Yulgilbar Travelling Fellowship Exhibitions

Engaging Diverse Voices in Regional NSW Opportunities with Multicultural NSW

Multicultural Youth Network (MYN)

Additionally, Multicultural NSW is seeking expressions of interest for two state-wide community engagement programs: the Regional Community Networks (RCNs) and the Multicultural Youth Network (MYN). The RCNs will consist of 10 networks across NSW, each with up to 20 members. RCN members will provide invaluable insights into local issues affecting their lives and communities.

Furthermore, each RCN will include at least one representative from the local Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community.

Three RCNs will be situated in the Greater Sydney area, namely North and East Sydney, Western Sydney, and South Sydney. The remaining seven RCNs will be based in various regional areas of NSW, including Northern NSW, New England North West, Western NSW, Illawarra and South East NSW, Hunter and Central Coast, Murray Lower Darling, and Riverina.

Each RCN will also feature up to three young people aged 18-24 years, who will additionally form the Multicultural Youth Network (MYN). MYN members will convene regularly to provide insights and advice on issues pertinent to young people across the state.

For further information and to submit expressions of interest, please visit the Advisory Positions page on the Multicultural NSW website.

The Grafton Regional Gallery proudly presents the solo exhibitions of the 2021 Yulgilbar Travelling Fellowship recipients, Cher Breeze and Madeleine Richey, unveiling on Saturday, February 17.

Offcial Exhibition

Opening: Saturday, February 17, 5:00 pm –7:00 pm

Artists Talk: Saturday, April 13, 11 am

Cher Breeze’s exhibition, “339 Steps…,” is the culmination of her Yulgilbar Travelling Fellowship, during which she retraced the footsteps of her ancestors through the back alleys and cemeteries of Sydney.

“339 Steps…” delves into Breeze’s refections and recollections from this journey, interpreting them through markmaking as a means of discovering signifcance, expression, and empathy for the human experience.

Continuing her lifelong exploration of her Kamilaroi heritage, Madeleine Richey utilized her 2022 Yulgilbar Travelling Fellowship to delve deeper into her cultural roots. Focused on her familial connections to Gunimaa (Mother Earth), Richey’s exhibition, “Proud To Be A Binge,” encapsulates her personal growth and cultural evolution during this period. The collection features mixed media pieces incorporating natural pigments alongside materials refecting her off-country experiences, such as acrylic paint and raffa.

The Yulgilbar Travelling Fellowship stands as a cornerstone program designed to enrich and broaden the professional development of artists in the Clarence Valley. Supported by the Yulgilbar Foundation and Clarence Valley Council, the fellowship provides fnancial backing for travel, materials, and associated expenses, empowering artists to pursue meaningful projects.

Cher Breeze expressed gratitude for the invaluable support provided by the Yulgilbar Travelling Fellowship, stating, “The Travelling Fellowship gave me the support I needed to take time out and work on a specifc project, one that was both professionally and personally signifcant to me.” Echoing similar sentiments, Madeleine Richey refected, “My home country is a long way from here, and it is often hard to fnd the time and capacity to travel back there and connect to country. The Yulgilbar Travelling Fellowship gave me the opportunity to work on a larger project –something I haven’t done before – so this has been really valuable.”

“339 Steps…” and “Proud To Be A Binge” will be on display at the Grafton Regional Gallery until Sunday, April 28, 2024, alongside other compelling exhibitions including “Jennifer Keeler-Milne:

Close Focus,” “Kellie O’Dempsey: Wish You Were Here,” and “Rindi Salomon & Andrew Shillam: Interior with Figures.”

Bookings are recommended for attendance at the Offcial Opening. Please visit the Grafton Regional Gallery on Humanitix to secure your spot.

Wardell Wharf Repairs Set To Start

Commencing on Thursday, February 15, 2024, remediation works will begin on the food-damaged Wardell Wharf. The council has enlisted the services of Hunter Wharf and Barge to execute the repairs, encompassing the restoration of the damaged wharf and boardwalk piles, along with the installation of armour along the adjacent riverbank. To facilitate the repair process, two temporary piles will be installed in front of the existing jetty on Byron Street’s south side. This will enable a barge to transport rocks to the north side of the riverbank for the rock revetment works.

While the boat ramp will remain operational during the repairs, users should anticipate delays as the contractor will utilize the ramp for deliveries. Weather and site conditions permitting, the project is slated for completion by April 2024.

Funded partially by the NSW Government’s

Natural Disaster Relief Assistance Program, the total project cost amounts to $1.53 million, with $1.03 million allocated to Council for these essential repairs. For inquiries regarding this project, please reach out to the Civil Services Team at 1300 864 444.

Pinkerton’s Casino

When Sharon asked me if I had any thoughts and memories of Pinkerton in Casino?

The request immediately bought back memories of living and growing up in the main shopping block of over 70years dating back to the early 50s where our family lived and breathed the shops in Casino.

As a former managing director of George and Fuhrmann, President of the Casino Chamber of Commerce and MP for Lismore I certainly appreciated the extraordinary work and dedication It takes to run a successful business especially for 90 years.

It is a mammoth task and one that reinforces the Pinkerton’s story, achievements and History.

Pinkertons is not only part of Casino’s history but also part of the Northern Rivers History which is still going today thanks to Nella, Gary, John and their team refecting their history and the outstanding service they provide not only to their customers but also their generous support of the community.

The matriarch Nella, who has been described as a “Gem” in her own right is one of Australia’s oldest, and most respected jewellers

To me at 92 Nella is the last person standing of shop owners operating in my early life and memory since the 50’s in Casino. (Yes there are other buisiness’s like Kwong Sings still operating 90yrs later with the next generation running them.)

Congratulations Nella you have been an inspiration to us all and especially to Gary, John and Team a special thank you for your contribution to the 90 years of continual service by Pinkerton’s to the Northern Rivers and especially Casino.

May God continue to bless you with health and happiness.

- The Hon Thomas George

My friend Nella Pinkerton

I am not sure how long I have known Mrs. P, I am 71 years of age and I can’t recall not knowing her. It is also a great coincidence for you to call to write about her. My favourite 2 stories among many about her are as follows:

Firstly, almost 50 years to the day I went into her shop to buy my wedding ring. I was to be married on 2nd February, 1974 and had just come home from Sydney for the wedding and to whisk my then young bride back to her new home (a fairly loose description, a 60 year old 2 bedroom fat on Willoughby Road) in Willoughby. Mrs. P served me and wished me all the best in her usual fashion, she was one of a kind, always gracious and never seemed troubled even by the most “picky” of customers. Even the smallest purchase brought the most polite and gracious response from her (I am sure she saved many a hapless husband/boyfriend from purchasing something that his partner would not like. But all done with such aplomb she convinced the hapless purchaser it was his greatest idea.) So my purchase of a wedding ring was could have been just another sale for her. As I was leaving she said with a little smile on her face “All the best Peter, you know I have never had any one come back and ask for a refund, so don’t you be the frst.”

My second story concerns she and her late husband Clive. I was a going home and I realised I had forgotten to pick up my watch that was in for repair. I got into the shop right on closing and she served me, I said I am going home to have a cold beer. She gave out a cackle of a laugh and said “I miss the old days Peter, There is just no fund any more everyone so serious about things. Clive and I with other shop owners would meet over at the Commercial and have a few grogs (yes her words), laughs, tell stories and then walk on home. They were really good days and we were young. Sometimes we overstayed and had a few more than usual, but no harm done, always turned up for work the next day. Never had to worry because we would walk home and the kids would be out playing any way.”

I hope to have a drink with her again soon and yes I still wear that wedding ring

– Peter Walsh

Mayor’s message

On behalf of Richmond Valley Council, I would like to take a moment to extend my congratulations to the Pinkerton family and its team on reaching this incredible milestone of longevity in business.

In an ever-changing and dynamic business landscape, it is remarkable to see a company not only survive but thrive for 90 years.

Your commitment to customer satisfaction has undoubtedly been the driving force behind your success.

Beyond business achievements, I also want to acknowledge the positive impact you have had on our community. From creating job opportunities and supporting local initiatives, your contributions and sponsorships have made a difference in the lives of many.

Again, congratulations on this remarkable achievement, and here’s to many more years of success, growth and prosperity.

Warm regards,

– Cr Robert Mustow - Richmond Valley Council Mayor

Nella Pinkerton

Where would Casino and districts be without the iconic Pinkertons Jewellers. Serving the community for decades. For as long as i can remember Mr & Mrs Pinkerton (Clive and Nella) have been one of the fnest business houses of Casino. Stalwarts of Casino.

Mr Pinkerton was a very popular optometrist serving Casino and districts for many years along with working his jewellery store alongside Mrs Pinkerton.

I have personally been dealing with Pinkertons for 50 years from buying jewellery, farewell, birthday and wedding gifts, to engraving, watch repairs and a special piece of jewellery made on request.

No request was ever to large or to small for the beautiful Nella and her wonderful staff. we must also acknowledge the generosity of Pinkertons for any fundraising events, Nella has generously donated a gift to raffe, so many donations given over the many years.

At our local Annual Beef Week Ball Pinkerton generously donate/create the stunning tiaras that the Beef week Queen is presented. We thank you Nella for your kindness.

Another example of Pinkertons generosity.

When my sister (Maureen) and her boyfriend (Jim) bought her engagement ring from Pinkertons 60 years ago, Nella gave my sister a crystal jewellery box for shopping at her store. Whilst the engagement ring was not extremely expensive both the ring and jewellery box are priceless today.

Pinkertons are always open to anyone and everyone with a discount regularly given. Such a wonderful family business.

Thank you Nella for all you have done/given to Casino and surrounds. Thank you for your beautiful professional service. Casino and beyond are truly grateful.

– Betty Bennet

By Samantha Elley

When the Pinkerton family arrived in Casino in 1933, they most likely had no idea of the impact and importance they would play in the history and retail needs of the community.

“There had been a fre at the School of Arts in Casino in early 1930s,” said Gary Pinkerton, co-owner and grandson of the store owner of Pinkerton’s Jewellers, Harry Pinkerton.

“My grandfather came to Casino after having a shop in Crookwell. Crookwell was bitterly cold at winter time and Harry was looking for somewhere warmer to move to. He had spoken with a commercial traveller who suggested he check out Casino.”

Harry left Clive, his oldest son, in charge of the shop in Crookwell.

“He was with his wife Lillian when they drove north up to Casino and decided to make a change.”

The School of Arts building was partially complete after the fre when they arrived. Harry was offered a temporary shop in Walker street until the building was completed in Barker street in 1934.

Harry and Lillian returned to Crookwell, sold up and moved to Casino opening the store for Christmas 1933. In 1934 they shifted around the corner in 1934 to the newly built School of Arts building and this is where they stayed for the next 90 years.

In the early years, Harry did watch and clock repairs as well as selling jewellery and giftware. They also sold wirelesses. Clive would often drive west of the range delivering wirelesses to families in the country.

Both Harry and Clive were optometists as well.

Jewellery and watch making is in the Pinkerton blood it seems, as Harry’s father, Robert, ran his own business in Camden at the turn of the 20th century. When he started up his business in the village south-west of Sydney, he had already been working in the industry for over 20 years ago after he came out from Scotland in 1874 and worked in King Street, Sydney. In fact, Gary is the sixth generation of the family involved in the watch and jewellery trade.

“In 1960 Dad (Clive) opened a shop in Lismore, in Magellan Street,” said Gary.

The shop was next to Palings at the time.

Around 1963, Clive was contacted by John Harvey of Harveys Jewellers, Grafton.

An opportunity had opened up to buy a wholesale company in Sydney.

Clive saw this as a way for independent jewellers in northern NSW and the Tablelands could come together to buy jewellery and gifware collectively at a wholesale rate.

“I can remember travelling to Armidale one Saturday and staying at the Travelodge Motel,”

Gary said.

Jewellers had travelled to have a meeting to decide whether to form a buying group and purchase Keith Pix & co. This was to become Australia’s frst independent jewellers buying group.

Pinkertons in Lismore had three more location changes.

First to 126 Magellan Street, where they experienced the 1974 food.

Then further down the street to AGR’s corner where they traded as Pinkerton and Ward until a fre in that building.

And lastly to the corner of Molesworth and Woodlark street.

In 1988 Gary opened Lismore Jewel Centre, which he operated until the February 2022 Lismore food destroyed the building. He has just recently re-opened the shop and renamed it as Jewellery Design Centre and is now located in Shop 4 of the Star Court Arcade.

Until Christmas 2023

Jon ran the shop along with Nella, and from January 2024 Gary has taken over.

Nella started at Pinkertons in 1946 and having just turned 93, that is no mean feat.

“It has been lovely to remember the people you meet over the years,” said Nella.

“It’s been nice being able to serve locals and customers. Casino is a very friendly town.”

Nella said it has been wonderful to watch families as the grow.

“We’ve had them come in and buy their engagement rings, then their wedding rings, then anniversary gifts,” she said.

“I don’t serve in the shop like I used to.” Nella points out the original shelving behind the counter, still there today and notes the changes that have happened through the industry.

“It’s the old business I love,” she said.

“Most people buy online today. It’s nice to have those people who come in and make you feel a part of the community.”

The items that people buy has not changed that much, according to Nella.

“Once upon a time it was a chain around your neck,” she said.

“It has not changed that much as we are still selling earrings and pendants but they are more upmarket now.

“We do a lot of repair work in jewellery and watches, which used to be manual; now that watches are digital it is all battery-operated.”

Nella also noted that cups, saucers and plates aren’t such big sellers like they used to be.

Robert Pinkerton arrives from Scotland

Harry and Lillian Pinkerton arrive in Casino from Crookwell and set up their temporary shop in Walker Street, Casino.

Son Clive enters the jewellery trade and runs their shop in Crookwell.

Pinkerton’s Jewellers move into their Barker Street shop where they stay for the next 90 years to the current day.

Nella starts working at Pinkertons

Nella and Clive marry.

Smash and grab robbery on the shop where two young men steal 150 pounds worth of jewellery and watches. They were caught and all stolen goods retrieved

Clive Pinkerton opens the Lismore Jewel Centre in nearby Lismore.

Gary Pinkerton enters the business.

Pinkertons Hourglass Jewellers Casino celebrates 60 years.

Pinkertons celebrates 80 years.

Worst Lismore food destroys the Lismore Jewel Centre

Jewellery Design Centre reopens offcially in Lismore

Pinkertons Hourglass Jewellers Casino celebrates 90 years.