The Katoomba
Lunch Box
VET
• Hot & cold take-away food • Business catering Opening hours Mon-Fri 7.30am-4pm or by arrangement
Your community news
25/26 Megalong St
Issue 14
Ph 4782 6344
February 2010
www.theecho.net.au
Murray Wilcox OAM Congratulations to Leura resident and former Australian Federal Court judge, Murray Wilcox, who was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in the recent Australia Day honours. Murray has been recognised for his service as a judge and law reform commissioner.
Citizen of the Year Leura’s Joan Gahl was named the Australia Day 2010 Citizen of the Year for her longstanding volunteer work with the Conservation Society, the Hospital Auxiliary and the Orpheus Strings Orchestra. See page 6
a new local shopping option. An ALDI spokesperson said ”ALDI is a marketleader in offering consumers prices they can trust – we are the only supermarket to have all the prices of all products listed on our website so shoppers can see exactly what they will save and ALDI was the first grocery retailer to offer consistent, national pricing across all its stores.’ Energy efficiency is a key priority with the building and all the equipment designed to minimise electricity consumption, noise, water and air pollution. See page 4
Blue Mountains Music Festival 2010 12th March to 14th March
Aldi Opening The new store on the corner of Waratah and Katoomba Street is opening on the 4th March to give us
The 15th Annual Blue Mountains Music Festival is a three day festival of folk, roots and blues music, featuring around 100 diverse artists in over 80 concerts in 8 different venues in Katoomba.
FREE
Ph 4757 3255
www.wentworthfallsvet.com.au Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8.30am-7pm Sat 9am-1pm • Sun 10am-12pm
Iconic U.S. singer/songwriter, Nanci Griffith along with W.A.’s Grace Barbé and Melbourne outfit, The Little Stevies have joined an already impressive line-up of international and Aussie performers. See all the details on http://www.bmff.org.au.
Senseless Vandalism The police are asking for any information relating to the damage of the shade trees at Echo Point. The banksia and gum trees have been hacked and poisoned and the tourist centre spray painted with graffiti. Council will attempt to save some of the trees but it is not expected they will survive.The repairs will cost Blue Mountains City Council more than $10,000, which has to be funded from some other program. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or Katoomba Police Station on 4782 8199.
Discounts for Seniors
• Exercise Physiologist available (Medicare Registered)
Ring
• Personal/Individual Exercise Programs
4782 3809
linley.villagefitness@gmail.com
Classes include Heartmoves • Stretch Tai Chi • Basic Pilates
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
February 2010
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
NM Pilates Equipped Studio
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
Pilates ProgramsTailored to your needs:
Injury Rehabilitation, General Toning & Fitness, Strength & Flexibility, Postural Integrity, Pre/Post Pregnancy, Sports Specific (incl: Dance), Dance & Sports Related Injury
000
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
0432 219 564 4782 3174
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
‘A Culture of Body/Mind Health & Fitness’
NEXT ISSUE BOOKING DEADLINE Monday, February 22, 2010
Katoomba Police Station 4782 8199 Police Assistance Line 131 444 Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling 131 114
Are you interested in joining a fitness class that is fun, full of energy and is suited to any age, shape or size?
Natural Movement
info@theecho.net.au
Emergency Services (Police, Ambulance, Fire)
Ladies Fitness Class
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
are hosting free ce a month at the vegetarian lunches on d Centre. The first oo Katoomba Neighbourh from 12 to 1.30pm, one is February 11th, the remainder of the and will continue for day of each month. year on the 2nd Thurs o run a yoga class at The Ananda Marga als ntre every Friday from the Neighbourhood Ce is $8. 6 to 7.30pm. The cost , please call Dada For more information 495 Krishna on 0432 650 The Ananda Marga
• 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 February 2010
NM Classes now on… • Pilates: Exercise Band, Mat Work
(All Levels), Pre/Post Pregnancy, Posture / Balance / Relaxation (PBR), Sports Specific • Dance: Flamenco, Jazz/Funk/Modern
Book in for 2010 Julie - 0409 199 071
B. Ed, A.D Dance Instruction/Management, Certified Pilates Studio & Dance Instructor (all levels) www.naturalmovement.com.au info@naturalmovement.com.au
QUAKERS SATURDAY MORNING SALE EVERY SATURDAY 8am-12noon In the Quaker meeting room at 4 Oakura Ave Woodford (right next to Woodford station)
Books, LPs, clothing, glassware & kitchen ware ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW
FELLOWSHIP
“On the day be die, call me and fore you about where yo we’ll talk u’ll spend eternity.” The Bible says “Prepare to meet your God .” If you want friendl y fellowship and good, plain Bi ble teaching with un-modern worship style,
Katoomba Baptist
Church, Waratah St (opp Coles) 10am Sundays Ph
4758 8674
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Blue Mountains Chamber Concerts The Blue Mountains Chamber Concerts Inc present high quality chamber music to the public in Blackheath.
The president of the BMCCI committee, Nerida Burton, presenting the quilt to Cynthia
The committee was very grateful to have a beautiful quilt, made and generously donated by the women of the Upper Mountains Probus Club for a
raffle which helped greatly in meeting costs.The winner was Cynthia Avis from Blackheath who was delighted. A new series of concerts is planned for 2010 and looks very exciting. The first one will have wide appeal to the whole family. The second will present for the first time in the mountains the newly formed Lurline Chamber Orchestra, a thirteen piece chamber orchestra, which represents the fulfillment of a dream for Maria Lindsay, our artistic director. Later in the year there will be two of the much loved house concerts at “Werona”. For further information ring Nerida on 4782 7616 or email at b.nerida@ gmail.com.
& Myths also stock a range of ABC titles and have access to any others you might be seeking. World Movies, often forgotten in chain stores, occupy a prominent wall of the shop. As well, they sell DVD players and have recently added a small selection of books that complement the tastes of collectors of movies and music. Service is an essential ingredient in this mix. Staff are always happy to find that elusive title for you. And if it is not on the shelf, they will order it for you. Hits & Myths is next to the carpark entrance in Leura.
Hits & Myths
Sunday 7th February 3-6pm at The Clarendon
There are a couple of phrases that the owners of Hits & Myths love hearing from customers: “you’ve saved me a trip to Penrith” and “I’ve been looking everywhere for this “. In both cases, it is recognition that this shop’s choice of classic DVDs and CDs is unique. An impressive selection of timeless movies and TV series sit alongside a delightfully eclectic mix of heritage rock CDs and soundtracks, with a dash of classical and world music. Hits
ANIMADEUS
A family concert of Mozart, animals and more
Sunday 7 March, 2.30 pm
Haiti Earthquake Concert Appeal The students from the Waratah School of Music Summer Program Youth bands 2010. All proceeds from the concert will go to the Red Cross appeal for the victims of the Haiti Earthquake. The concert will also feature performances from Tracey Campbell Trio, Nigel Foote, Dawn Egan, Natalie McCormack and many more. Tickets available at the door or bookings 4782 9500 at $10.
Photography & Website Production Photography
Blackheath Community Centre With Peter and the Wolf and two other works involving animal themes, Actor Tony Cogin will bring the characters to life as well as ensure an element of surprise throughout the concert... Also Mozart with A Little Night Music, Sarasate’s lively Gypsy Airs, which will have you out of your seat, and the world premiere of Blue Mountains composer David Scheel’s melodious String Quartet. Special Ticket prices for this concert; Adult $30, Conc $25, Child $10, Adult with two children $40
Events • Products • Portfolios Informal Portraits • Tourism
Websites
Ecommerce Sites • Brochure Sites Domain Names • Hosting • Ebay Stores Michael Stone p 4782 3048 m 0403 969 336 e mike@photo.net.au w www.photo.net.au
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
February 2010
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New Supermarket ALDI are proud of their long standing concept of green stores and have provided the following. “Stand out features for our new stores include highlevel double glazed windows,all ceilings are insulated and the wall panels are insulated as required. The cladding is made from 70 per cent softwood content sourced from renewable forests The store has entry/exit airlocks and suspended ceilings which have been designed to minimise air loss and reduce the volume of air to be heated or cooled, and lighting that runs at one-third normal capacity outside of store operating hours.The store freezers have lids to minimise the loss of chilled air and at night chiller curtains will be drawn to limit the escape of cold air and conserve electricity. We are committed to ecological efficiency in our store landscaping, drought resistant native plants have been used. Outdoor signage and external lighting is controlled via photoelectric sensors to prevent overuse and electricity wastage”. “ALDI sources a high percentage of our products here in Australia. Currently 100 per cent of fresh meat, 97 per cent of dairy and 95 per cent of the fruit and vegetables we sell are Australian. Customers are able to easily identify Australian made products by the ‘Australian Made, Australian Grown’ logo on ALDI’s product.”
Slow Food Events Slow Food Blue Mountains have organized a series of events for Summer Harvest. Places are generally lim-
ited, so book early. “Utilising Native and Indigenous Plants of Australia and NZ” Chef Andrew Third will teach participants about some of the native ingredients available, and then prepare several dishes for participants to try, as well as one or two cocktails. February 12th, at Mountain Heritage. Cost is $35. Call 4782 2155. “Old Fashioned Tarts with a Twist” Sue Christmas of Bunderra Bed and Breakfast at Wentworth Falls will be teaching how to make pastry and creative fillings, Cooking class will be followed by afternoon tea to enjoy the finished products Tuesday 16th February at 2.00pm until 3.30pm. The cost is $35 per person. Bookings can be made by calling Sue Christmas on 4757 3461 “Cooking with Weeds” Learn which local weeds are good to eat, and use them in combination with locally produced goats cheese to make delicious pasties. The event is on Feb 24th, at Cloudlands, Katoomba. The cost is $25. Phone 4782 7376 for further information. “Chocolate truffles” and “Mystery Summer Dessert.” These workshops are both being hosted by Café Josophans in Blackheath, one on the 20th and the other on the 27th of February. Cost is $40 per workshop, and places are limited to 6. Call 47876333 for bookings. “How to Make the Perfect French Omelet” Chef Daniel Eggins will be at the
Katoomba St café, on February the 25th to demonstrate his omelette making techniques with local produce. Cost is $35, bookings 4782 7466
Community Forum
According to the recent Suicide Prevention Australia Position Statement, Suicide and self-harm in GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual, Transgender) communities remain issues of serious concern in Australia. Available research continues to demonstrate that the prevalence and rates of selfharm and attempted suicide are significantly higher amongst GLBT people than among non-GLBT populations. Current data also reveals that alcohol and other drug use among GLBT populations tends to be more frequent and at more harmful levels than among the general Australian population. An organising group formed by Pink Mountains GLBT community website are planning to hold a community forum focusing on issues including Homophobia & mental health problems facing some GLBT people in the Blue Mountains. A panel of speakers will present their observations followed by audience participation. The forum will be held to coincide with IDAHO, the International Day Against Homophobia which is commemorated around the world on May 17th every year. The venue will be at the BMCC Council Chambers in May. If you are interested in being a speaker at the forum, or want to assist, please email Kevin Hardwick on info@pinkmountains.com.au The Pink Mountains website can be found at www.pinkmountains.com.au
Grand Opening of Katoomba Store 4th March 2010 from 9am Cnr Waratah & Katoomba Street www.aldi.com.au www.theecho.net.au
All welcome Lowest Prices Guaranteed February 2010
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How much do you pay for your prescriptions?
Prescriptions from
$9.99 *
Do you want to save money on your non-concession prescription medication? You should have a look at our ‘Value Prescription Price List’ & visit BESTBUY PHARMACY today to talk to a BESTBUY Pharmacist about the BEST CHOICE for you and your family. BESTBUY PHARMACY has more than 60 non-concession prescription medications at the price of $9.99. BESTBUY PHARMACY also has many more non-concession prescription medications on the ‘Value Prescription Price List’. Visit BESTBUY PHARMACY and talk to a pharmacist about the BEST price for your prescriptions. * Valid concession card (Repatriation, Health Care Card and Pension Card) holders and Safety Net Card holders will enjoy the fixed Government pricing ($5.40) for their prescriptions received at all Medicare approved pharmacies nationwide. Where any prescription item is co-paid by the Government & not paid for fully by the customer, by law the prescription price cannot be discounted. Full terms and conditions available in store.
T: 02 4784 1386 163 The Mall F: 02 4784 2165 LEURA NSW 2780 E: leura@bestbuypharmacy.com.au W: www.bestbuypharmacy.com.au www.theecho.net.au
OPENING HOURS Monday - Friday 8:30am - 6:00pm Saturday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:00pm Public holidays 9:00am - 4:00pm February 2010
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Citizen of Year “I am very honoured and flattered to receive this award,” said Mrs Gahl. Joan Gahl’s was a founding member of the Sublime Point Bushcare Group in 1996 and still takes an interest in native plants and bush regeneration as an active member of Blue Mountains Conservation Society. Joan’s husband, Imre, is very supportive of her volunteer work. He is a viola player with the Orpheus Strings Orchestra based in the hall of Katoomba Public School and Joan is the secretary and fundraising champion. She has been vice president for four years of the Katoomba Hospital Auxiliary and to continues to volunteer as a Pink Lady, visiting patients in need of company and support. “There’s a life out there,” Mrs Gahl said. “You live in a community, you should be a part of it.
New Years Eve Residents of the Blue Mountains were treated to a phenomenal display of fireworks on New Years Eve at Wentworth Falls Country Club. Over five hundred people attended a wonderful evening of entertainment . The event was sponsored by lo-
cal businesses and organizations including Central Blue Mountains Rotary Club . Rotarians such as Athol Harman (pictured) paused from their work to admire the colourful fireworks spectacle in the sky . President Paul Sullivan commented,” We are proud to be involved with such a quality event that builds great community spirit.
Katoomba Men’s Shed This is a place for men of all ages and backgrounds to meet to share skills, knowledge, life-experiences and work together on practical projects for the whole community. The shed is currently in renovation stage and it is hoped that it can opened for use later this year. In the mean time, if you have construction, plumbing, electrical, cabinet making or organisation skills, or you can wield a broom or hammer, please join us on on one of our work days. For further information please email us at: katoombamensshed@ gmail.com or phone 4782-7433 The AGM is to be held 10 February 2010 at Katoomba Men’s Shed, 6 Orient St, Katoomba at 7:00 pm.
course of their daily lives. To get the ball rolling Council is funding a series of workshops in schools and in the wider community. A free workshop at Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre on Saturday, 20th February from 2pm till 4pm. Bookings are essential as there are limited places. Please call 4782 1117. Student entry forms are due 19th March, and their artworks due March 29th, and community entry forms are due 19th of April, with artworks due on the 29th of April. For more information contact Katrina Knight at kknight@ bmcc.nsw.gov.au or ph: 4780 5621
This artwork was created by Mt Victoria Public School and was the winner of the Primary School 2D section.
Art Workshop The “Waste to Art” Competition is coming up again in March/April, building on its previous successes to be bigger and better than ever. “Waste to Art” is part of the collaborative waste and resource management project, ‘Netwaste’. It provides a great opportunity for our local artists and encourages people to think about the waste they generate in the
Radio Plays & Players The Radio Plays & Players will be back in February. The first performance will be 28th Feb. same time, 2:30pm, same place. Leura House, 7 Britain St, Leura For more details , tel 4784 2035.
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
February 2010
• Folding (DL, Z fold, In half, A3 to DL, Concertina) • Die Cutting • Creasing • Numbering • Perforating • Graphic Design Solutions • Type Setting 6
Lone Pine Descendent The Katoomba RSL Sub-Branch has had a donation of remarkable historical significance. B l u e Mountains historian, Mr Geoff Bates presented the Sub-Branch with two Aleppo Pines that are direct descendants of the original Lone Pine that grew on Lone Pine Plateau at Gallipoli. Lone Pine was the scene of a major offensive launched by the 1st Australian Infantry Division on 6 August, 1915.The battle took place in an area, the size of two football fields which became known as Lone Pine because it was dominated by a single pine tree. In three days of fighting the Australians lost more that 2273 men and the Turks losses were estimated at 7000. Seven of the nine Victoria Crosses awarded to Australians at Gallipoli were earned at the battle of Lone Pine. A soldier, who took part in the bat-
tle, sent a cone from the tree home to his mother. Two seedlings were grown from this cone, one of which was planted at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. The two pines presented to the Sub Branch are come from the Yarraluma Nursery in Canberra and are certified to be directly descended of the original Lone Pine.
Blast It Clean James Martin, a long standing resident of Leura, has introduced a mobile Soda Blasting service for exterior surface coating removal and cleaning. Soda Blasting is a process whereby bicarbonate of soda (or baking powder) is blasted onto the surface using low air pressure to either remove surface coatings such as paint and varnish, or clean the surface of unwanted residue. The process was developed in 1972 to clean the delicate copper surfaces on the Statue of Liberty, without damaging the surface material, or harming the environment. James’ equipment is ideally suited to small to medium size work. Some interesting jobs completed to date include: removal of paint bomb graffiti from a sandstone building; concrete mix
Mountain Master Soda Blaster
Environmentally friendly, low pressure cleaning using bi-carb soda
CLEAN REMOVE • Brickwork • Graffiti • Stone • Paint & varnish • Automotive parts • Oil & grease • Kitchen equipment • Mould • BBQs • Baked on carbon • Timber • Antifouling Gelcoat “We also provide high pressure water cleaning”
Ph 0400 119 885
residue removal from a pebble-crete driveway; concrete mould removal; paint and varnish removal from timber furniture; aluminum scaffold cleaning; and paint removal from an aluminum “tinny”. Each job is appraised as to its suitability before commencing. Some timbers are too “grainy” to clean, and as soda is non abrasive, it will not remove rust. The water cleaning service has proved a bonus for houses washed following the dust storms of last year. James has all permits and insurances in place. Contact 0400 119 885.
MONDAY
9am-5pm 1pm-2pm 7pm-8.30pm
Free Financial Counselling 6332 3456 Women’s Recovery AA 4759 1831 Narcotics Anonymous 0403 478156
TUESDAY
9am– 5pm 1pm-3pm 7.30 -9.30pm
1300 364277 4722 3405 0432 949146
Wednesday AA ADHD Support Group
0416 046031
WEDNESDAY 12pm-1.30pm 7pm-9pm
THURSDAY 10am-12pm
12pm-1.30pm
4.45 -6.15pm 6.30pm-8pm
Relationship Counselling U3A Digital Photography Buddhist Meditation
Breastfeeding Asn (Monthly) 4758 7945 Community Lunch (1st week of month) Ananda Marga Lunch (2nd week of month) Hatha Yoga 4784 2720 Living Sober 0404 549316
FRIDAY
9am-12pm 6-7.30pm 1pm-4pm
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
TAFE Computer Class Meditation and Yoga Creative Writing
4782 1117 4782 6652 4782 1117
www.theecho.net.au
10.30am-12pm As Bill Sees It (AA)
4782 5107
February 2010
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Black and White in the Blue Mountains A Free Public Lecture Historian and ecologist Jim Smith has been travelling through and documenting the country of the Gundungurra speaking people of the southern Blue Mountains for over twenty years. He will be giving a presentation of his research at the Wentworth Falls School of Arts at 10.30am on
Saturday 6th March
The talk is sponsored by the Blue Mountains Historical Society as their annual ‘Beryl McLaughlin Lecture’ for 2010 and is free of charge. Some of the topics covered will include his mapping of Dreaming journeys, Aboriginal travel routes and significant landmarks. He will explain the web of biological and spiritual kinship that developed between the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people of the Burragorang Valley and how the memories of black and white people about their shared past have become entangled. The true spellings, meanings and locations of local Aboriginal place names and the healing practices of Gundungurra people will also be explored.
Weekly activities for babies and young children Monday
Play and Chat Nth Katoomba Public School 9:30-11:30am
Tuesday
Play and Chat, Nth Katoomba Public School 9:30-11:30am
Wednesday
Koori Playgroup, Went worth Falls School
Previously untold stories of Katoomba’s ‘Gully’ Aboriginal community will be revealed. The talk is open to any interested member of the public. No booking is required. For further information contact: 4782 3751 or 4757 3824 (Tues & Fri am) or email bmhs@email.com
Male Carer’s & Men’s Group The Practical Workshops for Male Carer’’s and Men’s Group is a series of monthly workshops and activities designed for and by the members of the group. The workshops are open to local men of all ages who may be isolated and men who are caring for someone of any age who may be living with a disability, chronic illness, frail aged or a person living with or recovering from a mental illness and The group meets monthly to share information skills and ideas. Professionals are invited to speak to the group to offer ideas, possible solutions and relevant advice regarding carer’s and men’s roles. The Workshops include topics such as Dealing with Challenging Behaviour, Financial Planning, Basic Health
of Arts 10:30-12noon. For transport call Ruby 4758 9966
Thursday
Play and Chat Nth Katoomba Public School 9:30-11:30 Play and Chat Katoomba Public School 9:30-11:30 Playtime Wentworth Falls Anglican Church Hall 10am Call Carolyn 4758 6326 Playgroup Leura Baptist Church10am
Care, Practical Hints to Survive the Stresses and much more. The group also participates in social activities, shares experiences, goes on outings and is a great way to meet others. Ideas and suggestions are always welcome. Please contact Marlene at the Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre on 4782 1117 for more information.
Wimlah Refuge Wimlah Outreach now has a dedicated Temporary Accommodation Support Worker who is working with the families who are experiencing homelessness in the Upper Mountains. Johana Iren joined Wimlah and is a welcome addition to the service. Johana is a well respected community worker of long standing and is also a TAFE teacher in Community Services. She understands the importance of local organisations and government departments working together with a common goal and ethos and indeed she knows the full range of services available in our community. The position is funded by Community Services for 6 months, and is due in part to the advocacy of Phil Koperberg MP.
Breast Feeding Assoc. 10am-12.00 Meets every 4 weeks: Feb 18th, March 18th Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre, 8 Station St Enquiries 4758 7945 My Time Supported Playgroup for families with a child with a disability. Meets weekly during term time. 10am-12noon. Enquiries Ruby Wright 4758 9966
Friday
Kidzplay St Hilda’s Church Hall, Katoomba St 9:30-11:30 $2 Baby Time Library Sessions Last Friday of month 10am-11am Multicultural Playgroup Fortnightly, Blue Mountains Family Support Service 2 Station St10am-12noon Contact Yola 4782 1555 Jill 4739 5963
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 www.theecho.net.au
February 2010
8
The March of the Brush Turkey
are common in their chosen habitat. Stories abound of turkeys building huge mounds in backyards, burying fences and adding cherished pot plants to the mix, so native gardeners in the Blue Mountains are wondering where they will appear next. They have been seen several times in the Lower Mountains and recently reported from Hazelbrook and Lawson. If you see any Brush-turkeys in the Blue Mountains the Blue Mountains Bird Observers would love to hear from you. Contact details can be found on our web site: www.bmbirding.com.au
Brush-turkeys are on the move. These big black birds, with distinctive red heads and yellow wattles around their necks, normally live in the rainforests of the north and central coasts. However, they are now moving south, and, with the popularity of wellmulched native gardens they are finding conditions very much to their liking. Sydney’s north shore, Mt Wilson, and recently Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens have already been invaded and where are they heading next? The Australian Brush-turkey beLocal Schools Help longs to a group of birds known as Solomon Islands Megapodes, literally translated as Big Feet. They are also called MoundIf you are travelling in the Solomon builders, as they incubate their eggs Islands in the near future you may see in huge mounds of decomposing some familiar school uniforms. vegetation. The male Brush-turkey Schools in the Solomon Islands spends most of his days patiently rak- recently received an influx of much ing the leaf litter into his mound and needed uniforms due to the generosthen tending it while the eggs are incubating. Amazingly he can regulate the mound temperature to about 35°. He takes time off to mate with the female when she approaches his mound and she then lays up to 20 eggs at intervals of several days. Her duties are then done. The eggs hatch after about 7 weeks and the chicks dig their Rev Robinson hands over uniforms to Father Patteson way to the surface of the mound unaided. Nghalihesi and diocesan officials in the Solomon Islands. They can run and feed (Inset: Amanda Nelson from Katoomba Public School and Kymberley Arrell from Blue Mountains Grammar School) themselves as soon as they are hatched and within 24 hours ity of Blue Mountains Grammar School can fly well enough to get off the and Katoomba Public School. ground. Many young turkeys are takUniforms, surplus to needs at both en by foxes, cats and other predators schools, were shipped to the Solomon’s but enough survive to breed and they through contacts with St Hilda’s church in Katoomba. Rev Ray Robinson from Specialising in Digital TV Reception SALES & & TV/DVD & Top Box Set-up St Hilda’s explained; ‘Schools in the SERVICE 34 Years Servicing the Mountains islands only have very basic resources Sydney & Wollongong Stations and many children can’t afford uniforms. When visiting recently I saw TV ANTENNAS children wearing hats made of banana leaves.’ He said people were so grateful for the assistance given. ‘I hope this will be the beginning of further oppor162 Main St, Katoomba tunities to care for our pacific neighbours.’ Members of St Hilda’s have For the best honest deals on bikes & accessorieS made a number of trips to the islands in recent years to assist in the work of the churches there.
BRIAN PHILLIPS
4782 2507
www.theecho.net.au
February 2010
LIVE LIFE 2010 Seniors Week in the Upper Mountains Some of the events include: Saturday 6 March
Guided Tour of Blackheath Cemetery 10.00am - 11.30am and 1.00pm - 2.30pm (light refreshments after both tours) Cost: FREE. Bookings essential,limited places. Contact: BMCC 4780 5546 Come and hear about the history of our local Blackheath Cemetery which was founded in the late 1800’s. Bring enclosed shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Distance/grade: easy.
Tuesday 9 March 9:00am - 10:00am
Seniors Internet Session at Blackheath Library (Community Hall G.W.Highway Blackheath) Cost: FREE. Bookings are essential. Contact Blackheath Library 4787 8893
Friday 12 March 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Seniors Internet Session at Wentworth Falls Library (Wentworth Falls School of Arts, G.W.Highway) Cost: FREE. Bookings are essential. Contact Wentworth Falls Library 4757 2095
Friday 19 March 9:00am -10:00am
Seniors Internet Session at Katoomba Library (Town Centre Arcade Katoomba St) Cost: FREE. Bookings are essential.4780 5750
Wednesday 24 March 10:30am – 11:30am Grandparents Story Time Katoomba Library (Town Centre Arcade Katoomba St) Contact Library 4780 5750 Cost: FREE
Wednesday 24 March from 10:30am
Seniors movie at Mt Vic Flicks Harley Ave, Mt Victoria Cost: FREE. Bookings essential Contact Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre 4787 7770 Transport is available
Friday 26 March 9:30am - 11:30am
Sound Healing at Everglades Historic House and Gardens,37 Everglades Ave, Leura Cost: $5 entry fee for Sound healing Journey. All proceeds go to the National Trust of NSW Bookings essential 4784 1938. Gold coin donation for seniors entry into garden 10am to 4pm.
To find out more information on these activities and others planned for March you can contact Prue Hardgrove on 4780 5000 to obtain a program. Or you can pick up a program at the various Library branches, Neighbourhood Centres and Council’s Customer Service Counters. The program will be available the first week of March.
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Leura CWA At our last meeting the volunteer Rural Fire Brigade came to accept the two backpack blowers from our President, Mrs. Kerry Owers. We received an interesting talk about fire-fighting exercises in the Blue Mountains Area and a plaque in recognition of our donation. The next meeting is 8th February at 10.30a.m at the CWA rooms in Megalong Street, Leura.
Blackheath CWA The next meeting is 16th February, in the CWA Rooms, Gardiner Crescent, Blackheath. Our Handicraft Officer, Mrs Jewel Hide, is ready to teach or help any type of craft every Tuesday morning 9am -12 noon. The recipes for the Land cookery competition can also be selected at the craft group on Tuesday morning. The competition is held in February and is open to everyone. Please contact Wilga on 4757 1332, for any further information.
Katoomba Garden Club 24th February 7pm at Katoomba Civic Centre, Katoomba Street (next to Library. The speaker will be Ted Morphett, on “Caring for Roses in the Blue Mountains”. Ted is a member of the Rose Society, and has won numerous prizes for his roses, including the Grand Champion Ribbon at the Royal Easter Show.
Probus Club At the January meeting we were entertained by Dennis Rice with poetry and music. The next meeting is a
AIR CONDITIONING
planning forum on the 12th February at 10a.m at Katoomba Golf Club. New members and visitors welcome, just turn up. Enquiries to 4782 1672
Men’s Cooking Group “The Therapeutic Value of Cooking” is a year long program for men that focuses on reviewing the personal associations that men have with food. The group meets once a week, alternating cooking sessions with discussion nights, and is run by registered therapist and passionate cook, Sid Stolk, who also runs a vegetarian catering business called “Lushious.” Food also connects people to their past, and is a link to their cultural heritage. Men are encouraged to bring and share family recipes. “Preparing food for you family is great,” says Sid, “and involving your children is another great benefit. It also important for men to learn how to nurture themselves.” Participants are encouraged to be creative with food, to share ideas and to enjoy each other’s company. The group meets Monday from 6.30 to 8.30pm cost is $40 per week, and this includes food. Call Sid on 0432 143 523 for inquiries and bookings, or email at lushious@southernphone.com.au
Dangerous Spiders The current hot weather has begun driving deadly Blue Mountains Funnel Web spiders from their burrows in search of cooler, moister conditions inside homes and backyards. Katoomba-based naturalist and noted “spider man” Rex Gilroy, who has been researching spiders for the past 50 years, says this is going to be a very dangerous season for the shiny
black-bodied Blue Mountains Funnel Web (arguably Australia’s deadliest funnel web species) as well as other species such as the Mouse Spider, Red Back, White Tail and others. Rex is co-ordinator of the Dangerous Spiders Public Awareness project, a nationwide lifesaving community service project. As part of the public education drive a Dangers Spiders Hotline is being operated where concerned home owners can obtain helpful advice on any spider problems they may have by phoning 4782 3441. A fully illustrated Dangerous Spiders booklet is available and contains coloured photos of all the dangerous and not so dangerous species commonly found around the home, their life histories and habits, advice to parents of young children on educating them about spider danger as well as a fully illustrated step by step first aid procedure for spider bites (ie pressure immobilisation technique which is the same for a snake bite). Order with your details plus $10 to The Rotary Club of Katoomba, Dangerous Spiders Public Awareness, PO Box 54, Katoomba NSW 2780.
Pests and diseases of fruit and nut trees Saturday 6 February at the Blue Mountains Organic Community Gardens 10.30 am to noon Harold Hodgeson Park in Victoria St, North Katoomba. For more details, contact: Wayne & Brian 6352 5893 (see http://bluemountainscommunitygardens.org/) Fruit and Nut Tree Network Contact: Anitra Nelson 4782 9003 or visit http://bmfruitandnuttreenetwork. blogspot.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
CAR CLEANING
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BATHROOMS & TILES
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 February 2010
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MOBILE CAR CLEANING
Regular special cleans Executive cleans Buffing & Hand Polish Under Bonnet Cleans Internal Details Seat & Carpet Shampoo
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‘For that Showroom Finish’ Call Chris 0418 239 048 Or Free call 1800 1 52637 10
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Wentworth Falls Legal 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
4757 1560 or 0414 541 560
202 Gt Western H’way, Wentworth Falls eddesousa@swiftdsl.com.au
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MARTIAL ARTS
HAPKIDO
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
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Superannuation Specialist Retirement Strategy Life Insurance Wealth Creation
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Phone: 4782 6645 or 0410 311 394 www.hermes.net.au/hapkido
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4757 3623
1/24 Station St, Wentworth Falls
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• Home / Business protection • Parties and special functions (female guards available) • Holiday / Emergency services “Offering a professional much needed service to our community since 2005” Essential service, Affordable prices, Free quotes
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February 2010
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