gresford news february 2015

TheG resford NewsNews of the communities of the Paterson and Allyn River Valleys

February 2015

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

Preparations for ANZAC centenary

This year communities and towns around Australia are planning to celebrate the centenary of the Anzac landing at Gallipoli on Sunday

25/4/1915. Gresford of course is also working hard toward this end and the community has come together to make this a very special event and to leave a legacy for future generations.

Gresford unlike many other small towns has no WW1 memorial and we had no definitive list of those who were born in the district and who served abroad during WW1. This is being remedied and a memorial grove with commemorative plaques will be dedicated to these men (and women) on Anzac day.

Read more in the Historical Society feature inside.

Homecoming celebrations at Eccleston February 1920. Lawrie Hipwell is 3rd from left in the front row. Alf Foster and Wilfred Jarrett are the two uniformed men in the middle row and Jack Edwards is the man in uniform in the back row on the right.

The home coming celebratory cake at Eccleston, February 1920.

Visit www.gresfordnsw.com.au for local information and the ‘Gresford News’ online.Gresford News audio version available for visually impaired. Phone 0412 372 687 for this service.

The Gresford News Community DiaryThurs 5 Feb Land Cookery Competition, Gresford CWA Rooms, 9.30am

Sun 8 Feb Live music – Rough Diamonds, Hotel Beatty, 1.00pm

Tues 10 Feb Gresford School of Arts meeting, Gresford School of Arts Hall, 7.30pm

Fri 13 Feb Gresford Vacy Football Club, Information session, Gresford Sporting Complex, 3.15pm

Sat 14 Feb CWA Book Club, Gresford CWA Rooms, 9.30am

Sat 14 Feb Live music – Redrock with Art, Farmers Hotel, 8.00pm

Mon 16 Feb Small Biz Bus & WorkCover NSW Info Van, outside Gresford School of Arts Hall, East Gresford, 1.30pm

Tues 17 Feb Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am

Sat 21 Feb Poppies for Rememberance Day workshop, Gresford CWA Rooms, 3.00pm

Sun 22 Feb Live music – Neil Farmer, Hotel Beatty, 1.00pm

Mon 23 Feb GAPS AGM, School of Arts Hall, 7.30pm

Sat 28 Feb St Annes Church Fete, Stalls, BBQ, Raffle, Chocolate Wheel, Tea & Coffee, 5.30pm

Fri-Sat 13-14 Mar Gresford Show, Gresford Showground

Sat 4 Apr 2015 Gresford Billy Cart Derby, Park Street, East Gresford – hold onto your hats!!!

Tuesdays Spring/summer mixed Tuesday nights tennis, 7.30–9.30pm

Mon/Tues Social ladies tennis starts, Mon or Tues mornings, Gresford Tennis Courts, 9.30–11.00am

Friday afternoons Junior tennis coaching, Gresford Tennis Courts

1st Mon each month Gresford Community Group Meeting, 5.30pm, Hotel Beatty, all welcome! (not Jan)

1st Wed each month Gresford Rural Fire Brigade meeting, station, 7.30pm

1st Thurs each month CWA Gresford Branch Meeting, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 9.30am (not Jan)

2nd Mon each month Gresford Historical Society Meeting, RSL Rooms, 10.3 0am (not Dec, Jan or June)

2nd & 4th Mon each month Family & Child Health Clinic, Paterson school of Arts Hall, 4932 9768 for appt’s

2nd Tues each month Gresford District Landcare Group Meeting, Hotel Beatty, 7.30pm (not Jan)

2nd Sat each month Book Club, CWA rooms, East Gresford, 3.00pm (not Dec or Jan)

3rd Tues each month Paterson Allyn Garden Group meet, 10.00am (not Jan)

3rd Fri each month Gresford Public School P&C Meeting, school library, 10.00am

3rd Sun each month Gresford Community Market, Therese Doyle Hall, 9 til 2 (not Dec, Christmas Fair 1st Sat)

Last Thurs each month Gresford District Agricultural Society Meeting, Showground Luncheon Pavilion, 7.30pm

Every Wed, Fri & Sun Gresford Bowls Sport & Recreation Club Raffles, from 6.30pm

Every Mon & Fri (school terms) Gresford Pre-School, Gresford Community Hall, 4938 9288, 9.00am

Every Thur Happy hour and free pool and jukebox at the Hotel Beatty

Every Fri Cricket Club Raffles at the Hotel Beatty

Every Fri (school terms) Yoga for active bodies with Donna Cavanough, Therese Doyle Youth Hall, 9.00 – 10.30am

Every Wed Gresford PlayTime, children 0-5 & carers, Gresford Community Hall, 4992 2401, 10.00am

Every Sunday The Gresford Congregational Church welcomes you, 10.30am

To contact Gresford News: email [email protected] or call Brian Doherty on 0412 372 687 or Jane Richens on 0425 339 856. Postal Address: PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311. Deadline for stories and ads 20th of the month. For text – Word format preferred. For pictures – .jpg format preferred (not in word). Please keep us informed about activities in the area – a paragraph or two and photo.

✃Please support your local newsletter and contribute anonymously or use the slip below and place your donations in the boxes provided in Gresford. I would like to make an annual donation to the Gresford News:

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financesThe resford NewsG

VACY AND GRESFORD DANCE CENTRE

For all enquires please contact Brooke

Phone: 0437354577

Email: [email protected]

Jazz, Tap, BalletCheerleading

Expressions Of Interest:Adults Jazz Class

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Gresford NewsCLASSIFIEDS

Gresford Notices

MOVING SALE93 View Street, Vacy (off Horns

Crossing Road). 7am start Sat & Sun 7th and 8th February, 2014.

Rain Hail or shine! 42” Hustler Lawnmower, Mulcher, Lots of camp

ovens, Tirfor hand winch, Large anvil, Firefighter pump, Wooden garden

seats, Craft items, Much more.

TENdEr PAddOck fOr LEASE

Kangaroo Creek, 2375 Glendonbrook Road, Gresford 2311.

43 Acres clear - dam and creek Lease 1-3 years plus land rates to be

included in Tender submission. Enquiries: P Saxby 11 Korora Basin

Road Korora 2450 Tel: 02 66536523. Tenders close: Feb 16, 2015

Advertise in the GrESfOrd NEWS cLASSIfIEdS

Classified Ad Rates are:Standard line listing $2.50 a line

or $10 for 5 lines

Gresford News is available

online – visitwww.gresfordnsw.com.au

An audio version is also available

for the visually impaired

Phone0412 372 687

A busy few months coming up

around GresfordGresford Show

Friday 13 & Saturday 14 MarchGresford Showground

Visit http://gresfordshow.com.au to get the schedule and entry details

for the exhibits.

Gresford Billy Cart DerbyEaster Saturday – 4 April

Is your cart ready? Same specifications as last year available at https://

gresfordbillycartderby.wordpress.com/entry-details/

ANZAC Day commemorations

Saturday 25 April More details about activities in the

next Gresford News

Soon in the Gresford NewsRead the story of a local family that has been providing a service to the district’s community for 150 years. It all started in Vacy back in 1865...

Congratulations to locals

Olivia RichardsonOlivia Richardson has been

selected as the winner of Miss Maitland Showgirl

for 2015 from eleven entrants.

Shaun ThompsonShaun Thompson will compete in

Kentucky USA as part of the Australian Mounted Games National Team. The games

will be held in July and Shaun will be competing

as part of a five person team from Australia.

Zoe ButlerZoe Butler has been named in the

Australian Under 13 team to play in Barcelona in November in 2015.

Zoe started playing for the Scorpions and then went on to play for the

Hunter Valley Hawks and now she is playing for Thornton in the

Womens Premier league.

Gresford General Store and Post OfficeHome of the Crossroads Cafe

162 Durham Road Gresford (Cnr Lostock & Durham Road)Phone 4938 9239

Open 7 days from 7.00 am

Take away fOOd OPen daily and unTil 7Pm THurS–Sunday

Gourmet fresh cut sandwiches and real Milkshakes available – BBQ Chickens – Ice – DVDs – Grocery – Ice Creams – Drinks –

Pizza also available from 5pm Thursday–Sunday

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• IF I STAY • BEFORE I GO TO SLEEP • BOYHOOD • WHIPLASH •• PLAYING IT COOL • DECODING ANNIE PARKER •

TheG resford News • February 2015, p 7

What’s on the Shelves?

by Glenda Smith

Mr Darwin’s ShooterRoger McDonald

Narrated in two strands, thirty years apart, this novel is an exploration of the life of Syms Covington, who was Charles Darwin’s field assistant. It is an extraordinary story of self-determination and the minutiae of history, written in prose that reveals the idiosyncrasies of the characters and their time. In both strands of the story, Covington is close to another man who helps reflect his passions and pre-occupations. This technique is very effective in giving the reader different perspectives on the central character.

In the earlier strand, Covington is recruited as a ship’s boy by John Phipps, a benevolent man in accord with Covington’s own Christian beliefs. His second narrative keystone is a younger man, Dr MacCracken, who saves Covington from death by peritonitis at Watson’s Bay in the colony of New South Wales. The figure of Charles Darwin hovers behind the scenes as both mentor to the young Covington and threat to his peace of mind in anticipating the publication of On the Origin of Species.

Covington is a simple man in many ways, but his consciousness is subtle and his portrayal is a masterly portrait of determination, inspiration and fortitude. It is a very rewarding book to read, and gives a sidelong glance into the world of Charles Darwin through a fascinating companion.

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Career opportunities in shireComing up in early 2015: lifestyle and accredited courses.

Bread Baking : with Simon Brownbridge of Fosterton Farm Bakery. In this hands-on course, discover how to turn a few simple ingredients into delicious bread.

First Aid Certificate : get your certificate and have peace of mind.

Aged Care Certificate III CHC30212: This qualification is the entry level course to work in aged care facilities. It includes 14 focused units and a significant level of work placement (the best way to get jobs). Become part of a caring, growing industry with a certificate that qualifies you to work anywhere in Australia. Offered by Novaskill Singleton.

Diploma of Management BSB51107: Whether you manage people, a business or a group – or have management ambitions – this course gives you the skills. Train up in team effectiveness, financial management, budgeting, professional development, project management, marketing and customer service. This course is accredited for the VET Fee-Help student loan system. Offered by BCA National.

Bookkeeping Certificate IV FNS40211: Master the essentials of bookkeeping. If you are looking to maintain the financial records for your own business or are considering a career as a contract bookkeeper or BAS consultant, this course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need. Offered by BCA National.

Also coming up: Ceramics, Diploma of CounsellingGet on the mailing list! [email protected]


Is Dungog Shire 'Fit for the Future'? Community feature

The clock is ticking. Dungog Shire Council has to produce a road map for a sustainable future by 30 June this year.

The NSW Office of Local Government has been driving a 'Fit for the Future' process following the final report of the NSW Independent Local Government Review Panel. The Panel assessed all NSW local councils for their future sustainability and in relation to Dungog Council said "All Hunter councils appear financially sustainable, with the possible exception of Dungog, which has ‘Weak-Negative’ FSR (Financial Sustainability Rating) and received a ‘Distressed’ rating in DLG’s (NSW Division of Local Government) Infrastructure Audit. The Panel understands that Dungog council itself has reservations about its capacity to meet its infrastructure obligations in the medium term, and an updated sustainability assessment needs to be undertaken as soon as possible. That assessment should consider the option of merging Dungog with Maitland."

It also said "Port Stephens council appears likely to remain sustainable in its present form well into the future, and there are no pressing boundary issues. The only change that might be considered in the

shorter term is the possible transfer of the area west of the Williams River to an amalgamated Dungog-Maitland."

While putting amalgamation on the table the thrust of the Review Panel and the 'Fit for the Future' process has been to provide benchmarks (see illustration opposite) for local councils to respond to. Basically councils are being asked to show that they have a forward plan to fund their operations and infrastructure.

At the October council meeting Dungog Council's General Manager, Craig Deasey, provided the following figures for Council's performance over 2012-14 in relation to the Fit for the Future 'Sustainability' benchmarks (see illustration). Operating Performance ratio average – 0.13% (✖ not break even); Own source revenue ratio average of 51.27% (✖ less than 60%); Building and infrastructure asset renewal ratio average 193.33% (✓ greater than 100%).

While these figures show that some improvement is required the biggest hurdle for council is likely to be in the areas of infrastructure backlog and asset maintenance. And overarching all these considerations is whether or not

amalgamation would be able to address these issues better.

Since October 2014 the Dungog General Manager and the Mayor, Harold Johnston, have had initial discussions on 'Fit for the Future' with their counterparts on Maitland City Council, Port Stephens Council and Singleton Shire Council.

Craig Deasey reported to the December Council meeting that "Both Port Stephens & Singleton Councils have advised that they have no desire to merge with Dungog Shire Council, boundary adjustments were also discussed in view of some sentiments that exist within the broader community. Port Stephens Council advised that dependent upon the outcome of Councils assessment and views of the community they may be prepared to enter a further dialogue as regards the Clarence Town area. Discussions with Singleton in respect of the Gresford planning precinct did not result in the Council expressing a similar view to that of Port Stephens." and "Obviously both Councils are mindful of the potential resource impacts that a boundary adjustment could impose upon their existing LGA's as regards their sustainability, future service delivery and their capacity to meet the fit for the future criteria."

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Meanwhile Maitland City Council recently voted to start discussion with Dungog Shire Council regarding a possible merger. The Maitland Mercury reported on 28 January that "Cr Arch Humphery said he was concerned that a merger with Dungog might mean Maitland would become, at least partly, financially responsible for addressing the shire’s $42 million infrastructure backlog.

He said Maitland ratepayers were already dealing with a seven year rate rise that was introduced to help council become financially sustainable.

“I wouldn’t support getting a dollar from the ratepayers of Maitland [to address the backlog],” Cr Humphery said."

I spoke to our Mayor Harold Johnston, who also pointed to some negatives with amalgamation. He said that

representation could be as low as a single councilor representing the Dungog Shire area, rates would almost certainly be higher and that amalgamation will not change the fact that State and Federal money will still be needed to address infrastructure requirements. The Dungog Chamber of Commerce President, Jennifer Lewis, has also raised concerns in the past that amalgamation could impact the Shire's identity. Questions would also have to be answered about impacts on service levels and local employment.

On a more positive note Harold Johnston flagged some possibilities for the Shire to improve its financial position in the future. He pointed out that the Independent Pricing Tribunal is now looking at whether the State's forestry operations should be paying something to councils that they operate in. And he thought that a similar case should be argued for some returns from the Shire's water resources used by Hunter Water (which made a profit of $33.3 million after tax in 2012).

The final word goes to Craig Deasey reporting to council on a meeting with the Office of Local Government in December 2014 – "It was again emphasised that the criteria for fit for the future still comes back to scale and capacity and again the independent review panel criteria should be a Council's starting point.

There was discussion as regards the key indicators and the ability of Councils to meet all the indicators into the future, in particular the infrastructure benchmark of 2, what was emphasised was that the fit for the future is a process to assess where are we now, how can we improve and what will success look like. They (OLG) recognise that some Councils will take longer than others to improve their situation but the Councils proposal must show how it will move them towards the goal of Fit for the Future."

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Have your sayLet us know what you think about Council's future and the possibility of amalgamation. You can send a letter to the editor at PO Box 73 East Gresford 2311. Or use the contact form on the Gresford webiste:www.gresfordnsw.com.au/contact-us/

More information is available from:– www.fitforthefuture.nsw.gov.au– www.olg.nsw.gov.au/strengthening-local-government/local-government-reform/fit-for-the-future– Dungog Council agenda/minutes atwww.dungog.nsw.gov.au/


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q Gresford District Historical Society rThe ANZAC centenary – some perspectives

Many are surprised to discover that WW1 didn’t commence on

25/4/1915. The reality is that Australia had actually been at war since 4/8/1914 and we

didn’t even have to declare war as Britain, as head of the family, spoke on behalf of her Empire. All Australia had to do was to decide the extent of its involvement.

Back then our population of just under 5 million was about 96% British and even before Britain had declared war the liberal Government of Joseph Cook had already offered its fleet and 20,000 volunteers. It was on the eve of an election but it wouldn’t have mattered who won the election because the support was bipartisan and Andrew Fisher who was to become the new Labor prime minister had declared, “that our last man and our last shilling will be offered and supplied to the mother country”. As it turned out he was almost right about this!

There was good reason for this unilateral support for Britain as Australia could not defend herself or her sea lanes. Britain provided the insurance and we had to pay the premium. We were also worried about Japan. Japan had been quick to declare war on Germany largely we believed at the time because there were German territories in the Pacific and Japan was quick to grab what it could.

A postcard from Pte Arthur Sales (No. 59101, 17th Btn). Arthur was born in Gresford and gave his address as Eccleston. He sent this card to a young lady at Eccleston who had caught his eye.

Arthur is the one with his hands on his mates’ shoulders. Arthur was somewhat fortunate to have enlisted fairly late in March 1918 and to have been stricken with influenza during the pandemic.

He returned, but remained a bachelor.


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We did not want Japan too close, so the first significant Australian action of the war was the Australian Naval and Military Expedition Force’s landing at Rabaul on 11/9/1914. It took possession of Rabaul, German New Guinea and the neighbouring islands of the Bismarck Archipelago. On 9/1/1914 the Australian navy made a major contribution when HMAS Sydney sank the German raider SMS Emden.

By the end of 1914 patriotic fervour had seen enlistments of 52,000. Most of these were sent first to Egypt to meet the threat Turkey posed to British interests in the Middle East and the Suez canal. After 4 months of training near Cairo an Australian and NZ force was sent to support a British initiative – the Dardanelles campaign. This was to also involve British & French forces.

Oddly enough this campaign we now know by the word “Gallipoli” made good strategic sense. The Dardanelles seaway provided a link between the Mediterranean and Black seas. This

seaway was vital to Russia as without it they had no supply route other than from their Pacific port and then overland by the longest railway in the world. The British and French reasoned that if they could only provision Russia it would field a huge and effective army and so force the Germans to divert resources from the western front. This would be a game changer for the outcome of the war – but it required the capture of the Dardanelles seaway. For the British the task seemed relatively easy as they had massive naval strength and they believed the Gallipoli peninsula on the western side of the Dardanelles would only be lightly defended. The Germans however had long recognised the seaway’s importance and had wooed Turkey as an ally. By April 1915 the Turks moreover were alert to the British naval buildup and land invasion on the peninsula and had brought in an additional 4 divisions. (A division is around 10,000-20,000 men)!

After fighting the Turks on the peninsula for 8 months the British and French concluded that the objective

Anglican Parish of Gresford PatersonGlendonbrook Road Gresford NSW 2311Telephone (02) 4938 [email protected]

February SerVICe TIMeS Sunday Mornings 1 8 15 22 St Anne’s, Gresford 7.30 9.30 8.30 St Paul’s, Paterson 9.30 9.30 St John’s, Vacy 9 St John’s, Lostock 11.30 St James’, Martin’s Ck 8 St Mary’s, Allynbrook 10.30 Weekday Mornings: St Anne’s, Gresford, at 7.30am

Pte John Lawrie Hipwell, (No 6659, 20th Btn) of Eccleston. Lawrie enlisted on 24/10/1916 and

embarked on the “Wiltshire” for England on 7/2/1917. He returned on the "Kanowna" arriving

26/10/1919 and was discharged 25/3/1920.


List of WW1 serving personnel

William Quinn Arthur Dorothy May Feneley Harold Henry Lawrence

Charles Gladstone Arthur Paul Joseph Feneley Victor Samuel Lawrence

Martin Stanley Claude Ashard George Leonard Furner Wilfred James Leake

Julian Peter Barling Henry Thomas Furner Arthur Holden Lindeman

Bernard Francis Barry William Henry Goode Edward Bramwell Lindeman

William Joseph Boydell Eric Floyd Hancock John Beri Magennis

John Byrnes Frank Herbert Benjamin O'Neill

Angel Gabriel Capararo William Rayden Hicks Arthur Sydney Randall

Oliver Carlow Capararo Lawrie John Hipwell Frank Bennett Randall

Oscar Charles Collison Wilfred Thomas Jarrett Rowland Arthur Randall

Reginald Thomas Cowley Cromwell Joliffe Rex Reynolds

Joseph Dagg Gordon Leslie Jupp Arthur Joseph Sales

Albert William Dennis James Kenney John Herbert Short

Archibald Cecil Ebbeck Austin David King Leslie James Soper

William Henry Faulkner Clyde Rookwood Lawrence John Ernest Taylor

Cecil Bernard Feneley David Hamilton Lawrence

If you have a relative who was born in the district and who served overseas in WW1 and who is NOT on the list above, then ring Fr. Stephen Moore on 0411 406 522 as a matter of urgency so that they can be included.


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was impossible and the soldiers were silently evacuated and shipped away. With casualties of 26,111 including 8,141 deaths it was a costly operation and has remained firmly in the Australian consciousness.

Worse however was to come but by now censorship meant that Australians were not being told the truth. With telegrams arriving ever day, Australians quickly grasped the reality and enlistments fell away rapidly. Public figures in Australia were now starting to talk about conscription.

Gallipoli was the first costly battle of a young nation but the Western front extending in an arc of over 400 miles through France was of another dimension. This was technological warfare with massive artillery pieces, mortars, field guns, howitzers, aircraft, tanks, poisonous gas, mines and machine guns.

In time I believe, the Western front will also enter the Australian consciousness as the many people following the footprints of their relatives come to understand why just one word, Fromelles, Passchendaele, Pozières or

Villers Bretonneux was enough to explain the loss of a son, brother or husband. At the British Thiepval memorial on Pozières ridge you will see the names of the over 72,000 men who were killed in the vicinity and who still lie under the surrounding fields of corn and beet. Polite French school children come to the memorial to complete school projects while busy French tractors ready the fields surrounding the memorial for the next crop. You are left confronted by the unexplainable.

The war to end all wars was the worst trauma of the 20th century and yet by changing the face of Europe largely set up the conflict that would become WW2. Australia as a young nation of only 5 million gave up 324,000 volunteers of whom 61,000 would be killed and 155,000 wounded. This is a casualty rate dead and wounded of 2/3rds – the highest rate among the British Empire forces. It remains to ask why a country so far from the conflict paid such a high price

To date the Gresford centenary project has identified 46 men and 1 woman (a nurse) for commemoration in the memorial grove. The basis for this is the

definitive AIF service records now stored in the National Archives. We have however, found a number of errors in the official data base built from these original service records which stem from birthplaces being confused with Parish & County names. The Historical Society has found 3 additional men and we now need your help. If you have a relative who was born in the district and who served overseas in WW1 and who is NOT on the list that accompanies this story, then ring Fr. Stephen Moore on 0411 406 522 as a matter of urgency so that they can be included. If you have relatives already on the list then please check the spelling of their names and alert Fr Stephen to any errors.

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Well 2015 has arrived along with lots of lovely rain; the Valley is looking resplendent and so lush.

Sadly this month Brian Roberts a wonderfully talented artist and respected member of our community passed away. He will be greatly missed – his legacy, the many splendid and beautiful paintings and drawings remain, capturing the very essence of his spirit. One of my first artists’ interviews for Gresford News was with Brian Roberts and Shirley Cameron-Roberts in November 2004.

A tribute for Brian, excerpts from the original article: “This month I went off to visit Shirley Cameron-Roberts and Brian Roberts, who have their studio and home at the old Eccleston Public School property. They have been here since 1991, captivated by the beauty and peacefulness of the rural valley, which has been the inspiration for creating many wonderful paintings and artwork.

As I entered their studio a strong aroma of fresh oil paint, rich linseed and turpentine wafted over us. The studio is full with paintings and drawings underway for future exhibitions.”

CULTURE VULTURE ART NEWS

Brian Roberts in his studio.


attended by a large crowd of art lovers and friends.

“In a special exhibition sponsored by the NSW Minerals Council, Christine shows us the ordinary but extraordinary life of the coal miners in their environment. From the depths of the underground to the giant space of the open cut we see the coal miner performing the

everyday tasks of a dangerous profession. With the current focus on mining in the Hunter Valley a topic of much discussion Australia wide, Christine presents the human face of mining with the depth of observation that only a superbly expressive artist can bring to bear.”- Muswellbrook Art Gallery.

Also on at the Gallery is the exhibition Moving House by artists Peter & Susan O’Doherty. The exhibitions run to 22nd February 2015 and are well worth a visit.

Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, Corner of Bridge and William Streets, Muswellbrook. Tues to Fri 10am – 5pm, Weekends 10am – 1pm

Culture Vulture News contact Robyn Werkhoven. email: [email protected]

“Brian Roberts work is inspired by the oceans, coastal waterways and harbours. He grew up in Brighton in Melbourne, where his childhood summers were filled with swimming and sailing on the Mornington Peninsula. He developed a great love for the sea and a respect for its’ majestic power. A keen knowledge of navigation and the language of symbols grew to become an important aspect depicted in his paintings.

As an artist he is continually exploring and developing his abstract, expressive techniques in oil paint. Brian originally studied painting and graphic design at Melbourne’s College of Graphic Arts as part of a seven year printing apprenticeship at The Herald and Weekly Times in Melbourne. On completion of his course he travelled to London where he worked as an illustrator, art director, painter and film maker.

From England Brian moved to America where he continued his career in television, film making and painting.

On returning to Australia he worked in advertising, later to open Impressions Art Gallery and Signed Editions Gallery in Melbourne.

Brian’s list of achievements in the arts is very long, with numerous solo and group exhibitions. He has received many art prizes and awards, including 2001 and 2003 Maitland Art Prize. His work is represented in private and corporate collections throughout Australia and internationally.”

Sincere sympathy to his wife Shirley and his loving family.

ART NEWSChristine Pike’s major exhibition COALMINERS opened at Muswellbrook Regional Art Gallery on the 9th January,

Helen Brown, Christine Pike & Diane Hilliard at the opening of 'Coalminers'

Phill Flanagan's Earth

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Graeme Ferguson

Registered SurveyorConsultant in surveying,

planning and engineering

* Portion Boundaries Remarked * Identification Survey Reports * House Setouts * Urban and Rural Subdivisions * Engineering Survey and Design * Topographic Surveys * Urban and Rural Road Design * Control Surveys

“Yatta” Torryburn Via Paterson 2421Tel 4938 9448 Fax 4938 9626

Email [email protected]

On Your mark, get ready, start building your billy cart for this year’s Gresford Billy Cart Derby to be held on Easter Saturday the 4th April 2015. Easter is coming quickly and it’s time to find all of those spare bicycle wheels and other bits and pieces laying around home to start construction on the family billy cart. It can be as simple as the old fashioned fruit box with wheels or a little more elaborate if you wish. This can be a real family affair, design, build and add some colour and you are ready to race. Just remember to make it big enough for Dad to fit into so he can race in the seniors once the children’s races are finished, maybe mum can have a go as well. Go to our website to check the design specifications for your new cart.

“The 2015 Gresford Billy Cart Derby and Easter Fair delivers a true old fashioned family experience with lots to do for all the family members.”

For those who have a billy cart tucked away in a shed it’s ‘run what you brung’ with the younger racers starting at about 9am (rural time) … then it’s the adults, including tag team races and special feature races, until after lunch.

For those with a little more inspiration, or time on their hands, there are always a few surprises that give the crowd a good laugh. Whether it is billy carts that look like pigs, yachts or undertaker’s specials or the sleek aerodynamics of an FA-18 (if you squint) there will be plenty of action.

In between the races the family can enjoy all the fun of the Gresford Easter fair with• Theever-populargumbootthrowing

competition – you will be amazed how far a gumboot can fly.

• Tryyourluckinthecowpatlotto–someone has to win because Betsy has to go, eventually.

• InspectthegreatridesoftheUpperHunter Branch of the Newcastle District Vintage and Classic Car Club

• Checkoutthemanystalls–collectables and books, craft, sweets, food and drink, preserves, traditional babies wear, nuts, fairyfloss and snowcones…

• Fossickforabargainatthemonstergarage sale

• Appreciatetheartinthelocalgallery• VisittheHotelBeattyatthestartline

after the finish for great music which will run all afternoon

To enter the races you need to fill out and lodge an entry form and entries close on the day.

Visit the website for more information - http://gresfordbillycartderby.wordpress.com/ Look forward to seeing you there.

Graham Murphy, Event Co ordinator0416 116 009

2015 Gresford Billy Cart Derby and Easter Fair

Easter Saturday 4 April 2015Park Street, East Gresford

Races start 9am

Primary Sponsors:

No safety gear No ride

supported by Dungog Shire Events

An action packed day with all the thrills of the billycart racing,

street stalls, rides, gum boot throwing, Cow Pat Lotto, food, bric-a-brac

AND PRIZES FOR: Fastest times, Best Dressed Cart, Pit Crew & more...

www.gresfordbillycartderby.wordpress.com


Free Stepping Stones Triple P GroupSupermarket meltdowns? Mealtime tantrums? Bedtime battles? When you’re the parent or caregiver of a child with a disability, sometimes life can be extra challenging.

Family InSight in partnership with Early Links Inclusion is running a FREE 6 Week – 1 DAY PER WEEK Parenting Program in the Vacy area in February.

The Free Stepping Stones Triple P program is designed for families with children aged 3-8 with a disability.

The program is aimed at supporting families with strategies to manage difficult behaviour with a positive approach and helps you:· Raise happy, confident kids· Set rules and routines that everyone respects and follows· Take care of yourself as a parent· Feel confident you're doing the right thing· Develop plans for tricky situations

It's more like a toolbox of ideas. You choose the strategies you need. You choose the way you want to use them. It's all about making it work for you.

When: Thurs 12th February- 2nd April 2015Where: Venue to be advisedTime: 9.30am-12.30pmCost: FREE

Expressions of Interest please contact:Lisa Thornton on 49343773 / email [email protected] or Karen Maloney on 49610700 / email [email protected]

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Free Assistance for Local Small Businesses

The Small Biz Bus and the WorkCover NSW Information Van will be visiting Dungog Shire on Monday, 16 February giving local small business operators the chance to conveniently access personalised free expert advice. The Small Biz Bus and WorkCover NSW Information Van will be outside the Dungog Shire Visitor’s Information Centre, Cnr Dowling and Brown Streets, Dungog between 8.30am and 12.30pm, and, outside the East Gresford School of Arts Hall, Park Street, East Gresford between 1.30pm and 5.30pm. To book an appointment on the Bus or Van please call the Business Centre on 1300 134 359 or visit www.smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au/hop-on-the-small-biz-bus.

More information about the visit will be publicised via the Dungog District Chamber of Commerce, the Dungog Chronicle, Dungog Radio and other local channels over the next two weeks. Dungog Shire Council is pleased to be a part of organising this visit for the benefit of all local businesses including those involved with retailing, primary production, services to agriculture etc.

By Ivan Skaines, Economic Development, Tourism and Events, Dungog Shire Council.


West Tankers are a family owned and operated business servicing Newcastle, Hunter Valley and surrounding areas. We are able to meet the requirements of specialised and remote customers.

Your fuel will be delivered on-site when you need it. We arrange our schedule to suit you. It doesn’t matter how remote you are, we pride ourselves in supporting remote customers and providing diesel when you need it – with delivery 7 days a week

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Summer must be nearly over as we’re about to organise our winter comp.

Although the Scorpions have helped develop many champions and we have got quite a few old scorpions playing in the Premier league at a Club level our focus is being a fun friendly club where we encourage everybody to get involved, have fun and develop their soccer skills.

Our home ground is Gresford which is regarded as one of the best grounds in the Hunter Valley. Our main training ground is at Vacy and there is also an option of training at Paterson. During wet weather we sometimes train at the Tocal Hall.

The club offers Free registration for all children up to under 7’s a saving of over $70 per child (provided they sign up by February). The Scorpions are the only club in Australia that does this.

Our aim is to make it easy for young kids to get in the habit of playing sport and then our goal is to make it fun and interesting so they keep playing.

We are proud that our President Damien Crouch was one of the original players 30 years ago. His mum and dad are still heavily involved in the club and his dad Dave is responsible for the grounds being in such excellent condition.

All our juniors get a free soccer ball. To register and get more details simply go to: www.gresfordvacyfc.sportingpulse.net or just Google Gresford Vacy FC. Instructions are on the website. Technophobes needn’t fear. If you can’t register online we’re here to help you. Simply call our Registrar, Damien Crouch 0413 305 961 and he will work out how best to help you.

New players and beginners (male & female) are always welcome. The Gresford Vacy Club will be conducting information sessions during February where kids and adults come along and find out more!

Senior teamsLast year we had 4 senior All Age teams. A women’s team and 3 men’s teams. Age

doesn’t seem to be a barrier as we had 7 people that were over 50. So come and play. Some teams play more seriously than others but we all have fun.

At the moment the boys are jealous of the girls as the girls on their end of season trip went on a cruise. So this year the boys for their away trip have booked a spot at the Bathurst races.

Coaches We have got great coaches and managers and the club pay for them to do coaching courses but we are always looking for more help.

Volunteers Everybody in the club is a volunteer, the committee, the coaches and managers and we encourage all parents to help out in some way to spread the work around. It is great when grandparents get involved. If you’re new to the area it is a great way to meet people and have fun.

We have a great committee although we are missing a canteen manager. This is one of the most important jobs as it is our biggest income source and we are looking for someone to manage the canteen for 7 home games, the gala day and a semi-final. Tammy our brilliant

Gresford Vacy Football Club Inc


Jamie Atkins Rural Contracting 0427490547

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past manager is still there to help but it is time for someone else to step up.

Donations We are always looking for ways to improve the club and the facilities so we would appreciate if you could make a donation or had any ideas on fundraising.

Information sessions for new and returning players will be held at:-Paterson Monday 9 Feb, 3.15–5.30pm St Paul’s Church HallVacy Wednesday 11 Feb, 3.15–5.30pm Vacy School of Arts HallGresford Friday 13 Feb, 3.15–5.30 pm Gresford Sporting Complex

You can purchase or order your club shorts and socks at these venues or simply get advice on the teams and registration process.

Meet & Greet for team placement will occur in early March and will be held over two days commencing with the junior players and concluding with the youth and senior players. Registered players will be notified of the dates.

We look forward to seeing you getting involved with the Scorpions.

Jim Doyle

The Gresford CWA invite you to a workshop to make poppies to commemorate the ANZAC Centenary.Saturday, February 21 from 9.30am-12.30pm at the CWA rooms, Durham Rd, East Gresford.

5,000 poppiesWould you like to be part of this?

As part of the 2015 ANZAC commemoration, the 5,000 Poppies Project will be 'planting' a field of more than 25,000 poppies in Federation Square in Melbourne.

Gresford CWA invite all crafters to join our project. You are asked to hand make one or more poppies:

• They can be crocheted, knitted, felted or sown from any materials

• They can be any shade of red

• No more than 15cm in diameter

• Patterns are available on the website http://5000poppies.wordpress.com

To book for the Gresford workshop contact Jill Hancock 4938 9718 or Judy Daly 4938 9624.

Poppy craft workshop


Markets: Meeting on 17 November provided no interest re Markets Coordinator – without a Coordinator the markets will discontinue. Seven local community groups are willing to assist. Decision regarding the future of the Markets will be made at the Feb meeting.

Gresford News: A range of issues will be coming up in 2015 that have political impact on the area including shire amalgamation and the continuing issues with mobile phone coverage and lack of supervision in upper Allyn camp sites.Brian thanked Rowen Dillon for having written the community features over the last two years. People to notify Brian Doherty of any potentially interested person to take on the feature writer role.

Therese Doyle Hall (TDH): Peter Smith reported that following discussions with Martin Addison, the reason for the gate and fence change were: Council verbally requested pre-existing gate entrance to be moved as there was insufficient ‘line of sight’ when exiting to the road. And original fence line was too close to the phone line and water pipes.There was discussion regarding the need for gravel to fill holes in front of the new

gates. Brian Doherty to follow up supply of gravel and Graham Murphy will collect and spread if required.TDH Sub-Committee reported:Sewerage problem has been resolved. Termites to follow up. Mould situation improving. Street sign needs to be moved. No pedestrian access when gate closed resulting in people climbing through or over fence when parking in street and an increased safety hazard. Fence adjustment has moved parking closer to TDH and making pedestrian access difficult. Group would like to know more about why the entrance gate was moved. No DA was required and plans showed gate was at previous entrance. Action: Martin to report at next meeting. Discussed need for a process to review plans and costing, decisions for changes to be discussed with chief stake-holders if urgent. Graham Ferguson invited to attend next meeting re survey and re-pegging of proposed GHS building.Would like gate relocated back to the pre-existing position but as a sign-posted entrance only gate following discussion/agreement of Council. Dedicated pedestrian access through fencing to be installed after review of modification costs and decision as to position.

Letter from Peter Doyle tabled regarding the use of TDH. Proposed Martin to give a full and complete history of the development etc of the TDH.

Historical Society Building: A draft agreement has been drawn up and Gresford Community Group and Historical Society to review.

Remembrance Day Service Special thanks to Ken Chandler and Peter Smith, Pauline Mitchell for the school participation in service, to Linq bus for providing transport for students, RAAF catafalque party, RSL ladies for morning tea and Fr. John Marsh for conducting the service.

BBQ at Carol Service GCG to organise.

Business Enterprise Project a priority to encourage new businesses. Funding to be lobbied for. Suggested that the project could employ locals.

Gresford Community Group December 2014 Meeting

MIKE DOYLE HORSEMANSHIPHorse Starting (breaking)

Problem Horses

Starting horses on cattle to give them confidence

Low stress and effective cattle handling

LessonsDemonstrations

Clinics

Mike Doyle 0418 503 939

PETER EVANS & ASSOCIATES

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‘Looking after people in business is our business’

Peter Evans is descended from a farming family located in the Gresford area prior to 1840 and is keen to assist

residents, farmers and business in the area with all their legal needs.

We can help you with:

Conveyancing, Subdivisions,

Family Law, Business Law,

Wills, Powers of Attorney,

Probate and more

PHONE: 4926 4788

www.evanslaw.com.au

Next Meetings at Hotel BeattyTherese Doyle Hall sub-committee

Mon 2 February at 6.30pm

Community GroupMon 2 February at 7.30pm

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Welcome 2015 what a great year we have planned. The country of study this year is Italy and we are all looking forward to learning more about this beautiful country. The primary product is: Beetroot with Butterflies, Boronia and the Tropical Soda Apple also being studied.

Land Cookery Competition Thursday, 5th February. Cakes, chutneys, jams to be in the rooms by 9.30am. Phone Dotti Hilliard for recipes 4938 9483 or pick them up in the CWA rooms. You do not have to be a member to compete.

Book ClubSaturday 14th February “Bring up the Bodies” by Hilary Mantel. 3pm. in the CWA rooms 12 Durham Road. Afternoon tea and lively discussion. We welcome new members.

Poppies For Remberance:Anzac DayWe will be holding a workshop on Saturday 21st February, making poppies by knitting and crocheting – all ages welcome. Members will be on hand to teach and help with the making of the poppies. Please bring along any red 8 ply wool,

small amounts of green and black wool if you have them. Knitting needles 3.5 or 3.25, crochet hooks 3.5. We will have some available on the day. Morning Tea will be served. We are hoping the Gresford Anzac Day will be brightened by hand made poppies and worn by all especially the school children marching. Enquiries and Bookings: Jill Hancock 4938 9718, Judy Daly 4938 9624, Robbie Thornton [email protected].

News From Head Office$100,000 from the Disaster Relief Fund has been made available to the Rural Financial Counselling Service to provide donations to those affected by drought.$50,000 was approved from the Emergency Fund for Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors without Borders) for their work with the Ebola Crisis in West Africa. 59 education grants with a total value of $43,150 have been awarded. Next MeetingThe next meeting of the Gresford CWA will be held at the Twin Rivers Café at 9.30 a.m. due to Land Cookery being held in the rooms.

Web For more information on our activities http://gresfordcwa.wordpress.com. We welcome visitors come and see what we are about.

Robyn Thornton, President

Gresford CWA News

MAPLE MUSTARD CHICKEN

Ingredients4 Chicken Breasts1/2 cup Dijon Mustard1/4 cup Maple Syrup1 tablespoon Red Wine VinegarChopped Rosemary for garnish Method:Pre-heat oven. Mix chicken breasts, mustard, maple syrup and red wine vinegar together and thoroughly coat the chicken. No need to marinate.Bake in a moderate oven 40-45 mins. Garnish with chopped rosemary.

MELT IN YOUR MOUTH CHICKEN BREAST

Ingredients4 Chicken Breasts1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese1 cup Greek Yoghurt1 teaspoon Garlic PowderSalt & Pepper Method:Pre-heat oven. Combine the cheese, yoghurt, garlic powder and salt and pepper.Coat chicken breasts with the mixture. Bake at 180 degrees for 45 minutes.

These recipes were contributed to the CWA COOK BOOK by Karen Campbell.The CWA COOK BOOK has been reprinted and is available at Gresford Food Works and the Gresford General Store $13.00 per copy.


Gresford News February Crossword

December 2014 crossword answers

St Helen’s Catholic Parish of Gresford and Sacred Heart

Summer Hill

WEEKEND MASS TIMESSt Helen’s GresfordSaturday Vigil 6.30pm

5th Sunday of the Month, no Mass at Gresford but Sacred

Heart Church Summer Hill, time to be advised.

Enquiries Parish Priest Fr. Paul Hopper

4992 1477

gresford news february 2015

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