Gresford News November 2019

resford News G

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News of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys November 2019

Tom Doyle bowls to catcher Greg Priestley

Delma Lawrence

Greg Priestley

Tom Doyle Pumpkin Bowling photos provided by Susan Doyle

Pumpkin Bowling

Pumpkin Bowling has the potential to be big in Gresford. Greg and I were impressed seeing the efforts of those who became involved in this challenging event on Sunday 20th of October within the GDHSI Museum grounds. Ages of those involved ranged from 3 to 89. This says it all!

Members from our local Bowling Club would have been impressed.

Story by Lorraine Ashard inside...

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

DOYLE RURAL SERVICES

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A Christmas Carol event for the whole community Thursday 19 December, 6pm St Anne's Anglican Church, Church Street, Gresford

Paddock Prep – cultivation, discing, deep ripping Sowing – roller seeder, drill Hay & Silage – mowing, tedding, raking, baling, wrapping Fertiliser Spreading – compost, chicken litter, granular Earthmoving – wheel loaders, telehandler, excavator Transport – flat bed rigid and semi, tipper Fencing – specialising in all gal steel fencing Design & Fabrication – custom agricultural machinery For more info contact Kris Doyle 0428 389 531

The Gresford News Community Diary Sat 2 Nov Barrington Tops National Park 50th celebration - see story for details Sun 3 Nov Live music – Alan Hepburn Duo, Hotel Beatty, 2.00pm Sun 3 Nov Melbourne Cup Calcutta, Gresford Bowling Sport & Recreation Club Tues 5 Nov Tennis Ladies Melbourne Cup Luncheon, Gresford Bowling Sport & Recreation Club, 11.00am Tues 5 Nov Melbourne Cup Luncheon + Fashions, Hotel Beatty, 12.30am Sat 9 Nov Landholder Information Morning, Gresford District Landcare Group, Arboretum, Park St, 9.00am Sat 9 Nov Boots and Bows, Gresford P & C Fundraising Ball, Gresford School of Arts, 6.30pm Mon 11 Nov Remembrance Day, Cenotaph, Gresford School of Arts, 10.45am Sun 17 Nov Gresford Community Markets, Hotel Beatty, 9.00am Sun 17 Nov Live music – Beau Jenkins, Hotel Beatty, 2.00pm Sat 30 Dec Nominations close for Australia Day 2020 Award Nominations, see form inside Thurs 19 Dec It wasn't just another day family Christmas Carols, St Anne's Anglican Church, 6.00pm Tuesdays Social ladies tennis, every week of school term all year, Gresford Tennis Courts, 9.00–10.30am Mon & Wed Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Vacy School of Arts Hall Tuesdays Vacy and Gresford Dance Centre at Gresford School of Arts Hall Friday afternoons Junior tennis coaching, every week of school term, Gresford Tennis Courts, 4.00pm 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) 1st & 2nd Sun each month Gresford Historical Centre (Therese Doyle Hall) 10am-2pm & by appt. Ph George Sales 4938 9639 2nd Mon each month Gresford Historical Society Meeting, Therese Doyle Hall, 10.30am (not Dec, Jan or June) 2nd Mon 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 & Thur (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.

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

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Peter Evans is descended from a farming family located in the Gresford area prior to 1840 We are keen to assist you with all your legal needs.

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• November 2019, p 5

Gresford News Notices Apology

The Neighbourcare service notice in the October Gresford News was printed as supplied by Neighbourcare. It was brought to the attention of the editors and Neighbourcare that the wording was causing concern with some readers and local busineses. We apologise for the concern that was caused and Neighbourcare have supplied the notice below which clarifies the transport service they are offering.

New Neighbourcare local shopping service

For Neighbourcare clients transport can be provided to help with local shopping. Purchase meat from local Butchers, purchase items from the local supermarket and any other shopping you may need to do in the local area.

The service can also help with picking up scripts from the Paterson Chemist.

Fortnightly service available between 9am – 12 midday commencing Wed 18 Sept. Departure times may vary.

Bookings require 48 hours notice.

Contact the office on 4992 3348

Ph: 4938 8138

Melbourne Cup – Tues Nov 5 • Gresford Tennis Club with Gresford Bowling Sport & Recreation Club, 11am, $35pp, comp glass of bubbles, fab meals, sweeps, raffles, entertainment: Taylor Made • Hotel Beatty, 12.45pm, $25, enjoy a grazing table, fresh seafood, bubbles for the ladies on arrival, sweeps, fashions in the field & more

Gresford News CLASSIFIEDS CARETAKER/CLEANER

Gresford Park Land Managers are seeking Expressions of Interest for the position of caretaker/cleaner for the camping operations associated with Gresford Recreation Reserve and Showground.

Must be willing to work weekends Must hold a valid Working with Children check or be willing to obtain Full details of the position will be made available to interested persons upon application to gresford.park@bigpond.com OR by calling 0488139054 Closing date for applications 22nd November 2019.

Gresford News CLASSIFIEDS Clearing and Garage Sale; Strictly Invitational Only On Site “Ridgeview” C & J St. Clair 200 Torryburn Rd, Torryburn, NSW 2421 Saturday 16th November 8.30am – 3pm

• Farm Machinery, Equipment and Tools • Large and Small Garden Statuary incl Pots and Urns • Range of Indoor and Outdoor Furniture • Entire Household Contents – Beds, Fridges, Tables and Chairs • Women’s Clothes, Linen, Decorative Items, Kitchen Goods • Antiques and Collectibles For Registration, Enquiries, Terms and Comprehensive Inventory Contact Chris St Clair M: 0427388262 E: chrisstclair@live.com.au

Advertise in the GRESFORD NEWS CLASSIFIEDS

Classified Ad Rates are: Standard line listing $2.75 a line or $11 for 5 lines

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Gresford District Landcare Group presents a

LANDHOLDER INFORMATION MORNING 9th November 2019, 9am to 1pm (or drop in) Arboretum, Park St, East Gresford (next to Gresford Sporting Ground) If old or new there’s something for you! Don’t miss this important information event.

Topics include: 1. Vegetation, Soils & Water 2. Weeds 3. Fauna – introduced, native & feral 4. Fire, Flood & Safety 5. Weather, Fences, Employment 6. Courses & Resources Free morning tea & sausage sizzle provided.

Please bring your own mug & chair.

RSVP Julia: 0419 127 404 or juliawokes@hotmail.com

by Glenda Smith Up from the Blue

Susan Hendersen This novel explores the outcome in a family where mental illness clashes with military discipline. Tillie Harris is pregnant in a new home in her old town, with her husband away and her estranged father the only one she can call on for help. He is a respected military man and an expert problem solver, but Tillie knows he doesn’t always have the right answers. Her depressed mother’s disappearance is the crux of the narrative, and Tillie as both child and adult is forced to deal with some disturbing events.

Tillie, named after a stroppy circus bear called Matilda, is a strong and resilient character who does battle with paternalism and authority. It is a combination mystery and family tragedy, written in different time frames and slowly revealing its secrets. In spite of the dark centre it is ultimately a positive story of fulfilment.

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

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“Ridgeview”

• November 2019, p 7

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G resford News • November 2019

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Australia Day Recognition Awards The Gresford District Community Group will be holding their bi-annual Australia Day Recognition Awards this coming January. We invite all groups/associations to nominate people within your organisation who have worked tirelessly for the betterment of our local communities.

The requirements for your selection criteria should cover the following: • Has worked or been associated with your organisation for a minimum of two years • Someone who has not previously received a GDCG Australia Day Recognition Award • This person has to be nominated by your organisation’s committee • Nominations have to be completed on the attached form • The nominee must attend the presentation along with members of the nominating group • Maximum of 3 nominations from any one group.

We have so many great and deserving people working within and for our community and this is a great way to say thankyou from your group and also from the community. Initially names can be emailed through followed by your submissions soon after. We will look forward to hearing back from you.

Australia Day Recognition Awards Nomination Form 2020 To be presented at the Australia Day picnic lunch, Orana Park East Gresford, 26 Jan 2020 at 1pm. Nomination close 30 Nov 2019.

Name of nominee Name of organisation Please attach information sheet in support of your nomination (500 words or less)

Name of Proposer Signature Supported by Signature Contact number Please forward your nomination to: Secretary, Gresford Community Group, PO Box 99, East Gresford 2311or email: graham@gabes.com.au

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Remembrance Day 2019 The Gresford Sub Branch of the RSL in conjunction with the Gresford Community Group will be conducting their Remembrance Day service on Monday 11th November at 10:45am at the Cenotaph in front of the School of Arts.

Everyone is cordially invited to attend and be part of the service of remembrance for the sacrifices our Forces made during WW1.

The RAAF Williamtown will be providing a Catafalque Party again for which we are most grateful.

Members of the public are invited to lay a wreath if they wish to do so.

The students of the Gresford Public School will be attending the service and will again take a welcome and active role as in previous years, being again transported by Linq buslines whom the RSL thank & appreciate very much.

At the conclusion of the service everyone is invited to enjoy morning tea provided by the ladies of the RSL Sub Branch and the Gresford Community Group.

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Pleasant day, pleasant weather Story continued from cover... Eight small dry pumpkins used for bowling were grown locally and donated by Ken and Karen Turnbull of Bingleburra). Ken has great bowling skills as witnessed by Greg and myself out on the family farm the day we picked the pumpkins up. As a good sporting person, Ken demonstrated the art of pumpkin bowling on our special event day.

I must say there was a selection of bowling techniques – wobbly rolls, ones with bounce. Poor Greg nearly copped a flying pumpkin in the middle of his upper back.

(Something he does not need – a pumpkin thump.) Swift fast bowling was carried out

by Kristoff and Bob Doyle. The Doyle family involved themselves extremely well.

Thank you Tom for your helping hand.

Helen and Jane gave it their best shot also.

Speeches and the cutting of the cake: Lorraine Ashard, David Wells, Delma Lawrence, Alice Herbert, Margaret Dent, George Sales

Out of all the contestants and bowling efforts, only one person managed to hit the pumpkin stick over. A direct hit by a local country gal Joy Lawrence. Joy had the honour of being “best pumpkin bowler“. Well done Joy. Her mum Delma was another contestant on the day. Then low and behold, a pumpkin thief was seen running from the grounds with two of the eight pumpkins in his hands. I found out it was 'an inside job'. To think too, that the pumpkin runner received an OAM earlier this year.

Rojer Hancock. Under close observation this activity can be riveting to view. Of course the more space the better (some would say). Thanks Charlie, Glen, Rojer and your dad Allan (Hancock) for organising this great display. Thanks to Rodney Hipwell also.

GDHSI stallholders were there with their various merchandise and displays (Many thanks). St Anne's Church Guild ladies sold out with great cooking. Members of the Catholic Church sold very nice sandwiches. Our local Tennis Club people Other activities for our Historical did the bar-b-que. Matthew 'Dick' Hopson Society‘s 30th Anniversary included the arrived with his wildlife. Placid pythons, slow tractors/sled pull. Coordinated by a mini turtle and small goannas. Many Jill & Tina prepare treats to eat local lads Charlie Smith, Glen Smith and thanks to all of those people involved.

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• November 2019, p 11

– Historical Society celebrates 30years

Joy Lawrence 'Best Pumpkin Bowler'

A special close-up viewing of the Doyle Family Convict Bell took place. Bob Doyle read out some background information on this local historical artefact. The bell is now owned by Michael Doyle, a great great great grandson of James McCormick. James came into possession of 'Clevedon' and the convict bell in 1851. The bell was rung daily for routine timing of convicts

Members of the Doyle family with the Doyle Family Convict Bell: Bob, Helen, Tom, Kristopher, Max, Prue

working on Clevedon. This was until James donated a portion of land. In time St Helens Catholic Church was built and the bell was lent and used to notify local people for church service. Helen Doyle, elder of the Doyle Family and Hugo Wood (Prue Doyle‘s youngest son) officially rang the family bell together.

30th Anniversary cake. Present was Mrs Margaret Dent of Quirindi, a founding member who reformed our local Gresford District Historical Society in 1989 with Miss Sheila Doyle (now deceased). Mrs Delma Lawrence has now clocked up 30 years and we thank Delma for all the good work that she has carried out.

Historical Society Members gathered together and in collaboration cut their

A mighty big 'Thankyou' to Graham Murphy. Now a very helpful member of

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November 2019 2019 G resford News • August

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GDHSI celebration continues

Barrington Tops National Park It's part of our landscape – just up the road... Celebrate Barrington Tops National Park's 50th anniversary of being gazetted as a NSW national park. This incredible park is also part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage Area celebrating its 25th anniversary of listing. It was officially listed as a World Heritage Area in 1986 and is a particularly beautiful section of the Great Dividing Range.

Glen Smith, Rojer Hancock and Charlie Smith

the GDHSI. Graham personally donated $300 for our raffle.

Many thanks to Daniel Maroulas for donating three bottles of Boydell's wine. First prize: bottle Shiraz + $150 – the Bird family • Second prize: bottle of Chardonnay + $100 – Melissa Butler (maker of local leather work goods) • Third prize: bottle Verdelho + $50 – Mrs Alma Draper Visiting well know local historian Mr Cameron Archer drew the winning tickets. As it was also his birthday, it was wonderful of Lyndell Osmond (nee Saxby) to sing 'Happy birthday' beautifully to Cameron. Thank you.

Jane Winiarczyk (nee Doyle) got the 'Best Yesteryear Item Worn' award and gift. To round off this family and friends day, there was lots of yummy scones, cakes and treats prepared by Jill (Hancock), Tina and helpers. A very big thankyou.

Lorraine Ashard, GDHSI secretary

You can join the celebrations on Saturday 2nd November.

NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service will host short guided experiences at popular walks and lookouts: • Honeysuckle Forest: Free tours start at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm • Polblue Swamp Track: Free tour 2pm • Devils Hole Lookout: A roving Discovery Guide available from 11am to 1pm • Polblue Camping Area: Discovery Ranger activities from 10:30am. Formal ceremony from 11:30am. BYO lunch and spend the day at Barrington Tops National Park. Register for the day via email: npws.huntercentralcoastbranch@ environment.nsw.gov.au or phone 6538 5300.

Enjoy walks, waterfalls & scenic drives through ancient landscapes millions of years in the making. Carved out of ancient volcanic flows, the park rises from steep ridges which rise 1586 metres to intimate valleys and waterfalls. Given their elevation the "tops" can experience dramatic changes in the weather with a sunny day turning to snowstorms within hours.

The area is part of an ancient volcano and it protects one of the largest temperate rainforests in mainland Australia, along with a host of diverse habitats characterised by pockets of subtropical rainforest, sub-alpine wetlands, snow gum woodlands and it is

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• November 2019, p 13

... is celebrating its 50th birthday! home to the unique Antarctic beech rainforest. The "tops" are home to a wide range of birds and animals – more than 50 species of mammals, 278 bird species, 42 reptile species and 18 frog species.

The park is a bushwalker’s paradise, with an excellent walking track network that includes short and easy walks to more difficult overnight hikes, with plenty of sites to set up a bush camp for the evening. For those visiting for the day, there are lots of picnic and barbecue areas to enjoy, cycling trails to be explored and views from the park’s lookouts that need to be seen to be believed. Fishing is a popular activity in the park between October and May; you might catch a rainbow or brown trout.

History of Barrington Tops from www.aussietowns.com.au/town/barrington-tops-nsw

• Prior to the arrival of Europeans the Barrington Tops area was home to the Worimi whose land extended from Maitland and the Hunter River in the south through to Forster in the north.

The valleys of the Paterson, Allyn and Williams Rivers were home to the Gringai Aboriginal people.

• By 1812 settlers were moving into the Hunter Valley

Photo: Barrington Tops National Park, John Spencer DPIE

• In 1840 the Australian Agricultural Company was granted 1 million acres from Port Stephens to the Manning River. The area around Barrington Tops was known as the Back Country.

• By the 1850s cedar cutters had moved into the area seeking the rich timber.

• It is believed that Captain Thunderbolt (Fred Ward) hid out on Barrington Tops in the 1860s.

• The Barrington Guest House was built in 1925. It was officially opened in 1930.

• In 1945 a De Havilland Mosquito crashed near the Tops. The wreckage was not found until 1946.

• 1948 a Douglas DC3 crashed killing 13.

• In 1954 electricity was connected to the Barrington Guest House.

• Barrington Tops National Park was gazetted in 1969.

• In 1981 a Cessna 210 crashed killing five. The wreckage has never been found.

• In 1986 the National Park became part of the World Heritage Gondwana Rainforests of Australia.

• The Barrington Guest House burnt down on 24 September, 2006.

• In 2007 Barrington Tops National Park was added to the Australian National Heritage List.

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CULTURE VULTURE

by Robyn Werkhoven.

At nineteen years old Taylor joined the Army, he started writing around 2009 after he left the army due to a back injury. Ten years ago he was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. Since 2014 he devotes his time to writing.

Greetings Culture Vulture readers.

We are so lucky to have many talented artists and writers living in the Dungog Shire, creating a dynamic cultural community.

In recent months some of our artists have received awards and national recognition in the art and literary world. Gresford News would like to congratulate the following artists and writers.

“The sensitivity of this poetry is quite extraordinary. Robin Taylor reaches deeply into the unique feelings of one mind with an altered sense of emotions to divulge such a kind and vivid view on the world. For an amazing adventure in alternative thought and originality in poetry, Whose Reflection Is That would be the ticket. This is a book in which the more you read, the better it gets”. – Rhonda Wilson, Pacific Book Review, www. pacificbookreview.com.

Writer and poet Robin Taylor, his book Whose Reflection Is That, has received a book excellence award from Literacy Excellence Incorporated 2019 and Matchstick Literary is now publishing the work.

Taylor who was born with autism, has confronted the encounters of living in our society which alienates those who are ‘different’.

Taylor writes “This book of my poetry is taken from life’s experiences, from years of misunderstanding to physical abuse, all because of being born with highfunctioning autism. My hope is that anyone who has or has someone in their lives with autism may be able to identify with what is written. I have not always

The book is available from Harry Hartog bookstores and the Dungog Arts Society for $12 and local markets. been able to communicate verbally how I was feeling or what was going on with my life, especially when I was young. I was confused and frightened as to how people would react to my explanations of my feelings. Also, my actions and reactions were not always met with positive response or understanding.”

Arts News

Ceramic artist Natalie Duncan, won the prestigious Napier Waller Art Prize 2019, held at the War Memorial ACT., with her ceramic vessel titled 'You are in danger and I am far away'. Two of Duncan’s ceramic vessels are now in the National Collection.

LITTLE PAN ASIAN RESTAURANT 4938 9166 Open Wednesday – Sunday from 5pm

Sun 3 Nov Melbourne Cup Calcutta

Tues 5 Nov Tennis Ladies Melbourne Cup Luncheon

Fri 8 Nov $1000 Pork & Ham Raffle

Sun 10 Nov $1000 Toy Raffle on sale 6.30

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• August 2019, p 15

Gresford School of Arts AGM results Textile artist Julie Fitzgerald was a Finalist at the Natural Fibre Fashion Awards at Henty Machinery Field Days near Albury 2019.

Prolific painter Gaye Shield has been the recipient of art awards in Scone & Dungog Art shows 2019.

Natalie Duncan, 'You are in danger and I am far away'

Robyn Werkhoven’s colourful portrait of Eric Werkhoven & her was a Finalist in the celebrated Portia Geach Memorial Prize for Portraiture 2019, held at S.H. Ervin Gallery in Sydney, last September.

The above artists’ art works are available at Dungog By Design Gallery, 224 Dowling St Dungog. The Artists’ Collective is a hub of creative local talent, work by Julie Fitzgerald, textile artist well worth a visit.

A big thank-you is extended to those people who were able to attend the Gresford School of Arts Committee’s AGM on Tuesday 15th October 2019. The day to day management of the facility is conducted by local residents constituted as a Section 355 Committee of Dungog Shire Council.

The Executives who were elected at the AGM are as follows: Rosalie Lawrence (President); Lyndell Osmond (Vice President); Tony Schultz (Treasurer); and Kel Merriman (Secretary).

The Committee will endeavour to see that the Gresford School of Arts facility remains viable, relevant and in our public hands for the benefit of Gresford.

It was noted at the meeting that the Gresford School of Arts facilities are well utilised by our residents. The committee has to review the facility hire charges and advise Dungog Shire Council before February 2020. This, along with a number of other priorities, will be discussed at the next committee meeting to be held 7.30pm on Tuesday 21st January 2020 in the Gresford School of Arts hall.

The Committee meetings are open to all (and especially those representatives of user groups or organisations) to attend. The Executives also welcome any suggestion people may have as to the use of or improvements regarding the Gresford School of Arts.

Kel Merriman (secretary) can be contacted by phoning 0417 280 851 or 4938 9564 or by writing to Gresford School of Arts, PO Box 110 East Gresford NSW 2311.

Kel Merriman, Secretary, Gresford School of Arts Management Committee, 22/10/19

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G resford News • November 2019

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Mayoral Update 21 October 2019

We were addressed by Premier, Gladys Berejiklian; Deputy Premier, John Barilaro; Minister of Local Government, Water Saving Competition From Shelly Hancock; Minister for Water, Hunter Water Corporation Melinda Pavey; Opposition Leader, Jodi Entries for ABC Newcastle and Hunter Water’s Water warriors campaign opened Mckay; Shadow Minister for Local Government, Greg Warren and Greens Monday 21 October 2019.

Leader, David Shoebridge. Many of the The organisations have partnered in a Ministers spoke about the cooperation water conservation campaign to help save between State and Local Government our precious resource, following the start and how far it had come under this State of water restrictions across the Lower Government. While some of the Hunter for the first time in 25 years. comments lead me to understand how much work is still needed on the The campaign will see local households relationship between the two levels of competing in challenges to lower their Government to make a truly weekly water usage, with the winning collaborative space, there is definitely a Water Warrior taking home a water tank willingness to cooperate, with a new plus installation package up to a value of Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) $10,000. Second prize is a kit of water being signed by the Premier, Deputy efficiency devices to suit your property Premier and Minister for Local up to a value of $5,000 and third prize is Government, along with President of $500 worth of water saving devices. A LGNSW, Linda Scott. Linda Scott said the tour of The Reservoir is being offered as following of the agreement: a Listener Prize.

Minister Hancock described the IGA as Each ABC Newcastle program (Breakfast marking a new era of cooperation between with Dan and Jenny, Mornings with Kia the two tiers of government, and I think that Handley and Drive with Paul Turton) is true. The lapsing of the last IGA heralded will partner with one of the households a tumultuous period for the sector involving to explore water saving techniques and a wave of forced council amalgamations. complete weekly challenges. Households’ This commitment to an equal partnership water usage will be monitored in order incorporates some very important principles: to determine how much water they saved. Winners will be determined • No forced council mergers through a combination of points won in • The quickest possible return to the weekly challenges and the household democratically elected representation with the greatest percentage of water following the appointment of any saved during the competition.

Administrators, and • Consultation with LGNSW before any ABC Newcastle Chief of Staff Lucia Hill laws or significant policy initiatives said the campaign welcomed participants impacting on the sector. from all corners of the Hunter region.

‘We’re looking for households that come The IGA also recognises cost shifting. up with creative and imaginative ways of Importantly, it commits the State Government saving water,’ Ms Hill said. to consideration of councils’ financial capability and budget cycles before they are Entries close on Thursday 31 October. asked to provide new or expanded functions.

The selected participants will be announced on Monday 4 November and Even more importantly, by signing this the competition winners will be agreement the Berejiklian-Barilaro announced in early December.

Government commits itself to alleviate potential budgetary impacts on councils Local Government NSW Conference where possible. The new IGA outlines the Dungog Shire Council’s General Manager need to work together to deliver on the key (GM), Coralie Nichols, and I attended priorities of the Berejiklian-Barliaro the LGNSW Conference last week. In Government, including the NSW State this conference we get to hear from State Infrastructure Strategy 2018-2038 and the Politicians, undertake councillor training Future Transport Strategy 2056. workshops and vote on the policies and advocacy priorities of LGNSW for the The local government sector and the State coming year. It is also an opportunity to Government both believe an effective and network with colleagues and hear about strong partnership is the best way to drive what other councillors and GMs are positive policy outcomes for the people of bringing to the table in their Local NSW. That’s why it recommends formal Government Areas.

Memorandums of Understanding between LGNSW and key State agencies: by further

Tracy Norman, Mayor Dungog Shire Council embedding this constructive approach across all levels of government and the public sector we can ensure energy is focussed on delivering for the public good.

A copy of this agreement is available on the LGNSW website: lgnsw.org.au/files/ imceuploads/581/Intergovernmental_ Agreement_-_2019.pdf On day one we attended workshops on the following: Understanding and measuring social impact: Where we heard of the great difficulty but also the imperative to measure the effects, both bad and good as well as intended and unintended, for the programs and policies that we introduce. We need to measure the effects on the people targeted by these programs and policies, as well as others affected by them.

Land Use Planning for Councillors: This was a great workshop that explored the relationship between the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs) and Councils’ Local Environmental Plans (LEPs), Development Control Plans (DCPs) and Policies. We were reminded of the importance of and the need to take heed of all of these planning instruments in all of our decision making, including those that are there to guide our decision making within our council boundaries such as the DCP and Council Policies, with a particular focus on the need for consistency of decision-making. We were also reminded about the Local Strategic Planning Statements (as previously discussed) and the need to align these statements with the Community Strategic Plan.

Speaking and Debating Skills: I am always happy to get much needed advice in this area.

We spent the second day considering the more than 120 motions put by councils to help determine the policies and advocacy priorities of LGNSW for the coming year. I will list the successful motions most relevant to our Shire within the next couple of updates and also in a report to Council in November.

The full list of motions and results should be available soon on the LGNSW website.

LGNSW President Linda Scott, spoke about the successful campaigns and continuing advocacy efforts of LGNSW, as well as the other services provided to us by our sector’s peak body. Linda also introduced LGNSWs new campaign

G resford News

The

around waste, entitled Waste: A Product not a Problem. Local Government is still campaigning to see the $800 million collected by the NSW Government returned to us to help solve the waste crisis. Currently less than a fifth of that money comes back to Local Government in the form of grants for waste reduction programs. LGNSW is also advocating a better procurement program by the other levels of Government to recognize the need to support the circular economy that keeps items out of the waste stream and re-used or up-cycled.

As you may recall I am on a working group from Country Mayors to progress this issue with State Government and on a Circular Economy Committee of Hunter Joint Organisation. This is a vital issue for all Local Government Areas.

The GM and I also had the privilege to meet with the Chief Executive of the Office of Local Government, Tim Hurst.

Tim generously took the time to talk through some issues with us.

• November 2019, p 17

engagement in primary and high school; • Dungog Community Pre-school for equipment to enhance reading Hunter Water Corporation’s Love Water contributions were awarded to the following recipients: • Dungog Common for a mural project; Council voted to increase expenditure in • Clarence town Lions Club for a water its Parks and Gardens Budget, to take refill station; over responsibility of upkeeping the • Dungog Netball Association for a water Clarence Town Village Green and refill station; Wetlands. This community initiative, • Vacy Carnival/Vacy Gresford Soccer driven by the Clarence Town Progress Club for a water refill station; Association, is a tremendous asset to • Dungog Rotary for the running of the Clarence Town. I would like to thank the annual Pedal fest event. volunteers who have been maintaining Congratulations to all the recipients. this site for the past few years and Good luck with your projects and thank acknowledge their continued efforts to you for giving so much to the Dungog maintain and improve the wetlands.

Shire Community. could end up costing you so much more.

As I’ve stated many times before, the best strategy is to have a pre-DA meeting with staff. Dungog Council charges a cost recovery fee for this service but it is definitely money well-spent.

Dungog Shire Council’s Community Small Grants Program

I am delighted to announced Council endorsed the officers recommendations for this year’s recipients of Dungog Shire Council’s Community Small Grants Program. It is gratifying to be able to October Ordinary Meeting of Council support in this small way our volunteer For those who couldn’t make it to the and community groups who give so October Ordinary Meeting of Council, much to our Shire. I thank Hunter Water here are some highlights: Corporation for its on-going funding and The Planning Department has had a support of this program. This year’s busy period, with several matters in the recipients of Dungog Shire Council’s agenda, including the approval of a Community Small grants are as follows: Development Application for a new • Boomerang Bags for materials to business for Dungog. This will be a great ensure that the community has addition to the Dungog Shire and we alternatives to plastic bags; wish the applicants all the best for their • Dungog District Chamber of future endeavour. There were also a large Commerce to fund much needed number of approvals made under computer equipment; delegated authority.

• Dungog Menshed Inc to fund an ergonomic lathe; I would like to make a couple of • Dungog Soccer Club for a PA system; observations from the meeting around • Clarence Town Rugby League Football planning. There seems to be much Club to fund safe equipment for the confusion around the State canteen; Environmental Policy Exempt and • Dungog and District Cricket Complying Development Codes. There Association for WHS equipment; are standards that must be met in this • Dungog Pony Club for polocrosse code and there are very specific criteria equipment; around what is exempt and complying • Dungog Public School P & C for safety development. If you have any doubt equipment for the our space program; about this, please contact council staff to • Dungog Community Preschool for a seek clarification. It can save you money new BBQ; and heartache in the long run.

• Gresford Historical Society for boundary fencing around an historic cemetery; And a reminder that when assessing a • Dungog Shire Community Centre for Development Application, Council resources around pet preparedness in a officers can only make this assessment disaster; with the information that is in front of • Paterson Allyn Williams Science Hub them. It can be a very costly mistake to to support the provision of workshops, decide not to provide them with further talks, field days and educational information when it is requested. You activities; might feel like you are saving money by not providing that information, however • Dungog Community Radio Inc for equipment to enhance student the conditions placed upon the approval

14 October 2019 Library Grant Funding Progress As you may recall, I flagged some time ago that Council is applying for grant funding to extend Dungog Regional Library and improve the facilities on offer, with the encouragement of the State Librarian’s Office. Dungog Shire Council General Manager (GM), Coralie Nichols, has now contracted an architect to design the new facility and we are on track to meet the November 5th deadline for application. This library is a well-loved and well-used asset of Dungog Shire and is definitely overdue for a facelift. Library hours are to be extended soon so please look out for the notification of the new timetable.

Upcoming Library Events Our wonderful librarians, Amanda and Tracy, have been busy organising some great new events: November brings a talk by a local woman, Susan-Lee Walker, who will share her journey travelling the worldfamous Camino trail through France and Spain, across the Pyrenees. Join SusanLee at the library Friday November 8th at 5:30pm.

December’s offering is Todd Alexander and his book on his hilarious adventures of buying a winery in the Hunter Valley titled “Thirty Thousand Bottles of Wine and a pig called Helga”. Todd will be at the library on Friday 6th Dec. at 5:30pm.

For all bookings and enquiries call the library on 4992 1819.

Fancy a Dip? Both Dungog and Clarence Town Pools are open for the season and have squad training/swimming lessons available. Please contact the pools for details on times.

G resford News • November 2019

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G resford News

• November 2019, p 19 Gresford News November Crossword The

Anglican Parish of Gresford Paterson

ph 0431 938 718 Priest in Charge: Peter Middleton

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 5.30pm (6.30pm from 13 October 2018) 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

October 2019 crossword answers

Crossword kindly provided by Russel Jessop.

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