#36 Regional Lifestyle | Autumn 2022

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AUTUMN

Tamworth FEATURE Nundle • Manilla Barraba and villages

ANZAC DAY TRIBUTE

Garden splendour at ‘Hazeldean’, Cooma

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SERVICE • INFORMATION • MARKETING  facebook.com/jemalongwool

 twitter.com/jemalongwool

CENTRAL WEST LIFESTYLE PTY LTD Trading as Regional Lifestyle Magazine ABN 151 6322 9418

CONTENT COVERAGE AREA

ADDRESS PO BOX 1050 DUBBO NSW 2830 PHONE 0429 441 086 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 2022 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.

Pegasus Print Group is an environmentally responsible printing company that is committed to helping achieve a sustainable environment.

To underscore our commitment to environmental sustainability, Pegasus Print Group is FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) certified as well as being ISO 14001 accredited. Paper and paper-based materials carrying the FSC® symbol can be tracked back to their source, guaranteeing they come from forests which are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations.

Pegasus Print Group is also an accredited ISO 9001:2008 supplier, which ensures each step of our production process is aligned with world’s best practice to deliver the finest quality possible.

Together these accreditations offered by Pegasus Print Group, offer our clients a guarantee that their printed products are produced by world’s best practice environmental and finest quality standards.

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It starts with yes

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CONTENTS ISSUE 36 AUTUMN 2022

169 M UTUAL ADMIRATION Dubbo identities John and Jacqui Tooth love their home town as much as it loves them.

174 ANZAC TRIBUTE Private Hubert Henry Smith’s descendants and the people of Barmedman turned out on Anzac Day 2021 to honour their fallen sons.

180 IN THE NAME OF LOVE The story of Therese Newman and her family is one of love and resilience in the face of overwhelming, heartbreaking adversity.

188 FOLLOWING HER HEART Talented Temora artist Jo Breneger is a believer in following her intuition, which takes her on some fascinating creative journeys.

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FEATURE Nundle • Manilla Barraba and villages

ANZAC DAY TRIBUTE

GARDEN

220 H ORTICULTURAL HEIRLOOM The expansive gardens at Hazeldean were styled on an English parkland.

Garden splendour at ‘Hazeldean’, Cooma $14.00 inc GST AUTUMN 2022 VOLUME 36 >

COUNTRY CHARACTERS

AUTUMN

Tamworth

WEDDINGS

230 D IVINE COUPLES We take a peek at some of the past year’s truly gorgeous country nuptials.

THE LAST WORD

240 G REEN MACHINE The Rotary Club of Tamworth First Light is the driving force behind a project to create a greener city.

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I n the first of two bumper features on the Tamworth Regional Council area, we take a look at why the Country Music Capital is so appealing to residents and visitors.

TA M Au O ver FEAWOR tum tw TU TH n & o ed R E Winition ter s!

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204 T HE FINER THINGS There’s something special about a trip to Country Traders Home & Life at Narromine.

216 GUARANTEED TO PLEASE Lorraine Hills shares some long-time family favourites that never fail to delight at the dinner table.

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TAMWORTH TOWN FEATURE

ON THE COVER

The heritage-listed Tamworth Post Office, built in 1886 by W C Cains and designed by the Colonial Architect’s Office under James Barnet.

Image: Destination NSW

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FROM THE PUBLISHERS

a new beginning “Sometimes we can only find our true direction when we let the wind of change carry us.” – Mimi Novic

Welcome to 2022, a new year and new beginning,

hopefully heralding some wonderful experiences for all of us.

Autumn is such a beautiful season with its stunning and vibrant colours changing the face of the landscape in a most captivating way.

Inverell Feature

We could not have been prepared for the way this Summer 2021 Feature was embraced by the Inverell community. In the first two weeks after release, 1000 copies were sold in the sole Inverell Newsagency! We have had some very high sales in the past, but Inverell has broken all previous records. A big congratulations to Inverell Newsagency owner Anthony Michael and his team for facilitating such outstanding sales.

Autumn 2022 Feature

Even though COVID lockdowns delayed our team getting into the Tamworth Regional Council area, we were fortunately able to work strategically and catch up for lost time.

We hope you enjoy the first of two magnificent features on this stunning area, where there is so much to see and do and so many great business owners working hard to create a unique experience for you.

In the Winter 2022 edition, we will revisit the Tamworth Regional Council area, giving you an opportunity to learn even more about this iconic region.

At this point, we must congratulate the incoming Tamworth Regional Council Mayor Cr Russell Webb on his exciting new role, while acknowledging the tremendous contribution of retiring Mayor Cr Col Murray, who dedicated 17 years to council service with 12 years as mayor.

Country Music Festival

ABOVE: Brian and Helen Baldwin discussing the record-breaking magazine sales with Inverell Newsagency owner Anthony Michael.

LEFT: The Tamworth Waler Memorial was unveiled in Tamworth Bicentennial Park in 2005 to keep alive the memory of our Australian troopers and their devoted horses. Between 1861 and 1931, nearly half a million horses were exported to the Indian army, the Boer War and Egypt with the Australian Light Horse as remounts.

Of all these horses, only one returned.

With Anzac Day around the corner, lest we forget.

Like many others, we were disappointed to hear of the postponement of the Country Music Festival until April 18-24, 2022.

However, under the circumstances it was a very wise decision. We are looking forward to celebrating in April (18-24) and making the 50th festival one to remember for all the right reasons!

River and Wren Market

With so much uncertainty last year and many key events unable to be held, it was very special to be able to attend the River and Wren Market in Wagga Wagga on December 12. There was a huge crowd in attendance, and we enjoyed having a Regional Lifestyle stand alongside many other quality products “handmade, homemade or homegrown”. Market founder and organiser Jennie Meiklejohn did a fabulous job. A big thanks to Jennie and her team for the massive efforts made for the benefit of many.

Collector’s Edition Volume 2

We released this special edition in October 2021 with the support of eight visionary councils across the state.

The sales are already strong, and you will find this beautiful publication in your local newsagency or selected stockist.

If you would like to order one, contact Elizabeth at editor@lifestylemagazine.net.au or phone 0429 441 086.

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Future features

We are hoping to travel further into the New England with planned features for Armidale and Guyra, Walcha and Uralla as well as Glen Innes and Tenterfield. We are excited about what is to come!

All the best for a wonderful 2022, doing things you love and staying close to those who love you.

Warm regards, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle

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

byngstreethotel.com.au

A U T U M N Jake’s message

there’s no place like home G’day trendsetters.

How are all you battle-weary troopers faring in these strange and uncharted territories? Everything else aside, you must be feeling mildly ecstatic, having our 36th edition in your hot little hands!

In fact, we had such an overwhelming response to RLM that we are producing not one but two magazines on Australia’s Country Music Capital. With so many characters crawling out of the woodwork in the many surrounding towns and villages, it was impossible to cram it all into one!

After nearly 10 years of delivering you riveting yarns from throughout regional NSW, it is with great joy I finally get to report on my former hometown. I moved to Tamworth in the early 1990s with a crazy dream to establish a studio and pursue a career behind my camera – a dream I kept alive for 25 years.

There were many ups and downs during that time, but the highlight of the year was always the festival, when our great city was invaded by tens of thousands of funloving visitors. It meant catching up with old friends and meeting new ones, usually while holding up the bar. About halfway through my tenure, I traded in my cherished antiques for an old PA system that opened an exciting new world of live music.

For a decade the Crabpot became an undercover destination for musos from all over the country who liked to unwind after their late-night gigs. The festival was the biggest in the country and diehard fans flocked there for an unforgettable experience.

With the congregation of so many talented people in town, I’m reminded of a little saying: “Steal a man’s wallet and he will be poor for a week. Teach him music and how to buy instruments and he will be poor his entire life!”

Whether rich or poor, everyone arrives in town sporting their own unique headwear, which I soon discovered provided me with a licence to shoot at will. Two books came out of that arrangement!

I was humbled to have great acts climb the stairs into my sacred haven, sharing their music and friendship. With all the

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rules and regulations these days, I’d be lucky to get away with it, but it forever cemented my belief that the festival is geared towards the fans. Without them, there’s no show.

COVID put the skids on the last two festivals but the good news is that the 50th anniversary is now set down for April.

In this bumper edition you will enjoy reading about Tamworth’s longest serving mayor, an entrepreneurial stock and station agent who’s taking the bull by the horns, along with several home-grown musicians who have dedicated their lives to bringing enjoyment to others.

We also visit a centenarian in Barraba and a Tamworth car dynasty of a similar vintage.

We found an enterprising school student who’s quietly making inroads in the stud stock business; a former Wallaby who’s swapped his footy boots for life on the land; four generations of dairy farmers tirelessly working together to bring you fresh milk; a delightful 93-year-old prime lamb producer and a country pub won in a game of cards.

One of the many highlights was a private show put on by a First Nations dance group.

It was always going to be an emotional reunion, returning after five years to the place

where I spent most of my life. Even in those short years, Tamworth has changed –and grown exponentially. Today it’s home to more than 60,000 citizens who love the mountains, the country vibe, the freedom and the chance to get somewhere in minutes rather than hours.

Sit back and relax – your favourite magazine is in good hands! You are not alone.

There are plenty of others, just like you, putting their best foot forward every day. Be inspired, be happy and never take things (or life) for granted.

Learn to appreciate life every day and remember our short time here is like a camera.

Focus on what’s important and capture the good times. Develop from the negatives and if things don’t work out, simply take another shot!

Keep it country, folks!

Jake Lindsay

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Tamworth from the lookout; Dog & Boots is an old shot that reminds me of my days in the Country Music Capital; talking with flamboyant entertainers Lawrie and Shelley Minson at the Oasis Hotel; my pilot for the day, Daniel McCulloch, loves the freedom of flying; my dream cottage a few miles out of town.

It starts with yes

AUTUMN 2022 CONTRIBUTORS

meet your team

ELIZABETH TICKLE

ALEX TICKLE

JAKE LINDSAY

Publisher, Editor, Advertising

Publisher, Distribution, Advertising

Chief Writer & Photographer

JENNIFER HARDEN

GINA CRANSON

Art Director

Sub-Editor & Proofreader

SALLY MARCEAU

ANNA CONN

Writer, Photographer, Social Media

KATE BOSHAMMER

Website Developer, Advertising Designer, Writer

MELISSA DUNKERLEY Advertising Designer

Advertising Designer

JANE SANDERSON

ZENIO LAPKA

ELIZABETH SWANE

ROBERT I BRUCE Photographer

Country Cuisine Writer

ELIZABETH GRANT

CATHERINE PLAYER

HEATHER CROSBY

RUTH COTTON

EMILY HERBERT

NATALIE SALLOUM

JOHN CURLEY

RACHEL DEANE

ANNA ROSE

LIZ TICKNER

Wedding Writer

Writer

Photographer

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ZORA REGULIC

Photographer

Writer

RLM Accountant

Garden Writer

Writer

Finishing Image Photography

Writer

Writer

Writer

LORRAINE HILLS

Writer

Writer

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A U T U M N feedback

your letters The Summer 2021 edition of Regional Lifestyle Magazine is a fantastic showcase of Inverell and the surrounding district. We were very excited to partner with Regional Lifestyle Magazine to highlight the incredible community we live in. The magazine is extremely high quality and has been so popular with readers that is has broken all the previous sales records. The Summer 2021 edition has been sent all over the country to past residents and will serve as a call to action to increase tourism and attract people wishing to relocate. We know what an exceptional place the Inverell Shire is, and the magazine is the perfect tool to help us spread the word far and wide. They say a picture tells a thousand words and the images truly encompass the essence of the area and its people. The stories contained in the feature are all well thought out, well written and introduce even the locals to people and places they weren’t aware of. The community has embraced this feature and I can very confidently state that the publication will have a special place in Inverell homes for a long time to come. I would have no hesitation in partnering with Regional Lifestyle Magazine in the future.

Cr Paul Harmon, Inverell Shire Council Mayor

Congratulations and thank you, Elizabeth, Alex and your amazing team, on the incredible feature you delivered for Inverell Shire.

The magazine is exceptional quality and has certainly captured the essence and character that makes Inverell the community it is. We have enjoyed a tremendous amount of positive feedback on the feature. Inverell Shire is a bustling regional centre offering an amazing experience for visitors and providing the perfect place to settle for a tree change. No matter where you go in this great country, when you speak to people they only have good things to say about the district. Your magazine showcases all that Inverell has to offer and is certain to entice people to visit, or even relocate, to the beautiful Inverell Shire. It was a pleasure working with you and I look forward to working with you again in the future.

Peter Caddey, Manager Tourism and Marketing, Inverell Shire Council

I was involved with the Inverell Feature proposal from the start because of my connection with council as Deputy Mayor.

After seeing the quality of the publication, I became more convinced that it would be a good investment for council. Having a discussion with Elizabeth and Alex regarding magazine stocks, I didn’t think we could sell 500 copies but went with their judgement. We have never had a magazine that has sold over 200 copies in Inverell. When the magazine was launched in November, sales just went crazy, with customers buying four, six, eight copies in one transaction. Fourteen copies was the highest in one sale. We sold 184 the first day, 500 the first week and 1000 across the first two weeks, selling out twice. Alex had to drive 400 copies overnight from Dubbo, just to keep supply up to demand. Then we shipped in another 700 copies direct from the Sydney printer, Pegasus Print Group. By December 31, we had sold 1349 copies and are still selling. What the customers like about the magazine is the quality of the paper, photography, and the overall size of this great publication. The businesses that advertised in the magazine and stories about some of our locals was a big attraction. We would recommend this promotion for any town.

Anthony Michael, Inverell Newsagency

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

TAMWORTH TOWN FE ATUR E WORDS & IMAGES: JAKE LINDSAY

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TAMWORTH COU NCI L F E AT U R E

A happening place from the Mayor of Tamworth Tamworth has all the elements of a thriving, modern, regional city but with a grounded and welcoming country spirit at its heart.

Our region has so much to offer as a place to call home, a place to visit or a place for business enterprise.

We have stunning natural vistas, year-round events, experiences for all ages, eateries showcasing quality local produce, a diverse retail offering, award-winning playgrounds, galleries, museums, quality education choices, walking and biking tracks, and a range of health services with highly skilled health professionals.

Midway between Sydney and Brisbane on the New England Highway, it’s no wonder the Tamworth region attracts year-round visitors, new residents and business investment.

We have a steadily growing population and a strong local economy, which is trending upward.

Our community is proud of its history as home of the Kamilaroi people for thousands of years, and we have our eyes firmly set on the future.

We are moving forward by prioritising those projects which will deliver an economically strong and sustainable community. This is a key strategy of Blueprint 100, our guide for action to take our region towards a prosperous and resilient future.

Construction of a multi-stage enterprise park and logistics hub is well under way on the western fringe of Tamworth. The councilowned site encompasses the reactivation of the West Tamworth Rail Line and construction of a new intermodal freight facility to take products from our region direct to Port Botany. Funded by the NSW Government, the Australian Government and council, it will be the home of new business opportunities and create new jobs for the next 20 or more years.

Our region is a great place to be at any time of the year, but if you need a specific reason, we have a diverse range of events. As the Australian Country Music Capital, we have the iconic Tamworth Country Music Festival celebrating its 50th anniversary in April 2022 (after being rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic). We also have outdoor and sporting events, cultural and community events, a motorcycle rally, a food festival, agricultural shows, equine and livestock events, workshops and classes, live entertainment and theatre, family-friendly celebrations and more.

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Midway between Sydney and Brisbane on the New England Highway, it’s no wonder the Tamworth region attracts year-round visitors, new residents and business investment.

There are accommodation options ranging from five-star luxury, cosy country escapes and B&Bs through to modern caravan parks, beautiful campgrounds and quaint pub rooms.

Explore our region and experience the distinct character of each town and village – Barraba with its silo and street art, Manilla for antique hunting and Nundle with reminders of its gold rush past.

This edition is the perfect place to start exploring what’s waiting for you in the Tamworth region. I invite you to come and experience our region for yourself. You won’t regret it.

Russell Webb, Tamworth Region Mayor

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

pulling out

ALL THE STOPS

While you may know the Tamworth region as Australia’s Country Music Capital, many who come here – either to visit or to live – find there is so much more that strikes a chord.

You can march to the beat of your own drum, choosing from a wide range of experiences and attractions across Tamworth, Barraba, Manilla and Nundle, with picture-perfect landscapes as a spectacular natural backdrop.

Whatever you are looking for, you will find the Tamworth region plays your song.

On the New England Highway halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Tamworth is one of the nation’s leading regional cities.

It has the bells and whistles you look for in a metropolitan location but with the laid-back comfort of a warm country welcome.

There is a variety of enticing dining options that showcase the quality fresh local produce the region is renowned for. Choose from more formal offerings in high-end restaurants or from one of the many multicultural food options or cafes. The region has a great selection of bars, pubs and clubs to suit your flavour. There are traditional country pubs with original iron lace verandahs, contemporary pubs and even a rustic bar with craft beers on tap.

There are experiences for those who love the arts – performances at the Tamworth Regional Conservatorium of Music, exhibitions at galleries and museums and the Capitol Theatre with touring and local productions.

A lively mix of festivals and events happen across the region throughout the year. The highlight, of course, being the Toyota Country Music Festival, Tamworth, which marks its 50th anniversary in April 18-24, 2022 (postponed due to COVID-19 from January 2022). There is also Taste Tamworth for food-lovers, Fiesta La Peel celebrating the region’s multicultural heritage and more.

Like many communities, the Tamworth region has not been immune to significant challenges in recent years. However,

optimism among local businesses remains high. Construction of the Tamworth Global Gateway Park, an enterprise and logistics hub, is drawing national interest from companies looking to invest.

The council-driven project is funded with multimillion-dollar support from the NSW and Australian governments. It will drive the local economy and jobs growth for the next 20 years.

Coupled with the recent completion of the $2.7 million Tamworth Regional Astronomy and Science Centre, major road upgrades and the $7.2 million second stage of the Northern Inland Centre of Sporting Excellence plus $106.4 million of infrastructure funded for 2021-22, there is every reason to be confident a strong and vibrant future lies ahead.

The region’s population is growing consistently at 1 per cent each year. The population is expected to grow from the current 62,563 to 79,468 in 2041. We are home to 5683 businesses supporting 29,768 local jobs. Health care and social assistance is the largest industry sector.

Council’s Blueprint 100 strategy ensures the expected growth is being well planned for with new community facilities, essential infrastructure and housing developments identified and starting to come to fruition.

Perhaps it’s been a while since you visited the Tamworth region, but come and take a look now. It’s a vibrant community with many opportunities. What you experience will lead you to rethink your perceptions and even change your tune. RLM FROM TOP LEFT: The Water Diviner by artist Fintan Magee is located just outside of Barraba where clear skies showcase the stars; Tamworth’s Bicentennial Park hosting one of many events.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

TRUE BLUE TAMWORTH The Country Music Capital just keeps adding strings to its bow.

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days gone by TAMWORTH

Images courtesy of Tamworth Historical Society

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

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animal

ATTRACTION If you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with our native animals, there’s no better place to do so than at the Tamworth Marsupial Park.

The 14-hectare Tamworth Marsupial Park is home to freeroaming kangaroos, wallabies, cockatoos and emus, Indian peacocks and a walk-through, free-flight aviary.

Within the park is the community-built Adventure Playground, which has age-appropriate areas for children under five and over five. It encourages children to use their fine and gross motor-skills, and their imagination.

There are excellent barbecue facilities available and, of course, toilet facilities.

The Kamilaroi Walking Track meanders through the park, which links to the Botanic Garden, Oxley Lookout and Flagstaff Mountain.

It’s open from 8am to 4.45pm every day of the week. It’s an ideal way to spend time in the great outdoors, taking in all that nature provides.

The Marsupial Park and Adventure Playground in Endeavour Drive, East Tamworth, is one of the most popular attractions in the city and, like the best things in life, it’s free. RLM

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Tamworth Marsupial Park boasts extensive grounds with so much to see; galahs sharing a moment; the gardens and recreation spaces are a delight; the award-winning Adventure Playground; the entry to Tamworth Marsupial Park; council worker Matt Brislane with a king parrot; old man emu; a handsome peacock; an inquisitive wallaby.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

along for the ride Families are flocking to the Tamworth Miniature Railway on the third Sunday of the month.

“All aboard!” was the call on a sunny spring Sunday morning, offering the perfect reprieve from lockdown for families from Tamworth and district keen for a day out.

A handful of tiny trains, including the group’s beloved steam train, were back on track once again for the first time in months after a tumultuous time with COVID-19.

Volunteer Jim Booth said the September open day was always a crowd favourite and it was great to see people back at the station after a year of COVID-19, followed by enforced lockdowns.

“It’s good. You see the enjoyment on the kids’ faces and many of the parents as well,” he says.

It’s the perfect mini-escape into the great outdoors for families with young children and grandchildren.

“You can get away with a good few hours’ entertainment and don’t have to spend a fortune,” he says.

There’s also a sausage sizzle, barbecue and seating areas, and T-shirts for sale. All money raised goes back into the track and the trains, including helping to fund a bold plan for a large new train loop.

Jim says on a busy day, volunteers could man up to five or six trains and make between 600 and 800 runs on the loops.

A ride in one of the carriages takes passengers on a scenic trip across a bridge, through tunnels, and showcases a majestic view over Tamworth.

The first steam train owned by the Tamworth District Model Engineers (TDME), all of whom are volunteers, came from former Manilla mayor Cheryl Randall.

Her father, Ken Baxter, had built the maroon-coloured miniature steam train, Kay. It had been housed in a Sydney garage for many years, and when it was offered to the TDME, members made a beeline for the Big Smoke to collect the historic loco.

Another 37-class locomotive, modelled on the NSW steamer class that never made it into commercial production due to the Depression, is now back on the tracks. Once transported from Sydney, its restoration was completed by TDME member Les Thomas.

Membership of the Toot Toot Club is offered to children, who receive a T-shirt, certificate and a dozen rides for just $20. RLM

Tamworth Miniature Railway is usually open on the third Sunday of the month from 10am to 3pm. Cost is $2 per ride.

MAIN IMAGE: Club secretary Ray Hare drives one of the club’s prized locomotives on a scenic route.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Ray Hare, seated, with young Nick Phillips and Ken Dampney; Bob Elwin with “Kay”, one of the club’s steam engines; TDME publicity officer Jim Booth, with Ann Barwick, Tamworth’s only female loco owner; club president David Scott loves his miniature trains.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

where country IS KING

On a visit to the Country Music Capital, take in the tunes at some of the many live venues but also take some time to soak in the history of the place.

A great starting point when visiting Tamworth is the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame, which was closed for several months last year while undergoing a facelift and a refresh.

This coincided with Tamworth Regional Council’s acquisition of the facility, which will now be manned by dedicated museum staff, as well as some of the fabulous volunteers who have kept the place open all these years.

It’s a significant collection that contains artefacts belonging to, or related to, Australian country music artists, ranging from the pioneers to the stars of today.

It includes a sound collection of 78s, LPs, 45s, CDs, reel-to-reel audiotape and oral histories, as well as a comprehensive video library of DVDs, VHS and historical Prime TV country music videos, and so much more.

Tamworth Regional Gallery and Museums Director Bridget Guthrie is excited for the future of the facility, with a vision to make it accessible to all – in person and with a comprehensive online presence.

The Australian Country Music Hands of Fame database has been updated. It can be accessed at www.countrymusichalloffame.com.au, and the entire collection is in the process of being digitised so an online search can locate any item within the collection.

“For the pasts couple of years since it was transferred to council for perpetuity, we have worked with the volunteers to ensure the collection and stories associated with this nationally significant collection are secured for future generations,” Bridget says.

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As there is such a wealth of treasure buried within the museum, it can’t all be physically shown at once, hence the displays will be regularly rotated to ensure all the pioneers and stars are showcased.

Within the Hall of Fame complex, you’ll find the Walk A Country Mile interactive exhibition that tells the story of and inception of Tamworth as the Country Music Capital.

It was opened in 2004 and named as a tribute to the famous Slim Dusty song, written by Slim’s wife and acclaimed singer-songwriter Joy McKean, the first person to receive a Golden Guitar in 1973 for Lights on the Hill.

This permanent exhibition takes visitors on a journey from 1788 through to the 2000s on a timeline that follows the development of country music in Australia, from Edison records to Tex Morton’s Wild West comics, the post-WW2 boom of new artists, Tamworth’s establishment as the Country Music Capital and the growth of the industry to what it is today.

Appealing to visitors of all ages, the interactive displays include recordings, music and memorabilia from both artists and events spanning a period of more than 230 years.

There is so much to take in, it’s probably best to grab a group of friends and arrange a guided tour so you don’t miss anything. > ABOVE: Tamworth’s former information centre, now the guitar-shaped Australian Country Music Hall of Fame, is best appreciated from above.

FACING PAGE: The Hall of Fame incorporates Walk A Country Mile. You’ll find a treasure trove of memorabilia among this priceless collection.

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Tamworth’s largest landmark, the Big Golden Guitar, was officially unveiled on January 25, 1988, by the legend himself, Slim Dusty, and then Tourism NSW general manager Paul Crombie.

It stands 12 metres tall and weighs half a tonne. It’s made of fibreglass over a steel frame and is a much larger version of the most prized trophy in Australian country music – the Golden Guitar, hence it has no strings.

If you don’t stop for a selfie in front of the Big Golden Guitar, nobody will believe you’ve been to Tamworth!

When you drive into town from Sydney, you can’t miss it. It stands opposite Radio 2TM and is immediately in front of the famous Longyard Hotel.

NEW DATES! 18 - 24 APRIL 2022

There you’ll also find the relocated Visitor Information Centre and the newly opened National Guitar Museum, the concept of Tamworth festival manager Barry Harley.

Like its nearby neighbour, the Longyard Golf Course, which was designed by golfing great Greg Norman, the National Guitar Museum has the endorsement of Tommy Emmanuel cgp*, who was instrumental (if you’ll pardon the pun) in its establishment.

It focuses primarily on the handful of guitar gurus whose expertise over the years has enriched and delivered popular music of all genres to people around the globe.

The National Guitar Museum salutes both the instrument and the artist and provides the opportunity to share the story behind the guitar to a wide, appreciative audience.

If you have a guitar with a story, antiquity or you just think it deserves to be seen, the National Guitar Museum would love to hear from you.

The plan is that the significant displays will rotate, so a donor/ lender’s guitar could be programmed for return whenever desired.

If you have a significant guitar in your collection, drop Barry Harley an email to b.harley@tamworth.nsw.gov.au.

A visit to the Big Golden Guitar complex isn’t complete without seeing the Gallery of Stars Wax Museum, established in the 1980s by local entrepreneur John Smyth.

Wax images of all your favourite country stars can be found there, dressed in authentic clothing donated by the artists themselves.

There’s so much to take in when you visit Tamworth, not only the music, so make sure you don’t miss a thing. *cgp stands for Certified Guitar Player, a title bestowed on Tommy by Chet Atkins and held by only three other guitarists in the world: John Knowles, Jerry Reed and Steve Wariner. RLM Words: Anna Rose

KIX

THE HOTTEST COUNTRY

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Big Golden Guitar; friendly volunteers Kim Swab and Marg Greening; Slim Dusty features in the National Guitar Museum; Chad Morgan, the Sheik of Scrubby Creek, or his wax likeness at least; Smoky Dawson and faithful steed Flash the Wonder Horse in the wax museum; inside the Visitor Information Centre.

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picture-perfect WORLD

The magnificent views over his new country home in Piallamore inspired Andrew Pearson to take up photography. Once he did, there was no turning back.

Andrew Pearson and his new wife Melissa were house hunting when they discovered a property high in the hills overlooking the Peel Valley.

It was far above their budget, and they questioned their sanity even going to an inspection.

“I got out of the real estate agent’s car and saw the brick chimneys, big verandah and jaw-dropping view,” Andrew recalls with a grin. His mind was made up before even stepping into the house.

His far more practical wife knew the home, while undeniably special, needed plenty of work. Her concerns, however, fell on deaf ears.

By then, her six-foot-four hubby had clambered into an old LandCruiser

with the seller, inspecting his small Brahman herd, the Nemingha Creek and farm boundaries of the 150-acre property.

By the end of his exploratory tour, Andrew was sold, knowing he’d found the place to one day scatter his ashes.

Ten years and three children later – Oliver, 9, Georgina, 6, and baby Faith, seven months – the Pearson family have never regretted their gigantic leap of faith.

The new address signalled a fresh beginning for Andrew after 15 years as a police officer, including 12 years in Sydney and three in Tingha, near Inverell. >

ABOVE: Tamworth photographer Andrew Pearson with wife Melissa and their youngest, baby Faith.

RIGHT: The photographer in focus.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

“I AM ONE TO AVOID CROWDS, PREFERRING TO SPEND MY DAYS DRIVING DOWN LITTLE DIRT ROADS THAT FORK FROM THE MAIN ROAD.”

“I was looking for a big change and wanted to be somewhere vastly different, some place I’d never been,” he says.

“For me, Tingha was how I imagined Australia to be like in the 1940s.

“With four policemen for 900 people, it was an incredible experience being part of such a unique community.

“The job sees you at the coalface of society’s most complex issues.

“The police I worked with were downto-earth, everyday mums and dads who pulled on the blue suit and ran into harm’s way when everyone else was running to safety.”

It was while working in Tingha that Andrew and Melissa’s paths crossed at the hospital.

“I thought I was outclassed by this beautiful and amazing doctor,” he says.

“But this made me even more determined to get to know her. By then I was on my last legs as a country cop.

Tingha was the best three years of my career and ironically my last.”

With infant son Oliver, Andrew became a stay-at-home dad in their new house while Melissa pursued her career in paediatrics, travelling to and from Newcastle for three years of study.

It left Andrew plenty of time to indulge in his hobby of taking pictures. With his first tax return he bought a Canon 6D and a few pro lenses.

After a day behind the camera, he’d sit up all night studying tutorials on YouTube.

Lessons from local photographer Steve Gonsalves helped steer him in the right direction. It wasn’t long before things started falling into place.

“I’ve always been fascinated with beautiful natural light, storms and landscapes,” Andrew says.

“I am one to avoid crowds, preferring to spend my days driving down little dirt roads that fork from the main road.

“I’d return to the best spots three or four times, chasing the perfect light, often with Oli in the car beside me.

“Finding the next new spot became a bit of an addiction, one that I shared with my artistic grandfather on my mother’s side. >

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

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“THERE IS SOMETHING SO REAL AND BEAUTIFUL IN THE EYES OF COUNTRY PEOPLE – AN OLDSCHOOL HONESTY AND COMMITMENT TO FAMILY AND HARD WORK.” “Before his passing, he taught me about turning a flat piece of paper into an image with depth – lines, light and shadow were some of his best tools.

“My father is also a skilled artist. I am lucky to share an artistic eye on both sides of my family.”

Thousands of miles and countless frames later, Andrew produced a magnificent 270-page coffee-table book, Under A Big Sky. The publication, featuring the diverse landscapes found within the local region, took four years of shooting and another year to design and print.

In Andrew’s commercial work, he shoots for Sydney and national publications, highlighting the beauty of Tamworth and the North West.

He also specialises in rural imagery for websites and loves telling a story through an image.

One of the highlights of the year is shooting the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Each year he photographs the Toyota Star Maker winner for an album cover and promo shots on behalf of the event organisers.

Weddings are an integral part of his business and reputation.

“I appreciate the opportunity to work in a photo documentary style role on wedding days – not only capturing the traditional photos and big hero shots but those little moments that depict how it felt,” he says.

“There is something so real and beautiful in the eyes of country people – an old-school honesty and commitment to family and hard work. A connection to each other and the land, where being fake and grandiose is frowned upon.”

Andrew is taking some time off from his hectic photography schedule to look after his youngest child, as Melissa has returned to work in paediatrics.

Andrew’s book is available at andrewpearsonphotography.com.au or at the Mercure Hotel and Collins Booksellers in Tamworth. RLM

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

seeing the light Paris can lay claim to switching on the world’s first electric street lighting in 1877, but a progressive little country town on the other side of the world would soon be creating its own headlines.

Sydney’s General Post Office became the first major building in the colony to be lit by electricity in 1878, using its own generator.

A year later, NSW imported generators and had arc lighting installed at the Domain, which helped with the construction of the Garden Palace into the night for the first International Expo.

Meanwhile, things were happening in downtown Tamworth, then boasting a population of about 3000 residents. In 1881, forward-thinking locals George Hooke from The Observer and Alderman William Smith, a tanner, proposed the town should follow the example of the French.

Unfortunately for these progressive gentlemen, they were still a tad early for the new and untried technology. In 1882, council instead introduced a gas street lighting system consisting of 25 gas lanterns.

Undeterred, William Smith continued gathering updates from England and other pioneering countries. He was well prepared the next time the street lighting contract came up for consideration in 1887.

A council sub-committee was formed to take a fresh look at determining the best and most economical way to light the streets of Tamworth.

In 1888, Mayor William Tribe signed a contract with English firm R E Crompton & Co to light the streets with electric lighting. On November 9, 1888, the new mayoress, Elizabeth Piper, turned a tiny

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golden key to switch on a total of 21.5km of electric street lighting.

Tamworth became the first Australian town or city to do so.

Naturally, there were a few teething problems. Supporters of the superseded gas lighting and the Tamworth Gas and Coke Company, with the support of the other Tamworth newspaper, The News, took great delight in criticising the new lighting system, referring to it as “Smith’s Folly”.

The City of Light, however, was forever cemented. The Tamworth Powerstation Museum opened to much fanfare in 1988, 100 years after the lights were first switched on. It marked a huge effort by a dedicated team of enthusiasts who created a working replica of the 1888 powerstation.

Today, the museum holds a fascinating collection of thousands of household electrical appliances used throughout the past century.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn what really happened the night the lights went on. RLM The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday from 9am till 1pm.

ABOVE: The Tamworth Powerstation Museum in downtown Peel Street, near the Darling Street intersection.

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THIS PAGE: Walk into Tamworth’s past at the Powerstation Museum and learn the story of how Tamworth became the City of Light.

Discover collections, photos and working steam engines that will keep you enthralled for hours.

BELOW: Cultural collections officer (museums) Naomi Blakely.

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multicultural celebration

Fiesta La Peel draws locals from the Tamworth community with rich and diverse backgrounds and heritage.

Held in the leafy heart of the city, Bicentennial Park, Fiesta La Peel offers an array of food stalls, activities, workshops, musical performances and more in this multicultural melting pot.

The festival is a true family affair. Mums, dads, kids, grandparents and more come out to enjoy all the broader community has to offer – to taste the different foods, take in the delicious aromas, and watch the colourful display of national costumes.

It’s a learning experience for young and old, showing how people from other lands who have made the city their home have enriched the lives of their fellow Tamworthians.

Postponed in 2021 due to COVID-19, the fiesta is back on track to be held on Saturday, March 12, from 3pm to 8pm. Entry is free. RLM

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

f lavour to savour

Tamworth is known not only for its country music these days – it’s become a must-visit destination for foodies.

Who doesn’t love to eat out and enjoy the finer things in life with good food, good wine, family and friends?

Taste Tamworth offers several al fresco dining opportunities in three fabulous locations around the city, drawing locals and visitors from across NSW. On Thursday and Friday, March 31 and April 1, you can enjoy High Tea in the Gardens at one of the most picturesque spots in the city, the Tamworth Botanic Gardens.

Then on Saturday, April 2, it’s time for Taste in the Park in the leafy heart of the city, Bicentennial Park.

Eat at altitude at The Long Lunch on Sunday, April 3, at Oxley Lookout. The city’s highest vantage point is the ideal location to showcase the food, wine and produce from the region. RLM

FROM TOP: Families and friends love to share good times, great food and make lasting memories at Tamworth’s numerous outdoor foodie gatherings.

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FIFTY &

The evolution of the Tamworth Country Music Festival over half a century is testament to the city’s extraordinary foresight and commitment.

The Tamworth Country Music Festival we all enjoy today is a far cry from how it all began way back even before the muchprized Golden Guitars were a design drawing on a sheet of paper.

Renowned Tamworth artist Harry Frost was enlisted to design and create the famous trophy. Harry sculpted the model, a hybrid of both the electric and acoustic guitar.

More than 300 individual Golden Guitar trophies have been cast in bronze over the past 50 years and handed out to worthy recipients. Slim Dusty and Lee Kernaghan share the lead with the most Golden Guitars won at 38 apiece.

Tamworth became a centre for country music largely due to the efforts of a true gentleman of the radio, the late John “Mr Hoedown” Minson, whose easy manner on the air was music to the listeners’ ears right across Australia.

Due to its freakishly clear signal, 2TM could be heard near and far, even in New Zealand.

There was quite a following for Mr Hoedown’s program, and he was very much involved with the local Modern Country Music Association (MCMA), which

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fabulous

before too long evolved into the Capital Country Music Association (CCMA).

These stalwarts of the local music scene were joined by other country fans from all over NSW, Queensland and further afield for annual concerts, gatherings and fundraising events.

The catastrophic Tasmanian bushfires of 1967 inspired a big line-up of artists to donate their services for a fundraiser in the historic Tamworth War Memorial Town Hall in June 1968.

The CCMA then began regular “jamboree” events, drawing fans to the city in January and June each year. The club began hosting local workshops and gatherings to hone the skills of local enthusiasts, which created quite a broad base of country music talent.

Realising the potential for bringing people to the city through country music, radio 2TM’s energetic and forwardthinking team created the concept of Tamworth as the Country Music Capital in 1969 and began expanding the theme.

A huge centenary concert in 1970 brought people together, including some of the biggest stars in Australia such as

Slim Dusty, Smoky Dawson, Shirley Thoms and local star Buddy Bishop.

The late Johnny Ashcroft suggested that Tamworth have its own awards, a concept that inspired the now famous Golden Guitar trophies at the first ever Australasian Country Music Awards in 1973.

At first, the locals who weren’t fans of country music largely ignored the influx of fans to the city in January.

Now, locals embrace the opportunity to mingle with visitors from all over Australia (and the world).

With its BAL Marketing team, Radio 2TM began creating infrastructure and events to enhance the Country Music Capital image: the Country Music Roll of Renown, the Hands of Fame cornerstone and the Country Music Cavalcade, a grand parade through the streets with a variety of floats and participants.

Local entrepreneur John Smyth liaised with artisans in Nashville and soon had a Gallery of Stars Wax Museum, featuring likenesses of our pioneers such as Smoky Dawson, the McKean Sisters, Frank Ifield, John Minson, Shirley Thoms, Chad Morgan and Johnny Chester.

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The Tamworth Songwriters’ Association (TSA) began in 1978. Johnny Ashcroft was its first president.

Events such as Star Maker, the National Harmonica Championships, the National Flatpick Bluegrass Championships and the Battle of the Bush Bands created avenues for specialist musicians to showcase their skills and win prizemoney, broadening the range of music offered to fans.

Bush poetry shows popped up and soon multiplied. Talent quests were held at various venues, along the lines of the CCMA quest, which kicked it all off.

The Tamworth Country Music Festival of today now reflects those early days, with many more styles of music and performance included under the festival umbrella.

Anyone with a love of music can find something enjoyable at the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Young talent, golden oldies, established stars and emerging artists all proudly take their place on stage, whether it’s a small piece of pavement on the Boulevarde of Dreams (Peel Street) or in a hall, church, pub or club.

In recent years, the streetscape of Tamworth has changed.

The Central Hotel, once a thriving, pumping country music venue, is now a boutique hotel and art deco wine bar.

The Albert Hotel, formerly known as the City Tavern, is now closed, while across the road from The Albert, the Courthouse Hotel has been totally renovated.

The Good Companions Hotel has been closed for some years now, and out along Armidale Road, the Oasis Hotel has changed hands.

The new owners have totally rejuvenated the pub known for its bush balladeers. It is making music once more in much brighter surroundings.

At the time of print, COVID-19 had forced the postponement of the festival and Golden Guitar Awards 50th birthday bash. The event was rescheduled for April 18 to 24.

A special coin was created by the Australian Mint, signifying the festival and Awards’ 50th anniversary.

A new version of Tamworth MONOPOLY® was created, and launched just before Christmas 2021.

FACING PAGE: Huge crowds pack the Brisbane and Peel Street intersection to see Lee Kernaghan perform in 2005.

FROM TOP: Festival founders, from left, Warwick Higginbotham, John Minson, Max Ellis, at rear, Eric Scott and Kevin Knapp. Joy McKean, front, won the very first Golden Guitar; Cavalcade in the 1980s; the Golden Guitar float in an early calvacade; Slim Dusty receiving one of his many Golden Guitars; Max Ellis with Slim’s writers on the steps of 2TM in 1969. From left: Max Ellis, Bob Clark, Wave Jackson, Mac Cormack, Joy McKean, Slim Dusty, Joe Daly and Stan Coster.

A full-size bronze statue of Mr True Blue himself, John Williamson, was to be unveiled in Peel Street, joining fellow bronzed Aussies Smoky Dawson, Joy McKean and Slim Dusty.

And in the Pioneers’ Parade, legendary outback showman the late Brian Young was to be honoured with a bronze bust in his image. The unveiling was expected to take place on day one of the festival. RLM Words: Anna Rose Images: Tamworth Regional Council

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

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Images: Tamworth Regional Council

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

getting down to business The Tamworth Business Chamber is one of the largest and most progressive regional chambers of commerce in NSW.

The Tamworth Business Chamber is governed on behalf of its members by a board of directors, made up of local business professionals who volunteer their significant experience and represent the chamber on various committees and working groups.

A board of eight directors is required for managing chamber affairs. It’s a big area to cover, including Tamworth and the Local Government Area (LGA) of Manilla, Kootingal, Nundle, Attunga, Nemingha, Moonbi, Bendemeer and Barraba.

“The chamber strives to provide a strong local business community by facilitating business networking,” Tamworth Business Chamber Manager Bryan O’Connor says.

“We provide many opportunities for members to mix with their business peers, make new contacts and promote their business name and products and services.

“We aim to create and maintain strong business relationships through regular events. We also invite guest speakers to talk about relevant ‘hot topics’, in an endeavour to keep up to date and connected to our community.”

Bryan says chamber members are an important part of the Tamworth business

community and all contribute in their own way to making Tamworth a vibrant and progressive city.

The membership base is made up of small- and medium-sized businesses through to larger corporate entities.

“We seek to provide a quality service that meets our members’ business needs.

Our relationship with all three levels of government ensures our advocacy efforts are effective,” he says.

The Quality Business Awards are the largest regional business awards in NSW, promoting and supporting outstanding business practices, while recognising excellence in customer service, employees and business leaders.

Community members vote for their favourite retailers and suppliers and reward their efforts. Everyone in the local community is encouraged to participate in the awards nomination process, from customers to clients to businesses.

The chamber’s mission is to strengthen the economic climate through business leadership and foster member and community prosperity.

“We seek to achieve our goals by focusing our efforts on adding value to

business. We do this through the provision of business services, through pro-regional and pro-business advocacy work, and through networking opportunities and innovation. We also work closely with the Tamworth Regional Council,” Bryan says.

The chamber is also big on business support.

“Got a problem? We can help,” Bryan says. “Our office is manned Monday to Friday by two full-time staff. This assistance coupled with support provided through the NSW Business Chamber Alliance Program provides members with access to experts in a range of fields.”

So, whether you are new to Tamworth or have been here for years, the Tamworth Business Chamber is the go-to place for business owners and managers to find out what’s been happening locally, regionally and nationally.

If they can’t assist, they will connect you with someone who can. RLM FROM LEFT: Tamworth Chamber of Commerce President Stephanie Cameron, Vice-President Meredith Adams, Secretary Libby Campbell, Treasurer Stephen Maher, David Errington and Matthew Sweeney. Absent: Tom Campbell and Caroline Lumley.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

Max makes his mark After a lifetime of promoting country music and launching Tamworth as the Country Music Capital, living legend Max Ellis is finally starting to take things a bit easier. He sat down with RLM to reflect on his most extraordinary life.

ABOVE: Max Ellis in 2011 wearing his traditional ski garb, reliving his past life as a ski instructor in Norway.

FACING PAGE: Max with his 20-year-old Golden Guitar.

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Born in 1936 in Canberra to parents Ulrich and Ray Ellis, Max grew up in a world of politics, education and creativity, and with a determination to live a life without regrets.

His father was a journalist and writer who worked with Sir Earle Page, leader of the Country Party and Deputy PM in the Stanley Bruce government. His mother was the eldest daughter of the Member for Fawkner, George Maxwell.

It would be a long time before Max would join the writing ranks of his father. After matriculating from Canberra High in 1953, he jackerooed on Peter Wright’s property “Lana” between Uralla and Kingstown in the New England. After 12 months on the land, he snared a job as a technical assistant in the hydrological department with the Snowy Mountains Authority.

“I moved to Cooma and later Cabramurra, living in those wild mountain regions with a group led by a former Czechoslovakian Olympic skier, a bunch of Czechs, Yugoslavians, Germans and other refugee and migrant workers from all over Europe,” he says from his Upper Street home.

Young Max learnt to wrestle a Land Rover through mud and snow and how to look after himself in the primitive huts and camps of the snowy wilderness. He warmed to the cold climate and learnt to ski, a sport he’s loved throughout life.

After a couple of years in the snow country, his itchy feet drove him to apply for a job in Antarctica, but without a degree it wasn’t to be. Instead, he climbed into a lumbering DC4 and headed north to work with the Commonwealth Department of Works in the (then) Australian protectorate of Papua New Guinea.

“I landed on a sweltering day in Port Moresby and for the next 2½ years enjoyed a life straight out of a Boy’s Own Annual,” he laughs. In the mid 1950s, New Guinea was a primitive and untamed country. Just a decade earlier, Australian troops had driven the invading Japanese army back to their homeland, leaving the jungles littered with wrecked aircraft and army vehicles.

Max quickly adapted to the humid life, travelling through remote regions and islands to install stream gauging units, which automatically recorded information on the flow of the rivers. His 21st birthday was celebrated in the company of native carriers on the upper reaches of the Batonga River in New Britain. For a quiet, rather shy lad who had grown up reading John Buchan thrillers in suburban Canberra, this was heady stuff.

The natives were friendly, hospitable people and Max got on well with them. He visited many isolated and uncontrolled territories, often accompanied by a native police escort. Rifles were carried, but only pointed at crocodiles that flourished in the muddy rivers that wound through the untamed land. >

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In 1960, Max chased his dream of becoming a racing driver in the UK. He bought a Lotus sports car and moved to Suffolk, working in a small factory making Formula Junior racing engines.

FROM TOP: Max always felt the need for speed; wife Grynet and their three children; an old shot of Max and some of his treasures.

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“Once we ventured into the Purari Gorges in Papua to check river flows, flying up the coast in an ageing Catalina flying boat,” he recalls. “We travelled upriver for several days in a dugout canoe with a big Mercury outboard motor, greeted by the Koka- Koka people, who had never seen a white man.

“We bargained with teaspoons of coloured beads for highly decorated but cruelly barbed arrows used by the warriors in their tribal fights. I still have them hanging in my living room today.”

Another time Max drove from Lae on the coast to Mount Hagen in the Western Highlands. His Land Rover was one of the first vehicles to ascend the new dirt track hacked through the rugged mountains rising above the Markham Valley to the tablelands, which lay hidden until 1934.

In 1956, he sat in a plane next to Aussie film star Chips Rafferty, who was starring in an epic French-Australian co-production drama called Walk Into Paradise. Max still has a DVD of the movie, which proved a hot seller in the USA in the late 1950s under the fittingly retitled Walk into Hell.

Later, he and two friends climbed New Guinea’s highest mountain, Mount Wilhelm, towering 15,000 feet north of Goroka in the Central Highlands. Their chartered single-engine Norseman flew to a tiny air strip in the mountains near a mission called Keglsugl. At 8300 feet above sea level, it was the highest airstrip in Australasia.

“We were greeted by hundreds of excited hill tribe kanakas dressed in cassowary plume head-dresses carrying bows and arrows,” Max says fondly. “Many acted as carriers for us as we climbed the rocky crags to the summit, stopping to inspect the wreckage of an American bomber, which crashed into the peaks during the war.”

Max departed New Guinea in 1957 and after a trip through Asia, including climbing Mount Fuji in Japan, thought seriously about taking up flying as a career.

Instead, he boarded a ship in Sydney bound for England with a boatload of young Aussies and New Zealanders. For five weeks, life was one long party, only interrupted when a man jumped overboard. After spotting a huge shark swimming in the searchlights alongside the ship, Max had no doubt as to his fate.

He visited the Egyptian pyramids and Cairo’s Great Mosque while his ship laboured through the Suez Canal. In 1960, Max chased his dream of becoming a racing driver in the UK. He bought a Lotus sports car and moved to Suffolk, working in a small factory making Formula Junior racing engines. For a couple of years, he tinkered with cars, racing his Lotus on circuits and hill climbs throughout the country.

“I had some success and have a couple of battered cups to prove it, but in the end, I ran out of money and luck,” he says with a smile.

It was time to hit the road again, and Max set off for a chilly holiday in Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia.

The picturesque ski resort village of Lillehammer, once home to the Winter Olympics, would change his life. He qualified as Norway’s first Aussie ski instructor and, with help from a Kiwi friend, built his own ski lift. He also married local girl Grynet, the love of his life and mother to his three children, Kristin, Kath and Tim. There were many more exciting trips in store for Max, including travelling on the Trans-Siberian Railway to Vladivostok on the North Pacific coast of Russia, before landing in Japan. Later he explored Scotland, Ireland and North America.

The pair finally moved back to Australia on a bulk carrier ship via Africa in 1966, ready to settle down. Back in Armidale, Max was fortunate to meet Ernest Higginbotham, who with Mike Moroney and Kevin Knapp offered him the job of cadet journalist at Radio 2TM’s network headquarters in Tamworth.

Max was 30 and knew nothing of radio or journalism but was ready, as always, to have a go. A new life beckoned.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

COUNTRY TUNES

These days there aren’t many farmers around who still remember the “hillbilly” music of the 1930s and 1940s – the description used at the time for country music. The daily session on the radio was a favourite for farmers arriving back in the kitchen for their midday meal.

Radio 2TM still broadcasts from Tamworth. But why country music, and why, of all places, did Tamworth become the Country Music Capital? One man with all the answers is Max, who was there from the start.

Now 85 years young, Max is finally starting to ease the pace after a lifetime devoted to the festival and Ag-Quip, celebrating their 50th birthdays in 2022. It was a very different story when he arrived in town with his wife and infant child. After six years in Europe, he was a country music “innocent”.

“I only had a vague idea about this fellow with the strange name of Slim Dusty that ‘Mr Hoedown’, John Minson, was raving about,” the charismatic Max admits.

While he might not have been an early fan, he has come to love country music, particularly the people.

“Country music people are terrific – not just the artists and professionals, but the fans themselves. That’s one of the truly marvellous things about Tamworth,” he says.

Little did Max know he would soon be taking a major role in shaping Tamworth’s destiny, and in the process, meeting a crosssection of people from all over the country, including the bloke with the funny name.

By 1972, Max had risen to the ranks of 2TM’s station manager.

A year later, the station staged the first Country Music Awards as part of a long-term Country Music Capital promotion conceived in November 1969 by a small group of men – Warwick Higginbotham, John Minson, Eric Scott, Kevin Knapp and Max. The idea had initially been floated by Eric, but Max came up with the concept and the Country Music Capital name.

Few could have anticipated what lay ahead. Before the days of COVID, Tamworth threw open its doors to an estimated 50,000 visitors every January. It had become Australia’s largest music festival and in 2001 was described by The Age in Melbourne as one of the top 10 music festivals in the world.

“Our success was regarded with some envy by other regional centres around Australia,” laughs Max, as he searches around his home for a few treasured photographs.

Max played a fundamental role in the festival’s inception, and until the past few years was very much hands-on when the event rolled around each steamy January. Along the way he served as CEO of BAL Marketing, 2TM’s marketing arm and events group, and by the mid-1980s was running Max Ellis Marketing.

With former mayor Warwick Bennet, Max organised construction of the distinctive 12-metre-high Golden Guitar.

He also created the Walk a Country Mile interpretive centre for council.

In the 1990s, Max became chief executive of the newly formed Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA), ran the Golden Guitar Awards and was a driving force behind the building of the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre (TRECC) in 1998.

With his beloved wife’s passing in 1992, Max again put on his traveller’s cap, visiting Scott’s and Shackleton’s huts in Antarctica.

Later, he wrote Stars, Hurrahs and Golden Guitars to mark the 40th festival, recently updated for a second release for the 50th anniversary.

Max is a walking, talking encyclopaedia of country music history. He remembers stories the great Tex Morton told him of busking in Peel Street in the early 1930s before being arrested for

Looking back, Max says one of his proudest moments was receiving a Golden Guitar for service to the industry from Slim and Joy at the 30th Country Music Awards.

vagrancy while sleeping under the old Peel River bridge. The book is full of similar yarns.

Looking back, Max says one of his proudest moments was receiving a Golden Guitar for service to the industry from Slim and Joy at the 30th Country Music Awards. Five years later, he and good friend and mentor John Minson were recognised with life membership of the CMAA. It’s been one hell of a ride but it’s not over yet.

“Over the past half-century, we’ve generated hundreds of millions of dollars for Tamworth while giving immense pleasure to hundreds of thousands of people. That alone makes me very proud.” RLM

ABOVE: Max says the best thing about the festival is the people; souvenirs from his many overseas travels; his cherished Golden Guitar for services to country music.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

Guitar hero

Renowned for playing alongside some of the biggest names in country music, Lawrie Minson is one of Tamworth’s best advertisements.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

“The best thing after playing a national tour is coming home to Tamworth,” award-winning instrumentalist Lawrie Minson says.

His genuine love of the city and support of fellow musicians is unsurpassed.

Over a star-studded 43-year career, he’s learnt to play the banjo, didgeridoo, guitar, harmonica, dobro, pedal steel, accordian and piano. Along the way, he’s been awarded four Golden Guitars, including three times for Instrumental of the Year, and is in strong demand in the recording scene.

Since moving to the Country Music Capital as a toddler, Lawrie was raised on a staple diet of country music, courtesy of his famous father, John “Mr Hoedown” Minson, who helped establish the festival 50 years ago.

After finishing school, Lawrie was strumming his guitar in local bands while his mates were out chasing girls and tinkering with their motor cars. By age 20, he was touring with Buddy Williams.

One of the best things to happen in his life was meeting devoted country music fan Shelley Watts, who noticed Lawrie at every Lee Kernaghan or James Blundell concert. It was inevitable their paths would one day cross.

“I was on a Tamworth pub crawl and dropped into the Central Hotel. Lawrie dropped in after a gig and I said hello to him – it was just as the clock struck midnight,” she laughs. “It must have gone OK because whenever Lawrie travelled to Sydney, he’d call in at our farm (in Muswellbrook) for lunch. He rang me a few times from India, so I figured he must have been a bit keen.”

They’ve been together since 2006 and have come a long way as a Rockabilly duo, performing at some of the biggest music festivals in the country. In 2015, they played at the world’s largest rockabilly festival: Viva Las Vegas. Shelley is also known for her love of vintage fashion and 1950s and 1960s music.

“Shelley came along at just the right time,” Lawrie says with a wry grin. “At certain times in life you need saving. Shelley was sent from God and changed my life. More or less, life started again for me and I was handed an opportunity to change for the better – and for that I’ll always be grateful.

“She’s been really good for me but I’ve also been good for her, helping her to find her voice and boosting her confidence when it came to performing in public. I’m really proud of what she’s achieved.”

Lawrie says there have been many career highlights, among them playing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville with Slim Dusty in 1997.

“I heard about it and rang Slim and said, if I could get myself to Nashville, would he include me in the line-up? Joy (Slim’s wife) got back to me and agreed. Slim used Keith Urban and his band at the time, The Ranch, and we did two shows in one night. You only get one or two songs. I played didgeridoo at the start of The Pub with No Beer. Slim autographed the didge, a wonderful memory.”

Having toured with big names for most of the 1980s and ’90s, Lawrie is now spending more time working with Shelley and also singer/songwriter Andrew Farriss (from INXS).

“Growing up in Tamworth, I’ve met a lot of people – and it’s always felt like home,” he says.

“I’ve travelled all over Australia and have never found a better place.

“There’s a great spirit of generosity in this town. People will help you.

“Sure, it gets cold in winter and hot in summer but it’s the people here that make the place.

“More than anything, it’s the quality of the locals that live here that makes me happy to stay.”

The festival, he insists, is the best thing that’s ever happened to Tamworth.

“It kind of shook the place out of that western inland, smalltown syndrome,” he says.

“For once a year, people from every corner of the country arrive and liven the place up.

“More than anything, it’s the quality of the locals that live here that makes me happy to stay.”

“It’s made Tamworth a better place. The locals have learnt a lot more about hospitality.

“Visitors always say the locals are so welcoming here and I think the town has grown with the festival. They’ve learnt to put on that smile and make people feel welcome.”

Lawrie admits COVID decimated the music industry but is confident that soon it will all be in the past.

“As a musician, you bring people together and make them feel good,” he says.

“In the last year, we’ve been instructed to not get together – no close contact, no dancing or singing. I was OK when it first started but none of us imagined it would drag on this long.”

In 2019, Lawrie was awarded CMAA Musician of the Year but since COVID he’s found it difficult finding a gig.

“After nearly two years, we are all completely over it,” he says.

“The music industry is ready to get back to what we do best and I hope it will happen soon.

“The isolation caused by the pandemic has caused a sense of separation amongst people – not just for musicians but for all fans of live music.” RLM FACING PAGE: Shelley and Lawrie Minson make quite the dynamic duo.

FROM TOP: Award-winning instrumentalist Lawrie Minson has always loved country music; Mr Hoedown, John Minson, with son Lawrie and wife Shelley in 2011.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

a cultural

AWAKENING

“We share the strength and wisdom of our culture through song, dance and storytelling,” says Gomeroi Dance Company co-founder and director of the Gomeroi Culture Academy Marc Sutherland.

The talented dance group has performed on hundreds of occasions across NSW, telling stories handed down over thousands of years from the oldest continuous culture on earth.

It all started, innocently enough, at Peel High School in 2003, when Marc and his best friends were encouraged to showcase their moves at a local dance eisteddfod.

“Although it wasn’t something we’d really given much thought to, we agreed to have a go,” Marc says. “It was the birth of something far bigger than a performance – it led to the creation of the Gomeroi Dancers and the beginning of a dream.”

Marc says that since those first tentative steps he’s developed a lifetime commitment to learn, share and maintain Gomeroi cultural knowledge through dance.

Coming from proud Gomeroi families, the young men making up the dance group were the first generation in their families to learn and share their language and culture without the fear of consequence.

“The fact we didn’t have the same government laws restricting us as generations before, we felt we had a responsibility to step up and carry the torch held by our ‘Old People’ to make sure our culture stays strong,” he says.

Within a few years, the group established the Gomeroi Dance Company and, in the process, built a strong foundation to support their dream. Over the past 16 years, they have worked hard to create a fully owned and operated First Nations business, focused on the sharing, maintaining and continuation of Gomeroi cultural knowledge and practices.

In 2018, there was enough interest to start the Gomeroi Culture Academy, a cultural leadership program to support and inspire the next generation.

“We deliver our ‘Yarraanduul’ workshops to other young people to build and strengthen their cultural identity,” Marc says. “We

have delivered this program to hundreds of young people across the education, justice, employment, training, disability and out-ofhome-care sectors.”

Marc’s passion for his language has led him to become a recognised “songman” within the community, reviving old songs and creating new ones to share with both the young and old.

“Having a strong sense of identity proves a strong foundation to build on. The possibilities are endless,” he says.

They are also one of the partners helping deliver Barranggirra, which provides culturally appropriate mentoring and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices and trainees across the region.

“We are committed to sharing our culture to create positive and meaningful change. One way we do this is by delivering cultural awareness and competency training to organisations,” he says.

“We deliver up to 100 of these workshops each year and have seen a massive change in the way people and organisations are working with us, which helps achieve a better understanding of our communities.

“After 16 years of sharing, we are now ready to support our next generation of dancers to join our company and continue the legacy of our original dancers from all those years ago.”

Marc’s vision is to live in a community where all Australians have the ability to learn, share and embrace Gomeroi language and culture.

“One day we wish to own and manage our own block of land to run our programs and provide a thriving space for cultural learning. We are driven by the strength of our Old People and we walk tall knowing they are always with us.” RLM

PICTURED: The Gomeroi Dance Company is about telling stories dating back thousands of years.

TAMWORTH RLM 51

art and soul

Every year, the Tamworth Regional Gallery delivers a rich and varied series of exhibitions, workshops, lectures, artist talks, events and engaging public programs.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

The Tamworth Regional Gallery offers a rotating program of touring exhibitions of national significance, alongside curated exhibitions of regional artists and exhibitions from permanent collections.

The latest exhibition, Take me Home to Tamworth, celebrates 50 years of the Tamworth Country Music Festival. The specially commissioned artworks provide a fresh artistic perspective on some of the icons of Australian country music, including First Nations personal stories.

Tamworth Regional Gallery is more than 100 years old, offering a distinctive connection to place and meaningful art experiences for all.

“The collection exists for our audiences – to comprehend the past, to navigate the present, and as a potent avenue for imagining the future,” Tamworth Regional Gallery and Museums Director Bridget Guthrie says.

The collection started with a bequest of 100 paintings and works on paper from artist John Salvana in 1919 and was added to in 1961 by the Burdekin Collection, a substantial gift of 19th- and early 20thcentury Australian and European works. In 1963, the Lyttleton Taylor family donated the Regan Silverware Collection of early Australian silverware.

“Placing art, access and audiences at the very heart of who we are guides the gallery’s artistic and public programs,” Bridget says.

“Tamworth Regional Gallery contributes positively to cultural cohesion, social wellbeing, creativity, engaged citizenship and the economic life in Tamworth and the surrounding region.”

The gallery’s purpose is to provide access to the arts in a regional centre that focuses on artistic vibrancy, social and cultural impact, cultural tourism and an arts ecosystem.

“We believe the arts and culture are for everyone – for visitors of all ages, abilities, genders and cultures,” Bridget says.

The gallery’s association with textile art dates back to the 1970s, with a focus on developing an Australian textile collection that embraces all related art and craft forms.

The nationally significant collection comprises excellent examples of works that document the changes in textile practice over almost 50 years.

The gallery also presents the Tamworth Textile Triennial every three years, where a guest curator is invited to showcase the best of textile art from across the country.

The latest exhibition, Tension[s] 2020, has been on tour since it left the gallery in late 2020, with upcoming dates at Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery (Victoria), Ararat Gallery TAMA (Victoria) and Wagga Wagga Art Gallery (NSW) before it concludes in October.

“We believe the arts and culture are for everyone – for visitors of all ages, abilities, genders and cultures.”

The Tamworth Regional Gallery is ideally located in the heart of Tamworth’s CBD on Peel Street, close to shops, parking and the riverside precinct. Admission is free.

The gallery houses purpose-built exhibition spaces, conservation collection storage, a retail shop showcasing Australian artists and makers, studio workshop and research library. It is a fully accessible space. RLM

FROM TOP: There’s plenty of space for exhibitions; Tamworth Regional Gallery customer service and collections officer Eloise Newall; an exhibition dedicated to country music will feature at this year’s festival.

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP LEFT: Regular exhibitions keep the Tamworth Regional Gallery interesting; the entrance to the gallery; the modern building is located in Tamworth’s main street.

Details of the exhibition program and events are available at www.tamworthregionalgallery.com.au.

TAMWORTH RLM 53

bringing

arts alive

Peter Ross remembers a stormy start to a 13-year love affair with Tamworth.

It was 4pm on a 40-degree January summer’s day in Tamworth but the sky was a swirling marbled black and grey as a summer thunderstorm rolled in.

I was walking back to my accommodation after my first day on the job as director of the newly opened Capitol Theatre Tamworth. It was also the first day of the 2009 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

It had been so muggy and humid all day leading up to this storm breaking. As I entered my un-airconditioned furnace-like cabin with beads of sweat rolling down my back, I thought to myself: “What have I gotten myself into?”.

Fast forward 13 years and I’m so glad I didn’t get in the car and drive away.

Tamworth is now proudly the place I call home and a city that is rich with identity and positivity. I’m thrilled that my three beautiful children have been schooled here and had the opportunity to grow and enjoy not only the cultural activities of the city but the sporting and other leisure activities that they have access to.

A great team and I have worked hard over the past 13 years to build the Capitol Theatre and the creative performing arts culture. It is now something that is a major part of the city’s social fabric and livability.

The Capitol Theatre was a new chapter for the arts in Tamworth. In the past, the city had purpose-built live theatres but they were all long gone. The city’s performing arts companies had been using the Tamworth Town Hall and a small, converted church called The Retreat to present their shows.

Although the Capitol was a 15-year leased venue that council entered into as a stepping stone towards a proper, dedicated, purposebuilt centre, it gave the city, for the first time in decades, the first working prosceniumarch theatre with a proper orchestra pit and limited flying capabilities.

This meant the city could play host to professional touring productions and the local performing arts groups got to lift their level of presentation.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

When I started back in 2009, I was the only dedicated full-time staff member.

There was a lot to do – a new staff structure, branding, website, ticketing system, building community confidence and planning for shows into the future.

We have come a long way in these 13 years and our division at Tamworth Regional Council now has 15 staff and we look after all our council-run entertainment venues in the city.

It’s an efficient and effective team who program and operate not only the Capitol Theatre but the Tamworth Town Hall, Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre (TRECC) and the Tamworth Community Centre – a suite of rooms and venues that can accommodate our community concerts and events, touring shows and conferences.

I am a big believer in creating experiences for children and families and being able to offer city experiences right here in own backyard. Cultural activities give a place a soul. They play a major part in contributing to the community in a way that feeds and strengthens spirit and social pride within a community.

The Capitol Theatre has certainly played its part and proved that cultural infrastructure and activities are crucial to a healthy and happy community and as we move towards the end of its lease there are exciting times ahead with the planned new Tamworth Performing Arts Centre and Cultural Precinct.

The development of the Tamworth Performing Arts Centre will become a major arts, cultural and social infrastructure project for the Tamworth community and the Northern Inland Region.

The project is a community identified objective within the current Community Strategic Plan (2017-2027) and Cultural Plan (2018-2023) and has been highlighted as a key action in the Tamworth Regional Blueprint 100 vision for the region’s future.

I have worked in many theatres across the country in my career, many of them with issues and compromise. It has always been a dream of mine to be part of building a theatre “properly” and leaving a lasting legacy for my community – its children and their children.

It will be a project of significance at a regional, state and national level and will be one of the largest infrastructure projects undertaken by council. It is proposed that it will be funded with equal contributions by Tamworth Regional Council and the state and federal governments.

The TPAC development will create a suite of venues that will meet the social inclusion, performing arts, creative industries, conference and events needs of the Tamworth community.

Its potential integration with the existing Tamworth Regional Gallery and Tamworth City Library and inclusion of leased premises to Tamworth Regional Conservatorium of Music and a radio station will create a vibrant and exciting Cultural Precinct of national significance.

It will give the Tamworth Country Music Festival a new performance hub and provide additional quality spaces for musicians to showcase themselves during the renowned 10-day event in January.

The precinct will drive strong, longterm economic and employment benefits for Tamworth and become a place of community gathering and civic pride.

You can view the “fly-around video” and the full documentation for the Business Case, Concept Design and Functional & Technical Design Brief at www.theprecinct.org.au.

The summer storms still roll in. In fact, as I finish writing this piece the sound of thunder and heavy droplets of summer rain break my concentration. There’s something wonderful about a summer storm. It strangely signals growth, new life and hope.

The rain that nourishes our soil can also nourish our soul.

The development of the Tamworth Performing Arts Centre will become a major arts, cultural and social infrastructure project for the Tamworth community and the Northern Inland Region.

Art and culture have always played a major part in nourishing and enriching a community’s soul and having that taken away from us, especially live entertainment, during COVID, has made us appreciate that more than ever. At the end of the day, the value of culture comes down to three words: happiness, togetherness and understanding.

We all appreciate the value of culture – to our personal happiness, to our connection with community and to our sense of understanding of the world around us. We all engage in some form of culture – be it painting or praying, bushwalking or baking, playing a sport or learning an instrument.

Culture is in everything.

To quote Australian arts leader Patrick McIntyre: “Once we are fed and sheltered, everything beyond that is culture.”

I’m blessed that Tamworth is a city that values culture in all its forms. RLM Words: Peter Ross

FACING PAGE: Peter Ross runs a well-oiled team at the Capitol Theatre.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Peter Ross and partner Gabriela McDonald in My Fair Lady at the Capitol Theatre; Peter and Gabriela sing at John Muller’s 80th birthday at the theatre (Image: June Underwood); Peter with CMAA chairman Dan Biddle at the Golden Guitar Awards; Peter Ross in front of the Tamworth Performing Arts Centre display (Image: Northern Daily Leader).

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

THE GOOD LIFE After a quarter of a century in local politics, including a stint as Tamworth’s longest serving mayor, James Treloar OAM has found contentment in the seat of a tractor.

For the past five years, James Treloar and eldest son William have been supplying turf to clients throughout NSW. It’s about as far removed as you can get from the family dynasty started by his great grandfather, Thomas John Treloar, on the corner of Peel and Brisbane streets, back in 1889.

For 120 years, the Treloar family was synonymous with retail in Tamworth.

“Eventually we got out of retail,” James says. “The ladies’ wear and hardware were the last to close in 2010, but we kept our real estate. With Myer, Kmart and Best & Less stores in town, it became obvious there was no future for a traditional family business like ours.”

Life is never dull on the 55-acre farm at “Glenbrook”, Nemingha, James shares with wife Lisa, who is busy making home linen and soft furnishings for her Corner of the Garden business. It’s a beautiful spot, with rich, alluvial flats sandwiched between the Cockburn and Peel rivers.

James bought the property after selling some shares in 1987.

It proved a fortuitous move, as a month later, the crippling stock market crash created havoc for millions of investors.

As their big black dog, Harry, runs around creating his own havoc, it’s a good time and place for James, now in his late 60s, to reflect on a life lived to the full.

James entered the world on Father’s Day 1955, following the second biggest flooding in Tamworth history. After primary school at Tamworth Public, he spent six years as a boarder at TAS, Armidale.

“I had the most fortunate childhood and always remember it as a privileged time of my life, with wonderful friends, a close, loving family and great memories of growing up in Tamworth,” he says.

“My father was a brilliant mentor while my mother was the most caring, loving and generous person you could ever meet.”

When he finished school, James was offered a cadetship with Grace Bros in Sydney. After a memorable nine years, Grace Bros and Myer merged, and he found himself working with a new company in direct opposition to the family business back home.

It was time to return to the fold. In a city without Test cricket, international rugby or touring bands, he thought his life was over.

“With hindsight, it turned out to be the best move I ever made,” he grins. “I quickly adapted to life in a regional city without having to spend two hours each day travelling to and from work.”

Joining Tamworth City Council happened by accident. James was trying to secure a lease for the Tamworth Rugby Club, which was aiming to build a clubhouse. One thing led to another and suddenly James was an elected councillor. > LEFT:Turf farmer James Treloar OAM has never felt better; the king of country music, Slim Dusty, with mayor Treloar during his reign in the Country Music Capital.

FACING PAGE: James, wife Lisa and Harry the dog at the front door of their century-old home.

“MY FATHER WAS A BRILLIANT MENTOR WHILE MY MOTHER WAS THE MOST CARING, LOVING AND GENEROUS PERSON YOU COULD EVER MEET.” 56 RLM TAMWORTH

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

TAMWORTH RLM 57

REFLECTING ON HIS TIME AT THE TOP, JAMES SAYS THE ROLE OF MAYOR COULD BE CHALLENGING AND REWARDING IN EQUAL DOSES. Council consumed his life for the next 27 years, including a record 14 years as mayor. By then he had three young children (Sarah, William and Henry, with first wife Kerrie), a full-time job and 50 acres of lucerne under irrigation to work.

“There was no spare time, but we certainly had the perfect location,” he says. “We lived out of town with no neighbours or barking dogs and a pub 200 metres away. The kids could walk to school, and we had town water.”

James was at the helm during a pivotal time in the city’s history.

“Tamworth was having a rapid growth period, with the population climbing from 35,000 to 62,000 people in the past 25 years,” he says. “There was an enormous surge in business growth as Tamworth was midway between Sydney and Brisbane.

The city was suddenly a highly sought-after destination.

“The festival grew from three to 10 days with road closures in place for over a week. Tamworth was building some major infrastructure. There were large releases of residential and industrial land to cater for the demand. It was a most exciting time.”

James is especially proud of his work with the Evocities campaign, which changed the way those in metro areas viewed regional NSW. “We conducted surveys of people wanting to move away from the cities. Initially only three per cent were interested in moving to regional parts of the state. We never used the words ‘bush’ or ‘country’, as they depicted the wilderness or bushfires, floods and droughts. Within two years the percentage of those wishing to move to a regional centre increased to nearly eight per cent.”

Reflecting on his time at the top, James says the role of mayor could be challenging and rewarding in equal doses.

“My first year as mayor (1995) was fairly interesting, given the different personalities on board,” he says.

“A diverse range of people get elected, and chairing a meeting to ensure the right outcome is achieved was one of those challenges.

You meet some wonderful people and some not so wonderful people but it’s the wonderful people you remember.”

Tamworth continued growing and in 2004 five local government areas were amalgamated to form the Peel Regional Council. James was appointed the administrator and after 14 days changed the name to Tamworth Regional Council.

Before the amalgamation, council had 128 square kilometres to administer. The area now encompasses 9500 square kilometres.

“By amalgamating, we were able to do a new LEP (local environment plan), which zoned areas for rural lifestyle, with anything up to 10-acre blocks creating enormous interest.”

James watched the city and its neighbouring villages grow in leaps and bounds. Today, new suburbs like Hills Plains have sprung up, while Calala has also experienced phenomenal growth.

James was at the helm during some of the city’s biggest changes, including the $25 million beautification of Peel Street.

“The process started with my predecessor David John,” he says. “It injected life back into the CBD and changed the landscape forever.

“I’m sure nobody, especially our senior citizens, miss the onefoot-high gutters that used to flood in big rains. We removed all the power lines and the drainage went underground. Widening the footpaths led to street dining.”

To cement its place as a regional centre, Tamworth needed an entertainment centre, initially to host the Golden Guitar Awards.

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Twenty local businesses contributed $10,000 each, which was a sign of how important it was to the city’s development. James had the community support to approach the state government for funding.

“Later we were able to build AELEC – the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre, which Governor Dame Marie Bashir described as the ‘Opera House of the North’.”

In 2017, James was awarded an OAM for services to local government and the Tamworth community. Becoming the 13th Freeman of the City was an even greater honour, especially as Tamworth became the 13th city of NSW in 1946.

“In the old days it meant I could run a cow free of charge on the Common,” he laughs.

To keep his mind engaged, James took up the position as president of the Wests Entertainment Group several years ago.

“We face different challenges. The cancellation of the 2021 festival and Ag-Quip, along with the bushfires, saw millions of dollars ripped out of the heart of the city,” he says.

“The first thing everyone did after the lockdown was get a haircut. Cafes and restaurants suffered but are bouncing back while some businesses didn’t survive the economic downturn.”

Time is marching on, and James has to return to tractor duties.

RLM asks for a quote that has helped shape him. He thinks for a moment before responding.

“There’s no degree of honesty in life – you can’t be sometimes honest,” he replies with typical Treloar candour. “Never attribute to malice that which can be adequately explained by stupidity.” RLM

ABOVE: Always prepared to get in the spirit of things, James Treloar dons an Akubra hat for a photo opportunity during his term as mayor.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

riding high

Whether it’s helping to lead the charge to take her local dressage club to new heights or edging towards international dressage competitions herself, Tamworth rider Marjolyn Thomas is right at home in the saddle.

The sky’s the limit if you ask Marjolyn Thomas, who started riding as a child in The Netherlands, where she was born and raised.

From a horse sport called vaulting – sometimes described as gymnastics and dance on horseback – through to showjumping and eventing, Marjolyn’s passion for horse riding was fuelled by a one-hour lesson once a week.

It wasn’t until she set down roots in Australia that her dressage journey began. What she intended would be a year backpacking after finishing school, turned out to be a permanent move once Marjolyn met her now husband, Brian, at a waterskiing day at Split Rock Dam. “That was nearly 26 years ago,” Marjolyn laughs now.

“I was working for John and Cathy Wade in Bingara for three months, catching horses each morning and preparing them for travellers to take on trail rides.”

Marjolyn and Brian went on to have two children, Amber and Caleb, both adults now, and travelled extensively with their steel fixing construction business.

Once the kids were older, Marjolyn found she had more time for horses, which had given her so much growing up. She found a coach, who happened to be an experienced dressage rider, and started riding again.

Marjolyn says she was “instantly hooked”.

“When you’re in the saddle and make the slightest movement, or you simply have a thought, and the horse responds, there’s nothing quite like it,” Marjolyn says.

“I bought my own horse and threw my passion into my local club, Tamworth Dressage Club, where we worked relentlessly to build up our following from a grassroots level and encourage riders to get involved no matter their level of experience.

“It was important at the time to develop our training competitions. They’re fun, welcoming events to help everyone to believe in themselves and feel worthy of participating. Since then, people have come from far and wide to take part.”

Today, Marjolyn competes on her Warmblood mare, Challenger Jamellia, at medium-advanced level, with aspirations to compete in the esteemed international scene this year.

After a decade as either president or vicepresident at the Tamworth Dressage Club, Marjolyn has recently taken a step back from the executive, satisfied her contribution has been substantial. She now coordinates major events for the club at AELEC. “AELEC is such an impressive, well laid-out venue and we have riders from all over who just love the facilities here,” Marjolyn says.

“WHEN YOU’RE IN THE SADDLE AND MAKE THE SLIGHTEST MOVEMENT, OR YOU SIMPLY HAVE A THOUGHT, AND THE HORSE RESPONDS, THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE IT.” “We’ve been lucky to host two dressage state championships there, and we’ve secured the first national dressage championships event for AELEC in 2023, which is a huge achievement.”

There’s no limit to what can be accomplished with a committed group of volunteers, according to Marjolyn, and there’s no doubt this is just the beginning of great things to come for this hard-working club. RLM Words: Anna Conn Images: Supplied

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Marjolyn and her Warmblood mare, Challenger Jamellia, make an impressive pair; a dedicated duo competing at Tamworth’s AELEC; happy in the saddle; Marjolyn and Jamellia take a quiet moment together between dressage tests; Jamellia – well bred and well loved.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

centre of EXCELLENCE

The Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre, better known as AELEC, has helped cement Tamworth’s proud reputation for being the Australian horse capital.

“The horse industry in the Tamworth region is big business, injecting around $20 million into the local economy,” says new AELEC manager Prue Simson, who brings a wealth of international experience to her position.

Prue has taken over from outgoing manager Mike Rowland, who played an integral role in AELEC’s development for the past decade.

Each year, AELEC attracts about 7000 competitors and 9000 horses from various disciplines, with 478 stables to house them.

A further 16,000 head of cattle are trucked in annually to support these events.

AELEC attracts international and domestic visitors to the region, roughly 120,000 visitor nights each year, making it a significant economic contribution to local business and the community as a whole.

“Our reputation has been built upon existing events but we are hoping to grow and diversify this amazing $70 million facility,” Prue says.

The team at AELEC is made up of six core members with a vast range of experience across events, agriculture, journalism, equine handling and competing. The team works with support from contractors and stakeholders who help bring the venue to life.

“We have nine permanent arenas, including the main indoor arena, two outdoor covered arenas, campdraft, small and large ebb and flows, sales arena as well as roping and smaller warm-up arenas,” Prue says.

This year is shaping up to be a very busy calendar year with many back-to-back events booked in right through to December.

“We are excited to get back to doing what we do best – hosting great events and passionate audiences in our venue,” Prue says.

“After spending my younger years in Narrabri and Liverpool Plains Shire regions, it’s great to be back and close to home. I’m excited to use my experience and knowledge to see what we can do here at AELEC. “ Prue studied event management and marketing in Brisbane before working at the London 2012 Olympic Games. After that, she spent two years in Canada, project managing the Pan American Games staged in Toronto.

During this time, her responsibilities were directed towards equestrian, athletics and cycling. Next pit stop was with Formula One in Melbourne, spending a year as site manager and another as track manager.

“It was action packed and noisy but exhilarating at the same time,” she says. “Being the first female track manager for that event made it that much more exciting and worthwhile. It was a moment where I felt I was able to contribute and help with continuing the movement for women in leadership in sport.”

“WE ARE EXCITED TO GET BACK TO DOING WHAT WE DO BEST – HOSTING GREAT EVENTS AND PASSIONATE AUDIENCES IN OUR VENUE.” In 2017, Prue worked at the World Masters Games in Auckland. She backed that up the following year with work at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast and Invictus Games in Sydney.

It’s a big portfolio for anyone, let alone a woman barely in her 30s. Prue is settling down to life in Tamworth, having moved in July 2021. She has also become engaged to town planner Christopher Donnelly, whom she met at the World Masters Games in Auckland.

Prue is also looking forward to her time in Tamworth and aims to make the most of what the region offers in local sport, culture and events.

Keep an eye on www.aelec.com.au for forthcoming events. RLM Images: Narelle Wockner Photography and supplied

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: AELEC at full capacity; you’ll find every horse discipline at AELEC from cross country, eventing, show jumping to tent pegging and campdraft. It also hosts some of the biggest rodeo events in the country.

ABOVE: AELEC manager Prue Simson is hoping for a big year after trying times.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

keys to success Woodley’s Motors has been a driving force in Tamworth for the past century.

Woodley’s Motors is synonymous with Tamworth. Over more than a century, the Woodley family dynasty has grown to encompass seven showrooms, 13 vehicle brands and the TJM 4x4 specialist.

The proud history started in 1919 when Henry “Harry” Woodley and wife moved from Nundle to open Woodley’s Upholstery in a Tamworth shed rented from T J Treloar & Co. Starting with nothing but an old industrial sewing machine and a few hand tools, they repaired the hoods of horse carriages and a growing number of motor cars.

Harry had a sense of humour, coining the advertising slogan “Let Woodley’s put one over you” on joke cards. It became Woodley’s promotional signature for almost three decades.

In 1930, Woodley’s Car Trimmers opened their doors opposite the present Council Chambers in Peel Street. Within a few years, Tamworth’s population had climbed to about 10,000 and the number of cars was on the rise. Harry’s son, Neville, introduced spray painting and motor trimming services.

In 1953, a young Warren Woodley joined his father in the business as a car trimmer.

Warren and wife Lorraine would dedicate nearly 50 years to the business. When they

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started, only one in 10 households had a car.

Imports arrived each month from America, Germany and the UK. In 1966, the business changed its name once more, this time to Woodley’s Motor Body Works. Panel beating and towing services were added, and additional premises opened in Taminda.

In 1983, Mark joined the team as an apprentice panel beater after his schooling at Oxley High. Like his father, he too started at the bottom of the production chain.

When the time was right, his father simply advised him there was a job available without any pressure to take it.

After 37 years at Woodley’s, Mark knows he made the right decision, steering the business through phenomenal change.

By 1986, the team relocated to Marius Street, and the official opening of the stateof-the-art $1 million complex took place in 1989. By then, Woodley’s cars, especially Volvos, were walking off the block.

“In the early days, we took on risk and brands that weren’t popular at the time, like Hyundai and Volkswagen,” Mark says.

“Today, they are among the most popular cars in the world.”

Following Warren’s retirement in 2000, Mark and John Riolo officially assumed control. Woodley’s took on a new expansion

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

phase, culminating in the acquisition of Mercedes-Benz, Subaru and Isuzu Ute from fellow family-owned business Peel Valley Motors in 2017. An expansive new showroom soon followed.

With 110 dedicated staff, Woodley’s has evolved into one of the biggest private employers in the city.

Mark and John still take enormous pride in the team’s long-standing commitment to their customers.

Mark Woodley has more than filled the big shoes left by his father, a former Tamworth mayor now with an OAM after his name.

Mark and wife Jayne have four children: daughters Karmel, Georgina and Philippa and son Michael, who worked in the family firm for four years before joining the ministry. All are following their own dreams.

Since taking on their first franchise with Volvo in 1971, Mark has learnt a few simple truths about the car business.

“If you don’t sell a new car, you don’t have a second-hand car to sell, nor a workshop,” he says. “Today we have all bases covered. Each division is as important as the next but it’s crucial we keep the cycle turning with new car sales.”

Warren always had a knack for seeing the big picture.

“Dad always said if he was to steal a phrase from any company, it would be from Avis. Their motto was ‘we try harder’ and I think that’s what we have always set out to do. This service is fundamental to our business,” Mark says.

“Naturally, we are very proud of all our brand partners, particularly our half century association with Volvo and our new partners Mercedes.”

Mark has another 10 years to go to match the lifetime commitment of his father to the business. >

“NATURALLY, WE ARE VERY PROUD OF ALL OUR BRAND PARTNERS, PARTICULARLY OUR HALF CENTURY ASSOCIATION WITH VOLVO AND OUR NEW PARTNERS MERCEDES.”

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Woodley’s Motors directors John Riolo, Mark Woodley, Brad Wilson and Tim Stebbings; founder of Woodley’s Motors, Harry Woodley, knew the horse and cart days were numbered; a restored Buick leaves Woodley’s Peel Street premises in 1960.

ABOVE: Woodley’s Motors has all the major brands of cars covered, making it easy to find your new set of wheels.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

“Dad really transformed the business from a hands-on trade mechanical business into retail,” he says.

When Mark and John took control, there were 30 staff. Dealerships all over Australia were being snapped up by huge consortiums, many based overseas.

“We have decided to stay local and continue the proven traditions and winning formula that has kept us at the forefront of the industry for over 100 years,” Mark says.

“The biggest change in the last decade has been the emergence of more women on our team, both in sales and service. In the days of old, selling second-hand cars – or any cars for that matter – was typically a male-dominated industry.

“These days, we’ve found the decision to purchase a vehicle is largely dominated by women.

“It is also surprising now to see how many dual-cab utes are being used as a family

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vehicle and simply how many females are choosing to own a dual-cab. They’re far more luxurious and easy to drive than the utes of old.”

Customers will find whatever they are looking for at Woodley’s – from their most expensive car, the $500,000 Mercedes-Benz Maybach down to one of their 100 quality used cars.

Mark and John believe motoring has an exciting future. New developments include electric and driverless cars and even cars powered by hydrogen.

Whatever happens, expect Woodley’s to be there front and centre, as they have always been.

Their slogan, “Driving you home since 1919”, says it all. It’s a tribute to the generations who have come before and testament to the hard work and progressive attitude of the two current dealer principals. RLM

“WE HAVE DECIDED TO STAY LOCAL AND CONTINUE THE PROVEN TRADITIONS AND WINNING FORMULA THAT HAS KEPT US AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE INDUSTRY FOR OVER 100 YEARS.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Mercedes-Benz office; an old Woodley’s marketing ploy; the original heritage-listed cottage – now admin; Mark Woodley in an office full of historic images documenting the rise of their motoring empire; John Riolo congratulates fellow director Mark Woodley on the new office.

Amarok W Series

Reared for the Road Walkinshaw Amarok, a force to be reckoned with.

Tuned as a GT, with an aggressive front grille, Pirelli Scorpion ATR tyres and 20 inch Clayton alloy wheels, the Amarok V6 W series is the ute that’s been reared for the road.

Visit

Woodley’s Volkswagen 200 Marius Street, Tamworth. Tel 02 6763 1500. www.woodleysvolkswagen.com.au

T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

nothing ventured, nothing gained Tamworth entrepreneur Daniel McCulloch has always thought big and outside the square.

Daniel McCulloch doesn’t do things by halves.

Just look at his signature two-storey office opposite the old Regent picture theatre. He and wife Karina spent the equivalent of an upmarket home on the renovations, but this high-achieving couple couldn’t be happier – or more proud.

It’s the first building you see when you take the Oxley Highway into the Tamworth CBD from Gunnedah. The McCullochs wanted to make a bold statement, to showcase their belief in the area. The former Ray White residence resembles a clean slate with a big slice of country “feel” throughout the building.

Huge Ironbark slabs are featured in nearly every room, including the boardroom that doubles as a sales room. Where else would you find an old shearing plant hanging on the wall? Beautiful sandstone adorns the exterior. The winning combination of sandstone and timber was carefully thought out, designed to stand the test of time.

“Our theme at McCulloch Agencies is about connecting metropolitan investors with regional opportunities,” says Daniel, a man born for this job. “We use face-to-face meetings to build up a trusted channel. You tell Sydney investors you can buy a nice house in Tamworth for $300k and then rent it out for $400 a week and they are gobsmacked. We have a good arrangement. It’s a good fit.”

Recently, the McCullochs invested in Wauchope Stock and Estate Agencies in the NSW timber town, with over 60 years of history to its name.

“Wauchope is in a strategic location for the growth of our business. There’s always been a natural migration of people from this area retiring to Port Macquarie,” Daniel says.

“Sydney gives us a metropolitan aspect, while Tamworth and Quirindi give us a regional, country aspect. And now with Wauchope, we have a coastal aspect to our business.”

Daniel and Karina own several properties in the district and lease another two. They live at “Talgoona”, near the historic Goonoo Goonoo Station.

“We are fortunate to have good people on each of the properties and in the business,” Daniel says. “The key to our success is surrounding ourselves with good people who share our aspirations and ambitions.”

Daniel grew up as a third-generation farmer to parents Paul and Elaine McCulloch, of “Davvide”, Garoo, about 40km south of Tamworth. His parents are still on the land.

After six years of boarding at Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School, Tamworth, it was time to think about a career. While he may not have been sure exactly what that was, Daniel knew he wanted to be rewarded for his efforts. For a brief period, he flirted with the idea of shearing, but it could never have fuelled his high expectations.

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“Our theme at McCulloch Agencies is about connecting metropolitan investors with regional opportunities.”

“Like everyone, I suppose, I expect to be paid for what I do. It’s a bit like running an agency, I guess – the harder you work, the better the rewards.”

Daniel got his first taste of agency life with J V Goodwin & Co. Popular principal Jason Goodwin tragically died at age 36, a fact not lost on Daniel, who is now the same age. It’s something that’s left him determined to do things now, and not later.

“Jason was my first boss and a wonderful mentor,” Daniel says.

“I’m also inspired by blokes like Roger Fletcher and others who have made it in one generation. When he was 30, Roger was a drover and today is a key international player providing protein to the world.”

It didn’t take long working with Jason to know that being an agent was the life he wanted. In 2005, aged just 20, he acquired a 49 per cent share in Davidson Cameron McCulloch & Co after purchasing William Rixon Livestock. That business was eventually purchased by Ruralco. >

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Stock and station agent Daniel McCulloch stands proudly behind the new front desk of his agency; preparing to sell sheep; the team in action; the weekly cattle sale draws buyers from near and far; a top selling team: Mitchell Swain, Clive Rock, Dustin Rudgley, Karina and Daniel McCulloch.

ABOVE: Daniel leads a busy lifestyle but always makes time to fly.

“The key to our success is surrounding ourselves with good people who share our aspirations and ambitions.”

Local buyers knew Daniel had the talent and temperament to sell livestock but soon the rest of the country would be in on the secret.

In 2006, he was judged NSW Young Auctioneer of the Year and the following year blitzed the field at the Australian titles. This led him to the international competition at the famous Calgary Stampede.

“I’ve always loved auctioneering, starting with the cattle and sheep sales held here each Monday,” Daniel grins. “There’s always a bit of pressure on sale day but we always derive great pleasure achieving maximum returns for our clients’ stock.”

Never far from the action is Karina, who is equally at home raising three daughters as she is working in the frantic pace of the saleyards. Karina was Daniel’s first and only girlfriend. They met as 17-year-olds at the Tamworth Show.

In true McCulloch style, Daniel didn’t hesitate when it came to following his heart, tying the knot soon after his 22nd birthday.

They now have three daughters, Ellie, 12, Claire, 10, and Tess, 6.

Daniel is hopeful that one day one of his girls will make a mark in the traditionally male-dominated agency business.

Being married to an agent was always going to be an interesting scenario for Karina.

“When I was a lot younger, a girlfriend asked me if I fully knew what I was letting myself in for,” she laughs. “I was told agents were always on the phone or on the road – or both. I was told I’d sometimes feel like a widow, but I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Karina has always been Daniel’s greatest ally, confidante and mate, despite her more conservative approach to life.

“It’s good that we are opposites,” laughs Daniel, a risk-taker and a man who will never die wondering.

“You only live once, and I want to leave a legacy for my girls.”

So, what inspires a man clearly unafraid of a challenge?

“When I was about 20, I walked into the saleyards and heard a couple of old-timers reciting the words of Humpty Dumpty as I walked past – the suggestion being that I was setting myself up for a big fall. That still drives me today,” Daniel says.

“If I had any advice to offer, I’d say don’t be afraid of failure – it’s all part of the learning process. When you borrow money, what’s the worst thing that can happen? Nobody is going to cut your arm off, take your kids away from you or send you to jail. Really, what’s the worst thing that will happen?

“A lot of people are scared of risk, and yes, it can be painful. I lost money on the first house I ever bought. I may have failed on that occasion, but I never gave up. We now understand we have to do things differently.”

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Daniel says this philosophy has guided his career.

“If I lost everything tomorrow, you’d find me cutting firewood. The next day I’d be selling it and by the third day I’d have an offsider with me cutting twice as much. Just keep going and never stop.”

With this sort of positive attitude, it was only natural Daniel and Karina would venture out on their own, sooner rather than later. Since establishing their agency in 2018, there have been many memorable moments leading up to their official opening in late 2021.

“There is marketing and there is marketing,” Daniel says.

“Although they look the same, the two can be very different.”

In July 2020, McCulloch Agencies was privileged to be involved with one of the largest private cattle transactions in Australian history. On behalf of the Hughes family, the agency sold about 13,500 cattle from Lake Nash Station in the NT to the AAM Investment Group, in a collective deal worth about $15 million.

“It goes to show that business is all about relationships and trust.

Twenty years ago, I went to school with Lake Nash station manager Erin Gibson, who now manages one of the largest beef properties in Australia.”

In early 2021, Daniel was privileged to auction at Australia’s biggest cattle event, Beef Expo, Rockhampton.

Daniel has a commercial pilot’s licence and enjoys taking to the skies.

With four offices opening in just a few years and staff numbers that have mushroomed from two to 18, business is brisk and every day’s a new challenge.

Already they have sold nearly 200 rural and residential properties, worth tens of millions of dollars. As of July 2021, they had sold close to 60,000 head of cattle, along with over 200,000 sheep and lambs.

Watch this space. Daniel McCulloch, the man inspired by a nursery rhyme, is only starting to flex his muscle. RLM

ABOVE: The magnificently refurbished Tamworth office; in one of his last duties as mayor, Cr Col Murray was called on to officially cut the ribbon and declare the new McCulloch Tamworth office open for business in late 2021. Col, pictured fifth from left, shares the joy with Bernadette Binnie, Kristy Reid, Belinda McCarthy, Daniel and Karina McCulloch, Mitchell Swain, Sarah Weatherly, George Barton and Cynthia Lay.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

all ears Tamworth’s community radio station, 88.9FM, is on the crest of a wave.

Since joining 88.9FM in 2013, CEO George Frame and his dedicated team have helped turn the community station into a thriving business.

“In recent years, radio overall has gone through some significant changes,” he says from company headquarters in the quaint old gatekeeper’s building, built in 1873 with the coming of the railway.

“Today we are the largest regional community station in Australia. We are here 24 hours a day, with 33 regional news services every week.”

Since starting with 2NX Newcastle as a technician and then studio manager at 2MO Gunnedah in 1971, George has clocked up a staggering 50 years working in radio and TV in the USA, Asia and the Middle East.

His short early retirement came to an abrupt end in 2013 after dropping into Tamworth to visit his son, (now in the station sales) and family, en route to Port Douglas. The board of directors of the local station invited him to come and “sort the place out”.

For many years, it was run as a volunteer community station but is now managed as Tamworth Broadcast Service.

The growth of the 39-year-old station has resulted in it becoming a company rather than an organisation. Brian “Howdy” Howard, Johnny Mac, Ray McCoy, Scotty McLaren, Emma Bailey, Dan Missen and Adam Parker are the six muchloved presenters. The pace is always hot, especially in the newsroom where news editor Jon Wolfe keeps his audience well informed.

The first FM station in Tamworth, 88.9FM has been broadcasting since 1983 across parts of the New England and northwest NSW. The station’s main frequency is 88.9 MHz on the FM band, with a high power repeater 96.3 MHz in the Liverpool Plains area covering Quirindi and Werris Creek.

Tamworth Broadcasting Association Inc, branded as 2YOU-FM, started in tiny studios put together by a group of enthusiastic volunteers at the back of the old Computer Fiscal Services building in Marius Street.

The studio, administration and library were all in the rear of old laundry rooms.

The first FM station in Tamworth, 88.9FM has been broadcasting since 1983 across parts of the New England and north-west NSW.

FROM TOP: Tamworth Broadcasting Association CEO George Frame in front of the station’s colourful sign; news presenter Jon Wolfe and presenter Johnny Mac at work.

In May 2014, the call sign 2YOU was dropped and the station’s name changed to its frequency 88.9FM, adopting a brandnew image, with 16 staff and an associated national commercial production company.

The station delivers local news and national news through Macquarie Radio.

It broadcasts from its own building and tower on Bald Hill at 956 metres, five kilometres east of Tamworth.

It reaches over 83,000 people in its broadcast coverage, including Tamworth City, Tamworth regional, Gunnedah, Manilla, Quirindi and various other towns in New England and north-western NSW.

In June 2020, the station switched on a high-power repeater serving the Liverpool Plains area as part of their licence on 96.3FM. The new image and sound has proved popular with listeners and sponsors.

A McNair yellowSquares 2021 independent survey revealed the station was number one in its target market with over 31,000 regular listeners tuning in each week.

The station supports the community through various organisations and events, including the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Salvation Army and NAIDOC. RLM

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

well-bred red Nemingha cattleman Graham Jordan believes he has found the ultimate beef-making machine in the Red Angus.

Graham and Sandra Jordan, their son Wade and his wife Bec are proving to be a formidable and lasting team at Goonoo Red Angus.

Graham Jordan grew up on a Tamworth dairy farm with his father Percy. In the mid 1980s they swapped their Holstein Friesian dairy cows and launched into beef and lucerne production. Making hay is still a major part of the business. Fresh hay is delivered to mainly dairy farmers in the mid and far north coast regions.

Initially, the family bred Simmentals, based on Dunmore bloodlines.

“Legendary Simmental breeder and PR agent Harry M Miller was a trailblazer – a marketing force that always stood by his word,” Graham says. “He taught me many things, among them persistence.”

For nearly 30 years, the Goonoo Creek Simmental stud exhibited many champions at the Sydney Royal. For a time, Graham served as president of the Simmental Society, mixing with fellow breeders throughout Australia and New Zealand.

After dispersing the stud herd in 2007, he thought he might take a break from the demanding stud cattle scene but it wasn’t to be. Good mate Colin Rex suggested he “come and play” with the Red Angus.

Unable to resist the challenge of starting again, Graham threw himself into the new breed, sourcing foundation females from Trevone Park, Menangle and BST, Molong. >

FROM TOP: Goonoo Red Angus cows are known as high-functioning cattle; a cow and an inquisitive bull enjoying the great season.

FACING PAGE: Red Angus stud breeder Graham Jordan has enjoyed great success in many breeds but believes his Red Angus are the best of the lot.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

“Just to be different, we held our first sale at AELEC and it turned out to be very successful, creating a new Australian record for a PTIC heifer at $20,000.”

“I like their docile nature, adaptability and their milking and mothering ability,” says Graham, now 72 and at the top of his game.

Today he has 80 registered females, and two sales are conducted every year. The Invitational Sale is for bulls that have been through the Tullimba Feed Efficiency trial program, and the second sale is reserved for females.

“Just to be different, we held our first sale at AELEC and it turned out to be very successful, creating a new Australian record for a PTIC heifer at $20,000,” Graham says.

“The 2020 was an online sale, while the third sale is planned at the Powerhouse Hotel on the evening of May 18, 2022.”

Breeders are anticipating a gala event and the opportunity to buy in style. The auctioneering will be left in the capable hands of local lad turned high-profile stud stock auctioneer Paul Dooley.

“I’ve been involved with cattle breeding all my life and am now into my third breed. After three heart bypasses, the passion is still strong,” laughs Graham, as he shows RLM through his herd.

The four children are all pursuing their own interests.

Wade and Bec and their two children live on the Jordans’ 700acre irrigated Nemingha farm. Shaye works in Alice Springs with the Tangentyere Aboriginal Corporation, Mindy and husband Todd have three sons and live close to home, and Rylee is a sonographer at Newcastle’s Mater Hospital.

The Jordans’ market sale area extends locally through to Queensland, the Central West and coastal NSW. “A lot of the cattle we see at the local markets are Brahman, Droughtmaster or Santa Gertrudis,” Graham says. “We wanted to

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breed cattle that complement these breeds, and the Red Angus tick a lot of boxes.

“They get rid of the extra sheath that you find on the Santas and Droughties, but retain the red colour. The cross softens the cattle up generally and also introduces the poll gene.”

Graham believes the polled Red Angus have incredible maternal instincts and are much quieter than black cattle.

“I’ve always found them to marble very well and are generally a much softer animal.”

Team Jordan has spent many years showing sires and females across the state, regularly preparing stud cattle for Guyra, Walcha, Glen Innes and Tamworth shows. They also exhibit annually at the Sydney and Brisbane Royal Shows.

The Goonoo team enjoys preparing cattle for the show ring and has so far exhibited six Sydney champions, including grand champion bull at the 2016 Feature Show, Goonoo Jose Carreras, which later topped the sale at $15,000.

“It’s nice when your hard work is rewarded with a sash or two from a national or international judge that agrees that what you are breeding is worth breeding from,” Graham says.

“While broad ribbons are a bonus, breeding for results is what really drives us.” RLM

FROM TOP: Sandra and Graham Jordan with a photo of their grand champion bull, Goonoo Jose Carreras, at the 2016 Sydney Royal Show; Graham and his number one supporter, wife Sandra; tomorrow’s champions.

GOONOO RED ANGUS ARE PROUD SUPPORTERS OF THE

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OUR LOCATION 538 Nundle Road, Tamworth NSW

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0427 456 128 graham@betari.com.au

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

chic boutique

French Style New England is a gorgeous lifestyle boutique that radiates relaxed, contemporary design with distinctive flair.

Enterprising young businesswoman Regina French cheerfully admits it was her “pure obsession” with shoes and clothing that prompted her to open French Style New England on Tamworth’s Peel Street six years ago.

As her passion evolved, so too has the business, from an original focus on footwear to also include quality and on-trend clothing, accessories and homewares.

Savvy shoppers from Tamworth to Sydney enjoy this appealing choice, together with genuine and personalised customer service.

The range at French Style New England is carefully selected, with unique offerings alongside the latest in seasonal styles and trends.

“It’s always nice to have something a little bit different and individual, too,” Regina says.

The boutique is renowned for a wide range of quality footwear for any occasion from casual to formal, with sandals, slides, heels, boots and joggers.

Popular lines include pretty and comfortable sandals from Avarcas Australia, handmade on the Spanish island of Menorca.

“These are also in our range of children’s shoes, which girls love, and they match adult styles,” Regina says.

The correct shoe fit for every customer is a priority, and something Regina believes is best done in store, with helpful guidance.

Shopping at French Style opens up new and exciting possibilities.

“We had one customer looking for only white shoes, who spotted a very colourful pair that, once tried on, she just had to have,” Regina says.

“It’s also nice to have that personal connection when customers come in.”

Quality fashion labels at French Style encompass relaxed, casual and versatile designs, perfect for the chic modern woman, moving effortlessly from work settings to social gatherings.

Australian designer Zoe Kratzmann is one of the boutique’s most sought-after, with an understated elegance synonymous with quality and style, in dresses, shirts, pants, skirts and shoes.

“It is a beautiful label, easy to wear, and resonates with country women.”

Other popular brands include Boho, and Frankies Melbourne, renowned for vibrant colour and fun.

Handbags include stylish and practical Prene Bags, and new label in, The Eleventh. The earrings range features Murkani Jewellery and handmade creations from Wagga-based Nancy Joanna.

The homewares choice at French Style is beautiful and affordable, for personal shopping or gift giving. The wide range includes vases, candlesticks, planters, ceramic bowls and jugs, photo frames and trays.

The store has a relaxed ambience. Regina and her capable assistant, Liz, provide a warm welcome and helpful service.

Deliveries via post can be arranged.

Regina is appreciative of the support the shop receives from across the region.

“We have a strong and resilient community that supports each other and local business,” she says. She is proud, in turn, to support community groups and causes.

She and husband Michael appreciate the many opportunities Tamworth offers, including great choice for family activities with their three sons.

Tamworth’s vibrant shopping scene has been further enhanced by Regina’s boutique, a perfect destination for special and distinctive fashion and homewares, with French-style panache. RLM Words: Elizabeth Grant Images: Finishing Image Photography

Find French Style New England on Facebook and Instagram.

The store is open Monday to Friday 9.30am – 4pm and Saturday 9.30am – 1pm.

FACING PAGE: French Style New England offers a fabulous collection of stylish clothing, accessories, footwear and homewares; owner Regina French; an extensive choice of beautiful items fills the charming and welcoming store on Tamworth’s Peel Street.

ABOVE: Regina French in her beautiful Tamworth boutique.

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a retail adventure

Walking through the doors of The Magic Pudding is a sensory feast. In the heart of the city’s CBD, the gourmet food and gift shop is a riot of colour and intrigue.

When Sara Winston Smith decided it was time for a career change from agriculture, she started casting her eyes around potential businesses in the North West.

The Narrabri local put the word out and sure enough – like in most country communities – it was through a friend of a friend that the perfect opportunity popped up.

“I knew the former owner of The Magic Pudding, and jumped on the phone as soon as I heard she was thinking of selling,” Sara says.

“A few weeks later, on October 1, 2013, the business was mine.

“I dove in the deep end and haven’t regretted a second.

“I moved to Tamworth the following January and have lived in town ever since.”

The decade since has been one heck of a ride, with Sara becoming a single mum to her six-year old son, Hugo, while the business survived an enduring drought and two years of COVID-19.

Throughout these trying times, Sara has learned to pivot and stay flexible.

“No income, massive outgoings – there was pressure,” she says.

“Our first move was to continue building our website and get everything online.

“We also offered free delivery locally, so no one would miss their chocolate-coated freeze-dried strawberries or Pukara Estate Caramelised balsamic vinegar.

“The shop phone was diverted to my mobile and I took the cash register home.

“Home life was hard, I won’t lie. Being a single mum with no backyard and a five-

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year-old with a business to run was a very difficult time for me.

“But with my village behind me, I survived and so did the shop.”

Among the on-trend clothes racks for adults and littlies, thoughtful accessories and curated gifts, it’s the delicacies that really help The Magic Pudding stand out from the pack.

“The Magic Pudding was at the beginning of ‘gourmet food’ for the home chef,” Sara says. “We also specialise in artisan products from all over regional Australia, showcasing them in hampers for nearly 15 years – a particular hit at Christmas time.”

Shelves of luxury condiments will have any browser salivating, from Byron Bay peanut butter to New England Larder’s truffleinfused black garlic mustard and Pariya’s pomegranate molasses. The hampers are designed to delight the hard-to-buy-for – from the local selection of artisanal yummies to the perfect tasty box for mum.

“I specialise in the gifts you haven’t seen before, and have really focused on men’s gifts and increasing the variety of hampers,” Sara says.

“The young and funky love our range of Sunnylife, Jones & Co and Corkcicle, while the older generation love the hardto-find food range, hampers and Pudding Lane Christmas puddings. There truly is something for everyone.” RLM Words: Emily Herbert Images: Finishing Image Photography

FROM TOP LEFT: Some of The Magic Pudding’s unique artisanal brands Ruby Star Traders, Tridosha, Flower Farm Guyra and True North.

Shop manager Jessica Nipsalla wearing Naudic and business owner Sara Winston-Smith with an artisan hamper. And for the foodies, artisan hampers, local chocolate Deva and Walgett’s The Dill Tickle Burger Beetroot.

PANTONE 2955C

251 PEEL STREET, TAMWORTH 2340 P. 02 6766 5663

MON - FRI 9.30AM TO 4PM SAT 9.30AM TO 1PM

Locally Sourced.

Regionally Curated.

themagicpudding.com.au

Tamworth’s premier ladies clothing boutique (02) 6766 4558 info@townandcountryboutique.com.au

townandcountryboutique.com.au

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

the ultimate MAKEOVER

There aren’t many retail and beauty experiences as transformative as Tamworth’s Town & Country Boutique.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: A welcoming vibe emanates from the Town & Country Boutique; exclusive labels are found in this gorgeous boutique; gift ideas abound; millinery for any occasion; a huge range of quality clothing from casual to formal as well as workwear; experienced staff are always available to assist with clothing choices and styling.

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Town & Country shares a retail space with Plush Hair studio, and clients will often take the 30 minutes while their hair colour is processing to browse the racks.

With clothes, shoes, accessories and makeup available, clients can leave transformed from top to toe.

Boutique owner Debbie Woods has worked as a hairdresser for 35 years. When one of her Plush clients revealed they were selling their business, Town & Country, after 20 years of ownership, Debbie saw an opportunity.

“I didn’t want my favourite shop to shut down!” she says.

Debbie’s entrepreneurial eye didn’t stop there. She and husband Damian decided to move Town & Country from its original main street location to the front of the Plush Hair studio. Over a whirlwind couple of weeks, they knocked down walls and installed windows, opening the new concept store on Dowe Street, a stone’s throw from Tamworth’s CBD. “There’s a real Sydney Newtown vibe to our funky laneway,” Debbie says. “Next door to us is a fabulous boutique brewery, down from an exceptional hole-in-the-wall café with what I think is the best coffee in town.”

Debbie says Tamworth’s allure is grounded in its sense of community.

“I had this discussion recently with a customer who’d just moved here from Sydney,” she says.

“Her tyre had gone flat and she was a little rattled about how she’d fix it. I rang a client of mine who came and changed it in five minutes. She said, ‘how much does that cost?’. I said, ‘Nothing. That’s why you live in Tamworth. And that’s why I love it here. We help each other’.”

Her first two years in retail have proved challenging.

“I bought $200,000 worth of stock and then COVID-19 hit. Because we stock high-end labels, you have to order a year in advance. Stock kept arriving, but I had no one to sell it to,” she says.

“Bring on 2022! I’m looking forward to a flurry of weddings, parties and balls.”

With fashion forecasting deeply entrenched in the hair and beauty industry, the stylist has taken to retail like a duck to water. Offering two later closing times a week – till 7pm both Wednesday and Thursday – Town & Country boasts labels like Kamara, Picadilly, Gordon Smith, Joseph Ribkoff, Andiamo, Jump, Lounge the Label, M and Frank Lyman as well as youthful brands like Ping Pong and Wish.

“Whether you want sequins and glamour, or casual chic, we have you sorted whatever the age. We also offer private shopping experiences, or the help of a personal shopper,” Debbie says.

“My clients are time-poor busy women, so why not have your hair done and get some retail therapy at the same time?” RLM Words: Emily Herbert Images: Finishing Image Photography

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

The long run

There are not many farmers still breeding sheep in their 10th decade, but legendary prime lamb breeder Bruce Cooper does it with consummate style.

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Somerton farmer Bruce Cooper began selling prime lambs at the Tamworth saleyards in the latter days of WW2 and until recently was selling ute loads of lambs every fortnight or three weeks.

After turning up at the saleyards for more than 75 years, he has outlived most of his mates and seen many agents come and go. Throughout his long life, Bruce has never taken a backward step when it comes to supporting the local community, receiving numerous awards for community service.

In 2019, he was judged Tamworth’s Senior and Overall Volunteer of the Year after clocking up more than 70 years of service with the Somerton Fire Brigade, Somerton War Memorial Hall and Recreation Committee.

While he’s given so much to the community, Bruce says he’s made a lot of friends out of it as well.

On his 93rd birthday, the salt-of-the-earth farmer welcomed RLM into his country home to talk about his lifetime commitment to horses, community and family.

Since losing his beloved wife Shirley four years ago, he has continued alone on “Warminster” with his dogs and a reduced flock.

Opportunities for his four daughters and extended family to return home for this milestone event were dashed by COVID, but his girls are never too far away.

Helen Hall lives in the Southern Highlands, Marg Fenwicke resides near Tamworth, while the twins, Sheila Bryant and Barbara Gavin, call Wellington and Cumnock home. As it turns out, two of his girls made it home to ensure his birthday was extra special.

It’s been an amazing time after almost a century living on the property. In the very early days, the farm was owned by his grandfather before it was sold back to Bective Station, which originally joined up with “Goonoo Goonoo” in a land mass stretching over hundreds of thousands of acres.

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Young Bruce grew up hearing gripping war stories from his father’s time in the Middle East during WW1. Keith finally made it home in 1919 and drew the 540-acre Soldier Settlement block, 38km west of Tamworth. The farm was back in Cooper hands, where it’s been firmly held for 103 years.

In those pioneering days, heartache was a constant.

“A lot of the blocks were too small to make a living from,” Bruce says.

“It was tough going for many of the returned soldiers, particularly those with limited or no farming experience. Apart from that, many were suffering PTSD, not that it was called that or even recognised as such.”

Keith had worked with cattle during his jackerooing days prior to the war but had no prior sheep experience.

“He was a real goer and built the first shearing shed on the Bective Settlement blocks, with shearing performed by three men over a six-week period,” Bruce says. For a long time, the shed was shared with neighbouring farmers.

Bruce remembers saddling up his pony and riding five miles to the Somerton Primary School with dozens of others country kids. The horses were spelled in a back paddock before the 45-minute trip home.

His love affair with horses started from the time he could walk.

Whenever his father hitched up his sulky, Bruce always tagged along behind on his pony. He doesn’t remember when he wasn’t riding a horse, sitting tall in the saddle for more than 70 years.

By the time he started at Tamworth High, the world was again at war. His father desperately needed help on the farm after eldest son Doug signed up as a navigator – in the same squadron, incidentally, as future Prime Minister Gough Whitlam.

Bruce finished school at 15, keen to do his bit. Later his father would again enlist, and Bruce tried as well but was knocked back on account of his age. Seeing such selfless commitment from the two men in his life instilled in Bruce a lifelong desire to support others.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

Few individuals can claim 70 years of helping one organisation, but Bruce has earned that rare distinction with the Somerton Rural Fire Brigade. Although his firefighting days are long gone, he is always the first to help with sandwich delivery.

“In summer, fires were and are part of life,” he says from the dining table of his home. “Most summers you would expect a fire, but thanks to cultivation, none of them ever got out of hand.

“From the 1950s through to 1968, sheep and wool prices were good, like at present. Whatever you produced, you could sell for a premium. These days we sell lambs straight out of the paddock for about $250. Some lambs are making $350 at the saleyards but I reckon they have about $100 of grain in them.”

Bruce has always run a prime lamb enterprise, but many things have changed since he took over “Warminster” at 18 years of age, following the death of his father.

The old shearing shed was pulled down about 40 years ago and replaced with a new structure. For many years, his Merino ewes were crossed with Border Leicester rams, but these days White Suffolk rams are put over first-cross ewes. The flock has been scaled back to about 300 ewes.

After the war, Bruce played cricket for the Bective Cricket Club but finding the petrol to get to training was always tricky, with fuel rationing continuing until the 1950s.

Out of all the original Soldier Settler blocks, only the Cooper, Roach, Heyman and Doyle families are still operating from the original 43 blocks.

Bruce doesn’t know how long he will stay put. The land bought by his father for four pounds and 18 shillings an acre is now worth thousands of dollars per acre. The property has been extended over his lifetime and running it has become tougher as Bruce piles on the years.

The backbone of society is, by his very nature, as tough as they come. Apart from a few hospital visits in 2021, his last ride in an ambulance was back in 1942 when he caught the mumps at high school and was taken to the isolation ward of the Tamworth Hospital.

It was no surprise when he married the love of his life in his early 20s, Shirley being from a family the Coopers had known all their lives. Losing Shirley a few years ago, after several years of caring for her, was a devastating blow.

“It was terribly hard losing her, but I’ll remain here on the farm as long as I can,” he says.

“At some stage you have to face the facts. I had a recent fall in the dog yard – my little beeper gives a GPS reading within 2.5 metres of my whereabouts and within 10 minutes it seemed like I had half the district here.”

Bruce enjoys family time. The grandfather of 12 and greatgrandfather to a further 12, loves telling stories as one of the last of the “old boys” from Somerton.

As for his longevity, he says good genes and a bit of luck all contribute.

“My cousin is 102 and lived on her own in Coffs Harbour till she hit the ton,” he smiles.

Much like selling sheep, he says the secret to staying fit and healthy at an older age comes down to attitude.

“You’ve got to have something to get out of bed for – and I always liked working with sheep.”

As for any advice to future farmers, Bruce says it’s imperative to stick at it and enjoy the ride.

“Things aren’t always rosy on the land but my grandfather always told me to look after your sheep when things are tough, and they’ll look after you when things are good.”

Bruce Cooper has spoken. Now it’s time to go and check his ewes. RLM

FROM TOP: Bruce Cooper with his beloved sheep; Bruce and Shirley’s wedding in 1951; the pair in later years; Bruce with his daughters Helen Hall, Sheila Bryant, Marg Fenwicke and Barbara Gavin at a 2018 family wedding.

FACING PAGE: Shearing was always big business; an aerial shot of “Warminster” in 1984; Bruce joined the 12/16 Hunter River Lancers after the unit’s formation in 1948 and was part of the mounted escort in Tamworth for Queen Elizabeth’s visit in 1977; Bruce takes a breather in the stables under the watchful eye of George.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

wonderful world OF WOOL

Australia’s original regional wool broker, Jemalong Wool, prides itself on providing an efficient and innovative wool handling and marketing service close to the point of production.

Australia’s original regional wool broker, Jemalong Wool, prides itself on providing an efficient and innovative wool handling and marketing service close to the point of production.

Established in 1980 at Forbes, Jemalong Wool has evolved into one of Australia’s leading regionally based wool marketing organisations.

The company was established with the prime objective of providing a competitive method for selling wool, with warehouses based in Forbes, Tamworth and Cooma.

Jemalong Wool now employs 19 full-time and four casual staff at the three centres, handling about 45,000 bales per year.

“Our goal is to provide our clients with excellence in service, superior levels of information and access to every marketing option available,” northern regional manager Tim Drury says.

Tim has been involved with sheep and wool all his life. He started his own private wool buying business in 1985. His business, Tamworth Aussie Wool Traders, amalgamated with Jemalong Wool in 2004.

The purpose-built Tamworth Wool Store was a project implemented by Tim in 2016. With extra land on site, the company is capable of more than doubling its capacity if need arises. The most important principle since inception was to core wool in Tamworth for testing purposes, which is a continuing theme.

With clients from the Queensland border to the Hunter and from the New England down to Walgett and Lightning Ridge, it’s a huge area to cover. Tim enjoys servicing his client base, often visiting farmers during shearing, in a support role.

“The best thing about Jemalong Wool is that it’s family orientated and a caring business. Our wool-growing clients have always enjoyed a good relationship with our staff and vice versa.”

Tim has a team, which includes Andrew Friend and Bill Kerr, at the store responsible for receiving wool, coring and shipping out wool. In addition, there is also Colin Wright, responsible for technical services to clients in his portfolio and mostly operates in the field.

Jemalong Wool has a unique wool broking system that allows wool growers online access to their account and has many advanced features related to online selling.

At anytime, there may be up to 1500 bales stored in the shed. The Tamworth team normally handle about 7000 bales each year, worth millions of dollars, on behalf of their hundreds of valued clients. The price of Merino wool is strong, especially for finer New England wool that’s been well prepared.

“The wool growers deliver here by truck and we warehouse it, with samples sent to the selling show floor in Sydney for the buyers to inspect,” Andrew says. “About 75 per cent of Australian wool is shipped to China, while Europe buys finer, more specialised wool.”

With new blood on the team, like Andrew, Jemalong Wool is confident of their long-term future to service clients, just as they have always done. RLM

“OUR WOOL-GROWING CLIENTS HAVE ALWAYS ENJOYED A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR STAFF AND VICE VERSA.”

FACING PAGE: Jemalong’s northern regional manager, Tim Drury, has been in the wool business all his life.

FROM TOP: Jemalong’s Tamworth warehouse; hundreds of bales ready to be trucked out.

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LIVESTOCK STUD STOCK RURAL PROPERTY CLEARING SALES FINANCE Providing professional and personalised services to our clients for over 35 years

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ONE STEP AHEAD

Baxter Boots has been a quintessential part of Australia for more than 170 years.

Based in Goulburn and sold around the world, the iconic Baxter Boots is known for its stylish and hardy footwear, ranging from elastic-sided riding boots to dress and western styles.

Meticulously handcrafted from premium leather and double stitched for strength, Baxter products are manufactured to the highest quality standards and designed to be worn for years.

“We have a reputation to maintain,” company chairman Marshall Baxter says.

“Loyal customers know a pair of Baxter boots will be comfortable, tough and long lasting.”

Baxter and Co is the oldest wholly family-owned footwear firm in Australia.

The business was founded at Goulburn in 1850 by bootmaker William Teece.

Marshall’s great-grandfather, Henry Baxter, was apprenticed to Teece and went on to buy the company, establishing a dynasty that has so far involved five generations of the Baxter family.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

BAXTER AND CO IS THE OLDEST WHOLLY FAMILY-OWNED FOOTWEAR FIRM IN AUSTRALIA.

“The number of shareholders increased with each generation,” Marshall says.

“In 1980, my father Brian and I bought out all the other shareholders and returned the business to one family again.”

Today, Baxter and Co is owned by Marshall and his sons Toby and Harry.

“Toby is a banker in Singapore and Harry runs the business. I am now semi-retired and my involvement is as mentor and designer.”

Marshall started working in the factory as a school boy. He was responsible for checking in boots sent back for repair and distributing them to various departments for resoling, reheeling, new elastic and whatever else was required.

“When boots needed new soles, it was my job to remove the old sole.”

During his teenage years, Marshall became an entrepreneur, bringing rock bands to his home town.

“It was an exciting time in my life. Perhaps entertainment could

have been an interesting career but I really wanted to work in the family business.”

In its heyday during the early to mid 1900s, the Baxter factory and tannery had more than 100 workers. The company had its own sporting oval, cricket and hockey teams and a social club that organised dances and picnics.

The factory withstood the difficult years of the Great Depression and ramped up production during the first and second world wars to keep armed forces on the move. >

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Baxter Boots Tamworth store manager Ashley Whiting with a pair of Dolly’s Dream Boots; Marshall and Harry Baxter in the museum room at the HQ in Goulburn.

ABOVE: Historical imagery showing the old Baxter factory in Goulburn; Henry Baxter, the founder of Baxter Boots.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

Baxter boots are still a staple for the defence force and other government agencies, including Queensland and NSW Police, the Victorian State Emergency Service and Royal Military College, Duntroon.

Sturdy Goulburn-made boots were worn by Diggers on the beaches of Gallipoli, the battlefields of France and other theatres of war.

Baxter boots are still a staple for the defence force and other government agencies, including Queensland and NSW Police, the Victorian State Emergency Service and Royal Military College, Duntroon.

Recognised as a leading provider of riding and work boots, the company is a popular choice for farmers, camp drafters, rodeo competitors and pony club enthusiasts.

These days the landmark Baxter factory is a warehouse and retail outlet.

Manufacturing has moved offshore to Asia due to government tariff reductions and other industry changes.

“The problem with Australia is that all the infrastructure is gone,” Marshall laments.

“There are no tanneries left, apart from one in Queensland that does kangaroo hide. There are no footwear schools to train people, no shoe technicians or shoe machine companies, no component suppliers and no spare parts.

“It would be wonderful to see manufacturing come back to this country but unfortunately that won’t happen in my lifetime.”

Baxter boots are still designed in Australia and Marshall personally supervises each step of the manufacturing process.

“Prior to COVID-19, I travelled to Asia three or four times a year.

When international movement was restricted in response to the pandemic, flights were grounded but production was able to continue.”

Marshall is excited about the new range of Baxter boots and looks to the future with confidence.

“More than 450 retail outlets throughout the country buy Baxter products and we have our own stores at Goulburn and Tamworth.

“A third store is opening in the Dubbo central business district.

Internet sales continue to grow in Australia and overseas, particularly in America and Europe.

“Customers have confidence buying online because our products are true to size and known to be excellent, durable quality.

“Toe shapes have changed throughout the years but the boots, quality materials and construction styles remain the same.”

Marshall believes the company’s success is due to much more than sound management and a good “country tough” product.

“Having the right people is very important,” he says.

“Our staff have been with us for many years and the culture of family within the business is strong.”

Customer service is paramount for the Baxter brand as it continues to prosper and increase market share.

The company gives back to the community by supporting worthy organisations including Dolly’s Dream, a charity helping to increase understanding of the impact of bullying, anxiety, depression and youth suicide. RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Supplied

Further information about the Baxter range of products can be obtained by emailing enquiries@baxterfootwear.com.au, calling toll free on 1800 026 382 or visiting baxterfootwear.com.au.

FROM TOP: Baxter HQ in Goulburn; super popular Gaucho Boot; the original Gaucho.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

on the right track Tamworth Racecourse is the home of Tamworth Jockey Club, known far and wide as the leading racing and training venue in the North West and New England.

The Tamworth Jockey Club hosts 21 meetings each year, including the Tamworth Gold Cup, and caters for the daily training of up to 150 horses from local stables.

Tamworth Jockey Club General Manager Michael Buckley took over the job in May 2021 and is already proving to be a highly motivated racing administrator.

Originally from Hahndorf, a small town in South Australia settled by 19th century Lutheran migrants, Michael was introduced to racing after accompanying his father to the racetrack as a young boy.

“He had shares in a bunch of slow horses and I fell in love with the natural athleticism of the thoroughbred,” he says.

“At 15 I got my strappers ticket and have been involved with the racing industry ever since.

“I’ve always admired the sport of horseracing, the competiveness and the way it brings people and communities together.

“There is nothing better than seeing a group of mates buy a share in a horse, go to the races and see it win. They are making lifelong memories.”

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Michael comes to Tamworth after five years as racing manager at Newcastle Jockey Club.

“The opportunity to come to the country capital of horse racing and run the club here was a tremendous opportunity,” he says.

Having enjoyed a successful Melbourne Cup, his next big date is Tamworth Cup Day, scheduled for April 22, 2022, with $200,000 prize money, including over half for the winner of the feature race. Complementing the main race are another seven races with $305,000 offered to connections.

“COVID has been a challenge but fortunately hasn’t affected our major race days,” he says.

“Racing has continued throughout Australia during the pandemic. From a NSW perspective, we are thankful to all our industry participants who have upheld COVID protocols and kept us all in a job.”

Michael says the people who work in the industry are passionate about the welfare of their horses.

“They will wake at 3am to feed and exercise their horses before the handlers even think about feeding themselves,” he says.

“For many it can be a thankless task. Out in the bush, not everyone is going to have the expertise or deep pockets of a Gai Waterhouse, or the blue blood pedigree of horse.

“It only takes one horse to change your life. It’s what everyone climbs out of bed for each morning – the dream of unearthing the next champion.”

His favourite champion is Makybe Diva, the only horse to win three Melbourne Cups.

“I was lucky enough to work with her as chaperone and carer during the 2011 breeding season in Geelong,” Michael says.

“It was one of the best things I’ve ever done. She knew she was a champion. When running with a pack of mares, she was always out the front doing what comes naturally.”

In that same year, Michael attended his only Melbourne Cup in the traditional home of racing.

“It was an awesome experience,” he says.

Tamworth, he believes, is almost as good, just on a different level. The club has five tracks, including a trotting track, cinder track, two grass tracks and a recently built $1.6m sand track.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

“It only takes one horse to change your life. It’s what everyone climbs out of bed for each morning – the dream of unearthing the next champion.”

With manicured lawns, rose gardens, historic grandstand and superbly appointed function centre, the TJC provides the perfect backdrop for a multitude of events, including weddings and bridal expos.

Fitting into Tamworth life has been a breeze.

“It’s a big country town with everything you could possibly need, including an easy-

going community that love their racing,” Michael says.

There is nothing quite like a day at the races, with enough colour, excitement, fashion and atmosphere to keep the adrenaline pumping.

And there’s no better way to enjoy a day at the races than becoming a member of Tamworth Jockey Club. RLM

FACING PAGE: They’re off and racing in Tamworth.

ABOVE: Tamworth Jockey Club General Manager Michael Buckley loves the old grandstand; a recent aerial shot shows off the magnificent venue; it all happens on this track.

Tamworth Jockey Club hosts 21 race meetings per year and is home to 130 racehorses that use the facilities on a full time basis. Complete with manicured lawns, rose gardens and historic grandstand, TJC provides the perfect back drop for a multitude of events ranging from race days to weddings.

02 6765 9387 gm@tamworthjockeyclub.com.au Britten Road, Tamworth NSW 2340

www.tamworthjockeyclub.com.au

Monday to Friday 8am - 4pm

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

bright future, PROUD PAST Burke & Smyth Real Estate has played a huge role in Tamworth’s development over the past half century.

The award-winning Burke & Smyth Real Estate, run from two ever-growing offices, is owned by Mark and Loanna Single, Gavin and Sarah Knee, and Jason Wherritt. Together they have the combined vision and drive to make things happen.

Managing director Gavin Knee says it’s been a pleasure carrying on the Burke and Smyth family names some 50 years after the business was founded.

“I think it’s vitally important,” he says.

“Our team are all invested in the history of our business and the respect held for the family names we represent. We have resisted the frequent approaches to join a franchise group.

“I’m honoured to be a custodian of such a rich history within the property industry of our city. For what the community has

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provided us and we have provided the community, we are forever grateful.”

Burke & Smyth’s strong involvement with Tamworth’s development started with visionary local stock and station agents Terry Burke and John Smyth, who combined their skills to establish the business in 1971.

Both their fathers, the late Pat Burke and Jack Smyth, were highly respected in the livestock and agriculture industries and were well known throughout Australia. >

FROM TOP: Burke & Smyth Managing Director Gavin Knee predicts a big future in Tamworth; Burke & Smyth office in Peel Street; the impressive showroom and offices of Single Builders located opposite the Tamworth Racecourse.

FACING PAGE: Aerial views of Windmill Hill Estate.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

“WE DON’T SEEM TO GET THE BIG HIGHS AND LOWS THAT COASTAL OR CITY MARKETS EXPERIENCE. WE HAVE A VERY STABLE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT.” In later years, Jack Smyth’s son, John, began developing the Longyard Golf Course and surrounding areas. From the late 1990s and early 2000s, development continued in South Tamworth, Oxley Vale and Calala to the large growth areas of Hills Plain and the soon to be established Arcadia, with 1200 new lots at the back of the Longyard Golf Course.

Windmill Hill Estate on Moore Creek Road has 1000 blocks of land with a full commercial centre, including a tavern and supermarket.

“It all turned full circle some 30 years later, “ says Gavin, who joined new owners the Singles in 2003.

Gavin’s wife Sarah began working with the company after Single Builders opened a House & Land Centre in 2001 and is still happily there. There’s nothing else like it in the North West, offering expertise in residential land sales, house and land packages, commercial and industrial construction and specialised advice on property marketing and subdivision development.

Burke & Smyth Commercial also specialises in the large industrial development’s of Federation Park and the Tamworth Global Gateway Park and Intermodal, a freight-loading facility.

Gavin was born and bred in Moonbi, and showed an interest in commercial property from a young age. After four years at Bearfast, Taminda, he joined the Burke & Smyth team, finding solid mentors in Terry Burke and the Singles.

Terry, now in his early 80s, has his own desk reserved for his daily visits.

“He’s one of the finest agents and human beings ever to have practised in Tamworth and we love having him around,” Gavin says. “With over 60 years of experience, Terry is a great source of knowledge and is great for team morale. He’s not only a mentor but a great friend.”

Another source of inspiration is John Muller OAM, who worked with the company for 28 years, achieving great results and inspiring the team.

“John is indeed a rare individual,” Gavin laughs. “Probably the only bloke I’ve ever met who spent his entire working life working in pretty much the same block of the Tamworth CBD.”

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After 18 years in the business, Gavin says he enjoys the camaraderie shared with over 30 staff.

“The team are our business and I love them all. They are super people and make coming in each day such a pleasure,” he says.

“Our motto has always been to hire good staff and train them in the necessary skill sets required. We have a great culture here that’s second to none.”

Gavin specialises in all aspects of the commercial, industrial and project development side of the business.

“I’m involved with the commercial sales, leasing and property management, along with all the major developments. In the top subdivisions, we have house and land packages starting from about $425,000,” he says.

Most residential blocks are about 700 to 800 square metres, some going to 2000 or 4000 square metres. In the past 15 years, the size of a house has increased by 25 to 30 per cent. In a sign of the times, the big backyards once found in residential developments are no longer as big.

“It’s been an interesting ride the last few years, coming out of the drought and COVID but there have been some great positives,” Gavin says. “There’s a big movement of people moving away from the city, able to work remotely from their own homes.

“The other good thing in Tamworth is that we don’t seem to get the big highs and lows that coastal or city markets experience. We have a very stable business environment.

“Committed to achieving great results, we live by the philosophy that client satisfaction is the only true measure of success.”

While life can get fairly hectic at work, Gavin and Sarah enjoy evenings and weekends on their Loomberah cattle farm with children Ryan and Katie and the stud Red Angus herd. The pair have known each other from their school days. RLM

ABOVE: Directors Mark and Loanna Single have taken the business to dizzying heights; director Sarah Knee.

T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

where the atmosphere IS GREAT

While family-owned pubs are becoming increasingly rare in Tamworth, hard-working graziers Stephen and Kel Swain have gone out of their way to buck the trend.

Stephen and Kel Swain first noticed a For Sale sign hanging out the front of the Oasis Hotel while driving home to their cattle station in the Moonbi Ranges.

Always up for a new challenge, they took over the reins in late 2020 from Des and Joyce Gilfillan, who retired after 26 years at the helm.

Locals are delighted with the massive transformation that’s taken place at the Armidale Road hotel during the past year. The pub, long regarded as the spiritual home of bush balladeers, is barely recognisable from days of old.

The revamped watering hole has new floors and a fresh new design, with plenty of tables and benches for seating up to 100 patrons.

Each of the 16 rooms and two flats has been tastefully renovated, painted and given the special “Kel” touch.

The beer garden is one of the biggest and leafiest in Tamworth, with an outdoor stage and children’s play equipment. It’s the perfect spot for a family to unwind.

While Stephen and Kel have been doing much of the work themselves, they have left the running of the pub to their daughter, Cassie Dorrstein. All three were introduced to the hospitality industry during their ownership of the Red Lion Tavern at Glencoe, on the New England Highway.

“The Red Lion was the first pub we ran but the Oasis is different on so many levels,” Kel says.

“We’re not used to having staff but the ones we have, including three in the kitchen and two on the bar, are like family.

“We love the great atmosphere here and the fact we have mountain views. It feels like home.”

Kel enjoys every aspect of the renovations. She has been busy with the paintbrush, buying recycled items from Country Auctions and giving them a new lease of life.

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Running the Oasis and the station at the same time has been a juggling act, but Kel thrives on being busy. In her younger years she studied Graphic Design at Newcastle University and worked at the new Brumbies nightclub in Tamworth before marrying Stephen, her cotton chipping boss from Mullaley.

By the 1990s, her new family were among the largest cotton growers in the district. When Kel was 27, her in-laws gave her a cotton module, using the proceeds to pay a deposit on her first house in Gunnedah. Over the years, she has bought many houses and the odd church, all of which she renovated. Curlewis Anglican Church and the church in Kelvin were among her favourite projects.

If that wasn’t enough, she ran her own business, In Stitches, in Barber Street, Gunnedah, making school uniforms and wedding dresses.

After 13 years, the pressure of running the farm, a header contracting business and an irrigated cotton farm seven days a week got too much.

Wanting a simpler life, they bought Mountview Station at the top of the Moonbi Ranges. Established in 1857, the station came with five homes, including the massive 120-year-old homestead. Up in the hills, the family run about 400 Angus breeders and sheep.

Kel is forever thankful her parents, Jim and Christine Hodges, moved from Sydney to Tamworth in the 1980s. Jim was an East West Airlines pilot with a hankering for the bush while his wife was an air hostess.

Within a few years, the family moved onto a farm near Keepit Dam. It was the middle of a drought and home was an old army barracks.

Kel went to school in Gunnedah and was always working. School holidays were spent cotton chipping, starting before sun up. She thrived in the hot, dusty conditions and loved getting a little dirt on her hands.

In reality, not much has changed over the decades. Now that the pub and rooms are almost completed, the Swain family are looking forward to a bright future.

“We’ve only just opened so it’s all a bit of a guessing game at the moment,” Kel says.

“There have been plenty of challenging moments but the pub has never looked better.

“We can’t wait to get our own regular clientele and are looking forward to the 2022 festival.”

The family are thrilled to be promoting live music and encourage both young and seasoned performers to come out to the Oasis and share a little music. RLM ABOVE: The revamped Oasis Hotel has never looked better; the pub has been tastefully decorated by the new owners.

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Proud new owners Stephen and Kel Swain have injected a new “buzz” into the Oasis Hotel; the Oasis Cafe, in the former drivethrough bottle shop, is operated by sisters Kerrie Leonard and Andrea Curtis.

The cafe represents a new career path for both of them – Kerrie was previously breeding and racing greyhounds while Andrea ran her own personal training business. Chasing a more rural lifestyle, they moved to Tamworth, where Kerrie and husband Jason rented a home from the new Oasis owners. This led to a new friendship and business opportunity. The fun-loving sisters are pictured with a blueberry cheesecake and home-made carrot cake.

HOTEL MOTEL TAMWORTH

New owners and an exciting new look!

Drop-in and discover for yourself the new buzz in Tamworth dining.

GREAT MEALS, REFURBISHED ROOMS AND FINE COMPANY ASSURED

Tamworth’s favourite pub on the Armidale Road 6761 3892 583 Armidale Road, Tamworth, NSW 2340 @theoasistamworth theoasis583@gmail.com www.theoasistamworth.com

MONDAY CLOSED TUESDAY–SATURDAY 11AM–LATE SUNDAY 11AM–4PM

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WORLD OF Boot-scooting Tamworth travel agent Chris Watson has seen the world but never loses sight of what he has in his own backyard.

opportunity

“Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”

It’s the mantra renowned Tamworth line dancer and travel guru Chris Watson tells himself every morning.

The enterprising owner of Chris Watson Travel has been in the industry for 18 years, moving into his Peel Street premises in 2018.

The pandemic has played havoc with his travel duties. Staff numbers have been slashed in half, leaving Chris and three other committed team members to ensure Tamworthians have the best travel options.

“Government restrictions and the impact of COVID decimated our business overnight but we are clawing our way back,” a beaming Chris says from his office.

“During the past 12 months, regional towns and cities and remote outback areas like the Kimberleys are enjoying a resurgence. The Ghan and the Indian Pacific are booked out 12 months in advance.”

Tamworth locals are also discovering their own backyard. There has been increased interest in short visits to places like Uralla, Nundle, Walcha and Mudgee.

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When COVID-19 destroyed his international travel business, Chris partnered up with Golden Guitar winner and good mate Travis Collins to create the Fireside concert series at Tangaratta Vineyards in Tamworth.

A series of COVID-safe concerts were held throughout 2020 and 2021, encouraging people to visit Tamworth away from festival time.

Chris admits nothing might have happened if it weren’t for the two strong women in his life – his mother Judy and wife Gemma, who works for the business from home while caring for their children Charlotte, 6, Morgan, 4, and infant Pippa.

He credits his mother for introducing him to line dancing when he was six after an evening at the local RSL. A group of line dancers were kicking up a storm on the dance floor and Chris was mesmerised. It was a very different “sport” to that enjoyed by his award-winning showjumping father.

Apart from the fitness and fun aspects, line dancing had a few unusual benefits.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E “From a young age, I was hanging out with older people and this taught me a lot about life, which in turn created early opportunities for me,” Chris says.

He attributes his ultimate success on the dance floor to his mother’s support.

“She has always encouraged me to have a go and never give up on my dream, no matter how hard things got.

“Now I have that love and support from Gemma, who is always there for me. No matter how crazy my ideas, she’s always got my back.”

Bootscooting opened many doors, taking Chris all over the world.

“I feel so lucky to have taught line dancing in the US and Canada, the Caribbean, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong – all through my dance company, Dare 2 Dance,” he says.

For 21 years he’s been teaching under that name, conducting weekly classes at the Jubilee Hall near the Tamworth train station. Boot Scootin’ Boogie is the classic song that gets everyone on their feet.

Having visited so many exotic destinations, it was only natural for Chris to set up a travel agency.

When asked about his favourite destination, there’s no easy answer.

“I can’t pinpoint one spot, but Nashville, with its music, food, people and atmosphere, must rank up there. I’ve been there 26 times. I also love the people and culture of Fiji, the quietness of Iceland and the fabulous beaches found in Hawaii.”

In truth, the best place of all is where he can spend quality time with his young family.

“My happy place is Forster. It’s quiet and not too far from home.

The ocean seems to calm me,” he says.

Mind you, Chris Watson doesn’t sit down for long. To boost his cash flow during COVID-19, he set up a gift box business, organising gift hampers and grazing boxes using all Australian products.

“I’m always looking at new ways and opportunities, while growing as a business and on a personal level,” he says.

“Every day I read an inspirational card.”

Today’s card seems particularly fitting: “I’m not afraid of storms for I’m learning to sail my ship”.

“Given the last 12 months, we’ve certainly weathered a pretty big storm,” he laughs.

“I think we’ll see plenty of people keen to explore both here and overseas.

“We are also finding travellers are becoming more comfortable using a travel agent, especially in these confusing and uncertain times.

“It gives holiday makers the ability to plan with confidence.

There are many rules, especially regarding insurance policies, border and government restrictions.”

Chris has taught thousands of dancers and raised a staggering $500,000 for charity.

“Line dancing and moving to Tamworth from the Central Coast with my mother when I was 11 were the two things that helped shape me into the man I am today,” he says.

“The support Tamworth has given me has been truly phenomenal. It’s an amazing community and I’m so proud to call it my home.”

Chris will continue taking his travellers to exotic destinations in search of good times, music, food and culture. And, more often than not, there’ll be some good old bootscootin’ thrown in for good measure. RLM FACING PAGE: Tamworth’s Chris Watson stands proudly in front of a picture he took of one of his favourite cities, Nashville.

ABOVE: Chris and Gemma with children Charlotte, Morgan and baby Pippa; this enthusiastic line dancer can hold his own on any dance floor.

HELPING CREATE PEOPLE'S DREAMS SUPPORTING AUSTRALIAN BUSINESSES AND PRODUCTS INSPIRING LIFE-CHANGING MOMENTS THAT OUR CLIENTS WILL CHERISH FOREVER Regional & International Travel

www.chriswatsontravel.com.au

Coach Tours

Show Packages

Unique Experiences

Food & Wine Packages

298 Peel Street, Tamworth NSW 2340 1300 552 032 • Open 10am–5pm chris@chriswatsontravel.com.au

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

a perfect

Jan and Eliza Fagan know the power of flowers in making someone’s day, in good times and in sad.

For mother and daughter Jan and Eliza Fagan, floristry is a calling.

Both women started their careers elsewhere – Jan was a teacher and Eliza worked in environmental science – but the call of floral artistry grew too strong.

“I was travelling back from Sydney to help Mum as she got busier with weddings,” Eliza says. “In the meantime, I decided to study floristry as a career at Pearsons School of Floristry and then secured a full-time job in their retail stores in Sydney.”

In 2017, the pair made it official, buying the original Tamworth Florist, which had been supplying the region with beautiful blooms for more than three decades.

Specialising in seasonal bouquets with several suppliers ensuring fresh local stock, the florists have their own unique style and preferences but both adore natives and wildflowers.

“We stock largely Australian-grown flowers including roses, lilies, chrysanthemums and all the traditional blooms,” Eliza says.

“We have some local, regional growers who supply waratahs, calla lily, protea, leucadendron, straw flower, sweet peas and dahlias.

“We’re known for our native bouquets but cater to all tastes and requests, providing they’re in season.

“Our customers are locals as well as their friends and family who order online or ring to place orders.”

An intergenerational love of flowers started early for Jan, whose own mother nurtured her green thumb alongside her beautiful garden before Jan’s entrepreneurial spirit took hold.

“Our family has always had a love of flowers and gardening,” Eliza says.

“Jan’s mum has always had a beautiful garden and created arrangements for friends.

“Jan started the business working from home, with a flower fridge and bench set up in a spare room, doing the deliveries herself and also weddings.”

With same-day delivery for Tamworth as well as catering for the wider region, the pair adore nothing more than to busy themselves in bouquets, knowing the positive effect the blooms can have on another’s day, whether in times of sympathy or celebration.

While the women sort and craft their arrangements, the shop dogs – border collies Moffy and Bill – look on, drawing a lot of attention from customers.

“The immediate future looks very busy as everyone plays catchup from postponements in the last year,” Eliza says.

“Our focus is accommodating as many weddings as we can for our brides who had previously booked, then were forced to postpone.

“We love weddings, from the intimate to the grand.

“There’s something very privileged about being invited to be part of someone’s dream day.” RLM Words: Emily Herbert Images: Finishing Image Photography

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Mother and daughter owners Jane and Eliza Fagan share a love of floral artistry; the Designer Bunches showroom is a sensorial delight; the Designer Bunches team, from left, Olivia Byrnes, Jan Fagan, Eliza Fagan, Beth Sweeney; Eliza Fagan revels in her creative role; Mofty, the friendly border collie, is always a talking point.

P h o to g ra p h by L i l y at D aw n

arrangement

WEDDING + EVENT FLORIST New England, North West New South Wales Ph. (02) 6766 7706 flowers@designerbunches.com.au 70 Brisbane Street, Tamworth NSW 2340 TAMWORTHFLORIST.COM.AU

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

THE BIG

picture

Contemporary Tamworth artist and local identity Tony La Chiusa is well known for his stunning large statement paintings.

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For two decades, Tony La Chiusa’s eye-catching art, from textured abstracts and urban-street to spiritual and romantic works, have found new homes throughout the district. His distinctive work is recognised by his signature bleeds.

Born and bred in Tamworth to a Sicilian father and doting mother, Tony grew up with a strong love of family and sport.

In 1979, while at Tamworth High, he captained the Australian Schoolboys water polo team before devoting 15 years as captain/ coach for the national team.

Out of the water, Tony was equally talented. He was a schoolboy state rugby league champion before coaching at the West Tamworth Rugby League Club for 18 years, winning many titles including a record-breaking five consecutive first-grade premierships.

Tony remembers fondly the light-hearted barbs from burly players about the footy coach who paints pretty women, flowers and landscapes.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

Tony remembers fondly the light-hearted barbs from burly players about the footy coach who paints pretty women, flowers and landscapes.

THIS PAGE: Tony La Chiusa loves painting famous faces and capturing the human spirit through the eyes. He is also a dab hand at landscapes.

FACING PAGE: Tony La Chiusa surrounded by his art at Tamworth’s Bell Tower.

“The best wins were not on the score board but rather the character building of players – that was far more rewarding,” he laughs.

Tony has owned and operated a successful plastering business for 30 years. And his art has people raving. The self-taught artist has been involved in art all of his life, painting murals on his bedroom walls as a child with his talented mother.

After retiring from sport, Tony developed a more serious approach to his painting. With his style of work, which he calls “Urban Raw”, he comes with a diverse portfolio.

Specialising in large statement acrylic, ink and mixed media on canvas paintings, he is best known for his iconic portraits of Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Pink, Amy Winehouse and Al Capone.

Tony tries to give back to many local organisations such as MND and Serendipity.

“I love all types of art, and enjoy the street art found in many larger cities,” he says. “A walk through nature with its hidden

colours or formations is equally enticing – the blues of the ocean or the pinks in the sky. “The soul through a person’s eyes or the lines on their face – there’s inspiration everywhere.”

Despite his rich and varied life, for Tony it’s the simple things that count – being a loving dad to his “two greatest accomplishments” sons Alex and Colby.

When he’s not painting, he loves nothing better than spending time with quality people – having a yarn, sharing a joke and not taking life too seriously.

“Life is all about the simple things,” he says. “Love your family and friends. Try to see a sunrise or sunset each day and always enjoy the moment you’re in.” RLM You can find Tony’s artwork on his Facebook art or Instagram page, or at various Tamworth venues, including the Bell House.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

ALREADY, THE TEENAGER HAS SOLD ABOUT 10 BULLS AT VARIOUS RED ANGUS AUCTIONS AND PRIVATE SALES, ACHIEVING TOP PRICE OF $12,000 FOR THE FORMER SUPREME EXHIBIT AT THE GUNNEDAH SHOW.

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aiming high While his mates ride motorbikes, go fishing or lose themselves in video games, Ryan Knee has found contentment among his stud cattle.

Before turning 15 in late 2021, one of the country’s youngest studmasters has already sold Red Angus bulls to buyers from three states and exhibited Brisbane and Sydney Royal Show champions.

When RLM arrives on the Loomberah family farm, Ryan Knee and his friends Adelaide Eade and Sarah Hutchins are busy preparing the Mellowood show team, including a cow and calf, four heifers and a young bull bound for the National Angus Youth Roundup in Wodonga in early 2022.

For Ryan, it’s a great opportunity to catch up with like-minded friends in the business. Already he has attended similar roundups in Wodonga (2015), Armidale (2019) and Toowoomba (2021). Ryan will be joined by fellow Calrossy students Jock Barwick and Angus Spry.

“We basically drop the kids off and let them learn all facets of the beef industry,” says his proud father, Gavin Knee, a director at local real estate firm Burke & Smyth.

Ryan started dabbling with cattle almost by the time he could walk, having been introduced to the Red Angus breed through family and friends.

By the time Gavin and wife Sarah had purchased their farm in 2011, Ryan, who was just six years of age, felt the time was right to establish his own stud.

His first purchase was Goondoola Rumba H02, with calf at foot, from the Powe family at the 2015 National Show and Sale. That cow is now the oldest in his herd of 25 stud females.

“I started out before the drought and went through a few tough years,” he says.

“It was crucial to have easy-going cattle that can survive the tough seasons. Our logo is ‘Bred for all seasons’.”

Ryan breaks in his show team and looks after all the genetic selection, buying semen straws from the USA and Canada, and flushing his top cows.

Reaching this stage has taken some good mentors, including Lane Evans, Kirrily Iseppi and, naturally, Hannah Powe from Goondoola.

These days, Ryan is an old hand in the show ring. At just 12 years, he was the youngest exhibitor on the hallowed

grounds of the Brisbane Ekka, where he exhibited the 2019 reserve champion Red Angus female.

At the 2021 Sydney Royal, he went one step further and exhibited the grand champion female, Mellowood 1B Queen Rose.

“I look for good udder placement in my cows,” he says.

“They have to be structurally correct, feminine, a good height and length and have great overall appeal,” he says like a seasoned cattleman. One day he would like to judge cattle.

Sarah ensures her only son keeps his feet firmly planted on the ground.

“Ryan has the drive and commitment and literally comes home from school to spend time with his cattle,” she smiles.

Already, the teenager has sold about 10 bulls at various Red Angus auctions and private sales, achieving top price of $12,000 for the former Supreme Exhibit at the Gunnedah Show. Ryan says it was the result of nearly three years of hard work.

“Now that the drought is behind us, commercial breeders are restocking their female herds and chasing quality bulls,” he says.

The Knee family enjoy supporting the local show circuit. Ryan exhibits his cattle at Guyra, Gunnedah, Barraba, Manilla, Quirindi and Glen Innes.

“It’s great attending these local country shows and is a great social event for all of us,” Gavin says.

Ryan’s sister Katie, 11, hasn’t caught the cattle bug, preferring at this stage to indulge in her love of shopping.

In 2022 the promising young cattleman is looking forward to tackling Year 10 at Calrossy but is equally excited about his future in the stud cattle industry.

END NOTE: The 2022 National Angus Youth Roundup in Wodonga was cancelled due to COVID but Ryan and his team will continue preparing their show team for Royal Shows throughout the year. RLM FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Proven young cattleman Ryan Knee has come a long way in just a few short years with his beloved Red Angus cattle; the young stud master has formed a close bond with his red cows; bringing the herd in; Ryan with fellow cattle enthusiasts Adelaide Eade and Sarah Hutchins.

ABOVE: Ryan Knee loves his cattle and is looking forward to a bright future in the stud stock industry.

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keeping up the At St Nicholas Primary School, Tamworth, a contemporary education is provided in an environment rich in faith and positivity, where the community endeavours to strive for excellence.

good work

While the school is thriving – this year at capacity with 610 students – there is definitely no resting on its laurels.

“Our philosophy is the job is never done,” Principal John Clery says. “We always strive to be better tomorrow than we are today.

“We are proud to be an educator of choice in this region, and continuous improvement is something we are very open about.”

Tamworth is well renowned for its education sector, and St Nicholas Catholic Church Parish has a significant place in that history. Students were first taught in the parish school by Dominican Sisters in 1876.

A strong and visible Catholic identity is central to the school’s quality learning and pastoral care. Sacramental programs are parish based, and the school oval becomes a sacred space for the community to come together for school and Christmas masses.

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“We welcome all, and celebrate diversity; a Catholic education promotes values that relate to many.”

Learning at St Nicholas is constantly evolving, responding to contemporary teaching practices and societal changes.

State-of-the-art facilities include open-plan classrooms that facilitate communication and collaboration within student groups and their teachers.

“We don’t have traditional walls between classrooms, and throughout the day students go to areas of need.”

The school’s mission statement is supported by pillars of improvement: Living like Jesus, literacy, pedagogy and high functioning teams.

There is strong emphasis on literacy learning opportunities from an early age.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

“The earlier children can read confidently, the better they access every other area of the curriculum,” John says.

“Last year saw enormous growth in reading. Guided reading for Kinder to Year 1 has been strengthened, and there are further adjustments and improvements we will make.

“We put strategies in place to address areas of need, and don’t deviate until we are satisfied with the outcome.”

The core curriculum of key learning areas is enhanced in various ways, including having a music teacher two days a week, and visiting sport development officers.

At the heart of all that happens at St Nicholas is a professional and dedicated staff of 65, including 40 classroom teachers.

“They are wonderful,” John says proudly. “The greatest compliment I can give them is that they see themselves as learners, too. More students reach their potential with quality teaching.”

Complementing student learning outcomes is their development as future community members and global citizens. Values of compassion, tolerance, and respect for others are consistently modelled.

Following Dominican tradition, all are encouraged in search for truth, love of learning and prayer as reflected in the school motto, Veritas.

“Manners Matter includes everyday greetings with good morning and a smile, adding to our culture of positivity.”

Such programs also foster student wellbeing, a priority area recognising the challenges of modern society for young people, exacerbated by the COVID pandemic, district drought and floods.

The school is supported by an active Parents, Teachers and Friends group.

“We are fortunate to have an extremely supportive parent body,” John says. “We have strong connection to our families. They are always welcome, and we are always here to listen.”

The school has excellent facilities in spacious grounds; and the school community works together to provide a safe, happy and inclusive environment.

John’s affection for St Nicholas runs deep. A former student himself, he says it was “quite surreal” when he returned as principal four years ago. His children are current students.

“This school has a great reputation; we respect and honour all who have helped build that, and are continually working to keep it that way.

“We have a lot to be thankful for.” RLM Words: Elizabeth Grant Images: Finishing Image Photography

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: St Nicholas School; Principal John Clery and the 2022 School Captains and House Captains; students at play and in class; the school library.

ABOVE: The school has a spacious playground and excellent facilities in which the children play and thrive.

AT THE HEART OF ALL THAT HAPPENS AT ST NICHOLAS IS A PROFESSIONAL AND DEDICATED STAFF OF 65, INCLUDING 40 CLASSROOM TEACHERS. TAMWORTH RLM 107

T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: At Ruby’s Cafe you will find beautiful dining spaces both inside and outside where privacy is assured; the building is covered in its signature decadesold jasmine vine; one of the wedding/celebration cakes made to order by Kellie; you’ll be greeted by a welcoming vibe with touches of pink; casually elegant tablescape; Ruby’s Cafe boasts a fresh seasonal menu but weekends are when guests can indulge with choices such as the incredible waffles with all the trimmings.

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mother

knows best

When the indefatigable Kellie O’Callaghan bought Ruby’s Cafe, it was simply meant to be.

Kellie O’Callaghan has always deeply trusted her intuition. It was this gut instinct that spoke to her in the middle of 2021.

The mother of five was driving to Ruby’s Cafe on Tamworth’s Peel Street to drop off her lemon curd muffins, when a sentence popped into her head.

“The words, ‘the next person to own Ruby’s must be me’ came into my mind,” Kellie says.

“I came into the shop and was chatting to the former owner, Kane, over the coffee machine and he said they had just decided to sell. I said, ‘to me?’.”

Ruby’s Cafe is something of a Tamworth institution. Covered in glossy green vine and boasting a popular leafy courtyard, the building’s historical bones belie its quirky interior.

Kellie has brought a feminine touch to the interiors, painting the inside a charcoal grey and the street front door a pale pink. The self-taught florist also offers fresh flowers, which fill the room with fragrance.

But the cafe holds greater meaning for Kellie than simply a business. Kellie and her friends called it their “town lounge”, with the group gathering there regularly to catch up. And the cafe shares the same name as her eldest daughter, Ruby, who died at the beginning of 2020 from the extremely rare genetic condition Chime Syndrome.

“We had what I called Ruby’s ‘after party’ after her funeral on her 21st birthday, here at Ruby’s Cafe,” Kellie says. “It was the most beautiful experience; it was magical just like she was.”

Three of Kellie’s five children have died from the condition, their presence seen in the family heirlooms scattered around the shop.

“The flowers sit on my old dining table at the front of the cafe, which is covered in glitter from my children’s craft sessions over the years,” Kellie says. “The multi-coloured chandelier belonged to my daughter Ruby. I just know that she and my mum are here with me in the shop. I can feel them here.”

Taking over the business in September 2021, Kellie has remained adamant not to take anything away from the beloved menu but to add special touches instead.

Fresh salads and light meals have been added to the menu, and Kellie hopes to get her restaurant licence to offer Friday night drinks and dinner.

In the kitchen, it’s a family affair. Kellie’s 19-year old son, Felix, helps prepare food, and her 11-year old daughter, Clementine, helps after school.

“My brother and his wife come in every day, my sister will often come in and help with the washing up. My nephews and nieces all work here alongside all of Ruby’s former staff,” Kellie says.

“There is such a longstanding group of customers who are just gorgeous and so positive. It has been the loveliest experience to see how supportive they’ve been.” RLM Words: Emily Herbert Images: Finishing Image Photography

Located in a graceful old heritage building, with a tucked away, private garden in Tamworth’s main street, Ruby’s is a local and well loved cafe and gift store.

We are passionate about seasonal, local produce, amazing flavours, great coffee, and our loyal customers. We provide gorgeous gifts, beautiful fresh flowers and a relaxed, yet elegant, function space.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.

LOCAL AND LOVED (02) 6766 9715 Tues–Thurs 7am–2pm kellie@thesweetvioletgroup.com.au Fri 7am–-5pm 492–494 Peel Street, Tamworth NSW 2340 Sat 7am–2pm www.rubystamworth.com.au Sun 8am–12pm

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

making the grade With a comprehensive program of opportunity and enrichment, Tamworth’s Oxley High School embraces every day its motto “Discovery and Progress”.

A leader in regional public secondary schooling, Oxley High offers a well-balanced education, combining a diverse curriculum of academic, sporting and cultural pursuits, extra and co-curricular activities.

Oxley High has a student population of 1150 and is one of the largest schools in the region. Demand for places continues to rise.

Principal Simon Bartlett-Taylor proudly attributes this to the school’s reputation as a centre for excellence, where young people are encouraged to explore a wealth of opportunities within a strong support network.

A shining example is the recent implementation of a Talented Athletes Program (TAP), providing a regional focused framework for students to develop elite sporting aspirations.

Oxley’s proud history of fostering talent includes Australian cricketer Josh Hazlewood.

Developed in consultation with the Northern Inland Academy of Sport, Illawarra Sports High, Hockey NSW and other sporting bodies, the program encompasses basketball, hockey, soccer, cricket, netball, rugby union, rugby league and oztag.

Oxley’s exceptional sporting amenities complement qualified coaches and specific training to give participants maximum opportunity at all representative levels, and attainment of umpiring/refereeing qualifications.

Rural Fit, a local physical fitness centre, shares its expertise and experience in various sporting capacities.

Simon is thrilled to see talented regional athletes with comparable access to their city counterparts in developing sporting ability.

Oxley’s broad on-campus curriculum offers extensive subject choice to appeal to varying interests. Encouragement of academic excellence is reflected in consistently strong Higher School Certificate results and high tertiary admissions.

An innovative learning hub provides additional support, incorporating wellbeing, strategic goal setting, and careers advice.

A strong technology program benefits all students, and includes subsidised access to iPads from years 10 to 12.

Within the school’s spacious and well-maintained grounds, the curriculum is enhanced by a host of modern facilities.

A state-of-the-art space for theatre and dance underlines the school’s highly regarded performing arts syllabus, while band and choir highlight a large music program. There are two commercial kitchens, trade training centre, and facilities for agriculture.

Among many valued community partnerships is the local TAFE, facilitating apprenticeships and traineeships.

Simon praises a staff of high calibre as key to Oxley High’s many achievements, their dedication and genuine care for students being a hallmark of the school.

“Our long-serving staff combine with the next generation of educators, influencing our school’s environment and culture. We have great capacity as a team to respond in a quick and sustainable way to changes in education and community.”

He also highlighted the valuable contribution of the school’s supportive Parents and Citizens group in advocacy and improving the school environment.

The development of every student to realise their potential is central to the ethos at Oxley High.

“We work with our students to develop a strong sense of self, to understand what it takes to be successful, and how we can help. Many of our students well exceed their own expectations,” Simon says.

Leadership, integrity, personal responsibility and contributing to community are strongly endorsed through programs such as the Student Representative Council, and the Clontarf Foundation, mentoring young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.

Oxley has embraced Restorative Practice to promote a restorative culture in the school.

“Our aim is to develop an understanding of conflict and how it can be used to promote learning and resilience. Oxley’s goal is to increase the school’s capacity to respond to student conflict in restorative ways,” Simon says.

“Our students demonstrate great pride in their school, and it is humbling, and quietly satisfying, how many ex-students continue a strong association.

“We give our young people the support they need to grow and learn. They are at the heart of all we do.”

STOP PRESS: Oxley High School student Anastasia Smyth achieved an ATAR of 99.7 in the 2021 HSC. RLM Words: Elizabeth Grant Images: Finishing Image Photography

FACING PAGE: The 2022 Student Leadership Team; Oxley High School boasts attractive and welcoming grounds; the school is proud of the diverse and innovative opportunities it is able to offer students.

ABOVE: Principal Simon Bartlett-Taylor with 2022 School Captains Samuel Murphy and Mataya Gabutto.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

country

CALLING

Moving to a bare five-acre block in Tamworth 20 years ago was the best decision ever made by GP Rebecca Mair.

Rebecca Mair grew up on Sydney’s North Shore, determined to study Medicine, like her grandmother’s sister, one of the first female doctors in Australia.

After graduating in 1998, she packed her bags with new husband Steven, whom she met at university, and embarked on their big tree change.

Throughout childhood, Rebecca had spent many hours listening to stories of country living from her Narrandera-raised grandmother.

“It was always my dream to raise our family in the country. I just wasn’t sure where,” she says with a grin. “Our final choice came down to Tamworth, Orange and Wagga Wagga. Although Orange is a beautiful city, we visited in the middle of a snow blizzard and it was just too cold.”

Rebecca spoke to Dr Nick Ryan, then head of the emergency ward at Tamworth Base Hospital, who convinced the newlyweds to make a fresh move to the Country Music Capital.

After being informed he lived on five acres and could get to work in literally five minutes, their minds were virtually made up.

Driving to Tamworth proved an adventure in itself.

“We got a flat tyre 30km out of town and were pleasantly surprised when a local stopped to give us a hand,” she says.

“We were very impressed that everybody seemed happy, friendly and relaxed.”

The Mairs rented while they settled in, and weekends were spent exploring their new surroundings. Eventually they discovered a perfect five-acre block at Moore Creek. Priced at $40,000, it was less than the cost of a new car. The slab was poured the day after eldest son Liam was born, and the build took 12 months.

Today the family comprises four happy and healthy children.

Liam, 20, is studying Secondary Education at Newcastle University. Robbie, 19, has just finished his gap year and is enrolled in Primary School Teaching, while Tom, 17, has an electrical apprenticeship. Sister Jess, 16, is enjoying her final years at school.

The family recently celebrated 20 years in paradise. Their family home, built on a treeless paddock, is now their own little oasis, complete with its own native ecosystem, along with secondand third-generation, self-seeded trees and shrubs.

The family have grown accustomed to goannas, roos, echidnas, galahs, lizards and birds in the backyard. Even the occasional koala. Each fleeting moment with their new friends is priceless.

Rebecca loves the 15-minute commute to her practice, Peel Health Care, while Steven, a school psychologist, provides telepsyche services to rural and remote schools across NSW. “Looking back, moving to a rural setting in regional NSW was the best decision for our family, lifestyle and respective careers,” Steven says.

City-born Steven enjoys the great outdoors, especially the granite valley they’ve settled in, which he believes is as good as any place he’s seen.

“We are blessed with great scenery – it’s perfect for bushwalking, mountain biking and outdoor living.”

Although they miss the close proximity to family back in Sydney, both agree the Big Smoke is now a great spot to visit.

From Tamworth they can travel to Sydney or one of their favourite beaches in a weekend.

Rebecca has found everything she wants in the medical world in a regional centre.

“The country is always screaming out for more doctors,” she says.

“The job satisfaction of working in a rural setting far surpasses any benefits of living in Sydney,” she says. “In our community we deal with most things and see people from every age group. It really doesn’t get much better.”

Steven admits Bec typically doesn’t do interviews and is quite shy by nature.

“She is, however, an exceptional GP, passionate about looking after her patients and medicine in our community,” he says.

“Doing a piece that may attract other GPs to Tamworth won out.

“As you can see from our property, gardening and nature are her other passions. Rebecca knows every tree and plant as well as what animals, birds, reptiles and even spiders inhabit the gardens she’s grown.

“She has also grown a magnificent vegie garden and orchard that keeps us fed all year round.”

Now that the children are getting older, Rebecca and Steven are looking forward to many more years of enjoying their bush retreat while providing quality health services to their local community. RLM FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Tom, Jess and Robbie Mair with parents Steven and Rebecca and dogs Tessa and Buster in front of the family home; Liam, Robbie, Jess and Tom Mair have all enjoyed growing up in a tranquil rural setting; the views are to die for; family time around the pool table; sunset at the end of another glorious day.

“THE JOB SATISFACTION OF WORKING IN A RURAL SETTING FAR SURPASSES ANY BENEFITS OF LIVING IN SYDNEY.” TAMWORTH RLM 113

T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

a family

commitment

Fifth-generation dairyman Todd Wilson has always had a soft spot for the 180 bovine beauties he works with around the clock, 365 days a year.

Todd Wilson knows most of his Jersey cows by name and understands exactly what makes them tick. Most importantly, he’s got each of them producing an average 23 litres of fresh milk daily.

Every day at 4.30am, Todd greets his beloved Jersey cows for their first milking. Forget public holidays, feeling crook or foul weather, the show must go on.

After milking, the dairy needs washing down and the milk carted to the Woolomin processing plant that Todd and wife Sarah bought in 2017.

As the new owners of Peel Valley Milk, Todd and Sarah are taking charge of their destiny and consolidating their position in the 21st century. Milking, after all, is in the blood. The Wilsons have been breeding Jerseys since 1918 and are a recognised force in the stud business.

Almost 500 head are run over three properties, including their home base barely five minutes from the heart of Tamworth.

“We’ve been proud dairy farmers for over a century,” a beaming Todd says. “Give us a few more years and throw in a bit of luck and we may even have a sixth generation take over the reins.”

Todd is referring to his and Sarah’s children Ella, 13, Marlie, 11, and Koby, 9, who all enjoy the day-to-day running of the farm.

Young Koby is already displaying interest in a dairyman’s life.

Sarah is very much a Tamworth local, having grown up and worked in the regional centre all her life, much like her parents

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Rob and Kathy Wilkinson. Raising her own family on a dairy farm was never on her bucket list but that all changed after meeting Todd, who swept her away with his charm and zest for life.

Not being from a dairying background, it was an intense introduction to the showring, especially the bit about catching cow manure in a bucket!

“I must admit, it took a bit to get my head around being a dairyman’s wife,” she laughs. “It wasn’t so much the early starts but the fact you could never sleep in or have a day off. The kids have learnt to wait until after milking to get their birthday presents.”

Todd has never known any different. He grew up in Wingham in the Manning Valley with sister Brooke and brother Matt, and the Wilson family moved themselves and the herd to Tamworth in 2002.

The family show their registered cows under their Shirlinn stud prefix at major shows up and down the east coast of Australia.

Their biggest win was with Shirlinn Icy Eve, Supreme Jersey at the 2014 Sydney Royal Easter Show for a third consecutive year.

Australia’s most decorated dairy cow also scored an EX-95, a new Australian Jersey record. > ABOVE: Happy, healthy Jersey cows produce the best milk.

FACING PAGE: Todd Wilson with son Koby, grandfather Lindsay and father Brian with a contented milking herd; the girls know the road home after milking; Todd and Sarah with Vicki and Brian in the dairy; Jersey cows are renowned for their good looks.

Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

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T O W N F E AT U R E Tamworth

“LOOKING AFTER THEM IS WHY WE ARE STILL HERE – WORKING ALONGSIDE THE ANIMALS WE LOVE, JUST AS WE’VE DONE FOR GENERATIONS.” At the 2021 Sydney Royal, the Wilson family were judged Premier Breeder and Exhibitor in front of some of the best Jersey breeders in the country. It’s an action-packed program that Todd has grown up with since he could walk.

The dairy farm on Wallamore Road, barely a few kilometres from town, is a true family affair. Todd and Sarah are helped by Brian and Vicki, grandparents Lindsay and Shirley as well as their own kids. All play a vital part in the operation. It’s extremely rare seeing four generations working happily together, seven days a week, but that’s what the family do to ensure the health of their cows and a regular supply of quality milk.

“The welfare of our animals always come first – without them, we’d have nothing,” Todd says.

“Looking after them is why we are still here – working alongside the animals we love, just as we’ve done for generations. Over a long stretch of history we’ve learned to maintain a herd of happy and healthy cows, and that knowledge is passed down onto the next generation.”

In addition to grazing on fresh pasture, each cow also chomps through about 25kg of dry matter – equivalent to one bale of hay – as well as 5kg of grain each day. Added vitamins and minerals help keep them happy and healthy. Each cow will also drink up to 150 litres of water per day.

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Tamworth T O W N F E AT U R E

“Our cows are milked morning and night, with the milk tested frequently at the farm to ensure the raw product is of the best possible quality,” Todd says.

“This also means we can get it to the kitchen table very fast. The milk can be walking around the paddock in the cow this morning and be in your fridge by lunch time – it’s that fresh.”

Lindsay, the Wilson family patriarch, has spent 70 years as a dairyman and is the custodian of a lifetime of experience and memories. He established the stud 50 years ago, and like his son and grandson, has judged at Royal shows throughout the land.

“He still turns up for work every day and has more know-how than probably all of us put together,” Todd grins.

Working daily alongside his family makes Lindsay a very proud dairy man.

“My family continue the dream started by my grandfather James Wilson, who started milking before WW1,” he says.

“There’s no greater feeling than seeing the passion for our cows passed down from one generation through to the next.”

It’s not easy getting Todd off the farm but with the recent purchase of a boat, the family were hoping to get in some waterskiing over summer.

The Wilsons are not just the face of Peel Valley Milk. They are living proof that the family that sticks together is capable of great things, including the production of nearly one million litres of fresh milk each year. RLM ABOVE: Todd and Sarah Wilson love raising Koby, Marlie and Ella in a healthy country environment close to town.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Born to milk; Todd Wilson at work; Lindsay Wilson enjoys being involved with the milking; a sign out the front leaves no doubt as to the nature of the business; cows on the move.

Family Owned • Produced Locally

Pure Jersey Milk

PEEL VALLEY MILK Taste the Difference

PEEL VALLEY MILK (e) todd.sarah@peelvalleymilk.com.au | (p) 0404 081 352

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T O W N F E AT U R E Nundle

NUNDLE

The villages of Nundle and Hanging Rock continue to lure and charm locals and visitors to the area.

Spend any time in Tamworth and it’s likely the locals will tell you that “you’ve got to go to Nundle”.

And you’ve got to trust Tamworth locals, who have been charmed by Nundle and its neighbouring village, Hanging Rock, with a combination of goldrush heritage, generous country hospitality, spectacular mountain landscape and quirky events.

Local First Nations people have long and valued Anaiwan and Gamilaroi heritage. The first Europeans started exploring the lush, fertile upper Peel Valley from the 1820s, settling from the 1840s.

It was the discovery of gold in 1852 that led to the formation of Nundle and Hanging Rock villages, and visitors revel in the step-backin-time experience evoked by the handsome, two-storey hotel, the Peel Inn, weatherboard Odgers & McClelland Exchange Stores, and stone Mount Misery Gold Mine Café.

Panners and fossickers still find alluring gold and semi-precious stones working the Peel River and connecting creeks.

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Nundle Woollen Mill now attracts 25,000 visitors a year to see knitting yarn made on machinery dating back to the late 1800s.

The romantic hills attract a healthy population of creatives. Among them are Golden Guitar winner John Krsulja and wife Belinda, who have created a destination wedding and country music venue, The DAG Sheep Station, centred on the shearing shed and shearers’ mess hall of Wombramurra Station, one of the earliest European land holdings in the area.

Live music is a feature of local events where John Krsulja, Jeff Gibson and friends take the stage at the Nundle Country Picnic, and during Tamworth’s mid-year Hats Off to Country, and the Country Music Festival.

The creative efforts of the community can be seen at the weekend Nundle Craft Shop, Stormcrow Studio, and Magpie Tuppence galleries, and annual Nundle CWA Art Show.

Standing at the Hanging Rock Lookout with its magnificent vista of the Peel Valley and Liverpool Plains, you’ll be immersed in the beauty and awe that has inspired many to head to the Hills of Gold. RLM

The romantic hills attract a healthy population of creatives.

ABOVE: The former Nundle Shire office before it was absorbed into the Tamworth Regional Council in 2004. It is currently used as the Nundle Council office, Library and meeting room with community gardens at the rear of the building.

Nundle T O W N F E AT U R E

QUAINT HEART

Herein lies a golden opportunity to take a step back in time.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Nundle

SPIN CITY

Spinning a yarn and having a ball take on a new meaning at Nundle Woollen Mill, where century-old machines methodically clank away transforming fleece into colourful yarn.

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Nundle T O W N F E AT U R E

Reminiscent of a scene from the Industrial Revolution, the Nundle Woollen Mill opened in 2000 as one of the last woollen mills still operating in Australia.

Sydney couple Nick and Kylie Bradford bought the mill 15 years ago, expanding it into a vibrant manufacturing business and popular tourist destination.

“We use historic equipment and production techniques to produce an extensive range of contemporary yarns, which are highly sought after by knitters, textile artists and soft-furnishing designers,” Nick says.

Much more than a small-scale niche business, the mill also has its own dye house that takes yarn at the end of the production chain, transforming it into 40 vibrant colours.

The mill attracts thousands of visitors each year and employs nine team members

who process up to 8000 kilos of clean wool each year. Visitors are able to see the full production line and ask the team questions about the age-old techniques used every day.

“In our regular tours, visitors marvel at our antique machines humming away,” Nick says. “They work their magic to turn bales of the finest Australian Merino wool into yarns in the vibrant colours for which we have become famous.”

Nick says the production team love talking about the history and process, so it’s not hard striking up a conversation about the machine they’re working on.

In the early days, children as young as six or seven worked in textile mills because of their size and ability to crawl under the machines reconnecting yarns.

They were hard times and it was easy to lose a finger. >

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Owners Nick and Kylie Bradford; the century-old machines are fascinating to watch; Izzy Morrison knows what she’s talking about; the view from upstairs; knitters can choose from a huge range of coloured yarn; Sandra Byrne in the dyeing process.

FACING PAGE: Nundle Woollen Mill is a major drawcard for visitors to the sleepy village.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Nundle

The building housing the historic machines was purpose built for visitors to get the perfect view of the machines in action. The building is all on one level so it caters well for young children and the elderly, with excellent wheelchair access.

The mill runs guided tours every week for different groups from all over Australia, including car clubs, motorbike clubs, Probus groups, Lions clubs, knitters, spinners and weavers groups, caravaners and family groups.

“What continues to amaze us is that although humans have been making fabrics for thousands of years, many visitors don’t know how their clothes are made nor the difference between fibres. They leave with a new outlook on the textile industry and an appreciation of our woollen products,” Nick says.

One of the few in the country to know the ins and outs of textile manufacturing is Izzy Morrison, who joined the team nearly six years ago. Izzy learnt the trade in Scotland four decades earlier, never expecting to find similar work in Australia.

“It’s a dying trade and few, if any, Aussies know how to work the machines,” she says during a guided tour. “I thought the industry was done and dusted in this country – that was until a friend told me about the Nundle Woollen Mill.”

Aware of Izzy’s unique qualifications, Nick was quick to offer her a job. Izzy, one of four on the factory floor, loves the area so much she bought a home in Hanging Rock.

A century ago, there were hundreds of mills scattered in little towns and cities

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throughout Australia but today it’s one of the last wool-processing mills left in the country.

It’s quite a lengthy process. Prior to arriving at Nundle Woollen Mill, the fleece is shorn, sorted and classed in the shearing shed at “Elsdon”, northern Tasmania before being sent to Geelong for scouring, where the dirt and grease is removed. Finally, it’s transported to Nundle where the real fun and games begin.

“Back in the day, the local haberdashery or exchange store would have supplied locally produced yarn for the housewife to knit jumpers and socks for the family,” Nick says.

He’s been involved in every aspect of the wool industry – from the sheep’s back through to the final garment. Growing up in a wool growing family in Deniliquin, he studied at the Melbourne College of Textiles before spending 15 years selling wool throughout Europe and Asia.

In 2002, he established Interwool in Sydney, which in turn bought the Nundle Woollen Mill.

“Our Sydney business was involved with fashion and the Nundle mill was one of our wholesale customers,” Nick says.

“We design a jumper, for instance, which is manufactured in either Australia or China, before being sold through retail stores like Nundle.

“Here we process raw wool through a series of century-old machines and essentially produce a ball of wool ready for customers to knit with.”

A century ago, there were hundreds of mills scattered in little towns and cities throughout Australia but today it’s one of the last wool-processing mills left in the country.

Nundle Woollen Mill is a destination, a store and a reconnection with Australia’s wool heritage.

“We spin and sell yarns that our passionate customers turn into stunning clothes and soft furnishings,” Kylie says.

“We sell a carefully curated collection of apparel, homewares, gifts, books and knitting accessories, with a special emphasis on wool. We trust you’ll find what you’re looking for here and that you’ll visit us soon.” RLM

You will be amazed to see how the wool is processed. The mill is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Sunday but the machines only operate during the week.

The team offers tours at 11am and 2pm Monday to Friday. For all tour bookings, call 1300 686 353 (1300 NUNDLE).

ABOVE: Kylie and Nick Bradford have a large range of woollen wear for sale.

Multi-Award winning

NUNDLE WOOLLEN MILL OPEN 7 DAYS

Machines operate Monday to Friday

TOURS 11am & 2pm Mon to Fri

35 Oakenville St Nundle, NSW 2340 Phone: 1300 686 353

Email: sales@nundle.store Online store: h‫מּ‬ps://nundle.store Open 7 days a week from 10am till 4pm

NUNDLE, NEW SOUTH WALES

Relax in the hills of gold The park is centrally located within walking distance of craft, antiques and homewares shops, museums, restaurants, pristine swimming pool, the famous Woollen Mill and legendary Peel Inn. A short drive takes visitors to a patchwork and quilting supplies barn, trout farm, golf course, fishing and boating, dams and walking tracks.

The start of the Fossickers’ Way Jenkins Street, Nundle NSW 2340 Located 55kms from Tamworth (off New England Hwy) P. 02 6769 3355 E. fossickers@outlook.com

fossickersatnundle.com.au NUNDLE RLM 123

T O W N F E AT U R E Nundle

how’s the serenity Nestled on the banks of the Peel River, Fossickers Tourist Park is the perfect place to do as much, or as little, as you like.

In the delightful village of Nundle, 45 minutes from Tamworth, Fossickers Tourist Park offers excellent facilities in tranquil surroundings at the foothills of the Great Dividing Range.

It is a popular stopover for travellers along Fossickers Way, which traverses the hills of gold, and a great base to explore the region’s picturesque landscape, history, culture and diverse activities.

Centrally located in town, this awardwinning tourist park is close to boutique shops, cafes and restaurants, sports clubs, and attractions such as the Woollen Mill and legendary Peel Inn. Owners Heath Atchison and Kim Somerville offer a warm welcome and helpful service, and pride themselves on a high standard of park cleanliness and upkeep.

Their dedication is reflected in an abundance of glowing reviews, recommendations and return guests, including successive generations of families.

“When you get positive feedback it is very rewarding,” Heath says during a typically busy day of park jobs. “We really enjoy it here, meeting so many people, and guests have become good friends, too.”

The couple took up ownership in 2007 and gave the park a major transformation.

Heath’s skills as a carpenter were well utilised in constructing modern cabin accommodation, new facilities, and rejuvenating existing buildings.

There are great options for a family holiday, quiet getaway or group gathering.

The park has 10 well-appointed and comfortable en suite cabins, which sleep up to six guests, with cooking facilities, and linen supplied. In addition, there are two standard cabins (also with self-contained kitchen facilities) that use the park’s excellent bathroom amenities.

All cabins are air-conditioned and have verandahs. They are positioned to enjoy the serenity of the creek that runs through the property, surrounding farmland and the beautiful park gardens.

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Nundle T O W N F E AT U R E

Sixty powered sites, grassed or with concrete slab, are perfect for caravans, motor homes, camper trailers and tents, with shade and a great outlook along the river.

The well-maintained amenities block receives favourable guest feedback, with comprehensive bathroom facilities, including disabled access and guest laundry.

Birdlife abounds in the park’s spacious grounds, where guests can utilise a large camp kitchen and barbecue area, firepit and tennis courts. The Nundle swimming pool and a new playground are across the road.

“We are in a great spot for activities such as river and bush walks, swimming, fishing, four-wheel driving and gold panning,” Heath says. “Or do nothing, and just enjoy the peace and quiet.”

The centre of a gold rush over a century ago, Nundle and nearby Hanging Rock still attract many hopeful prospectors. Heath recalls the lovely story of one young couple who found enough gold to make unique wedding bands.

Visitors are also made to feel welcome by the friendly, close-knit Nundle community.

“It is a great little town, and very proactive; we all work together, and with support of the local council, to make things happen,” Heath says.

Fossickers Tourist Park is a wonderful combination of appealing location, restful ambience and outstanding country hospitality. RLM Words: Elizabeth Grant Images: Finishing Image Photography

“WE ARE IN A GREAT SPOT FOR ACTIVITIES SUCH AS RIVER AND BUSH WALKS, SWIMMING, FISHING, FOUR-WHEEL DRIVING AND GOLD PANNING.”

FROM TOP: Fossickers Tourist Park beside the Peel River in historic Nundle offers excellent amenities in tranquil surroundings; relax and enjoy the serenity; the river and surrounding bushland are on the doorstep; the perfect spot for a family holiday.

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Spacious and well-maintained grounds, with numerous features including a tennis court, add to the ambience of Fossickers; owners Heath Atchison and Kim Somerville are dedicated to ensuring their guests have a memorable stay; well-appointed and comfortable cabins include kitchen facilities and supplied linen; the outlook from cabins and powered sites incorporates the park’s beautiful gardens and picturesque location.

Find Fossickers Tourist Park at fossickersatnundle.com.au and Facebook.

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playing their

cards right

Lady Luck had a hand in the Schofield family’s ownership of the historic Peel Inn, Nundle.

It’s not often you hear of an iconic country pub changing hands over a game of poker but that’s what happened in 1863 when local landowner and prospector John Schofield sat down to play cards one cold, wet, miserable evening.

At first it was a fairly typical game, with half a dozen men huddled around the oil lamp, clutching their rums. As the game wore on and the stakes got higher, there were just two players left – Schofield and William McIlveen, the publican. Schofield’s last bet was five ounces of gold against the pub.

After carefully watching his opponent lay down his hand, the distraught publican is rumoured to have sat silent for a few moments before infamously declaring, “I’ll get the keys”.

During those heady goldrush years of the 1860s, Schofield went on to own other hotels at Curlewis, Wallabadah and Bowling Alley Point (now under Chaffey Dam), along with Nundle.

The family has a long and noted history in the area. It was Victor, the youngest of his 11 children, who pulled out £12,000 of gold in three days while working the Lady Mary mine.

It’s a long time ago but, as we all know, publicans are generally well skilled in telling yarns. Current custodians Robert and Margaret Schofield and their son Drew have often regaled the story of the infamous card game to their guests, especially the many tourists who drop in for a meal and a pint.

During Robert’s great-grandfather’s time, an upstairs balcony was added in 1914, before the property was sold in 1922 to wind up the estate. His father Jeff and uncle Guy bought it back in 1950 and worked there for several years before leasing it. Robert took over on Melbourne Cup Day in 1966, the year Galilee, trained by Bart Cummings, won the race.

Within two years, Robert and Margaret were married. Over their lifetime, the Schofields have proven a formidable team and are highly regarded among the village’s 250 inhabitants. Robert still loves the place but insists the local watering hole, or for that matter the town, has changed forever.

“All the old Soldier Settlement blocks are gone, along with all the families that once worked on them,” he says. “Most of the old families moved on years ago and there’s no longer an army of young labourers about.”

On the bright side, there has been plenty of positive change.

Entrepreneurial grazier Peter Howarth shook up the town in the 1990s, determined to get things happening. He could see the benefits of tourism, buying many old buildings before restoring them to their former glory.

“Through his visionary example and the strong support of new blood, Nundle has become a premier tourist destination along with Hanging Rock.”

The day after our chat, Robert will celebrate Melbourne Cup, a

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Nundle T O W N F E AT U R E

special time when he takes a trip down memory lane. He always maintained he’d retire at 80 but he keeps on keeping on. Looking around the pub today, Robert says the Peel Inn bears little resemblance to when he took over.

“If you had told me half a century ago that there would be no smoking in the bar, I’d never have believed you,” he grins. “When I started out, the bar was a strictly male domain, with plenty of colourful characters.

“My favourite memory is of this bloke who would ride his Ferguson tractor to the pub. You could always tell if he’d had a few too many when he forgot to lift the backhoe and it would drag behind him all the way home.”

Meals were also a very different story.

“I remember we used to have three things on the menu and that was it – roast beef, corned beef and steak and kidney pie – and for dessert, a baked custard,” he says. “If the kitchen ran out of anything they would just go next door to the butcher or the baker.

“We didn’t need a cold room or anything like that as we could buy everything locally. Now everything is brought in by truck from Tamworth.”

One man who is definitely aware of change is Drew, who has been running the place for the past few years.

“Dad’s up every morning at 7.30. You could set your watch by him,” he says. With an engaging personality and welcome smile, Drew’s been filling the big shoes left by brother Nathan, who ran the pub for 20 years before Drew returned home.

“In the hospitality industry, I think everyone has their expiry date. Nathan reached his but Dad, well, he simply refuses to give up on the place he has called home for 55 years,” he laughs.

Although the Peel Inn has been associated with the Schofield name for close to 150 years, Drew says one thing you can’t stop is change.

“This place has changed even in my time,” he says. “Who knows what the future holds? I don’t have children, but if I did, I’m not sure I’d want them in the hospitality business, especially after what we’ve endured in the past 20 months.”

The Peel Inn has gone through some major upgrades to conform with 21st century standards. The restaurant has a tremendous following, the 12 accommodation rooms are clean and tidy and the beer’s always cold. If you are lucky, you might even hear a yarn about a game of cards that forever changed a family’s fortunes. RLM FROM TOP: The historic Peel Inn was won in a card game by the Schofield family 160 years ago; Robert Schofield with great mate Harvey Warden, who worked at the pub for 38 years and still visits most days.

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Peel Inn stalwarts Robert and Drew Schofield with pub regular Harvey Warden, right; an old photo and cards found during restoration; the pub in 1892; a modern bar in keeping with the times; outside dining is a big hit with guests; the huge upstairs balcony.

The Peel Inn has been a friendly drinking hole for locals and a welcoming destination for travellers for more than 150 years.

Enjoy lunch or dinner with a delicious meal inside, or out in our beautiful beer garden under a 40-year-old grapevine. Kids enjoy the playground and our garden.

Stay the night in one of our rooms which can accommodate a variety of sleeping configurations.

Open everyday except Christmas Day 89 Jenkins Street, Nundle 02 6769 3377

peelinn.com.au

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T O W N F E AT U R E Nundle

the fast and the furriest The Great Nundle Dog Race is a highly anticipated event on the social calendar.

The picturesque village of Nundle, 56 kilometres south-east of Tamworth, is home to about 300 residents.

It may have a small population but it is huge in community spirit.

A number of exciting community events are held throughout the year. Possibly the best known is The Great Nundle Dog Race, staged at the Nundle Recreation Ground.

It attracts up to 1000 people and their four-legged best friends for a day of novelty dog races, high jump, doggy derby and best-dressed dog.

It is held on the first Sunday in May, and it began as a bet waged between two farmers arguing over whose dog was the fastest.

The centrepiece of the 40-year-old event is The Great Nundle Dog Race for working dogs from across the region. There are many other events for dogs small, large and all sizes in between.

From working dogs to the family pet, every dog has its day at The Great Nundle Dog Race. All proceeds assist Nundle Public School P&C. RLM Images: Sally Alden Photography

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ABOVE: The Great Nundle Dog Race is the perfect opportunity to take your pooch for a sporting day out.

Nundle T O W N F E AT U R E

go for gold The Chinese Easter Festival presents a golden opportunity to embrace the history and community of Nundle.

Back in the mid to late 1800s, everyone headed to the hills of Nundle, otherwise known as The Hills of Gold.

It was the gold rush era, and most of the population were Chinese and European miners, who worked tirelessly in search of the elusive metal.

These days, every Easter, there’s another rush to Nundle, for the Go For Gold Chinese Easter Festival.

This annual event in the picturesque village celebrates the story of the goldfields and the area’s rich history.

Held over Easter Saturday and Sunday, the festival features fabulous Chinese dance performers taking to the streets, with the famous dragon dance.

There’s live music, gold panning, food, produce, craft, bric-a-brac and market stalls and all manner of activities to amuse the kids.

It is a chance to soak up the rich history of this tiny village, which bursts at the seams with visitors from all over the region and the state. RLM

PICTURED: Nundle comes to life for the Go For Gold Chinese Easter Festival.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Manilla

MANILLA

Manilla’s appeal extends far beyond the fishing and paragliding fraternities.

Located 45km north-west of Tamworth, Manilla is a town populated by about 2550 people.

Its name comes from the Kamilaroi (Gamilaraay) people, meaning “winding river”.

The town, where the Namoi and Manilla rivers meet, was established in the 1850s.

George Veness began the first commercial operation in Barraba in 1856.

In the town’s early years, bullock wagons driven by teamsters would pass through Barraba from the Hunter Valley, taking supplies to outlying stations and goldfields in nearby Bingara and Bundarra.

In 1917, one notable couple made their home in Barraba. Henry Herbert “Dally” Messenger and his wife Annie operated the Royal Hotel.

Dally established the Manilla Rugby League Club, but at the time found it difficult to source players due to many local men serving their country at war.

After the death of his wife from the Spanish flu in 1919, Dally and their young son returned to Sydney, where he was instrumental in

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establishing rugby league football in Australia.

The Dally M Medal is named in his honour.

These days Manilla is known as a top spot for anglers and paragliders.

People come from around the world to leap off Mount Borah, north of the town, on a property owned by Godfrey Wenness.

A keen paraglider, Godfrey established his paragliding school in 1994, staging the World Paragliding Championships there.

Manilla’s Heritage Museum contains more than 6000 items, and the Vintage Machinery Rally held at the showground is a huge annual event for the town.

Manilla’s quaint, old-style shops filled with antiques and pieces from the past only add to its charm.

The hydrotherapy pool draws people from around the region to soak and exercise in the warm, therapeutic waters.

One of Australia’s premier songwriters, Stan Coster, made Manilla his home for many years, and a big sign outside the town proclaims it “Coster Country”. RLM

In the town’s early years, bullock wagons driven by teamsters would pass through Barraba from the Hunter Valley, taking supplies to outlying stations and goldfields in nearby Bingara and Bundarra.

ABOVE: Looking down on Manilla from the V J Byrnes Lookout.

Manilla T O W N F E AT U R E

TRUE CHARACTER

Manilla’s old-world charm is matched by its sense of fun and adventure.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Manilla

days gone by MANILLA

Images courtesy of the Manilla Historical Society

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Manilla T O W N F E AT U R E

Manilla essence

Housed in Manilla’s oldest building, the Manilla Heritage Museum has its own fascinating history, dating back to the pioneering days of the town.

Before the construction of the Manilla bridge, northbound teamsters carrying wagon loads of essential items to outlying stations were regularly delayed, sometimes for weeks at a stretch, waiting for the Namoi River to subside.

In 1883, tenders were called for a high-level iron bridge spanning the river. GH Royce & Co won the contract and, upon his arrival, Mr Royce built a substantial seven-room brick home in the nearby emerging main street for his family.

In 1908, the Stewarts bought the property and established the IXL Bakery, extending the rear of the building to accommodate the bakery and kitchen, while tea rooms were created out the front.

By the 1960s, the building had become a private residence. In 1975, Royce Cottage was purchased by the Manilla Shire Council and handed over to the Manilla Historical Society to set up and maintain a museum.

One of the founding members was current museum president Jim Maxwell.

“I grew up with my grandmother who was born in 1884.

She shared a lot of stories and I grew up with history in my veins,” he says.

The fourth-generation farmer and former Manilla mayor and past councillor at Tamworth Regional Council still loves his history and enjoys sharing the museum with locals and visitors to his hometown.

In 2000, Royce Cottage was renamed the Manilla Heritage Museum and in 2006, after a major revamp, the Information Centre was incorporated.

Visitors are welcome seven days a week. RLM

A massive 140-year-old thrashing machine from Bective Station.

President Jim Maxwell with a winnower machine from the early 1900s.

Museum secretary, treasurer and archivist Jodi Ellem in the old school house built in 1935.

An 1890 Ferrier wool press.

Overhead shearing plant from 1910.

Display expert and volunteer Ross Knight with a 1948 model Austin truck.

A room full of treasures.

Wedding dresses from days gone by.

The early days of dentistry.

An old switchboard.

Manilla has strong ties to the military.

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Manilla T O W N F E AT U R E

Yodellin’ goldie Multiple Golden Guitar winner Rex Dallas is synonymous with the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Throughout his stellar 68-year career, country crooner Rex Dallas has released more than 20 albums, earned four Golden Guitars and etched his names into the heart of thousands of country music fans.

He also holds the rare distinction of performing at every Tamworth Country Music Festival.

It all started when a fresh-faced 15-year-old kid decided to change his name. While working at Suttons Music Store in York Street, Sydney, he handed over 10 shillings to ditch Frederick Amos Doble in favour of something with a bit more pizzazz.

He had watched the boy from Nulla Nulla Creek, David Gordon Kirkpatrick, morph into Slim Dusty and was prepared to do anything to launch his career far from the dust of the coalmines.

“My mother was adamant I wouldn’t be spending my life down a coal shaft, like my father and grandfather,” he says.

Rex demonstrated his talent for yodelling at six years, singing his heart out in the backyard of the family home.

“We couldn’t afford a scarecrow, so Mum urged me to keep on yodelling,” he laughs.

Now a sprightly 83, Rex is enjoying the opportunity to reflect on his lengthy and unblemished career. On the back porch of his Manilla home, he pores over scrapbooks as wife Adrienne serves tea.

We drift back to his teenage years in the old mining town of Wallerawang. The mines had closed, his father was retrenched and Rex, the oldest of three boys, was forced to leave school at 14 to become the family breadwinner.

“I made two pounds and two shillings a week as a junior salesman at the local menswear store,” he recalls. “I gave my parents the two pounds and the rest I kept for the Saturday pictures.”

In a pivotal move, the family sought a fresh start in Sydney.

By then, Rex had already appeared on 2LT Lithgow, but Sydney proved a much bigger stage. His appearance on Australia’s Amateur Hour in 1953 led to him becoming a regular on 2SM. He later toured with Lee Gordon and made his first recordings for Festival Records in the early 1960s, his first single being Bicycle Wreck.

Rex’s versatility saw him perform country, rock’n’roll and even light opera on the Sydney club circuit. He was also a very fine yodeller, following in the footsteps of legendary bush balladeers Buddy Williams and Slim Dusty.

By the 1970s, Rex was hitting his straps, winning numerous awards for his self-penned ballads. One of these, Old Wallerawang, a tribute to his grandfather, won him his first Golden Guitar in 1975. The award was even more special, Rex having just moved to Tamworth after scoring a contract with Hadley Records. > FROM TOP: The King of Country Music, Slim Dusty, was the first to congratulate Rex on his first Golden Guitar in 1973; Rex with ‘The Big O’ Roy Orbison on his first Australian tour with the Beach Boys.

FACING PAGE: Tamworth locals proudly claim Rex Dallas as one of their own.

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The following year, he snagged Male Vocalist of the Year with My Lancashire Yodelling Lass. It was the first time a yodeller had won a Golden Guitar. The only thing better was having Slim, the reigning champion, be the first person to congratulate him.

For a decade or more, Rex toured extensively with the Dallas Cowboys, which included sons Brett on lead guitar and Colin on drums. Later, his younger sons Jeff and Shannan joined him on stage, making him one very proud father.

His next Golden Guitar was with His Spurs Are Rusty Now, a song penned with Colin in 1982. In recent years, Brett and granddaughter Ashleigh have also collected Golden Guitars. This

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remarkable feat made the Dallas dynasty the first country music family with three generations of winners.

Having grown up with two brothers and having four sons, Rex is particularly proud to see a Dallas female making a name for herself in country music. The family spent a fruitful two decades at Moonbi Gully, staging festival shows from their open-air stage, before moving to Manilla 10 years ago.

It was a difficult adjustment, but Rex made it easier by transforming his backyard into a proverbial oasis, complete with entertainment areas. Although the home is in the middle of town, the keen gardener has made it feel a million miles from nowhere.

Manilla T O W N F E AT U R E

Rex and his beloved Adrienne met at Dodd’s Hotel in Cooma when Rex was the entertainment for the raucous and hardworking crews on the Snowy Mountain Hydroelectric Scheme.

Rex and his beloved Adrienne met at Dodd’s Hotel in Cooma when Rex was the entertainment for the raucous and hardworking crews on the Snowy Mountain Hydroelectric Scheme. The gig lasted five or six years, with Rex travelling down from Sydney on an ageing steam train affectionately referred to as “The old Rattler”.

Whenever he was working there, he relied on Adrienne to bring him a hot cup of tea to his pub room the next morning. It was love at first sight and they were married within months.

“I figured the best way to get some decent service was to marry the waitress,” Rex laughs. “It was the dearest meal of my life – nearly 60 years of marriage for a mixed grill!”

Rex says marrying his sweetheart was the best thing he’s ever done. Although now coping with her third bout of cancer, Adrienne remains forever cheerful and still makes the best cup of tea.

Snagging his treasured Golden Guitars were the musical highlights of his career. He set out to win four, in recognition of his four sons, including Jeff, who tragically lost his battle with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2011.

Still performing in his 80s is a remarkable achievement, especially for yodellers, who typically lose their voice in their 40s or 50s. Rex has still got it, and to prove it, breaks out into a highpitched warble that gives RLM goose bumps.

The Tamworth Festival, too, holds many special memories. Rex worked with Gentleman Geoff Brown before the Golden Guitars and festival were even thought of. Over his lifetime he learnt to conserve enough energy in the tank to get him through each January.

In 2000, the award-winning country singer, songwriter, yodeller and bush balladeer was elevated to the Australasian Country Music Roll of Renown for making a significant and lasting contribution to country music.

There’s not much Rex hasn’t achieved. He still enjoys singing for charity events and MND fundraisers and spinning yarns about his good pals and fellow performers Col Joye, Bill Kelly and the late Trevor Day. The only artist on Bandstand to ever yodel remains forever humble and down to earth. While Frederick Doble would have made quite an impressive stage name, it was Rex Dallas who won countless hearts across the nation and the one Tamworthians proudly call one of their own. RLM

FACING PAGE: Country music star Rex Dallas in his Manilla garden.

ABOVE: Rex could never have achieved so much without the strong support of his beloved wife Adrienne, pictured on their wedding day.

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Manilla T O W N F E AT U R E

Here to stay

Swapping the beaches of Lake Macquarie for a small country community proved a no-brainer for happily settled Manilla couple Alex Floyd and Chloe Parkins.

Like most good stories, it happened quite by chance.

Chloe Parkins was taking a leisurely country drive from a new rental in Tamworth. Her day got a lot more interesting after parking in Manilla’s tree-lined main street. Literally across the road from where she pulled up was a modest old building with a For Sale sign out the front.

For many years it had been the shopfront for longstanding Manilla stock and station agent V J Flett but it wasn’t long before the true history was revealed.

“After just a brief glimpse, I fell in love with the place,” Chloe says. “I knew it was special and couldn’t wait to share the news with Alex.”

A thorough inspection took place the following week, revealing beautiful 140-year-old cedar front doors, high pressed-tin ceilings and a huge walk-in vault in the front room.

“We’ve been told this was Manilla’s second Commercial Bank in town, having been built in 1886 to replace the original,” Chloe says.

In 1903, the bank was again upgraded, this time to the imposing new building next door.

The old bank had been on the market for some time and clearly needed a lot of work. With Alex in a law firm, it was easy finding a solicitor to handle the paperwork. The roof, gutters and drainpipes to the street were replaced, a new bathroom and en suite added and foundations repaired.

One of their home’s greatest attributes is the peace and quiet.

“We spend a lot of time out the back with barbecues and the like,” Alex says. “It’s so peaceful, despite being on the main street. All you can hear is the sound of chirping birds. The building is double brick throughout, making it very cool in summer.”

They feel fortunate to have landed in a small country town that hasn’t lost too many facilities and services. Within walking distance are two butchers (one across the road), bakery, IGA, two cafes, hardware store, medical centre and hospital. Manilla also has a Catholic and Central School.

Both have become active members of the community. Alex joined the Rotary Club while Chloe joined the CWA, hoping to learn the secret recipe of their famous scones. It’s been a great ride and they couldn’t be happier, especially with their new addition to the family, 18-month-old Hazel.

They have been best mates for a long time, having struck up a friendship at Muswellbrook High School. Later they attended the University of New England, Armidale. Chloe studied Environmental Science and Alex studied Law before they moved to Lake Macquarie.

After their bush wedding at Sandy Hollow in 2010, it was time to decide where they wanted to settle down for the long term. In the end, it came down to the regional centres of Bathurst, Dubbo or Tamworth.

Having enjoyed many trips through the Country Music Capital, Alex and Chloe were keen to return to the west. After Alex was offered a job in Tamworth, the deal was done. Chloe works for Umwelt, an environmental consultancy, that allows her to work from home.

Alex normally works from the Tamworth office but is also spending more time working from home due to the pandemic. In Lake Macquarie, his commute to work was up to 75 minutes one way. Battling big lines of traffic is something he doesn’t miss.

“We love Manilla and the warm vibe of living in a small community,” Chloe says. “Everyone has been so welcoming, we are already thinking of this as our forever home.

“We can’t believe the number of beautiful historic buildings in Manilla’s main street and feel so privileged to call one of them our home.” RLM

FACING PAGE: The old bank holds many stories from Manilla’s earliest days; Alex Floyd and Chloe Parkins with baby Hazel and pet dogs Gazzy and Lucky.

FROM TOP: The family love everything about Manilla; the home features a blend of old and new.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Manilla

A breed apart Manilla graziers Dennis and Lou Saint reckon the best move they ever made was getting involved with Speckle Park cattle.

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Manilla T O W N F E AT U R E

Home for Dennis and Lou Saint is the Namoi River valley, where the couple have spent the past eight years importing embryos from Canada to get the best out-cross genetics.

Since 2018, they’ve enjoyed an exclusive arrangement with Legacy Speckle Park stud, importing the entire genetic herd and purchasing four bulls as semen donors.

Dennis has been twice to Canada sourcing genetics but COVID has halted any recent travel plans. They are hopeful of catching up with good friends and business associates in the not too distant future.

Dennis’s parents, Neville and Karel Saint, moved their young family and the nucleus of their Santa Gertrudis stud from Keith, South Australia, to “Florando”, Manilla, in 1978. In previous years, Neville had delivered bulls to the area and was impressed with the land, pastures and five kilometres of Namoi River frontage on the property.

In 1995, the Santa stud was dispersed after Neville and Karel’s retirement. When Dennis and Lou took the reins, they replaced the herd with commercial Angus and supplied steers to Woolworths and feedlots.

“The Speckle Park bombshell was dropped on us in 2009,” Dennis laughs.

“The new and exciting Canadian breed came with some impressive statistics, including great marbling and high-yielding carcass qualities.”

For years, they had been looking for an edge to improve returns and the Speckle Parks ticked all the boxes. In August 2009, they began using AI on their 250 Angus females producing F1 progeny.

“After experiencing outstanding returns, it soon became evident that further commitment in the breed was required,” Dennis says.

Quality stud stock from around Australia were purchased, leading to the establishment of Oakey Creek Speckle Parks in 2011.

With a strong focus on producing quality breeding stock, the stud has grown rapidly, using AI and ET to maximise the genetic potential from the best Canadian sires and females in their herd.

They also cross breed with their Angus females to produce outstanding F1 and F2 calves that out-perform their Angus brothers and sisters in all measurable aspects, for the feedlot and supermarket trades.

“You may not find us in the show ring but that does not lessen our commitment to producing quality stock for stud breeders and the commercial cattleman,” Dennis says. >

ABOVE: A robust bull and full-bodied female line up for the camera.

FACING PAGE: Dennis and Lou Saint are reaching new heights with their Oakey Creek Speckle Parks.

With a strong focus on producing quality breeding stock, the stud has grown rapidly, using AI and ET to maximise the genetic potential from the best Canadian sires and females in their herd.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Manilla

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Manilla T O W N F E AT U R E

The high-marbling meat with a perfect fat covering is sought by restaurants and chefs worldwide for its taste, tenderness and softness.

“We strive to produce cattle that will widen the genetic base of the breed through sourcing the latest genetics from around the world. The end result is an animal that will provide a carcass of outstanding quality.”

The high-marbling meat with a perfect fat covering is sought by restaurants and chefs worldwide for its taste, tenderness and softness. With their fine skin and hair, the cattle adapt well to hot summers as well as being able to “coat up” in cold winters.

“They are tough, real tough,” Dennis grins. “You can throw any harsh climatic situation at them and they survive, get back in calf and rear another good one.

“They are so easy to manage and get back in condition quickly after hard times – traits that stand them in good stead in ours and most environments.”

After 12 years of breeding, Dennis and Lou were finally ready for their inaugural 2021 sale, with 25 bulls averaging $11,000, 10 weaner heifers averaging $7600 and a 100 per cent clearance – an encouraging result for any new stud.

Embracing a new breed comes easily to the Saints. In the early 1990s, they threw themselves into the ostrich business on the property, managing everything from collection of eggs, growing and processing to marketing the end product.

For a few years, they had contracted breeders growing commercial slaughter birds for their company along the

eastern seaboard. These were processed for export at plants in Queensland, NSW and Victoria, with meat and skins finding markets in Asia, Europe and the USA. “We got in when everyone else was getting out,” says Lou, daughter of legendary stock and station agent V J Flett, who died in 2018, and his wife Marie.

“Things were going very well with the ostriches. Dennis was president of the Australian Ostrich Association for five years before the GFC (Global Financial Crisis) crippled the industry overnight.”

As one door slammed shut another one opened in the form of Speckle Park.

“We produce superior breeding stock and pride ourselves on our honesty and integrity,” Dennis says.

“We believe the breed has a huge future in Australia as purebreds and offer great options and premiums in any crossbreeding program. Let us help you become part of our exciting future.” RLM

FACING PAGE: Speckle Park breeders Dennis and Lou Saint predict a big future for commercial cattlemen and stud breeders with their cattle.

• 1409 Namoi River Rd, Manilla NSW 2346 •

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T O W N F E AT U R E Barraba

BARRABA

Barraba boasts a rich history and a strong and vibrant community.

Some 1400 residents have made their home in Barraba, 90 kilometres north of Tamworth on the Fossickers Way. It is believed Barraba means “camp by the river” in the language of the Kamilaroi people, who occupied the region long before the first white man, explorer and botanist Allan Cunningham passed through in 1827.

By the 1820s, squatters were moving into the Liverpool Plains, and Barraba Station was taken up in 1837. In the mid 1840s, Scotsman John McKid opened the first store on the future town site before gold discoveries in the region triggered the birth of the town.

In 1852, the assistant surveyor, J T Gorman, mapped the future town site and buildings began to pop up, first the post office in 1856, the Commercial Hotel in 1878, and Barraba Court House a few years later.

The first Anglican church, St Laurence’s Church of England, was built in 1874-75 on the corner of Alice and Queen streets.

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Barraba was proclaimed a town on March 20, 1885. During the 1890s, more key buildings were built, including the hospital (1891) and Wesleyan Church (1898). The Barraba Gazette was first published in 1900, closing 120 years later.

By 1893, the population in Barraba reached 500, more than doubling to 1164 after World War I. The last section of the railway line from Manilla to Barraba opened in 1908.

The last train to Barraba ran in 1983, with the majority of the line closing in 1987.

In 1933, Connors Creek Dam was constructed as a water supply for the town. Much later (in 2012), a pipeline was built from Split Rock Dam, north of the town, officially opening in 2015.

Copper was discovered at Gulf Creek in 1889 and a mine established in 1892. At its peak, in 1901, the copper mine was one of the largest in the state.

These days, Barraba is known for its painted silos on the northern approach to town. RLM

It is believed Barraba means “camp by the river” in the language of the Kamilaroi people, who occupied the region long before the first white man, explorer and botanist Allan Cunningham passed through in 1827.

ABOVE: The tree-lined main street of Barraba.

Barraba T O W N F E AT U R E

BUILT TO LAST

The streets of Barraba are a testament to the town’s endurance and adaptability.

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S U M M E R story name

days gone by BARRABA

Images courtesy of the Nandewar Historical Society

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Barraba T O W N F E AT U R E

Stories to tell

The Nandewar Historical Society Museum is a treasure trove of Barraba’s past.

The Nandewar Historical Society is a small group with only a handful of active members.

Carolyn Faint, who’s “not a local” (she’s only been living in the town for about 52 years) is one of the more active members.

She came to Barraba as a young teacher in 1969, and within a year was swept off her feet by a local knight in shining armour to become Mrs Sam Faint.

Always with a keen interest in family history, this former Boggabri girl began talking to some of the town’s older residents. Realising there could be a few more stories about, she put a small ad in the local paper, and two books came out of that little exercise.

She was approached by the Nandewar Historical Society to become a member due to her love of family history and telling stories, some passed down through families and dating back to the late 1800s.

The society was formed in 1965, purchasing the historic C G Williams Stock & Station agency premises 10 years later.

Members have been continuously working to turn it into a facility where district stories come to life.

“It’s a beautiful old building, built in the late 1800s, with skylights in the high ceilings and solid as a rock,” Carolyn says.

“We have some wonderful local knowledge in the society.

Margaret Currell, our treasurer, is a treasure trove of local history. Her family dates back generations.”

Members set about refurbishing and painting the old girl, retaining the essence of its past. The idea of rotating displays came to an abrupt halt during COVID-19, but members are now picking up where they left off – cataloguing, digitising family history, and maintaining the additional buildings the society has now amassed.

The Dean Room was moved to the museum site in 1982 from Barraba Central School. Originally a purpose-built woodwork room for students, it’s now housing a wealth of historical treasures, just waiting for their chance to shine.

Coincidentally, Carolyn taught craft in the Dean Room for several years when it was at the school.

There’s also an old blacksmith’s shed, which came from nearby Piedmont Station. When Carolyn began tagging the numerous farm implements, she was baffled at many, so enlisted her husband to help identify them. Sam also helped identify items in the machinery shed, behind the museum.

For any person with ties to Barraba, a visit to the museum can reveal your family history and so much more. It’s a work in progress, but it’s sure to become the centrepiece of all things historical for Barraba and district in years to come. RLM

Nandewar Historical Society members can be proud of their hard work.

The museum features many interesting collections.

Nandewar Historical Society Museum president Carolyn Faint loves sharing Barraba’s history with others.

Old horse harnesses from days gone by.

The shed out the back is full of treasures.

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the bold &

the beautiful Two eye-catching murals are drawing plenty of favourable comments from locals and visitors to Barraba.

In late 2021, the Barraba Public Art Committee proudly announced its latest public art project in Alice Street, Beyond the Wall, by internationally acclaimed artist Jenny McCracken.

Her mural is an explosion of colour and nature, featuring local landmark Horton Falls, in all its rich and glorious beauty.

Committee member Emily Bowman says she hopes the latest art instalment will encourage more visitors to Barraba.

“Our committee’s vision is to create inspiring public art that will attract visitors to our beautiful town – people who will walk down our streets, meet the locals, shop in our shops and stay overnight in our pubs and motels.

“Horton Falls are a popular summertime destination with locals, and they hold fond memories for many. After many years of drought, the falls are once again flowing freely, and this is truly something to celebrate.”

Emily says the artist has perfectly captured this emotion, along with the natural beauty and rich diversity of wildlife in the area.

Look carefully and you will notice 3D elements to the piece, along with the depiction of numerous local species of birds and other animals.

In her artist statement, Jenny says Beyond the Wall is an illusory image of breaking through the constructs of civilisation to a wonderland of treasured memories and natural beauty.

“Horton Falls, the backdrop of the mural, is a local landmark where generations of Barraba families have enjoyed refreshing afternoons, camping, swimming, picnicking and exploring.

“The surrounding bush is a haven for wildlife, birds in particular. Five of the more than a dozen different species of parrots found locally are depicted in the mural.”

The engaging artwork complements the huge mural, The Water Diviner, on the privately owned silos, just minutes from Barraba on the road to Tamworth. Sydney artist Fintan Magee spent four weeks and 300 litres of paint to complete the 40-metre-high mural.

The mural depicts a local water diviner searching for ground water, using a y-shaped twig or rod or two L-shaped ones. Diviners study the landscape of a farm and walk over areas where they suspect the water may be located. Ground minerals and magnetic forces cause the sticks to cross or be pushed downwards when water is located.

“Despite many studies claiming the technique is pseudo-science, diviners continue to be used throughout Australia as a way of finding ground water,” Fintan says.

When visiting Barraba, don’t miss the Regent Honeyeater, with its striking yellow and black plumage, on the southern end silo.

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Public silo art projects throughout Australia are proving to be very successful in attracting visitors to small rural communities, providing an increase in tourism, an injection of spending and a boost to the community.

Barraba Silo Art is a community-driven project, co-ordinated by the Barraba Public Art Committee, with the aim of increasing tourism and attracting visitors to the town.

Public silo art projects throughout Australia are proving to be very successful in attracting visitors to small rural communities, providing an increase in tourism, an injection of spending and a boost to the community.

The committee has liaised with prospective artists to paint another mural in the township in early 2022. This work is featured in the town’s courtyard area at the centre of Barraba’s main street.

The work is highly visible to tourists and is a striking feature of the community meeting space. Emily says the art installation is a colourful and vibrant piece that reflects the community spirit of Barraba. RLM FACING PAGE, FROM TOP: Emily Bowman and Andy Wright, from the Barraba Silo Art committee, in front of the Barraba silos created by Fintan Magee. Absent: Angela Croll and Karen Bishton; the recently finished Bedtime Story, a stunning artwork by Scott Nagy and Janne Birkner, is in the Queen Street mall, along the northern wall of the library.

FROM TOP: The mural is drawing lots of favourable attention; Beyond the Wall is a colourful depiction of Horton Falls by artist Jenny McCracken, pictured in foreground. Image: Jenny McCracken, Zest Events International.

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a class act

As an actor, Andrew Sharp has played many roles, but arguably his finest work has been bringing theatre to Barraba.

Like its owner, The Playhouse Hotel in Barraba delights in the art of surprise.

While the high-quality accommodation surpasses normal expectations of a country pub, it’s the 80-seat studio theatre that truly sets it apart.

Tucked away in the heart of the building, it’s where owner Andrew Sharp feels most alive. It’s a long way from Sydney’s eastern suburbs, where he grew up in the 1950s and ’60s.

“All I ever wanted to do was perform, but throughout my childhood people kept telling me that acting was a poor career choice,” he says with a grin. “Ironically, this only encouraged me.”

His first job was with a theatre-in-education tour of the NSW South Coast, performing in village schools. He remembers this early taste of country life as one of his happiest periods.

For the next 15 or so years, Andrew continued to find work as an actor, both here and in the UK. He appeared in movies and on television, but mostly in live theatre, which was always his first love.

Blessed with a smooth voice and an extrovert’s flair, Andrew appeared in musicals, including the original Sydney production of The Rocky Horror Show, in which he was a natural Brad.

Shortly after arriving in London at the age of 25, he was offered the job of understudy to the lead role in a West End musical.

“Six weeks into the run the star was knocked down by a taxi and badly injured. I arrived at the theatre that night to find myself thrust without warning onto the stage, without even having had a single rehearsal with the other cast members,” he says.

“It turned out to be one of the biggest nights of my life, and I ended up playing the role for several weeks, which led to more work in London.”

Much later Andrew became involved with opera, working as assistant director at the Australian Opera. A highlight was working with Dame Joan Sutherland in her final Sydney performances. He

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returned to England, where he directed opera students at the Royal College of Music and elsewhere.

Andrew arrived in Barraba in 2002 and hasn’t looked back.

“With its old-world tree-lined main street, rich history and vibrant sense of community, Barraba is a quintessential Australian country town and I immediately felt at home,” he says. “There are no other places in the world quite like our bush towns.”

Andrew became involved with a local project to restore Barraba’s disused movie theatre and joined Andy Wright in running the annual Barraba Festival. His connection to the town only deepened.

While the attempt to revive the town’s original cinema wasn’t successful, during that first year a remarkable thing happened – one of the town’s then three remaining pubs (now there’s only one) closed down.

Abandoned and without a liquor licence, the Central Hotel was falling into disrepair. Andrew sensed possibilities, especially for the pub’s former pool hall. He felt that the abandoned room, locked up and forgotten about since the 1980s, would make an ideal theatre.

“It seemed like this was a natural way forward for my life,” he shrugs. “I saw a gap in the community that maybe I could fill.”

Armed with a small inheritance and a lot of faith, he teamed up with local architect Joanne McKid and began planning a complete transformation of the building. Eighteen months later they were ready to start the work. > ABOVE: Everything about The Playhouse has been carefully thought out, from the front entrance through to the flowers, the lavish bathrooms, the impeccably clean bedrooms; locals gather for an enjoyable meal.

FACING PAGE: Forever the actor, Andrew Sharp has stamped his own personality on The Playhouse. His favourite room is the intimate theatre, home of many wonderful memories and concerts; The Playhouse Hotel sits majestically on the corner of the main street.

story name S U M M E R

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A team of local tradesmen was hired to create an entirely new layout. Downstairs soon housed a restaurant and gallery leading to the theatre, while upstairs was restructured as nine bedrooms with private bathrooms. New furnishings, carpets and curtains were installed with a spacious and welcoming entrance foyer.

Two years later, equipped with a new liquor licence, The Playhouse Hotel was ready to open for business.

“I had just turned 50 and had never run a business before, let alone a hospitality one,” he says. “It proved a steep learning curve.

I had to figure everything out as I went along by finding out what people wanted and delivering on their expectations.”

ANDREW ADMITS HE COULD NOT HAVE RESURRECTED THE HOTEL WITHOUT THE HELP AND GOODWILL OF A LARGE NUMBER OF LOCALS. Andrew found that running a hotel wasn’t just a matter of entertaining guests (something he does with aplomb) but that most of the work was hands on. This meant cooking, bed making and cleaning.

The biggest shock was realising most work would be in the laundry.

“Little did I anticipate that the bulk of my time would be spent washing and ironing bedlinen,” he laughs.

“Thank heavens nowadays we outsource the laundry, which is much wiser.”

Over a powerhouse meal in the sun-drenched cafe, RLM learns that Andrew’s maternal grandfather, Bill Davies, was a grazier who briefly owned Warrabah Station, a cattle farm between Barraba and Uralla, and whose horse, Lady Bonty, won a trophy at the 1926 Barraba Picnics. Andrew knew none of this history when he bought the hotel.

“I reckon that after winning that horse race, my grandfather would have shouted the bar in this very room. Where else? The Central Hotel was considered Barraba’s top pub because it was built on the site of the town’s original hotel on its most prominent corner.”

Andrew admits he could not have resurrected the hotel without the help and goodwill of a large number of locals over the past 19 years. The team consists of his good self, chef Shelley Austin, manager Sarah Chalmers and housekeeper Roxy Riley.

When asked if he had advice for anyone else planning on taking on a similar project, Andrew stops for a rare pause. “Don’t be in too much of a hurry to open for business. Plan carefully and don’t always act on your first ideas, because with time, you will discover better ones. And keep the design simple!”

Having built and run a multi-functional destination venue, Andrew is now thinking about what’s next for him and his beloved Playhouse. Whatever he decides, he’ll do it with the natural charm and style for which he has become known. RLM ABOVE: Andrew Sharp has poured his heart and soul into his award-winning hotel; chef Shelley Austin plays a key role at The Playhouse Hotel.

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straight from THE HART The man behind Hart Rural Agencies has always dreamt big.

FACING PAGE: Stock and station agent Charlie Hart has injected new life into the Manilla and Barraba communities.

FROM TOP: M & M assistant manager Nathan Ford and manager Chris Paul with a set of yards; Hugh Trotter, Shak Hussain, Jenny Whitehead and Kobi Passfield at Hart Rural, Manilla; Charlie Hart controls his many business enterprises from his Barraba office.

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Drawing on his 35 years as a stock and station agent, Charlie Hart has built a small business empire providing jobs for about 35 employees and contractors in Manilla and Barraba.

After obtaining his stock and station agent’s licence from Hawkesbury Ag, Charlie commenced his career at Dalgety Winchcombe FGC head office in 1987 before moving to Moree a few months later. Within three years he was appointed Boorowa branch manager and later senior livestock auctioneer in Tamworth.

With all that experience, Charlie bought the Landmark franchise in Barraba in 1995. The Manilla store was purchased a decade later.

Charlie was operating the business under a franchise model before going independent in 2016 as Hart Rural Agencies.

Today, Hart Rural is a versatile one-stop shop, offering rural merchandise, livestock and agronomy services. Real estate is an important component of the business, including rural and residential sales and property management. Hart Rural is also a Stihl agent, selling chemicals, plumbing supplies and much more.

In May 2020, Charlie diversified his business interests with the purchase of M & M Stockyards and Steel Fabrications in Manilla, a high-quality steel-manufacturing business employing eight locals.

For over 30 years, the business has manufactured stockyards, gates and ramps for graziers throughout eastern Australia.

“I knew first-hand how good their yards were and their core philosophies, which aligned with our business,” he says.

The expansion continued into 2021, when Charlie purchased Ray White Rural Bingara to add to the fold. With three employees, they are covering rural and residential sales, property management and livestock services.

Charlie has a busy schedule, attending the Gunnedah stock sales every Tuesday and Tamworth store sales on demand. About 70 per cent of cattle are sold direct from the paddock, the bulk of them contracted to feedlots.

Selling rural properties has become a major part of the business.

Always looking at ways to diversify, Charlie also runs a contract farming business, encompassing three air seeders and a super spreader.

His business philosophy is simple.

“We use capable staff to help grow our clients’ businesses, which in turn, helps grow our own,” he says.

“I’ve always stood by that. My core clients go back 20 years and most of them have grown substantially, both in their acreage and size of their herds.”

Over the years, Charlie has purchased and sold many businesses.

He supports the local community through sponsorship and events, donations, community initiatives and employment.

He lives on “Silverdale”, Barraba, where he is father to six children from two marriages, ranging in age from 16 to 27 years.

No two days at work or home are ever the same. One suspects Charlie Hart would have it no other way. RLM

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treasures Ally Smith’s Babes in the Bush gift shop in Barraba is fresh and fabulous and loved by all.

to behold

Strolling down Barraba’s main street, it’s clear you don’t have to fossick very far for the small country town’s heritage.

Original iron lace balconies still grace The Commercial Hotel, while many of the shop fronts sport details from yesteryear, from ornate lettering to turn-of-the-century brickwork.

Yet, Ally Smith’s store, Babes in the Bush, is anything but antique.

Nestled in the heart of Queen Street, Babes, as it’s affectionately dubbed, still boasts its original stained-glass windows. Opening the door, however, the heritage façade gives way to a fresh and contemporary gift shop, lovingly run by the 26-year-old businesswoman.

“I’m always complimented on the variety of goods we have,” Ally says.

“It’s nearly impossible to not walk out with something!

“Customers often comment, ‘there’s nothing like this where we’re from; you should be proud and your town should feel privileged’. Comments like that make my day!”

Growing up in Bingara and moving to Barraba for her husband’s work on a sheep and beef station, the soon-to-be mum of two took over the business in 2017 after her mother-in-law, Kerrie Smith, established it as something of a local institution.

“Kerrie started Babes in 2001 as a small gift shop. The next closest town to buy gifts was Tamworth – 100 kilometres away,” Ally says.

“In 15 years, she renovated and extended the building as well as the range of items she stocked, and established a great gift store, which I’m fortunate enough to now call mine.”

There is something for everyone in this emporium of treasures, from gifts and home décor, to cane furniture, candles, plants, clothing, toys, delicious condiments and even fresh flowers on request, grown by Ally.

“When I’m not helping on the property or chasing my little one around, you can also find me in my garden that I seem to keep extending and forgetting it means extra work,” Ally laughs. “I sell fresh flowers upon request, which makes all the hard work worth it. I love seeing my produce enjoyed by others.”

Running a small country business in a small country town is difficult at the best of times, yet throw in the worst drought on record and a pandemic, and Ally’s resolve was truly tested.

“COVID hit hard. We were closed for five weeks during lockdown and sales were down 80 per cent,” Ally says.

“I feel like my time as a businesswoman has been tested and can only go up from here.

“Running a business is one of the most rewarding things, and something I’m very proud of.

“I hope my children can look back on my journey and know that they can do anything they set their minds to!” RLM

Words: Emily Herbert Images: Finishing Image Photography

ABOVE: Owner Ally Smith with daughter Evelyn.

FACING PAGE: An inviting shop front beckons customers inside; a diverse collection of quality products to tempt the most discerning purchaser.

THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE IN THIS EMPORIUM OF TREASURES. BARRABA RLM 157

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a fortunate life One of Barraba’s finest treasures, Joyce Abra, is looking ahead to her 102nd birthday on May 21, 2022.

Dearly beloved great-grandmother Joyce Abra has made a habit of defying the odds.

Thanks to improvements in health science and technology, Australians are lasting longer than ever before, but living into one’s 11th decade remains a remarkable and rare feat.

Staff at Richardson House, where Joyce has been a resident for the past five years, are amazed by her health and positive outlook on life. They admit she is almost impossible to beat in quiz shows.

“No one can believe it but I think being an avid reader may have something to do with it,” she says with a twinkle in her eye.

“I love being here at Richardson House. It’s a wonderful place with kind, caring staff.

“The boss here is a woman called Jo. She was a former student of mine when I was teaching and now she’s looking after me. It’s funny how things turn out.”

Joyce enjoyed a happy, carefree childhood on the farm. In 1940, aged 20 and wanting to do her bit for the country, she left Barraba for the first and only time to join the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF).

“I wanted to learn things but ended up in the kitchen, which didn’t make me very happy,” she says.

“In the end, I became a driver for the officers, finishing with a nice job organising the grocery shop in the officers’ mess.”

Her family’s war service runs deep. Joyce’s father, Keith Halloran, served as a sergeant in the Camel Corp in Egypt in 1915 and was involved in the famous charge of the 4th Light Horse at the Battle of Beersheba in 1917.

“He was a truly beautiful man,” she tells RLM as she looks up from her knitting. “He and Mum (Elsie) raised 12 children on the farm – and there wasn’t a dud amongst them!

There was no alcohol in our family – my parents wanted to raise us in the correct manner, which I think they did quite well.”

Joyce met her future husband Col Abra as a seven-year-old at the one-teacher school in Upper Horton. Each day she rode her pony four miles to school and four miles home.

After school, her plans to marry and start a family were interrupted by the war.

Col served as a medic in Singapore, spending four long years as a captive of the

Japanese on the Burma Railway.

“I am, and always have been, a great believer in faith,” she says. “I always knew he would make it back and he did, surviving 48 months of sheer hell in the jungles of Malaya. He was the one miracle I used up all my prayers on.”

Col returned to a tearful reunion in Barraba but was nothing like the fit young man who had left years earlier. Despite his “wrecked” body and shattered nerves, they were married within a fortnight, spending the next 50 years on “Ladysmith” between Barraba and Narrabri.

Not long after, they welcomed their son Tony into the world. After a career in the mounted police, he ran a caravan park in Wellington before retirement, while daughter, Anne Smith, is a trained nurse living in Brisbane.

Since losing her husband in 2002, Joyce has ploughed on, living life to the full.

She feels blessed and thinks fondly of her soulmate every day.

“I’ve lived a good, long life without alcohol or cigarettes,” she grins. “And I always went to church on Sundays. I’m sure all these things helped.”

She certainly has lived longer than her parents, who died in their 40s and 50s, but is fortunate to have four siblings still alive.

To pass the time of day, Joyce relaxes to music or cooking shows on TV. She’s always enjoyed cooking but these days is only a slight eater. For tea tonight, she’ll have mushroom soup followed by a simple slice of toast and a mandarin, washed down with a refreshing cup of tea. Her favourite meal is fresh lamb and vegetables.

Joyce celebrated her centenary during the start of the pandemic. She thought COVID-19 would destroy her hopes for a party but instead the celebrations came to her. Wrapped in blankets, she watched on from a big gold chair placed on the verandah of her nursing home as her siblings drove past, waving and tooting their horns.

“They were followed by another car and then another. They kept coming, a convoy of nearly 100 of them, including men from the police, fire and ambulance squads,

all tooting their horns during a half-hour procession. I felt like the Queen,” she says.

“It really was a beautiful day despite the pouring rain. I may not have got the party but there was plenty of rejoicing.”

Joyce says watching the community come out to celebrate was a wonderful gesture.

“I love them all. They are a grand mob.

I’ve known them all since year dot and they’re just lovely people.”

It was a fitting tribute to Joyce, who is affectionately known throughout town as Aunty Abra. She has two loving children, four doting granddaughters and 10 great grandchildren, so who knows what will happen when the town gem turns 102. RLM FACING PAGE: Joyce Abra is a Barraba treasure.

FROM TOP: Joyce found everything she wanted in her husband Col; Joyce was remembered on the 75th anniversary of the end of the war in 2020.

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be our

GUEST Visitors to Barraba need look no further than Andy’s Guest House in the middle of the main street.

Light and breezy, Andy’s Guest House has everything one might expect to find in a tastefully renovated home.

The large front room features a comfortable lounge area for watching TV or chatting by the fire, with stylish hand-made furniture, indoor plants, library and piano.

Then there’s the dining area and fully equipped kitchen. Most guests choose to dine out but a fully cooked breakfast, with fresh eggs from out the back, is all part of the deal.

Your convivial hosts, Andy Wright and Miro Klacko, invite you to make yourself at home – and what a delightful home it is! Close to shops and amenities, the guest house is the perfect spot for exploring the main drag’s shops, cafes and restaurants.

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through parts of America, Canada and Europe, and had always been well accommodated. It was time, he felt, to return the favour.

With Andy’s enthusiasm, it became a meeting place in town, hosting Chess Club for 10 years, and a 16-member a cappella choir, aptly named Barrapella, for 17 years. He was also active in organising an annual music festival for 20 years.

From 2014, major renovations transformed the place to its current form. “So much love has gone into this place,” Andy says, referring to friends who collaborated in the renovations. “It has been such a joy.”

Andy continues to be a great advocate for Barraba. He is active with Frost Over Barraba Art Festival and the Barraba Public Art Group, and is always welcoming visitors to town – often for births, weddings and family reunions.

The other half of Andy’s Guest House is IT project manager Miro, who discovered Barraba, and Andy, in 1999, during one of his overseas adventures. In 2015, Andy travelled to Slovakia for a catch-up. Their relationship culminated in their 2020 marriage in front of family and friends under the old olive tree in their beautiful Barraba garden.

It’s Andy’s first relationship, and now in his 60s, he couldn’t be happier. Miro, meanwhile, sees the potential to start up a new business in Barraba.

In the meantime, he is injecting much fun and laughter into the place and is another engaging element for visitors to Andy’s Guest House. RLM FACING PAGE: Convivial host of Andy’s Guest House, Andy Wright, loves the atmosphere in his Queen Street lodgings; attention to detail abounds in this unique accommodation package, especially in the bedrooms.

A verandah leads from the front room, revealing an enchanting garden to the right, and access to guest rooms to the left. It then leads to another relaxing haven further out the back to sit and enjoy the ambience of the place.

The two guest rooms are simple yet elegant. Each room comprises a queen and a single bed, with beautiful linen sheets, Minijumbuk underlays and doonas. Each room comes with its own en suite and air-conditioning.

Local craftsman and farmer Dan Harris has made the exquisite furnishings throughout the building from timber milled near Mount Kaputar. The dreamy watercolours are by talented Tamworth artist Yvonne Overton.

Andy discovered Barraba in the late 1970s while working in a nearby mine. The mining engineer was so impressed he made a tree change, leaving Sydney in 1993 for life in this small country town.

“I enjoy the dry climate west of the divide and love the country – the open horizons, the brilliant night sky and the peace and quiet of the bush,” he says.

“It’s really about freedom, living a relaxed country lifestyle and being part of a switched-on community that I’ve come to know and respect.”

In 1995, he started Andy’s, “the world’s second smallest backpackers’ lodge”, in a disused 1930s cafe. The building had also served as a haberdashery and a furniture shop before becoming an accountant’s office for 40 years, complete with false ceiling and a myriad of offices. It took a year to strip out the front room and restore it to its original dimensions, including a high 4.2-metre ceiling.

The fireplace and kitchen were the first major instalments as Andy went about creating a home away from home for backpackers. He had spent years travelling, often hitch-hiking

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fields of dreams After hanging up his footy boots, former Wallaby Tom Bowman always knew he would end up on the family farm.

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Rugby consumed the early years of Tom Bowman’s life but these days the fifth-generation Barraba farmer prefers running his Wagyu/Angus herd with wife Emily rather than charging into opposing numbers on the football paddock.

Tom’s great grandfather, George Bowman, settled on “Tarpoly” in the early 1900s, and the family have been there ever since. It was typically sheep country until the 1980s, when the family switched to beef production.

The Barraba Rugby Union Football Club was established in 1964, just a dozen years before the birth of the club’s star player. Young Tom played with the Rams before heading off to Sydney for seven years of boarding at The Scots College.

For three years (1992-94), he played in the 1st XV, winning the GPS competition in Year 11. In his final two years, Tom was selected in the GPS 1st XV, NSW 1st XV and Australian Schoolboys.

With runs on the board, it was only a matter of time before Tom would lace up the boots for the green and gold. His Test debut against England at Ballymore in 1998 was one he’ll never forget. Never could he have envisaged the humiliating 76-0 drubbing the Wallabies inflicted on their hapless opponents that afternoon.

Tom scored his first Test try in one of the biggest games of his life in Christchurch, New Zealand, against the all-conquering All Blacks.

After picking up a loose pass on the attacking 22-metre line, he sidestepped the great Jonah Lomu, broke out of a tackle from Justin Marshall and beat a desperate dive from Zinzan Brooke to help secure a hard-earned 27-23 victory and win the Bledisloe Cup. The pinnacle of his two-year international career was the 1999 Rugby World Cup in Cardiff, UK, the spiritual home of world rugby.

After a cliffhanger against the highly fancied Springboks in the semifinal, only France stood in the way of victory and the Webb Ellis Cup. Tom describes it as a phenomenal time in Australian rugby with some very “tough” lads in the squad. The towering six-foot eight, 120kg powerhouse is remembered for his partnership with captain John Eales in one of the country’s most successful rugby seasons of all time.

After playing 16 Tests, Tom retired from NSW rugby in 2003 and headed to Italy for a season with Rugby Viadana, followed by a second season with Munster in Ireland. Apart from rugby, the one constant in his life was his girlfriend Emily. The Aussies loved living in Europe, especially the regular ski trips to the mountains.

While overseas, Tom took a call from his mother, informing him his father needed help on the farm. His rugby days were over. It was finally time to come home.

Tom and Emily were married in 2006 and have three children – Sybella, 14, Alessia, 12, and Oliver, 10.

Emily grew up in Avalon, on Sydney’s northern beaches. As a young girl she was horse mad, working at a local horse-riding school as a part-time job while at high school. She later studied Economics at Macquarie University and worked in marketing in Sydney. >

ABOVE: Emily, Alessia, Sybella, Oliver and Tom Bowman and cattle on their Barraba farm; Tom’s try helped secure the Bledisloe Cup. FACING PAGE: Former Wallaby Tom Bowman is a fifth-generation farmer.

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T O W N F E AT U R E Barraba For many years she volunteered as a surf lifesaver at Palm Beach Surf Club. A beach girl at heart, she has passed on her love of swimming and water sports to her children.

“Although we live in the country, many hours from the coast, we still manage to fit in plenty of water activities,” she says.

“The kids love water-skiing on the local dam and surf when we can get away to the beach. We also make the 150km round trip to swimming squad each week.”

It’s a hectic pace but one they are used to.

Although Tom’s rugby days finished a long time ago, all those years of punishing his body have taken their toll.

“I still feel aches and pains in my legs and ankles when fencing or walking up a hill,” he admits with a grin. The memories of those halcyon days, however, make up for any discomfort.

After 15 years on the land, Tom rarely talks about his days as Wallaby #743. Apart from a signed jersey tucked out the back of the house, there’s no memorabilia or Bowman hall of fame.

These days he is more at home discussing the weather, his cow herd or his kids.

“The drought was shocking and I’m just glad we made it through,” he says. “It put an enormous strain on our physical and mental wellbeing.

“We saw the worst of Mother Nature and now we are seeing the best, with aboveaverage annual rainfall and record cattle prices.” RLM

ABOVE: The Bowman family love the beach as much as the farming lifestyle.

T he birth of Seeking Summer

They say the best innovation comes from experiencing a problem. Seeking Summer was born out of Emily Bowman’s frustration with lugging around bulky towels for family trips to the beach or swimming lessons.

To overcome this, she created a range of lightweight, compact and highly absorbent towels. They roll down to the size of a drink bottle, are generous in size, feel soft and look great.

“As a mum of three active kids, I was constantly packing towels for various adventures, but they never seemed to fit in one bag – not to mention if they were sandy and wet on the way home.”

Emily believed there had to be a better alternative. That’s when she came across microfibre beach towels, which appeared to tick all the boxes.

“I looked around and found that whilst there were some options out there, I didn’t like any of the designs available. After months of research and development, I created the Seeking Summer towel, designed with families in mind,” she says.

“Best of all, the towels are also sand free. The tightly woven fabric means sand

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doesn’t stick, even when wet, so families can leave the sand at the beach, where it belongs.”

Emily explains that starting her business in 2020 was born out of a logistical necessity. “I was driving over 700 kilometres each week to and from work, and the constant juggle of managing the family’s needs, along with the endless travel, was becoming too much,” she says.

“I wanted to start my own business so I could work from home on the farm, but had no idea how to begin. I completed an online course for budding entrepreneurs called Lady Startup, and it was a game-changer.”

Emily encourages other women on the land who are thinking about starting their own business to jump in and get started.

“There is so much support out there for women start-ups, particularly in rural areas. Although it can seem a bit daunting at first, starting your own business can bring immeasurable rewards and great satisfaction.” RLM

ABOVE: Emily Bowman with her unique beach towels; the Bowmans on the farm.

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The Perfect Escape Inverell Terrace Motor Lodge is the perfect place to stay while on business, or as a destination to visit some of our wonderful local attractions.

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Specialising in ingredients, equipment and knowledge for making artisan drinks and food by hand at home.

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(L–R) Les Parsons OAM, Rob Parsons,

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Dubbo duo A U T U M N

mutual

admiration DUBBO IDENTITIES JOHN AND JACQUI TOOTH LOVE THEIR HOME TOWN AS MUCH AS IT LOVES THEM.

Well-known Dubbo couple John and Jacqui Tooth have a genuine love of people.

During their busy professional careers, John (an obstetrician and gynaecologist) and Jacqui (a midwife) provided specialised care for tens of thousands of women and treasured the roles they played in helping to bring babies into the world.

Now retired, the husband-and-wife team is enjoying a relaxed lifestyle in the inland city that captured their hearts 37 years ago.

“Dubbo is the centre of our universe,” Jacqui says.

“It is where we built our home, raised our family and developed wonderful friendships. We wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”

John concurs, citing the city’s wellequipped medical, educational, cultural and sporting facilities, and the connectivity provided by a leading regional airport.

Growing up in Sydney, John came to appreciate country life thanks to regular visits to the north coast of NSW where his grandfather and aunt had dairy farms.

After completing a bachelor of industrial chemistry, he embarked on a medical degree, graduating from the University of NSW in 1974.

He worked at Wollongong Hospital and spent two years in general practice at Kiama before undertaking specialist training in obstetrics and gynaecology at Royal Newcastle Hospital and St Asaph Hospital in North Wales.

John came to Dubbo in February 1984 at the invitation of doctors Christopher Halloway and Geoff Jackel.

“We had all been registrars at Royal Newcastle Hospital. I always wanted to be a rural doctor, and Dubbo presented an opportunity to join two people who I respected and enjoyed working with.”

Jacqui was born in West London where her mother, Patricia Warne, was a midwife.

“Occasionally I would accompany my mother and it was just like the television series Call the Midwife,” she said.

“I have always been a bit of a chatterbox and loved the opportunity to meet beautiful people from all around the world.”

Jacqui’s father, John Warne, was an industrial chemist who managed a chemical firm. When the UK government offered significant decentralisation grants, the company relocated to North Wales where Jacqui and her brother finished their schooling.

Jacqui became a registered nurse at Bangor and studied midwifery at St Asaph.

With two friends living in Sydney, she set off on a backpacking tour to Australia.

“I had a contact list of names, including John, who I knew professionally when we worked together at St Asaph.

“John was working at Dubbo and I was interested in seeing an Australian hospital. I wrote to him and a visit was arranged in December 1984. When I met Diana Evans and other midwives they asked if I would be interested in working in Dubbo. The answer was yes.”

Jacqui went back to the UK and made arrangements to return to Australia.

When Jacqui and John decided to get married, her parents urged her to follow her dreams.

She worked as a midwife at the Dubbo specialist obstetric and gynaecology practice and also did casual shifts in the hospital labour ward.

Fortnightly trips were made to Dungog, where John had purchased a small farm in 1981. The eight-hectare (20-acre) property on the Williams River had two horses, two donkeys and some poddy calves.

It was the perfect location for weekend visits with John’s older children Sarah, Daniel and Benjamin, who lived in Newcastle. >

FACING PAGE: John and Jacqui enjoy their spacious garden.

FROM TOP: John, aged 2 years, with his father at the 1948 Sydney Royal Easter Show; John and Jacqui’s wedding in Wales, 1985; family time at ‘Kingaley’ Dungog, Daniel, Jeremy, Ben, Jacob, John with their much loved border collie, Erica.

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A U T U M N Dubbo duo

The family expanded with the arrival of two sons.

“I had 10 weeks off work when Jacob was born and 12 weeks for Jeremy,” Jacqui says.

“John’s parents, Aubrey and Phyllis, had retired and moved to Dubbo and they loved looking after the boys.”

Obstetrics doesn’t follow a typical nineto-five day so John was frequently called out at all hours of the day and night.

On one memorable occasion there was loud banging on the front door of their home.

“Our phone wasn’t working so the police were sent around to alert me that I was needed at the hospital.”

Despite his busy work schedule, John played a number of roles in the local community. He was the inaugural chairman of the Buninyong Public School Parents and Citizens Association, spent several years on the Dubbo Hospital medical staff council, and served on various health organisations, including the western area health board.

Jacqui organised luncheons to raise money for Save The Children Fund and co-ordinated the Target UnitingCare Christmas Appeal to assist local disadvantaged families and individuals.

As an active member of Dubbo Uniting Church, she is part of a group that connects with the community by volunteering in varied projects such as Meals on Wheels, community kitchen and food parcel distribution.

Jacqui has been involved with Dubbo Theatre Company since 2002 and thrives on the joy of performance.

“I love singing and being part of productions,” she says.

“The latest show, Mamma Mia, was fabulous and our company managed to perform eight shows during the pandemic.”

From 1995 to 2013, John and Jacqui raised Black Angus cattle on a 323-hectare (800-acre) property at Rawsonville, west of Dubbo.

They enjoyed having a rural interest and, with a professional understanding of genetics, built up a good herd over a number of years.

The farm was sold to Little Big Dairy Co when the couple decided to do more travelling.

“Dubbo’s geographical location makes it easy to get anywhere quite quickly,” John says.

“Jacqui is able to get back to the UK in a day – bags can be checked in at Dubbo and picked up at Heathrow.

“We enjoyed some wonderful trips before COVID hit at the end of 2019. The pandemic changed life considerably and it has been difficult to go anywhere, even to see Jacob and his family in Brisbane.

“Because Jeremy lives in Dubbo, we were able to be in a bubble with him and his wife and son.

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FROM 1995 TO 2013, JOHN AND JACQUI RAISED BLACK ANGUS CATTLE ON A 323-HECTARE (800-ACRE) PROPERTY AT RAWSONVILLE, WEST OF DUBBO.

“Times have changed now thanks to double vaccination and as restrictions continue to ease, we are looking forward to visiting family and friends and seeing more of Australia and the world.”

John and Jacqui maintain an active lifestyle and play golf on a regular basis.

John walks 9km with friends each week and is part of Grumpy Old Men, a social group of retirees from a broad range of backgrounds. Wives are invited to attend as Grumpy Women at the annual Christmas party.

Jacqui enjoys gardening and spent extra time on their 0.8-hectare (two-acre) block

during the pandemic lockdown. As a result, the garden looks fabulous.

The couple is devoted to their five children and 11 grandchildren and value modern communications allowing the close-knit family to stay connected.

“Life is good,” they say.

“We have met so many beautiful people over the years, and the Dubbo community has been incredible for both of us.” RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

FROM TOP: John holding Gill Pedrana’ s book People Matters featuring Dubbo residents’ stories and portraits; Jacqui and John thrive on a relaxed lifestyle in Dubbo.

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Opening hours Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 1pm

a heartbreaking tribute More than a century after Private Hubert Henry Smith died during World War 1, descendants of the young soldier and the people of Barmedman turned out on Anzac Day 2021 to honour their fallen sons.

ABOVE: Private Hubert Henry Smith. Lest We Forget; Barmedman’s Cenotaph during the town’s Anzac Day commemoration; Isabella Smith (1878-1962) pictured in the orchard at Klondyke, via Barmedman.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Laurie Smith, of West Wyalong, holds a portrait of his uncle, Private Hubert Henry Smith; Private Hubert Henry Smith, from Klondyke, via Barmedman, was killed in action at the Second Battle of Bullecourt, France, in May 1917, aged 19; Air Force, Army and Navy representatives march along Queen Street, Barmedman; the Australian flag flies at half-mast at the Barmedman Cenotaph at Barmedman; Hubert Henry Smith’s name among the fallen on the Cenotaph at Barmedman.

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Hubert Smith, or “Pat” as he was affectionately known, was only 19 years old when he was killed in action on the Western Front in the Second Battle of Bullecourt, sometime between May 5 and 8, 1917.

His body was never recovered from the fields of France, and his name is just one of more than 10,000 that are etched in stone on the Australian War Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux.

Hubert was the eldest son of Isabella “Bella” and Hubert “Bert” Smith, from “Klondyke”, via Barmedman, when he enlisted at the age of 17, joining the 1st Battalion of the Australian Imperial Force and sailing from Australia’s shores on the HMAT Wiltshire in August 1916.

As a youngster, Hubert and his brothers and sisters were regular contributors to Uncle Jeff’s Children’s Page in The Albury Banner and Wodonga Express, and their letters painted a vivid picture of life in Barmedman in the early 1900s.

In September 1907, 10-year-old Hubert described Barmedman as having “three hotels, three stores, one blacksmith’s shop, two butcher’s shops and several fruit shops”.

The Smith children told of their three-mile walk to school, milking cows and tending poddy lambs, ploughing the paddocks and poisoning rabbits; life was hard but also full of promise.

“My brother and I are gathering dead wool (wool from dead sheep) and I think we will make our fortunes at it,” Hubert wrote to the paper.

But by late 1917, the war had already taken a terrible toll, as Hubert’s younger sister Elsie reported almost matter-of-factly: “My brother has been killed at the war. We have had over four inches of rain this last fortnight. Dad has finished hay cutting.”

Today, Barmedman has a population of just 230. Two majestic hotels, the Barmedman Hotel, with its iron lace verandah, and the Queensland Hotel, are closed, as are the majority of shops in the main street.

The main attraction is the town’s Mineral Pool but the COVID pandemic has curtailed the travel plans of many visitors to the district.

Pride in Barmedman and its forebears, however, is undiminished and the 2021 Anzac Day commemoration was bolstered by visiting representatives of the Air Force, Army and Navy, who marched alongside schoolchildren and townfolk down the wide main street to the Cenotaph.

Hubert’s descendants, including his nephew Laurie Smith from West Wyalong, and nieces Elva Fuge from Forbes and Zanette Fang from Wagga, joined members of the community who placed wreaths on the Cenotaph in memory of the fallen. >

Anzac tribute A U T U M N

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A U T U M N Anzac tribute

A portrait of Hubert in uniform and other war items from the district were respectfully displayed in the window of the Arts and Craft Coffee Shop in Queen Street, where lunch was served.

Hubert’s mother, Bella, was 38 and heavily pregnant with the seventh of her eight children when her first-born was killed; Albert Oswald Smith was born just 77 days later.

Bella and Bert were heartbroken, their disbelief, anger and pain recorded in handwritten letters kept in the National Archives of Australia.

In a letter addressed to the Secretary of War and dated June 1, 1917, Bert wrote: “I think there may be some mistake” adding that Hubert had mentioned there was another boy with the same initial and surname in the 1st Battalion.

His parents wrote numerous letters, some two years after Hubert’s death, begging for more information and the return of their son’s personal effects, including his diary and identification “dog tag” discs.

“We would be satisfied even with his disc but would very much like to get his diary,” Bella wrote to the Officer in Charge in April 1919.

In October of that year, Bella and Bert were advised that Defence was unable to supply any information regarding Hubert’s kit and that further investigations were not possible.

The only item Bella and Bert would ever receive was their son’s prayer book, sent to them by a friend.

Smith family descendants say Bella never fully accepted, let alone recovered from, Hubert’s death, and that she would often sit in the orchard at Klondyke, expecting, longing, to see her son walking along the road back home.

She refused to ever leave Klondyke, believing that if she did, Hubert wouldn’t know where to find them when, if, he returned.

Equally heartbreaking are the accounts of Hubert’s death, contained in the pages of the Australian Red Cross Wounded and Missing Enquiry Bureau Files, that capture the bloodiness and confusion of the Battles of Bullecourt, which ended the life of Hubert and thousands of other young Australians.

Private Clark wrote: “I saw (Smith) killed at Bullecourt on 5th May by a shell. He was right in the Hindenburg Line at the time, the part we had just taken, with a party of Lewis (machine) gunners. The whole party was blown up. His body was buried beyond recovery. We dug down and recovered some of the bodies but had to leave his and others because of the shelling.”

And this from Private Magann: “I saw Smith hit by a German

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sniper at Bullecourt early in May 1917. He was in our frontline trench. He was about two yards from me when hit. He was shot through the head and fell dead. About an hour after the death I helped to bury him just behind the trench.”

The Smith family paid a heavy price, losing not only Hubert but also his uncle and two cousins in World War 1.

By 1938, Australia was again at war, and Bella and Bert would live to see their third son, Albert, being posted to Bougainville in New Guinea.

But it wasn’t patriotism that made Albert enlist in the Army; a severe frost in 1939 all but decimated the Smiths’ wheat crop and, as Albert wrote in his memoirs, he believed he “would be better off shot than starve to death growing wheat”.

Thankfully, Albert’s life was spared, and when he returned home from the war, Bella wallpapered the walls of Klondyke to celebrate his homecoming and served Christmas cake.

Isabella Maude Smith died in 1962 and is buried next to her husband, Hubert Albert Smith (1871-1957), in the Barmedman Cemetery. RLM Words: Liz Tickner

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Members of the community and descendants of the fallen pay their respects during Barmedman’s Anzac Day commemoration; wreaths to honour the fallen are placed on Barmedman’s Cenotaph during the town’s Anzac Day commemoration; schoolchildren march along Queen Street, Barmedman, to the Cenotaph; piper Callum McLaren leads the catafalque party in Queen Street to the Cenotaph.

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A U T U M N inspiration

in the name of LOVE

The story of Therese Newman and her family is one of love and resilience in the face of overwhelming, heartbreaking adversity.

Growing up in Newcastle, Therese had a challenging childhood.

The eldest of 11, she naturally shared the mothering of her siblings.

However, as Therese matured, she became eager to leave the struggles and unhappiness that had tormented her childhood.

When Therese met Brian Newman, before too long he won her affections and the two planned for marriage and children. Considering the large family Therese had grown up in, she quickly determined that four children would be a good number to love and to tend.

At first, conceiving proved to be tricky but when Therese finally fell pregnant, her natural mothering instinct kicked in. The young couple were elated. However, by 24 weeks’ gestation, Therese knew something wasn’t right. She needed to seek medical assistance.

It was mid May 1974, when Therese lay in a hospital bed, unable to sleep. She had informed the nurse that her pain had intensified.

Less than sympathetic, the nurse simply told her to go back to sleep.

Finally, Therese screamed in pain and the same nurse was forced to gather doctors for further analysis. With Therese’s worst fears confirmed, her physical pain subsided as the miscarriage progressed to completion. Without explanation, Therese’s child was whisked away. Therese was inconsolable.

Looking for answers, Therese was finally informed that her baby was a little girl. She hadn’t grown correctly and had died while in utero. Therese wasn’t finished with her inquiries. “Where is my baby now?” she asked. But the answer did not comfort and there was not an opportunity for goodbyes.

Left to battle with their grief, the couple were simply advised to “go home and try again”.

Craig’s arrival into the world, on June 2, 1975 was a time for celebration. A gorgeous little fellow, Craig thrived. Though nothing could take away the memory of the couple’s first daughter, Craig was the healing that everybody needed.

Craig was followed by Troy, born on January 19, 1977, and then Corynna (Cory), born September 9, 1979. Therese had been blessed with a beautiful family, just as she had always wanted. The couple couldn’t have been happier.

When Craig reached Year 2, a school nurse informed the family that something wasn’t quite right with his eyesight. A string of medical appointments followed but the source of the problem remained a mystery. Craig began to experience increased thirst and urination. Still, nobody could quite pinpoint what the issue was, even though several months had passed since the school nurse first raised concerns.

One afternoon, Therese and Craig rested together on the lounge as they were both suffering from a virus. They watched on as Troy

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and Corynna played on the floor. Craig was out of sorts and mixing his words in an almost incoherent fashion. As Craig’s eyes rolled back into his head, Therese hastily rang for an ambulance. “What on earth is happening?” she wondered. At the hospital, the doctors quickly administered insulin to lower Craig’s blood sugar levels.

Craig had been lapsing into a diabetic coma.

Therese and Brian learned how to manage Craig’s diabetes. “We can cope with this,” Therese assured herself, while practising her syringe skills on an orange. However, the true extent of Craig’s illness was yet to be disclosed.

After a week in hospital, Therese and Brian were approached by a doctor, who requested the couple follow him to another room for a private chat.

“I know what is wrong with Craig,” the doctor informed. “He has a rare recessive genetic disorder called DIDMOAD Syndrome.”

The seriousness of Craig’s disorder was soon revealed as the acronym was explained: Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetes Insipidus, Optical Atrophy and Deafness. The words washed over Therese and Brian, who struggled to make sense of what they were hearing.

After that, not a lot of information about the syndrome was forthcoming. However, the doctor’s next suggestion alluded to larger battles, still yet to be fought.

“Teach him music,” the doctor said sympathetically. “He will be blind by the time he is a teenager.”

Now pregnant with the couple’s youngest child, Kate, Therese felt concerned about the prospect of having another child who may potentially develop the disorder. Still, there was no time to dwell. Therese did exactly as the doctor had suggested. The family saturated themselves in music. It fed the family’s souls and gave them the energy to face each new challenge.

Craig was a born entertainer. He loved to play piano and guitar, tell jokes, recite poetry and sing. With a particular penchant for Chad Morgan, Craig’s rendition of The Sheik from Scrubby Creek made everyone laugh. At children’s parties, Craig’s magic shows kept the young ones utterly enthralled. By all accounts, he was a delightful child who never complained about the hardships brought on by his syndrome. He just got on with it. > CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A family photo with Santa in 1986. Craig, 11, Kate, 4, Santa, Cory, 6, and Troy, 9; a recent photo of Therese and Brian at home; Kate, Troy and Cory, always the best of friends; Cory, Sam and much-loved Kadie-Rose celebrating Mother’s Day 2021; a family photo was difficult to organise as life was very hectic, so this photo is precious. Brian, Craig, 16, Troy, 14, Cory, 12, Therese and Kate, 10; Cory after winning a ballet competition at age 12.

story name A U T U M N

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Kate arrived on August 15, 1981. Therese and Brian’s family was now complete. Raising four children, together with the time and dedication that Therese and Brian’s various study, work and musical pursuits would demand, made life hectic. Combined with Craig’s illness, the family’s challenges often felt overwhelming.

“It was near impossible to enjoy a family outing. Craig’s illness kept us in constant search of restrooms.”

Thankfully, the strength and guiding influence of Brian, a dutiful husband and father, was ever present. Therese says that Brian was the best father that any child could wish for.

“He worked a seven-day roster, shift work, as a foreman at Tomago Aluminium, at Hexham, and yet he still threw himself into looking after Craig.”

Each night Brian would set an alarm for 12am so that he could get up and check on Craig’s blood sugar levels. His love and commitment to his son, and all his children, was unflinching.

As time went on, however, Therese and Brian soon worked out that diabetes, visual impairment and deafness were only the very basics of the disorder. Ulcerated eyes, epileptic fits, uncontrolled bladder and difficulty breathing were all huge obstacles that needed constant attention as Craig’s symptoms progressed. Though Craig’s health was in severe decline, his popularity among his peers still shone and he was elected vice captain at his school. “Craig took the position very seriously. It meant the world to him,” Therese says.

Science predicts that those who are genetic carriers of DIDMOAD statistically have a one in four chance of having a child who might develop the disorder, for each one of their pregnancies. Nothing could have prepared the Newman family for the events of 1988.

Within three months of each other, Kate, 8, and Troy, 11, were both diagnosed with DIDMOAD Syndrome. After learning about Kate’s diagnosis, Troy had taken it upon himself to check his blood sugar level with Craig’s glucometer. He, too, had been feeling unwell. Within seconds, Troy had confirmed his own fears, and broke the news to his parents. Therese was heartbroken.

If the family’s lives were not already stretched, they were about to be placed under even more pressure. Any semblance of the Newmans’ already ravaged family life was quickly replaced by strict care regimes that needed to be followed to the letter. A lapse in concentration, or a moment of forgetfulness, could potentially signal a diabetic hypo in the middle of the night. But even with the strictest due diligence, occurrences like these would still happen and Craig especially would often be whisked to the hospital without warning.

Throughout this time, Therese and Brian remained stoic, however, Therese describes an apparent numbness that had fallen upon them as they navigated the children’s daily care routine on auto pilot.

“Though Brian and I stayed together as a couple, the stress of the situation saw us live in our own little bubbles as the nightmare continued to unfold. I always held on to the fact that Brian was the backbone of the family. He always wanted the very best for all of us.”

Within a year of Troy and Kate’s diagnosis, the family endured two more significant blows. Craig’s breathing deteriorated and he needed a CPAP machine while sleeping.

Eventually, at age 14, Craig had a tracheotomy and was placed on ventilation. Still, even this latest blow to Craig’s health profile did not remove his lust for life. At the hospital, Craig kept the nurses entertained with his quick wit, joke telling and general charm.

However, his parents knew that his health was in decline.

DIDMOAD Syndrome has no one degenerative path. Besides the typical DIDMOAD symptoms, Troy later developed cancer (Hodgkin’s lymphoma) and Kate developed epilepsy, breathing difficulties and a heart condition, among other insidious conditions. The challenges kept coming.

However, Craig, Troy and Kate, all consciously chose to live their best lives. Craig, with his various artistic gifts including his love of

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guitar, Troy, with his guitar and drums, and Kate, with her violin and piano. At age 15, she was honoured with the task of singing Bette Midler’s The Rose at her friend’s wedding. She loved the thrill of public performance, and this memory was one of her favourites.

After enduring chemotherapy for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, at age 14, Troy joined Camp Quality and CanTeen. Having previously lived a life in the shadow of older brother Craig, things were about to change. This new and exciting experience grew Troy’s confidence and unveiled the leader within him.

Troy was empathetic and strong, and reached out to those around him in need. Though he knew that some of his friends would only have short journeys, and even though he was faced with the concept of his own mortality, Troy always provided comfort and support to those struggling. Therese was proud of her son’s profound wisdom. After Troy had endured yet another friend’s death, he expressed an understanding well beyond his years.

“I am glad to have known him, if only for a little while, than not at all,” Troy told his mother.

Therese says there was always some medical appointment that needed attending or some medical procedure just around the corner. The busyness of the Newman family was lost on no one, especially the couple’s second youngest, Cory.

Cory did not have DIDMOAD, though she was a carrier, and as a small child, who had her own needs, there never seemed to be enough of her parents’ love or attention to go around. Full-time caregiving, to three high-needs children, often left Therese and Brian both physically and emotionally bankrupt at day’s end.

Suddenly, when Cory was nine years old, her eyes began to progressively deteriorate. Though testing showed little problem,

inspiration A U T U M N

her sight was becoming worse. It had become quite apparent, that now all four of the Newman children had DIDMOAD Syndrome.

After Cory turned 11, Therese started discussions around which school she would need to attend. It was obvious Cory would need a school that provided additional support as her condition worsened.

Cory seemed less than impressed with her mother’s ideas.

“Mum, can I talk to you?” Cory asked, hesitantly. “There is nothing wrong with my eyes.”

Cory had simply wanted to be like her siblings. It was understandable. Cory was a child. This insidious syndrome had not only stolen her playmates’ health but the attention of both her parents. Therese and Brian understood and were not angry.

“We were absolutely relieved. We hugged her and told her that it was OK.” Though it had been two years of additional stress for the family, Therese can’t help but marvel: “She was a great little actress!”

When Troy was 15, he and his buddy Mark came up with the idea that they would ride from Sydney to Newcastle to raise funds and awareness for CanTeen. Numerous cyclists came on board. And so was born the Troy Newman Cycle Trek.

The first year, Troy was exhausted, and in a dramatic climax to the last leg of the ride, two assistants walked beside his bike, just to keep him upright. His strength and determination were admired by all.

The event was highly successful and ran for seven years. Each year, the mayor would be at the finish line, ready to greet him.

Eager to share this experience, for many years, Troy would ride a tandem to ensure that his brother, Craig, and then later his sister, Kate, could join in.

Troy enjoyed being a leader and a role model. Furthermore, his strength in character meant that he was very good at it.

Completing a Toastmasters course, Troy took his voice and his lived experience to speak at many events, raising awareness and giving hope to others who might experience similar hardships.

An opportunity arose for Troy and Craig to participate in an even bigger charity bike ride, from Newcastle to Queensland. This time, however, the brothers took a carer to tend their medical needs.

Now an ambassador for CanTeen, Troy started to be noticed for his achievements. In his later high school years, Troy was awarded the Certificate of Commendation for the Order of Australia.

Therese recounts being served sandwiches without the crusts at Government House, and just for a day, feeling a little bit royal.

Troy was also a finalist in the Young Australian of the Year Awards in the category of Community Service. It was a massive thrill to have been nominated.

Death is seldom expected, even when all the signs are there.

Therese says that this is especially true when it is your own children who are dying. The couple had long considered that where there was life, there was always hope. Furthermore, DIDMOAD Syndrome had been described as a progressive disease, but Therese and Brian never realised, nor were they prepared to accept the fact that it was going to be terminal.

“Eventually, we worked it out and we knew what would happen.

Children work things out too. Children know.”

Charming Craig, the natural and delightful entertainer, was first to depart. From the age of 21, Craig had needed to live in full-time care at John Hunter Hospital. The syndrome had begun to affect not only his breathing but his brain. Wild mood swings descended upon him and in stark contrast to who he was, he had started lashing out in anger and frustration.

Craig had only been living in full-time care for one year when the Newman family were tasked with the terrible decision of turning off Craig’s life support. The date was April 6, 1997. Craig was 22.

Gut-wrenching sadness fell upon the entire family. However, with three children who still needed love and support, the role of caregiver didn’t allow space for true grieving.

“You can push grief aside for some time, but if you ignore it, it will eventually force you to deal with it,” Therese says.

Kate had always said that she felt like two people. Inside her were two versions of the same person.

Kadie, (spelt with a ‘d’), was the quick-witted beautiful young woman with the world at her feet. She was a great singer, musician and all-round gorgeous kid. Kadie was committed to always trying to remain positive about life. Then there was Kate.

Kate was sick, tired and angry; sometimes suicidal. Kate struggled with the ongoing trauma caused by DIDMOAD Syndrome and the effect that it had on herself and those she loved. In contrast to Kadie’s seemingly fantastic outlook, Kate was cognisant that her body had betrayed her.

Craig’s death hurt Kate deeply. It took her to dark places in her mind and prematurely forced her to face her own mortality. Kate eventually turned to self-harming, and, like Craig, she too needed full-time care in the short period before her death. Just one brief year after Craig, beautiful Kate suddenly had a heart attack from which she did not wake. It was April 10, 1998. >

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: A happy Troy is ready for his first day at school at St Therese’s in New Lambton; Troy playing his much-loved guitar; Troy with Ian Heddle and Nick Meredith from the Newcastle Breakers.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Therese and Brian at Croudace Bay, Lake Macquarie, in 2012; a proud moment at Cory’s graduation at the University of Wollongong.

She achieved a Performing Arts degree; Kate’s happy smiling face, hiding a lot of sadness.

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A U T U M N inspiration

Kate was just 16. It was a huge shock.

Once again, the Newmans sunk into the depth of sadness and once more there were two other children who had needs to be met. Therese threw her energy into Troy and Cory. Cory had been incredibly close to her sister, and this was a very difficult time for her.

At around age 22, Troy decided that he wanted to live independent of his parents. Though Therese was concerned, she felt she should not interfere with how he wished to live his life.

The concern was further amplified, however, when Troy started to complain of having small turns when he rode his bike.

One morning, Troy’s neighbour called Therese. Concerned, the neighbour explained that Troy was walking aimlessly around in circles in his driveway. He didn’t know where he was. Troy was rushed to hospital where he spent the next seven weeks in intensive care without regaining consciousness.

On September 25, 2003, while still in intensive care, Troy stopped breathing. He was 26.

From one day to the next, Therese and Brian’s role as caregivers had come to an end. For a total of 25 years, the Newmans had always had a child in need, due to DIDMOADS Syndrome. Sadness filled the void left by the absence of these three gorgeous humans.

Though the Newmans celebrated the memory of their children, memories alone were not enough to sustain Therese’s days.

Overnight, Cory had become the Newmans’ only living child. A woman now in her 20s, Cory had lived with DIDMOADS Syndrome vicariously for all of her youth. She had experienced years of trauma, watching on as her siblings struggled through their various illnesses, often feeling largely unsupported herself. But this was the final insult. In the syndrome’s last acts of cruelty, Cory observed helplessly as it took each of her siblings, one by one.

The day after Troy’s death, life did not resolve back to a schedule of busy caregiving. There was not a single reason to get out of bed, but even had Therese wanted to, she lacked the ability. Finally, Therese realised that she needed to create her own schedule to propel herself back into the world.

Therese was still teaching piano in the afternoons but the gap that had been left by the children provided far too much time to dwell in sadness. Therese set about making herself busy. She became a marriage and funeral celebrant. Though she is the first to admit that this might sound strange, who best to understand the highs and lows of life if not her? Marriages, naming days and funerals – Therese performed them all for the next 13 years.

Therese says that, for a while, the busyness of her life had been a useful tool. However, the grief and trauma that had been left largely unaddressed finally caught up with her. In 2019, Therese felt that she was slipping. Stomach complaints and feeling generally unwell in mind and body were consistent features of her day.

She was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, and hospital ensued. For three days, wild emotion and unfettered tears flowed – one day for each child taken too soon. Cathartic is not a word that sits well with Therese, however, the space that she occupied over those three days was a necessary start to her healing journey. After that, slowly and surely, Therese used medical assistance to find her road to recovery.

Therese says that today life is good. Her reward for facing the pain and grief is the gift of her restored life. She and Brian have a beautiful relationship, and due to Brian’s hard work and commitment to his family, the couple live a comfortable life.

Possibly, most heart-warming is the enormous pride and love that settles in Therese’s tone when she speaks about Cory.

“Cory grew up to be the most amazing socially conscious woman.

She raises money for the less fortunate in both Australia and Africa. We are just so very proud of her!”

Cory studied a Performing Arts degree at Wollongong University,

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and she also completed a musical theatre course at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA).

“It’s hardly surprising!” Therese laughs. Incredibly talented, Cory is an actor, singer, teacher, gym instructor, a marriage and funeral celebrant and an ultra-marathon runner. And with her wife Sam, Cory is a doting parent to two-year-old Kadie-Rose.

Therese and Brian’s beautiful little granddaughter was named in tribute to her late aunt’s legacy. “We just think the world of her,” Therese says.

Finally, Therese would like to speak directly to those who have read this article. We value her wise words and her generosity of spirt for sharing with us what could not be an easy story to tell.

We are only too happy to give Therese a platform for her message within our pages. May Therese continue to inspire and give hope to those who feel alone in their suffering.

In Therese’s words: “I would like encourage anyone that may be experiencing a very painful time in their lives to ask for strength and courage every day and to seek the right kind of help. It literally changes your life and gives you the will to continue living. So do be kind to yourself, have a massage, a spa or a facial. Spend a few dollars and enwrap yourself with comforts and goodies.

“Endeavour to live one day at a time and keep doing something that you love doing. Consider an activity that helps with your physical and mental fitness.

“Treasure your memories of the good times. Remember to have hope, faith and love.

“These days, I like to reach out to others, share a little of myself that was always hidden. We can help each other.”

Therese says The Serenity Prayer has been a great comfort to her over the years: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” RLM Words: Catherine Player Images:Mike Stephens and John King

ABOVE: Brian, Cory and Therese at Croudace Bay in 2012.

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A U T U M N story name

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story name A U T U M N

following her heart Artist “Indigo” Jo Breneger believes in signs – hand-painted signs where her expert brush strokes infuse each letter with an immediate sense of character and history.

Jo Breneger follows her intuition and what she calls a “red thread”.

“The idea of following a red thread is a spark of an idea that you feel in your bones,” Jo says.

“You don’t know where it will lead but you step towards it. A deep intuition.”

This red thread has been a guiding force in her life and its influence on the direction she has moved in over the past few years is no exception.

At age 20, Jo got her first creative job, painting sets for a travelling children’s pantomime. After more than 40 years of painting signs, murals and more for her many clients, Jo decided to start painting for herself again – something she hadn’t truly done since graduating from Alexander Mackie in Sydney, now known as COFA (College of Fine Arts), in 1981.

Growing up in the Sutherland Shire at Oyster Bay, Jo demonstrated a talent for art even in her primary school years. By the time she was 16, she had left school to pursue an art certificate.

From an early age, she loved painting horses. With a dad who was working for well-known race horse owner Stan Fox and occasional family visits to his Coolamon farm, it made sense that her mum always had the TAB horse racing magazine nearby.

Jo was always intrigued by the magazine’s glossy centerfold and at a young age began painting her own representations of those magnificent race horses.

In 2020, Jo followed that red thread away from her home in Bronte to do a stint in regional NSW. She landed on a farm on the outskirts of Temora. At the end of her initial three-month trial period, it was clear that she wasn’t ready to go anywhere, and that for her the definition of “home” might have been evolving.

In Temora, she found a welcoming community and inspiring professional work. Creating signage and artwork for Diamonds and Dust on Hoskins Street, she was able to revel in the history of the area and pay tribute to the original owners of what was once known as the Mee Ling building.

She found the time and space she needed to create freely. The gardens immediately outside the back door of her farmhouse, horses Bella and Holly in the paddock, the magical Boginderra Hills in the distance were all sources of inspiration.

Jo set up several painting areas in her home and old out-buildings, including a shearing shed. As she began to paint, horses once again became a central theme.

She paints them on textural, handmade paper made in Australia. She foraged around the property for scraps of wood, metal and even old patterned linoleum and they also became her canvases.

Settling into a strong flow state, Jo swiftly produced artwork for an exhibition at the New England Regional Art Museum, aptly called Quick and Dirty. Her show sold well, but more importantly, her fondness of the countryside and the inspiration it brings shows no signs of drying up any time soon.

Her works in progress include portraits, landscapes and abstracts, the red thread stringing her along further as she leans into every little intuitive tug. RLM Words & images: Jennifer Harden

FACING PAGE: Jo Breneger works with a mixture of media and on a variety of canvases. Pictured are some of her paintings of horses, portraits of close friends and colleagues, ink drawings and the exquisite hand lettering she is known for.

BELOW: The old shearing shed turned artist’s studio at Jo’s adopted property ‘Lone Pine’ on the outskirts of Temora.

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joining forces Prominent members of the Dubbo legal fraternity have teamed up following the amalgamation of Silkman Hockey Lawyers and Austen Brown Boog Solicitors.

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Newly merged firm Silkman Austen Brown Lawyers is led by principal Jai Silkman, who is widely recognised as a skilled criminal advocate.

Andrew Boog, the president of the Orana Law Society, is staying on as a consultant and will continue to focus on commercial and business clients.

When talks of a merger began, Jai was interested in expanding into other areas of law while Andrew wanted to ensure his firm’s traditions and history would continue and grow into the future.

“Andrew has had vast experience in the law and his firm has played a significant role in western NSW for 133 years,” Jai says.

“The Austen Brown name means a great deal to Andrew and his wife, Joanne, who has written a book documenting the history of the firm.

“Combining our legal practices has been a really good fit. The areas of law we have each specialised in complement each other.

We now have a team of six solicitors and one conveyancer, making us one of the largest legal firms in Dubbo,” Jai says.

“Clients of Austen Brown Boog won’t notice any difference, apart from a change of address to 62 Talbragar Street. The core values of the business remain the same.”

Jai relocated to Dubbo from Newcastle two years ago with his wife Malia and their daughters, Elora, 7, and Isla, 4.

“We were real beach people and expected to miss the coast after making the move inland,” he admits.

“We soon realised we weren’t missing out at all and are loving the country lifestyle, the climate, the people and the local community.

“Elora loves horses and is learning to ride.

We have found our place now and definitely call Dubbo home.”

Jai comes from the Hunter Valley, one of the oldest winemaking regions in Australia.

He grew up living at Tamburlaine vineyard where his father, Greg, was the co-owner and wine maker.

“Dad later started First Creek Wines, which is now a well-known winery in the Hunter region.

“My brother, Shaun, has Silkman Wines, which also produces premium Hunter wines.”

Jai initially followed family tradition and worked in the wine industry in the Hunter Valley, Tasmania and New Zealand.

“I did a lot of travelling during my 20s and came in contact with many people who needed someone to advocate for them,” he says.

“I felt drawn to a profession that allowed me to help people and decided on law.”

After studying at the University of Newcastle, Jai joined the NSW Police Force as part of the accelerated prosecutor program.

amalgamation A U T U M N

Starting out in uniform, he was fasttracked into prosecution. He later transferred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and then became a defence lawyer with the Legal Aid Commission.

After 10 years of working as a criminal lawyer in the public sector, Jai was interested in establishing his own business. He saw an advertisement about an opportunity to acquire Kevin Hockey and Associates, one of the premier legal firms in Dubbo.

“Kevin had been appointed a local court magistrate and needed to sell his firm,” Jai says.

“It all happened very quickly. I saw the advertisement on the Wednesday, made telephone contact with Kevin on the Thursday and travelled to Dubbo on the Saturday. The decision to buy the practice was made during the weekend and by Monday we were starting to organise the move. It has been an exciting time, and I am still loving it.”

Jai is passionate about the art of advocacy and has undertaken further training through both the College of Law and the Australian Advocacy Institute.

While working for the DPP and Legal Aid, he dealt with some of the most serious matters in the local and district courts. He has conducted more than 500 defended hearings and offers fierce and intelligent representation to clients who are often going through an extremely challenging phase of their lives.

“People can find themselves in situations that seem quite overwhelming where they don’t have the ability to advocate for themselves,” Jai says.

“Experienced lawyers have the drive and knowledge to achieve the best possible outcome for clients.”

Jai says the team at Silkman Austen Brown has extensive knowledge in criminal, commercial, business and family law, wills, estates, succession planning and conveyancing.

The solicitors and support staff are highly professional and committed to providing quality, personalised legal services. RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

FACING PAGE: Silkman Austen Brown Lawyers Principal Solicitor Jai Silkman.

FROM TOP: Lawyers Malachi Dutschke and Dannielle Fidock are excited about the future of the firm; the professional and friendly staff at Silkman Austen Brown Lawyers; two of Dubbo’s leading lawyers, Andrew Boog and Jai Silkman.

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a whole new world Inverell adventurer Heinrich Haussler Snr can take you on the trip of a lifetime, at home or abroad.

Picture yourself kayaking down the enchanting rivers and canals of the Mosel region, taking in the majestic vineyards and castles flanking the countryside.

Imagine dining on German and French cuisine while enjoying your very own Aussie band on the trip of a lifetime.

You will paddle the River Saar and explore Germany’s oldest city of Trier before joining the band at wine festivals, ancient wine cellars and on a cruise ship through the winding valleys of this famous wine region.

The Mosel exhibits spectacular landscapes of terraced vineyards, medieval castles and small enchanted towns and villages.

The canals of the Spree Forest in the east of Germany, a 1500km labyrinth of waterways with enchanting green wetlands, thick forests and romantic streams, are ready to be explored by bike, kayak or boat.

These magic moments could only happen on a Joeys Adventure Tour, run by Inverell adventurer Heinrich Haussler Snr. After kicking off the Joeys Mini World Cup eight years ago in Inverell, he took steps to ensure teams returned each year.

By then, Heinrich was already exploring Lake Inverell in his kayak. By the time of his soccer tournament, he’d assembled a fleet of 60 kayaks to take competitors and

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supporters across Lake Inverell and up into the picturesque Macintyre river.

Hundreds of young soccer players and their families toured the waterways during the week-long event, relaxing and enjoying family time in a magnificent setting. Positive feedback led to an allyear running of the tours.

“Project Hometown Inverell is proof that travelling great distances in search of a little piece of paradise sometimes is not needed,” Heinrich says. “That little piece of paradise can be right at your doorstep.”

Joeys Adventure Tours found and explored the local treasures hidden in the waterways around Inverell. Heinrich shares this knowledge with people who have lived in the Inverell area for decades and they often react with utter surprise.

“Taking people onto the water, letting them see nature at its best, exposing them to wildlife, from a very different perspective, providing scientifically based podcasts, professional videos and stunning photography depicting the wildlife and visitors’ own personal adventures, while they experience this abundance of wildlife present at Lake Inverell, blew everyone’s mind,” he says.

Now it’s not just the locals anymore.

These days people from all over Australia

and overseas are finding their way to Inverell to see for themselves the waterways of the Macintyre and the Gwydir rivers.

For those wanting the ultimate French or German experience, consider joining the Joeys OZ Band on their next overseas tour in July 2023. You’ll be among an entourage of food and wine lovers.

Joeys Adventure Tours is for people looking for an active holiday with lots of variety – be it in Australia or overseas. It’s always been Heinrich’s intension to share his passion for the great outdoors with others, combining physical activities with nature, peace, serenity and education.

A variety of groups use the tours, from schools to businesses, Aboriginal organisations, charities, birdwatchers and photographers to holiday makers.

“If you want to venture overseas with us for an affordable and magical vacation, we are only a call away,” Heinrich says.

For itinerary, price or any bookings, phone 0427 210 359. RLM Images: Heinrich Haussler Snr

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: A stunning view of the Mosel region; singer Michaela Casey Ransom performing in a wine cellar at Beilstein; the band performing on one of the cruise ships along the Mosel; kayaking on the River Saar.

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bohemian boutique for the wild at heart

Visit us:

Cadell Place 3 / 171 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga. NSW 2650 Email us: hello@thehuntressxx.com.au Call us: 0416 213 227 Follow us: The Huntress xx on Facebook The_Huntress_ love on Instagram

New website and new baby shop in store!

As well as all our lovely clothing, bags, jewellery, scarves, shoes, gifts and more.

Open 7 days 9am–4pm Visit us in store or online www.2fatladies.com.au Mitchell Highway, Lucknow Ph: 6365 5437

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HANDMADE

HOMEMADE

HOMEGROWN

2 0 2 2 S U N DAY M A R K E T DAT E S WAG GA WAG GA S H OWG RO U N D S M A RC H 6 A P R I L 24 JUNE 26 AU G U S T 2 8 N OV E M B E R 13 D E C E M B E R 11

COURT WA H O

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F OLLOW US F OR MARKET UPDATES VISIT riverandwrenmarket.com.au

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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A U T U M N story name

a delightful

Temora emporium Diamonds and Dust is a rich tapestry of collaboration, creation and connection.

enterprise

Diamonds and Dust combines fine jewellery, artisan wares, vintage finds and café delights, with the backdrop of a landmark building of great character.

“It is about the whole experience,” the store’s creator, wellknown local businesswoman Deb Davidge says.

The Mee Ling brothers operated their busy general merchant store, Man Sing & Co, in the Hoskins Street building from 1906.

After a major renovation by Deb and her team, with significant heritage features like ornate pressed-metal ceilings retained, the doors opened in November 2020.

The enormous area (80 metres front to back) has been skilfully and thoughtfully arranged to marry a vast array of items with a warm and welcoming ambience.

It encompasses Deb’s previous business of over 30 years, Deb’s Jewellery, which she started as a 21-year-old and developed with her trademark enthusiasm and enterprise.

Her parents, Brian and Edna Hartwig, instilled a strong work ethic in their children, and Deb models the business values and

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commitment to customer service on her father, a successful and highly respected local business owner for 45 years.

Deb’s extensive experience with fine jewellery is reflected in a quality and stylish collection, including stunning Australian Argyle Pink Diamonds. A specialty is creating personalised, bespoke jewellery.

Handcrafted Australian products from over 50 talented artisans include textiles, ceramics, garden art, jewellery, clothing, scarves, sculptures, candles and art.

Deb is proud to showcase these creative and unique stories, curating a diverse and interesting collection with wide-ranging appeal.

“Nothing is mass produced or fast anything,” Deb says passionately. She cites a perfect example in Kildary Valley Clothing, a locally designed label producing limited-edition pieces in Australia from beautiful fabrics.

Upcycled and vintage wares are another favourite.

“I love that they will be treasured again. Every item has a story.

Repurposing helps our environment, too.”

story name A U T U M N

Antique and retro furniture creates charming seating nooks and settings. Relax amid plush velvet and richly textured fabrics.

A fabulous, curved, burgundy leather lounge, discovered in an old pub, comfortably seats 10.

“People sometimes settle in for hours, and that is what we are about.”

Chef Brad Harpley provides a changing menu with tasty options from breakfast to lunch and sweet treats, with coffee from local roaster Quandary Coffee. Al fresco dining is also an option to enjoy.

An expanding providore selection includes delicious products from Morella Grove and locals, PSD dressing and 194 (olives, relishes and plum sauce). Gorgeous fresh flowers are from nearby Gidgee Estate.

Deb appreciates the efforts of family, friends and her dedicated staff in the Diamonds and Dust journey, and is grateful the store has been embraced.

Any spare time is spent on the family farm with husband Greg and son Jed, sharing a keen interest in horses and polocrosse.

A strong advocate of community interests, local business and regional development, she is a proactive member of the Temora Business Enterprise Group, and supports various causes in the hometown she describes as “amazing”.

Visit Diamonds and Dust for an uplifting experience to nourish the spirit.

“It is constantly changing and can’t really be labelled,” Deb smiles. “There are so many lovely elements to absorb.” RLM

TEMOR A

Words: Elizabeth Grant Images: Jennifer Harden

Diamonds and Dust is on Facebook and Instagram.

FACING PAGE: Deb Davidge delights in sharing the many and varied treasures to be found in her charming store, Diamonds and Dust.

ABOVE: Artisan products, fine jewellery, vintage wares and a cafe, all within a fabulous old building of great character, create a unique destination and memorable experience.

COLLABORATION • CREATION • CONNECTION

266 Hoskins St, Temora NSW (02) 6977 4122 info@debsjewellery.com

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Paddock to product ethos Handwoven alpaca fashion & accessories, sustainably grown & created Weaving studio for adults & children Freestyle weaving for creativity, relaxation & mindfulness Quilted wall art, bags & homewares ashculmetextiles.com.au 0414 478 585 fiona@ashculmetextiles.com.au OPEN BY APPOINTMENT

A MOTHER AND DAUGHTER’S MISSION FULL OF HANDMADE LOVE AND CREATIVITY

WAGGA’S EXCLUSIVE CAMPOS COFFEE STOCKIST

JA R DI N E’S CA F E All day breakfast · Meals made fresh daily Kids corner · Free WiFi · Wheelchair and pram friendly THE PLACE YOU CAN INDULGE

2/68 Baylis Street, Wagga Wagga (02) 6925 8897 jardinescafewagga@gmail.com Mon–Fri 7am–2:30pm Sat 8am–2pm Sun 8am–1pm

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SHOES ♦ ACCESSORIES ♦ BAGS ♦ FASHION 195 Baylis Street, Wagga Wagga (02) 6921 7575 info@joansshoes.com.au

OPENING HOURS

9.30am–5.30pm Mon–Wed & Fri 9.30am–6.30pm Thu 9.30am–3pm Sat Closed Sun

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A U T U M N story name

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Narromine treasure A U T U M N

the finer

There’s something special about a trip to Country Traders Home & Life in Narromine.

THINGS

As you walk through the Country Traders door from Dandaloo Street, the beautifully arranged treasures invite you to explore and discover everything.

Owner Sarah Atchison has created a welcoming ambience that encourages customers to browse through the thoughtfully curated range of stylish fashions, gifts, homewares, accessories, footwear, and a gourmet pantry showcasing local and regional produce.

Sarah has a passion for all things beautiful. Buying Country Traders in 2017 was the perfect opportunity to put her creative eye and skills into practice.

Sarah balanced her teaching career and side hustle selling SB Creations (candles and garden art) at local markets, leading up to buying the business.

Since taking over the business, Sarah has expanded the range of products focusing on locally made products and Australian labels as much as possible.

Fashions, accessories, gift and homeware lines have a point of difference and are not generally available in other local boutiques.

The range features beautiful scarves, sterling silver and resin jewellery, beads, bangles and a fabulous collection of earrings.

There are also a few glimpses of Sarah’s creations, handpoured soy candles, and reed diffusers, as well as a fashion line created with her grandmother, Wendy Koerstz. The dresses are size inclusive for a variety of figures and breastfeeding friendly.

As a mother of two young children, Sarah understood the need for women’s fashions to be versatile and suitable for various occasions.

The range of homewares also spans the seasons yet always focuses on entertaining, including beautiful platters, salad servers, vases, throws and napery.

Men also love the in-house creations at Country Traders.

Alongside the traditional blokey gifts of leather belts and wallets are Wendy’s bright and colourful sock guards. They walk out the door as soon as they hit the shelves.

The gourmet pantry stocks as much local produce as possible.

You’ll find free-range eggs, honey and balsamic vinegars plus jams, nuts and dukkah from Murrungundy Pistachios.

“We support the Narromine community, and we’re proud to operate a business that enables people to buy something special without having to travel out of town,” Sarah says.

Country Traders is a family business. Sarah’s two young children are frequent visitors, and helping out behind the counter are Sarah’s mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother at times.

She employs two local mums with a similar passion for beautiful things.

The store’s product range and naturally welcoming vibe has made Country Traders Home & Life a beacon for discerning shoppers from the NSW Central West and beyond. RLM Words: Heather Crosby Images: Natalie Salloum

FACING PAGE: Country Traders Home & Life is a treasure trove of gifts, clothing, accessories and quality homewares.

ABOVE: Owner Sarah Atchison is proud of her unique business and the enviable reputation it has forged across the Central West and beyond.

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Come to Barnesstore for great country hospitality and a smiling face to greet you on your travels.

Great coffee, real loose leaf tea, homemade comforting food including our famous deep dish pies, belgian waffles and all day breakfast.

Extensive gluten free menu including our veggie bake and chocolate brownies.

Our award winning relish, smoked salts and black garlic are all made onsite at Barnesstore and are available for purchase.

Opening hours 9am - 3pm Friday Saturday Sunday Monday (Corporate and private functions by appointment)

356 Albury Street Murrumburrah NSW 2587 T: 02 6386 3316 E: info@barnesstore.com.au

barnesstore.com.au

A store filled with beautiful pieces for your home, gifts for life’s special occasions, classic fashion and accessories.

Stanton Cottage F E E L R I G H T AT H O M E

Shop 4/76 Dandaloo St, Narromine NSW 2821 (02) 6889 4997 M-F 9am-5pm Sa 9am-1pm

In the heart of Albury, Stanton Cottage has been beautifully renovated with all the original features of a double brick home.

Fully equipped kitchen, open plan living and dining with various bedroom sizes - you’ll have the whole cottage to yourself!

Perfect for families, couples, friends travelling together or corporate stays. Pets are most welcome.

Booking enquiries contact Nicole on 0407 913 428

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Pre-owned phones, tablets and computers + a large range of accessories

Repair of computers, phones and tablets

Shop 101, Orana Mall Marketplace 56 Windsor Parade, Dubbo NSW 2830 (02) 6885 4010 www.experimac.com.au

Data retrieval, even from damaged devices

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A U T U M N quality footwear

stylish shoes for LITTLE FEET

The Little Fox Kids’ Shoe Company has taken more than a step in the right direction when it comes to quality children’s footwear.

Once upon a time it was nearly impossible to find classic, stylish kids’ shoes in Australia at a reasonable price.

Most parents will be familiar with the short lifespan of cheaper pairs, and on the other end of the scale, if you see some you like from overseas, such a purchase can often attract a hefty shipping cost.

But since Little Fox Kids’ Shoe Company was established in March 2017, there is now an exquisite range of beautiful shoes for little ones that won’t break the bank.

The family-owned and managed business aims to provide top quality, stylish and affordable kids’ shoes.

Director Narelle Pyne says the business was born out of a gap in the market, coupled with her unsuccessful attempts to find her own son Sam, now aged 7, suitable shoes.

Little Fox is Narelle’s side hustle. Her substantive role is in banking, and she lived and worked in the UK for a decade before returning to Sydney and starting her family.

“I was so surprised at how difficult it was for me to find quality, reasonably priced shoes for my son,” Narelle says.

“I didn’t want shoes with glitter or cartoon characters, and I certainly didn’t want cheap pairs that would fall apart after a few wears.

“Once I had done some research into what was available at the time, it was clear to me there was a gap in the market, and that’s where Little Fox came in.”

Little Fox is a reliable brand that busy families can count on, built on a foundation of good old-fashioned customer service.

With an impressive range of gorgeous shoes, loafers and boots for little ones, parents are bound to find something they love.

There will be even more gorgeous shoes available at Little Fox in 2022, when Narelle intends to introduce a tween range.

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“Our product range is basically based around little versions of shoes that I would want to wear.”

“Our product range is basically based around little versions of shoes that I would want to wear,” Narelle says.

“They are shoes that won’t date, with a very classic colour palette and quality construction – shoes that you would want to pass down to other children.

“It was important to me to work with the manufacturer for as long as required to get the design right.

“Fast forward to today, and I’m extremely proud of the beautiful range of shoes we have available.

“I receive lovely emails from customers from time to time, saying how much they love our shoes and are so pleased to have found our brand.

“Or I might be out and about and see a child wearing Little Fox shoes.

“Those moments are so uplifting and reinforce for me that this business is excelling at what we set out to do.”

For shoes that will stand the test of time, be sure to visit Little Fox Kids’ Shoe Company. The little ones in your life will thank you for it. RLM Words: Anna Conn

PICTURED: Classic quality children’s shoes are the cornerstone of Little Fox Kids’ Shoes Company; director Narelle Pyne is proud of the beautiful range of shoes she provides for the most discerning customer.

CLASSIC KIDS’ LEATHER BOOTS AND LOAFERS Fast delivery to all areas & free shipping for orders over $100.

www.littlefoxkidsshoes.com.au

1300 043 000 info@littlefoxkidsshoes.com.au

Handmade colourful canvas swings for little ones.

For children 6 months to 4 years T: 0408 254 325

www.sleepyjays.com.au

Fashion Boutique • Accessories • Homewares Opening hours Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 9:30am - 5pm Sat 9:30am - 1:30pm Closed Sun + Tues

126 Dandaloo Street Narromine, NSW Ph: 6889 7497 ollieandinarromine@gmail.com

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texas jane Curating the very best from Australian Designers for the woman who knows that fashion should be fun!

114 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 0431 704 688 info@shoptexasjane.com OPENING HOURS: Mon-Wed: 10-4 Thu: 10-5:30 | Fri: 10-4 | Sat: 10-2

@shoptexasjane www.facebook.com/shoptexasjane www.shoptexasjane.com

Let us help you feel your most fabulous self!

FOR THAT SOMETHING EXTRA SPECIAL VISIT UNEKE HOMEWARES. Explore the gorgeous scents of the Glasshouse Fragrance Collection, see their beautiful baby and gift range, exclusive clothing labels, selection of unique jewellery, homewares and so much more. Supporting local and Australian made.

Mon–Wed 10am–4pm Thu 10am–5pm Fri 10am–5.30pm Sat 10am–3pm

(02) 6971 8881

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Luxe accomodation

6

Continential breakfast Heating/Cooling system

hume st.

Holbrook | 2644

Pets welcome Free Wi-Fi King beds

A must stop destination with the biggest range of antiques, homewares, garden items and architectural pieces in the Southern Tablelands.

Ph. 02 6238 1499 32 Malbon Street Bungendore NSW

Opening hours 9:30am - 4:30pm 7 days a week

M. 0417 179 538 abbypatton@bigpond.com

WAGGA

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A U T U M N book review

An honest reflection Mayfield Girl: A woman’s search for a mother’s love

by Jean Sharp with Stephen Wallace, Hunter Press, 2019 When 28-year-old midwife Jean Sharp decided that her work prospects and relationships in Sydney were going nowhere, she applied for a position as sister in the maternity unit at Warialda District Hospital.

It was 1938. Within a week she had the job, and in her purse a second-class train ticket on the North-West Mail to Moree, thence to Warialda.

Jean was escaping much more than boredom with her city life. She’d grown up the daughter of a primary school teacher in Mayfield, once a highly sought-after Newcastle suburb.

Living in a run-down house, crowded with an ever-increasing number of siblings, Jean came to understand that her family was “the poorest of the poor”. With the coming of the BHP steelworks to Newcastle in 1915, Mayfield had slid into decline as the steelworks belched filthy smoke into the air, covering homes, clotheslines and gardens with grit.

Jean always felt an outsider in the family, unattractive and unloved. Her mother expected Jean to spend every spare moment running errands, doing chores, and caring for the other children. She never learned what it was to play, and months before every Christmas, dreamed of being given a celluloid doll like her friends had.

A highlight of many a school week would be the announcement that Arnott’s biscuit factory in Newcastle would be selling broken biscuits at sixpence a scoop at 7.30am the next day. Up at 6am, Jean and her brother Tom would walk a mile to get the steam tram into the suburb of Cooks Hill. Carrying clean well-ironed pillowcases for their booty, they rushed from the tram stop to the factory to join the queue of underprivileged children. Those pillowcases would soon be bulging with three huge scoops of biscuits – “after all, broken biscuits were food”. Back the same way they came. “Oh, what an exciting adventure it was and we were always home in time for a hasty plate of porridge and be at school by 9.30am.”

A lifetime later, Jean’s filmmaker son Stephen Wallace encouraged her to write about her experiences, anything she could remember. On and off over her final two

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Iris Wheatley (left) and Jean Sharp shopping in Inverell, early 1950s; Stephen Wallace (with camera) on the film set of Turtle Beach, 1990; Book cover photograph of author Jean Sharp (left) and friend Gwen Brown at Moree, 1949.

“Warialda is a town that never lets you go once it captures you.”

(Jean Sharp) decades, between 1974 and 1994, Jean wrote – whenever the mood took her, on scraps of paper, the backs of envelopes, in exercise books, using whatever was to hand. Wallace knew there was a good story there, but it would be another 20 years after his mother’s death in 1995 before that story found form as a book.

Mayfield Girl: A woman’s search for a mother’s love (Hunter Press, 2019) is lovingly reconstructed by Wallace from these notes, family interviews and research. With his filmmaker’s eye, he re-creates vivid scenes from large and small events of the 20th century: school during the Great War, the Spanish Flu, domestic life in Mayfield, work as a midwife in Sydney’s slums, and yet another world war.

It was the small rural town of Warialda that won Jean’s heart. “Warialda turned out to be much more socially rich and had more character than I could have imagined,” Jean writes.

She recalls Reverend Powell, who met her on arrival at the Warialda railway station, explaining that the rural landholders were top of the social hierarchy. For example, the Mackay family owned 100,000 acres of land.

Reverend Powell said that the local doctor, Dr Wheatley, once quipped that the social pecking order was “the majority of us, then one step up to the McMasters (another rural family), then the Mackays, then God”.

Nevertheless, Jean was welcomed into Warialda society in a way she’d never been

welcomed anywhere else. She came to love the town, its setting amid the slopes and tablelands, its climate and its friendly people.

“Warialda is a town that never lets you go once it captures you,” she writes.

With astounding frankness for one of her generation, Jean goes on to recount the details of her life in Warialda and, later, Moree, Sydney and back in Newcastle. We learn about her rocky marriage to the Warialda pharmacist Harry Wallace, their four children, marital infidelities and the ravages of what she calls her “depressions”. Through all this, she is haunted by family secrets around her earliest years in Boomi and Dolgelly in far north-western NSW, and a childhood in Mayfield, which she experienced as bereft of love and often cruel.

From these fragments, Wallace shapes the narrative of his mother’s life, a story both fascinating and deeply moving. As Jean reaches towards an understanding of why “the silence of the Sharps” had such a powerful effect on her life, she finds her way to acceptance and peace. RLM Book review: Ruth Cotton

Mayfield Girl: A woman’s search for a mother’s love is available at: • Warialda Newsagency • Wise Words bookshop, Moree • Bookshops in Newcastle NSW • Online at: hunterpress.bigcartel.com.

Ruth Cotton is the author of four books including On Wahroonga: An early settler family at Rocky Creek, NSW (2017).

THE BANCE FAMILY HAVE BEEN CARING FOR FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITIES SINCE 1974.

Our lives are shaped in so many ways, impacted by many things: special people, special moments, incredible accomplishments and unique experiences.

It is Bance Funeral Services independence that enables us to provide families with a high level of personal service, care and compassion.

Bance Funeral Services are well known through-out the region and are committed to serving the community.

Your life story is full of intricacies and complexities, it’s what makes you who you are!

The Bance family have seen many changes in funeral services, coming from very traditional church services to more contemporary services. It is this vast experience that enables Bance Funeral Services to provide families with the experience necessary to plan a funeral service that truly reflects one’s life story, whilst honouring traditions but reflecting contemporary ideas.

So, What’s

Your Story?

OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNIT Y — Every life has a story that should be told.

A high level of service.

Our pricing.

Our care to the families within our community.

T

02 6925 4444

E

admin@bancefunerals.com.au

A

12 Ashmont Ave. Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

W

www.bancefunerals.com.au

A SUN-FILLED 1840’S COT TAGE LOCATED IN THE HEART OF BATHURST LUXURIOUS FIT TINGS & FURNITURE ECHOING THE HAMPTON ST YLE

RoseBerne Cottage Your Luxury Bathurst Home

3 BEDROOMS • SLEEPS 8 ADULTS • WWW.ROSEBERNEBERNECOT TAGE.COM.AU

SUBSCRIPTIONS • BACK ISSUES • BOXED COLLECTIONS

Based in Gundagai, Embellish Catering delivers excellent quality food, outstanding service and value for money.

We go the extra mile to ensure that our clients are completely satisfied with their events.

Embellish caters for functions of all sizes across the Riverina, Hilltops Region, Snowy Valley and Canberra.

WEDDINGS • CELEBRATIONS CORPORATE FUNCTIONS Embellish Catering

56 West Street Gundagai, NSW 2722

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO ORDER: WWW.LIFESTYLEMAGAZINE.NET.AU

Orders can also be made by contacting us P: 0429 441 086 E: info@lifestylemagazine.net.au Pictured: The Summer 2021 edition featuring Inverell.

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0419 478 508 Regional Riverina, NSW

www.agfg.com.au

events@embellishcatering.com.au

• Relax in our friendly and comfortable air conditioned cafe • Indoor and courtyard seating • Fully licensed • Homemade gourmet food and cakes • Specialty gluten free food made daily • Superior coffee

Open Monday–Saturday 8am–3pm (weekends and public holidays may vary) 143 Albury St, Holbrook NSW (02) 6036 3333

E

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SF ES

SIN

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DUBBO The Grapevine Cafe has great coffee and great food.

We offer an indoor or outdoor dining experience with full table service.

Situated in a beautiful heritage listed building with a spacious courtyard.

144 Brisbane Street Dubbo NSW 2830 Phone: (02) 6884 7354 www.grapevinecafe.com.au OPEN 7 DAYS RLM 215

A U T U M N country recipes

guaranteed to please These long-time family favourites never fail to delight at the dinner table.

LAMB WITH PRUNES AND ALMONDS This is a rich, tasty dish that’s a little different to the usual autumn fare.

Ingredients 400g lamb, cut into mediumsize pieces 1 onion, diced Salt and pepper Juice of 1 lemon, Zest of half a lemon 2 tsp butter 1½ tbsp plain flour 2 cups stock (I use beef cubes) 6 prunes (seeds removed) ½ cup slivered almonds Extra toasted slivered almonds Method 1. Cut meat into medium pieces, place in bowl with sliced onions, seasoning, lemon juice and zest.

2. Marinate for about one hour, turning a few times.

3. Heat butter in pan, add marinated lamb etc and brown well.

4. Stir in flour for three minutes over low heat.

5. Add stock slowly and bring to boil (I then transfer this into a casserole dish).

6. Cover, reduce heat, simmer and cook slowly for an hour.

7. Fold in prunes, almonds and a little extra lemon juice. Cook for a further 10 minutes.

8. When ready to serve, sprinkle meat with toasted almonds.

This dish is very enjoyable served with fresh vegetables.

RASPBERRY AND COCONUT SLICE This old-time slice is just the right thing to enjoy with a cuppa on the balcony.

Ingredients ½ cup sugar ½ cup SR flour ½ cup plain flour ¾ cup desiccated coconut ½ cup pure butter, melted For Coconut Topping ½ cup raspberry jam, warmed slightly 1 large egg ¼ cup caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla essence 1½ cups shredded coconut Method 1. Pre-heat oven to 160 degrees.

2. Line a cake tin with baking paper so that it hangs over each side to help remove the slice from the tin when cool.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour and coconut.

4. Add melted butter and mix all ingredients together until it looks like moist breadcrumbs.

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5. Place mixture in 20cm square cake tin, press down firmly until even.

6. Bake for 10 minutes or until pale golden.

Remove from oven.

7. While still warm, spread warm jam over the base.

8. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar and vanilla, then stir in the shredded coconut.

9. Spread neatly over the base, and cook for 12 minutes.

10. Leave in tin until cold.

Recipes and images: Lorraine Hills

Cafe Dolcetto YASS, NSW

fish river roasters

Cafe Dolcetto is conveniently located in the heart of Yass and, is owned and operated by Noelene and Leigh, a dynamic mother-daughter team.

The warm, friendly atmosphere of this quaint heritage building; with its all-day breakfast, delicious lunches and amazing coffee makes it an enjoyable stop for travellers, as well as a popular social hub for Yass locals.

129 Comur Street Yass NSW 2582 Ph: 02 6226 1277 Tuesday – Saturday: 6:30am – 3pm Sunday: 8am - 2pm Find us on Facebook: CafeDolcetto

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

The Ten Mile is a regional destination eatery featuring seasonal farm gate foods, local wines and fabulous coffee.

Celebrating local and regional produce through both our menu and our retail store.

Thursday, Friday, Monday 8am - 2pm Saturday + Sunday 9am - 3pm P. 02 6086 4800 120 Albury Street, Holbrook, NSW 2644

www.thetenmile.com.au

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...or are you confident you have the right insurance cover.

Dunk Insurance has been helping businesses and individuals protect their assets for over 30 years.

Our team includes specialist brokers in key areas including Farm, Commercial, Crop and Domestic Insurance. We are genuine in learning about our clients’ risk exposure and finding appropriate coverage to protect them.

Call our experienced staff to discuss your best insurance options on 1800 219 496 www.dunkinsurance.com.au

TAMWORTH Australia’s country music capital

NOW OVER 2 EDIT IONS !

THE GLEN, 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

Indulgent relaxation Two private garden spas Romantic wood fire

Look out for the winter edition

Spectacular scenery

AVAILABLE JUNE 2022 Subscribe to experience the magazine in print or online: www.lifestylemagazine.net.au Orders can also be made by contacting us P: 0429 441 086 E: info@lifestylemagazine.net.au

Event garden hire with accommodation

Enquiries to Jayne M: 0435 008 268 E: theglen1826@gmail.com

Accommodation only bookings

The Dale (1 bed) airbnb.com/h/thedalecottage Dempsey’s Cottage (2 bed) airbnb.com/h/dempseyscottage

A U T U M N garden

horticultural heirloom Set amid a large property steeped in pioneering pastoral history, the expansive gardens at Hazeldean were styled on an English parkland.

Six generations of the Litchfield family have lived and worked at Hazeldean near Cooma.

After arriving from England in 1852, James Litchfield worked as a manager for pioneering English squatter William Bradley’s high plains empire. Following the division of the area under the Lands Act of 1861, James settled in the Monaro, selecting his own 320acre (130-hectare) block. He established his Merino flock in 1865.

Positioned on the site selected in the 1860s by James Litchfield to build his original stone cottage, an elegant homestead was built in 1907 by current custodian Jim’s great grandfather. From cottage to Federation style then impressive Italianate villa, the homestead has changed and evolved through five generations of the Litchfield family.

Adding to their holdings over the generations, Hazeldean is now one of the largest and most progressive Merino and Angus studs in Australia.

Current custodians of Hazeldean, fifth-generation Jim (James) Litchfield and his wife Libby have lived and worked here for almost 30 years. They now run Hazeldean together with sixth-generation eldest daughter Bea Litchfield and her husband Edward.

Since settlement, succeeding generations of the Litchfield family have changed and developed the gardens at Hazeldean. Far from England in the treeless Monaro high plains, James planted European trees and pines as reminders of home. Remnants of English elm, oak, deodar cedar and radiata pine trees, which

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surrounded the original cottage, remain to this day. From trees planted over 150 years ago, suckers have grown up, creating dense elm forests around the homestead.

On the western side of the garden, densely shaded ground beneath a forest of elm trees has been underplanted with woodland plants for seasonal interest. Winter hellebores and iris are followed by spring-flowering bluebells, daffodils, Menton tulips, violets, and nodding stems of Solomon’s Seal.

Originally laid out in a cottage garden style, the gentle slope from the homestead towards the parkland included enclosed gardens, semicircular privet hedges and gravel pathways. Following years of drought, Libby and Jim recognised the importance of developing a more sustainable, easier-to-maintain garden. >

ABOVE: Hazeldean’s grand Italianate villa was designed by Leslie Wilkinson. The second storey, planned in 1964, was realised by Jim Litchfield in 2018.

FACING PAGE, FROM TOP LEFT: Tall bearded iris; generous garden beds beneath mature trees are crammed full of texture, colour and interest; perennials like pink valerian add seasonal colour, behind are historic stone stables; layers of foliage texture from the tree tops to the lush green lawns; the Pear Allee is an elegant feature leading from the top terrace lawns to the orchard and beyond; the villa’s front terrace with grape vine-covered pergola offers expansive views; an iconic ram’s head beneath the vines.

garden A U T U M N

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A U T U M N garden

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A U T U M N garden

During overseas travel they were inspired by the scale and style of Italianate gardens. In 2013, the couple undertook major changes to the landscape, enlisting help from architects Leigh Prentice and David Wilkinson. David was the grandson of Professor Leslie Wilkinson, who remodelled the homestead into an Italianate villa in 1937.

Moving more than 700 tonnes of soil, they transformed the former slope into expansive level terraces, opening up the view to the parkland, pastures and hills beyond. The terracing also maintains valuable soil moisture for the elm forest, which had been struggling due to drought.

To stabilise the terraces, walls and steps were built using Besser blocks and faced with tonnes of local basalt stone, which complements the nearby historic stables. The new lawn terraces created symmetry, elegance and a wonderful open feel.

In 2015, as Hazeldean Merinos marked their 150-year anniversary, they celebrated with a sit-down dinner for 360 people on this new landscape.

Long wide steps lead down from the lower terrace out into the parkland. Six impressive terracotta pots on either end of the steps add definition between the parkland and the garden areas.

On the edge of the lower terrace lawns, nestled beneath towering elm trees, sits a lovely old glasshouse, which dates back to 1865.

Libby fills this with long flowering geraniums for spring and summer colour. Tucked among the elm trees is a hidden fairy dell ready for discovery by visiting grandchildren.

An old orchard on the eastern side of the garden was refashioned during 1999. Forty Manchurian pear (Pyrus ussuriensis) trees were planted in rows to create a formal Cross Pear Allee. This lovely area is a year-round highlight and was used for daughter Bea’s wedding in 2020. The ornamental pear trees blossom profusely in early spring, showering white petals as the new leaves appear. During summer, the canopy provides cool shade followed by brilliant autumn foliage display.

Also on the former orchard site, curved garden beds were formed to incorporate many shrubs transplanted from the front gardens during the 2013 remodelling. The beds are full of hardy oldfashioned flowering shrubs including Kolkwitzia, Garrya, scented Choysia, Philadelphus, Citsus and Hebe. Rounded grey-foliaged Teucrium is trimmed into balls, adding structure within these gardens. Burgundy-leafed Berberis offer foliage contrast.

Amid the shrubs, beautiful roses and flowering seasonal perennials add plenty of colour and texture.

“I hate weeding, so my theory is there’s no room for weeds if gardens are crammed full,” Libby says.

Pulmonaria, white comfrey, lemony Knifofia, mauve-flowered catmint, frilly bearded iris, sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ and salvia are layered beneath the larger shrubs.

Another rounded bed forms a yin and yang of textural planting including waterwise Cistus – rock rose. Birds love the microclimate created by the dense plantings, and tiny wrens build nests in the twiggy Berberis.

Between the garden beds, drought-hardy Canberra Dryland turf forms a green carpet, which Libby mows and edges. Her ride-on Kubota mower is an example of using good equipment to make maintenance easier. There is access to beautiful clear bore water for stock, garden and house use. The lawns have a pop-up watering system.

Alongside the barn used for bull sales, Jim planted a row of 75 young Acer negundo ‘Sensation’ trees selected to colour beautifully in autumn in years to come. > ABOVE: The canopy of the formal Cross Pear Allee transforms into a colourful foliage display in autumn, then a shower of white blossoms during early spring.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: This sun-drenched rear courtyard has a formal theme with trimmed Buxus hedges and profuse ‘Iceberg’ roses; pretty Cistus – white rock rose; curved hedges border the front gardens; this lovely green glasshouse dates back to 1865; the raised terrace shaded by a mature elm tree is a favourite spot to sit; pergola with grape vines and wisteria; Libby maintains a neatly rounded Teucrium using powered hand shears.

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A U T U M N garden

The bulls enjoy a treat of ripe pears from an abundant 100-yearold fruiting pear tree nearby. A magnificent ‘Madame Gregoire Staechelin’ rose almost smothers an old ewe shed with a profusion of pink blooms.

In line with the Pear Allee, Libby and Jim are extending the gardens. A new corridor garden project constructed using local stone also incorporates rock gabion baskets to form low walls. A wide granite pathway is edged with Acer negundo ‘Sensation’ trees and mounded Hypericum, which feature bright yellow flowers.

Along the fence, a young hedge of gorgeously scented winterhoneysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima) was all cutting grown.

Adjacent, on a raised terrace, sits an apple orchard, protected from the south by a steel lattice screen (fondly known as “the great wall of Jim”). Hedges of tall evergreen Bhutan Cypress (Cupressus torulosa), grey-foliaged Cotoneaster and ‘Silver Ghost’ roses add to the sense of enclosure.

Edged with a young Viburnum tinus hedge and bordered with hardy yellow Hypericum, this sundrenched area is both pretty and practical. The orchard trees are interspersed with much-admired peonies, which are well suited to the cool climate and bloom beautifully in spring.

The gardens surrounding the homestead have a more formal feel, including trimmed box hedges, lush arbours of grape vines and wisteria-entwined pillars. The sunny rear courtyard features dense Buxus hedges and repeat-flowering white ‘Iceberg’ roses.

Trained over courtyard walls and the front pergola, lush green ornamental grape vines offer summer shade. The foliage changes to rich red hues in autumn.

On a corner of the homestead, a raised terrace area is reminiscent of Italy with its simple gravel surface. “Survivor” plants including ivy and periwinkle (Vinca) clothe the nearby stone walls with a blanket of emerald green. A circular iron table setting is a favourite spot for a summer evening drink or lunch under the shade of the overhead elm.

A gravel-surfaced courtyard featuring a stylish chook pen is home to Isa Brown chickens Fatty, Freda and Finkelstein. The family Jack Russell dogs have their kennels here too. Silver birch

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trees, ‘Iceberg’ roses and spires of oyster plant (Acanthus) are timeless plant selections in this courtyard.

Libby admits a garden of this size and scale was intimidating to a non-gardening person. Developing a whole new set of skills over 25 years of tenure, she now looks after the garden mostly by herself. Wielding a pair of electric hand shears, she makes trimming rounded forms and neatening hedges an everyday task.

Jim assists with heavier tasks including major pruning, rock walling and edging.

“Gardening in the Monaro has its challenges.,” Libby says.

“The open rolling plains here are the foothills of the Snowy Mountains. At 1000m elevation, the cool climate includes regular winter frost and snow and we are in a rain shadow. It’s not easy to get plants to grow.

“Create shade and it protects everything.”

Long periods without rain in the Monaro are normal, however generations on the land have instilled drought preparedness in the Litchfield family.

During spring 2020 and 2021, the hills were alive and green in response to rainfall, however the return of the buff-coloured landscape is imminent. RLM Words: Elizabeth Swane Images: Robert Bruce

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Pink ‘Madame Gregoire Staechelin’ rose climbs over the old ewe shed; steeped in history, the stables were built using local basalt; wide stone steps define the transition between the lower lawn terrace and the parkland; formal stone steps lead from the top terrace to the lower lawn terrace; the gravel courtyard is a safe haven for the chickens and dogs; hardy survivors including leafy oyster plant (Acanthus) thrive beneath the mature elm trees.

Three gardening friends formed Private Gardens of the Monaro, opening three iconic homestead gardens including Hazeldean during spring and autumn. It’s well worth the visit.

Contact www.privategardensofmonaro.com.au.

RUSTIC GARDEN GIFTWARE POTS LOCALLY GROWN SUCCULENT ARRANGEMENTS

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All bakery and cafe needs in one shop  Baking on site Coffee made with Fish River Roasters beans and Little Big Dairy milk Pies, cakes, salads, hot chips, burgers and more

CHAD’S BAKERY CAFE

88 Bolaro Street, Dunedoo NSW 2844

02 6375 1677

Open 5.30am–5pm M–F

SENDING DELICIOUS HANDMADE COOKIES AUSTRALIA WIDE!

ART CLASSES

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EVENT SPACE (02) 6921 5391 hello@thecuriousrabbit.com.au 44 Johnson Street, Wagga Wagga

re mi

- every batch from scratch -

a home to the curious

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 226 RLM

Phone: 02 6382 5854

Ted & Olive provide a personal approach to fashion, style and luxury.

P. 02 6921 3538

E . hello@tedandolive.com.au

Mon/Wed/Thu/Fri 10am-5pm

Sat 10am-2pm

2 4 4 B A Y L I S S T R E E T, W A G G A W A G G A

W W W.T E D A N D O L I V E . C O M . A U

ACCOMMODATION Resort Rooms and Lakeside Cottages set on 12 acres of lush bush land and overlooking spectacular Lake Hume.

10 minutes from Albury airport and an easy 15 minute drive from the twin cities of Albury and Wodonga.

EAT + DRINK Lake Hume Resort’s restaurant The Boat Shed provides a magnificent dining experience for in-house guests and visitors.

Boasting a bistro, Hamptons style cafe and a wood-fired pizza bar.

WEDDINGS Our venue space The Boat Shed Lake Hume is the ideal wedding destination where your ceremony, reception, guest accommodation, and wedding party photography can be beautifully combined at one of Albury’s iconic venues.

EVENTS Commanding spectacular water views, The Boat Shed at Lake Hume is the ideal venue for birthdays, parties, engagements, conferencing, corporate, group bookings or Christmas parties.

1 Ray Welsh Dr, Lake Hume Village, NSW 3691 ACCOMMODATION 02 6026 4444 RESTAURANT 02 6009 1666 reservations@lakehumeresort.com.au

lakehumeresort.com.au

GENERaL dENtIStRY | cOSmEtIc dENtIStRY | dENtO-facIaL aEStHEtIcS | dENtaL ImPLaNtS ORaL SuRGERY | ORaL REHaBILItatION | dENtaL SLEEP mEdIcINE

Giving your family more reasons to smile BOOK ONLINE: www.BOwmaNdENtaL.cOm.au | 104 PIPER StREEt, BatHuRSt | 6331 3364 RLM 227

A U T U M N weddings

Tim Scott, Laura Wells, Tim and Miriam Morris, Michael Jones and Amelia Tan.

TAN + MORRIS Miriam Tan and Tim Morris were married at Dubbo on May 15, 2021.

The ceremony was held at St Laurence O’Toole Church, and the reception was held at Lazy River Estate.

Some 100 guests were in attendance, hailing from Queensland, Victoria and all over NSW. A special touch was Tim’s niece and nephew Autumn and Louis Thomas acting as flower girl and page boy.

Dubbo businesses were supported with the flowers created by Denise’s Flower Studio and the suits from Harry’s for Menswear.

Miriam’s dress was by Lilly Bridal and the bridesmaid dresses

by Revelry.

The couple honeymooned at Lake Crackenback near Jindabyne, where they climbed Mount Kosciuszko, before settling back into their Dubbo home.

Photographer: Lauren Anne Photography

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JILLIAN FRANKLIN COUTURE Jillian Franklin is an award-winning couture house, specialising in the creation of exquisitely crafted handmade gowns for the discerning bride.

Gundagai NSW Australia

WEDDINGS

•

FUNCTIONS

•

EVENTS

RACHAEL EMMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

VISIT WAGGA WAGGA

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W W W. J I L L I A N F R A N K L I N . C O M

CELLAR DOOR • WINE TASTINGS • PLATTERS Tim: 0404 084 657 WAGGA WAGGA e: naomi@borambola.com 25KM 1734 Sturt Hwy Borambola, NSW 2650

STURT HWY 17KM E

M

HU

Y HW

SYDNEY 430KM

MELBOURNE 474KM

www.borambola.com

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A U T U M N weddings

PROOS + HYDE Natasha Proos and Matthew Hyde were married at Tumbarumba on April 3, 2021.

The ceremony and reception were both held at Courabyra Wines Tumbarumba, where a small gathering of family and friends helped Matthew and Natasha celebrate their partnership.

The couple walked out together to the beautiful sounds of Natasha’s daughter Bella singing, accompanied by Natasha’s father Vic on guitar.

The 70 wedding guests included all four parents, all five children, all sisters and brothers and other close family and friends.

The newlyweds settled back into their Tumut home and are planning a honeymoon in Estonia, Finland and Norway.

Photographer: Roslyn Clare Photography

Middle: Flynn Hyde, Lauren Hyde, Matthew Hyde and Natasha Proos, George Fitzsimmons, Liam Fitzsimmons, Bella Fitzsimmons, Harland Freeman and Jerry Freeman.

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historic pub artisan bakery accommodation 320 Riverside Drive Jugiong NSW 2726 P. 0419 098 828

info@sirgeorge.com.au

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A U T U M N weddings

NICHOLAS + O’LEARY Katharine Nicholas and Jason O’Leary were married at Dubbo on April 17, 2021.

The ceremony was held at St Brigid’s Catholic Church, and the reception was at the Dubbo RSL’s Rooftop Terrace.

Katharine and Jason’s closest family and friends travelled from Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and as far away as Norway.

Local vendors Cherish & Co Florals, Cakes by Amy Rutherford, Spoilt Beauty, Ashleigh Clare’s Hair Studio, Brad Haling Music and Short Street Store all ensured the couple’s day was everything they wanted – relaxed with a touch of elegance.

Katharine and Jason enjoyed a Hamilton Island honeymoon before settling back into their newly purchased Brisbane home.

Photographer: Sian Williams Photography

Above: Lauren Midgley, Katharine and Jason O’Leary and Sam Gilmour.

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KINGS HALL JEWELLERS

180 MACQUARIE STREET, DUBBO

PH: (02) 6885 3500

WWW.KINGSHALL.COM.AU

Fine dining in the heart of the Riverina, showcasing the regions best local produce.

82 Tarcutta St, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (02) 6923 4100 • charlessturtwagga.com.au

Rose Cottage Historic luxury in the heart of Albury 577 Wyse Street, Albury, NSW 2640 Ph. 0427 217 997 or email susanhines1@gmail.com

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A U T U M N weddings

MOWAT + THOMAS Alexandra Mowat and Nicholas Thomas were married at Orange on May 22, 2021.

The outdoor ceremony was held at the top of Borrodell Vineyard, with picturesque views over Orange. The reception was then held inside the wine cellar at Borrodell Vineyard, warmed by a roaring fire.

Some 80 guests joined the couple on the beautiful late-Autumn day. The flowers and table decorations were all lovingly put together by close family and friends.

Alexandra and Nicholas honeymooned in Tasmania, taking two weeks to travel around the state, before returning back home to Sydney.

Photography: Kirsten Cunningham Photography

Above: Morgan Mackenzie, Madeline Mowat, Alexandra Mowat, Georgia Rhodes and Ellen Phelan.

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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.

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

EUROPEAN INSPIRED PREMIUM PRODUCTS EXCEPTIONAL COFFEE AND WINE OPEN Mon–Tue 6:30am–5pm Wed–Fri 6:30am–late Sat 7am–late Sun 7am–5pm

CONTACT 171 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga, NSW bookings@meccanicowagga.com.au www.meccanicowagga.com.au

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Our Advertisers AUTUMN 2022 We encourage our readers to support our advertisers.

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Young, 6382 5854 poppasfudgeandjamfactory.com

Inverell, 6722 4235 thebrewshed.com.au

Inverell, 1300 447 007 forsyths.com.au

ARLINGTON GASWELD TOOL CENTRE INVERELL

Wagga Wagga, 0414 478 585 ashculmetextiles.com.au

Dubbo, 6885 5381 poolwerx.com.au

Tamworth, 0404 081 352 peelvalleymilk.com.au

PETER MORTIMORE GALLERY Dorrigo, 0491 759 292 petermortimore.com

Temora, 6977 2433 temoraexservices.com.au

TEXAS JANE

Wagga Wagga, 0431 704 688 shoptexasjane.com

Wagga Wagga, 6923 4100 charlessturtwagga.com.au Wagga Wagga, 6921 5391 thecuriousrabbit.com.au Clear Creek via Bathurst 0435 008 268 Wagga Wagga, 0416 213 227 thehuntressxx.com.au

THE MAGIC PUDDING

Tamworth, 6766 5611 themagicpudding.com.au

THE PLAYHOUSE HOTEL Barraba, 6782 1109 playhousehotel.com

THE SIR GEORGE

Jugiong, 0419 098 828 sirgeorge.com.au

THE TEN MILE

Holbrook, 6086 4800 thetenmile.com.au

THOM, DICK AND HARRY’S West Wyalong, 6972 0393 tdhww.com.au

TOWN & COUNTRY RURAL SUPPLIES

Bathurst, 6332 4044 townandcountrybathurst.com.au

TOWN AND COUNTRY BOUTIQUE

Tamworth, 6766 4558 townandcountryboutique.com.au

TOYOTA CENTRAL WEST GROUP Central West, 6882 1511 toyota.com.au

TURVEY TOPS NEWSAGENCY Mount Austin, 6925 1375

UNEKE HOMEWARES

Wagga Wagga, 6971 8881 unekehomewares.com.au

UNEKE LOUNGE

Wagga Wagga, 6925 8143 unekelounge.com.au

VILLAGE ANTIQUES BUNGENDORE

Bungendore, 6238 1499

VINEYARD JOINERY

Inverell, 6722 4841 vineyardjoinery.com

WAGGA CARAVAN CENTRE Wagga Wagga, 6922 8307 waggacaravans.com.au

WAGGA REGIONAL LIVESTOCK Wagga Wagga, 6931 7880 waggalivestock.com

WALLINGTON WINES

Nyrang Creek, 0427 732 895 wallingtonwines.com.au

WEST ORANGE MOTORS

Orange, 6361 1000 mbwestorangemotors.com.au

THE AISLING DISTILLERY

WESTERN PLAINS WINDOWS AND GLASS

THE AUCTIONEER

WOODLEY’S MOTORS

Griffith, 0428 438 336 theaislingdistillery.com.au Dubbo, 6882 3720 theauctioneer.com.au

Dubbo, 6884 8818 wpwg.com.au

Tamworth, 6763 1500 woodleys.com.au

“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.

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RLM 237

Est.

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Contactless Delivery Available 238 RLM

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Servicing the Central West for 25 years BUTCHERS SUPPLIES FROZEN VEGETABLES SMALLGOODS CAKES FINGER FOOD ANTIPASTO CHEESE

Garian Foods is a locally based, family owned business and a proud member of NAFDA. Garian stocks all the leading brands, we strive for customer satisfaction with our loyalty reward program and in store promotions. Come and see us today for all your meal, party or catering needs.

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PH: 02 6884 1166 FAX: 02 6884 1809 enquiries@garianfoods.net.au

Trading Hours Mon – Fri: 8:30am – 5pm Sat: 9am – 12pm

VOLUME TWO

An iconic publication featuring a collection of the best of editions 19-34 Available now from all stockists of Regional Lifestyle Magazine, and on our website: www.lifestylemagazine.net.au Orders can also be made by contacting Elizabeth: P. 0429 441 086 E. editor@lifestylemagazine.net.au RRP: $20

A great gift for Christmas RLM 239

A U T U M N the story last name word

green machine

The Rotary Club of Tamworth First Light is the driving force behind a project to create a greener city.

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.

The Rotary Club of Tamworth First Light has embraced the ancient Chinese saying as it celebrates Rotary’s centenary of service to Australia with “1000 trees for 100 years”.

The program was funded with a $20,000 NSW Government grant via State Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson, with further assistance from Tamworth Regional Council and Chandler’s Tree Service.

With all this expertise and enthusiasm on hand, planning of species selection, planting locations and an ongoing maintenance program ensured a promising start.

The first planting of 300 trees was staged in September 2021 at the Cycling and Athletics track at the Northern Inland Sporting Centre of Excellence (NISCE). Members from Tamworth Rotary Clubs, Tamworth Cycling Club and Tamworth Little Athletics Club all rolled up their sleeves to get their hands dirty.

RLM caught up with the volunteers a few weeks later at Moore Creek Road on the other side of town.

“Being out here, on this amazingly sunny day, planting trees and enjoying the fellowship of like-minded members, it can’t get much better,” Rotary club of Tamworth First Light President Marina Hearne beams.

Marina says she loves planning for future generations while doing her part for the environment.

“It’s something that really connected with me when the club decided to undertake this project,” she says. “I’m an avid gardener and the joy of watching something grow never wavers.

“I hope we continue to plant even more trees beyond our centenary project to help beautify Tamworth and make a lasting impact for the good of the environment.

“By planting more trees we increase the appeal and liveability of places like Tamworth. Lots of trees help decrease temperatures during our hot summers while providing habitat, health and well-being benefits.”

Tamworth Regional Council is committed to greening and cooling the region in a responsible and sustainable way.

Long known for its magnificent trees – and not just those lining the lush main street – Tamworth is home to the majestic row of plane trees in Kable Avenue, the magnificent palms in Anzac Park and the stunning jacarandas that spring to life at the top of White Street.

When planting trees, be careful where to place them – powerlines, footpaths and underground services can all be impacted. With sensible planning you can allow your tree the best opportunity to thrive.

The right tree, planted at the right time and in the correct location, leads to the right result. Tamworth is greening up and the residents couldn’t be happier. RLM Words and images: Jake Lindsay

240 RLM

Never too young to plant a tree.

A team effort.

Urban Street Tree Advisory Committee chair Cr Helen Tickle with a thriving native, planted from tube stock eight months ago.

Louise Matthews, Terry Robinson and Bev Fletcher planting spotted gums to create an avenue of trees down Moore Creek Road.

Rotary Club of Tamworth First Light President Marina Hearne and her husband Jordan.

Kate, Sam and Brad Michie plant a spotted gum.

Aurelie Quade, Laurence Hearne and Malcolm Turnbull.

WEDDINGS

CEREMONIES

58 Summer St, ORANGE NSW 2800 (02) 6362 7799 Follow us on Instagram: zona_kitchen_bar_events

EVENTS

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Dubbo City Toyota 02 6882 1511 dubbocitytoyota.com.au Forbes Toyota 02 6851 1644 forbestoyota.com.au Gilgandra Toyota 02 6847 2106 gilgandratoyota.com.au Lean & Bennett (Lithgow) 02 6352 2211 leanandbennetttoyota.com.au

Macquarie Toyota (Warren) 02 6847 4266 macquarietoyota.com.au Mudgee Toyota 02 6372 1799 mudgeetoyota.com.au Nyngan Toyota 02 6832 1477 nyngantoyota.com.au

Orange Toyota 02 6362 2988 orangetoyota.com.au Parkes Toyota 02 6862 9777 parkestoyota.com.au Ron Stubberfield Toyota (Wellington) 02 6845 2522 ronstubberfieldtoyota.com.au

OH WHAT A FEELING