Deniliquin 175 years

SOUVENIR EDITION A Deniliquin Pastoral Times publication

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 1

175 years a significant milestone I t is with great pride that I congratulate our community on the 175th birthday of Deniliquin, a significant milestone for our town.

Edward River Council has partnered with the Pastoral Times to produce this oneoff keepsake, entitled Deniliquin’s 175th Commemorative Souvenir Publication, to celebrate the rich history and heritage of our community and those who have contributed to it.

I encourage all residents to read this publication and learn more about the incredible journey that has taken place to get us to where we are today.

It is often said that the people make the place, and as we mark 175 years of Deniliquin, it is appropriate that we also reflect on the countless extraordinary people who have contributed their time, talent and energy to making Deniliquin the vibrant, prosperous and inclusive town that it is today. We owe much to their foresight and dedication over many years.

From a local government perspective, one

of the most significant changes in our history occurred just last year, with the creation of Edward River Council through the merger of the former Deniliquin Council and Conargo Shire Council. As the largest town in the Edward River local government area, Deniliquin serves as the administrative, services and industrial centre of our region.

a very large role in our future, just as it has in our past.

On behalf of my fellow councillors and the staff at Edward River Council, I extend my special thanks to the Pastoral Times for their efforts in telling our community’s stories and preserving our history, as well as all those individuals, community groups and service clubs who have contributed content Today, Deniliquin supports a thriving community of just over 7800 residents, with to this publication. several hundred more living in the surWhile we have a proud past, we should rounding rural villages of Blighty, never forget that our future is bright and full Booroorban, Conargo, Mayrung, Pretty Pine of opportunities. These opportunities can and Wanganella also having a strong con- only be realised if all residents do what they nection to the town, as do the many farming can in contributing to our community and families who were in the former Conargo actively engaging in civic life.

Shire.

We have a shared responsibility to continAs with all towns, our success has been dependent on our economic prosperity. Our ue the good work of those who have come region is recognised as one of the most before us, and I am sure in 25 years time, we agriculturally versatile in New South Wales, will have even more achievements to celand our agriculture industry is a consistent ebrate as we mark 200 years of Deniliquin. theme in the history of Deniliquin. I am sure Cr Norm Brennan that agriculture, along with our tourism and ■ Mayor Norm Brennan small business sectors, will continue to play Mayor

Celebrating our discovery I

t was 175 years ago, in 1842, that Augustus Morris explored the country on the Edward River which was to become the township of Deniliquin.

That makes this year a significant milestone for our town and region, and one that is recognised in this commemorative feature.

Throughout its pages we highlight the progress of various industries and organisations throughout the past 175 years. And they have been substantial.

From education services to sporting facilities, farming development to local government, our town and the region it supports have come a long way.

All this has been made possible by the pioneers who recognised the best crossing place on the Edward River and decided it would be the ideal site for a township.

In the hustle and bustle of life in the 21st century we take for granted the blood, sweat and tears which have laid the foundation for the lifestyle we now enjoy.

Throughout this commemorative feature the history that paved the way for so many facets of life in 2017 are documented.

In some respects the most important has been the development of irrigation, providing productive water to our region’s farmers

and the subsequent growth of agriculture and associated industries.

But other vital aspects which make this such a wonderful community cannot be underestimated.

Education has come a long way since the days of the 19th century when recalcitrant pupils were made to stand against a wall with arms stretched overhead, held up by string attached to their thumbs. Today we have a range of education opportunities that help form our youngsters into the leaders of the future.

Sporting grounds and amenities have developed to a point where Deniliquin is recognised as having among the best and widest range of facilities of any comparable town in Australia.

Community involvement is also at a level that puts Deniliquin and district up with the best in the nation. From service clubs to arts, from events like our famous Ute Muster to the fishing classic and many more, from history to gardening or poetry . . . each enjoys input from a plethora of individuals who genuinely put ‘community’ into our community.

It is this level of involvement, coupled with a determination which has been evident for 175 years to ensure the region

Thanks to everyone who made it possible

T

he Pastoral Times would like to thank and acknowledge the many people who have played a role in compiling this souvenir publication that celebrates our town’s 175th anniversary.

Firstly, our thanks to Edward River Council - one of the ‘baby’ organisations in our history - for partnering with the Pastoral Times to make this feature possible.

Thanks also to all the presidents, secretaries and publicity officers of numerous local clubs who provided updates on their history, as well as the managers, principals or anyone else from organisations who did likewise.

Twenty-five years ago, when Deniliquin celebrated its sesquicentenary, a hard-working committee under the guidance of Paul and Colleen Pereira published the Heritage 150 newspaper and Our Heritage photographic collection - our thanks to Paul and Colleen for permission to reproduce their photos and articles. Many of these originated from the Deniliquin Historical Society, and we are indeed fortunate to have a dedicated band at the Historical Society who do an amazing job to ensure the past is collected and recorded for future generations.

Finally, thank you to all the Deniliquin businesses and organisations which have made this publication possible through their advertising support. Without it, this 175th anniversary feature would not happen.

We trust you appreciate its pages as we step back in history and reflect on what has made Deniliquin and district the community we enjoy today.

continues to prosper and progress, which makes Deniliquin special.

We trust you enjoy reading all about our history in this souvenir publication, and that it will not only provide a sense of pride but also play a role in educating residents and visitors as they learn why our past has made this such a dynamic town.

Sam Hall Managing Editor, Deniliquin Pastoral Times ■ Sam Hall

Deniliquin Golf Course, on the edge of Murray Valley Regional Park.

Deniliquin is one of the most picturesque among the famous courses which stretch along the mighty Murray River and its tributaries. We invite you to enjoy the beauty of our course, just like the kangaroos, kookaburras, Superb Parrots, echidna, goannas, lizards, pelicans and a host of other wildlife that abounds in this paradise of nature You may also enjoy the friendly country hospitality in our clubhouse Check our website www.denigolf.com.au for golf events, opening hours and other information Memorial Dr, Deniliquin • Ph: 03 5881 1325 • Fax: 03 5881 1159 • Pro Shop (03) 5881 3333 E: denigolf@bigpond.net.au • www.denigolflcub.com

2 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Deniliquin’s shared history When does history begin?

As we recognise the 175 years of European history in Deniliquin we pause to remember that Deniliquin lies within the traditional lands of the Wamba Wamba and Perrepa Perrepa First Nation’s peoples of Australia with a history extending back thousands of generations.

Deniliquin lies in the mid Murray zone which was one of the most densely occupied parts of the country and Deniliquin itself was an important resource area that

supported many families and an extensive trade system linking to communities throughout Australia.

A shared history is one filled with many stories both good and bad, with times of conflict and times of working together.

Government polices led to the destruction and break up of many Aboriginal families, however we recognise the resilience of local Aboriginal families who continue to find ways to live in, and

contribute to the social and economic life of Deniliquin.

Good examples of these are the Deniliquin Local Aboriginal Land Council formed in 1983 and Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre formed in 2003.

In other times members of the Aboriginal community contributed in the development of the area working on farms, in forestry and water management systems, working the pastoral industry, working in our health and education services and natural re-

source management systems as well as building the infrastructure of the town.

Deniliquin was named after a significant member of the local community who was also featured on the Council’s Coat of Arms, a recognition that indicates the identity and the 175-year history of Deniliquin township has always been, and continues to be a shared history.

■ Contributed by Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre Aboriginal Corporation in Deniliquin.

Established 1933 Electrical Appliance Repairs, Contracting & Air Conditioning

Deniliquin Rams Football & Netball Club has a long, proud history littered with success dating back to its formation in 1933.

The club proudly boasts 17 senior footy flags and eight A grade netball flags but more importantly has played a significant part in the lives of so many local people in its 84-year history.

Family owned for 40 years and proud to be part of Deniliquin for this memorable milestone

In 2017, the club was home to more than 160 footballers and netballers – from junior grades through to senior ranks – and equally as many nonplaying members, life members and sponsors.

Congratulations Deniliquin on reaching 175 years.

The Deniliquin Rams are proud to have been such an integral part of the town’s social fabric for many of those years and looks forward to continuing this important role for many more years to come.

EVERY HEART

BEATS TRUE FOR THE GOLD AND THE BLUE

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Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 3

Early Deniliquin and its history The following article, explaining the settlement and early development of Deniliquin, is reproduced from the Heritage 150 publication which celebrated the town’s sesquicentenary in 1992. he history of Deniliquin district begins in 1842, when in that year Augustus Morris, who later represented the district in the Legislative Assembly, examined the country, then wholly unexplored, from Brookong to Urana and thence the Billabong to Conargo.

In September 1842 he discovered the country on the Edward River which was previously thought to be a mere lagoon of the Murray and traced it down to its junction with the Wakool, to which stream he gave its native name. Morris also named Moulamein, Nyrong and Deniliquin.

Benjamin Boyd, for whom Morris was working, approved of forming a head station at Deniliquin. Boyd, who flashed across the pages of our history like a meteor, met an untimely end at Guadalcanar in the Solomons, and is one of the most colourful figures in our brief annals.

He was one of the first to employ South Sea islanders, some of whom were sent to Deniliquin and engaged to act as shepherd or hutkeepers at sixpence per week, with a new shirt and Kilmarnock cap every year. A very short trial proved their unfitness for pastoral life.

Up to the year 1848 the far flung pastoral areas of south-western New South Wales were practically a terra incognita. The Government then decided, in view of the great expansion of the pastoral industry then in progress, to survey these lands and to reserve sites for towns and villages.

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Surveyor Townsend here in 1848 On March 6, 1848, Surveyor Townsend was instructed to report on the ‘‘propriety’’ of reserving land for the township at Deniliquin.

Replying on April 17, Townsend said he was not sufficiently acquainted with the country between the Murray and Edward Rivers to give a decided answer on the point but soon hoped to be able to do so.

It seems that an application for permission ‘‘to occupy a small spot of ground at the place called Deniliquin’’ had been made by a Doctor Coward who wished to erect a hospital there.

Reporting on this matter on May 30, 1848, Surveyor Townsend wrote: ‘‘I have not met with any spot so central or desirable as a site for a town as the place in question (Deniliquin, J. J.) for the capital of the southwestern portion of the Murrumbidgee district. It being at the best crossing place on the Edward River a few miles above the spot where the Wakool bursts from the Edward and having the advantage of having high banks on both sides, the river can be approached during the highest floods and a good road free from all creeks on the south side leading to Melbourne across the Murray at Maidens Ferry . . . ‘‘The ground in the neighbourhood is

■ The township of Deniliquin began on the sandhills on the northern bank of the ‘best crossing place’ on the Edward River.

Benjamin Boyd’s employees set up the Wanderer Inn in 1847. It was the first building in Deniliquin. Photo courtesy ‘Our Heritage’. generally a good, sandy loam with a little alluvial deposit on the river banks. The supply of water is good and permanent, being on a constantly running stream. There are already in the neighbourhood a public store, a public post office, an inn, a blacksmith’s shop, a lock-up (Government building) and several mechanics of different classes located there, many of whom are anxious to obtain land there, who have also made urgent applications to me to lay out some allotments and I have no doubt a few town and suburban allotments would sell immediately. I submit that this should be made one of the largest reserves taking the lock-up as the centre.’’

Deniliquin’s first allotments laid In June 1848, Townsend was informed that Surveyor Parkinson, acting under the former’s instructions, was to lay out a town at Deniliquin.

Townsend reported on July 12 that he had laid out some allotments for sale and awaited the Surveyor-General’s instruction on this point prior to telling Parkinson how to proceed. The Colonial Secretary informed the Surveyor-General on August 12, 1848, that the Governor had approved of bringing forward for sale allotments at Deniliquin.

It seems that Ben Boyd objected to the layout proposed at Deniliquin, but Townsend was instructed that, in laying out reserves, it was his duty to ‘‘guard no other interests than those of the public’’.

Surveyor Parkinson was at Deniliquin in October 1848, and reported that the inhabitants were anxious to see the allotments put up for sale and said there was every probability of a spirited competition.

Parkinson requested that suburban lots numbered 1 to 6 should be offered at auction.

A hitch occurs At this stage it seems a hitch occurred in the plans to survey the town. E. J. Bloxham had written to the Government complaining about the site chosen. Bloxham alleged that the ground on the north bank was better adapted for building than that on the south side, but Townsend said there was a range of sand hillocks on the north which were too soft to admit of heavy buildings being erected on them.

However Townsend reported that Bloxham had one brother who kept an inn on the north side of the Edward, and another brother who had a store, and this fact probably caused him to favour the north side.

To next page

Con ngratullations Den niliquin on rea aching g 175 yearrs – a truly sen nsation nal achieeveement!

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4 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Deni’s early history From previous page eplying to an enquiry by the Surveyor-General concerning the native name of the Edward, Townsend wrote ‘‘I do myself the honour to state it is Kyallite’’.

On September 9, 1849, the SurveyorGeneral sent a design ‘‘for Deniliquin on the Kyallite River, commonly called the Edward and on the road from the interior to Melbourne’’. The letter stated that the design covered a much greater extent of ground than was usually included in similar plans; this seemed necessary from the peculiarities of the topography and in fact comprised a site for two towns. ‘‘I have every reason,’’ wrote the Surveyor-General, ‘‘to suppose that Deniliquin may become a large town.’’ However the Governor did not hold the same views and the plan was returned with instructions to reduce the size of the proposed town.

Finally, on September 4, 1848, the Surveyor-General was informed that His Excellency and the council had approved of the amended plan of Deniliquin. This marked the last stage of the process by which Deniliquin became a Government township.

Church History In October, 1856, Rev. Edward Singe, a chaplain appointed by the Bishop of Sydney to tour the country in order to organise the work of the Church of England, visited Deniliquin and reported he had collected £190 to build a parsonage there. It was decided to erect the building at once for the clergymen who would be appointed for the district.

The foundation stone of Christ Church was laid on November 9, 1858, and the Rev. R Barker had charge at that stage of Deniliquin, Moama and Moulamein. The building does not appear to have been

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completed until 1861 and was consecrated on October 16 of that year.

Within a few days a storm destroyed it.

Steps were at once taken to collect funds for a new church. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that ‘‘St. Paul’s Deniliquin was opened for worship on Sunday, November 25, 1866.’’

A Roman Catholic Church was opened on December 16, 1876, and a Presbyterian Church on December 2, 1877.

Schools An Anglican denominational school was established in 1856 and steps were taken in 1861 to establish a National School. The Southern Courier of May 24, 1961 reported that the patrons had applied for five acres at the back of Alexanders shores. In September 1861, a tender was accepted for a school building to cost £922 and work started on it the following month.

Mr and Mrs Johnston were selected by the National Board to take charge of the school when it was decided to open the school in a temporary building. The new school house was opened in April 1862.

Development of the town It was reported in August 1860 that new houses were being erected between the dispensary and the Masonic Hall. A newspaper wrote: ‘‘In a short time we may expect to see nearly all the vacancies in the line of the principal street in the township occupied either by shops or dwelling houses.’’

In 1860 the Deniliquin Bridge Company, with a capital of £6000, was formed. It was pointed out that in the previous year 46 cattle, 102,500 sheep and 1150 horses had passed through Deniliquin.

It was decided to erect a temporary bridge six feet wide to cost £600. This structure was opened in 1861.

Town lots were sold in 1856 and the next sale was held in May 1860, when 14 lots in

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■ Taylor’s Cottage, which stood on the corner of Poictiers and Wellington Sts, was the home of John Taylor and his extensive family from 1857. He was a big influence in the town’s early growth. Photo courtesy ‘Our Heritage’.

South Deniliquin and seven in North Deniliquin were sold.

A new hotel - the New Royal - was erected in 1861 for G. M. J. Taylor.

The Murray Stage Company’s line of coaches from Sandhurst to Deniliquin came into operation in 1862 and charged £2 for the trip. Earlier a coach ran to Melbourne.

The ‘Flying Cob’ Legend A traveller in 1866 referred to that famous legend about the ‘Flying Cob’. He wrote thus: ‘‘But the famous Old Man Plain between Deniliquin and Hay, must be to any bushman a wild and dreary solitude. For the first 30 miles there is bush, but the moment you leave Wanganella, a little township, consisting of two hotels and a store, until you reach the river timber, there is nothing but solitude. The grimness of the plain culminates at the Black Swamp, the supposed resort of the ‘Flying Cob’, the ghost of a mysterious horse and his rider, who love, it is said, to haunt those parts of a night, to the terror of travellers.’’

Cobb and Co’s coaches were running to Deniliquin in 1865, where they arrived at 9pm. In that year, it was said the bulk of the population lived in South Deniliquin, where all business was transacted and where the post office, stores and hotels were situated.

Large numbers of stock passed through Deniliquin in the 1860s. In one week, 13,000 sheep and 4000 cattle crossed the Edward.

Deniliquin stock report was a feature of the news in the Sydney papers.

In February 1876, a meeting was held at Deniliquin to take steps for the promotion of a railway to Echuca. However, the move seems to have been premature and it was not until 1875 that the Deniliquin and Moama railway project was fairly floated.

The new line was opened on July 4, 1876, and its opening was responsible for the rapid development in the town. Many new buildings were erected in 1876, including three hotels.

Trade was reported to be brisk and that

businessmen were crossing the border, to take up residence in Deniliquin. A wealthy firm of drapers rented premises in Napier Street at a rental of £4/10/ per week.

The Town Hall was built in 1876.

Name of the Town A news item in 1872 said the Aboriginal name was Denilicoon, meaning the ‘Wrestler’s Ground’. Denilicoon was the name of a chief who was a great wrestler. He was a giant six feet seven inches high.

G. Elliot, of Sandhurst, erected a flour mill in 1872; he already owned a brewery, the Riverine Brewery, the largest of any in the country districts.

Houses were scarce in 1875. A news item said that the happy owner of a quarter acre lot, who put up a couple of weatherboard shanties, could obtain £50 or £60 in rent per annum. Later in the year there was not a house to let in the town.

The A.J.S. Bank was completed in 1875. In the following year the London Chartered Bank was erected. A branch of the Union Bank was opened in February 1876.

In the following year, improvements were reported as being made. Buildings were continually going on. New hotels were being built and private residences were being erected wherever land was available.

A volunteer fire brigade was organised in July, 1878. The engine was first used at a fire in October of that year.

The tender of McBride and Robertson was accepted in 1879 for erection of portion of a new school.

It was reported in 1882 that movement had begun to have the Government buildings removed to the south side of the river where the hotels and business houses were situated.

In 1882 the town was reticulated for a water supply and the water was available early in 1883. At a special meeting of the council in 1886 the mayor was empowered to contract with J. Hutchinson for a supply of gas.

Many changes have occurred in the town’s history since 1886 but it is not the purpose of this article to discuss them.

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■ James Tyson bought much of Ben Boyd’s ‘Deniliquin Run’ in 1856 and built the stables, central part of the homestead and the barracks. The Landale family bought the property, now ‘Mundiwa’, in 1861. Photo courtesy ‘Our Heritage’.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 5

David Griffith Jones . . .

Community leader in town’s early years David Griffith Jones has been described as Deniliquin’s greatest mentor. This article outlining his contribution to the community was written by prominent historian Jack Bushby and published in 1983. he man who, by 1859, had introduced into Deniliquin the first school, hospital, electric telegraph and newspaper, came to Deniliquin from the Ballarat goldfields in 1854.

Dr David Griffith Jones MD, although a medical practitioner, seemed to spend little time practising his profession, but was very active in promoting the welfare of Deniliquin.

In those days the town was known as the Sand Hills, taking the name from the lengthy sand ridge along the north bank of the Edward River.

Jones reached Sydney from Wales in 1848 as surgeon on an immigrant ship. He commenced practice at Twofold Bay but soon engaged in commerce.

He engaged in shipping stock to New Zealand but was bankrupted in 1851.

He attended anti-transportation rallies in Sydney and next appeared at Bendigo as president of the Anti Gold Licence Society, which won a reduction in the licence fee in 1851.

From the time of his arrival in Deniliquin in 1854 he acted as a correspondent for Melbourne and Sydney newspapers.

His intervention in the Calf-Pen affair at the rear of the Highlander Inn was instrumental in getting a Police Magistrate resident in Deniliquin in 1856. This was John Kelly.

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On May 26, 1859 Jones brought out the first issue of the Deniliquin Pastoral Times.

For this purpose he had hired a journalist named Strode, who had printed the first provincial newspaper on the mainland, ‘The Hunter River Gazette’.

Having successfully got his news sheet established Jones sold his medical practice to Mr Weston, Surgeon and Accouchier, who had been in charge of Deniliquin Hospital prior to the arrival of Dr A.W.F. Noyes in May 1859.

Mr Weston then left for Hay but returned to Deniliquin in 1863, when he was reported to have “established a Sanitary Retreat, delightfully situated on the banks of the River Edward, where it commands extensive grounds for exercise and recreation, and is admirably adapted for the purpose’’.

The site of this halcyon spot is not known today.

As was the custom in those days the squatters around Deniliquin, in March 1860, prepared a testimonial and presented Jones with a cheque for 300 pounds on his retirement from the media.

Jones did not leave Deniliquin but, on the departure of Strode from the newspaper, again took charge and later instituted a second news sheet called the ‘Riverina Adviser’, this in lieu of turning the Pastoral Times into a bi-weekly.

This paper was delivered at 2/6 per quarter and advertising cost 1/- for three lines or under.

‘The Lancet’ of October 30, 1869 carried a notice that Dr D.G. Jones was deregistered “for having been convicted of a misdemeanour”.

In his effort to set up a public school in Deniliquin Jones received little assistance and contributed amounts of money from his own pocket to get projects off the ground.

Among these were: for the school 15 pounds 7/6; for action regarding navigation of the Edward River, 12 pounds; memorial for District Court, 40 pounds; agitation

James Tyson became nation’s wealthiest man ames Tyson, owner of the Deniliquin Run in the 1850s, was acknowledged as the wealthiest man in Australia.

James was born at Appin, 10 miles south of Campbelltown on July 8, 1819.

He was sixth in a family of five boys and four girls. In 1814 his father, William, was appointed constable and pound-keeper, but was dismissed in 1816 for overcharging.

His mother, Isabella (nee Coates), four years William’s junior, was born at Newcastle-on-Tyne in 1786.

She was convicted at West Riding Assizes in Yorkshire on April 25, 1808 of an offence against the law and was sentenced to seven years’ transportation to New South Wales.

James Tyson was 17 years of age and six feet four inches in height when he left home in 1836.

He first worked for Vine Bros. at Bowral for 30 pounds per year. Here he saved 60 pounds.

Tyson decided to become a squatter on the Lower Murrumbidgee and formed Towong station, near Gunamble.

Leaving his brother William in charge of the station, James left for Burragorang to buy more cattle.

On this trip James took with him one shilling for expenses but returned with the shilling.

In 1846 the Tysons moved to Geramy on the Murrumbidgee without right or title.

This run was described in 1848 as of 22,400 acres belonging to Tyson Bros.

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When gold was found at Bendigo Tyson realised that money was not in the digging for gold but selling meat to the diggers. This was the real beginning of the Tyson fortune.

The Tysons lost Geramy on a ballot and the partnership broke up.

In 1856 he purchased the Deniliquin run from Benjamin Boyd, splitting it up into South, Upper and Lower Deniliquin, Derulaman, Murray, Tuppal and Conargo.

South Deniliquin with 833 cattle cost him 6732 pounds, and Conargo, unstocked, 800 pounds.

In 1860 he shore 80,000 sheep average weight 31⁄2Ibs at 2/-lb, which was 280,000lbs of wool with a total value of 28,000 pounds.

In 1862 Upper, Lower and South Deniliquin were transferred to Landale Bros. for 90,000 pounds.

Tyson then proceeded to the Lachlan but was still listed in the electoral roll at Deniliquin until 1864.

Upper Deniliquin run (now Mundiwa) comprised of 105,964 acres with 30,375 sheep, brick house of eight rooms, tank at back of the run where 20,000 sheep were watered, nine shepherd’s huts, 1662 acres of purchased land.

Lower Deniliquin (between Upper Deniliquin and Morago) comprised 92,560 acres, 22,881 sheep, two cottages.

South Deniliquin (between Warbreccan and Edward River) was 23,473 acres, four shepherd’s huts, 8,041 sheep.

against Cowper’s Land Bill, 117 pounds 5/6.

Against this Henry Lewes (Moira) contributed 10 pounds, McLaurin Bros (Moroco) 5 pounds and Charles Edward (storekeeper) 1 pound. Up until the time of his death nothing further was given to liquidate this debt incurred on behalf of the district.

Realising the necessity for a rail link with Victoria, Jones was active for many years to bring this about.

On the opening of the rail link between Echuca and Deniliquin on July 3, 1876 speakers gave credit to Jones for being the moving force to bring the rail link into being.

In 1876 Jones became ill and went to Sydney for treatment. He died at Arnott House, Wynyard Square, Sydney, on December 26, 1876 after two surgical operations and was buried in the Burwood Cemetery.

In August 1877 a presentation was made to his widow, Mrs Caroline Lavina Fitz Jones, of 500 pounds.

Elizabeth, the only daughter of Mr and Mrs Jones, was married to the Rev. Charles Jones of Crookwell, at St Kilda House, Wooloomooloo.

Rev. Jones was the first Methodist minister at the newly-built Methodist Church in Cressy Street.

The death occurred of Mrs Caroline Jones in January 1880 at the age of 60 from

■ David Griffith Jones pneumonia. Her father was Richard Hetherington (captain), and her mother Mary Bell.

She was born in England and married D.G. Jones at the age of 17 years. She had lived in Australia 29 years. Her children were one living, two females deceased.

Rev. Charles Jones lived to the age of 80 years and died on February 21, 1925. He left four sons and one daughter.

Dr David Griffith Jones, whose name and work have been forgotten over the years, is credited with the following: 1856, brought the first Magistrate to Deniliquin and set up the first school; 1858, instituted the first hospital; 1859, the first electric telegraph and the first newspaper; 1864 set up the School of Arts; 1868, his efforts brought about the Municipality of Deniliquin; 1876, the Deniliquin and Moama railway.

Some day, maybe, we will see a suitable memorial in Deniliquin to honor the memory of this remarkable man.

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6 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

The early pioneers A prominent contributor to the Deniliquin Pastoral Times in the late 1800s used the pseudonym ‘The Bohemian’, and his writings have provided valuable insight into the region’s history. This article on our early pioneers by ‘The Bohemian’ was published by the PT in 1882. raditionary information is about all that is left to us of the early settlement of this district, but there are yet those living amongst us whom time has dealt gently with, and whose memories are sufficiently accurate to narrate with pleasure the trying incidents, the exciting events, and the indomitable energy which characterised the lives of the early pioneers in Riverina.

In these days of railways and electric telegraphs we annihilate time and space, and undertake a journey of several hundreds or even several thousands of miles with as little preparation or as little consideration as if it were an undertaking of daily occurrence, but, in the times to which I am about to refer, a journey from, or to Sydney, or Melbourne, was an event which entailed weeks of thought, grave consideration and elaborate anticipation before a start was made.

It was no matter of a few days or a few weeks, but it was an event which would involve the loss of months of valuable time, and the expenditure of untold labour, anxiety and bodily fatigue.

The man who traversed the solitudes between Sydney or Melbourne and what is now known as the Deniliquin district was a hero in his way, and the pioneers who originally settled the plains of this southern portion of Riverina were of the stuff of which heroes are made.

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Settlement had been effected at Albury and adjacent to it as far back as 1836, but the Edwards and its territories and tributaries were unknown for several years subsequently.

As it is of the Deniliquin district to which I mean more particularly to refer I will only briefly dwell upon the circumstances which led up to its first settlement in 1842 and merely state that this contribution will take the reader down to incidents which occurred in 1844.

On the 17th of November 1824 the two great explorers Hamilton Hume and Hovell reached the Murray at Albury.

The trip was one of unparalleled magnitude in those early colonial days, and it was accomplished by feats of physical endurance and suffering such as never were recorded.

On the broad banks of the Murray they made their camp and upon a tree near the river was inscribed the words HOVELL 17th Nov., /24. When the tree was discovered by the next visitors about twelve years afterwards the bark had nearly grown over the inscription, but it was again removed, and in later years the tree was fenced and otherwise protected from the ravages which are consequent on population and settlement.

It is long since dead but is still preserved as a memorial of the struggles of those to whom the discovery of the vast plains of Riverina, and the broad basin of the Murray are accredited.

Lumbars Transport has been servicing Deniliquin’s freight needs since Victa Lumbar moved to Deniliquin with his AA160 Inter and 28-foot trailer in 1961.

Victa’s sons Frank, Stan and Eddie remain involved in the family business to this day.

Frank, Stan and Eddie Lumbar accepting their dad Victa’s posthumous induction into the Deniliquin & District Transport Industry Wall of Fame in 2017.

The Lumbar family is proud of its long association with the Deniliquin community and looks forward to providing its reliable freight business for many more years to come.

Happy 175th birthday Deni!

General Carriers Australia Wide 1 Wakool Road, Deniliquin Ph: (03) 5881 4800

■ Benjamin Boyd Not far from it is a handsome monument erected to the memory of Hume who was nominally the leader of the expedition.

This latter circumstance, however, is a modern occurrence. Twelve years after Hume and Hovell reached the Murray the settlement of the territory adjacent to it was commenced - Bonegilla was one of the first stations formed.

In 1836 the Hon. C.H. Ebden, afterwards a Victorian member of Parliament and a Minister of the Crown took up Bonegilla and stocked it.

Not long afterwards Bungowannah, on the now New South Wales side of the river was settled upon by Mr John Dight.

Other stations were taken up in the vicinity, but as I only intend to follow up those which led on to the down river settlement, and resulting in the stocking of the Deniliquin district, I will only refer to those on the frontages in their turn.

Old William Lester tailed on at Morebringer near where the township of Howlong is now situated. Then the Hylands occupied Quat Quatta and in about 1840 or 1841 Mr Robert Brown shifted down to what is now known as Collindina between Corowa and Mulwala.

Station properties in those days were far different to what they are now. In these later dates a man is satisfied with any available large area and trusts to capital to remove any natural obstacles which may have to be overcome, but in those times a frontage to the river was indispensable.

And people were not then satisfied with a small frontage either. Collindina was for a time the lowest station on the Murray and was at the same time, one of the largest. It included what are now known as Sandy Ridgers, Bull Plain, the Cow Pastures and Sangars Mistake.

All of these latter are now considered fair sized stations, and all were subdivided from the Collindina of 1841. As regards the back blocks, that is the opposite boundary of the station from the river, no one even gave them a second thought.

They were useless appendages to the frontage and while the frontage was held, the proprietor was monarch of all he surveyed at the back even if it extended to the coast of Western Australia, fifteen hundred miles.

Caramia was then occupied by John Hore afterwards of Cumberoona higher up the river. Mulwala was settled by Mr George Hillas who, however, took his headquarters at Barooga.

At Mulwala he left a stockrider named Hanly in charge. Boomanoomana was appropriated by the Gwynne brothers about a year after Mr Robert Brown settled on Collindina. The old homestead was situated higher up the river than where that of the Messrs Hay now stands.

It was built upon some sand hills near the river and was periodically subjected to innudation, and its owners were compelled,

some years afterwards, to shift further back from the submerged country and put up with the difficulties of an occasional trip to the permanent water of the river for the house supply.

The settlement of Barooga by Mr George Hillas who had previously occupied Mulwala, followed. His principal manager was a man well known as Mickey the Peeler.

The Wooperana and Belubla of today remained unsettled for a considerable period after this, and then, in the latter part of 1842 and the great rush for land, which resulted in the settlement of the whole of what was afterwards known as the Deniliquin District commenced.

The Royal Bank of Scotland led the way and obtained a considerable slice of territory. Their manager, Mr Benjamin Boyd, had an insatiable attack, even in that early period, of earth hunger, and was not satisfied with less than what would comprise several English counties.

Nowadays we think we are well off if we can afford two acres to a sheep, and five or six for a bullock, but in those days the allotment was about fifty acres for a sheep and three hundred for a bullock.

Belonging as he did to a wealthy corporation Mr Boyd’s aspirations were proportionately extensive and at the outset he acquired the area from a point about midway from where Mr T. Brown’s Tuppal homestead now stands, and the present township of Tocumwal down to and including all the country adjacent to the Edward River to the boundary of Warbreccan which was subsequently occupied.

On the other side it extended to Moira, and on to the Murray by its northern boundary. The run included over a thousand square miles of territory.

It was heavily stocked - for these early days - and at the outside one thousand head of cattle might have been counted browsing on its fertile plains.

Almost coincident with this period, Warbreccan, Moira, North Deniliquin, Wakool Perricoota, and the Slaughter House were settled upon. Mr Henry Sayer Lewes took up Moira in 1842.

His manager Mr John O. Atkinson now of the Globe Hotel, Deniliquin, followed in 1843. Mr Lewes had been previously a resident near Berrima and was in partnership with Mr Throsby of Throsby Park, remarkable then and afterwards for the ‘intelligence’ and obesity of its pigs. But it was not until 1843 that any particular effort was made to stock the area. The country was not at all prepossessing.

Neither in these forests, nor on the plains, and more particularly on the latter, was there a blade of grass to be seen.

The whole country was overrun with cotton bush, salt bush, and pig faces, to the exclusion of grass and to the chagrin of the settlers.

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Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 7

of the Riverina From previous page n towards the river a little grass could be obtained, but once on the plains the red or black coloured verdure, according to the season, stretched its monotonous panorama before them. The country so clothed was at first considered useless for anything, but the cattle gradually took to it and at last saltbush and pig face were eagerly looked for and devoured.

As it was continuously eaten off it was gradually supplainted by grass as now seen, but it was years before the aspect of the country changed, and the new era instituted.

Sheep did not thrive anywhere except on the frontages and immediately adjacent to the river flats, but as the new feed took the place of the original pastures it was found that they became available for sheep and hence with the change of the character of the herbage followed the alteration of the class of stock depastured upon it.

When the Company’s station, as the Royal Bank property was called, and Moira were first settled in 1842, it was apparent to the first over-landers that the country was only just recovering from an appalling and unparalleled drought.

The lagoons were full adjacent to the Murray and down the Edward, but it was clear that a few months previously such had not been the case. The country was strewn with the carcases of kangaroos, dingoes and emus, and the lagoons were overgrown with saplings up to six inches in diameter and 12 or 15 feet in height.

This was the situation as first viewed by the early settlers and as the saplings in the lagoons died off in a few years through the surfeit of water with which they were surrounded, it was only a natural interference that the lagoons had been empty for years before they had attained the size and elevation witnessed when first viewed by the early visitors.

And the logical deduction to be drawn from the emptiness of the lagoons was that a terrible drought, which must have extended over ten years had only ended the season before the first settlers came into the Deniliquin district.

There are yet those living who went through the vicissitudes of 1842 with the early pioneers of the district, and they conclude from their subsequent experience of the locality that it would take five years of the worst drought ever since seen to dry up the lagoons as they must have been before the trees commenced to grow and five years for them to attain the dimensions apparent when first seen by the settlers in the midst of the great lagoons.

To the present day the stumps of the saplings which, in 1842, were green in the midst of the waters, are to be seen in several of the lagoons at Moira, and in one or two on the Edward not far from Deniliquin.

They bear silent evidence of a wonderful visitation, the disastrous nature of which can only be imagined.

Another singular circumstance which struck the early settlers was the fact that there were odd members of the black tribes - with whom, together with the dingoes and kangaroos, the country was overrun - who could speak fairly good English.

The geographical situation of Deniliquin district and the nomenclature of the country outside the visiting lines of the individual settler were unknown quantities.

They knew they were upon terra firma and that they were under the sun, and they had a vague idea that Sydney was somewhere about a thousand miles away from them and that it would take about three months to accomplish a journey to that city, but beyond that rudimentary acquaintance with their where-abouts they knew comparatively little.

Inquiries from the originals who could speak English, and who could acquit themselves of the more modern accomplishment of singing a psalm, elicited the fact that they came from the Black Protectors station or some out of the way place in Port Phillip within the areas occupied by their chief Nooroongal-Dirri, and which subsequently was found to be somewhere on the Goulburn near Seymour, and that they had benefited to the extent of rudimentary English, cheap feeds and the blessings of the Gospel.

They were even then ready to sing ‘Oh be joyful’ for a bit of tobacco, and to spear a bullock in the same breath. They were a continual source of dread to the settlers, and as they were in very great numbers, thousands of them in fact, the losses in cattle

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and sheep through their depredations were very great.

The frontage of Perricoota which was taken up shortly after Mr Lewes and Mr Boyd came to Moira and Deniliquin respectively was under charge of Mr James Maiden who managed for his relative Mr Clarke, who then occupied a station on the Goulburn near Seymour.

It was then that the most disastrous losses from the depredations of the blacks were sustained, and it was through these losses that Perricoota received its first name - the Slaughter House.

By this time the Gwynnes from Boomanoomana had taken up Barratta and Werai, Wills, a relation of the ill-fated Wills of the Burke and Wills expedition of long afterwards, and who himself was only killed by the blacks in Queensland about ten years ago, formed Morago, the Royal Bank took what is now known as Chah Sing, but which was then known by another name, which I cannot recollect, and they also had Chowar.

Green, who had an interest in the Slaughter House, shifted out back and took up the Port Hole and Barham, and Hogg came in below Warbreccan on the south side of the river, and acquired possession from the Warbreccan boundary down to Thule.

The Bloxhams then settled on Paradise, and Barber, afterwards of Gundowirig on the Upper Murray, and who only died a few months ago at Beechworth, settled on Aratula at a point known afterwards as the Police Barracks, and not far from where Moroco, which was under the management of John Howe a brother of Ephraim Howe, who died a few years ago at Corowa, where he occupied the position of Inspector of Stock, and Charles Cropper took up Cornella, which he subsequently abandoned and offered as a present to a gentleman now a resident of Deniliquin, but it was refused ■ August Morris was Ben Boyd’s overseer in 1844 and later Royal Commissioner on as a useless piece of property, and was only the Land Laws. likely to entail inconvenience and loss in looking after it! Think of that! Cornella as a present and refused! Tempora mutantur et nos mutamur in illis.

YEARS Times are indeed changed, and the Bohemian would like to have the offer made now. He would under-take to say that the offer will not be received with a negative but with a joyful jumping and jubilant affirmative, including a bronze statue to the donor and a further recommendation for a niche in Westminster Abbey.

Jarapna was the next station to Cornella I forget who owned it and then Huon and Lester, who took up a little run between Jarapna and Tocumwal, and went back disgusted with their want of success to their upper river properties, filled in all the available area on the frontage between the Dairy Station at Corowa now Bricklesley, and Perricoota.

Thule and Paradise were about the only sheep stations in the district at that time; the few cattle kept on the runs were herded adjacent to the home stations for protection.

If they were once allowed to stray far away Lester and Carolyn Wheatley started Deniliquin real estate agency LM Wheatley & they were very frequently butchered by the blacks, whom, in their turn, were not Associates in 1977, and in the early 1980s they moved the business into its current infrequently butchered by the whites in Cressy St premises. In 1983 they became foundation members of the First National retaliation.

Group, changing to LM Wheatley First National Real Estate. In 2000, Lester and As time wore on additional stock were Carolyn formed a partnership with Elders VP Real Estate, and the business was later imported, and the herds of the settlers renamed Elders Residential Real Estate. distributed over their areas. Watchboxes were frequently constructed and they In October 2015, Hamish and Jane Thomson acquired the business and now Hamish supplanted the rude mia mias which had and Lester partner in managing the business under the Elders banner along with key previously given the precarious shelter to staff Christine McMahon, Sue Pitts, Lauren Middlemiss and Jane Thomson. the hardy stockmen who were in the employ of the various owners.

The team at Elders Residential are passionate in their support of the local The homesteads were grand old affairs. community and are proud to play a leading role in Deniliquin’s property market, There was no sawn timber to be had, of course, and the man who could skilfully use offering professional sales and property management services. the old fashioned broad axe was quite a hero Lester and Carolyn, and Hamish and Jane would like to thank the community for its in his way amongst his fellows. Generally speaking however, the homestead in 1843 continued support of Deniliquin’s longest-serving real estate business. had not emerged from the style of primitive simplicity which characterised the ‘mansions’ of the early pioneers.

A few sheets of bark leaning angle ways against a ridgepole supported by a fore and aft posts, comprised the building materials, and for furniture a block of wood sawn off the end of a log was an excellent substitute for an easy chair, while a three legged stool was a luxury which only a few possessed and all coveted.

The ornamentations of these dwellings were of a practical character, and almost invariably consisted of half a sheep or a portion of a bullock hung from a projecting portion of the ridge pole, a ‘coolamein’ stripped from the crooked elbow of a neighbouring tree and kept as a mild 173 Cressy St Deniliquin 03 5881 1000 eldersdeniliquin.com.au receptacle.

Real Estate

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Leaders in Real Estate

8 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Best crossing place John E. P. ‘Jack’ Bushby (1909-1989) was involved with newspapers in Deniliquin for more than 50 years, mostly with the Pastoral Times. He was a foundation member of Deniliquin Historical Society and its president from 1965-1981. In this article, Bushby summarises the early years of Deniliquin - ‘The Best Crossing Place’. he story of Deniliquin began on January 3, 1841, when the Edward River was discovered by John Webster and James McLaurin.

They named the river for their employer, Edward Howe. In 1842 Benjamin Boyd arrived in Australia as the representative of the Royal Bank.

In that same year he commissioned Augustus Morris, a 22 year-old station owner, to seek new country and extend the bank’s pastoral empire into the Riverina.

Morris, with two companions, Frederick Walker as guide, and Francis Gwynne, proceeded down the Billabong Creek to its junction with the Edward and then back along the Edward to its point of emergence from the Murray.

Gwynne, not yet 16 years old, was the billy-boy on this trip, but was shortly after to settle on Murgha Station and become one of Deniliquin’s most respected citizens.

Impressed with the fine range of sandhills along the northern bank of the Edward, Morris set up the head station of the ‘Denelequin’ run on the present site of the Mundiwa homestead, four miles upstream from the present town of Deniliquin.

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■ Jack Bushby As the Riverina had experienced several years of drought, Morris was influenced in the selection of the site by the presence of a deep water hole, perhaps the only one still holding water in this section of the otherwise dry river.

A tribe of aborigines was camped on a sandhill close by. For the Deniliquin run, Morris took up 700,000 acres, commencing from below the Murray and extending half way between the Billabong and Murrumbidgee.

Augustus Morris claimed he named Deniliquin after the ‘‘nomenclature of the blacks’’, whilst one of Boyd’s men later stated it was a corruption of the name of the chief of the local tribe.

The aborigines in this area were said to be

Congratulations on reaching 175 years Deniliquin.

We’re extremely proud to be a part of your community.

41 years proudly in Deniliquin

■ Ben Boyd’s boat, the Wanderer, after which the first hotel in Deniliquin was named.

Sketch courtesy Heritage 150.

of fine physique, their chief ‘Denilakoon’ being 6-foot 4-inches in height, and built like an ox.

Early settlers said he was always armed with a barbed spear and a nulla nulla, although he was equally adept with the boomerang, but this weapon was not favoured here on account of the thick timber that covered all but the saltbush country.

Boyd’s men were the first occupants on the banks of the Edward. It would be early 1843 before Boyd occupied the Deniliquin run.

He was followed soon after by Henry Lewes, who crossed the Edward near Mathoura and settled on the then ungrassed plains at Moira.

Lewes described the place as ‘‘good as any to settle upon’’. Following Lewes came the Gwynne brothers - Henry, Richard and Francis - who after some exploration, settled on Barratta and Werai.

Peter Stuckey came from Gundagai to take up the Mathoura run, and Phillips and Graves, coming down the northern bank of the Edward, crossed the river at Boyd’s station to settle about four miles below the future town at a place they called Warbreccan.

Phillips claimed theirs were the first wheels to cross the Edward.

With the Gwynnes came their manager, William McKenzie, who was to become one of Deniliquin’s most prominent citizens, and served as an Alderman over 20 years; he was mayor twice.

Boyd, Lewes, Stuckey, Gwynne and McKenzie were ‘‘the five to see Deniliquin before 1845’’.

In keeping with Boyd’s policy to found a township in the settlements he created, his men set up a building on a fine sandhill dominating the track to the safest crossing place on the river, this having been pointed out by ‘‘the blacks’’.

This inn they called the Wanderer, following Boyd’s wish to name his inns for his ships. The Wanderer was Boyd’s personal yacht and was the boat in which he came to Australia.

The names of Boyd and the Wanderer have been perpetuated in two streets in North Deniliquin, located near the site of the old Inn. The North Deniliquin School has been erected on the site of the old Wanderer Inn. Boyd’s nominee failed to pay the licence fee for the inn in 1847, and with Boyd’s empire now crumbling the licence was taken out in 1848 by Arthur Bloxham.

Close by on the same sandhill Bloxham’s brother Edward set up a store and smithy.

The Wanderer Inn was the only house in the future township until the arrival of Dr Coward, in 1847.

Coward set up his huts on the south side of the river, on the island formed by the junction of the Tarangie Creek with the Edward.

Traffic southward bound passed on either side of Coward’s island according to season; with the high river the punt operated nearby on the western side; whilst with a low river the ford was located a similar distance to the north.

‘The Sandhills’ became the best known and most used crossing place on the Edward.

To meet the demand of stock being taken to southern markets from the Lachlan districts James Maiden realised the need for a punt at this site.

Only a year before Maiden had established a punt across the Murray at a spot which became famous as ‘Maiden’s Punt’.

In the year 1847 he had floated this old punt from its site on the Murray and set it up on the Edward near to where Edwardes Street now meets the river.

From 1847 this punt was the only means of crossing a high Edward until the erection by subscription of a ‘free’ bridge across the river at the rear of the Wanderer Inn. The bridge, a narrow and low structure, was opened to the public in January, 1861. It was in turn supplanted by a government bridge placed at the end of Napier Street, and from this time the old ‘free’ bridge and the punt were never again used.

The new National Bridge was a toll bridge, and remained so until 1896 when the second National Bridge was opened alongside the original structure.

A petition by Dr Coward to the SurveyorGeneral caused Thomas Townsend to be sent to investigate the crossing places on the Edward. He was instructed to report whether the site named Deniliquin was in a position likely to be a leading thoroughfare; whether it possessed the requisite advantages as to cultivation, and permanent water; was it a convenient distance from other proposed reserves; and had it the facilities of communications to recommend it for consideration as a town?

In his reply, dated May 30, 1848, Townsend reported: ‘‘I have not met with any spot so central or desirable as a site for a town as the place in question for the capital of the Murrumbidgee District, it being the best crossing place on the Edward . . . .’’

On July 12, 1848, Boyd was informed that Surveyor Parkinson was employed in laying out a town in the neighbourhood of Deniliquin, and had selected a site with the town proper on the southern bank of the Edward.

Deniliquin was gazetted as a township on March 12, 1850, and the first land sales were held on September 3, 1851. In 1850 Henry Wyse set up a store near the punt on the south bank of the river. This was a tworoomed slab hut and was the first house in the South Deniliquin township.

Although an unofficial post office had been conducted on the North side, Wyse secured the first official post office for his store.

For the following five years a cow yard attached to the rear of Wyse’s store on the bank of the creek was used as a convenient ‘gaol’. The calf pen nearby contained a large log, to which drunks, thieves, forgers and murderers alike were chained for safekeeping. This eventually caused a scandal in government circles and was the direct cause of the appointment of a Police Magistrate (Mr John Kelly) to the Deniliquin Police District, and the erection of the first gaol in 1856.

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Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 9

on the Edward From previous page eniliquin was first proclaimed a place for a Court of Petty Sessions on December 22, 1846. Henry Lewes, of Moira Station, was appointed senior magistrate, whilst the other magistrates were Patrick Brougham, of Coree, and Thomas Carne, at Moulamein.

Through the shortage of resident magistrates in Deniliquin, the police headquarters were removed to Moulamein in 1847, and Thomas Carne took charge of the Deniliquin Police District.

Until the arrival of John Kelly, irregular sittings of the court took place at one or another of the four inns. With the building of the Court House police activities were transferred back to Deniliquin.

The first District Court was held in December, 1861. The old building was now falling into disrepair, so a new Court House was built in Cressy Street in 1862. A large brick gaol was erected at the rear of the new Court House in 1864. At times it housed 75 prisoners. Three hangings and one flogging were known to have taken place within its walls. This gaol was demolished in 1966.

The Pastoral Times was first published on May 26, 1859. This paper was founded by Dr D.G Jones, who had sold his medical practice to concentrate his energies on public affairs. He was prominent in the formation of the first school, the first hospital, the electric telegraph and the Deniliquin and Moama Railway Co. The Pastoral Times was first published in a building in Cressy Street. Later it was moved to George Street, then, in 1862, occupied new premises on the site of the Regent Theatre.

The first school was a rude slab hut and was set up about 1856, but closed soon after for the lack of a teacher. A second, and improved, school building of sawn timber was then set up by John Taylor of the Royal Hotel, who had daughters of school age to be educated. The death of his teacher, Mr Banfather, closed this school also.

On April 12, 1862, a National school was opened on the site of the George Street institution (now Peppin Heritage Centre). In that year 73 boys and 79 girls resided in the district.

Two churches - Christ Church and the Roman Catholic - occupied new buildings in 1859. The former, on the corner of George and Macauley Streets, was wrecked in a windstorm in October, 1861.

The Rev. Ralph Barker had set up preaching in the district in 1856, and was the first resident minister in the township. The Catholic Church was first set up on the corner of Charlotte and Russell Streets.

The name of Dr Coward, whose appeal for land to set up a hospital in Deniliquin,

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disappears from our history after this brief glimpse of notoriety. In 1856, Dr Jones invited an appeal for a hospital. He started to build this in that year, but the Hospital Board rejected his work, half completed, for the reason they preferred a brick building instead of one in wood.

Jones then moved the wooden building to a block he owned further down Charlotte Street, which was leased by the newly opened branch of the Bank of New South Wales in 1858.

By the time the hospital treated its first patient in 1858, Dr. Jones had sold his practice, and Dr T.C Morison became its first superintendent. This hospital was selective in its patients and apparently discriminated against the working man, for very shortly after it opened an agitation began to set up a second institution.

Strangely enough the squatters supported this second institution, Peter Stuckey, of Mathoura Station, subscribing £1000, backed with large amounts from other squatters.

In January, 1861, this second hospital was opened at North Deniliquin. Dr McGregor was its first surgeon, but after treating his patients in tents for nearly a year, he died four days before the new building was opened. His successor was Dr A.W.F Noyes, who was prominent in Deniliquin affairs to the turn of the century. On the two hospitals being amalgamated in 1861 Dr Noyes was placed in charge.

He built a residence in George Street, naming it for the place of his birth, Laverstock, Salisbury, England.

Coaching commenced from Deniliquin in 1858. At this time John Taylor was running an American coach to join up with Cobbs at Echuca. In February, 1862, Cobbs extended northward to Hay, and theirs was then the only direct line to Melbourne from that township.

The four hotels of Deniliquin’s early days were the Wanderer, set up on the Sandhills in 1847; the Highlander and the Royal in 1855, and the Faugh-a-Ballagh (later the Sportsmans Arms) in 1856.

The Wanderer was an institution in the days of the overlanders, famous from Carpentaria to Port Phillip. It successfully resisted opposition until Wyse’s old store was enlarged by John Grant McKenzie, who secured a licence under the name of The Highlander.

John Taylor, also a storekeeper in a tworoomed slab hut, then added to his building for which he obtained a licence in September, 1855. The first Royal was built on the site of the tap room of the Coach House Inn. John Edwards, in 1856, built a house described by a traveller as a typical English Inn, on the Sandhills. This he called the Faugh-a-Ballagh, but when this was later taken up by W.M Heriot, who was a ‘horsey’

■ An early photo of the eastern side of Napier St, Deniliquin, with the grocery store and drapery on the George St corner. Photo courtesy ‘Our Heritage’. man, the name was changed to the Sportsmans Arms.

In 1857 Captain Cadell explored the Edward River and pronounced it navigable, but it was July, 1860 before a river boat reached Deniliquin. On the morning of the 13th, two men, Johnston and Murphy, tied up the Moolegewanke at the rear of the school site, just below the punt. Cadell’s own boat, the Wakool, struck trouble in the race and arrived several hours later.

The Moolegewanke completed the course of the Edward to the Murray the following day - the only river boat to navigate the full course of the Edward. In later years the Pioneer, a local steamer owned by local sawmillers, carried timber from the Gulpa sawmills down to Deniliquin.

At the inception of the Municipality in 1868, there were eleven hotels in Deniliquin - eight in the South town, and three in the North.

Angela Walker

Rachael Pitt

Ashley Hall

Jesse Taylor

Jemma Kerr

Big River Real Estate is a proud independent agency that was established in Deniliquin 2005.

Its five dedicated staff offer Sale and Property Management Services, and the business is also a BIG local sponsor and supporter of the local community.

Big River Real Estate principal Angela Walker and her team would like to thank the local community for its support and recognise the celebration of Deniliquin’s 175 years.

03 5881 1755 Angela Walker 0438 634 273 ■ Deniliquin’s second gaol was erected in Edwardes St in 1864. The building was demolished in 1966. Photo courtesy ‘Our Heritage’.

www.bigrealestate.com.au

10 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Municipality’s foundations G. E. Shelton was the Deniliquin Council Town Clerk in 1968 when he wrote the following article outlining the foundations of the Municipality of Deniliquin.

In July, 1848, surveyor Thomas Townsend fixed the site for the future township on the stock crossing place on the Edward River.

The design and layout of the township was the work of surveyors Townsend and Parkinson in 1849. This was gazetted on March 12, 1850.

The survey of the first allotments was made in April 1851 with further measurements in November of that year.

The Municipality was gazetted as such on December 19, 1868.

The first Municipal election was held on February 23, 1869. Eighteen candidates contested the election and six were elected.

The first Mayor was James Watson and the first Council consisted of Ald. James Watson (Mayor), Ald. Warden Harry Graves, Ald. William McKenzie, Ald. John Taylor, Ald. Henry Matthewson and Ald. Laurence Robertson.

The first Council meeting took place on February 24, 1869. In that year there were 213 ratepayers and the total rates collected amounted to £452/6/3 from property valued at £104,703.

Applications were invited for the position of Town Clerk and 18 persons applied for the position. Mr John Waring was appointed as the first Town Clerk and Mr John McCulloch was appointed Valuer.

■ Deniliquin’s beautiful Waring Gardens were named in 1885 after the first Town Clerk John Waring, who was responsible for their creation from a troublesome swamp. Photo courtesy Heritage 150.

The first meeting of the Council was held in the Masonic Hall in Cressy Street.

The population of Deniliquin reached 1000 in the year 1871, and in the census of that year the figures were North Deniliquin 167 males and 97 females and South Deniliquin 498 males and 356 females. By 1881 the population had grown to 2506 but actually declined to 2500 over the next 10 years.

DRUITT EARTHWORKS Established in 1956, Rod Druitt built Druitt Earthworks into the trusted company it is today.

In 1997, Craig took over the business when Kh] k^mbk^] Zg] +)*- lZp <kZb` l lhg% Tom, become the 3rd generation in the family business In 2017 Druitt Earthworks proudly celebrated 61 years of local business • Civil Earthworks

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On March 18, 1881 the Council was increased to nine members.

The town was first reticulated for water in 1882 and the foundation stone of the red tower was laid on October 3 of that year.

Water was pumped directly into the mains, but the construction of the tower and the pumping station was delayed due to the engines being lost at sea in transit.

In 1871 the population of stock in the Municipal district was 2613 horses, 14,733 head of cattle, 956,000 sheep and 1336 pigs.

In 1871 tenders were invited for the delivery at ‘Deniliquin Jail’ of 10,000 feet of round timber of 9-inch diameter and 4-foot long to be cut into pavement blocks.

Religion was established in Deniliquin fairly early after the first settlements. A brick Church of England was completed on a site at the corner of George and Macauley Streets and the first services were held in it on Trinity Sunday, June 19, 1857. The Church was consecrated by the Bishop of

Sydney on October 15, 1861, a week later a cyclone swept over Deniliquin and the Church was razed to the ground.

The Salvation Army was opened on June 16, 1888.

The Riverina Frozen Meat Company, a Public Company, opened Freezing Works on a site adjacent to Bradleys Clump on June 30, 1895. In the 1895/96 Season 268,571 carcasses were processed. The works closed in 1913 just prior to the commencement of World War I. Elliotts Brewery began at the start of 1867.

The Brewery was conducted in conjunction with a similar Brewery in Sandhurst, and between them they absorbed 19,000 bushels of barley per year.

A Fire Engine was first used in October, 1878, and a Town Gas Works was completed on April 26, 1887, at a cost of £9000.

Electricity was first generated in 1907.

Merger creates a new Council The past 18 months have seen some of the most significant changes in local government in the region’s history.

In May 2016, following what the NSW Government termed its ‘Fit for the Future’ process, a merger was announced of Deniliquin Council and Conargo Shire Council, to become Edward River Council.

Previously, there had been a merger of Conargo and Windouran Shire Councils in 2001. Individually Windouran Shire had a population of 398, and an area of 5063km2, while Conargo had a population of 1545, and covered 3737km2.

The proclamation of the merger received extensive public support and followed a number of months of consultation and a report from the NSW Boundaries Commission.

On November 11, 1999 Minister for Local Government Harry Woods announced in State Parliament that a public inquiry would be held into Windouran Shire Council. This led to the merger of the council in February 2000.

In contrast, although Deniliquin Council supported a merger through ‘Fit for the

Future’, it was strongly opposed by Conargo Shire Council. Despite the opposition, the NSW Government went ahead with this and various other local government amalgamations across the state.

Today, Edward River Council provides services and support to a community of approximately 9,000 permanent residents across a region covering 8,881 square kilometres, including the town of Deniliquin and the six rural villages of Blighty, Booroorban, Conargo, Mayrung, Pretty Pine and Wanganella.

Between May 2016 and September 2017, Council was led by a NSW Governmentappointed Administrator, Ashley Hall, who was responsible for overseeing the implementation of the new Edward River Council.

This administration period formally ended on Thursday, September 21, 2017 after the Councillors elected at the poll on Saturday, September 9, 2017 were sworn in. At this post-election meeting, Cr Norm Brennan and Cr Pat Fogarty were elected Mayor and Deputy Mayor respectively.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 11

Town Hall’s Italian architecture o quote an early correspondent of the Pastoral Times, the township of Deniliquin was finally ‘municipalized’ in 1859 but it was 1870 before a grant of land for a town hall was received.

Local architect J.H. Jones won the competition for the design described as an Italian style of architecture and the facade is supported by Corinthian columns.

Built by G Anderson, for £2823, the Deniliquin Town Hall was opened by the Governor of NSW, Sir Hercules Robinson in 1876.

He said the building did ‘‘credit to the taste and enterprise of this youthful city’’.

After two years, during which many municipal and social functions were held, the hall was partially destroyed by fire.

Insurance, design competitions and acoustic properties were among many concerns of council but the hall was re-built with several additions.

For a number of meetings the choice of a grand piano for the concert platform was constantly deferred.

But, in 1887, a Piano Upright Grand Ronisch in walnut at 63 pounds delivered was preferred over the Steinway at 140 pounds and was received the following year.

In 1904 the clock - a weight-driven, pendulum regulated, eight-day clock - was installed in the tower.

This clock, made in London with the bell caste in Birmingham for T Grant & Co Melbourne, was the gift of Captain George Landale of the Kings Own Hussars to commemorate the reign of Queen Victoria.

The clock was presented by his father Mr Alexander Landale of Wandook who ex-

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■ The Deniliquin Town Hall was officially opened in 1876 from a design by local architect J.H. Jones. Today it awaits further upgrades before being back in full use. Photo courtesy Heritage 150. pressed the hope that it would be both a Waring, the first Town Clerk, and pre- various works to the building, including benefit and an ornament to the community. viously hidden under layers of paint. stabilising the front facade, installing a In 1992 a major work of re-painting the While the town hall has been well used by commercial kitchen and replacing its roof, exterior was undertaken by council with the community since its construction, the with the current Edward River Council help from members of the Apex Club. hall is currently closed to the public and adding on new toilets in 2017.

It is hoped the Town Hall will return to its There was also restoration of the detailed requires significant restoration works for it days of hosting local social events and interior embellishments designed by John to be used again.

The former Deniliquin Council undertook functions.

Brian Mitsch & Associates Registered Land Surveyor, NSW Brian Mitsch & Associates is proud to have played a part in mapping out some of Deniliquin’s key infrastructure projects, land developments and landmarks across many years, firstly as Veitch & Mitsch and later Mitsch & Associates.

Business owner Brian Mitsch also marked a milestone in 2017, celebrating 50 years as a registered surveyor.

Brian Mitsch & Associates continues to play a key role in the community to this day and has four staff members - Chris Mitsch carries out all the field work and has been with the firm more than 20 years; Jane Blythe handles drafting and cartography and has been with the firm for 40 years; and handling administration duties for the last 30 years is Elaine Crispe.

• • • • •

Land Surveyors Town Planners Cartographers Land Economists Property Consultants

Phone 5881 2177 Brian 0429 812 177 Chris 0409 033 682 Fax 5881 2192 AH 5881 2525 E brian@brianmitsch.com.au 319 Victoria St, Deniliquin

12 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 175th Anniversary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Happy 175th Birthday Deni!

While weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not 175 years old, the SunRice Deni Mill, supported by the local rice industry, has played an integral role in the history and economic development of the region and we look forward to continuing to do so.

6LQFH WKH È´UVW RI RXU 0LOOV RSHQHG DOPRVW \HDUV DJR LQ ZH KDYH grown to be Deniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest non-government employer, with all 142 of our current employees living in Deni and surrounding local areas. As WKH 'HQL DQG 0XUUD\ 5LYHULQD È&#x2020;(PSOR\HU RI &KRLFHÈ&#x2021; KLULQJ IURP RXU ORFDO WDOHQW SRRO LV YHU\ LPSRUWDQW WR RXU EXVLQHVV DQG VLJQLÈ´HV D UHDO investment in ensuring our town is a prosperous regional centre. :LWK D FDSDFLW\ WR SURFHVV WRQQHV RI 5LYHULQD JURZQ ULFH RXU Mill is one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and contributes VLJQLÈ´FDQWO\ WR 6XQ5LFHÈ&#x2021;V JOREDO EXVLQHVV 7KLV \HDU ZH ZLOO PLOO HQRXJK ULFH WR SURGXFH ELOOLRQ VHUYLQJV RI ULFH ZLWK ODUJH YROXPHV EHLQJ VROG LQWR RXU KLJK TXDOLW\ -DSDQHVH 7DLZDQHVH DQG .RUHDQ PDUNHWV 7KDQN \RX WR HYHU\RQH ZKR LV SDUW RI WKH 6XQ5LFH IDPLO\ ZKR ZRUN together to make the Deni Mill what it is today, and thank you to all our suppliers for your ongoing support.

We are incredibly proud to be part of our thriving local community and to be celebrating this momentous milestone.

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Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 13

Lighting up the district he energy requirements of Deniliquin were first served by gas works owned and operated by Mr S Hutchinson in 1887.

Situated between George and Charlotte Sts, the plant supplied gas to consumers for over 20 years before Deniliquin Council, determined to go electric, sought tenders for construction of a building and installation of machinery which would provide electricity for the town.

Despite council finding it difficult to pin down a contractor prepared to undertake the project, in December 1908 it was announced that Towns Lighting & Power Co was engaged in erecting power poles, and that tenders had been called for construction of a power house in End St ‘‘beyond the intersection of Junction St’’.

The official opening of the power house took place on Saturday, May 1, 1909.

At the invitation of Towns Lighting & Power Co, aldermen assembled at the power house to see the Mayor A H Windeyer start the machinery.

It consisted of: ‘‘A Hornsby 81hp suction gas engine erected under the supervision of A J Clarkson, of Sydney; a 50kw dynamo by Scott & Fountain; a battery of 109 accumulators; a booster set, motor generator for series arclighting; and a 22hp electric motor to drive the turbo pump at the water tower’’.

In 1913 the Deniliquin Electric Co took over the power house undertaking.

At the company’s first general meeting Mr R S Falkiner reported on machinery he was importing at a cost of £2417.

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■ The former Deniliquin power house, which is now the headquarters for the Deniliquin Ute Muster.

He reported also that ‘‘some time ago his brother had bought the gasworks’’.

When the new plant arrived in July 1913, P Boll was appointed manager of the company.

In October 1914 the Australian Electric Supply Co, of Melbourne, with Ralph and Leigh Falkiner the principal shareholders, took over the local plant and installed it on the former gasworks site in George St. This was the source of Deniliquin’s electricity supply until 1929, when Deniliquin Council constructed a power house in Poictiers St and installed large diesel motors and generators producing alternating current.

On December 19 Mayor E T Matthews started the first engine, whilst his daughter, Miss I Matthews, switched on the lights.

Although there was some controversy as to who had to pay for the conversion of household appliances, from DC to AC power, the problem did not appear to be a major concern.

In 1936 a proposal to supply Mathoura with electricity from the Deniliquin plant was put forward and agreed to.

The official turning on ceremony in Mathoura was held in January 1938.

At the end of the 1939-45 war, an extension of the electricity supply from Deniliquin to surrounding rural areas was approved. To meet the extra demand a new motor was installed at the power house in 1950.

Electricity became available to various rural areas as work on supply lines from Deniliquin was completed.

The Wandook-Birganbigal extension was switched on in November 1953, Blighty in 1956 and Pretty Pine in February 1957.

As early as 1948 Deniliquin Council had decided to negotiate for bulk supply of electricity from the NSW grid system.

This was finally achieved in June 1961 and at the power house the diesel motors, whose rumbles had been a feature of the town for over 30 years, were turned off.

A HISTORY TO REJOICE IN . . .

George Peppin Jnr

Albert Austin

Thos. Millear

Wanganella 9.1 ‘Ballymena’

Otway Falkiner

Poll Boonoke 150026

Australian Food & Agriculture Company Limited Boonoke, Warriston, Peppinella, Wanganella, Zara & Barratta www.austfood.com.au

. . . A FUTURE TO BEHOLD

14 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Providing health services eniliquin Hospital has been an integral part of the Deniliquin community for more than 150 years.

The hospital celebrated its 150th birthday in 2008 with a massive celebration spanning a whole weekend.

Deniliquin Hospital has come a long way from its humble beginnings way back in the 19th Century.

From its origins as a wooden hut to the sprawling building it is today, this iconic Charlotte St health centre has touched the lives of so many townspeople.

Deniliquin Hospital was originally two separate buildings, one on the south side of the river and one on the northern side.

The hospital was once registered as a training school for nurses aides in 1971 and facilities were expanded to increase nurse accommodation from 22 to 39 and included a matrons flat.

The nurse training school was closed in 1982 and the building now houses the Deniliquin Community Health Centre.

The health service is also a major employer in Deniliquin with a close-knit staff that has strong connections to the community.

Many staff members are local and have grown up in Deniliquin, or raised their families here.

Deniliquin Hospital benefits from the generosity of several community groups, a symbol of its importance to our town.

The hospital currently consists of several departments, under the guidance of Cluster Manager David Jackson and his dedicated staff.

The services include 24-hour accident and emergency, surgery, the Middleton Gorman Wing, maternity, X-ray, community health, allied health, mental health, palliative care, cardiac rehab/pulmonary rehabilitation, pathology and clinical education.

Deniliquin Hospital is also supported by several local auxiliaries, who spend many

D

■ Deniliquin Hospital celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2008. Originally there were two hospitals, in the north and south of town, before the Charlotte St site became established at its long-term home. Photo courtesy Our Heritage. hours fundraising for the different departments.

Deniliquin Local Health Advisory Committee (LHAC) also strives to maintain the continuity of services that have been delivered at Deniliquin Hospital.

The committee is essentially the voice of Deniliquin in regard to health and endeavours to put forward the views of the community to Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD).

One of the most recent major issues facing Deniliquin Hospital was the creation of a renal dialysis centre. Local woman and renal dialysis patient Linda Rumble led the push for a dialysis centre at the hospital,

with support from Deniliquin Pastoral Times and former Member for MurrayDarling John Williams.

Following a continued community campaign, MLHD opened a temporary renal dialysis satellite unit in December 2016 to provide support for the local community and reduce the need for people to travel for the service.

In a major development, work is underway on construction of a new $1 million nine chair renal dialysis satellite service in partnership with Royal Melbourne Hospital for Deniliquin and district patients, which is due to open in early 2018.

A new $720,000 maternity unit was open-

ed in mid-2013 supporting a new midwifery led model of care with local GP obstetricians and provides care 24 hours, seven days. The number of births in the fully functioning and staffed unit in 2017 are expected to exceed last year.

Other service improvements at Deniliquin Hospital in recent years include a $1 million CT scanner, the opening of the Deniliquin Oncology Outreach Unit, a $322,000 digital imaging equipment upgrade, an upgrade to nurses’ accommodation, installation of wi-fi throughout the facility and the introduction of electronic patient medical records.

Nurse recruitment efforts have resulted in a stable workforce at Deniliquin with 10 new nurses appointed since January 2017, including a new senior nursing position, a Clinical Midwifery Consultant.

Deniliquin Health Service is highly regarded by its community with nominations in the Deniliquin Business Excellence Awards and outstanding feedback in the recent NSW Health Patient Survey results, with 87 per cent of patients surveyed saying they would speak highly of their experience (compared to 78 per cent for NSW hospitals overall and 77 per cent for all MLHD hospitals).

Deniliquin Health Service was also recognised by MLHD at its recent Excellence Awards, with the Renal Unit team winning the Collaboration & Partnership Award for its initiative in undertaking further training in Melbourne to support local renal dialysis patients.

Deniliquin Health Service has a strong and positive future and the highly dedicated nursing, medical and support staff are committed to providing high quality health care services for their local community.

Deniliquin Travel Centre A true local for over 50 years and still going strong!

Murray Constructions Pty Ltd is a locally owned and run business, operating out of Deniliquin, New South Wales.

From George Arthur Travel in the 60’s to Deniliquin Travel Centre as we know it today, this business continues to grow and thrive in the community with expert knowledge at your doorstep. Its local, well-travelled and experienced staff can advise you on every corner of the globe. They take pride in their ability to service the individual needs of their clients and share in the travel experience. One thing is for sure - the same great service they provide will never go on holidays! Ask the friendly team at 358 Cressy Street about all of your travel needs and aspirations. Without a travel agent, you’re on your own!

Deniliquin Travel Centre 358 Cressy Street, Deniliquin. Phone 5881 7744

The company was founded by Mr Ronald Murray Senior over 40 years ago, specifically as bridge construction.

The ownership and directing of the business now lies with father and son Stephen and Jeremy Murray.

The nature of the business has been broadened to include construction of general civil engineering works, precast prestressed concrete production along with an increase in the range of equipment available and equipment for hire.

We also offer a wide range of services including project management, earth boring and pile driving, licenced demolition and asbestos removal, retaining walls, general civil engineering work, tilt-slab construction, general concreting and erosion control.

Murray Constructions is prequalified with RMS NSW and VicRoads within the bridge industry, And obtained accreditation ISO 9001:2015 for Safety, Quality and Environmental.

Thankyou to our local clients for your continued support and Congratulations to Deniliquin on 175 years.

p (03) 5881 3104 m 0428 611 203 e admin@murrayconstructions.com.au 364 Augustus Street, Deniliquin

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 15

The Long Paddock Touring Route he Long Paddock Cobb Highway Touring Route has become an integral part of the tourism landscape for Deniliquin and surrounds, inviting visitors and locals alike to explore the history of the region.

Named for the colloquial term given to the travelling stock routes, The Long Paddock provides not only an escape from the drought for local stock but also a window into the stories, characters and legends of the area.

Launched in 2006, the first stage of the Long Paddock saw the installation of 57 information panels that bring the history of the region to life with images and text.

Covering stories of the drovers, transport, rivers, cattle, wool and the pioneers who opened up the country, the panels leave visitors with a sense of the importance of the region and its place in Australian history.

In 2009 the second stage of the route was completed with the installation of 11 large scale public artworks. In Deniliquin, ‘Shod’

by Johnathan Leahy depicts half a bullock shoe in honour of the contribution that the bullock drivers and teams made in opening up the region and transporting the ‘golden fleece’ of the famous Merino sheep to markets. ‘Saw’, by the same artist, was erected in honour of the timber industry which played a significant role in bringing wealth to Deniliquin and its villages.

Installed in 2011, Geoff Hocking’s ‘Smoko’ captures the spirit of the timber cutters enjoying smoko, giving a nod to the

T

passing travellers, inviting them to stop at the Pretty Pine Hotel for their own refreshments.

Just past the Pretty Pine at the famous Black Swamp, visitors are met with the now iconic sculpture of the ‘Headless Horseman’

by Geoff Hocking. Erected in 2009 as part of the Artback series, the sculpture captures the imagination of travellers and has become a ‘must do’ for visitors to the Long Paddock. The sculpture provides a spectacular backdrop to the world famous sunsets on the Hay Plains.

Just as the Long Paddock provided a

travelling stock route for drovers and their mobs, today the Long Paddock Touring Route welcomes visitors as they connect with this fascinating part of Australian history.

The Long Paddock Touring Route stretches the full length of the Cobb Highway from Echuca/Moama on the Victorian border through to the iconic outback town of Wilcannia. The project is a collaboration between the adjoining shires of Edward River, Hay and Murray River councils and is recognised for its success in attracting tourists to the region.

Revolutionary Railway D

uring its 47 years of operation the privately financed DeniliquinMoama Railway (D&M) revolutionised the transfer to southern centres of people, stock and freight.

Construction of the line commenced in July 1875, with 250 men employed at the Moama end and a further 100 at Deniliquin.

To avoid delay, 3700 tonnes of rails and two locomotives had been ordered from England and a contract let to McIntoshs Echuca Sawmills for 80,000 red gum sleepers.

Construction of the line met with few problems. The deepest cutting was about 1.5 metres, the highest embankment 2.5 metres, and there were only two curves in the whole of the length to contend with. Progress was rapid and the line was officially opened in July 1876, just 12 months after commencement.

Infrastructure established at the Deniliquin terminus included the station building, goods shed, loading platform, stock yards and loading ramp, station master’s residence, loco shed and workshop, which was situated south of the main station, off Hardinge St, opposite what is now the ground of the Deniliquin Rams Football & Netball Club.

Built of corrugated iron it was 27 metres long, 18 metres wide, and contained the machinery necessary to maintain locomotives and rolling stock.

The whole of the machinery within the workshop was belt driven from a main shaft powered by a 24 horsepower horizontal reversible steam engine.

A massive lathe capable of turning items up to 1.2 metres in diameter was used to dress the steel ‘tyres’ of train wheels, and a furnace built with 450mm fire bricks heated the ‘tyres’ so they could be replaced on the wheel.

When the D&M was taken over by Victorian Railways in 1923 the workshop at Deniliquin was no longer required. It was demolished in 1927 and sold for 88 pounds.

DENILIQUIN PASTORAL & AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

The Deniliquin Pastoral & Agricultural Society (P&A) Show has a proud history of community spirit. It was founded in 1876, and the first show held the following year at the original showground in Hardinge St, now the home of the Deniliquin Rams Football and Netball Club.

In 1952, the Deniliquin Show moved to Memorial Park, then known as Jubilee Park, and the annual show still calls it home today.

The show is held on the first weekend of March and, like any good country show, the focus on agriculture is always a crowd pleaser. There is livestock and wool judging, equestrian and show jumping along with Pony Club events, dog trials, poultry, animal nursery and pet parade, and more.

The permanent pavilion which houses all the home cooking and needlework and school children displays is a must see, while local companies display farm machinery and motor vehicles.

In more recent years, the show has presented a shearing competition which is well represented by many local and visiting shearers, and the weekend is topped off with the traditional fireworks display on the Saturday evening.

The Deniliquin Show is as popular today as it has ever been thanks to the continued tireless work of the P&A Society volunteers.

Thank you to the local community for your continued support and congratulations Deniliquin on turning 175 years old.

Homes Out West is proud to have been a part of the Deniliquin community since 1984, originally started as the Deniliquin Community Tenancy Scheme.

Homes Out West has since grown from a single office in Deniliquin to become a significant community housing provider currently managing over 400 tenancies in nine communities in the south western Riverina region stretching from Albury in the east to Wentworth in the west.

Deniliquin remains the home of the head office where there are currently 10 employees along with a further five staff in the Albury office.

Homes Out West has a number of secure housing options available in Deniliquin. Please call the office and talk to one of the helpful staff members.

139 End Street, Deniliquin NSW P: 03 5881 4182 F: 03 5881 8361 E: admin@homesoutwest.com.au www.homesoutwest.com.au

16 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Dedicated to the Peppins he Peppin Heritage Centre in George St, although young in comparison to Deniliquin, is entrenched in our history.

It takes its name from the Peppin family, who lived in the region in the mid 1800s.

It is said that George Peppin and his two sons were instrumental in making Australian wool the best in the world, through the Peppin strain of Merino sheep.

The centre was set up as a permanent record of the effect that the Peppin strain of Merino sheep has had on the wool industry.

The Peppin Heritage Centre’s location is also a large part of Deniliquin’s history. It is housed in the old George St Public School.

The school closed in 1972, and the buildings were gazetted for preservation as a historical museum in 1980.

The museum was run by the Deniliquin Historical Foundation, which was set up by the council and supported by the Deniliquin Historical Society.

The Peppin Heritage Centre was officially launched eight years later, under curator David Wells, and began with a grand display of fashions from over 100 years.

It has continued with its faithful work in preserving and displaying Deniliquin’s history with many exhibitions and displays over the years.

It is now staffed by Edward River Council’s Tourism and Culture officers, ably assisted by a group of dedicated volunteers, and houses the Peppin Gallery and Deniliquin Visitor Information Centre.

The Peppin Gallery features, on average, 12 exhibitions a year, and between 20,000 and 25,000 people pass through the doors of the centre each year.

In 2008, the Peppin Heritage Centre celebrated its 20 year anniversary.

The centre hosted an open day on April 19 that year, opening its doors to the public. A range of special displays and exhibitions were held, including Olympic uniforms made from wool, the Willandra Shawl, and a display of hand shearing.

The anniversary also acted as a mini reunion for descendants of the Peppin family.

Margaret Winmill and her children Anna Kelly and Peter and Fiona Corke attended the celebrations. For Anna and Peter, it was their first trip to Deniliquin and their first look at the town their family helped to put on the map.

The group is related to Fred Peppin, the son of George Peppin Snr. According to FS Falkiner and Sons’ history, George Peppin and his sons George Junior and Frederick established a stud flock at Wanganella Station, calling in Thomas Shaw to select the ewes and advise on rams and breeding.

Having been unable to sell their property in 1861, and therefore forced to stay in the area,

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■ The Peppin Heritage Centre, located in the former George St School, is a permanent reminder of the Peppin family’s contribution to the Australian wool industry. they had decided to breed a type of sheep more suitable to the local climate and environment.

It was one year after their father’s death, in 1873, when the Peppin Brothers purchased Boonoke.

They restocked the property entirely with ewes from Wanganella and it was only three years later, as the Wanganella sheep were establishing their prominence with outstanding wool prices and show success, that George Junior died at the young age of 50, thus leaving Fred in control.

After two years on his own Fred sold off all the Peppin properties.

Today the Peppin bloodline is believed to have formed the foundation of more than 90 per cent of the nation’s flock.

The museum at the Peppin Heritage Centre is dedicated to the Peppin family, as a way of commemorating their development of the Merino sheep that could withstand and thrive in the harsh Australian conditions.

Some of the items used in the museum, mainly photos, have been supplied by family members.

In addition to welcoming bus tours and school visits throughout the year, the Peppin Heritage Centre is also a popular venue for weddings, functions, workshops and theatrical performances.

In 2018, the Peppin Heritage Centre will celebrate its 30 year anniversary.

POSITION PERFECT

ON THE BANKS OF THE EDWARD RIVER

Celebrating Deniliquin’s 175 years!

Murrumbidgee Local Health District is proud to be part of the Deniliquin community and provide a growing range of health services through Deniliquin Hosptial and Community Services.

Work is now underway on construction of a new $1 million nine-chair renal dialysis satellite service in partnership with Royal Melbourne Hospital for Deniliquin and district patients.

Deniliquin Health service is a major employer in Deniliquin with a close-knit VWDႇ WKDW KDV VWURQJ FRQQHFWLRQV WR WKH FRPPXQLW\ 0DQ\ VWDႇ PHPEHUV DUH local and have grown up in Deniliquin, or raised their families here.

Other service improvements at Deniliquin Hospital in recent years include a $1 million CT scanner, the opening of the Deniliquin Oncology Outreach Unit, a $322,000 digital imaging equipment upgrade, an upgrade to nurses’ accommodation, installation RI ZL ¿ WKURXJKRXW WKH IDFLOLW\ DQG WKH introduction of electronic patient medical records.

Services include 24-hour accident and emergency, surgery, the Middleton Gorman Wing, maternity, X-ray, community health, allied health, mental health, palliative care, cardiac rehab/ pulmonary rehabilitation, pathology and clinical education.

Recent achievements include: A new $720,000 maternity unit opened in mid-2013, supporting a new midwifery-led model of care with local GP Obstetricians and provides care 24 hours, seven days. The number of births LQ WKH IXOO\ IXQFWLRQLQJ DQG VWDႇHG XQLW in 2017 are expected to exceed last year.

Congratulations Deniliquin! We are proud to be part of your celebrations of 175 years!

Fully equipped camp kitchen Close to town, easy 2 min walk Playground with jumping pillow Luxury riverside villas and cabins Safari Tent Glamping

)URP PDQDJHPHQW VWDႇ Deniliquin Hospital

1 Butler Street, Deniliquin. Phone (03) 5881 2448. www.mcleanbeach.com.au

Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 175th Anniversary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 17

Maintaining our law and order n its early stages of development the township of Deniliquin lacked the facilities and officials necessary for the maintenance of law and order.

Police had been appointed to the town and district but perpetrators of a serious crime had to be taken to Moulamein, where a police magistrate had been installed and a court house erected.

Offences of a minor nature were dealt with by Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chief constable, who acted as both judge and jury, chaining those found guilty to a log in Cressy St, with no shelter from the elements.

Arrival in 1857 of the first police magistrate appointed to the town brought about the transfer of district police headquarters from Moulamein to Deniliquin. It also saw removal of the infamous log and establishment of a lock-up situated in the same general area as todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s police station.

Constructed of timber slabs and a bark roof the building provided shelter but little more.

Giving way to increasing community concerns, in 1862 the State Government called tenders for construction of a court house on the corner of Cressy and Edwardes Sts (on the site of the now vacant ANZ Bank), with ancillary buildings and a gaol behind it and fronting Edwardes St. A house was built next to the gaol as a residence for the chief gaoler.

Officially opened in 1864 the gaol was shortly after described as inadequate and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;because of the risk of prisoners escaping, it was necessary to place a patrol in the yard when they were taking exerciseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Over subsequent years extra rooms and facilities were added, and in 1882 it was reported that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;there was accommodation for 80 prisoners within the gaol, and the daily average for the last three years has been 59â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Three hangings took place within the walls of Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gaol, all in the 19th century and all of men convicted of murder.

Gallows were specially erected for the executions; on each occasion a hangman was brought in from another region.

A flogging was also administered at the gaol, the recipient being a prisoner who displayed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;persistent insubordinationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; to the warders.

For the most part, prisoners in Deniliquin

I

gaol were those sentenced to only a relatively short term behind bars; those who had more lengthy terms to serve were transferred to Berrima gaol, a move to be avoided if at all possible because of a much more severe management policy there.

Indeed, for a number of years life as a prisoner at Deniliquin was regarded as anything but a severe penalty. Meals, adjusted in size and composition depending on the projected term of imprisonment, were adequate; for many inmates they were better than could be found outside. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; labour consisted mostly of work for the local council as required.

One of the best known chief gaolers to manage the Deniliquin gaol was former army officer, John Paton, who held the position from 1875 to 1888.

In 1857, at Lucknow as a member of the Southern Highlanders during the Indian Mutiny, he was awarded the Victoria Cross for distinguished personal gallantry.

Some 70 years after the gaol was first opened reports indicated that it was in poor condition and in 1933 it was recommended that it be closed.

Closure took place in November 1935, after which the building was retained as a lock-up for prisoners waiting to appear at Deniliquin court, or those sentenced to a long period in gaol and waiting on transfer to Goulburn.

Part of the lock-up then served as the Motor Registry Office for a number of years.

The office was manned by a police officer who conducted driving tests for those seeking to obtain their driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s licence.

During the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time as a lock-up two escapes occurred, the first a single breakout in 1940, the second, in 1962, when five prisoners simply walked out.

In 1958 the state of police buildings in Deniliquin came under strong criticism.

Consisting then of only the inadequate barracks in Charlotte St and the gaol in Edwardes St, a new police station was seen as being of high priority.

This finally came about in 1965 with construction of the present complex on land behind the barracks.

The proposed building of a new station coincided with the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s move to have the gaol demolished, a move strongly

Are you tracing your family tree?

â&#x2013; The Deniliquin Gaol had a long and sometimes frightening history before its demolition in 1966. resisted by Deniliquin people because of its heritage status.

Approaches from Deniliquin Council and a strongly worded editorial in the Pastoral Times in support of the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retention were sent to Sydney but met with little success, and demolition of the gaol began in December 1965 under direction of contractor, Mr Tom Hardman. Its site is now the car park opposite the Baptist Church.

The chief gaolerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence next to the gaol survived for almost 10 years after the gaolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disappearance. Known in the years preceding demolition as the Sergeantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cottage, because it was occupied for a long period by the family of long-serving Sgt

Victor Hyde, the building was demolished in 1976.

An office complex for the then Water Commission was built on the site and the building now houses NSW Government staff involved in water policy.

The NSW Government promised Deniliquin a new police station in place of the current building on the corner of Hardinge St and Charlotte St, and this became an election commitment from both the Coalition and Labor at the 2007 NSW state election.

Construction of this new $17 million station started early in 2017 and, as the year draws to a close, our police are moving into their modern building.

We may be able to help you!

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18 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Air School opened At that stage it appeared there would be no more air training schools set up, for a while at least, because of a shortage of instructors.

However, the Minister said he would call for a departmental investigation into Deniliquin’s suitability.

November 1940 saw the RAAF putting in a bid for 120 acres south of the DeniliquinHay stock route, 14 miles from Deniliquin, as an area for use for firing practice.

Then, on November 27, over the morning Corowa radio news came the word Deniliquin had been waiting for - the aerodrome was to become a school for intermediate and advanced training of pilots. The school was to start in November 1941, on the same basis as Wagga, Point Cook and Amberley.

Later that morning confirmation came to the Town Clerk (Mr W.R. Tate) in a telegram.

Over the next three months nothing further was heard and townsfolk began to doubt whether the project was ever going to be started.

When Uranquinty, near Wagga, gained an air school about this time it looked on the surface as if Deniliquin’s claims had been by-passed and a promise had gone unhonoured.

Doubts were stifled by receipt of information in March stating that plans were ready for the Deniliquin establishment, which was to bear the name of No. 7 Service Flying Training School (7SFTS).

About that time reports began to flow in about how favourable had been the effect of Air Force schools on business in Wagga, Narromine and Parkes.

Deniliquin was to find the same.

Construction work finally began, and 150 workmen were quickly mustered to get the ■ A dust storm hits the Deniliquin No. 7 Service Flying Training School, established at the local airport during World War II after station ready. strong local lobbying.

To next page s far back as 1938 endeavours were made by the Deniliquin Municipal Council and the Traders Association to get an air school established at the local aerodrome.

It all began with a minute by Mayor J.E. McFaull to council in May 1938 proposing an approach to Federal authorities to have a school set up here.

Letters shuttled backwards and forwards over the next two years and Federal MPs

A

were kept busy interviewing ministers to push the town’s claims.

In the years before World War II, the Deniliquin aerodrome had been used as a touch-down point for training flights from Laverton and Point Cook in Hawker Demon fighters and other aircraft types.

When Air Force authorities decided to establish a trainees’ school at Forest Hill, eight miles from Wagga, loud were the cries of protest at other centres such as Deniliquin and Junee.

A deputation from Junee and Narrandera

told the Minister for Defence that the Forest Hill station was a ‘‘national blunder’’.

Deniliquin pointed out that its drome was much closer to town, only three miles away.

When the Federal Government announced its Empire Air Training scheme, involving the training of 26,000 men and the spending of ‘‘fifty million’’, Deniliquin pressed its case more fervidly.

Late in August 1940 a deputation of Deniliquin businessmen saw the Minister for the Army and the Minister for Air on the subject.

Deniliquin Rotary Club has been serving the local community since 1950. In that time its members have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local, national and international causes, as well as countless volunteer hours either assisting, running or catering for dozens of local events.

Some of the events and not-for-profit organisations Rotary has had a strong involvement with over the years include the Ute Muster, Carols by Candlelight, Australia Day celebrations, Meals on Wheels, Rotary Easter Art Show, Navorina Nursing Home, Four Post Camp, and many more.

58 Hardinge St, Deniliquin. Ph: 03 5881 2497 Stan and Elsie Menadue started the business in 1959 in a small Napier St shopfront, selling vinyl tiles. It wasn’t long before they moved to a larger shop in Cressy St and started offering an expanded range of products. Their son Rob joined the business in 1964, with his wife Marg starting in 1971. Rob and Marg took over the business in 1974 and there were several shopfront changes before they established the business at its current premises at 58 Hardinge St. In 2014, Rob and Marg’s daughter Dimity and her husband Leigh purchased the business after both had worked there for more than 10 years each.

The Strongman and Menadue families would like to thank the Deniliquin community for the great local support they have received in 58 years in business.

The club is a proud part of Deniliquin’s social fabric.

Being a Rotarian gives you a selfless sense of community pride, and provides fellowship for all involved.

If you are interested in becoming a member, contact club president Martin Wilmshurst on 0417 603 385.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 19

during war years From previous page irst tender was for the construction of 75 buildings, and before the station was finished it had 13 large steel Belmont hangars, at least 150 huts, a weather tower, mess hall, picture theatre and three swimming pools.

Deniliquin’s town life was radically altered by the coming of the airmen. Particularly was this so for the younger women.

Airmen came to the station after completing their elementary training at Benalla, Narrandera and elsewhere.

At Deniliquin they were brought to the stage of service flying training. Afterwards they went on to service overseas.

First commanding officer of the school was Wing Commander (later Group Captain) Stewart Campbell.

To give the newcomers an entree to town social life, townspeople established Air Force House in Wellington St and staffed the popular CUSA hall in Duncan St. An Air Force team was entered in the local football competition.

The lighter side of air school happenings was reported by Jack Bannister in Air Force News, which filled two columns of the Pastoral Times.

Two small magazines covering events at the school were also printed. The first of these - the Flying Foolscap - was replaced by The Orbit.

Most of the early training was done in Wirraways. Late in the war (1944-45), the Advanced Flying and Refresher Unit moved in and several Airspeed Oxfords were added to the Wirraway fleet.

Initially there were no bitumenised runways and until some of the landing strips were sown down and watered, dust was a

F

■ An aerial photograph of the Deniliquin Air Station, which was a hive of activity. major problem. Training was often begun early in the morning to beat the dust.

Congestion grew on the dusty aerodrome and satellite dromes were gradually used.

These included strips on Moroco, Warbreccan, Wandook, and Bradleys on the Barham Rd. Many were the ‘characters’ among the thousands to pass through 7SFTS and many were the stories of their exploits.

Life was much more serious at other times, particularly during the months around the vital Coral Sea battle.

Before this battle was fought and won,

two squadrons of Wirraways (admittedly a weak air weapon either for defence or offence, but all that Deniliquin had) were made reserve squadrons ready to take off at a moment’s notice northwards to meet the squadrons of the Rising Sun. Pilots (the school’s instructors) and selected observers had to wear their .38s at all times during this emergency.

In all there were 30 fatalities during the four years of the station, which was less than one per cent of the total number to pass through as aircrew.

Wrecked aircraft provided many local children with supplies of perspex.

The close-down came fairly rapidly after the Japanese were defeated and by the end of 1945 only a skeleton staff was left.

Today only a few of the wartime buildings and installations remain at the aerodrome as a reminder of earlier, busier times, but for many Deniliquin people, the memory of 7SFTS days is still far from being dim history.

And it may soon be revived, with efforts to build a lasting museum at the airport, recognising the 7SFTS’s major contribution to Deniliquin’s history.

Lions Clubs are non-political, non-sectarian service organisations composed of service-minded citizens within a community. The world-wide organisation’s motto is ‘We Serve’.

The Deniliquin charter was established in 1961 and Lion Jim Fawns served as the inaugural president. Since that time the club’s members have provided ongoing support to local and international charities by way of fundraising and have played a key role in organising and supporting many local events.

The club has a particular focus on supporting youth projects. Over the years the local Lions have coordinated the Youth Exchange Program, Youth of the Year Quest, and the annual Lions versus Deniliquin High School debate challenge. The club also sponsors local children to attend the Lions Licola Camp each year and coordinates the annual Sun Festival which includes the popular Children’s Day in the Waring Gardens.

The Lions Club Deniliquin meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Deniliquin RSL Club from 6.30pm. Anyone interested in joining can contact Geoff Riley on 5881 2811 or speak to any Lions member.

20 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 175th Anniversary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Park is a fitting Memorial t the end of World War II, a well-attended meeting was held in Deniliquin to consider the establishment of a community sports centre with the idea of providing the town with facilities for sport and other recreations and to assist in taking young people off the street.

Plans were approved and an agreement reached that the centre should be established at Jubilee Park, an area adjacent the water tower and pump shed on the Edward River and on which cricket had been played on a rough ground for a number of years.

In 1945, Deniliquin Municipal Council agreed to participate in the project and several working bees were held before lack of volunteer workers halted progress.

The plan included development of a racecourse and with at least 70 trees to be removed the work load was considerable.

In addition, the concept of the centre was not universally accepted, with concerns raised about the area being flood prone.

Meanwhile, in October 1945 a public meeting was held in Deniliquin for the purpose of choosing a suitable memorial to commemorate the men and women of the town and district who had served, and in many cases given their lives, in the war.

A wide range of suggestions was received, with the one most favoured being the building of a Civic Block which would incorporate council offices, a library, historical museum, Red Cross rooms, Soldiers Club rooms, an art gallery in a special wing and a Memorial Hall for theatre and dances.

Other suggestions were for a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wing at the hospital, a high school such as the one at Hay, and

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â&#x2013; Many working bees were held during the construction and development of Memorial Park. beautification of the lagoon area from the Echuca Rd to Russell St, with walks and memorial trees lining each side.

Funds for construction of the proposed Memorial Hall were to come from the sale of the existing town hall.

Later suggestions were for a belt of timber five miles long and 10 miles deep to be planted southwest of Deniliquin to block the westerly winds, a scholarship for children of returned servicemen, beautification of reserves, a seaside cottage for underprivileged children, and a technical school.

In 1946, a Deniliquin Council suggestion that the Jubilee Park project be adopted as the war memorial finally received wide-spread approval and in May 1947 Jubilee Park was renamed Memorial Park.

From that point committees were elected to take charge of various aspects of the project, with Bob Horn as engineer in charge and Clyde Whittakers as works committee president.

Deniliquin Council and Conargo and Windouran Shires

made available items of large machinery at no charge and most of the operators provided their services voluntarily.

In December 1947 the Pastoral Times reported on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The greatest working bee ever in Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The tremendous enthusiasm shown by workers at Memorial Park on Saturday and Sunday brought to many thoughts of essential wartime works, with everyone working against time at high pressure. Mr Clyde Whittakers, the works committee president, and the Memorial Park Committee are to be congratulated on the planning of the effort, the coordination of the volunteer labour and the splendid results achieved. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;This was the first of a number of working bees, and by the response of the public who gave their time, skill, and energy to the cause, a worthy monument will be built in the best possible setting. A monument that will provide healthy recreation for all with the real Australian setting of a river and gum trees.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; To next page

As Australian as Deniliquin itself, Elders was formed in South Australia by the Elder family who among their other many interests were responsible for importing Afghan camels into Australia. This assisted the inland exploration of last century.

With other commercial enterprises in Deniliquin, Eldersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; FORTUNES HAVE BEEN MAINLY A REm ECTION OF THOSE OF THE surrounding rural industry, as well as the town. Despite A 7ORLD 7AR m OODS DROUGHTS UNSURE MARKETS IN FACT all problems which faced rural communities, Elders has remained and has strengthened side by side with the area.

Elders started operation in Deniliquin in 1955. As a leading agribusiness, we are committed to providing you with a solution that meets your needs across every aspect of your FARMING BUSINESS /UR EXPANSIVE NETWORK ACROSS !USTRALIA

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351 Albert Street, Deniliquin Phone 03 5890 5100 deniliquin@elders.com.au www.elders.com.au

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 21

Developing our Memorial From previous page reliminary grading of roads had taken place, yards of soil were moved to form an embankment around the playing area, fencing was laid out to enclose the 45 acres of land, dumping of rubbish was prohibited, and ‘‘goats removed’’.

The playing surface of the oval was initially laid out with a slope from one end to the other. This was later changed so that the surface was higher in the centre.

Approval was received from the minister for the transfer of the P&A Society from the showground in Harfleur St to Memorial Park, but establishment of the buildings did not occur without controversy, largely involving land title issues.

The fears of some critics regarding the possibility of flood damage became reality in 1956 when the total area became submerged. Later on, high river levels resulted in restricted access only.

With the exception of two items (the proposed racecourse and an elevated foot bridge across the river for north Deniliquin residents) the original plan has been largely followed and Memorial Park can today be acknowledged as

P

■ Memorial Park’s number three oval inundated by flood waters in 2016. having achieved the wishes of those who put so much into its establishment 70 years ago.

Today Memorial Park is home to Deniliquin Rovers Football and Netball Club, Deniliquin Netball Association, Deniliquin Playgroup, and Deniliquin District Cricket Association (Deniliquin Rhinos).

There is a new cricket shelter at the smaller oval and new cricket nets are currently being installed near the larger

oval, while the Deniliquin Rovers have built permanent clubrooms and continue to improve their infrastructure.

The Pastoral & Agricultural Society has also steadily upgraded its facilities at Memorial Park over many years, and the area provides an ideal central location for the annual show every March.

Also complementing this sporting precinct is the Deniliquin Golf Club, located adjacent Memorial Park.

The first regional library in Australia Central Murray Regional Library has been part of the Deniliquin community since December 1946.

First located in the School of Arts Building (now the site of Brian McCleary & Associates) in End St, it was the first regional library in Australia.

In 1945 six councils agreed to participate in the new Regional Library - Conargo, Deniliquin, Waradgery, Wakool, Balranald and Windouran.

A Library Committee was formed, much the same as exists today.

Deniliquin Council was selected to admin-

ister the new library service, which covered 10,000 square miles and had a membership of 1250, with book stocks of 2500 items.

The first book stock came from the School of Arts that the library was replacing, with new books also being purchased. Staff travelled to the branch libraries by mail car across mostly dirt roads and in all weather.

In 1967 the Deniliquin Library moved to a new location in the former Coles Variety Store in Cressy St (between the Old Estates building and the Town Hall).

With the move to the modern purposebuilt library in Napier St in 1993, an

automated library management system was introduced to improve efficiency and enhance service to members.

The system is upgraded regularly to give the best customer service.

In 2008 the library building was extended, enabling services to be enlarged and enhanced.

Services which are also a key aspect of the library include programs such as Storytime, Baby Bounce, Monday Meeting Place, Book Club, School Holiday Activities and Books on Wheels for housebound members.

Each year the library also participates in

many community days such as Harmony Day, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Jeans 4 Genes Day, and also has travelling displays during the year.

The local history section is the meeting place for the Genealogy group, which meets every Friday and provides help with family history research.

Today the library boasts a diverse stock of about 32,000 which includes books, audio books, DVDs, compact discs and periodicals, which are housed in two branches, at Deniliquin and Mathoura.

Digital items available for loan include eBooks, eAudio books and eMagazines.

YARKUWA INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE CENTRE - ABORIGINAL CORPORATION 104 End Street, Deniliquin. Phone 03 5881 3312 Established 2003

Yarkuwa aims to: 1. Collate and maintain cultural, heritage and environmental information as it relates to Wamba Wamba and Perrepa Perrepa country; 2. Provide an educational service to the wider community including schools and community groups; 3. Engage in negotiations with local, state and federal and other agencies on matters relating to culture, heritage and the environment; 4. Provide the means for members to develop skills that will allow them to be involved in the provision of educational and research services; 5. Provide a centre to facilitate the transfer of knowledge from one generation to the next; and, 6. Acquire and hold title to land and water for the purposes of economic and cultural economy, cultural heritage, education and conservation.

The Yarkuwa Centre operates through a philosophy of inclusion, respect and collaboration and welcomes visits to the centre to explore local Aboriginal culture and heritage, discuss Aboriginal issues and celebrate our shared history.

22 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

New lease of life for historic Moira H

enry Sayer Lewes, who took up Moira Run in 1842, was a true pioneer of the Riverina.

Lewes, with his partner Charles Throsby, took up a run with river frontage of 14 miles and extending five miles from the river on what was first known as ‘Munmurrin’, but which later became known as ‘Moira’. The town of Moama was excised from the Moira Run. There were tough and hostile times in the early years of settlement, with multiple attacks by Aborigines who naturally resented the intrusion into their Moira Lakes area.

The first homestead on Moira was built of stone in 1859 and comprised eight bedrooms. There was also a restaurant established on the property as part of the Cobb & Co. stopover which was advertised as “one of the finest grazing paddocks on the highway”, boasting accommodation and meals.

In 1862, Moira Station was sold to John (later Sir John) O’Shannassy, who served three separate terms as Victorian Premier.

He built a substantial 18-room homestead with extensive outbuildings, much of which remains and has been restored in recent years.

The property was bought by F. S. Falkiner & Sons in 1899, but by this time its size had been reduced by closer settlement to 40,485 acres freehold, and during the Falkiner tenure selectors and improvement leases were taken up by numerous families, many of these being familiar names to this day in the Mathoura district.

John Clark bought the remaining country including the homestead block of 10,200 acres from the Falkiners in 1910 and retained it for more than 60 years until 1971,

despite an unsuccessful auction attempt in 1935.

The Moira Pastoral Company, under which the property operated, had a string of owners from 1971 until into the new millennium, and for much of this time the historic homestead was abandoned and fell into a state of serious disrepair.

But it had a rebirth after being purchased in 2003 by Deniliquin couple Rex Watson and Kate Pitt, who set about the painstaking task of restoration.

■ The historic homestead on Moira Station, which has a new lease of life under the

They have also built four luxurious acownership of Rex Watson and Kate Pitt. commodation quarters using original Moira Station bricks from the once sturdy but later dilapidated shearers’ quarters to the west of the station.

Named Starry Nights Luxury Accommodation Quarters, they provide domestic and international visitors with the experience of being immersed in luxury, yet with the backdrop of a unique and majestic bush landscape on the edge of the Cadell Fault - a significant seismic activity which changed the course of the Murray and Edward Rivers many thousands of years ago.

After years in the wilderness Moira Station, one of the most historic properties in the Riverina, has a new lease of life and its transformation in the 21st century has not finished.

Rex and Kate have purchased the land on the adjoining southern boundary, comprising an additional 1100 acres, and their future plans for Moira Station will celebrate its past, present and future.

PT approaches 160th birthday he Deniliquin Pastoral Times was the first newspaper in the Riverina, and one of the first provincial newspapers in New South Wales.

When its first edition was published on May 26, 1859 there was no newspaper upriver nearer than Albury, and none downriver between here and Adelaide.

Despite having various competitors throughout a history that is about to reach 160 years, the Pastoral Times remains one of the longest serving newspapers in regional NSW. These other newspapers included the Deniliquin Chronicle, Riverine Journal, Riverine Advertiser, Deniliquin Independent and Deniliquin Standard.

The Pastoral Times was founded by Dr David Griffith Jones, an Englishman with experience in newspapers who was born in 1816 and came to Deniliquin from the goldfields of Bendigo and Ballarat in 1854.

The first issue of the Pastoral Times was published in a building attached to Chandler’s Store, beyond what became the Federal Hotel. Initially it was published weekly, on a Saturday, and sold for one shilling per copy.

Six years after the death of Dr Jones in 1876, the Pastoral Times was purchased by Mr Thomas Hunter, who later sold to his editor, Mr J W H Wyse in January 1893, thus starting a dynasty which lasted 59 years.

Mr Wyse held the reins at the PT until his death at 54 in 1900, but the Wyse name continued its ownership of the paper for many more years, from 1952 under ownership of the Deniliquin Publishing Company.

A former employee of the Pastoral Times, Mr A T Jones, established the Deniliquin Independent in 1890. It remained in publication until February 1947 when it was purchased by its older competitor and incorporated under the Pastoral Times banner.

For the next three decades the Pastoral Times was the only newspaper in town, apart from a very short period when a Moama publication tried unsuccessfully to become established.

In 1981 former PT staff established a ‘new’ Deniliquin Independent as a weekly publication.

At the same time a company called Mytho Pty Ltd, which comprised local and regional shareholders, purchased the Pastoral Times from the Deniliquin Publishing Company.

It appointed Garry Baker, a young chief sub-editor of the Shepparton News, as the managing editor and this started his associ-

T

KEEPING OUR AREA SAFE

Fire Awareness Week starts every Monday!

The Rural Fire Service Mid Murray Zone’s permanent office was established in Deniliquin in 2000. The zone takes in the local government areas of Edward River and Murray River councils and part of Murrumbidgee Council, covering approximately 25,000 square kilometres.

There are 1,495 registered volunteers across the zone’s 50 rural brigades.

The RFS Mid Murray Zone would like to recognise Deniliquin’s 175-year milestone and thank the wider community for their ongoing support of our volunteer firefighters.

For further information, phone the Deniliquin branch on 03 5881 5351.

■ Former Pastoral Times managing editor Audrey Wise (1949-1956) asks a linotype operator to make changes to the galley of text she has to proof read. ation with the local newspaper industry which spans nearly 40 years.

In 1986 the Pastoral Times bought the Independent and both papers continued to be published for a short time under the same ownership. The two were amalgamated as of January 12, 1988, but before the first issue was printed the board announced the paper had been sold to the McPherson Newspaper Group of Shepparton.

Four years later another independent weekly publication, the Deniliquin Standard, was established in competition to the Pastoral Times, which continued to run as bi-weekly.

These two papers merged in July 1995 and the Standard was incorporated under the Pastoral Times banner.

A new company was formed, comprising a mix of shareholders from the Standard and Pastoral Times, and it still publishes the Pastoral Times in 2017, continuing the newspaper’s unbroken service to the community since 1859.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 23

Church restored to be Multi Arts Centre he Multi Arts Centre in Cressy St, Deniliquin was originally the St Paul’s Church of England.

It was thought the foundations were not solid, so it was sold to Deniliquin Council on the condition it would be demolished and become part of Waring Gardens.

Some citizens then contacted the Heritage Council and as a result an order was placed on the building that it was not to be demolished.

So it stood for nine years, allowing kids to break all the leadlight windows, making it a terrible sight in the centre of town.

The Arts Council ran a workshop on leadlighting, and centre manager Geoff Riley took the helm and some funding was obtained and an appeal launched to raise the money required.

The Arts Council ran a workshop, and Frank Bond had done some work in the past so he became the leader to restore the windows.

He went to Melbourne and was able to obtain glass - a perfect match for every window.

Work was done every weekend for years, and finally all windows were replaced at a cost of $2000. The committee had originally obtained a quote of $16,000 to have a firm replace the windows.

Therese Brain and Sandy Brain took charge of volunteers over the years to restore and paint the walls.

The committee paid to have all the very high walls done by a painter but all the rest was by volunteers.

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■ The lovingly restored Multi Arts Centre in Cressy St, Deniliquin.

Students of Deniliquin High School also assisted in the later stages.

Mr C Wood prepared the floor and members of the Deniliquin Lions Club spent hours hammering the nails into the floor when Mr Ron Goulding (a painter) sealed it, making it one of the best floors in Deniliquin.

Grant money was obtained to build the toilet block which James Grant, who was then employed by Deni Works, constructed.

The walkway between the church and old Sunday School hall was also constructed, making it a very usable unit.

The Sunday School hall is now used most days of the week by the Deniliquin Creative Writers on Mondays, Deniliquilters on Tuesdays and Edward River Art Society on Thursdays. On Thursday evenings, the hall hosts the popular Deniliquin Lions Bingo.

Fridays are kept free to cater to workshops being hosted by any of the user groups.

The Multi Arts Centre is also transformed into a festive paradise at the end of each year, when it becomes home to the Edward River Council Santa’s Grotto in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Hall a part of history ith the demolition of the Masonic Hall in Cressy Street in 1965, Deniliquin lost one of its oldest buildings.

Built in 1858, the hall served as a Lodge temple and a community meeting place for over 100 years until it was decided the site was no longer suitable for lodge purposes.

Being in a prime position in Deniliquin’s CBD, municipal rates were high - so the site was sold to Coles Country Stores Pty Ltd. A new masonic temple was constructed on less valuable land in Edwardes Street.

Original construction of the Cressy St building was financed by shareholders of the Masonic Hall Company, and for a time it was used by the two lodges (Star of the South and St John’s) that had been recently formed in Deniliquin.

Lodge Star of the South apparently disbanded in 1861 and management of the hall was in disarray until the title was cleared in 1875 and the land transferred to trustees from St John’s Lodge.

In its early days the hall accommodated school children until the Public School was built in George Street.

It was also used by the Church of England while its church in Cressy St was being constructed.

It housed a number of public offices, including the Court of Petty Sessions after it was removed (to the approval of the public) from John Taylor’s Royal Hotel.

Following the cessation of World War II the Masonic Hall became the main venue for all manner of community activities, meetings, social functions, dances and wedding receptions - and its removal met with mixed reactions.

It was not well received by a number of the community groups and ladies auxiliaries who regularly set up their street stalls under the canopy of a large kurrajong tree on the footpath.

W

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John and Daph Tyndall started Tyndall Electrical in 1996.

John has over 40 years experience as an electrician and has trained and mentored a number of apprentices during this time.

The business has now grown to employ five full time staff members, which includes John and Daph’s son, Jack.

‘We can’t thank the Deni community enough for the support we’ve received since starting our own business.

We love the town and the people in it.’ ~ John and Daph

24 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Australia’s greatest The following article, providing information on the construction of the Mulwala Canal and associated irrigation schemes, was published in the Finley Mail on September 19, 1939 HE greatest artificial waterway in Australia is now in course of construction in the Riverina.

The Mulwala Canal, as it is known, will, when completed, extend from waters diverted by the Yarrawonga Weir at Mulwala through Berrigan and Finley to Deniliquin, where the water will be syphoned under the Edward River, thence westward for many miles, and thus link up the three great schemes - Berriquin, Wakool and Deniboota which will serve one and a half million acres.

This huge scheme will cost £1,638,000 and is designed to improve the drought resisting capacity of the Riverina, and make possible permanent pastures.

The scheme will not be used for intensive cultivation of fruit and vine culture as on the Murrumbidgee area, but for sheep, fat lambs and wheat industries.

The Berriquin Domestic and Stock Water Supply and Irrigation District constitutes one of the major projects to utilise within NSW the state’s portion of the waters of the Murray River conserved at the Hume Reservoir.

Water for domestic and stock purposes and for a limited amount of irrigation is to be supplied to an area of 605,000 acres in the southern Riverina also, by an extension of the works, a supply will be provided to the similar Wakool Irrigation District compris-

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ing 560,000 acres to the south-west of Deniliquin.

Diversion from the Murray River is effected by the Yarrawonga weir which has recently been completed and is now diverting water into the Mulwala Canal.

The estimated cost of the Berriquin works is £1,638,000 comprising £1,300,000 for the Mulwala Canal and £438,000 for the subsidiary channel system to serve the individual holdings in the district. Up to the present time £1,050,000 has been spent since commencement of operations in March 1935.

The full interest and sinking fund charges for the work, as well as the working costs for operation and maintenance, are to be covered by the annual payments from ratepayers within the district, in accordance with the proposals approved of by the landowners concerned prior to the constitution of the district. The total area of 605,113 acres is divided into 746 existing holdings.

The irrigation water rights allotted (a water right being the quantity of the water sufficient to cover one acre to a depth of one foot) aggregate 55,750. These range from proportions of about one acre in 20 to one acre in 10, dependent upon the size of holdings.

The maximum annual rates or charges which may be imposed, subject to certain reductions in the first five years following the constitution of the district or the date

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■ NSW Premier Alex Mair officially opens the Finley section of the Berriquin Irrigation District on October 2, 1939. when water is first made available to any individual holding are as follows: (a) for supply for domestic and stock use, one penny per acre; (b) for supply for irrigation, 10 per water right of one acre foot. To illustrate the maximum annual rating for a holding of 1000 acres with 100 water rights attached would be £50/3/4.

On figures quoted above the maximum annual revenue derivable from rating would be £30,396. Payment of rates for attached water rights is obligatory, whether or not the quantity of water concerned is used; but application may also be made by ratepayers for additional water for irrigation, and

subject such being available Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission may charge for it at up to a maximum of 10 shillings per acre foot.

As stated by the Premier of New South Wales (Mr Stevens) when he performed the official ceremony of turning the first sod for the Mulwala Canal excavation in April 1935, Berriquin will not be a district devoted to intensive irrigation, as practised for fruit and vine culture on the Murrumbidgee areas and at Mildura.

In fact express prohibition is made against the supply of water for irrigation of commercial orchards or vineyards or for the irrigation of rice.

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Evolving from dryland to ‘drought proof’ ssociated with the new era in pastoral and agricultural industry, which the opening of the first section of the Berriquin Scheme will bring to Finley, are new professions and industries, the practise and operation of which are of vital importance in the evolution from a dry pastoral and agricultural area to a district of persistent perennial pastures, its protection from drought guaranteed by an abundance of water.

In the great changes that will come about within the next few years, the land owner, the great majority of whom have had no previous experience of irrigation, will have to be guided by expert advice.

The Department of Agriculture makes available to landholders the services of an Agricultural Instructor.

The Irrigation Commission is endeavouring to educate the farming fraternity in the most successful methods of water application.

The assistance rendered to farmers in this way is invaluable but to carry out the important work of preparing and laying out of land for irrigation purposes, something more practical is necessary than the advice and expressions of opinions of experts.

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The first step in the preparation of land is to have a detailed and thorough minor contour survey carried out and an irrigation design and layout plan prepared.

Guided by the plan the contractor or the landholder himself is able to lay his land in a manner that will ensure uniformity of watering and efficient drainage.

The work of carrying out these surveys and preparing these plans is being practised by several experts throughout the Berriquin Irrigation District.

Of these the best known to the Finley and district residents is the firm of T.Mallon and Sons.

This firm offers the farming community its services in the execution of minor contour surveys and plans, will supervise and check work being carried out by the landholders themselves and will undertake to carry out the entire work of preparation, and laying down of pastures from the execution of survey and preparation plans with all construction work of grading etc., to the sowing of the required pasture.

■ This article was published in the Finley Mail on September 19, 1939 in the same edition which published the story above on construction of the irrigation scheme.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 25

artificial waterway From previous page he purpose of the scheme is to improve the drought resisting capacity of the land; to make it possible to lay down lucerne and other pastures; and to enable the profitable engagement in such industries as fat lamb raising.

When the water is available and properly utilised the Berriquin District will be one of the most suitable of lambs in New South Wales. The scheme will increase the productivity of the state, and it is anticipated that it will encourage closer settlement to some extent by voluntary subdivision of some of the larger holdings.

It is reproductive in the best sense of the term. Further, during the construction period, useful employment for large numbers of men and horses is provided over several years.

Surveys, design and construction of the Berriquin district works are being carried out by the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission, with the assistance of an advisory committee, of which three district landholders are members.

The works comprise the excavation of Mulwala canal and an extensive system of smaller distribution channels of various sizes, together with the construction of numerous structures, bridges and culverts for passage of road traffic and farm access, regulators and checks to control water levels, outlets and water measuring devices, subways for the storm water drainage etc.

The Mulwala canal is to be the greatest artificial waterway in Australia. The bed width for the first 20 miles of its length is 115 feet, depth of water to be carried is nine feet, side slopes of cut 2 to 1, and on a grade of 9in. per mile the capacity of 2500 cubic feet per second (15,625 gallons); significance of the later figure is realised more readily by stating that a flow at this rate continuous

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■ Teams of horses were used to build the region’s irrigation channels. This photo, courtesy of Heritage 150, was taken at Mill Park in 1955. over 24 hours would cover 5000 acres to a depth of one foot.

Canal capacity is diminished as branch channels are supplied. The section now under construction extending from Mulwala to near Deniliquin will be 75 miles long, and is estimated to require 13,000,000 cubic yards of excavation.

Excavation work on Mulwala canal has now been completed as far as Finley (a distance of 43 miles). The total quantity of earth removed amounts to 8,000,000 cubic yards. Most of the excavation work has been carried out by the huge mechanical plant operated by the Commission.

This plant comprises four 4-cubic yard Bucyrus excavators, two 1-cubic yard Harman excavators (made in Australia) and two 1-yard British Ruston excavators, together with ten diesel tractors, four 3-yard

hydraulic scoops, two 11-ton tamping rollers, two road graders and miscellaneous small plant.

Working three shifts daily this plant is capable of excavating up to 50,000 cubic yards per week and with all due allowance for depreciation and maintenance, it provides the most economical method of excavating a channel of the magnitude of the Mulwala channel.

We are reliably informed that approximate purchase price of this plant would be £200,000.

Similar satisfactory progress has been made with the works for the subsidiary channel system which is to provide the reticulation to supply the individual holdings in the district. The channels thereof range in size from the considerable Berrigan channel of bed width 82 feet and water

depth 6 feet to small ditch of bed width 4 feet and water depth 18 inches.

The estimates provide for an aggregate length of 550 miles comprising 5,000,000 cubic yards of excavation, of which completed work up to the present totals 4,770,000 cubic yards of earth.

Practically all this work has been carried out by contractors using horse teams, tractors and scoops.

Structure work has been carried out wholly by day labor, materials such as stone and sand for concrete being obtained within or adjacent to the district by contract.

The extent of operations in this connection, spread over a wide area of country and involving a great number of bridges, regulators etc., of various sizes and types, may be gathered from the following summary of the main items of construction up to the present: Concrete, 30,000 cubic yards: reinforcement steel, 700 tons; structural steelwork, 900 tons; pipes, 21,350 lineal feet.

Incidental work which may be mentioned here is in respect of clearing of timber (2,200 acres), and fencing of boundaries of reserves for the Mulwala canal and Berrigan channel, (100 miles).

Landholders have freedom of choice as to the parts of their properties upon which the water supplies for irrigation is to be utilised, and it will be their responsibility to provide such internal ditches as are necessary and grade the land if required.

Also, storage tanks to receive water supplied for stock and domestic purposes are to be provided by them.

Employment of labor: The following figures concerning labour may be of interest: On 22nd September 358 men were engaged on day labor; and 158 on contracts, a total of 524 men.

There were 221 horses being used besides 24 tractors.

OPEN 7 DAYS Established in 1931 in End St where Deni Cobblers is now located, what is now known as Deniliquin Bakery has been serving the local region for almost 90 years.

In its earliest years the bakery had several different owners. These included the Thompson family, Parrott family, the Smith brothers, and then long-time owner Geoff McKenzie. Many would best remember the business as McKenzies Bakery in End St. Peter and Lyn O’Brien purchased McKenzies Bakery in 1981 and changed the name to O’Brien’s Bakery, and soon after the couple also bought Deni Hot Bread Shop in Hardinge St. They closed the Hardinge St premises and moved the business to Cressy St where Soul Pattinson

pharmacy now operates. In 1993 Peter and Lyn combined the Cressy St and End St premises into one business and shifted it to Davidson St where it still operates today. In 2002 they sold it to Brett and Anna Suckling, and in 2008 Peter’s son David, a qualified baker, and his wife Dani purchased the business from the Sucklings.

Dani and David love what they do and are proud to be part of the Deniliquin community, and they appreciate the support their business receives from the locals. They also recognise the hard work put in by all the previous owners to help shape Deniliquin Bakery into what it is today.

For the proud current owners - Dani and David - owning a business continues a legacy for each of their respective local families.

The Davidson St business is an iconic and popular part of the Deniliquin landscape and a ‘must-do’ for those passing through town and looking for a delicious bite to eat.

Dani’s parents, Terry and Pat Maher, own long-time local business TA Maher Electrical. Sadly Pat lost her battle with cancer in 2015, however Terry still owns and operates the business today along with their sons, Tim and Simon.

Today the bakery employs three bakers, including two apprentices, and 11 front-of-house staff, and Dani and David’s eldest children — Olivia and Tom — are also heavily involved with the business.

Open 6.30am-5pm weekdays, 7am-3pm Saturday, 8am-3pm, Sunday. 69 Davidson St, Deniliquin. Phone 5881 2278.

26 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Syphons carry water The Lawson Syphons are a remarkable engineering structure diverting irrigation water under the Edward River and delivering it to the agricultural areas west of Deniliquin. This report on the history of the Deniboota Domestic and Stock Water Supply and Irrigation District, and the Lawson Syphons, was prepared for the NSW Premier John Cahill for the opening ceremony on April 27, 1955. efore Hume Dam was built it was apparent the uncontrolled flow of the River Murray was not sufficiently reliable to permit large scale irrigation projects being safely undertaken in that valley.

Small pumping schemes, privately developed, were all that could be contemplated.

Nevertheless, the demand for major irrigation works in that region had persisted for many years and a great deal of investigation work had been carried out.

When work on Hume Dam commenced it was obvious that large scale irrigation projects would soon follow. However, the problem of markets was to be considered and the Development and Migration Commission, about 1927, recommended that the Governments concerned in the Murray Valley development should call a conference of the Irrigation Commissioners of the States and certain other representatives “to report and recommend with regard to a national policy for the development of these settlements and areas”.

The conference was held in Canberra during February, 1928 and, on its recommendation, the River Murray Advisory Committee comprising representatives of the Commonwealth of Australia and of the States of NSW, Victoria and South Austra-

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lia, was formed to consider the question of development of the River Murray Valley by water which would be made available when the Hume Dam, then under construction, was completed.

The New South Wales members of the committee were Mr G D Ross, Under Secretary, Department of Agriculture and alternate members Mr H H Dare or Mr G J Evatt, Commissioners of the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission.

After full consideration of all the factors involved, the committee came to the conclusion that the market for products of areas already established for “intensive” irrigation, including rice, wine, citrus and deciduous fruits, and dried vine fruits, did not justify further development on similar lines, and that a more assured form of development would be the provision of water to existing pastoral holdings, and to mixed farms engaged in wheat growing, sheep raising and/or dairying, for the growth of pastures and fodder crops and also for domestic and stock purposes.

With this end in view the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission of New South Wales drafted an amendment to the Water Act providing for the constitution of Districts for Domestic and Stock Water

■ Syphon barrels were constructed under the framework as part of this remarkable engineering feat.

Supply and Irrigation, which legislation was assented to in May, 1930 and now forms Part VI of the Water Act, 1912-19.

Deniboota is the fourth such District established in the Riverina. The three other similar Districts - Wakool, Berriquin and Denimein are already in operation. The total

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Deniliquin has been very good to us, our children have had an excellent education and we enjoy a happy, relaxed lifestyle.

182-186 Barham Rd, Deniliquin. Phone 03 5881 3413.

Deni is quite a transport hub with a variety of agricultural enterprises which all need road transport to function. We have been very fortunate to be able to source our outstanding [\I‫ ٺ‬IVL \WOM\PMZ _M ITT _WZS \W_IZL[ supporting and promoting our wonderful town.

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area of Deniboota is slightly more than 304,000 acres and there are some 150 holdings within its boundaries. The proposal for the constitution of the District was published in the Government Gazette on April 1, 1938, and the Provisional District was proclaimed on December 16, 1938.

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Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 27

under Edward River From previous page he works include twin syphons and about 185 miles of channels, together with associated structures, such as bridges, regulators, outlets etc. The syphons, named after Mr J A Lawson MLA, represent the major engineering task associated with the work.

Their function is to carry water of the Mulwala Canal under the Edward River and Aljoes Creek to supply the irrigation requirements of Deniboota and to supplement the water supply for Wakool. The water will flow from Mulwala Canal into a double barrel syphon, each pipe 2,300 feet long and 12 feet in diameter, passing under the Edward River and adjacent low lying ground; from there it emerges to flow from 3,500 feet through an open channel, then into a second double barrel syphon (each pipe 450 feet long and 12 feet in diameter) passing under Aljoes Creek.

Each pair of pipes has been designed for a flow capacity of 1,000 cubic feet per second or 540 million gallons per day. Construction involved 140,000 cubic yards of excavation and the placing of 31,000 cubic yards of concrete and 1000 tons of reinforcing steel.

The total weight of the syphons and related structures is approximately 57,000 tons - about 5,000 tons heavier than the steelwork in the Sydney Harbour Bridge, including its approaches.

Preparatory work for construction of the syphons and district work generally was put in hand on June 19, 1939. The first sod was turned by the Hon. A. Mair, Premier, on August 18, 1939.

Good progress was maintained at first but following the outbreak of war in 1939, construction work became increasingly difficult owing to the war requirements for materials having preference.

In February, 1942 all work connected with Deniboota had to be suspended so that workmen and plant might be transferred to urgent defence projects.

Representations for the works to be reopened were made on a number of occasions during the war but such a step would have been quite impracticable at the time.

One suggestion put forward (late in 1944) was that the farmers in the district be engaged on channel construction.

At this time the Commission was already preparing to re-open the work and in 1945 a Resident Engineer, Deniboota was appointed with headquarters at Deniliquin. Work on the canal recommenced shortly afterwards and during the latter part of 1945-46 preparatory work for the construction of the twin syphons was resumed.

In October, 1946 construction of structures on the Deniboota Canal was commenced. Driving of steel sheet piling for No. 1 coffer dam - for the syphons - was interrupted by floods between July and September, 1946, and again between January and May, 1947. Progress was also handicapped by the rapidly growing problem of shortages of plant and materials.

During the year ended June 30, 1948, the steel forms for the barrel proper were received. There was also an improvement in the supply position generally, but work was seriously handicapped by a lengthy industrial dispute and by further floods in the Edward River.

During the following year excavation of the Mulwala and Deniboota Canals within the district were practically completed and at June 30, 1949, the major outstanding work in hand was the construction of the twin concrete syphons under the Edward River and Aljoes Creek.

Floods stopped work for a total of three months and difficulty was experienced obtaining suitable labour during the following year. The latter problem, however, was eased by the employment of British migrants.

Further floods and high river flows were experienced in the following years and caused serious interruptions to work on the syphons, however concreting of the Aljoes

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■ A large crowd gathered for the official opening of the Lawson Syphons, conducted by the NSW Premier John Cahill.

Creek barrels was substantially completed during 1951-52.

While some works were being temporarily closed down owing to a shortage of Loan Funds, Deniboota was allotted a high place in the order of priorities of those works which it was thought, in the national interest, should be completed with the least possible delay and a new program of work designed to complete the syphons by mid 1955 was prepared.

Floods continued to cause serious interruptions and for approximately six months in the latter half of 1952, the Edward River section of the syphon was flooded.

Again during the year 1953-54, the Edward River section was flooded for about 21⁄2 months.

However at that stage all work was well advanced and steps were able to be taken to lessen the effects of flooding and so allow work to proceed at a reasonable rate.

It was then apparent that a water supply for portion of the Deniboota District would become available during the 1954-55 irrigation season. Plans for the final channel design of the Deniboota system have been completed and work on the channels and structures is well advanced.

By the time of the official opening ceremony in April, 1955, water will be available to approximately 40 holdings in the northern part of the district, for which channel earthworks and structures will be complete and ready for use.

When the Deniboota District was first constituted in 1938 there were within its boundaries 147 holdings and 133 landholders. Some subdivision has taken place since then and there are now 159 holdings and 189 landholders.

With the provision of an assured water supply for irrigation farming, a substantial development may now be anticipated and in the designing of the water supply system, provision for such expansion has been made.

Apart from the Deniboota District there are three other large irrigation works in the Riverina area adjacent to Deniliquin.

T.A. Maher ELECTRICAL

456 HENRY ST, DENILIQUIN

Contact: Terry 0408 994 750. Tim 0408 588 130.

TA Maher Electrical was established by Terry and Pat Maher in 1974 has been a proud part of the Deniliquin community ever since.

The business has grown to employ six staff members, including Terry and Pat’s sons Tim and Simon.

Terry and the team would like to wish Deniliquin a happy 175th birthday and thank the community for their support over the past 43 years in business.

28 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Rice is the backbone he Pastoral Times was there when SunRice opened the Deniliquin Rice Mill in 1970, but it wasn’t until March 6, 1981 that the official opening of the mill took place.

It was an auspicious occasion that was held on the lawns of the new mill and attracted dignitaries from around the region among more than 1200 people who attended. At the time Ian Davidge was chairman of directors, Clive Holden deputy chairman, W Rutherford foreman, and Gavin Lowe was mill manager.

Rice would be Deniliquin’s future, and the rise, demise due to drought and rebirth of the industry has had a massive effect on the town’s economy.

Deniliquin’s connection with the rice industry has no equal: Rice growing began in the Murray Valley as a war time (1936-1945) measure to boost production of food in Australia.

In 1942-43, rice growing trials on experimental blocks were conducted by the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission (WC&IC). The rice was grown on Hunter Landale’s property ‘Mundiwa’, four miles from Deniliquin, W Pyle’s farm at Blighty, ER Hollins’ property in the Wakool area and the estate of T Wragge at Tulla.

Mr Edgar Hollins, involved in the plot trials, harvested a five-acre plot which yielded an average of 2.5 tonnes per acre (6.2 tonnes per hectare). The trials were successful and the industry in the Murray Valley began.

The following year, approximately 5000 acres (over 2000ha) were prepared for rice on Tulla Estate.

Although the land at Tulla Estate required little or no grading due to its natural gradient for water flow, the WC&IC

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surveyors and employees worked for six months non-stop designing and constructing the irrigation system.

In addition, men with rice growing experience from the MIA were appointed to manage the growing operation under the operation of the WC&IC. More than 100 men were employed to prepare the rice fields. Unfortunately it is said that workers supplied by Wartime Manpower Department were not suited to that work. So, in September 1943, 100 Italian Prisoners of War (POWs) were moved to Tullakool.

The Italians were known to be good workers and another 75 followed soon after.

They were industrious and worked hard, in 10-hour shifts using horses and an array of machinery to get the crop sown.

A camp was set up to house the workers 14 miles from Wakool and 18 from Barham, with facilities also being provided for Australian Servicemen guarding the POWs. On October 6 and 7, 1943, the rice channels were filled and the following day irrigation started.

There were many good stories of the POWs at Tullakool. At the camps there were no fences necessary, and they did not require much supervision. One story is that a POW escaped to Barham and after four days he returned. He decided he was better off in than out.

In 1944-45 about 8000 tonnes of rice was harvested in the first season at Tullakool.

Fifty-five years later, in 1999, the rice harvest for the rice growing region of NSW was almost 1.4 million tonnes, of which the Murray Valley produced almost half of the total harvest.

The rice industry continued to grow in the 1950s and 1960s with the mechanisation of harvesting and the transition from carting

■ Ricegrowing has become the backbone of Deniliquin’s economy. bags to transporting rice paddy in bulk to delivery sites in the region.

The technical advancement of bulk handling throughout the process, from aerated storage through to milling and packaging continued in the 1960s.

However it is said that Clydesdale horses were still being used to harvest grain out of wet paddocks well into the 1960s. By the 1970s the rice industry was booming, with storage facilities throughout the region in full swing.

In 1970 we saw the opening of the Deniliquin Rice Mill, operating 16 hours a day once workers completed training. It grew to eight hour shifts in a 24 hour operation.

Hogan depot and Blighty depot were constructed during the 1970s, with aerial sowing becoming popular in the mid 1970s.

The rice industry in the Murray Valley had come a long way since its birth in the early 1940s.

As the industry grew, so too did the Deni Mill to cater for increasing demands. Two new A-frame storage sheds were started in 1991, with extensions to storage in Moulamein, Finley and the Hogan shed in Jerilderie in the following years, and further Deniliquin Mill extensions in 1994.

These extensions and developments saw the Deniliquin Rice Mill become the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.

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21 Ochtertyre St, Deniliquin Ph 03 5881 5430 Fax 03 5881 4289 Mobile 0408 629 421 dĂīLJ ĂŶĚ sŝĐŬŝ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ƚĞĂŵ Ăƚ ƌƵŶŬĞƌ &ĂďƌŝĐĂƟŽŶƐ ǁŽƵůĚ ůŝŬĞ ƚŽ ĐŽŶŐƌĂƚƵůĂƚĞ ĞŶŝůŝƋƵŝŶ ŽŶ ƌĞĂĐŚŝŶŐ ϭϳϱ LJĞĂƌƐ͘

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Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 29

of Deni’s economy From previous page fter a Riverina rice crop of 1.4 million tonnes in 1999, the severe drought of the noughties saw the mill placed into care and maintenance in late 2007 after a crop of just 19,000 tonnes.

Ninety locals lost their jobs in the closure, however SunRice assured Deniliquin that the mill would re-open when the rice returned.

They kept their word, announcing the reopening of the mill in 2011 following unprecedented rainfall in 2010.

The 90 jobs were returned to the area, plus another 58 bringing the total to 148, as rice paddies began appearing throughout the countryside once again.

While the town rejoiced at the re-opening

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of the mill, there was increasing uncertainty over the proposed sale of SunRice to Spanish company Ebro Foods in 2010, which never eventuated due to underwhelming shareholder support.

Since reopening in 2011, SunRice has invested more than $18 million to ensure the Deni Mill has the latest technology and equipment for turning the world’s best paddy into the world’s best rice. Investments have included improving safety and quality standards, replacing old equipment, improving operating efficiencies, and improving mill flexibility and capability.

Over the past seven years, as crop sizes have fluctuated in response to water availability, the Deni Mill has had the flexibility to adjust its capacity to suit. Most recently, off the back of a bumper 800,000 tonne plus

2017 harvest, the mill is operating at full 24/7 capacity.

The mill is proud to be Deni’s largest nongovernment employer, with all 142 employees living in Deni and surrounding local areas. As the 2017 Deni and MurrayRiverina Employer of Choice, hiring from the local talent pool is very important to the business and signifies a real investment in ensuring Deni is a prosperous regional centre.

With a capacity to process 600,000 tonnes of Riverina-grown rice, the mill plays an important role in SunRice’s global business.

This year, it will mill enough rice to produce 2.9 billion servings of rice, with large volumes being sold into SunRice’s highquality Japanese, Taiwanese and Korean markets.

The important and growing role that Australian grown rice plays in markets around the world is being driven by SunRice’s capability as an internationallyfocused, Australian agribusiness to innovate and leverage global food trends.

SunRice’s innovation is driven by extensive consumer insights and identification of global macro-trends, such as demand for food safety, meal convenience, healthy eating and snacking options, and the sushi revolution.

With its fully-integrated supply chain and SunRice’s strong reputation, the company and the Australian rice industry are perfectly placed to tap into these trends and expand sales internationally.

Based on this, the future for SunRice and its operations, including the Deni Mill, is looking bright.

Association to protect interests of ricegrowers The Ricegrowers Association of Australia (RGA) was formed in 1930 during the early years of the rice industry and turned a small group of pioneering rice growers into an effective and cohesive force.

The organisation was formed following a community meeting in Leeton to disband the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area Ricegrowers Cooperative Society.

The society had suffered severe financial losses at the hands of Sydney and Melbourne-based rice milling companies, and disillusioned growers were not willing to stand by and let it continue.

In its place they formed the RGA, an association designed to protect their interests and investigate ways to secure the future prosperity of the rice industry.

Initially, the RGA focused on building infrastructure to enable growers to mill and market their own rice. It was instrumental in the development of the Ricegrowers Cooperative in 1950 (now better known as SunRice) and the Leeton Rice Mill, which opened the following year.

Today, the RGA represents more than 1200 voluntary members, and supports growers on issues affecting the viability of their business and communities. Its members are rice growers who have been farming for generations and those who have recently joined the industry.

Any rice producer, their family members, industry supporters and/or Ricegrowers Limited shareholders are eligible for membership of the RGA. The RGA represents

members across eight branches: Yanco, Mirrool, Coleambally, Berriquin, Deniliquin, Wakool, Hay, Victoria and Queensland.

The RGA seeks to protect the interests of the rice growing community by providing policy and advocacy services for members across five key areas: water, farm business and productivity, people and community, industry affairs and environmental sustainability.

In the year ahead the RGA is working towards: ● Improved value and engagement for members. ● Continuing advocacy efforts in relation to the Murray Darling Basin Plan and in particular ensuring there are no unmitigated

impacts for irrigators through water reform.

Developing the Water Resource Plans for the Murray and Murrumbidgee Valleys. ● Assisting growers to better understand allocations, water markets and products. ● Reviewing the Rice R&D Levy rate. ● On behalf of the whole industry, developing and delivering an expanded Rice Industry Leadership Program. ● Engaging with key stakeholders and educating growers to reduce negative impacts of post-harvest practices. ● Developing a rice industry sustainability reporting program. ● The Bitterns in Rice project and to investigate opportunities for innovative uses of environmental water.

DAHLSENS. PROUD TO SUPPORT THE BUILDING OF DENILIQUIN Supplier of:

Timber Truss & Frame Building Materials And more DAHLSENS DENILIQUIN BARHAM RD. 58813500

30 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Irrigation system on a modernisation journey M

urray Irrigation is on the brink of completing what has been one of the greatest investments made in the development and implementation of agricultural technology in the region’s history.

The local company is finalising its $206.3 million Private Irrigation Infrastructure Operators Program (PIIOP) Round 2 project, which involves the upgrade of manualoperated irrigation infrastructure to remote control technology.

These once-in-a-generation modernisation works have seen more than 3400 structures upgraded, comprising 2100 outlets and 1300 regulators. The majority of traditional manually-operated Dethridge wheels have been replaced with state-of-theart automated technology.

The PIIOP project has introduced drones, computer modelling and telemetry never before seen in this region and will likely eclipse any infrastructure investment well into the future.

Underpinned by a massive $169.2 million in Australian Government funding, and backed up with $33.7 million from Murray Irrigation, the $206.3 million project has taken since 2013 to be completed.

More than 400 contractors and part-time workers benefited from the scope of works and scores of opportunities opened up for businesses to expand, and careers to be either kick-started or established.

Where it all began…

The local irrigation supply network has evolved dramatically since irrigation was first made possible in the region almost 90 years ago. Irrigation in the Southern River-

■ The Billabong Channel Offtake upgrade was completed in August 2017.

ina was initially developed as drought proofing to provide reliable stock and domestic water to a vast region which had been regularly devastated by drought.

Between 1933 and 1964, the NSW Government undertook the development of the state’s largest irrigation network known as the Murray Irrigation Area and Districts, fed by the waters of the Murray River.

The NSW Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission (WC&IC) was responsible for construction and operation of the irrigation network. It later became the NSW Water Resources Commission and then the Department of Water Resources.

In 1995, control and operation of the irrigation system was handed over to the irrigators it served, through the formation of the privatised company Murray Irrigation Limited.

Today the system provides vital water supplies to 2164 properties stretching from Mulwala in the east to Moulamein in the west and taking in 724,000 hectares of farmland north of the Murray River.

The company’s irrigation system is gravity-fed, with 2868km of supply channels and 1421km of drainage channels.

Murray Irrigation’s head office is in Charlotte Street, Deniliquin, with regional offices in Finley and Wakool.

On-farm efficiency Murray Irrigation was a delivery partner for several rounds of the Commonwealth Government’s On-Farm Irrigation Efficiency Program (OFIEP).

The efficiency program entails funding by the Commonwealth for on-farm works for more efficient irrigation, in return for a portion of the water savings being transferred to the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder.

The water entitlements transferred to the

■ More than 3400 structures were upgraded as part of Private Irrigation Infrastructure Operators Program Round 2, comprising 2100 outlets and 1300 regulators.

Commonwealth contribute towards the Murray-Darling Basin Plan target for the NSW Murray, while also improving efficiency and productivity of irrigation systems to help our community’s ability to cope with less irrigation water in the future.

Funding was provided from the Water for the Future Sustainable Rural Water Use and Efficiency Program, with Murray Irrigation successfully completing the pilot program, round one and round two. The company is currently implementing round four and round five of these programs.

Where to now…

While PIIOP Round 2 work upgrading customer outlets and dated infrastructure in smaller channels is nearing its final phase, work on PIIOP Round 3 kicked off in May 2017.

PIIOP Round 3 is focused on extending the life of main structures by at least 25 years and the works will provide a greater level of control within the main canals.

Six structures have already been upgraded along the Berrigan Canal, with more upgrades planned for 2018.

PIIOP Round 3 will comprise the installation of more than 150 gates and is a huge step in Murray Irrigation’s modernisation journey.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 31

Levee project took long time to complete here has been a lot of water literally flow under the bridge since it was first suggested Deniliquin needed a new levee bank system.

Planning for the levee system started nearly 27 years ago.

This gained momentum in the early 1990s following the devastating Nyngan floods, and a subsequent state government push to have all towns on rivers protected from flooding.

Construction of the Deniliquin levee project began in December 1995.

By 2010 cost estimates were $12 million to $13 million, which is reasonable considering there were fears at one stage the project could cost up to $20 million.

Originally, the state and federal governments agreed to fund 40 per cent each, with the remaining 20 per cent from the former Deniliquin Council.

But the rules were changed, and Deniliquin’s contribution was bumped up to 33 per cent.

Deniliquin Council originally tried to approve a levee bank with a height that was one metre above the one-in-100-year flood level. It claimed this was a state government

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funding requirement, but investigations revealed this was not the case.

It took a concerted community effort to get council to see reason. Eventually, after many heated discussions, it was agreed that a half-metre freeboard would be okay and planning moved ahead.

Eventually work on the project started to take shape and it continued for more than a decade.

Original predictions were that the entire levee project would be complete by 2006, but it took until 2012, with the west Deniliquin levee a major contributor to the delays.

In July 1999, Deniliquin Council had to revisit the St Michael St design, after one property owner revoked their consent of the adopted route. It occurred just one month out from when construction was to start.

The hold-up did, however, allow council to bring forward the section to run from the Deniliquin Hospital to the National Bridge.

Problems arose again in August 2000, when a route for the Blackett St levee could not be agreed upon. Three years later the levee proposed for the Harfleur St/Capper St area proved controversial, forcing council to hold an extraordinary meeting.

Council had decided to purchase a large block of land in the area, containing four

■ The construction of the Deniliquin levee system was completed in 2012. lots, and proposed to run the levee through the centre. Debate on the proposed route continued for many months, and it was pegged out on the ground and comments from the public were sought.

In 2001 part of the levee was constructed through the Deniliquin golf course, which allowed a re-design of its back six holes. The golf course section of the levee stretches for 900 metres, primarily along the edge of the 12th fairway.

In February 2004 council adopted a recommendation to go ahead with the plotted route, but it hit another hurdle later that year. In September 2004, while the route was being considered by the Department of Commerce, another was recommended to council.

In January 2005, Deniliquin Council advised that the entire levee project should be

complete by mid 2006, but by August 2006 there were still a number of sections to go.

The CBD section was started in October 2007, and at the time only west Deniliquin and small sections at Wenburn Crt and in north Deniliquin were required to be complete.

In April 2009, council finally approved the final section of the West Deniliquin Levee, with the program of works being completed in 2012.

In 2014, the Floodplain Management Australia Conference was held in Deniliquin, with delegates from across Australia touring the levee bank and learning more about how it was constructed.

Following the completion of a Flood Study by the former Deniliquin Council, the current Edward River Council adopted a Floodplain Risk Management Plan in 2017, following the late 2016 flood event.

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32 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

DENILIQUIN

~ Incorporating the Deniliquin Standard ~

PASTORAL

1859 ~ 2017

TIMES

A part of Deniliquin’s history A part of Deniliquin’s future

Serving our community for 158 years The Pastoral Times has been the district’s major communication vehicle since our first edition on May 26, 1859.

For 158 years we have upheld a proud tradition, reporting on events large and small, in times of prosperity and adversity.

The Pastoral Times is proud of the role we have played in shaping our town and district.

As times change, so do we – in 2017 you can read your traditional copy of the PT or find it at www.denipt.com.au.

Cnr Cressy and Edwardes Sts, Deniliquin Phone: (03) 5881 2322 Editorial: sam.hall@denipt.com.au Advertising: amy.gretgrix@denipt.com.au Classifieds: advertise@localclassies.com.au Website: www.denipt.com.au

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 33

Fire brigade since 1878 Deniliquin Fire Brigade is thought to have started in about 1878 under captain J Davidson.

There are conflicting records, however, that indicate it started in 1882.

While details about the early years are scarce, the town fire brigade became a NSW Fire Brigade (NSWFB) in roughly 1911. It then became Fire & Rescue NSW in 2011.

In 1915 there were about 15 firefighters.

The brigade used horse drawn turbines to fight fires up until 1929, when the first fire truck was purchased.

The Dennis truck was succeeded by various models of Dennis vehicles up until the late 1960s.

The brigade’s current station was built in 1938. In previous years there was a station in Cressy St, where Elders Residential Real Estate is today, though little is known about it.

In 1967 the brigade purchased a Ford D series fire truck, replacing it with an International nine years later.

In 1990 the fire station was refurbished,

and expanded from a single bay to a double bay.

It was about this time that breathing apparatus became part of the local firefighter’s equipment.

The year 2004 saw the latest fire trucks arrive at the Deniliquin station, with NSWFB now using Isuzu vehicles.

A new Mercedes hazmat tanker was provided to the station in March 2016.

Current Captain Martin Smith said it was identified that a hazmat appliance was needed in the Deniliquin area to allow a quicker response time for hazmat incidents.

The nearest hazmat stations are in Albury, Wagga Wagga and Broken Hill.

The Deniliquin Brigade helped fight off fires during the Black Saturday disaster in February 2009, with a crew departing for Victoria on the afternoon of Black Saturday.

Four crews rotated through four-day shifts, and provided support for a total of 16 days.

Local firefighters also assisted with the

■ Long-time Deniliquin NSW Fire & Rescue volunteer Ken Rose displays a new and old tanker at a Deniliquin event in 2017.

Western Sydney bush fires in 2013, provid- early records are incomplete): ing asset protection in the Springwood area.

1878-1879 J Davidson 1882 G Hunter During the life of the brigade 134 firefight1882 T Heales ers have helped protect Deniliquin from fire, with 19 firefighters active in 2017.

1886 J Robertson 1887 J Kynaston The brigade averages 130 yearly fire calls, 1896 Mr Dalziel compared to 240 in the mid-2000s.

1897 A Fordham Capt Smith credits smoke alarms and 1898-1921 JT Butcher education with lowering the rate of calls, in 1921-1924 AW Butcher addition to a greater focus on community initiatives like station open days, school 1924-1941 TH Collins visits to the station and more presence in 1941-1955 A Whitelock local media.

1955-1975 F Quinlan 1975-1977 K McBurnie Today the brigade handles all sorts of situations, from hazmat emergencies to 1977- 1994 J Leetham search and rescue, and of course, firefight1994-2013 B Muirhead ing.

2014 Phil Dowling Deniliquin Fire Brigade Captains (note 2015-present Martin Smith

Revitalised from hospital beds The first part of this article was written by former Deniliquin Bush Fire Brigade stalwart Murry Druitt (dec.).

It is now the Deniliquin Rural Fire Service brigade, and has made a significant contribution to fire fighting in this district and interstate. s patients in the Deniliquin Hospital in 1980, Otto Schmaltz and I found that we had a common interest - the Fire Brigade.

Otto was the equipment officer for the Rochester brigade and me a member of the Melton Fire Brigade.

Both of us had become good friends after our stay in hospital and Otto expressed a desire to re-open the Deniliquin Brigade.

He advertised after consulting with Deniliquin Council, called a meeting and as they say ‘the rest is history’.

There was a bit of reluctance from the previous members as some of their captains wanted the Brigade to remain dormant and only activated if needed during the fire season.

The Deniliquin Bush Fire Brigade finally got off the ground in its headquarters at Deniliquin Airport.

Elected captain was Otto Schmaltz, with secretary Joy Schmaltz, senior deputy captain Jim Hampton and 12 firemen, including the first two female members for NSW (that lasted until Sydney wanted the first names of all members).

After about three years Jim Hampton took over as captain with myself as senior deputy and secretary Shirley Burgess after Otto and Joy moved to a property near Gundagai.

Twelve months later Jim left the brigade due to work commitments and I was elected captain (1984). Senior deputy was Donald Rose and Shirley Burgess was still secretary.

About 1986 Coinda joined forces with us as they weren’t allowed to run their own Brigade. They bought our old Bedford truck that we retired due to age.

All our training was done on Sunday mornings at the airport. We would start off with breakfast (supplied by Kraft - Jim Hampton was their engineer) and then finish up at lunch time.

In 1982 we hosted the NSW Bush Fire Brigades Conference here at Deni High

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School and then all took a bus to our sister station at Rochester, where we were always made welcome.

Every September in the first week, we would drive to Rochester to engage in preseason training with them, which consisted of various exercises; a tiring but enjoyable day.

During the big fires that ran throughout Victoria in the early 1980s (Black Friday), Otto and I were put on standby at Rochester and split up into teams. We never really saw any action.

During the late 1980s a big fire broke out at Boonoke and raced away to Jerilderie.

Once again Deni was put on standby but not called out.

During the early 1990s things started to change within the NSW Bush Fire services.

There was the name changed to NSW Rural Fire Service and then the training became standardised.

I attended a Captain’s Course in Sydney from August 17-22, 1986 and results from that course started to filter down to all the rural brigades.

Deniliquin Rural Fire Brigade started to be recognised and then often got called into other areas to assist with fires, floods, accidents etc.

In 1991, I stepped down as captain and handed over to Bill Read (and I became a deputy captain, secretary of the brigade, then president). After about five years Bill was replaced by Chris Lavars.

During Chris’s term the brigade was called to help out with fires in Lithgow and Tenterfield. Since this time there have been many call-outs to assist with out-of-area fires. ~ By Murry Druitt

Rural Fire Service Extends Base During Murry Druitt’s final years with the local Rural Fire Service brigade, he and Chris Lavars organised a $60,000 grant.

That grant, received in 1996, enabled the brigade to extend its base from one bay to four bays and re-spray their old tanker.

They also purchased an ex-council tipper and converted it into a second tanker.

In about 1998 the brigade purchased a category seven tanker, in the form of a Mitsubishi Canter.

A station extension was completed in 2008, but with outdated facilities was then replaced with a new modern station in 2011.

Still at the airport and officially opened in

2012, the four bay station boasts a large conference facility and has the ability to hold up to 150 people.

Other features of the station include airconditioning, a small operations centre and male, female and disabled toilets.

Deniliquin business Decentralised Demountables was contracted to build the $500,000 facility. The old station was retained as storage.

Today the station is well equipped with a new category seven tanker, two category one tankers and a twin cab ute.

After Chris Lavars finished as captain, Laurie Coonan stepped into the role. Andrew Brain succeeded him, then Julian Bassett, and Scott Fullerton was captain in 2010.

Wayne Fitzpatrick served one year in the top job before Mr Bassett, the current captain, took over again.

Big fire events over the past 20 years include the 1990 fire in the former State Forest and 1997 Lithgow fires, which locals helped fight.

On Black Saturday, February 7, 2009, the local brigade responded quickly to the devastating Victorian bushfires. Five tankers and 25 volunteers left Deniliquin at 10pm that night, and through 72 hour rotations that commitment was kept up for six weeks.

Then RFS operations officer David Donaldson said the dedicated group saved quite a few houses, and also conducted back burning.

Deniliquin brigade members have been among the Mid Murray Zone firefighters to also assist with other fires in Victoria, others parts of NSW, South Australia and Tasmania.

A timeline highlight for the brigade was the establishment of the permanent Mid Murray Zone office in Deniliquin in 2000.

The new zone incorporated Deniliquin, Conargo, Wakool, Murray and Jerilderie Shires and had 1700 volunteers.

The office was originally headed up by David Donaldson as temporary manager, before Gary Eason came as zone manager in 2004. Lindsay Lashbrook succeeded Mr Eason, and was replaced by Tony Whitehorn in 2017.

A development application for a new, state-of-the-art zone office was approved by Edward River Council in November 2017, with an expectation it will be open by the end of 2018.

The Deniliquin RFS brigade has 48 registered volunteers. Across the zone’s 50 brigades, there are 1495 registered volunteers.

34 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 • Air Conditioning • Mechanical Services • Plumbing DENILIQUIN PTY LTD

380 Charlotte Street. Phone 03 5881 1699

Barnetts Deniliquin Pty Ltd is a local company that has continued to follow the traditions of the original business - Barnett Bros that was established in Deniliquin in 1954.

Main business activities still include mechanical services, plumbing, airconditioning and plumbing supplies.

The business has remained on the same premises since 1962 and has a large sheet metal workshop on site.

Brothers Ron and Norm Barnett commenced the business and today their son’s John and Glenn are the managing directors of Barnetts Deniliquin Pty Ltd. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience between them and together with a stable, supportive, hardworking, motivated staff they face the challenges of running a successful long term business. In recent years Michael started as a plumbing apprentice making Barnetts Deniliquin a local third generation business.

Barnetts Deniliquin Pty Ltd customer base is extensive and covers a large area throughout the Riverina and beyond. Customers range from homeowners, schools, local businesses, rural properties, to major government projects.

The Deniliquin Menshed was formed 9 years ago as a social and practical skills meeting outlet for older and/or retired males. The shed has a varied amount of woodwork and metal work equipment.

We encourage social and practical interaction and project work. We carry out small jobs for the community and individuals at reasonable rates.

The Shed is open Tuesday and Wednesday, 9am to 4pm. An important part of the day is morning and afternoon tea where self-discussion is encouraged.

DENILIQUIN

New members are very welcome, remember if you do not have a skill you can learn one.

MENSHED

If you don’t have a go you may never know.

See you at the shed on Barham Road.

Contacts John Tonkin 0427 811 707 Ian Roberts 0427 564 251

FOR MEN’S HEALTH Inc. No. 9889585

ABN 690 354 54277

Barham Rd, Deniliquin (behind Agspares) Email denimenshed@gmail.com

! i n e D h t 5 7 1 y p p Ha Established in 1989, Riverina Watermatic is proud to have played a part in keeping many of Deniliquin’s public parks and gardens, sporting ovals, fairways, and private lawns looking lush and green.

Business owner Brian King and his six staff members have more than 80 years of experience in the pump and irrigation industry. There’s no job too big or too small when it comes to the supply and installation of sprinkler systems and variable speed pump systems.

Brian would like to thank all those people who have supported Riverina Watermatic during his time in business.

• Installation of fully automated pop-up sprinkler system at ‘Mundiwa’.

• Commissioning of Lowara dual pump unit & lever manifold assembly at Wyoming Dairy (Installer - Stuart Treble).

RIVERINA WATERMATIC

450 Barham Road, Deniliquin.

Phone (03) 5881 5044

St Andrew’s one of town’s most historic buildings t Andrew’s Deniliquin, on the corner of Poictiers and Edwardes Sts, is a reminder of Deniliquin’s early pioneering days.

The local Presbyterian community had banded together as early as 1859, and by 1863 a minister, Reverend P. Mercer of Richmond, Victoria, was attracted to the local presbytery which was attached to Castlemaine in Victoria.

This ministry involved travel to and from Echuca by horseback, with absences from home of up to 12 days at a time. Towards the end of 1865, Echuca became a separate charge and Rev. Mercer’s parish became Deniliquin and Ulupna.

In 1867, three allotments were set apart in Deniliquin for a church, a manse and a school, and later that year, Rev. Mercer was presented with an ‘‘elegant and substantial Concord buggy’’.

Despite this added convenience, the strain of ministering to this far-flung parish eventually proved too great, and Rev. Mercer resigned in August 1869.

He later became a Doctor of Divinity and served as Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Victoria. By 1876, with the advent of selection on squatters’ holdings, the population of Deniliquin had grown to about 2000 people, and the foundations of St Andrew’s were laid.

Under the guidance of architect Louis Harrison, who also designed many of Deniliquin’s other fine buildings, St Andrew’s was constructed in the Victorian Academic Gothic style, of local red bricks with complementary cement render details to buttresses, label moulds, pinnacles and finials, and was roofed with slate.

At this time the building (excluding the vestry and entry porch), was 52 feet long by 25 feet wide, and 30 feet high, and the fresh polished cedar seats accommodated 200 people. Lighting was provided by three ‘‘handsome’’ chandeliers.

Rev. Mercer returned from Melbourne to conduct the official opening on December 2, 1877.

The entrance porch was added in 1930, and the Last Supper stained glass window in 1915.

Extensive renovations carried out during 1956-57 included re-flooring, rearrangement of the dais, communion table

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■ St Andrew’s Uniting Church and lectern, complete re-wiring, new lighting, re-painting, and installation of the front stained-timber panelling.

In 1966, the side windows were replaced with the leadlight windows, incorporating diamond-shaped panes and a medallion.

In 1977, upon the union of Methodist, Presbyterian and Congregational Churches in Australia, St Andrew’s became the home of the Deniliquin Congregation of the Uniting Church.

Renovations from 1985-2004 saw repairs to the roof, seats repaired and polished, new carpet laid, concrete underpinning of buttresses, repairs to brickwork and interior plasterwork, re-leading of the memorial window, and interior repainting.

This NSW Heritage Listed building has been described as ‘‘the neatest specimen of ecclesiastical architecture in the town’’.

Today it houses a devoted congregation that also runs the Holiday Fun program to entertain local children.

Members also have substantial involvement in the Special Religious Education program at local schools, as well as the Deniliquin High School breakfast initiative.

Baptists now in former theatre he Baptist Church started in Deniliquin in 1962 with an initial membership of 16 adults.

It was established as a fellowship where committed Christians could meet around the foundation of strong biblical teaching.

It initially met in a temporary venue, then moved into a new building in Wellington St, until it again outgrew its premises.

In 2003 the Regent Theatre in Edwardes St was purchased. It was refurbished and the church started meeting there in January 2005.

Unfortunately, the move to the Regent coincided with the worst of the drought and low irrigation water allocations. Many church folk, particularly younger families, left Deniliquin in search of employment.

During this time, the church sort to maintain its charter of being ‘‘Called by God to be a community captured by Jesus Christ and His cause’’.

It is often during times of adversity that people most clearly see the necessity of doing things God’s way. In order to promote

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this, the church re-doubled its efforts to give opportunity for people to hear its message.

Activities such as church services in Waring Gardens were implemented to give better gospel exposure.

These were coupled with community services such as Youth Group, ‘Play Time’ and the annual free Christmas Day lunch, to help meet community needs. Over time some of these activities have concluded, but the church remains committed to being part of the wider Deniliquin community and seeks to be involved wherever it is able.

In 2017 the Baptist Church has seen the resumption of a steady increase in church attendance and involvement. The church inducted its 11th minister, Pastor Chris Taylor, in February 2017.

Pastor Taylor has settled comfortably into Deniliquin and has led the church well during his first year.

Visitors are always welcome to services, even if they just want to check out what has happened to the old theatre.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 35

Salvos arrive in 1888 with street parade he Salvation Army announced its presence in Deniliquin in June, 1888 with a street parade

by Staff Capt Cole and several officers playing musical instruments.

After parading for over an hour the group adjourned to their barracks in End St, a leased office building opposite the Exchange Hotel, where it was found there was insufficient room to accommodate the crowd of 300 or so that had gathered and wished to enter.

The Army attracted a strong following and in 1890 bought the disused skating rink, a corrugated iron building in George St, for use as a hall.

To this was added a cottage, and the two buildings remained Army headquarters until 1930, when a new hall and residence were built on the corner of Cressy and Hardinge Sts. Funds with which to establish the new buildings were obtained largely through a public appeal, towards which a very significant amount was contributed by Mr Otway Falkiner, of FS Falkiner and Sons of the property ‘Boonoke’.

In recognition of the firm’s generosity, when the new building was opened in 1930

by Commissioner W Maxwell it was named the Falkiner Citadel.

During 1930 the Salvation Army sponsored the town’s first Boy Scout group.

Known as LifeSaving Scouts and presided over by mayor Ald E T Matthews, the

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Pub and school were the venues for first services T

he first Church of England Service was held at the Wanderer Inn, North Deniliquin in 1855 and the first Anglican Minister was Rev Ralph Barker, who came to Deniliquin in 1857.

The district at this time had a population of 1646 with 327 belonging to the church.

According to Jack Bushby’s ‘Saltbush Country’, Anglican Church services were conducted in the original school house, which was disused for lack of a teacher, then transferred to the Court House.

The minister served a large parish, which included Narrandera, and he visited families as far afield as Moulamein, Hay, Balranald, Moama and Swan Hill. People of all denominations subscribed to the fund opened by the reverend for the building of a residence for himself and then a church.

The first church was built at the corner of George and Macauley Sts and was ready for worship in June 1859.

The church was consecrated on October 15, 1861 but one week later after a terrible

storm the walls collapsed and the entire building was razed to the ground.

A new church was eventually built on the comer of Cressy St and was dedicated in November, 1866. This building is now the Multi Arts Centre.

The present Anglican Church, on the corner of Harrison and Wellington Sts, was dedicated on December 3, 1977 by the Bishop of Riverina, the Right Reverend Barry Hunter.

In 2007, Robyn Carroll, wife of the then Rector Father Bill Carroll, formed a playgroup catering for children from birth to school age.

This group meets every Wednesday from 10am to noon during the school term and together with ‘Mainly Music’, which meets on Thursdays from 10am to 11am, many children and families enjoy a happy time together.

Over the years there have been 23 priests serving in this region. Father Wayne Sheean is the present Rector and is also the LAC Police Chaplain.

Foundation stone for Catholic Church he Catholic Church began in Deniliquin in 1858, when Rev Fr Twomey laid the foundation stone at a Charlotte St site.

After several decades of growth, in 1884 the church opened St Alphonsus Primary School - later to become St Michael’s School.

A new church building was opened in 1876 and the St Michael’s Church moved to its present site on the corner of Harrison and Napier Sts. The building was then red brick, and the stunning stained glass windows were added in 1909 during further extensions.

The most recent renovations occurred in 1961.

In 1992 Sister Ann McRae, a Presentation

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Sister from Wagga Wagga, became Pastoral Associate for the parish.

Sr McRae played a significant role in the running of the parish, and was involved in pastoral visitation, adult education groups, and prayer and discussion groups.

She left Deniliquin in January 1998, and was replaced by Marist Sisters, Srs Catherine Lacey and Judith Lythall.

During the past 30 years priests serving at St Michael’s included Fr Pat Murray, who arrived in 1980, Fr Graeme James (1987), Fr Peter Unwin (1987), Fr Derek Garner (1988), Fr James Victory (1993), Fr Michael Kolodziej (2004) and the current priest, Fr Elisenio Abilgos.

movement attracted a large number of young lads.

With the opening of the Falkiner Citadel the barracks and residence in George St were sold, and in 1936 the land passed from Mr R H Greaves to the NSW Board of Fire Commissioners.

The present fire station was then established on the site and the previous fire station, which was then in Cressy St opposite the town hall, was sold for removal.

A Salvation Army band was formed in 1958 and a year later a band room was added to the northern end of the citadel.

When the Presbyterian and Methodist churches voted in 1977 for a union of the two denominations under the title of Uniting Church of Australia, St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church was retained as the Uniting Church, and the Edwardes St Methodist Church was acquired by the Salvation Army.

The Falkiner Citadel and neighbouring cottage were demolished in 1985, and the site is now occupied by commercial premises.

The Salvation Army has seen many officers come and go over the years, and currently is under the charge of Captain Sandra Walmsley and is still in the business of transforming lives through the love of Jesus.

In 2018, over Easter, the Salvation Army will celebrate its part in the Deniliquin community for 130 years.

175

Years Congratulations to Deniliquin on achieving 175 great years Looking forward to you being on the map for at least another 175 years

Hardinge Street, Deniliquin.

Ph 5881 1322

36 — Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication’, Friday, December 15, 2017

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication’, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 37

AUSTIN EVANS, MP MEMBER FOR MURRAY Established 1940

Our goal is to give members the support and tools to excel in business and be the best they can be.

Aligned with NSW Business Chamber, we are the peak representative body for the local business community and a proud advocate on its behalf.

Our board is made up of local business owners and managers who volunteer their time to help ensure a strong and vibrant local business landscape. Our board is passionate about encouraging the wider community to ‘think local first’ when making a purchase or needing a service.

WƌŽƵĚůLJ ƌĞƉƌĞƐĞŶƟ ŶŐ Deniliquin and District in the NSW Parliament

Congratulations Deniliquin on reaching 175 years.

DENILIQUIN OFFICE 228 Cressy Street DENILIQUIN NSW 2710 Telephone: (03) 5881 7034

We’re all in this together.

Executive Officer: Janet Renehan Chamber office: 122 End St, Deniliquin Office hours: Mon-Wed 9am-5pm Phone: (03) 5881 2621 Email: admin@deniliquinchamber.com.au

deniliquinchamber.com.au

GRIFFITH OFFICE 104-110 Banna Avenue GRIFFITH NSW 2680 Telephone: (02) 6962 6644 murray@parliament.nsw.gov.au ǁǁǁ͘ĂƵƐƟ ŶĞǀĂŶƐ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ

38 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Early years of education eniliquin’s first school was built in 1856 on the banks of the river adjacent to the punt crossing, about 30 yards south of the old George St building.

Dr D.G. Jones, a medic from the Goldfields with an interest in public affairs, was largely responsible for the move toward the provision of a school which was built with funds raised by public subscription.

The first teacher was a man named Banfather, a graduate of one of the British Universities, who was described as a highly cultured and scholastic gentleman. When he took over the school Banfather was well on in years and in poor health. After about six months he took suddenly ill and died.

The school remained closed for some time after the death of Banfather and the children ran wild again. Some of the older children tried their hand at teaching, but were unable to cope.

George Butterworth, a tailor by trade, was another who tried, but he too was unable to control the children. He then took up the quieter vocation of policeman.

There followed a long period of idleness for the children, but in the interim the school house was used to conduct Church of England services by Rev. Ralph Barker.

John Taylor, who had three children of school age, erected a weatherboard school building close to the river, west from where the National Bridge stands.

Taylor became acquainted with a former ship captain named Hills, and through this man’s efforts Deniliquin children received a further two years schooling.

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There was another period of no school after Hills’ departure.

In the meantime the town was growing and the population had been augmented by able men keenly interested in the welfare of the children.

The Misses Emmett had started a boarding school at North Deniliquin, but this was not successful, nor was the day school they later conducted in a cottage rented from Joseph Simpson on the site now occupied by the Globe Hotel.

The Rev. Ralph Barker, who had arrived in Deniliquin in 1857, began collecting money for the purpose of establishing a National School. He raised 200 pounds, receiving donations from people as far away as Moulamein.

A count of district children of school age showed there were then 15 boys and 79 girls eligible to attend school. In May 1857 eleven local patrons were elected, and they chose for a school site “a reserve for access to water having a frontage of ten chains to George Street, by a depth of five chains to Napier Street and bounded on the north side by the bank of the Edward River”. In September 1861 a tender was accepted to build a schoolroom on the land.

The local patrons, impatient at Government delay, set up a temporary National School in the Masonic Hall, which had been erected in 1858 by John Taylor for the members of the Masonic Lodge. It was expected that 30 boys and 40 girls would attend, and that 40 of these would be Anglican, 13 Presbyterian, 12 Catholic and five of other denominations.

The next step was to appoint a teacher. In those days teachers were chosen for their Christian sentiment, calm temper and discretion. All teachers were not imbued with these qualities, however, for between 1873 and 1879 twelve teachers were charged with assaults on pupils.

It was a common form of punishment to stand recalcitrant pupils against a wall with arms stretched overhead held up by string attached to their thumbs.

The local Board appointed Edwin Johnson, of Paddington National School, as first teacher, and he took up his duties in December 1861. The new Italian style school was opened on April 25, 1862 by local member, John Hay. About 60 adults and 100 children attended the opening.

Toward the end of 1862 Johnson was promoted to Inspector of Schools and was succeeded by John Mills. Samuel Miller was the next teacher, and he stayed for 15 years.

A survey taken in 1870 showed that within two miles of Deniliquin 106 children were not attending school; of these 70 were residing within one mile of the township.

Miller stated that during an epidemic of measles in 1875 more than 100 pupils were absent on account of the disease.

A further house-to-house canvass in 1878 showed that of a total of 613 children of school age, only 138 attended the public school, 227 went to private schools or were

Edward spirit on show dward Public School has a proud and long history that is intertwined with the George Street School.

The newest of Deniliquin’s public schools, Edward took its first enrolment on February 9, 1972. Mr Les Davey was the principal and Mr Des Lutton the deputy principal.

The first few years for Edward students were very demanding. They were bussed daily back and forth to and from George St until the school was finally completed.

Over the years Edward students have had the privilege of being educated and cared for by many dedicated teaching, ancillary and support staff members.

Parents have also always played an invaluable role in supporting the staff and the students in their learning.

Iconic school stalwarts Robert Armytage, Wayne Bradley and Des Lutton were well known, highly respected and valued staff members of Edward for three decades.

The Edward School P&C has always worked collaboratively with the staff, and supporting and improving conditions for students has always been their main goal.

The P&C’s most recent success is the ‘Edward on the Edward’ music event.

Edward has been at the forefront of many pioneering and innovative programs over the past 45 years.

Mr Lutton was a technological trailblazer, not just at Edward but within the region and the entire Riverina area.

Edward actually acquired one of the first computers in NSW schools. At his request Adrian Parker, then principal, purchased one of the original Apple computers back in the early 1980s and Marg Smith was also the first person in Deniliquin to receive and use an office word processor.

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■ Students recreated the march from the former George St School to South School for the 50th anniversary in 2006.

Walking South from George St D

eniliquin South School started in its current Sloane St location in 1956. Its 110 students, who had previously been taught at the George St School, made the historical walk to their new school grounds.

The Sloane St site was originally gazetted for a high school.

A staff of four, including principal for the school’s first 12 years, Mr Arthur Lewis, took charge of the junior classes including kindergarten.

Classes were housed in a number of buildings in the intervening periods between, when the enrolments outgrew the accommodation and when the department provided extra space.

These included Mr Cockayne’s hall in 1958, the Buffalo Hall in 1962 and the Presbyterian Hall between 1964 and 1967.

A brick building comprising three classrooms and a new toilet block was constructed in 1968, a portable library was installed in 1977 and the administration block added in 1981, the school’s 25th year.

In 2009, the school received a $2 million grant from the Federal Government to create a new school hall, which was officially opened on Friday, November 26, 2010.

Over the years, the school also received funding for play equipment, IT resources and other additions to its facilities.

South’s students pride themselves on

participation within the community and annually attend special events and commemorative occasions, including Harmony Day celebrations and Anzac Day ceremonies.

South School celebrated its golden anniversary with a huge gala weekend in September 2006.

Among the guests were former principal Neil Proudfoot and several students from the original 1956 classes.

Hundreds of students flooded the school’s grounds to mark the event. They even shaped a giant ‘50’ with their bodies on the oval for an aerial photograph.

The Pastoral Times regularly features students from South School in its pages, both for their academic and sporting achievements.

The school milestones on the sporting fields are legendary, with the Adam Gilchrist led cricket team being crowned state cricket champions in 1983, and in more recent times the school AFL team as consecutive winner of the Tony Lockett AFL Shield State Wide Knockout competition as significant highlights.

In 2009, long-time teacher Greg Danckert was officially announced as South School principal and he continues to lead a very vibrant and innovative school community, which is committed to delivering excellence within a rich and nurturing environment.

educated at home, and 248 were receiving no education at all.

Work on a new school building began in January 1879. This was placed on the former playground and the old building was converted into teacher’s residence. A separate Infants Department was also created at this time, under the charge of Miss Mary Hussey as the Infants Mistress.

With the introduction of the Education Act of 1880 there was a system under which local School Boards were abolished and the Education Department assumed all responsibility.

Daniel Kennedy replaced Miller in 1879 and soon there was a great improvement in attendances, rising from an average of 142 to 239 daily.

School attendances continued to increase with the population. By 1880 the number of pupils had increased to 346, rising to 372 pupils enrolled in 1882.

As student numbers grew a school opened at North Deniliquin in 1896.

By this stage the education of local children was well established and would continue to progress over the next century and beyond.

■ This is an edited version of an article from the Heritage 150 newspaper published to coincide with Deniliquin’s 150th anniversary in 1992.

Deniliquin Council visited the school to speak with Mrs Smith and view its operation before it introduced the technology into its offices.

With the help of the P&C, Edward led the way with the introduction of Smartboards in every classroom in the early 1990s.

Unfortunately the 1990s also heralded a tragic day in the school’s history, when four classrooms and a toilet block were destroyed by fire on April 7, 1996. The school lost many of its records, dating back to its first year, however the community spirit at Edward was again apparent and 18 months later the rebuilt classrooms were re-opened.

Edward has a history of many long standing traditions. These include annual events like the ride-a-thon, drama production, school camps and the fete.

A generation of students had the great opportunity to learn to swim and life-save due to the efforts of Mr Parker and Mr Bradley, who were instrumental in introducing the Royal Australian Life Saving program which was embraced by all.

Generous donations and support from local business and families have also made these events and programs a great success.

In 2011, the school paid tribute to Mr Bradley by naming its new hall in his honour - Bradley Hall - and later that year he retired from teaching.

Edward is a K-6 school that provides a multitude of opportunities to ensure students are prepared for their future goals and aspirations. The school now has laptops and iPads in every classroom as well as a wellresourced computer lab.

Edward prides itself on continuing to provide quality education and opportunity to students as they navigate the 21st century.

Steady growth for our youngest school ince it began in 1996 the Christian School has grown steadily and now has almost 60 students from Kindergarten to Year 10.

The school has seen a number of locations and found its home at the current Henry St address in 2001.

The Deniliquin Christian School is a regional school in that it draws from Finley as well as Deniliquin and has a mix of farm and town students.

The school is a low-fee paying Christian school and relies on parent and volunteer help as it continues to develop and add additional facilities.

It achieves excellent results in Naplan tests with its achievement being signifi-

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cantly a half of a one standard deviation above state averages. The school competes in the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) competitions and Maths Olympiad with outstanding results.

An additional strength of the school is its performance in state-wide Chess competitions. It regularly is the Riverina Champion and for the past seven years has progressed to the state semi-finals in Sydney.

The school is part of the Christian Education Network of Australia and has connections with Australian Independent Schools Association. These networks provide support and advice in helping the school to meet the accreditation standards.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 39

‘High’ built on sports ground here have been plenty of upgrades to Deniliquin High School in recent years.

The school’s students now benefit from many new and improved facilities including a music room, gym, hospitality rooms, storage shed, fencing and resurfacing of the basketball courts.

A designated Year 11 area was also completed and includes shade sails, murals and a garden.

The agricultural plot in Wirraway Drive is still one of the school’s most popular assets.

The Deniliquin High School, on the corner of Wellington and Harfleur Sts and also bounded by Henry and Junction Sts, was officially opened on February 20, 1957, three years after the site was purchased by the NSW Education Department.

Previously the site had been known as the Deniliquin Sports Ground and accommodated a number of local sporting groups.

The first classes were held at the new school in 1954 with J Williams as headmaster and nine other teachers.

At this stage, Deniliquin’s secondary classes were separated and the school’s population numbered 135. In 1955 the science block was added but was barely equipped for the purpose.

The school changed in status to a secondary school in 1955 and Mr Williams was succeeded by Bert Farlow.

Two years later, Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Mr R.J. Heffron officially opened the school and major reconstruction work was carried out on the oval.

In 1958 it became officially classified as a full High School with the addition of a fourroom library block and a two-room needlework block.

By 1959, school enrolments had risen to 238 with a staff of 17.

The next major development occurred in 1966 with the addition of a new administration building.

A further four classrooms, home science,

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canteen and toilet buildings were added soon after at a cost of $220,000.

In 1970 a grandstand, which had been part of the original sports ground, was demolished and a science, library, art and music wing was added.

The same year the agricultural plot in Wirraway Drive was started and in 1977 further developments at the school took place when a new library, science block and an industrial arts block were opened. During this time enrolments at the school reached record levels of more than 900 students.

At the end of 1989, after years of negotiations, construction of the school’s Multi Purpose Centre (MPC) was started.

The drama building, previously used as the old canteen, was knocked down.

The MPC was officially opened by then NSW Minister for Education Virginia Chadwick on August 20, 1990. It includes an indoor sporting court, stage, toilets, kitchen and office facilities.

The MPC is a major part of the modern school.

An amphitheatre was constructed in 2006.

It was built by Year 12 students from the metal and engineering class and the colourful backdrop was created by visual arts students.

The arena-like seating arrangement can hold a capacity crowd of 200 people.

In 2012 the school Administration Block underwent an upgrade to become more functional and to provide better access for community members.

In 2015 a new shade area was added to the oval side of the music room to provide protection for students and a shed was constructed to house the school’s bus.

Deni High is also wheelchair accessible with the construction of ramps and an elevator near the science faculty.

In 2017, Deni High has an enrolment of 535 students and 60 staff.

From pub to a school T

here are not many schools that can boast they were built on the site of an old pub, but Deniliquin North Public School is one.

More than a century before North School was built, the sandhills overlooking the North Plains were home to the Wanderer Inn. The Wanderer opened for business in 1847 and was a popular watering hole for 20 years until it was burnt to the ground in 1867.

The site remained vacant until 1955 when it was purchased by the Education Department.

An Australia-wide baby-boom, coupled with the country’s immigration policy in the 1950s, meant Deniliquin was facing a shortage of education services.

To alleviate the problem it was decided to build another primary school in Deniliquin and on Thursday, July 11 in 1963 North School was officially opened.

The principal at the time was Mr Bob Whittaker, who had previously taught at the George St School.

Mr Whittaker had a number of run-ins with the P&C committee before the school was opened, but after its completion they all worked tirelessly to upgrade the facilities.

It was Mr Whittaker who organised the first North Mardi Gras (school fete), with the Griffith Police Boys Club Boxing Troupe as the main attraction.

Times were still tough. The school grounds consisted of a large sandhill covered with bindies.

With the help of parents and citizens the grounds were quickly developed and eight years later a canteen facility was added.

In 2008 the school built a new multipurpose hall and shelter over the play-

■ Former principal Chris Hogan with students (back, from left) Laura Sutherlan, Stella La Porta; (front) Harry Dudley, Shae Learmonth, Will McKern, Tom Charlton, Charlie Paton and Will Bull. Mr Hogan retired in 2017 after joining the school as a teacher in 1986. He served as principal for the last 131⁄2 years. ground before a new library was added in 2010.

In the past decade North School has successfully implemented student welfare programs, technological advances such as smartboards and ipads and has achieved ongoing debating, public speaking and Tournament of Minds successes, all helping to develop our future leaders.

Today about 160 youngsters proudly sing the school anthem, ‘We love to be at Deni North’, at weekly assemblies.

Catholic education has long history C

atholic education has a great heritage in our local area, with St Michael’s School founded way back in the 1880s.

In 1884 the foundation stone for what was then known as the St Alphonsus Liguori Jubilee Primary School was laid. In a cavity under the stone were placed copies of the Pastoral Times, as well as some silver coins and a scroll recording in Latin the laying of the stone.

The building was designed to accommodate 140 students ranging in age from five to 15 years.

On Sunday, November 10 in 1923 substantial extensions to the school were opened and boarding facilities for young women established.

Before long the old school was unable to cater for the substantial increase in enrolments and it was demolished and replaced by a much larger building.

In May 1951 the Pastoral Times reported: ‘‘Fight against convent fire saves the town ■ There have been many recent upgrades to Deniliquin High School, which was opened from peril. Five nuns had narrow escapes to students in 1954. when they fled the fire which destroyed the

convent and an adjoining school. Damage is estimated at £100,000.’’

At the request of Mayor Alderman H.G. Campbell, the Pastoral Times began an appeal for the rebuilding of the school. Over half the cost of rebuilding was covered by the Deniliquin community.

In the following decades, the school changed its name and continued to expand, with enrolment figures peaking at 200 students.

Since the departure of all Sisters in the mid-1990s, the convent has been transformed to an administration building, extensive work has been completed on the playgrounds and a new hall was built in 2010.

The school’s high education standards have been recognised by winning the National Literacy Award, Pride in Workmanship Award, Community Award for Education and a NSW/ACT CCSP Family, School & Community Partnership Award in 2014.

Several students have gone on to achieve high-profile success, including champion jockey Roy Higgins and former Test cricketer Simon O’Donnell.

TAFE preparing for latest developments ROM its beginnings in a cramped high school classroom, TAFE NSW Deniliquin has evolved to become an intrinsic and irreplaceable part of the community.

Almost half a century ago, Deniliquin Technical College (colloquially known as ‘Deni Tech’) made its first foray into the town, offering classes out of the local high school.

A few years later, a sprawling, purposebuilt campus opened on the corner of Poictiers and Macauley Sts, where it remains today.

Its initial course offerings provide a fascinating glimpse into a different era.

Students clamoured to sign up to courses like secretarial services and fashion, while upholstery, welding, pottery and construction also proved popular.

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Rural studies, which encompassed disciplines such as wool classing, was also a drawcard.

The 1980s saw the dawn of the personal computer and TAFE NSW was at the vanguard.

Deniliquin-based TAFE NSW Head of Department Business, Jennie Edwards, recalls prospective students “queueing out the doors” to sign up to computer classes.

“Computer courses were all the rage and the Apricot brand computers of the time were almost as big as a house,” Ms Edwards said.

As the 80s came to a close and the Windows operating system boomed in popularity, so too did courses at TAFE NSW Deniliquin on how to use it.

The 1990s were marked by the continued

growth in computer courses and a surge in business courses (especially management).

The early 2000s saw the rise of health and community services courses, which are still popular. Diplomas of aged care, disability support and nursing, as well as children’s and community services, were all the rage.

Vocational access courses, teaching basic numeracy and literacy, also found favour and TAFE NSW, as it has always done, continued to help transform lives.

Innovation and calibrating courses to the changing needs of the community has always been at the core of what TAFE NSW does.

This decade has been no exception, with more courses offered via mobile, online and flexible learning.

TAFE NSW proudly partners with some of the region’s most important employers,

such as SunRice, to deliver training on-thejob.

The organisation’s constant evolution continues.

In 2018, TAFE NSW will open a Connected Learning Centre in Deniliquin, one of 14 announced for across regional NSW, to provide students and employers with greater choice and better access to world-class learning opportunities.

Each centre has been custom designed to utilise modern, digitally-enabled technologies, such as simulations and virtual reality experiences, to offer a wider range of choices, more accessible, practical training, and flexible learning with better access to teachers and support services.

This means students don’t have to leave the local community to receive elite training and a first rate education.

40 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Name changes, but still hitting the right note he local band, originally known as the Deniliquin Town Band, came under the umbrella of the Deniliquin Council in 1926, and was named Deniliquin Munici-

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pal Band.

Until 1930, the Band Conductor was Frank Roebuck. Since then, there have been many Musical Directors, the longest serving being Jack Simpson (33 years: 1946 to 1979), and Ian Bathgate (31 years: 1986 to this date).

The band history has been recorded from its inception to 2012, in the publication ‘Noteworthy’.

Almost 300 playing members have passed through the ranks in that time. Long-serving members still playing include Les Fly (1943), Russ Fisher (1945), Neville McBurnie and Ron Richards (1947), and many others who have served for more than 50 years.

During 2003, the band changed from a brass band to a concert band (includes woodwind instruments), and because of the recent amalgamation of the Conargo Shire and Deniliquin Municipality, the band is now called the Edward River Concert Band.

Membership varies between 25 and 30

players, ranging from 15 to 90 years of age, and throughout its life, the band has enjoyed the enthusiastic support of the Ladies Committee, Friends of the Band.

Over the years the band has also competed successfully in numerous competitions, proving it continues to be one of the best bands of its type in any regional town.

Significant features of band life have included competitive and social excursions to neighbouring localities, including Balranald, Bendigo, Corowa, Echuca, Finley, Hay, Leeton, Lockhart, Mathoura, Moulamein, Swan Hill and Tocumwal.

Regular local recitals have included playing in Waring Gardens on Australia Day, Anzac Day commemoration services, enter- ■ Ian Bathgate leads the band during the 2008 Anzac Day march. tainment in Aged Care Homes, accompanying Christmas Carols in the Park, assisting with fundraising for local groups such as Legacy, Deniliquin Historical Society, Schools, Soroptimists, and the Edward River Country Education Fund.

As well as performing an extended program at annual concerts, the band has begun a series of light entertainment programs, for presentation in centres throughout the Edward River Council area.

Advancing the status of women

n May 1974 the Soroptimist International Club of Deniliquin was chartered by the instigation and support of club members from Soroptimist International Club of Griffith.

Soroptimist International is a worldwide organisation for women in management and professions, working through service projects to advance human rights and the status of women.

The Deniliquin club is the third longest serving Soroptimist club in the Riverina region.

The first club president was Mrs Elsa Zanatta, and at the time the club had about 12 members.

These members were responsible for organising the Soroptimist markets which were held on one Sunday in March and again on a Sunday in October, every year.

The successful markets earned a good reputation in the community and attracted more than 70 stall holders, and these markets ran for 32 years.

In 1994 Deniliquin Soroptimists hired an architect to plan and design a town clock.

The club raised $18,000 over a period of 18 months and a firm in Wagga was engaged to build the clock base from marble. In 1995 the clock was erected and situated, as it remains today, at the intersection of Napier and Cressy Sts. The clock was built so that the four faces faced the four different directions in town.

In 2000 the Deniliquin Soroptimist Club decided to take on a project to relocate the Dr Noyes monument from Waring Gardens.

It was originally located in Cressy St and contained a gas fired lamp, but the light section of the monument had been lost. So the club had a custom replica made in a design similar to the original at a cost of $2000.

The project took five years to complete and the monument is currently located at the roundabout at the corner of Wellington, End and Cressy Sts. In 2004 the club took on a project to raise money to help a local four year-old girl, Maddison, who had been diagnosed with a rare Degenerative Mitochondrial Disorder.

Maddison required specialised equipment, with some which had to come from overseas. The club purchased a stroller, high chair, car seat, communication aids, spa bath, among other equipment.

A notable contribution in 2010 was a $7000 donation to furnish a sitting room at Navorina Nursing Home - now called the Soroptimist Room - and in 2012 the local

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Selling ladies clothing, homewares, handbags and jewellery

Happy to be in Deniliquin to celebrate their 175th anniversary 307 Cressy Street (next door to Bendigo Bank)

■ The Deniliquin Soroptimists provide scholarships for local students each year.

In 2017, secretary Helen Thompson presented a $1000 scholarship cheque to Sam Young. group purchased a fountain for the Waring Gardens lagoon. With seven different spray patterns and the ability to light up at night, it has become a focal point for the gardens.

In 2017 the Deniliquin Soroptimists paired with Deniliquin Rotary and Deniliquin Lions to provide a liberty swing at the RSL Park in Deniliquin, which can be used by people in wheelchairs.

The local club has also sponsored an orphan in Thailand for the last six years, and have proudly assisted her in starting university to become a nurse.

Through an annual scholarship worth $1500, the Deniliquin Soroptimists also support local students going to university or another form of tertiary education each year. The club also provides prizes for end of year school presentation nights.

Deniliquin Soroptimists has helped many local organisations over the 36 years of service along with the other service clubs within Deniliquin. Not all projects the Soroptimist club takes part in are fundraisers, but they give their time when they are needed.

The Deniliquin Soroptimists now host two major events each year — a Pink Breakfast in September to fundraise for the McGrath Foundation and the Walk A Mile In Her Shoes event in November to raise awareness of domestic violence issues.

A gala dinner to celebrate the Deniliquin Soroptimists 40th anniversary was held in Deniliquin in May 2014.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 41

Record breaking Ute Muster one place was soon included on the festival program.

To the surprise of many, ute drivers poured in from throughout Australia and the first world record attempt in 1999 attracted a world record 2,839 utes.

The Deni Ute Muster is now going into its 20th year, and annually attracts up to 20,000 people from all corners of the nation, with a splattering of international visitors.

It is a not-for-profit community event that would not prosper without the input from the Deniliquin community. The festival is also organised by a hard-working volunteer board of directors and a small team of remunerated staff.

The Deni Ute Muster provides an opportunity for major fundraising to many local organisations, clubs and charities.

Each year it attracts international superstars and legendary Australian artists who take over the stage and entertain tens of thousands of people across two days.

The Muster has attracted artists including Keith Urban, Lee Kernaghan, Cold Chisel, Alan Jackson, Ice House, Suzi Quatro, Powderfinger, Eskimo Joe, James Reyne, Mark Seymour, Morgan Evans, The Living End, Shannon Noll, Kelly Clarkson, Kasey Chambers, John Williamson and many more.

Guinness World Records have been broken many times in the event’s history. A Blue Singlet World Record was introduced in 2004 when the total count was 1,328. This record currently stands at 3,959 people wearing blue singlets in the one place and the ute count is at 9,736.

The Deni Ute Muster also provides patrons with an action packed weekend of ‘Around the Grounds’ activities including the Bullride, Whip Cracking Champion■ International superstar Keith Urban was ships, Driving Competitions, Wood Chopthe headline act in 2016. ping, Shown ‘n’ Shine and more. In recent he Deni Ute Muster was established in 1999 following a meeting called by Deniliquin Council and Deniliquin Chamber of Commerce to develop an event that would put Deniliquin ‘on the map’.

There were lots of ideas suggested, and at a follow-up meeting it was decided to organise the inaugural Play on the Plains Festival on the NSW Labour Day weekend.

A suggestion to try and break a Guinness World Record for most number of utes in the

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International stars at Blues & Roots F

ollowing the success of the Deni Ute Muster over nearly 15 years, in 2012 a decision was made to hold the inaugural Deni Blues & Roots

Festival.

This was an ambitious and massive undertaking, aimed at providing a second major event each year to better utilise the infrastructure which had been developed on the Muster site.

An amazing line-up of international music stars was booked. Among those on stage at Easter 2013 were Santana, Chris Isaak, Jason Mraz, Bonnie Raitt, Zac Brown Band, Tony Joe White, Newton Faulkner, Status Quo, Steve Miller Band, Jimmy Cliff and Morgan Evans.

It was hard to believe that such a line-up could be performing live, on stage, just outside a small town like Deniliquin in rural NSW. But they were; and the crowd loved it.

In its second year there was another incredible collective or artists performing, which included John Mayer, Elvis Costello & The Imposters, Boz Scaggs, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Steve Earle & The Dukes, Grace Potter & The Nocturnals, The Wailers, Dr John & The Nite Trippers, The Doobie Brothers, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Gary Clark Jr and Russel Morris.

In a recent tribute to the event’s promoter Rob Potts, following his untimely death in an accident, a representative group of the Muster Board of Directors who helped stage the event stated: “You have to pinch yourself and remind yourself that the cavalcade of international stars above have all performed on our stage in our town, thanks to Rob and his business partner Michael Chugg. We, as a community welcomed them, looked after them and presented our town in a manner that made us all proud to call Deniliquin home. ‘‘This was no doubt an example of what might have been. Simply to persuade artists

■ An aerial view of the Deniliquin Ute Muster site, which comes alive each year for the annual festival. years a circus has been added to complement the family festival carnival.

In 2017 the Muster received funding from the NSW Government to build Muster HQ out on the festival site with future plans for a cafe´ and museum to follow. This is an

exciting development and there is hope this venture will increase tourism in Deniliquin and create jobs within the community.

The Deni Ute Muster continues to be held on the NSW Labour Day long weekend and in 2018 the 20th annual festival will fall on September 28 and 29.

Proud to be a part of Deniliquin’s 175th anniversary

■ Santana was one of the international stars at the Deni Blues & Roots Festival. of this calibre to come to Deniliquin is an example of how much faith Rob had in our town and our community and how much faith the artists had in Rob and Michael.”

Unfortunately the Blues & Roots Festival was not financially viable and after two massive events it was decided not to proceed with a third.

Is it gone forever? At this time no-one knows, but many people from the Deniliquin region and well beyond are hoping it will return to the Ute Muster stage.

As the tribute article to Rob Potts referred to above stated: “In years to come as people delve into the history of our town, the Blues and Roots Festival will be seen as a high point of cultural achievement. We have no doubt that an event of this quality, at that time of year, with our proximity to Melbourne and Victoria could work in the future.”

Deniliquin Autoglass & Window Tinting 152 Napier St, Deniliquin.

Ph 5881 5521.

42 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Moira Station The land upon which Moira sits is significant in Australian geology, as the Cadell fault passes through the property, a seismic shift that started some 65,000 years ago and created a 12-15-metre high rift that runs from Deniliquin to 13 kilometres south of Echuca.

The upheaval had major impact on the course of the Murray and other major rivers and created the Moira and Barmah Lakes and the surrounding red gum forests that are now protected by the Barmah National Park on the Victorian side and the Murray Valley National Park in NSW. Moira is also a significant site for the traditional owners of the land, as there are ring trees, canoe scar trees, an ochre pit, ovens and middens on the property.

Its European history began in 1842 when Henry Lewes and Charles Throsby settled the station. By 1848, the Moira Run boundaries were defined containing 100,000 acres (40,468 hectares) and carrying 3,000 cattle and 4,000 sheep. At various stages Moira homestead served as a Cobb & Co staging post and in 1850 inadvertently hosted bushranger Captain Melville, when he held the cook at gunpoint to make a meal for his gang, before they headed off with some of the station’s horses. In 1862, three-times Victorian premier, John O’Shannassy (later Sir John) bought the property as his country estate and four years later, started work on the current 18-room homestead from bricks that were fired on site.

In 1899 Moira passed to F.S.Faulkiner & Sons, who ran a Clydesdale horse stud as well as other grazing enterprises on the station. From 1910 to the 1960s it was owned by the Clark family and in the ensuing decades it had numerous owners, many of them absentee until Rex Watson and Kate Pitt purchased the property in the early part of the 21st century ….

Moira Station’s is now a bespoke, boutique resort on the Murray River Trail.

It is an unparalleled attraction for those seeking a unique experience for leisure, functions & weddings due to its entwining of outback beauty, luxe accommodation, local gourmet food/wine offerings, superb event facilities & endless starry nights.

M O I R A

S T A T I O N

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 43

Delivering for 50 years Squad or 50 years, Deniliquin Meals on Wheels has delivered hearty meals and a warm smile to our community.

The local branch celebrated its golden anniversary in August this year, while the national organisation marked 60 years since the first meal was delivered from the Town Hall in Sydney in 1957.

The local cause was established on February 27, 1967 in what was then the Presbyterian Church Hall, on the corner of Edwardes St and Corbett Court.

Rev Andrew Brown was the president of the group, and the meals were delivered and cooked by volunteers at the Church Hall.

In 1972, the group welcomed a change of residence and began cooking and packing meals at the Deniliquin Hospital kitchen.

The hospital has been a huge part of its history. At this time, the government paid a subsidy and the recipients covered a small fee.

During the mid-80s, the Community Centre in End St agreed to help as an inquiry and information centre and received the money collected and arranged emergency replacements for volunteers. ‘‘The introduction of disposable containers has been a great asset to the volunteers delivering the meals’’, it said in a report by former Meals on Wheels president David Martin in 1987 when the organisation celebrated its 20th birthday. ‘‘During the last 12 months, 11,274 meals have been delivered and as it has been for the last 20 years, all done with volunteers and no paid staff or coordinator,’’ Mr Martin said in his report. ‘‘This has indeed been a great achievement over the years, with tens of thousands of meals delivered by hundreds of volunteers to people in need, enabling them to live in their own homes.’’

Up until about 1989, the service was run by the committee and volunteers and a

to the rescue

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stablished for 42 years, Deniliquin Rescue Squad (affiliated with Volunteer Rescue Association) has been providing a professional and dedicated service to Deniliquin and surrounding communities.

Volunteer members provide a comprehensive rescue service to the community and through Competency Based Training, members are skilled in General Land Rescue, Road Crash Rescue, First Aid, Vertical Rescue and Water Rescue (including Swift Water) as well as providing a supportive role to other Emergency Services and community groups.

Through the years the squad has grown to consist of a fleet of four vehicles: Rescue 1 - Hino with Rescue Body containing a large majority of hydraulic and air tools, stabilisation, first aid, generators and lighting equipment.

Rescue 2 - Toyota Troop Carrier used to carry personnel and equipment.

Rescue 3 - Ford F350, which is a vehicle the squad has owned for 41 years and is still in use for lighting and support responses.

Rescue 4 - Toyota Hilux mainly used for quick response and travelling to regional training and meetings.

Without the dedication, commitment and support of volunteers and the local community the Deniliquin Rescue Squad would not be what it is today.

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■ (Back, from left) Michelle Hand-Beehag, Di Hand, Maureen Strutt, Wayne Sheean, Di Norris, Ginny Bult, Anne Rayner; (front) Jill Tainsh, Pam Mulholland, Elaine Leetham, Maureen Wellard and Jo Fordyce at the Meals on Wheels anniversary dinner in 2017. government subsidy was made available to employ a coordinator to oversee the service.

Shortly after, the hospital kitchen was dismantled and the group transferred operations to an Albury based business. The meals were prepared and frozen at the Albury Hospital, and local service clubs delivered the meals to Deni-based clients only on weekends - until 2014.

During this time, fresh meals were also sought from a number of local outlets including the Exchange Hotel to provide clients with hot dishes throughout the week.

This carried on until a contract with the former Divine Foods was created.

Today, Meals on Wheels is supported by more than 85 registered volunteers along-

side Kurrajong Catering, a local disability service which cooks all the dishes and conducts seven food delivery runs a month.

From small beginnings at the local church, the past half century has seen the local organisation face periods of both growth and hardships.

After 50 years, Deni Meals on Wheels is still operating which is a testament to its value in the community.

Deniliquin Meals on Wheels celebrated 50 years of service with a dinner at the Deniliquin RSL Club on Saturday, August 19 this year. About 80 people including long serving and current volunteers, as well as committee members, enjoyed a two-course dinner as part of the celebrations.

Hardinge Street, Deniliquin. Phone 5881 0700

Harvey Norman Deniliquin turned 21 this year, after opening its doors in 1996.

Proprietor Andrew Poswillo and his team love being a part of Deniliquin’s business community and would like to take this opportunity to thank their clients and the wider community for their ongoing support.

Harvey Norman congratulates Deniliquin on reaching 175 years and looks forward to continuing this local parnertship.

44 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Representing the interests of Deni businesses members, and was instigated by then president Steve Joy. It was unanimously supported at a meeting in August of that year.

Early documentation from the Traders Association is scarce, but minute books from November 17, 1943 onward are kept in archives by the Chamber and the Deniliquin Historical Society.

The first ever minute book from the first official Chamber meeting in November 1943 also includes a members’ ledger at the back.

It shows there were 34 registered Chamber members in the 1943-44 financial year, although nine were not financial.

An additional 10 businesses or business people were added to the register a year later, and another four in 1945-46. Among the first members were McFaull Bros, Deniliquin Motor Company, Cables Bakery Pty Ltd, Independent Newspapers, Gillespies and Burchfield Bros.

Over the years droughts, floods and other events have caused Chamber membership to fluctuate, but some things have always stayed the same.

Developing Deniliquin as a tourist destination has almost always been on the Chamber agenda, with the Pastoral Times reporting in 1948 that the topic had been discussed “at length” at a Chamber meeting.

The ‘shop local’ message also continues as ■ Former chamber executive officer Lisa a key theme for the business community’s Berges collects the Local Chamber of the representative body.

Year Award on behalf of the group in 2013.

Nearly 20 years ago a meeting partly he Deniliquin Business Chamber, which started as the Deniliquin Traders Association in 1940, has a long and proud history.

It became the Deniliquin Chamber of Commerce in 1943, which was later extended to Deniliquin Chamber of Commerce and Industry before being renamed Deniliquin Business Chamber in 2008.

The final name change was decided in an effort to better represent the variety of

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ENNOR Disc Implements

■ Deniliquin Business Chamber president Justine Keech cuts the 75th anniversary cake with the help of former long-time members Norm Barnett, Geoff Riley (life member) and Bev and Russ Fisher. instigated by the Chamber was held to discuss developing a new event for the town.

From this meeting the famous Deni Ute Muster was born, and it has grown into one of the biggest annual festivals in Australia.

Chamber helped bring a hang gliding competition to Conargo from 2002 to 2008 and held the Deniliquin Matchmakers Festival from 2011 to 2013.

Other long-term Chamber projects include the Deniliquin Telephone and Business Directory, which has been a major fundraiser for the Chamber for many years.

One of Chamber’s most popular events is the annual Business Excellence Awards, which returned in 2010 after a brief hiatus and still continues successfully today.

In 2015, the Chamber celebrated its 75th birthday by hosting a dinner at The Cross-

ing Cafe´. About 100 people attended and guest speakers were Sussan Ley (Federal Member for Farrer), Kate Pitt (Ute Muster general manager), Kathy Simpson (past Chamber president and past Deni councillor), Bev Fisher (former Deni tourism officer and past Chamber member) and Justine Keech (current Chamber president).

Another highlight came in 2013 when Deniliquin was named Local Chamber of the Year at the NSW Business Chamber Awards, which were held in Sydney.

Only two people have been bestowed life membership of the Deniliquin Business Chamber — Geoff Riley and the late Michael Hussey.

Chamber continues to help move Deniliquin forward with Justine Keech as its current president.

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Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 45

Lion-hearted effort he Lions Club of Deniliquin marked the 50th anniversary of its charter in 2011.

Charter president, Lion Jim Fawns, led the club in its first year, and since that time the club has been involved in many aspects of the town’s development, with assistance to organisations and individuals.

With a membership of 24, the club’s major fundraising effort is the weekly bingo session held each Thursday night at the Multi Arts Centre in Cressy St. Money raised from this project has been used over the years to help fund many projects in our community.

Some of these include purchase and donation of the land for the site of Navorina Nursing Home, contributions to assist with the setting up and maintaining of services at Four Post Camp, the public toilet block in Waring Gardens next to the Multi Arts Centre, and countless donations not only to local community but also to national and international emergency appeals (bushfires, floods, tsunami, earthquake etc).

One of the important aspects of the club’s service to the community is youth projects, with the club involved in

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Youth of the Year Quest, Youth Exchange program, sponsorship of local children to attend the Lions Licola Camp each year, and who would forget the hotly contested debate held between the High School and Lions Club each year.

The club also contributes annually to all local and surrounding small schools to assist with presentation night awards.

The Lions Club also takes part in the annual Clean Up Australia Day project, and sponsors the Lions Sun Festival held each year in January which includes a Children’s Day held in Waring Gardens.

The highest award in Lionism, the Melvin Jones Fellowship, has been awarded to many local recipients over the years.

Lions Clubs are non-political, non-sectarian service organisations composed of service-minded citizens within a community.

Enquiries are always welcome if you are considering membership of a world wide community service organisation whose motto is ‘We Serve’.

■ Deniliquin Lions Club took over the former Apex CashA-Can initiative in 2016. Pictured at one of the first recycling days were Lions John Tonkin, Richard Teunon, Yvonne Harford and Daryl Whateley.

Yarralong Park is Garden Club’s legacy to Deni n April 15, 1978, a meeting was held in the former Community Centre building in End St with the idea of forming a Garden Club.

Eighteen people attended, and a motion was moved by Jean Strang and seconded by Jessie Plattfuss that a Garden Club be formed. Pamela Wettenhall was nominated president and Jean Strang was nominated secretary/treasurer.

Members decided to meet once a month at the Community Centre and the joining fee was set at $1.

During the year of 1978, it was decided the Deniliquin Garden Club would join the Horticultural Society of Victoria and then, for $3 per year including postage, members would receive a Garden Lover’s magazine each month.

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Membership grew steadily and peaked at 90 to 100 by 1990. Today, the Garden Club has a steady membership of 33 and meets the first Monday of each month (except January) at the Intereach Neighbourhood Centre in Trickett St, Deniliquin from 2pm.

Long-term Garden Club members Jeannie Rice and Sandra Cooke still hold executive positions, as president and secretary respectively.

The Deniliquin Garden Club’s legacy lies in Yarralong Park in north Deniliquin.

In May 1987, Deniliquin Council deputy town clerk Bruce Fitzpatrick approached the Garden Club seeking help in the beautification of the junction at the northern entrance of the town - near the roundabout where Davidson St, Hay Rd, Conargo Rd and Finley Rd all meet.

Despite some concerns the impact of

passing traffic - particularly heavy vehicles and livestock trucks - would have on the area, members agreed to help with time and donations.

Some of the members, with the help of their husbands, planted two beds of 50 roses and an assortment of other plants around the big rock area. This work was funded by the Garden Club and rosters were arranged for working bees to be held each month to maintain the area.

Club members submitted names for the new park, and in May 1988 Yarralong Park was chosen, with Yarralong the Aboriginal name for the area. Yarralong was also the original name of the nearby Brick Kiln Creek.

In the same month, the Deniliquin Garden Club hosted a rose show. It made a profit of $478, which assisted in buying trees and

NG I D A R T NOW

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shrubs to further beautify the area. More flower beds were added to provide a striking focal point in the park.

Council installed a sprinkler system for watering the newly planted gardens and, later on, the Garden Club covered the cost of a picnic table and seats that were constructed for the park, which is now maintained by Edward River Council.

In April 2008, to mark the 30th anniversary of the club, members conducted a Flower and Rose Show with the theme, Everything Pearls.

Tributes were given to Margaret Rees, Jeannie Rice and Sandra Cooke who had then all dedicated 15 or more years of service to Deniliquin Garden Club - Margaret as president, Jeannie as secretary and Sandra as treasurer.

AS

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46 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Providing a wide range of services ou have probably heard of Intereach, but did you ever wonder what it is they actually do?

To cut a long story short, whoever you are and whatever your circumstances, Intereach has a range of services to help make your life easier and better.

Need childcare? Try Intereach Family Day Care or the Out Of School Hours program.

Are you a carer? Intereach Commonwealth Respite Carelink Centre and carer support groups can help lighten your load.

If you’re an older person, Intereach Community Transport and social groups can help keep you active in the community, while Home Care packages and Home Support can keep you living at home for longer.

Feeling stressed or low? The Intereach ROAR and NewAccess programs can help get you back on track, whatever your age.

Intereach Family Services offers information, support, activities, parenting groups and a friendly ear to help you through those parenting stresses.

Live with a disability? Intereach Ability Links and National Disability Insurance Scheme Local Area Coordination services can help you live your best life.

Not sure where to turn for help? Intereach Community Hubs are friendly and accessible single points of access to information, resources and services for the community, as well as local and visiting community services.

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Intereach works to ensure people can access the services they need close to home, rather than having to travel out of their local areas for help.

Intereach was made in Deniliquin and has been exported to the whole region!

It started life as the Deniliquin Council for Social Development in 1973, with a focus on ■ Deniliquilters life member Mary O Roberts and president Audrey Tonkin at the 30th service delivery and meeting community birthday celebrations in 2016. needs in the local area.

From those humble beginnings Intereach has grown into a diverse community organisation which aims to reach out to communities, families, children, older people and carers in need of support and assistance.

With 310 employees, 178 volunteers together with an annual turnover of more than $20 million, Intereach has expanded from its Deniliquin birthplace and now covers much of the Riverina Murray region of NSW and Northern Victoria.

Intereach has offices and community hubs in Albury, Bendigo, Buronga, Castlemaine, Cootamundra, Corowa, Echuca, Finley, Griffith, Hay, Kyneton, Maryborough and Wagga, along with a main office in Deniliquin.

Looking to the future, with a new CEO Keryn Fox at the helm, Intereach will continue to focus on supporting people within our local communities and improving and building on established services.

Want to know more, or have a chat about how Intereach can help you? Phone 1300 488 226 or email intereach@intereach.com.au

Working together on their quilting passion D

eniliquilters and Friends celebrated 30 years in March 2016.

The group has more than 60 active members and meets every Tuesday from 10am until 3pm in the Old Church Hall in Cressy St. There is a mini workshop organised on the fourth Tuesday of each month and the group is taught many different quilting skills. A ‘Block of the Month’ is also held each year, and on the third Tuesday of each month is a monthly meeting to discuss club happenings.

The annual general meeting is in November, after which the Annual Christmas Party is held at which funds are raised for the local Christmas Appeal.

Over the years the group has made beautiful patchwork quilts for the Navorina Nursing Home, and Deniliquilters also makes quilts for the Royal Children’s Hos-

pital. Children who are very sick or have a long term stay are given a quilt to keep.

There is a group within Deniliquilters called The BBQ Quilters who make these quilts with a little help from the members.

They have made more than 700 quilts over the past years.

Deniliquilters hold a quilt show every second year where a beautiful quilt is constructed by the members and then raffled, with proceeds going to a local charity.

The group’s door is always open to visitors. Members would love you to come in and have a cuppa and just see what all the ladies are working on. New members are most welcome.

The group still has a few of its original members still quilting.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 47

Rotary’s support for community eniliquin Rotary Club received its charter in July 1950 and held its inaugural charter meeting on October 21 that year.

This was quite an occasion with 200 people seated at dinner on the balcony of the Royal Hotel, including visitors from 16 other Rotary Clubs.

Part of the meeting was broadcast over 2QN and it was the leading story in the following edition of the Pastoral Times.

Charter president Ron Prunster was a member of the club from 1950 to 1957, and again from 1975 to 1981.

Over a history that now spans nearly 70 years the club has since donated many hundreds of thousands of dollars to local, national and international causes, as well as contributing countless hours of community service.

Significant projects which the club organises or supports include the annual Rotary Easter Art Show, Australia Day celebrations, charity auctions, Carols by Candlelight and Deniliquin Ute Muster.

It was the instigator of Rotary Park, which is now one of the town’s leading sporting venues.

At the Ute Muster, Rotary’s role since the inaugural event in 1999 has been coordinator of the gates to ensure the huge crowds are able to safely and efficiently enter the site.

In 2007 the club was the instigator of drought relief days - April Showers and Australia’s Biggest Christmas In July which attracted thousands of visitors for a day of entertainment featuring some of Australia’s leading personalities.

Rotary is also to the fore with emergency appeals. In September 2010 the club held a fundraising dinner, which was organised in

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a fortnight, and raised $9000 for the Pakistan flood appeal.

Rotary makes contributions each year to a wide range of organisations and causes; some of these are annual donations while others are a one off, like the Hilltop Accommodation Centre in Albury where the club raised significant funds to support this facility which provides accommodation for regional patients and their families who attend the new Border Oncology Centre.

Deniliquin Rotary over the years has hosted group study exchange teams and youth exchange students, and this year has partnered with Deniliquin Business Chamber to send another local person to the Rotary Youth Leadership Award conference.

The club organises an annual Rotary Golf Charity Day, the Brian Harrington Carers Day (to thank people who care for foster

■ Martin Wilmshurst, Barb Trist and Di Hand with Rotary’s money spinner, which it purchased as a fundraiser in 2017. children), established the Multicultural Group and now works with it to organise regular Multicultural Days, Rotary Bowelscan Month and supports many other local events, often by providing the catering with its popular barbecue trailer. It is also in the process of supporting the establishment of a local branch of Dragon Boats for Cancer Survivors.

The club is also proud of its ongoing contribution to the Rotary International project that aims to eliminate polio throughout the world.

Deniliquin Rotary Club is an integral part of the community and looks forward to continuing its tradition of supporting local groups and causes..

Group keeping the town tidy eniliquin Tidy Towns Committee’s first meeting was held on September 7, 1988.

The committee became a formal council committee in 1990, and this was also the first year it was part of Clean Up Australia Day. Originally the group presented Mayoral Awards to beautiful yards around the town, which later changed to the Garden of the Month prize.

In 2001 the committee was part of the Centenary of Federation Project and received a Federal Government grant of $41,820. As part of the project, avenues of

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trees were planted along all six entrances into the town. Volunteers from local schools, Yallambee, Greening Australia, the Rural Fire Service and general community all helped with the project.

Deniliquin also has a great track record in the Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns awards, receiving a second placing in 1983 for Category D (population of 4001-9500). In 1984 Deniliquin again placed second, and in 1985 the Island Sanctuary won the award for Native Bush area.

Deniliquin came third in Category D in 1987, second in 1989 and first place for the

Wildlife Corridors for Centenary of Federation Project Avenue of Trees in 2002.

The Deniliquin Tidy Towns Committee continues to be involved with the Clean Up Australia Campaign and has successfully combined with Rotary to hold working bees prior to Easter each year to spruce up the main shopping area.

It successfully applied for a $4000 grant in the Saluting Their Service Commemorations grants, which resulted in the Vietnam Vets Statue in Deniliquin’s Waring Gardens. This is a reminder of what can be achieved by community participation. Since completion in 2014 the statue is visited constantly by locals and visitors.

DENILIQUIN HIGH SCHOOL FACE THE TASK

Proudly part of the Deniliquin community since 1954

CARING, PROFESSIONAL STAFF Our highly qualified, professional staff are committed to the learning and wellbeing of every child.

We are committed to developing and nurturing the social and emotional wellbeing of our students.

Student leadership opportunities are provided both formally and informally.

DESTINATION-FOCUSED Deniliquin HS Alumni are successful in a range of different career paths.

Students build their educational pathway with the guidance of highly qualified and supportive staff.

We have strong links with university, TAFE and business partners and provide meaningful work experience and work placement opportunities.

OPPORTUNITIES We provide opportunities in the classroom and beyond to cater to individual student needs, talents and interests.

HIGH EXPECTATIONS AND A FOCUS ON SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL WELLBEING Our students are expected to behave responsibly and respectfully; they give their personal best in their academic and personal lives.

Our staff, students and community value team work, acceptance and challenge.

STRONG TRANSITION PROGRAM AND PRIMARY SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS We have strong partnerships with local primary schools to ensure our future students feel comfortable in the Deniliquin High School environment before they join us.

Deniliquin High School is a professional learning hub for staff from across our network of schools.

We provide Deniliquin High students with leadership and mentoring opportunities with local primary school students, adding value to their schooling experience as well as that of their younger peers.

Deniliquin High School School • Phone: 03 5881 1211 Email: Deniliquin-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au • www.deniliqun-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

48 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Sub-Branch nears its centenary

Venue for men to relax S

ince the Deniliquin Menshed was set up in August 2008 in the shed behind Agspares on the Barham Road it has continued to supply a venue for older males to relax and pursue hobbies in woodwork, metalwork and computers.

The aim of the shed is to promote mental and physical health.

The blokes meet to take on personal projects and tasks for the community. About 1050 jobs have been done for the community since opening.

The last two big projects were 10 red gum seats for the Caldwell wetlands, and 80 bird nest boxes, of various sizes and design for eight different species of birds, for the West Berriquin Irrigators Inc. Over the years the members have refurbished two buggies for the Conargo Shire which are on display in Conargo, manufactured three Christmas trees for the roundabouts in Deniliquin, and restored the WW1 Krupp cannon that lay idle in the park.

The shed organised and hosted a men’s health forum in 2011 which was attended by 96 men from across the region from Balranald to Albury, and assisted in two health nights held by Intereach.

A variety of grants, including a substantial grant from the formation of the Edward River Council have helped in the shed equipment expansion, and it now has more

n the evening of October 17, 1917, six local men met at the old Deniliquin School of Arts.

The men had all served overseas in the Great War that was still engulfing a large part of the world, and the purpose of the meeting was to form a branch of the newly formed Returned Soldiers and Sailors Imperial League of Australia.

The chairman was Captain Hayes, the area officer of Echuca, and the local men were G Harrison, J Mudie, F Hindley, H Priest, M McCannon and the Rev E Rogers.

The first meeting of the newly formed branch was held on November 29, 1917 and discussion appeared to be mainly about support for the upcoming Reinforcements Referendum.

The Deniliquin Sub-Branch received its Charter of Membership of the RS&SILA dated June 23, 1918, so next year is its centenary.

Today the Deniliquin Sub-Branch has 100 ex-service members and 20 ancillary members.

Its aims remain the same as they were 100 years ago - to maintain the mateship created by common military service and to work for interests of both serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force and their dependents.

For many years the RSL Club was the social club of the Sub-Branch but today the two are separate entities.

However the Sub-Branch office is still located in the Club and the two work closely together.

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■ Deniliquin Menshed members Ian Roberts, Jim Hall and Geoff Ford helped with Intereach’s Engaging Dads program in 2016. excellent wood and metal working equipment, new dust extraction arrangements and one extra modern computer. The Bendigo Community Bank provided funds to set up a demountable as an office and computer room. Other organisations, businesses and clubs have been supportive.

The original sponsor was Vinnies Reconnect, and the former Conargo Shire was a great supporter over the years.

The members believe the most important room is the smoko room with good conversation and expressing personal opinions on most subjects.

Recently both the Lions and Rotary clubs have held social nights at the shed and been given a tour of the shed facilities including some demonstrations of the equipment. The shed has supported various schools and their projects in the shed, with hands on projects.

A father son/daughter night was held as arranged by Intereach, which was a great success.

The landlord, Roger Reeves of Agspares, has been very supportive and generous in providing a new hot water unit and airconditioner in the kitchen area.

The Deniliquin Menshed is now a member of the Australian Mens Shed Association (AMSA) with around 950 other sheds, of varying sizes and all doing many different projects.

The Deniliquin Menshed opens each Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am to 4pm.

Over the years the members have visited 10 other sheds for social interaction and training purposes. Many other sheds have visited Deniliquin and been entertained, the most recent being 16 members from Berwick and two from Torquay, in Victoria.

Visitors and prospective members are most welcome; smoko is at 10am and 3pm.

Don’t doubt your ability to help as someone will pass on skills and help you.

Contact the shed on 0427 811 707 or 0427 564 251.

ID APPLIANCE SERVICE ID Appliance Service has been operating in Deniliquin since April 1999. Ian Watt has grown the business from just performing appliance repairs, to now being your local authorised Daikin dealer and repairing all makes and models of domestic and commercial appliances, as well as installation and maintenance of air conditioning and heating.

Servicing Deniliquin and surrounding areas.

PO Box 51, Deniliquin NSW 2710 Email: idapplianceservice@bigpond.com www.idapplianceservice.com.au ABN 12 480 784 921

Ian Watt 0417 629 488

NSW Licence No. 63325C Vic Licence No. 15961 Vic Plumbing Licence No. 45120 Refrig Auth No AU05227

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 49

From humble beginnings the RSL Club grew T

he Deniliquin RSL Club has come a long way from humble beginnings in the back of Mudie & Co’s tailor shop in Cressy St, in 1917.

The RSL was originally established as a support network for returned soldiers from World War I. As the organisation developed and grew, the Deniliquin RSL Club was established as a separate entity from the Deniliquin RSL Sub-branch.

While membership of the club is open to most community members, the Sub-branch remains dedicated to serving the needs of ex-service personnel.

The size and success of the club is a testament to the efforts and dedication of those who conceived the original RSL branch and clubrooms, from which the club has grown.

At the first meeting in 1917, returned soldiers, led by the Rev E Jellicoe-Rogers as president, voted to form a branch of the RSL. As World War I ended and the number of returned servicemen increased, the RSL’s need for clubrooms of its own became urgent.

On Anzac Day in 1918 the appeal for a building fund was launched. By 1921 enough money had been raised to buy land and a building from James Taylor, opposite

the Coach House Hotel, where the Deniliquin Community Centre once was.

As early as March 1921, alcoholic liquors were sold at the soldiers’ clubrooms and consumed on the premises.

The RSL’s clubrooms were remodelled and refurbished in 1928 to cope with a growing demand and a membership of around 200.

The outbreak of World War II created a renewed interest in the club, and a new batch of Diggers filled the ranks at the cessation of hostilities in 1945.

The premises were again remodelled in 1957, with work carried out in two stages.

When the second stage was completed and officially opened in 1961, membership had reached 635. The club now has 6,420 members, both local and interstate.

The first major renovations of the Deniliquin RSL Club took place in the mid 1950s after the introduction of poker machines at the club.

A travelling salesman from a gaming company left a couple of machines at the club one weekend, on his way through to Balranald.

The club’s executive at that time had already decided against the machines, but the salesman hadn’t wanted to cart them further west.

There was a rush to play the machines throughout the weekend, and even a fight or

■ Deniliquin RSL Club life members Tony Smith (left) and Kevan Brown cut the club’s 50th birthday cake with help from Kevan’s wife Phyl Brown. two as patience among those waiting their turn wore thin.

When the salesman returned to collect the machines on Monday, the directors had changed their mind, and they ordered a few more.

From five sixpenny poker machines, the club has now grown to 110 machines.

The new club facility, at its present location on the corner of Crispe and End Sts, was completed in 1974, with rooms provided for the administration of the Sub-branch.

The bowling greens, sports complex, tennis courts and squash courts were added in the late 1970s.

Full renovations of the club were completed in 1987 with the upgrade of the gaming

lounge, bistro, restaurant and reception/ entry.

Other upgrades have included renovations to the sports bar and the introduction of a coffee lounge.

The central bar was also remodelled, and a large beer garden was built in 2006. The picturesque beer garden opens off the sports bar.

The existing outdoor area was built at a cost of about $350,000 and includes a fixed roof, retractable pergola, monitors for general and race meeting viewing, timber decking, pond and a water feature with fish.

In 2011 there was the upgrade of the bistro and the inclusion of the cre`che which proved very popular with the children.

Recent renovations completed in 2016 included the Dunlop Room, main kitchen and upstairs toilets at a cost of $750,000.

FRANCIS KELLY & GRANT LAWYERS The firm had its beginnings in 1927 when Francis Leo Kelly graduated as a lawyer from Melbourne University and came to Deniliquin to enter into practice with Dennis Sullivan under the firm name of Sullivan & Kelly.

The partners continued in the practice until the outbreak of the Second World War when the partnership dissolved and Mr Kelly enlisted in the Australian Armed Forces.

After the war Mr Kelly returned to Deniliquin and for the next 20 years practiced under the name of Francis L Kelly LLB at Riverina Chambers, 185 Cressy Street, Deniliquin.

David Grant, who was admitted as a solicitor in May 1966, joined Mr Kelly as an employee in August 1965 and the two entered into the partnership of Francis Kelly & Grant on the 1st of July 1969.

The name of the firm remained the same even after Mr Kelly’s death in 1989. Matthew Lees, who was admitted as a solicitor in 1978, went to work for the firm in 1979 as an employed solicitor and became a partner in 1990.

Deniliquin at Riverina Chambers, 185 Cressy Street, Deniliquin until the building was destroyed in an arson attack in 1982. The firm moved its business to temporary premises in End Street and in July 1983 moved into its new premises at 144 End Street, Deniliquin where the partners continue with their practice.

The firm has an extensive practice in New South Wales and Victoria: the two partners combine more than 90 years’ experience as qualified solicitors.

From 1995 to his resignation in 2008, Mr Grant was the local solicitor for Murray Irrigation Limited and much of his work involves land and water law as well as estate planning, wills, probate, commercial transactions, local government, environmental and associated work.

Matthew Lees does a large amount of Legal Aid work and specialises in family, criminal law, civil and litigation.

The firm carried on its offices at

The practice accepts instructions in relation to transactions and work not only in New South Wales and Victoria but also in Queensland and South Australia.

144 End Street, Deniliquin Phone (03) 5881 2066 Fax (03) 5881 4153 Email fkg@deni.net.au

50 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Speak Up highlights the value of water T

Screening classics

he Speak Up campaign was born out of a meeting of West Berriquin Irrigators Inc. in mid 2015 after the impact of reductions in productive water in our community started to hit home.

A key aim of the campaign is to educate as many people as possible about the impacts of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan on our community - environmentally, socially and economically.

Water, whether it is not enough or too much, is essential to our community. Not only is it critical to food and fibre producers, but the impacts of the plan also affect people and the jobs that our producers support.

Removing water from productive use has had a massive impact on our water delivery company Murray Irrigation Ltd, which is the largest privately owned irrigation company in Australia. This in turn puts a strain on those left in the system.

The politicians and certainly the Murray Darling Basin Authority were not listening to our concerns that if more productive water is removed from irrigated agriculture then the ramifications for our food security will be dire.

Here in the Southern Riverina we produce high quality food efficiently and it has an international reputation for being clean and green. If we lose the current system we will be importing more food and who knows what has happened to it before it gets here.

Australian agriculture has very strict guidelines on how we produce food to ensure we are among the highest quality producers in the world.

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We knew that our city cousins were not well informed about the importance of water to food and fibre production and the facts around the Basin Plan. We started a social media campaign to educate the general public about what irrigation farmers are producing here in their back yard and the flow-on effect of not having enough water available for productive use.

We started a Facebook page and on it we have had some really great stories about local farmers and how they can give back to the community when they are allowed to be productive, as well as investing in their local environment and importantly paying more taxes.

The social media campaign has tried to explain the complicated issues around water and the Basin Plan at a basic level. Our goal is to help as many people as possible gain a

PMC CONVEYANCING

better understanding of the importance of irrigated agriculture.

We have also instigated a media campaign which has generated huge publicity in metropolitan, regional and local media, explaining the plight of our food producers.

We have been constantly on radio, occasionally on television and in the pages of newspapers including the Melbourne Herald-Sun, Sydney Morning Herald and The Australian, plus a plethora of country papers. We are confident the message about the damage being caused by the Basin Plan is being delivered.

Farmers are an optimistic lot and we have people here with the skills, innovation and passion to produce food. We can do it clean and green; we have the potential to help feed the world.

But we need to find a balance between environmental and productive water, and when we do there is a win:win solution out there.

People can follow the Speak Up stories on Facebook at Speak Up 4 Water, you can also follow us on twitter @Speakup4water or check out our website www.speakup4water.com.

All our work costs money and we would welcome any assistance you can provide. If you would like to help fund the Speak Up campaign please make a cheque payable to Speak Up campaign c/o Southern Riverina Irrigators PO Box 1254 Deniliquin 2710.

Alternatively, donate through our website or email speakup4water@gmail.com for direct deposit details.

he Deniliquin Film Society was formed in 1994 and functions as a non-profit community group run by a volunteer committee.

Its aim is to screen significant films, classics, those that are critically acclaimed, and films that are difficult to access locally, such as foreign language films and documentaries. Films are sourced commercially and from the National Film and Sound Archive.

The committee chooses films based on recommendation from The Federation of Victorian Film Societies and on personal research.

When the society was first formed films were screened in 16mm in the then NSW Department of Agriculture building in Charlotte St, then in 1998, regular screenings moved to the Edward Theatre and were projected from the lighting box at the back of the theatre. Members were occasionally visited by possums during screenings.

In 2006, due to problems with the sound quality of 16mm films, a decision was made to screen more films in DVD format. Screenings moved to the group’s current location at the Intereach Neighbourhood Centre in Trickett St where a digital projector is provided.

Deniliquin Film Society meets on the second Friday of each month except January. The first visit is free and annual membership is a reasonable $40.

Being a member of the Deniliquin Film Society provides an opportunity to see movies in Deniliquin on a big screen.

Screenings are very sociable occasions with generally a lively post-film conversation.

DENI SAND & SOIL SUPPLIES Excavators Bobcats Traffic Control Earthworks House Pads Shed Pads Sand & Soil

Peta Betts Conveyancing was started in 2010 shortly after Peta graduated from Southern Cross University campus in Lismore with an Associate Degree in Law (Paralegal Studies).

Two years later the business expanded interstate when Peta attained her Victorian conveyancing licence.

In 2017, Peta has an extensive client base and was recently elected as a councillor of the inaugural Edward River Council.

“Thank you to those people who have supported me in business.

I’m proudly local, having attended Deniliquin North and Deniliquin High schools, and I’m looking forward to my time serving the community as an Edward River councillor.

Congratulations Deniliquin on reaching 175 years.”

0419 103 636

www.petabettsconveyancing.com.au

Proudly servicing the community for 40 + years

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 51

Community housing across region H

omes Out West was effectively started in 1984 as the Deniliquin Community Tenancy Scheme and was established to serve the needs of tenants in the south western Riverina region of NSW. In the 1990s the need for an alternative to public housing saw the Community Tenancy Scheme thrive. In 2000 the DCTS was based out of the former Community Centre in End St, Deniliquin where it managed 30 properties.

In 2001, measuring up to the national accreditation standards set DCTS up for future growth, which would take off over the following year.

DCTS officially became Homes Out West

in 2002, establishing the organisation as we know it today.

HOW expanded and began operating in Albury in 2006, taking on double the properties, from 100 to 200, and increasing staff to a team of four.

In 2008, after three years of networking, planning and collaboration, HOW moved to the former RTA building in Wellington St, Deniliquin, known as Inala House, along with Vinnies Services Deniliquin and Inala Mirradong Housing Corporation.

In 2009 the property transfer program saw all homes operated by Housing NSW passed on to Homes Out West. The expansion saw the HOW property list again double in size, from 200 to 400 homes, and its staff grow to 10.

In 2014 the organisation celebrated its 30th birthday, culminating in a move to its current premises in End St, Deniliquin to provide for its expanding client base.

Homes Out West has grown from a single office in Deniliquin to become a significant community housing provider currently managing over 400 tenancies in nine communities in the south western Riverina region stretching from Albury in the east to Wentworth in the west.

Deniliquin remains home to the head office which currently employs 10 people along with a further five people in the Albury office.

The organisation is focused on continual growth to meet the needs of its community.

Matthew Watts is the current chairperson of the Homes Out West Board of Directors.

Homes Out West recently reviewed its mission and vision, as well as its values as a community organisation.

Its mission is to grow as a trusted provider of safe, secure and sustainable living solutions, while its vision is to enhance and support peoples lives.

Homes Out West has also reviewed its strategic goals in order to continue to provide a valued service to the community.

It aims to enhance its reputation as a provider of choice, increase property portfolio, increase the number of people supported and foster a culture of cohesion and collaboration.

Helping people research family history he Deniliquin Family History Group was formed in 1985 as a sub-committee of Deniliquin Historical Society.

President was Ray Nankivell and during the early years of operation the group worked hard to establish a sound base of resources.

It held seminars, progressive dinners, street stalls and raffles to raise necessary funds.

The members of today still use many of these fundraisers. In those early years members had to make trips to Melbourne, Ballarat and Wagga Wagga to access resources not readily available in country towns.

In May 1988 the group decided to become an independent body working in liaison with the Historical Society, and in 1991 it became incorporated. The name change to

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Deniliquin Genealogy Society Inc happened in 2005.

The aims of the society have remained the same throughout the 32 years of operation and are: ● To accumulate resources to aid in personal research for members; ● To provide advice and expertise, collate and record local family histories as a resource for future generations; ● To assist researchers from Australia and other parts of the world by providing research at reasonable rates, using extensive local records; and ● To assist local researchers with records on NSW, all states of Australia and other countries.

Genealogy has changed rapidly over the years with computer technology and internet allowing more information to be

sourced online. The society now has a web to Deniliquin Library to raise its profile and page members.bordernet.com.au/denifhg, have easier access to society records. and email address In 2012 the society held its first Genealogy denifhg@bordernet.com.au Muster which was such a success that they Deniliquin Genealogy Society has been are now held every three years, with the involved in many different community ac- name changed to Family History Expo.

These events bring over 38 exhibitors into tivities over the years, including cemetery walks commemorating soldiers on Anzac our town enabling all interested attendees a Day, and walks commemorating early wonderful resource of knowledge from five settlers. It has also had a representative on states of Australia showing how to use the Council Heritage and Cemetery commit- programs and ways of researching to all tees. The group held clean-ups at Deniliquin parts of the globe.

Cemetery with the help of community The society has added working at the Ute members for a period of time, although Muster to raise money to help fund this these ceased in 2007 due to lack of commun- event and other undertakings. ity support.

It welcomes new members and has some Deniliquin Genealogy Society has attend- exciting events on the agenda for 2018. The ed many expos to display Deniliquin record- society opens once a week on Fridays from ed history to other communities and socie- 10.30am to 4pm for public access to its ties. In 2010, its 25th year, the group moved records.

SPORTSMAN’S ARMS HOTEL

HOTEL - MOTEL SPORTSBAR SPORTIES GRILL NORTH DENILIQUIN 03 5881 1810 In 1856, a young entrepreneur, Francis Edwards, selected a site on the sandhills at north Deniliquin. There he constructed a house of typical English inn design. He called it the Faugh-a-Ballagh, and opened Deniliquin’s fourth hotel.

Today the hotel, known as the Sportsman’s Arms, or ‘The Sporties’, is still operating on the same site and is still as popular as ever with the locals, especially those who live on the northern side of the Edward River.

The hotel motel offers lunch and dinner dining, function room for hire, worker’s bar with TAB and gaming lounge, Bottle-O bottleshop, accommodation, as well as a friendly face behind the bar and crispy cold beer on tap.

This year saw a change of Licensee at the Sportsman’s Arms Hotel to Mr Jeff Shand who plans big changes and renovations in the future.

52 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Supporting local artists dward River Art Society was launched 34 years ago, with an initial 15 members.

Molly Lewis, the tutor at that time, became the society’s patron, and Gayle Hebbard was the inaugural president.

Sadly, none of these members are currently with us, but over the years the society has grown to now have 85 members.

The Deniliquin Council offered a ‘caretaker’ role for the group in the unused former Anglican Sunday School Hall. Many hours were spent sanding, painting and renovating both the Sunday School Hall and the heritage listed church building next door.

Quilters, Creative Writers, Embroiderers, Lions and church groups are among those who now use this area known as the MultiArts Centre, overseen by a Multi Arts Committee chaired by Geoff Riley.

The group established the Riverina Art School in 1989 when it employed art tutor Clive Collinson to visit monthly. This school was very successful for two years, but ended when Mr Collinson died suddenly in 1991 and another tutor could not be found.

One of ERAS’s most memorable projects was the restoration of the Three Muses statues, which are now beside the Multi Arts Centre in the Waring Gardens. Another was the Milestones Project in 1996, where 12 members made 10 bronze milestone posts which now mark historical points between Deniliquin and Conargo.

Edward River Art Society currently runs

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Thursday painting sessions, Art After Dark on Wednesday evenings during school terms and InFocus photography group at Intereach on the first Thursday of the month. Each year donations are made to all schools in the Edward River Council area and beyond to encourage art endeavours.

Each year visiting artists come to share their knowledge with members, the latest being Geelong sculptor Lucy Mceachern sharing her sculpting expertise and Kristen Dyer from Moama sharing her vast knowledge.

Members’ art works have been prominently displayed over the years in many exhibitions, locally and afar. A joint effort with Deniliquin Rotary has seen the Easter Art Show grow in stature to be supported by artists Australia wide.

To put back into the community and encourage artistic endeavour, Edward River Art Society donates awards to all local schools for student artistic endeavours, A shopfront gallery was tried in 1999 to showcase not only the members’ works but also that of wood-turners, china painters, spinners, weavers and the camera club. This was a success and so was repeated.

Again this year what is now termed a ‘pop-up shop’ was opened in late November at 218 Cressy St, Deniliquin. Emulating the earlier versions this showcases not only Edward River Art Society works but a wider range of works by the many talented artisans who reside in our area.

168-170 Hardinge Street, Deniliquin

03 5881 1988 • Batteries • Wheels • Tyres

The state-of-the-art Beaurepaires complex located at 168-170 Hardinge St was officially opened in January 2000 by then Deniliquin Mayor Peter Hebbard.

The business moved to its current location after fire destroyed the previous premises on the corner of Harfleur and Napier Sts in February of 1999.

Beaurepaires Deniliquin employs 4 people and is proud to be a part of the local community.

■ The Great Gizmo is a popular annual performer for the Sun Festval Children’s Party.

He is pictured here, in 2016, as his character Professor Doug A Bone with Kate-lyn Godden-Cannard, Jackson Jefferies and Tom Bradley.

Having fun in the sun ong before there was a Ute Muster, Deniliquin had one major event every year - the Sun Festival.

The Sun Festival started in about 1981, when then tourism officer Beverly Fisher and a committee decided the town needed a festival.

In the early years, the Sun Festival included a street parade and family picnic at McLean Beach.

Then held on the weekend closest to Australia Day each year, it also involved a re-enactment of the First Fleet landing and other activities such as a sand-shovelling competition.

A triathlon at McLean Beach became the main attraction in the mid-1980s, and had people coming from all over the place.

Concerts and other activities were also held at the beach.

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In the mid-noughties the street parade was cancelled because of insurance reasons, and the festival was not always held close to Australia Day after that.

Once upon a time, the annual New Year’s Day races and canoe marathon also came under the Sun Festival banner.

Deniliquin Lions Club took over the festival after general insurance payments became too great for the committee in 2008, and the name changed to Deniliquin Lions Sun Festival.

The festival now encompasses a Children’s Party in Waring Gardens on the second Friday in January, specifically timed to accommodate local and visiting families during the summer school holidays.

Attractions often include a jumping castle, a petting zoo farm yard, games and sausage sizzle.

Naponda Store supports hospital aponda Hospital Auxiliary held its inaugural meeting on May 26, 1970 and grew out of the mutual desire of a group of Deniliquin and district women who were keen to do some sort of voluntary work in the community and at the same time enjoy each other’s company.

The group was aware that Deniliquin Hospital needed further support and so their energies were channelled in that direction.

As most of the members were past and future patrons of the maternity section of the hospital, it was this ward plus the children’s ward that was to benefit from the fundraising activities, with items donated such as nursery cots, resuscitation trolley, metric baby scales and a $10,000 donation towards a cardiac monitor.

Many people have wondered how the name Naponda was chosen. As members lived over a wide area, a regional name was considered unsuitable. The Aboriginal word Naponda - which means ‘give’ - was the unanimous choice and could not have been more appropriate to the new auxiliary’s aims.

Over the years Naponda’s members have worked steadily and enthusiastically at all types of functions including tennis days, Melbourne Cup Day, fashion parades (including the prestigious Gown of the Year on five occasions) and card parties.

In more recent times Naponda has expanded its scope to provide needed equipment to assist in the care and comfort of all patients and clients within the Deniliquin Health Service. Donations have included items such as numerous electrical beds, video camera, manual handling equipment and mobile foetal heart monitor.

Over the last few years its major fundraising activities have been primarily open gardens at Julie Guinan’s home near Mathoura, impressive raffles, and the Naponda Shop.

Naponda’s Christmas shop is open in the central business district every November and is filled with foods and crafts manufactured by local people.

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Twenty per cent of all the sales go to Naponda. The shop sites have all been rent free and manned by volunteers.

In addition, Intereach NSW generously offered Naponda a shop space in its building in 2008. This was rent free and they were able to obtain funds to purchase a laptop computer and a cash register for Naponda’s use.

The hospital has benefited considerably

by Naponda being able to operate the whole year during this period as opposed to simply a few weeks at Christmas, however following much consideration and consultation this arrangement ended in late 2010.

In late 2010 Naponda was also planning to open a full-time shop in a CBD location to grow further, and a farmer’s market by early 2011.

The project has been a huge success thanks to the committed auxiliary treasurer, executive committee and talented producer/ volunteers.

The range of items for sale in the store has been consistently expanding since this time, examples being locally made food products, as well as toys and gifts, woollen garments for adults, babies and children. There is also MenShed woodwork and hand-crafted metal items, artworks including paintings, drawings and hand-made cards. There are many and varied Christmas foods and gift ideas to be enjoyed.

In 2017 natural Christmas trees have been included for sale.

The substantial 33 percent contribution from each item sold through the Naponda Store is donated to the Deniliquin Hospital for much needed equipment.

The Naponda Farmer’s Market held the second Saturday of each month supports all auxiliary fundraising together with extra activities organised.

Naponda, a branch of the United Hospital Association of NSW, began as a small auxiliary and has turned its annual craft stall into a booming business to support the local Deniliquin Hospital and their community exceeding $20,000 each year.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 53

Navorina cares for our elderly he first recorded suggestion to build a nursing home in Deniliquin was from Presbyterian minister A.W. E. (Ted) Seal before 1958.

After that initial suggestion, several committees and fundraisers were held between 1958 and the 1980s to establish a nursing home, with Navorina finally built in 1985 in Macauley St, opposite Deniliquin Hospital.

One of the many documents recording this process had the slogan: Enthusiasm is the yeast that raises the dough.

The aged care home was officially opened in 1986 and held 40 beds.

Organisers held a competition to name the facility, with a Mrs Long suggesting the name of a ship, Navorina.

The Navorina Ladies Auxiliary was formed in September 1986, and has been a stalwart supporter of the organisation for more than 30 years.

In 1992 Navorina underwent its first extensions on Mundiwa Wing.

The facility was extended again in 2002, and although no new beds were added the extra rooms meant there were less residents per bedroom.

During the mid-noughties a barbecue area was constructed, with a new wing built in 2008. The wing was named after Navorina chairman Geoff Riley, for his long association with the home.

Mr Riley was on Navorina’s original steering committee and has continued to help the facility for more than 30 years.

The 16 bed extension allowed the resident-to-bedroom ratio to decrease again, and added 10 new beds. It also involved renovations to the kitchen and laundry.

The project cost $2 million and was solely funded by the Deniliquin community.

Long-time Navorina employee Noel Miller, who sadly died in April 2010, was

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honoured in June that year when Navorina’s new gazebo was named in his honour.

Mr Miller had designed the gazebo, and it was his last project before his death.

In 2016 planning began on a major redevelopment project of six stages which would update all of Navorina and increase current beds from 50 to 60. As part of this redevelopment Navorina was successful in applying for the 2016 ACAR grant and was awarded approximately $2.5 million and 10 new bed licences.

Navorina was also successful in obtaining funding from the Murray-Darling Basin Regional Diversification Fund.

Stage 1 Reception development was completed in August 2017 and Stage 2 North Riley development started in October 2017.

Navorina thanks everyone in the Deniliquin community who has supported this valuable facility.

■ Celebrating an Aged Care Approvals Round funding announcement of almost $2.5 million for the nursing home in June 2017 were (from left) Jacquie Tubb, Uma Mungal, Vicki He, Isabelle Howe, Jess Rose, Bill Howe, Marianne Allitt, Mandy Shand (holding Sammy the dog), Taigan Cahill, Skye Parks, Bernadette Werner, Margaret Nevinson, May Wright and Pat Beames.

Local Land Services an amalgamation urray Local Land Services and its predecessors - the Riverina Livestock Health and Pest Authority, the Sheep Board, Pastures Protection Board and Rural Lands Protection Board - have had a presence in Deniliquin since the late 1800s.

In the 1880s the original Sheep Board’s main responsibility was to control an outbreak of sheep scab, but it could also call upon landholders to carry out the destruction of noxious animals including rabbits, native dogs and marsupials.

The authority now provides the state’s frontline field veterinary service, pest animal and insect control service and

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undertakes management of travelling stock and associated travelling stock reserves.

The Deniliquin Pastures Protection Board was located in End St until the late 1980s, when it moved to more modern premises in George St. Following the formation of the Riverina Rural Lands Protection Board the expanded organisation moved to larger premises, being the ex-Windouran Shire offices on the Hay Rd in 2002.

The Hay Rd office became the main office of the Riverina LHPA, which was formed in 2009, and employed 30 staff across offices in Moulamein, Hay, Narrandera, Corowa and Jerilderie, with eight staff based at Deniliquin.

In 2014, the NSW Government amalgamated the LHPA, Catchment Management Authority and the agricultural extension arm of NSW Department of Primary Industries. The new body, Local Land Services, retained a presence in Deniliquin, occupying the Hay Rd office and the former CMA office in Victoria St. Deniliquin is the main headquarters of Murray Local Land Services, an entity that covers an area from Moulamein in the west to Khancoban in the east.

In October 2017, the 24 Deniliquin-based staff were consolidated into a single office in Charlotte St.

AGSPARES PTY LTD BARHAM ROAD DENILIQUIN NSW 2710 | PHONE 03 5881 1255

Family owned and run since 1982. Proud to be part of the Deniliquin Community Specialising in the supply of agricultural, automotive and industrial parts and supplies to the farming, engineering, domestic trades, and consumer markets combining a broad product base with quality service and product knowledge.

Agspares Pty Ltd is a major reseller of Castrol products.

54 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Watson Drilling history 1930 WL Watson and his father were employed as exploration drillers on the deep leads of Victoria in pursuit of alluvial gold.

1945+ The business was interrupted by WWII and the massive decline of gold prices. Post war WL Watson’s attention shifted to the water contained in ancestral riverbeds and countless bores for stock and domestic purposes.

1980s Under John Watson (son of WL Watson) Watson Drilling grew into central Victoria’s leading alluvial drilling contractors including gold exploration. In the late 1980s Watson Drilling focused its attention to the little explored deep ground water basins of southern NSW. In 1987, John’s sons Rex and Dave established a permanent base in Deniliquin.

1990s The nineties saw growth and modernisation of fleet with heavy-duty rigs being purchased to undertake the greater depths and larger diameter holes required, and the business added electric and gamma logging equipment to help identify the potential of aquifers.

Full test pumping equipment was added to the fleet, enabling pump testing from ½ litres per second up to 300 litres per second out of the various size pumping units.

2000+ Watson Drilling pioneered many techniques of drilling and constructing practices that went on to become the industry standard, including the insertion of large diameter PVC pipes into irrigation bores.

The business re-entered the resource sector with significant uranium, coal and heavy minerals contracts throughout mid-Eastern Australia.

The business underwent further modernisation of drill rig fleet comprising of various configurations, giving Watson Drilling the flexibility to tackle drilling tasks of all dimensions from 50mm to 500mm and capable of working in most geological conditions throughout Australia.

In 2007, Watson Drilling was named the Business of the Year at the Deniliquin Business Awards.

Rex 0428 267 164 David 0428 629 380 www.watsondrilling.com.au

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 55

Deniliquin Clinic

Yarkuwa provides cultural education Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre Aboriginal Corporation was established in 2003.

Yarkuwa aims to: 1. Collate and maintain cultural, heritage and environmental information as it relates to Wamba Wamba and Perrepa Perrepa country; 2. Provide an educational service to the wider community including schools and community groups; 3. Engage in negotiations with local, state and federal and other agencies on matters relating to culture, heritage and the environment; 4. Provide the means for members to develop skills that will allow them to be involved in the provision of educational and research services; 5. Provide a centre to facilitate the transfer of knowledge from one generation to the next; and, 6. Acquire and hold title to land and water for the purposes of economic and cultural economy, cultural heritage, education and conservation.

In its short history, the organisation has won many awards including the Deniliquin Business Award - For Innovative Contribution from the Indigenous Community in 2004 and 2005.

In 2005 it also scored the NSW Premier’s Public Sector Awards - Bronze Award. This victory was in the Environment & Natural Resources category for the partnership arrangement between Yarkuwa, the Riverina Institute of TAFE Deniliquin Campus, Forests NSW, and the Department of Natural Resources. The TAFE Gilli Award for Yarkuwa’s industry partnership with Riverina TAFE was also won in 2005.

Yarkuwa received further recognition in

2009, winning the Murray CMA Murray Lower Darling Rivers Indigenous Nations Indigenous Award, coming third in the NSW Landcare Awards - Indigenous Award and being nominated for the NSW Regional and Community Awards.

Yarkuwa has also now hosted over 10 years of successful Wamba Wamba/Perrepa Perrepa Cultural Week celebrations. This has now developed as a longer celebration, and focuses on Wamba Wamba/Perrepa Perrepa culture and history.

The program runs in October to cater for a warmer climate and the growing season when traditional foods, herbs and medicines are abundant in the local area and can be included in the cultural tours.

Yarkuwa is currently Chair of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and Arts Association of NSW and is located at 104 End St, Deniliquin. The centre contains family history information, a culture and heritage museum and a changing exhibition space.

In addition to environmental programs, Yarkuwa is also involved in language and arts projects, community wellbeing and safety work as well as maintaining a research section currently focusing on the impact of Government policy on the lives of local families.

In 2017 Yarkuwa’s Chair Jeanette Crew was recognised for her lifetime contribution to Aboriginal Culture in NSW at the Museums and Galleries of NSW Imagine Awards.

Yarkuwa operates through a philosophy of inclusion, respect and collaboration and welcomes visits to the centre to explore local Aboriginal culture and heritage, discuss Aboriginal issues and celebrate our shared history.

Entertainment from busy Bush Poets Deniliquin Bush Poets formed in February 2007, with its first annual general meeting in March that year. It had about 25 members.

Alex Allitt is president of the Bush Poets with David Schoeffel vice-president. Mary Roberts is secretary and treasurer is Graeme Dick.

Meetings are held from 2pm on the third Sunday of each month at Intereach in Trickett St, Deniliquin.

The Bush Poets have been increasingly busy being an integral part of the entertainment scene in our town and district. A lot of organisations in town including Navorina Nursing Home, the Bowling Club and Ute Muster have received entertainment from the members.

Some members travel far and wide to display their skills.

Below is a piece of poetry written about the group, contributed by publicity officer Edith Hall: The Deniliquin Bush Poets is maybe the youngest set, I mean as a club and not the members I have met.

We realize it may not be to everybody’s fancy But if you come along we’ll take you out with Clancy.

We have moving meetings and only monthly, they Are held at Intereach at 2 on the third Sunday.

Our writers pen exclusive stuff you wont hear everywhere Although they would be modest, it would favourably compare With Banjo, Will or Henry; but will it stand the test, And get recognition in 100 years when they debate who’s best.

Many had experience on the old Dramatic Club stage And can deliver with emphasis, with pathos or with rage.

Our President is renowned in all parts of Australia And never has had to compete in colourful regalia.

He wows them in the High Country, or out on the plain, His funny and sad ones both bring tears like salty rain.

He is our inspiration and classed as a living treasure He works so hard to give his public so much pleasure.

Hear raindrops as they fall on the hard cracked crust Or the howling wind moving pasture that is soon to dust You can smell the wattle, so sweet when it’s in bloom And the lanolin in the wool, shorn to use on the loom.

The eucalyptus (they should bottle it) oh, of course, they do All these things unique to Oz and known to me and you.

Dunnies, swaggies, dingoes, and black billies boiling Mates, diggers, rabbit hats, thongs, and emu oiling.

Wake up to this land’s delights with the breakfast menu And you’ll find poets performing, they need a quiet venue.

If we can entertain you and send you on your way Feeling moved and amused, then you have made our day.

409 George St, Deniliquin 2710 Dr Robert Campbell commenced practice in 1982.

Dr Marion Magee commenced practice in 1988.

The building was relocated to its present position in 1953.

Proudly assisting locals with all their heath needs.

Deniliquin Amateur Swimming & Life Saving Club Foundation member Riverina Swimming Association in 1930 Foundation member Southern Inland Swimming Association in 2010 following reorganisation of swimming in New South Wales.

Competitive Swimming, Life Saving and Learn to Swim services to Deniliquin for nearly a century.

Telephone 5881 2151

We aim to provide a quality education to all students which will maximise their learning potential 2018 enrolments being taken now. Contact Principal

EDWARD PUBLIC SCHOOL Butler Street DENILIQUIN NSW 2710 Phone: 5881 2612 Fax: 5881 5090 edward-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au www.edward-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

56 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Tubb’s Taxis and Bond’s Taxis had been driving locals around Deni for several decades before the two businesses combined in 2015 to form Deniliquin Taxi’s.

Congratulations Deni on reaching this magnificent milestone of 175 years.

Deniliquin Taxi’s Passenger & Maxi Taxis

03 5881 1373

Deniliquin Sporting Car Club Inc started operation in 1961 and has continued to run motorsport events in Deniliquin since.

Autocross events are held on a smooth one-mile track throughout the year.

Deniliquin Sporting Car Club www.denisportingcarclub.com.au info@denisportingcarclub.com

Deni Sports Stadium Established 1993

Congratulations Deniliquin on reaching 175 years. Deniliquin Sports Stadium caters for hundreds of people each week across a range of sports and is proud to have played a key role in the town’s recent history. Thank you to those people who support and utilise the facility, and to long-time stadium manager John Arthur for his enthusiasm and professionalism which ensures the facility is well used and resourced.

■ Justin Campbell from Boonoke (centre) accepted the Old Cobran fleece trophy from steward Warren Bull and judge Andrew Williamson in 2016.

Showcasing the rural lifestyle he Deniliquin Pastoral & Agricultural Society (P&A) Show has a proud history of community spirit.

The show was founded in 1876, and aside from financial difficulties which forced the 2010 show to be cancelled, only had a break in the war years and several cancellations due to flooding.

The first Deniliquin Show was held in 1877 at the original showgrounds in Hardinge St, now the home of the Deniliquin Rams Football and Netball Club.

The show moved to Memorial Park in 1952, then known as Jubilee Park, and the P&A Society still calls it home today.

The show started as a spring-time event, but flooding at Memorial Park in September created some problems.

Rising river levels forced the cancellation of the event two years in a row in the 1950s, and the show society decided to shift the date to the first weekend in March.

When it began, the Deniliquin Show started on Friday afternoon and ended on Saturday night.

The Friday and Saturday format was

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Community project develops Four Post ituated 8km south of Deniliquin, the Four Post Recreation Park is set among 22.7 hectare of natural bush camping ground on the banks of the Edward River.

Historically, Four Post Reserve was a popular camping and fishing spot for over 50 years.

Originally called the Four Post Camp, the park is still a paradise for anyone wanting to fish, swim, bushwalk or relax for an evening’s meal by the river.

Development of the Four Post Camp as a community project was the idea of Gordon McCann after a Scout Jamborette was held at the Four Post site in 1975.

When the Scouts had finished with the site, the Lions Club of Deniliquin was given Trusteeship of the Crown Reserve.

In 1993 a community-based not-for-profit management committee was formed with the goal of developing a permanent accommodation facility for the benefit of youth and community organisations.

All funds generated were reinvested in further developments at Four Post.

The Four Post Camp Committee actively participated in a range of government funded and community service programs which have been a valuable source of funds and labour.

Volunteer involvement for ongoing development at the camp was recruited from a diverse range of business, local government, socio-economic, cultural and age groups.

Substantial financial support and donations had been received from Deniliquin Lions Club, Deniliquin RSL Club, Deniliquin Rotary Club, Deniliquin RSL Fishing Club, many other service and community groups, federal, state and local government

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~ From the Board and Management of Deniliquin Sports Park Inc.

We Advise. You Decide Independent property valuations Tax depreciation schedules Property research reports

Specialising in: Pre purchase/pre-sale advisory Settlement (marital or partnership) Mortgage security (accepted by major lenders) Transfer duty or capital gains tax

Providing valuation services to the community for the past 13 years.

133 End St, Deniliquin.

Phone 03 5881 4947 john.henderson@htw.com.au www.htw.com.au

abandoned in the 1980s when the Department of Education revoked a half day holiday for school children to attend.

But the tradition has been rekindled by the show society, and was re-introduced in 2007.

Like any good country show, the focus on agriculture is always a crowd pleaser.

The Deni Show features livestock and wool judging, equestrian and show jumping, Pony Club events, dog trials, poultry, animal nursery, pet parade and much more.

The pavilion with all the home cooking, needlework and school children displays is a must see.

In recent years, the show society introduced the Riverina Shearing Championships which is well represented by many local and visiting shearers. Its popularity has also led to a quick shear being introduced on show weekend.

Local machinery company and motor vehicle displays add to the atmosphere, along with local music and bands and topped off with a large fireworks display on Saturday evening.

bodies, as well as generous support from tradesmen and the general community of the region.

The park was developed with a range of camping and cabin accommodation.

Also developed was a myriad of activities such as beach volleyball, rock climbing wall, boat ramp, beach fishing, bike and walking tracks, archery, canoeing, campfires, nature trails, flying fox, tree swing, mini golf course and traverse wall.

In 1996 the relocation of the historic Deniliquin Turf Club Hall to the Four Post Camp provided training and employment for a number of long term unemployed young people as well as preserving one of Deniliquin’s notable historic buildings.

It brought together members of Deniliquin service organisations, sporting clubs, local government authorities and local industry to work as volunteers on a regional community project.

Financial constraints forced the community committee to seek a new management model for the facility in 2011, with the Greater Murray YMCA selected as the preferred choice at a community meeting.

It managed the facility until 2014, when a restructure within the YMCA forced the regional branch to relinquish its management role.

The Deniliquin Lions made an application to manage the facility after the YMCA’s departure, but the Crown Lands Department favoured an application from Griffith Skills Training Centre, trading as Summit Employment and Training, which still runs the facility today.

Visitors are welcome any time and for further information ring 0410 548 334 or visit the website www.4post.com.au.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 57

Legacy - the Spirit of Service L

■ Murray McAllister and Lindsay Renwick with the Deniliquin Gaol cell 12 door donated to the Deniliquin & District Historical Society in 2012.

Source of local historical info he Deniliquin and District Historical Society has been a reliable source of local historical information since 1958.

It has occupied many different premises, including the former George Street School, which members helped to become Peppin Heritage Centre.

The Historical Society resulted from suggestions by Tony Knoll and others.

Mr Clyde M. Whitakers was elected as the society’s first president with 146 foundation members.

Today, the historical society is situated in the old police inspector’s residence, overlooking the Edward River in Macauley Street.

A constant stream of questions to the society come from all over Australia and overseas, via email or its Facebook page which is popular with locals and former residents who like to reminisce about their own history in Deniliquin as well as look at old, not so old and recent photos of the area.

Visitors to the Macauley Street Museum will find displays of historic photographs, collections of domestic memorabilia, items of locally used technology and our local involvement in wars ranging from the Boer War to Vietnam.

Videos and films are also available for viewing, including the popular History of Waring Gardens and Deniliquin World War 1 Veterans.

In 2017, the Society became the only regional museum to have its collection of documents and letters added to the

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UNESCO Memory of the World. These pertained to the local squatter and Billycan Millionaire, James Tyson 1855-1861.

Recent renovations to the historic building have been funded by generous donations from local philanthropists, businesses, the Bendigo Bank, government and council plus a lot of physical help from the Society’s friends.

In the last three years an extension has been built to house its almost complete collection of the Pastoral Times, the library had sliding shelving installed, the verandah and all five front rooms have been dust proofed, repainted, with new floor coverings and light proof curtains added to protect the displays.

Additional display cabinets and digital screens have also improved presentation of information and items of interest.

A glorious rose garden is maintained by 92 year-old Gordon Kilpatrick and the Linga Longa bus tour company brings regular busloads to the museum where they enjoy lunch and entertainment by Doris Mills, Lindsay and Jan Renwick who dress in period costumes and keep the customers rolling in the aisles.

The president is Lindsay Renwick, secretary Janice Harrington, treasurer Jan Renwick, vice president Doris Mills and media Suzy Keys.

The museum is open to the public on Saturday and Tuesday 10am to 2pm or by appointment. The entry fee is $5. For information contact the secretary on 0408 454 948.

50 golden years of displaying old vehicles n invitation to chauffeur a Deniliquin Show special guest on show day inspired local car lovers to form the Deniliquin District Veteran & Vintage Car Club.

At the time Deniliquin resident Roger Benjamin was asked to provide one of his old cars to ferry the guests around the showgrounds in March 1967.

It was only a few months later that Mr Benjamin and fellow members of the Deniliquin Sporting Car Club decided to start a new club specifically for their older cars. ‘‘A lot of us were interested in cars and already members of the Sporting Car Club, which I’m happy to say also still runs today,’’ Mr Benjamin said. ‘‘The likes of Barry Cockayne, Lex Kirkby and myself felt there was also a place for an older car club that could run alongside it.’’

The DDV&VCC was officially formed on December 8, 1967, and Mr Benjamin was elected the group’s first president.

Mr Benjamin said Keith Burchfield was also instrumental in formation of the group, kindly providing their meeting place at his Holden dealership in End St, Deniliquin. ‘‘Keith was a very good supporter of ours, and a keen member,’’ Mr Benjamin recalled.

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‘‘He made room in his showroom and despite being a very busy man always made time for us.”

The club started with 16 inaugural members - including current members Lex Kirkby and Richard King - and subscription was $2.50. The members had about eight to 10 cars between them.

Today the club has 112 members, with many participating in the monthly Sunday drives.

Earlier this year the club marked its 50th birthday, which featured a dinner at the Deniliquin RSL Club on Saturday, July 15 and a send-off morning tea the next day.

More than 70 people enjoyed the dinner, which featured a screening of footage of the club’s first run from Deniliquin to Conargo in 1968.

On the Sunday, a show ‘n’ shine and sendoff morning tea was held at the Deniliquin TAFE grounds, with about 60 car lovers attending to check out the prized vehicles.

The current DDV&VCC president is Bruce Wells.

egacy was originally an association formed in Melbourne in 1923 by Lieutenant-General Stan Savige and a group of veterans who saw that a number of their mates were suffering mental health issues.

The group was determined to assist in their rehabilitation and also care for the widows and children of those Diggers who fell in service.

This association rapidly spread with the Legacy Club of Wagga, of which Deniliquin is a branch, being founded in 1932.

Prior to 1949 the nearest Legacy Club to Deniliquin was Wagga. In that year, as a result of action taken by the local RSL, Mr J.C. Bass was appointed as a Legatee in Deniliquin. He operated until 1951 when Mr Don Christopher was appointed. He was joined by Mr C.E. (Jock) Hayes in 1954.

These two men worked in Deniliquin, with assistance from Wagga, until 1959 when it was decided to form a local Legacy Group.

The first meeting of the Provisional Group was held on March 13, 1959 and the Group was constituted on February 28, 1960.

During 1960 it was decided to bring the centres of Finley, Berrigan and Jerilderie within the administration of the Deniliquin Group, and that arrangement continues today.

The group of eight Legatees in 1960 looked after 31 widows and quite a number of children. In 1985 there were 32 Legatees looking after 152 widows.

The year 2000 saw 30 Legatees seeing after 170 widows and today there are 24 Legatees and 85 widows.

Support includes financial where the need arises and social contact and inclusion by the legatees visiting their allocated widows on a regular basis and then reporting at

monthly meetings as to their welfare and/or needs.

While the number of widows locally has declined substantially with the average age in their late eighties, Legacy has changed its charter to include the ‘‘veterans and families of those who have given their health in service to their country’’. With increasing numbers of servicemen from later conflicts suffering from health issues, this will see the relevance of Legacy continue.

Initially members, who were exservicemen, had to serve as contractors before being inducted as a Legatee, now men and women who were not at war are invited to join Legacy and carry out the full duties as detailed in the Charter of Legacy.

One of the most rewarding accomplishments of the Deniliquin Group was the building of 11 self care housing units in Deniliquin and a further six in Jerilderie.

They were built in conjunction with the Deniliquin Sub-branch of the RSL, the local councils and others, using government grants and bequests from local people, such as Bert Cavanagh of ‘Puckawidgee’ and Norman Edwards of ‘Caroma’ who made substantial contributions.

On the social side Legacy has been able to arrange holidays for its widows at the Legacy hostel in Moss Vale. This is a pleasant stay and offers 12 days at no cost, taking in local sightseeing, trips to places of interest and a trip to Sydney.

Legacy’s annual Appeals Week, conducted during the first week in September, has always been generously supported by the entire community, demonstrating the heartfelt thanks to those who served in all actions and allowing Legacy to assist financially where required.

Legacy is Australian and is unique to the world and its role has never altered - ‘The Spirit of Legacy is Service’.

Soul Pattinson Chemist Established in Deniliquin for more than 50 years in various locations, Soul Pattinson Chemist is your one stop shop for all your health needs with well trained staff, many of whom have been with the pharmacy for more than 10 years.

We have a long history of supporting the community, proudly donating to charities, sporting groups, schools, and other fund raising initiatives.

Call in and talk to the friendly staff at Soul Pattinson Chemist for your health, beauty and giftware needs.

289 Cressy Street, Deniliquin. Ph (03) 5881 2233.

YOUR BEST CHOICE WHEN BUYING OR SELLING

Providing Deniliquin and the local area rural supplies since 2001 Call Steve Arentz Mob: 0429 814 403 Justin Barker Mob: 0400 714 718 “Keeping Competition In Rural Australia”

58 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

NAVORINA NURSING HOME Navorina Nursing Home is a community owned and not-for-profit aged care facility established in 1986. With more than 70 caring staff members, our nursing home provides 24-hour Registered Nurse coverage, respite beds, pet therapy (pets are encouraged to visit), 24-hour visitation, and daily living and quality health services.

Our fully accredited home provides 50 beds, including a new dementia care wing, and is currently undergoing stage two of a six-stage development which will add an additional eight single-bed rooms.

Gun Club’s many champion shooters he Deniliquin Gun (Clay Target) Club held a Live Bird Shoot as early as 1909.

The club was first located at the showgrounds in Hardinge St (now Rams football oval), before moving to the oval where the Deniliquin High School is now situated.

It then moved to the Deniliquin Racecourse before relocating to Cemetery Rd. In 1984 it again relocated back to the Deniliquin Racecourse, where it is currently situated.

Alfred Butcher is believed to have started the club in as early as 1918, and it was reformed in 1946 with Fred Robertson being the inaugural president.

In 1947 Gary Daly took on the role of president which he held for the next 32 years. During his term the club held many Grand Prix shoots, the first being in 1965 with first prize being a Valiant Sedan. The entry fee was 12 pound 10 shillings.

The Gun Club has produced many top shooters who have represented Australia and also won many national titles.

Gary Daly was a four-time Macintosh Team Representative (Australian Team).

Cecilie Daly a four-time Australian Women’s Champion and longest lady shooter registered with the ACTA. Jon Whittakers was a nine-time National Champion and 14-time Macintosh Team

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The old dinosaur has been providing Deniliquin’s plumbing needs for nearly 50 years. New staff have brought us into the 21st century

Not retiring anytime soon: plumbers just go down the drain

For all your hire needs Supplying tradesmen and handymen in Deniliquin and surrounds for around 42 years Founded by John Tainsh 125 Napier Street, Deniliquin. P: 03 5881 3822

Proud to be a part of Deni celebrating this notable anniversary

Representative, and he also held the Australian Metric Longest Break with a score of 571 targets shot.

Ian Holschier was a National Champion and a two-time Macintosh Team Representative and Australian 5-Man Team Representative.

Ron Glenn was a Macintosh Team Representative and Kim Bucholtz a two-time Macintosh Team Representative.

Jack Collicoat was a National Champion and won numerous junior National Championships along with a Junior World Championship, while his brother Ned won Junior National titles and their father Rob Collicoat is a three-time Macintosh Team Representative.

Robert Kemp, David Glenn, Phil Smith and James Petersen all won a Junior National Title.

James Willet, who is from Mulwala but a member of the Deniliquin Club, won a Junior World Championship, is an Olympic Representative, is the current World Double Trap Champion and number one in the world for Double Trap.

The Deniliquin Clay Target Club has 12 life members - Gary Daly, Ron Jones, Allan Kirby, Robert Lawson, Eddy Daly, Robert Menadue, Phillip Renwick, Ron Glenn, Ron Cugley, Val Cugley, Rob Collicoat and Cecilie Daly.

■ Deni Diamonds players Doreen Peterson, Gwen Pearn, Mary James, Jill Tainsh and John James squared off against Deni Gems players Brad Fawns, Andy Davis, John Tainsh, Colin Campbell and Allan Tonta in the Goulburn Valley Croquet Association grand final in December 2017.

Croquet revitalised he Deniliquin Croquet Club was first vice-president and Maureen Fitzmaurice as established in 1908 when the Denili- secretary following a meeting. quin Bowling Club committee proIn the early days of croquet, it was only posed to provide a croquet lawn for the played by the ladies but now the club is ladies. represented well by both men and women.

The club went into recess during WWI The club has made the Deniliquin Lawn and WWII, recommencing after these wars Tennis Club its home and to this day has a ended. strong membership.

In 1945, members of St Andrew’s Croquet Since 2000, the club has hosted 10 Club held a sports afternoon in Deniliquin, Australian Open Golf Croquet National the first event following WWII. Championship events, with Deniliquin The Croquet Club would again go into member Andy Davis claiming the handirecess before the club was rejuvenated in capped singles event in 2017.

1963, playing at Memorial Park.

This year turned out to be a big one for the The club made its move to the RSL Club Deniliquin club with both of its Goulburn Croquet Greens in 1970, before once again Valley Croquet Association teams — going into recess.

Diamonds and Gems — qualifying for the Croquet was once again revived in Deni- grand final. It was the Diamonds who stood liquin in 2000, with Max Huddle elected as tall in the all-Deni decider, winning seven the club’s president, Joan McCalman as games to five, 75 hoops to 63.

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First into little aths eniliquin Athletic Club is believed to be one of the earliest existing Little Athletics groups in NSW, established between October 1970 to January 1971.

Since then the club has continued to grow, being able to purchase new timing gates in 2016 to give an accurate time in its running events.

Now in its 48th season, the Deniliquin club has had record numbers visit the club, with 215 registrations for its most recent

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Deniliquin Country Club Motor Inn Crispe Street, Deniliquin Ph 03 5881 5299 E: countryclubdeni@bigpond.com W: www.countryclubdeni.com.au

carnival. This carnival saw 63 records fall in what was one of the club’s most successful carnivals in its history.

Parents of current Little Athletes volunteer at the club, and some of them were once competitors themselves.

Some of these parents who still hold club records include Jane Hillier, Catherine Hillier, Cassie Thorley and Kelly Werner.

They have talented children who are now competing.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 59

■ Bryson Lloyd and Neil Goudie are regular competitors at Deniliquin Sporting Car Club events.

Range of events for car enthusiasts n the 1950s Deniliquin residents organised a number of car trials starting and finishing at the Boat Clubhouse at McLean Beach. The trials were usually followed by a motorkhana on the common near the aerodrome.

It was decided that a motoring club was necessary as the Deniliquin Speed Boat Club had been the main organiser of events so far.

A public meeting was called on September 13, 1961 in the Royal Hotel. Thirty people attended, and a committee was formed at that meeting with Barry Allan the first president and Frank Baird the first secretary.

In the early years many events were held, both sporting and social, including motorkhanas, trials, economy runs, autocourse and quarter mile sprints.

The Ladies Committee and Social Committee were responsible for many street stalls, barbecues, parties, progressive dinners and other social outings, and also organised dances at the Dramatic Club every Saturday night.

During the 1960s an autocourse track was established on Nisbets Reserve, six miles out on the Conargo Road. Quarter mile sprints were also held 12 miles out on the Barham Road. The outright record 16.1 seconds was set by Bob Byham from Strathmerton in a Goggomobil which was powered by a modified Hillman motor driving a VW transmission.

In 1967 Deniliquin Sporting Car Club joined CAMS. This meant an end to the

I

autocourses and quarter mile sprints that were illegal until the club acquired its own grounds to run these events. Motorkhanas, trials and economy runs continued.

In 1971 land was obtained from the Deniliquin Racecourse Trust, comprising 90 acres adjacent to the Mulwala Canal and the Deniliquin Racecourse. A clubhouse also suddenly appeared, being formerly the jockeys’ change rooms.

In 1978 DSCC had the task of holding the Australian Motorkhana Championship, being the first time the championship was held outside the metropolitan area. The prizemoney donated by Deniliquin business houses amounted to almost $1000 (today’s value would be $5000), which is more than offered last year in the city event.

Currently, autocross events are held on the track on Racecourse Road throughout the year. Motorkhana and other social events have been held in the past.

The Victorian Club Autocross Series and NGK-Victorian Motorkhana Championship hold a round at Deniliquin each year.

At the Deniliquin Ute Muster members volunteer their time to run the Circle Work, Barrel Race and Go To Wo competitions on the sports arena.

In November this year DSCC members again volunteered their time to instruct Deniliquin High School students as they learn to drive on the track and on the street course.

Soccer for all to enjoy arly in 1979 a group of soccer enthusiasts gathered at Graham McKay’s house and formed a committee to start junior soccer in Deniliquin.

Bob Faulkner was elected president and a competition started with about 100 players split into age groups across four teams - Wolves (yellow) United (Red) , Celtic (Green) and Spurs (White). Team managers were Noel Clinton, Gerd Schaffer, Rob Sobolewski, Graham McKay and Peter Mills.

Games were initially at Memorial Park although within a couple of years the Edward River Oval became the home for junior soccer and numbers continued to increase.

Recognising the need to formalise the club, Deniliquin Soccer Club was incorporated on June 23, 1987 changing its name to Deniliquin Junior Soccer Club in 2002 then in 2007 to Deniliquin District Soccer Incorporated as it started organising social town soccer for all ages.

In the early years players were allocated

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to a team for life, obtaining a T-shirt of the appropriate colour and then later having their name printed on the shirt to assist match officials.

In the early 2000s with player numbers exceeding 400 it became increasing difficult to find enough playing area at Edward River Oval (without a cricket pitch) and the decision was made to relocate to Rotary Park where new clubrooms had been built by the Deni Wanderers Soccer Club (senior side), which the junior club could share.

The installation of field lighting and a strengthening relationship with the Wanderers also made weekly training available for all those interested.

There have been many keen parents on the committee over the years, often managing teams and refereeing in a sport they had never played.

While the team names have changed and players are re-graded every year to new teams, the basic idea of mixed sex soccer for the enjoyment of all, including the parents, continues.

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60 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

THE SPEAK UP CAMPAIGN www.speakup4water.com

Agriculture has been the backbone of the Deniliquin region since it was first settled 175 years ago.

From 1933 to 1964 our Governments developed the NSW Murray as one of the prime irrigated agricultural regions in Australia, with one of the world’s most efficient gravity-fed irrigation systems.

In the past 20 years, and in particular since the introduction of the Water Act 2007, followed by the Murray-Darling Basin Plan legislation in 2012, our food and fibre producing abilities have been reduced.

The Basin Plan was poorly modelled during the Millennium Drought and is being implemented without adequate understanding of the consequences, thus compromising its ability to provide balanced outcomes for our environment and threatening our productive capabilities.

Email speakup4water@gmail.com

Speak Up tells it how it is – a Basin Plan that threatens Australia’s ability to grow the food we need for domestic use, feed millions of starving people throughout the world and make a multibillion dollar contribution to the national economy.

Water provides jobs for our community. We respect the power of water and want recognition for our part in caring for this valuable resource.

Speak Up was established by a group of passionate farmers in the Southern Riverina. We aim to highlight the issues impacting Southern New South Wales and Northern Victoria.

If you would like to make a financial contribution to supporting the Speak Up cause, visit www.speakup4water.com.au.

Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 175th Anniversary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 61

Rodeo one of Deniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top family events Since it started more than 55 years ago, the Deniliquin Rodeo has grown to become one of the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular family events.

The rodeo committee has been forced to relocate its event on numerous occasions during its history. These days, the club is well settled at its permanent location at the Racecourse Arena.

The sport of rodeo was started in Deniliquin in 1948 when Jack Maxwell allowed some local youngsters to ride his poddy calves. This quickly escalated to steers and rogue cows.

As Jack was a teamster he also had a paddock full of horses and it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t long before those horses with a bit of fire were also being ridden.

Drover Bob Bartlett and saddler Alex McDonald noticed that these events were attracting a lot of spectators and in 1951 the North Deniliquin Rodeo Committee was formed.

The rodeo venue was then moved to the Deniliquin showground which was then situated where the Hardinge St Oval is now.

The committee began collecting its own string of bucking horses and purchased its own gear.

When the Deniliquin Football Club gained control of the Hardinge St Oval, the rodeo moved to Paringa Caravan Park in Ochtertyre St and the rodeo committee kept its stock at Werai Station.

The Deniliquin Rodeo attracted Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top cowboys, including Ray Crawford, Alan Woods and Bonny Young.

The local club soon affiliated with the Australian Rough Riders Association, and as the rankest rough stock was required, stock contractor and competitor Norm Cakebread loaded horses at Footscray on the rail destined for Deniliquin Rodeo.

In 1968, the rodeo moved to Memorial Park with the ground fenced in half.

It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until 1980 that construction of a purpose-built arena at the Racecourse Reserve took place. The main instigators of this move were Gerald Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Loughlin and Steve Bradshaw.

In 1982 a memorial trophy for the Champion All Round Cowboy was instigated.

Scott Bloxsome won the inaugural trophy, followed by Kevin Bowtell (1983 and 1984), Neville McCarthy (1985), Wayne Slater (1986) and Darryl Lamb (1988 and 1989).

Legendary bull rider Gary McPhee won it in 1990 and 1991.

The Deniliquin Rodeo Club prides itself on its community support, donating funds to various organisations after each rodeo.

Its biggest ever was in 1990 when the club donated $2250 to the Deniliquin Volunteer

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â&#x2013; A cowboy in action at the 2016 Deniliquin Rodeo, the first to be held in the new Easter timeslot.

Rescue Association for a remote pager system.

The club introduced the Lionel Sweeney Memorial Saddle Bronc Ride early in the 2000s, named in honour of Jerilderie man and renowned pick-up rider Lionel Sweeney who passed away in August 2001.

In 2006, a hard working committee led by Russell Offord reduced the width of the Deniliquin Rodeo arena as the time for rough stock events had been reduced from 10 to eight seconds.

More recently, the club introduced the Frank Stockham Memorial First Year Saddle Bronc Rider buckle. Frank, who had lived locally for many years, passed away and had been a previous Queensland Champion.

Life members of the local organisation are Les â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Punchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Daniels (passed away 2015), Jeff â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gray and the late Hubert Bert Sutton.

Mel Hutchins (passed away 2016) received life membership in 2006 for his contribution to the rodeo since joining in 1970. Life member Noel Hargreaves, who competed as a cowboy in the 1950s, passed away in early 2017.

The club also lost a stalwart with the passing of Russell Offord in 2014. He was president for more than 15 years.

Craig Allitt is the current president and the Deniliquin Rodeo continues to be a successful annual event, now held each year on Easter Saturday.

Classic weekend on the Edward River eniliquin has always been a great fishing destination, with people travelling from all over Australia just to drop a line in the Edward

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River.

The Deniliquin RSL Fishing Club has been a significant contributor to helping promote local tourism.

The Fishing Club holds its Fishing Classic on the Edward River in February each year.

The event has attracted thousands of anglers to town for more than two decades.

Despite its cancellation in 2008 due to low river levels, the Classic has been a great success over the past 20 years.

People come from as far as Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania to take part, and more families have become involved over the last 10 years.

It has grown into one of the main events for the town, creating a much deserved economic boost for Deniliquin. After com-

All Stars Martial Arts Academy is proud to have played a key role in teaching local people self defence. Daniel, Andrew and their team would like to wish everyone a safe end of year break and look forward to seeing you back in the dojo for term one in February 2018.

pleting a survey several years ago it was noted that half the anglers stayed in the town for four days, helping the local economy.

The Fishing Classic also provides local anglers with a weekend to look forward to.

The introduction of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;catch and releaseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; has been a big positive to retain the fish stocks.

The number of entrants has been more than 1800 people at one classic, and numbers are consistently around 1600 each year.

The Fishing Club isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t entirely focused on the classic, and has also been an instigator of restocking rivers around the area.

The classic wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen without the locals who support it in some shape or form, whether it be a donation or participation.

The Fishing Club would like to thank everyone, including its sponsors, for their support.

Murray Hume Business Enterprise Centre is a community based ÂśQRW IRU SURĂ&#x20AC;W¡ RUJDQLVDWLRQ HVWDEOLVKHG WR IRVWHU WKH JURZWK RI EXVLQHVVHV WKURXJKRXW 6RXWK :HVWHUQ 16: 7KH &HQWUH LV EDVHG LQ :RGRQJD ZLWK PRELOH EXVLQHVV DGYLVRUV ORFDWHG LQ 'HQLOLTXLQ $OEXU\ :DJJD &ROHDPEDOO\ DQG %URNHQ +LOO 5RZHQD -DFNVRQ LV WKH EXVLQHVV DGYLVRU EDVHG LQ 'HQLOLTXLQ 0XUUD\ +XPH %(& KDV D ORQJ DQG SURXG DVVRFLDWLRQ ZLWK 'HQLOLTXLQ DQG ORRNV IRUZDUG WR WKDW FRQWLQXLQJ EH\RQG WKLV \HDU PLOHVWRQH Contact Rowena on 0417 406 916

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Michael Bennett Michael first started painting 47 years ago in 1970. He spent 31 1/2 years doing this within the NSW Health System and has now been working for himself for 3 years.

Any job big or small, commercial or domestic Michael has the knowledge and skills to get the job done.

125 Decimus St, Deniliquin. Ph 0427 818 678

We have enjoyed supporting local artists for the past 34 years

62 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Members of the Deniliquin and District Historical Society have played a key role in recording and celebrating Deniliquin’s history since 1958.

The group’s impressive museum, located at 3 Macauley St, is open from 10am to noon every Tuesday and Saturday, or by appointment. For more information, phone 0458 454 162.

■ Ernie Marchant steers Great Man across the line ahead of Rosecoloredglasses in the 2012 Deniliquin RSL Club Diggers Cup (1400m).

GLOWREYS

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185 Cressy Street, Deniliquin. Ph 5881 3766

Glowreys - The Riverina Law Firm was established by Ed and Jane Glowrey from the previous legal practice conducted by Jon Semple, initially on his own, and later with Peter Long. After its establishment it incorporated the legal practice of Schneider and Sibree. Both Jon Semple’s and Schneider and Sibree’s practices were, in turn, founded on the practice of Norman Sheehan.

Ed and Jane and the entire team would like to thank the community for its support and congratulate Deniliquin on reaching 175 years.

Sam McCleary

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Owen Edwards Plumbing was started more than 22 years ago, _Q\P 7_MV KWUXTM\QVO PQ[ Å Z[\ day of work as a business owner on February 16, 1995.

Licenced Plumber, Drainer & Gasfitter

s one of the oldest clubs in the district the Deniliquin Racing Club, previously known as Deniliquin Jockey Club, has been providing local and surrounding communities with race meetings for 145 years.

Over the years some top class horses have had their initiation racing in Deniliquin, amongst them: Craftsman, Paignton, Commission Red, Sir Boom, to name a few.

The Deni Racing Club is a proud supporter of country racing, which is the backbone of the industry providing an essential starting point for local owners and trainers to feed the metro and provincial fields.

The Deni race meetings have gained momentum and now the Anzac Day and Caulfield Cup Day are considered two of the premium country race meetings in southern NSW. These meetings are highlights in Deniliquin’s tourism and social calendar and provide an opportunity for town and farming communities to come together and enjoy what’s best about true country race days, featuring free entertainment for the kids, fashions on the field, marquees for hire, TAB and local bookmakers, grandstand

viewing, a 2000m turf racetrack, big blue skies and a great country atmosphere.

Through community sponsorship and the dedication of volunteers, the club strives to continually improve their track and surrounds. In 2017, sponsorship made possible the lasering of the track, improvements to the clubrooms and a new workshed is in progress to house equipment.

In 2016, extensions were made to the marquee sites offering unrestricted track views for more tents, the construction of a new, larger toilet and shower block and a female jockey room was built to support the growing numbers of women in this sport.

Save for the wash-out affecting last year’s Anzac Day races, the club is seeing record numbers and marquees at recent events.

None of this would be possible without the support of the community, the incredibly generous sponsors and the local schools and businesses that help out on the day. The club is extremely grateful because ‘‘without them we would not run’’. Thank you to all.

President Russell Douglas and the committee welcome new members, and the AGM held in December is a good time to come along, hear the club’s strategy and plans, and become one of the decision makers.

Challenges have not stopped our netballers he Deniliquin Netball Association, which was established more than 46 years ago, has faced some difficult challenges over time but none more so than in the past couple of years.

The association struggled to maintain its operation with dwindling membership and faced a significant setback in November 2016 when its courts and clubrooms were overcome with flood water.

This forced the committee to cancel the annual spring competition with the need for extensive repairs to be undertaken to get the clubrooms and playing courts back into working order.

Not to be put off, the association overcame these obstacles and has bounced back as strong as ever.

They have successfully moved their winter competition to Wednesday nights with membership swelling to numbers the association has not seen in years.

The club has also supported three successful representative teams during the 2017 season.

It has also had a number of players

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DS R A W EN ED

Owen and his wife Jennie would like to thank their customers and the wider community for the support they have received in this time.

145 years of local race meetings A

155 NAPIER STREET, DENILIQUIN

M 0417 265 868 P 5881 3155

E edwards.plumbing3@bigpond.com

■ Australian Diamonds captain Laura Geitz ran netball clinics for Deniliquin Netball Association players in 2015. identified through the Netball Victoria pathways talent program.

These achievements have not gone unnoticed and the association was recently recognised by Netball Victoria, winning the Outstanding Small Association for 2017 for their enormous contributions to all aspects of the sport.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 63

Deniliquin South Public School Look Ahead! Living to Learn - Learning to Live 332 - 350 Sloane St, Deniliquin Phone: 03 5881 2045. Fax: 03 5881 5079.

Email: deniliqsth-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au www.deniliqsth-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

South School was established at its current Sloane St site in 1956. The school would like to recognise the wonderful support it has received from local parents, businesses, and staff and students throughout its proud history.

Congratulations Deniliquin on reaching 175 years.

Deniliquin Lawn Tennis Club ■ RSL Bowling Club Division Five 2016/2017 premiers (from left) Don McCalman, Graham Gordon, Nick Weller (back), John Wilson, Cheryl Bradley, Rod Reid, Kevin Lester, John Kemp and Danny Stanmore.

Pennant success for RSL bowlers T

he Deniliquin RSL Bowling Club was formed in 1967, with Arthur Wright the club’s first president, Keith McBurnie as secretary and John Mills as treasurer.

Like the Deniliquin Bowling Club, the RSL Bowling Club competes in the Campaspe Valley Bowls Division pennant competition.

Les Luttrell has been the club champion a record six times, while Max Huddle and Jim Zealley have won the club’s top individual championship on four occasions.

Murray Grimshaw, who went on to become a leading player at the Deniliquin Bowling Club and win Australian titles, was another player who started his career on the RSL greens.

Jim Jennings claimed the club champion crown back-to-back in 2003-04 and 2004-05, then again in 2008-09.

He is the only player at the local club to win all four events - singles, pairs, triples and fours - in the same year; a feat he recorded in 2003-04.

A number of lady bowlers have also made their name at the RSL Bowling Club with Kath Campbell and Ruby McMillan two standouts over the years. The number of ladies playing dropped to a level that has not been able to support a team for the midweek pennant competition.

Over the past few years the club has been able to slowly increase the number of lady players and looks forward to the time that it can once again enter the competition. The ladies have been major contributors in the success of the weekend pennant teams over the past few years.

The club has had success in pennant competitions.

The Division Two men were successful in 2000-01, after a number of ‘near misses’, and recorded the club’s first Campaspe Valley pennant bowls flag since 1984.

The locals went on to contest six grand finals within eight years - going down in all six.

RSL’s Division Two side finished runnerup in 2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05, 2007-08 and 2008-09.

Division Three also went down in the 2008-09 final.

The 2008-09 campaign was a successful season, with both Division Two and Three finishing the home-and-away pennant season on top of their respective ladders.

The club continued to be competitive nominating sides in Division Two, Four and Five, finishing in finals in many of the past six years.

The success of Division Five in 2013-14

saw a long awaited pennant come to the club. The following year RSL were asked to nominate a Division Three side even though they were unable to win the Division Four pennant.

The Deniliquin Bowling Club made an approach to some of the RSL’s ladies to make up a combined Division Three for the midweek competition. The Campaspe Valley Bowls Division agreed to the formation of the Deniliquin United Team, which finished runners-up in 2014-15.

The 2015/16 season saw the club enter a Division One team for the first time in 18 years. This was seen as a step to assist in building the club. Division Three and Five were also entered for that season as was the Deniliquin United team in the midweek competition.

The 2015/16 season became the most successful year in the 50 year history of the club, with Deniliquin United winning Division Three of the midweek competition and RSL Division Three and Five winning the weekend competition.

This season the club has called on the services of Australian Champion Mark Jacobsen, who conducted a series of coaching clinics which will hopefully assist many of the old and new players develop more skills for use into the future.

The Deniliquin RSL Bowling Club is situated opposite the Deniliquin RSL Club in Duncan St, and is part of the Deniliquin RSL Sports Complex.

The Sports Complex, where the bowlers are based, has had various upgrades over the last 20 years.

The early major renovations to the club saw the construction of a new viewing deck overlooking the greens. A new office was also built around the same time, with the upgrades funded by the Deniliquin RSL Club.

The Bowls Club contributed to the sheltered walkway plus shelters and seating around the greens. The most recent addition was the completion of a veranda, the full length of the viewing deck and stretching to within two metres of the green.

This structure has been fully funded by the RSL Bowling Club and was welcomed during its June Long Weekend tournament this year with visiting players sitting around terrace heaters watching the high quality finals.

The RSL Bowling Club is a sub-club of the Deniliquin RSL Club and acknowledges the great support that is received.

Proud to be a part of the Deniliquin community for around 80 years

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DENILIQUIN MOTEL Happy to be a part of Deniliquin on this momentous occasion

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64 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

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Looking after the ladies fashion needs for the past 30 years.

Happy to be a part of the celebrations for Deniliquin’s 175th anniversary.

■ Deniliquin Bowling Club broke an 11-year drought when it won the Campaspe Valley division five pennant in 2015. Pictured are division five team members (from left) Bruce Beehag, Ray Anderson, Toni Brooksby, Colin Knuckey, Malcom Wubbels, Mick Donohue, Mark Tasker, Paul Snare, Peter Chadderton and Clarrie Cameron.

Bowling for more than a century awn bowls has fuelled the competitive spirits of thousands of local bowlers for more than 100 years.

It has a rich history in Deniliquin with both the Deniliquin and Deniliquin RSL bowling clubs producing a number of quality bowlers.

The Deniliquin Bowling Club was the first club to form in Deniliquin after a meeting at the School of Arts on June 23, 1908.

Locust plagues and high costs made setting up a club difficult but later that year a site was selected on an eastern corner of Harfleur St. A Bendigo greenkeeper was commissioned to prepare the original greens and less than six months later on December 2, 1908 the bowling green was officially opened by Dr John Hosking.

Initially the club boasted 55 members and it remained in Harfleur St until 1947 when it was relocated to its present position in Wick St. The new club was opened on November 13, 1948 when Hector Campbell delivered the first bowl and his wife Maisie Campbell rolled the first kitty.

Since then the Deniliquin Bowling Club has been the home for hundreds of local bowlers.

Murray Grimshaw and Keith Plattfuss combined to win the Australian Pairs Championship in 1980, as well as a number of state titles.

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Mark and Naomi Ritchie purchased Simpson’s Newsagency from Naomi’s parents David and Kathy Simpson in 2008, re-naming it Deniliquin Newsagency & Bookstore. The business moved to a bigger and brighter premises in Cressy St in January 2015, which allowed further expansion of their product range.

Mark and Naomi would like to thank their customers for their continued support.

Deniliquin Newsagency & Bookstore Cressy Street, Deniliquin. Ph 5881 2080

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65 Davidson Street, Deniliquin. Phone 03 5881 6565 or 0439 193 669

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They have both represented Victoria at national level, as have Jim Zealley and J Maw. The ladies have also produced their share of winners, none more so than Betty McCarthy. Apart from being a multiple club singles champion, McCarthy has also represented Victoria at the Australian Championships.

The Deniliquin weekend pennant sides have had little success since a golden era in the 1980s and 1990s.

Division Five won the club’s first flag in over 10 years in the 2014/15 season with some new players, some others returning to the game and some of the club’s legends.

The teams of Malcom Wubbels, Clarrie Cameron, Bruce Beehag and Colin Knuckey (skip) and Mark Tasker, Mike Donahue, Peter Chadderton and Ray Anderson (skip) were both successful on the day.

Division Five made it to the finals again the following year, but failed to reach the grand final after leading the competition for the whole season.

Division One and Division Three were knocked out in the first game of the finals to bring an early end to the 2015/16 season.

In 2016/17 Division Five again made it into the finals and went all the way to the grand final only to stumble at the last hurdle going down to Deni RSL. Division Two made it to the finals but were beaten overall after winning two rinks to one against Echuca in semi finals.

Four pennant flags and a lot of grand finals T

he Deniliquin Ladies Bowling Club’s story is one of great success mixed in with plenty of hard luck over its 22-year history.

The local ladies have claimed four Campaspe Valley District Division One pennant flags from a massive 17 grand final appearances.

Remarkably, they have met arch rival Moama in all but two of those premiership deciders.

Deni Bowling Club’s Division One ladies have missed just four grand finals since joining the competition for the 1995-96 season.

Their most recent success was the 2012-13 flag, when Deniliquin beat Moama.

The premiership side consisted of Joy McArthur, Brenda Leetham, Loris Yates, Vicki O’Keefe, Lynette Smith, Robyn Little, Linda Freeman, Dawn McCulloch, Betty McCarthy and Arlene Kennedy led by skippers Joyce Hay, Fay Munnerley and Jill Grimshaw.

Before that, the ladies won their breakthrough flag in 2000-01, and this title kicked off a great decade for the local club. This inaugural success came after four heartbreaking grand final defeats in the seasons preceding.

Deni beat Moama by an impressive 22 shots in the 2000-01 final. Skippers Joyce Hay, Fay Munnerley and Betty McCarthy all led rink wins for a clean sweep over their flag favourite opposition.

The locals won by seven shots in 2004-05.

Scores fluctuated in that game, but Deni held on to win. All skippers were again victorious.

In 2009-10, Deni won the grand final by six shots. Jill Grimshaw and Joyce Hay’s respective sides guided the victory.

In 2011 Deni claimed the fours country carnival, with Robyn Little, Fay Munnerley, Brenda Leetham and Jill Grimshaw as skip.

While the Division One ladies are still bowling today, in 2015-16 the Bowling Club’s lower division joined with the Deni RSL’s ladies bowlers to form a Deniliquin United side to contest Division Three.

In 2016-17 Deni United won the Division Three title. The team consisted of Rosie Jukes, Joan Gamble, Peg Danckert, Maxine Norton, Glenys Chessells, Maureen King (manager), Lyn Hardcastle, Barbara Berry, Winnie Patterson and Jenny Tonta.

The United side was disbanded for the 2017-18 season, however Bowling Club still contests both Division One and Three.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 65

Tom Wettenhall has been in the construction industry since 2001 and running his own business, Wettenhall Constructions since 2012.

Now offering home extensions, renovations and new homes.

P 0407 541 064 E tomwettenhall@live.com

Tom was awarded Apprentice Of The Year and is a Master Builder registered in both NSW and VIC. Follow wettenhall_construction on Instagram.

NSW Lic No. 51597c: VIC Lic No. 37842

NEW HOMES [ EXTENSIONS [ RENOVATIONS ■ Deniliquin Drovers’ 2007 premiership side following their win.

A PASSION FOR RUGBY he Deniliquin Drovers Rugby Union Club has a proud history.

The local club was formed in 1985 when, during a social touch football competition, a group of passionate rugby players decided to form a team.

Former Drovers’ president and life member Tim Strong, who has been involved with the club since day one, said the group didn’t even mind if they formed a rugby league or a rugby union team.

“We just wanted to play and we didn’t care if it was league or union,’’ Strong said.

Led by Terry Reed, the small contingent approached the Group 19 rugby league competition.

“They were happy to have Deniliquin join, but we needed a first grade side, a reserve grade, under 18s and $5000. It just wasn’t possible,’’ Strong said.

“So my brother Andrew (Strong) suggested we approach the Riverina Rugby Union competition (which would later become the Southern Inland Rugby Union Competition).

“Riverina was happy to have us in second grade and even subsidised our fees.’’

At the time, Andrew Strong was playing for Wagga Ag College.

The newly formed Deniliquin Drovers made it into the 1985 Riverina second grade grand final against Wagga Ag. The Strong brothers started the match as opposing breakaways, with youngest brother Warwick on the bench. Fittingly, the match was a six-all draw which meant the two sides settled as joint premiers.

Deniliquin formed two grades in 1986 and took out both second and third grade Riverina premierships. The club continued to grow in 1987 with three grades.

Deni finished fifth in first grade that year, made the semis in second grade and managed to defend their third grade crown.

The Drovers played their home matches at Memorial Park in their first few seasons before moving out to Conargo, mainly to avoid the hassle of setting up the posts each match.

They played in Conargo for about three

T

seasons before relocating back to Memorial Park. The club shifted to the Hardinge Street Oval a few years later, before moving again, this time to Rotary Park in 2014.

Strong said the club has seen a number of talented players “come and go throughout the years’’.

“One that comes to mind is Dave Mullens around 1989,’’ Strong said.

“Dave represented four respective country zones and also played with Randwick (in Sydney).

“He mainly played five-eighth or inside centre. The only thing that stopped him playing was family commitments.’’

The Drovers claimed the Riverina League’s McMullen Cup in 1997 and 2001.

The locals went down to Griffith in the semi-final of 2002 and lost successive grand finals to Hay in 2003 and 2004 before joining the Victorian Country Rugby Union competition in 2005.

Deniliquin defeated Ballarat University in the 2007 grand final. Warwick Strong, who played in the club’s inaugural year, was part of that premiership.

He had his first stint as coach in 2010 and was at the helm when the Drovers returned to the Wagga-based Southern Inland Rugby Union competition in 2012.

They went down to Albury in the 2013 second grade decider.

The Drovers, led by coach Joe Gogarty, finally claimed another flag in 2017, beating powerhouse Wagga Waratahs 20-17 in the McMullen Cup grand final.

Interestingly, the Drovers have claimed a premiership on the 7th year of each decade since the club’s inception.

“Since moving to Rotary Park, the club has formed a strong bond with our cotenants the Deniliquin Wanderers and the Deniliquin & District Soccer Association (junior soccer),” current Drovers president Paul Marshall said.

“In 2017, all three clubs jointly invested their capital along with the Edward River Council to install new lights on one of the pitches, giving both codes further opportunity to introduce twilight sport during the summer months.”

“G’day, Dave here.

Was speaking to my mates at Mainland Finance and they were saying what a great place Deni is even after 175 years!”

WWW.MAINLANDFINANCE.COM.AU PHONE 5881 7700

Find us on Facebook

We’re proud to be celebrating 10 years in The Crossing Café in the same year Deniliquin turns 175 years old.

Thank you to all those people who support our business, and a huge thank you to all of our staff from the past decade for providing such wonderful service to our customers.

We’re extremely proud to have played our part in making Deniliquin such a wonderful place to live and visit. ~ Karen and Leo Benbow

295 George Street, Deniliquin. Ph (03) 5881 7827.

Email thecrossingcafe1@bigpond.com www.thecrossingcafe.com.au

Improved shooting facilities eniliquin Field and Game was formed in 1990 by many local field and game members.

Over the years it has worked continuously to improve its facilities.

In 2005 a 25 metre tower was built at the Warbreccan range by Mick McMillan and many other volunteers. It had provision for six traps, all controlled by electric winches.

In 2016 the land was sold at Warbreccan and the Deniliquin Field and Game relocated to the Deniliquin Racecourse, where it shares the range with the Deniliquin Clay Target Club.

In 2016 the club received a Community Council grant of $35,000 for the relocation of the tower, repainting and the purchase of four new traps, winches and cables.

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It is hoped the tower will be operating by the end of 2017.

In 2017 the club purchased another three traps to replace old traps that have become unreliable.

Field and Game shares a clubhouse with DCTC and sets shooting stands to the rear of the clubhouse, which at the moment is a bit barren but there are plans for tree lines with a watering system to help them get established.

Deniliquin Field and Game shoots on the fourth Sunday of each month and any person who would like to try target shooting can do so by filling out a P650 form available from the club on the shoot day.

The Deniliquin RSL Sub-branch recognises Deniliquin’s 175 years and would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for its support of our ex-service men and women.

The RSL Sub-branch looks forward to celebrating its centenary with the local community in 2018.

66 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Cricket’s many comp. changes rganised cricket has been played in Deniliquin for about 160 years, with the first recorded play way back in 1860.

Until World War I, the town could only field one team and in 1895 it made the move to the Deniliquin Sportsground, which later became the Deniliquin High School.

Soon after the war, a District Cricket Association was formed with Mathoura, Team A and Team B taking part.

The following season Morago and North Deniliquin were added to the competition with matches played on Saturday afternoons.

In 1925-26, Mathoura dropped out of the association and was replaced by Colligen and Diggers.

While the Saturday afternoon competition continued to grow, another association was formed known as the Wednesday Half Holiday Association.

Central, North and Colts took part in the mid-week games, which proved popular as many players were forced to work on Saturdays.

By 1930-31 there were three separate weekend competitions as well as the midweek matches with teams including Mayrung, Wandook, Retreat, Woodbury and Finley.

The outbreak of World War II put a halt to cricket in the area but it didn’t take long before the players were back on the field.

On October 8, 1945 the Deniliquin Cricket Association was formed with Mr A.C Chapman elected president, Mr Neil Martyn elected secretary and Mr Milton Bayfield chosen as treasurer.

The association was hoping to have a five team competition but the first official season

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eventually started on Sunday, November 6 with only three teams taking part. They were Juniors, Deniliquin and Water Commission.

Within the space of two years the number of teams registered with the association had grown to 10 and after the addition of a further two teams in 1948-49, the association decided on two grades with a promotion and relegation system.

The Association was known as the Deniliquin and District Cricket Association (DDCA). The addition of Hay and Wakool (now folded) into the association in the mid90s boosted the standard of play, while former local players such as Adam Gilchrist, Simon O’Donnell and Laurie Harper went on to enjoy stellar first-class careers.

From 2000 onward the A grade competition included RSL, West, Town, Juniors, Morago/Wanganella, Mathoura, Hay and Jerilderie.

RSL/West, Juniors Combine, Blighty and Hay contested the B grade competition.

There have been plenty of proud moments witnessed in the DDCA, with Town’s three consecutive A grade flags in the early 1990s arguably one of the more prominent highlights.

The DDCA experienced some big changes to its A and B grade competitions mid-way through the decade beginning the year 2000.

Club mergers and teams either joining or dropping out of the A and B grade competitions were the focal points.

Jerilderie joined the DDCA from the Murray Valley Cricket Association in 2004-05. Mathoura and West cricket clubs dropped out of the top grade the same year.

This was the first time in DDCA history that West did not field an A grade side. The

■ The 2004-2005 Town A grade premiership side (Back, from left) Michael Norman, Bernie and Tim Roebuck, Michael Keene, Leigh Marshall and Tom Draffin; (front) Rob Morris, Mick Finn, Rob Dixon, Ash Germano and Brett Napier. club later merged with RSL to form RSL/ West.

In 2005-06, Juniors merged with MoragoWanganella to form Globe Combine. The club later changed its name to Juniors Combine.

Mathoura returned to A grade cricket in 2006-07.

The years since 2006 have seen dramatic changes in the conduct of cricket In Deniliquin and district.

Hay proved to be the dominant team, winning six flags between 2006 and 2016.

However, the standard of the remaining A grade teams was also diminishing and the situation came to a head at the end of the 2012-13 season when Mathoura, after winning the flag, returned to the Campaspe Association and Jerilderie moved back to the Murray Valley competition. This left just Hay, Juniors Combine and RSL/West who were joined by a second RSL side, the Diggers, the following season, in an effort to keep the competition viable.

There was also a strong belief that our better cricketers and developing juniors needed the opportunity to play at a higher level so it was decided that a new team, the Deniliquin Rhinos, would enter the Premier grade of the Murray Valley association.

The Rhinos met with success in their first year taking out the One Day final and also reaching the finals in two subsequent years,

including an unsuccessful Grand Final appearance in 2015/16.

The DDCA competition continued until 2015/16 with Hay the premiers in that final season. The RSL Diggers were unable to reform and with only three remaining sides the decision to go into recess was reluctantly made.

The decision was disappointing but inevitable. As it was, the two RSL club teams were still being administered by a number of the Rhinos players and officials and all knew the time had come to concentrate with one club in the Murray Valley competition.

In 2015/16 a division one Rhinos team was added to the Murray Valley competition with captain Tim Hillier winning the league medal in the first season and again in 2016/17.

This season a decision was also made to enter an Under 14 side in Murray Valley to further promote the opportunities of the junior players.

Cricket has certainly seen many changes in Deniliquin and district over the years but our great summer game continues with a band of enthusiastic players and officials investing in its future.

The opening of a new state of the art training net complex at Memorial Park in December this year epitomises the determination of all concerned with our game locally to see it thrive and grow.

Deni’s skiing boom

Congratulations Deniliquin on the 175 year celebration.

The Exchange Hotel est.

1866 is proud to have been part of the Deniliquin community for over 151 years.

End Street, Deniliquin.

Phone 03 5881 7338

Deniliquin Boat Club has a long, rich history on the banks of the Edward River.

While the club was officially established in 1946, its first inception could be dated back to 1942 when boat racing was held in conjunction with the Deniliquin Swimming Club at the former Edwardes St pool on the river.

After a few years of boat racing Tom Hetherington and Jim Tasker co-founded the Deniliquin Boat Club.

Hetherington was the first commodore of the club, which was based from a jetty on the creek behind where Elders Real Estate is currently located in Cressy St. The club’s official committee received funding from the council, building a jetty with the money granted as well as its founding members each spending 100 ‘quid’.

Three founding members — Alan Bradshaw and brothers Norm and Ron Barnett — played prominent roles in laying the foundations of the club.

In the club’s early days, annual regattas were held with speed boats racing around the Edward River in front of large crowds.

In 1953 the council gave the club a lease of the land at McLean Beach where it built a new clubhouse.

It was the Barnett brothers who put in a lot of the hard labour with funding coming from club memberships as well as gymkhanas and other fundraisers.

At the new site the club began having more involvement with water skiing as well as speed boat racing.

The 1960s started a golden era with members making it one of the best known boat clubs in the country.

In 1961 the club attended its first Moomba festival in Melbourne.

The Deni skiers showed off their tricks in front of the large crowd on the Yarra River and those watching on television at home on channel GTV9.

A standout spectacle offered by the club was the ‘marching girls’ with their daring five-person pyramid performed by Jan Renwick, Fay Walsh, Lorraine Seymour, Dawn Campbell and Heather Osmand while being towed by a boat.

People from around Australia took notice and headed to Deniliquin to attend club events and for a range of national water skiing championships.

The club hosted its first major water ski

■ Life members (from left) Richard Fogarty, Shane Mann, Paul Jones, Bob Buchanan, Mick Summers and Lindsay Renwick cutting the anniversary cake at the club’s 70th birthday celebration held in January this year. event in 1962 — the Western Riverina Water Ski Championships. In 1964 the club hosted the Surfers Paradise Gardens water ski revue, a group that performed at theme park Sea World.

The club continued to shine in the seventies when it held precision driving events for speed boats.

It was in 1974 when the now famous photo of the Werner brothers — Barry, Brian and Neville — was taken of them performing a barefoot skiing pyramid.

But the biggest news to come out of the decade was the club’s move to its current location in Riverview Drive in 1976.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s more ski events were held at the new clubhouse, and a new club event, ‘Water Woodstock’, was organised in 2004, by club stalwart Lindsay Renwick. Wake boarding demonstrations, wooden boat races and displays, live music and competitions headlined the event which ran for two more years before it was discontinued.

The club is still extremely active today, running weekly ski school classes during the ski season, while next year it will host round three of the Wakeboard Victoria Official Championships.

The club has awarded nine life memberships. They are Bob Lloyd, Neville May, Herbie Macca, Lindsay Renwick, Bob Buchanan, Richard Fogarty, Shane Mann, Mick Summers and Paul Jones.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 67

We’re from Roverland t has been more than 40 years since a second football team was established in Deniliquin.

The Deni Rovers Football and Netball Club has come a long way since its formation in 1976, which occurred to provide an alternative club for the large number of footballers in the town.

Despite never winning a senior flag, Rovers president Wally Bulmer said the club is moving in the right direction towards its inaugural premiership win.

Since the Picola and District Football League split in 2009, it has given the club great confidence.

The Picola League was split in half with Deni Rovers, Jerilderie, Blighty, Mathoura, Berrigan, Picola United, Yarroweyah, Strathmerton and the now defunct Wunghnu forming the north-west division.

After Wunghnu folded, Tocumwal joined the league in 2014, coming from the Murray League.

The Rovers are also financially comfortable. The club has fully paid off its Memorial Park clubrooms and owns the building outright. The clubroom facility was built in 1997. ‘‘The last few years have been very good for the club,’’ Bulmer said. ‘‘We’ve had the honour of hosting a grand final in 2013 and are now in the process of building new change rooms to bring the players closer to the clubrooms, as well as a new coolroom.

“We’ve been able to give back to the community with our financial status, supporting schools and other sporting programs with donations and club facilities as well as supporting individuals in the quest to perform at a higher level.’’

The Rovers seniors have contested a few

I

grand finals but have never won a premiership.

In just their second season in the PDFL, the club’s fourths claimed the 1979 flag.

The Roos reserve side also snared a premiership in 1979, making it a historic double for the club.

The Rovers added to their trophy cabinet with grand final wins in both the reserves and thirds in 1981.

The reserves added another premiership in 1996 to ease the club’s pain.

The thirds won the premiership in 2009, and B grade netball were premiers in 2010.

The Roos have had plenty of success in recent years with the Reserves’ three-peat from 2011 to 2013, fourths back-to-back in 2014-15, and the thirds going back-to-back in 2015-16.

There have been some really good years in netball recently, with A grade runners-up ■ The 2013 Rovers Reserves after their grand final win. over the past three years, with a highlight being all senior netball sides making the grand final in 2015.

The success on the courts has led to seven consecutive Picola League Netball Club Champion wins from 2011 onwards.

The 2016 season was a big year at league presentation for the Roos, earning the Football and Netball club championships, Senior and Junior Coach of the Year, Footy and Netball rising stars, as well as the A grade league medal and senior footy league medal for best and fairest.

The club has etched its name in the history books as well with Lucy Howard (nee Beehag) winning back-to-back league best and fairest medals twice, in 2012-13 and 2016-17.

■ The Rovers clubrooms were built at Memorial Park in 1997.

The Burchfield Tradition 1858 - 2013 Founder: James Burchfield Senior

James Burchfield, son of original founder.

Frank Burchfield, grandson of the original founder.

James Burchfield, grandson of original founder.

Keith Burchfield, great grandson of original founder, son of F A Burchfield.

Chris Burchfield, son of Keith.

Burchfield Bros and Co was started in Deniliquin in 1858, initially building coaches during the horse and carriage era.

In 1926, the End St business established a General Motors Holden dealership in Deniliquin.

James Burchfield Snr started the company, which has since been operated by five generations - James Burchfield Jnr, son of the original founder; Frank and James Burchfield, grandsons of James Snr; Frank’s son Keith was next in line and he operated the business for more than 40 years; Keith passed management on to his son, Chris.

In 2013, Burchfield Bros sold the business to D’Alberto Motors, ending an era of the longest family-owned business in Deniliquin.

Chris, Gai and Margo and the Burchfield family would like to thank the Deniliquin community and the many business people and organisations who supported Burchfield Bros and Co during the family’s 155 years of ownership.

68 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Deniliquinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 175th Anniversary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

How things have changed...

The Pastoral Times was three cents a copy when this photograph of Wakool property owner RH Clark and the farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s managing family, the Osbroughs, was taken in 1935. It was the leading district newspaper in Australia and had the largest circulation of its type. %DFN WKHQ LQVWHDG RI DUJXLQJ RYHU WKH Há&#x201A;&#x2021;HFWV RI DUVHQLF SRZGHUV RQ SHRSOH GHEDWH ZDV UDJLQJ RQ ZKHWKHU ³D JRRG DUVHQLFDO SRZGHU GLS LQ WKH Ã&#x20AC;HHFH LV EHQH¿FLDO WR WKH ZRRO SURGXFW´ DQG VXEVHTXHQW LPSURYHPHQWV WR LWV VSLQQLQJ TXDOLWLHV :DWHU ZDV ¿UVW VXSSOLHG WR IDUPV LQ ZKDW ZDV WKHQ WKH :DNRRO 6WRFN DQG 'RPHVWLF :DWHU 6XSSO\ DQG ,UULJDWLRQ 'LVWULFW DQG WKDW LQLWLDWLYH ZDV WKH ¿UVW WR PDNH DQ\ VLJQL¿FDQW XVH RI WKH 16: VKDUH RI ZDWHU IURP WKH 0XUUD\ 5LYHU V\VWHP 7KH %HUULTXLQ 'LVWULFW ,UULJDWLRQ /HDJXH ZDV DVNLQJ WKH 3UHPLHU %HUWUDP 6WHYHQV WR FODVVLI\ WKH %HUULTXLQ ,UULJDWLRQ 6FKHPH DV XQHPSOR\PHQW UHOLHI ZRUN ³7KH VWULNLQJ IHDWXUH RI RXU VFKHPH LV WKDW LW ZRXOG EH KDUG WR FRQFHLYH D PRUH UHSURGXFWLYH SXEOLF ZRUN´ $QG ZKLOH 0DUDERX ZDV ZLQQLQJ WKH 0HOERXUQH &XS DQG 4XHHQVODQGHUV ZHUH VD\LQJ J¶GD\ WR WKH LQWURGXFWLRQ RI WKHLU ¿UVW FDQH WRDG WKH QHZ 0DVWHU GH /X[H &KHYUROHW ZDV EHLQJ VROG LQ 'HQLOLTXLQ IRU Â&#x2026; 1RZ RYHU \HDUV ODWHU WKH 3DVWRUDO 7LPHV VWLOO SOD\V DQ LPSRUWDQW UROH LQ RXU FRPPXQLW\ %HUULTXLQ :DNRRO DQG WKH WKUHH other landholder groups continue to provide leadership on behalf of their irrigators while the outlets being commissioned will VXSSRUW H[LVWLQJ DQG HPHUJLQJ LQWHUQHW WHFKQRORJLHV WKDW ZRXOG KDYH EHHQ FRQVLGHUHG IDQFLIXO VFLHQFH ¿FWLRQ E\ WKH &ODUN DQG Osbrough families.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 69

Rams enjoy years of flag glory T

■ The 1966 premiership team (back, from left) T Todd, B Tasker, P Duffy, B Gibbs, L Barry, R Taylor, A Baker, R Summers (trainer); (middle) L Lea (trainer), M Cooke, B Stephens, G Ion (C/C), T Maher (VC), K Campbell, W Mercer, P Todd, N Munro; (front) he Deniliquin Rams Football and first joined the strong Echuca Football R Brant, A Hunt, J Egan, L Sitters, B Moran, L Holy (trainer).

Netball Club has a long, proud history littered with success.

It is Deniliquin’s most recognised sporting club, punctuated with 17 senior football premierships and eight A grade netball flags.

The club’s fortunes stretch back to when it

League in 1933.

Captain-coach Norm Sexton led the senior footy side to a premiership in the club’s first year and the team went on to win three consecutive flags. This feat would not be bettered until the turn of the next century.

The Rams joined the Murray Football

■ The 2011 premiership team, which was Deni’s most recent senior flag.

League in 1949 and quickly carved out a name as one of the competition’s premier clubs. But it took until 1957 for the club to claim its first Murray League flag, when captain-coach Peter O’Donohue led his side to a famous 25-point win over Cobram.

Captain-coach Graham ‘Curly’ Ion’s 1966 line-up was the next to taste glory, defeating Tocumwal by 16 points.

Captain-coach Ray Murphy led the golden era, where his senior side collected four flags from five seasons (1972-73, 1975-76).

The 1976 side included a young Greg Danckert, who would go on to lead the club’s two successes in the next decade.

Captain-coach Danckert took the Rams to back-to-back flags in 1985-86, and nonplaying coach Trevor Morris was in charge when the Rams tasted success in 1996.

However, all of these efforts would ultimately be eclipsed by Gary Parsons’ historymaking men.

Non-playing coach Parsons led the club to four consecutive flags from 2001-04, which had never been achieved in the MFL at that time.

Parsons would later return for another two separate stints as coach, with one

yielding an unexpected flag in 2011 which was the club’s most recent.

The Rams A grade netballers equalled their football counterparts with four consecutive flags from 2002-05, under the guidance of star goal shooter Jodie Sefton.

Sefton, a life member of the club, still holds the Australian record for the most number of goals netted in one season with 1,276 in 1993.

In fact, the Rams also hold the Australian record for the most number of goals kicked in a senior season of football.

Trevor Sutton wrote his name into football folklore after kicking a staggering 249 goals in 1982. Sutton coached the club for two years (1981-82).

The Deniliquin Rams are based at the Hardinge St Oval and have four football sides and nine netball sides.

In more recent years, the club has undergone major upgrades of its facilities, extending the function and bar area and adding new netball changerooms and refurbishing the footballer changerooms.

DENILIQUIN BOAT CLUB Established 1946

Deniliquin Racing Club thanks its many generous sponsors and the wider community for their support of the club’s two annual race TLL[PUNZ ¶ OLSK (UaHJ +H` HUK *H\SÄ LSK *\W +H` >P[OV\[ [OPZ Z\WWVY[ [OL JS\I ^V\SK UV[ Y\U Formerly known as Deniliquin Jockey Club, the club has been a proud supporter of country racing and hosting biannual race meetings for 145 years, and its dedicated volunteers are continually improving the track HUK HTLUP[PLZ H[ [OL 9HJLJV\YZL 9K MHJPSP[` (U`VUL PU[LYLZ[LK PU ILJVTPUN H TLTILY JHU JVU[HJ[ [OL JS\I ZLJYL[HY` 5L^ TLTILYZ HYL HS^H`Z ^LSJVTL Follow us on Facebook (deniliquinracingclub) for more information HIV\[ TLTILYZOPW HUK \WJVTPUN L]LU[Z

Proud to be part of our town’s history

70 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

Golfing for nearly 120 years he inaugural meeting of Deniliquin Golf Club was held on August 27, 1900.

The original links were established basically on what is now the back six holes of the course.

An 18 hole sand scrape course was in play as early as 1924 and the grass greens were constructed in 1963-64 when an updated course lay-out was established.

The club apparently went into recess during the First World War and was reformed in 1919. Although it continued to operate throughout most of the Second World War, there was no golf in 1944 due to the drought.

The original clubhouse was built in the early 1920s and moved adjacent the present site in 1946. Extensions were added in 1947 when the club sought registration as a licensed club pursuant to recent amendments to the Liquor Act (1946). The first

T

licence was obtained in 1947 and was held

by Jack Smith as Honorary Secretary.

The present clubhouse was built by Danckert Bros. and officially opened in February 1961, with the dining room added in 1978.

The old clubhouse was demolished in 1980 to make way for the new pro shop and locker room complex, which was officially opened in March 1981. A quantity of bricks were salvaged from the old clubhouse and used to construct a permanent barbecue.

Accommodation units adjacent the clubhouse were installed by Geoff Kitchin on land leased from the club, and the Deniliquin Golf and Leisure Resort was officially opened by Tim Fischer MHR (later to become Deputy Prime Minister) in November 1984.

In 2000, life member and golf club historian Bill Mulham wrote the history of the Deniliquin Golf Club, titled ‘Birdie, Eagle, Albatross … Emu?’ There are plans

for an updated version to be published in conjunction with the club’s 120 year celebrations in 2020.

A major change to the Deniliquin golf course came about in 2001 when the town’s new levee system was constructed, leading to a redesign of holes 12 to 17.

The course changes were under the watchful eye of international golf course designers, Thomson, Wolveridge and Perrett. They had fairly basic instructions design the back six holes to incorporate a levee bank, making the levee as unobtrusive as possible.

The levee stretches 900 metres along the 12th fairway, which has been totally reconstructed. The 12th hole was previously a long par four and the toughest on the course. It is now a 445 metre par-five.

Another major upgrade was the construction of a new dam, completed in 2009 and funded by the sale of permanent water which enabled the club to undertake water efficiency projects. The dam is nicely nestled between the 10th and 18th holes.

At the club’s 2010 annual general meeting

a bleak financial situation was highlighted, with the large attendance of more than 110 told drastic action was needed to keep the club afloat. This led to the Board of Directors taking a more active role in running the club and establishing a willing band of volunteers to take on a wide range of duties, from running the Pro Shop, assisting in the clubhouse and administrative tasks.

The volunteerism continues to this day and the club is rejuvenated, with president Tony Kew in his 2016 annual report thanking volunteers who “keep the course and club running as well as it has done again this year”.

At the same meeting treasurer and honorary club manager Norm Purtill also described volunteers as the “backbone of the club” when he announced a profit of $21,510 after depreciation and expenditure of more than $100,000 on improvements to the golf course, clubhouse and general facilities.

As it heads towards its 120th anniversary, Deniliquin Golf Club is enjoying some of the best years in its long history.

80 years of tennis at Charlotte St courts ennis has always been one of Deniliquin’s most popular summer sports.

The first reference to a tennis club in Deniliquin can be found in the Deniliquin ■ Denilquin Golf Club’s 2013 president Kathy Simpson with John Penna, Tony Kew, Ian Pastoral Times of January 10, 1885.

Courts were established on land owned by Lance and Rob Gray. the Wesleyan Church Trustees fronting Poictiers and Junction Sts (diagonally opposite the site of the existing RSL Park).

Later the club moved to land purchased between Edwardes and Wellington Sts. It has been almost 80 years since the Deniliquin Lawn Tennis Club made the move from the old tennis grounds in Harfleur St to its current site in Charlotte St, when eight lawn courts were opened at a Since 1958 cost of 687 pounds.

The first tennis match to be played on the Charlotte St courts was on January 21, 1939 when the club boasted 90 players.

In the summer of 1958 a truck loaded with a family’s possessions was bogged overnight between The number had increased to more than Jerilderie and Deniliquin. Meanwhile, the parents, two children under one, and a cat and border 400 by 1947, the same year the club hosted collie kelpie called Probate spent their first night in their Deniliquin home. That was the prelude its first junior competition. to the Peppin group.

The first Easter tournament was held in 1939. The Easter Tournament grew in size We are fortunate and appreciative that many of Peppin’s clients today (or their children or until in 1954 there were 829 entries. grandchildren) are clients that began working with Colin and Barbara Brown more than 50 years In November 2009, a tribute dinner was ago. We are also fortunate that Deniliquin and surrounding communities have been such a great held to recognise the many years that life place to live and grow our businesses. members Don Henderson, Terry Maher and Neville Munro ran the Easter Tournament. It Over the years we’ve developed our services and team in response to the services families wanted was held at Warbreccan homestead with 100 - financial planning, insurance, accounting, agricultural and family strategy - all delivered with the guests. same “all in one place, easy to work with” ethos, and all by focusing on what makes people tick.

The year 1947 also saw the purchase of the Defence Authorities Air School hut from Like so many Deni businesses, we’ve grown from a local clientele to clients scattered across most the aerodrome, which was moved to Charof Australia and increasingly overseas. Being part of our client’s journey is what makes us tick, lotte St for use as the DLTC clubhouse and and even if the journey starts with a bogged truck and a dog called Probate, the first step is about is now the groundsman’s residence. talking to someone about what makes you tick.

In 1949 a Club Championship was introduced into the DLTC’s calendar of events with Dick Southby and Pat Whitehead emerging as champions. Since 1939 the Club Championship has been dominated by the late Neville Munro in the men’s with 17 Championships and by Renee Beehag and Kim Clifton in the ladies.

Unfortunately for the DLTC the club’s finances didn’t increase with the number of players and by 1961 it was looking for alternative sources of members and income.

The committee decided against obtaining Rob Brown Bruce Simpson Paul Marshall Scott Mildren a liquor licence and instead two squash courts were built at a cost of 4500 pounds Family Strategy Ag. Adviser Financial Planner Financial Planner and opened in 1962 by World Champion Heather McKay. Squash was very strong having men’s and ladies competition every week and playing inter-town squash during the winter. Interest in the club again soared.

In fact the club membership grew so dramatically that the DLTC increased the number of tennis courts from 12 to 16.

At this stage the DLTC entered teams in the Berriquin Tennis Competition and the Goulburn Valley Tennis Competition and it was not until 1975 that sectional play was Justine Keech Jodie Sefton Ben Chartres Lourens Geldenhuys held on Saturday afternoons.

Insurance Broker Financial Planner Family Strategy Accountant At first the idea of sectional play every Saturday was met with scepticism but the was a major turning point in the Phone: (03) 5881 1866 • 130 – 136 End St, Deniliquin decision history of the club. The Saturday competi-

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■ Lawn Tennis Club life member and 17 time club champion Neville Munro in action in 1974. tion became and remains the main focus of the club’s activities, both for senior and junior members.

With the DLTC flourishing, another two courts were added in 1982 bringing the total number of courts at the complex to 18.

In the late 1980s, with the completion of the Deniliquin RSL squash complex, it was decided to renovate the DLTC and turn the courts into clubrooms.

Deniliquin Lawn Tennis Club has maintained its popular Saturday afternoon competition over the summer months, as well as its Tuesday morning ladies competition which is played all year round.

Junior tennis and coaching is held each Saturday morning over summer, and is still as popular as ever with more than 125 players registered in 2017.

The Deniliquin Croquet Club made the lawn tennis courts its home in 2000 and membership has grown to more than 40 over the years. The National Golf Croquet Handicap Tournament in singles and doubles has been held at the courts 10 times.

In the next few months the Deniliquin Lawn Tennis Club will develop further when new high powered lights are installed and mid-week night tennis comps will be developed.

Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017 — 71

DENI - The home of sporting champions eniliquin’s first managed sports facility came about as a result of a petition to the State Government in 1886 for a block of land on which to establish a community sportsground.

Trustees were elected and with the help of a government grant a sportsground was established on the land now occupied by the Deniliquin High School.

The sportsground, or as more often referred to as the cricket ground, was officially opened in 1895, by which time local fundraising events had provided sufficient finance for construction of a corrugated iron fence around the whole of the block.

Basic improvements inside the fence had also been carried out, with the laying out of the oval receiving high priority.

The next major move occurred in 1908, when trustees found sufficient funds for construction of a pavilion, or grandstand, adjacent to the western side of the oval.

This gave the complex a much more impressive appearance and other sporting bodies became established within the grounds, or made use of the facilities on regular occasions.

In 1908 the Bowling Club set up a green and clubhouse on the Harfleur St and Junction St corner, and courts established in the other Harfleur St corner were used for tennis and netball (then known as basketball).

Pigeon shoots were held on the oval, as were wood-chopping events, but the major sporting activities were cricket, football and, in the late 1940s, bike racing.

A cricket match had been played at the sportsground against a Melbourne team in 1901 and after establishment of a turf wicket on the oval in 1934 several matches were arranged with teams from Melbourne and regional towns.

The Deniliquin women’s cricket team played matches at the sportsground against England’s visiting Test teams in 1934 and 1949.

In the latter game Mary Allitt (Loy) top scored for Deniliquin with 51 runs.

For over 50 years the sportsground was the home ground of the Deniliquin Football Club. It was also the main venue for matches in the Edward River Football Association.

In the immediate years following World War Two, bike racing, both road and track, went through a golden era in Deniliquin.

The dirt track at the sportsground was considered one of the best in any country town and was a factor in the development of some very talented local riders.

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One of these was Billy Young, who in 1946 out-rode Victoria’s junior champion, Ossie Nicholson, on the local track.

At the same meet and on the same track, internationally famous rider, Hubert (later, Sir Hubert) Opperman, shattered his own Australian motor-paced, dirt track record over five miles. He also bettered the Victorian record for three miles.

In 1946 the sportsground was upgraded, with the installation of flood lights over part of the oval, and hot showers in the changerooms beneath the pavilion.

This apparently exceeded the budget of the trustees, who announced in 1948 that they were “stone motherless broke’’.

This was of little consequence as the Bowling Club was then moving to Wick St and the cricket and football clubs were soon to transfer to Memorial Park.

After many false starts the sportsground was taken over by the Education Department early in 1953 as a site for a new high school.

The old grandstand was bought by the High School’s P&C for 350 pounds. It was demolished in 1968 when the site was required for an additional school building.

Numerous other grounds and amenities have been improved or established to make Deniliquin a sporting mecca, helping it build a reputation for having arguably the best sporting facilities of any town its size in Australia.

The Deniliquin golf course is just a stone’s throw from the shopping centre, with its latest upgrade being in 2001 to accommodate a section of the town’s levee bank.

Horse racing has been a major sport since the district’s early days, with many wellknown metropolitan gallopers calling Deniliquin ‘home’, the latest being the Group winner Sir Boom trained by the late Mel Hutchins.

Our footballers and netballers have achieved wide acclaim. Deniliquin Rams Football and Netball Club legends Trevor Sutton and Jodie Sefton still hold the Australian records for the most number of goals in a season in their respective sports.

Two Deniliquin products, Sam Lloyd (Richmond) and Todd Marshall (Port Adelaide) are presently with AFL clubs.

Deniliquin has had bowls champions most notable being Murray Grimshaw and Keith Plattfuss who were National Pairs Champions in 1980 - and athletics champions including javelin thrower Annabel Thomson who, as a junior, competed among the world’s best.

Shooter Jack Collicoat has also competed successfully against the best and in recent

years has won national, commonwealth and world titles.

Our town is ‘home’ to national and international sporting stars including one of Australia’s greatest ever jockeys, Roy Higgins, the nation’s greatest ever wicketkeeper/batsman Adam Gilchrist, international cricketer Simon O’Donnell and Sydney Swans’ AFL star Leo Barry. Who could forget Barry’s match-saving mark in the dying seconds of the 2005 AFL Grand Final, securing victory for the Swans. It has become widely recognised as one of Deniliquin’s proudest sporting moments.

But of all Deniliquin’s sporting heroes, perhaps there is none greater than Cyril Gove - a jockey, VFL footballer, marathon runner and boxer.

He featured in an article in the Melbourne Herald in 1957, highlighting what must surely be one of the most amazing feats of sporting versatility in Australia’s history.

On a Saturday morning in the Victorian capital, Gove won a marathon foot race, then made his way to Moonee Valley and rode a winner. He went from the Valley to play on the wing in a winning Essendon side, and afterwards instead of putting his feet up made his way to the West Melbourne Stadium for a boxing match, in which he knocked out his opponent.

That performance will never be beaten!

■ Deniliquin’s Mary Loy (nee Allitt) was one of Australia’s most outstanding women’s cricketers. She is pictured here in action during her Test career, during which she served as Test captain.

Leigh Marshall - Electrical Contractor Mob: 0429 811 220 • Home: (03) 5881 7407 • Electrical service • TV installation • Evaporative air con - installation & repairs

Happy 175th Deniliquin!

Marshall Electrical is proudly local and has three staff members – business owner Leigh Marshall, fourth year apprentice Rick Gittens and first year apprentice Matt MacDonald.

■ The old grandstand was demolished in 1968.

Leigh and his wife Charmaine started the business in 2013 and they would like to thank all of their customers for their support over the past four years.

72 —Deniliquin’s 175th Anniversary – Souvenir Publication, Friday, December 15, 2017

RICEGROWERS’ ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA CELEBRATING THE REGIONS’ HISTORY, CONTRIBUTING TO THE FUTURE.

Proud to be a part of the Deniliquin community, since 1951.