Look out because Santa is coming to a location near you on December the 22nd. The Gresford Rural Fire Brigade is transporting Santa on his travels to see children around the area so come along and say hello to Santa and receive a treat. See Santa's schedule on page 3.
Thank you to all who have contributed, read or donated during 2024.
Wishing you a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. Gresford District Community Group
Santa to visit on Sunday 22 December
Look out because Santa is coming to a location near you on December the 22nd. The Gresford Rural Fire Brigade is transporting Santa on his travels to see children around the area so come along and say hello to Santa and receive a treat.
The itinerary (Santa Stops). Santa arrives at these places at the following times:
• Lostock at 2pm
• Mount Rivers at 2.30pm
• Cnr Baerami & Burrawang Close at 2.50pm
• St–Mary–On–Allyn Church at 3.15pm
• St. Anne’s Church at 3.45pm
• Gresford Fire Station at 4pm
• Orana Park at 4.15pm
• Breckin Close at 4.45pm
For further information: contact Brigade Treasurer Glenn Wall on 0428 389 462
THE GRESFORD NEWS
Gresford News: News of the communities of the Paterson & Allyn River Valleys, has been published by the Gresford & District Community Group since 2002. As a not-for-profit community association any profits go towards supporting community projects.
IT'S YOUR NEWS
The Gresford News has always been created by the community for the community. The content is provided by individuals and community organisations – Your contributions are always welcome!
Gresford News Notices
Gresford Community Xmas Market Saturday 14 December, 9am–1pm
Gresford Community Park 12 Park St, East Gresford
Carols by candlelight
Sat 21 Dec, from 6pm, Gresford Community Park & Arboretum
Get ready – pack your picnic, grab your chairs and rugs and a torch and join the Gresford District Community Group and the Gresford Amateur Performing Society (GAPS) choir performing live for a night of festive fun.
SKETCH CLUB
Tues 17 Dec, 1–4pm
Gresford Community Gallery
Hosted by artist Christine Pike. BYO art supplies, $10
Gresford District Community Group General Meeting
Monday 2 December, 6.30pm
The Beatty Hotel All welcome
COMMUNITY DIARY
TELL EVERYONE ABOUT YOUR ACTIVITIES
We are relaunching the COMMUNITY DIARY that was stopped during COVID. To be included send TITLE, LOCATION, TIME & DATE of your upcoming meeting / event by the 20th of January 2025 to: GresfordNews@iinet.net.au
See example diary entries below.
AVAILABLE FREE ONLINE
All editions of the Gresford News since Dec 2011 are available to read FREE at issuu.com/gresford-news
Dungog District Chamber of Commerce End of Year Celebration
Friday 13 December at 6.30pm Dungog Golf Club
Join us to reflect on and celebrate 2024 for businesses in the Dungog Shire. Proudly suppporting youth initiatives across the shire.
$65pp bookings essential
Vacy & Surrounds Crop Swap
3rd Sunday of the month, 10am Alongside Vacy General Store Follow us on Facebook.
Hotel Beatty Summer nights Thurs 5 Dec Pool Comp, 6pm Thur 19 Dec Xmas Theme Trivia, 6.30pm Sun 22 Dec TNR Band, 2–6pm Xmas Gig on the deck NYEve Karaoke • 7 till late
Gresford Bowlo Summer nights
Fri 6 Dec Reggie Sinclair Sat 7 Dec Bowls Xmas Party Fri 20 Dec Glen Harrison Australia Day 26 Jan Sunday Funday
IS YOUR NEWS BEING DELIVERED?
Gresford News is delivered to letterboxes on the main road north of Paterson and roadside in the Vacy and Gresford postal districts to the top of the Paterson and Allyn Rivers. PLEASE let us now if you do not recieve your NEWS – we will see if there is a problem we can fix.
OTHER OUTLETS
Pick up a copy of the NEWS at:
• East Gresford Foodworks
• Gresford Garage and Rural
• Gresford Store / Crossroads Cafe
• Vacy General Store Cafe & Gifts
Example of Diar y Entries...
Sat 14 Dec Gresford Community Market - Christmas theme, Gresford Community Park, 9–1
Sat 21 Dec Gresford Carols by Candlelight, Gresford Community Park, 6pm
Sat-Sun 18-22 Dec example: event name, place, time
CLAIM THE DATE Sat 4 Oct example: Gresford event name, place, time
Sat-Sun Gresford Community Gallery open, 12 Park St, East Gresford, 10–4
4th Fri each month
CWA Craft Morning, CWA Hall, 9–12
Every Thur Happy hour and free pool and jukebox at the Hotel Beatty
Gresford Community Group: A Legacy of Service and Collaboration
In December 1994, concerned citizens of Gresford and East Gresford gathered to address pressing issues, including the decline of rural services, limited employment opportunities, and challenges to small business sustainability. This grassroots effort, initiated by Clem Varley, John Edmonds, Carolyn Addison, Robert Richardson, and Paul Wilson, culminated in a public meeting on February 15, 1995.
The meeting exceeded expectations, with strong community support leading to the formation of the Gresford Community Group (GCG).
Robert Richardson and Martin Addison were tasked with drafting the constitution for this Incorporated Association, established with a clear and meaningful charter:
“To provide a non-political action group to assist in responsible development, future planning, and expansion of the Gresford district for the benefit of all residents.”
From its inception, the GCG pledged to work in harmony with the district's 33 established organizations. Its mission was to support these groups without competing for limited local funding, instead contributing expertise, advocacy, and cooperative fundraising efforts.
Over 30 years, the GCG has become a cornerstone of community development. It has successfully initiated and supported numerous projects, advocating for improvements while collaborating with organizations and individuals both locally and beyond.
This remarkable history of service reflects the dedication and vision of its members and supporters, acknowledging the special contributions of many who have championed its cause. As the GCG looks ahead, its commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the Gresford district remains steadfast.
Celebrating 30 Years of Community Success
As we celebrate 30 years of the Gresford Community Group, we extend a heartfelt invitation to:
Those who have been part of our journey: Whether you were involved in the early days or contributed along the way, your efforts have shaped the Gresford we know today. Please join us to reflect on and celebrate these shared achievements.
New residents and fresh faces: If you’re new to the area or eager to play a role in building a stronger, more vibrant community, we welcome your ideas and enthusiasm.
This is a unique opportunity to connect the past, present, and future of our community. Together, let’s discuss how we can continue creating positive change for Gresford and East Gresford in the years to come.
Please join us at the next Community Group meeting, Monday the 2nd December at 6.30pm at The Beatty Hotel.
Paterson Allyn Garden Group
On a Goldilocks kind of morning, with the weather being ‘just right’, we were very lucky to be invited to Bob & Julie’s garden on Webbers Creek Rd, Paterson for our November meeting.
We had an excellent attendance with members, visitors & a couple of new members making up the numbers.
Liz was on hand to welcome everyone, in Jillian’s absence &, as usual, came up with a bit of fun, courtesy of Martha Stewart, to kick off proceedings –
‘When you marry, your husband will keep you happy for 1 year, if you get a dog you will be happy for 2 years, but if you have a garden you will be happy for ever’.
and
Over the past couple of get togethers, we have had a variety of gardens, from the eclectic to the manicured & this month, the expansive. While all our garden visits are inspiring, Bob & Julie’s property is a testament to hard work & tenacity.
The 25-acre property has been groomed
into a true Garden of Eden, all done over the remarkably short, three & a half years that the couple has been there.
Originally from Sydney, with some time spent in Newcastle, it was Bob’s dream, for many years, to move to the country to take on a sustainable lifestyle.
Julie takes a lot of pride in her floral
gardens while Bob takes on the heavier lifting projects & has developed some amazing, raised vegetable gardens & other infrastructure, interspersed with some beautiful fruit trees & other wellestablished, varieties of gum & conifers.
The extensive grass areas were very neatly trimmed, giving the property a
park like appearance. Bob had some mowing assistance from his steers, Victa & Mas(port) & a couple of alpacas, that are always on hand to help keep the grass under control.
As usual, keep an eye on the website –pagardengroup.org for news and upcoming events.
DO YOU WORK FROM HOME AND WANTING TO SUPPLEMENT YOUR INCOME OR PAY FOR THOSE HOLIDAYS YOU’VE BEEN LOOKING FORWARD TO?
GAIN SOME EXTRA INCOME AND STILL HAVE 3 MONTHS OFF A YEAR?
COME AND DRIVE A SCHOOL BUS SERVICE IN ONE OF THE NICEST ENVIRONMENTS IN THE COUNTRY, 20 – 25Hrs PER WEEK SCHOOL TERM ONLY (7.00 – 9.00am and 2.45 – 4.15pm). *****SUBSIDISED LICENCE UPGRADES AND TRAINING ALSO AVAILABLE*****
Linq Buslines is looking for bus drivers to join our Gresford Team.
As a Linq Buslines member you will be operating our vehicles to transport passengers including school children on specified routes including school and charter services with the highest of safety and service.
Minimum MR licence, NSW Driver Authority and Working with Children Clearance (or the ability to obtain).
We are looking for people who have:
• Good communication skills
• Good driving history
• Good customer services and dealing with people
• Happy to work a flexible roster including broken shifts
For further information or to apply please contact us on 0249 389 394 or email info@linqbuslines.com.au
CULTURE VULTURE ART NEWS
Greetings to Culture Vulture readers, December is my last article for 2024 till the Gresford News returns next February 2025. I would like to wish all our readers great end of year celebrations and a brilliant New Year 2025.
The Gresford Community Gallery has been welcoming many visitors to the gallery since the grand opening celebration, so thanks to all the great support the gallery has been able to substantially help the Community Group.
Two well-known Hunter artists Gwendolin Lewis and Linda Greedy are now represented in the gallery. Drop by to see the exhibition of a great variety of quality Hunter Valley art and craft, featuring painting, drawing, sculptures, ceramics, photography, jewellery, fibre art, stained glass work, woodwork and video. The gallery will be opened till 22nd of December, you may find the perfect Christmas gift in the gallery. The gallery will close for Christmas and Summer holiday break. Re-opening on 1st February 2025, with exciting new exhibitions.
Like & follow the Gallery Facebook page for news, upcoming exhibitions, workshops and features on artists.
Robyn Werkhoven
SKETCH CLUB
The gallery held its first Sketch Club, everyone enjoyed the creative, friendly atmosphere.
Please join us at the next event, all welcome – beginners and professionals. The Gallery’s next Sketch Club –
Friday 29 November - $1500 Pork & Ham Raffle
Friday 6 December - $1500 Christmas Raffle
Friday 6 December – Reggie Sinclair
Saturday 7 December – Bowls Christmas Party
Friday 20th December -Prawn & Oyster Raffle
Friday 20th December – Glen Harrison
Australia Day 26 January – Sunday Funday
50 club Ham Draw $2.00 a number
50 Numbers once all Numbers sold will be draw
Every Week at the Bowlo!!
Wednesday Night
HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAY 4.30 - 6.00
Wednesday Night – Gift Voucher Raffles
Friday Night Meat Tray Raffles
Members Draw
Sunday Night- Gift Vouchers Raffles
Members Draw
Members Draw - if not won goes up $25.00 a night, must be here to WIN!
Like us on Facebook
“Support your Club, It’s your club” Best In our town,
Tuesday 17th December at 1–4pm. Still Life – inspiration from Australian artist Lucy Culliton. Hosted by artist Christine Pike. Please bring your own art supplies. Cost $10.
Enquiries: Christine 0428 271 819 or gallerygresfordcommunity@gmail.com
Christine Pike hosting the first Sketch Club at the Gresford Community Gallery
Feature artist
This month’s featured Gresford Gallery artist is Suzannah Jones. Suzannah is a mother, artist, community arts worker, and farmer living in the Dungog Shire alongside the Williams River.
Originally from Wingham, NSW, Suzannah’s work remains deeply influenced by the landscape of outback South Australia, where she spent nearly a decade as a community arts worker. It was there, in her early 30s, that she began to seriously create art in response to the arid environment around her. Although she is now increasingly painting the riparian landscapes near her home, it is the vast lands of outback South Australia that continue to be her primary source of inspiration.
Suzannah has subsequently had four solo shows. She has been in numerous groups shows and has been a finalist in many Australian prestigious art awards. Recently the winner of the Viola Bromley Prize 2024, her work will become part of the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre’s collection.
says – “I don’t draw a literal representation of the landscape; I respond through mark making. My artistic method, therefore, becomes a patchwork of collected shapes, line, landmarks, tiny, illustrated stories and familiar forms. This process serves as a vehicle for the deconstruction of my
personal experiences within the layers of this distinctive, challenging, yet beautifully raw place”.
Studio La Primitive ARTS
ZINE – latest issue now online. Includes interviews with Australia’s stellar artists – Del Kathryn Barton, George Gittoes, Susie Devenport and Joseph Turrin. Arts Zine is produced and published in East Gresford, the magazine is now 11 years old and has featured over 400 interviews with artists and writers. The next issue of Arts Zine will be online 1st March 2025. To view all issues: www.studiolaprimitive.net
Gresford Community Gallery Saturday and Sunday 10am–4pm. Or by appointment phone Robyn on 0417 686 816. The gallery is in the Therese Doyle Hall, next to the beautiful Arboretum and visitors’ park, 12 Park Street, East Gresford. Contact: art news or enquiries about Gresford Community Gallery: Robyn Werkhoven – werkhovenr@bigpond.com
Suzannah
A Suzannah Jones landscape
Weekend of Rainforest Conversations with Dr Bill McDonald
For most people the word “Rainforest” conjures up an image of very large expanses of huge trees in areas of high rainfall. Around 60 people left the James Theatre recently with a much better understanding of the diversity and importance rainforests and about the ones in our region. The event was organised by the Paterson Allyn Williams Science and Ideas Hub and Hunter Region Landcare Network as part of a 'Rainforest Conversations' Series.
Peter Wilson from the Maitland area spoke first about the dry rainforests near here. He explained that the landscape has been so drastically changed by European settlement that it is difficult to work out what species were in the original vegetation. Peter used many pictures and maps to show the distribution of rainforests in our area, where there used to be extensive floodplain rainforests, for example in the Morpeth, Maitland, Largs and Bolwarra districts. In those areas there were many lagoons, with a transition in rainforest species moving away from the lagoons and rivers. Most of the lagoons have disappeared.
Rejuvenating the rainforests presents several challenges, apart from finding out what the original forests were like, for which there is little historical evidence, including problems of coping with the effects of increased salinity and global warming. The good news is that planting has started with the aim of joining the Hunter and Paterson River rainforest areas as well as the region between Maitland and Beresfield.
While Peter concentrated on the areas around our lower rivers, our next two
speakers were concerned with areas within our Shire.
Jane Richens described the remnant rainforest area at the top end of Tabbil Creek, that she and her partner, Brian, bought about 25 years ago. They have about 680 acres with over 200 acres of dry rainforest, much of which is in steep gullies. They are learning about, and caring for, their flora and fauna and are trying various interventions for weed control, with a particular battle with lantana. Jane is recording many aspects of their environment, particularly with photographs and recording birds sounds.
Penny Kater explained that about 50 years ago around Gresford there were only some small patches of rainforest left, after many had been destroyed by development, fire and agriculture. The Gresford Arboretum was established with community involvement, particularly from the school, and Noel Jupp, and planting started about 8 years ago. Now a group of about 25 volunteers plant, mow and water every Friday afternoon, and Penny’s pictures show that with mulching and weeding, the plantings have flourished in a community hub that also has murals, sculptures and a play area for children.
The next speaker was Rye Gollan, Regional Conservation Officer, of the Biodiversity Conservation Trust. His input made us aware of projects that are aimed to encourage conservation on private land. Grants are available for suitable projects and there has been a rapid increase in participation. There are various programs to encourage conservation management.
Typical agreements include things like areas for wildlife conservation, establishment of continuous habitats and biodiversity stewardship. The Trust is also looking to buy properties, to set them up with agreements and then resell as suitable conservation properties. The trust also has a strategy for koala habitat protection.
The afternoon finished with, special guest from Brisbane, Dr Bill McDonald’s beautifully illustrated talk on the rainforests of Northern NSW. (His illustrations included one of a 1,250 yearold brush box that has survived many fires.) He illustrated and described a huge range of different types of rainforests, with an explanation of the climatic conditions and varying vegetation in each type, including sub-tropical rainforests in areas of good soil and high rainfall, and the most extensive cloud forests in Eastern Australia that occur in the Border Ranges between NSW and Queensland. On poorer soils there are warm temperate rainforests which have simpler vegetation such as no buttress roots or vines.
Barrington Tops has the largest range of cool temperate rainforests. Other rainforest types include dry rainforests with more open vegetation and few ferns, vine thickets where there is low rainfall but good cloud mists, littoral rainforests that are close to the sea, including windswept headlands. Gallery rainforests are amongst the simplest rainforests with predominantly large fig trees, silky oaks and black beans, swamp rainforests include cabbage tree palms and gorge forests are in low rainfall areas
Dr Bill McDonald at the James Theatre, Dungog
Dr Bill McDonald led a visit to a
Weekend of Rainforest Conversations ...continued
with moisture provided by mists. Mixed rainforests were involved in a logging dispute leading to Neville Wran imposing a ban on logging and they are now World Heritage listed.
Bill’s knowledge of the huge range of species across all the different sorts of rainforest is exemplified in the renowned ID publication he co-authored “Rainforest Trees and Shrubs”
After a few questions most people adjourned for refreshments and animated conversations that extended well past the official ending time.
On Sunday, 15 people had a very informative walk through the local rainforest Tabbil Forest with Dr Bill McDonald. They viewed the forest from several vantage points – directly into the canopy from a high point in the landscape, across multiple gullies and a longer walk in the forest.
On Monday Dr Bill McDonald visited the Gresford Arboretum. Penny Kater led a walk through the plantings of our local rainforest species. A morning tea and discussion about understanding our local vegetation was enjoyed by all
assembled as well as a viewing of artworks at the Gresford Community Gallery. We are very grateful for Bill's generous sharing of information about these vital ecosystems over the weekend.
As interest in our local rainforests increase, more talks and walks are planned for the future. If you would like to know about future rainforest activities contact pawsciencehub@gmail.com
A morning tea with volunteers and friends of the Gresford Arboretum before Dr Bill McDonald flew back to Qld.
CHRISTMAS COLOURING IN COMPETITION
Everyone loves a colouring competition! With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to pull out the pencils, crayons and paintbrushes and get creative with the Gresford District Community Groups Children’s Christmas Colouring in Competition.
All you need to do is pull out the appropriate age group picture from the Gresford News, get your children to add their magic touch and drop it in at the collection points:
Gresford Rural & Garage or Vacy General Store
All the entries will be judged and there will be one winner for each age group. The winners will be announced at the Carols by Candlelight and will receive a prize on the night
Not long now! Carols By Candlelight
Saturday, 21 December 2024 from 6pm
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at Carols in the Park! Pack your picnic, grab your chairs and rugs and a torch and join the Gresford District Community Group and the Gresford Amateur Performing Society (GAPS) for a night of festive fun. The GAPS choir will be performing live, all your favourite traditional carols and some new musical numbers that you can join in on plus a few songs for the children and some activities for the young (and young at heart) to participate in.
Song sheets will be available on the Gresford District Community Group’s Facebook page and there will be some hard copies available on the night.
A big thank you goes to Dungog Shire Council for providing the funding to make this event possible for our community.
Ages 3–5
Ages 6–9
Ages 10+
Gresford Community Market
Gresford Community Market continues to go from strength to strength, with perfect weather and steady crowds making for a successful November event. And, according to the team behind the new market initiative, the Christmasthemed market day scheduled for Saturday, December 14, will be even more special.
“The sentiment (at the November market) was so positive from customers, with quite a good flow of regular customers,” Gresford Community Market team member Pip Woods said.
“It’s such a great start and we’re confident we’ll grow into a vibrant market that will be a must-visit place.”
While visitors were delighted with the range of items available, the stallholders were buoyed by the steady stream of shoppers keen to see what the area’s creative minds and hands had on offer.
“I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking that this is a special market,” stallholder Sandy, from Zandpaperfig Ceramics, said. “The vibe is lovely and I feel like I have made some new friends already. “It’s something that can’t be manufactured and it’s a credit to the community of Gresford.”
Plans for future markets include food and beverage vendors and shaded seating areas so shoppers can rest up and enjoy the friendly community vibe.
The Christmas market will be in Gresford Community Park between 9am and 1pm on December 14. If you would like to help with the Market you can come along at 7am and help other
volunteers set up gazebo's, put out tables and chairs, perhaps play music (busking allowed) or assist with parking etc.
The Gresford Community Gallery will also be open to visitors. Both venues will be overflowing with Christmas gift options that will allow visitors to fulfil their Christmas shopping lists while at the same time supporting local creatives.
COMING UP
Thur 5 Dec Pool Comp • 6 pm Thur 19 Dec Trivia • 6:30 pm (Xmas theme)
Sun 22 Dec TNR Band • 2 – 6 pm Xmas Gig on the deck
NYEve Karaoke • 7 till late
Thanking everyone for their support during 2024. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year from the Beatty!
6 Days (closed Wed night) 6pm – 9pm
D4H Dozer
With an election due in just over 6 months, recently I announced that I will not be recontesting the next election.
It’s been an honour and privilege to serve and represent you as the Federal Member for Lyne in the Commonwealth Parliament of Australia since 2013.
Since that time, we have achieved a lot together. I’m particularly proud of the nine years during The Nationals’ term in government in which our electorate was able to secure record funding for so many projects throughout our region. It has been a lot of hard work, but also an absolute pleasure working with so many of you involved in various organisations across the community who have helped me deliver these projects. Every time I walk into the Parliament and into the House of Representatives Chamber, it is certainly not lost on me, the trust you have placed in me and the importance of the position I hold as your representative.
In Parliament, I have used this national forum as an opportunity to advocate on behalf of our community and our local industries and work with my parliamentary colleagues on all sides to improve the lives of Australians and help deliver a better country now and in the future.
Thankyou!
Whether it be in energy policy, tax reform, cutting red tape, infrastructure investment, support of our primary industries and small business, competition policy, aged care, national security, social services or reform of our Federation, I’ve certainly continued to prosecute the case on why we need to invest and implement common sense policies in these areas.
Having served in the Ministry for three years including as Minister for Regional Health in the former government, I was able to utilise my knowledge and skills through my background as a medical specialist in developing policies which are now being rolled out today. I was particularly passionate about the need to build our medical and health workforce in the regions, and as Minister I secured funding for a major expansion of the network of full-time medical schools and nursing and allied health campuses across regional Australia.
As the Chair of Parliamentary Friends of Nuclear Industries for the past five years, I have continued to work with members of the Coalition and across the Parliament in pushing for new zero-emissions nuclear technology as a viable option to secure Australia’s energy security in the future and I’m delighted that it has now become Coalition policy.
and the Covid Pandemic. During these challenging events, I have worked with our community and my parliamentary colleagues in Canberra to ensure we were able to secure the support we needed to respond and help us bounce back stronger.
For over 11 years, my wife Charlotte and our family have supported me in this wonderful job and I thank them for their love and support. As good as it is, the job has taken me away from home to Canberra for Parliament and across Australia as a Minister for well over half the year, each year, for over 11 years. Keeping a very busy schedule across a big electorate also means many more days away from my family. Having completed many national policy initiatives and having secured funding for many local projects that I have been working on for some years, I’m now looking forward to spending more time with Charlotte and my family.
Dr
Throughout my time as the Federal Member of Parliament, our region has experienced many challenges from the 2019/2020 Bushfires, the 2021 Floods
Australia is at a crossroads, and we need more people in Parliament with real life experience that are prepared to speak up in support of commonsense policies that work. Supporting and retaining the many things that work, while also embracing new things that can help improve the lives of Australians is critical for our ongoing prosperity as a nation. I will of course be working hard between now and the next election as your Federal Member and will work closely with the next Nationals candidate to ensure our region continues to not only receive strong representation, but also remains the focus of regional investment.
David GILLESPIE MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE
The Nationals have already begun the preselection process for Lyne and nominations close in about three weeks’ time. From there, a preselection meeting will be held on Saturday 7th December to determine the next candidate who will contest the electorate of Lyne for The Nationals.
I’ll be working with and supporting the new Nationals candidate to ensure many of the projects we are continuing to work on locally will be included in The Nationals’ plan for Government at next year’s election.
Finally, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the people of the Lyne electorate for their ongoing support. Thank you to The Nationals party members who have continued to help with policy development and in supporting me at each and every election, and thank you to my staff for all of their hard work in helping me do my job serving the people of the Lyne electorate.
Delivering for our Region
L 2013-2025 - Federal Assistance Grants to Dungog Shire - $32.91 million
L 2014-2025 Roads to Recovery funding package - Dungog Shire - $7,297,244
L Local Roads and Infrastructure PackageDungog Shire - $3,261,778
L The M1 Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace upgrade is now in full swing thanks to the $1.7 billion
L Highway Interchange to replace Italia Road, Bucketts Way an Medowie Road Intersections - $7.8 million
L Newcastle Airport Upgrade – Runway and International Terminal - $123 million
L Glen William Public School - Sensory Garden - $5,000
L Gresford District Community Group Gazebo - $16,000
L East Seaham - Italia Road for 3 kms$225,000
L Vacy - Gresford Road from Flying Fox Lane - $130,000
L Gresford Road from Park Street$630,000
L Park Street upgrade through East Gresford - $1 million
L Gresford Sporting Complex - $2,000
L Bennett Park Surface Upgrade - $55,000
L Tocal Road - Paterson - $330,000
L Vacy Rural Fire Service Equipment$6,214
L Clarence Town Road Upgrade - Raymond Terrace to Dungog $20 million
L Friends Of Tocal Inc - $1,000
L Paterson Public School P & C Association - Purchase small equipment - $2,500
L Gresford - Footpath Cycleway Gresford to East Gresford Link - $549,646
L Vacy Sportsground Fence - $60,000
L John Tucker Park - Playground equipment - $280,000
L Paterson Public School - $1,000
L The Rail Motor Society Paterson –Upgrade works - $27,000
L Wirragulla - Dungog Road south of Clarence Town Road - $240,000
L Paterson River Road upgrade - $456,060
L Wallarobba - Dungog Road from Wallaringa Road to 800m east - $470,000
Authorised by David Gillespie MP, National Party of Australia, Shops 2 & 3, 43 High
L Martins Creek - Dungog Road Horns Crossing Martins Creek - $399,000
L Duns Creek - Duns Creek Road near Wallaby Close - $625,000
L Torryburn - Gresford Road 800m section - $100,000
L John Tucker Park, Paterson - New shade structure - $68,000
L Paterson Public School - Furniture $5,000
L Vacy Public School – Furniture - $5,000
L Tabbil Creek - Clarence Town Road south of Hanleys Creek Road - $510,000
L Martins Creek - Dungog Road, Merchants Road and Gardiners Road$510,000
L Iona Public School Parents & Citizens’ Association - $1,000
L Summerhill Road upgrade - $352,410
L Vacy Public School P&C Association$1,000
L Kings Wharf carpark works - $45,000
L Paterson Cricket Club - $1,100
L Gresford School of Arts - $48,000
L Paterson Public School P&C Association - $1,000
L School of Vacy Arts Hall Painting - $5,380
L Gresford Bowls, Sport and Recreation Club - Automatic door - $12,000
L Paterson and Dunmore Road Intersection - $706,000
L Gresford District Community Group$10,000
L Gresford School of Arts Accessible Toilet - $48,000
L Summerhill Bridge Replacement$352,774
L Martins Creek School of Arts - Access pathways - $5,000
L Paterson School of Arts - Accessible paths, retaining wall and entry ramp upgrades - $51,000
L Gresford Road south of Lennoxton Road, Vacy - $400,000
L Paterson Road south of Duns Creek Road Duns Creek - $272,500
L Federal funding for Aged Care and Home Care in Lyne increased from $90 million in 2013 to $300 million
Garden Activity – the shrubs donated by Dungog Council via Riverdene Nursery were planted on a cool and overcast day, with following rain, so their prospects are good. Laurence, Dawn, Hannah, Melissa and Glenda managed to plant and mulch the twenty shrubs in one morning. This is the first stage in what is planned to be a continued garden makeover.
Appeal for the Homeless – all CWA branches in the Hunter have been approached by the Salvation Army to help ameliorate the situation for homeless people. They are requesting support in the form of vouchers for $15-$20; hamper
CWA NEWS
items; Christmas gifts; toiletry packs; thongs, hats & plain t-shirts. Our branch will be making donations, but if members of the community would also like to donate they can contact Kristie Clifton (Homelessness State Manager) on 0438 692 244, or at Kristie.Clifton@salvationarmy. org.au All items should be new. Items can be taken to The Salvation Army Maitland Corps: 1 Bunning Ave Rutherford, with Attention Cameron and PIP: Homelessness Team The Salvation Army.
Craft Mornings – these delightful mornings will finish for the year on 22nd November, but will continue in 2025. Participants have been intrigued by the range of crafts brought and practiced, and the friendly social atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming old friends and new next year.
Book Club – the list of books concluded with Wifedom by Anna Funder, and a very satisfying discussion. The first book for next year will be Anna Funder’s All That I Am. Members will celebrate the end of the year with a Christmas lunch and the sharing of written passages that have engaged our attention. Next year we will be hosting a talk by Tony
Cavanaugh, a writer of novels and film and TV scripts. This promises to be a stimulating experience.
French Conversation – continues to be a diverting and enriching experience. It will continue in 2025 on the first and third Mondays of the month, from 10am to 11:30. Please ring Glenda Smith (4938 9456 or 0400 108 079) if you are interested in joining us next year.
New member Melissa Butler is keeping the lawn under control.
What's On the Shelves?
by Glenda Smith Mennonite
in a Little Black Dress –
– Rhoda Janzen
The catchiness of this title is borne out in the writing. Janzen is a language-lover and writes with pizazz, but doesn’t overdo it. She has a light touch in showing her vulnerability when after a painful divorce and devastating accident she spends a sabbatical in the bosom of her Mennonite family.
Depictions of her eccentric parents are wryly loving, and very entertaining. Their faith and frugality are essential aspects of their personalities, and while Janzen rejects both, up to a point, she accepts and appreciates their sincerity and goodness. She also provides a history of the Mennonite movement, and describes the differences with the Amish, who broke away because the Mennonites were perceived as too liberal. Janzen thinks that ‘liberal Mennonites’ is an oxymoron.
Janzen is sophisticated, funny, and philosophical in turns. This is an interesting and engaging book.
All books reviewed are from the CWA library on a separate shelf so they are easy to find plus the reviews are in a folder. Also visit our street library.
A tank for the Therese Doyle Hall
Hunter water to the rescue! The Gresford Arboretum has been suffering from waterlogging in recent wet weather. The result of this is that not only does the mower get bogged, but also we have been losing precious plants. As there was no tank attached to the hall, stormwater was flooding the property.
The Community Group successfully applied to Hunter Water for a grant for
repair of guttering and installation of a 22,000 L tank and pump. This was efficiently installed by Chris Hack who also took down a large leaning gumtree free of charge.
Hunter Water representatives were invited to morning tea at the Arboretum and were told what a difference the tank has made. Not only are we managing the stormwater runoff but we now have stored water for the trees in dry times.
Gresford Vacy Football Club
A new committee has been elected to lead the Scorpions on and off the field for the 2025 season. At Gresford Vacy Football Club’s annual general meeting on November 21, the executive was re-elected unopposed, with Jim Doyle again heading the club as president, alongside secretary Jack Cowled, junior vicepresident Clint Booth, senior vice president Luke Barker and treasurer Cathy Easdown.
“We have an extremely strong club and a great culture here and we will continue to build on that,” president Jim Doyle said at the AGM. “There are still some people holding back from volunteering, though, so we’re really encouraging every family that signs up to also commit to volunteering in some capacity throughout the season.”
The other committee roles were filled by the following: canteen manager Bec Cowled, registrar Clint Booth, publicity officer Julie Hartigan, sponsorship coordinator Jim Doyle, coaching co-ordinator David Oliver, fundraising Niki Burnet, gear stewards Nadine Kraski and
Julie Hartigan, member protection officer Lex Ineson, groundsman Dave Crouch, public officer and referees co-ordinator Cathy Easdown, Miniroos Kick-Off co-ordinator Tina Phelps, Working With Children compliance officer Nadine Kraski, grants officer and club culture officer Kris Doyle and female participation officer Cass Baxter. The only unfilled position is merchandise officer. Anyone interested in this role can contact Jim Doyle.
“Season 2024 was one of our most successful in terms of trophies and grand final appearances,” secretary Jack Cowled
said at the AGM. “We had six teams in grand finals for three wins - but the most successful part of the season was making sure it was fun and affordable which is something we take great pride in.”
Fees will remain unchanged for 2025 with the exception of senior players who will now have game fees included in their oneoff registration fee at the start of the season. Registrations for 2025 will open in early January with season kick-off in April.
The committee continues to look at improvements for the home grounds at Gresford Sporting Complex and is actively seeking sponsorship and grants to bring ideas to fruition. A recently-awarded grant will allow the installation of a new bubbler and water bottle filling station.
While the club is midway through its two-year sponsorship cycle, new sponsorship opportunities are available and the club would love to hear from any individuals and businesses who would like to support the mighty Scorpions.
All inquiries: Jim Doyle 0407 307 800.
Teamwork ... the success of the Scorps relies on a joint effort between players, parents, supporters, volunteers, committee members & dedicated sponsors.
– Story and photo by Julie Hartigan
With Christmas and the holiday season fast approaching it is fitting to thank all the good folks who have contributed to another enjoyable year of bowls, fun and entertainment at the Gresford Bowlo. Thank you all.
The Shire Bowls competition has been completed as well as three of the five Gresford Club Championship categories. Special mention and congratulations go to Ingrid Griffiths in winning the Gresford Major Singles title, the first woman to do so in the open era and a significant achievement in our club’s history. Congratulations Ingrid.
Wishing everyone a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.
Peter Dreyer
Dungog Shire Council News
A summary of highlights from the Ordinary Council Meeting held on Wed 20 Nov 2024.
INDUSTRY REFERENCE GROUP
A Mayoral Minute proposing the establishment of a Dungog Shire Council Industry Reference Group (DSC IRG) was endorsed by Councillors. The group will be established to discuss process matters relating to Development Applications and to look at ways the DA process focus on continuous improvement.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION PROCESS
Council have agreed to waive the Development Application pre-lodgement fee of $300 for a period of 12 months to encourage early consultation with staff in relation to application requirements. Currently applicants have the option of paying the fee to meet with Council staff during the assessment phase of development applications. Thanks to this Mayoral Minute and endorsement by Council, the fee will be waived to encourage more applicants to come forward in the initial stages of lodgement, so that efficiencies in processing applications and greater customer satisfaction is achieved.
Dungog 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.
DRAFT SUBMISSION TO NSW GRANTS COMMISSION
Mayor Rayward has put forward a draft submission to be sent to the NSW Grants Commission noting Council’s concerns relating to how grants are dispersed, and how larger Council’s, especially those in metropolitan areas, are receiving more funding than should be allocated.
Mayor Rayward noted that he feels smaller Councils are being unfairly treated and it is his hope that with the support of the Grattan report highlighting the inaccuracies of Council funding, the NSW Grants Commission will reconsider how funding is allocated.
DOG PARK LOCATIONS
Councillors have endorsed a motion put forward by Cr Liam Ley seeking support for:
1. the development of a report identifying suitable locations within the township of Dungog for the establishment of a community dog park (including off-leash area) and that the report be presented to council for further consideration. The report should take into account the following criteria:
RICHARD WELLS UPHOLSTERY
Ease of access and proximity to amenities; A central location to encourage community use; Safety for dogs, avoiding risks such as ticks, snakes, and other hazards; An environment that promotes positive social interactions for both dogs and their owners; An estimated cost and potential sources of funding, including any potential grants 2. Engages with the community to ensure the proposed locations align with the needs and preferences of residents and include any feedback received in the Report.
COUNCIL CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR PERIOD ARRANGEMENTS
The Administration Centre, Waste Facility, Depot, Library and VIC facilities will be closed from 12pm on 13 Dec to allow for the Dungog Shire Council staff only Christmas party.
Council Customer Service will close 12pm 22 Dec and reopen 2 Jan 2025
Library, Planning, Service NSW will close 12pm 24 Dec 2024 reopen 2 Jan 2025 Waste Collection will not be affected. The Waste Management Facility will be closed on 25 Dec and 1 Jan.
PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS
‘Looking after people is our business’
For all your upholstery needs ring Richard on 4938 9324
Peter Evans is descended from a farming family located in the Gresford area prior to 1840 We are keen to assist you with all your legal needs. We can help you with: Conveyancing, Family Law, Business Law, Criminal Law, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate and more … Call us on 02 4926 4788 www.evanslaw.com.au
Level 3/97 Scott Street, Newcastle NSW 2300 reception@evanslaw.com.au
The first Family Friendly Country Church Service was held at Vacy School of Arts on Sun 3 Nov. This service was well attended and was enjoyed by everyone. Lots of singing and story telling that was great. Watch this space for the next service in the new year and come along for a great evening.Fr. Peter’s Men’s Breakfast is on Sat 7 Dec in St. Paul’s Hall at 8am. Please come along for good food and companionship. Christmas is nearly here for 2024 and I hope everyone is ready. We have been collecting Christmas items for those whose lives and living conditions are not as good as ours. Thank you for your generosity towards others.
Service dates for December services are: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – 8.30am St. Paul’s Paterson & 10.30am (Not 22) at St. Anne’s Gresford. Christmas service times:
24 Christmas Eve 10.30am Gresford, 6.30pm St.Mary’s Allynbrook, 9pm Paterson 25 Christmas Day 8.30am St.Paul’s Paterson. A very Merry Christmas to everyone. Enjoy family and friends get together. Drive safely & God Bless you all. January Church times will be posted on Gresford Paterson Parish Facebook page soon. Blessings Beverley
Gresford
Congregational Church
30 Durham Rd Gresford
Services Each Sunday 10.30am ALL WELCOME
Catholic Parish of Gresford
Mass at St. Helen's, East Gresford
Saturday – 5:30 pm (except 2nd Sat. of month)
Thursday – 9.30am Mass at Sacred Heart, Summer Hill Sunday – 11:30 am (2nd Sunday of month)
All enquiries to Fr. Andrew Doohan, Parish Priest, on 4992 1477 or dungog.parish@mn.catholic.org.au
Gresford News November Crossword
November 2024 crossword answers
Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.
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