Echo December 2009

VET

aboutSpecial our This Ask Month’s BUDGET PRICES 500 full colour for all types business cards (one side only) of printing $90advertisement incl GST See our Ph 2514 on4782 Page 5

Your community news Issue 13

info@bennettsprinting.com.au

December 2009

www.theecho.net.au

New bank opens Katoomba & Upper Blue Mountains Bendigo Community® Bank Branch is Ready for Business! The volunteer Board of Directors would like to thank the hundreds of new shareholders who helped to make this bank a reality.

See page 4

Celebrate Christmas Take the time to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by attending one of our local churches or enjoying the carol concerts.

See pages 6 & 7

Community Carols Saturday December 12

Blue Mountains Grammar School WentworthFalls 4.30pm to 8.00pm Pre-carols activities from 4.30pm

CAROLS FROM 6.00PM

Santa will arrive after the Carols

4782 3809

Neighbourhood Safer Places A Neighbourhood Safer Place (NSP) is a place of last resort for people during a bush fire. It can be part of your contingency plan, for a time when your Bush Fire Survival Plan cannot be implemented or has failed.

An NSP is an identified building or space within the community that can provide a higher level of protection from the immediate life threatening effects of a bush fire. NSP’s still entail some risk, both in moving to them and while sheltering in them and cannot be considered completely safe. They are a place of last resort in emergencies.

The local areas identified so far are: Portion of Leura Golf Course Open Space, intersection of Fitzroy Street and Chambers Road, Leura; Katoomba Public School Oval Open Space Waratah Street, Katoomba;

FREE

Ph 4757 3255

www.wentworthfallsvet.com.au Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8.30am-7pm Sat 9am-1pm • Sun 10am-12pm

Melrose Park Open Space Albion Street, Katoomba.

Remember that every home must have a Bush Fire Survival Plan encompassing the decision to either “Leave Early” or to “Stay and Defend” to ensure that you are prepared and know what to do in the event of a bush fire.

Visit the website for updated information at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

Kmart Wishing tree Gifts can be left under the Christmas tree in Kmart until Christmas Eve. The Salvation Army distribute the gifts to local families in need. You just take a tag from the tree with a child’s age on it and leave an appropriate gift.

However gifts for children over 10 are desperately needed. Last year 986 gifts were left which was a fantastic effort but it would be wonderful to top the 1000 mark this year.

Get Til The End of the Year FREE

Classes

Join now on a 6 or 12 month membership & get the rest of 2009 FREE!

• Abs • Cardio Boxing • Heartmoves • Pilates • Stretch • Tai Chi • Yoga

Offer expires December 31, 2009.

Available to new members of Village Fitness

Level 2, 98 Bathurst Road, Katoomba www.villagefitness.com.au

‘We have some of the Best from Woodford to the West’ Free market appraisal Phone today: 4787 8781

www.walltowall.net.au www.theecho.net.au

December 2009

1

The Echo

Delivered monthly to Katoomba, Leura & Wentworth Falls

Adept Conveyancing Ph: 4757 1675

Local News Editor Jeanie Baxter

Fixed Fee Conveyancing

echocommunitynews@gmail.com

Jennifer G. Laing J.P. CPC

0420 356 705

Managing Editor and Advertising Enquiries Margaret Stepniewski PO Box 121, Mulgoa, NSW 2745

Licensed Conveyancer Lic No. 1334793

Email: jenny@adeptconveyancing.com.au www.adeptconveyancing.com.au 10a Station St Wentworth Falls NSW 2782 (Behind Jakeman’s Art Supplies)

Phone/fax: 4773 8974

Ladies Fitness Class Are you interested in joining a fitness class that is fun, full of energy and is suited to any age, shape or size?

LET ME WHIP YOUR BUTT INTO SHAPE! Classes held at a private studio in Katoomba on Monday morning 10am Martial art based consisting of stretch, body toning, build strength, improve fitness, learn self defense, release some aggro, sweat and have a few laughs.

Dynamic tension program also introduced Why not come along and join in.

First session is free. Bring a friend.

Contact Trina on 4782 6645

info@theecho.net.au

Natural Movement

NEXT ISSUE BOOKING DEADLINE Friday, January 22, 2010

A Culture of Body/Mind Health & Fitness

Emergency Services (Police, Ambulance, Fire)

Katoomba Police Station 4782 8199 Police Assistance Line 131 444 Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114 Katoomba Churches St Hilda’s Anglican Church 4782 1608 St Canice`s Catholic Church 4782 2804 Uniting Church 4758 8295 Lighthouse Church 4782 1352 Katoomba Baptist Church 4758 8674 Bethany Gospel Hall 4782 5956 The Salvation Army 4782 5124 Seventh-day Adventist 0401 686 245 Leura Churches St Albans Anglican Church St Bonaventures Catholic Uniting Church

4782 4503 4782 2804 4757 3435

Wentworth Falls Churches Holy Trinity Anglican Church 4757 1516 St Frances Xavier Catholic 4782 2804 St Andrews Presbyterian 4759 1998 Explorers Christian 0402 138 029 Church Community Groups Community Health Centre Katoomba Neighbourhood The Salvation Army - Community Services - Rehabilitation Centre Breastfeeding Association Blue Mtns Bushcare Blue Mtns Cancer Help Katoomba Girl Guides Rotary (Upper Blue) W. Falls Lions Club Leura/Katoomba Probus Central Blue Probus Toastmasters Alliance for Sustainable Well Being

4782 8201 4782 1117 4782 9251 4782 7392 4782 9474 4780 5528 4782 4866 4739 1772 4787 1857 4782 2178 4782 1672 4757 4695 4784 1349 4784 1349

Sports Clubs Katoomba Swimming Club 4782 2292 Cricket Club 0402 167 136 Katoomba Tennis (keys from the Handystore) Juniors Competition 4782 2303 Wentworth FallsTennis 4784 1044 (keys from the Falls Food Hall)

Junior Rugby League Table Tennis www.theecho.net.au

NM Pilates Studio Katoomba

000

0432 219 564 4782 3174

NATIVE PLANT NURSERY We are open for sale of tube stock & rescued plants Tuesday-Friday 10am-4pm Saturday 10am-1pm Clairvaux Community Centre 14 Oak Street Katoomba

Tel 4782 6233

See the digital page-turning edition of The Echo at u. www.theecho.net.a for Register your email new e notification when th e. issue is onlin o.net.au in Email fo@theech

Ruby Bloomers Womens Circus invites women to come and learn circus and theatre skills. For more information, call 0400 550 919 Advertising policy: Priority is given to businesses connected to local residents. An editorial focus on a local business may be included if space permits, at the Editor’s discretion. Community news: The District Gazette welcomes the following information (published free of charge): community news and events, local achievements, births, deaths, obituaries, weddings, engagements, anniversaries & birthdays. Articles of interest will be accepted at the Editor’s discretion. Articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editor. Letters to the Editor may be printed and edited as necessary. Names must be submitted but can be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. Every effort is made to print correct information but no responsibility can be taken for errors or omissions.

December 2009

Personal programs inc. Injury Rehabilitation, NM Pilates & Dance

Classes & Programs Tailored to your needs.

To book, phone 0409 199 071 info@naturalmovement.com.au www.naturalmovement.com.au

FELLOWSHIP

“Today’s signs indicate that Jesus Christ’s aw all-powerful retu esome, than you think. rn is nearer N but as Almighty ot as a baby Ju Ruler. Even so dge and , Com Lord Jesus!” e If you want friendl y fellowship and good, plain Bi ble teaching with un-modern worship style, Katoomba

Baptist Church, W aratah St (opp Coles ) 10am Sundays Ph

4758 8674

Blue Mountains Hospital Auxiliary Committee

Christmas Craft & Cake Stalls

11th December from 9am in Katoomba hospital 2

Prize winner!

Darren Yates (below) from Wentworth Falls Select Meats made it to the State Finals this year after winning the first and second prizes at the regional level of Australian Meat Industry Council’s “Sausage King” competition.

His prize winning sausages were ‘pork Toulouse’, in first place and ‘duck and cointreau’ in second.

This is not Darren’s first win. Last year he took out second and third place at Regional level, and the year before his sausages were third in the State.

The sausages are judged on their aroma, texture and flavour. Entries

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must be commercially available from the person/company entering the competition, so if you’d like to try them, we suggest you drop in and see Darren at his Wentworth Falls shop.

Program of Improvements Blue Mountains City Council has completed an extensive program of improvements to local infrastructure and community facilities as a result of the Federal Government’s economic stimulus package.Local projects include • Katoomba Community Centre New ventilation, heating, lighting and works to sub-floor drainage.

• Playground equipment upgrade at 13 children’s playgrounds.

• Replacement of fixed & free standing furniture in 19 public halls including chairs and tables.

• Environmental Conservation Program – installation of timer tap fittings, electronically controlled cisterns, rainwater harvesting measures at amenities blocks in Lillianfels park, Katoomba; • Installation of kitchenettes at Wentworth Falls School of Arts • Cricket Wicket Replacement Program at Katoomba Falls and Leura ovals.

December 2009

BAG A BARGAIN FOR CHRISTMAS at the

QUAKERS SATURDAY MORNING SALE EVERY SATURDAY from 21st November 8am-12noon 4 Oakura Ave Woodford (right next to Woodford station)

• Traditional book shop atmosphere • Books, DVDs, classical CDs, audiobooks, cards & wrap • Local maps & guides • Great kids books!

183 The Mall Leura Phone 4784 1302 books@megalongbooks.com www.megalongbooks.com

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BAG A BARGAIN FOR CHRISTMAS at the

QUAKERS SATURDAY MORNING SALE EVERY SATURDAY 8am-12noon 4 Oakura Ave Woodford (right next to Woodford station)

• Traditional book shop atmosphere • Books, DVDs, classical CDs, audiobooks, cards & wrap • Local maps & guides • Great kids books!

183 The Mall Leura Phone 4784 1302 books@megalongbooks.com www.megalongbooks.com

Late Night Shopping in Katoomba Thursdays on the, 10th and 17th of December are the dates to remember. Loads of businesses in Waratah and Katoomba Streets, as well as Old Bathurst Road will be trading until 8pm.

Don’t miss it!

Blackheath Highway Action Group The Blackheath Highway Action Group have been collecting signatures in Blackheath, Lithgow, Hartley Valley, Katoomba and Wentworth Falls on a petition opposing the highway upgrade in the Upper Mountains between Mt Victoria and Lithgow. According to the website, they were up to 2400 signatures on the 19th of November.

The group is concerned that the Highway upgrade has only one purpose which is to permit the huge B-doubles and Btriple trucks to use this route for heavy haulage.

Obviously this is a concern for residents of Katoomba, Leura and Wentworth Falls as they will have to share the road with these monsters.

Initially the Government promised a bypass for Mt Victoria, before authorizing new highway routes that will destroy existing homes and gardens. According to The Action Group, the Government currently refuses to declare its position on Blackheath, other than to says that it will not be affected The Blackheath Highway Action Group calls for greater investment to be made in an Railway Freight System.

To contact the Blackheath Highway Action Group, visit www.bag.asn.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=f rontpage&Itemid=1 or contact Michael Paag on 0423 596 240 or 4787 6568.

Celebrate the opening of our bank You are invited to join us to celebrate the opening of

Katoomba & Upper Blue Mountains Community Bank® Branch.

When:

Monday 7 December 2009 at 1.00pm

Where:

117 Katoomba Street, Katoomba

Enquiries:

Robert Stock 4782 7070 (S26859) (11/09)

pledge

feasibility

prospectus

It’s all about working together www.theecho.net.au

launch

www.bendigobank.com.au December 2009

4

Saving with Solar Hot Water Local residents opening their electricity bills were shocked last quarter!

Rates rose again and it is likely to keep on going. Retail electricity suppliers explained “increases in electricity prices are calculated according to the wholesale purchase price of energy and the cost of upgrading and maintaining infrastructure.”

Steve Harding from Solar Pumping Solutions said “Heating water in the average Australian household accounts for a massive one third of your energy bill! If you replace your electric hot water system with solar then carefully monitor the remainder of your household energy use with a Centemeter you will notice a very positive impact on your next quarterly bill.”

Solar Pumping Solutions are specialists in solar including the Hills ESTEEM™ Evacuated Tube Solar Hot Water system. Hills Solar systems are perfectly designed for alpine areas and carry one of the highest efficiency ratings and warranties out of any solar hot water systems on the market.

They are eligible for all government rebates and manufactured by the trust-

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ed Australian company, Hills. If you want to reduce your power bill, now is the time to go solar and monitor your household energy usage. For more infomation see below or visit www.solarpumping.com.au

After-A-Fashion Goes Bagless!

After-A-Fashion has always been a leader when it comes to exciting and affordable recycled fashion. Earlier this year the business ran a survey asking clients would they support the business ending the use of plastic bags.

The results were overwhelming, with more than 95% voting to support the idea. Last month made the leap and went ‘plastic bagless’ “It was a bit nerve-wracking trying to figure out the logisitcs of doing this” admitted the manager Jenny Lloyd but she needn’t have worried. “ It seems that the public is very ready for retail to take the lead and pull the plug on plastic bags,” says Jenny. “They realise that it is just a matter of having a soft fabric fold-up bag inside their handbag, so they can just pull it out whenever the urge for retail therapy takes hold!”

December 2009

“It’s been a great success,” enthused Rebecca, a staff member from After-A-Fashion. “The business has those recycled ‘green’bags available if necessary and clients have shown their support by donating their spare green bags to the cause. We live in this World Heritage Area and everyone is thrilled to be part of this green initiative.”

With this success in the bag, AfterA-Fashion has moved on to its next project. They have installed a worm farm in the backyard of the business “Worms make this very easy and effective to do,” says Jenny. The business produces a large bag of garbage every weekand most of this is paper.

Of course we needed more green waste such as fruit and vegetables scraps and that’s where our local cafes have been able to help out. So now the worms are on a gourmet diet.” says Jenny.

After-A-Fashion, run by the Presbyterian Church, is 193 Katoomba St So drop into After-A-Fashion and fill up your Christmas stocking, and celebrate saving moeny as well as saving the planet one plastic bag at a time. Our half price pre-Christmas sale starts Wednesday 23rd December at 9.30am.

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Band Christmas Concert St Hilda’s Church, Katoomba St, 13 December, 3pm The Blue Mountains City RSL Band will perform compositions like Handel’s Watermusic, the Hallelujah Chorus and Gustav Holst’s wonderful Moorside Suite.

The bands of Blackheath, Wentworth Falls and Katoomba primary schools will perform.. Special guests are the trombone quartet of the musical director Volker Schoeler. All proceeds will be going to the Blue Mountains City Band’s training programme.

Kinship at Christmas Kinship at Christmas will be holding their Christmas Day lunch at Blackheath Community Centre this year. In previous years it was held in the Katoomba Civic Centre, but the building is currently closed for renovations The Blackheath Community Centre is on the highway, opposite Blackheath Railway Station. Tea and coffee start at 10am, lunch begins at 11am.

Everybody is welcome.

Hard To Be Merry This Year?

Leura Uniting Church invites you to a HARD-TO-BE-MERRY CHRISTMAS SERVICE. This will be a simple Service for those finding it difficult to celebrate Christmas this year.It will be a chance to remember loved ones, to reflect on a difficult year or simply to celebrate Christmas in a quieter way.

Wednesday 16th December, 2009, at 7:30pm. Leura Uniting Church Cor-

ner Grose and Megalong Streets, Leura. Supper is served after the Service.

Enquiries: Rev Ruth Thomas 4757 4362 or Rev Louise Mattay 4782 2931

Carols on the Bus

Each year a big red bus tours Katoomba and Leura with a crowd of happy people singing christmas carols. They visit retirement villages, sing to the tourists at Echo Point and drop in on the odd street party. This year the bus leaves from the Carrington at 3pm on Saturday December 19th and returns around 5.30pm.

Seats are popular so if you’d like to come you’ll need to confirm your seat on the bus by ringing 4782 1608. All the family is welcome. The Combined churches of the upper mountains are organising the event with the generous support of Fantastic Aussie tours.

Talking Birds When I was young I had a friend who kept finches, mostly Zebras, occasionally Gouldians, with a few exotics thrown in. While I admired these pretty little birds, keeping them in an aviary didn’t appeal. Now I find endless fascination in watching the wild finches

in my garden. These are Red-browed Finches, olive-green in colour with a red rump and a red beak and eyebrow.

They are usually found in flocks and are often seen in gardens. Their food is mainly grass seeds but the young are fed almost entirely on insects. During the breeding season the pair bond is very strong even though they remain part of the flock.Courtship behaviour is interesting. The male finch selects a long grass stem and sings and dances to his chosen female. He often gets so enthusiastic his feet leave the branch as he bobs up and down. If she likes him they will go and build a nest together.

The nest is a large untidy bundle of grasses with a small side entrance, often placed in a prickly shrub. It is lined with soft feathers and I always know it is breeding time when I see a finch taking feathers from the aviary containing my son’s Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. Up to 8 eggs are laid and both sexes brood the eggs and spend the night in the nest. As with most small birds the incubation period is only 14 days and within another 3 weeks they can fly although the nest is still used to roost in at night. At this stage they are still begging food from their parents and have not yet developed their red bill. I regularly see them in the garden begging with an exaggerated wing fluttering and almost turning their heads upside down. It is fun watching them grow up and as soon as they are feeding themselves the parents are busy with a second brood. I must admit that I am not a tidy gardener and leave lots of grasses to go to seed. I really enjoy watching the finches living out their lives in the habitat I have created. It certainly beats mowing the lawn!

Thank you to Jill Dark

Ask us to quote on all your printing requirements 88 Govett Street, Katoomba Tel: 4782 2514 email: info@bennettsprinting.com.au We offer BUDGET PRICES

Weand Print prompt efficient service. • Docket Books • • • • • • • • •

Menus Commercial and Colour Printing• Large Format Printing • Stickers Magazines Envelopes Photocopying B & W and Colour• Business Cards • Note Pads Use your own artwork or allow • Letter Heads us to produce your documents Business Cards standard. • to a professional WithAskComp Slipson all • us to quote your printing requirements.

• Posters 88 Govett Street, Katoomba 2780 Large Format Posters

Reports Manuals Brochures Offset Printing Digital Printing Raffle Tickets Colour Copies Black & White Photocopying

Tel: 4782 2514 ~ Fax: 4782 2534

Email: info@bennettsprinting.com.au www.theecho.net.au

• • • •

Spot Colour Catalogues Order of Services Book Marks

We also provide • • • • •

Book Binding Saddle Staples Perfect Bound Books Wire Binding Comb Bound Books

December 2009

• Folding (DL, Z fold, In half, A3 to DL, Concertina) • Die Cutting • Creasing • Numbering • Perforating • Graphic Design Solutions • Type Setting 6

Celebrate Christmas at your local Church Anglican Churches St. Hilda’s Katoomba

Top of Katoomba street, opposite The Carrington

Sunday 20th December

8.00 am Lord’s Supper 10.00 am Carols 5.00 pm BBQ All Welcome 6.00 pm Carols with B M City Band

Christmas Eve 11.00 pm Lord’s Supper

Christmas Day 9.30 am Christmas Family Church

St. Alban’s Leura

137A Megalong Street Leura

Sunday 20th December

8.00 am Lord’s Supper 10.00 am Lord’s Supper 5.00 pm Christmas Family Lessons & Carols Service

Christmas Eve 11.30 pm Lord’s Supper

Christmas Day

8.00 am Lord’s Supper 10.00 am Lord’s Supper

Holy Trinity Wentworth Falls Armstrong Street

Sunday 6th December

10.30am Family Christmas Pageant in Wilson Park Falls Road

Sunday 20th December

Catholic Churches Catholic Church St Canice’s Katoomba

Christmas Eve

Children’s service 6.30pm Midnight Mass 12am

Christmas Day 10.00am Mass

St Frances Xavier Wentworth Falls

8.20am, 10.30am and 5pm Family Carols and Lord’s Supper

Christmas Day

Christmas Eve

St Bonaventures

7pm- Christmas Eve Service

Christmas Day

9am- Christmas Celebration

Katoomba Uniting Church

8.00am Mass

Leura

Christmas Day 10.30am Mass

Salvation Army

37 Waratah St, Katoomba (next to Centrelink)

142 Katoomba St, Katoomba

Christmas Day at 9:00am

Christmas Day at 9:00am

The Lighthouse Church

Cnr Victoria St & South St, North Katoomba

Carols on the Lawn

Sunday December 13 at 6pm

Christmas Eve at 6pm

Katoomba Baptist Church Waratah St, Katoomba (opposite Coles) Special Christmas Service Sunday December 20 at 10am

Christmas Day at 9.30pm

Uniting Church Christmas Carols Thursday 17th December Katoomba Uniting Church 142 Katoomba St, Entry by donation Proceeds to Mission Support

Together in song in the true spirit of Christmas A Happy & Peaceful Christmas to all www.theecho.net.au

December 2009

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Music Scholarship

Dine-in Take Away

Katoomba Uniting church have been accepting applications through Waratah School of Music for two new music scholarships each worth a wonderful $1500. The auditions will take place on the 13th December and members of the public are welcome to come along and show their support and encouragement for the musicians.

4757 1677 ‘We serve quality food, not fast food’

New Book Lisa Gorman from Wentworth Falls has just launched her first book called ‘I Believe in Me: 7 Ways for Women to Step Ahead in Confidence’ Lisa says ‘Female confidence is the key to succes. Many women have low aspirations because they can’t see how to get to the next level in their profession. Women can start improving their personal satisfaction and confidence today with a self audit – write down your strengths, weaknesses, talents and passions. Decide what you really want and focus your attention and action on this. Identify and value the success you’ve already achieved personally and professionally and schedule regular time to do the things that make you happy.

Lisa and her family moved to the area in 1997 and she has been a Leader at 1st Hazelbrook Scout Group over the last 10 years with the last 2 years as a Venturer Leader.

Regular walking around the Wentworth Falls and going to the gym is preparing Lisa for the Hawkesbury canoe classic in 2010. She completed 40 kms in 7 hours in 2004 and says ”This time I’m aiming to finish the event which is 111 kms starting at the Windsor Bridge in 18 hours”.

‘I Believe in Me, 7 Ways for Women to Step Ahead in Confidence’ is available at www.ibelieveinmethebook.com.

Home delivery from 5pm daily Katoomba to Hazelbrook Minimum order $20 Delivery charge $3

Gourmet and traditional Pizzas Pasta and Salads All fresh ingredients, thin based pizzas, home made pasta. Simple wholesome food.

Shop 5 Wentworth Falls Plaza Lunch: Fri,Sat,Sun 11am-3.00pm Dinner: Tues -Thurs 5 - 9.30pm

Fri & Sat 5 - 10.30pm

Sunday 5 - 9.00pm

Gemglow Jewellers

Personal Service

Professional Repairs

Quality Jewellery

Large range of jewellery, gifts watches & clocks Watch, clock & jewellery repairs & remakes, valuations & restrings Tel 4782 2371 Fax 4782 4535 157 Katoomba St, Katoomba NSW 2780 Email: gemglow@hermes.net.au

We stock Chamilia Charms and Bracelets

Hits & Myths

CDs and DVDs 4784 2511 Shop 5 Strand Arc, Leura info@hitsandmyths.com.au

— Music and Movies of Enduring Quality — www.theecho.net.au

December 2009

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Local Personality Whether you know him as Dan Druff, fire-eater Harry Fahrenheit with his quickdraw flame throwers, or clown Buster Pop-Pop, circus performer Dan Weber has become a familiar and funny face both locally and further afield. “No occasion too large or small,” says Dan, who has appeared at kids parties and at corporate galas at the Observatory Hotel, and almost everything in between.

Dan and his family settled in Katoomba three years ago. Like many other Mountains residents, he travels back and forwards to Sydney fairly frequently, but is always glad of work closer to home. He has performed at both Lilianfels and the Fairmont, and more recently at Cirquinox at the Everglades in November.

“Harry Fahrenheit has also appeared at the Carrington,” said Dan, with a grin. “Michael thanked me afterwards for not destroying the hotel.”

Dan’s career in clowning began when he was 28, and working as a lighting technician in a small theatre

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in Brighton, in the UK. “I just fell into it” said Dan. “A group of performers from the theatre were going to travel around France, and they asked me to go along. There weren’t many of us, which meant we all had to be able to do a few different things, so I learned how to juggle.”

The tour turned out to be a bit of a disaster, according to Dan. “Someone stole the big top.” But it didn’t discourage him, and he continued to perform.

“I just got the bug,” he said He continued to work on his skills and add to his repertoire, and attended the school of Mime and Physical Theatre in London.

Dan came back to Australia to see family in 1993, and brought his circus equipment with him. He worked as a street entertainer at Darling Harbour and Circular Quay for a while, before attending an 8 week clown course which led to a job at a shopping centre, which then evolved into work at corporate functions, and more so-

December 2009

phisticated acts. As well as appearing as Dan Druff and Harry Fahrenheit, he also works as one half of a duo of plate spinning chefs calls ‘Meals on Wheels’, and attends red carpet entrances as a member of the Snapperazi, clown photographers. Dan Druff also has a yearly gig at Perisher Blue, which allows Dan Weber to do a little snowboarding on the side.

Dan is also a master balloon bender. Not only can he do the standard swords and hats, he also does two colour teddies clutching little red love hearts and elaborate flowers.

“In Brighton we used to go to the pub after work and we’d sit around and practice,” says Dan, “and quite often there are classes and workshops for balloon bending at conferences.”

“I’m having a great time,” says Dan. “When I’ve done a day’s work, people are happy.”

Dan and his partner Monica also run the circus agency ‘all in one circus’, and have a large variety of acts on their books.

Their website is www.allinonecircus.com Dan Druff can be seen at the Scenic Railway from the 26th to 30th December.

9

Leura CWA The new year starts in October for the CWA The country of study this year is Scotland, and as we have a Scottish lady for our International Officer, we are looking forward to a good year. The ladies from the Blue Mountains Area were invited to attend a beading class held in the hall which was led by our new President Kerry Owers, in her role as Handicrafts Officer. Kerry has lots of great activities planned for the year.

The Cultural Day will be Art, using water colour pencils.

The arrangements for the delegates to go to Port Macquarie Annual Meeting in May are still being discussed.

There is more maintenance work to be done at the hall but difficult to get plumbers regarding the box guttering.

The CWA is donating $2000 to the Volunteer Fire Brigade at Leura The December bus trip will be to Warragamba Dam. Christmas lunch is

being held in the Hall this year, so the ladies are planning a great day!

The next meeting is18th January at the CW.A. Hall Megalong Street at 9.30a.m.New members are very welcome. Margaret Muirhead

Yoga and Meditation Dada Krishna from the Ananda Marga will be holding a Yoga and Meditation Class every Friday from 6pm to 7.30 at Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre.

The Ananda Marga will also be hosting lunch at the Neighbourhood Centre on the 10th December. Come along – everyone is welcome!

Katoomba Garden Club Katoomba Garden Club has come to end of a very successful year, and would like to wish all a very Merry Christmas. Next meeting is January, Wednesday 27th at 7pm at Katoomba Civic Centre, for a ‘Brainstorm-

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ing workshop’ and supper to suggest themes and ideas for the coming year.

Please feel very welcome to come along if you are interesting in joining!

There are some 2010 Zone Calendars left, so if need a Christmas gift for a friend who enjoys gardens this is a bargain at $9. Please contact Margaret Brown 4782 2883

Leura/Katoomba Probus Club At the recent meeting of the Club Philip Hammon of Scenic World was the guest speaker. Phil gave an interesting talk with pictures of the Scenic Railways construction, built originally to bring coal and shale from mines in the valley below.

The five minute speaker was member Ian Bathgate who talked about one of his bike rides.

Speaker for December will be Margaret Stepniewski, editor of The Echo. the five minute speaker will be Louise Langereis. Enquiries : 4782 1672.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Want money in your pocket fast?

$500, $1000, OR $1500 – Write your own cheque!

Advertise your business here and on our website

www.theecho.net.au For more information, call 4773 8974

AIR CONDITIONING

For all your air conditioning & gas central heating needs Phone 4782 9355 Lic No. 148730C

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Specialising in Digital TV Reception & TV/DVD & Top Box Set-up 34 Years Servicing the Mountains Sydney & Wollongong Stations

General servicing & repairs All makes & models • Rego checks Pick-up & deliver • QBE Green Slips Log book servicing Ph 4782 5359

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CAR CLEANING

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also on-line at www.theecho.net.au

BATHROOMS & TILES

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www.theecho.net.au

AUTO MECHANIC

 Enjoy the FREEDOM and FLEXIBILITY to choose your own hours  You choose your FINANCIAL GOALS: earn a GREAT INCOME by working part or full time, your choice!  Tools, training and ongoing support provided  Be recognised and rewarded for achieving goals  Wonderful incentives: Reward yourself with FREE jewellery, Prizes, Conferences & 5 STAR International Travel

TRC Bathrooms & Tiles Your LOCAL supplier of Bathroom Plumbing Products Wall & Floor Tiles • Huge Showroom

Full Bathroom renovation service available 14/26 Megalong St, Katoomba

Ph: 4782 9944

December 2009

• • • • • •

MOBILE CAR CLEANING

Regular special cleans Executive cleans Buffing & Hand Polish Under Bonnet Cleans Internal Details Seat & Carpet Shampoo

‘For that Showroom Finish’

‘For that Showroom Finish’ Call Chris 0418 239 048 Or Free call 1800 1 52637 10

CATERING

RED LENTIL VEGETARIAN CATERING

New Roofs, Re-roof, Roof Restoration, Repairs, Re-ridging, Extensions, INSULATION Accredited Pink

License N: 86216C

4-course meals delivered to your home or office

Tiffin lunches combine the convenience of takeaway, the culinary flair of a restaurant & all the best things about a home-cooked meal!

$15 (plus $1-$2 delivery)

Free delivery to Katoomba town centre

Phone 0422 850 762

redlentilcatering.blogspot.com

ENTERTAINMENT

www.bmmm.net Parties & Functions Music • Photos • Videos

4757 2757

www.bmmm.net brad2782@gmail.com ELECTRICIAN

For all your Electrical Needs

• Qualified • Courteous • Clean • Reliable • On time

Call Gary: 0419

Lic No 14178S

972 427

EXCAVATION

Ph 1300 650 806

Lic No 86216C Supply a nd fit fascia & (New & Old) guttering Supply & fit ceiling insulation

Govt funding of up to $1600 for License No. 63551C

Phone Greg

0418eligible 446 590, 4773 8634 home owners

• New roofs • Roof repairs & restoration • Supply & fit fascia & guttering • Bonded asbestos removal

Phone Greg 0418 446 590 or 4773 8634 www.completeroofing.com.au

FACTORY/SHOWROOM

UNIT 2/112 RUSSELL S T EMU PLAINS

• New Systems • Insurance Work

• Service & Repairs • Free Quotes

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Paint the house!

Fix the fence!

Hang the door!

Fix the lock!

Cut the grass!

Blah blah blah blah ...

Yes Dear

LEGAL SERVICES

For all your Commercial & Domestic Maintenance

LURLINE LEGAL SERVICES

* Conveyancing & Leases * Wills & Estates * Family Law * General Litigation

4782 3700

lls49@bigpond.net.au 49 Lurline Street, Katoomba

ALPINE EXCAVATIONS Wentworth Falls Legal Rockhammer & Auger, Land Clearing, Yards Levelled, Driveways, Slashing, Rubbish Removed, Filling Supplied

Four Seasons Pool Heating SPECIALISING IN SOLAR

LEGAL SERVICES

BOBCAT, EXCAVATOR & TIPPER HIRE

POOLS & SPAS

Eddie de Sousa LLB, MDR tel: 4757 2915 Solicitor, Mediator, Conveyancer, Civil, mob: 0414 57 2915 fax: 4757 2917

Criminal - Commercial Law, Wills and Estates

Ph 0432 422 515 REAL ESTATE

I BUY HOUSES Your price No fees

4757 1560 or 0414 541 560

202 Gt Western H’way, Wentworth Falls eddesousa@swiftdsl.com.au

Janet 0420 614 618

FINANCIAL ADVISER

MARTIAL ARTS

RESTAURANT

HAPKIDO

Sada Thai Restaurant

Martial Arts & Self Defence for men, women & children KATOOMBA: Mon, Wed & Sat. Adults 6.30-8.30pm. Sat Beginners 10am -12 Family Classes, Private Tuition

• • • •

Superannuation Specialist Retirement Strategy Life Insurance Wealth Creation

Phone: 4782 6645 or 0410 311 394 www.hermes.net.au/hapkido

MOTORCYCLES

For the best honest deals on bikes & accessorieS

“Local advice in worrying times”

Contact Peter Tichband Dip FP

Authorised Representitive Total Financial Solutions Pty Ltd AFSL No. 246545

Ph 4757 4385

Suite 5, 201 Gt Western Hwy Wentworth Falls

4782 2507

Email: ptichband@tfsa.com.au

162 Main St, Katoomba

HANDY MAN

MUSIC LESSONS

Sam The Handy Man Can…

Piano & Keyboard Lessons

CLEAN IT

Friendly & inspiring atmosphere • Contemporary method • Musicianship & Composition Classes • Beginners & adults • All styles • Exams available

All work Guaranteed Service with a Smile

Developmentally appropriate music & movement programme • Newborn to 7 yrs • Singing & Instruments • Gift Certificates Available •

FIX IT

Doors, Wi ndows, Fly Screens, Tiles, Paint, Taps & Showers.

BUILD IT

Extensi ons, Footings, Walls, Bag rendering, Wat er features

0416 373 172

www.theecho.net.au

Rubbish removal, Maintenanc e Gutt ers, Lawns, Garden care .

Lic No: 185734C

Early Childhood Classes

Authentic Pure Thai Cuisine Takeaway lunch special $9.90 from 11.30am-2.30pm Tues-Sun Open 7 days • Eat in or Takeaway

4757 3623

1/24 Station St, Wentworth Falls

ADVERTISE HERE Advertise your business here for just: $250 a year in 11 editions Please call 4773 8974 or email info@theecho.net.au Also reproduced on-line at

www.theecho.net.au

VIDEO TO DVD Preserve your precious memories vhs/tapes photographs/slides memorial/tribute to professionally edited DVD movies

0416 279 377 or 4753 7761

Phone 4757 1476 December 2009

11

Introducing ...

NicFit

Christmas Pack Save $130 on 12 month membership

health. strength. fitness.

Save $60 on 6 month membership

“THE fully equipped gym in the mountains.

We don’t forget about you after joining!”

• Body Shaping • Weight Loss • Express Circuit • Strength & Bodybuilding • Over 40’s Fitness Phone: 4784 2294 Email: nicfitau@gmail.com

185 The Mall, Leura (formerly Fitness Zone)

WENTWORTH FALLS COUNTRY CLUB Telephone 4757 1202 • Pro Shop 4757 1899 Blaxland Road, Wentworth Falls

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP $15 (until March 2010) INCLUDES

• Access to club discounts

• Access to fitness centre • Memberships draws • Function nights • Golf discounts • Restaurant back under club

management

New Years Eve Family Fireworks on the Fairways

The restaurant is open for dinner from 6:30pm with a special New Year’s Eve buffet for $35.00pp.

Bookings and pre-payment necessary.

Fun for the whole family from 7:00pm

Frisbee golf, children’s putting competition, Outdoor dancing on the first tee Famous Rotary sausage sizzle or bring your picnic.

No BYO, drinks available at club prices

The fireworks will commence at 9:30pm

WENTWORTH FALLS COUNTRY CLUB - COME AND ENJOY THE CHANGES

www.theecho.net.au

December 2009

12