Gresford News May 2017

resford News G

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

Wreath at the Gresford Cenotaph. Photo: Julie Hartigan

Anzac Day 2017 Story and pictorial inside ‌

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

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

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

The Gresford News Community Diary Sat

6 May CWA book club, CWA rooms, 3.00pm

Sat

6 May Community Table Dinner joins the Dungog-Gresford Hoof & Hook Assoc, Gresford Bowling Club, 6.30pm

Wed

10 May Geology of our area talk, Paterson Allyn Williams Science Hub event, James Theatre Dungog, 7.00pm

Tues

16 May Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Sat

20 May Cool Burn Field Day: "Indigenous Fire Management as a Tool to Rejuvenate Farm Land", Gresford Landcare

Sat

20 May BioBlitz, Dungog Common, 9.45am

Sat

20 May Aboriginal history and culture of the Dungog Common, Dungog Common, 1.30pm

Sun

21 May Community Markets, Hotel Beatty, 9.00am

Sun

21 May Live music – Paul Albert, Hotel Beatty, 12.00noon

Sat

27 May Casino night fundraiser, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 7.00pm

Wed

7 Jun Women Do Business Forum, Dungog

Wed

7 Jun Gresford Rural Fire Brigade Annual General Meeting, Brigade Station, 7.30pm

Sun

11 Jun Live music – Jason Carruthers Band, Gresford Sport & Recreation Club, 8.00pm

Tues

8 Aug CWA International Day – Nepal, St Anne's Hall, Gresford

Mon/Tues

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

Tuesdays

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

Mondays

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Vacy School of Arts Hall

Tues, Wed, Thurs

Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Gresford School of Arts Hall

Friday afternoons

Junior tennis coaching, Gresford Tennis Courts

1st Mon each month

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

1st Wed each month

Gresford Rural Fire Brigade meeting, station, 7.30pm

1st Thurs each month

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

2nd Mon each month

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

2nd Tues each month

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

2nd Sat each month

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

3rd Tues each month

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

3rd Fri each month

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

Last Thurs each month

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

Every Wed, Fri & Sun

Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Raffles, from 6.30pm

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

Happy hour and free pool and jukebox at the Hotel Beatty

Every Fri

Cricket Club Raffles at the Hotel Beatty

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

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

Every Sunday

The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am

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

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.

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

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Address

Gresford Market presented by Gresford District Historical Society Inc.

Sunday 21 May

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G resford News

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• May 2017, p 5

Gresford News Notices Gresford Rural Fire Brigade AGM

The Gresford Rural Fire Brigade Annual General Meeting will be Wed 7 June commencing at 7.30pm at the Brigade Station. Any interested Community members are welcome to attend.

Harvest Festival

Come one, come all to St Anne's Church Harvest Festival Sunday 18 May Auction 10am Morning tea & lunch provided Contact: M. Capp 4938 9386

Geology of our area Wed 10 May, 7pm

James Theatre Dungog, Paterson Allyn Willams Science Hub event Geological Features Of The Dungog/ Barringtons area. How long ago was our shire a beach? What does the fossil record show? What minerals and landforms define our rolling pastures, forests and mountains? & more

First Aid course

Sat 3 June or 2 evenings 13/14 June www.dungogcommunitycollege.org.au

2 Beef & Pasture events 1. The Gresford Land and Beef group have a carcass judging on the Sat 30 April at Dungog and their annual dinner on Sat 6 May 6.30pm. The two guest speakers would certainly be worth taking the effort to attend – Robert Gill of "Alexander Downs" and also owner of the AD Meats (Kurri abattoirs) and Sarah Strachan from MLA. Dinner tickets: $33pp – 3 course meal. Contact Barbara Brooker on 4938 8131 or 0488 590 659.

2. Pasture Update meeting Tocal, Thurs 18 May, $20. Includes topics such as • efficient use of Nitrogen on kikuyu and ryegrass • Summer grass and legume trial (this work is done locally) • Beef production on Summer pastures • Using drones to spray weeds and sow pastures • Fenceless farming. RSVP Janelle Witschi, NSW Grassland Society 0408 612 235.

Bioblitz + Aboriginal talk

9.45am Sat 20 May, Dungog Common, then at 1.30pm Len Roberts from the Karuah Local Aboriginal Land Council will talk on local Aboriginal history and culture and lead a walk around the Common FREE – register: www.eventbrite.com.au

Gresford District Community Dinner Gresford Bowling Club

Please book by Sunday 30 April with Barbara Brooker 4938 8131.

The Gresford District Community Dinner will be held at the Gresford Bowling Club on the first Saturday 6 May at 6.30pm.

We shall be joining the DungogGresford Hoof & Hook Association who will have their presentation of trophies and awards and there will be guest speakers as well.

A three course meal is planned for $33.

Limited seating requires early bookings no later than Sunday 30 April, so ring Barbara Brooker, 4938 8131 or 0488590659 Payment by direct debit.

BSB 082 567 Ac 472 816 577.

Do hope you can join us for what is always an interesting night.

Carolyn Addison – Member of GDGC

Women do Business Forum Wed 7 June more info next issue www.dungogcommunitycollege.org.au

Gresford District Landcare Warmly invites all Landholders to attend:

'Cool Burn' Indigenous Fire Management for Productive Pastures - Free Field Day Saturday 20 May 2017 (9am – 2pm) St Anne's Hall - Church St, Gresford

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Gresford Bowling Club

Fundraiser

 Roulette Wheel ~ Craps ~ Blackjack ~ Poker

Saturday 27th May 7pm Prizes for most Funny Money won on the night $20 cash = $50 in chips $50 cash = $200 in chips $100 cash = $500 in chips

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• May 2017, p 7

D-Day for Dungog, but no 'Fake Facts', says Mayor of Dungog On 1st May, Dungog Council will consider amalgamation and the Shire's best pathway to the future. Mayor Harold Johnston encourages residents to take an interest as it will vitally affect the lives of the Shire's children and grandchildren. At the time of going to press, The Council is still waiting on responses from the State Government as to their attitude to future funding, promised before 1st May.

Fake Fact 3, Great tourism benefit from amalgamation - WRONG: As demonstrated across Australia multiple times, coastal and rural tourism have different markets and require different approaches. (See background below)

Fake Fact 4, a Maitland Amalgamation is 'off the table' -WRONG: Faced with a forced merger, Maitland nominated Dungog as their preferred partner. Since forced amalgamations were themselves Dungog Council recognises both benefits put off the table three months ago, it and disadvantages to amalgamation - and will be up to Dungog Council to make an approach. (See background below) these are listed below. However, 'Fake Facts' have plagued debate on the matter. Fake Fact 5, Council has not consulted Fake Fact 1, Council plans a 108% rise WRONG: Dungog Shire Councillors have never considered, much less resolved, to increase rates by 13% per year for the next six years if we remain independent.

Dungog Council is, and always has been, mindful of the stresses of rising rates. (See background below) Fake Fact 2, Dungog Council is 'broke' WRONG: It has approximately $14million in reserved funds, and is one of the lowest borrowed council per capita in the state. (See background below)

the community - WRONG: There was substantial consultation for the Maitland proposal prior to the Government appointing independent delegates for all proposals. (See background below)

Potential general benefits of Amalgamation: 1. The Digital Age: The arrival of fast transport, the digital revolution and the almost universal use of email means that it is not so vital to be geographically close to council offices, particularly when 'front-of-house' services can still be

available close at hand.

2. Council staff performance: Councils with larger staffs are able to have better ancillary services, more qualified technical staff and better training pathways for young staffers, meaning better and faster services for the general public.

3. Strategic planning: The devising of future strategies for the development of our area will get more attention, owing to a larger staff having more facilities to achieve strategic plans.

Potential general disadvantages to Amalgamation: 1. Less personal and loss of democracy. At the moment, residents have council representation at 1000 residents to each councillor. In an amalgamation, the approximate ratio of councillor to residents would be about 7,000 for Maitland and 8,000 for Port Stephens. This means that your access and importance to individual councillors will be less than at present.

2. Change in character, loss of identity of the region: In becoming part of a larger area, the rural nature of Dungog itself might change, if the major partner does not respect the rural aspect of our region.

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If you value Dungog as having a rural identity and want to retain that, it may be more difficult to achieve if amalgamated.

3. Uncertainty: Positive expectations and proposals raised by amalgamation partners might not be fulfilled and impact on the Shire negatively. The township of Dungog in particular may be negatively affected if chambers are removed, even if a 'front-of-house' presence is maintained.

D-Day for Dungog... infrastructure backlog, as it unreasonable to expect some other community to fund an infrastructure backlog, particularly when they have challenges of their own.

Dungog Council's finances: Dungog is a very conservatively operated, financially responsible council. It is true that there is a large roads and bridges backlog, a legacy from the State Government, who in 1993 vested regional road maintenance onto this council, making us now the only council in NSW responsible for all the roads within its Background boundaries. This must be addressed by State Government whether we amalgamate or Where did 108% rate rise come from? not. In any case, Dungog Council has never This originated from a mathematical funded all works done by rates alone and calculation to reach a sustainability benchmark set by government in six years. will not do so in the future – witness, for example the $20m special grant which Council has always said, because of our recently upgraded the Dungog/Clarence low rates compared with neighbouring Town Road, the $10m special grant being councils, that a rate rise will be necessary, spent on the main road from Dowling but the rate of rise will depend on Street to Maitland. On average, rates community consultation and IPART account for about 50% of the works carried agreement. Dungog Council has always out by Council. been mindful of the financial burden of rates on residents and would continue to Why tourism will not benefit from be so in the future. During community amalgamation: It has been well consultation on voluntary amalgamation evidenced in the tourism industry that it was generally recognised that rates needed to rise. Whether we amalgamate or both the product and the target market not, a solution must be found for our for coastal tourism (Port Stephens), city

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Meeting Details 6pm, 1st May 2017 Doug Walters Pavilion, Dungog The public is invited to speak for five minutes each. The normal allocation of two on each side of a debate will be increased to four, a total of eight speakers.

Organisations are allowed only one speaker.

tourism (Maitland) and country escape tourism (Dungog) must be handled with \completely different styles of approach.

The Dungog Council has recently facilitated, along with the Chamber of Commerce, the newly formed Dungog Regional Tourism Inc headed by Cameron Archer AM, which will focus completely on improving visitation to the Dungog Region. Whether we amalgamate or not, this organisation will be the key to bring tourism benefits to the Dungog Region.

What consultation took place? In all,

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D-Day for Dungog...

Council conducted 8 meetings for the Dungog Maitland proposal in different parts of the Shire in 2015.

Then the task was taken out of the council's hands when the Government appointed professional experienced delegates to hold public enquiries into all three of our proposed merger partners. Dungog Council saw this as an acceptable method of public consultation. This resulted in recommendations for a merger of Dungog with both Maitland and Port Stephens.

Amalgamation with specific councils Port Stephens Council Port

we want to do that?!” was the response. It is only since they were paired with Newcastle as a forced merger that Port Stephens has now told their residents that they see amalgamation with Dungog as a guard against any future amalgamation with Newcastle Council and their 'ticket out of jail'.

Maitland Council Amalgamation with Maitland Council is neither off nor on the table. In December 2014, before the announcement of forced amalgamations, when our Council approached Maitland Council, they replied that they would be prepared to discuss amalgamation, but, as they were so much larger and did not want to appear predatory, the first approach would have to come from Dungog Council. Dungog has not so far resolved to approach Maitland Council, having waited almost 18 months for the Government to decide our forced merger partner.

Stephens has offered to amalgamate with Dungog, with very specific conditions, one of them being that there is to be no moratorium on council rate rises in the next four years. Before the announcement of forced amalgamations, when our Council approached Port Stephens Maitland, unlike Port Stephens, has Council in November 2014, they never been threatened with rebuffed Dungog Council in very amalgamation with a third council. clear terms as there were no benefit to Authorised by Mayor Harold Johnston Port Stephens residents. “Why would

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• May 2017, p 9

Cool Burning Field Day Before Europeans arrived in Australia, Aboriginal people had been custodians of this land for over 50,000 years using fire as a management tool. Fire is an important symbol in Aboriginal culture.

Managing fires requires knowledge about when to burn, where to burn and how to burn. A central idea in fire management is to have a COOL FIRE. Night time or early mornings are ideal for cool fires as during the day plants sweat out flammable oils . A night dew helps to cool down fire. The right time of year is early dry season between May and July when fuel loads are low. During the early dry season, fires trickle through the landscape and burn only some of the fuel, creating a network, or mosaic, of burnt firebreaks. These stop the late season hot fire outbreaks which destroy both nature and wildlife.

Aboriginals see burning as a form of mowing.

It's how they have maintained and managed their land so successfully over time.

On Saturday 20th May, Gresford District Landcare is holding a field day on Cool Burn Indigenous Fire Management for Productive Pastures. Guest speakers will discuss RFS Fire rules and regulations; cultural burn practices and processes and native pasture regeneration after fire.

See the advertisement in this Gresford News for details regarding the Field Day. It will commence at St Anne's Hall, Church Street.

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

Trading

Shop

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

Cafe

Take Away

8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 4 pm

8.30 am – 3 pm 8.30 am – 7 pm

Gourmet fresh cut sandwiches and real Milkshakes available – BBQ Chickens – Ice – Grocery – Ice Creams – Drinks – Pizza also available from 4pm Friday–Sunday

FRESH SEAFOOD available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Order on Mondays for Tuesday delivery and Wednesday for Thursday delivery. Bon apetit!

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

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Gresford School of Arts Improvement Project

Before (far left), and after (above), construction of deck and ramp completed

An update to the broader community on the recent completion of the covered deck and access ramp at the rear of the School of Arts hall.

The School of Arts Committee and the Gresford Amateur Performing Society collaborated to fund and build this project. Funding was supplemented by a Federal Government grant of $20,000.

This grant was organised when Bob Baldwin was the Federal Member for Paterson. Bob’s input and contribution is invaluable. The Gresford Billy Cart Derby Committee also contributed $400 and some funds were provided from within

Graeme Ferguson

the community either in cash or in kind.

The objective in undertaking this improvement to the hall was to replace the old unsafe, rusting stairs at the rear of the building. By joining the two doorways and creating a weather protected deck area we were also able to include an access ramp, enabling those with restricted mobility to access the stage area. Another benefit is the creation of an undercover marshalling area off-stage.

Total cost of the completed project just exceeded $50,000.Grahame Chevalley assisted with final building plans and

DA preparation. Cliff Dunford from Vacy did the railings and Peter Berghofer did the electrical work.

Building work was undertaken by Tomcav Constructions, Bolwarra.

This is a great enhancement to a valuable community resource.

Thanks are also extended to Dungog Shire Council and staff including our local representatives, Glenn Wall and Robert Booth for their unwavering support throughout.

Tony Schultz for Gresford School of Arts Committee & GAPS, 20 April 2017

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CULTURE VULTURE

THE EDGE OF NATURE – Ed and

designs and produces beautiful fine timber jewellery from wood sourced sustainably on land in the foothills of World Heritage Barrington Tops National Park. Barbara’s designs highlight the grain of some rare species, particularly red cedar. She takes her inspiration from the surrounding diverse flora and fauna and actively encourages protection and conservation of rare and endangered species.

Barbara Ramsay, Studio/Gallery, 40 Fosterton Road, Dungog.

In this issue of Gresford News I have the pleasure of featuring the dynamic and talented artists Ed and Barbara Ramsay who have established their home and studio/gallery in the rural town of Dungog, in the Hunter Valley.

Ed and Barb Ramsay have been highly creative individuals since childhood.

However it has been in the past 17 years together as an artistic team that they have produced some incredible work.

Having grown up around woodworkers and traditional old timber fellers, Ed’s primary role now is that of timber engineer and chainsaw sculptor. Ed has produced many beautiful timber pieces for commissions, from king size four poster beds in the vineyards to a cosy bench for two on a verandah in the city.

He is known for his extremely soft finish to the indoor furniture.

Barbara has studied Fine Arts and Architecture and has worked as a freelance designer for the Historic Houses Trust Sydney and The National

A New Year brings great New Things for our little salon.

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

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

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

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

Ph: 49 388 386

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Barbara has studied Art, History of Art, Photography and Architecture and has always used art in many mediums as an outlet for her creativity.

Barbara is a member of Dungog by Design – 224 Dowling Street, Dungog.

Email: mountaincedar48@gmail.com Ph 0457 063 702 for enquiries.

Trust (NSW). She developed a love of wood through Ed’s work and now designs and produces fine timber jewellery of Australian Flora and Fauna.

The Edge of Nature Gallery is the materialisation of this dynamic couple’s creative force and invites you to enter a quirky little space filled with unique and unusual gifts.

MOUNTAIN CEDAR Barbara Ramsay

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• May 2017, p 13

Gresford Community Matters Did you go to the Billy Cart Derby?

What a huge success it was again this year with more than 80 entries and an estimated over 5,000 people watching the Billy Carts fly down Park Road. The event seems to be getting bigger and better each year. I wonder if Sharon Lawrence and the first Billy Cart Derby team could have imagined it growing to such a huge event. Congratulations to Graham Murphy and the 2017 Billy Cart Derby committee – what a great effort.

To the Dungog Council, especially Steve Hitchens – thank you for providing such a smooth surface and grassed area completed in time, especially after all the rain in the previous weeks.

Congratulations must go to the winners: Grand Champion – Maddy Smith Senior Champion – Adam Wilton Senior Runner-Up – Jason Rampling Junior Champion – Maddy Smith Junior Runner-Up – Harrison Crase Junior Shoot Out Champion – 36km/h Best Pit Crew – Ravensworth Red Shirts Most Unique Cart – Cart 38 Tag Team Winners – Connor and Harry in Cart 2 Mine Race Winner – Liddell At the April meeting of the Gresford and

GRESFORD DISTRICT Community Group District Community Group, a list of proposed events was started – looks like it is going to be a very busy year.

Our Community Event for October this year will be a Barn Dance – a lot of fun and something everyone in Gresford and district can participate in – whether dancing, being involved in the preparation, food stalls or competitions.

If you are interested in assisting or your community group is interested please contact Liz Jones 4938 8045.

Events suggested include a Golf Day, Trivia Night, and a Garage Sale. A proposed program by the Kater family is to bring some City children to the Country – what a great idea. And of course we will be holding the Christmas Lights competition and Carol evening

again. Watch the Gresford News each month for an update.

The Gresford and District Community Group would like to welcome new business owners Emily and Justin Thornton at the Twin Rivers Café – what a great job you did on Easter Saturday managing all your customers – we did hear you do a great coffee. Also new to the business district are Joe and Katie Farrell enthusiastic owners of the Cross Roads Corner Store and Café – we hope the pizza night was a huge success.

The next meeting for the Gresford and District Community Group will be Monday 1 May at the Beatty Hotel at 6.30pm – everyone is welcome, especially if you have a project which has benefits for the Gresford region.

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2017 Billy Cart Derby

Winners

No one could have predicted the outstanding success of the 2017 Gresford Billy Cart Derby. After all of the rain we had, we were concerned that the Council would not get the road finished in time and if they did we were concerned about the mud and poor surface of the footways and the market areas. We had no reason to worry as the council turned themselves inside out to ensure we got our track, they were able to find enough turf, from flooded turf farms, to lay down on all of the footpaths and pedestrian traffic areas.

All of our praying paid dividends with a most glorious autumn day of around 25 degrees which brought people out in the thousands to be a part of the fun and excitement of the Billy Cart Derby. They weren’t disappointed with some incredible designed carts along with exciting racing. Our new scoreboards and electronic timekeeping ensured the accuracy of the place getters, we’re getting very hi tech these days.

Every market stall holder commented on the great days trading, shops did a roaring business with the many extra people who attended. Our sporting groups and local associations were ecstatic with their

2017

GRAND CHAMPION – Maddy Smith SENIOR CHAMPION – Adam Wilton JUNIOR CHAMPION – Maddy Smith SENIOR RUNNER UP – Jason Rampling Junior Champion – Maddy Smith Junior Runner-Up – Harrison Crase Junior Shoot Out Champion – 36kph Best Pit Crew – Ravensworth Red Shirts Most Unique Cart – Cart 38 Tag Team Winners – Connor & Harry in Cart 2 Mine Race Winner – Liddell turnover as this is one of their major fund raising days. Visitors were able to see our old time favourites such as the Easter Bunny who raced the Amazing Jonathan down the track, the Easter Bunny who has to go fast to get to all of the homes to deliver Easter Eggs, was the clear winner, to be fair, the Easter Bunny had 4 wheels on his cart while Jonathan only had one on his Unicycle. It was all great fun.

Our sponsors again deserve to be thanked for without them we cannot run the Derby and raise funds to give back to our community. Glencore who is our naming rights sponsor attended this year with a team of supporters and a brilliant looking billy cart. The Hotel Beatty, for a small country Hotel, is a very generous sponsor, Lake Mitre 10 Toronto for their ongoing and generous support, The Good Guys Maitland who provide us with a TV and DVD player, 4X4 Accessories Maitland came on board this year with an ARB car fridge for our raffle, our great friends at Stockers and Partridge who excelled in their donation towards our auction and generated $550 from their donation of a water pressure cleaner and to the many companies who donated cash donations and gift cards. A very special thankyou to all of those companies and businesses for your ongoing help and support.

And most importantly nothing can ever happen without the help from our dedicated committee and volunteers, what can I say but thankyou once again.

Next year – bigger and better, see you then.

Graham Murphy

Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547

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

We love to catch up with old friends.

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G resford News

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• May 2017, p 15

Easter Billy Cart Derby Pictorial

G resford News • May 2017

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Easter Billy Cart Derby Pictorial

Tom Doyle with his winning tractor Billy cart.

Stewart Everett Mitsubishi Your local Fuel Caltex Service Station

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

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

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

26 Durham Rd, East Gresford 02 4938 9204

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

G resford News

• Time Results GRESFORD BILLY CART DERBY 2017 Simone Bright 26.673 Mick Solomon 23.477 Group 5 Junior Aaron Johnson 24.046 Wok Graham 38.491 Jesse Leadley 26.407 Results David Lawrence 28.192 The

Harry Sharples 26.19 Rylan Moffatt 25.532 Jack Murrell 29.88 Isaac Chapman 23.997 Yolande Atkinson 27.827 Maddy Smith 23.351 Angus Atkinson 23.971 Archie Cooper 31.545 Harrison Crase 23.488 Group 6 Toby Bartrup DNF Matthew Williams 30.059 Anastasia Sullivan 27.851 Joshua Stokes 24.151 Claudia Stokes 44.151 Group 2 30.307 Tom Doyle 26.562 Mitch Saxby Connor Bell 28.036 Henry Edwards 25.775 Jess Hankinson 27.824 Xavier Russell 26 Lainee Colefax 28 Sebastian Graham DNF Group 7 Aiden Richens 23.499 Ethan Crowe 25.935 Harry Uren 25.125

Group 1

Group 3 The Amazing Jonathan entertaining the crowd.

Harrison Crase 23.549 Nicholas James 26.167 Nate Leadley 26.798 Dustin Mrcela 30.447 Ronan Grillmeier 30.618 Riley Sharpes 28.47

Juniors Shoot Out Maddy Smith 36kph Harrison Crase 34kph Aiden Richens 32kph Estelle Grillmeir 35kph Angus Atkinson 34kph Isaac Chapman 32kph

Group 4

The Riverstone Hotel Group of about 30 people have been attending for a number of years

Seton Colefax 27.521 Senior Estelle Grillmeier 23.873 Results Matthew Campbell 28.275 Group 1 Dillon Gregory 25.5 George Tatian 27.976 Bruce Atkinson 24.219 Brock Bendeich 24.698 Jason Rampling 23.264

Private Kill Welcome

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May 2017, p 17

24.186 Group 6 Peter Edwards 24.34 Rod Glover 28.613 Group 2 Phillip Crase 23.896 Montana Groves-Showman Nick Russell 27.497 Laurence Thorssell 25.694 NT Brenton Hubert 24.258 Rusty Hart David Grillmeier 24.176 Paul Williams NT Paul Campbell 27.741 Joe Gregory 23.81 Group 7 Adam Wilton 23.738 Michael Wells 27.296 Group 3 Jamie Bright 26.552 Julie Mitchell NT NT Cam Williams 23.619 Lee Knight Ross Tatian 26.361 Phillip Enderby 24.746 Allan Platt 24.145 Jarrod Norton 24.4 Sam Russell 24.013 Darren Bendeich 24.938 Celebrity Races Connor Crase

Group 4 Connor Crase 23.971 Mackenzie Kerr 26.07 Darren Lancaster 23.628 Dave Shaw 25.592 Bec Smith 24.565 Rod Saxby 24.709

Group 5 Jye Taylor 24.389 Tom Wylie 24.362 Wayne Chapman 24.115 Matt Johnson 27.393

CWA v Federal Member

Sophie Dixon 27.820 David Gillespie 29.909

Senior CWA v Junior CWA Lyn Tunin 25.443 Sophie Dixon (Jnr) 26.158

Federal Member v State Member David Gillespie 29.12 Michael Johnston 27.91

G resford News • May 2017

The

, p 18

Gresford CWA News record-breaking takings. All of which only goes to prove, as our stall signs proclaimed, we are “Chicks with Attitude” and the CWA really does rock!

BOOK CLUB Saturday 6th May, "Black Rock", "White City" by A.S.Patric. A bookseller and author from Victoria.

"Flesh Wounds" by Richard Glover. The ABC presenter. We meet at 3.00pm in the CWA rooms, afternoon tea and a lively discussion. Come along and join us.

INTERNATIONAL DAY

Dr David Gillespie MP, racing Sophie Dixon on the new main road funded partly by the Federal Government. Sophie is the granddaughter of the CWA President, Robyn Thornton.

BILLY CART DERBY Demonstrating that we are not “Just Tea & Scones”, Gresford Branch was represented in the hugely popular Billy Cart Derby held in the main street of Gresford on Easter Saturday by our junior member, Sophie Dixon, wearing her grandmother, Robbie Thornton’s, CWA

t-shirt. In her first race, Sophie beat local Federal member, David Gillespie MP, and was only beaten in her final race by our own Agriculture & Environment Officer, Lyn Tunin. Building on this year’s success, next year we hope to enter our own CWA billy cart.

The country of study this year is Nepal.

Our International day will be held on August 8th at St. Anne's Church Hall, Church Street, Gresford. An interesting and fun day. Performance by Gresford school children, guest speakers and a delicious lunch served.

MEMBERSHIP Think about joining this amazing organization, the largest Women's group in Australia with over 10,000 members. We meet on the first Thursday of the month in the CWA rooms, 12 Durham Road, East Gresford at 9.30am.

Come along and enjoy the friendship.

Enquiries gresfordcwa@gmail.com

Our stall was also a terrific success with

Robyn Thornton. President

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

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

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

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

•

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

PRE-ARRANGED FUNERALS

48 61

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

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

97

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G resford News

The

What’s on the Shelves?

• May 2017, p 19

by Glenda Smith

Q & A Vikas Swarup Anyone who has seen Slumdog Millionaire knows the premise of this story. A young man from the slums wins the ultimate prize in a quiz show through luck and serendipity, and is then arrested and interrogated about the likelihood of having cheated. The names and circumstances of the book and film are different, but the main idea is the same.

Despite his difficult start in life, Ram Mohammad Thomas, who was named in order to appease different religious groups, has a generally positive outlook. His luck partly derives from his intelligence and determination to control his own destiny, and partly from meeting some good people who bring out the best in him.

The ability to speak English, learnt from the kind priest who raised him in his early years, is a great advantage.

The narrative begins with the information that Ram has won the prize and progresses through his explanation to his pro bono lawyer of the events of his life which led to him knowing the answers to the questions. This is where the serendipity comes in. Ram has lived a fairly narrow life and does not have great general knowledge, but the questions fall his way.

The tone of the novel is cheerful, reflecting the personality of Ram, but there are many grim scenarios that he is exposed to, from domestic violence to greed and exploitation. This jaunty tone reflects his ability to rise above these situations, and his unlikely success is tolerated by the reader as his story unfolds. As a perspective on Indian society it is skewed, but comprehensive. The writer has used far-fetched plot details at times, but it seems more a parable of Indian life, rather than reality, and is generally engaging.

All books reviewed are from the CWA library. They are put on a separate shelf in the library so they are easy to find plus the reviews are in a folder.

APRICOT AND DATE SLICE Ingredients: 120g dried apricots, chopped 2 cups self raising flour, sifted 1 cup raw sugar 1 cup coconut 1/2 cup dates, chopped Pinch of salt 1 egg lightly beaten 120 g butter, melted

Method: Pre heat oven. Soak apricots in boiling water for 30 minutes. Drain well. In a bowl mix apricots, sifted flour, coconut, sugar, dates and salt.

Add beaten egg and melted butter. Spread into greased and lined lamington tin and bake in a moderate oven (177 – 190C) approximately 25 minutes.

This recipe was submitted by Betty Kelehear and can be found in the CWA cook book. Available at

Gresford Foodworks and The Gresford Store cost $13.

G resford News • May 2017

The

, p 20

Anzac Day 2017 Gresford and Paterson many locals in preparing the Cenotaph for the event including Paterson Rotary and local electrician Garry Clement.

Anzac Day 2017 commenced with the Gresford RSL Sub Branch presenting a Dawn Service at the Paterson Cenotaph supported by the 2/17th C Company Reserves Catafalque Party. Veterans marched from Stockers & Partridges to the Paterson Cenotaph accompanied by pupils from Paterson Public School and Paterson/ Bolwarra Scouts. Also many locals marched in honour of their deceased relatives. The Dawn Service was very well attended this year with numbers exceeding the 2016 attendance. Gresford RSL Sub Branch wishes to acknowledge the support from

Anzac Day at Gresford began with the Veterans March commencing at Everett’s Garage proceeding to the Gresford Cenotaph for the Commemoration Service. The march was well supported by service personnel from the RAAF Williamtown Catafalque Party followed by the local veterans and many locals marching in honour of their deceased relatives. Again pupils from Gresford Public School and Vacy Public School marched with the veterans and assisted with the commemoration service with special readings from the school children. Paterson River Pony Club members also marched under their Pony Club Flag. Martin’s Creek Public School was very ably represented by student George Allingham. Attendance was even better this year and the service was well

Photos: Julie Hartigan

appreciated by the many locals attending.

The local Rural Fire Brigade and local Police again assisted by managing the march route.

Gresford RSL expressed their appreciation to Megan Edwards and Sally Hunt for singing and accompaniment of the Hymns and Anthems at both the Paterson and Gresford services. Janelle Riggs, the Bugler, again presented a pitch perfect performance at both the Paterson and Gresford services. Janelle’s accommodation was generously donated by the CBC B & B at Paterson. Tom Thorvaldson, the Piper, very ably led the march at both Paterson and Gresford this year. The Reverend Chris Garland delivered the Benediction at both Paterson and Gresford.

A large number of veterans and visitors enjoyed a tasty buffet lunch prepared by the RSL ladies this year. The Two-Up game after lunch was very well attended with the Legacy Hat raising a donation of $142 for Hunter Legacy.

The 2017 Anzac Day BBQ Raffle was drawn at the Anzac Day lunch and was won by Dyllen Redman (Green C77 Ticket).

John Casey, Gresford RSL Sub Branch.

G resford News

The

• May 2017, p 21

G resford News • May 2017

The

, p 22

EAST GRESFORD MASSAGE CLINIC

LEANNE ATKINS 0427 389 722 31 Durham Rd East Gresford

•

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

Member: AAMT DIP R M

G resford News

The

• May 2017, p 23

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

Direct Drilling

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An extensive range of machines and earthmoving equipment to suit every aspect of the Building & Construction Industry

Round Baling: Hay and Silage Small Square Bales Mowing and Raking Whatever the job, get it done right and on time by your local bloke!

Your Local Rural Services Specialist. Competitive Rates!

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

Supply all forms of quarry product Contact:

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

G resford News • May 2017

The

, p 24

Recent Historical Society Events The 1st of April was to see our first GDHSI Trivia Night held at the Gresford Bowling Club.

The night was deemed as being very successful.

A good diverse range of questions were thoroughly prepared and presented in an entertaining manner by our knowledgeable GDHSI member Mr Allan Hancock. Allan's interesting book on Joseph 'Edgar' Marceau, Within the main pavilion, at the recent a local teacher and talented 85th Gresford Show, was a wooden photographer in the Allyn River Valley glass display cabinet showcasing items in the 1920s, is selling well. reminiscent of our past. This cabinet The GDHSI Trivia Night was well attended. once resided and was utilised within This included members of the Gresford one of our local stores of East Gresford.

Amateur Performing Society and the GDHSI President Mr George Sales, with Paterson Allyn Garden Group. Mr Bernie the assistance of Vice-President Mr Paul Lawler, winner of Cowlicks Hair Studio Wright, arranged the displayed items Voucher, had friends helping represent the for the Show. As from this year's Show, Beatty Hotel. Good patronage from local an annual Historical display will occur. business people in Gresford and Vacy Should anyone remember more sponsored some great prizes. This included information on the display cabinet Katie and Jo who now run Gresford please inform any of our local General Store and the Crossroads Café.

Historical members.

To round the night off, the opportunity was given to those present, to test their visual and coordination skills. Two rounds of toss a gold coin to bottle toss.

These skills required for success were quite challenging. Noel Brown and Greg Priestley were able to ace a bottle each for their keeping.

The Billy Cart Derby Day was also successful for our Historical Society.

Many visitors dropped into our local Museum for a bo-peep. Some extra items can now be viewed, such as the first Stihl chainsaw ever sold by Mr Stewart Everett in Gresford. The Museum opens the first two Sundays of each month, by appointment and special event days.

Lorraine Ashard, GDHSI Secretary

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

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G resford News

The

Getting to know the locals...

by Noel Jupp OAM, Dip Hort, QP Dept Ag & Fisheries EUCALYPTUS PUMILA – The Pokolbin Mallee When I first started to grow plants away back in the distant past, Eucalyptus pumila seed was freely available from commercial seedsmen, but then it was decided that the plant was a rare or threatened species and whilst it is exactly that, it is surprising how many specimens were planted out in those early days and it is surprising where you find them nowadays.

The natural occurrence of the species is a steep hill in the Brokenback Range where it grows in sandy Soils amongst sandstone rocks.

It is supposed to flower every second year but nobody told my plants and they flower when they feel like it and they sometimes go for 4 years without a flower.

It is a mallee which means it has multiple stems and is low growing, usually to around 5 or 6 meters high. The flowers are white and are quite conspicuous. Even though it occurs naturally in sandy soils, it is happy in heavy clay as well.

EUCALYPTUS PUMILA – The Pokolbin Mallee

local water carrier

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

• May 2017, p 25

G resford News • May 2017

The

, p 26

FREE SAFER DRIVERS COURSE FOR HUNTER LEARNER DRIVERS FROM DISADVANTAGED BACKGROUNDS Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald MLC, has announced Roads and Maritime Services provides 1000 free places each year for youth from Aboriginal communities and disadvantaged backgrounds to participate in the Safer Drivers Course.

The Safer Drivers Course is a combined theoretical and practical course for learner drivers under 25 years of age who have completed 50 log book hours. This fee exemption allows those who are financially disadvantaged to benefit from the road safety outcomes of the Safer Drivers Course which is typically valued at $140. The course helps young drivers on their L-plates prepare for driving solo when they graduate to provisional licences.

Key aspects covered in the course include how to reduce road risks, how to cope with distractions and potential dangers and how to develop safe driving behaviour.

Mr MacDonald said the course is a valuable tool which improves the understanding of speed management, safe following distances and hazard awareness which parents or supervisors may not have covered.

As well as becoming a safer driver, applicants can earn a bonus 20 hours of log book credit once you complete the course which means you’ll only need to finish 100 hours of supervised driving outside the course.

So far more than 100 disadvantaged people have accessed the free Safer Drivers Course this year.

To be eligible for a free place you need to hold a valid learner licence, be aged below 25 years, have completed a minimum of 50 log book hours and hold a current Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Department of Human Services – Centrelink.

Once you have confirmed your eligibility, visit the Roads and Maritime website to find a Safer Drivers Course provider to speak about the free places and fill in a Safer Drivers Course Concession Application form to complete on enrolment.

For more information visit www.rms. nsw.gov.au or http://roadsafety.transport. nsw.gov.au/stayingsafe/drivers/ youngdrivers/youngerdriverscourse.html

PEST CONTROL SERVICES locally owned and operated

General household pests: spiders, cockroaches, rodents.

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

Call Barry Wilson 0429 317 154 pest management certificate number

15-102220-001

PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

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

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

G resford News

• May 2017, p 27 Gresford News May Crossword The

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson ph 0458 146 152

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

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

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

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

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