Gresford News Decdember 2020

resford News G

The

December 2020

News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys

Last year Santa met up with baby Jaxson Byrne and Karla Byrne

Look Out – Santa is Coming Look out because Santa is coming to a location near you in December. This year Santa is being transported on his travels to see children around the area by both the Gresford and the Vacy Rural Fire Brigades. The Santa fire truck will be in the Vacy area on Saturday 5 December and around the Gresford area on Sunday 20 December. Times and locations for Santa stops are on page 3 of this issue – Gresford News Notices – so come along and say hello to Santa and receive a treat.

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

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G resford News • December 2020

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Gresford News Notices Santa Run

Vacy RFS Sat 5th December 2.30pm intersection of Gresford Rd & Dungog Rd, Vacy 2.45pm intersection of Grace Ave & Dungog Rd, Martins Creek 2.55pm intersection of View St & Wakaya Cl, Paterson Valley Estate 3.10pm Vacy township near the oval 3.20pm intersection of Bower Bird Cl & Sanctuary Way. 3.40pm intersection of Corys Creek Rd & Lennoxton Rd. 4.15pm intersection of Lawson St and Mackellar Dr, Vacy Acres 4.40pm Matilda Cl, Vacy Rural Acres off Gresford Rd. 5.15pm intersection of Fishers Hill Rd & Gresford Rd. 6.00pm at locations of children along Fishers Hill Rd. Gresford RFS Sun 20th December 2.00pm at Lostock 2.30pm at Mount Rivers 3.00pm at St Mary On Allyn Church 3.30pm at St. Anne’s Church 3.45pm at Gresford Fire Station 4.00pm at Orana Park 4.30pm at Breckin Close

Please keep your children safe from the firetruck as santa arrives. For weather updates, or fire callouts which may affect these times please monitor the Vacy RFS Facebook page or for further information around Gresford contact Brigade Secretary Glenn Wall on 4938 9462 or 0428 389 462

Dungog & District Neighbourcare Meals On Wheels Do you live in the Paterson, Vacy, and Martins Creek area and need some help with meals? Paterson Meals on Wheels have vacancies for delivery of fresh hot meals 3 days a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The numbers of meal recipients’ area is at an all-time low and we really need to increase the numbers to keep the service viable.

Transport Neighbourcare are providing short social outings for 2 people at a time to travel to Maitland Mall on Tuesdays & Thursdays. During these outings everyone will be required to wear a mask while in the vehicle and we will take your temperature and ask the screening questions prior to pick-up.

If you are interested in any of these services contact 4992 3348. .

Livestock, Hay and General Transport

Gresford, Dungog Maitland, Singleton 12 ton capacity fully insured

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

is located outside the East Gresford Police Station. Sudden Cardiac Arrest is one of the leading causes of death in Australia. A defibrillator can make the difference between life and death and can save a life prior to the ambulance arriving.

The Gresford News is a great way to reach out to our community. Our content is created by members of the community – people just like you. If you have something to say please send in your contribution To contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au • Brian Doherty 0412 372 687 • Jane Richens 0425 339 856 • PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311.

Deadline for stories & ads 20th of the month.

Visit www.gresfordnsw.com.au for local information & the ‘Gresford News’ online.

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Community Access Defibrilator

KELZ carpet cleaning Domestic and Commercial carpets, lounges and rugs Friendly Service Call: Kelly Richardson Mobile 0437 395 585

Chiropractic Clinic I treat most musculoskeletal complaints including back and neck pain, sciatica, headaches, migraines and limb pain and pins and needles.

HiCaps and eftpos facility is available so patients can claim direct from their healthfund and just pay the gap.

Located at Dungog Community Hospital on Hospital Road in Dungog phone no: 4992 3766

Shane Moss B.Sc. M.Chiro.

G resford News • December 2020

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G resford News

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• December 2020, p 5

Council demands release of critical road funding Dungog Shire Council is seeking the immediate release of State and Federal funding to enable the progression of critical infrastructure projects in the Dungog Shire.

Council is appealing to both the Member for Lyne, The Hon Dr David Gillespie MP, and the Member for Upper Hunter, Mr Michael Johnsen MP, to urgently release $19.5M in previously promised project funds.

“On 1 April 2019, council was advised funding would be provided for the $13.37M Clarence Town Road project through the Roads of Strategic Importance program, and despite conforming to all necessary requirements, only last week we received a request for further information that impacts this funding,” says Mayor Connors.

Government’s Fixing Local Roads program, council received our first payment within 10 months of the applications closing and within three months of our official funding notification,” adds Mayor Connors.

“This enables us to complete important upgrade works at locations including Summerhill Road, Salisbury Road and Paterson River Road within practical timeframes, to the benefit of our local economy and the broader shire community.

“On 15 May 2019, Member for Lyne, The Hon Dr David Gillespie MP, In addition, council has also called on announced a further $8.8M in funding the Minister for Infrastructure and for a new 2-lane bridge over the “We just don’t understand the delay with Transport and Regional Development, Williams River at Clarence Town, to the release of funding for the Clarence Deputy Prime Minister, The Hon Michael effectively replace the existing heritage Town Road and Brig O’Johnston Bridge McCormack MP, for urgent assistance. listed single-lane Brig O’Johnston Bridge. projects, as the release of infrastructure Funding for Brig O’Johnston Bridge and “To date, zero funding has been received funding can clearly be administered in a Clarence Town Road were previously timely and efficient way.” and the delays in the administrative promised as early as April 2019 through processing for these projects is now General Manager Gareth Curtis has the Australian Government’s directly preventing projects from called for a meeting with the Deputy Infrastructure Investment and Roads of proceeding and significantly impacting Prime Minister to seek a resolution to Strategic Importance programs, and council’s operational position.” the funding delay. council has not yet received a cent.

Mayor Connors further explains these “Council has already provided the Mayor of Dungog Shire, Cr John delays are unprecedented in council necessary information for the Project Connors, says this delay is unacceptable receiving promised funding to carry out Proposal Reports (PPR’s) for both projects and council is taking action to ensure important infrastructure work. and, despite the provision of multiple this vital infrastructure work can be modified versions of the PPR’s, council “Under Round 1 of the NSW carried out. has yet to receive the necessary approvals and associated funding to commence these critical infrastructure projects,” says Mr Curtis.

PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

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“Dungog is a small rural council with limited local funding and we are not in a position to endure these ongoing holdups. Following drought, bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, council is attempting to progress these local capital works to support our regional economy and local workforce, and we are now calling on our local representatives and the Deputy Prime Minister to take urgent action to immediately release these funds.”

The Clarence Town Road and Brig O’Johnston Bridge projects are jointly funded by the Australian Government and the NSW Government and funds are administered by Transport for NSW. Clarence Town Road is a $13.37M project, with $10.7M funded from the Australian Government, $2.67M from the NSW government, and the project managed by Dungog Shire Council.

Brig O’Johnston Bridge is a $14.3M project, with $8.8M from the Australian Government, $5.5M from the NSW Government, and project managed by Dungog Shire Council, with assistance from Transport for NSW.

G resford News • December 2020

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Community Matters

really light up your place or you can place a light at your gate, even a red Christmas bow and that can be done either ‘in town or on a farm gate’. • Where …. Everywhere, whether you live in one of the villages or in the rural area - do something.

Bring a smile to your neighbour’s face, show your village you care, importantly let us all come together and spread some cheer. • When …. Whenever you are ready but probably 1 December would be a good start date.

Have you seen the fabulous wooden Christmas Tree outside 21 Durham Street – looks fantastic.

Vacy village is celebrating a Covid Thankyou Kathy Smith of Durham Rd for this great looking Christmas tree – day and night

Christmas Cheer Our district is starting to show signs of Christmas, thank you so much to everyone who have already put out Christmas lights and decorations, making us smile and know we belong and live somewhere special.

Remember: • Why …. We want to add some joy into our street/road and our region. You can ‘go the full hog’ and

Christmas, at 5pm on 13 December at St Johns Church Vacy - these are family orientated celebrations and fun for all.

The Gresford Community Group is currently updating their Constitution.

How long since your Club has visited the Dept of Fair Trading for the latest updates including adding email correspondence for notifications?

Dungog and District Neighbourcare have put out a call for volunteer cleaners

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and an unusual request, rather than drivers for Meals on Wheels they are looking for people to receive meals.

Please contact Cherylin Brown 0429 923 348 or email: cherylin@neighbourcare. org.au if you are able to assist or require Meals on Wheels.

G resford News

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• December 2020, p 7

Gresford Celebrates Week SomePublic cheerSchool to brighten upNAIDOC the year Gresford Public School celebrated the opening of their ‘Meeting Place’ during NAIDOC Week. The Yimmang is a special place nestled in the rainforest on the school grounds. It represents the gathering of the tribes.

Totems surrounding the area represent the Worimi, Wonnarua and Gringai tribes that are native to our lands of Gresford.

Local historian, Cameron Archer has helped with history around Gresford for our research into how the local area was established to present time.

Our local elder, Aunty Sandy Griffin opened the Yimmang with a welcome to country and talked with the students about culture and how the land is important to all people.

Wishing you the very best for the Christmas–New Year period & thank you for your support in 2020.

We are fully stocked up with Husqvarna stock, produce, farming supplies, animal products and many other goodies. We will be closed Christmas Eve and New years eve and will not be open on the public holidays. We will be open for usual business outside these times.

26 Durham Rd, East Gresford 4938 9204. Mon-Fri 7.30am to 5.30pm, Sat 8am to 12pm, Sun closed

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A brief history of the Richardsons of Woodlyn

by Robert Richardson

A property rarely achieves 150 years of ownership in the one family. At the outset I don’t profess to be a historian but will try to explain a brief history of Woodlyn as I understand it and from what I have been told from others who know perhaps more than me.

Back in 1870 round June, Great Grandfather Thomas and his brother James came up from Sydney via paddle steamer to Clarencetown, from where they travelled overland by bullock team to the junction of Old Mans Creek and Main Creek just down the road from Woodlyn.

Here a discussion took place and the result was Tom said to James how about you go up that creek and I’ll go up this one.

In those days of course this country was all crown land and apparently after settling and building a hut and establishing some form of settlement and running some cattle, Thomas slowly became established. As I understand every time he made a hundred pounds he bought another 100 acres. Over time he ended up with over 4,500 acres. He built a home during this time called Leyburn which still stands today over on the adjacent ridge.

Into this house came 3 sons, Pat, Les and James who continued to grow and work the land. Pat and Les stayed here on the property, and in later years mutually divided it between them whilst James moved to country at Lostock and also purchased land at Whylies flat at Singleton.

Pat built a house just up the ridge from Leyburn and interestingly both these houses are in the process of restoration thanks to the current owners. Les built the house here on Woodlyn and I believe it took 2 years to build during the 30’s depression era with bricks made here on the place. The double brick home had four bedrooms, lounge and dining rooms, a kitchen and pantry, laundry and external bathroom.

Bingleburra area at the time.

On leaving public school Tom was enrolled at Barker College in Sydney as a boarder. After completing school at Barker he returned to Woodlyn to help his father Les manage the property, raising beef shorthorn bullocks for sale at either Maitland or Flemington markets in Sydney. Those markets were located very close to where the Sydney Showground and Olympic Stadium are now.

It has since been modified to include a larger bathroom from one of the bedrooms, a modern kitchen and a second lounge room and sunroom/study.

In those days this involved droving cattle either over the Wallarobba range to Dungog to truck via train to Flemington.

Sometimes Tom would join with the guard and travel to Homebush to see the cattle sold then return via train. At other times the bullocks would travel to Gresford where they would join with other cattle owners to drive their cattle to Maitland, with an overnight stop at Paterson, then through Elah at Maitland Vale to Maitland, see the bullocks sold on Monday and then ride back to Woodlyn arriving home sometimes at 2/3 am the next morning.

Les married Ethel Munday from Woodville on 30th December 1911, and they had 3 daughters, Queenie, Lila, Daphne and a son Tom. Thomas Elwyn was born at Maitland on 17th June 1916 and he spent his early years on Woodlyn before attending Bingleburra Public School with up to 24 other children who lived in the

You’re invited!

Vacy Village celebrates a COVID Christmas Carol Let’s drink to good health and navigating this year, together in a COVID-friendly blessing (of sorts!)

Australian carols, good wines and cheer await on the lawns of St Johns Church, Vacy From 5pm, Sunday 13th December

COVID restrictions apply & subject to change without notice

PLUS! Children's’ Nativity, ginger bread decorating & Heather’s much-loved DIY rose bouquets As we are unable to cater for light refreshments we kindly ask you BYO plate. All drinks provided.

RSVP Heather Williams 0447388099 Penny Evans 0437604206 Brigette Uren 0418791146

G resford News

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It was during this time, the outbreak of the 2nd World War occurred and when the threat of Japanese invasion of New Guinea was developing, Tom like so many other country men felt the need to enlist and protect our country. After enlistment, he saw service with the army intelligence section in New Guinea in the Markham and Ramu Valleys, which he commented looked like good cattle country, and on the Kokoda Track and the infamous Shaggy Ridge which overlooked the main supply route for the Japanese to Port Moresby. That ridge was long and steep and in places only 4 yards wide. Whilst there he received word of his discharge, as his father had applied some 2 years prior to the Army on hardship grounds to have Tom come back to run the property.

Father often told the story of the flight back from Port Moresby to Townsville as a sole passenger in a DC3 with an American pilot who used a bottle of whisky to keep himself awake on the flight. Tom never had much enthusiasm for flying after that.

which have been run at Woodlyn for the past 55 years. You could rest assured a lively debate would always ensue if his belief in Murray Greys was ever challenged. Through selective breeding and judicious assessment of replacement heifers he firmly believed that our breeders could be improved and be very competitive in the local trade market.

• December 2020, p 9

great believers in the old saying, “If it aint broke, don’t fix it”.

Recently we have battled through the worst drought in living memory here and I must admit it was touch and go being out of water and feed and pretty much battling for survival carting water each day. It is an enlightening and humbling In 1945 Tom married Jean Bacon of experience knowing that these old cows Allynbrook and they had a son Robert are depending on you for survival not to I think he got it right.

There are many, born on 29th May 1946. mention the worry of where is it all going many trophies and ribbons at Woodlyn With owning a property at Craven, from carcase competitions locally as well as to end. We were but one of many in this below Gloucester as well as Woodlyn, Sydney, Melbourne, Scone, Dungog Hoof & situation. However it rained and we came things were busy and I still have vivid through in the end pretty well.

Hook and others to attest to that fact memories as a young child of the trip to thanks in part to Bryce & Dianne Whale in My schooling began with correspondence Craven with Mum in the black Wolsley. later years who prepared our steers. school here at home for the first three The rickety bridge to get across, being years then to Gresford Public and then on The only change today is the calves are bogged if it was wet, the hut with its to Hinder House at Maitland Boys High now sold mainly as restock and open fire, cooking dinner with sausages where I boarded with 28 others. Barker background weaners which I believe is in the bush grill held over the fire. The College was where I was to be enrolled currently more financially rewarding. veges and tea billy boiling on the side originally but unfortunately Mum got sick and old Bert Ribbons, the caretaker In the early 60’s I think we were one of at that time and Barker was not possible. telling tales of life at Craven. the first in the district to use aircraft to In 1967 the marble dropped and I was Father would muster the cattle and up to spread fertiliser. I remember grandfather Les saying to father at the time “boy your called up in the 6th intake of National a 100 bullocks would be drafted off. wasting your money” however the results Service which took out 2 years of life to Then would begin the journey back to give to the Govt. This saw 12 months of from that exercise and over the years Woodlyn. Father would bring those service with 2 Battalion in South speak for themselves with the improved bullocks home on his own with the help Vietnam which was not exactly a high carrying capacity it allowed. In fact its of his dogs, stockhorse and pack horse, point of life. However it was thought to amazing how quickly the improved camping out on the stock routes through be the right thing to be doing at the country has responded in the 4 weeks the Monkeri at night for up to a week time so we did our duty. after the drought broke. Its gone from before arriving home. I well remember almost bare dirt to having 50 weaners on riding over to Dungog as a kid to help On 22nd May 1970 Robert married 50 acres and not getting on top of it. get the cattle through Dungog.

Christine Crew of The Willows at Gresford.

They have two sons, Jason of Newcastle The Boss was also one of the first in the During this period saw significant change district to purchase a Quick Spray unit as who is employed with Apple Computers at Woodlyn from running bullocks, and Shayne who sadly is no longer with us, he could see the advantages of being initially our own beef shorthorn then passing away in Sept 2007. Chris & Robert able to get to what was previously many Herefords bought annually from inaccessible places to control weeds and celebrated their Golden Wedding Malcom and his father George Cowley at Anniversary on 22nd May of this year. regrowth. He was right. We still use it Carrabolla, or Gloucester sale to today. Regrowth is one of the biggest However through all of this we have producing beef shorthorn vealers. Father issues we face in this coastal country. pressed on and at the moment Woodlyn saw this as the way of the future, with is progressing well, fortunately with the only change during this time being to Over the years little has changed at good prices and a great season at Woodlyn apart from adopting better move from Shorthorn to briefly Angus present, compared to last year. practices as they have emerged. We are and then to his beloved Murray Greys,

resford News • December 2020 GTHE AREA RECORD SALE

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sold by PAMELA MUNSON

"Talara" 204 Torryburn Road Torryburn Congratulations to the Vendors and excited Purchasers

217 acres with luxurious Residence set in gorgeous country gardens. Stunning Valley views. Level to undulating pasture.

Farm shedding, yards. Suits Horses or Cattle. Private Road entry into a secluded Valley. Exceptional.

See details and video on line www.realestate.com.au/700109258.

Huge demand for all types of country properties.

Phone Pamela Munson. I am here to help you.

PAMELA MUNSON COUNTRY ESTATES 0427 207542 Email pamela@pmcountryestates.com.au

G resford News

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• December 2020, p 11

Remembrance Day story continues...

Clyde Lawrence epitaph at Lostock Cemetery

Last month the Gresford News Remembrance Day front cover featured the stories of Clyde, David and Victor Lawrence. The story stated that the three men were brothers which is incorrect.

Two of the men, Clyde and Victor, were brothers, David was their cousin.

corrected our error and was also pleased to be able to advise us that there has been enough money raised for a headstone for Clyde Lawrence at the Lostock Cemetery.

Further to that, Linda had been given a photo of Clyde by a distant relative, We were contacted by Linda Hodges who Christine Lawrence of Lostock. "It was

David Lawrence photograph provided by David Wells

wonderful to put a face to the name."

Linda said.

Gresford News has also been contacted

by David Wells who, after reading the story, sent in a photo he had of David Lawrence of Lostock.

Jane Richens & Brian Doherty, Gresford News

Caring for the families of the Hunter since 1889

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G resford News

• ANOTHER RECORD SALE in TORRYBURN by PAMELA MUNSON

The

December 2020, p 12

231 acres

368 Torryburn Road, Torryburn SOLD $1.41 Million

231 acres of vacant pasture watered by 8 dams and seasonal creeks with Springs. Private road entry into secluded acreage with extraodinary views, pasture and excellent water. Perfect for cattlle or horses. Several choices of home site. Power to boundary.

Brilliant further potential. See more details and photos on line www.realestate.com.au/700113294

Buyers are looking in our Valleys for all types of country properties: Country Retreats, Luxurious Country Estates, Productive Riverfront Farms, Getaways, Bush Retreats,Small Acreages with or without Homes.

We know why Buyers are looking in our Areas.

My Data base responds to my advertising, I have buyers waiting for a range of properties.

25 years of achieving the highest prices in the area. With a love of targeted marketing, Pamela will provide the highest profile for your property and get the results that your property deserves. Free appraisals and free advice.

Phone PAMELA MUNSON 0427 207542 SEASONS GREETINGS. MERRY CHRISTMAS. ENJOY THE BREAK.

Goodbye 2020! It was an interesting Year!

G resford News

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• December 2020, p 13

Gresford Vacy Colts Junior Cricket Club In a whopping start to the 2020/21 season, the Gresford Vacy Colts Junior Cricket Club (GVCJCC) registered more than 60 players across 3 competition teams and a strong Blasters Program comprising both Junior (5-7yo) and Master (8-9yo) teams.

This is in stark contrast to many associations across the Hunter District pledging single-team clubs and which has earned the Colts one of the finest reputations this season; Cricket NSW (September meeting) credited the Colts in attracting the strongest junior membership growth in all of NSW (and giving the metro clubs a giddy-up in the same breath!). In other player news, two of our (Fishers Hill Rd!) teammates, Tom Reynolds (u12s) and Harry Uren (u13s) have been selected for the Maitland Representative teams, Harry also being selected for the Hunter Valley Junior Cricket Council Academy Squad. In a hattrick for Fishers Hill Road, Toby Smith, former Colts player, has also been selected for Maitland Rep and Hunter Academy Squad. We wish him well for his U14s season ahead with his Northern Suburbs Club – once a Colt always a Colt!

Membership begins with great voluntary and third-party support and we are

Colts newest and rising stars – The Junior Blasters, coached by Darren Barwick and Andrew Linnerston

delighted the growth in membership is a true reflection of the Club’s community support. The AGM in July promised more than 15 committee members who have been delivering without pause ever since, enthusiastically supported by 8 coaches and 5 team managers.

In what has been an otherwise compromising year for business, local sponsorship has been exceptionally kind to the Club. Warmly noting the indefatigable support of returning sponsors One Agency Sharon Hill, with

Merchants Excavation & Electrical and Dave’s Hardwood, we have furthermore been generously buoyed by Vacy General Store & Post Office, Devans Angus, Farmer’s Warehouse Dungog, Doyle Ag & Fabrication, Lawrence Livestock & Transport PL. Coupled with a successful Grass Roots Cricket Grant of $2000, donations by doting parents and grandparents, this is a club that can tip their baggy with deep-seeded gratitude to all who help our Colts kids play cricket.

Brigette Uren, Colts President

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G resford News • December 2020

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Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

2020 has been a year that none of us will forget. After fires, floods and drought, our country was hit by COVID-19.

Tragically, lives and livelihoods have been lost.

Australians are resilient and as we work together side by side, we are rebuilding.

WORKS COMMENCE ON CLARENCE TOWN ROAD UPGRADE

The year seems like it has flown, but as we approach Christmas, we should take time to reflect on those Australians who are doing it very tough, through no fault of their own.

I am pleased to report sign off has been given to $20 million in federal funding to deliver upgrades to 17.6 kilometres of roadway on Clarence Town Road between Raymond Terrace and Dungog.

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year, a time to give thanks for our family, friends, and look forward to the year ahead.

Works will be carried out across 22 sections of the road and include reconstruction, widening and resealing which will rehabilitate a critical link between Dungog, Clarence Town, Raymond Terrace and the lower Hunter Region.

We should all take the opportunity this festive season to get out and about and spend quality time enjoying the very best our region has to offer, our surfing beaches, scenic coastal walks and magnificent hinterland.

For some, Christmas can be a lonely time of the year. If you know someone who might be on their own, please take the time to reach out and wish them a happy Christmas.

Finally, on behalf of Charlotte and I, from our family to yours, may we wish you a very happy, holy and safe Christmas, and all the very best for 2021.

Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

This is an important road for families who are travelling to work or school and for our primary producers who are getting product to market, these works will ensure a safer journey for all.

Smoother, more efficient journeys will deliver economic and social benefits by boosting jobs around Dungog and improving economic growth in key areas such as tourism.

Wauchope Office

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02 6557 8910

Corner of High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope, NSW 2446

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david.gillespie.mp@aph.gov.au

DavidGillespieMP david_gillespie_mp davegillespiemp

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, Corner of High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope, NSW 2446.

G resford News

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• December 2020, p 15

Allynbrook landcare fieldday 20 Landcarers met at the Kater property at Allynbrook to look at the pasture and stream management on the second Monday in November.

The native pastures were encouraged by rotational grazing & looked so delicious that there were many thoughts – all positive. Annabel explained the process of additional fencing to enable the movement of cattle on & off the pastures. This process ensured that the cattle ate what was on offer, not just the most desirable grass species, and that the pastures had sufficient rest to grow strongly before the next grazing.

Rod showed how he was managing his streams to encourage water to be held in the landscape. When branches or rocks fell in the stream, they were left there.

Penny also showed us specimens from So around the “barrier” soil & vegetation native trees and shrubs for us to use on built up, creating leaky weirs. our property.

This method of managing the land & This was to whet our appetite for the waterways has led to increased food & next meeting of Landcare which will shelter for introduced animals, but also focus on native trees & shrubs & their an increase in native fauna. use in our landscape... 14th December at We were able to gather at the home for a the arboretum in Gresford. sausage sizzle to meet & share our own For further information contact Julia experiences with new members.

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G resford News • December 2020

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, p 16

Community Support for the RFS

Members of Martins Creek Rural Fire Service Brigade recently visited the Beatty Hotel in Gresford to thank owner Bernie Lawler for his fund raising efforts for local RFS brigades. Bernie with the generous support of the local communities raised $7000.

Martins Creek have purchased an iPad for their tanker with their share of the donations.

This will allow crew to better navigate around the fire ground. Most importantly, it allows crews to enter details on RFS maps such as fire ground size, fire direction etc and upload them to Fire Control to assist in resourcing additional crews and assets to support firefighting efforts.

Martins Creek RFS greatly appreciate this significant contribution from Bernie and the local community.

Pictured from left are: David Allingham Captain, Bernie Lawler, Peter Leeson and Michael Jupp Senior Deputy Captain.

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G resford News

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Native food plant – the Apple Berry

• December 2020, p 17

Locals in the media

and will grow well in full sun on well drained soils. It will grow in a wide range of conditions and tolerates light frost and it’s non-invasive habit makes it a great plant for a variety of purposes including a climber on trellises, planting under large trees and even a potted plant.

The bird attracting flowers are tubular to bell-shaped, creamy to yellow-green and sometimes purple in colour and producing delicious apple-textured berries in summer. The fruit which are oblong in shape will grow up to 30mm, are green in colour and covered in fine hair – like a tiny kiwifruit in appearance. When ripe (purple-yellow colour), they are edible off the plant although green fruit can be roasted.

Great as a snack, for jams, tarts, cakes, or preserving. The mature fruit are juicy with a flavour like stewed apples hence its name.

Apple Berry, Billardiera scanden, family Pittosporaceae, also known as Appleberry, Apple Dumpling, Apple Dumpling Plant, Potato Apple and Tasmanian Blueberry.

Height 0.2 ~ 1.5 mtrs Width 0.5 ~ 3 mtrs Seed and cuttings are often difficult to propagate, but once achieved the The Apple Berry is a tough and established seedling/cuttings will grow adaptable native food plant which rapidly and may produce fruit in the grows well as a climber, or as a small first year. shrub and even as matted ground Liz Jones, Friends of the Arboretum cover. The Apple Berry is quite hardy

Graeme Ferguson

Great coverage of a local business in the Sydney Morning Herald recently – Boydell's Safari Tent appeared as the second destination in a special feature on places to stay in the Good Weekend magazine on Saturday 14 November. Visit Boydell's website to find out more about what they are up to and note they have a new release wine available.

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G resford News • December 2020

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, p 18

CWA News recently died. With them go so many memories of the “old times” in Gresford and the formation of the Gresford Branch of the Country Women’s Association. The ladies were part of the XMAS LUNCH FOR MEMBERS Younger Set Group who held dances in Thursday, December 3rd at the Vacy the School of Arts to raise money for our Village Café, meeting 11.30am for lunch present building. They held many other at 12noon sitting outside on the closed functions to raise money but the dances in area. A delicious menu will be emailed were a high light. to members.

VALE RITA CHICK reaching her 99th XMAS LUNCH FOR BOOK CLUB year. Rita was a Life Member, held Saturday, 12th December at 1pm. at the positions of President, Secretary and Paterson garage/servo on the deck at Treasurer, Councilor to Group, Delegate 1pm. Please come prepared for the quiz. and Cookery/Catering Officer. A member Take a character from a novel and do a for 67 years.

“Who am I? series of clues.

Example: I am in a book by an American VALE VERNA WELLS. Her mother was a author. I am not a person. member of CWA so Verna joined when The novel is named after me. she was young. Verna was our patron I am the subject of a long-standing quest. and had held positions of vice president My creator was Herman Melville. and for many years International Officer.

Who am I? MOBY DICK. Verna made an outfit to wear on International Day depicting the clothes XMAS LUNCH FOR FRENCH of the country CWA were studying.

CONVERSATION GROUP Her flower arranging skills, legendary in Wednesday December 16th in the big demand for weddings at St. Anne’s CWA rooms. Call Glenda Smith for church of which she was a member. details 4938 9456 for details.

A member for 67 years.

The Annual General Meeting was held on November 5th with all officers standing for reelection. Proposed and seconded and voted in.

VALE Two wonderful members have

discuss the book “Martha and William” by local Dungog author Jane Hartley. We are looking to borrow from the library, but if you have a copy could we please borrow next year. Please contact Glenda Smith 4938 9456. We need 8 copies so much appreciated.

WONDERFUL WATERELON AND BERRY WATER A refreshing summer favourite with red berries and watermelon.

1.5 litre jug of iced water tap or sparkling 1 cup of fruit selected from: sliced red apple, diced water melon, sliced strawberries, fresh or frozen Raspberries.

Wash fruit, put into jug with water add a handful of ice cubes.

BOOK CLUB We are looking to read and

EVERY WEEK AT THE CLUB Friday Night Social Bowls Names in at 5.30 Bowls start 6pm

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

Wednesday Gift Voucher Raffles Drawn at 5.30 Wednesday Happy Hour 5 – 6 Friday & Sunday Night Gift Voucher Raffles 1 Ham voucher from either Paterson or Gresford Butchers drawn after 7pm 6 DEC $1,000 Pork & Ham Raffle Tickets on sale from 6.30

LITTLE PAN ASIAN RESTAURANT Open Wednesday – Sunday from 5.30pm

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• December 2020, p 19

On the Shelves

ECUADOR – GALAPAGUS ISLANDS Is a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean.

A province of Ecuador.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. It consists of 127 islands and rocks of which 19 are large. People live on only 5. Four of these offer hotel options. They have some of the best beaches in the world also a diversity of plant and animal species land and marine iguana, giant tortoise and many types of finch.

Approximately 170,000 people visit per year.

HAPPY SUMMER TO ALL Robyn Thornton, Secretary

by Glenda Smith The Nowhere Child

by Christian White This is a rather uneven story about a displaced child, but it is intriguing and engaging nonetheless. It starts with an Australian woman being approached by an American investigator, who tells her that it is very likely that she is a kidnapped American child.

Although the premise of his statement seems very unlikely, she follows it up and is taken on a rather disturbing voyage of discovery.

There are two time settings which carry the parallel narrative strands. The first one starts ‘Now’ in Australia with Kimberly Leamy, a teacher of photography at TAFE. As far as she is concerned, she has had an uneventful life. The other strand is in Manson Kentucky – ‘Then’ – when two-year-old Sammy Went disappeared. Of course, the two strands of the story intertwine when Kim goes to find out more in the U.S. The pace accelerates as the novel progresses towards a startling climax, and deals with some contemporary issues on the way that America is still grappling with today.

All books reviewed are from the CWA library on a separate shelf in the library so they are easy to find plus the reviews are in a folder. There has been a recent donation of mysteries and thrillers to the library in addition to the Lee Child donation, and some of the donated romance novels are now available in the street library.

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G resford News • December 2020

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, p 20

Mosquito warning – Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus The editor of Gresford News was surprised in autumn this year when she was diagnosed with Ross River virus. Since then we have found many other people in the area who have also been affected.

Hunter New England Health is urging people to take precautions against mosquitoes, especially during gardening or outdoor exercise activities, as a wet and warm summer beckons.

tiredness. Most people affected will have a mild illness that lasts for a few days.

However, in some people, aching joints and lethargy can last for months.”

Dr Durrheim said parents should aim to keep their children inside during highrisk mosquito feeding times around dawn and dusk.

wears off with perspiration. The best mosquito repellents contain Diethyl Toluamide (DEET) or Picaridin.

Repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus also provide adequate protection.

• Use physical barriers such as netting on prams, cots and play areas for babies. Repellents should not be used “It’s also really important to be cautious on the skin of children under the age when using insect repellents on children. of three months.

Hunter New England Public Health Unit Roll-on repellents are preferable to sprays • Check the product label of repellents Director Dr David Durrheim said “good and should be applied sparingly to for recommended age of use. Most rainfall as the warmer summer months exposed skin,” he said. skin repellents are safe to use for approached had resulted in excellent children over the age of 3 months or breeding conditions for mosquitoes “Don’t use repellents on cuts, wounds or older. Some formulations are only responsible for spreading Ross River virus irritated skin and don’t apply them to areas suitable for children over 12 months. and Barmah Forest virus”. near the eyes or mouth or to the hands or fingers of young children. Always store • Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing The only way to prevent infection is to repellents out of the reach of children and units (indoors) and mosquito coils avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. when returning indoors, wash any repellent (outdoors) to clear rooms or repel “These viruses are spread by mosquitoes off with soap and water.” mosquitoes from an area. that feed on animals that have the • Cover all windows, doors, vents and Simple steps to avoid being bitten by infection, so prevention depends on other entrances with insect screens. mosquitoes include: avoiding mosquito bites, especially in • Remove and prevent mosquito breeding • Cover up as much as possible when summer and autumn months when sites around the home, such as outside with light-coloured, looseinfections peak,” Dr Durrheim said. emptying containers that hold water. fitting clothing and covered footwear.

“The symptoms of Ross River virus and • Use an effective insect repellent on For more information, visit https://www.

Barmah Forest virus infection include exposed skin. Re-apply repellent health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/ fever, skin rash, painful joints and within a few hours, as protection Pages/mosquito.aspx

Vacy General Store will continue to be open for all.

We will be doing takeaway food, Pizza, and coffee. Australia post will be open as normal.

We will have fresh bread and milk and your essential grocery needs and fuel are all available from 7am to 7pm. We ask if you would like take away food, pizza or coffee please ring your order through and we will have it ready. Also we ask if you drop in to shop we would appreciate you keeping in mind everyone's personal space.

Thank you for your support – Jo & Ian

NEW Phone Number: 4938 8425

G resford News

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• December 2020, p 21

Every bit counts! Small landholders have big responsibilities too.

We know every landholder, no matter the size of their property, is passionate about looking after their piece of the landscape puzzle. That’s why Local Land Services has developed the new Every Bit Counts program to help small acre landholders manage the risks and rewards of rural land ownership. The project is working directly with landholders on the North Coast, Hunter, Greater Sydney and South East regions.

The Every Bit Counts education portal can be found at www.lls.nsw.gov.au/ ebc and contains resources full of tips and tricks for managing smaller pieces of the landscape puzzle.

Jane is encouraging small farm managers and ‘lifestyle’ landholders to visit the site and sign up to the ‘Blockies Bootcamp’ – a free email education series designed to cover the fundamentals of rural land management.

From caring for backyard chickens and being aware of farm safety to managing weeds and water, Every Bit Counts has the right tools to help you understand the environmental, production and biosecurity considerations of rural land management.

“The web portal explains the common questions and topics our staff get asked, covering role in our landscape and the rural community,” Jane said. “Our experience everything from weeds to pest animals, to habitat, fencing and working with is that many want to support their neighbours,” Jane said. neighbours, environment and local farming industry, but don’t know where “You can also look up your local small farm network and connect with other to start. Through funding from the Every Bit Counts Project Coordinator NSW Environmental Trust we have been like-minded land managers.

Jane Lloyd-Jones said the four-year able to support on-ground extension “If you are interested in learning more, program is all about connecting people officers and build this online education visit the site, look up your local program with their local networks and building portal that will help connect the more officer and sign up to the bootcamp.” their land management knowledge and than 130,000 small landholders with To find out more visit www.lls.nsw.gov. skills. “Small farm managers and properties from 2-20 hectares across au/ebc lifestyle block owners play an important our state.”

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G resford News • December 2020

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, p 22

Gresford News December Crossword

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson Weekly Services 10.30am Sundays at St Annes COVID safe practices in place CONTACT Fr Peter Rothnie 0438 413 007, email priest@gpanglican.com.au

St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill Saturday Vigil Mass at St. Helen's church Sat. evening at 5:30 pm ( except 2nd Sat. of month).

Sunday Morning Mass at Summer Hill on the 2nd Sun. of each month at 11:30 am.

All enquiries to Fr. Derek Garner, Parish Priest, on 4992 1477.

November 2020 crossword answers

Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.

G resford News

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• December 2020, p 23

Building better together Hunter Construction Group is proud to be locally owned and part of your community.

We have been operating in the Hunter Valley for over 20 years, making the members of Hunter Construction Group an integral part of the local construction industry.

We are a group of local construction companies and trades, supporting each other through our vertically integrated supply chain model. Our six disciplines work together to offer tranparency, trust and confidence, enabling project completion to a high spec and on time for our clients.

At Hunter Construction Group we pride ourselves one being the local experts that care as much as you do.

To learn more about Hunter Construction Group and our companies, visit our website www.hunterconstructiongroup.com.au.