Central West Village Voice - Issue #063 by Village Voice Newspaper

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

WINNERS

Black Gold take the top award in the state! Details Page 3 >

SATURDAY

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Pre-retirement Planning

Why we need to celebrate the winners in our community

Retirement Planning

From the Editor, Rich Evans

Defined Benefits Super Daniel Crump Financial Planning can help you: • prepare for retirement • manage your money so that you don’t run out • legally manage your tax and maximise your age pension entitlements. NO HIDDEN AGENDAS. We are not owned by any financial institutions or super funds who might want to bias our advice.

Appointments are now available in Lithgow and Bathurst. To book please call 0418 148 622 or visit danielcrumpfp.com.au for more information. D Crump & Co Pty Ltd t/as Daniel Crump Financial Planning (ABN 83 642 812 904) is an authorised representative of Catalpa Pty Ltd AFSL 530665 ABN 57 648 557 340

This issue is full of winners, none bigger than the humble family behind the success of Black Gold in Wallerawang. I spoke to Rob Cluff a couple of days before the big event and he was saying that he wasn’t sure they had much of a chance, there were some really big businesses they were up against, but what I think Rob was missing, as most real winners do, was just how great his business is. How much impact it has on the community. How the employees and friends of the business were all rooting for them, because we wanted them to win. Some are humble because they have a fear of the great Australian Tall Poppy Syndrome, but let’s call that out for what it is - jealousy. As a small business owner that has sacrificed so much over the years, I know I sometimes don’t put up in lights some of our wins, because people think we are ‘getting too big for our boots’. Rob however, much like myself, is clearly trying to grow his business for his family to provide for them, but also, has a goal far beyond that, to make this part of the world a better place. The way the Black Gold business has grown is an extraordinary story, and now with Brad following firmly along in his fathers footsteps, this region will have winners for years to come if we celebrate them, support them and most importantly learn from them. Congratulations Rob, Linda, Brad, Emily and the entire family and team. Take all the accolades and be proud of them, because those that know you well are right behind you and will support you all the way. Your win in these awards, the new developments taking place on our doorstep and the winds of change sweeping through our region are all heralding a new beginning, building on our legacy, and taking us forward to a prosperous regional future. Pictured: Rob Cluff - Winner.

Congratulations to the entire Cluff clan from the Evans' - dodgy selfie enjoying one of our many Sunday night Dinner and Cocktails at your fine establishment! at least my arm made the pic.... RE

Lions Club of Mount Panorama is seeking additional stallholders for future market days. First Saturday of each month at Lions Berry Park, Bathurst Come and be part of the markets. Further Details Email: macquarielions@gmail.com facebook.com/riversidemarketsbathurst

WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS REACH MORE LOCAL READERS EVERY WEEK FROM BATHURST TO BLACKHEATH Central West Media has consolidated its two previous publications into the new Central West Village Voice, Covering the entire Lithgow and Bathurst region, and distributed fortnightly on Thursdays.

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

If you are looking for a way to grow your business, speak to one of our friendly team and they will design a marketing plan that suits your budget and gets results.

Central West Village Voice Publisher Rich Evans on behalf of Central West Media Pty Ltd Emails: editor@villagevoice.net.au sales@villagevoice.net.au

Office Details

Call our office on (02) 6355 4258 Office: 30 Williwa Street, Portland NSW 2847 Postal Address: PO Box 227, Portland NSW 2847 Visit our website at www.villagevoice.net.au

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The state’s most innovative, forward thinking and courageous businesses have been celebrated at the Business NSW Awards.

The state’s peak business organisation, Business NSW, honoured winners from all over the state at a black-tie event at Sydney’s White Bay Cruise Terminal on Thursday 9 November. The event was attended by Premier Chris Minns, Small Business Minister Steve Kamper as well 500 people representing more than 130 businesses. Two Western NSW businesses took out top honours, with Topsoil Organics from Forbes winning the Excellence in Sustainability Award and Black Gold Motel from Wallerawang, winning the Excellence in Large Business Award. Business NSW, Regional Director – Western NSW, Vicki Seccombe said these wins were incredibly exciting for both businesses and the region, with each business having gone above and beyond in respect to innovation, sustainability and leadership. Black Gold Motel is a unique motel resting inside the historic old Wallerawang School, which was built in 1881. Through a series of transformations since 1995, the Black Gold Motel, Crib Room Restaurant and a State-of-the-Art Conference Centre has been created. Their recent room expansion makes them the largest in the area. “Black Gold Motel’s clarity in understanding the drivers of their business is outstanding. Whilst the business has a rich history, they are driven by technology and innovation to provide insights into their business. More importantly, they have acted on those insights, that has resulted in the business being where it is today.” said Vicki Seccombe.

Get your order in so you don’t miss out

“I’m absolutely thrilled to see Black Gold Motel win the Excellence in Large Business award as the passion and drive that the Cluff Family has for their business and the Lithgow region is second to none” Topsoil Organics is unique within the waste industry as they are a family owned and operated small business established in a regional location who are competing against key industry corporations operating in metropolitan areas. Since opening, they have diverted over 50,000 tonnes of organic waste from landfill and used it to create high quality organic compost ideal for application in broadacre farming. Topsoil Organics are passionate about growing and developing a business that provides a service that beneficially reuses all components of the food waste received at their facility, offsets carbon emissions, and returns valuable nutrients into the

soil. “This is Topsoil’s second win at the State Business Awards, having won Excellence in Small Business at last year’s State Business Awards in 2022 and they should feel incredibly proud of all that they have achieved.” said Ms Seccombe. “Topsoil Organics is such an exciting and dynamic business and they are paving the way for our future. The initiatives being pursued demonstrates great ingenuity and it’s so exciting that it’s happening right here in Western NSW”. “Black Gold Motel and Topsoil Organics should feel incredibly proud to be named amongst the State’s leading businesses for 2023 and these wins truly highlight the strength of the Western NSW business community,” said Ms Seccombe. Pictured: The Black Gold Team on a rare night off to celebrate

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Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

Demonstrators available for test drive and inspection

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TWO WESTERN NSW BUSINESSES WIN TOP HONOURS

News

Record Success for Bathurst at the NSW Tourism Awards The Bathurst Visitor Information Centre (BVIC) has again taken out the top honour with a Gold Award at the prestigious 2023 NSW Tourism Awards announced at a gala ceremony at the White Bay Cruise Terminal in Sydney on Wednesday 8 November.

The Awards are the peak annual tourism industry event and recognise the best tourism and hospitality operators and events from all over NSW with over 100 entrants competing across 26 categories. BVIC took out the gold award in the category of ‘Visitor Information Services’. This is the second time that BVIC as taken home the top award, having also won in 2021 and received a silver award in 2022. Bathurst’s achievements as a region continued at the Awards with The Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail being awarded silver and The Bathurst Winter Festival being awarded bronze in the highly competitive ‘Festivals and Events’ category. No other city or region had two finalists in this category, demonstrating Bathurst’s exceptional strength and variety of events. Bathurst luxury accommodation Wilga Station was also successful on the night, taking the bronze award in the category of ‘unique

accommodation’ to complete a record night of awards for the Bathurst region. Mayor Jess Jennings said the awards were a tremendous achievement and recognition for the hard work and commitment of Council’s tourism and events staff. “Tourism is a strong focus for Bathurst Regional Council with the sector contributing approximately $383 million to the local economy last year” he said. “The Bathurst Visitor Information Centre really is the heart of tourism for the region and the team there are passionate about what they do, ensuring the best experience for all who visit as well as working every day to keep those visitors coming and staying for longer. A great experience begins with great people, and Council is fortunate to have such a dedicated team at BVIC. The judging process for the awards evaluates achievements in business development, industry engagement, visitor information servicing marketing, sustainability and customer experience, and BVIC has clearly delivered in all these areas”. “The Bathurst Heritage Notice of Application to Modify Development Consent Trades Trail is an amazing example of a partnership Clarence Colliery – DA 504-00 (MOD 10) between Council and Lidsdale Siding – SSD 08_0223 (MOD 5) Community, with the Centennial Coal Company Pty Limited (Centennial) and its subsidiary company, Ivanhoe Coal Pty Limited Bathurst Visitor Information have made applications to modify Clarence Colliery Development Consents DA 504-00 and Lidsdale Siding Development Consent SSD – 08_0223 respectively, under Section 4.55(1A) of the Environmental Planning Centre working with a team & Assessment Act 1979. Under Part 3, Division 1, Section 23 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Regulation 2021, Centennial and Lidsdale Siding notify that the applications to modify the development consent has been made.

PUBLIC NOTICE

of passionate local heritage advocates and volunteers to deliver what has become the foremost cultural heritage event in regional NSW achieving record attendance in 2023”. “The Bathurst Winter Festival has transformed what was traditionally one of the quietest times in Bathurst to one of the most vibrant and eagerly anticipated and to see it receive the Bronze Award, following it receiving Silver in both 2021 and 2022, is an outstanding recognition of the hard work of our Events Team and of the quality of the Winter Festival as a signature event”. BVIC will now go on as the NSW winner to compete as a finalist at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Darwin on Friday 15 March 2024. “It is an outstanding achievement to have this recognition at such a high level, and for Bathurst to be competing on the national stage is super exciting,”. The Bathurst Visitor Information Centre at 1 Kendall Avenue is open 363 days a year and is an outstanding resource for both visitors and the local community. The centre is committed to growing the Bathurst region visitor economy and working with the regional industry and operators to improve the visitor experience and to market the Bathurst region as a destination of choice. The Bathurst Winter Festival is well established as one of the most popular and celebrated events in regional NSW will return in 2024 from 29 June -14 July. The Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail has grown to be the premier cultural heritage event in regional NSW and will be held on the weekend of 16-17 March 2024.

Project Description: Centennial is seeking to modify Clarence Colliery (Clarence) Development Consent to DA 504-00 (MOD10) to allow for, until the lapse of DA504-00: • The ability to transport up to a total of 300,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of coal products from Clarence by truck including; o The ability to transport up to 200,000 tpa of product coal from Clarence by truck to the west to either

the MPPS and/or to the Lidsdale Siding via the currently approved Western Haulage. This includes the alternate Western Haulage Route which uses the Castlereagh Highway instead of the previously approved private haul roads, as the private haul roads are currently not available for access by Centennial; or

o The ability to continue to transport up to 200,000 tpa of product coal to the east of Clarence as

presented; and

o No more than 300,000 tpa of product coal to both the east and the west.

Similarly, Centennial is also seeking to modify Lidsdale Siding’s Development Consent SSD 08_0223 (MOD5), to allow for the: • Acceptance of up to 200,000 tpa of coal by truck into Lidsdale Siding via the Castlereagh Highway for the same timeframe as that proposed under Clarence DA 504-00 MOD 10. The proposed modifications form a minor change to operations, with minimal environmental impact, and substantially the same development as the development for which the consents were originally granted and can be modified under Section 4.55(1A) of the EP&A Act. Contact Details: Edwina White (Group Manager - Approvals) – (02) 9266 2754 9185-VV

PERSONAL, PROFESSIONAL AND AWARD WINNING AGENCY HR Realtors and Lifestyle Property Specialists is a dynamic

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

fabulous lifestyle. Johan and Kristie moved from Sydney's Eastern Suburbs to Little Hartley in 2008 and haven't looked back. We love this area and love we can share it with old and new comers to the area. Also part of team are Kiara and Claire on Reception, Moya and Angela, our Property Managers and Andoia who is in charge of accounts. We are all so proud of winning Rate My Agency & Agent of the year for the Lithgow Region for 2022 and 2023.

"We want you to thoroughly enjoy your experience with us so we do everything required to help make that happen. You will find our uniquely sophisticated service to be thorough, - Kristie Kristie is one of only a handful of Australian Certified International Property Specialists in Australia. At our agency we firmly believe selling should be simple. Buying and Leasing should be exciting. Living should be fabulous! Come and experience our quality service, now!

Call us or email to find out just how profitable and enjoyable your next property transaction can be submit your stories and read more at villagevoice.net.au

News

International Day of People with Disability

Friday,1 December 2023 10am - 12pm ralph Cameron Oval & Community hall 44 Frome Street, Raglan, NSW. 2795

Colour Run, Face Painting, BBQ, Prizes & More! Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

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Bathurst News

BRAGS Art Fair 2023

New exhibition coming soon

Conflated

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery presents the 2023 BRAGS Art Fair.

An initiative of the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Society Inc. (BRAGS Inc.), the 2023 BRAGS Art Fair is a fundraising exhibition for the gallery’s artistic programming and collection, featuring artworks for sale from both established artists and emerging talents. Artworks are available to view and purchase in-gallery and online, in a curated display showcasing our region’s best contemporary art from artists based in the Bathurst Regional Council district and surrounding areas including the Blue Mountains, Lithgow, Oberon, Blayney, Cowra, Orange and Mudgee. Explore works in a range of mediums including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, printmaking, ceramics, textiles, and more. The BRAGS Art Fair will open on Friday 17 November 2023 at 6pm, where sales will open and the winner of the People’s Choice Award will be announced. Join your local community in celebrating our regional artists with a spectacular night of art, music, drinks, canapes, and more! The Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Society, affectionately known as BRAGS, aims to foster, promote and encourage membership of the Gallery and to further the development of the arts in Bathurst. The Society provides funding support in the acquisition of new works for the collection, and of the Gallery’s artistic, educational, and public programs.

18 November - 3 December 2023

When we inhale and exhale, our bodies transform through the process of inflation and deflation. Drawing on the inflatable form as both material and metaphor, Conflated brings disparate artists together to explore bodies, environments and cultures through contemporary art. Here, the cycle of breathing serves as a framework through which a wide array of experiences, behaviours and expressions are examined. The artists featured investigate the possibilities of the inflatable through participatory works that entice audiences into finding new forms of Covid-safe intimacy, audio that draws parallels between ASMR breath and the ecological destruction of glaciers melting, and video of convulsing bodies that morph with inflatables. Across all works, the idea of inflation and deflation are provoked to offer new possibilities for our contemporary world. Conflated presents a range of inflatable materials, from balloons to digital audio and video informed by inflatable processes. Positioning the inflatable as the medium of our times, the exhibition prompts us to explore the inherent plasticity and transformative potential of that which can be blown up. The works conflate synthetic forms with human

vulnerabilities, the abject, uncanny, eco-anxiety, colonised land, and the breath. Artists Zoë Bastin, Andy Butler, David Cross, Bronwyn Hack, Amrita Hepi with Honey Long and Prue Stent, Christopher Langton, Eugenia Lim, James Nguyen and Steven Rhall. Details 16 December 2023 - 11 February 2024 Bathurst Regional Art Gallery OPENING Friday 15 December, 6pm! Conflated is a NETS Victoria touring exhibition, curated by Zoë Bastin and Claire Watson. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government's Visions of Australia program and the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria. Image: Amrita Hepi with Honey Long and Prue Stent, Omphalus (still), 2021, video: 3 minutes 30 seconds. Courtesy the artists, Anna Schwartz Gallery and ARC ONE Gallery. © the artists.

TOOLE TIME CELEBRATING WOMEN

We have some great women in our local electorate who deserve to be recognised for their contribution to the community. Currently there are two awards open for nomination.

HIDDEN TREASURES

The Hidden Treasures Roll recognises the important volunteer roles women play within NSW regional, rural and remote communities. Since 2010, 1116 female volunteers have been placed on the Hidden Treasures honour roll for their contribution to their communities.

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

This is a fantastic way to acknowledge and thank female volunteers giving their time and energy to better their community. Nominate now at https:// www.nsw.gov.au/women-nsw/ruralwomens-network/hidden-treasuresnominations

LOCAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR The 2024 Local Woman of the Year is open for nominations now. This award focuses on a special individual living in the Bathurst Electorate who has made a significant contribution to the local community. The winner of this award is invited to the

NSW Women of the Year Awards Ceremony and are included on the honour roll printed annually. If know of a local women that deserves to be recognised and celebrated for their contributions please contact the Bathurst Electorate office on 6332 1300 or email bathurst@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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With the last of the Accelerate suite of programs for 2023 having taken place, participants are keen to know what else will be produced by the Upstairs Regional Incubator Bathurst. The first lunch & learn session, “Unleashing Business Growth” with Nikki Roxburgh was such a success that plans are being developed to reprise it in the new year. Meanwhile Adam Mostogl, Chief Entrepreneur of The van Diemen Project, fresh from the success of the LAUNCH Program, will return to deliver PROPEL for business leaders keen to strengthen the foundations of their business, and Business Bootcamp for small business owners who would like to strengthen the foundations of their business knowledge. Nearby areas are not forgotten, with Business Bootcamp to run in Lithgow and several events intended for Blayney and Oberon as well. Bringing some innovator insights and launching the 2024 schedule is a Welcome Event on February 15 in the Upstairs Startup Hub. The guest speaker is Nicholas Flood, Vice President IBM Technology and Country Leader of IBM Australia. Nick led IBM’s engagement with the Australian Federal Government and supported them in their aspiration to be a top three digital government, globally, by 2025. Save the date for this quality line-up of free business programs • February 5-9, 9:30-3:30pm Propel - Adam Mostogl of The van Diemen Project (Bathurst) • February 15, 12:00-3:00pm Growth workshop - BizHQ Central West (Bathurst) • February 15, 5:00pm Welcome event with keynote speaker Nicholas Flood from IBM (Bathurst) • February 27, 12:00-3:00pm Scaling workshop - BizHQ Central West (Bathurst) • February 29, 12:00-3:00pm Operational improvement workshop - BizHQ Central West (Bathurst) • March 4-5, 9:30-3:30pm Business Bootcamp - Adam Mostogl of The van Diemen Project (Bathurst) • March 6, 12:30-1:30pm Lunch & Learn - Adam Mostogl on Social Enterprise (Bathurst) • March 7-8, 9:30-3:30pm Business Bootcamp - Adam Mostogl of The van Diemen Project (Lithgow)

CHALLENGE BATHURST CONFIRMS RECORD DEMAND TO CONQUER THE MOUNTAIN The ever-popular Challenge Bathurst event returning for the eighth year in 2023, has become a motorsport magnet attracting for the first time over 1,000 motorsport competitors and enthusiast drivers converging on Mount Panorama from all over Australia for eight incredible days from November 2330. The 4-day Challenge Bathurst main event, featuring Supersprint and Regularity has nine groups featuring 490 racing cars of all shapes and speeds. Event Organiser Greg Evans explains “Due to the Event being regularly ‘oversubscribed’, it’s now Invitation only to ensure loyal competitors have the first right of refusal for a place each year. After extending invitations from early July, Challenge entries reached capacity in 6 weeks and while we’ve had 51 withdrawals since, ‘reserves’ have happily filled nearly all of those places, proving the allure of Australia’s iconic circuit is as strong as ever. We’re grateful for the enthusiasm of competitors and officials, confirming when it comes to motorsport, there’s nothing like Bathurst!” The Supersprint on November 23-24, expecting a full field of 160 entrants, provides valuable practice time with six 25-minute sessions where sprint competitors will all target the fastest time in their respective groups across the two days. A minor revision to the first two days of the 2023 schedule opened places for 55 new Regularity competitors to cut their first laps challenging the mountain, before another 275 Regularity competitors pack out the precinct on November 25-26. The Regularity format requires consistency with competitors nominating a lap time and trying to clock that time for every lap during six 20-minute sessions. The Bathurst Regional Council, JV partner in Challenge Bathurst, backed the eight-day format to open capacity dented by two years of Covid travel restrictions. Bathurst Mayor, Jess Jennings is welcoming the resurgence

in motorsport activity in Bathurst. “We understand the huge economic contribution and are actively supporting these big motorsport events that draw tens of thousands of visitors to our region. It’s of great benefit for our business owners and events like Challenge attract many first-time participants giving them a taste of the town, and we know they will enjoy it and we’ll see them come back. Additionally, we’ve made all eight days free for spectators, so you can walk straight across the footbridge for a familyfriendly and affordable way to see some of the best cars in Australia on the best track.” The second 4 days will see 550 non-professional drivers getting behind the wheel to experience the famous track. Dreams become reality when Fastrack Experiences returns for the 13th year to give the public an opportunity to drive one of their 30 V8 Holden or Mustang racing cars on the Mountain. This annual 2 day ‘bucket list’ event on November 27-28 was also sold out prior to the Bathurst 1000, with enthusiasts during the last 6 weeks booking ahead for 2024. To wrap up the excitement on November 29-30, Driving Solutions have 50 experienced track car owners who will put their performance marques to the test and have organised a Bathurst track day for the Bullrush Rally as the highlight of its Sydney to Melbourne run. This unique event features 50 of the best road registered exotic European Supercars in Australia and their track day will close off the biggest Challenge Bathurst to date. The 2024 dates are confirmed for Challenge Bathurst from November 21-28, perfectly timed to provide practice for the top Bathurst annual motorsport events and closing off a mega 2024 at Bathurst. Commencing with the SuperFest, combining the GT3 12 Hour and Supercars Bathurst 500 in February, followed by Bathurst 6 Hour at Easter, the Bathurst 1000 in Oc

Bathurst News

Accelerate @ Upstairs

COUNCIL COUNCIL NEWS NEWS TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES

CHRISTMAS CLOSURES

2023 CHALLANGE BATHURST

CIVIC CENTRE,ADMINISTRATION

CHIFLEY HOME AND EDUCATION CENTRE

COLLECTION OF WASTE, RECYCLING OF FOOD AND GARDEN WATSE SERVICES:

BMEC

The Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit will be closed from approximately 8am on Wednesday 22 November 2023 to approximately 6pm Thursday 30 November 2023 (inclusive), to control the movement of traffic: i. on Mountain Straight, just above the entrance to the Paddock Camping Area; and ii. on Conrod Straight, just above Murray’s Corner. Persons wishing to gain access to the Track should enter via Panorama Avenue and Pit Straight. Note: This access is to be used by all persons with proper accreditation wishing to gain access to the Circuit. Residents: Barriers will be set up at Murray’s Corner and Mountain Straight, security arrangements for residents to proceed to their homes will be in place. All enquiries regarding the Event should be directed to the Events Office, telephone 02 6333 1600 (8am – 6pm).

STEWART AND STANLEY STREETS

WILLIAM AND KEPPEL STREETS

Council has received Black Spot Program Funding to improve the safety of the William and Keppel Street roundabout. Works commenced Tuesday 24 October 2023 and are expected to take around 6-10 weeks with completion in December. For 2-4 of these weeks the roundabout will be open to traffic. From 15 November 2023, the roundabout will be fully closed to traffic. For more information contact Council on 6333 6111.

Christmas Day collection and all other days will be as normal. Waste Management Centre: Closed: from 12 noon Friday 22 December and Christmas Day. Open: other days as normal.

ROCKLEY TRANSFER CENTRE:

Open: Wednesday 20 December & Saturday 23 December, 2pm - 6pm. Wednesday, 27 December and Saturday, 30 December, 2pm – 6pm.

ANIMAL POUND:

Closed weekends and public holidays (including 25 and 26 December 2023 and 1 January 2024). Open: weekdays (excluding above) by appointment only, contact 6334 2795. For emergency cat, dog or stock impounding matters, contact 6334 2795.

BATHURST REGIONAL ART GALLERY:

Closed: from 12 noon Friday 22 December, Saturday 23 December, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day; Boxing Day, Wednesday 27 December. Open: Friday 22 December 10am-12noon, Wednesday 27 December – Monday 1 January 2024 10am-2pm. Normal Art Gallery hours resume Tuesday 2 January 2024.

Closed: from 12 noon Friday 23 December Open: 10am Tuesday 3 January 2023

BVIC

Closed: from 12 noon Christmas Eve, all day Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Open: other days as normal, 9.30am-4.30pm.

KELSO COMMUNITY HUB

Closed: from 4:45 pm Thursday 21 December 2023 Open: 8.30 am Monday 8 January 2024

SCALLYWAGS LONG DAY CARE AND PRESCHOOL: Closed: from 6pm Thursday 21 December 2023 Open: 8am Wednesday 10 January 2024

FAMILY DAY CARE

Closed: from 6.00pm Thursday 21 December 2023 Open: 9am Tuesday 9 January 2024 Administration available from Tuesday 2 January 2024. 6333 6560

AERODROME

Open all days as normal - phone: 6333 611

BATHURST LIBRARY

Closed: from 12 noon Friday 22 December - Wednesday 27 December 2023, Saturday 30 December 2023 – Tuesday 2 January 2024. Open: Friday 22 December 10am-12noon, Wednesday 28 December – Friday 29 December 10am-6pm. • After hours chute open for returns. • Normal Library hours resume Tuesday 2 January 2024.

AUSTRALIAN FOSSIL AND MINERAL MUSEUM

Closed: from 12 noon Friday 22 December, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Open: Boxing Day and New Year’s Day - 9am to 4.30pm. Open 7 days a week during January School Holidays

NATIONAL MOTOR RACING MUSEUM

Closed: from 12 noon Friday 22 December, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Open: Boxing Day and New Year’s Day - 9am to 4.30pm. Open 7 days a week during January School Holidays

www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au follow us on

Closed: Friday 22 December, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Open: Boxing Day and New Year’s Day - 11am to 3pm. Open 7 days a week during January School Holidays

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AMENDMENT TO REVENUE POLICY ‘23/’24 An Ordinary Meeting of Bathurst Regional Council will be held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Bathurst on Wednesday 15 November 2023 at 6pm. Public Forum will be held from 6pm to allow members of the public to raise matters regarding the agenda with Council. If you would like to raise matters that are not in the agenda, a policy committee meeting will be held on the first Wednesday of each month to allow members of the public to raise any matters to Council. Civic Centre 158 Russell Street Private Mail Bag 17 Phone 6333 6111 Bathurst NSW 2795 Bathurst NSW 2795 Email council@bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

Temporary road closure will be in place from Monday 16 October 2023 until Monday 27 November 2023 in the following locations: • Stewart Street between Kefford Street and Stanley Street Stanley Street between Stewart St and Jordan Creek Road closures will be from 6am to 6pm – with access limited to residents only within the area. For information regarding the closure, please contact Hynash Constructions Pty Ltd on 0437 042 095.

Closed: from 12 noon Friday 22 December 2023 Open: 8.30am, Tuesday, 2 January 2024

Bathurst News

CUP grants support Bathurst community projects and events

Charles Sturt University CommunityUniversity Partnership (CUP) grants valued at a total of $9,690 in 2023 supported 10 organisations in the Bathurst region to conduct projects or stage events. Ms Julia Andrews, Director of External Engagement (Orange and Bathurst), said she is proud the program continues to be well received in the University’s regional communities. “The grant program reinforces our strong commitment to our communities across our extensive footprint,” Ms Andrews said. “This year, total funding was more than $64,000 which covered 66 grants for community groups and schools across the University’s multi-campus footprint. “It’s a tremendous program that gives motivated community members the chance to secure funding on a project that generally benefits many people, and which may not have been able to happen without it.” Ms Christine Porter, principal organiser of the annual Peel Jam Music Festival in the village of Peel north of Bathurst said the organising committee was delighted and grateful to have the support of the Charles Sturt University CUP grant. “The Peel Jam is now in its 12th year and the CUP grant makes it so much easier to stage this popular annual community event,” she said. “The University’s support demonstrates that it is both aware of, and supportive of, the people of the wider region, particularly since

many residents have studied or will study at Charles Sturt as ‘our local’ university.” Bathurst Poets was another CUP grant recipient organisation. Spokesperson Dr David Stanley said, “The support of the CUP grant has been tremendous as it has allowed the Bathurst Poets to interact with Bathurst school children and explore their interest in and expression of poetry, with over 272 poems submitted to the Anthology and competition”. Applications for the 2024 Charles Sturt CUP Grants program open in February next year. Grants are open to all schools, community organisations and not-for-profit organisations who contribute to the Charles Sturt University campus locations (or their surrounding areas) of Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo, Port Macquarie, Wagga Wagga, Albury-Wodonga, and Wangaratta. Grants of up to $1,000 can be sought for equipment and material purchases, workshops and catering for projects that fall within these categories: • Arts and Culture • Sports Development • Education Development • Health and Wellbeing • Environmental Sustainability

2023 Craft Show and Sale Bathurst Panthers, Piper Street Macquarie Room

You are invited

Op en S aturday, 25 Novem ber 10am – 4p m Ent r y b y Go ld C o in Do na t io n

v BIG Christmas Raffle v Make-an-offer table v Morning tea available v Displays v Demonstrations v Lots of items for sale

Postal application must reach Evans Arts Council, PO Box 1067 Bathurst 2795 by 17th November

Application form to sell or display items closes on 17th November 2023 and the form can be found on the following page and also available from our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/EvansArtsCouncilBathurst 1) Every care will be taken with items at the Craft Show however, neither Evans Arts Council or Panthers Club will be responsible for any theft, damage or loss. 2) Evans Arts Council reserves the right to reproduce any work in print for promotional purposes. 3) Delivery of ALL items to Panthers Macquarie Room Friday 24th November from 4.30pm. 4) A participation donation of $5 when delivering your items for sale would be appreciated. 5) Members are invited to display their item, whether they are for sale or not. 6) ALL items for sale to be clearly marked with your initials and individually priced. 7) Evans Arts Council to receive 20% Commission on all items sold. 8) There will be a make-an-offer table of items that can be purchased by a donation. 9) Collection of unsold items strictly between 4pm & 4.30pm on Saturday 25th November.

Enquiries: *Chris 0428 983 647 *Shirley 63317027 Email: chrisandkeith1@hotmail.com or srwalsh2@bigpond.com

Evans Arts Council acknowledges the support of the following sponsors

Applications can be made via the ‘Grants’ page on the Charles Sturt website

Bathurst Celebrate’s Local

Celebrating Local business The Brew Drive Thru owner Sarah Smith, chats with us this issue to give her insights in to her popular Bathurst coffee spot! When did The Brew Drive Thru begin and what was the reason behind its inception? The Brew Drive Thru has been in operation since 2014, although I took over the business in 2018. It was the first drive through cafe in Bathurst and still going strong! What has been the biggest win over the last few years? I think it's a three-way tie. I've successfully worked with and raised funds for charities (mainly Boys to the Bush and Support the Girls), getting my business through Covid, and the creation of the Grind Like a Girl trademark. What has been the biggest challenge over the last few years? This year has definitely been a huge challenge. I think most small businesses have been hugely impacted by the costs of living and the rising interest rates. It's an extremely tough time to have a small business, and for me personally this year has held more challenges than I've ever experienced (including Covid!). What was the best business advice you’ve ever been given? Do what you can, and do what you need to do for yourself and your business, customers are the lifeblood of your business, and a good team is priceless.

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

What’s your favourite thing about Bathurst? I love the sense of community, the amount of incredible people we get through here always astounds me. People that very quickly become friends and big parts of our lives. The loyalty and support of the Bathurst people blows me away on a daily basis. Final thoughts… We have some charity events coming up, so keep your eyes peeled for that! We also have a new Christmas coffee blend from our roastery which is delicious, and available for you to take home! We have lots of gifts on sale just in time for Christmas! Thanks so much for choosing me for this article! What a great opportunity to tell the Bathurst community about my business!

To visit Sarah and the team for your coffee fix, head over to 18 Charlotte Street in Bathurst Mondays to Fridays, 6:30am to 1pm and Saturdays 8am to 12:30pm. Contact on 0499 499 319. Also on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebrewdrivethru

Celebrate Local - Nominate your Business In partnership with Central West Village Voice, we want to celebrate the stories and successes of our local Bathurst Region businesses. From our local retailers and foodies through to our industrial and construction firms, we are looking to celebrate the wide variety of businesses that make up our strong, diverse economy.

BATHURST

BUSINESSHUB BUSINESSHUB submit your stories and read more at villagevoice.net.au

Since the early 1970s, Mick Joffe's passion has been to caricature and record endangered characters of Australia, and the world. Micks books combine the very Australian art of caricature with oral history - the history of drovers, shearers, naturalists, miners, farmers, artists, explorers, etc. Story and photo submitted by Helen Hayden.

The caricatures capture the individual on the outside and their own words captured from the inside. Some of Micks books include the following; Living Relics of Australia - Living Treasures of the Snowy Mountains Endangered Characters of Australia - Yarns & Photos and most importantly - Living Treasures of Oberon. Mick Joffe has drawn many thousands of characters in his lifetime. And flying in for his fishing adventures to Oberon’s Duckmaloi River seen him encapsulate the essence of our community through the yarns and stories told to him from our many local characters from families who settled and pioneered our district. The book “Living Treasures of Oberon” is a compilation of stories and characters of Oberon’s oldest residents at the time of writing in the late 1990’s, It was a project as part of the community’s celebration of the new millennium that involved the Big Trout Motel, Oberon Council and Oberon Rotary club. It is recognition and celebration of the district’s oldest generation of that period. Beside each caricature these great Australians are recorded with simplicity and pride, and in their own words they reflected on their lives and times in our district. The Original Caricatures were presented to Oberon’s Mayor at the time Mr Bob Hooper for Oberon councils’ custodianship, by the then Rotary President Mr Hans Guldberg at a function at Oberon RSL club chaired by Mr Kevin McGrath in 2001. The frames for the Caricatures were created especially for them made by the late Roley Schrader (Pictured Above) from recycled timber palings. The Treasures Caricatures were on display at Oberon Council and then the Bob Hooper centre for many years. The originals are now housed at the Bathurst Regional Repository where they will be housed in a climatecontrolled environment to protect them into the future.

Oberon Council launched a project to recreate each of the 40 caricatures and stories to be etched on metal and put on public display on a purpose-built rock wall in the Oberon Common. The realisation of the project is now fully complete, and the official rededication of the Oberon Treasure’s wall was conducted on Saturday 18th of November. Oberon Council Mayor Clr Mark Kellam officiated at the proceedings, and officially opened the rededication and welcomed all the families, friends and extensive relatives who travelled near and far to attend this celebration and immortalisation of the Oberon Treasures. Sadly only 1 surviving Treasure is still with us and that is Mrs Val Lhuede who due to her health could not make the long trip here but sent her apologies, but her family had attended the celebrations, Val had celebrated her 100th birthday earlier this year. I hope everyone takes time to visit our beautiful Oberon Common and view the Treasures wall and read all the stories, it really is a fantastic memorial to those who contributed so much to our district and our lives. The 40 Oberon Treasures are, Sister Marie Therese Slattery, Monty Cotton, Tom O'Connell, Bert Hogan, John McCusker, Lloyd Whalan, Allan Adams, Beatie Wilcox, Chick Tosic, Elvie Nunan, Mick O'Connell, Hilda Evans, Ida Harvey, Bessie Stillwell, Vic Ebberton, Ted Richards, Herb Cunynghame, Keith Press, Joe Artery, Claude Brien, Ray Cunynghame, Hugh O'Donnell, Noel Harvey, Frank Fawcett, Stella and Ted Cranfield, Malcolm Watson, Hubert McKinnon, Hilton Ryan, Ron Hanrahan, Max and Rita Hanrahan, Bob Webb, Leath Johnston, Max Steel, Hank and Nellie Melchers, Colin Whalan, Jane Cosgrove, Thelma Young, Horace McKinnon, Dr. Lance Robey and Val Lhuede.

In 2020 Cycle Safe Bathurst, a community group focused on working with local and state governments to improve the quality and extent of the infrastructure that supports Active Transport in Bathurst. They formed after the death of a fellow cyclist who was hit by a car on a roundabout. In 2022 the committee successfully applied for a Community Road Safety Grant from Transport for NSW. “We received a lot of support from the Community Safety Grant team when, not surprisingly, we decided to focus safety at roundabouts in our application” President of the group, Geoff Hastings, was impressed with the support the group received from the Community Safety Grant team. We based our application around solid research into the dangers of roundabouts around the world. The team was fortunate to have two Charles Sturt researchers – Dr Peter Simmons and Dr Wendy Hastings leading this part of the application. With the $25,000 grant CSB has been able to partner with Bathurst creative and filmmaker Henry Simmons and local volunteer acting talent to develop three high quality video presentations focussing on safe interactions between cars and people on bikes at roundabouts. Mr Hastings points out that nearly all of us who cycle regularly have had close interactions or worse been hit at a roundabout. Our research has shown that roundabouts are great for traffic flow but they can be hazardous for those on bikes. In fact, while the grant was specifically for cycle safety, the message also benefits other people who interact with cars at roundabouts for example, people on mobility scooters and pedestrians. “We wanted to develop a simple message in three short, sharp videos and then use some of the grant to ensure they are accessible to a wide range of users on social media. The first video has already received many shares and thousands of views on various social media platforms.” A collision between a car and any one of these groups can be lethal. The committee’s approach is to point out the simple steps that can be taken by car drivers and people on bikes to eliminate the risk of tragedy. Cycle Safe Bathurst really welcome exposure through traditional media outlets and would invite all local media to come and see what can be done with a relatively small amount of money, talented young filmmakers and our wonderful volunteer actors. To this end the group has worked with Bathurst Regional Council to officially launch the campaign and the remaining videos on Friday 17th November at 11.30 am in the council chambers.

Bathurst News

Cycle Safe Bathurst

Oberon’s Treasures Immortalised.

$3,200 GIVEAWAY! SIMPLY SHOP AT ANY PARTICIPATING BATHURST BUY LOCAL STORE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN! Visit bathurstliveinvest.com.au for participating stores *TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

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Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL IS GIVING AWAY 4 X $200 BATHURST BUY LOCAL GIFT CARDS EACH WEEK FOR 4 WEEKS

Bathurst News

ONE YEAR ON FROM BATHURST FLOODING

This time last year a significant rain event caused already swollen waterways to spill into towns across the Central West leaving communities like Bathurst, Forbes, Eugowra, Molong and Condobolin devastated.

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Application to Modify Development Consent Springvale Coal SSD 7592 (MOD 10) Springvale Coal SSD 5579 (MOD 6) Springvale Coal Pty Limited (Springvale Coal) has made an application to modify Development Consents SSD-7592 and SSD-5579, under Section 4.55(1A) of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979. Under Part 3, Division 1, Section 23 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Regulation 2021, Springvale Coal notifies that the applications to modify the development consent have been made. Project Description Springvale Coal proposes to modify Condition 5 of SSD-7592 and Condition 8A of SSD-5579, respectively, to increase the average annual and maximum residuals transfer between the pre-treatment section of the Springvale Water Treatment Plant to the Western Coal Services Reject Emplacement Area utilising the existing pipeline infrastructure. The proposed modification would be of minimal environmental impact, would be substantially the same development as the development for which the consent was originally granted, and can be modified under Section 4.55(1A) of the EP&A Act. Contact Details: Ron Bush – Early Phase Projects Manager – 0436 034 401

9186-VV

On the 14 November 2022, residents of Bathurst stood wet underfoot watching the rapidly rising waters of the Macquarie River divide the town in two. The Great Western Highway was closed at Kelso where water submerged the busy road. 75 local government areas were declared as natural disaster zones, and many are still recovering today. Locally, it has only been in the last month that works began to restore Freemantle Road which was completely swept away by flood waters. At the time, over 12 roads in Bathurst were closed due to flooding and the Macquarie River peaked above 5 metres. Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said when the Chifley

Dam was overflowing it was releasing an Olympic sized swimming pool worth of water every second. “Being Deputy Premier at the time I witnessed much of the devastation firsthand and spoke to residents who had lost their homes and livelihoods,” Mr Toole said. “Fast forward 12 months and it is still astounding to see that unbreakable community spirit that continues to shine through as we rebuild our towns and communities. “I also want to thank all of our emergency services personnel, that went out of their way to put their own wellbeing at risk throughout this time of flooding to keep our communities as safe as possible. Your service has not been forgotten and we are all grateful for your continued service"

H E R I TAG E M ATT E R S

Tal–y-garn

PUBLIC NOTICE

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

The Minister for Regional New South Wales has renewed Mining Lease No. 1457 until 4 November 2033. Mining Lease No. 1457 is held by Hartley Valley Coal Company Pty Ltd, a subsidiary company of Centennial Coal Company Pty Limited, and forms part of Blue Mountains Colliery. Mining Lease No. 1457 comprises 185.1 hectares in the Parishes of Lett and Marrangaroo, County of Cook as shown on the diagram above. The Lease excludes surface land and permits exploration and mining for coal to be undertaken. Hartley Valley Coal Company Pty Ltd (ACN 000 185 697) Group Manager Property, Titles & Survey Enquiries Ph 02 63 559805 9187-VV

And my mate Mick, the Sage of Wiseman’s creek, thought it was just a crumbly old building with a funny name, which it is. Actually Mick, it is also the name of the Welsh town where Dr William Bassett was born in 1824. Eclectic Tal-y-garn at 174 Russell Street, just down from the ubiquitous centrelink architectural disappointment, has a rich and important history associated closely with education, and with Dr Bassett, one of Bathurst’s movers and shakers of Victorian times – think Machattie, think Gell, think Meagher and Webb. It was built by Dr Bassett in 1866-1867 as his surgery and home. With 22 rooms, a four horse stable, 2 coach houses and 2 lofts, it was a very substantial place and a substantial and optimistic private investment for those golden times. For me though, there was a mystery – why is there the outline of a fireplace and chimney on the outside wall? The answer was revealed after sleuthing a file from Sylvia at our wonderful Historical Museum at the courthouse, a file which contained an early revealing photo. Attached to the existing building used to be a substantial attractive Victorian villa, which no doubt was the good doctor’s home, demolished (shame) in the 1950’s just leaving the fireplace outline. The real surprise is that the building we see today was Bathurst’s first dedicated government Technical School, from 1888 to 1898, after Dr Bassett moved his surgery to George Street, and was then surplanted by the TAFE in William Street around 1899. It was the first country Technical School in NSW – yes, yet another “first” for Bathurst. You could study chemistry and geology there, both taught by Dr B in

a laboratory containing an “excellent and varied display of chemicals etc” (Bathurst Times 10 July 1888). Also bookkeeping, drawing and mathematics. Dr William Bassett, 1824 – 1910, indeed was a remarkable man and we owe him a great debt for our city, and perhaps a memorial. Colonial Surgeon, vice president of the School of Arts, Surgeon to the Bathurst Gaol, a trustee of All Saints College, a member of the Licencing Branch, and “a leading spirit in securing the gaol site as Machattie Park instead of a public school”.

Thought of the week …“Tal-y-garn - one man’s eyesore to be redeveloped, or another man’s opportunity – let’s hope the latter. Let’s find somebody who will step up” by a humble heritage advocate – November 2023 column #288

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Bathurst Regional Council – slowly fighting its way back to financial health.

Bathurst News

Bathurst Regional Council – slowly fighting its way back to financial health.

Community

A Point of View - by Stuart Pearson

HER MA

‘ello

The following two charts will show how the financial health of Bathurst Regional Council has declined over the past decade.

Chart One is titled Operating Ratio, which means total revenue divided by total expenditure and expressed as a percentage. Healthy Councils should have more money coming in, than going out and therefore should have a positive ratio. As you can see, the last time this happened with Bathurst Regional Council was in 2013.

The chart also illustrates that from 2014, the Operating Ratio of Bathurst Council has been negative and trending down, as demonstrated in the red trend line. By the

The following two charts will show how health offinancial Bathurst financial year the endingfinancial 2021, Council was in serious difficultiesRegional with expenditure exceeding income by 25.4 per cent, representing approximately a loss Council has declined over the past decade. of $18M per year. Bathurst Regional Council Chart One is titled Operating Opera4ng Ra4o in percentages (Total Revenue over Total Opera4ng Expenses) Ratio, which means total revenue divided by total expenditure and expressed as a percentage. Healthy Councils should have more money coming in, than going out and therefore should have a positive ratio. As you can see, the last time this happened with Bathurst Regional Council was in 2013. This figure could be reduced to almost zero with increased revenue and reduced expenditure The chart also illustrates that totalling about $16M Operating Ratio Benchmark should from 2014, the Operating Ratio When Councils, corporations or even households have expenditure that is greater of Bathurst Council has been negativethanand trending demonstrated thespending red revenue, they begin todown, cut back ofas maintenance. Corporations, in reduce trend line. By the financial year ending 2021, Council was in serious financial difficulties with expenditure exceeding income by 25.4 per cent, representing approximately a loss on plant and equipment, households stop fixing leaky taps. With Councils, they stop of $18M per year. spending money on bridges, roads, parks and public buildings. When Councils, corporations or even households have expenditure that is greater than revenue, they begin to cut back of maintenance. Corporations, reduce spending In Chart Two, this decline in fixing and repairing its infrastructure is clearly shown the lastfixing 10 years. leaky The NSW Office Government says that the on plant and equipment, householdsover stop taps.of Local With Councils, they stop benchmark for an infrastructure backlog should be no higher than 2 per cent. With Bathurst Regional Council that backlog had risen to 10.5 per cent by 2021, spending money on bridges, roads, parks and public buildings. representing a shortfall of spending of a staggering $125M. Bathurst Regional Council In Chart Two, this decline Infrastructure Maintenance Backlog Percentage of infrastructure assets needing maintenance in fixing and repairing its infrastructure is clearly shown over the last 10 years. The NSW Office of Local Government says that the benchmark for an infrastructure backlog should be no higher than 2 per cent. With Bathurst Regional Council that backlog had risen to 10.5 per cent by 2021, representing a shortfall This percentage figure represents $120 million of spending of a staggering Benchmark from Office of Local Government is 2 per cent $125M. But not all is doom and gloom. If you go back to the charts again, you will see that past two years, Bathurst Council has made a sterling effort to reduce its But not all is doom and gloom. over If the you goincrease backits revenue. to theHence charts again,Ratio you will see expenditure and its poor Operating has been reduced. Over the same time, Bathurst Council has begun the difficult task of that over the past two years, Bathurst Council hasbacklog made a sterling effort to reduce its winding back its massive of infrastructure maintenance. let’s not “sugar coat” the situation. Council still needs about $16M each and expenditure and increase its revenue. But Hence its poor Operating Ratio has been reduced. every year to get back to financial health. And Council needs to find approximately Over the same time, Bathurst Council has begun the difficult task of winding back its massive backlog of infrastructure maintenance. But let’s not “sugar coat” the situation. Council still needs about $16M each and every year to get back to financial health. And Council needs to find approximately $120M to fix and repair all the roads, bridges, buildings, and parks it has responsibility for. A herculean task, but one that Council has already embarked on. Thank you Bathurst Council for the effort you have put in so far, but please keep working at it. 7.5

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Open 10am - 4pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday Pop-up wholefoods café Producers pantry Art, photography and sculpture Creative co-working space Events & Workshops

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30 Williwa Street, Portland NSW Intersection of Wolgan Street

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Andrew GEE MP

Your Country Your Voice

INDEPENDENT FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CALARE RUNS ON THE BOARD FOR BATHURST & LITHGOW

$2 BILLION GREAT WESTERN HIGHWAY FUNDING CUT DISGRACE

he news that the Federal Government has axed over $2 billion and walked away from the Great Western Highway upgrade is outrageous and disgraceful.

√$12.5 million for Bathurst’s second racetrack

mountains and this latest cut will be as remained on the table and the appalling as it is shocking to the people project is needed. These assurances west of the Great Dividing Range. have proven to be empty and hollow and not worth the paper they’re This decision is a dagger to the hearts of written on. the communities of the Central West. $2.03 billion was allocated by the It was only earlier this year that the previous Federal Government for this Minister had said that the money upgrade and I call on the Minister to provide an immediate explanation to our residents as to what has happened to this project and where the money has gone.

√ $2 billion for Great Western Highway upgrade

In terms of infrastructure spend from this government it’s been nothing but cut, cut, cut and take, take, take.

√ 24 hour rescue helicopter for our region

First, we had the $27.8 million sitting in the bank for Dixons Long Point snatched away, then they came for the $12.5 million for Bathurst’s second racetrack at Mount Panorama and now we have news that upgrades to the Great Western Highway between Katoomba and Lithgow have been killed off.

√ $1.65 million for the Zig Zag Railway √ Free MRI scans at Bathurst Hospital. Lithgow got its MRI licence in 2019

Our communities have been waiting years for a decent road over the

√ $380,000 for a new laundry building at Glenray Industries following fire √ Millions in Federal funding to keep Lithgow Aged Care open

Andrew at Hartley for the announcement of $2 billion highway funding in June 2021

√ $5.3 million for production line upgrades and more jobs at Allied Timber Mill, Bathurst √ $3.3 million for improvements at Bathurst Airport √ $3.083 million for an expansion and improvements at Three Tree Lodge √ $2.235 million for Lithgow’s Blast Furnace Park √ $3.2 million for the Lithgow CBD revitalisation √ $1.1 million for the upgrade of Glen Davis Road √ $625,554 for playground equipment in Bathurst √ $954,250 for construction of Bathurst Rail Museum

I’m calling on the Federal Government and Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King, to stop cutting regional infrastructure

QUEEN'S SCOUT AWARD FOR JUSTIN

t Macquarie Woods recently it was an honour to attend the awarding of the Queen’s Scout to Bathurst’s Justin Laver. This is the highest youth award in Venturers and scouting. Having finished Venturers, Justin is now a Rover and training up to be a leader. This award is the culmination of three years’ work in a variety of different fields and is an extremely high honour. I often think that our young achievers, as well as the scouting and guide movements in general, don’t get the recognition they deserve. The same is true of the leaders who give up so much time to give young people such wonderful experiences. So when you have a young leader like Justin achieving great things, we need to celebrate! The future of our country communities is in great hands with leaders like Justin and his fellow Venturers and Rovers.

spending and start investing in the Central West and regional communities around Australia. It’s all very well for the Minister and the Canberra bureaucrats to slash this highway funding, but they are not the ones that have to sit for hours in traffic trying to get into and out of Sydney. They are totally out of touch with what country people are experiencing. I believe all of this infrastructure cash is being funnelled over the Great Dividing Range to be spent on Sydney seats. Axing this project shows that this government does not understand country communities and how important it is to improve key transport links between the city and the bush. This betrayal of our communities won’t be forgotten. REVERSAL DEMANDED I have demanded the urgent reversal of this disgraceful cut and also requested an urgent meeting with the Minister to explain to me how she will be reversing this outrageous decision.

THE DANE BALLINGER MEMORIAL TRUCK SHOW

Justin’s Mum, Sharon, gave a wonderful tribute to him during the ceremony as did many friends from his scouting journey through the years. The 3rd Bathurst Scout Group’s new gazebo purchased recently with a federal grant also got a good work out too! Congratulations Justin! As a former scout (green chord, Australian Jamboree) it was an honour to be a part of such a terrific occasion!

he Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show drew a big crowd on the last weekend at Bathurst Showground and was an outstanding success. The Bathurst Swap Meet Car and Bike Show formed part of this year’s show. The show honours the late Dane Ballinger who was was a young leader of the transport industry. While I never got to meet Dane, I know that he was hugely admired and respected across the region and the country. The show continues his legacy of leadership. There was plenty is gleaming chrome and tyre shine on display as proud owners showed their amazing trucks. The classic trucks also caught my eye and are a great addition to the show!

√ $650,000 for replacing footpaths in Bathurst √ $300,000 for upgrades to the Civic Ballroom at Lithgow for use as an evacuation centre √ $205,000 for upgrades to Machattie Park

BATHURST ELECTORATE OFFICE 107 George Street PO Box 54 Bathurst NSW 2795

(02) 6331 0524 andrew.gee.mp@aph.gov.au For regular updates and news, follow me on Facebook and www.andrewgeemp.com.au Instagram @andrewgeecalare

Authorised by Andrew Gee MP, Suite 1/179A Anson Street Orange, NSW 2800.

submit your stories and read more at villagevoice.net.au

Andrew GEE MP

Your Country Your Voice

INDEPENDENT FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CALARE

DON’T BE FOOLED BY FEDERAL FUNDING SLEIGHT OF HAND

n the 18 months since the Federal Labor Government came to power, billions of dollars worth of infrastructure funding has been seized from Central Western NSW. More than $2.07 billion in announced funding for region-building projects has been robbed from our communities by a remorseless Federal Government. Our region has become a piggy bank for the Federal Labor Government to smash open and help themselves to whenever they cry poor. The Great Western Highway funding scandal stands as one of the biggest government snatch and grab jobs in our history. It’s a reverse Robin Hood; stealing from the country to give to the city. Just when you think they couldn’t get any more brazen, just three days after axing 50 road and rail projects across Australia, including the $2.03 billion Great Western Highway upgrade, the

Federal Labor Government was out spruiking new roads funding. They’re trying to cover up what they’ve done to us with spin. But our region won’t be fooled by the government’s sleight of hand. The storm and flood disaster hit our communities over a year ago and this money should have been provided by the government as a matter of course. They won’t be getting many pats on the back from our region after being so late with the funding and killing off the Great Western Highway upgrades. The roads funding program they’d like to distract us with, called Roads to Recovery, isn’t new. In fact, it’s more than two decades old and the much-hyped further funding won’t even become available until after next year’s budget and even then, the full increase to the program won’t come into play until mid-2027. Not only have they callously cut infrastructure projects in our region, like Dixons Long Point,

Bathurst’s second racetrack and the Great Western Highway upgrade, the Federal Government would like us to now applaud funding that won’t fully be delivered for another four and a half years. This federal government must take us for fools, pocketing billions from Central West communities by cutting local infrastructure projects, and then expecting us to turn cartwheels for the scraps they throw us from the table. In their roads funding announcement, the Federal Government had the nerve to boast that they‘re ‘strengthening their commitment to road safety’, just days after binning the desperately needed Great Western Highway upgrade, and also refusing to build the Dixons Long Point project. There was money in the bank for both projects. This is government spin doctoring at its very worst.

STEAM FAIR AT PORTLAND A HUGE SUCCESS!

√ $181,818 for Bathurst’s War Memorial Carillon √ $11.4 million for expanding and supporting aged care facilities in Lithgow √ $398,500 for crisis accommodation in Bathurst √ $1.2 million for CCTV in Bathurst and Calare communities

√ $480,000 for Wallerawang Community & Sports Club

It’s all about launching the next generation of thinkers, dreamers and inventors into the future!

√ $19.75 million in federal funding for bushfire recovery projects in Lithgow and Calare communities

STEAMworks is a not-for-profit community education hub, created to inspire and upskill young people in the Lithgow and Central West region with a passion for STEAM! Hundreds of people visited and there was even an art exhibition which formed part of the Lithgow Arts Trail. I enjoyed catching up with local artist Wendy Hawkes who talked me through how she created her works on display.

√ More than $1.6 million for supporting childcare centres in Calare, including Bathurst Family Day Care

Well done STEAMworks! Funding for STEAMWorks has been provided by the previous Federal Government through the Black Summer Bushfire Resilience Program.

√ $925,000 for the Bathurst Animal Rehoming Centre

IN QUESTION TIME PM ASSURES CENTRAL WEST: $100 MILLION DISASTER FUND WILL BE ROLLED OUT ON THE DOUBLE ecenty, the Federal Government pledged a further $50 million to disaster relief and support in the Central West, matching the commitment of the NSW Government. It means there is now a combined state/federal funding package of $100 million. For local communities to wait a year for this funding while other disaster-hit parts of the state got immediate help has been both scandalous and shameful, but at least it has finally arrived. The year-long delay in announcing this support and the high number of insurance claim rejections mean many residents have already gone into debt to help pay for rebuilding work. It should never have taken this long, but better late than never. One of the reasons I left the National Party was its failure to rollout this support when it had the chance to do so.

BATHURST ELECTORATE OFFICE 107 George Street PO Box 54 Bathurst NSW 2795

√ $14 million for highway upgrades between Lithgow, Bathurst and Orange

√ $200,000 for new synthetic courts at Wattle Flat Recreation Ground

ecently, The Foundations at Portland hosted STEAM Fair which showcased all things STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths and Medicine) with workshops, exhibitions, performances, tours, talks and information on job and study options.

RUNS ON THE BOARD FOR BATHURST & LITHGOW

Decisions now need to be made quickly to get this funding out the door and into the hands of residents around our region who need it. Time is of the essence. That is why last week in Parliament, I asked the Prime Minister in Question Time: “while our communities are grateful for the $100 million joint state and federal funding package, which was finally announced last week, we need assurances that this funding will be made available to residents on the ground, on the double. Prime Minister, will you give our communities this assurance?” The PM gave unequivocal assurance that there will be no delay in getting the funding out the door. In his response the Prime Minister said: “I certainly will give his community [the Central West], through the Member for Calare, that assurance.” I’ve been fighting for this funding for 12 months. It follows constant pressure from me for proper

funding through speeches, meetings, questions in Question Time in Parliament, and also from the community. With this month marking 12 months since the storms and floods lashed our region, I also gave a speech in Parliament marking the one year anniversary and paying tribute to those who went above and beyond to help during the disaster. On this tragic anniversary I would like to sincerely thank and acknowledge all of the first responders, emergency services personnel plus the many, many, truly heroic community members who did so much to save so many on that awful day. At this time of sad and solemn reflection, may the thoughts of our nation be with Molong, Manildra, Cudal, Canowindra, Eugowra, Wellington and the communities of the Central West.

√ $60 million for drought and COVID-19 recovery to our local councils for local projects √ Record Australian Government funding for hospitals, schools, childcare and the NDIS √ $125,000 for canteen facilities at Bathurst Sportsground √ New headspace service for Lithgow √ 47 mobile phone towers and base stations for Calare √ $54 million for the CSU Medical School

(02) 6331 0524 andrew.gee.mp@aph.gov.au For regular updates and news, follow me on Facebook and www.andrewgeemp.com.au Instagram @andrewgeecalare

Authorised by Andrew Gee MP, Suite 1/179A Anson Street Orange, NSW 2800.

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Lithgow News

BUSY TIME FOR CAR CLUB

Story and Photo by Les Taylor Subaru driving Mathew Pryor of Sydney took outright honours in the Wallerawang Community and Sports Club November Khanacross held at the Yvonne Martyn Memorial Motorsport Park Portland by the Lithgow District Car Club last Sunday. The very dusty James Morgan Memorial Motorkhana Ground is always a very popular venue for competitors but unfortunately numbers were down thus giving competitors ten challenging courses to run under the supervision of Graham Cooke. Runner up in the outright rankings again was young Volkan Gunduz also of Bathurst and also driving a Subaru Impreza with Bathurst’s Callum Furner third at the wheel of a diminutive Kia Rio. Gunduz not only took second outright but again claimed victory in the Junior Class from Abby Bromfield of Yetholme in a Nissan with Eryan Cooke of Portland third at the wheel of a Holden Astra. Callum Furner also won the two wheel drive class up to 2000cc from Gwyn Mullholand in his dollar Mazda with Eryan Cooke third. Bathurst’s Ed Collins won the two wheel drive MP Class in his Datsun 1600 from Joe Champman in a Datsun 120Y with Adam Bromfield third in his Commodore. Young Bethany Chapman took home the Encouragement Award while Ed Collins collected the best presented award with his amazing Datto 1600. A huge thank you to our volunteer officials and BBQ operators for a great day and also our fantastic supporters the Wallerawang Community and Sports Club,CIC Engineering Wallerawang and Blackley Enterprizes of Cullen Bullen. The next event at the Yvonne Martyn Motorsport Park is just days away on Saturday 2nd December with the Christmas Fun Khana come and try day. If you or your children aged from twelve years up are interested in competing in motorsport this is the event to give it all a go. Scrutineering commences at 8am with the event blasting off at 10am all supported by Burson Auto Parts and the Wallerawang Community & Sports Club.

CSIRO invests $500K to Charles Sturt to enable the next generation of Indigenous STEM leaders Charles Sturt University students who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, to benefit from new CSIRO perpetual scholarship endowment

The CSIRO Indigenous STEM Scholarships will offer at least one $10,000 scholarship each year for Indigenous students studying an undergraduate or postgraduate STEM degree Applications are now open and close 15 January 2024 to commence that year Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at Charles Sturt University will have the opportunity to boost their study and career prospects with a significant new scholarship. Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has made a new $500,000 scholarship endowment to the University to inspire and empower the next generation of Indigenous scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians. This is part of CSIRO’s commitment to supporting the pipeline of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent which saw the agency contribute more than $5 million to Indigenous STEM scholarships across 11 universities this year. Mrs Sarah Ansell, CEO of the Charles Sturt University Foundation Trust said the partnership between CSIRO and Charles Sturt will see the CSIRO Indigenous STEM Scholarship awarded in perpetuity, with one new scholar awarded $10,000 each year for the duration of their degree, enabling the recipient to focus on their studies and pursue their STEM career. “We are delighted to announce the first offering of this scholarship with applications now open, for commencement in the 2024 academic year,” Ms Ansell said. “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants can be studying online or at any campus across the University’s footprint and can be studying either undergraduate or postgraduate courses. “We are thrilled to see further support for Indigenous students interested in building a STEM career. It is through committed partnerships and investment in scholarships like this that we will see the direct impact on the voices and viewpoints of Indigenous peoples in the talented STEM workforce of the future.” Mr Frank Gafa, a Wailwan/Wiradjuri man and University Partnerships Manager, Indigenous Science and Engagement at CSIRO said the scholarship endowment program is a key part of the Indigenous Science and Engagement Program. “We’re working on opportunities for scholarship holders to undertake student placements with CSIRO while they study,” Mr Gafa said. “At the conclusion of their university program, they may be considered for further opportunities with CSIRO to build a career in STEM. These initiatives not only empower Indigenous talent but also enrich the broader scientific landscape with diverse perspectives, driving innovation and inclusion.” The scholarship applications will remain open until early 2024. Find more details or apply.

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

879 Castlereagh Hwy, Lidsdale 2790 Open 6 Days: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 8am-12pm

Email: sales@good-earth.com.au

Wine Barrels in stock! Full size for tables and half barrels for coffee tables or planters.

Huge variety of Spring perennials to brighten up your garden space in time for Christmas.

Website: goodearthlandscapeandbuildingsupplies.com

Phone: (02) 6355 1937

Amazing gift items in store, or treat yourself and update your outdoor living space

Advanced tomatoes in stock so you can enjoy the delicious fruit earlier!

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Those who thought a university education may be out of reach due to financial barriers have renewed hope with more than $10 million in scholarships and grants available in 2024 through Charles Sturt University! Scholarships will be awarded across a variety of criteria, including being based on financial need, regional locality, leadership qualities and community involvement, along with scholarships to help cover work placement costs, for First Nations people and more. Charles Sturt Foundation Trust CEO Ms Sarah Ansell said the University’s relationships with major companies and community members assisted in enabling more than $10 million in scholarship and grants funding for 2024 from all sources. “Charles Sturt’s relationships with government, private enterprise and the community means we are proud to be able to assist students in need with covering the costs associated with

university with more than $10 million in scholarships and grants for next year,” Ms Ansell said. “Within that, there are over 500 Charles Sturt Foundation Scholarships available on the University’s website which are scholarships our staff have generated through our extensive and long-standing relationships with the non-government sector. “This equates to more than $4 million in scholarships from the Charles Sturt Foundation Trust.” Ms Ansell said there was a range of expenses covered by scholarships on offer. “Our scholarships cover things such as accommodation, textbooks, laptops and living expenses,” she said. “They are there to help students start and finish university.” The value of scholarships differs depending on the course, duration and other variables. “Our scholarships can range from a couple of thousand

Lithgow News

More than $10 million in scholarships and grants are now open!

dollars as a one-off payment, through to covering all university expenses, for example the Birrang Enterprise Development Company Ltd Aboriginal Scholarship which provides $45,000 in financial assistance to eliminate any financial obstacles associated with attending university. “And for the budding engineers out there, our partnership with Transgrid means there are 20 Transgrid Civil Engineering scholarships worth $20,000 each for students keen to pursue our world-renowned engineering course.” To view the extensive list of Charles Sturt scholarships available for 2024, visit the university’s scholarship page here. “We even have a video on our scholarships page that helps students to look for scholarships that suit their needs,” Ms Ansell said.

EnergyAustralia Black Rose Business Excellence Awards Dresses are getting bought, hair and make up is being done and the Lithgow Business community is ready for the Lithgow Chambers night of nights at the annual awards ceremony. Last year some fantastic entrants and well deserving winners rewarded for their hard work, with many more lined up this year looking to be recognised. The awards serve as a spring board into the regional, state and then national awards, ensuring that the chance to show case the extraordinary people in our business community could potential reach far beyond the region, as demonstrated by Black Golds amazing win mentioned earlier in this issue. A full ist of winners and photos from the night will be available via the Village Voice website and Facebook page on the night. Last year's Business Startup winner, Aimee Friedrich from 128 Café Bar Members of the community wishing to address the Council meeting are required to register by midday on the day of the meeting. Register online at: www.council.lithgowcom/addressing-council. Copies of the agenda can be found on the website.

Monday, 27 November Next Ordinary at 7pm In the Council Council Meeting Chambers, 180 Mort Street, Lithgow

Watch Live Stream

Public Notice - Lithgow City Council Amendment to Fees and Charges

Sale of Impounded Vehicles

Lithgow City Council at its Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 23 October 2023 resolved, Min No 23-192, to amend the fee structure relating to Planning Proposals and Amendments to Development Control Plans.

Pursuant to Section 32 of the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021, Council is offering the following vehicles for sale via competitive bid:

In accordance with Section 610F of the Local Government Act 1993 Council is required to publicly notify the proposed amendments for a period of 28 days and take into consideration any submissions prior to adopting the new fees. The new fee structure is set out in the following table: Proposed new 23/24 fee structure Description of Fee

Year 23/24 Fee (proposed)

Year 23/24 Fee (current)

Scoping and Pre-lodgement Basic Planning Proposals

$1,000

Standard Planning Proposal

$3,000

Complex Planning Proposal

$10,000

$ Nil.

Full Cost Recovery

Note: 1. Basic, Standard and Complex Planning Proposal Categories are determined based on the NSW Department of Planning and Environment’s Local Environmental Plan Making Guidelines. 2. Minor amendments to the Lithgow Development Control Plan refers to changes to controls in a singular chapter. 3. Major amendments to the Lithgow Development Control Plan refers to changes for multiple chapters, insertion of new chapters, and/or stand-alone development control plans. 4. No partial refund available.

Full Cost Recovery Note: Current fees are paid in two instalments: 1. $8,000 2. Remaining amount Current fee allows for partial refund of 50 % of instalment 1 if Council does not support the Planning Proposal proceeding to Gateway.

Submissions may be made via: Email: Council @lithgow.nsw.gov.au

$22,675

Standard Planning Proposal

$45,325

Complex Planning Proposal

$83,150

Post: PO Box 19, Lithgow NSW 2790.

$15,000

Further information can be obtained by contacting Council’s Strategic Land Use Planning Team on 02 63549906.

Join our team

$25,000

Amendment to Development Control Plans (not included in a Planning Proposal) Minor amendment to the Lithgow Development Control Plan

$9,000

Major amendment to the Lithgow Development Control Plan

$15,000

PO Box 19, Lithgow NSW 2790 180 Mort Street, Lithgow NSW 2790

$5,000

Council is currently seeking applications for the following position/s: • Casual Learn to Swim Instructors closes 15 December • Casual Lifeguards closes 15 December • Cleaner - Hygiene Truck Operator closes 29 November • Cleaner (Full Time) closes 29 November • Cleaner (Part Time) closes 29 November • Cleansing Unit Team Leader closes 29 November • Animal Shelter Officer closes 27 November Applications must be received by the advertised close date.

Administration Office

Monday to Friday 8.30am - 4.15pm Cashier 8.30am - 4.00pm

General Enquiries

Telephone: (02) 6354 9999 Facsimile: (02) 6351 4259 Email: council@lithgow.nsw.gov.au

LOT 1: Black Honda Civic sedan. VIN: MRHES15502P040029 LOT 2: White Ford Focus sedan. VIN: WF0FXXWPDF3L07168 LOT 3: Silver Holden Commodore sedan. VIN: 6G1ZK54B85L396304 LOT 4: Black Holden Cruze sedan. VIN: 6G1PD5E8XDL801923 LOT 5: White Viscount Caravan. Chassis No.: 95984 All vehicles are unregistered and sold ‘as is’. Keys are not included with the sale, and the mechanical condition of the vehicles are unknown. The successful bid or bids will be required to pay for and arrange for the removal of the vehicle within 7 days of being notified by Council. Only written or email bids will be accepted for individual vehicles or multiple vehicles. Bids will be accepted not later than the 4 on Friday 8 December 2023 and should include the vehicle being bid on (including the VIN number), amount offered, and addressed to: The General Manager, Lithgow City Council PO Box 19, LITHGOW NSW 2790 OR Email: council@lithgow.nsw. gov.au Inspections can be arranged via appointment by contacting Ranger Services on 02 6354 9999 Monday to Friday 8:30am – 4pm and will be provided during Council’s normal business hours. No inspections will be made available after hours, on weekends or public holidays. Council reserves the right to withdraw any vehicle from sale at any time.

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Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

Basic Planning Proposals

Additional Studies and/ or Reports

Submissions on the above proposed amendments to Council’s Fees and Charges are invited and should be addressed to the General Manager and be received by the close of business, 4.30pm on 8 December 2023.

Planning Proposals

Contact Details

Miscellaneous

Lithgow News

FOGO is coming in March 2024 Lithgow City Council is adding a green ‘FOGO’ bin to your kerbside bin service.

FOGO stands for Food Organics and Garden Organics and means that the new green bin will collect both food scraps and garden waste every week. The new green bin service will start in March 2024. Your red and yellow bin services will stay the same. The green bin will be collected every week, together with your red bin. Council’s data shows that, at present, food and garden plants fills more than half of our red bins. This is important because the food and garden waste in landfill rots and generates methane. This is not only a waste of landfill space, but also harmful to the environment and the nutrients in the food and garden waste are lost. By taking food and garden plant waste out of the red lid bin as FOGO, it can be collected and professionally processed into compost, which benefits soils. Mayor, Maree Statham, said ’The green ‘FOGO’ bin service is a key part of Council’s commitment to delivering best practice waste services to our residents. Our community is committed to protecting the local environment while supporting the local economy and this new service is an outstanding example of Council delivering on both these priorities. Recycling food and garden waste preserves our landfill space and prevents the harm to the environment that occurs when food and plants are buried in landfill and cannot decompose properly and the strong community support for this new service is very encouraging.’ Council successfully applied for support through the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s (NSW EPA) Go FOGO grants, to make it easy for households to recycle food and plants, instead of wasting these still valuable materials in landfill. The food and garden waste in the green bin will be taken to a commercial processing facility in Blayney and be turned into compost and other soil conditioners that are in demand for use in agriculture and horticulture as well for use on sports fields, parks and gardens. Council will deliver, to your home, everything you need to get started with the new service. The green bin, a kitchen caddy and a guide to using the service will be delivered from January to February 2024, so households will be ready to start using the new service in the week commencing 4 March 2024.

Notification of Upcoming Road Works

Main Street, Wallerawang Lithgow City Council advises of upcoming resealing works occurring on Main Street, Wallerawang. Works will commence on Monday 20th November 2023 (weather permitting). Lithgow City Council has engaged contractors to undertake hotmix asphalt resealing works over a period four days, along Main Street, Wallerawang between the Wallerawang Railway Station to the Castlereagh Highway, Lidsdale as part of the 2023/2024 Capital Works Program. Residents are urged to note that traffic conditions will change in this area and a single lane of traffic with stop-go arrangements will be implement as works progress. Motorists should exhibit caution and patience whilst travelling through the area.

Tree Removal Works in Short Street, Lithgow Commencing Saturday 25 November 2023, Lithgow City Council will remove seven London Plane trees in Short Street, Lithgow. The seven London Plane trees require removal as they are at the end of their lifespan. As a result of Council’s regular process of tree health inspection, it has been identified that the trees have major structural faults and thereby pose a direct risk to the community. A safe removal of these trees requires a temporary power outage. This outage has been approved for Saturday, 25 November 2023. As this will impact the adjacent Public School, it is essential that this work occur on a weekend. Remaining groundwork will be completed on Monday, 27 November 2023. Understanding that there are high voltage power lines above, each of these trees will be replaced with a more suitable alternative later in the season. Should any resident wish to provide input on the species selection, please write to Council at council@lithgow.nsw.gov.au.

LITHGOW WELCOMES NEW RECYCLING CENTRE It has been almost two months since Lithgow’s Resource Recovery Centre opening and the community has gotten behind this great new addition to the Lithgow Solid Waste Facility.

More information can be found at https://council.lithgow.com/waste-recycling/fogo/

Portland Central School

• • • •

Kitchen Assistant Portland Central School - $37/hr FullTime, 5 days - 32hrs/week 1 year Temporary contract (with the potential for extension)

Portland Central School is looking for a team player with a positive, can-do attitude to undertake the role of Kitchen Assistant.

The role:

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

The Kitchen Assistant will be responsible for managing the day to day running and operation of the Hospitality kitchen and school cafe including: • Assisting with teachers with pre class preparation and working with students in classes • Assisting in monitoring compliance with WHS, food safety and Hygiene policies, practices and principles • Managing stock levels and ordering. • Some food preparation, serving and cleaning required • Opening and closing cafe • Cash handling, balancing and reporting

The Lithgow Resource Recovery Centre accepts and sorts a variety of materials to be reused or recycled. This includes furniture, textiles, metal, tyres, timber, plastic, paints, e-waste and more. The Reuse Shed is where good quality items are put on display for members of the public to take home for free. This is a special program that is not only saving perfectly fine furniture, clothing, toys and household items from landfill but also providing items to those who need them but may not be able to afford it. Member for Bathurst Paul Toole visited the centre and to congratulate the staff. “In the first month alone, seven tonnes of waste were saved from landfill and recycled, this month the centre is on track to beat that figure with 6.5 tonnes already recycled,” Mr Toole said. “This is a fantastic addition to the Lithgow region, and I am pleased to have been able to fund such a worthwhile project.” This week is National Recycling Week, a time to educate and empower people to do the right things when they’re at the bin. “This year’s theme, ‘What Goes Around Comes Around’ is reminding people how to recycle, reduce waste, and engage with positive sustainable actions and this new centre is achieving just that.”

Experience & qualifications: • • •

Current WWCC Current hygiene/food safety certificate Experience in a similar role, working in a small commercial kitchen or qualifications in hospitality would be an advantage

How to apply:

Please submit your cover letter aligning your skills, capabilities and experience to the above criteria and a current resume to portland-c.school@det.nsw.edu.au. For any questions relating to the role please contact Cathy Loadsman on 0263555233.

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Lithgow News

STEAMFair 2023 a great success The inaugural STEAM Fair held at The Foundations in Portland Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 November has been hailed a great success from everyone involved.

There were over 150 school children participating in a variety of workshops on the Friday as part of a preview day and the weekend saw visitors in excess of 1000 people over the 2 days. The local Wildflower show was a standout success, the first of its kind in the region. The event had something for everyone with old steam engines and printing presses, computers from the past, the latest VR experiences and a variety of workshops, talks and tours across a range of subjects and science disciplines. “This was the first event of its kind in the region, and with the great feedback we have received over the weekend, hopefully it will be the first of many more to come,” said Rich Evans, a member of the STEAMWorks committee that hosted the event. The Saturday night Opening event hosted in the annexe was the official launch of a new work by artist Tully Arnot in collaboration with local blacksmith, Phil Spark. The work titled “Mutualism” explores the unique and endangered Purple Copper Butterfly, and was a delight for all the attending guests. The evening also heard a moving talk by Ian Allan, supervisor Natural Areas & Arboriculture Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah, who captivated the audience with his story of the instrumental role he played in protecting the Wollemi Pines, during the 2019-20 Black Summer Bushfires. The event was officially opened by Director of Regional Development Australia, who were one of the major sponsors for the event. For more information on upcoming STEAMWorks events throughout the school holidays, visit steamworks.org.au and join our mailing list. Photos by Gus Armstrong for ArtsOutWest, and others supplied by STEAMWorks, Rich Evans and Joanna McNamara.

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STEAMWorks Comittee and team along with Artists

@villagevoice_cw

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

Artist Tully Arnot with his work - Mutualism

Lithgow News

PORTLAND POOL IS ALMOST READY TO GO FOR THE SEASON After a successful working bee on Sunday 12 November, the Portland Olympic Pool is almost ready to go for the 23/24 season.

The committee would like to thank the community members who came and volunteered their time on the maintenance and cleaning jobs on the working bee day to get the pool looking great for the season. The official opening date is set for Monday 27 November - depending on the weather. As in previous years, the Pool is run by the community for the community and all gate entry fees go towards the running of the pool and the ongoing maintenance and repairs necessary. “The pool is over 60 years old now, and it is still community owned,” said Shane Taylor, President of the committee. “We will need to continue to upgrade the pool running equipment in the coming years so we we need everyone to come down and swim throughout the season so we can continue to run the pool independently,” said Shane. “When we have wet weather or cold days and we choose to close, people need to understand that if we have staff on duty and no swimmers coming in, the pool loses money, which means we find it harder to run the pool the way it has always been run.” Said Shane. The committee will be running some fundraising initiatives througout the season, make sure you support them to keep the pool open into the future. For all the information about pool opening times, entry fees and any upcoming events, see the Pool’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/portlandpool

The Bay Tree Nursery Specialising in the more unusual Cool Climate Trees, Shrubs and Perennials.

Qualified Horticulturist on site!

Lithgow Community Orchestra Summer Concert Why not take a break from the busyness of Christmas preparations and enjoy Lithgow City Orchestra presenting their Summer concert at Notre Dame near Lithgow Hospital.

A varied program will include Finlandia by Sibelius, Nimrod by Elgar, from the pen of the illustrious J S Bach one of his Preludes, Dvorak's Largo, music from Bizet's Peer Gynt Suite, a Ukrainian hymn, Chocolat Passage of Time, Procol Harum's classic A Whiter Shade of Pale, Pirates of the Caribbean and more. Andrew Smith CEO of Mitchell Conservatorium commented on their Spring concert, “On Sunday I attended the Lithgow City Orchestra concert at the Notre Dame theatre. The orchestra played a selection of pieces which included arrangements of popular songs, blues, polkas and even Bollywood inspired tunes. Congratulations to the Director, Jamie Briton and first violin, Peter Avery on putting together an interesting and entertaining program. Thank you, Jamie, Peter and the orchestra members for an enjoyable Father’s Day afternoon.” Free admission to LCO's Summer concert at Notre Dame concert hall on Sunday10th December at 3pm followed by refreshments. All are welcome.

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

Bill Grattan, Horticulturist

855 Chifley Road, Clarence 2790 Open 5 days, 10am-4pm. Closed Monday & Tuesday Ph: 0400 347 694 williamgrattan@gmail.com

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Lithgow News

FUNDING BOOST FOR HISTORIC ESKBANK HOUSE AND MUSEUM The NSW Government is continuing to throw its support behind historic Eskbank House and Museum at Lithgow. This follows the announcement by Member for Bathurst Paul Toole that Lithgow City Council’s application for a Caring for State Heritage Grant has been successful. As a result, $120,000 will be made available by the government to undertake much-needed maintenance and repair work to the iconic building. This sum will be matched with another $120,000 from Lithgow City Council, bringing the total to $240,000 for these important upgrades. Mr Toole said Eskbank House and Museum gained a listing on the State Heritage Register in 2018 which paved the way for it to be eligible for funding for its ongoing care. “Eskbank House opened as a museum in 1966 and came into the care and control of Lithgow City Council in 2003,” he said. “The Museum is now operated by council with the support of volunteers as a Heritage tourist attraction and local community space.” Lithgow Mayor Maree Statham said Eskbank House was established in 1841 and that the grant represents a significant contribution to the cost of council’s planned Eskbank House and Museum’s capital works program. “Caring for heritage benefits the community by promoting tourism,” she said. The Eskbank House and Museum capital works program project will prioritise roofing replacement and repairs to a number of buildings, improved drainage, replacement of timber balustrade to the loft above the stables, repair of timber doors, upgrade of non-compliant toilets, improved accessibility and protection of sandstone flagging. Pictured: Member for Bathurst Paul Toole at Esbank House.

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

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Community

BATHURST’S PLATYPI SEMI-FINAL WIN SETS UP ANOTHER GRAND FINAL Story & Photos by John Fitzgerald

Too strong and slick, Bathurst’s Panorama Platypi defeated Mudgee Dragons 34-18 in their semi-final at St Pat’s ground last weekend to proceed to Saturday’s grand final against Vipers. The Dragons started strongly but two tries in two minutes to Tiana Anderson had Platypi on the front foot and well in control. Mudgee pulled back in the 12th minute with Alyssa Shoulders’ converted try to trail by just two points but another two quick tries by Platypi’s Kate Gullifer and Cheynoah Amone, both converted by Sarah Colman, had the Bathurst side comfortably in front 20-6. Dragons’ Emma Cornwell’s try gave her side some hope but Menzi White’s try put a 12-point buffer between the two sides going to the sheds at 24-12. Ten minutes into the second half another two Platypi tries by Meredith Jones and Xanthe Booth for a 34-12 scoreline sealed the result, with Mudgee’s Danielle Plummer’s final try

in the closing minutes having no bearing on the outcome, with the final score 34-18. Orange’s Vipers won their semi-final against Goannas 4222, a surprisingly high score against the Dubbo side, and they cannot be dismissed as a good chance in the grand final. Vipers and Platypi played their early premiership game in October with Vipers taking the win 32-26. In last week’s match against Mudgee, Platypi, not having played a game for three weeks, showed their time off had no effect on their performance and they will be even better for the run. Platypi are into their second successive grand final against Vipers, the game set down for St Pats ground at Bathurst on Saturday at approximately 4 pm. The Vipers have been performing strongly and holding second spot most of the season, and will be more than worthy opponents, but on last weekend’s impressive form Platypi should go into the grand final as favourites. Pictured: Platypi’s Kate Gullifer Platypi’s Xanthe Booth Platypi’s Carly Abbott

Leo, Roving Reporter Report from: Wellington Story filed: Fong Lee's Lane

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

Good day dear reader. In this particular article I would like to tell you about my recent trip out to Wellington. I travelled west for the annual festival called Fong Lee's Lane as my taiko group, Kumi Taiko were performing. The festival takes place in and around the narrow Fong Lees Lane in the centre of town which used to be the old chinatown of Wellington in the early days. The Wellington Arts run the event to celebrate the Chinese heritage and culture that helped shape Wellington into what it is today. We performed in an old shed that used to be Fong Lee's grocery and dry goods store. The building has a big sliding goods entry door that opens up to the lane and we played there so that passers by could see us. We played throughout the night, attracting a big audience each time. We had some breaks in between and thankfully we did - if we didn't our hands would have soon been covered with blisters from beating the drums constantly with our bachi sticks. There were a lot of food stalls in the lane and at times you would be overwhelmed with the different smells of food. There was this stall next to the shed run by a bunch of women selling some really nice Vietnamese food and they liked our playing so they gave us all home made spring rolls and yes, they sure were some good spring rolls. It seemed like the whole of Wellington had shown up, and some people from

Dubbo too. At the end of the night during our last performance there was a parade with lanterns and a traditional Chinese dragon that paraded through the lane. Overall it was a really nice

experience and totally worth the two hour drive there and back. Leo, Roving Reporter

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ENTERTAINMENT ‘THEM AGAIN’ DECEMBER 5th 2023 11.30 AM

SUMMER CONCERT

FASHER ST

WELLBEING & CERAMIC WORKSHOPS

THE ANNEXE, THE FOUNDATIONS, PORTLAND RSVP 26 November 2023 Anne 0467555308 | Pat 0477274114

LITHGOW CITY ORCHESTRA

IE RR

11TH NOVEMBER 10AM - 3PM

BE GUIDED TO MOULD CLAY INTO A VESSEL BY ARTISTS TC OVERSON & ANNABEL MASON

2ND DECEMBER 10:30AM - 1:30PM

EXPERIENCE THE DRAMATIC MAGIC OF RAKU GLAZING & FIRING

PLACES ARE LIMITED

Community

SENIOR CITIZENS FREE CHRISTMAS LUNCH

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

FOR BOOKINGS: STUDIO.HARRIEFASHER@GMAIL.COM

COST: $100 INCLUDES TUITION, MATERIALS, MORNING TEA & A LIGHT LUNCH FOR BOTH WORKSHOPS

Music from Pirates of the Caribbean, Sibelius, Dvorak, J S Bach, Elgar, Bizet, movie themes and more

Notre Dame Concert Hall (near Lithgow Hospital)

Sunday 10th December 3 pm Refreshments

Free admission

Pensioners Discount Over 44 years experience

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Buy DIRECT from the Manufacturer and SAVE $$$$$$$ FREE Measure • Design & Quote FREE • Sink & Tap With Every Custom-Made Kitchen www.tablelandskitchens.com.au Call Today 6351 4266 After Hours Call 0451 966 966 Hotline 1300 285 000

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Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

KITCHENS, BATHROOM & LAUNDRY RENOVATIONS

Puzzles

ACROSS

Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

1. Left unoccupied 6. Resuming (investigation) 11. Parchment rolls 15. From Baghdad 16. Depiction 17. Parody 18. London's ... Square 21. US honeymoon falls 22. Chewy confectionery 23. Customer 24. Delayed 28. Hindu robe 30. Horse feed 32. Skirt around 35. Fermenting agent 37. Inner layers 38. Immature insects 40. Junior 43. Baaed 45. Cease! (nautical) 47. Model 48. Removed covering 52. Computer modifying key 53. Bishop's church 56. Lubricant container 58. Wage recipient 60. Agreeing 61. Reads superficially 62. Enlivens 64. Boxing legend, Muhammad ... 65. Spanish coast, Costa del ... 67. Still 69. Supermarket lane 72. Tennis umpire's assistants 75. Angler's lure 77. Taverns 78. Consequently 79. Hearing organs 81. Kenyan capital 83. Slushy hail 84. Grounded (appliance) 86. Snow monster 87. Sacred likenesses 90. Earliest 92. Catnap 93. Charge with crime 95. Little Bighorn state 96. Fireplace ledge 98. Calculations 99. Rare pleasure 100. Green (of stone) 101. Title document 102. Bedouin 103. Opposed to 104. Rope-making fibre 106. Less in number 110. African republic 113. Powered by battery or mains (1,1/1,1) 115. Skewer 116. Permits 117. Relaxed (2,4) 118. Couch potato 119. Miss 122. Seaweed and rice snack 125. Clean break 126. Not anywhere 127. Killer (disease) 129. Iron-deficient 130. Bereavement 131. Unfilled space 132. Truck's unloaded weight 133. Kit 134. Smallest interval in music 137. Restraining cord 138. Committee president 142. Drunkard 143. Negotiable (1,1,1) 145. Stalk vegetable 146. Anaesthetic 149. Shipping routes (3,5) 151. Duration devices 152. Far away

107

118

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174

154. Thin blood vessel 156. Atmosphere 157. Desensitising 159. Scoff 161. Inlaid (3,2) 163. Frog stage 168. Enthusiastically 171. PC disk (1,1-3) 172. Rename 176. Crockery 177. Carried 180. ... & gentleman 181. Spoken exam 183. Schedule 187. Taunts 188. Shirk responsibility (3,3) 190. Scramble up 191. More frugal 192. Sloping type 193. Of sound system 194. Tax-evasion scheme 195. Provisional 196. Raucousness 197. Vitamin C source, ... syrup

168

169

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DOWN 1. Outspoken

111

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2. Metallic ringing 3. Copy outline of 4. Slimming regime 5. Whiskered aquatic animal 6. Ceremonies 7. Large-headed sea bird 8. ANC hero, ... Mandela 9. Lasses 10. Odious 11. Telegraphed 12. ..., willing & able 13. Alpaca relative 14. Graze crusts 19. Unfeigned 20. Behaves 25. Fuss 26. Doomed person 27. Cloth colorant 29. Shreds 31. Ancient 32. LA suburb, ... Air 33. Tartan fabric 34. Litigate 36. Exploding 39. Forgoes 40. Thine 41. Appraisal

197

42. Tubular pasta dish 44. Valley 46. Army vehicle 47. Single article 49. Candle string 50. Turn aside 51. Categorical 53. Crevices 54. Obliterate 55. Queensland's Great Barrier ... 57. Indians & Koreans 59. Contend 63. Fetuses 66. Give false advice to 67. Blemishes 68. Dexterous 70. Sicily or Corsica 71. Latitude 73. Shipboard rebellion 74. Had (to) 76. Inklings 80. Youth 82. Dog-inflicted wound 85. Cash points (1,1,2) 88. Canadian province 89. Smudged 90. Plumpness

91. Jogs one's memory 94. Sadistic 97. Valuable possession 104. Bumped in crowd 105. Mould in relief 106. Measurement of depth 107. Abrade 108. Procession 109. Takes (company) public 111. Acquire 112. Reclaim 113. Allocate 114. Pranced 120. Speed 121. Nest egg 123. Financially unviable 124. Hassled 127. Purifying strainer 128. Pakistani city 135. Do well (at) 136. Socially cut off 139. Rekindle 140. Informed 141. Stumble 144. Jeans pioneer, ... Strauss 147. Russian emperor 148. Goes astray

150. Shoo! 153. Grotesque 155. Data entered 158. Nephew & ... 160. Ogled 162. For all eternity, ... after 164. Muslim leader, ... Khan 165. Liquid crystal display (1,1,1) 166. In direction of 167. Burial garments 169. Top credit rating (1,1,1) 170. Glass stopper 172. Allergy symptom 173. Song words 174. The ... Tea Party 175. Tie 177. Desert plants 178. Bake (meat) 179. Glowing coal 180. Reveal secret (3,2) 182. Feudal masters 184. Incites 185. Whinny 186. Greek fable writer 187. Streetcar 189. Terrace

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Issue 063 - 23 November 2023

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