in a shed but he soon learnt to throw a fleece and pen up.

John Stephens had found his calling early in life, in a job far removed from an office or school. And so began an untarnished, record-breaking 65-year association with the wool industry.

His love for the shearing game is only matched by his passion for horses. John was riding by six and tasted the droving life as a teenager – picking up 1000 head at the Native Dog Bore, a watering hole between Bourke and Enngonia, before delivering the mob six weeks later to Nyngan.

“The woman boss drover had 16 horses and she’d give me a fresh horse each day – they were all decent buckers,” he chuckles.

It was a handy introduction for his next eight years on the rodeo circuit. After a back-breaking week of shearing, John unwound by jumping on fresh bullocks and feisty buckjumpers.

Shearing and rodeo are notoriously tough on an untrained body but John had a natural flair for both. By 19 he was shearing full time with regular trips to Louth each January, where temperatures often soared into the 50s.

“If the heat in the shed didn’t kill you, the mozzies would eat you alive,” he says, shaking his head as if it were yesterday.

John worked in hundreds of sheds around Warren but one of the biggest moments in his young life took place on a quiet street in Boorowa.

Standing outside Pappa’s Cafe, John spotted a lively lass crossing the road. The bush telegraph revealed the mystery girl was nursing at the hospital.

The plucky shearer besieged her with phone calls until she finally agreed to check him out. Trishie liked what she saw.

The pair have cruised through 55 years of marriage with children Darren, who lives with his partner on a property between Yass and Boorowa, and Lana in Noosa.

“I’m probably biased but Darren is the best shearer I’ve come across,” he says matter-of-factly. “He’s the only bloke I’ve seen shear 401 eight-month-old Merino lambs in a day.”

At one stage, father and son were handling 250,000 sheep a year. On one occasion they shore 568 sheep in a single day. Trishie worked just as hard, clocking up half a century in country hospitals before finally stepping down in her 75th year.

John reckons the introduction of the mobile phone was the most significant change in his career, signalling the end of long nights on the phone organising rosters.

“It’s been a great life,” he grins. “I’ve never worked on weekends or broken a bone in my body. In the sheds I’ve met terrific blokes from all walks of life and never witnessed a blue.”

Although the years are slowly adding up, John has no plans to slow down.

“I’ve known a stack of farmers that retire in town and within six months they end up on the hill (cemetery),” he says quietly.

He figures the best plan is to keep working while enjoying all his favourite things – baked dinners, Holden utes, horse-breaking, Slim Dusty and the Parramatta Eels.

And at the going down of the sun he looks forward to a single scotch and Coke to celebrate 65 long years in the wool industry. >

ABOVE: Boorowa couple John and Trishie Stephens have been happily married for 55 years.

FACING PAGE: John loves being a shearing contractor and still enjoys shearing the odd ewe despite his advancing years.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

The Shearer Grahame “Shaver” Mewburn started working in a woolshed at age nine after his father broke his back in a horseriding accident.

The youngster joined his two brothers to help crutch his father’s sheep. By the time he was 12, he was shearing and paying taxes. In a few short years, he will quietly celebrate 50 years in a woolshed, nearly all of them as a shearer.

It’s physically demanding work and the days are long but Shaver, who never had time to learn to read and write, wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Boorowa is still the home of shearing.

There’s not a lot of work around if you’re not a shearer, teacher, nurse or council worker,” he says.

Shaver first started shearing for John Stephens in 1980 and describes him as a hard but fair man.

“He’s straight down the line and tells you the way it is. By crikey, he knows how to work. I take my hat off to him. It’s bloody hard shearing at my age – imagine how tough it would be in your 80s.”

Shaver’s son Ben, 23, is also a shearer and lives with Shaver and his mother Gail on “Beragoon”, Rugby.

“I never thought I’d be a shearer,” he grins. “I thought I’d be breeding them and not shearing them. There’s not much tension when I’m shearing with the old man. There’s always time for small talk, usually about the condition of the sheep.”

ABOVE: Local character and accomplished shearer “Shaver” Mewburn has been shearing since he was a young man.

It’s physically demanding work and the days are long but Shaver, who never had time to learn to read and write, wouldn’t have it any other way.

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The Grazier Business relationships in the bush can often span decades, sometimes generations.

Long-standing grazier Jill Adams, “Dovers Flat”, Boorowa, has used the services of shearing contractor John Stephens for the past 31 years.

“John is a very capable operator,” she says, referring to the man responsible for the shearing of her 200-strong South Suffolk flock. Her ewes are prolific breeders, with most producing twin lambs each year.

When Jill was younger, she ran up to 3000 Merinos on her 1500-acre property.

She has seen it all and then some since her 1928 birth during the Great Depression.

The sprightly and well-groomed 91-yearold has been on the farm all her life, mustering on foot by age six.

“Dad always thought horses were dangerous and preferred a car,” she smiles.

“When I was little we used to put a halter and saddle on our big and very quiet calves.

“It was an accepted practice in those days, when most farmers had a set of bullock teams to help with the work.”

The farm is still in the grip of a shocking drought, the likes of which Jill has never experienced. There aren’t many running farms in their 90s but this resilient country woman is proving she’s up to the task.

Apart from outside help to assist with mustering her small Angus herd and marking the lambs, Jill does just about everything else.

“It keeps me fit and a long way from the nursing home,” she grins as another successful shearing draws to a close. RLM RIGHT: Jill Adams has been on the land a very long time and has no intention of slowing down.

When Jill was younger, she ran up to 3000 Merinos on her 1500-acre property. She has seen it all and then some since her 1928 birth during the Great Depression.

LEFT: Shearing contractor John Stephens and grazier Jill Adams celebrate a 30-year working relationship in the “Dovers Flat” woolshed.

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all power to you Sharee Darmody’s Weekend Warriors always rise to the challenge and are aptly rewarded.

“Everyone needs to step out of their everyday life and stress for the sake of their mental wellbeing,” Weekend Warrior founder Sharee Darmody says.

Sharee has been on the land in Boorowa a long time and knows the importance of taking a break during tough times.

“It doesn’t have to cost a lot; you just have to do something you love and do it away from your work, which for us is our very dry property.

“My husband Bill loves taking off on his motor bike, but for me it’s taking women away on walking groups – sometimes for a day, a weekend and occasionally longer. There’s a walking adventure to suit everyone in my group.”

Sharee has always been a fitness guru, including spending many years as an instructor.

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Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

“Throughout the last 18 years I’ve been focused on teaching Pilates and my outdoor walking adventures. They are both mind and body healers that have far more benefits than just getting a little fitter.”

With a love of the outdoors, it was only a matter of time before Sharee got into mountain hiking. And then a light bulb moment. About nine years ago she was approached by four women who wanted to train for a marathon charity event.

“Long story short, I trained them, they loved it and they blitzed the 26km event – and I have to say, continued with this event nearly every year.”

The women wanted to continue with their training and soon the word was out.

“I realised there was an interest and need for a women’s-only group to come together to walk, hike, talk, laugh and challenge themselves,” she says.

“It’s about creating more self-worth and increasing self-confidence in a nurturing and, at times, challenging environment. There is nothing like completing a challenge that you thought impossible.”

Sharee says that feeling of empowerment works on both physical and mental levels and often results in amazing transformations.

“Women are always giving – to their husbands/partners, children, elderly parents, work and home.

“Weekend Warriors is a chance to get away from everything and simply embrace nature with other like-minded women, while trekking and enjoying new experiences.”

Sharee has been lucky enough to hike in some amazing places in Africa, Japan, Nepal and South America.

“I have met the most beautiful people and witnessed breathtaking scenery that has changed me for the better,” she says.

“In the past I travelled with friends, both in mixed and women’s only groups, and decided I wanted to take other women on a journey to feel what I had experienced. It was the reason I started Weekend Warriors.”

Sharee has reached the summit of Cradle Mountain, walked the Great Ocean Road, completed the 26km Kiama Coastal Walk and Sydney’s Seven Bridges. They’ve hiked Wilsons Promontory, Mt Buffalo and The Grampians in Victoria as well as tackling walks on the South Coast.

“We’ve laughed, almost cried, shared stories and concerns, solved the problems of the world and stayed in amazing places.

After finishing a walk, we always celebrate with great food and a glass or two of wine.”

Sharee says they always return home rejuvenated, refreshed and ready to resume their former lives.

“My groups consist of no more than 12 women that come together for adventure and fun in a nurturing environment. Every trip we do is our best trip – till the next one anyway!”

Sharee is passionate about health, travel and empowering women to strive for their best – and put themselves first, even if it’s just for a short while. RLM To find out more about Sharee’s walks, check out her website: pilateshealthadventure.com.au.

ABOVE: Ben Darmody is home to help parents Bill and Sharee on the farm while working as a barista at a local coffee shop.

FACING PAGE: Sharee Darmody is passionate about improving the lives of other women through her Weekend Warriors program. Pictured third from left, Sharee has taken small groups all over the world.

Wantana Cottage Farm Stay Relax & unwind on a working 1000 acre sheep farm in a newly renovated station-hand 3 bedroom self-contained cottage, that has the real country feel with essential mod cons; like extra comfortable beds, high quality linen, reverse cycle air-conditioning & coffee machine with amazing country views and beautiful starry nights, just 10kms from Boorowa. Sleeps 8

For bookings contact Sharee & Bill on 0427 200 981 wantana@bigpond.com or www.airbnb.com.au-wantanacottagefarmstay

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T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

an all-round EDUCATION

St Joseph’s Primary School at Boorowa might be small but it has earned a big reputation for academic success, community engagement and unique educational programs.

Established by the Sisters of Mercy in 1882, the Kindergarten to Year 6 St Joseph’s Primary School is well established in a rural setting on the edge of town, close to the Boorowa River.

Refurbished original buildings and modern facilities offer 21st century learning in a supportive family-orientated environment.

The staff of 14 work closely with a student population of 93. A varied curriculum provides opportunities for scholastic achievement, sporting success, cultural and environmental awareness and creative, social and emotional development.

Making Jesus real every day is a core value of the systemic Catholic school.

“The motto Together in Christ underpins all that we do,” principal Brendan Maynard says.

“Every day we strive to follow our vision of Creating, Innovating and Celebrating.”

Reaching out to others is an important part of the school’s ethos. Students visit

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the elderly at Burrowa House aged care facility, read stories to children at the local pre-school and provide service and support through Mini Vinnies – a junior branch of the St Vincent de Paul Society.

The school has a varied sports program with opportunities for competition at district and state level.

Senior students travel to Melbourne biennially to experience metropolitan life while Years 3 and 4 learn about Aboriginal culture during camps designed to develop an understanding of the first peoples and nations of Australia.

Each year St Joseph’s invites students from metropolitan secondary schools to visit the town and district to explore agricultural and environmental issues.

“Year 6 students work alongside local farmers, businesses and organisations and prepare reports, which are presented to city visitors,” Brendan says.

“The Boorowa Educational Excursion Program (BEEP) gives city visitors the

opportunity to gain hands-on experience as they learn about topics as varied as wool, wheat and canola production, export processes, and projects protecting and rejuvenating the land.

“BEEP is a great resource for metropolitan schools and allows our students to gain skills in report writing, public speaking and social interaction.”

At the beginning of each year, St Joseph’s students have the opportunity to showcase their creative skills through participation in Operation Art – an initiative of the Children’s Hospital at Westmead and NSW government and non-government schools.

“An exhibition held in Boorowa receives great community support,” Brendan says.

“Selected pieces are displayed at Sydney Olympic Park, and a number of artworks are given to the Children’s Hospital to help lift the spirits of young patients.

“St Joseph’s Primary proudly participates in local events including Anzac and Remembrance Day ceremonies,

Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

Boorowa Show and the annual Woolfest celebration.

“Each October we join forces with Boorowa Public School to co-host a huge primary school touch football and netball carnival.

“Considered to be the biggest event of its kind in the southern hemisphere, the carnival attracts about 7000 people from all over NSW and the ACT, including 4000 children competing in 350 teams.”

Brendan is proud of the great things happening at St Joseph’s, the sense of pride and passion within the school and its strong community culture.

Solar panels have been installed to help cover energy costs and a bore water irrigation system ensures the school grounds are green and attractive.

The lush school environment is particularly important in times of drought and helps to give people a sense of joy as they walk through the gate. RLM Words: Heather Crosby

Each year St Joseph’s invites students from metropolitan secondary schools to visit the town and district to explore agricultural and environmental issues.

FACING PAGE: St Joseph’s Primary School, Boorowa.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Lucy Bowman reading with her buddies; Years 3/4 working away in the newly refurbished classroom; Harry Dymock at the old school bell; the original school building built in 1882; Year 5/6 engaged in a favourite lunctime game.

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company & care The good citizens of Boorowa are known for looking after their own, with many of the town’s senior citizens seeing out their days with Burrowa Aged Care.

On the edge of town, the retirement precinct includes a 12-bed residential aged care facility at Burrowa House and 16 independent care villa units at Burrowa Retirement Village. Another four community housing units come under the umbrella of Burrowa Cottages.

The jewel in the crown, Burrowa House, opened in 1993 after an enterprising and hard-working committee secured funding and approval to construct the facility. Over the past 27 years, hundreds of residents have called it home.

The facility prides itself on the high standard and quality of care delivered to residents in a homely, country-style atmosphere.

“In recent times, the Royal Commission has thrown a bad light on aged care residential facilities,” business manager Phil Coggins says. “We pass all inspections and accreditations with flying colours when it

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comes to food safety and residential care.”

President Andrew Mitchell understands what it’s like having a family member live in a retirement home. His wife’s mother moved into the home to be nearer to family.

“It’s a great form of care, a great service for the community and a great way to have the elderly safely ensconced without friends and family having to travel,” he says.

For the elderly residents, proximity to the best medical care is of major importance.

The hospital is only 200 metres away, and there are two GP surgeries in town, including one only a few minutes away.

The town and 15 staff are all looking forward to a new $3 million expansion, which is scheduled to be completed in early 2021, after approval to increase the number of aged care beds from 12 to 20, including more room for dementia patients.

Fundraising of nearly $1 million is needed to make the new building a reality.

Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

“Mon” and Jean Grocott Like his parents before him, 90-year old “Mon” Grocott has lived in Boorowa all his life. He and wife Jean recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

“My mother used to say you don’t get that for murder but we are very happy here,” says Jean, who met her husband at the cafe during her nursing days.

“We know just about everyone here.

Many of us went to school together and we’ve known each other our entire lives.”

Mon agrees. “In small towns there’s always somebody to help you. In here we have blokes that I may not have known personally but you still knew of them.

You’d see them at the football or tennis, maybe at the movies or the local dances – all fun and cheap entertainment back in the day.” >

FACING PAGE: Jennifer Grey, Lynne Mitchell, Phil Coggins, Greta Campbell and Bridget Chudleigh with resident Helen Nixon (seated) and her visiting sister Robyn Veness; former Yass girl Pat Croker.

Pat was photographed tickling the ivories for Bob Armstrong.

RIGHT: “Mon” and Jean Grocott have been married 65 years.

The older rooms have been refurbished.

The new rooms under construction will be roomy and well designed with a modern look.

All rooms have en-suite bathrooms suitable for aged residents.

Excellent, homely country cooked meals completely prepared on site.

BURROWA HOUSE RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE Burrowa House is a 12-bed residential aged care facility, currently undergoing expansion to 20 beds.

Boorowa is situated on the Lachlan Valley Way between Yass and Cowra. We are only 35 minutes from Young, 50 minutes from Cowra and 1 hour 20 minutes to the centre of Canberra.

BurrowaHouse HouseininBoorowa Boorowa Burrowa

A large modern wellfurnished communal dining room.

Modern television room with comfortable chairs.

An activities room where residents may play cards, bingo and enjoy craft and other activities.

Wireless broadband is available for all residents.

Beautiful gardens with “bush views.

We have well trained, caring staff 24/7.

further information facilities or to • A•12-bed aged care facility.

• An• activities room isarrange forisbingo and card A For 12-bed aged care facility.on our Community owned and operated An activities room foran bingo and players card players inspection please call our Care Manager, Judy Ann on 02 6385 3773 or mobile 0484 000 797 • All• rooms have just been modernised with new and other activities.

All rooms have just been modernised with new and other activities.

Ford Street, Boorowa NSW 2586 carpet and and curtains and and a re-paint.

• There are “Broadband for Seniors” carpet curtains a79 re-paint.

• There are “Broadband for Seniors” • All• rooms have an ensuite bathroom. computers available.

All rooms have an ensuite bathroom. computers available.

• There are sizeable community dining facilities.

• Wireless broadband is available for allfor residents.

• There are sizeable community dining facilities.

• Wireless broadband is available all residents.

• Modern television room withwith comfortable new new chairs.

• Excellent, homely, country cooked meals.meals.

• Modern television room comfortable chairs.

• Excellent, homely, country cooked

BOOROWA RLM 123 Boorowa is situated on the Valley Way Way between YassYass and Cowra.

Boorowa is situated on Lachlan the Lachlan Valley between and Cowra.

We We are are onlyonly 35 minutes to Young, 50 minutes to Cowra, 40 minutes to Yass and 1and hour 20 minutes to Canberra.

35 minutes to Young, 50 minutes to Cowra, 40 minutes to Yass 1 hour 20 minutes to Canbe

ABOVE: Betty Power, 90, has lived in Boorowa all her life, including 50 years on a farm.

ABOVE: Pat Croker came from Yass but married a Boorowa man after a chance meeting at the tennis.

Max Mewburn When you look at Max Mewburn you’d never guess he’s one of the last surviving WW2 veterans in the district, having served time in South Africa and the Kokoda Track in New Guinea.

Born and bred in Rugby, the strapping country lad put his age up to go to war.

Standing six foot six and weighing a formidable 18 stone, no one was game enough to challenge him.

He signed up for WW2 in Crookwell and in his day he was an accomplished sportsman, winning the Golden Gloves in the army and later becoming a very good tennis and bowls player.

ABOVE: Max Mewburn, 97, is the last surviving WW2 veteran in town.

ABOVE: Boorowa Hostel President Andrew Mitchell with wife Carolyn and mother-in-law Suzanne Walker.

Carol Carpenter Carol Carpenter, 70, moved into a villa two years ago and hasn’t looked back.

“I’ve never experienced such comfort in my life,” she enthuses. “There’s plenty of water, air-conditioning, space and friends. There’s simply nothing to worry about except having a good time and doing your own thing.”

Since moving in, Carol has found plenty of time to reflect on her campervan adventures throughout the country.

“In some ways it’s not all that different from life in the motor home.

If you want to talk to somebody you simply stick your head out the door and say g’day,” she smiles.

Fortunately for Carol, her chosen retirement home is pet friendly, meaning she can share her home with therapy dog and best mate Mishka.

She interacts with the residents of Burrowa House during special activities and enjoys not having to mow the lawn and having the freedom to do as she wishes.

LEFT: Phil Coggins with villa resident Carol Carpenter and her best mate, Mishka.

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Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

Phoebe Stuart Phoebe Stuart moved in after breaking her hip. The 90-year-old grew up on a local farm and has lived in the district her entire life.

“I grew up on a property and we walked, rode a pushbike or sulky four miles into town,” she says. “During the war years petrol rationing meant we were very lucky to ever get driven to school.”

After the war, Phoebe married an ex Air Force “Boorowa Boy” and went on to enjoy a great life in Boorowa, including many years as a nurse. Phoebe loves her room and keeps it spotless. RLM

LEFT: Phoebe Stuart has lived in the Boorowa district all of her 90 years.

ABOVE: President Andrew Mitchell, Business Manager Phil Coggins, Treasurer Phil Armitage, and Life Member of the Management Committee Dawn Barton.

INDEPENDENT LIVING IN BOOROWA

Each year, our retirement community grows as more locals are realising they can have affordable accommodations with all the perks of independent living.

Boorowa is situated on the Lachlan Valley Way between Yass and Cowra. We are only 35 minutes from Young, 50 minutes from Cowra and 1 hour 20 minutes to the centre of Canberra.

BURROWA RETIREMENT VILLAGE 16 one- and two-bedroom independent living, self-care air-conditioned Villa Units.

All Villas have a single car garage built under the same roofline with automatic door and internal access.

Villas are modern and roomy with pleasant “bush” outlooks.

Villas are affordable on a “lend lease” basis. Entry fees start at a low $160,000.

The village has 14 self-care one or two bedroom villas.

• All villas have a garage built under the same roof with an internal entry and an automatic door.

• All villas have “vital call” facilities.

• All rooms are spacious with a pleasant outlook.

• Villas are affordable on a “lend lease” basis with entry fees from $180,000 depending on vacancies.

• Fortnightly charge for recurrent charges is $145 to $160.

• Recurrent charges cover: - All Council rates and charges including garbage charges.

- Electricity charges for street lighting and community services.

- All water rates and usageon charges.

For further information our Community owned and operated facilities or to arrange an inspection - Building call insurance. please our Business Manager, Phil Coggins on 02 6385 3773 or mobile 0402 431 570 - Building maintenance.

- Basic gardening and lawn mowing.

79 Ford Street, Boorowa NSW 2586 • Plenty of room for expansion with space for another 70 villas.

Boorowa is situated on the Lachlan Valley Way between Yass and Cowra. We are only 35 minutes to Young, 50 minutes to Cowra, 40 minutes to Yass and 1 hour 20 minutes to Canberra. We can send you a disclosure statement on our villas and a floor plan.

Contact details: For further information on our facilities please call our Manager, Judy Ann on 6385 3773, 79 Ford Street Boorowa NSW 2586

Very reasonable fortnightly recurrent charges.

NSW COMMUNITY HOUSING COTTAGES 4 one-bedroom units available with low rents in accordance with NSW Housing rent policy.

“Nurse Call” system in all Villas and Cottages.

Mowing of lawns and basic gardening is provided for Villas and Cottages.

BOOROWA RLM 125

market forces Strong customer service underpins the success of Flemings Property Services, a growing business headed by three refreshing lads with their hearts firmly in the bush.

Flemings Property Services managing director Justin Fleming has been in the industry 11 years, having gained valuable experience under Andrew Mitchell at Boorowa Real Estate. In late 2018, the business was renamed and the doors were opened to Flemings Property Services.

Justin’s partner in the business and marketing manager Richie Fleming (no relation) joined the team in 2016 after four years in Sydney working with Woolworths and Optus.

When Lifestyle dropped in for a brief visit, Richie had just returned from a visit to his Irish homeland. While he loved seeing his family and enjoyed the visit, he now feels at home in Australia and in particular the Hilltops area.

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In mid 2019, the business welcomed sales manager Chris Ryan as a new partner. Before moving to the country, Chris was based in Western Sydney with CBRE, the largest real estate business in the world.

Chris has now settled between Young and Cootamundra, running the Flemings office in Cootamundra, married to Emily and helping raise their first child, Oscar. Chris’s expertise and experience are contributing greatly to the success of the business.

The high-functioning trio are one focused outfit. All three agents love operating in the bush, building their business, supporting the community and offering second-to-none customer service.

Richie says rural land prices have exploded in recent years.

Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

“Despite the drier times, demand for rural property remains very strong. We’ve achieved some record prices per acre for some of our clients, which has been very satisfying.”

According to Richie, some country has doubled in value over the past four or five years, with prime land around Cootamundra, Harden, Boorowa and Young commanding anything from $3500 to $5000 an acre.

Residential property sales have also been strong but you can still find a reasonable three-bedroom home in Cootamundra and Harden from around $200,000. Expect to pay about $250,000 for similar properties in Boorowa.

“Right now, the market is busy and performing very well in sales and rental accommodation,” Justin says.

Chris agrees. “In this area, well-presented and accurately priced properties always sell well. Our focus is to deliver great service in an honest and efficient way. By doing this we achieve good results for our clients.”

Each Wednesday, the three partners catch up for a cuppa to discuss the business and opportunities in the marketplace.

With nine skilled and hard-working staff in three locations, the team is focused on offering services in rural, residential and commercial sales, property management and auctioneering services.

“We want to continue to grow the business and we want it to continue to be a business that provides excellent service to vendors, purchasers, landlords and tenants,” Justin says.

“Rural sales are becoming increasingly important for our business, with some record-breaking results. We’re showing that a small nimble business is every bit as capable as the big corporates.” RLM

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Justin Fleming; Richie Fleming outside their Harden office; Chris Ryan.

FACING PAGE: Richie Fleming, Chris Ryan and Justin Fleming make a formidable team at Flemings Property Services.

OR ORSA SA SA LE LE SA LE FFFFOR LE OR SA LE 9-11 9-11 Little Little Street, Street, Boorowa Boorowa NSW NSW 2586 2586 9-11 Little Street, Boorowa NSW 9-11 9-11 Little Little Street, Street, Boorowa Boorowa NSW NSW 2586 2586 9-11 Little Street, Boorowa NSW 2586 9-11 Little Street, Boorowa NSW 2586 9-11 Little Street, Boorowa NSW 2586

INSPECT INSPECT NOW! NOW! INSPECT NOW! INSPECT NOW! INSPECT NOW! INSPECT NOW! PHONE: PHONE: 02 02 6385 6385 3337 3337 OR OR0429 0429 0429 820 820 389 389 PHONE: 02 6385 3337 OR 820 389 PHONE: PHONE: 0202 6385 02 6385 3337 3337 ORNOW! 0429 OR 0429 820 820 389 389 INSPECT PHONE: 6385 3337 OR 820 389 PHONE: 02 6385 3337 OR0429 0429 820 389

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PHONE: 02 6385 3337 OR 0429 820 389

PROPER PROPER TY TYYSERVIC SERVIC SERVIC E ES;S;REA REA LLEE ESTATE STATE AGE AGE NTS·AUC NTS·AUC TI TI ONEER ONEER S·PROPER S·PROPER TY TYNAGEME YMA MA MA NAGEME NAGEME NT NT PROPER S; STATE AGE NTS·AUC TI ONEER S·PROPER NAGEME NT PROPER PROPER T Y SERVIC SERVIC E S; EE REA E LREA REA E STATE STATE AGEAGE NTS·AUC AGE NTS·AUC TI ONEER TI ONEER S·PROPER S·PROPER T Y MA MA NAGEME NT NT NT PROPER TTT LLL TI S·PROPER TTT PROPER TYY YSERVIC SERVIC ES;S; S;REA REA LEE ESTATE STATE AGENTS·AUC NTS·AUC TIONEER ONEER S·PROPER TYY YMA MANAGEME NAGEME NT PROPER T Y SERVIC E S; REA L E STATE AGE NTS·AUC TI ONEER S·PROPER T Y MA NAGEME NT

$720,000 $720,000 $720,000 $720,000 $720,000 $720,000

3 333 33 3

2 222 22 2 222 22 2 2

WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C OM OM WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C OM WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C OMOM OM WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C OM WWW.FLEMINGSPS.C OM BOOROWA RLM 127

Many people like to walk for relaxation and exercise but perhaps none with the steely resolve and finesse of Boorowa widow Anne Jackson, who walks up to five times each day.

The former UK catwalk model, now 85, still walks as though she is balancing three books on her head.

Having never held a car licence, Anne has always relied on her natural athleticism and long legs for travel.

By 14 she was representing her town in the high jump and by 17 training as a model in Leeds, about 30 miles and a world away from the family farm where she lived with her parents and younger brother.

Anne's first job in Manchester was with a Mr Woodhead, who worked for F.R. Roberts, the man behind the fabulous suits and coats.

"I was a mannequin, parading their clothes and rarely in front of the camera," she says demurely, before locating a dusty old black and white of herself taken a lifetime ago.

"I loved doing shows on the catwalk. You had to smile, walk elegantly and show the clothes off to their best advantage."

Her modelling days ended the day she agreed to marry a groomsman she'd met briefly at her uncle's Australian wedding several years earlier. She'd left school at 16 to attend the wedding with life-changing ramifications.

Despite not having seen each other in the intervening years, Anne agreed to move to Sydney and start a new life with this virtual stranger.

Before long she was mother to Carol, who suffered lifelong health issues and died at 45, and Judith, a retired UK vet now living in Canberra.

In 1969 she married again, to a man 16 years her senior. Another two children were added to the family. Son Jonathon works in an abattoir, drives a taxi and breeds Arab horses in Wayo, near Crookwell, while daughter Freyia has a shop in Lithgow.

Following the death of her second husband, Anne moved into a Goulburn flat. Once her son finished building his own house she absconded with his caravan to start a new and simpler way of life with her beloved dog Ruff.

In 1999 they moved into the Boorowa Caravan Park and for many years the dog and his master were a familiar sight on the streets of Boorowa.

Sadly, Ruff was run over by a reversing car several years ago and lies buried beside the caravan. After a formidable 17-year friendship, the loss was devastating.

Anne admits some days seem to go on forever.

With no television or garden, she listens to ABC classical music, enjoys quizzes and leafing through old copies of National Geographic.

The quietly spoken grandmother is no fan of nursing homes and says her walks keep her invigorated and young at heart. Walking, she says, offers quality time to think about her children and eight grandchildren.

Next time you pass her, offer a smile and friendly wave or, better still, say hello to one of Boorowa's true treasures. A smile costs nothing and is guaranteed to make her day, and yours. RLM

a walk on the

mild side Boorowa’s Anne Jackson is forever putting her best foot forward.

ABOVE: Boorowa walker Anne Jackson with a beautiful portrait of herself taken a lifetime ago in England.

“I loved doing shows on the catwalk. You had to smile, walk elegantly and show the clothes off to their best advantage.”

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Boorowa T O W N F E AT U R E

TRIED & TRUE

Boorowa’s oldest pub is doing what it’s done since the 1850s – offering patrons a friendly place to enjoy a cold beverage, great pub meal and a welcoming bed for the night.

The Court House Hotel, sitting proudly in the middle of the town’s major crossroads, has a long and proud association with Boorowa.

Starting off as the Crown Inn in 1853, the historic pub has swapped gaming revenue for good old-fashioned service, meals seven days a week and 12 air-conditioned rooms, some with TVs, from $50 a night – the best value in town.

The locals love it as much as the visitors, who enjoy the ambience of an old country pub.

It’s a pub where you never know who you will meet – the clientele represents a fair smattering of the town’s farmers, footy players and council workers.

After a decade at the helm, publican Chris McIntosh has his finger in many pies. His pub sponsors junior and senior rugby league – the Boorowa Rovers and Bushrangers.

Naturally, the footy generates plenty of conversation on the weekends.

The former Harden man and his team of 15 staff welcome you to the Court House and drive-through bottle shop.

It’s a great experience to enjoy a historic watering hole without the sound of pokies or the gallopers in the background.

Just like 170 years ago, when the town was taking its first tentative steps, the Court House Hotel continues to play a key role in the community. RLM

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Court House is the one of the oldest pubs in the district; Kim Blomfield shows off a standard pub room; Jess Hoare pours a cold beer.

THE COURT HOUSE HOTEL OFFERS ECONOMICAL COUNTRY STYLE ACCOMMODATION WITH 12 SPACIOUS ROOMS. AIR CONDITIONED IN SUMMER, OPEN FIRES IN WINTER • A CHOICE OF REFRESHING BEERS ON TAP BISTRO / RESTAURANT OPEN 7 DAYS • BEST SCHNITZELS IN THE AREA • LOCAL LIQUOR BOTTLESHOP

12 MARSDEN ST BOOROWA • PHONE: (02) 6385 3005 • WWW.COURTHOUSEHOTELBOOROWA.COM.AU

BOOROWA RLM 129

T O W N F E AT U R E Boorowa

in safe hands The Boorowa Community Bank is investing in the area’s wellbeing and prosperity.

Do you remember the bank depicted in the 1964 movie classic Mary Poppins? In the movie, dour, money-obsessed bankers sought to bully a cowering Michael into giving them his tuppence. The Dawes, Tomes, Mousely, Grubbs Fidelity Fiduciary Bank was all about investment gain to individuals. This is the antithesis of the Boorowa Community Bank, which is led by a board that invests returns directly into the local community.

The bank is a “community bank”, which means that it was created on the instigation of the community in Boorowa and the surrounding area. When a former bank decided to close its doors and leave town, concerned citizens worked together to draft a prospectus to gauge interest in the establishment of a community bank. Three hundred and forty people took a calculated risk and registered as shareholders, and so the bank was born on May 12, 2001, amid celebration with special guests Dick Smith and Ron and Valerie Taylor in attendance.

Since its inception, the Boorowa Community Bank Board has been admirably chaired by Sue Corcoran and

130 RLM BOOROWA

capably managed by Greg Pryor. This stable leadership team has built trust and provided a strong ethos of constancy and consistency.

The bank’s values of courtesy, respect, discretion, and understanding are shared by Greg and his team, Darren Manton, Jenny Dwyer, Adele Piper and Julie Dunn. All team members live in the area so they understand the rural economy and go out of their way to provide excellent customer service.

In addition to how its business is done, the bank provides access to award-winning financial products and services and is also committed to returning profits to the local community.

The bank has provided the community with over $2 million in grants and donations since it opened. For example, in 2019, the bank purchased and distributed 10 defribrillators throughout Boorowa and surrounds. Nine of the defribrillators were supplied to a number of different businesses and community organisations and the 10th unit is a roving unit available from the Boorowa Community Bank for community events. Staff in receiving organisations have

also been given training in the operation of the units, and while it is hoped the units are never needed, the knowledge that life-saving equipment is at hand is of great comfort.

The bank also provided $100,000 for extensions to Burrowa House, which is an aged care facility in Boorowa. This grant means that the facility will expand from 12 beds to 20 beds. The extension is expected to be completed in late 2020.

In Mary Poppins, a terrified Michael ran from the deathly clutches of avaricious bankers, but here in Boorowa the opposite is true. Banking with the Boorowa Community Bank means sure knowledge that one’s tuppence is safely invested in the community. RLM Words: Karen Smith

ABOVE: Darren Manton, Greg Pryor (Manager), Jenny Dwyer, Adele Piper, Julie Dunn and Amanda Beeson are the friendly team from the Boorowa Community Bank.

Over $2 million has been given back to the community through grants, sponsorships, donations and dividends.

The bank that supports the community We offer a full range of banking products and services, including Home Loans

Personal Loans

Credit Cards

Savings Accounts

General Insurance

Community Bank branches provide communities with more than just quality banking services, they deliver employment opportunities for local people, keep local capital in the community, are a local investment option for shareholders and provide a source of revenue for the important community projects determined by the local community.

19 years servicing the banking needs of the Boorowa Community & surrounds

Call into the Boorowa Community Bank Branch and talk to our friendly staff about how we can help you with your banking needs.

32 Marsden Street, Boorowa NSW 2856 P: 02 6385 3277 • F: 02 6385 3446 E: 9235@bendigoadelaide.com.au

HARDEN TOWN FE ATURE WORDS & IMAGES: JAKE LINDSAY

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Harden T O W N F E AT U R E

HARDEN RLM 133

A TRUE asset The revamped Country Motel in Harden is all thanks to a former Sydney couple who ensured the town had quality overnight accommodation.

Hilton and Alison Doberer made the tree change from the Hawkesbury to Harden eight years ago after running various businesses and raising a brood of nine children.

The couple had moved into Windsor in the 1970s when it was still a small country town.

“Now it’s amalgamated into Sydney Metro and lost its character,” sighs Alison, a former Tamworth girl who was always up for a challenge.

With no prior experience in the hospitality industry, they purchased Harden’s only motel, relying on people skills garnered from family gatherings.

Today, the Country Motel boasts 23 rooms, featuring all the mod cons of home.

“We decided to go country and not coastal, which tends to be seasonal,” Alison says. “We wanted to be only three to four hours’ drive to Sydney and Harden-Murrumburrah ticked all the boxes.”

They spent their first 12 months renovating rooms and building the business. In 2015, they commenced construction of a magnificent two-storey building, with a function room and wheelchair-friendly rooms – the first motel in the area to do so.

“When we built the new section we advised our architect to design a building to fit in with the heritage of our local community,” Hilton says.

“It looks 100 years old and probably half our guests compliment us for renovating a classic old country pub,” he laughs. “That always pleases us no end, especially having used local builders and tradies.”

The new building gives them the capacity to handle small weddings, coaches and business functions.

The function room can seat about 30 with all catering carried out by Alison. Dinner and breakfast are served to your room, while sitdown meals in the licensed dining rooms are available for groups and coach loads.

The motel has been a great community asset, with guests staying in town to fill up on fuel and meals.

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Harden T O W N F E AT U R E

“It helps keeps visitors in town,” Alison says. “And the goodwill is spread throughout the local economy.”

On a personal level, the rooms where they originally lived have since been converted into two large family rooms, meaning there’s plenty of space in the new complex for when some of their 19 grandchildren drop in.

After eight years at the helm, the Doberers are thriving in their adopted town, despite soaring 40 degree summer days.

“It’s an extremely friendly community and we love being part of it,” Hilton says with a grin. “The business community works together and we’ve made some great friends while meeting new people every day.” RLM ABOVE: Rooms at the revamped Country Motel are clean and modern.

LEFT: The licensed dining room is utilised for small functions, groups and bus groups.

FACING PAGE: The new section of the Country Motel is often mistaken for a revamped old pub; Hilton and Alison Doberer love the motel life.

HARDEN COUNTRY MOTEL 42-50 Albury Street Harden, NSW

Your hosts Hilton and Alison welcome you to the Harden Country Motel, a rural motel set in historic Harden-Murrumburrah.

Breakfast Garden Pool Free WiFi Daily Housekeeping In-Room Dining Service Conference Room Wheelchair Accessible Rooms 02 6386 2377 bookings@hardenmotel.com.au www.hardenmotel.com.au @harden.country.motel

HARDEN RLM 135

T O W N F E AT U R E Harden

let’s go f ly a kite From skilled professionals to tentative novices, the welcome mat is out for everyone to embrace kite flying at the Harden Kite Festival, an annual event held in October.

The Harden Kite Festival is a major event for Harden, a Hilltops Region town located in the Southern Tablelands of NSW adjacent to the Canberra and Riverina regions.

At the festival you can see the spectacular big kites soar under the expert guidance of professional kite flyers.

Many kite flying specialists across the state are regular participants.

Novices and once-a-year kite flyers are also welcome and are invited to bring a kite from home, buy one on the day or join the kite decorating workshops offered at the festival.

Everyone is welcome to participate, no matter the age or the experience.

Kites have a long and varied history providing eye-catching entertainment worldwide as well as contributing to key aeronautical developments through the ages. They come in many different shapes, sizes and colours, contributing to the exciting spectacle that is admired by thousands at the Harden Kite Festival.

This family-friendly event held at the Harden Racecourse offers top rate entertainment with a

136 RLM HARDEN

commitment to affordability. Entry is a gold coin donation and free activities and entertainment abound. Organisers invite patrons to bring a picnic or sample the great food and coffee from stall holders on site.

Other attractions include cultural performances, a children’s activity alley, petting zoo and market stalls.

Visitors to the Kite Festival are invited to spend the weekend and linger in the region longer. Find out about the town’s other attractions including the Bill The Bastard project, recognising Australia’s most famous war horse.

If you choose to stay, select from motel and caravan park accommodation or take advantage of the 150 powered sites at the showground.

The Harden Kite Festival is a communitybased event that has grown in size and popularity over the past few years. RLM For more information contact the Harden Murrumburrah Visitor Information Centre on 1800 628 233.

Novices and oncea-year kite flyers are also welcome and are invited to bring a kite from home, buy one on the day or join the kite decorating workshops offered at the festival.

Harden T O W N F E AT U R E

MURRUMBURRAH TOWN FE ATURE WORDS & IMAGES: JAKE LINDSAY

HARDEN RLM 137

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Murrumburrah T O W N F E AT U R E

showcasing

THE PAST

The Harden Murrumburrah Museum houses a myriad of intriguing items depicting life from the pioneering days.

When the old Shamrock Hotel burnt down in 1899, it was time for the good citizens of Murrumburrah to put on their thinking caps.

In 1912, they finally laid the foundation stone for a School of Arts building, which provided the town with its own library, billiard and projection room, large hall and stage. Up to that point, all public functions were held in the since demolished Assembly Hall at the Railway Hotel.

“They used to conduct balls here, along with Scottish dancing, fetes, wool classing and even boxing back in the 1960s,” says local author and president of the Harden Murrumburrah Historical Society Robyn Atherton.

The museum opened in 1972 and is home to thousands of items depicting life from the pioneering days. The district was settled in the 1830s with squatters holding vast runs for grazing their stock.

Gold was discovered in 1856, four years before the rush at Lambing Flat (Young).

The rail line reached Harden (then Murrumburrah North) in 1877. The name was changed to Harden by the Postmaster General in 1880 after the name of the county.

In a nutshell, from 1887 Murrumburrah North was a railway town and the junction of the Blayney line. Naturally, cottages, hotels and shops were erected to serve the railway and its staff. A rift developed between the squatters and big businessmen of Murrumburrah and the railway men and small businesses of Harden.

So deep was the feeling that separate clubs and organisations were set up in each end of the municipality. With a population of around 2000, this proved disastrous for community progress. At one stage, even the sporting teams refused to play each other.

Thankfully, the rivalry has dissipated, with all the banks and major businesses now located in Harden. Although the Murrumburrah post office and railway station officially no longer exist, the area has developed into a tourist destination.

It’s also the birthplace of the 1st Australian (volunteer) Horse, which morphed into the famous Australian Light

Horse. The first call-up took place in 1897, after advertisements in local papers invited competent riders to join as volunteers.

Within a few years, some of the finest horsemen in the colony would distinguish themselves in the Boer War and later in the last great cavalry charge at Beersheba. The local hotel is named in their honour, along with a spectacular memorial.

It is fitting the magnificent sculpture of the “Retreat at Romani” by Carl Valerius is finally about to be unveiled. Four soldiers had lost their mounts and faced certain death at the hands of the Turks in WW1 had it not been for the intervention of major Michael Shanahan DSO and the incorrigible horse, Bill the Bastard.

One of Murrumburrah’s most famous sons was Ken Thomas, who founded giant transport company TNT in 1946 with the purchase of a five tonne International truck.

With the arrival of diesel locomotives in the 1950s, Ken had the idea to pick up freight, load it into a rail truck and then deliver and

unload it at the destination – all very simple but at the time an unheard of practice.

The centrepiece of the museum is the magnificent 1890s solid oak and brass refreshment bar, used until 1957 at the Harden Railway Station. Today it serves as the main counter for a steady stream of visitors.

Assistant curator Ken Pearsall says museum volunteers are frequently asked about the close proximity of Harden and Murrumburrah.

“The first thing we tell visitors is that the town area has always been one Local Government Area,” he says.

The museum opens on weekends and other times by appointment. RLM CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The museum is housed in the former School of Arts building, erected in 1912; assistant curator Ken Pearsall with Harden Murrumburrah Historical Society president Robyn Atherton; old sporting memorabilia; the refreshment bar from the Harden Railway Station; The Australian Light Horse uniform; an early sewing machine.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Murrumburrah

a tribute to our

FINEST

It’s been four long years in the making but Australia’s greatest warhorse is finally about to be unveiled in Harden-Murrumburrah.

The community boasts a long history with the Australian Light Horse, starting in 1897 when 60 young men gathered for horse-related activities.

All had fresh mounts, typically a Waler, the preferred military horse at the time. Before long, Captain Mackay of Wallendbeen had formed a half squadron of crack horsemen, later to serve in the Boer War and WW1.

All this history and local pride is reflected in the inspiring Murrumburrah Memorial, featuring bronze sculptures of Corporal William Bradford of the 1st Australian Horse (which preceded the Australian Light Horse regiments), a diorama of Beersheba, a wall of remembrance and several commemorative plaques.

Now, on the other side of the highway, will be the town’s newest tourist attraction, the almost million-dollar bronze statue of Bill the Bastard.

It’s been a long and arduous process for gifted stonemason and sculptor Carl Valerius, who has been working on the project since early 2016. His motivation came after reading Roland Perry’s book Bill the Bastard. More specifically, it was the book’s final page that stirred Carl into action.

“On that last page, the author urged people to visit Bill’s ‘life-sized’ statue in the main street,” Carl explains.

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While he had completed a miniature “life-like” statue, this error spurred him on to create a permanent “life-size” reminder of both horse and rider.

Thousands of man hours later, the epic project is nearing completion. The monument replicates Bill’s tremendous size (17.1 hands) and heroic efforts in a scene from the battle of Romani in the Egyptian desert on August 4, 1916.

In the thick of fighting, Major Michael Shanahan located four Tasmanians of the 3rd Regiment facing imminent death or capture by the Turks. Bill the Bastard famously carried the major and all the men over three kilometres of soft desert sand to safety.

The plan was to unveil the 2½-tonne statue on the 104th anniversary of the battle, but the Coronavirus has yet again thrown plans into disarray.

It’s another setback that the forever humble Carl has learnt to live with. While he admits it hasn’t been an easy journey, the 76-year-old is determined to finish his most challenging job in a career spanning nearly 60 years.

“Every time I wanted to give up, my wife Fay kept me going by telling me I could do it,” he says. “This statue would not have been finished without her.”

TOP: Boys from the bush who could ride and shoot became an integral part of Australia’s involvement in the Great War. Men and women from the Harden-Murrumburrah Light Horse Troop still honour the proud tradition; the memorial commemorates the birthplace of the 1st Australian Light Horse at Murrumburrah in 1897.

ABOVE: Creator of Bill the Bastard Carl Valerius is looking forward to the unveiling of the 2.5 tonne bronze statue in the coming months.

Murrumburrah T O W N F E AT U R E

Many others have toiled behind the project, raising the necessary funds to bring the sculpture to life.

“It’s been cast in Sydney and we will weld it all together during the assembly stage. With two soldiers hanging off the stirrups, it’s no easy task,” he says.

Carl was assisted in getting the horse anatomically correct by retired local veterinarian and horse expert Dr Grahame Taylor. The detail involved in getting everything right, even down to tendon structure, has truly been a labour of love for both men – and Carl’s daughter and granddaughter, both horse judges.

“The local Light Horse troops from here have also been very helpful, particularly with regard to the equipment,” he says.

On RLM’s last visit in December, Carl said he was hoping for a few more commissions. Now, as we go to press, he says Bill the Bastard continues to open doors for him.

“At the end of WW1, the troops devised a horse race called the Jericho Cup, held in Jericho. This young Aboriginal kid said he’d ride Bill as long as there was no saddle and he was barefoot,” says Carl, who often becomes a tad emotional when discussing the horse’s legendary antics.

Yes, there will be another sculpture of Bill in full flight, to be based in Warrnambool. But before that happens, Carl is focused on getting his latest work finally standing on the highway.

Already thousands of visitors have flocked to his studio, an old grain silo that’s stinking hot in summer and freezing in winter, to check on progress.

The one thing visitors demand to know is the fate of the legendary horse. After the Battle of Romani, Bill continued to serve as a packhorse, including an impressive effort at the Charge at Beersheba, where he carried machine guns.

By the end of the war, the mighty chestnut stallion was known by the entire Light Horse regiment. Bill had become a legend, a symbol of the courage and unbreakable will of the Anzac forces and the enduring symbol of perseverance and mateship of the Australian Light Horse.

With the fighting ceased, many troopers took their mounts into the desert and shot them, to stop them being sold into Middle Eastern markets where they potentially would lead a life of abuse.

Bill the Bastard was spared this dreadful fate, later serving at Gallipoli to help retrieve the fallen and collect artefacts.

He was finally retired to the village of Suvla, spending the rest of his days with his mare Penny. In 1924, he died at the ripe old age of 21 years and was buried at Walters Ridge with a military headstone.

“The horse has become part of me,” Carl says.

“I’ve been involved with him in one way or another for 17 years and yes, he’s been true to his name, even in death! Still, there’s something about him that just keeps me going.” RLM

Bill the Bastard famously carried the major and all the men over three kilometres of soft desert sand to safety.

ABOVE: Men from the Australian Light Horse gather in Murrumburrah before being deployed in WW1.

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SIMPLY

irresistible

It took a holiday in Young to reshape the lives of city hairdressers Stephen and Wendy Byrne.

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Murrumburrah T O W N F E AT U R E

At the turn of the century, the Byrne family were living a peaceful existence in the foothills of the Blue Mountains when they travelled to the Hilltops Region to visit friends.

They were enjoying coffee and soaking up the atmosphere of the tiny town of Murrumburrah when Stephen’s roving eye noticed a local real estate blurb among the newspapers and magazines at his side.

The waitress casually informed them the huge old building for sale was literally next door. After gulping down their drinks they went for an inspection and by nightfall were the proud new owners.

Their “country adventure” had begun with a bang. The emporium was built by shopkeeper John Barnes in 1860, as gold was being discovered at nearby Lambing Flat. The railway was still 17 years away.

The general store supplied the early pioneers and miners with everything. These were the days of bushrangers and highway robbery – and the new store attracted them like bees to honey. Ben Hall himself was known to frequent the store, trying to sell melted down jewellery.

Having been robbed before, John Barnes was on high alert after hearing on the bush grapevine the Ben Hall gang had escaped an ambush and were in desperate need of provisions.

Fearing they would hit his second store in nearby Cootamundra, he gamely set off on horseback before coming across the most unexpected sight at noon – he had somehow stumbled onto the gang preparing to rob a local station storehouse.

Bushranger Johnny O’Meally took a shining to the merchant’s horse and ordered him to dismount. Instead, the plucky shopkeeper galloped off for the shelter of the nearby homestead, only to be callously shot in the back.

The date was August 30, 1863, the day a family lost their father and the community one of its finest citizens. O’Meally, incidentally, died in a bloody gunfight a few months later.

The store continued to prosper under the guidance of sons Thomas and George, who grew it into the largest department store on the South West Slopes.

The first step in this expansion came in 1868 with a hay and chaff business in a new building next to their store. In 1882 they built again, adding grocery and drapery departments. The original store that sold boots, ironmongery and crockery remained in the older section, while a huge cellar, constructed with huge pit-sawn timbers, lies beneath.

By the time the Byrne family arrived for their tree change in 2009, the building had changed, with a series of extensions and modifications carried out by the brothers and others that followed.

The family are continually surprised by what they discover, including that Stephen’s early descendant, James White, founded Young after discovering gold on his Lambing Flat property.

While two of the three children slotted into the local school – the offspring now live in Canberra, Sydney and Boston – Stephen and Wendy spent many long nights agonising over what to do with the huge blank canvas that had lured them from Sydney.

The birth of the cafe They felt a cafe was the logical starting point, with the Barnesstore Emporium and Cafe opened in late 2012, named in honour of the original owner.

Since then, it’s enjoyed steady growth, as more and more travellers on Burley Griffin Way find they can stop, soak up the village atmosphere and enjoy a tasty meal.

“Over the first few years the business grew so much we were running out of room,” Wendy says. “Thankfully the building is so vast we tripled the size of the cafe and added other amenities for travellers in the form of disabled toilets and baby change tables.”

“Over the first few years the business grew so much we were running out of room.”

So what can visitors expect? The menu is based around their famous Barnesstore pies: beef and mushroom, Thai chicken curry and Texas pulled pork. All are made in-house and served with fresh green salad and Barnesstore’s signature dressing.

The recently introduced Belgian waffles come in savoury and sweet to tempt every palate, while the soft serve ice cream is blended with fresh fruit and other ingredients like chilli, chocolate or ginger.

For those wanting to take something home, there’s a range of artisan products made in small batches, like the famous Barnesstore tomato and basil relish, which is lathered on toasted Turkish bread with free range bacon and eggs sourced from local farms.

There is also a range of vegetarian and gluten-free meals, including frittatas, brownies and melting moments to die for.

“Those with a sweet tooth are not forgotten as the cafe has an extensive range of old-fashioned lollies,” Wendy says with a grin.

Recent years have seen a liquor licence added, with a range of local craft beers and wines to complement the menu. The cafe has extended its reach to include private and corporate catering, hosting weddings and a variety of functions.

Barnesstore is a great option for both locals and highway travellers to relax, revive and survive. The Barnes family has long gone but the Byrnes are here to stay. RLM ABOVE FROM TOP: Wendy Byrne enjoys making great coffee and delicious meals for her many customers; the historic building that houses the Barnesstore Emporium & Cafe.

FACING PAGE: Wendy and Stephen Byrne are thrilled to have made the move from the Blue Mountains to Murrumburrah to set up their new business; Wendy has a wide range of quality local produce in her store; customers are always guaranteed a warm welcome.

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Come to Barnesstore for great country hospitality and a smiling face to greet you on your travels.

Great coffee, homemade comforting food including our famous pies, burritos, belgian waffles and all day breakfast.

Extensive gluten free menu including sweet potato crust frittata, belgian waffles, ice creams and sweets.

Open 7 days from 7am - 4pm 356 Albury Street Murramburrah, NSW 2587 Ph. (02) 6386 3316

www.barnesstore.com.au

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T O W N F E AT U R E Jugiong

spreading their

WINGS

Brian Allen and Tricia Wimpenny’s colourful studio and gallery, The Quirky Crow, has become an integral part of the Jugiong revival.

Before the 1995 bypass, the village of 200 had four service stations and one licensed premises.

Today, the hidden gem that is Jugiong boasts four licensed premises and one servo.

The free campsite on the Murrumbidgee River attracts grey nomads, families and groups of friends from all over the country.

They congregate at the historic Sir George Hotel, Jugiong Wine Cellar and Long Track Pantry, the cafe credited with kick-starting the resurgence.

Further down the road lies the Jugiong Motor Inn and Roadhouse and The Quirky Crow, a delightful studio and gallery owned

by Brian Allen and Tricia Wimpenny.

They found the place – and each other – quite by accident.

In 2015, Brian was in the district for a few days assessing wheat crops for hail damage.

It had been over 40 years since his last visit playing rugby league but his affinity with small villages had not diminished with time.

“I looked on the computer to see what was for sale and there it was – an old service station which had seen better days, sitting on five acres of prime river frontage,” he smiles.

With the stroke of a pen, he became the owner of Jugiong’s former Ampol Riverside Garage, built in the late 1950s by George and Betty Brenner.

With space and location, it offered great potential as a commercial venture. Around the same time, Brian met Tricia. The pair had last seen each other at high school in Young more than four decades earlier. As a couple they enjoy the simple things in life, with a shared love of nature, art, spending time with family and friends and enjoying a good laugh.

It didn’t take long to come up with the idea of combining Brian’s artistic talent with Tricia’s ceramic abilities and establish a gallery. The Quirky Crow is a real collaboration – Brian’s vision and practical skills in the gallery and garden combined with Tricia’s flair for styling, colour and interior design.

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Since opening in late 2018, many talented individuals have joined the team, producing a wide range of handmade and unique pieces including ceramics, art, jewellery, apparel, homewares, alpaca products, glass, recycled timber and metal furniture.

Tricia’s warm and engaging personality and Brian’s larrikin nature have meant that they have plenty of repeat customers.

The pair like nothing better than meeting and chatting to everyone who visits their gallery.

An integral part of the Quirky Crow is the studio next to the gallery where Brian paints and runs weekly art classes while Tricia creates and fires her ceramics.

Their home is a warm and welcoming environment for friends and family. There’s nothing better than sitting on the back deck before strolling down to the river, past hundreds of recently planted native and exotic trees. The emerging bird life is a constant joy.

The Quirky Crow is a real collaboration – Brian’s vision and practical skills in the gallery and garden combined with Tricia’s flair for styling, colour and interior design.

ABOVE: The Quirky Crow in full bloom.

Jugiong T O W N F E AT U R E

A VARIED LIFE Brian spent his early years at a small bush school at Wirrimah, 30km northeast of Young, developing a life-long interest in horses, art, sport and nature.

Over the years he tried his hand at many professions, including farming, droving, shearing and mining. Along the way he ventured into tourism, bus driving, entertaining, art, rose growing, horse breaking and running a Clydesdale horsedrawn carriage for weddings.

His latest passion is the Jugiong Country Experience, where the bungling bushranger does a mock holdup of coaches on his horse Twister, before becoming their local tour guide and entertainer over lunch.

Brian also builds gypsy wagons. After finishing one of them later this year he will harness Twister and head bush.

“I love getting back to the simple basic life of travelling slowly, camping and cooking on a fire,” he says.

“People pass one another in cars at 100kmh and at best get a wave. When travelling by a horse-drawn vehicle it’s amazing how many people stop to say G’day.

Quite often they will end up sharing a campfire and swapping stories.”

Brian has also recommenced his travelling one-man stand-up comedy, bush-poetry and yarn-spinning show.

Tricia’s background is a bit more conventional, with a career in the Australian Public Service, the University of Canberra, then as a senior recruitment consultant with a Canberra recruitment agency.

She still lives part-time in the national capital while Brian regularly returns to Young to visit family and catch up with mates over a game of tennis or bowls.

They always love coming home to Jugiong, the dynamic little village that has captured their hearts.

“The people here have been so welcoming and we’ve made some wonderful friends,”

Tricia says. “Jugiong has a great sense of purpose and community – we come together in times of celebration or sadness.”

Brian and Tricia have involved themselves in the Jugiong Writers Festival, the Art Exhibition and various community groups. Life is busy but they wouldn’t have it any other way. As their friends say, they’re “living the dream”.

So what’s next on the agenda? “We plan to smell the roses and hit the dance floor on a more regular basis,” laughs Brian, as he opens up the gallery doors for another day in paradise. RLM

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Brian rides his trusty steed on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River which winds through their small block; Brian and partner Tricia Wimpenny in the gallery; Tricia with some of her ceramics.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Jugiong

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Jugiong T O W N F E AT U R E

restored with love If Jugiong is the gateway to the Hilltops Region, then The Sir George, standing proudly on Riverside Drive after 165 years, must be the perfect ambassador.

With a long history including colourful stories of floods, Irish stonemasons, and horse-thieving bushrangers, 2015 marked a low point in The Sir George’s life. No longer able to keep up with the demands of the business and the building, the Sheahan family made the difficult decision to close the doors to The Sir George, giving up the longest held liquor licence by one family in Australian history. But that’s not where this story ends.

Fast forward to 2017, when Kate Hufton and her visiting mother Liz Prater were strolling through Jugiong. Coming across the grand old pub, they were taken with its character. Seeing it was empty, they pondered its fate.

A few months later, Kate noticed a For Sale sign go up in the window of The Sir George and, on a whim, called to inform her mother in Perth. Liz suggested that Kate ring the estate agent to find out more. One thing led to the next and soon the fates of Kate, Liz and the old pub were irreversibly tangled.

The pair bought the historic property and the next thing they knew, Liz was driving across the Nullarbor with her partner Kim Gamble and their trusty builder Andy Van Der Wacht in tow.

When Kate and Liz first stepped through the doors of the pub, they were greeted by a friendly band of possums who had taken up residence when the last person left two years earlier. Not to be deterred, the women got busy. >

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The front facade of The Sir George looking fresh and clean at 165 years old; agapanthus and carefully tended gardens welcome visitors to The Sir George; a shady verandah provides an outdoor space to enjoy drinks.

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The sunlit dining room at The Sir George is an ideal spot to explore the menu; the mother and daughter team behind The Sir George. Liz Prater and Kate Hufton, pictured out the front of the TSG Potting Shed; the welcoming bar uses the original stone walls as a backdrop.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Jugiong

Over the next 12 months, they worked tirelessly hand in hand with Andy and other local tradespeople to bring The Sir George back from the brink. Their goal was never to create something brand new but to work with the abundance of character that was already there. They aimed to create a place that could be a home away from home, a place to gather and enjoy a day with family and friends no matter the season. In the warmer months, the beer garden offers the shade of snow pear trees, and in cooler months, the fireplaces are lit, creating a cosy ambience.

Liz and Kate describe much of their journey with The Sir George as serendipitous, like the day that Nick Williams appeared on site to admire the work being done. Nick happened to mention that he was a trained chef looking to move his family to the country. Of course, they were in need of a chef and he got the job. Three years later he is still in the kitchen enjoying his unfettered access to fresh produce, baked goods and local meats.

Since reopening, The Sir George has not only been a wonderful place to congregate but it also employs 40 people and has provided apprenticeships to a number of locals.

“At the moment, we have three young girls doing chef’s apprenticeships,” Kate says. “We are also starting to liaise with the local TAFEs and high schools to offer some front of house hospitality apprenticeships.” These opportunities in regional Australia are priceless.

Soon after their grand reopening, Kate, Liz and the whole team could see that what they had taken a chance on creating was already becoming a great success. Refusing to sit back and rest, they quickly jumped into their next project, accommodation. With a bakery, potting shed, gardens and homewares store on site as well other local attractions such as the Murrumbidgee River, Jugiong had all the makings of a top weekend in the country. Visitors just needed a place to stay.

They set to work renovating the original stables and adding a series of charred-wood black barns. A variety of earth-toned linens and accessories complement the natural materials used throughout. The original stone walls in the stables are show stopping and modern en suites magnificent. Should it happen to be the best sleep you’ve ever had, everything used in the guest rooms is available to purchase upstairs at Liz’s shop, The Sir George Home.

Welcoming travellers from the Hume Highway, the Hilltops Region and beyond, The Sir George has become a beautiful beacon in the countryside for people looking for good food, drink and luxuriously appointed accommodation.

“We had always hoped it would become an icon of modern country pubs with a focus on being family friendly and an interesting place to visit,” Kate says.

With vision, passion and hard work, Kate and Liz have created just that and more. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT; There are many quiet nooks to settle into for a drink or a meal with friends and family; the beer garden offers a green outlook of the surrounding vegie patch; Liz’s experience with interior decorating is evident in the decor throughout The Sir George.

LEFT, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Kate and Liz worked hard to keep period features intact; a peek inside the charming Potting Shed; the interior styling of the accommodation offers a superb mix of rustic, period and modern features.

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historic pub artisan bakery accommodation

320 Riverside Drive Jugiong NSW 2726 P. 0419 098 828

info@sirgeorge.com.au

T O W N F E AT U R E Jugiong

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Jugiong T O W N F E AT U R E

timeless pieces Woodstock Resources is committed to providing builders, renovators and designers throughout Australia with access to unique recycled materials of historical interest.

With showrooms in Jugiong, Sydney, Moss Vale, Melbourne and their next opening soon at Dirty Jane’s Canberra, Woodstock Resources is the source for recycled European Oak flooring and architectural salvage in Australia.

Their stock is sourced from all over Europe and expertly transported to Australia from France, Belgium, Serbia, Turkey, Italy and The Netherlands.

While reclaimed French Oak is their most well-known import, they offer an array of recycled materials including repurposed terracotta roof tiles and limestone flagstones. In addition, one-off pieces such as basins made from limestone and bluestone, lanterns, doors and chandeliers are available through their showrooms and online.

Woodstock Resources was founded by Angus Graham, and a few years later, Emma appeared on the scene, falling for the boy as well as the business. The exciting allure of treasure hunting

in Europe, the beauty of the materials and objects they were able to salvage and the rewarding challenge of working their finds into the Australian home, were a compelling combination.

Emma and Angus are now settled in their 1820s homestead in Binalong, making the showroom and concept store in nearby Jugiong their home base.

Of course, their own home had to have a range of Woodstock products, including various lighting and custom-made recycled furniture and joinery. Their flooring is crafted using timber from a grain barn in Romania and a train station in Paris. The couple love not only the patina and warmth that comes with the antique materials but also the storied past that they carry. Looking to fulfil clients’ wishes for outdoor-friendly timber, Woodstock Resources is now excited to offer salvaged ironbark from the Garden Island Naval base in Woolloomooloo with a history dating back to WWII. >

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Reclaimed limestone basins would make a unique addition to many renovation projects; Woodstock Resources home base; salvaged items from Europe such as gates and doors are on offer in their showroom as well as online; unique furniture is crafted from reclaimed European timber, the inlaid pattern and gorgeous wear on this wood make it one of a kind; Emma Graham in the Woodstock Resources Jugiong showroom.

Emma and Angus reside in Binalong with their children.

ABOVE: Character and history come standard with any of the reclaimed European treasures on offer, like these rustic antique doors.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Jugiong

Complementary to the antique materials, the shop also stocks a wonderful supply of homegrown wares.

This selection of curated items is sustainably created from natural materials in and around the region.

When you visit Woodstock Resources you can view the recycled timber in different stages of development from raw beams to finished floorboards. Sample displays depict different materials in a variety of floor-laying patterns, hoping to spark your imagination. A number of eyecatching ready-to-deliver furniture pieces, all made from recycled European timber, are also on display.

A master craftsman from Belgium is currently residing at the Grahams’ residence in Binalong, working hard to top up their supply of gorgeous handmade furniture. The style of the pieces varies from chunky rustic stools to sideboards with beautifully curved legs and coffee tables with herringbone pattern inlays. If you don’t see something that is just the right size or style, a piece can be created just for you. The same goes for architectural salvage. Angus and Emma have strong ties with their contacts overseas and are

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happy to work with them to find just the right piece of history for your home.

Complementary to the antique materials, the shop also stocks a wonderful supply of homegrown wares. This selection of curated items is sustainably created from natural materials in and around the region. Bags in canvas and leather make the ideal weekend travel companions. A series of beautiful yet functional tools made from deer antlers and hand-forged metal stand out as the perfect way to treat yourself or someone special. Hides, hats and leather journals would all fit nicely into your rural luxe lifestyle.

The team at Woodstock Resources is passionate about the process of helping clients find the right fit for their project, whether it be custom-milled oak beams, bespoke joinery, furniture or that eyecatching statement piece. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A table crafted from reclaimed French oak in a herringbone pattern by their master craftsman from Belgium; supple leather in a variety of shades encases notebooks perfect for making lists or jotting down ideas and observations; chunky stools display the beauty of antique wood and the warmth and history that comes with it; an eye-pleasing vignette offering customers a range of European antiques as well as linens and cushions sourced much closer to home; their range of leather bags are crafted to stand the test of time and make the perfect weekend companion.

Jugiong T O W N F E AT U R E

Importers of Reclaimed Oak, Stone, Antiques and Architectural Salvage from across Europe for Australian homes & design.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Jugiong

trash to

treasure The latest chapter in Keith Simpson’s colourful life is embellished with skilful artistry.

Some people are born naturally talented, capable of creating magnificent artworks without ever having taken a single lesson.

Keith Simpson, from the tiny village of Jugiong, is one such character – even if his artistic talents didn’t surface until much later in life.

When his water heater finally gave up the ghost a decade ago, he figured the water drum would make a handy horse’s torso.

After adding a few more pieces of recycled metal, hey presto, he ended up with a mounted bushranger.

And that was the start of an unusual hobby that keeps this enterprising 74-year-

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old young at heart and forever busy. The Hut gallery is located on a three-acre block on the edge of the village he’s called home for the past 20 years.

Keith estimates he’s made over 100 pieces, with many of his early works catching the judges’ attention in sculpture competitions at Jindabyne, Lockhart and Lithgow.

The backyard is full of dozens of quirky and usually very large sculptures – from his favourite horse-drawn wagons to buckjumpers and giant lizards. Some command thousands of dollars from astute collectors.

Jugiong T O W N F E AT U R E

A lifetime of hard, physical work has kept him happy and healthy, especially after marrying his offsider Joan after a courtship spanning three decades.

Although he stopped exhibiting five years ago, Keith hasn’t slowed down. He only collects pieces that he needs, usually from the Gundagai or Harden garbage tips or farm clearing sales.

His unique type of sculpture comes naturally after a lifetime in the bush. There was little time for school. For a short while, young Keith was educated by correspondence as his parents travelled to outback properties finding any work they could.

The young tacker was catching rabbits at seven and working full time with his parents by age 14, cutting eucalypt leaves to boil for their oil, gold prospecting and farm work.

For a while he was an apprentice jockey, riding track work with Melbourne Cupwinning rider Darby Munro.

When weight got the better of him, he worked as a fencer, cutting sandalwood in Queensland. “I’d like to have a tonne of it today,” he quips.

Keith also clocked up a million miles as an interstate truck driver and later worked as an underground coalminer. He never shied away from jobs that most men

traditionally steered clear of – the harder the job, the better the pay.

Now in the 21st century, Keith and Joan still prefer living and working the old way.

They don’t advertise and you won’t find them on the internet.

“It’s just a hobby for us and we love meeting people,” he tells me as he works on his next masterpiece. RLM

FACING PAGE: Keith Simpson’s artworks created from bits and pieces found at clearing sales.

ABOVE: A jovial Keith takes a break from welding.

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wonder

WALLS Acclaimed muralist Heesco’s extraordinary images loom large and linger in the minds of those who view them.

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rural art W I N T E R

Born in 1979 into socialist Mongolia, Khosnaran Khurelbaatar, known as Heesco in the art world, describes his young childhood as “pretty chill”. As if unsatisfied by his own answer, he pauses for thought before concluding with a chuckle “and very organised”.

Heesco has fond memories of growing up in a large apartment block with his parents and sister and attending a Russian school in the country’s capital, Ulaanbaatar.

His mother was a doctor and worked as a hygienist at the milk factory and his father was an artist, turned architect.

“Initially, my father trained as a sculptor. He was a very good one. He developed an allergy to the clay, though, and that’s when he went on to study architecture.”

However, the rules of a socialist state applied heavy regulations to building design and although frustrated, Heesco’s father took up a job for the government.

When the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, and as the Cold War began to thaw, Mongolia was also headed for huge economic and cultural change. By 1990, 70 years of socialist regime was coming to an end.

Though the change to democracy came without bloodshed, Heesco remembers the dramatic effects of privatisation.

“Overnight, there were no jobs, and everyone became very poor.”

Waiting in lines with food stamps had become the new normal for Heesco’s family.

“Everyone now had to hustle. It was suddenly dog-eat-dog world.

Even as kids we felt the pressure.”

In 1992, in search of a better life, Heesco’s mother took up a position in Poland, where she and her business partner practised Eastern medicine. As a 13-year-old living in Poland, Heesco now faced new challenges. Being the only Asian in his school, Heesco would often spend break times alone sketching images. His sketches were good and soon caught the attention of his classmates.

Drawing on the survival skills learned in post-Cold-War Mongolia, Heesco began to barter, trading sketches for comic books. Inspired by the brightly illuminating characters splashed over each animated page, Heesco was becoming more than a hobbyist; he was becoming an artist.

“My eyes were suddenly opened to the world.”

Other influences came from the “metalheads” who also attended the school and whom Heesco would draw countless album covers for, Iron Maiden, Metallica and Meat Loaf, to name a few.

In 1994, after two years of new ideas and European exposure, Heesco returned to Mongolia to finish his schooling.

Considering his future, Heesco’s mind was open to the possibilities of a free world. Heesco’s friend had moved to Perth and had suggested that Australia was a pretty good place. After studying foreign relations in Mongolia for a year, Heesco headed to Sydney in 1999.

Once settled, Heesco commenced lessons in English, followed by a Diploma of Business. Failing the accounting component twice, he eventually graduated with a Diploma of Business Management.

Heesco concedes that business was not his passion and that largely he’d just wanted to please his parents.

With a business qualification under his belt, and his parents satisfied, Heesco was ready to study his passion at Sydney College of the Arts (SCA).

Describing art school as “a pretty cool place with weirdlooking kids and a few ghosts getting around,” Heesco laughingly acknowledges that he fitted right in.

However, his socialist Mongolian origins proved to be a barrier when learning contemporary Western art. “We only had propaganda art in Mongolia. Much of the lecture content was way over my head. I had to do a lot of library research after each lecture.

The internet wasn’t as good back then.”

Throughout this time, Heesco was chatting to then girlfriend Eggie Jadamba, from Mongolia. She was studying in London and it was thought that if she could come to Australia, the two might stay being a couple.

Marrying at a registry in 2005, and still both attending university, the couple had a modest ceremony, followed by a dinner reception at a pub, and then a house party in their shared accommodation. In 2009, Heesco and Eggie had a more official family wedding back in Mongolia. It was attended by 11 of their Australian mates.

“When I told my family that the Australians were coming, suddenly all wedding preparations tripled in size.”

Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts with a major in painting in 2005, Heesco was left feeling confused. His degree had picked apart everything that he’d believed to be art. It had taught him a lot of theory but nothing particularly practical.

“I guess it taught me how to look at art. That was helpful because all I wanted to do previously was to draw monsters and superheroes from comic books.”

In hindsight, Heesco’s university days had been helpful in less visible ways. Heesco now had an entire network of upcoming artists to surround himself with and to bounce off. He had created the beginnings of an industry network.

Taking the next three years to reflect, Heesco spent his time working in a signage factory. Eventually, he began to piece his art style back together. In 2005, and again in 2007, Heesco held solo exhibitions but he felt a bit deflated, each time only breaking even. To Heesco, it appeared that his art career wasn’t really going anywhere.

“I kept going though. I didn’t give up.”

Following his wife to Melbourne for work in 2010, Heesco’s luck changed.

“There was a curator who liked my work and included my works in a group exhibition. Suddenly, I had a foot in and within the first year I had been part of over 30 exhibitions. > FACING PAGE: Heesco’s talent turns the silos at Grenfell into a work of art proudly depicting the beautiful countryside that surrounds the small community and all it represents.

ABOVE: Heesco wielding his tool of choice is bringing vibrant and meaningful artwork to rural communities in Australia as well as youth in his birthplace of Mongolia as part of the Rainbow Cover Project.

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“Once complete, the silos became landmarks, and as a flow-on, they provide an economic advantage for the township.”

Moving into the renowned Blender Studios, an urban art and fine art studio in West Melbourne, Heesco was now surrounded by the buzz of full-time influential Australian artists. Momentum was building and Heesco was now a regular street artist.

When the opportunity came up to tender for the Weethalle NSW silo artwork in 2017, Heesco was up to the task. Having previously painted large images (up to five storeys tall) in Melbourne, the sheer scale of the silos would provide new and exciting artistic challenges.

“It was still the biggest painting that I had done to date and took some working out. I used a system of random markings that I painted on the silo to form a kind of grid that I could work.”

Pulling up to the Weethalle Pub in an old Mercedes that he’d been loaned, and accompanied by his friend Jamal, Heesco recalls how intrigued the locals were.

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“Once I told them that I was there to paint the silos, they pulled me in straight away.”

Spending three weeks on the project, Heesco came to realise what public art means to small communities. Recognising the responsibility that goes with the creation of public art, Heesco disarmed his creative ego in order to produce art that captured the spirit of the town.

“Once complete, the silos became landmarks, and as a flow-on, they provide an economic advantage for the township. That’s why it is important that the content of the painting truly reflects the heart of the community in its sentiment.”

In 2018, Heesco was honoured by Australia Post when they used an image of the painted Weethalle silo on their postage stamps.

“It is a massive privilege. You kind of pinch yourself; is this really happening?”

Heesco has since painted the silos at Grenfell, NSW, and Karoonda, South Australia, finishing them both in 2019, and once again, enjoying the hospitality that these small communities provide.

Today, Heesco uses his notoriety to bring awareness to the many current issues facing Mongolia: poverty, human trafficking and pollution to name some. Now with two small children of his own, his sense of responsibility towards those who are the future of Mongolia seems more relevant than ever.

Heesco has recently returned from being part of the Rainbow Cover project in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The purpose of the project is to bring colourful art to children living in the ger districts of Ulaanbaatar, by placing murals on the communities’ water wells.

Children will collect water often up to twice a day, even when temperatures plummet to -40 degrees, and these wells serve as meeting places. As the ger districts have no running water, waste management or central heating, and have extremely high levels of air pollution, not to mention high levels of unemployment, alcoholism and domestic violence, Heesco wants to create safe places that can inspire children and bring them a sense of hope.

“My art won’t make an immediate difference to the lives of these people, but I will have succeeded if it makes people ask the question.”

Whether in Australia or Mongolia, Heesco’s art has a unique voice.

It is multilingual but requires no education to understand. Though it always has a clear objective, its message is fluid as it can only be determined by those who stop to wonder. However you might interpret his work, once you understand the man behind the art, all must agree that Heesco’s work is testimony to his incredible hope and determination. Perhaps that is his most inspiring message of all. RLM Words: Catherine Player Images: Jennifer Harden

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inspiration W I N T E R

a distinguished

career

Dr Joe Canalese only planned on staying three months when he arrived in Dubbo in September 1980. The highly respected general physician and gastroenterologist quickly became an integral part of the medical fraternity and for 40 years has played a significant role in the sporting, cultural and social fabric of the city.

Dr Joe Canalese’s tireless work has been recognised by a Medal of the Order of Australia, a distinguished alumni award from the University of Sydney and induction into the Dubbo Chamber of Commerce Jean Emile Serisier Roll of Honour.

Born in Calabria in southern Italy, Joe was 11 when he came to Australia with his parents in 1959.

“We lived in Sydney at Crows Nest and Cammeray,” he says.

“I went to Marist Brothers schools in North Sydney and Mosman and did well enough to receive a scholarship to study Nuclear Physics at the University of Sydney.

“In my third year, I switched to Medicine as I felt this would be more useful.”

While working at Royal North Shore Hospital, Joe met nurse Vicki Schneider.

She went on to train in midwifery, theatre and intensive care while Joe progressed in his medical career.

After a long courtship, the couple married and moved to London.

Joe was a lecturer at the University of London and worked at the King’s College Hospital liver research unit.

“In those days, we did dialysis when the liver suddenly stopped working, and also were involved in some of the first liver transplants. We often stayed with patients around the clock.

“Vicki worked at the same place, which was fortunate, because sometimes we only saw each other at the hospital.”

The couple’s first daughter, Emma, was born in London.

When they decided to return home, Joe started looking for a position in Australia.

“I wrote to the well-respected Dubbo physician David Hammill to seek advice about country medicine,” he says.

“I was very lucky, as David was going away on holiday and asked if I would like to do his locum.

“Vicki had grown up on a farm near Dubbo and we figured it would be great to spend time with the family.

“Both of us enjoyed being in Dubbo, there was a need for a physician gastroenterologist and I was asked to stay.”

Joe worked in private and hospital practice and became a visiting medical officer at Dubbo Base Hospital, Dubbo Private Hospital and later Lourdes Hospital. He provided outreach clinics at various times in Brewarrina, Gilgandra, Wellington, Walgett, Condobolin, Coonabarabran and Bourke.

Joe played roles in community and professional bodies and was the Associate Dean at the University of Sydney School of Rural Health in Dubbo and Orange between 2005 to 2015.

“The medical community in Dubbo and region has always been very collegiate,” he says.

“General practitioners and specialists get on well, help each other and work as a team.

“I was one of many people who lobbied for better hospital facilities, a dedicated cancer centre and a full medical school for Dubbo and Orange.

“Securing the CSU Dental and Oral Health Clinic was also a co-operative effort between Charles Stuart University, Sydney University and Western NSW Local Health District. Without intense lobbying it would not have happened.”

Joe built a specialist medical centre in East Dubbo that included a day surgery unit – one of the first of its kind in Australia. He also served as president of the Westhaven disability services organisation. >

FACING PAGE: Dr Joe Canalese in his Dubbo study.

ABOVE: Vicki and Joe Canalese have enjoyed a rich and productive life in Dubbo.

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W I N T E R inspiration

“During my clinical years, I must have seen more than 150,000 patients.”

Joe is passionate about soccer and in 1990 helped to secure SBS broadcasts for Dubbo.

He has been involved in the sport as a coach and referee and volunteered as medical manager for football at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

Dubbo has grown significantly over the years and Joe is proud of the work Vicki and her mother, Joyce Schneider, undertook to establish the city’s regional theatre.

“It was a great achievement for them,” he says. “I was involved in a supporting role.”

It is fitting that the Joyce Schneider Auditorium honours the accomplished dancer and singer who left a successful career on stage to marry a Dubbo district farmer.

Joyce launched what is now called Dubbo Ballet Studio in 1934.

Generations benefited from her passion for the performing arts, acknowledged with an Order of Australia Medal and a president’s award from the London Royal Academy of Dancing.

As a key member of the Dubbo Artz group, Vicki lobbied for the expansion of cultural activities and facilities.

“I grew up with a love of music and dance and wanted to assist Joe, who was constantly working to encourage more medical professionals to come to the region,” she says.

“Dubbo has always had a rich cultural life but because it hasn’t always been noticed, some people regarded Bathurst and Orange as the last frontier.

“Having an art gallery, cultural centre and regional theatre changed that perception and helped to bring more professionals to our city.”

Joe and Vicki love living in Dubbo and have no plans to leave.

“Our grandchildren and two of our children are here,” Vicki says.

“Ben and his wife Ana are doctors at the Aboriginal medical service. Our younger daughter Angela teaches dance in Dubbo.

“Emma lives in New York, where she is involved in theatre, writing, directing and choreography.”

Joe is a member of Dubbo South Rotary and has been involved in Rotary projects locally and in Timor Leste and Nepal, with eye clinics and establishing an RCDS cardiac screening program.

Joe has served on the board of Western NSW Local Health District for more than 10 years.

He continues to lobby for medical improvements and the recruitment of specialist doctors, and regards Dubbo nephrologist Dr Colin McClintock as the biggest motivator in the bid to secure increased local specialist medical training.

“During my clinical years, I must have seen more than 150,000 patients and I enjoyed it so much, both professionally and also socially as many became friends.”

Although Joe is now retired, he still helps many people in a medical way, frequently fielding phone calls from friends seeking advice.

“He facilitates a lot of things by getting in touch with people he knows,” Vicki says.

“Former patients make contact seeking explanations of medical diagnoses and treatments. He has always had the gift of being able to explain things in terms that can be easily understood.” RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Jake Lindsay

LEFT FROM TOP: In academic gown, Associate Professor Joseph Canalese, Associate Dean, School of Rural Health, at the graduation ceremony at Sydney University in 2010; the Canalese family, Dr Ana Phillis (Ben’s partner), Emma Canalese, Joe and Vicki Canalese, Angela Canalese and Dr Ben Canalese; in 2010, Dr Joe Canalese was presented with an OAM at Government House by NSW Governor The Hon Marie Bashir AD CVO.

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LIFE IS

beautiful Gulargambone farmer Stephen Rae makes every moment count in a second chance at life.

Stephen Rae is grateful to be the recipient of a donor heart and feels lucky to enjoy time with his wife Tracy, four children, eight grandchildren and the new baby on the way.

The now 57-year-old thought his number was up in April 2015 when he was diagnosed with amyloid (a blood disorder that caused hardening in his heart).

“My heart was slowly becoming like a piece of leather that could contract but wouldn’t expand,” Stephen says.

“I had been crook for about three years before the doctors finally discovered what was wrong.

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“They reckon my immune system flared up following some sort of virus. My body started producing protein and didn’t know how to stop.”

Stephen received chemotherapy in an attempt to slow the condition and keep him alive for as long as possible.

“I would travel from Gular to Dubbo for chemo every Monday and was always sick by Thursday.

“In December that year I went to see specialists in Sydney and was told I had 90 days to live. It was a hell of a shock and my initial thought was ‘I’ve had a good innings and our kids are grown up’.

ABOVE: Stephen Rae is thoroughly respectful and appreciative of his second chance at life.

inspiration W I N T E R

“Then, as I walked out of the doctor’s consulting room, I turned around and told him ‘I’m not giving up – miracles can happen’.

“I felt disappointed because there was so much more that I wanted to do with my life. In a funny sort of way, I never really thought I was going to die. There were only two times when things got really bad – I turned all the phones off and didn’t want to talk to anyone. But that didn’t last very long.

“I was only 52, and until then, had hardly been ill in my life. I had always been active, never smoked and only drank alcohol occasionally.”

Maintaining a positive attitude had always been part of Stephen’s personality so he kept on farming.

“Despite feeling pretty lethargic, I was helping my son do up the woolshed. On December 20 I decided to drive into Dubbo to pick up some cement.

“My mobile rang when I was in Yarrandale Road and the caller said she was from the St Vincent’s Hospital heart transplant centre.

“I thought it was a prank when I was told they had a heart for me because I wasn’t supposed to formally go onto the transplant list until that day.

“The woman on the phone asked how long it would take me to get to the airport. I replied about 10 minutes and she said ‘that’s good, we’ll hold the plane for you’.

“Tracy was at Woolworths doing a big shop because all the kids were coming home for what we thought would be my last Christmas.

“To their credit, Woolies put the $1300 worth of groceries back on the shelf while Tracy rushed to the airport.”

When Stephen landed in Sydney, he was collected by a patient transfer ambulance.

“The driver said ‘this is different – I usually pick up the organs and the patients are normally in hospital’.”

Stephen went into surgery the following day and woke up in intensive care with a new heart.

“The doctors told me the donor organ was a perfect fit. Everything went to plan and my 2½-hour operation was the fastest the transplant team had ever carried out.

“It wasn’t long before they had me up walking and on Christmas Day, I enjoyed bacon and eggs for breakfast.

“The heavy meal wasn’t a good idea and I ended up with a bowel blockage. At 2am on Boxing Day I was back in surgery having my stomach cut open.”

Stephen woke up with a colostomy bag.

“It didn’t really worry me because I just wanted to be alive.”

He worked with a physiotherapist and spent time walking up and down steps and pedalling an exercise bike. >

“I was only 52, and until then, had hardly been ill in my life.

I had always been active, never smoked and only drank alcohol occasionally.”

ABOVE: A precious family; Bradley, Sophie and Lara (baby) Cook, Katie, Jock, Tom and Isabel Gordon, Tracy and Stephen Rae, Ash, Harry, Phil and Jack Miles, Rheanna, Ted and Jarryd Rae.

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W I N T E R inspiration

“I’ve never really been sick since I got the new heart. I follow the same medication routine every day and see the medical team in Sydney on a regular basis.”

Stephen was discharged from hospital on January 7 and spent three months at a medical hostel at Bondi.

At first, he went to St Vincent’s every second day. When visits were reduced to weekly, Stephen decided to buy a ute.

“I wanted to go home for shearing but the medical team weren’t keen on me leaving Sydney.

“My next appointment wasn’t for a week so I drove home thinking they wouldn’t know where I was.

“Our son was running the shearing and I wanted to see the sheep we had spent a fair bit of time and money on.

“It was great to sleep in my own bed for a few days and to do a bit of drenching.

“I went back to Sydney on the Wednesday, ready for triage the following day.”

Stephen was home for good by March but still travelled to St Vincent’s for regular check-ups.

Early one morning he woke up with terrible back pain and was diagnosed with shingles.

“When the pain was at its worst I would get out of bed in the middle of the night and head out on the spray rig. I thought if I couldn’t sleep, I may as well do something useful.”

In June 2016 doctors harvested Stephen’s stem cells. A stem cell transplant was carried out in September to stop the overproduction of protein in his body.

“I was down to about 63kg by that stage and looked like a bag of bones with matchstick legs.

“I had bowel reversal operations in August and November 2017 and was pleased to have the colostomy bag removed. In December Tracy and I had a great holiday with the kids.

“I’ve never really been sick since I got the new heart. I follow the same medication routine every day and see the medical team in Sydney on a regular basis.”

Stephen grew up in a little town called Kyalite on the Wakool River, north of Swan Hill, on the edge of the Mallee.

He moved to Gulargambone in 1990 and operates family properties totalling 16,000 hectares. As drought worsened in western NSW, another 18,000 hectares was purchased at Bollon in Queensland “to keep the stock alive”.

Some people think Stephen is a workaholic because he doesn’t want to retire. But he says everyone needs a hobby.

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“Mine just happens to be fixing tractors and spending time on the farm.

“The doctors don’t know how long I am likely to live because the stem cell transplant puts me in a different category to most heart transplant recipients.

“I’m back to 78kg and want to keep on farming. In my opinion, it is important to have a vision in life. Staying positive is important too because there are always other people in a worse situation.”

Stephen’s journey has been inspirational and despite the bumps along the road he still dreams of the big picture and looks forward to the future. RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka and Mandy McCutcheon Photography

ABOVE: Stephen’s positivity and visonary nature keeps him motivated on a daily basis.

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Australian Whites

Angus

Poll Dorsets RLM 171

W I N T E R story name

two of a kind The owners of this stylish and character-filled home are on the same page when it comes to adornment and ambience.

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story name W I N T E R

Set back from the road down a dirt drive, a farmhouse stands neatly nestled into the surrounding landscape. With its classic good looks, the home does little to give away its age or its inhabitants.

It was built in 2011, and despite its youth, many features tip their hat to another time. A rosemary hedge frames the yard and a series of French doors in a soft dove grey open out to a wide verandah draped in vines. On the back porch, a clue, two matching pairs of well-worn work boots wait side by side.

This home sweet home in the countryside belongs to David and Matthew Hall, identical twins who have spent four decades as best mates. While building a home can be a massive undertaking for many, the brothers found it to be a relatively stress-free experience.

“We knew exactly what we wanted as we clearly have the same or similar taste, which made the building process so much easier,” David says.

While the influence of their surroundings is evident in the country style they have imbued their home with, there is also a certain “pop” unique to David and Matthew’s decorating aesthetic. >

FACING PAGE: Twins David (left) and Matthew Hall at home with their dog Simon.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: A vine frames a trio of French doors in dove grey on the side verandah; while a rosemary hedge brings colour and fragrance to the yard, rustic outdoor furniture, decorative plantings and accessories add character to their outdoor spaces; a matching pair of boots waiting by the back door; the front of the Hall twins’ farm house built in 2011 by Jay Todd.

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“When we both come across something we think will work in our house it’s a look and point kind of situation and we are all over it.”

The brothers are strictly against the habit of going out to a store and buying all the items necessary to fill a room in one go. They exhibit great patience, slowly decorating, piece by piece. They describe it as waiting for the right items to find them. They never set out with anything specific in mind, but often end up travelling home with something they absolutely couldn’t leave behind.

David recalls a recent visit to an antique shop in Milton, an old record player providing the ambience in a crackly ominous sort of a way. Shelves filled with second-hand wares lined the walls all the way up to the ceiling, with the owner of the shop climbing up and down a tall narrow ladder on wheels to access the treasures. On this particular day they spotted the perfect set of bowling pins.

“When we both come across something we think will work in our house it’s a look and point kind of situation and we are all over it,” they explain. The bowling pins now sit comfortably in a wire basket in their lounge room. Few would ever go out searching for such a thing, but to know what you need when you see it is a talent in itself.

Their decorating sense is restrained in a way that is clean and fresh, yet lively in the unexpected way that objects are displayed.

I inquire as to whether they have ever thought of decorating for anyone else. A simple “no” is their answer. I am surprised to hear that they very rarely have anyone else in their home and that this visit in itself is quite out of character for the private pair.

With David’s career at the local post office and Matthew’s at the credit union, they are visible and well-regarded members of the

Young community. The boys make time for all their customers, happy to have a chat and experts at remembering faces and names, recalling personal details at just the right time.

It makes sense that their home is their own sanctuary. The twins admit that they often come home and revel in the quiet, barely saying a word to each other.

Curious, I inquire about their previous living arrangements. “We had a house in town,” they say. “You lived together?” I ask. “Yes” they say almost sheepishly and with their signature wide grins.

“It’s a twin thing.

“It’s nice, you always have your best friend with you and you never have to walk into the pub alone. It’s a connection that’s hard to explain.” But it’s very clear to see. RLM Words and images: Jennifer Harden

ABOVE: Antique dining chairs surround a sturdy table in the Hall boys’ light-filled dining space.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A creative vignette displays some of their favourite vintage finds; artwork over their lounge hints at their love of horses and their sport of choice, show hack riding; vintage finds and repurposed items feature throughout their space. An antique table and mirror in the back hallway and a pallett turned herb garden on the verandah; classic black and white tiles are a prominent feature in the bathroom. Eyes, a piece by local artist Bronwyn Bedford; set of bowling pins found on a weekend outing to Milton; their comfortable modern country style is at home in their kitchen; pears and branches add a touch of whimsy to their vanity; their collection of green glass adds a pop of colour to the kitchen.

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• DUBBO •

WE COME TO YOU!

Poolwerx Dubbo offers pool and spa servicing to rural NSW residents, including Mudgee, Narromine, Parkes, Gilgandra, Warren, Nyngan, Coonamble and Walgett.

Regular Servicing • On Demand Servicing • Green Pool Clean Up Dust Storm Clean Up • Pool Chemicals & Equipment

CALL US TODAY TO BOOK 02 6885 5381

142 Erskine Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 www.poolwerx.com.au

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At Choices Flooring we know that good interior decorating starts

from the floor up

Choices Flooring by Brights 61 George Street, Bathurst (next to Dan Murphy’s) 6331 4866 choicesflooring.com.au

ALLURE ON MAIN

A warm welcome and country hospitality awaits you at Allure on Main New season styles with natural fibres arriving soon R.M Williams | Goondiwindi Cotton | Thomas Cook Ariat | Foil | Jump | Ping Pong | Alloue-The Label 6 7 R A N K I N S T R E E T, F O R B E S Ph. 02 6851 4778 M. 0417 726 290 allure_54@bigpond.com

Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm Sat: 9am - 12:30pm

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WELL

connected Optus Territory General Manager for Central NSW Tom O’Dea is happy to go the distance for regional communities.

What does your role involve?

What do you enjoy about living in a regional area?

I look after a wide area stretching from Murrumbateman to Lake Cargelligo, Gwabegar, Berry and Bawley Point. Major communities include Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst, Lithgow, Mudgee, Goulburn, Mittagong, Nowra and Ulladulla.

Leading Optus in a key regional market is incredibly rewarding as I am constantly looking forward to the new and exciting things that are always happening. My priority is to understand the pain point areas and challenges faced by our customers, to ensure we are always working towards and delivering the best possible customer experience and solutions.

It’s great to work with the local Optus team to build on the successes we have achieved in Central NSW to date.

During my youth I spent a considerable amount of time camping around Cooma, Wagga Wagga and along the South Coast. I enjoy the down-to-earth lifestyle that is part of country Australia and always dreamt of giving my own family similar experiences. In November 2018, I had the opportunity to move from Sydney to Yass with my wife and young son.

We love the friendly, relaxed way of life and enjoy stopping to chat with the people we meet while walking to the shops.

My career as an executive in sales, marketing and stakeholder engagement has taken me to many different places. Some of the most rewarding work has been facilitating experiences, training and support for rural communities and organisations including NSW Farmers, Country Women’s Association and the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association.

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business W I N T E R

How is your company supporting regional Australia?

Optus is about more than keeping towns and communities connected to the latest technology. We are also there to help in times of need. When Mendooran (near Dubbo) faced level six water restrictions last year, I approached senior management to discuss how we could play a part in assisting the drought-stricken town.

The immediate answer was yes, because we strive to support the communities we operate in. A B-Double truck delivered 36,000 litres of water, which made an incredibly significant difference to a town that had basically run dry.

Optus is heavily involved in investing in young people in regional and remote locations. During the last 12 months a series of successful roadshows visited 20 Central NSW schools to enhance digital literacy. More than 2000 students and hundreds of teachers were involved in interactive sessions involving coding, robotics, virtual and augmented reality, science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The jobs of tomorrow are definitely in technologyrelated fields and at Optus we believe young people, no matter how remote, should have the same level of access to resources as those in metropolitan areas.

How did Optus respond during the devastating bushfires?

As I mentioned earlier, at Optus we look to support the communities we operate in. During the recent bushfires, which devastated an unfathomable portion of Australia, we remained dedicated to ensuring we were attentive to the needs of our customers to offer the best experience possible.

Our network operations team worked closely with relevant emergency services to access mobile sites and restore services as a priority.

We had teams on the ground in and around evacuation centres from the moment the crisis began. We understand that being able to stay connected in times of crisis is of the utmost importance, especially when it comes to staying in touch with family and friends.

As a result, we gave away hundreds of free mobile broadband devices so those in impacted communities could access the internet, regardless of whether they were an Optus customer.

A dedicated Bushfire Hotline was established for Optus customers affected by the bushfires to ensure we could provide support and assistance. We then launched the Optus Green Shoots grants program to help re-establish connectivity in bushfire-ravaged areas.

Our $2000 tech packages have helped small businesses get back online and up and running.

As these affected communities continue to recover, we will remain attentive and continue to offer evolving support.

An additional 20 mobile sites have been launched in the Central NSW region.

What new opportunities will 2020 bring for Optus customers?

Significant investment is continuing in our network regionally to improve connectivity, range, coverage, speed and user experience.

Optus constantly strives to bring value and choice to customers. An additional 20 mobile sites have been launched in the Central NSW region and more mobile towers are on the way.

What inspires you?

Connecting with communities across Central NSW is very rewarding.

I am constantly on the road and reaching out to those across the region. During 2019 I travelled more than 40,000 kilometres.

I am passionate about being hands on and spending time out and about with rural and remote Australians. I find it to be inspiring.

Optus is helping to tackle some of the challenges they face by enabling access to technology as well as delivering competition and choice as a result of improved network services. At the end of the day we are about helping people live better and more productive lives. RLM

FACING PAGE: Donating money to the Parkes RFS at the Parkes Agricultural Show; opening of the new mobile phone tower at Mount McDonald with the Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack; on the road with the Optus Virtual Reality Roadshow in Dubbo.

ABOVE, FROM TOP: A donation to the Variety Club in Tulip in the Southern Highlands; snow on Mount Canobolas; a donation of 36,000 litres of water to the township of Mendooran.

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Red Bend Catholic College, Forbes is a co-educational day and boarding school established in the Marist and Mercy traditions.

The College, through its Marist charism, focuses on the spiritual, academic, cultural, personal and physical development of students preparing them to become ‘Good Citizens and Good Christians’.

Through difficulties to greatness.

ENROLMENTS FOR 2021 ARE NOW OPEN

College Road, Forbes NSW 2871 • rbcc@redbendcc.nsw.edu.au • (02) 6852 2000 • www.redbendcc.nsw.edu.au

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space to thrive

Smart choice to keep regional and rural families together

Join our co-educational boarding family • modern and progressive • diverse learning opportunities • on-campus parent accommodation • affordable quality education close to home.

• parent accommodation • regional College of all-round excellence

affordable, quality education close to home

book a campus tour today 02 6331 3911 www.scotsallsaints.nsw.edu.au/tryus Centrally located in Bathurst, NSW A Presbyterian Co-educational Day and Boarding College for students Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12

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W I N T E R story name

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art achiever W I N T E R

drawn to

DRAW Drawing and painting are as natural as breathing for talented Central West artist Karen James.

Artist Karen James thrives on working in oils, pastels, acrylics and charcoal in a light-filled studio and gallery set in gardens on acreage at Mount Rankin, 12km from Bathurst.

Subject matter is varied, with inspiration gathered from the natural beauty of the land and sea, people, animals and events.

As a member of the Bathurst Arts Trail creative collective, Karen opens her gallery to the public on the first weekend of each month (and at other times by appointment).

Art classes for adults and children are conducted in a studio at the Pigments and Palettes art supply store in Russell Street, Bathurst.

Raised in a household full of music and creativity, Karen was always passionate about art and spent much of her childhood in the backyard drawing.

After finishing school, she trained as a graphic artist and worked in the art department of a large printing firm at North Richmond for 16 years.

Night classes in drawing and painting became a constant part of Karen’s life. She was a student of Marjorie Prophet for 15 years before spending 12 months at the prestigious Julian Ashton Art School in Sydney.

“By that time, I was completely hooked on art,” Karen says.

“I started selling my work, entering competitions, and held my first exhibition with another artist.”

In 1997 Karen and husband Bob Bell travelled around Europe and the United Kingdom before heading to Kenya for six months to work as volunteer teachers with an Australian aid organisation.

Africa had a huge impact on the couple and changed their outlook on life.

“Things seemed different when we returned to our home in the Hawkesbury,” Karen says.

“After a while a decision was made to sell up and relocate to the South Island of New Zealand.

“We settled in the seaside town of Kaikoura and ran an art gallery, tourist accommodation and art school.”

When massive earthquakes hit Christchurch in 2011 Karen felt compelled to draw the city’s iconic cathedral.

Work inspired by Christchurch continued for months because “it didn’t seem right to paint any other subject when so much tragedy was occurring”.

Nearly 200 people were killed, thousands were injured and a national state of emergency was declared.

Karen completed 20 original artworks and held a fundraising exhibition entitled For Christchurch. All of the money raised was donated to help the destroyed Court Theatre.

Kaikoura was hit by a magnitude 7.8 quake in November 2016 at a time when Karen was preparing to exhibit her work at the New Zealand Parliament building in Wellington.

The invitation to be part of a significant exhibition with three other Kaikoura artists was very exciting and helped boost morale as the community dealt with the complications of post-quake devastation.

After 18 years in New Zealand, Karen and Bob moved back across the ditch to be closer to family in Australia.

They settled at Mount Rankin after falling in love with the Freemantle Road house that is now their home. Bob designed the studio and gallery where Karen creates and displays her art. RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

Further information about Karen’s work can be found by visiting Facebook: Karen James Artist or phoning: 0404 641 768.

FACING PAGE: Artist Karen James is right at home at her studio and gallery, near Bathurst.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Karen’s art studio and gallery; Karen finds great joy in her work; a unique and diverse collection of Karen’s works of art.

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AVAILABLE NOW

15A Lambert Street, Bathurst Ph. 02 6331 8900 M. 0414 715 185 office@inoutbathurst.com

Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 9am-2pm After hours phone mobile

INOUTBATHURST.COM

Crampton’s bring the store to your door For almost 30 years we’ve offered a free measure and quote service with our home service van.

Call us today to have one of our consultants arrange an appointment within your home FREE of charge.

Servicing Dubbo and the Western area.

Or call in and visit our showroom and friendly sales team.

AUSTRALIAN OWNED & MANUFACTURED

62 Hawthorn St, Dubbo | Tel: 02 6882 8911 www.cramptonscarpets.com.au 184 RLM

Karen James Studio & Gallery

Pastel – oil – acrylic paintings – charcoal drawings 407 Freemantle Rd, Mt Rankin (12km from Bathurst CBD)

M. 0404 641 768 E. karenjamesartist@gmail.com Gallery & studio is open the first full weekend of each month or by appointment. www.facebook.com/karenjames.art

fish river roasters Roasters of premium coffee from around the world.

We roast in small batches so we can deliver to you fresh and fast. Same day dispatch for online orders received before 3pm.

Our philosophy is simple: Source the best coffee beans and roast each variety to bring out their best flavours and aroma.

Our coffee has won 22 awards since 2010, including at the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show and the National Golden Bean Competition.

Fish River Roasters provides speciality coffee from around the world to cafes and restaurants in the Central West, Blue Mountains and around Australia. Our award winning coffee is supported by barista training and espresso machine repairs and maintenance. We would like to thank the cafes and restaurants that stock our coffee and the coffee drinkers of the region for their support.

67 corporation avenue bathurst nsw 2795 02 6331 7171

order online: www.fishriverroasters.com.au RLM 185

W I N T E R funeral business

a natural progression Funeral director Laura Carter was raised in the business and treasures the responsibility she holds to help people through the most difficult time.

Dubbo’s Laura Carter does not fit the stereotypical image of a funeral director.

At the age of 25, the manager of Shakespeare Funerals has poise, empathy and a perceptive depth of understanding gained from a lifetime of experience in the industry.

Born in the coastal community of Shellharbour, Laura was a toddler when her parents, Paul and Barbara Carter, moved inland as the new owners of Gilgandra Funerals and Monuments.

“I was literally raised in cemeteries all around NSW, learning to concrete and install monuments before I went to school,” she recalls.

“Mum would be mixing the concrete and I would be on one end of the screed helping Dad to ensure everything was absolutely level.

“We became a great team when it came to packing and unpacking the vehicle and positioning and washing all the tools.”

As Laura grew up, she became involved in other aspects of the funeral business, from answering the phone and doing accounts to assisting at funerals and driving trucks and forklifts.

She was taught the values of hard work and compassion, qualities she thrives on every day.

In 2003, Paul and Barbara expanded their business by purchasing Shakespeare Funerals and W Larcombe and Son Funerals in Dubbo, H Logue and Sons Funerals in Wellington and Russell Everingham Funerals in Narromine.

In 2008, Dubbo’s iconic St Andrew’s Uniting Church was acquired as a funeral chapel.

Laura completed Years 11 and 12 at boarding school in Sydney before gaining a degree in commerce (majoring in accounting) and a graduate certificate in Law from the University of Newcastle.

“All the while I remained involved in the funeral business,” she says.

“I always had the goal of making it my fulltime career.

“Moving back to Dubbo in 2018, I bought a house and took over account management for the five funeral homes before taking on the role of manager at Shakespeare Funerals.”

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Industry training is important to Laura and her parents and in 2019 they travelled to England for a major funeral expo.

Laura and her father have also undertaken training in embalming.

“We are always learning and looking for ways to better ourselves,” she says.

“It’s the way we do business.”

Laura enjoys dealing with people from all walks of life and views it as a privilege to guide families through the process of organising funerals.

“Communicating effectively and acting professionally are absolutely essential,” she says.

“It is a privilege to work with families during such an important time in their lives.” RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Laura Carter brings compassion and understanding to her role at Shakespeare Funerals.

Premier funeral services for Dubbo and surrounding communities

Shakespeare Funerals Shakespeare Funerals, Dubbo’s longest serving funeral home, have been setting the standards of funeral care since 1894.

We understand how difficult and often confronting it is making arrangements for the funeral of a loved one. When you step into our office, you will be greeted with a warm welcome, a gentle smile and be surrounded by people who truly care.

We encourage families to be active during the process of making funeral arrangements and making the service as personal and individual as possible.

We are committed to exceeding the expectations of the families we are honoured to serve and our aim is to guide you through this journey while providing a professional and modern approach to funeral care.

Laura Carter

94-96 Talbragar Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 (02) 6882 2434 info@shakespearefunerals.com.au www.shakespearefunerals.com.au OPEN 24 HOURS

Flowers on Talbragar

St Andrew’s Chapel

The experienced team at Flowers on Talbragar know how to convey the perfect sentiment through beautiful tribute flowers, bouquets, wreaths and casket sprays.

A non-denominational Chapel for funeral and memorial services, after-funeral functions, weddings, and bereavement seminars.

1/52 Talbragar Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 (02) 6885 3242

72 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 (02) 6882 3199

The facility is blessed with a homely, yet benign ambience that succinctly pervades every nook and cranny as well as providing an unsurpassed spaciousness under the influence of which clients can celebrate their special occasion in a naturally freeflowing atmosphere.

W Larcombe & Son

FUNERALS & MONUMENTS W Larcombe & Son Funerals are committed to providing superior care, service and support to Dubbo and the wider community in times of loss.

52 Talbragar Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 (02) 6882 3199 info@wlarcombeandson.com.au www.wlarcombeandson.com.au OPEN 24 HOURS

As a full service funeral provider, we are able to assist you with every aspect of the funeral to make it unique and designed for your exact requirements. We focus on providing the finest quality products and services, including coffins, caskets, urns, flowers and vehicles.

Paul & Barbara Carter

W I N T E R country recipes

winter comfort food The cooler months call for hearty, no-fuss recipes that are bound to please.

OLD-FASHIONED BAKED APPLES Ingredients 4 Granny Smith apples 1 tbsp lemon juice ½ cup sultanas ¼ cup currants 2 tsp vanilla essence 2 tbsp brown sugar 2 tbsp butter 1 tsp cinnamon Ice-cream, cream or custard

Method 1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees.

2. Using a watermelon baller, scoop out the core from the apple, leaving a well. Do not cut to the bottom, and leave room to put about a tablespoon of the mixture into the well. I also cut a ring around the apple 2cm from top.

3. Drizzle the lemon juice over the core area on each apple.

4. Make the stuffing for the apples. Mix sultanas, currants, vanilla, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and simmer.

5. Place mixture in apples.

6. Place in casserole dish and keep upright.

7. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, then remove foil and cook for another 10 minutes.

8. Serve with a little ice-cream on the side or a dollop of cream or custard.

HAWAIIAN MEAT DISH This simple dish is always a hit at lunch, served with boiled rice or on a piece of crunchy toast, to enjoy while sitting in the winter sun.

Ingredients

½ cup celery, diced

500g round or your choice of steak, cubed

½ green pepper, sliced

2 tbsp plain flour

505g can beef and vegetable soup

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp tomato paste

450g tin pineapple pieces, drained Method 1. Coat meat in flour.

2. Brown all meat in oil for a few minutes only.

3. Place in casserole dish.

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4. Add all other ingredients.

5. Cover and bake at 180 degrees for about 1½ hours.

6. Stir occasionally.

Recipes and images: Lorraine Hills

The Bakehouse is a family-owned bakery in Forbes Established in 1990, we were initially a small bakery and have since grown to be a 70 seat cafe serving the best meals in town.

P R E S S ALL-DAY BREAKFAST MENU

•

LUNCH MENU INC. BURGERS + DAILY SPECIALS

SUSHI

GRAB AND GO BAR + SUPER SALAD BAR

FULL BEVERAGE BAR

PIES, BREAD + CAKES

Coffee Roasters, Cafe & Events 33 Bultje Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 www.pressdubbo.com.au (02) 6885 0621 Mon - Fri 7:30am to 4pm Sat 8am to 4pm Sun 8am to 4pm

AS WELL AS CATERING, THEME NIGHTS + PIE/LAMINGTON DRIVES •

VISIT US 6 DAYS A WEEK AT 15 TEMPLAR STREET, FORBES NSW 2871 MON -FRI:

6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

SAT:

6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SUN:

CLOSED

www.thebakehouse2871.com.au 02 6852 3388

thebakehouse2871@outlook.com

“Angullong has perhaps Orange’s best value range...” Huon Hooke Visit our cellar door in the historic bluestone stables in Millthorpe for tasting and sales.

Cnr. Park & Victoria Streets, Millthorpe. Ph: 02 6366 3444 OPEN 7 DAYS 11am to 5pm

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peace & quiet With views from every corner, the beautiful natural amphitheatre of ‘The Glen’ overlooks rolling hills and an undisturbed bushland gully.

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garden W I N T E R

Arriving at ‘The Glen’, Clear Creek near Bathurst, the tranquillity is the first thing you notice. There’s not another soul in sight, which is what Jayne and Simon Beverly love about living here.

Choosing to live near Bathurst also meant coping with the Central West’s extreme temperatures, varying from a chilly nine degrees (and below) to a hot 45 degrees. A consequence of the 402-acre property’s open aspect is exposure to full sun and prevailing winds. Jayne says “you just have to mouth the word barbecue and the wind will start!”.

Creating their three-acre garden wasn’t just about beautifying the landscape; Jayne and Simon have come up with creative strategies for sun and wind protection throughout the garden. Dividing the large open spaces into smaller garden rooms and terracing an unusable sloping area creates interest and there’s a sense of discovery as one area leads you towards exploring the next.

An eclectic mix of artwork and sculptures positioned throughout the garden adds wonderful interest, movement and a sense of fun. Many of the artworks have been purchased from western NSW towns including Mudgee and Molong.

Designed for sun protection, a timber arbour over a seating and barbecue area was one of their first projects. The wisteria’s vigorous growth soon took over and the timber support poles were replaced with sturdy steel posts. Beneath the soft shady canopy of foliage and fragrant spring flowers, the area is now a favourite spot for dining, barbecues and entertaining. Winter sun pours through once the leaves have fallen, making this a popular year-round retreat.

Gardening in this location is not without its challenges. Poor rocky soils and harsh climatic conditions make plant selection critical to success. Native plants, Mediterranean species and deciduous trees are some of the star performers, and as the trees grow and create protection, more varieties of hardy perennials can be grown.

A visitor to Bathurst’s Open Gardens commented: “We came to see your garden because we live on rough land, and we want to see what you can grow.” As for many gardeners who have moved from coastal to country areas, there’s a learning curve, along with successes and failures – or opportunities to try again.

By the pool, the couple have had three attempts at getting native plants to grow. Survivors including lemon-flowered Grevillea ‘Molongolo Hybrid’, strappy leaf Lomandra, and wispy native grasses now thrive among the rock and sleeper walled gardens.

The shaded roof cover over the pool cabana has made the area more user friendly during summer, and is a lovely cool spot to relax. At night time, the spa has an excellent view of the Milky Way in the clear night sky.

By the pool, a metal crank shaft sculpture sourced from Molong junk yard is known as the “cranky fish”.

“Fantastic for this climate, hybrid Lavendula ‘Avonview’ form spreading bun shapes near a pathway, and rosemary ‘Tuscan Blue’ makes a terrific hedge,” Jayne says. Both respond to regular pruning, which keeps them dense and bushy and promotes flowering. >

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The front courtyard features an oversized urn filled with white carpet roses; poolside gardens suit sun-loving native plants and grasses; young trees promise future shade among the colourful front gardens.

RIGHT, FROM TOP: A view across the levels of terracing towards the pool and the bushland; Jayne and Simon enjoy their peaceful garden; an outdoor chess set is popular with visitors; a sun-drenched open terrace suits dining or relaxing around the firepit.

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W I N T E R story name

A gravel pathway leads to a lovely grove of olive trees, edged with low rosemary hedges. The silvery foliage of the olive trees adds colour and textural interest among surrounding greens.

As the trees and shrubs have grown, they provide shade and shelter for cottage plants and pretty perennials, which haven’t previously enjoyed the conditions.

The front porch is swathed with a very pretty white Clematis vine. The flowers are followed by attractive spidery seed pods, prolonging the display. The lush foliage offers cooling shade to the adjacent bedrooms.

The front entry has a more formal look, with layered hedges of lavender and hardy fine-foliaged Hebe. A feature oversized pot is filled with vigorous and pretty ‘White Carpet’ rose, which blooms from mid spring right through to autumn. Elegant weeping birch standards and variegated cream and lime box elder (Acer negundo ‘Variegatum’) trees will add height and shade as they mature. The beds are edged with colourful long-flowering dianthus.

Gardens to the side and rear of the house are laid out in rectangles or squares and divided by planting or fencing into linked rooms. An outdoor chess set surrounded by benches for waiting players is screened by vibrant red bottlebrush (Callistemon). Large urns at the base of verandah pillars are filled with white Clematis and scented Chinese star jasmine (Trachelospemum) to green the vertical spaces.

Complementing the square paving stones, low formal hedges of rosemary and Hebe add a sense of enclosure, and highlight a stunning sculpture called Social Climbing. Lush grape vines trail along a timber and mesh verandah railing. The view across the borrowed landscape from this area is captivating and very peaceful.

On a lower terrace there is a shining silver sculpture titled Where’s the cork?.

Japanese Maples, flowering Cistus rock roses, white-trunked silver birch and bright red Callistemon form a screening garden between the house and two adjacent cottages known as ‘The Dale’ and ‘Dempseys Cottage’.

Using rocks sourced on the property, the couple built the rock walls. It was trial and error as the first one collapsed. Failure makes you succeed, and later constructions were successful in retaining soil and managing the slope.

Like the house, the cottages enjoy a lovely outlook over the bushland gully.

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storygarden name W I N T E R

Dark purple Spanish and ‘Avonview’ lavender have been used repeatedly in the cottage gardens, as it’s super tough. Pig face shines as ground cover and flowering gum trees make up a pretty picture. The colour palette is mostly vibrant blues, lavender and white, with red highlights from large glazed pots and a resilient red ‘Dr Huey’ climbing rose over a pergola. A sculpture called Free Falling, constructed from fencing wire, graces the cottage gardens.

In the driveway, evergreen ash trees are growing well, and though a lilly pilly hedge is showing signs of stress, these should respond after a light trim when rainfall returns.

Swathes of Lavender ‘Avonview’ were a happy misunderstanding as Jayne said she would “take the lot” at a nursery closing sale. The expected 20 became 160 lavender plants, which provide months of flowers and attract a host of bees and beneficial insects. These make up just a portion of the 5000 plants the couple have planted in just four years.

Jayne has sourced creative garden ideas online from Pinterest and real estate websites, and also enjoys visiting gardens, especially nearby Mayfield at Oberon for inspiration. She believes you don’t have to create everything yourself, and adapts ideas for her garden.

The water for the garden is primarily from a bore, supplemented with rain water stored in 25,000-litre tanks. New plants are hand watered until established, timing applications to dusk to prevent loss of water via evaporation.

One of the things the couple enjoys about living in Bathurst is the distinct four seasons. “Spring and autumn are the best, but each season has it merits. Summers will be more bearable when we have more shade,” Jayne says. RLM Words: Elizabeth Swane Images: Robert Bruce

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The sturdy wisteria covered arbour is a favourite outdoor entertaining space; this spiral silver sculpture is titled Where’s the Cork?; intricate wire sculpture Free Falling, a focal point in the cottage garden; a colour filled pot along the front verandah; dense plantings screen the cottages from the main residence.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Timber and gravel steps link garden rooms, terracing cleverly divides the sloping garden into different spaces; the pool cabana provides welcome shade along with a great view; Geraldton wax (Chamelaucium uncinatum) blooms prolifically in spring; the front gardens have a more formal look; attractive nectar-filled gum blossoms.

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Billabong Cottage O B E R O N T R O U T F I S H I N G FA R M S TAY

Come up to Oberon for a breath of fresh air Mobile: 0427 365 144

Website: www.billabongcottage.com.au Mobile: 0427 365Email: 144 timcharge@bigpond.com Email: timcharge@bigpond.com Website: www.billabongcottage.com.au

XERO Gold Partner

Clear Creek via Bathurst, NSW 2795

Farm Cottage Accommodation Two beautifully styled cottages set on 400 tranquil acres With option to hire together as your gorgeous garden venue for special occasions and wedding celebrations

Unit 12/36 Darling Street Dubbo, NSW 2830 Phone: 02 6885 5594 E: admin@peacockeaccountants.com.au www.peacockeaccountants.com.au

Combining the knowledge of your business with our expertise – growing your small business or farming operation is our passion.

Indulgent relaxation Two private garden spas

SPRING 2020

Romantic wood fire

Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Feature

Spectacular scenery

Event garden hire with accommodation

Enquiries to Jayne M: 0435 008 268 E: theglen1826@gmail.com

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Accommodation only bookings

The Dale (1 bed) airbnb.com/h/thedalecottage Dempsey’s Cottage (2 bed) airbnb.com/h/dempseyscottage

Queanbeyan, Braidwood, Bungendore and villages

AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 2020 Subscribe to experience the magazine in print or online: www.lifestylemagazine.net.au

OUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCES ARE UNLIKE OTHERS – UNIQUE IN EVERY WAY Offering a selective range of unique experiences and journeys in hand-picked destinations around the world.

Each adventure is designed to reveal the true spirit and culture of a region. Our luxury tours and individual experiences explore culture, landscapes, history and local cuisine.

Our aim is to immerse, inspire and come away with a deeply rewarding experience.

Unique Destinations is hosting free information evenings showcasing the Cook Islands in late February to early March in Orange, Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane.

Weekly packages to the Cook Islands start from $3,995.

Contact us for bookings to secure your place and for further information.

CONTACT US

Ph. 1300 002 269 info@uniquedestinations.com.au www.uniquedestinations.com.au Photo courtesy of Cook Islands Tourist Corporation

Old Coolamon Hospital Spend a night or two in restful, composed rooms.

Ever transforming, like an artist’s studio.

RUTH BAILEY 58 Cowabbie Street, Coolamon NSW 2701 0413 066 803 RLM 195

Back: Steve Loane, General Manager Forbes Shire Council, Cr Graeme Miller, Forbes Shire Council, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle, Publishers of Regional Lifestyle Magazine, Cassandra Gates, Senior Communications Officer Forbes Shire Council, Emily Brotherton, Communications and Marketing Officer Parkes Shire Council.

Front: Jolene Jones, Events Officer Forbes Shire Council, Nina Hooper, Manager of Community and Tourism Forbes Shire Council, Nadia Parkinson, Tourism and Destination Officer Forbes Shire Council, Cr Jenny Webb, Deputy Mayor Forbes Shire Council, Cr Phyllis Miller, OAM Mayor Forbes Shire Council, Cr Ken Keith OAM, Mayor Parkes Shire Council, Cr Barbara Newton, Deputy Mayor Parkes Shire Council.

RLM AUTUMN 2020 LAUNCH Forbes Connection and collaboration were the themes of the evening for the launch of the 28th edition of Regional Lifestyle Magazine (RLM) at the beautiful Forbes Town Hall on Saturday, February 15.

The Autumn 2020 edition saw the neighbouring shires of Forbes and Parkes collaborate for the co-feature, showcasing the unique characters, rich history and culture, wonderful events, and picturesque scenery that can be found throughout the two regions.

Forbes Shire Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM warmly welcomed the 80 guests, including council representatives, featured local personalities and businesses who advertised in the magazine.

“It was so important for us to showcase the beautiful communities in which we live. I know that when I read about the other regions featured in this magazine, it makes me want to go and visit. So, to have this edition launch during one of the driest times on record, I can’t tell you the value that this will have on our community in terms of visitation,” she told the crowd.

Parkes Shire Mayor Ken Keith OAM thanked RLM for the opportunity to work with Forbes Shire Council for a combined Forbes/Parkes feature.

“Particularly during these times of drought, it has been the tourism sector that has supported our communities. Having a town 20 minutes down the road, I think it’s fantastic that we can support one another, as well as celebrate and share the success of each other’s events,” he said.

With Wiradjuri culture celebrated in both shires, the highlight of the evening was the Welcome Dance performed by the River Spirit Dancers, which emphasised the importance of connecting with one another.

Regional Lifestyle Magazine editor Elizabeth Tickle acknowledged the success of the partnership between the two regions before officially launching the Autumn edition.

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The highlight of the evening launch was a performance by the River Spirit Dancers.

“This particular project has been six months in the making – 113 pages dedicated to the beautiful Forbes and Parkes areas,” she said.

“This has been a team effort and we have enjoyed the collaboration with the two councils. We feel that the end result is a showcase of much of what is on offer in these very special regions.” RLM Words: Emily Brotherton Images: Sue Meikle

Copies of the Autumn 2020 edition are available online at lifestylemagazine.net.au or at many stockists throughout NSW, ACT, Victoria and Queensland.

For more information visit: www.lifestylemagazine.net.au.

events W I N T E R

Jason Conn and Anna Tickle, Wellington, Allan and Susie Blatch, Forbes, Justine Fisher, Parkes, with Elizabeth Tickle.

Tamworth Regional Council Cr Helen Tickle, Fran and Tim Charge, Oberon, Alex Tickle.

Sue and John Curley, Dubbo, with Justin Sanderson, Collie.

Sharon and Jeff House, Parkes.

Jo McKinnin, Mudgee, with Andrew Talbot, Quirindi.

Greg and Christene Nash, Parkes.

Lorraine Hills, Tamworth, with Zora Regulic, Sydney.

Pattreeya and Marc Payne, Parkes.

Matthew Fuge, Hong Kong, Morna Knight, Narrandera, with Elva and Rex Fuge, Forbes.

Forbes Shire Councillor Graeme Miller, with Jan and Keith Mullette, Forbes.

Sampa and Jay Bhakta, Forbes, Mayor of Forbes Council Cr Phyllis Miller OAM and Yarangirri Holmes, Forbes.

Shannon Heitzmann and Marg Seymour and Cr John Seymour OAM, Coolamon Monica Langfield, both from Forbes.

Shire Council Mayor, with Ian Hills, Tamworth.

Steve Lindsay, Peak Hill, David Johnstone, Tenterfield, Rob and Kay Lindsay, Peak Hill, with Dr Rick Newton and Parkes Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Barbara Newton, Parkes.

Stephen and Anne-Marie Dwyer, Tiff Nicholson and Amity Howe, all from Forbes.

Nina Hooper, Manager Community and Tourism Forbes Shire Council, with Steve Loane, General Manager Forbes Shire Council.

Campbell Wilson, Forbes, with Emily Brotherton Communications and Marketing Officer, Parkes Shire Council.

Jane Beverley, Sydney, Alex and Elizabeth Tickle, Fran Charge, Oberon, and Anna Hindson, Sydney.

Alan Evans with Marilyn and Steve Craft, all from Forbes.

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– Weddings – Functions ~ Old wares ~ Collectables ~ Homewares ~ Coffee shop Open 10am to 4.30pm Friday – Monday 583 Snowy Mountains Highway, Pine Valley NSW 2630

198 RLM

– Restaurant and accommodation coming soon

M. 0427 484 940

shop@smtravellersrest.com.au

SNOW SEASON MOTOR INN

GATEWAY TO THE SNOWIES Welcome to the Snow Season Motor Inn – a family orientated motel situated in Cooma New South Wales.

We offer quality accommodation, meals and drinks at an affordable price.

Special Corporate and Return Guests Rates. Rooms from $110.00* *Prices vary depending on room configuration and season.

19 MONARO HWY, COOMA NSW 2630

02 6452 1133

Ellstanmor GUESTHOUSE

Modern Australian Menu Great steaks, Club classics, functions available Coffee shop open all day Quality, barista made coffee Locally roasted beans from “Art of Espresso” Cakes, slices, housemade scones

Ellstanmor is a charming old three story Victorian country home offering four ensuite B&B rooms.

The house features large living room spaces for guests to spread out and unwind. We are located in the centre of Cooma – an hour from Canberra, the coast or the snow.

Contact Allison P. (02) 6452 2402 M. 0418 434 189 32 Massie Street, Cooma NSW

Embellish also caters outside of the Club for weddings and celebrations

OPENING HOURS 9:30am – 9:30pm Club Lunches

12:00pm – 2:00pm

Dinner

5:30pm – 9:00pm

Gundagai District Services Club 254 Sheridan St, Gundagai NSW 2722 Phone: 6944 1719 | 0419 478 508

WWW.ELLSTANMOR.COM.AU

Email: events@embellishcatering.com.au www.gundagaiservicesclub.com.au

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Country Championships Qualifier winner Healing Hands.

MUDGEE RACES Mudgee

Anne Sutcliffe, Stephen Vella, Scott Sutcliffe and Mudgee Mayor Des Kennedy.

Jim Bowman, Mitch Newman, Claire Lever and Ronald Bowman.

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On the first day of Autumn, the Mudgee Race Club hosted the Country Championships Central Districts Qualifier.

A crowd of more than 2500 people attended the event that was held in glorious weather conditions.

With the Charity Shield match conducted the night before at nearby Glen Willow Stadium, there were plenty of South Sydney Rabbitohs players on course to celebrate their victory over St George.

Local hero and champion jockey Hugh Bowman, who graced the cover of the Autumn 2020 edition of Regional Lifestyle Magazine, also made a special appearance. Hugh, who grew up in Dunedoo, rode a trio of winners with two of them for his father Jim. The Gayna Williams-trained Healing Hands, ridden by Greg Ryan, won the feature race and qualified for a berth in the Newhaven Park Country Championships Final at Randwick on April 4.

And the Fashions on the Field competition judged

by Christine Bowman, wife of Hugh, and Rabbitohs star Tom Burgess, was won by Lavenia Whippy.

There were plenty of movers and shakers on track enjoying great hospitality in the Racing NSW marquee including Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett, Mudgee Mayor Des Kennedy, and muchloved former Channel Nine sports commentator and Mudgee local Ken Sutcliffe. RLM Words and images: Jo McKinnon

events W I N T E R

Rodger Corser, Doug May and Max Whitby.

Annie Bell, Sammy Cormie and Kate Snape.

Sheridan Magnus, Brendan Magnus and Krystie Baker.

Mark and Sue Brassel.

Phillip Ridge, Jim Bowman and Jim Renshaw.

Sydney racecaller Darren Flindell and Elders Killara Feedlot General Manager Andrew Talbot.

Country Championships Qualifier winner Healing Hands and Frank Williams.

South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett and Daley Cage.

Sky Racing trackside presenters Mick Wallace and Chantelle Buckley.

Lizzy Galloway and Sally Nagel.

Mudgee Race Club Chairman Hunter White.

Champion jockey Hugh Bowman.

Rabbitohs player Tom Burgess and Fashions on the Field winner Lavenia Whippy.

Scott Kennedy and Heidi Cathels from Racing NSW.

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Specialising in catering on-site at your event.

All day cafĂŠ menu

Open 7 days 8.30am-4.15pm (Closed Christmas and Boxing Day)

Corporate Conferences Meetings Weddings Celebrations We offer a personalised service and pride ourselves on working with you to create a memorable event.

If you are organizing a breakfast, lunch or dinner, contact us for a selection of choices from sit down, cocktail finger food, buffet and more. We can supply all your requirements.

0425 209 138

Telescope road, parkes NSW 2870 6882 1566 • www.dishcafe.com.au

Dishing up a truly memorable experience in the Central West and surrounds

Handmade colourful canvas swings for little ones.

CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope Visitor Discovery Centre Open 7 days • 8:30am - 4:15pm • Free entry 20km north of Parkes on the Newell Hwy 585 Telescope Road, Parkes NSW, 2870

T: 0408 254 325

www.sleepyjays.com.au 202 RLM

Ph. 02 6861 1777 www.csiro.au/parkes Shop online: www.parkesdishshop.com

While visiting the beautiful Snowy Monaro, make sure you stop at one of our newly upgraded playgrounds.

JOHN SHORTT CUSTOM SADDLER From ninja parks to flying foxes and accessible swings, there’s fun for all the family!

Handmade quality leather leather saddles saddles and and accessories, with custom rawhide rawhide trees. trees.

All types of saddle repairs, repairs, all all strapping strapping made made or repaired. From dog collars, collars, to to draught draught horse horse harness, to pack saddles.

Saddle making & leather carving carving schools schools available. available.

NSW 2626 2626P. P.(02) (02)6454 64544186 4186 19 Swan St, Bredbo NSW M. 0413 139 298 E. shortty@southernphone.com.au shortty@southernphone.com.au

MOONBAH HUT 688 BIG YARD RD, JINDABYNE NSW 2627 P. 02 6457 8311

ULTRA PREMIUM EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL SINGLE ESTATE COLD CLIMATE HAND PICKED 715 WARRENS CORNER ROAD NUMERALLA NSW 2630 PHONE (02) 6453 3078 OPEN 7AM – 5PM 6 DAYS

SNOWYMOUNTAINESTATE.COM.AU

MOONBAHHUT.COM.AU

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W I N T E R events

Pam Gehrig, Patrece Maxwell, Debbi Millington, Julia McLeod, Paula Butt, Natalie Litchfield, Rachael Sheridan, Kerwyn Field, Katie Thompson, all from Cootamundra.

JUGIONG ART EXHIBITION Jugiong The eighth biennial Jugiong Art Exhibition was an amazing weekend of wonderful art, community spirit and hard work.

More than 80 artists exhibited 198 works, and 150 people attended an enjoyable cocktail party on the Friday night.

The guests were welcomed to the beautiful village of Jugiong and acknowledgement was made to the work of exhibiting artists from the region and surrounding areas, some from as far as Sydney, Canberra and the South Coast.

Rosie Gregson, Marg Gregson and Alexa Preston, all from Harden.

Jenny Polimeni, Jugiong, and Steph Corkhill Hyles, Bookham.

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Feature artist Kyah Wilson, from Dubbo, showcased her amazing artworks, which were admired by all. Her creative efforts were a spectacular addition to the exhibition.

Fabulous workshops were held over the two-day event, which is a fundraiser for the ongoing maintenance and repairs to the historic Jugiong Catholic Church and also shared in many ways throughout the community and beyond. RLM

Isabel and Chloe Knight-Gregson, Coolac, Brenda Mariani, Jugiong, with Kate Graham, Coolac.

Top: Ava by Bev Harris of Kooringal. Bottom: Cockburn Ranges by Roslyn Hughes of Ulladulla.

Words: Paula Butt Images: Jennifer Harden

Councillor Leigh Bowden CGRC and Richard White, both from Cootamundra, with Freda Nicholls, Gundagai.

Centre: Light Strikes by Polly Lyn Kimmorley, Forster.

Shrouded Sisters by Roy Fong, Jugiong.

Julie Doolan, Nicole Ward, Jane McCarthy and Maree Stewart, all from Harden.

Roy Fong, Jugiong, and Diane Barrett, Mollymook.

Sue Leneham and Barbie Hufton, both from Harden.

Marg Nicholls, Burra Creek, and Poppy Keatinge, Adjungbilly.

John and Virginia Fitzgerald, Cootamundra.

Kyah Wilson, featured artist from Dubbo, pictured in front of her pieces Dusty Days, top left, Sunset at Spring, bottom left, and Follow Me, right.

Jim and Cathy Hamilton, Muttama, with Katie, Simon and Juliette Thompson, Cootamundra.

Carla Barton and Lauren Eccleston, Gundagai.

Catia Lenehan and Jenny Sterrock, Jugiong.

Justine and Simon Moore, Wagga Wagga.

Ella Mcguirk and Joan Simpson, Jugiong.

Paul Smith, Bec Smith , Megan Yeo and Bernard Wilson, all from Dubbo.

RLM 205

CADOGAN country house

luxury farm stay

Cadogan Country House is exceptional. This fully self-contained home has been beautifully renovated and features 5 bedrooms, all with ensuites - 3 queen bedrooms and 2 king (or twin) bedrooms, ducted air conditioning, underfloor heating in bathrooms, open fire, several living areas, a full kitchen with quality Smeg appliances, a large entertaining deck with BBQ and an outdoor fire pit. There is also a Tesla destination charger onsite.

Located on a 2500 acre working Wagyu beef property, centrally located between Bathurst and Orange NSW, Cadogan Country house is very quiet and private and is surrounded by a spacious country garden.

BYO horse and enjoy riding across our open paddocks and exploring the forest trails in Macquarie Woods.

Bookings

cadogancountryhouse.com.au

Enjoy picnicking at our private hedge maze, exploring the beautiful Guyong countryside on our complimentary farm tour and visiting the many wonderful local attractions, restaurants, wineries and historic villages.

Jane 0419 777 508

DESIGN - PRINT - PAPER - GIFTS Visit our boutique gift shop at 214 Macquarie St, Dubbo for all your stationery, gifts & toys with a point of difference...

Gifts to delight & inspire

Unique decor pieces

Beautiful baby gifts Speciality paper, envelopes, invitations & party accessories

Greeting cards, wrapping paper & ribbons

Boxed stationery, journals & notebooks

Children’s toys for creative development

Experienced in-house graphic designers for all your business & personal printing needs

02 6882 1233 | printingworks.com | admin@printingworks.com

Celebrating 74 years as Dubbo’s printer 206 RLM

GILGANDRA SHIRE Stop for a coffee or stay for the night...

LIVE. Gilgandra Shire is a friendly, vibrant and welcoming community, filled with friendly locals proud of its history and positive about its future.

JOIN US ON A JOURNEY BACK IN TIME TO EXPERIENCE “THE SPEAKEASY” WITH AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF SPECIALTY SPIRITS, CREATIVE COCKTAILS & GOOD TIMES. Monday 6pm–Late ◊ Thursday–Sunday 4pm–Late

ENJOY. The southern gateway to the Warrumbungle National Park, Gilgandra boasts the Speedway, country races, iconic pubs and the Coo-ee Heritage Centre.

GROW.

Hidden away in the alley beside the gaol, this is an experience you’ll want to keep revisiting.

Gilgandra, a charming country town, has speciality stores, bakery, IGA, cafes and a plaza where you can sit down and take it all in.

Suite 2, Level 1, 88 Macquarie Street Dubbo, NSW 2830 www.establishmentbardubbo.com.au /establishmentbardubbo

W e’ ve

m

ov ed

!

www.gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

Everything you need, at very competitive prices!

Fencing Supplies • Farm Chemicals Drenches • Stock Feeds • Troughs Feeders • Stock Handling Equipment Shearing Supplies • Vaccines Pasture Seeds • Soil Testing Services Pet Care Products • Safety Wear Water Tanks • Concrete Products Cement • Poly Pipe • Lubricants Garden Supplies • Fertilizers • Tools Spraying Equipment • Harvest Products

An impressive range of lighting for all your interior and exterior needs, as well as lamps and globes.

We also have an extensive range of homewares to make your house a home.

8.30am–5.30pm weekdays 8.30am–2pm Saturday Visit us in our new location at

90 Victoria Street Dubbo NSW 2830 P. (02) 6884 8000

lightingandliving.com.au RLM 207

beauty abounds Indulging in a visit to Circa 1929 is being treated to a peaceful, healing and cultural journey.

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story name W I N T E R

Beyond the beautifully restored entrance of the heritage-listed former bank building in Wagga’s popular Fitzmaurice Street shopping strip, visitors are immersed in a unique luxury retreat to “relax, unwind and to have a wine”.

What was a commercial CBA bank space until 1985, before it became the residence of the late Joy Kelly and her family, originally dates back to an era on the cusp of the Art Deco period.

The building is still steeped in grandeur after an extensive restoration completed in late 2016 under the ownership and creativity of local businesspeople Janine Norman and partner Brad Booth.

Clients can experience a range of spa packages and beauty treatments while basking in the carefully restored architectural features and rich modern touches in one of Wagga’s most historic central buildings.

High ceilings and pressed metal, black and white colour scheme with copper edges, a large chandelier and mirrors feature in the spacious entrance, and a glamourous bar – perhaps a nod to the 1920s Gatsby era – is ensconced in the corner.

Restored lounge chairs upholstered in cow hide fabrics and petrified wooden tables sourced from Indonesia and an eclectic collection of furnishings and décor feature in the treatment spaces, and the wide staircase with its large wooden bannister faces leadlight windows leading to further secluded spots to relax in the sun. Circa 1929 certainly provides a magnificent escape from the outside world.

Originally inspired by another restored former bank building – the Circa 1936 day spa and boutique hotel in Corowa – which is owned by her friends, Janine’s flair and passion for interior decorating shines in this space, especially with the exquisite copper bath in the spa room, cocoa palm lights in treatment rooms, and other one-of-a-kind furniture pieces.

“I really wanted to create a unique concept and not try and compete with what Wagga already had been offering in beauty,” Janine, who has more than 20 years’ experience in the beauty industry, says.

“We have different areas within the bank building, so people can come and relax for hours, whether by themselves, with friends, family and a partner, even after a treatment they can have a champagne or a wine and enjoy an antipasto platter and just continue to relax with a book or a magazine.”

While extensive, the renovation process took just three months to complete and Janine recalls the rush to open the doors while she worked three jobs. Her partner Brad also runs three large clothing and work wear enterprises requiring him to travel nationally and internationally regularly.

“I have been lucky to have Brad’s support and guidance in the venture and the support of our beautiful kids Jake, Milly, Jamo, Indy and Hunter,” Janine says.

Since opening the doors just before Christmas 2016, the team has now grown from two to eight staff, who all offer a touch of bliss to individuals, couples and groups who book in to experience a package or treatment, often to celebrate a special occasion.

Janine’s daughter Milly also now runs a busy eyelash extension business, Miracle Makeup and Beauty, within the premises.

“I think it’s really important to take the time for self care and self love without distractions and I think the characteristics and history within this building creates such a good energy,” Janine says. “The support has been incredible. I never dreamed people would embrace the space as much as they have, but we love seeing couples coming in, girls enjoying bridal showers, and even mums and daughters, or sisters enjoying a treatment together.”

The beauty menu at Circa 1929 is just as eclectic as its decor, and changes constantly with evolving processes and technologies in the beauty industry.

“We have different areas within the bank building, so people can come and relax for hours.”

The possibilities are endless, from deep cleansing revival facials, to healing massages using a range of essential oils, to the luxurious bath soaks with unique organic red wine or green tea organic products used, to organic coffee exfoliation treatments, and waxing and tinting, pedicures and manicures, couples’ packages, cosmetic injectables, specialised pregnancy beauty treatments and alternative therapies.

Janine has also arranged various themed evenings with guest fitness instructors and visiting Balinese healers to showcase their traditional therapies, which she says have been well received and have booked out within minutes through social media connections.

Since 2016, Janine has also hosted yoga retreats to Bali and Fiji, which she says have been incredible experiences for people to form bonds and engage in meditation and relaxation.

With her eye for style, Janine is also creating a retail component to Circa 1929, so it becomes a real “Life. Style. Spa” hub, and she is also working towards a new vision to have a villa in Bali for wellness retreats to be enjoyed more often.

Words: Rosie O’Keeffe Images: John Egan

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The stunning copper bath in the spa room; each room has its own unique theme; beautiful décor to captivate you at every turn; coconut palm shades illuminate the couples room, which is a treat for friends, partners as well as mums and daughters to share packages together.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Circa 1929 team: Jade Cottam, Donna Morden, Maddison Williams, Kirra Lawson, Janine Norman (owner), Chloe Flanagan, Dimity Heffernan (manager); Art Deco features in the beautiful front area with a fully stocked bar; highly skilled and trained therapists take care of your every need; close your eyes and relax in the peaceful surroundings; clients can indulge with champagne while being pampered.

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Circa 1929. Allow yourself to be transported to another place. A place where time stands still.

A place where you are made to feel special from the moment you step through the front doors.

Circa 1929. A peaceful retreat where our focus is on you.

A place like no other.

109 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga 02 6925 9312 info@circa1929.com.au www.circa1929.com.au Facebook.com/Circa1929 Instagram.com/circa_1929

Industrie • WISH The Label • Thrills • Wrangler • Urban Originals • NXP

233 Clarinda Street, Parkes NSW 210 RLM

Phone. (02) 6862 1408

Email. abyrne4@byrneclothing.com.au

Located on the 118 year old working property “Cora Lynn� in the Central West of NSW. The Fleece offers a total escape from the fast pace of modern life and demands, No Wi-Fi, no Television. Limited Mobile reception.

Whether for a weekend or a week, The Fleece promises the perfect escape from the demands of modern life. Enjoy the big skies, the fresh air and rediscover the art of conversations and comfortable silences.

www.thefleece.net

The LODGE RESTAURANT offers woodfire pizzas and a full menu.

Bookings are advisable, see the website for opening days and times.

RUSTIC, SOPHISTICATED, CHARMING AND RELAXING

Dubbo Rhino Lodge is set among Australian bush surroundings.

The perfect venue for Weddings, Conferences, Corporate Events & special occasions with inhouse catering and resort style glamping accommodation.

Dubbo Rhino Lodge is like no other venue in the Central West, it is country with an edge.

14L Camp Road, Dubbo | E. info@rhinolodge.com.au | Ph. 02 6884 1760 | www.dubborhinolodge.com.au

RLM 211

W I N T E R weddings

BARRETT + WEILEY Madi Barrett and Jason Weiley were married in the Hunter Valley on December 6, 2019.

The ceremony and reception were held at Mindaribba House, Tocal, near Paterson, with 130 guests in attendance.

Mindaribba House appealed to the couple due to its open, country feel, with a relaxed, modern twist. The bridesmaids wore all white, with florals and long-stem bouquets in white and green with a touch of light pink, while the groomsmen wore black tie.

Madi and Jason, originally from Dubbo, honeymooned in Queenstown, New Zealand, and have since settled back into their home in Newcastle.

ABOVE: Martin Robertson, James Stimson, Ryan Weiley, Chris Allan, Jason and Madi Weiley, Meg Barrett, Lillie Barrett, Augusta Carey and Nicole Sauverain.

212 RLM

Photographer: Nat Salloum Photography

We are a husband and wife photo & film duo shooting weddings across Dubbo & the central west, as well as anywhere else that will have us.

We are so passionate about capturing all the special bits for our clients to remember forever.

Come and visit us at our strawbale winery. Taste through our range of organic and biodynamic wines with Steve and Margaret.

Call ahead to book an appointment.

Grazing boards available by request or feel free to bring a picnic.

Dubbo, New South Wales Ph. 0435 934 994 contact@amylouisephotographyanddesign.com

www.amylouisephotographyanddesign.com

Visiting from out of town?

Stay in our newly restored Winery Cottage; a beautiful old pise farm house overlooking the farm, vineyard and olive grove.

82 Lawrences Rd, Canowindra 0427 732 895 info@wallingtonwines.com.au www.wallingtonwines.com.au

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W I N T E R weddings

CORCORAN + ROBERTS Emma Corcoran and Kerrod Roberts were married at Wagga Wagga on December 31, 2019.

The New Year’s Eve wedding was held at Emma’s family church, St Michael’s Cathedral, Wagga Wagga. After 11 years together, the high school sweethearts were married in front of 140 guests.

The reception followed at Millwood Lane, Coolamon, where the couple’s closest friends and family enjoyed a relaxed, country New Year’s Eve party.

214 RLM

The newlyweds honeymooned on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, and will make their home in Wagga Wagga.

Photographer: Georgie James Photography

ABOVE LEFT: Mitchell Taylor, Lucy Corcoran, Daniel Fox, Claire Corcoran, Kerrod and Emma Roberts, Jeremy Graetz, Rebecca Andrews, John Andrews and Caitlin Dunn.

KINGS HALL JEWELLERS

180 MACQUARIE STREET, DUBBO

PH: (02) 6885 3500

WWW.KINGSHALL.COM.AU

YASS ACCOMMODATION CONTEMPORARY, SPACIOUS 4 STAR MOTEL

264 COMUR STREET YASS NSW 2582 02 6226 1158 www.thunderbirdmotel.com.au

Modern 4 star accommodation with the well-known EWE’N ME restaurant on site.

Stylish and updated rooms with kitchenettes/microwaves. Spacious family rooms, two-bedroom suites, fully self-contained cottage and spa suites. Free Foxtel & internet, pool, BBQ area and guest laundry. Great location 400 metres to Yass CBD. Thunderbird Motel offers 24 hour check in.

The Ewe ‘n Me delivers a relaxed and modern dining experience. Best locally sourced produce, fully licensed and seating up to 70 people, the Ewe n’ Me is the perfect venue for a quiet dinner or a celebration with family and friends.

COSMETIC

LASER

CLINIC

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W I N T E R weddings

McPHEE + CHARTRES Tessa McPhee and Ben Chartres were married in Bathurst on September 7, 2019.

The couple exchanged their vows in front of 170 guests at Tessa’s family church, Bathurst Uniting Church. The reception followed at Tessa’s parents’ property near O’Connell.

Mudgee Made catered for the evening, while Bathurst local suppliers JD Events and Vanessa Pringle Floral Designs also contributed to the special day.

Bridesmaids’ dresses by Country Road and groomsmen’s shoes by RM Williams both provided the finishing touches for an elegant, country wedding.

Tessa and Ben enjoyed a honeymoon in Queenstown, New Zealand, and have made their home in Deniliquin.

Photographer: Kirsten Cunningham Photography

LEFT: Ella Wilkinson, Angus Brougham, Fiona Paterson, Hugh Clarke, Tessa and Ben Chartres, Jessica Kosef, Hugh Robertson, Tegan Taylor, Adam Dye, Hayley Schultz and Josh Small.

216 RLM

Set amongst lush gardens the historic homestead ‘The Grange’ (est 1823) is a beautiful setting for a wedding or special celebration. Facilities for up to 120 guests, just 10 minutes from Bathurst. The property is also home to the Bathurst Grange Distillery.

Contact Sue Jones for enquiries Ph. 0487 456 524 www.bathurstgrange.com.au

bishop’s court estate … a ‘deserved indulgence’ SECLUDED, PRIVATE AND EXCEEDINGLY ELEGANT, SET ON AN ACRE OF PARKLAND GARDENS. OFFERING LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATION WITH A STUNNING CHAPEL FOR PRIVATE EVENTS AND CELEBRATIONS. GUESTS ADORE BISHOP’S COURT FOR ITS AMBIENCE, DINING, SERVICE AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL ... WHETHER IT BE FOR BUSINESS OR LEISURE.

226 Seymour Street Bathurst NSW Ph: 0422 303 311

www.bishopscourtestate.com.au

RLM 217

W I N T E R weddings

LOUSICK + NEWMAN Abbey Lousick and Jake Newman were married at Maryvale, near Wellington, on December 21, 2019.

The afternoon ceremony and evening reception took place in front of around 200 guests at the couple’s property on the Macquarie River, Ponto Falls, Maryvale.

Many local businesses were used on the day, with celebrant Rebecca Hinks marrying Abbey and Jake, Flowers Here supplying the floristry, Simon

218 RLM

Allen capturing the celebrations on video and Isaac Compton providing the entertainment.

The couple have built their home on their newly purchased block of land at Ponto Falls, Maryvale, and are planning to honeymoon in Hawaii or Bali.

Photographer: Amy Louise Photography & Design

TOP: Elly McCarroll, Sophie Lousick, Georgia Williams, Kate Toomey-White, Abbey and Jake Newman, Dan Rodgers and Ryan Byrne.

ABOVE LEFT: James Cusack, Keiran Brien, Lincoln Whiteley, Ryan Byrne, Dan Rodgers, Jake and Abbey Newman, Georgia Williams, Kate Toomey-White, Sophie Lousick, Elly McCarroll and Kelly Richards.

Visit our beautiful boutique at

24 WINGEWARRA STREET, DUBBO

showcasing a range of handpicked homewares, fashion, gifts, accessories & furniture.

We are here to help you SOURCE , CREATE & CAPTURE

the perfect Lazy Sunday feeling!

SHOP ONLINE

www.lazysundaylifestyle.com

Corner of Brisbane and Wingewarra Streets Dubbo NSW 2830 Phone: 02 6882 4411 Fax: 026881 8062

/DubboRSL

RLM 219

Plainsman Motel

22 Sherriff Street, Forbes NSW 2871 • Free Wi-Fi available Ph 02 6852 2466 | Fax 02 6852 3237 • Rooms From $110 info@plainsmanmotel.com.au • Two Bedroom Apartment $165 Reception Hours: Tues to Fri 7am - 9pm | Sat, Sun, Mon 8am - 9pm• Disabled Access Room Available

BREAKFAST RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS Tuesday to Friday: 7am – 9am | Saturday, Sunday. Monday: 8am – 9am

Glenelm

Oberon St, Oberon NSW 2787 Phone: 02 6336 2100 Fax: 02 6336 2114 Email: bigtroutmotel@gmail.com www.bigtrout.com.au Chinese Restaurant: 02 6336 1133

GUEST COTTAGE BERRIDALE

Situated close to trout fishing in Lake Oberon.

29km from Jenolan Caves and Kanangra Boyd National Park.

Visit Mayfield Water Garden, Open 7 days with Nursery & Kitchen Cafe.

A beautifully presented three bedroom, two bathroom cottage in a lovely three acre garden setting.

A very quiet location, ideal for relaxing and strolling around the garden. A BBQ is available and guests are able to enjoy a drink around the fire pit.

We are 45 minutes from the snowfields and 20 minutes from the lakes. There is an 18 hole golf course less than 10 minutes away, as well as a local pub and club should you wish to eat out.

258 DALGETY RD, BERRIDALE

CONTACT TINA – M. 0414 804 347 E. TBEISER@BIGPOND.NET.AU

BOMBALA SHOE SHED NSW BOMBALA

Mens, ladies + kids shoes Country clothing and accessories Leather handbags and wallets Cabello, Django & Juliette, Ringers’ Western, Thomas Cook, Wrangler, Grosby, New Balance

147 Maybe St, Bombala P. 02 64584045

The Big Trout Motor Inn is in the township of Oberon which is famous for trout fishing, mushrooming and fossicking, as well as the closest town to Jenolan Caves and Kanangra Boyd National Parks.

With 33 ground floor units, there are facilities to suit everyone. Two units in the complex also have luxurious spa baths.

The town and its environment abound with magnificent scenery and offer exciting adventures and activities for visitors of all ages.

These include, bush walking, 4 Wheel Driving, gem fossicking and mushrooming. Canoeing, Kayaking and sailing on Lake Oberon are also popular during the summer months.

Specia lisin Coach G g in & Distr roups ict Tou rs

Features Include:

• 33 Ground Floor Units • 2 with spas • Central Heating • Disabled Unit

• Family Room • Wi Fi Internet • Tea & Coffee Making Facilities

• Television • Hair Dryers • Electric Blankets • Direct Dial & STD Phones

• Licensed Restaurant with Chinese and Australian cuisine • Room Service

B R OW N L I E SHEARING Shearing contractors. Servicing the Monaro area for the last 20 years, providing reliable and professional shearing services.

Selling Heiniger Shearing Products.

M. 0428 774 464

220 RLM

Burnima HOMESTEAD

Late Victorian Mansion 1896 Open the First Saturday of every month (except July & August).

Guided tours 10am & 12noon $10/pp

Burnima Road, Bombala NSW 2632

Group bookings contact Steve (02) 6458 3042 or 0413 431 986

www.burnima.com.au

“A unique function space created for the people of Parkes and the Central West to celebrate and be entertained.”

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS www.therailwayhotelparkes.com.au

RLM 221

Our Advertisers WINTER 2020 We encourage our readers to support our advertisers.

The magazine could not exist without them, and their loyalty shows their commitment to the rural communities of NSW. ALLURE ON MAIN

CADOGAN COUNTRY HOUSE

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Guyong, 0419 777 508 cadogancountryhouse.com.au

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ANNIE B’S FULL HOUSE

CATHOLIC EDUCATION DIOCESE OF BATHURST

Dubbo, 6884 1166

LAZY SUNDAY LIFESTYLE

GILGANDRA SHIRE COUNCIL

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ART OF ESPRESSO Young, 6382 1151 artofespresso.com.au

ALTINA WILDLIFE PARK

Bathurst, 6338 3000 bth.catholic.edu.au

CHEMINEES PHILIPPE Sydney, 9564 2694 www.cheminee.com.au

Darlington Point, 0412 060 342 altinawildlife.com

CHOICES FLOORING BY BRIGHTS

AMY LOUISE PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN

CHURCH STREET CAFE

Dubbo, 0435 934 994 contact@amylouise photographyanddesign.com

ANGULLONG WINES Panuara, 6366 4300 angullong.com.au

BALLINACLASH FRUIT & WINE Young, 0418 271 770 ballinaclash.com.au

BARNESTORE CAFE Murramburrah, 63863316 barnestore.com.au

BENDIGO BANK BOOROWA COMMUNITY BANK BRANCH Boorowa, 6385 3277 bendigobank.com.au/branch/nsw/ boorowa-community-bank-branch

BERRY & BRAMBLE Young, 6382 4276

BETTA FRAME & TRUSS Dubbo, 6881 8544 bettaframe.com.au

BIG TROUT MOTOR INN Oberon, 6336 2100 bigtrout.com.au

BILLABONG COTTAGE Oberon, 6336 5144 billabongcottage.com.au

BISHOP’S COURT ESTATE Bathurst, 6332 4447 bishopscourtestate.com.au

BLACK GOLD MOTEL Wallerawang, 6355 7305 blackgoldmotel.com.au

BOB BERRY REAL ESTATE Dubbo, 6882 6822 bobberry.com.au

BOMBALA SHOE SHED Bombala, 64584045

BOOROWA COURTHOUSE ARTS & CRAFTS CO-OP Boorowa, 63853885

BOOROWA HOSTEL Boorowa, 6385 3773 burrowahouse.com

BRUCE’S MENSLAND Young, 6382 6762 mensland.com.au

BUDGERIE BRAFORD STUD Gulargambone, 0428 438 253

BURNIMA HOMESTEAD Bombala, 6458 3042 burnima.com.au

Bathurst, 6331 4866 Dubbo, 6884 0790 www.cscdubbo.com.au

CIRCA 1929 Wagga Wagga, 6925 9312 circa1929.com.au

CLIFTON HOUSE AND GARDENS Young, 0408 249 954 cliftonhouseandgardens.com

CORCORAN’S PLAINS Boorowa, 0408 677 940 www.corcoransplains.com.au

CRAMPTON’S CARPETS Dubbo, 6882 8911 cramptonscarpets.com.au

CSIRO PARKES OBSERVATORY Parkes, 6861 1777 parkes.atnf.csiro.au

DISH CAFÉ AND DISH CATERING

GARIAN WHOLESALERS

Gilgandra, 6817 8800 gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

GLENELM GUEST COTTAGE Berridale, 0414 804 347

GROVE ESTATE WINES Young, 6382 6999 www.groveestate.com.au

HARDEN COUNTRY MOTEL Harden, 6386 2377 hardenmotel.com.au

HE SILOS Forbes, 1800 046 046 www.hesilos.com.au

MOONBAH HUTS

HILLTOPS HONEY Young, 0429 405 889 hilltopshoney.com

DUBBO PRINTING WORKS

INSIDE OUTSIDE

Dubbo, 6882 1233 printingworks.com

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DUBBO RHINO LODGE

JAYNE EDWARDS REALTY

Dubbo, 6884 1760 rhinolodge.com.au

Sydney, 0435 008 268

DUBBO RSL CLUB

Cooma, 6452 3130 Forbes, 6851 4000 Tamworth, 6760 7577 jemalongwool.com.au

ELLSTANMOR COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE Cooma, 6452 2402 ellstanmor.com.au

EMBELLISH @ THE CLUB Gundagai, 0419 478 508 gundagaiservicesclub.com.au

FABRIC SAUCE Milvale, 0427 847 384 fabricsauce.com.au

FARMER’S BAKEHOUSE Dubbo, 6882 0199 farmersbakehouse.com.au

FISH RIVER ROASTERS Bathurst, 6331 7171 www.fishriverroasters.com.au

FLEMINGS REAL ESTATE Boorowa, 6385 3337 flemingsps.com

FLOWERS HERE

JEMALONG WOOL

JENNIFER HARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY Young, 0428 115 296 jenniferhardenphotography. mypixieset.com

JOHN SHORTT CUSTOM SADDLER Bredbo, 6454 4186

JST BUILDER Young, 0409 112 312 jstbuilder.com.au

IANDRA CASTLE Greenethorpe, 6383 9241 iandracastle.com.au

KAREN JAMES STUDIO AND GALLERY Mt Rankin, 0404 641 768

KEVIN MILLER, WHITTY, LENNON AND CO Forbes, 6852 3355 kmiller.com.au

KINGS HALL JEWELLERS

Wellington & Dubbo, 0410 363 429 flowershere.com.au

Dubbo, 6885 3500 kingshall.com.au

Boorowa, 6385 3773 burrowahouse.com

FLOWERS ON TALBRAGAR

KLR MARKETING

BYRNE CLOTHING WORKLOCKER

FRANK SMITH WORK CLOTHING & SHOE REPAIRS

BURROWA AGED CARE

Parkes, 6862 1408 byrneclothing.com.au

Dubbo, 6885 3242

Bathurst, 6331 7544 franksmithworkclothing.com.au

Bathurst, 0428 953 925 klrmarketing.com.au

LACHLAN MERINOS Forbes, 0428 572 117 lachlanmerinos.com.au

Jindabyne, 6457 8311 moonbahhut.com.au

OLD COOLAMON HOSPITAL Coolamon, 6927 3303

OPTUS optus.com.au

OUTSCAPE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

THE LOTT CAFE Cooma, 6452 1414

THE PERFECT PIECE Berridale, 0416 002 413

Young, 0477 750 369

SHAKESPEARE FUNERALS

THE RUSTIC MAZE & COUNTRY GARDEN

Gulargambone, 0408 254 325 sleepyjays.com.au

SNOW SEASON MOTOR INN Cooma, 6452 1133 snowseasonmotorinn.com

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THE PINK POT GARDEN SPOT

Monteagle, 0429 834 217 , therusticmaze.com.au

THE SHEARER’S WIFE Cooma, 0402 733 187

THE SIR GEORGE, Jugiong, 0419 098 828 sirgeorge.com.au

THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS TRAVELLERS REST

Cooma, 1800 636 525 visitcooma.com.au

Pine Valley, 0427 484 940

SNOWY MOUNTAIN ESTATE

West Wyalong, 6972 0393

Numeralla, 6453 3078 snowymountainestate.com.au

SNOWY MOUNTAINS GRAMMAR SCHOOL Jindabyne, 6457 1022 smgs.nsw.edu.au

SPRINGFIELD GUEST COTTAGES

PEACOCKE ACCOUNTANTS

ST ANDREW’S CHAPEL

PHA’ S THAI KITCHEN

thehubcafe.com.au

SECOND CHANCE COLLECTABLES

Grenfell, 6343 8288 outscape.net.au Dubbo, 6882 3933 peacockeaccountants.com.au

Bathurst, 6332 1565

theperfectpiece.org

SLEEPYJAYS (BABY SWINGS)

MAINSTREET CLOTHING

THE HUB

Bathurst, 6331 3911 scotsallsaints.nsw.edu.au

Wellington, 0419 207 194 bedmanwellington.com.au

Young,6382 1388 hghmotorgroup.com.au

Dubbo, 6882 0949 dubbodental.com.au

SCOTS ALL SAINTS COLLEGE

Dubbo, 6882 2434 shakespearefunerals.com.au

Oberon, 6336 1101

HILLTOPS GLAMPING

Dubbo, 6882 5362 rubymaine.com.au

MACQUARIE VIEW BRASS AND IRON BEDS

HGH MOTORGROUP

Boorowa, 1300 445 586 Harden, 1300 445 586 Young, 1300 445 586 hilltops.nsw.gov.au

RUBY MAINE

Narrandera, 0428 444 906

MAWHOOD’S SUPA IGA OBERON

HILLTOPS COUNCIL

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Lucknow, 6365 5330 lucknowskinshop.com.au

Cootamundra, 1300 130 172 cootamundraheritagemotel.com.au

DUBBO DENTAL

Young, 1800 219 496 dunkinsurance.com.au

LUCKNOW SKIN SHOP & BOOT BARN

Cooma, 6452 2144 mainstreetclothing.com.au

Younh, 0428 833 810 hilltopsglamping.com.au

DUNK INSURANCE

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HERITAGE MOTEL COOTAMUNDRA

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Young, 6382 3799 Dubbo, 6882 3199

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THUNDERBIRD MOTEL Yass, 6226 1158 thunderbirdmotel.com.au

TOWN & COUNTRY RURAL SUPPLIES Bathurst, 6332 4044 townandcountrybathurst.com.au

TOYOTA CENTRAL WEST GROUP Central West, 6882 1511 toyota.com.au

Cooma, 6452 5489 phasthaikitchen.com.au

Boorowa, 6385 3263 stjboorowa.nsw.edu.au/

UNIQUE DESTINATIONS

PLAINSMAN MOTEL

SUNNYPOINT BEEF

uniquedestinations.com.au

SWEET BRIAR B&B

W LARCOMBE & SON FUNERALS & MONUMENTS

Forbes, 6852 2466 plainsmanmotel.com.au

POOLWERX Dubbo, 6885 5381 poolwerx.com.au

POPPA’S FUDGE & JAM FACTORY Young, 6382 5854 poppasfudgeandjamfactory.com

PRESS

Dubbo, 6885 0621 pressdubbo.com.au

PRESSED TIN PANELS Bathurst, 6332 1738 pressedtinpanels.com

PROFESSIONAL SKIN SOLUTIONS

Oberon, 6336 1101

Coolamon, 6927 2222 sweetbriar.com.au

Dubbo, 6882 3199

TANZA FASHION

WALLINGTON WINES

Temora, 0418 978 134

TATTYKEEL

Oberon, 6335 8116 tattykeel.com.au

TEMORA EX-SERVICES CLUB, GOLDTERA MOTOR INN & KOREELA PARK MOTOR INN Temora, 6977 2433 temoraexservices.com.au

TEMORA FLOWER CENTRE Temora. 6977 1788

Bathurst, 6332 9880 professionalskinsolutions.com.au

THE BAKEHOUSE

QUIRKY CROW

THE BYNG STREET BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Jugiong, 0429 927 185 or 0413 138 774 quirkycrow.net

RAILWAY HOTEL Parkes, 6862 1553 therailwayhotelparkes.com.au

RAY WHITE YOUNG Young, 6382 5800 raywhiteyoung.com.au

RED BEND CATHOLIC COLLEGE Forbes, 6852 2000 redbendcc.nsw.edu.au

ROSIE’S HONEY MUSTARD Warren, 6824 2055 rosies.net.au

Millthorpe, 1300 002 269

Forbes, 6852 3388

wlarcombeandson.com.au Canowindra, 0427 936 054 wallingtonwines.com.au

WANTANA COTTAGE FARMSTAY Boorowa, 0427 200 981 airbnb.com.au-wantanacottagefarmstay

WEST ORANGE MOTORS Orange, 6361 1000 mbwestorangemotors.com.au

WESTERN PLAINS WINDOWS & GLASS Dubbo, 6884 8818 wpwg.com.au

WILDERS BAKERY

Orange, 5317 8200 byngstreethotel.com.au

Young, 6382 1275

THE COURTHOUSE HOTEL

WOODSTOCK RESOURCES

Boorowa, 6385 3005 courthousehotelboorowa.com.au

THE ESTABLISHMENT BAR

Dubbo, 8328 0349 establishmentbardubbo.com.au

THE FLEECE

Peak Hill, 0429 340 988 thefleece.net

THE GRANGE Brewongle, 439 334 936 www.bathurstgrange.com.au

wilders.com.au Jugiong, 0418 646 011 woodstockresources.com.au

YLAD LIVING SOILS Young, 6382 2165 yladlivingsoils.com.au

YOUNG EYES Young, 6382 4000 youngeyes.com.au

YOUNG WORKWEAR Young, 6382 2289

RLM 223

W I N T E R the last word

MARY, MARY,

quite extraordinary Nothing, it seems, can slow down great grandmother Mary Corcoran, the rock of the Boorowa Catholic community.

Spritely 91-year-old Mary Corcoran has been playing the church organ for over 60 years, attending more funerals than any priest or long-standing funeral director.

Born in Forbes during the Great Depression, Mary came to live in Boorowa when she was 26, following her marriage to wheat and sheep farmer Max Corcoran.

Before long she was tickling the ivories at church, taking over from Mrs Kenny in about 1960. Since then she’s been the unassuming star performer at thousands of church celebrations, including Sunday mass and countless weddings.

This inspiring woman has also been a pianist for the choir section of the local Musical & Dramatic Society for more than six decades.

Although she loves doing her bit for the community, Mary is equally happy living life to the full in the homestead built by her husband 64 years ago.

Max died in 2011 after 56 years of marriage, leaving Mary to soldier on. When not cooking meals for son Rick and grandson Luke, who run “Kalamunda”, Mary often finds herself gravitating to the piano in her lounge room.

“I love it and play every day,” she says with a twinkle in her eye.

“It helps keep the arthritis at bay.”

The grand piano was purchased by her parents at the 1939 Sydney Royal Show, with Mary acquiring it soon after her marriage.

“We believe it was one of the last German-made pianos to come out of the Black Forest before the factory was bombed during the war,” she says.

Although Mary is used to playing in front of large crowds, she is just as happy entertaining at home, sharing a few classics with members of her tight-knit family.

“A lifetime of music has led to the demise of my eardrums,” she says matter-of-factly. “Beethoven was deaf, so I’m not too worried!”

Hearing her play and sing is a moving experience. The joy in her face is only matched by her zest for life.

Over an old-fashioned cuppa, Mary says her time on the land was never boring. She and Max tried their hand at various livestock enterprises, including ostriches.

“I remember the boys were playing tennis one day when an ostrich grabbed the ball – we could see it going down his throat!”

Mary admits her preferred meal is lamb chops and her favourite politician John Howard. She is also an avid fan of Melbourne, tennis and cricket – even if it’s hard seeing the ball!

“The Merry Widow is my favourite musical. It’s a silly story but great music. Oh Come All Ye Faithful is my favourite Christmas carol,” she grins.

During the festive season, if somebody says “Merry Christmas”, Mary’s quick response is always a hearty “Mary Corcoran”. It always gets a laugh.

Her husband’s family have been in Boorowa a very long time – even before the first tentative steps of Burrowa, as it was then known, began taking shape in the 1830s.

224 RLM

The Corcoran family matriarch has a big and close family, including four sons, three daughters, 13 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Mary Corcoran is a much-loved treasure of the town and a community stalwart. May her special gifts be shared with others for years to come. RLM Words and images: Jake Lindsay

ABOVE: Boorowa community stalwart Mary Corcoran loves tickling the ivories and has been playing at her local church for six decades; a young Mary; Mary with her son Tom and grandchildren Julia and Luke.

Semi-reclined, bathed in a warm light with a tropical scene overhead – sounds like total relaxation doesn’t it?

Most people would not associate this scene with a visit to the dentist, but that is what you can experience at Dubbo Dental under the care of Dr Ryan Heggie, Dr Sophie Halpin and Dr. Elizabeth Armitage.

This state-of-the-art surgery has been a labour of love for Dr Ryan Heggie, owner and principal dentist, who opened the doors of the Dubbo surgery in January 2019, after 15 years experience in the central west.

Key design elements and equipment were chosen with patient comfort in mind from the fireplace in the waiting room to the sky ceilings in the surgeries, Dr Ryan Heggie has thought of it all.

Together with Dubbo locals, Dr Sophie Halpin, Dr. Elizabeth Armitage, practice manager Beth Porter and dental assistants Ebony and Georgia, the team at Dubbo Dental aim to create a dental experience which caters for all your dental needs.

A complete range of dental services: > Preventative Family Dental Care > Crown and Bridgework > Dentures > Implants > Wisdom tooth removal > Orthodontics - braces and clear aligners > Paediatric dentistry

> Geriatric dentistry > Cosmetic dentistry > Teeth whitening > Local anaesthetic > General anaesthetic > In house 3D x-ray imaging

GET IN TOUCH TODAY

> Veterans Affairs

02 6882 0949

> Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule

1/27 Bultje Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 care@dubbodental.com.au

dubbodental.com.au

AND OFF-ROAD. RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSE ON-ROAD. AND RESPONSIBILITY

T2019-012069

WHEREVER ROAD. NEW-LOOK TOYOTA C-HR HYBRID

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A new 1.8L hybrid engine gives you the best of both worlds. Not only in petrol power, but also highly efficient electric power. Designed to recharge as your drive, Hybrid technology means you never need to be plugged in, and your car works neatly with the smooth response of CVT. Toyota has lead the way in Hybrid technology for more than 20 years, and C-HR presents yet another leap forward - just another way the new-look C-HR is changing the rules.

Australia’s original Recreational Activity Vehicle is back – more versatile and capable than ever. Everything in the All-New Toyota RAV4 has been considered; from the CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CENTRAL WEST DEALER FOR MORE INFORMATION luxurious finishes throughout, to petrol and hybrid engine options that provide efficiency without compromise.

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Toyota Armstrong A new 1.8L hybridToyota engine gives you the best of both Not only in petrol power, but also highly efficient Parkes Toyota 02 6862 9777 (Warren) 02 6882 1511 (West Wyalong) Road Sign Assist and Pedestrian Detection, you’ll also have peace-of-mind. electric power.

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T2019-013614 TOY1317