Gresford News February 2018

resford News G

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News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys February 2018

Australia Day in Gresford Story and pictorial inside ‌

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

Fully Licenced CafĂŠ / Restaurant 4938 8305

The Gresford News Community Diary Thurs

1 Feb The Land Cookery Competition, CWA Rooms, 9.30am

Wed

7 Feb French in the rooms – 1st session of the year, CWA Rooms, 11.00am (1st & 3rd Wed of the month)

Wed

14 Feb Valentine's Day Dinner, Twin Rivers Café

Sat/Sun 17/18 Feb Walks and optional MTB rides exploring Upper Paterson River, Chichester State Forest Sat

17 Feb Live music – Goblin Core, Hotel Beatty, 8.00pm

Sun

18 Feb Next Community Markets, Hotel Beatty, 9.00am (No markets in Dec or Jan)

Sun

18 Feb Live music rockin' the deck – Neil Farmer, Hotel Beatty, 1.00pm

Fri

23 Feb Paterson Allyn Williams Science Hub event – Toxic Consequences talks, James Theatre Dungog, 6.30pm

Sun

4 Mar Tracks & Traces: Finding hidden wildlife of the Dungog Common, PAW Science Hub event, 10.00am

Mon/Tues

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

Tuesdays

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

Mondays

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Vacy School of Arts Hall

Tues, Wed, Thurs

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Gresford School of Arts Hall

Friday afternoons

Junior tennis coaching, Gresford Tennis Courts

1st Sun each month

Fresh Home Grown Produce Day at Vacy General Store. Money goes back to grower.

1st Mon each month

Gresford District Community Group Meeting, 6.30pm, Hotel Beatty, all welcome! (not Jan)

1st Wed each month

Gresford Rural Fire Brigade meeting, station, 7.30pm

1st Thurs each month

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

2nd Mon each month

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

2nd Tues each month

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

2nd Sat each month

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

3rd Tues each month

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

3rd Fri each month

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

Last Thurs each month

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

Every Wed, Fri & Sun

Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Raffles, from 6.30pm

Every Mon (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.00am 49346725 Every Tue & Fri (school terms) Hunter Mobile Preschool, Gresford School of Arts, 9.00am 49346725 Every Thur

Happy hour and free pool and jukebox at the Hotel Beatty

Every Fri

Cricket Club Raffles at the Hotel Beatty

Every Wed & Fri (school terms) Yoga with Donna Cavanough, Wed–gentle, Fri–general, Vacy School of Arts Hall, 9.15am Every Wed

Gresford PlayTime, children 0-5 & carers, Gresford School of Arts, 10.00am

Every Sunday

The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am

To contact Gresford News: email gresfordnews@iinet.net.au • Brian Doherty 0412 372 687 • Jane Richens 0425 339 856.

Postal Address: PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311. Deadline for stories & ads 20th of the month.

For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred (not in word).

Please keep us informed about activities in the area – a paragraph or two and photo.

Visit

www.gresfordnsw.com.au

for local information and the ‘Gresford News’ online.

finances resford News G

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

Name

Amount

Address

KERBSIDE BULKY WASTE & SCRAP METAL CLEAN-UP

12 to 23 February 2018

Dungog Shire Council is providing a Bulky Waste & Scrap Metal Clean-Up for all residential properties currently

receiving a weekly waste collection. Collections will commence on Monday the 12th of February.

Residents are requested to put their Waste out the weekend before.

Clean-up material should be placed at the location of your regular waste collection. Waste Material deposited in any other location will be considered to be illegally dumped and action may be taken against persons responsible.

NOTE: Collections may occur at any time during the allotted time period.

The volume of Waste collected from any one property shall not exceed two cubic metres.

Bulky Waste includes larger items of household waste.

Acceptable items are: • Household appliances and whitegoods (all doors must be removed) • Furniture, painted wooden products and fittings • Pottery, ceramics and chinaware • Tools, scrap metal, empty tins and drums. (Sorted separate to other Bulky Waste) • Other bulky household items • Items must be able to be handled by two people • Loose items must be bundled or contained • Wire, must be rolled and tied securely

These materials will NOT be collected: • Mattresses • Building and demolition materials, concrete, bricks, tiles, fencing and plumbing fixtures • Trade, industrial and shop waste • Motor vehicles, engines, car parts and tyres • Commercial and hazardous waste including asbestos, insulation batts and fibro • Gas bottles and fire extinguishers • Fuels, oils, paint and vessels or machinery containing liquids eg. mowers, oil heaters etc.

• Cement bags and large carpet rolls • Food scraps, recyclable material, household garbage and broken glass • Green Waste including tree roots and branches • Small loose items will not be accepted • Material suitable for placement in the resident’s MGBs • Fencing in large quantities and wire that is not rolled and tied securely • Lengths of material longer than 1.8m (excluding lounges etc.)

• Hot water systems larger than 260 litres

Enquiries ~ JR RICHARDS & SONS ~ 1300 343 507

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• February 2018, p 5

Gresford News Notices Gresford District Community Dinner

Biodiversity Offsets Scheme Workshops for Landcarers

Friday 9 February 2018 at 6.30pm Hotel Beatty

Free workshop – Fri 9 February, 10am to 3.30pm, Easts Leisure and Golf Club, 2 Tenambit St, East Maitland RSVP Stacy Mail, Local Landcare Coordinator Mid Hunter, Ph 0429 444 305, lowerhunterlandcare@gmail.com

All welcome – please book with Bernie on 4938 9451 as it makes catering much easier.

Carolyn Addison – Member of GDGC

Biodiversity legislation and stewardship site management training – opportunities to benefit from protecting your land.

Walk the Upper Paterson River

Module 1 Introduction to the Biodiversity Scheme Legislation (1.5 hours) • The purpose of biodiversity reforms • Overview of the legislation and regulations • Key elements of the scheme • Meeting a biodiversity off set obligation • Biodiversity certification

Sat 17 & Sun 18 February Chichester State Forest Walks and optional mountain bike rides exploring the Upper Paterson River in proposed additions to Barrington Tops NP. Medium/hard walk in river on Saturday (Gr 3-4), 6 - 8 km. Easy Sunday river walk (Gr 1-2), 4 - 6 km, suitable for children and families. Some off track.

Expect swimming and wet feet. Saturday night car camping near the start of walk.

Map: Barrington Tops, Carrabolla.

Contact Martin Fallding 6571 1208 info@calli.com.au

Module 2 Biodiversity Stewardship Sites (2.5 hours) • Role in the scheme • Establishing a stewardship site eligibility criteria, legal considerations • Applying for a stewardship site - assessment process and credit generation, management action plans and costing • Management of stewardship sites • Case studies To secure your place, contact Nicholas Alexander or Stacy Mail with details provided above by the 1st Feb. This course is subsidised to the value of $10,720.

Maximum 20 participants per workshop.

Tea/coffee and lunch provided.

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G resford News • February 2018

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Welcome to the first Mayoral Update of 2018. Looking forward to a big 2018!

Why are Our Main Roads So Bad? Council received an email the other day from a couple who recently visited our beautiful Shire. They told of how they stayed at the Showground, spent money locally and were full of praise for the welcome our community gave them. They then proceeded to lament the state of our roads and told us in no uncertain terms to fix them. After explaining a few facts to them, I asked them if I could use their email in our lobbying efforts with State and Federal Members, as well as the State Roads Minister, which they happily agreed to.

So, to recap on how we got to where we are, I defer to Cr Steve Low who has written many reports on this issue. I’m using an abridged version of his material, with grateful thanks for his excellent work: Prior to a policy change by the Carr Government in 1995, the NSW Government was fully responsible for funding all main roads, but this now only applies to State Roads.

Under the new arrangements for what became known as Regional Roads, the

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Mayoral Update

NSW Government provides funding for maintenance etc, and for special projects such as renewal (when the roads are worn out) and councils are required to contribute 50% towards the cost under the roads repair program.

In Dungog Shire, most of our Regional Roads were already worn out when they were given to us in 1995. Councils were not given funding to meet their new responsibilities for Regional Roads. So, the money has to come from what would otherwise be spent on local roads and services.

Further, due to relatively low traffic counts, only 15% of our regional road network qualifies for funding even when we can get it. The system recognises all vehicles, whether a heavy truck, or a car, as only one vehicle movement.

These arrangements are obviously unsustainable and Dungog Council has made numerous submissions and representations, without much success over the years. We have only received a few (most welcome) handouts, which have seen some sections of our main roads rebuilt over the last ten years.

Although other councils have expressed

Tracy Norman, Mayor Dungog Shire Council concerns about Regional Roads, the impact of the policy varies widely depending upon the length of road transferred, its condition at the time, available road and transport alternatives, and the ability of each community to absorb the associated cost burden. None of these factors were considered when the roads were transferred.

Dungog is the only LGA without any designated state roads, therefore leaving the entire burden for roads repair and renewal to rate-payers and those lobbying for hand-outs and grants.

Some 15 years of genuine efforts on our part have been refused by both political parties whilst in government. Council has sought the reclassification of the road between Maitland, Dungog and the Buckets Way as a State Road, which would relieve us of 40% of the problem.

However, we would still have to find funding to pay for the rest of the regional road network, and the current level of funding we provide would continue to be diverted away from local roads and services.

The effort now needs to be community wide and throughout the Shire. As I’ve

Vacy General Store Looking for something different why not check out Vacy General Store – Beautiful little Country Store now Serving Breakfast on weekends.

A little bit of what you can get at our country Store: NUNDLE Smoked Trout • Frozen Salmon portions Hunter Belle Cheese • Beautiful gift lines Rawleigh Products • Great Coffee & Cakes Cards & Wrapping • Convenience Grocery Lines Great range of Magazines & Newspapers Wallarobba Free Range eggs • Local Honey Hot BBQ Chooks on Saturday or Sunday Clarencetown Bread • Fresh sliced meat Olives • Oils • Chutneys and sauces Premium fuel Why not drop in for morning tea or lunch.

Sandwiches fresh or toasted focaccia's quiche or lasagna, home made pies & family Pie.

Fresh Home Grown Produce Day is on 1st Sunday of Each Month at Vacy General Store.

Money goes back to grower. Should you have produce, home made pickles or plants please contact us.

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* If you want to be kept updated via email on council and community matters, please email me at: tn@munni.com.au.

River at Clarence Town is Amber. At amber alert levels blue-green algae may be multiplying in numbers. The water may have a green tinge and musty or organic taste and odour. The water Making it easier to open businesses should be considered unsuitable for The NSW Government is working with potable use and alternative supplies or councils to cut through red tape for those prior treatment of raw water for trying to open new businesses. The Acting domestic purposes should be considered.

General Manager and I will be meeting the The water may also be unsuitable for Small Business Commissioner, along with stock watering. The water remains Port Stephens Council Mayor and General suitable for recreational use, though Manager to identify any benefits to commonsense should be applied if Dungog Shire if we join the “Easy to do visible signs of blue-green algae are Business” Program. At this stage the present (from Water NSW website). program is focussing on bars and cafes, Please take care. but will hopefully extend to other businesses shortly. Councillors are 22 January 2018 unanimous in our determination to make Weight Limits on Bridges Council staff it easy to start a business and to do continue their assessments on the safe business in Dungog Shire. load limits of our timber bridge network.

Unfortunately this has resulted in the Paterson Fireworks I’ve been told the place to be on New Year’s Eve was Paterson, following load limits being applied: for their yearly Fireworks Festival. A crowd of more than 3000 people picnicked, Ryan’s Bridge – Myall Creek Road – partied and played, taking in the 5T Based on the test bores and spectacular light show. Well done to the subsequent inspection by Council staff, organisers on another successful event. it was concluded that Ryan’s Bridge has previously stated, the voice of nine Councillors cannot be as effective as the voice of more than six thousand voters coming up to an election year.

Amber Algal Alert at Clarence Town The current algal alert for the Williams

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been downgraded to a maximum of 5 tonnes. We have taken steps to commence the construction of a heavy vehicle bypass and, weather permitting, we hope to have it completed shortly.

Fosterton Road Bridge – Fosterton Road – 12T Recent inspections of this bridge have concluded that the maximum comfortable limit for this bridge should be 12 tonnes. According to Shelton’s Buses a 12 tonne load limit should not affect the school bus which travels the full length of Fosterton Road. We plan to undertake some minor works next week so the 12 tonne limit can continue.

Chesworth’s Bridge – Chesworth’s Road – 10T After inspections Council staff have concluded that it should be downgraded to a maximum of 10 tonnes.

Council staff are currently assessing the options to bypass this bridge.

Ashard’s Bridge – Massey’s Creek Road – TBA This bridge currently does not have a load limit but initial inspections have indicated some defective girders. Council staff are looking at solutions.

Q and A I do a Q and A on Friday after the 1 o’clock news, on Dungog Radio, answering questions phoned in or emailed by listeners. If one person wants to know, many people may want to know. Please ask me your questions and I’ll do my best to get you some answers.

Shading in playground This week I was asked about the shade, or lack thereof, on the children’s play equipment at Junee Park, and other areas of the shire. This is a huge issue that affects some of our most vulnerable citizens. Council has replaced the shading on several occasions only to have vandals destroy it. It’s ratepayers’ money going down the drain, unless we can stop this wanton destruction.

You may recall me talking about setting up a youth advisory group with the help of Tim Norris. This is just the sort of question that I want to pose to this group. How can we stop vandals destroying structures such as the shade cloth and take some pride and ownership. I know this works. I always give the example of Dover Heights Public School which, many years ago had an issue with graffiti on toilet doors.

The year 11 and 12 students came up with the solution of doing their major art works on the toilet doors. Instant fix, no-one then graffitied them. Our Community Liaison Officer, Tracey Lowrey, had similar success with the Skateboard Park at Clarence Town.

Roads Maintenance I’ve been asked some questions regarding our roads repair.

While I’m not an engineer, and don’t have a full appreciation of the ins and outs of roads repair, I can relate this little bit of information. Some Melbee Estate residents have expressed concern regarding why Council would be resealing their road, when there are roads in town that are in much worse condition.

Basically it’s to ensure that the good roads don’t end up in a state of disrepair.

Water is enemy number one when it comes to roads and if we maintain our existing good roads by resealing them at regular intervals, then we will lengthen their useful life considerably, thus saving a great deal of money in the long-run.

GM Recruitment Council is starting its recruitment process for a new General Manager. I’ll keep you up-dated on the progress.

Food Safety Council this week launched a free online tool to keep all food handlers up to speed with food safety regulations. This is great news for all in the food handling business. The “I’M ALERT” app Food Safety Training Program can be accessed at www.dungog. imalert.com.au or through Council’s website. All food handlers should be taking advantage of this app. Well done to the Council’s Environmental Services division for this initiative.

G resford News • December 2017

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Gresford CWA News

At the Christmas lunch: Lyn Tunin, Militiza Venter, Linda Jackson, Dotti Hilliard

Katharina Lawrence and Bridie Booth

Happy New Year Our Christmas lunch

The Land Cookery Contest

Book Club Meets the 2nd Saturday in the

held at the Beatty was well attended and enjoyed by all. A big thank you to all members who once again donated so generously to the Salvation Army 2917 Christmas Appeal

It’s on again – Friday, February 2 – this contest is held annually and is open to all and includes a special section for children. Why not give it a go – there are some great prizes to be won. For more details and recipes contact Dotti Hilliard on 4938 9483 or go to our web site http://gresfordcwa.wordpress.com and follow the prompts. Entries need to be delivered to the CWA Rooms at 12 Durham Road between 9.00 and 9.30am.

month (not January) in the CWA rooms.

The first meeting for 2018 is Saturday, February 10 and our first book for the year is The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins-Reid. Everyone is welcome to come along. Afternoon tea, friendship and lively discussion guaranteed.

Gresford School Presentation Night Member Militzer Venter represented us at the Presentation Night and presented a book and certificates to Bridie Booth and Katharina Lawrence. Congratulations girls, well done.

French in the rooms Glenda Smith leads lessons and conversation in French in our rooms on the 2nd and 3rd Wednesday of each month (not January) at 11am.

G resford News

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Glenda plans to go back to basics for the first lesson and continue the conversational style approach for the second and says she will be catering for the more advanced students at the same time. A gold coin donation for printing costs is appreciated. Men and older students very welcome.

Street Library Have you availed yourself of this free service? Backed by the CWA executive this is an initiative of the Book Club. Books are free to take, return or replace, and should be of an acceptable standard to the general public.

Magazines are welcome if there is room.

The Hunter River Group Ag & Environment Day Save this date. Hosted by Gresford Branch and will take place on Tuesday, June 12 at Gresford Showground. More details later.

New Members Are you new to the area, do you have time on your hands or would you just like to meet new people? Why not come and join us. We are a great bunch of ladies and meet the first Thursday of the month (not January) at 9.30am in the CWA Rooms, 12 Durham Road, East Gresford. If you would like more information contact the Secretary 4938 9718, email gresfordcwa@gmail.com or go to our web site http://gresfordcwa@wordpress.com Next meeting and for the month of February only our meeting will be held at the Twin Rivers Cafe on Friday February 2 at 9.30am Jill Hancock, Secretary

• December 2017, p 9

On the Shelves

by Glenda Smith

What’s In the Book Box? It may seem pointless to review a book that is part of a shifting population, but this is by way of showing that there are some gems in the CWA Street Library, which sits on the front fence of the CWA Hall and is available to anyone who is interested in reading. It is not always possible to access the books in the Hall library, so this is the next best thing.

The Kitchen God’s Wife

Amy Tan

The Kitchen God’s Wife explores the life of expatriate Chinese who have settled in America, and delves into the life of Winnie Louie. Her story is bookended by her daughter Pearl’s efforts to break a secret of her own to her anxious mother, but the substance of the novel is Winnie’s unravelling of painful secrets to her daughter. Married because of her family’s money to a sociopath, she suffered for many years before being delivered of her terrible husband. Her resourcefulness and strength of character come through clearly. Unfortunately this book has some pages missing and is in a fragile state, but is well worth reading for those interested in these sociohistorical kinds of novels.

Also currently in the Book Box are books by such well-known writers as Alistair McLean, Patricia Cornwell, Irving Stone, John Grisham, Clive Cussler, Anne McCaffrey, Jeffrey Archer, Ken Follet, Georgette Heyer, Dick Francis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Michael Connelly, Helen Garner, P.D. James, Hammond Innes, Barbara Vine, Len Deighton, Robert Jordan, and Lee Child. The Help, (a former book club selection and a film) by Kathryn Stockett, is also there, with quite a few other books and some magazines.

Search and enjoy!

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Paterson Allyn Garden Group Paterson Allyn Garden Group editorial December 2017 The Paterson Allyn Garden Group is just shy of seven years old. We have members that stretch the length and breadth of the Paterson and Allyn rivers and beyond and within our group lies some extremely talented and knowledgeable members.

Take for example Penny Kater who is a horticulturist and tree surgeon. She can name almost any native by its botanical name and is a co-founder of the group.

Penny’s ‘brainchild’ is the one year old Arboretum at Gresford, which is filled with semi deciduous natives, endemic to our area and will in time become an invaluable educational tool for all those that visit it.

We also have Barbara Horn, who 50 years ago co-founded the Maitland garden club. She is an inspiration to all of us. Over the years Barbara has developed a passion for Roses. She has written three books on Roses that have been published and distributed in Australia and internationally. Barbara has judged at Agricultural shows for nearly 50 years, has taught floral

Geoff Hicks from Garden Clubs Australia presented Barbara Horn with the prestigious Ann Williams Clark Medallion. Barbara spent most of her life on a rural property out of Vacy with her husband Ross.

And most of her family and friends still reside in Dungog Shire. We are extremely proud that Barbara has received this significant medallion.

arranging, been a guest panelist on local radio stations and a public speaker at countless venues. Garden Clubs of Australia who have nearly 50,000 members and 700 clubs, along with the Paterson Allyn Garden Group, has awarded Barbara with the prestigious

Ann Williams Clark Medallion for long and outstanding service to clubs and horticulture. Geoff Hicks from East Maitland is our zone representative for Garden Clubs Australia and he proudly presented the medallion to Barbara at our December meeting.

Graeme Ferguson

Registered Surveyor Consultant in surveying, planning and engineering * Portion Boundaries Remarked

* Identification Survey Reports * House Setouts

* Urban and Rural Subdivisions * Engineering Survey and Design * Topographic Surveys * Urban and Rural Road Design * Control Surveys

“Yatta” Torryburn Via Paterson 2421

Tel 4938 9448 Email yatta2@bigpond.com

Wishing all of our guests a fabulous and Happy 2018.

We have some wonderful and exciting things happening at Quaint over 2018!

With the girls booked in to attend some of the most prestigious Cutting, Colour & Styling courses in the industry as well as some exciting New Services & Product Ranges being launched into the salon.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram or our website for the latest updates, happenings and promotions.

We look forward to pampering you in the salon soon.

The Quaint Team Andrea, Josie, Annette, Kelly & Nicole 803A Gresford Rd Vacy.

Ph: 49 388 386

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G resford News

• February 2018, p 13

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A new face at the Post Office A new chapter started this January at the East Gresford Post Office when Sue Forbes handed over the keys to Cris Doosey.

Sue has been the familiar face behind the counter since 1993.

'It was the 1st of December', Sue said, 'right in time for the Christmas rush.'

Cris has flagged a few changes like extending trading hours from the beginning of February to include Saturday mornings from 9am to 12 noon and diversifying into giftware, local produce and mobile accessories.

'We will also be stocking a small range of cordless phones and other small electronic items.' she said.

'We would like to let the public know that most things in our catologue can be ordered through me. We hope to take our lead from the community and any feedback would be greatly appreciated.'

'I've received a wonderful welcome and I would like to thank the community for your best wishes.'

Sue Forbes hands over to Cris Doosey after twenty four years. Thanks to Rosita Richardson for the photo.

Being prepared is being connected Over the last 12 months the Dungog Shire Community Centre has been working on the Get Ready project which looks at how, as a community we can support each other in times of disaster.

We have partnered with the local RFS and SES on harnessing the knowledge and strengths of our community to be more connected and prepared for these events we have no control over but can be better prepared for.

You will soon start seeing around the town posters and postcards promoting disaster preparedness by encouraging families to know your neighbours, talk to friends and family and connect to your community. These simple tips of exchanging contact details, knowing where you can go to be safe and who can help you are vital in an emergency.

We can assist you to hold a street BBQ to discuss with your neighbours your emergency plans, look at what resources collectively you may have – generators, water tanks etc. Just like you turn to your neighbour for that cup of sugar they are also the first people you will go to when an emergency happens. When it comes to disaster recovery social networks matter more than torches and batteries.

We will also be hosting coffee mornings where you can come along and get assistance doing a plan, tips on managing pets in emergencies, ideas on how to be more connected to your community and we will even shout the coffee and cake. By partnering with local Real Estates every person moving to the area either renting or buying will receive a range of resources such as a fridge magnet with important information, a plan for emergencies and tips to connect with their neighbours and local RFS and SES. Check out the posters for when these events will be held, grab your neighbours and friends and come and have a chat – you’re more prepared than you think….

Being pre pared

is being c onnecte

When disaster strike

s we come together...

Talk with friends and

Know your neighbour Connect to your comm

unity

Household emergency information

Emergency contacts

Our emergency evacuation meeting point is

Family

•

Neighbours

You’re more prepared than you think

Who can help us • Who do we need to check on • If we couldn’t stay at home where would we go

Work School Out of area

•

For more info and tips

Emergency contacts NSW RFS 1800 679 737, NSW SES 132 500, Police/Ambulance/Fire/Rescue 000 Info and updates Local ABC radio

For more information and resources please contact Karen or Sarah on 4992 1133, we would love to hear from you.

Dungog Shire Community Centre

d.

family

go to www.dscc.net.au

www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/for-the-community/alerts/alertnsw.html

Being prepared is being connected.

When disaster strikes we come together...

Talk with friends and family Know your neighbours Connect to your community

You’re more prepared than you think

/disaster-preparednes

s

G resford News • February 2018

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Culture Vulture Greetings to Gresford News readers and a Happy New Year! There has been a lot happening in Dungog’s Art scene.

Dungog by Design’s gallery section exhibits exciting new works from local artists for 2018.

Recently a new community art project was launched – Community Circle, by Julie Fitzgerald, Natalie Duncan and Eric & Robyn Werkhoven.

Artist Julie Fitzgerald arrived at the gallery toting a large circular metal rim stretched with a crocheted central base, proposing to tie threads of yarn, fabric or other wonderful baubles to the structure. Julie asked the few artists present if they would add to the work, this progressed to asking visitors who came into the gallery, hence the concept for Community Circle was born.

Dungog by Design invites you – visitors and local residents to come into the gallery to add a few threads to our communal artwork. The work will slowly evolve into a splendid textile sculptural piece from the collaboration and energy of many people. We will keep you updated on the project.

ART NEWS

Natalie Duncan & Julie Fitzgerald working on the Community Circle

There is a lovely new modern art gallery in Dungog, well worth a visit. Dungog Contemporary art gallery was established at 146-150 Dowling Street, Dungog, in late 2017 by photographer

Available from February 2018 Piano or keyboard tutoring

For beginners up to 4th grade.

For expressions of interest and enquiries please phone Mary Horn on 49317124.

G resford News

The

• February 2018, p 15

Stephen Hobbs and artist Sarah Crawford. Opening hours: 9 to 5 seven days.

‘We are a small independent, contemporary art gallery, s cheduling up to twelve shows a year. We work with emerging and established artists and curators, providing the Dungog region with a centre for creative learning, experiences and exchange’.

Also available at the gallery is a range of modern jewellery and selected objects d'art. The gallery offers an online stockroom of limited fine art editions by wellknown Australian artists.

Current exhibition 'Paradise' is a group show featuring Newcastle artists Madeleine Cruise, Jen Denzin and Mandy Robinson.

The exhibition is on until the 12 February. Other artists on show: Belinda Street, Esther Eckley and Stephen Hobbs as well as "Whispers from the kitchen" by Melbourne based sculptor and art jeweller Jane Francis Reilly.

New gallery – Dungog Contemporary

Robyn Werkhoven

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G resford News • October 2017

The

, p 16

Mayor, Tracey Norman with community recognition award recipients Sylvia Lawrence, Kirsty Duncan and Mary Horn

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G resford News

The

• October 2017, p 17

Australia Day Community Picnic Families and friends arrived with their picnic lunches, table and chairs, cricket sets, and quoits games to celebrate being part of the Gresford Community on Australia Day at Orana Park, East Gresford.

President of the Gresford District Community Group, Graham Murphy welcomed the more than 70 people, including Dungog Shire Mayor Tracy Norman, and the worthy recipients for the Recognition Awards.

Graham pointed out there was something for everyone to do including French cricket (a great success for our up and coming young cricketers) or playing on the playground equipment. But the best was kept to after we had all eaten and the official part of the day was over. A first for Gresford, and probably a first for the Guinness Book of Records was the Dummy Spitting competition which finished off a successful Australia Day Family Picnic – even the weather was kind, especially under the lovely trees of Orana Park.

Our worthy recipients for the Gresford District Community Group 2018 Recognition Awards went to: 1. Bernie Lawler nominated by Graham Murphy on behalf of the Billy Cart Derby Committee for his continued community support.

2. George Sales nominated by Gail Wright on behalf of the Gresford District Historical Society Inc for his dedication to the establishing and furnishing the Gresford Historical Museum.

3. Kirsty Duncan and Sylvia Lawrence nominated by Mary Horn on behalf of the Gresford School P&C for their dedication to making the Gresford School Canteen a great success, interesting and lots of fun for the children.

Mayor, Tracey Norman with community recognition award recipient Bernie Lawler

G resford News • February 2018

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, p 18

Gresford honours outstanding contributions by local citizens

Citations for the Gresford Community Recognition Awards:

George Sales Nominated by: Gail Wright Organisation: Gresford District Historical Society Inc.

Bernie Lawler – Beatty Hotel Publican East Gresford For the 2018 Gresford Australia Day Nominated by: Graham Murphy Organisation: Gresford Billy Cart Derby

The Gresford Billy Cart Derby is proud to nominate Bernie Lawler for the Australia Day Citizenship Awards. For many years Bernie and the Hotel Beatty have been great supporters of the Derby. Each year he generously donates a significant sum of money to assist in the running of the Derby and this donation also allows us to make financial donations back to all the groups, school and societies within the Gresford, East Gresford and Vacy areas.

Recognition Awards, the Gresford District Historical Society is proud to nominate our current President, Mr George Sales. George has continued to be our Society’s President since first being elected in 2014. George joined the local Historical society in 2009, therefore clocking up almost eight years.

George was born in our local area to Dorothy Sophie (nee Warr) and Henry George Sales. The family lived at Belgrave above Halton. ‘Rose Valley’, their family farm existed near the Gringhi Bridge at Belgrave. George and his sisters did their schooling at Eccleston Public School, some kilometres more, along the Allyn River at Eccleston.

Our local sporting groups are able to purchase new and updated equipment for our young sportspeople. Local schools also benefit by having extra funds for equipment, books and day to The dairy was the main focus on the day requirements. Others to benefit from farm. George assisted his father until the Bernie’s donation are the CWA, Gresford dairy closed in the 1960s after the big RFS, Gaps, GDHSI and many more. drought. During this era George joined Apart from the donations made the Billy the Eccleston Fire Brigade. A good number of years ago, George received his Cart Derby he supports the GDCG by Long Service Medal for 44 years of allowing us and other groups to use the service - George is still a member.

Victoria room for meetings and functions at no charge, he provides air George has good knowledge of the local conditioning in summer and heating in Gresford area and surrounding valleys. winter at his expense. Many times he is This particularly applies to our local called upon to make donations of beer history. George is a fifth generation and wine which he does willingly. A member within the Sales Family who has donation of beer to the Gresford lived in the Gresford district. As a proud Photographic Exhibition was sold and resident, George has displayed the significant money raised was again commitment to preserving our local donated back to the community. history and in supporting other local community groups.

The Cricket club runs raffles from the hotel each Friday night with prizes of George has been very pro-active in beer donated to raise money for their getting our local GDHSI Museum up and sporting club. We all benefit from the going. The museum has been in prime location on the hotel’s veranda existence for the last 3 years. George has promoting all of the upcoming events gathered and obtained a large percentage within Gresford, it is the most popular of items within the museum. In billboard in the Hunter Valley. Bernie is co-ordination with other GDHSE always keen to promote local events members, George took over the running and in many instances erects the operations of the monthly Gresford banners himself.

Community Markets, George has generously bought a good number of Bernie is a worthy recipient of this marquees, tables and chairs to support award, he is generous to our local these market days and to assist GDHSI community which is so much better Event Days. off, for his continued support, which he provides to the people of our George carries out many various deeds to district and therefore it gives me great assist with the operations of the GDHSI pleasure to nominate Bernie Lawler for Museum and the Society. a 2018 Gresford Australia Day On behalf of the members of the Recognition Award.

Gresford District Historical Society I have great pleasure in nominating our current President, Mr George Sales for the 2018 Australia Day Recognition Awards.

Kristy Duncan and Sylvia Lawrence Organisation: Gresford School P&C Nominated by: Mary Horn and A Kelehear The Gresford School P&C take great please in nominating our Canteen Co-Ordinators, Kristy Duncan and Sylvia Lawrence for recognition in the 2018 Gresford Australia Day Recognition Awards.

Kristy and Sylvia have been the Canteen Co-ordinators of the Gresford School Canteen (otherwise known as ‘The Tucker Box’) for all the years my daughter Kaitlin has been going to the Gresford School. Kaitlin will be in Year 6 in 2018.

As Co-ordinators, the role of Kristy and Sylvia is to ensure the canteen runs smoothly though the year. This means organising an interesting and healthy menu, (every six months the menu is reviewed and changed) doing the ordering for food supplies, organising a canteen roster, encouraging parents to help at the canteen, organising four ‘special’ or ‘red’ days every year which involves creating a special menu to go with a special theme e.g. Halloween, Christmas, Easter etc. Kristy and Sylvia quite often dress up to fit the theme – the kids love it! To benefit the canteen, Kristy and Sylvia attend special days in Sydney once a year to pick up new ideas for our canteen.

If this isn’t enough, the girls are called upon to lead catering efforts the P&C may require such as morning teas and lunches for volunteers and parents that are involved in special programs at the school.

People like this are invaluable to our school and our school would be much poorer without them giving of themselves the way they do. People like this are often taken for granted very easily because they do this job with passion and no fuss.

We firmly believe they deserve to be recognised for what they do and therefore have great pleasure in nominating Kristy and Sylvia for the 2018 Gresford Australia Day Recognition Awards.

G resford News

The

• February 2018, p 19

Spitting the dummy – the latest national sport Who would have believed that Dummy Spitting could be a National Sport?

The Gresford Community celebrated Australia Day at Orana Park with the inaugural ‘Dummy Spitting’ competition.

Harrison Sellens lead the way with a ‘spit’ of 2.5 metres and winning the Junior title of ‘Junior Dummy Spit Champion’.

Of course the adults were not going to miss out as they line up to compete. This entertaining win of ‘Senior Dummy Spit Champion’ went to Simon Russell from Canberra with a spit of 5.7m with Treasurer of the Gresford District Community Group Chris Wokes a long way behind with a ‘Spit’ of 3.2metres.

Bernie Lawler

The Gresford District Community Group thanks Katie and Joe at the Cross Road Café and Emily at the Twin Rivers Café for providing our winners with their prizes.

This event would be an easy and enjoyable fund raiser at the Billy Cart Derby – any community group interested? please contact Graham on 0146 116 009

Penny Kater

Martin Addison - surprised at his 'spit' Winner of the inaugural Gresford Australia Day Dummy Spit, Simon Russell with Gresford Community Group President, Graham Murphy.

Janie Chandler Tracy Norman

G resford News • February 2018

The

, p 20

Stay hydrated this summer

by Belinda Doe. Herbalist, Nutritionist, Massage Practitioner

Gresford, are you staying hydrated this summer?

It goes without saying that water is essential for life, but just how much of this liquid gold do you actually need for your body to stay healthy throughout our scorching hot weather? The answer is simple: probably a whole lot more than you are drinking right now! Did you know a whopping 75% of us are chronically dehydrated? The average person requires approximately 35ml of water per kilo of body weight; that’s 2.5L for a 70kg adult (more if you are sick, sweating, or pregnant).

So what do we actually need it for anyway? In one word: everything. Every single cell in your body needs water to be able to function properly. It can even improve conditions like arthritis, constipation, fatigue, heart disease, headache, a hangover, obesity, and swelling (yes, swelling! Believe it or not you actually need to drink more water so your body can flush that fluid out).

But water is so boring; I can’t possibly drink that much each day! Yes, you can.

It’s all about pacing yourself; start the

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day with a glass of water (warm with the juice of half a lemon if you really want to give your liver and digestive system a kickstart), and then keep a water bottle with you to sip throughout the day. It’s really just a matter of forming a new habit and allowing your body to adjust to it.

Drink a glass before every coffee, tea, soft drink or alcoholic beverage too, as these can be dehydrating and undo all your efforts. Try adding some slices of fresh citrus or cucumber, or a splash of natural fruit juice to mix things up a bit, but don’t bother reaching for those electrolyte ‘sports’ drinks unless you have been sweating heavily for over an hour. If you have, then go for it, as your body will need more than plain water to replace the electrolytes and carbohydrates it has lost.

You’ll know when you’re on track by taking note of the colour of your urine; if it is a very light shade of yellow, you’re doing great! If it is a darker shade, you need to drink more. If you wait until you are actually thirsty, it’s too late! You, my friend, are already dehydrated! Drink up Gresford.

G resford News

The

• February 2018, p 21

Getting to know the locals... by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries PODOCARPUS ELATUS Also known as Illawarra Plum, Plum Pine, Brown Pine, She Pine and Yellow Pine.

The Paterson, Allyn and Williams River valleys (PAW) are host to a multitude of unusual plants. Some are rare, some are uncommon, some just plain unusual and as we go through the year I hope to focus on some of them.

The Plum Pine was once common in this area and is now very uncommon. Its downfall was due to its popularity as a timber tree and the value of young saplings as tool handles. In the early days there were no Bunnings etc so you made your own and I fondly remember yarning with the late Stan Lawrence about this very point and as Stan said, the young saplings made tool handles of all kinds. Other timber trees like Red Cedar whose saplings were of no use survived but the Plum Pine was harvested almost to extinction. One of the biggest stands still existing in NSW is located at Webbers Creek at Paterson.

flowers occur on separate trees and there is no way to ascertain if your tree is male or female without waiting patiently for several years to see it flower. If you want viable seed, you must have at least one of each tree close by but the difficulty of obtaining viable seed does not end with ensuring you have male & female trees.

The fruiting cone is naked and is borne Botanically, the Plum Pine is very at the end of a large fleshy stalk which is interesting because it has relatives in edible and is used to make jams, jellies South Africa, Japan, Central America and and as a special ingredient in tasty tarts the West Indies. The trees are dioecious, and cakes. The flesh has a slightly which means that male and female resinous taste and is also loved by birds

and other wildlife so competition to find viable seed is quite high.

The timber is highly regarded and is used for wood turning and furniture making. One of my favourite features of the tree is the contrast between the mature dark green leaves and the new bright green leaves. This is very noticeable in late spring to early summer. The tree is quite dense which makes it ideal as a screen plant or windbreak tree but it does need good, deep, well-drained soil.

G resford News • February 2018

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, p 22

James Theatre

The James Theatre in Dungog continues to provide the Shire's residents that classic movie experience through the good will of local volunteers.

Most Saturday nights, and sometimes Saturday afternoons, you can see quality first release films and on the third Sunday of each month from February to December, there’s an arthouse or independent film. During school holidays, there’s usually a Thursday matinee for the kids. Then on three Thursdays through the year, classic films are shown, through the 'Down Memory Lane' program.

From time to time there are special events: Agog, a weekend of foreign films; the Dungog Festival; and occasionally live music and classical concerts. We’ll even put on special screenings for other community events and fundraisers.

All this comes with a kiosk supplying theatre essentials like choc-tops, popcorn and Maltesers; plus air-conditioning which makes a big difference in our hot there to get on the email newsletter. This summers. Ticket prices are kept low, and gives you a month or two notice of what you can buy a 10 movie pass for just $110. films will be screened, so you know you can save them for a weekend in Dungog.

You can see what’s coming up at www.

You’ll also find the theatre on Facebook as jamestheatre.com.au, and follow the link

Dungog Picture Theatre. Being a community run theatre, we’re always on the look-out for volunteers to help so chat to one of us when you come to a film.

See you at the James!

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G resford News

The

• February 2018, p 23

New Year’s Resolutions and Yoga Every year we make resolutions to be or do something better. Feeling well is high on everyone’s list. Mine is to have better posture. Easy, functional movement is something most of us are lucky to be born with, then life happens and we let our easy movement slip away because it feels too difficult or painful to stand or sit up as tall as we can . Our posture slumps and that affects our breathing and digestion – not to mention our joints – and then our feeling of well-being slips away.

A little test for your posture: With bare feet, stand with your back against a wall and ask yourself these questions: Do your feet turn in or out? Try and point them directly forward, feet hip-width distance apart. Do your heels easily touch the wall or do you feel off balance? Does the back of your head sit easily against the wall or do you have to squash the back of your neck to reach your head to the wall? Do the tops of your shoulders roll forward off the wall?

A healthy spine has an inward curve in the lower back, an outward curve at about chest height and an inward curve at the neck, a nice long S shape. A body with functional posture has the back of the pelvis lined up over the heels. The shoulder blades are flat against the back

alignment, to notice how good it feels to breathe easily and how to use the breath: how good it feels to be at ease in our bodies from our head to our feet.

Healthy happy feet and posture! Happy New Year. photo Donna Cavanough

ribs and lined up over the heels. And the back of the head, you guessed it, is lined up over the heels. The more you try and stand like this, even though it may feel pretty weird at first, the more your body will remember to stand with good posture.

Dungog shire residents have been practising yoga with me for 17 years.

They keep coming back because it helps them feel stronger, more balanced and dignified in their bodies and graceful in their movement. Yoga classes are fun and relaxing, informative and challenging, but always possible.

Whether you have tried yoga before or are a complete beginner you can expect clear instruction and a practice that suits you. If you feel that you need to improve your flexibility, strength, balance and stamina The wall helps us keep tabs on our posture then give yoga a try, you’ll be well on the and see where it can be improved. way to this year’s goal of feeling well.

Functional posture means all the joints of If you have any further questions feel free the body can operate without the wear and tear caused by being out of alignmen to call me Donna Cavanough on 0407 290 293 or find me on the "Yoga in Vacy (think how expensive it is if we let our with Donna Cavanough" Facebook page. car’s engine parts run when not aligned).

If you think your posture could be better, it is never too late to improve it.

Practising yoga is one way.

Yoga practice teaches us in the very least how to hold our bodies in good

Classes resume this year 30th January in Dungog. Dungog Anglican Hall Tuesdays 10am gentle and 5.30pm general. Vacy School of Arts Hall Wednesday 9.15am gentle and Fridays 9.15am general. Casual price per student per class $20 & $18 conc.

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G resford News • February 2018

The

, p 24

Drug labs, engineering challenges and other science happenings Your local Sciemce Hub will be starting 2018 with panache

it be Bridges, Catapults, Stringways, Grasping at Straws, or something else? And of course there's no sabotaging the other teams!

On 23 Feb we'll be exploring the science behind some newsworthy public health issues. Dr Jackie Wright will delve into the toxic effects of methamphetamine labs.

That's right - Ice.

It's at Dungog High School on Saturday 17 March 2018, 9.30 till 2.00. Dungog High students will be there to act as helpers, marshals, mobile phone cheater-catchers, mentors and judges.

It's not just the dodgy labs.

Residues produced by users can last years. The talk will be of great interest to any science fan, and of special interest to home buyers, police, realtors and emergency services.

The same evening, Therese Manning will take a scientific squiz at the problem of firefighting foams in the environment. What makes these foams particularly problematic? What can we do about them?

Media stories are often sensationalised.

Here's your chance to get some non-false facts! Jackie and Therese have been working in the field for many years for Environmental Risk Sciences Pty Ltd, who bring science-based approaches to risk assessment. Toxic Consequences

You don’t have to be a boffin to join in, just be willing to give it a go and show that adults can have some fun too!

How to enter. Gather your posse and send your easy-to-contact captain’s name to education@dscc.net.au by Get your team together For the ADULT Friday 8 March. Spectators welcome but no helping! Max 8 teams can compete. starts at 6.30pm at the James Theatre, Brown St, Dungog. And it's FREE.

Science & Engineering Challenge

The Science and Engineering Challenge is a nationwide program for school students who compete to solve challenges. Now we’re opening up the event for adults to have some fun too.

Get your team of 6-8 together now and be ready to face 3 fun challenges… will

What else is coming up?

Tracks & Traces: Finding the hidden wildlife of the Dungog Common Sunday 4 March 10am to 1.45pm. This is a collaboration with Dungog Common. Bring your own scats (well not your OWN!)

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

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G resford News

The

• February 2018, p 25

Pet rabbit owners urged to vaccinate now Autumn Koala Survey in the PatersonAllyn Valley This citizen science project aims to survey habitat and look for hard-to-find koalas, guided by professional scientists.

Bring your skills or learn new ones and participate to protect koalas in the Barrington Tops.

There will be some off-track walking and logistics/driving involved. It's on Sat 14 & Sun 15 April 2018 in the Chichester State Forest.

Allyn River Fungi Foray in the Upper Allyn Valley.

Easy short walk (grade 1-2) to explore and learn about the unique and world class fungi of the Barringtons. This expedition will be led by experienced fungi finders. It's on Sunday 15 April.

For more info and enquiries on the Koala Survey and Fungi Foray, please contact Martin Fallding on 6571 1208 or info@calli.com.au.

There's much more coming. Follow the Paterson Allyn Williams Science Hub on Facebook for all the details.

BR

Hunter pet rabbit owners are being encouraged to vaccinate their animals before the planned release of calicivirus between late January and early February 2018. The virus will be released in known hotspots, as Hunter Local Land Services works with landholders to reduce populations of wild rabbits.

from landholders concerned about rabbit numbers on their property to accurately map and target known hotspots across the region.

Hunter LLS is spending $90,000 this year, working with landholders and local government to control wild rabbits.

“Calicivirus is a very effective control tool Calicivirus is used to control wild rabbits where there are susceptible populations which are a declared pest animal in NSW of wild rabbits,” said Mr Booth. “In cases where there are wild rabbits around as they cause major agricultural and urban areas, traditional control methods environmental damage. “The release of using poisons, fumigants or shooting is calicivirus in early 2018 is part of an integrated approach to the management restricted, due to increased risks. of wild rabbits across our region,” said “We are urging landholders undertake Luke Booth, Biosecurity Team Leader control works including baiting, removing with Hunter LLS. “It’s important that harbour and destroying burrows before people who own pet rabbits vaccinate and after the programmed calicivirus for calicivirus now, to ensure that if their release to maximise its success.” domestic rabbit comes in contact with the virus, they are immune. Calicivirus Releases are timed to obtain the most is mainly spread from rabbit to rabbit by benefit when there is the highest contact in burrows and biting insects likelihood of effective spread of the virus like mosquitoes.” in the pest population. In the Hunter LLS region the most favourable time for Owners of pet rabbits should consult their calicivirus to be released is in summer. private vet and maintain a vaccination program to protect their rabbits.

Landholders can contact Hunter LLS on 1300 795 299 to report rabbit activity in To assist with reducing the impacts of their area, or find out more about the wild rabbits, Hunter LLS wants to hear calicivirus release.

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G resford News • February 2018

The

, p 26

Dry Times – Hunter Local Land Services Is Here To Help As conditions continue to deteriorate across the Hunter region, after little rain since winter, Hunter Local Land Services wants to remind landholders we are here to help. Our staff have been engaging with local producers since conditions began to worsen, including providing on farm support to discuss pasture conditions, stock management, animal health and welfare concerns as well as issuing roadside grazing permits, assisting with pest animal problems and helping with referrals to other support services.

conditions in each district. The Upper Hunter event will focus on drought management advice and support options.

The workshops also provide producers an opportunity to get advice from industry experts and support staff, as well as social support of peers during these challenging times.

If you are concerned about your livestock or property please contact your nearest Local Land Services office today.

IF you need to talk to someone about the current conditions in the Hunter we can help. including problems caused by blue green • Animal health concerns call our vet algae and salinity.” team 0427 322 311 or 0439 185 275.

• Pest animal problems call our biosecurity Landholders are being urged to consider team 0429 722 944 or 0429 342 995. taking advantage of good market • Agricultural extension team call: “Poor quality water can impact on stock conditions by selling stock where Sustainable Agriculture Officer Sarah possible, to reduce the physical, mental whose condition may already be Giblin: 0409 785 172 and financial burden on themselves of impacted by the ongoing dry • Regional Livestock Officer Kirstin maintenance feeding. conditions,” said Jane. “It’s important Bisley: 0438 593 875 anyone currently hand feeding stock Hunter Local Land Services has three • Regional Pastures Officer Justine Baird: ensure they receive enough water, as dry producer updates planned in coming 0428 107 206 feed and the ongoing hot weather makes weeks, to provide additional expert for • Roadside grazing permits: Scone 6540 livestock increasingly thirsty. producers managing such a hard season.

2400 or Merriwa 6548 2175.

For more staff contacts please refer to “There are a number of health concerns The workshops in Scone, Tocal and Wingham will be tailored to the current our website www.hunter.lls.nsw.gov.au that can arise from poor quality water Water is becoming a critical issue across the region, with many on-farm supplies drying up. It’s not just quantity of water that’s a problem, District Vet Jane Bennett said the quality of some dams is also an issue.

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G resford News

• February 2018, p 27 Gresford News February Crossword The

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 0458 146 152

regular church times

Paterson 8.30am every Sunday Gresford 10.30am every Sunday Allynbrook 12 noon 4th Sunday of month

St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart Summer Hill WEEKEND MASS TIMES

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

Enquiries Parish Priest, Fr. Derek Garner 4992 1477

December 2017 crossword answers

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

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