Gresford News March 2017

resford News G

The

News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys March 2017

Piper Conn takes over the DJ duties. Photo: Julie Hartigan

School's Back!

School is back… and it’s never been so much fun! The Gresford Public School P&C hosted a welcome disco for all students on February 17. Find out what else is happening at Gresford Public School inside…

The Gresford News is a Gresford Community Group project. Circulation 800 – Donations appreciated and most welcome. Thank you!

Fully Licenced Café / Restaurant 4938 8305

BR

Plumbing & Excavations Pty Ltd

General Plumbing & Drainage Gas Plumbing Drain Cleaning New houses, renovations & extensions Transpiration areas – upgrades & new 3 t & 5.5 t excavator with augers & rock breaker Bobcat 6 t & 13.9 t GVM tippers NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL SERVICING AREAS BETWEEN MAITLAND - SINGLETON - GRESFORD - VACY - PATERSON

BRIAN & JULIE REIBEL PH: 02 4930 9047 FAX: 4930 9046 15 Lerra Road, WINDELLA NSW 2320 ACN: 109 886 419 ABN: 81 109 886 419 Lic No. 167289C

Gresford General Store and Post Office Home of the Crossroads Cafe 162 Durham Road Gresford (Cnr Lostock & Durham Road) Phone 4938 9239

Trading

Shop

Mon – Thurs 7 am – 5 pm Fri – Sun 7 am – 7 pm

Cafe

Take Away

8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 4 pm

8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 7 pm

Gourmet fresh cut sandwiches and real Milkshakes available – BBQ Chickens – Ice – DVDs – Grocery – Ice Creams – Drinks – Pizza also available from 5pm Thursday–Sunday FRESH SEAFOOD available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Order on Mondays for Tuesday delivery and Wednesday for Thursday delivery. Bon apetit!

NEW – Dry Cleaning service now available - ask Katie or Jo for details

Katie and Joe thank everyone for the kindness and support they have shown with the change of ownership.

The Gresford News Community Diary Sat

4 Mar Dungog Shire Business Expo, FREE, James Theatre Dungog, 1.00pm

Thurs

9 Mar Special Community Table for dinner to coincide with the Artshow, Gresford Showground, 6.00pm

Thurs

9 Mar Art Show Opening, Gresford Showground, 6.30pm

Fri

10 Mar No Community Table for dinner as this is the Gresford Show BBQ

Fri

10 Mar Live music – Sun Rockets, Hotel Beatty, 8.00pm

Fri-Sat 10-11 Mar Gresford Show Sat

18 Mar CWA book club – 'Buriel Rites' Hannah Kent, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 3.00pm

Sun

19 Mar Next Community Markets, Hotel Beatty, 9.00am

Sun

19 Mar Live music – Scotty Brunner, Hotel Beatty, 12.00noon

Tues

21 Mar Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Sat

1 Apr Trivia night, Gresford District Historical Society Inc, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 7.00pm

Sat-Wed 8-12 Apr Hunter Boys Ag Camp, Old Lostock School Sat

15 Apr Gresford Billy Cart Derby, Park St East Gresford, from 8.30am

Sat

15 Apr Live music – Loose Change, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 8.00pm

Wed-Thurs 19-23 Apr Hunter Girls Ag Camp, Old Lostock School Sat

22 Apr De-consecration of St Paul's Eccleston, 11.00am, bring & share lunch then St James', 3.00pm

Mon/Tues

Social ladies tennis starts, Mon or Tues mornings, Gresford Tennis Courts, 9.30–11.00am

Tuesdays

Spring/summer mixed Tuesday nights tennis, 7.30–9.30pm

Mondays

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Vacy School of Arts Hall

Tues, Wed, Thurs

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Gresford School of Arts Hall

Friday afternoons

Junior tennis coaching, Gresford Tennis Courts

1st Mon each month

Gresford Community Group Meeting, 5.30pm, Hotel Beatty, all welcome! (not Jan)

1st Wed each month

Gresford Rural Fire Brigade meeting, station, 7.30pm

1st Thurs each month

CWA Gresford Branch Meeting, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 9.30am (not Jan)

2nd Mon each month

Gresford Historical Society Meeting, Therese Doyle Hall, 10.30am (not Dec, Jan or June)

2nd Tues each month

Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm (not Jan)

2nd Sat each month

Book Club, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 3.00pm (not Dec or Jan)

3rd Tues each month

Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am (not Jan)

3rd Fri each month

Gresford Public School P&C Meeting, school library, 10.00am

Last Thurs each month

Gresford District Agricultural Society Meeting, Showground Luncheon Pavilion, 7.30pm

Every Wed, Fri & Sun

Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Raffles, from 6.30pm

Every Mon (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.00am 49346725 Every Tue & Fri (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Gresford School of Arts, 9.00am 49346725 Every Thur Happy hour and free pool and jukebox at the Hotel Beatty Every Fri Cricket Club Raffles at the Hotel Beatty Every Wed & Fri (school terms) Yoga with Donna Cavanough, Wed–gentle, Fri–general, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.15am Every Wed Gresford PlayTime, children 0-5 & carers, Gresford School of Arts, 10.00am Every Sunday The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am

To contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au or call Brian Doherty on 0412 372 687 or Jane Richens on 0425 339 856. Postal Address: PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311. Deadline for stories and ads 20th of the month.

Visit

www.gresfordnsw.com.au

for local information and the ‘Gresford News’ online.

G resford News finances

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Please support your local newsletter and contribute anonymously or use the slip below and place your donations in the boxes provided in Gresford.

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Amount

Address

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Gresford News Notices Gresford District Bushman’s Carnival Association Inc Gresford Campdraft and Rodeo wish to thank everyone for the success of our 2016 event.

We were able to donate to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter as well as our local charity, Gresford Public School P&C. Our 2017 event is fast approaching and we are again looking for

Expression of interest

Gresford District Historical Society Inc. Invites all to join our Trivia Night Saturday April 1st Gresford Bowling Club – 7pm Start!

COST: $10 per seat or book a whole table – individual tickets are available and can be sorted into a group table on the night. The night will also include RAFFLES with a variety of prizes

TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT: Gresford General Store, Gresford Community Markets (3rd Sunday of each month) & the GDHSI Museum For more info please contact Katie – 4938 9239 (Gresford General Store)

Gresford Transport ABN - 76872263533

Livestock, Hay and General Transport

Gresford, Dungog Maitland, Singleton 8 ton capacity fully insured

Stephen Hill for friendly and personal service Home - 02 49 389 349 Mobile - 0429389349

Local charity and/or kiosk operator Gresford Campdraft and Rodeo August 25 and 26 2017.

Please apply in writing to the secretary, Tracy Merchant, PO Box 67 East Gresford 2311. Applications close 30/4/17.

Gresford District Community Dinner Thursday 9 March 6pm GRESFORD SHOWGROUND Our last dinner was a BBQ at the Beatty and once again the meal was simple and delicious. Thank you to the Beatty Hotel for putting us in air-conditioning instead of the hot garden.

In March, the second Friday falls on Show night, so we have decided to support the Art Show opening on the Thursday 9 March starting at 6pm. Savouries and wine are served at the Art Show for $10 and for another $5 a spit roast dinner with salads will be sponsored by the Show Committee and the bar will be open too. This is a good opportunity for newcomers to experience Gresford hospitality and the GCG committee will make sure you are introduced around.

Carolyn Addison – Member of GDCG

Barista Course, Sat 10 April, Gresford Cafe & Store Youth $50, Adults $135, Non-accredited course with John Ellis www.dungogcommunitycollege.org.au, 4992 1133

Gresford Market presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.

Sunday 19 Mar 9am to 1.30pm at the Beatty Hotel

...........................

Features local stalls and produce, Great music local goods, treats, attactions and a little bit of history ...........................

Further information contact George Sales 4938 9639

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A LOCAL DANCE SCHOOL THAT IS FUN & AFFORDABLE...

VGDC IS THE PLACE FOR YOU! AGE 3+ BEGINNER – ADVANCED CLASSES STARTING FROM $5.50 P/W JAZZ HIP HOP CONTEMPORARY TAP BBO BALLET (exams)

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ADULT FITNESS & YOGA CLASSES New in Term 2: ACRO DANCE CLASSES CONTACT MISS BROOKE – 0437 354 577 EMAIL – brookedance@bigpond.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK @ VGDC

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 Gresford Bowling Club

$1,000 of

Seafood Prizes

Wednesday

12th April Drawn 7pm

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Gresford Billy Cart Derby 2017 Easter Saturday 15th April starting at 8.30am – Sponsored by Glencore

year’s event and work will commence to finish the track after Easter.

The V8 supercars have one, Formula 1 have one and now the Gresford Billy Cart Derby will have one. The winners stand high on the podium with all of the fans looking on from below and then the champagne pops and everyone is sprayed as they cheer the winners.

For the first time we will be following in their footsteps from the side balcony of the Beatty Hotel. Petersen’s Champagne from Pokolbin will make limited edition bottles with the Billy Cart label just for us so we can have our winners spray the fans. In reality they are going to fill our bottles with soda water but no one will know the difference. We will have some real champagne with our logo up for auction at the end of the presentation – something for you to remember about the great day you had.

The digital age has made it to the Billy Cart Derby with electronic start and finish showing the driver’s times on large screens at the finish line. This year’s feature event will be the fastest downhill run sponsored by Advanced Security Installations, we will be putting in a chicane in the middle of the track, allowing the top 6 fastest cars to run individually with the quickest time and runner up receiving prizes.

again make a special appearance with his helpers to give out Easter eggs to all of the kids, along with his super fast Easter Egg Billy Cart, he will be driving his Easter golf cart so he can have more time with the children as he drives slowly down the track. Vacy school will be joining our list of charities supporting the derby by running the Gumboot throwing competition. Past champions are being asked back so we can find the all time grand champion with great prizes for the winner.

We are auctioning off two seats for fans to race in a billy cart down our track. The auction will happen in the early morning for the kids and mid morning for the dads. This is your opportunity to win yourself a race down the track and compete without the hassle of having to build a billy cart. All safety equipment will be provided for the winners of the auction. President Graham Murphy said Just like the V8 and Formula 1 high “this is a great iniative. Many people visit quality race tracks we are looking us on the day and would love to have a forward to Dungog Council starting on race and experience the thrill of speeding our new raceway down Park Street, East Gresford. Unfortunately they will not get down our track. This is their opportunity the whole track completed but assure us to bid in the auction and all money raised goes back into our community” at least 60 percent will be completely finished and the rest will be safe for this The Lake Mitre 10 Easter Bunny will

Don’t forget our Blackwoods Monster Raffle with additional prizes donated by the GoodGuys at East Maitland.

The list goes on and on for the new and exciting things we have lined up for this year and the 2017 Billy Cart Derby will be the biggest and best yet. When the racing is over enjoy a relaxing drink at the Beatty Hotel who have been long time sponsors of ours and stay on for a meal in the restaurant. Others may wish to head over to Dungog for the Rodeo and have an exciting night there. Lots of things happening at Easter, come and join the fun. Visit gresfordbillycartderby. worpress.com or contact Graham Murphy on 0416116009

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Daniel and Jane Maroulis are the proud owners of Boydell’s Vineyard located at Camyr Allyn North, East Gresford.

The Boydells wine is available locally at Loveys IGA, Hotel Beatty and Gresford foodworks. More exciting varieties to come this vintage!

GREEN BEER

FRI 17

TH

MARCH

Gresford Bowling Club

LIVE MUSIC with

The Fedz @ 8pm

St Patty’s Cocktails

& GUINNESS PIE

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Order of Australia Medals for Neville Lawrence and Jack Sullivan contribution has been over and beyond what most local historians contribute.

We give honours to recognise, celebrate and say thank you to those who make a difference, those who achieve their best and those who serve others. Neville Lawrence and Jack Sullivan were both honoured in the recent Australia Day awards with a medal (OAM) in the Order of Australia.

Well known local, Neville Lawrence, was recognised for his service to the community of Gresford where he has served many roles but most notably in the Gresford Brigade of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service. Neville joined the brigade in 1965 and has served as Brigade Permit Officer, Treasurer, Deputy Captain, Senior Deputy Captain and has been the Brigade Captain since 1994.

Neville has also been active in the Gresford District Agricultural Society, as a volunteer, 'for over 50 years', Steward, Dairy Cattle Section and gatekeeper, 'for many years' and the Fireworks Organiser, 'for 16 years'. He has also served in the Gresford Cricket Club and Gresford Vacy Soccer Club and on the committee of the Parents and Citizens Association, Gresford Public School.

Jack Sullivan, who resides in Merewether, was recognised for service to community

Graeme Ferguson

Dr Cameron Archer AM, President, Paterson Historical Society, congratulating Mr Jack Sullivan OAM, member and leading local historian on his award of a Medal in the Order of Australia.

Paterson Court House Museum 2 February 2017

history. ‘I was delighted to learn of an award in the Order of Australia to Jack Sullivan in the Australia Day Awards. This fine recognition for the outstanding research and writing that Jack has done over many years especially in the service of the Paterson Historical Society.’ Dr Cameron Archer President of Paterson Historical Society said.

His publications on the families and the Paterson Valley estates are unequalled anywhere in Australia. Jack has also supported and encouraged many locals in their research into local history.

His work has included: • Liaising with and assisting many others in the region with their research. • Collection and printing of historical photographs which may have otherwise been lost. • Being an active and generous researcher in a number of historical societies including Gresford, Raymond Terrace and Paterson.

• Provision of all of his research materials to Tocal Homestead and College for the research of the history of that location. • Co-authoring books with others including the late Dr John Turner of the University of Newcastle, a book called From Nobbys to Paterson (now out of print).

Books published cover many of the large estates and early European families in the upper Paterson and Allyn Valleys.

Jack does not earn income from his writings and books – all income goes to the Historical Society. In the past 20 years Paterson Historical Society has been the beneficiary of this generosity.

Details of the Society’s publications can be found on its website: I have known and worked with Jack for over 35 years and have been aware of his www.patersonhistory.org.au/books.htm

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Paterson Allyn Garden Group

PAGG members gathered for the first time in 2017 at Gerdi and Michael’s garden near Dungog and it wasn’t hard to image the main topic of conversation.

Yes that’s right – the weather, the heat and the lack of rain that is at present affecting our lovely Paterson and Allyn valleys. As Barbara Horn wrote in a recent guide to autumn roses, ‘it is miraculous how plants have survived the horrific heat we have experienced this summer, water is certainly precious and this exceptional heat causes a gardener’s energy does wane’.

Gerdi and Michael’s garden was looking green, well-watered and growing as if no drought had touched their area. When they first purchased their property 13 years ago there were only three trees giving them a clean slate to develop the beautiful garden it is today. Dotted throughout the garden are sculptures and countless treasures that Michael has collected on his travels. The use of colour and creative design by Gerdi is also shown with her beautiful textile work, and her use of plants for colouring her creations is seen throughout the garden.

After welcoming members, Penny Kater described the severity of the summer

'Michael and Gerdi successful vegetable garden'

drought we have all experienced in our catchment and she noted the loss of many trees and plants, both native and exotic. Trees that have never suffered before are just dropping dead. She emphasised not to go rushing in to prune, rather wait and see, as many plants are very resilient and may shoot again when the season breaks.

Many members also told of the different types of trees, shrubs and plants that have died including a 30 year old Tibouchina – guess it was one drought too many! Many members were rather relieved they weren’t the only ones who had lost their vegetable garden as others described how their vegetable gardens hadn’t survived.

A question about zucchini not producing

Stewart Everett Mitsubishi Your local Fuel Caltex Service Station

All Mechanical repairs Rego Inspections & blue slips Origin Gas Agent Maxxis Tyres and Speedy Wheels agent Stockist of all oils for your car and gardening equipment Bulk Fuel deliveries to you/farm

Also stocking: Stihl Chainsaws, brush cutters, vacuums and accessories Thunderbird Electric Fencing Fencing supplies Large Animal First Aid Cattle Vaccines, Drenches & Pour ons Motor Vehicle accessories Philmac Poly pipe fittings Apparent Weed control chemicals Bare-co/Farming equipment suppliers Masport Mowers Agent NRMA agent

If we don't have it we can get it!!

26 Durham Rd, East Gresford 02 4938 9204

Mon-Fri 7.30am to 5pm Sat 7.30 to 11am

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resulted in some interesting discussion with Vanessa offering the suggestion that maybe with the big leaves this could prevent the flowers being pollinated and suggested manual pollinating early in the morning could give results.

Barbara Horn’s invaluable rose information keeps our roses looking better each year and this information is probably more important this year. Barbara recommends a general tidy-up of rose bushes now, which will in six weeks time produce autumn rose blooms that are generally quality roses.

Remove spent rose blooms cutting to an outgrowing eye that is protected by a leaf.

Remove any yellow or diseased leaves that are the sign of the two prevalent diseases that affect roses. Barbara recommends feed the roses with No.17, approximately a handful per established bush. As with all chemical fertilizers apply to wet soil and keep the bushes well-watered for the next three or four weeks. A final suggestion is that roses require the equivalent of a bucket-full of water per week during favourable weather conditions or if dry weather conditions prevail, the equivalent of two buckets of water per week.

A few tips from Penny and members of PAGG to see your garden through and

• March 2017, p 11

remember these comments are influenced by the particular plants, soil, and aspect in each garden

that member have found to be surviving during this time: Chinese elm, English elm, Lacebark, Flame tree, Waterhousia, Lilly Pilly, Crepe Myrtle, Eucalypts, Watering With unlimited water, Prickly Paperbarks, Bottlebrush, Banksia, remember to water at night or early Fig, Native fig, European olive, Wisteria, morning. • Don’t waste water by Dietes, Aggies, Xylosma, Roses, Gordonia, spraying up in the air – wet foliage will Persimmon, grapes, Manchurian Pears, scorch in the heat. • Remember plants Chinese elms, Chinese Tallowwood, lose water through their leaves and drink Buxus Japonica hedge, White Cedars, through their roots.

Poinsettia, and Smoke Bush tree.

With limited amount of water here are a few priorities: • Any plant that is showing signs of wilt, incurved pale or drooping leaves needs water to the roots, you can’t rehydrate leaves by watering them. • Severely wilted leaves will drop off and new leaves will form if the plant survives. • Some plants recover from severe wilt, others don’t.

A few flowering plants include zinnias, geraniums, roses, gardenias (out of the western sun) and the lovely Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow shrub.

I look forward to the heat subsiding and the rain returning so with renewed energy I will again return to some happy gardening.

Liz Jones

Mulch If you haven’t already mulched and have access to some mulch then put it on, as many members are saying they are sure a number of plants have survived thanks to early summer mulching.

Finally when the heat ends and the rain comes and you are looking for replacement plants here is a random list

Private Kill Welcome

Packed and labeled ready for the freezer and your convenience.

Aged for 7–10 days to develop the best flavour your beef has to offer.

Ph 4938 9710

Happy and healthy roses at Michael & Gerdi garden

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CULTURE VULTURE

by Robyn Werkhoven

Christchurch to Greymouth, I really enjoyed doing quick drawings looking Judy’s Interview: “I live on a property through the window as the landscape in a small country town, Paterson, NSW flashed by. The materials I used were and have my own studio, I love drawing, black watercolour pencils, small brush, painting and printmaking amongst water and watercolour paper pad. This all other things. The views from my studio fitted into my bag, the challenge of this overlook the paddocks, Paterson River trip was to minimise my materials. when in flood and the train line on the We flew by helicopter to the White other side below the hills.

Island Volcano about 30 minutes out to I love drawing when I am travelling, sea from Rotorua, South Island NZ where especially while flying, I always ask for a we explored the inner crater of this window seat and lines. I quickly draw active volcano. It looked and felt like we while watching the landscape, this gives were on another planet. Lots of images me a lot of freedom while drawing and will be created from this unreal and lots to work with when I get home. amazing experience.

paintings, drawings and prints.

I travelled to New Zealand last year exploring both North and South Island at the Well we are into the third month of the time the earthquake hit.

We had to change our year, and what hot weather we have plans around and I have endured! This month’s featured artist is Judy Henry. Recently I visited her studio, lots more images in my head that I need to put where Judy has been busy working on into my works. drawings and prints for forthcoming exhibitions in the Hunter district. Judy, While travelling by train primarily a landscape artist, is an on a return trip across intrepid traveller, capturing the beauty New Zealand from and drama of the lands she visits in her A New Year brings great New Things for our little salon.

We would like to welcome Kelly Richardson to our team as a 1st year Apprentice Hairdresser. We are all very excited to have her joining us.

Annette is training to become a Facialist to take care of all your skincare concerns and we are still offering complimentary Mini Facials while you have your hair done for the next month.

New Year also means New Looks. We will be doing lots of training over the next few months to bring you all the latest Looks & Trends so be sure to have a little change next time you’re in the salon and we will have you feeling a million dollars.

Cheers Andrea, Josie, Annette, Kelly & Susie 803A Gresford Rd Vacy.

Ph: 49 388 386

www.cowlicksha

irstudio.com.au

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This year we are driving from home Paterson, NSW to Adelaide then across the Nullarbor Desert to Perth, I am looking forward to exploring, painting and drawing this harsh country with its brilliant colours and its elusive beauty. These works will be part of a group exhibition coming up at Gallery 139 from Thurs 31 August – Sun 17 September. Opening 2-4pm Sat 2 Sept.

I use Acrylics for painting and I love to collage using all different kinds of fine paper I have collected over the years.

The inner child comes out when I am gluing. The anticipation of working this way is what challenges me.

I love experimenting with colours bleeding together wet on wet, whether it be on paper or collaged canvases, making their own impressions and guiding me into the next phase of the works. This is my dreaming time.”

“Printmaking is another medium I really enjoy working with. I like to make strong marks using Lino cut and Collage printmaking. Last year I worked on dry point etchings on Perspex, the drawings are from my travels. I get surprised when images from previous travels reappear in my works, often years later. The images are

'Natures Geometry' & 'Natures Personality', both Wilpena Pound, South Australia, Miniature dry point etching

from drawings I drew back in 2011 while flying over Lake Eyre and Wilpena Pound, South Australia.” Judy Henry © 2017 Judy’s work is available at: Dungog by Design – an artisan collective 224 Dowling Street, Dungog 2420

Hrs: Thurs & Fri 10–4 Sat & Sun 9–3 Back to Back Gallery, Bull St, Cooks Hill, Newcastle 2303 Title: TRACKS – something that has passed by members of The Newcastle Printmakers Workshop. Date: 18 Aug – 3 Sept

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Tom Field loved getting in the water.

The new school year is in full swing at Gresford Public School with 83 students settled into their new classrooms and engaged in rich learning initiatives.

The school’s inspiring science program continues with scientist-in-residence Dr Lesley Wright leading a unit on “mini beasts”, swim school is underway at Singleton, students are investigating Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and a new STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) program has been introduced across the school.

Year 6 students Katharina Lawrence and Jack Hill are the elected school captains and throughout the year their leadership will be supported by the school prefects

School's Back!

Little fish Verity Spinks, Winnie Maroulis and Lara Silver take a break from their lessons.

and Student Representative Council.

"Thank you to the Gresford School Community for giving me this leadership opportunity,” Katharina said.

“I hope that I can do a good job as captain of the school."

Jack is also grateful for the opportunity to be school captain. "I love this school so much and hope that it stays like this for years to come," he said.

Story and photos: Julie Hartigan

Lucia Merchant enjoying swim school.

mentioned being a highlight,” principal Pauline Mitchell said.

“As part of our insect studies, we will have a visit from a scientist specialising in research into waterborne diseases carried by mosquitoes to tell us about his research and our Year 5/6 students are doing their own research on aphids with a view to safely controlling this pest.

“Their research will be entered in a competition being run by the Department of Primary Industry.”

As well as welcoming 14 new kindergarten students for 2017, a number of other families have joined the The school’s junior students are being school across different grades. heavily supported in literacy and numeracy this year through the addition “Our school is a busy hub of learning of a consultant two days per week. “This and fun again this year with the program, called ‘Early Action for Success,’ exemplary programs previously

Camyr Allyn Wines are available from your local Foodworks East Gresford The Beatty Hotel East Gresford Bowling Club Flying Duck at Vacy Yabbies Paterson Tavern And of course the major Dungog Liquor outlets You can also purchase direct online at www.camyrallynwines.com.au Or give John a call on 0417389576.

We love to catch up with old friends.

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Best mates Ewen Mitchell, Blake Wilson and Ethan Crouch at the disco.

is a state government initiative and is being headed up here at Gresford by Mrs Leanne Jarlett,” Mrs Mitchell said.

“Mrs Gillian Manning is the leader of our STEM Program and works with all grades every Tuesday. “Children are engaged in technology programs designing their own computer games based on our current science unit. “We are very lucky to have an expert of Mrs. Manning’s calibre working with our children.”

Liza Kelehear shows off her chicken moves.

The school’s P&C has also reconvened for the year and the dedicated members are planning to be part of a range of community events in an effort to raise vital funds for school programs and equipment.

The P&C hosted a welcome disco for all students on February 17 and members will help man the canteen at Gresford Show on March 10 and 11. Volunteers will be out in force again at Gresford Billycart Derby and Easter Fair with the popular “Pony Pat Lotto” event.

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New kindergarten student Cooper Chesworth at swim school.

Bella Sellens had plenty of fun at the disco.

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Gresford CWA News

SIR IVAN FIRE The CWA of NSW has donated $50,000 from their Disaster Relief Fund for immediate needs. CWA has formed a committee with the community of Dunedoo to manage the many generous offers of assistance. All offers of help will be dealt with by the committee. Financial donations can be deposited into the CWA of NSW Disaster Relief Fund and will go directly to those in need. These donations are tax deductible and can be made via CWA website or https://cwaodnsw.org.au/donate.

THE LAND COOKERY COMPETITION Many entries were received and helpful advice extended to all by judge Aylssa Stewart from Belmont. Results as follows: Section 1: Class a Boiled Fruit Cake Betty Kelehear 1st Class b Sultana Cake - Betty Kelehear 1st Section 2: Class a Moist Coconut Cake – Judy Daly 1st, Betty Kelehear 2nd Class b Lemon Sour Cream Cake – Judy Daly 1st, Dottie Hilliard 2nd Section 5: Coffee Cake – Dottie Hilliard 1st, Betty Kelehear 2nd Section 9: Gluten Free Carrot Cake – Betty Kelehear 1st

The Land Cookery judge Aylssa Stewart explains finer points to Margaret Hill.

STAMPS CWA of NSW collects stamps which are on sold in bulk to provide funds. When you receive “snail mail” could you save the stamps for us please.

NEW KITCHEN Many thanks to John and Judy Evers for their donation of a

Scanpan Knife block and knives. Please remember Camyr Allyn wines and their other range Bass Creek merlot and verdelho when purchasing wine at Foodworks, Hotel Beatty and The Bowling Club.

   •

F A M I LY O W N E D & O P E R A T E D

• P R O U D LY S E R V I N G T H E P E O P L E O F T H E H U N T E R V A L L E Y, P O R T S T E P H E N S & N E W C A S T L E •

C A L L T O N Y, M A R G A R E T O R L I N D S AY F R Y 2 4 H O U R S / 7 D AY S

•

   

PRE-ARRANGED FUNERALS

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B A N K S S T, E A S T M A I T L A N D

P O R T S T E P H E N S S T, R AY M O N D T E R R A C E

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WWW.FRYBROS.COM.AU

4933 6155

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• March 2017, p 17

10,000 members. Membership to the Gresford Branch $34.50. We meet on the first Thursday of the month in the CWA rooms 12 Durham Road, East Gresford at 9.30am. Come along and enjoy the friendship. gresfordcwa@gmail.com Robyn Thornton, President

Marcia Francis, judge Aylssa Stewart, Judy Daly, Dotti Hilliard.

BOOK CLUB Saturday March 18th (due to AGRICULTURE & ENVIRONMENT this Gresford Show being held on the 11th).

The book for discussion “Buriel Rites” by Hannah Kent. We meet at 3pm in the CWA rooms, afternoon tea and a lively discussion. Come along and join us.

year we are studying the quoll, the quandong and fireweed plus feral foxes.

MEMBERSHIP think about joining this amazing organization the largest women’s group in Australia with over

Robbie and Dotti with the new knife block.

Hunter Boys Ag Camp and Hunter Girls Ag Camp SCRIPTURE UNION NEW SOUTH WALES

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Diesel Refueling – ON SITE West Tankers are a family owned and operated business servicing Newcastle, Hunter Valley and surrounding areas.

We are able to meet the requirements of specialised and remote customers.

Your fuel will be delivered on-site when you need it. We arrange our schedule to suit you. It doesn’t matter how remote you are, we pride ourselves in supporting remote customers and providing diesel when you need it – with delivery 7 days a week • Competitive Rates – reliable & efficient service • Servicing Earthmoving, Construction, Marine and Farming Industries • 11 Trucks – 7 Days • Emergency Service Available

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www.westtankers.com.au

G resford News

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What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

Family Treasury of Great Biographies – Volume 1 Reader’s Digest The CWA Library has many Reader’s Digest books, and they are a good way to get a taste of the classics. This volume gives biographical accounts of Rembrandt (van Rijn); Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning; Benjamin Franklin and Sir William Osler. These subjects are all worthy of biography, but perhaps the most interesting is the section on Rembrandt, as the biographer has inserted himself into the story in the guise of a fictional character – a close friend of Rembrandt’s – and the narrative flows well with vivid local colour.

The Barrett-Browning love story is legendary. They were both well-known poets of the nineteenth century, and had to overcome opposition from Elizabeth’s father to marry. In fact, they had to deceive him about their feelings for each other and elope in secret. Her father never spoke to her again. She was frail and he was very robust, but they had a happy marriage until her death, with both continuing to be productive in their work. Their story is accompanied by excerpts from their poems and letters, and is a touching one.

Benjamin Franklin and Sir William Osler were two famous Americans – the latter Rembrandt’s story was ultimately a sad being perhaps better known in the US and one. He died a bankrupt, with his work UK than in Australia. Franklin was a having fallen out of favour. As so often happens, the bolder he became, the less printer; statesman; scientist and inventor, while Osler was a pioneering doctor, his work appealed to the public.

However, his ebullient character is well- teacher and clinician who was instrumental in making the Johns Hopkins University conveyed, and it seems he was surrounded by loving friends and family. Hospital the institution it is. Both were energetic and dynamic, and made a There are also several plates to difference to their own time and the world accompany the discussion of his work, in general. This volume is a weighty read, and to chart the progress of his life. but rewarding

local water carrier

CASSO’S WATER CARTAGE DOMESTIC & RURAL WATER SUPPLIES TANKS & POOLS FILLED CONTACT 0400 294 436

• March 2017, p 19

CORONATION CHICKEN – COLD Ingredients: 1 x cooked chicken, cold. Remove flesh from bones cut into bite size pieces.

Sauce 1 dessert spoon olive oil 1 small onion finely chopped 1 dessertspoon curry powder 1 heaped teaspoon tomato puree 1 teaspoon paprika 1 tablespoons apricot jam ½ cup white wine Mayonnaise

Method: Soften onion in hot oil, add curry powder and cook 2-3 mins.

With lid on saucepan, Add tomato puree, paprika, jam and wine, reduce and strain. When cool, add mayonnaise until thickness and flavour is right. Gently mix chicken into sauce. Serve with a rice salad/ green salad.

This recipe was submitted by Judy Daly and can be found in the CWA cook book. Available at Gresford

Foodworks and The Gresford Store cost $13.

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Gresford Community Matters Gresford Community Group

PEST CONTROL SERVICES locally owned and operated

General household pests: spiders, cockroaches, rodents.

Termite inspections and treatment using environmentally friendly low odour chemicals and baits.

Call Barry Wilson 0429 317 154 pest management certificate number

15-102220-001

Before I report on the February meeting of the Gresford Community Group I am wondering how many of you have started building or modifying your billy cart for the Billy Cart Derby on Easter Saturday 15 April. This event grows bigger ever year and if you would like to participate as a volunteer please contact Graham Murphy on 0416 116 009. Remember the more involved you and your community group are the move benefit you will receive from this fantastic event.

Gresford Community Group members have been busy watering the Arboretum trees planted last October over this period of unpleasant weather. As a result there was a good discussion at the first Community Group meeting of the year regarding watering systems and the type to be installed. Janie Chandler mentioned there were an additional 100 trees and shrubs to be planted and it was necessary for the watering system to meet the requirements of these additional plants.

As a result an on-site meeting is to be organised at the Therese Doyle Hall grounds, and also a time to be organised for the working bee needed for the mowing, weed control and the spreading of the mulch. Discussion also took place about applying for a water grant from Hunter Water to minimise water cost and also a possible grant to install a water tank for the Arboretum.

Members found the new format of receiving the Treasurer’s Report prior to the meeting introduced by Treasurer Chris Wokes worked well as it was able to be read and understood – something not always easy to do! Chris has a few issues with Accounts Receivable and is working with the advertising customers to find a more efficient solution.

EAST GRESFORD MASSAGE CLINIC

LEANNE ATKINS 0427 389 722 31 Durham Rd East Gresford

•

Therapeutic Massage Remedial Massage Pregnancy Massage Hot Rock Massage Health Fund Rebates •

Member: AAMT DIP R M

G resford News

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Noel Brown once again reported our Police Liaison Officer is still not available to present a report for our district. He was however able to present a Home Safety Report.

per household! d $50 for a name pulled out of the entrants who nominate the winner of the People’s Choice

Carolyn Addison was delighted that nearly 20 people braved the heat on Friday 10 February to attend the monthly Community Dinner at the Beatty Hotel. Carolyn also requested the March Dinner be moved forward by one night to coincide with the Gresford Show Art Opening as it would be an opportunity to support the Show Committee and combine two excellent The Christmas Lights completion will events together. The Gresford Show Art see a new category, People’s Choice Opening is to be held on Thursday night added for 2017 Christmas Lights 9 March at 6.30pm in the Exhibition Competition, along with a $50 prize to Rooms for the Art and Photography. The someone who has nominated the winner dinner will be starting at 6pm. Savouries of the People’s Choice. These additional and wine are served at the Art Show for categories are to encourage Gresford and $10 and for another $5 a spit roast district members to drive around and dinner with salads will be sponsored by view the houses as many of the the Show Committee and the bar will be contestants commented on how thrilling open too. it was to see people stopping and Ken Chandler spoke about the proposed looking at what they had done with road works for Park and Durham their Christmas light display.

Streets, East Gresford. Steve Hitchens, a Best Novelty display – $50 to winner Engineer with Dungog Shire Council b Best Lighting display – $50 to winner attended the Gresford Billy Cart Meeting c People’s Choice of ‘Overall winner’ – and laid out the plans and proposed $100. Restriction of one vote Graham reported on the success of the Christmas Lights competition and Carols by Candlelight events, and thanked members of the Gresford Community for their participation and with all attending agreed that this was a fantastic effort the Community Group will support again next Christmas.

• March 2017, p 21

deadlines for the work. Ken explained that Steve mentioned a proposal that Ken and the GCG put in many years ago and he would like to discuss these plans further before they start the roadworks.

Ken will meet with Steve and discuss these plans further. He had the original copy of the proposal and all agreed that many of the ideas should be put to the council with the aim of it being implemented. Ken will update us at the next meeting.

Everyone is welcome to come along to the next Gresford Community Meeting on Monday, 6 March, 6.30pm at the Beatty Hotel. If you have a fund raising idea, plan or special project you, or your community group would like to have the Gresford Community Group support please come and present your ideas, plan or request as the March meeting will be setting the program of 2017.

A Special General Meeting is to be held on at 6.30pm on Monday, March 6 to vote on the following two items: 1. To adopt the new Gresford Community Group Constitution 2. To change the name of the Gresford Community Group to the Gresford and District Community Group

ATTENTION: FARMERS, GRAZIERS AND HOBBY FARMERS ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR ACREAGE?

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Ring Rodney Richardson 'Penshurst' Mt Rivers Ph 02 4931 7125

Supply all forms of quarry product Contact:

Paul Mastin 0418 499 471 Head Office 02 4938 8135 DIVISION OF DREEGAN BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION BASED IN THE HUNTER VALLEY ABN: 56137525494

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Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547

WEED CONTROL SPRAYING BOOM SPRAYING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PROPERTY MAINTENANCE I have over 15 years experience in weed spraying, Over 20 years experience on property management & maintenance Public Liability insurance ABN: 14618007127

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PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

‘Looking after people in business is our business’ Peter Evans is descended from a farming family located in the Gresford area prior to 1840 and is keen to assist residents, farmers and business in the area with all their legal needs.

We can help you with: Conveyancing, Subdivisions, Family Law, Business Law, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate and more PHONE: 4926 4788 www.evanslaw.com.au

G resford News

• March 2017, p 23 Gresford News March Crossword The

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 0458 146 152

church times are: Paterson 8.30am every Sunday Gresford 10.30am every Sunday Allynbrook 12 noon on the 4th Sunday of the month

St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill WEEKEND MASS TIMES St Helen’s Gresford Saturday Vigil 6.30pm 5th Sunday of the Month, no Mass at Gresford but Sacred Heart Church Summer Hill, time to be advised.

Enquiries Parish Priest Fr. Paul Hopper 4992 1477 February 2016 crossword answers

Your Readymixed Concrete Supplier Locally Owned Independently Operated Supporting the Gresford Community

54 Glenwood Drive, Thornton Phone (02) 4966 3711 www.hunterreadymixedconcrete.com.au