The Katoomba
Lunch Box
VET
• Hot & cold take-away food • Business catering Opening hours Mon-Fri 7.30am-4pm or by arrangement
Ph 4757 3255
25/26 Megalong St
Issue 15
Ph 4782 6344
March 2010
www.theecho.net.au
Wentworth Falls War Memorial The Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans’ Affairs, Peter Primrose, has announced $5,725 for the restoration of the Wentworth Falls War Memorial. “This war memorial is an enduring symbol of the sacrifices made by those who served in the two world wars as well as Korea and Vietnam,” Mr Primrose said in his recent visit to Wentworth Falls. See page 10
Seniors Week There is a great range of activities planned for March including internet sessions, grandparents story time, a free movie at Mt Vic Flicks, sound healing, a history picnic, a tour of Blackheath cemetary, the launch of the Mountain Memories book and mini workshops. The full month’s program
is now available from Libraries, the Neighbourhood Centre, and Councils Customer Service counters. Enquiries to Prue Hardgrove on 4780 5546.
Home Insulation Program Local residents could be forgiven for being a confused about the Government’s Home Insulation Program. Although there are many reputable roofing business locally, many householders have been deliberately mislead by insulation installers who have simply turned up on people’s doorsteps, announcing they are there to insulate their homes for free. See page 8
Controversial art Local designer and business woman Helen Mountford has clashed with Integral Energy over an art project in-
FREE
www.wentworthfallsvet.com.au Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8.30am-7pm Sat 9am-1pm • Sun 10am-12pm
tended to make public spaces more friendly and welcoming. In the same spirit as the vibrant knitted covers for street-signs and power-poles, Helen decided to make a colourful cover for the electricity box outside her shop, which had been covered in black graffiti. See page 7
Radio Plays Blue Mountains Radio Players have moved to a new home at the Coach House, behind the Mountain Heritage Hotel on the corner of Apex and Lovel Streets, Katoomba. Performances are on the last Sunday of every month, at 2.30pm. For those without cars, The Blue Mountains Bus company will be sending a bus to the south side of the station to meet the 2.22pm train from Sydney and the 2.25 from Lithgow and deliver to the Coach House door. See page 7
Join the Village Fitness 12 week weight loss challenge It’s not just your waistline that benefits
Ring
You will
4782 3809
jessie.villagefitness@gmail.com Level 2, 98 Bathurst Road KATOOMBA www.villagefitness.com.au
• Stabilize & control blood sugar levels • Decrease cholesterol & triglyceride levels • Decrease blood pressure • Increase energy levels • Dramatically decrease body fat
‘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
March 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 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 Blue Mtns Lapidary Club
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 4759 2440
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 Tuesday, March 23, 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
• Traditional book shop atmosphere • Books, DVDs, classical CDs, audiobooks, cards & wrap • Local maps & guides • Great kids books!
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)
183 The Mall Leura Phone 4784 1302 books@megalongbooks.com www.megalongbooks.com
Register your email for notification when the new issue is online.
www.theecho.net.au. 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.
March 2010
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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Easter in the parish St. Alban’s Anglican Leura
Catholic Church Holy Week
137A Megalong Street
Holy Thursday (1st April)
Good Friday (April 2)
Mass of the Lord’s Supper: 8pm St Canice’s, Katoomba
9.30am Bible Readings, Prayers and Hymns
Good Friday (April 2) Stations of the Cross
3pm The Phoenix Choir will sing will sing J.H Maunder’s Cantata Olivet to Calvary $10 (Proceeds to Ibulanku Health Centre, Uganda)
Easter Saturday
9am to 5pm Book Fair in the Church Hall (continues April 5-9)
Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
Easter Sunday
Katoomba Street, opposite The Carrington
Good Friday (April 2)
Armstrong Street
Good Friday (April 2) 9.00am
Easter Sunday
8.20am Lord’s Supper 10.30am Easter in the Park
Easter Sunday
8am, 10am , 5.30pm (with Rev David Mansfield)
Easter Vigil - St Canice’s - 7.30pm
Holy Trinity Wentworth Falls
9.30am with Rev David Mansfield
5pm Afternoon Church
Easter Sunday
St Frances Xavier Wentworth Falls: 8am St Canice’s Katoomba : 10am St Bonaventures Leura: 11.30am, No evening mass on Easter Sunday
Easter Monday St Canice’s, Katoomba: 10am
Katoomba Uniting Church
(Wilson Park - bring a chair or rug. In the church if raining)
142 Katoomba St, Katoomba
Good Friday (April 2) 9am Easter Sunday 9am
School Holiday Workshops
Mt. Vic Flicks Proudly Presents Flickerfest, International Short Film Festival 19 - 20 March 2010
Thurs 8 April @ Blackheath Library Puppet Making: Stick Puppets & Theatre A family workshop designed for adults and children 10.30am-12 noon • $10 per family ALL AGES • Bookings essential
St Canice’s, Katoomba: 3pm
Easter Saturday
8am & 10am The Lord’s Supper
St. Hilda’s Katoomba
St Canice’s Katoomba : 10am St Frances Xavier Wentworth Falls: 10am St Bonaventures Leura: 10.30am,
19 - 20 March 2010 Mt. Vic Flicks
Programs Screening: Friday 19th March 7pm - Oscar Nomination Saturday 20th March 7pm - Best of Australian Shorts Films & Opening drinks Friday 7pm - 7.30pm
Tues 13 April @ Wentworth Falls Library
Tickets can be purchased at: Gleebooks in Colliers Arcade, Blackheath Megalong Books, The Mall Leura Blue Hour Café - Shop 1 - 177 Katoomba St.
Simple Puppet Making: paper marionettes with Jane 10.30am-12 noon • 6-12 yrs • $5 Bookings essential
Limited seating. Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
For more information, contact Blue Mountains City Library on 4723 5036 or visit www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au
Flickerfest is brought to you by ah ! ha events
Blackheath Family Medical Centre Part of the Blue Mountains GP Super Clinic 110 Wentworth Street, Blackheath PH: 4787 8225 Monday - 8:30 am - 8:00 pm
NOW HAS NEW DOCTORS, NEW NURSES AND NEW HOURS! DOCTORS AVAILABLE: Dr Lili Jones * Dr Paul Stephens Dr Nerida Burton * Dr Ann Cripps Dr Chris Coghill (starting in March) www.theecho.net.au
Tuesday to Friday - 8:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday - 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
For more information on the Blue Mountains GP Super Clinic please contact Balance! Healthcare on 1300 854 340 www.balancehealthclinic.com.au
March 2010
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Giant Book Fair Easter Saturday, April 3rd, is the first day of the Giant Book Fair in St Alban’s Anglican Church hall, Megalong Street, Leura. It will continue from Easter Monday to Friday, April 9th. It has been held annually at Easter since 2001, and is the major fund-raising event for a project in Ibulanku Village in Uganda, the village where James Lukabyo, who has a home in Leura, was born. He is now High Commissioner for Uganda to Australia. The project began with the sinking of a bore to provide clean water, then a Health Centre which began in a small way with a single multipurpose building opened in 2002. It is now a full-sized hospital, with a maternity building, an operating theatre, a pathology laboratory, a dispensary and several clinics, including one for HIV/ AIDS treatment and counselling. All the buildings have been equipped with donations from Australia. There are various Outreach activities, including immunisation, and malaria and nutrition programs (these two funded by the Anglican Archbishop of Sydney’s Overseas Relief & Aid Fund). The Australian High Commission to East Africa has also supplied funding for a reticulated water system
among other things. In 2007 we bought a small school and it has increased considerably in size and has a very dedicated staff. Last year the first 12 pupils sat the primary leaving examination (a prerequisite for entry to secondary school in Uganda) and 11 of the 12 passed, with 9 performing very creditably. There are 30 orphans at the school, all supported by the St Alban’s Church family. We propose to put the proceeds of this year’s Book Fair towards accommodation for nurses at the Health Centre, and would like to encourage everyone to come and buy books which are extremely cheap and have all been donated. We would like to thank all who have supported us already, by donating or buying books, or with donations of money. We expect the High Commissioner to attend for the first few days.
Lapidary, a fascinating hobby for all ages Learn the art of cutting and polishing semi-precious and precious stones. The Blue Mountains club has a workshop on the corner of Noble St and the Great Western Highway at Bullaburra which is open every Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 4pm.
To join the club, just call at the workshop or phone 4759 2440. The club is holding its annual exhibition on the 20/21st March so come along and see a variety of items made by the members to give you an insight into the club. There will be a wide range of items for sale. See more details in the advert below.
New Shooter in Town A new arrival in the area is the photographer Ann Niddrie. Ann built a reputation as both an artist and a commercial photographer in Sydney but the call of the natural environment in the mountains proved too strong for her to resist. As a commercial photographer Ann brings a fresh, natural approach to shooting products, places and people. She is looking forward to working with local businesses, especially the many that offer sustainable products and services. ”I’m inspired by the possibility of working with so many people who are passionate about what they do” said Ann. “There’s a real awareness here of the value of the natural environment; I feel lucky to be welcomed into this community”. Ann can shoot on location or in the studio and you can see her work at www.annniddrie.com.
Gem Show Blue Mountains Lapidary Club
Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 March Sat 9am -5pm Sun 9am -3pm
Progress Hall, Bullaburra (cnr Noble St & GWH)
Jewellery, Raffle, Fossicking area, Fossils, Slabs & much more. Refreshments
Adults $1 Children 50c Enquiries 4759 2440 or 4784 1583
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
March 2010
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Receive 5% OFF all purchases*
Get your FREE BEST REWARDS card today
T: 02 4784 1386 163 The Mall F: 02 4784 2165 LEURA NSW 2780 E: leura@bestbuypharmacy.com.au W: www.bestbuypharmacy.com.au
OPENING HOURS Monday - Friday 8:30am - 6:00pm Saturday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:00pm Public holidays 9:00am - 4:00pm
*Excludes prescriptions, NDSS, sale and discounted items. www.theecho.net.au
March 2010
5
Talking Birds Glossy Black-Cockatoos are slightly smaller and rarer than the wellknown Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoos and they have red tail panels. They range over the coast and ranges from northern Victoria to central Queensland, with an isolated population on Kangaroo Island, and are totally dependent on the various species of Allocasuarina on which they feed almost exclusively. In many areas they are thought to be declining but here in the Blue Mountains we are lucky to have quite a large population although they can sometimes be difficult to locate as they move around in search of their favourite food trees. Last summer I was lucky enough to have a pair feeding in some Allocasuarina littoralis by the front gate. They spent the whole day there, just munching the cones and littering the ground below with their leftovers. This was wonderful but the following day they moved down to a tree outside my front door and spent 2 full days just quietly feeding and moving from branch to branch. How good is that! I spent hours watching them and running in and out with a camera, hoping for a better photo opportunity every time they moved. It was interesting to observe that there was one particular tree that they preferred, although to our eyes the seeds on the other trees looked identical. As these seeds are small, and extracting them is very time-consuming, the birds must know which seeds give the best value. This summer they returned, almost certainly the same pair, and checked out the same tree. Unfortunately there was
not much seed set this year and they moved on after about half an hour. It will be interesting to see when they return and if I am really, really lucky they may have a juvenile with them. In the meantime I am planting more Allocasuarina and hoping to encourage more birds in the future. If any readers would like to see Glossy Black-Cockatoos try Kings Tableland near Wentworth Falls. They are often to be found perched on the power lines or in any patches of Allocasuarina in the heath. Listen for the sound of chewing!
of support. For further information please contact the Springwood Neighbourhood Centre on 47513033.
Kinship still here
Walking Track Closures
The Board of the Springwood Neighbourhood Cooperative Centre Ltd have made the exceptional decision to continuing funding the Kinship Care Regional Projecton on a temporary basis until the middle of the year in the hope its funding will be renewed by Community Services. Despite the of the kinship care forum held in September last year overwhelming success and the continuing growth in numbers of kinship carers needing support, information and advice it would appear Community Services no longer sees the project as something it should continuing to be funding. A joint research project recently completed by the University of Western Sydney & the Association of Children’s Welfare Agencies confirmed what those working on the ground have known – that kinship carers need on the spot, localised access to information using a family centred approach providing a broad spectrum
Darwin’s Walk, Wentworth Falls is closed until further notice due to substantial damage to the walking track. A number of sections of boardwalk have been displaced and one foot bridge has been washed away by flood waters. Fortunately all the recently constructed sections of board walk and new foot bridges remain undamaged. Council will undertake a complete assessment of the repair and rehabilitation work required on the walk and will investigate options available to reconstruct the damaged section of the track. Updates will be provided when available. Closure of link track, Echo Point An additional length of walking track on the link walking track to the Three Sisters, Echo Point has been closed due to a minor landslip. Council will assess the repair and rehabilitation work required on the walk. Updates will be provided when available. Walking track access to the Three Sisters from Echo Point remains open.
Granny Mae Playgroup This is meeting place for grandparent carers and/or guardians to interact with each other and their grandchildren. This group meets weekly every Monday at Tanderra Out of School Hours, Raymond Road, Springwood - 9.30am to 11.30am. Cost is a gold coin donation. Please contact Dale 0413 378 017 or Robyn 0425 733 155.
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
March 2010
• Folding (DL, Z fold, In half, A3 to DL, Concertina) • Die Cutting • Creasing • Numbering • Perforating • Graphic Design Solutions • Type Setting 6
Electrical Art Continued from page 1: The covers were made from bright and lightweight cotton fabrics, and were removed at night. Helen had several and used them to bring the bright designs inside her shop onto the pavement for passers-by to enjoy.
“I had been using the covers for more than a year, then I decided to share the love and made covers for the boxes outside fresh, Anglicare, the Common Ground Café and St Vinnies” said Helen. Workers from Integral Energy removed the covers, on the basis of them presenting a danger of overheating. “When they came to me and asked me to remove mine, I asked why.” said Helen. “They said it was because the covers were covering the ventilation hole in the front and the back of the box, and that they couldn’t see the numbers on the box.” Helen immediately suggested cutting little windows in the box-covers around the ventilation holes, and of-
fered to machine embroider the numbers on the front of them so that they would be clearly visible. “They still didn’t think it would work,” said Helen “but they haven’t been back. That’s why I’ve left mine there.” A spokesperson for Integral Energy said that the company shares the community’s frustration with graffiti vandalism on its network. “Our network is there to serve a practical purpose - to ensure a safe and reliable supply of essential electricity supply to customers. While some parts of the community may wish to change its appearance, this needs to be balanced against our service responsibilities to customers Our primary concern is that a knitted cover could cause a padmount substation to overheat by disrupting the flow of air around the electrical equipment inside, leading to lengthy blackouts while the equipment is repaired. Innovative approaches have been employed to discourage vandalism in other parts of our network. In these areas, we have entered into partnerships with artists and local government to manage graffiti vandalism without compromising the safety and reliability of electricity supply to our customers. “ Meanwhile, Helen has plenty more ideas for the project. “Shopkeepers that don’t want a box–cover outside their businesses may be keen to take up another initiative of the art group.” She says. “Pole covers that are Velcro-ed on and off so you can remove then at night. Fat and thin poles are catered for. Anyone who is interested should check out two outside The Shed Hairdressers on Bathurst Rd.”
Radio Plays The group perform plays written strictly for radio, mostly from the 30’s and 40’s. The plays are evocative of
another time, where love, death, and pathos unfold slowly, drawing you into the moment, or will catch you up with their impeccable comedic timing and clever exchanges. Juliette Palmer- Frederick has been running the group for fifteen years, with a floating cast of both professionals and amateurs coming together un-
David Cox and Amanda Russell.
der Juliette’s guidance to produce two or three plays per month. “Radio is not easy,” says Juliette. “You only have voices and sound effects to create your story and your characters. We all give each other lots of feedback. ”Juliette is an accomplished actress and a former drama teacher. The players have been invited to perform at the Henry Lawson Festival of the Art at Grenfell on the June Long weekend. The plays for March are “Alter Ego” by Arch Oboler, and “Jane Goes to the Psychiatrist” by American comedian Goodman Ace, based on the Easy Aces radio show where Ace and his wife Jane perfected their unique kind of domestic comedy. April’s plays are “The Rocket from Manhattan” and “Life of Riley.” Performances are the last Sunday of the month at 2.30. The cost including Devonshire tea is $12 per person. For catering purposes those interested should give Mountain Heritage a call on 4782 2155. CDs of previous plays will be available for sale on the performance.
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@gmx.com
We stock Chamilia Charms and Bracelets www.theecho.net.au
March 2010
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Insulation Update Continued from page 1: Many householders have been deliberately mislead by insulation installers who have simply turned up on people’s doorsteps, announcing they are there to insulate their homes for free. Some of these Installers have implied or even stated that they are there by arrangement with the Government program, or that they are associated with the Green Loans Scheme. Other Installers have contacted homeowners by phone to ‘arrange a time for the work to be done.’ Some of these have offered ‘two quotes’ to accompany the work. The actual Insulation Program was completely separate to the Green Loans Scheme. It required that residents who wished to get the insulation needed to get two independent quotes before proceeding with the work. Each quote needed to include the name and ABN of the Installer, the size of the area to be insulated, the type of insulation used and the total cost. Information about local installers who had been registered with the program was available on the website, though this was not widely known in the community. The Program has now been closed. Instead, there will be a new household Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme to assist households save money on power bills and reduce their carbon emissions. It is intended that the insulation component of the Renewable Energy Bonus scheme will begin by 1 June. Details of the scheme will be available soon at www.environment.gov. au/energyefficiency Meanwhile the Government will be conducting audits and safety inspections of existing work. Inspectors will advise householders of any problems, especially of safety issues that need to be addressed immediately. If insulation has not been installed properly, the Householder will be advised to contact the Installer. The householder will not be left out of pocket if the work is not up to standard, providing the installer business was registered under the previous scheme. Householders should hang on to all their documents, especially the two quotes originally required, for five years, to prove that the work was done under the scheme. Under the new Renewable Energy Bonus scheme, all installers will be required to reregister, pay a cash bond, show evidence of meeting the training and skills requirements and provide certified quality assurance and occupational health and safety plans. A register of eligible installers will www.theecho.net.au
be made available on the department’s website, when the new scheme starts. If you have any concerns about substandard work, a hotline has been established for households that are concerned about the safety of their insulation. The new safety Hotline for householders is 131 792. If the job is not up to scratch or the insulation is substandard, Householders need to contact their installer in the first instance and then the Office of Fair Trading.
Person of the month
Trevor and his wife, Doraine Benton,with the BIZNET Community Award 2008
12 years ago Trevor Brown from Katoomba established Respite Tours, a registered charity, to provide an alternative to centre based respite care for people with acquired brain injury and intellectual disability. This provides holiday tours and day trips. Respite Tours has become so popular that they are always fully booked with long waiting list. Trevor had his own personal experience with being in a nursing home aged 19 after he had been in a coma for months and was not expected to recover. There are 6700 people younger than 60 in Australian nursing homes for the aged so another of Trevor’s community projects is the Younger People In Nursing Homes Project. This provides two social and recreational programs a week for approximately 40 younger people that currently reside in aged care facilities. As there has been no available government funding to date, Trevor established GWH KitchMarch 2010
ens in Lawson and gives 100% of profits from this business to fund these community programs. He recently donated and raffled a $15,000 luxury kitchen won by a lucky couple at Yellow Rock. Trevor and his wife Doraine are always looking for extra helpers and want to encourage people to complement each other. Just taking a younger person from a nursing home out for a drive or for a cup of coffee can be a wonderful change for them. Contact Trevor on 0415 193 113.
Listening Workshop The workshop is called ‘in one ear and out the other’. It is an opportunity to look at how at how learning, listening and behaviour are connected. It is for parents, teachers and others who may have a child who is struggling at school or where there are emotional, physical or behavioural issues such as unreasonable tantrums, fussiness, poor sleeping and eating habits. The workshop will look at how the ear, brain and voice connect and introduce auditory screening tools and checklists to clarify listening issues plus develop strategies to work at home, school or clinic. It is at the Neighbourhood Centre Sat 20 March 10am - 5.00pm. Please call Kay 0425 242 123
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Wentworth Falls memorial The Member for the Blue Mountains, Phil Koperberg, said “Wentworth Falls RSL has been engaged in a process of upgrading the war memorial for some time now, with remarkable results,” “These funds will enable the branch to clean and repoint the mortar joints of the memorial and improve the appearance of the structure.” The memorial in Station Street, Wentworth Falls, was built in the 1920s and is a single sandstone column mounted on a sandstone base with plaques commemorating World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Wentworth Falls Garden Club Join us on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 9:45am to 12 noon. Thursday 11th March, the guest speaker is Liz Bastian, talking to us about Permaculture. The library and plant stall are open before each meeting, with a welcomed “cuppa” during the break for morning tea. Join us at Wentworth Falls School of Arts Theatre, Adele Avenue, corner of Great Western Highway, Wentworth Falls.
Katoomba Garden Club The Club have moved their meetings while the Civic centre is undergoing renovations, and are now at North Katoomba Public School, Cnr Victoria St & Mistral St (parking in the grounds) 7pm 4th Wednesday of the month. The speaker for March is Anitra Nelson from the Fruit and Nut Tree Network. There is a dinner at Katoomba Golf Club on Mar 26th For further information, call Marg Brown on 4782 2883 or email chasnmadge@aaptnet.au
LETS Blue Mountains Community Exchange Scheme is having its first trading day on the 21st March 9am to 2pm at the Magpie Markets, at Lawson Primary School. The Community Exchange www.theecho.net.au
Scheme is a brand new incarnation of the old LETS system, now updated and online for much easier access. Bring your stuff along to trade on the day and join on the spot. Everyone has something can offer, from skills and services, to unused goods or home grown produce. Come along and see what’s available. Join the scheme for free at www.bmces.org, or call Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre on 47 821117.
Blue Mountains East Timor Sisters The Blue Mountains East Timor Sisters are having a garage sale fundraiser on the 20th March at 22 Wentworth St, Blackheath, from 9 to 3pm.The BMETS have been providing long term support for women and children in East Timor since 2004.
Buddhist teaching 37 Point Mind Training given by Kempo Ngawang DhamchoeBuddhist teaching based on great compassion and wisdom. Wednesdays, March 24th, 7.30 to 9.30, until 5th of May at the Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre, Station St, Katoomba.Cost is $10 For further info call Suzi Walker on 4757 3328, or the Neighbourhood Centre on 4782 1117
Katoomba Quilt Show The second annual Katoomba Quilt Show and Airing Of The Quilts will be held on the 20th and 21st March at the Katoomba Primary School in Merriwa Street and the “Airing” will be around the corner in the grounds of The Stitching Post in Lurline Street. Entry is $6.00 and there will be trade stalls as well as a wonderful raffle quilt. The school P & C will provide teas, and lunches. Quilt entries must be in by 12th March and the prizes are fantastic.
Fruit and Nut Tree News Blackberry Working Bee on Saturday 13 March The second of a two-part working bee in Blackheath, restoring beautiful old fruit trees to their former glory (and beyond), so that they can be harvested by members of the community during their next harvesting season Please contact Lizzie Connor lizzieconnor@bigpond.com (4782 9380) Chestnut Picking at Mt Irvine Farm on Saturday 27 March Anne Elliott (Slow Food Blue Mountains) is leading a visit to Kookootonga Chestnut and Walnut Farm. Anne will talk a bit about chestnut growing in our region and we can pick our own chestnuts for $8 a kg. (Walnuts won’t be ready this early.) Please contact Anitra (anitran@aapt.net.au or 4782 9003)
Leura CWA Members will be bringing their embroidery, knitting, ceramics, paintings, cookery and other creations for the next meeting on 15th March. Items will be chosen for the Area meeting on 18th March at the Anglican Church in Lawson. Lawson C.W.A. Branch has now closed and the members have been transferred to the Leura Branch which now makes our membership 34. Unfortunately, not all members are able to attend our monthly meetings, and their contributions are missed. We hope to see you all again soon, as there is always lots of new projects to discuss and news to share. We open the hall each Monday from 9.30a.m. onwards. Come and join us for a cup of tea and introduce yourself. We look forwards to meeting you soon. March 2010
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Kunsang Yeshe Retreat Centre A Tibetan Buddhist Centre, Kunsang Yeshe (koonsang yeshay) Buddhist Centre has been in operation in the mountains since 1992. Over the years it has undergone its own version of incarnations in both location and programs offered. However, its underlying mission and vision have remained constant – creating the space for people to explore and understand the various ways to creating happier lives through the ancient wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism.
This doesn’t mean that you have to be Buddhist or even become a Buddhist to attend any of the varied weekly classes on offer. Experience for yourself that everyone can indeed learn to meditate, regardless of age, gender or religious beliefs and reap the physical and mental benefits that arise from discovering your mind’s habits as well as its potential to transform, uncovering the clear stillness that is the essential nature of mind. As well as our weekly program, the first weekend of each month sees a weekend meditation retreat alternating with Saturday talks and Sunday
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CAR CLEANING
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4782 2507
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guided meditations. On Sunday March 14, a special Tibetan Lama will be bestowing a religious Initiation into the practice of Tara – the female Buddha of Enlightened Activity. He will also conduct a Refuge Ceremony on the Sunday morning – a ceremony for those wishing to formally become a Buddhist student. The Centre is at 9 Sherman Ave. Katoomba 4782 6616. For details of our monthly program visit www. kunsangyeshe.com.au or email kunsangyeshe@gmail.com.
HANDYMAN
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Doors Windows Fly Screens Gyprock Tiles, Paint Brick Problems Leaky Taps/Showers
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Lawn Mowing, Garden Care Gutter Cleaning, Rubbish Removal General Property Maintenance
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Full Bathroom renovation service available 14/26 Megalong St, Katoomba
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CLEANING
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www.theecho.net.au
• • • •
Superannuation Specialist Retirement Strategy Life Insurance Wealth Creation
“Local advice in worrying times”
Contact Peter Tichband Dip FP
Authorised Representitive Total Financial Solutions Pty Ltd AFSL No. 246545
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Suite 5, 201 Gt Western Hwy Wentworth Falls
Email: ptichband@tfsa.com.au March 2010
Lic No 86216C Supply a nd fit fascia & (New & Old) guttering Supply & fit ceiling insulation No. 63551C Phone Greg Govt funding License for eligible home 0418 446 590, 4773 8634 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
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also on-line at www.theecho.net.au
Ecommerce Sites Events, Products MOUNTAIN EAGLE Brochure Sites Portfolios, Informal Domain Names SECURITY SERVICES Portraits, Tourism Ebay stores
• Home / Business protection • Parties and special functions (female guards) p 4782 3048 m 0403 • Holiday/ Emergency services available
LEGAL SERVICES
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: www.photo.net.au Essential mike@photo.net.au service, Affordable prices, Free quotes
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LEGAL SERVICES
* Conveyancing & Leases * Wills & Estates * Family Law * General Litigation
4782 3700
lls49@bigpond.net.au 49 Lurline Street, Katoomba
LEGAL SERVICES
Wentworth Falls Legal Eddie de Sousa LLB, MDR tel: 4757 2915 Solicitor, Mediator, Conveyancer, Civil, mob: 0414 57 2915 fax: 4757 2917
969 336
Criminal - Commercial Law, Wills and Estates
202 Gt Western H’way, Wentworth Falls eddesousa@swiftdsl.com.au
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FACTORY/SHOWROOM
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PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Paint the house! Fix the fence! Hang the door! Fix the lock! Cut the grass! Blah blah blah blah ...
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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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MARTIAL ARTS
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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
Phone: 4782 6645 or 0410 311 394 www.hermes.net.au/hapkido
MOTORCYCLES
For the best honest deals on bikes & accessorieS
Ph 0432 422 515 REAL ESTATE
I BUY HOUSES Your price No fees
4782 2507
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MUSIC LESSONS
RESTAURANT
162 Main St, Katoomba
Piano & Keyboard Lessons
Friendly & inspiring atmosphere • Contemporary method • Musicianship & Composition Classes • Beginners & adults • All styles • Exams available
Sada Thai Restaurant
VIDEO TO DVD Preserve your precious memories vhs/tapes photographs/slides memorial/tribute to professionally edited DVD movies
0416 279 377 or 4753 7761 WEDDING HIRE
Blue Mountains Special Event Hire
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
Phone 4757 1476
1/24 Station St, Wentworth Falls
Tables • Chairs • Marquees • Cutlery Linen • Glasses • Lights • Candelabra Phone 4782 1023 www.blueysmountainhire.com.au
PARTY HIRE
RUBBISH REMOVAL
WEDDINGS
Developmentally appropriate music & movement programme • Newborn to 7 yrs • Singing & Instruments • Gift Certificates Available •
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Building Sites, Small acreage, Mowing, Deceased estates, Shops. Will beat any competitors price by 10%
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Introducing ...
NicFit
OFFER A 12 months full m’ship Personal program Full health profile $800 value
OFFER B
health. strength. fitness.
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• Body Shaping • Weight Loss • Express Circuit • Strength & Bodybuilding • Over 40’s Fitness Phone: 4784 2294 Email: nicfitau@gmail.com
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17th March - 11.30am Carrington Hotel, Katoomba
$5
What’s available for senior’s! Information and workshops.
25th March -10am-2pm At KNC
www.theecho.net.au
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
Relationship Counselling U3A Digital Photography Buddhist Meditation
1300 364277 4722 3405 0432 949146
WEDNESDAY 12pm-1.30pm 7pm-9pm 7.30-9.30pm
Wednesday AA 0416 046031 ADHD Support Group (monthly) 4782 7258 37 Practices of Mind Training 4757 3328
THURSDAY
Book at KNC
FREE
MONDAY
10am-12pm 12pm-1.30pm 4.45 -6.15pm 6.30pm-8pm
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
TAFE Computer Class Meditation and Yoga Creative Writing
4782 1117 4782 6652 4782 1117
SATURDAY SUNDAY 10.30am-12pm As Bill Sees It (AA) 4.30 -6.30pm African Drumming
4782 5107 0414 229624
March 2010
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