Bathurst Businesses recognised at 2024 Awards
Something to check out this weekend in Blayney
One thing we love about starting distribution in a new area is getting to explore, meet people and see things for the first time. It sounds corny, but uncovering those hidden gems in a town with outside eyes is sometimes much easier as when you see something everyday, it becomes less special.
We are hoping to get over to the launch of the Toy Library this weekend and having a wander around the surrounding town. Say hi if you see us out and about.
Who should you vote for?
By Rich Evans
Well, as we cover 3 electorates now for Local Government regions, we see a lot of Councillors, meetings, press calls and general Council workings over a 4 year cycle typically, then comes elections and all bets are off!
Hopefully you have some idea who you are voting for this weekend, however it is a tough one, particularly in Lithgow and Bathurst where there is great community concern around both Council’s performance history and what some see as a lack of transparency.
But before we cast a vote this weekend, be clear on what your values are, find someone that aligns with your values, or as much as possible, and then ask yourself would I trust their judgement in a situation. It is my opinion that campaigning at a local government level on what you will change, do better, fix or finance once elected to Council needs to be identified clearly as election promises not actual changes that can be made. Yes you can bring motions to initiate changes in an organisation like Council and yes you can make a change however have you ever watched a cruise ship turn around?
It’s almost the same with institutionalised organisations. They are slow behemoths to change, and quick ‘easy’ changes are seldom sustainable.
There are teams running in Lithgow promising to bring jobs, and then there are companies and people on the ground actually getting on with it. It is not Councils remit to provide all the answers, it is their job to support those doing it, and I hope we see with greater transparency how Council supports investment in the future in the Central West. There are plenty of options to show support, and there are some that the community clearly needs to understand more about.
And to clear up one of the things I keep seeing unsocial media, I don’t believe there is anything wrong with changing your mind in light of new information, It is the surest sign your councillors are doing their job, making decisions in the best interest of the community not in alignment with their own bias or lens.
The problem with democracy in the modern era people defend it when the chops fall in their favour and try to discredit it when things don’t line up.
Good luck to all the candidates, and I trust our communities will balance all the views when casting their votes.
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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live, the Wiradjuri and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.
Recognise Local Excellence
The Bathurst Carillon Business Awards Electrified by Kelso Electrical took centre stage on Saturday, 7th September, celebrating the best in local business, innovation, and community impact.
Held at the Bathurst Goldfields, the gala event drew a fantastic audience, including local business owners, leaders, and government officials.
Across all categories, the Business Awards recognise excellence in business leadership, entrepreneurship, social enterprise, innovation, business growth, and employment practices.
The Awards celebrate business in Bathurst and publicly promote and reward business excellence. The Award categories offer opportunities for each and every one of the over 3000 registered businesses in the Bathurst region.The evening concluded with a celebratory atmosphere, as the Bathurst business community looks ahead to continued growth and success in 2024.
Major sponsors of tge event Kelso Electrical were once agin very proud to be the major sponsors.
“This event is extremely important for the Bathurst community. It allows businesses to showcase their successes and celebrate their achievements, fostering a spirit of innovation and excellence within our community. And this year is even more special as we celebrate its 40th anniversary. It’s genuinely an honour for Kelso Electrical to continue its major support of this prestigious event for our community to enjoy”. said Brad Schumacher, Director Kelso Electrical.
Apprentice and Trainee of the Year - Daisy Jones, Bathurst Little Learning Centre
Excellence in Customer Service - Dancin Divas Pole Studio
Excellence in Diversity and InclusionColton Compute Technologies
Excellence in Innovation - Be Active Physiotherapy
Excellence in Large Business - Skillset
Excellence in Micro Business - Hipscotch
Excellence in Small Business - Precision Martial Arts
Outstanding Community Organisation - Central West Womens Health
Outstanding Employee - Dylan Donahue - Vivability
Outstanding Employer of Choice - Glenray Industries
Outstanding New Business - Ayme Staffing
Outstanding Young Business Leader - Kevin Walker - Vivability
Outstanding Business Leader - Warren Hickey
People’s Choice – Bathurst Favourite Business -Studion Duchess
People’s Choice Award - Bathurst’s Favourite
Tradie - Riley Robinson - DEVRO
People’s Choice Award – Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Employee - Matty Power, Cityfit Bathurst
People’s Choice Award - Hospitality - Cafe VIVA
Bathurst Most Outstanding Business - Precision Martial Arts
Pictured Above: Bathurst Most Outstanding Business - Precision Martial Arts. Pictured Front Page:Outstanding Business Leader - Warren Hickey
Images by Fiona May of Hamlet and Fields
2024 Business Awards Celebrate Excellence in Oberon Plinth show platforms Orange artist
The 2024 Oberon Business Awards were held last night, showcasing the region’s best in business excellence, innovation, and community impact. The prestigious event, hosted at the Oberon RSL Club, attracted local leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members to celebrate the achievements of local businesses across various sectors. This is the first awards held since 2018 and what a fantastic night was had by all in attendance, including MP Paul Toole and Sam Farraway.
The business community in Oberon is diverse and resilient, with enterprises ranging from agriculture to tourism and retail. Local businesses prioritise sustainability and innovation, contributing to the town’s economic growth. Strong community support and collaboration help foster a thriving environment for small and medium-sized businesses in the region.
Oberon Timber and Hardware took home the coveted Business of the Year award for their outstanding service and dedication to sustainable practices. Other notable winners included The Corner Café, recognised for its customer service, and the Oberon Veterinary Clinic, which won the award for Innovation in Business for its advanced animal care techniques.The night continued in to the evening as a celebration for all participants, as Oberon continues to foster a thriving business community.
Arts OutWest is quite literally putting the work of artists on pedestals with a new touring exhibition program.
Three dimensional artworks by Orange’s Jaq Davies are on show until the end of September at Orange City Library.
Arts OutWest’s Plinth Show shows work of a different artist, with their work displayed on portable plinths, at a different public place or visitor information centre around the Central West each month for 12 months.
Jaq Davies is a multidisciplinary artist living and working in Orange. She has chosen three three-dimensional creations for her Plinth Show.
“In my artwork I use combinations of the drawn/painted line and found objects,” Ms Davies says.
“While drawing is often at the forefront of my art practice I increasingly look for the drawn line in objects such as feathers, hair, sticks, daisy chains, thorns, glass, wire and tape. This place of constant play between the two and three dimensional allows me a greater freedom with my creative language, my compositions and what it is that has inspired them. They are works rich in narrative, quietly wrapped in the passage of time.”
“The exhibition program is designed to highlight arts as a cultural attraction to visitors whilst making a new exhibition opportunity for a local artist,“ said curator, Arts OutWest’s Steven Cavanagh.
The Plinth Show program has so far been to Forbes showing Wiradjuri artist Ronda Sharpe and to Grenfell showing paintings by Diane Donohue. Work by Canowindra artist Heather Vallance is also currently showing on plinths at the Age of Fishes Museum in Canowindra. The next location will be Oberon Visitor Information Centre in October.
FUNDING FOR JUNCTION REEF AND BAKERS SHAFT
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has announced over $20,000 in funding for weed control at Junction Reef and Bakers Shaft reserve just in time for the summer season.
Residents of Blayney and beyond will be able to explore their own slice of pristine nature and this funding will ensure native flora and fauna is able to thrive over the warmer months.
The secluded location near Mandurama described as a hidden gem for outdoor getaways was reopened to the public in 2021 after 30 years of closure.
According to Mr Toole it really is a spectacular location with features including a 130-year-old dam and waterfall.
“Junction Reef and Bakers Shaft Reserve is one of the region’s best kept secrets,” he said.
“After a day of exploring, swimming and gold-panning at Junction Reef, just to the west in Bakers Shaft Reserve there are a number of areas along the river that are available for camping.”
Mr Toole said the Crown Land Manager Michelle Pryse Jones has worked hard to maintain Junction Reef Reserve making it possible to open this area to the community.
“We encourage people to come and use the reserves as there are some wonderful rapids and water holes along this section of the Belubula River, so it is ideal for camping and swimming.”
In 2021, the former NSW Government funded $23,480 for major access upgrades to the Bakers Shaft Reserve and Junction Reef Reserve. The initiative saw livestock grids installed at Bakers Shaft and Junction Reef as well as protective fencing at both locations.
Paul
Pictured: Member for Bathurst
Toole with Blayney Shire Councillors Bruce Reynolds and Michelle Pryse Jones.
Location! Location! Location!
2024 Central West is Best Photography Competition now open
Regional Development Australia Central West (RDA Central West) is excited to announce the launch of the annual Central West is Best Photography Competition for 2024. With this year’s theme, “Location, Location, Location”, the competition invites photographers of all ages to capture the unique landscapes, landmarks, and hidden gems that showcase the magic of our region as a location to host an event or film a movie.
The competition is open to all residents of the Central West, with categories for all ages to enter:
- Open (over 18 years)
- Junior (under 18 years)
- Mini (under 10 years)
“We’re thrilled to bring the community together again for this year’s competition,” said Josh Gordon, Director of Regional Development for RDA Central West. “The theme, ‘Location, Location, Location,’ perfectly highlights the pride we have in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of our region. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this competition offers a wonderful opportunity to showcase the Central West’s diverse and stunning locations.”
Participants are encouraged to submit images that reflect the essence of what makes the Central West a remarkable place to live, work, and explore. From sweeping landscapes to the heart of our local towns, each photo will celebrate the unique character of the area.
Submissions for the 2024 competition are open until 5pm, October 20, 2024, and winners in each category will receive exciting prizes, including opportunities for their work to be featured in RDA Central West publications and online channels.
Entrants can find out more and submit up to four photographs via www.rdacentralwest.org.au. Images can be new or taken any time in the past, with winners to be announced early November.
NBN Innovate Awards
Applications for the 2024 Innovate with nbn Grants Program are now open. Tourism is one of the categories for these grants (awards). While there’s usually a late flurry of submissions, the submissions for the tourism sector is looking pretty skinny. So if you know of any businesses that could make a strong submission – it’d be well worth their while putting in.
Now in its fifth year, the initiative aims to help regional based businesses and individuals transform their great ideas into game-changing achievements.
There is $125,000 in total funding to be awarded across seven categories to help support regional and remote businesses drive the development and adoption of their ideas. The categories are: Agriculture, Arts, Education, Health, Indigenous Business, Tourism, and Women in Regional Business – each winner receives $15,000. Additionally, and of potentially more value, there is great promotion opportunities for the winners including video and social media material created.
The overall Innovate with nbn Champion will be awarded an additional $20,000 grant to help take their idea to the next level.
Run in partnership with the Regional Australia Institute (RAI), the Innovate with nbn Grants Program is part of our commitment to lift the digital capability of people and businesses in regional Australia.
Last year we received many applications from businesses across regional Australia who are doing wonderful things digitally enabled through the nbn. Pleasingly there were over 40 quality applications from regional NSW, a number we would love to beat this year!
Among them is the 2023 Innovate with nbn Champion Observa Care. For regional and rural Australians, accessing health care services outside metropolitan and major regional centres can be challenging. It can lead to delayed treatment, higher hospitalisation rates and long trips to access care. Armidale health care service Observa Care is bridging this gap and has a mission to harness the power of digital health technologies to benefit those who live in our most remote communities.
The closing date for applications is midnight Sunday 29th September.
Central West News
BeatlesFest - Australia’s only Beatles Festival returns
It's been A Hard Day's Night but it’s time to Come Together at BeatlesFest - Australia’s only festival dedicated to the Fab Four which is returning Beatlemania to Lithgow this September with more than 40 events across the three day festival, drawing thousands of visitors to the region in celebration of all things Beatles.
This year’s festival, September 27-29, will honour the 60th anniversary of The Beatles 1964 Tour Down Under, with Australia’s best tribute bands including Backbeat ready to Twist and Shout, playing the 1964 tour setlist, as well as an acoustic version for Day Trippers on the platform of the iconic Zig Zag Railway. The concert will be free but you’ll need a Ticket to Ride.
Beatlesfest is the brainchild of Music Documentary filmmakers and Lithgow locals Jonathan Sequeira and Wade Jackson who wanted to not only pay homage to the ‘Fab Four’, but also showcase the region.
“It feels like Yesterday, but the 1964 tour really saw mass hysteria and signified a landmark event in our social and cultural history especially for young people,” Sequeira said.
“The whole 60s era was just this really cool time of fashion with short hemlines and mini skirts and hairstyles that tested tradition. It’s a time we look back on fondly and we will be recreating some of that with this festival,” he added.
“The Beatles were one of the greatest bands of all time. No other group has inspired such adulation or been so timelessly appealing. Beatles fans are all ages and can be found anywhere and this September they’ll be in Lithgow.
Beatlesfest co-founder Wade Jackson added: “Lithgow is a forgotten gem and With a Little Help from My Friends we can showcase this beautiful little town that really isn't so different from where the Beatles hail from in Liverpool in the UK. It’s a working man’s area and we’ve got our mining industry, and as we transition to cleaner energy we are needing to rely on tourism more than ever.”
From Central London to the Club Lithgow Bowling Green, The Rooftop Beatles will mirror the band’s famous final concert from the roof of their Apple Corps studio on Saville Row.
One of Australia’s largest collections of Beatles memorabilia will be on display at Club Lithgow, while renowned rock ‘n’ roll photographer Tony Mott will share his insights into life on the road with the world’s biggest bands, with his Rock ‘n’ Roll photo exhibition.
“When We Was Fab - Inside The Beatles Australasian Tour 1964” author and Beatles Historian Greg Armstrong is throwing his support behind BeatlesFest, and will be sharing stories at Lithgow Workies.
Artists from across the Central West are also getting in on the action with the Hello Goodbye Art Show to feature original Beatles inspired paintings and drawings, while the Vintage Clothes and Vinyl market will keep the mod squad busy.
There’s also Beatles Trivia and Jack Lance playing Lennon and McCartney on the barefoot bowling green and family trio The Honey Stompers will take to the stage at the Lithgow Tin Shed.
The Magical Mystery Family Day on Sunday will offer more free entertainment and kids activities including face painting, while the Octopus’s Garden Brunch and 60s Sunday Session and Ob-La-Di Marketplace will feature more live music and food.
For more information visit Beatlesfest
Andrew GEE MP INDEPENDENT FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CALARE
Your Country Your Voice
MCPHILLAMYS GOLD MINE: MEETING WITH THE PM REQUESTED IN QUESTION TIME
Due to the high level of community concern and lack of transparency over the McPhillamys mine declaration made by the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, I’ve requested an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister to see if he can sort out this very messy situation. I’ve asked to talk to him this week when federal parliament is sitting.
The feedback from the community is that many people are having a lot of trouble comprehending how this decision was made. State and Federal environmental approvals had already been given. Many business decisions had been made on the project proceeding and there are a lot of jobs in the balance.
OMEETING WITH THE MINISTER
The Mayor of Blayney Scott Ferguson and I recently had a meeting with Minister Plibersek.
I raised issues such as the timing of the decision given that approvals had already been granted; the contradictory statements between the Minister and the mine about whether the decision effectively kills the project; the differing opinions given by local Indigenous groups; the community impacts; and also, what reports the department commissioned on the issue.
Many of our questions were not answered due to what was said to be confidentiality and pending legal proceedings. This was very disappointing.
MEETING WITH REGIS
I met with Regis last week. The company has requested a Statement of Reasons for the
Minister’s decision which they are entitled to receive under the legislation. The Minister has refused to provide one.
I don’t understand why. This isn’t good enough. Transparency requires that she provide this statement without delay. I call on the Minister to do so.
QUESTION TIME
This week during Question Time in Parliament, I set out the community concerns over this declaration and then asked the Prime Minister if he would meet with me and also whether he would consider reversing Minister Plibersek’s decision.
While he said he would meet with me, the PM then passed the question to Minister Plibersek who disappointingly failed to answer the question. Infuriatingly for the public, Question Time is rarely Answer Time.
TRANSPARENCY NEEDED
For the public to have confidence in a decision-making process like this it has to be fair and transparent for all parties involved. At the moment there are just far more questions than answers.
Because the transparency just doesn’t seem to be there, a lot of people are not able to support this decision and I’m one of them.
With so much at stake, the whole episode demonstrates why the laws surrounding these declarations need an overhaul. At the moment the process is too long, complicated, unclear and unwieldy. This doesn’t benefit anyone.
There must be a better way.
Let’s see what the Prime Minister has to say. I’ll keep the community posted.
IF IT LOOKS AND SMELLS LIKE POLITICAL CAMPAIGNING...
ne of the reasons I left the National Party is that it’s not the party that I grew up with.
It was once a truly great party that really put the interests of country people first. Now it just seems to put its own interests first.
An example of this is the way the party is campaigning for the federal seat of Calare. They have pre-selected a NSW upper house Member of Parliament, Sam Farraway, who is being paid over $240,000 per year to represent the people of NSW full-time.
The issue here is that if you're being paid that much money to do a full time job, you have
to turn up to work for the people who are employing you. You can't campaign for a federal seat at the NSW taxpayers' expense.
Last week we had the very strange and awkward situation where at a local press conference, Mr Farraway denied he was campaigning. Yeah, right.
But at the same press conference this was contradicted by the Leader of the Nationals, David Littleproud who said “Well it is. This is a campaign up until the election day which will probably be next year.”
Most Australians working two jobs do so to make ends meet in a cost of living crisis. Not when they’re being paid over $240,000 per year
I’veto work full time doing one job for the NSW taxpayer.
A federal election could be around nine months away.
Keeping your NSW salary while you're campaigning federally may save the National Party having to pay you a salary while you’re on the campaign trail but looks a lot like a major political party gaming the system.
The bottom line is that if you’re a NSW Member of Parliament and you want to campaign federally, you really do need to resign.
Under the National Party of old this wouldn’t have been allowed to happen.
BREAKING: VICTORY FOR PEOPLE POWER! THE NGUYEN FAMILY CAN STAY!
been advised by the Minister for Immigration and Home Affairs, Tony Burke, that he has considered the Nguyen family’s application for Ministerial Intervention and has now granted them new visas allowing them to live and work in Australia!
This is a sensational result for the Nguyens and brings to an end a decade of stress and uncertainty for this muchloved Bathurst family.
I am delighted that the Minister has acted so quickly to make the right decision that the family and the community so desperately wanted.
It really is proof that people power can prevail!
I delivered the news in a phone call to Duc Nguyen and he was absolutely overjoyed! You could immediately feel a great weight being lifted from his shoulders.
Over 22,000 people signed the petition
to keep the Nguyen family in Bathurst and Australia and I think that outpouring of love and support really carried the day.
The new visas are Former Resident Visas which allow Duc Nguyen and his parents to continue living and working in Australia. It’s the best possible result for the family.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the Nguyen family through this ordeal including the tens of thousands who signed the petition, thank you!
And a special tribute to the community members who went over and above to support the family and meet with their lawyers, including Juanita Kwok and Pauline Graf. They are truly deserving of the thanks of our community for their compassion and kindness.
The Nguyens had their visas knocked back through no fault of their own and this decision by the Minister to grant them new visas means that they can now continue building their futures in Bathurst with confidence and certainty and the ongoing support of the local community.
Their restaurant can now re-open and the family can stay together.
It really is a victory for people power!
IamAnd if Paul Toole had still been leader of the NSW Nationals, I very much doubt that he would have allowed this to happen either. It’s a shame that Mr Farraway does not appear to have supported Paul in that very tight National Party leadership contest last year when every vote was crucial. I’ve spoken to Paul about it and I think he still feels very hurt by this.
You could say many things about the National Party’s response to this latest “get paid by the NSW taxpayer to campaign for a federal seat” controversy. But you couldn’t say it was leadership.
The days of the old Country Party are, sadly, long gone.
extremely disappointed that Lithgow Council has handed back almost $2 million in federal government money to replace the Main Street pavers and upgrade the streetscape.
I fought long and hard for that funding and the whole community was looking forward to seeing the project completed and the old dangerous slippery pavers removed and replaced. I’m just a bit stumped as to why the first time me and many others heard about this was when it turned up in the recent council meeting papers.
And having handed back the $2 million dollars, the Council now says it wants another grant to do exactly the same project.
This grant funding is not easy to come by and it’s not a simple question of plucking another $2 million out of the air.
It really is a lot easier to do everything in your power to hang on the $2 million you’ve already got.
I’m just very sad and disappointed for the community because it was a really worthwhile project and now, we seem to be going back to square one.
Artefact Heritage and Environment Opens Bathurst Office
Leading heritage consultancy Artefact Heritage and Environment has established a permanent presence in Central West NSW with the establishment of a Bathurst office on Keppel Street.
The occasion was marked with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony conducted by Wiradyuri Elders. Guests included Mayor Jess Jennings, Deputy Mayor Ben Fry and representatives from Bathurst Regional Council, Charles Sturt University, National Trust of Australia, Bathurst District Historical Society, Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail and local architects, civil engineers and heritage enthusiasts. Artefact staff from the Sydney office were also in attendance including company Founder and Managing Director Dr Sandra Wallace.
“We’ve been fortunate to have worked on some really interesting projects in western NSW so are looking forward to offering our clients the convenience of a local presence in the region,” says Artefact’s Managing Director Dr Sandra Wallace. “The feedback and support we’ve received so far from Community, business-owners and the local council has been wonderful and we’re really grateful to the people of Bathurst, Orange, Lithgow and surrounding areas for welcoming us," she adds.
New ‘Mind Alive DementiaFriendly Collection’ Launch at Bathurst Library
Bathurst Library is proud to announce the launch of its new ‘Mind Alive Dementia-Friendly Collection’, a new loanable collection aimed at enhancing access, reminiscence and engagement for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
In line with Dementia Australia’s call for increased community awareness and support during Dementia Action Week (16-22 September), Bathurst Library is hosting a free event to unveil the ‘Mind Alive Dementia Friendly Collection’. This new collection includes a curated selection of photo boards, puzzles, games, DVDs, and books designed to offer mental stimulation, enjoyment, and relaxation.
The launch event will feature a presentation by Anthony Parker from Dementia Australia, Dementia Friendly Communities, ‘It Starts with You.’ The Neighbourhood Centre, CALM, and Bathurst Dementia Alliance will provide resources and information. Attendees will also enjoy complimentary morning tea and live music by John Armstrong.
Manager of Library Services Patou Clerc says ‘we are thrilled to introduce this collection and provide resources where people living with dementia and their caregivers can find joy and engagement. This event is an opportunity to celebrate the resources that can make a meaningful difference in our community’.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, 20 September
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Bathurst Library, 70-78 Keppel Street, Bathurst
Booking: Free event. For reservations, call 6333 6281.
More information about the event and the collection can be found on the library website library.bathurst.nsw.gov.au.
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.
Get emergency ready at Bathurst Library
Get set for summer by learning how to install emergency apps on your smartphone at Bathurst Library next month.
The event will be held on Wednesday 2 October from 2-4pm as part of the library’s regular Computer Coffee Club, which is open to everyone and aims to help residents become more confident with technology in a fun and friendly environment.
Participants will learn how to install four key emergency apps that can help communities prepare for a natural disaster – Hazards Near Me, Emergency Plus, Live Traffic NSW, and BOM (Bureau of Meteorology). These apps provide weather warnings, hazard notifications, road impacts advice and help from emergency services.
Bathurst Library manager Patou Clerc said now is the perfect time for local residents to ensure they are fully prepared and informed for the season ahead. “Summer is a time when we need to be on alert for potential storms, bushfires and other natural disasters,” Ms Clerc said. “At this event, staff will explain how to download these apps to your smart phone or device and provide information on how to set up alerts and watch zones so you can keep up to date with the latest advice from emergency services.”
Computer Coffee Club is held monthly at Bathurst Library and new topics are discussed each month. For more information or to book your place, phone Bathurst Library on 6333 6281.
Save the Date
Winner of Bathurst Regional Council’s Community Event of the Year for 2023
26TH & 27TH OCTOBER, 2024
BARC animals waiting for forever families
The Bathurst Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) has been officially open for just three months but has reached capacity, with an overwhelming number of lost and stray animals now housed at the state of the art facility.
General Manager David Sherley said BARC had 250 percent more capacity than the old small animal pound on Vale Road, but since opening has been inundated with cats and dogs, and currently has 68 dog and 43 cats looking to be rehomed.
“Our staff are to be congratulated on handling the challenges created by such a large number of animals in their care. We are seeing unprecedented numbers of cats and dogs being dropped in the overnight cages or picked up as lost and stray animals off the street.
We know the situation at BARC with numbers of animals in our care is not unique to Bathurst. Animal shelters across the state are dealing with the same problem, with a huge influx of dogs and cats looking for new homes.
While we are providing the best care possible for the animals at BARC, we need the community to play their part and help as well.
To give us the best chance of reuniting lost pets with their families they should be microchipped (with up-to-date contact details), registered and wearing a tag. So often we have animals dropped to BARC or picked up by our Rangers where the microchip details are out of date or the animal has no microchip or registration.
We regularly promote lost cats and dogs via our Facebook page, but many of these animals are left uncollected.
“Responsible pet ownership is our first step in helping curb number of animals at BARC. It is also important that animals are desexed to prevent unwanted litters of kittens and puppies. Just this week we have had two cats which had found their way to BARC deliver litters of kittens.
“If you are looking for a new cat or dog, consider adopting from BARC. All of the animals available for adoption are profiled on our website and Facebook page. Make an appointment and set up a getting to know you session at BARC. We have a specially designed adoption pavilion designed for the meet and greet sessions.
“Some of the animals in our care have been with us for months. Harley for example has been with us since July last year and Molly since November. These animals deserve a new home and we are encouraging the community to look to adopt, not shop, when it comes to finding a new family pet,” Mr Sherley said.
VICTORY FOR PEOPLE POWER! THE NGUYEN FAMILY CAN STAY! MINISTER APPROVES VISAS!
I’ve been advised by the Minister for Immigration and Home Affairs, Tony Burke, that he has considered the Nguyen family’s application for Ministerial Intervention and has now granted them new visas allowing them to live and work in Australia!
This is a sensational result for the Nguyens and brings to an end a decade of stress and uncertainty for this much-loved Bathurst family.
I am delighted that the Minister has acted so quickly to make the right decision that the family and the community so desperately wanted.
It really is proof that people power can prevail!
I delivered the news in a phone call to Duc Nguyen and he was absolutely overjoyed! You could immediately feel a great weight being lifted from his shoulders.
Over 22,000 people signed the petition to keep the Nguyen family in Bathurst and Australia and I think that outpouring of love and support really carried the day.
The new visas are Former Resident Visas which allow Duc Nguyen and his parents to continue living and working in Australia. It’s the best possible result for the family.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the Nguyen family through this ordeal including the tens of thousands who signed the petition.
And a special tribute to the community members who went over and above to support the family and meet with their lawyers, including Juanita Kwok and Pauline Graff. They are truly deserving of the thanks of our community for their compassion and kindness.
The Nguyens had their visas knocked back through no fault of their own and this wonderful decision by the Minister to grant them new visas means that they can now continue building their futures in Bathurst with confidence and certainty and the ongoing support of the local community. Their restaurant can now re-open and their family can stay together.
It really is a victory for people power!
A Statement from Andrew Gee
Whiddon Kelso’s Rising Star: How Bathurst’s Amy Cochrane Is Shaping the Future of Dementia Care
This Dementia Action Week (16-22 September) innovative aged care provider, Whiddon, is proud to share an inspiring story of local leadership in dementia care.
Bathurst’s own Amy Cochrane, a recent TAFE NSW graduate, is making a profound impact at local care home, Whiddon Kelso.
As the number of individuals diagnosed with dementia in aged care homes continues to grow, Amy is one of many new graduates helping to meet the need for more skilled aged care workers, specialising in dementia care.
Amy’s journey into dementia care began with her overcoming personal challenges, including dyslexia, to complete her Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) through TAFE NSW.
Now, she is carving out a strong future in care at Whiddon Kelso, using innovative approaches— such as including creative ageing and personalised care— to enhance the quality of life for residents living with dementia.
Amy was proudly named the TAFE NSW Health, Wellbeing and Community Services Student of the Year in 2023. Her dedication has also earned her Whiddon’s Above and Beyond Award, reflecting her excellence in a field that needs more skilled professionals.
Speaking to her burgeoning career and what its like to work in specialise Dementia care, Amy said:
“Dementia is like a recipe with missing ingredients and mixed-up cooking methods. People living with it might forget things they knew before, just like how they cook their favourite meals.”
Amy continues, “through my TAFE studies and role at Whiddon, I’ve become more adaptable, using comfort items, music, and keepsakes to create a safe and connected space for my clients.”
Aged and disability care workers are in high demand, with a projected growth in employment of over 14 per cent nationally between 2023 and 2028.
In line with this year’s Dementia Action Week theme, ‘Act Now for a Dementia-Friendly Future’, Ms Cochrane proudly exemplifies Whiddon’s commitment to relationship-based care that connects, enriches and inspires the lives of residents.
Sharni Latham, Director of Care Services at Whiddon Kelso said Ms Cochrane’s training and passion has enabled her to deliver high-quality resident care.
“Amy’s enhanced clinical knowledge, critical thinking, caregiving excellence and unique engagement has allowed her to flourish at Whiddon,” Ms Latham said.
“More than half of our residents have dementia, with many experiencing undiagnosed cognitive impairment. As life expectancy rises, more people are entering aged care later in life with declining cognitive abilities.
“We recognise this trend and actively collaborate with TAFE NSW for student work placements, aiming to transition graduates into part-time or full-time roles that support our efforts in creating a dementia-friendly environment.”
Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of death for women. More than 1.6 million Australians are involved in the care of someone living with the condition. With over 54% of permanent residential aged care residents living with dementia, professionals like Amy are crucial in shaping a dementia-friendly future.
Whiddon is proud to support Dementia Action Week by encouraging everyone to take the first step in learning about dementia and how we can all contribute to more inclusive and supportive communities.
VOTE WISELY
Bathurst is a wonderful place, of which we can be proud.
But we face a challenging future for the next four years.
Council’s finances are not in good shape, there is community division, and we face the real prospect of yet another divided and bitter Council chamber.
We desperately need stability, with cool mature hands at the wheel, level heads, practical solutions, and very importantly, we need councillors with the ability to work with others for the common good, and put differences aside.
So, at this Council election please think very carefully about who can bring these qualities to the table.
Thought Of the week ….. “Vote for the candidates who have our community as their priority.”
by a humble heritage advocate
– September 2024 column #307
TEXTURES OF ONE WINNER ANNOUNCED
Congratulations to Vivianna Hamilton who is the recipient of the 2024 Textures of One Major Prize with her work ‘Tales from the Old Farm Dump’.
In Blayney the annual Textures of One (24 August – Sun 8 September) celebrating 10 years, was held across the Platforms Arts Hub and The Odd Sock Gallery. This year’s motif was ‘tin’.
Vivianna wrote: “Many a farm kid has gone exploring for treasure in an old burnt – out farm dump. An assortment of rusty old tins and crumpled tin sheeting may be exposed and present a visual history of past inhabitants for the younger generation. There are several old farms that were settled by soldiers after World War 1 in the local area. Grandfathers tell stories of tins being used for their rations of dehydrated bully beef and oatmeal during the war. However, those well -worn tins, if not in the dump, are usually found protecting the wool bale stencils in shearing sheds or random screws in Grandpa`s shed.”
Over 40 artworks were on display between Platform Arts Hub Blayney and The Odd Sock Gallery, responding to the theme of 'tin' in creative and talented ways.
Amon the winners over the weekend was also Peta Taylor who was the recipient of the 2024 Loretta Kervin Encouragement Award with her work 'They Have A Story And So Do I'.
Tim Kervin presented the award on behalf of the Kervin family, who generously continue to support Textures of One in memory of Loretta Kervin, one of the exhibition founders.
For more information about next years event and to see wha the theme will be, follow the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PlatformArtsHubBlayney Opening night photography by Bradley Bradley.
Millthorpe Garden Ramble 2 & 3 November 2024
Celebrating 20 Years of the Millthorpe Garden Ramble!
Come along and celebrate this enduring community event made possible by the contributions of gardens owners, volunteers and the village population for 20 years.
In this special year we encourage all past Garden Ramble volunteers to get in touch via our website so they can be part of the celebrations.
We have once again come up with ten fabulous village and country gardens – some new to the Ramble and some familiar faces. Gardens open include Eidolia Park with its expansive iris and rose gardens, the successful Millthorpe Truffles and the historic Grove Farm, one of the first homes to be built in the area. The Millthorpe Museum will have a display of historic gardening tools.
Millthorpe shops are going to dress up for the occasion and contribute lucky door prizes for Ramblers.
Around the gardens you will find refreshments, a rose exhibition, art exhibitions and sale and entertainment. There is something for everyone including workshops and children’s activities.
Funds from the Ramble go towards ongoing enhancement and beautification projects coordinated with the Millthorpe Village Committee. We also support the community through the Country Education Foundation and other financial assistance to local causes.
Spend some time in Millthorpe Village with great places to eat, taste wine, shop or just wander around the local streets.
For more information including many accommodation options in the village, please visit Millthorpe Village website. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date information about the Ramble.
Ticket prices: $25.00 for 10 gardens (valid for all weekend) or $5.00 per garden. Children are free. Tickets: Humanitix.com, QR code, HQ at the Millthorpe Public School
Dates: 2-3 November 2024. Open: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm daily
Contact Christine Williams 0417654806 millthorpegardenramble@gmail.com
www.millthorpevillage.com.au
Facebook: Millthorpe Garden Ramble
Instagram: millthorpegardenramble
Artwork Above: Vivianna Hamilton's work 'Tales from the Old Farm Dump'. Pictured left: Tim Kervin presents award in memeory of Loretta Kervin to Peta Taylor.
FORTNIGHTLY FEATURE FROM THE MAYOR
With a mix of emotions, I extend one of my final welcomes as Blayney Shire Mayor and welcome Blayney Shire readers to the Village Voice, our new local paper dedicated to covering local stories across the Blayney Shire and broader Central West.
While it was not a surprise that the Blayney Chronicle stopped being published not long after losing our full-time journalist, it was still a huge disappointment to many within our community.
Social media has replaced most traditional forms of news and information. Still, I think this technology has made us more isolated from each other than ever; older people are especially being left behind with this rapidly changing media landscape.
Blayney Shire Council needs a strong and diverse media so there can be a consistent and accessible flow of information to all our community. Councils cannot operate in isolation and need a reliable media platform to engage and inform our residents. I believe that the expanded Village Voice paper will play an important part in keeping us all connected with council activities and events throughout the shire. I encourage you to show your support by spreading the word, submitting your local stories and picking up a free paper each fortnight. We are lucky to be a part of such a wonderful community, and a connected community is even more valuable.
With Local Government Elections on this weekend, as many of you know, after 12 years as mayor, and 25 years on Council, I have decided not to stand for re-election and finish my time as Mayor of Blayney Shire Council. I would like to sincerely thank each and every one of you who has supported me throughout this time and also pay tribute to my fellow Councillors Allan Ewin and David Somervaille who are also not seeking re-election.
I am very fortunate to have worked with both David and Allan for a number of years. They have been very committed to this community and have provided me with unwavering support as we have worked together to deliver a stable, reliable and proactive Council. Together, we have seen significant improvements and upgrades to our community facilities and have supported growth and investment throughout the shire.
It's been an honour to represent and advocate for our community, and I wish nothing more than for our community to be safe and happy and to look towards the future with confidence and optimism.
Council News
Proposed Road Closing Under Section 38B Roads Act 1993
In pursuance of the provisions of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Blayney Shire Council proposes to close the council public road listed in Schedule 1. Schedule 1: • Graham Lane, Millthorpe identified as road reserve adjoining to Lots 46-48 DP11125 in the plan available for viewing at Council’s offices or on Council’s website.
The proposal is part of closure under Section 38A of the Roads Act 1993.
All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to the General Manager, Blayney Shire Council, PO Box 62 BLAYNEY NSW 2799, within twenty-eight days of the date of this advertisement.
Please note that under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration. Once the submission period is completed, Blayney Shire Council will consider all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road closure proposal. For all enquiries please contact Mr Jacob Hogan on (02) 6368 2104
Service NSW Mobile Service Centre Visit – Blayney and Millthorpe
The Service NSW Mobile Service Centre will be visiting both Blayney and Millthorpe.
The Mobile Centre will be in Blayney on Tuesday 24 September 2024 located in the carpark at the rear of the Blayney Shire Community Centre from 9.00am to 3.00pm.
The Mobile Centre will be in Millthorpe on Thursday 26 September 2024 located at Redmond Oval from 10.00am to 3.00pm.
This Mobile Service delivers access to essential NSW Government services, including:
• Driver licences, proof of identity documents and photo card applications
• Driver Knowledge Tests
• Working With Children Checks
• NDIS Worker Check
• Applying for birth, death and marriage certificates
• Access more than 70 NSW Government rebates and savings.
For more information, please visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/msc
Contact Us:
Council Office: 6368 2104 council@blayney.nsw.gov.au blayney.nsw.gov.au PO Box 62, Blayney NSW 2799
91 Adelaide Street, Blayney, NSW 2799 9:30am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday
Blayney Library Survey – Win a Voucher!
Help us understand what a great library service looks like to you, and contribute to our plans for the future, even if you don’t use the Library we would love to hear from you too! The survey should take about 10 minutes to complete. Your answers will be treated confidentially, and you can choose to withdraw from the research at any time. Please complete the questionnaire to reflect your opinions, not those of any child or other person that may be in your care.
To show our appreciation for taking part in the survey, we would like to offer you a chance to win 1 of 4 $50 local business vouchers.
Survey can be accessed on the homepage of Council's website blayney.nsw.gov.au
Household Chemical Cleanout –Monday 30 September 2024
The safe way to dispose of potentially hazardous household chemicals is at the Household Chemical Cleanout event. On Monday 30 September 2024 at the Blayney Waste Facility from 9.00am to 12.00pm.
Further information can be found on the EPA website - https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/
2024 NSW Local Government Elections
Blayney Shire Polling Places
Barry Community Hall
Blayney Shire Community Centre
Carcoar Public School
Mandurama Public Hall
Millthorpe Public School
Scott Ferguson Mayor
Pictured: Mayor Scott Ferguson with Cr Allan Ewin and Cr David Somervaille
Central West Village Voice Thanks Blayney for Warm Welcome
By Kellie Evans, Owner
On behalf of Rich and myself, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Blayney community for the incredibly warm welcome we've received since launching our publication in to your region. Meeting so many of you at local events, on the streets, and in your businesses has been a privilege. From the open conversations to the insightful suggestions, it’s clear that Blayney is a community that values connection and local stories.
Your enthusiastic support has made us feel right at home. We look forward to growing alongside this vibrant town and bringing you stories that reflect the heart and soul of Blayney. Our goal is to highlight the unique voices, events, and accomplishments of the people here, while creating a platform where community members can share their experiences.
As we continue to expand our presence in the region, we are excited about what the future holds. Together, we will build a stronger, more connected community, and we’re honoured to be a part of it. Thank you, Blayney—we look forward to being your voice in the Central West for years to come!
To submit your stories to us, be sure to email to kellie@villagevoice.net.au or feel free to contact on 0429 001 918.
Blayney Candidate Inormation Night
A community event, organised by the Blayney Rotary Club, brought together candidates for the 2024 Blayney Shire Council elections, providing an opportunity for them to share their platforms and answer questions from local residents.
The forum was moderated by Mark Logan, a long-time contributor to the Blayney Chronicle, who welcomed the candidates and community members. Throughout the event, each candidate had the chance to explain their reasons for running, their skills and knowledge, and their vision for the future of Blayney Shire.
Angus Norton: A Voice for the Younger Generation
Angus Norton, who spoke via phone, emphasised his desire to represent younger voices on the council. "I just want to be a voice for younger people on this council," he said, adding that he aims to promote youth sports and maximise the use of local facilities.
Craig Gosewisch: Continuing the Journey
Craig Gosewisch, seeking a second term, reflected on his learning curve as a councillor and the challenges faced, including appointing a new General Manager. "I didn’t have enough time to really get my teeth into what it takes to be a councillor," he explained, expressing a focus on sustainable growth.
Rebecca Scott: A Focus on Legal Services and Community Support
Rebecca Scott highlighted her commitment to increasing legal services and supporting the community. "As a solicitor, I act as an advocate for those who need help," she said, focusing on sustainable growth and supporting local businesses.
Bruce Reynolds: Building on Past Successes
Bruce Reynolds, a current councillor, highlighted his dedication to improving infrastructure. "I want to make sure our community organisations have the funding to provide first-rate facilities," he said, adding that his financial skills will be key to the next term.
John Newstead: A Pragmatic Approach
John Newstead reflected on his experience and pragmatic decisionmaking. "I always pride myself on being a pragmatic decision-maker," he said, focusing on the core responsibilities of roads, rates, and rubbish.
Steven Johnston: A Fresh Perspective
Steven Johnston, a first-time candidate, emphasised his experience in government. "I’ve worked in state and local government for over 40 years," he said, highlighting his ability to objectively assess and guide council decisions.
Karl Hutchings: A Balanced Future
Karl Hutchings spoke about his long-time residence in Blayney and his commitment to community engagement. "We need to bring Blayney up to where we’d like it to be," he said.
Iris Dorsett: A True Representative of the People
Iris focused on being a representative for the entire community. "My vision isn’t what’s important; it’s your vision that matters," she said, emphasising a community-driven approach.
Michelle Price-Jones: A Vision for Long-Term Growth
Michelle Price-Jones discussed her focus on financial sustainability and community engagement. "My vision is about ensuring financial sustainability while growing services," she said, highlighting her business background and passion for post-school pathways.
This forum provided a valuable opportunity for residents to learn more about the candidates’ visions for the future of Blayney, as well as their specific areas of expertise and interest. The election, scheduled for 14 September, will determine the leadership that will guide Blayney Shire through its next chapter following the departure of long time Mayor and Councillor Scott Ferguson and two of his fellow Councillors Cr Allan Ewin and Cr David Somervaille
Blayney is in a unique position in this election with only single candidates and no groups running, This makes casting your vote effective, and undertsanding a result more achievable. Good luck to all the candidates.
from facebook.com/blayneyrotary
MANDURAMA RFS SUCCESSFUL FUNDING
Just in time for fire season, Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has announced that funding from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership fund will help ensuring the Mandurama Rural Fire Service will have the necessary resources to allow them to function efficiently in times of emergency crisis.
Mr Toole said a grant of $5260 will allow the Mandurama brigade to purchase new equipment to allow quicker response times when a fire does break out.
“The funding will allow the installation of a new quick fill transfer pump,” he said.
“The pump will safely and quickly refill the fire trucks at 700 litres per minute which is a huge increase as the Mandurama brigades current pump can only refill the trucks at 120 litres per minute.”
Mr Toole said providing local RFS volunteers with up-to-date facilities and equipment are vital to community safety.
“As the local Member for Bathurst, in 2018 I attended the opening of the new Mandurama Fire Station which was an important upgrade for that location in the Blayney Shire,” he said.
“The old tin shed that served as their headquarters was outdated and the new facility now ensures a better equipped fire ready brigade.”
Mandurama RFS is always on the lookout for new members and welcomes anyone who would like to be part of the crew.
FUNDING: Captain Mark
Richardson and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole at Mandurama RFS Shed
Photo
New
gardens on display at Newbridge Spring into Art
There are three new gardens as part of the 2024 Spring into Art at Newbridge Open Gardens. Although only located within a few kilometres of one another, each has its own different and delightful features for visitors to discover.
In the village of Newbridge itself is The Bakehouse, with a garden built over thirty years from what was once a sheep paddock. While not planned, the garden has evolved through opportunistic adaptation of building work and former features such as the round yard, which is now a garden room. Look out for the rubble mound which is now a raised garden of native grasses - habitat to birds, insects and lizards – and the artefacts, dotted around the garden, from the site’s history as a home of butchers, blacksmiths and bakers.
Just on the edge of Newbridge village is The Blacksmiths Gallery and Elm Tree Maze. Also on a former sheep paddock, the maze is an oasis of hundreds of sucker trees that originated from their very old parent trees – Rock Elm trees (or Cork Elm), Ulmus thomasii. The sucker trees are so densely packed together that they now form a maze of hedges with meandering paths leading to tranquil spaces. Being deciduous, Rock Elms undergo a breathtaking transformation during October. Visitors can also watch a blacksmithing demonstration by Tom Miller and see displays of his work in the silo and container galleries.
The third new garden is around ten kilometres from Newbridge village, towards Kings Plains. Drive in through a small avenue of Acer Autumn Blaze and enter the relaxing parklike gardens of Whim Park. Here, hidden secret passageways and eye-catching treasures can be discovered amongst the sweeping green lawns and established trees, with a weeping maple garden surrounding the fishpond and deck. Visitors can wander to the dam – filled with lily pads – to count the fish, stroll through the small orchard and say hi to the farmyard chooks, call-ducks, guinea fowl and peacocks. As a special event, Drayshed Nursery will be open for business this one final time.
Tickets to the Open Gardens are $15 per adult for unlimited garden entries.
Jazz in the Garden is $30 per adult ticket, with the option of purchasing a dinner grazing box for collection onsite.
Both can be secured from Eventbrite (https://www. eventbrite.com.au/e/spring-into-art-at-newbridge-2024tickets-860538833817?aff=oddtdtcreator).
A reminder also that the Newbridge Art Show entries can be submitted via www.newbridgeartshow.com, with Opening Night on Friday, October 18 (RSVP to springintoartnew@ outlook.com).
YOU ARE INVITED TO
ATTEND A
GATHERING
TO COMMEMORATE 200 YEARS OF STONESTREETS IN AUSTRALIA 23 NOVEMBER 2024
MEET AT MILLTHORPE MUSEUM AT 10AM & LATER AT BLAYNEY GOLF CLUB FROM 5.30PM
RSVP 1st Oct: stonestreet1824@gmail.com
ROSEMARIE AMOS: 0412 699905
VICKI ANDREWS: 0401 927183
Works Update
Road Works
High Street, Portland: Stabilisation works are ongoing and expected to be completed by the end of this week or early next week, weather permitting. Sealing of this section will occur within the next 2 weeks. This treatment is necessary due to poor subgrade conditions and will extend the road’s lifespan.
Sunny Corner Road, Meadow Flat: New headwall installed and the first 2 kilometres stabilised with poor road seal removed. Works will continue to the Council boundary over the next few weeks, followed by sealing.
Maintenance Grading:
• Jerrys Meadow Road (completion next week)
• Old Bindo Road, Hampton
• Genowlan and Huntingdale Roads, Glen Alice Glen Davis Road: Completion early next week.
Glen Alice Road: Ongoing repairs with sealing in some areas within the next week.
Pothole Patching: Continuing on Hampton Road and in the Portland area, with efforts across the LGA.
Bridge replacement: Works commenced to replace the Red Hill Road Bridge in Upper Turon on 12th September, detours will be in place at the site, using a constructed side track for vehicles. This detour will be single-lane, and traffic control measures will be in place. These works are expected to take 16 weeks (weather permitting).
Upcoming works
Martins Road, Rydal: Starting in the next 2 weeks, including drainage clearing, road build-up, and fulllength sealing between Magpie Hollow Road and Hampton-Rydal Road.
Lithgow Street, Lithgow: Works between Mort Street and Proto Avenue starting Sunday night, 29th September, estimated to take 3-4 nights. Line marking to follow.
Tenders
The following Tenders EOI’s and Quotations are available for review and submission on the Lithgow City Council website:
• Ten17/24 Main Street CBD Footpath Improvements Stage 2
• Ten14/24 Sewer Mains Relining
• Ten01/24 Waste collection and organics processing services
Council now exclusively uses VendorPanel for sourcing quotations for goods and services.
Scan here for more information.
COUNCIL COLUMN
Help plan for our community’s future Council is currently reviewing the Community Strategic Plan 2036; ‘Our place…Our Future’. This plan sets the long-term direction for the Lithgow Local Government Area.
‘Our Place...Our Future’ is a chance for everyone to be involved in the future of the Lithgow region. We want people to think about what our community needs and speak up about it. In turn, council will use the plan to guide decision-making on its services and service standards, how community assets are managed and the development of community health and wellbeing programs.The first stage of gaining an understanding of community perceptions and priorities will be undertaken through a telephone survey, conducted by Micromex Research of randomly selected residents from across the local government area will be commence on Monday 16 September.
Once complete an online version of the phone survey will be made available for those members of the community who didn’t participate in the telephone survey but would like the opportunity to have their say. The survey will enable Council to:
• Identify what the community values most about living in the Lithgow area.
• Identify what the community believes are the highest priority issues will be in the Lithgow area over the next 10 years. And
• Assess community priorities when planning for Lithgow’s future.
Council will be undertaking further engagement and input sessions with residents and businesses in early 2025 to inform the Community Strategic Plan
Scan here for more information
Council appeals to Federal Ministers to reinstate the Main Street funding grant
The Council has sent letters to appeal to relevent Federal Ministers for the $1.9M Building Better Regions grant for the Main Street Revitalisation project to be reinstated. The variation to the project timeline was sought on the basis of the impacts of eight natural disasters on delivery of the project and difficulty in sourcing and retaining project managers. Councillors were only informed of the issue with the grant in the week prior to the Council meeting. Although the Grant Agreement expired in June 2024, it took some time to confirm the loss of the grant and to determine an action plan to progress the project.
The Council has completed the final design for the Main Street footpath upgrade. The tender for construction will be released this month for the section of footpath between Bridge to Eskbank Street.
Bulky Waste
The second Bulky Waste Collection of the year is scheduled for week starting 23rd September 2024. register by midday on Thursday 19th September. by either contacting Council’s Customer Service Office on 6354 9999 or completing an online form.
Scan here to register for bulky waste collection
Jobs at Council
Council is currently seeking applications for the following positions:
• Animal Shelter Officer
• Carpenter/Handyman
• Casual Learn to Swim Instructors
• Casual Lifeguards
• Mechanic
• Development planner
• Executive Assistant to Infrastructure & EconomyTemporary (Maternity Leave)
• Team Leader Development
• Temporary Storekeeper - up to 12 months
• Team Leader Environment & Regulatory Services
Scan here for more information or to apply
Don't miss the daffs!
The Daffodils at Rydal event kicked off last weekend with great weather, and fantastic crowds enjoying the spring beauty in the village.
The annual festival celebrates the beauty of thousands of daffodils planted across public parks, private gardens, and the historic village of Rydal, NSW. Visitors were able to explore a variety of gardens, enjoy live music performances, and take part in community activities, including an art and sculpture exhibition. The event also featured market stalls and food options, with all proceeds supporting local charities.
The festival is not only about daffodils; it also embraces local art and heritage, with a hop-on, hop-off bus service making it easy for visitors to navigate through the scenic village. Entry fees were $10, granting access to all gardens, and the proceeds went to charitable causes.
For those who missed this weekend, the event continues for a second weekend, promising more stunning floral displays and cultural activities. See you in Rydal!
Applications open for EnergyAustralia’s Mt Piper Community Grants
EnergyAustralia has opened applications for its second Community Grants round for 2024, with grants of up to $10,000 each, available to support sustainable and resilient community programs in the Lithgow region.
EnergyAustralia Head of Mt Piper Steve Marshall said he encourages community groups to apply for this round of grants, with applications open for the month of September.
“We’re incredibly proud to be part of Lithgow, a community that has been central to powering New South Wales homes and businesses for decades.
“The grants program has been running for almost a decade, and we’ve seen a huge breadth of incredible grassroots work being done in our community, all working to make it the place that it is.
EnergyAustralia grants are awarded to projects based on their potential to benefit the community in the following areas:
• Education: Projects aimed at promoting education – especially in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM). This includes programs that support career and skill development, Examples: energy literacy programs, educational resources, reconciliation and cultural learning, skills training, and establishing the future workforce.
• Sustainability: Funding aimed at promoting sustainability and energy efficiency.
Examples: sustainable gardens and landscapes, infrastructure and energy efficiency upgrades, appliance swaps, and respecting Indigenous and cultural heritage.
• Resilient communities: Funding aimed at promoting economic growth, tourism and social inclusion in local communities.
Examples: mental health initiatives, community events, sports, parks and recreation activities.
Each year Mt Piper provides around $120,000 in community grants and localised sponsorships for the Lithgow community.
Applications for EnergyAustralia’s Mt Piper Community Grants program open for two rounds each year in March and September. For more information on the grants and to apply, visit www. energyaustralia.com.au/grants for more information.
CWA Portland Branch Celebrates International Day with Focus on France
On Monday, 2nd September, the Portland Branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) held their annual International Day event at the Portland RSL, with over 60 guests in attendance. The event was a vibrant celebration of France, the featured country of this year’s gathering, and included a mix of cultural showcases, speeches, and delicious cuisine that the CWA is famous for!
Among the guests were Federal Member for Calare, Andrew Gee, and prominent Nationals leaders, David Littleproud and Sam Farraway, who lent their support to the community-focused event. Each of the dignitaries praised the CWA for its tireless work in fostering cultural understanding and supporting local communities. The annual morning tea was also attended by teachers and students from Portland Central School and St Josephs School.
President of the CWA Portland Branch, Pam Collis, expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and the support of the community and political leaders. “We are proud to host events that not only bring people together but also broaden our understanding of the world.”
The day was filled with lively discussions, traditional CWA hospitality, and a shared appreciation for France, making it a memorable occasion for all attendees.
Council appeals to Federal Ministers to reinstate the Main Street funding grant
The Council has signed off letters to appeal to Federal Ministers for the $1.9M Building Better Regions grant for the Main Street Revitalisation project to be reinstated.
The variation to the project timeline was sought on the basis of the impacts of eight natural disasters on Council's project delivery capacity and the inability to retain a Project Manager to complete the project.
Councillors were only informed of the issue with the grant in the week prior to the Council meeting. Although the Grant Agreement expired in June 2024, it took some time to confirm the loss of the grant and to determine an action plan to progress the project.
The Council has completed the final design for the Main Street footpath upgrade. The tender for construction will be released this month for the section of footpath between Bridge to Eskbank Street.
Editors Opinion
The above statement released by Lithgow City Council on 10 September highlights two facts that are irrefutable.
1. the money is gone and 2. there is another grant they could potentially access to fund this project.
Assuming the project is now ready to go, design complete and shovel ready, it should be a straight forward application. It is clearly not ideal that the money has been handed back, however, It seems the project was never going to be able to be delivered by the deadline in a way that satisfied the grant criteria nor the public expectation.
The incoming Council will have to look into this, but rather than a witch hunt of who is to blame, it should be a what went wrong and fix our internal systems that allow mistakes like this to happen. If our incoming COuncil is made up of people that are genuine abou t the change and transparencythey want to see, then there will need to be change on the way these projects are handled and public feedback is received.
Just an opinion. RE
Go team Wang! Lithgow District Champs!
Very proud of your effort today at the Lithgow District Athletics carnival. What is most notable is your willingness to give it everything you've got. This is consistent with our high expectation culture across the school. Congratulations to our age champs - Harper, Josh, Brax & Jax and Runners up - Emily & Zoey.
Thank you to Adam Gill and LPS for hosting the carnival and Ms Mobbs and Miss Jane for taking team Wang and all the parents and families for your support.
3/4 Super Silvers
This term, 3/4 Silver have been working hard! In English, we have been exploring narratives and used our mentor text, Rowan of Rin, as inspiration for constructing our own texts. We have written some amazing sequels to the novel which we can't wait to share with you. We have also used our mentor text to help us refine our reading fluency and comprehension skills.
In mathematics, we have been busy with a lot of hands on learning. We have explored 3D shapes, played around with fractions and time, continued to develop our skills in whole number and strategies in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
It has been lovely to have Miss Woodward work in our classroom as an intern from the University of Notre Dame, and it is always wonderful to have Miss Hagar supporting the learning in the classroom as well.
Keep up the great work, Super Silvers!
CANBERRA TRIP
My favourite part about our Canberra trip was the War Memorial because there were lots of memorable things from World War 1 from 1914 to 1918. We learned that since Australia had a red circle on their planes America thought they were Japanese planes so they bombed them. We also saw the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier from World War 1. We had to be quiet to respect the soldier who represents every dead unknown soldier from all the wars. At the foot of the tomb is inscribed “He is all of them and he is one of us.”'
By Daisy
Western Sydney University’s solar car team brings innovation to regional NSW
Western Sydney University’s Solar Car Team will take over regional New South Wales as part of their roadshow beginning on Monday, 9 September 2024, in Lithgow and finishing on Friday, 13 September, in Singleton.
The student-led team, supported by the School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, will share their passion for sustainability and innovation when they visit and meet with schools and community members throughout the week.
Team Manager, Nina Walters, said the team was looking forward to connecting with schools and communities, to share their message of sustainability.
“We're thrilled to connect with people in the community. This roadshow is a unique opportunity to share our passion for solar-powered innovation, including showcasing our latest highperformance solar car. It’s all about inspiring others to think sustainably,” said Nina.
The Solar Car team will travel through Lithgow, Bathurst, Parkes, Dubbo, Coonamble, Wee Waa, Narrabri, Gunnedah, Quirindi and Singleton. As a highlight of the regional roadshow, the team will display ‘UNLIMITED 5.0’, the car that scored the team a place of 9th overall and to be the only Australian team to cross the finish line in last year’s Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.
‘UNLIMITED 5.0’ features a three-wheeled design, with aluminium suspension and a carbon fibre chassis manufactured entirely in-house by the team. The car’s top speed is 118km/h and took two years to design, engineer and manufacture. It can travel 400km using the same amount of energy a Tesla needs to travel 26km.
Here they are!! Our exceptional PCS SAS staff.
As we celebrate SAS Staff Recognition Week, I want to extend my thanks to everyone for their dedication and hard work, including those who aren’t in the picture. Your contributions are vital to our school. Visit our website for more information https://portland-c.schools.nsw.gov.au
Producing six cars, over more than a decade, the team became the first international team to win the American Solar Challenge in 2018, beating Michigan University’s 8-year winning streak. The team also broke the record in 2019 for the lightest solar-powered vehicle ever to race weighing only 116.8 kilograms.
The Solar Car Team is made up of 25 students from the fields of engineering, communications, business, IT, computer, and science. They manage every aspect of the production and design of the vehicle, as well as sponsorship, marketing and the administrative elements of their involvement in international competitions. The team utilise world-class facilities at the Advanced Manufacturing Precinct based at Kingswood.
The roadshow follows the University’s recent success in the prestigious Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings, where it was named number one in the world for its social, ecological and economic impact, for a ground-breaking three years in a row.
Winner of Bathurst Regional Council’s Community Event of the Year for 2023
26TH & 27TH OCTOBER, 2024
Beautiful Open Gardens to explore in the Bathurst area.
For more information see our Web and Facebook pages
bathurstgardenclub.org.au The Bathurst Gardeners’ Club Spring Spectacular Larraine Griffin - larrieg20a@gmail.com 0435786485 Bathurst Gardeners’ Club Spring Spectacular 2024
PUBLIC EDUCTION AT WORK IN OUR REGION
Relieving
Meadow Flat Public School
2630 Great Western Highway, Meadow Flat
Ph: 6359 5259
Principal: Michael Wood
Portland Central School
12A Wolgan St, Portland
Ph: 6355 5233
Principal: Matt Quirk
Wallerawang Public School
77 Barton Ave, Wallerawang
Ph: 6355 1210
The Greater Lithgow Valley Community of Practice brings together the NSW Department of Eduction schools within the local area.
Zag Public School
23 Victoria Ave, Lithgow
Ph: 6351 2352
Principal: Vicki Gillmore
Zig
SUPPORTING CHILDREN’S EDUCATION A KEY PRIORITY FOR LITHGOW VIEW CLUB THIS ANTI-POVERTY WEEK
Members of LITHGOW VIEW Club are calling on the community to give generously this Anti-Poverty Week [13-19 October] and sponsor a child through national children’s education charity The Smith Family. The focus of this Anti-Poverty Week is to end child poverty in Australia,
LITHGOW VIEW Club helps children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life education support program, which provides families with long term educational, financial, and personal assistance so that children have all the essentials needed to fully participate in their learning.
This year has been difficult for all Australians due to the cost-of-living increases, but has particularly hard for those families already doing it tough.
President of the LITHGOW VIEW Club said with one in six children in Australia growing up in poverty, there has never been a more important time to support a child with their education.
“Families are having to make impossible choices during this cost-of-living crisis, this could be prioritising rent over sending their child on a school excursion, being able to afford schoolbooks or essential digital learning tools.
“A laptop and reliable internet access at home are now vital for any child’s education.
“No child should have to miss out on the essentials for their education, and this is why VIEW is so passionate about supporting the work of The Smith Family. Its evidence-based approach helps children experiencing disadvantage to overcome the educational inequality they face. They support students for the duration of their education, and this helps them build the confidence and skills needed to create better futures for themselves,” she said.
VIEW Clubs raised more than $1.5 million nationally last year to support The Smith Family’s important work, and they currently sponsor over 1,760 students on the Learning for Life scholarship program.
VIEW Clubs have also raised nearly $400,000 for The Smith Family’s Digital Learning Essentials program, that aims to close the digital divide and allow students fully participate in their schooling.
While fundraising plays a vital role in helping children in need, Sue is also encouraging women of all ages to donate their time and skills by joining a VIEW club.
Last year, VIEW members collectively volunteered over 70,000 hours of their time to help young people through homework, reading and mentoring programs run by the charity–but there’s still a need for more helping hands.
“Our VIEW members have a unique opportunity to provide hands-on support to children experiencing disadvantage, while also forming meaningful and lasting community relationships,” Sue said
“Recently, members in our local area have been participating in various fun raising activities.
To find out more about joining VIEW, visit view.org.au or call 1800 805 366.
To sponsor a child through The Smith Family, visit thesmithfamily.com.au or call1800 633 622.
Table Tennis Update
Round Four of the Lithgow Table Tennis Association Summer Competition produced large winning margins in both matches when it was played at the La Salle Academy Sports Hall.
Charolais and The Boys split the opening two rubbers, with The Boys taking a narrow 3-2 lead. It was short-lived however, as Charolais raced through the last eight rubbers for the loss of only three games to post an emphatic 18-6 victory.
All of the Charolais side made solid contributions to the win, with John Cox going 6-1, Shane Eagle 6-2, and Linda Kappos 4-3.
The Boys went into the match a player short, and the remaining members took on the extra workload to make up the shortfall. Both Mark McAulay and Jordan Barry, in his competition debut, finished at 3-8, losing several close games along the way.
The other match saw Spinners take a stranglehold from the outset, securing the first four rubbers against Grippers for an 8-1 break. Grippers stemmed the tide slightly to reduce the gap to 8-3 but Spinners were untroubled, easing away to take the spoils, 15-5.
For Spinners, Riza Wiradi produced a perfect 6-0 result, just bettering teammate Kevin Wright’s 6-1, while Pauline Wellfare went 3-4.
None of the Grippers’ contingent made it into positive territory, as Leon Rust posted 3-5, Lou Kappos 2-4, and Sharnie Roberts an unlucky 0-6.
Pointscore: Charolais 12, Spinners 12, The Boys 8, Grippers 1.
PieProof Unveils Innovative Cycle Helmets to Defend Against Magpie Attacks
PieProof, an innovative Australian company, is thrilled to meet the 2024 magpie swooping season head on with world-first helmets designed to keep Aussie cyclists safer.
When Dutch-Australian Engineer Leo Boesten was left sore and bleeding after being attacked by aggressive Magpies on one of his rides, he asked, ‘Why hasn’t someone done something about this?’ What followed was a quest to keep cyclists safe during the annual menace of the Magpie breeding season which stretches from late July through to early November.
Leo recognised early in the process that an angry magpie won’t be deterred from attacking a cyclist by some wobbly cable ties and googly eyes attached to a helmet. While these home-made solutions are great at giving the surrounding traffic something to laugh at, their performance has been repeatedly debunked.
The focus instead moved to providing an engineered solution to the problem. PieProof helmets protect the rider from direct injury enabling them to stay calm, focus on the road ahead and avoid the urge to fight off the bird and potentially crash in the process. Each year thousands of injuries occur in this way and sadly even some fatalities. (Check MagpieAlert.com for a
running tally of logged National attacks)
The PieProof patent-pending design stops sharp beaks and claws from contacting the rider using a strong, integrated petproof mesh that covers the helmet vents, sturdy ear protectors and a visor which protects the eyes and face when coupled with glasses. Both the ear protectors and the visor are detachable making the helmets suitable for use outside of the swooping season. The helmets also have a rechargeable, integrated LED tail lamp for extra nighttime safety.
Magpies are Just Protecting Their Young. These beautiful birds perceive humans as a threat to their offspring and around 10% of males display aggressive behaviour to scare off the intruder. Once you’ve travelled through the bird’s territory, the attack stops. It is not practical to avoid the area because birds often nest on busy cycling routes and magpies tend to nest at different times throughout the season.
Weighing just 270 grams (medium size), PieProof helmets
are incredibly lightweight, well-ventilated and comfortable. In keeping with the Magpie theme, only Black and White colours are available!
Many cyclists simply avoid riding during the Spring months which just happen to be the best riding weather. With PieProof helmets, cyclists can ride with confidence all year knowing that they are protected from these unexpected challenges.
PieProof helmets are available for just $109.95 from select stockists or online at PieProof.com.au and Amazon. Check the website for stockist details.
Editors Note: Whilst this is not a Central West based business, this is just the kind of Aussie ingenuity we love and ther eis certainly a market here with our own Magpie residents
Innaugural Portland Workshops
The creative team behind The Foundations in Portland are excited to present to you the first of the Portland Workshops.
The workshops, held in the historic industrial grounds of the Foundations, formerly the Portland Cement Works (established 1902), has a wealth of visual stimulus at your fingertips. Its extraordinary how the attitude to life changes in regional Australia; only 2.5hrs by car from Sydney city, Portland is a world away from the hustle.
We are delighted to present our first in-depth 2 day workshop, and to have you join us at the table for creative conversations over lunch and dinner. We can’t wait to have you join us- leaving reinvigorated, stimulated, with an appetite for play!
With an award winning, highly experienced lineup of facilitators, these workshops are aimed to hone the focus of your art practice whilst creating community connections.
This first offering for these workshops include dynamic drawing, contemporary watercolour, abstract painting, and handbuilt ceramics presented by leading practitioners with a passion for their medium.
There is an option of joining us for a shared lunch and Saturday night dinner, as well as a music/ dance offering on Friday night. (All dietary requirements available)
The course descriptions below give you a taste of what is available, please click the web link for further information.
Accommodation is available both in Portland and Wallerawang; click the web link for further information and contact numbers
The workshops will be held on the historical grounds of the Portland Foundations, the cement works that built Sydney, opened in 1902. Portland is in the largest First Nations Country in Australia - Wiradjuri Country.
Now a heritage listed site, The Portland Workshops are proud to present our first in-depth 2 day workshops on such a historical location, we can’t wait to have you join us!
Colour, Composition and Play: The Portland Workshops
30th November - 1st December 2024, 9:00am-4:00pm
Expressive Drawing, From en plein air to the studio - Jody Graham
Join Jody Graham for an intensive two-day workshop designed to master the art of transforming outdoor sketches into mixed media drawings and paintings developed in the studio. Be guided in selecting compelling compositions from a rich variety of subjects, including the industrial heritage architecture of the
cement works, historic residential buildings, shopfronts, and natural quarry landscapes.
A dynamic, energetic two days will leave you empowered to make decisions in the studio.
About Jody:
Jody Graham’s practice encompasses drawing, mixed media, sculpture, performance, and installation. Materiality and mark making are at the core of Graham’s multidisciplinary art. She relentlessly explores new materials and investigates contemporary art making and drawing techniques.
Jody has frequent solo exhibitions and is frequently the finalist in major art prizes, winning both the Adelaide Drawing Prize and the Hornsby Sculpture prize 2022. A Portland local, Jody is a key member of the Portland Workshops team
Jody Graham lives and works on Wiradyuri Country and Gadigal Wangal Country
Watercolour, A Contemporary Take - Gina Bruce Gina Bruce: 'Carcoar Now and Imagined'
Fire your passion for watercolour by understanding traditional painting methods and learning contemporary mark making techniques.
Whilst this workshop utilises subject matter that includes both still life and the heritage architecture and landscape of the Foundations, Gina will discuss how she uses techniques to reference memory and the subconscious.
The Portland Workshops is proud to partner with Gina to galvanise unique and contemporary relationships between watercolour and place.
About Gina:
Award winning, internationally recognised painter Gina Bruce’s first love is watercolour. The outdoors her second, ‘working ‘en plein air’ is an intrinsic part of her practice. She is well recognised as being a finalist in the Sulman, Dobell and the Portia Geach Award, to name a few. Gina has extensive teaching experience including the National Art School, consolidated with a Masters in Teaching.
Gina Bruce lives and works on Bidjigal and Gadigal Country.
Abstraction,Colour and Energy in Paint - Tonee Messiah
Tonee Messiah: 'Left Side of Living'
Build confidence in abstract painting methods. Tonee teaches how to read your experiences and translate them into creative abstract responses. Guiding you through the fundamentals of colour mixing, and translation of subject matter into colour as a tool of creative expression. Her considered playful approach
will establish confidence to develop way into abstract thinking and making.
About Tonee:
Internationally recognised abstract painter, Tonee Messiah, transfers her energy for life into painting and teaching. She considers painting like another form of thinking, and as her surfaces build, so does her response to the world around her. Holding a Masters of Fine Arts (UNSW), Tonee, represented by galleries in Sydney and Melbourne, we are excited to have her teaching in the Portland Workshops.
Tonee Messiah lives and works on Gadigal-Wangal Country.
Ceramics and the Embodied Form - Holly Macdonald
Holly Macdonald: 'Sun On The Fence'
Drawing on the rich history and built environment of the Portland site we will work with the softness and immediacy of clay, collage and the ceramic process to develop sculptural ceramic objects that speak to/embody? a sense of place and memory. The workshop will cover handbuilding techniques, such as pinch and slab building, using midfire clay bodies. Participants will be guided to explore the different marks, textures and patterns one can make in clay using the hands, body and impressions taken from the local environment. We will also work with coloured slips and brush on glazes.
Ceramic works made over the weekend will be once-fired to be collected by participants at a later date. All levels of ceramic experience are welcome.
About Holly:
Holly Macdonald uses clay to interrogate the dynamic relationship between object, memory and place. Exhibiting throughout Australia, undertaking esteemed residencies both internationally and locally, and extensive teaching experience led us to asking Holly to join our teaching team. Integrating form, colour and line to produce vibrant and unique pieces Holly’s works question the form and make us interrogate the domestic and the embodied, allowing conversations to emerge about place, and the individuals relationship within it.
Holly Macdonald lives and works on Awabakal and Worimi Country. For all the information and ticket bookings please visit https://events. humanitix.com/colour-compositionand-play-portland-workshops
LEO, ROVING REPORTER
Report from: My Desk Story filed: Belonging
Hi there, dear reader. I have a question; what does belonging mean to you? I only ask you this because
I have to do a case study booklet on Belonging as part of my term 3 art assignment. The first part of our art assignment was to create a body of work that fits with the Belonging theme and now we're onto the second part which is to create a case study booklet on Belonging: Family, Faith, and Friends.
I think belonging is the sense of being able to feel comfortable in a certain place or around certain people. I also think that there's a couple of factors that lead to a sense of belonging, like belonging to a certain place like a family home, or certain people like your friends, family, or any of your social groups.
One of our strongest feelings of belonging must be with our family as they are who we spend most of our time with from the moment we are born. So, to lose that sense of belonging with your family or maybe not have been able to experience it at all would hurt - I could only assume. I didn't dive too deep into it but that's what I think belonging means.
Until next time
Leo Roving Reporter
BUNNINGS BACKS COMMUNITY FOOTY WITH LAUNCH OF $250,000 GRANTS PROGRAM
MAKING WHAT’S GREAT ABOUT LOCAL CLUBS EVEN BETTER
Five deserving local football clubs across Australia will receive $50,000 worth of products and materials as AFL Partner Bunnings announces applications are open for its new ‘Home Ground Advantage’ grants program.
With participation in community footy at an all-time high, Bunnings has developed the initiative to support ever-increasing demand on local club facilities and to celebrate what is unique about community football clubs in Australia. The grants are set to help five clubs elevate an existing element of their facilities that gives them their ‘Home Ground Advantage’.
The successful entries will receive $50,000 worth of Bunnings product and materials to build on the clubs’ legacy, aiming to make what’s great about their club even better.
Sydney Swans AFL star Tom Papley and GWS Giants AFLW All-Australian Alyce Parker were today announced as the New South Wales ambassadors for the campaign.
The pair, who have backgrounds in trade and agriculture respectively, are encouraging club representatives across the country to apply for their chance to receive one of five $50,000 grants.
“Local footy remains the heart and soul of communities across Australia, including in New South Wales," said Tom Papley.
“All clubs are unique and special – there’s nothing quite like the love for your team and putting the jumper on.
“Bunnings wants to showcase what makes your footy club great and what makes it heart and soul.
“It’s going to be so good to see the winning clubs and how Bunnings elevates them.”
“Country towns are built around their community centres, groups and sporting teams, added Alyce Parker.
“Coming from a small town in southern New South Wales, I’ve seen first hand how unique and special they are to those that call them home.
“Bunnings is offering a chance to entrench your club’s legacy.
“I can’t wait to see the five winning clubs and learn about their stories.”
Participation in Australian Rules Football is at an all-time high across the nation, exceeding more than 528,000 players in 2024 and breaking the game’s all-time registered participation record of 526,000 set last year.
This includes women and girls participation rising 11 per cent, making up more than 20 per cent of the overall total.
The Home Ground Advantage program is open to all Australian football clubs, big and small, as Bunnings hopes to uncover those hidden gems of community football and celebrate what makes them unique.
Clubs can now apply for the Bunnings Home Ground Advantage grants at www.bunnings.com.au/campaign/ home-ground-advantage. Applications close September 30, with the five successful clubs to be notified on October 18.
Puzzles
1. Supplant
5. Sundae
9. Crisscross weave
12. Covetous
16. Windscreen cleaner
17. Car crash
18. Non-barking dog
20. Arctic chipping tool (3,4)
22. Hickory nut
23. Railway traffic controller
24. Rope loops
26. Committed to memory
27. Reply
28. Red seasoning powder (7,6)
31. In vain, to no ...
32. Coves
34. Oblique
36. ... chi (1’2)
37. Disdainful manner
40. Restless, ... at ease
42. Flower jars
43. Greek fable teller
45. Marijuana
47. Reduce, ... down
49. Pre-Soviet emperors
50. Triangular flags
52. Wanderer
54. Turn outwards
55. Female zebras
56. Baby sheep
58. Pickle preservative
59. Parish minister
60. Boat’s spine
61. Over-beautify, gild the ...
62. Banana casings
63. Cult hero
64. Equine complex
67. Nervous, on ...
68. Deciduous trees
69. Ignoramuses
72. Gall
74. Waking-hours fantasies
78. Zodiac sign
79. Alphabet (1,1,1)
80. Sergeant, Senior ... (1,1,1)
81. Raising agent
82. Gumleaf-eating animal
85. Adhered
87. Thrust forward
88. Droops
90. Formally endorsed
91. Knocks softly
92. Ragamuffin
93. Whereabouts excuse
94. Transfer sticker
95. Wildebeests
96. Nimble
97. Overstate
100. Brand of sneakers
102. Great Wall of ...
103. Donkeys
104. Document, Magna ...
106. Mystified, all ... (2,3)
108. Vintage
109. East-northeast (1,1,1)
110. Hollywood is there, ... Angeles
112. Removes jockey’s seat
116. Mum & ...
118. Mixed (of salad)
120. Ferrous metal
121. Ku Klux ...
123. Hiring fee
125. Observatory roof shape
126. New Zealanders
127. Jam pastry
128. Dutch cheese
129. Sacred song
130. Magnified map section
131. Pull 132. Openings 134. Concave marks
136. Nasal bone cavity
139. Forgiven
141. Represented, ... for 142. Duchess of York
144. Good 146. Waistline 147. Rekindled
148. Throw out, get ... of
149. Deports
151. Short-lived trend
152. Conundrum
155. Gigolo (3,3)
158. W Australian city
159. Rough equivalent
162. Pushes (shirt in)
164. Gives speech
165. Indigenous
166. Overused
170. Sat for artist
171. Barge in
School tunic 173. Milk coffee style
Recluse 175. Earn
176. Observable 177. As a whole (2,3)
Mocked
1. Hip-hop vocalist 2. Tea farm 3. From Buenos Aires 4. Involve (in quarrel)
5. Doubt innocence of 6. Focusing glass
7. Cotton on 8. Obvious
9. Priggish
10. Prayer ending
11. Chauffeurs
12. Indonesian capital
13. Limb removals
14. Paid profession
15. Summer shoe
19. Dance to jazz
21. Complain
Cummerbunds 26. Charters 29. Irritate
30. Writer, ... Hemingway
33. Able to be rubbed out 35. Spotted felines
Unsubtly 38. Took to the air
39. Herring relatives 41. Apathy 42. Vitality
44. The P of RPM 46. Steam generator 48. Inspired 49. Daze
51. Dame ... Melba
53. Area for repairing ships (3,4)
55. Incapacitating 57. ... & brace
60. Water-garden fish
65. Ghosts
66. Dumb waiters
70. Barbie playthings
71. Indisputable (4-3-4)
73. Jumping marsupials
75. Wheel shaft 76. Meditated
77. Drone bee’s sex 78. Pinpointed 83. Corrosive fluids
84. Opera solos
85. Public (duty)
86. Goat mammary gland
89. Sneaky
91. Treat (cow hide)
92. Cricket fielder
96. Paintbrush hair
98. Horse restraint
99. Mentally sound
101. Scent, ... cologne (3,2)
103. Postal inscription
105. Charges with gas
107. Said “sorry” 111. Likeliest to win (4-2) 112. Undress
113. Complied, ... by the rules 114. Goes with flow
115. Body cosmetics
117. Sherlock Holmes creator, ... Conan Doyle
119. Mobile phone’s ... card
120. Obstructing
122. Birth of Jesus, The ...
Bushranger, ... Kelly
Occupant
Table part
Legendary kingdom, El ...
N African desert
Louse egg
Spinner of yarns
Robins
Belts
Actor, Charlton ...
Presided
Being tops, ... supreme
Envisage
Virtuoso
Experiencing a run of
(2,1,4)
Overflowed
Burst
Use book
Next
Savvy
Massive
Irishman
Cosmonaut, ... Gagarin
Prima donna
