#23 Central West Lifestyle | Summer 2018

Leeton

SUMMER

TOWN FEATURE

DUBBO’S

Royal Visit The Vibrance & Style OF “LYNNLEE”, YOUNG

COUNTRY EVENTS: Coonamble Show & Forbes Grazing Down The Lachlan PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM OUR BEAUTIFUL REGIONAL AREAS

Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales

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CENTRAL WEST LIFESTYLE PTY LTD

CONTENT COVERAGE AREA

trading as Central West Magazine ABN 151 6322 9418 ADDRESS PO BOX 1050 DUBBO NSW 2830 PHONE 0429 441 086 FAX 02 6867 9895 WEBSITE www.centralwestmagazine.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/CentralWestLifestyle PUBLISHERS, ACCOUNTS & ADVERTISING Elizabeth & Alex Tickle info@centralwestmagazine.com.au EDITOR Elizabeth Tickle editor@centralwestmagazine.com.au CHIEF WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER Jake Lindsay shotbyjake@outlook.com.au ART DIRECTOR Zora Regulic artdirector@centralwestmagazine.com.au

DISTRIBUTION Central West Lifestyle magazine is published quarterly (available at the beginning of each season) and distributed to selected newsagents and retail outlets within the Central West and in the surrounding regions of the Far West, New England & North West, Riverina & Southern Slopes, Southern Highlands, Canberra, Northern and Eastern suburbs of Sydney, in addition to a selection of other rural and coastal areas of New South Wales.

Subscriptions and back issues are also available to read online, on desktop and mobile devices.

Unsold magazines are distributed to cafes, health waiting rooms, quality hotels/motels, bed and breakfast establishments, hair and beauty salons and tourist outlets.

Central West Lifestyle showcases authentic content from across rural and regional New South Wales. The heart of the magazine is in the Central West of the state, but a great story knows no boundaries.

We are continually amazed by the innovation, inspiration and spirit that we find time and time again in communities both within the Central West and further afield. It is our passion and privilege to bring these stories to you.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE To order a subscription or back issue (mailed or online), visit www.centralwestmagazine.com.au. © Central West Lifestyle Pty Ltd 2018 All Rights Reserved No part of this magazine may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

While every care is taken in the publication of Central West Lifestyle magazine, the publishers will not be held responsible for omissions, errors or their subsequent effects.

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To underscore our commitment to environmental sustainability, Pegasus Print Group has achieved FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) accreditation as well as being ISO 14001 accredited. Paper and paper-based materials carrying the FSC symbol can be tracked back to their source, guaranteeing they come from forests which are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations.

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Together, these accreditations offered by Pegasus Print Group, offer our clients a guarantee that their printed products are produced by world’s best practice environmental and finest quality standards.

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YASS ACCOMMODATION

CONTEMPORARY, SPACIOUS 4 STAR MOTEL 02 6226 1158 Modern 4 star accommodation with the well-known EWE’N ME restaurant on site. Stylish and updated rooms with kitchenettes/microwaves. Spacious family rooms, two-bedroom suites, fully self-contained cottage and spa suites. Free Foxtel & internet, pool, BBQ area and guest laundry. Great location 400 metres to Yass CBD. Thunderbird Motel offers 24 hour check in.

EWE’N ME RESTAURANT The Ewe ‘n Me delivers a relaxed and modern dining experience.

With dishes ranging from expertly sourced and prepared steaks, to slow cooked wonders, and modern dishes, we deliver quality through the best locally sourced produce. Fully licensed and seating up to 70 people, the Ewe n’ Me is the perfect venue for a quiet dinner or a celebration with family and friends.

264 COMUR STREET YASS NSW 2582 PH: 02 6226 1158 | www.thunderbirdmotel.com.au

Summer 2018 ROYAL VISIT

12 WARM WELCOME The Duke and Duchess of Sussex charm the adoring crowds in Dubbo.

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TOWN FEATURE LEETON

16 ASSETS APLENTY As CWL discovers, Leeton offers a cornucopia of delights for locals and visitors alike.

GARDEN

150 COOL, CALM KESTON Kate and Ross Plasto’s rural property near Wellington represents a wonderfully harmonious blend of old and new.

156 SURVIVE AND THRIVE Ian and Jill Graham have created a lush green oasis on the outskirts of Dubbo.

HOME & STYLE

162

162 PERSONALITY PLUS Lovely “Lynnlee” in Young exudes old-world charm with all the mod cons.

168 HANDY HOUSEHOLD HINTS Hayley Maudsley’s tips for freshening up linen and cutlery.

178 MEET THE MAKER Patience, love and gratitude are stitched into every one of Margaret Seymour’s exquisite quilts.

FOOD

180 DELICIOUSLY DOMESTIC Chef Shane Murphy shares recipes for three courses that are sure to tickle the taste buds.

TRAVEL

186 TAHITI LOOKS NICE French Polynesia has all the trappings of paradise.

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EXPERIENCE

180

133 TALES OF INTRIGUE Gregory Powell’s Bushranger Series continues.

137 TOTALLY DEVOTED Ritchie and Maureen McKay have been an integral part of Dubbo for more than half a century.

140 MEET DAVE Everyone knows Dave Pankhurst, the genial businessman who could write a book about his life in Dubbo.

142 PARENTAL ADVICE Principal Paul Teys shares tips for bringing out the best in our children.

146 DRIVING FORCE Dealer principal and managing director of Dubbo City Toyota David Hayes has taken on a role of national significance.

192 EASING THE PAIN Dr Sol Qurashi says keeping our joints healthy is crucial to our daily lives, especially as we age.

224 FORGING AHEAD Dave Walker is the village blacksmith in the sleepy hamlet of Cargo.

214

EVENTS

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ON THE COVER Leeton

SUMMER

TOWN FEATURE

DUBBO’S

Royal Visit The Vibrance & Style OF “LYNNLEE”, YOUNG

COUNTRY EVENTS: Coonamble Show & Forbes Grazing Down The Lachlan $12.95 inc GST

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SUMMER 2018 VOLUME 23

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196 CWL SPRING 2018 LAUNCH Pics from the event at St Patrick’s Hall in Gundagai.

200 GRAZING DOWN THE LACHLAN Faces at the fabulous foodie event in Forbes.

204 COONAMBLE SHOW Happy snaps among the horde of show goers.

206 GUIDING THE WAY Retro-inspired lunch to celebrate 60 years of Guide Dogs.

208 A SEASON IN THE COUNTRY What to see and do this summer in country NSW. 214 WEDDED BLISS See who’s tied the knot in your region.

PAGE 80 TOWN FEATURE Brad Booth and Janine Norman enjoying a casual stroll in the Leeton citrus orchard owned

by Mick and Anna Mallamace.

Some of the state’s most superior Delta Valencia oranges are grown here.

PEOPLE • HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD • AGRICULTURE • STYLE • EVENTS • TRAVEL CULTURE • BUSINESS • AND MORE FROM OUR BEAUTIFUL REGIONAL AREAS

Showcasing the best of rural and regional New South Wales

Photographer: Jayde Creative Co

R E F R I G E R AT I O N

&

A I R

C O N D I T I O N I N G

S U M M E R publishers’ letter

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

welcome to summer “The world is a looking-glass, and gives back to every man a reflection of his own face.”

William Makepeace Thackeray 1811-1863

Welcome to summer in the beautiful Central West and beyond!

Let’s hope that by the time you are reading this, you’ve enjoyed a magnificent spring and that across the state we have experienced some much-needed rain.

CWL drought response We spoke about our desire to assist the many drought-affected families in our midst, in our own small way. Since the Spring edition was released, we have been able to work with Rural Aid and have donated six family weekend getaway holiday packages to two lovely destinations.

One venue is Billabong Cottage, Oberon (owned by Fran and Tim Charge) with accompanying tickets to the stunning Mayfield Garden. The second destination is Barkala Farm, Pilliga Pottery Coonabarabran, with the Rickert family as hosts. These six weekend packages were auctioned at the Black Tie and Boots Ball in Sydney in November and all proceeds go to Rural Aid.

Spring edition featuring Cootamundra and Gundagai What a spectacular response we received to this edition! The communities surrounding beautiful Cootamundra and Gundagai rose to the occasion and purchased record numbers of this publication, shared them with their families and friends and posted many off to destinations far and wide!

The Royal visit Dubbo became the “centre of the universe” when the young Royals came for a quick visit in October. What an exceptional honour it was for our city of Dubbo to play host to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex!

We hope you enjoy our very special coverage of this visit by our seasoned Dubbo Royals writer Heather Crosby and CWL photographer Zenio Lapka.

Autumn 2019 Feature We feel very privileged to bring you a 100-page feature in autumn 2019 on the Snowy Valleys Council area, showcasing a unique region. We will be shining the spotlight on Tumut, Tumbarumba, Adelong, Batlow and Khancoban and surrounding areas in this upcoming edition. We know you will love this little part of the world as much as we do!

Happy Christmas and safe holidays At this point, the CWL team would like to wish you all a wonderful Christmas spent with those near and dear to you, as well as a safe and restful holiday spent somewhere where you can rest and rejuvenate.

As always, we look forward to the joyous task of bringing you the best in rural and regional NSW. There is so much out there for you and your friends to explore, absorb, experience and share. We are all certainly very blessed.

With our best wishes, Elizabeth and Alex Tickle

Spring 2018 magazine launch at Gundagai: Back: CWL Publishers Elizabeth and Alex Tickle, Miriam Crane and Marianne McInerney, both from Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council, Mayor Cr Abb McAlister, Pip McAlister, Frances Palmer, Deputy Mayor Cr Dennis Palmer.

Front: Aunty Sonia Piper, Linda Wiles (Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council), Cr Penny Nicholson.

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S U M M E R Jake’s message

happy days in

THE MIA Greetings and salutations, loyal readers.

As I’ve always maintained, travel is the best remedy for all our daily trials and tribulations, especially in these dry and testing times when not only farmers but local business houses need a cash injection more than ever.

If you haven’t been down to the Riverina for a while, it’s time to pack your bags. A great place to start is Leeton, in the heart of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA).

The town is barely 100 years old, with some of the best Art Deco buildings you’ll find in the bush. Designed by renowned American architect Walter Burley Griffin and named after former minister for public works Charles Lee, Leeton is a town that has prospered thanks to the abundance of water.

When the visionary Irish bachelor Sir Samuel McCaughey proved irrigation from the mighty Murrumbidgee could transform the flat, dry plains of the Riverina into an oasis, he started what is now a multibillion-dollar rural industry.

After WW1, immigrants from all over the world were attracted by the advertisements of cheap land with plenty of sun and water to get started. All that was required was back-breaking work, and the Italian migrants didn’t disappoint. With little command of our language, limited funds and no handouts for those struggling under pressure, they laid the framework for businesses that prosper today.

In our Leeton feature you will discover the remarkable stories of the town’s two wineries, Lillypilly and Toorak, which were both started

by Italian families with nothing to lose and the world to gain. Their inspiring stories demonstrate how families that work and stay together can produce desirable outcomes.

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Toorak winemaker Robert Bruno’s story started when his grandfather’s brother was a POW in nearby Yanco. Despite losing his freedom, he recognised great potential in the MIA, convincing his brother to venture forth to the “Lucky Country”.

It was a similar story for Pasquale Fiumara and his seven sons, who went from selling vegetables on the side of the road to establishing a major supermarket and winery (Lillypilly Estate Wines).

I get to meet some rather special people in my line of work but few with the commitment and drive of air conditioning king Ted Celi, who made his pile on the strength of a phone, a firm handshake and plenty of good oldfashioned business acumen. His story makes for riveting reading, the stuff that old hacks like me thrive on.

Already famous for its rice, wineries and orchards, the district is now home to young, innovative farmers who grow cotton, walnuts and a host of diverse industries providing employment in these tough times.

Read about how a bunch of local farmers got together and built their own cotton gin.

Like the great wordsmith Henry Lawson said almost 100 years ago, Leeton has to be one of the most cosmopolitan towns in the bush, with not only a resilient community but some truly unique buildings. I was fortunate to stay at the Historic Hydro, a magnificent old place built in the town’s infancy, and enjoyed the McLeod’s Daughters reunion at the nearby Roxy Theatre.

It’s always the people behind the buildings and business houses that make life more interesting. The town is blessed to have a true humanitarian in their much-loved

Mayor, Paul Maytom, who works tirelessly in welcoming refugees to the town. They all have their own story and in this issue we look at the life-changing results.

Arriving in a new town and trying to capture its unique flavour within a few weeks can be a daunting task. I have to thank the bubbly and enthusiastic Kathy McMahon from the Information Centre for taking me under her wing and showing me a side of Leeton that I may never have otherwise encountered.

So this is it, issue #23 and still going strong. I’m sure you will enjoy leafing through our Leeton Feature and discovering some of the hidden gems that lie beyond your back door.

By the time you are reading this I will be working my way through the Snowy Mountains area, bringing you yarns on the people and towns of Tumbarumba and Tumut.

Keep well, positive and thankful for all that we have. Enjoy your Christmas with loved ones and start planning your next trip.

There are plenty of enjoyable experiences to be had in the NSW bush!

Cheers, Jake

ABOVE: My pilot was rice farmer Barry Kirkup; Kathy McMahon from the Info Centre ensured my stay in Leeton was fun and memorable; enjoying lunch with women from all corners of the globe at a regular refugee get-together in Leeton; water is the lifeblood of Leeton.

SUMMER 2018 CONTRIBUTORS

meet your team

ELIZABETH TICKLE

GINA CRANSON

Sub-Editor & Proofreader

PAUL TEYS

KATE BOSHAMMER

ZORA REGULIC

ANNA TICKLE

Writer & Social Media Manager

ELIZABETH SWANE

Art Director

HEATHER CROSBY

JANE SANDERSON

Advertising Designer & Business Strategist

Country Cuisine Writer

LORRAINE HILLS

ZENIO LAPKA

ANNABELLE AMOS

ROBERT I BRUCE

ROSIE O’KEEFE

DAVID HILL

ELLEN HILL

JOHN CURLEY

Travel Photographer

JAKE LINDSAY

Publisher, Distribution, Advertising

Education Writer

Writer

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ALEX TICKLE

Publisher, Editor, Advertising

Photographer

Travel Writer

Photographer

Writer

Accountant

Chief Writer & Photographer

Writer

DR SOL QURASHI

Health and Wellness Writer

SUE MEIKLE

Social Photographer

Garden Writer

Wedding Writer

JENNIFER HARDEN

Home and Style Writer

GREGORY POWELL

Bushranger Series Writer

YOUR LETTERS

I would like to say how privileged my daughter, Leigh, and I are to be a part of your iconic magazine. When you featured our café, Café Dolcetto, Yass in your Autumn 2018 edition we had only recently bought the café and I was new to the area. However, after meeting with you and experiencing your genuine warmth and encouragement we knew that your magazine was where we wanted to market our dream café. We now look forward to receiving each Central West Lifestyle, which never disappoints and continues to present the history of the Australian country, with captivating images of wonderful buildings, delightful gardens but most of all the stories of the characters who create the history.

The willingness of these characters to open their hearts and share their stories with you is a testament to their deep trust and admiration for you. The obvious bond you share with these people is demonstrated by the infectious smiles that light up the pages of your magazine and make it a joy to read.

The Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council decision to feature in the Central West Lifestyle Spring 2018 edition has been a masterstroke for our council area and our two major towns.

The publication has collated excellent stories and promotion regarding tourism, education, agriculture, farms, businesses, sport, local characters and volunteers in our council area coupled with excellent photography. The positive feedback to myself and council from both locally and all over NSW/Victoria has been amazing. The big benefit of promotion through CWL is that it is not a read and throw away magazine, as this publication will stay in homes, professional businesses, food and coffee outlets for a long period so your area is receiving continual promotion.

Investing in CWL with this promotion will have a great flowon effect to our region’s economy. The professionalism of the CWL staff is something to be envied, and I offer a big thank you to Elizabeth and Alex and their staff for giving our council the opportunity to be part of their wonderful magazine.

Noelene Garner, Café Dolcetto, Yass

This letter is to commend you and your team for producing such a magnificent magazine. It has appeal to people all over NSW and beyond. Also, I wish to thank you and your colleagues for the exposure that my business has received as a result of advertising in your magazine. I am thrilled with the people I have met and contacts made through being associated with you, so much so that I have opened my brain-coaching clinic in Dubbo. Already I have met many wonderful people and been able to help them retrain their brain to overcome their fears, phobias and cravings.

I look forward to continuing our association, as well as reading each new lovely edition, showcasing various parts of NSW.

Izdebska Karolina/Shutterstock.com

Cr Abb McAlister, Mayor of Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council

What a wonderful experience the Spring edition of Central West Lifestyle magazine has been. In short, dealing with Elizabeth and Alex has been an absolute pleasure. Their professionalism, expertise and outstanding customer service is a credit to them and their product. The magazine is, simply put, beautiful.

The feedback from our customers has been nothing short of phenomenal. This magazine showcased, marketed and promoted our region in a way that we could never have dreamt.

Our customers compliment the magazine’s quality content and stunning photos, a magazine that has become a treasured keepsake. Sales have far exceeded any of our expectations. We attribute this to the professional marketing and promotion via various social and print mediums. However, the greatest reason for the huge success is word of mouth, everyone wants a copy or two! The magazine launch was a fantastic evening, a celebration of extreme hard work and dedication, resulting in this exceptional publication. Our sincere thanks to Elizabeth, Alex, their dedicated and professional team and all who contributed to this issue. Congratulations on an outstanding magazine. As always, we look forward to the next one!

Helen Dugdale, Australian Brain Coaching

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Thanks for welcoming us into your lovely home @minkandme!

Penny and Mark Nicholson, Gundagai Newsagency

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S U M M E R Royal visit

DUBBO POURS IT ON FOR

Harry & Meghan Rain didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the huge number of people who turned out to greet the Duke and Duchess of Sussex during their October 17 visit to Dubbo.

Thousands of excited “Harry and Meghan” fans from throughout NSW and interstate were thrilled when the royal visitors took the time to interact with as many people as possible.

The most endearing moment occurred early in the day as the Duke and Duchess greeted a group of invited school children at Dubbo airport.

At the end of the line, the Buninyong Public School principal Anne van Dartel looked on in utter disbelief as five-year-old student Luke Vincent threw his arms around the royal couple before rubbing Prince Harry’s famous ginger beard.

The emotional encounter dubbed the “Lukey-Love-Effect” became an international sensation.

The official party toured the Royal Flying Doctor Service, unveiled a new plane, and heard about the life-saving role

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provided by one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations in the world.

Next stop was Wongarbon property “Mountain View”, about 25km from Dubbo, where the Woodley family was ready with morning tea. The Duchess contributed home-baked banana bread she had whipped up at Admiralty House the previous evening.

Discussion turned to the hardship suffered by farmers during prolonged drought affecting most of the state before the Royals tried their hand at feeding cattle. > ABOVE AND FACING PAGE: Luke Vincent from Buninyong Public School gives Harry and Meghan an endearing welcome while many delighted school students look on.

story name S U M M E R

CWL 13

S U M M E R story name

As thunder rolled and storm clouds threatened, the tour moved to Victoria Park in the centre of Dubbo where an estimated 15,000 people were gathered for a picnic to celebrate community spirit within the region.

No one seemed to care when rain started to fall and the Duke and Duchess continued their meet and greet walkabout.

With his shirt soaking wet, Prince Harry stood under an umbrella held by his wife and spoke from the heart as he delivered a message of hope, telling the crowd the best thing about coming to the country was the people.

“You are the salt of the earth, honest, hardworking and as tough as they come,” he said.

“I know life has not been easy, you have just lived through two years of drought. It must be hard not to lose hope when you endure so many dry months end on end knowing that you are powerless to do anything about it.”

The Duke was keen to shine a light on mental health and urged people not to suffer in silence, saying part of being strong was having the courage to ask for help.

“If I may speak personally,” he said. “We are all in this together.

Asking for help was one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

The Duke ended his official address with the quip “the rain was a gift”.

The official program closed with a visit to Dubbo College Senior Campus and a session of netball and touch football drills on the school oval, highlighting the importance of sport in education. CWL Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka (CWL photographer on assignment)

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FACING PAGE: Harry and Meghan are honoured guests at the Royal Flying Doctor airbase; the RFD aircraft dedicated by HRH The Duke and Duchess of Sussex; the loyal RFD volunteers.

THIS PAGE: A small part of the excited crowd at Victoria Park; park picnics, festivities and tributes to the royal couple.

ROYAL VISITORS ARE NOTHING NEW TO DUBBO In May 1920, debonair Edward VIII, Prince of Wales, visited the town to pay tribute to residents who served in World War I. Royal fever was high in February 1954 when newly crowned Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh spent two hours visiting sites in and around Dubbo.

The Queen and Duke returned in 1992 for a state luncheon and visits to

Dubbo School of Distance Education and Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Prince Edward visited Dubbo in 2006 as part of a tour for the Duke of Edinburgh scheme.

RIGHT: Bert and Elaine Barwick met in Victoria Park during the Queen’s visit to Dubbo in 1954 and were married in 1958, celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary in December.

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16 CWL LEETON

Leeton

TOWN FE ATURE WORDS & IMAGES: SHOT BY JAKE

LEETON CWL 17

assets aplenty from the Mayor of Leeton

“The Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme is one of the most productive regions in Australia, contributing over $5 billion annually to the national economy.”

18 CWL LEETON

Leeton Shire boasts a proud heritage and a bright future.

As Mayor it is my great pleasure to introduce you to Leeton Shire, my home since 1967 when I arrived in the area to pick fruit as a young man.

Leeton is the birthplace of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area. We locals affectionately refer to it as the MIA. Our pioneering and entrepreneurial spirit goes back to Sir Samuel McCaughey, the “Father of Irrigation”, who in the late 1900s, on his ‘North Yanko’ farm, developed 320km of gravity-fed channels that successfully watered his large holding. His dedication to the scheme’s potential, coupled with his leadership and powers of persuasion, saw Sir Samuel convince the government of the day to invest in what is best described as a nationbuilding project.

The town of Leeton, part designed by Sir Walter Burley Griffin, was purpose built to house the officials coordinating the planning and development of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme.

One hundred years on, the MIA is one of the most productive regions in Australia, contributing over $5 billion annually to the national economy. The region grows citrus, rice, grapes, cotton, nuts, grain and vegetables and value adds through a range of impressive food processing manufacturers and freight and logistics enterprises that sell and distribute goods both domestically and internationally.

Our export earnings are further boosted by beef, sheep and fish farming.

Education and research are a proud part of our history. Leeton Shire has three high schools, one of which is based at Sir Samuel McCaughey’s farm and magnificent

homestead, which he bequeathed for that specific purpose. The Yanco Experiment farm, now called Yanco Agricultural Institute, was developed in 1908 to determine what could be successfully grown in the area. Today more than 100 staff work at the institute on cutting-edge research that makes Australia a world leader in food production and efficient water usage.

Leeton Shire’s proud heritage includes the Wiradjuri nation and the villages of Whitton, the oldest town in the MIA, Yanco, Murrami and Wamoon. The population of about 11,500 is a rich blend of cultures and we are proud to be a community that welcomes new settlers, migrants and refugees. I’m really keen on sport and the arts as these bring people together in Leeton Shire. Our local pools, sporting ovals, walking tracks, golf course, library, and local museums are important facilities for locals and visitors to our town.

Leeton’s magnificent Art Deco heritage, including our beautiful Roxy Theatre, Historic Hydro Hotel and Water Commission architecture, is of national significance and prominently highlighted throughout our shire. You are invited to attend Leeton’s Art Deco Festival in July 2019, which will complement our other special events such as the SunRice Festival, Bidgee Classic Fishing Competition, Outback Band Spectacular and Light Up Leeton.

My wife, Julie, and I often contemplate how wonderful it has been to live, work and raise a family in Leeton. I feel truly honoured to be the Mayor of Leeton Shire and hope that this magazine will inspire you to pay us a visit very soon.

Cr Paul Maytom, Leeton Shire Council Mayor

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

a happening place Leeton offers a cornucopia of delights for locals and visitors alike.

For more than a century, Leeton has been known as the Heart of Australia’s Food Bowl.

Leeton and the Riverina region is an area famous for its rich heritage, natural beauty and outstanding restaurants, cafés, boutique shopping, wine and produce. The hospitality industry prides itself on making you feel right at home in its friendly community.

Yanco is the home of the “Father of Irrigation”, Sir Samuel McCaughey, who on his North Yanko farm, developed around 320 kilometres of channels drawing from the Murrumbidgee River with steam-driven pumps. This ultimately showcased the viability of irrigation in the region.

The Yanco Experiment Farm, now called The Yanco Agricultural Institute, was developed in 1908 to show settlers what could be grown in the area.

The oldest township in the shire is Whitton, located 24 kilometres west of Leeton. It connected Narrandera to Hay via the South West Railway, opening valuable Riverina trade to Sydney.

The area was originally inhabited by the Wiradjuri people, the largest tribe in NSW. Yanco derives its name from an Aboriginal word said to mean “the sound of running water”.

Leeton is one of the region’s leaders when it comes to community events. It’s rare to find a weekend in town where there isn’t something taking place. Whether it be a small-town fete, a monthly market or the biennial Leeton SunRice Festival, the annual Leeton Bidgee Classic and Leeton Town Band Outback Spectacular, Leeton provides numerous opportunities to get out and enjoy a wide range of attractions. Gogeldrie Weir, local wineries Toorak Wines and Lillypilly Estate, and the majestic Art Deco Roxy Theatre are just a few of the many places of interest.

Leeton Shire is home to the internationally recognised Fivebough Wetlands. Visitors can enjoy these wetlands by following the five kilometres of walkways that lead to hides and viewing platforms so you can enjoy the abundant birdlife. Glossy Ibis and Whiskered Terns converge on the wetlands to feed and breed during October, November and December. The best time to see them is late afternoon to dusk. Don’t forget your binoculars!

A number of Murrumbidgee National Parks are also nestled within the shire. Visitors to the parks can camp free of charge, picnic and barbecue in all national and regional parks. Take advantage of fun activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, canoeing, bushwalking, cycling, orienteering and watching the local wildlife.

While the Leeton Shire area was founded on irrigated crops and horticulture, large industries in the processing and value-added sectors now employ more people than agriculture and call Leeton their home. These include Southern Cotton, SunRice, JBS Riverina Feedlot, Freedom Foods, Webster Ltd and The Daily Drinks Company. Large local business Celi Group of Companies, featured in this publication, also has a strong global market presence.

Leeton is six hours’ drive from Sydney, five hours’ drive from Melbourne, four hours’ drive from Canberra, 40 minutes’ drive from Griffith and an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Wagga Wagga. CWL

ABOVE: Hot air balloons converge on Leeton every year at Easter time; the mighty Murrumbidgee River is a natural asset and drawcard in its own right; Leeton plays an integral part in the Riverina, the largest wine grape growing region in NSW, producing about 300,000 tonnes of quality wine grapes every year.

LEETON CWL 19

T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

days gone by Leeton

Images courtesy of Leeton Family & Local History Society

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

PAST AND PLEASANT

The streets of Leeton are rich in history and buzzing with optimism and promise.

LEETON CWL 21

T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

The Roxy is a rare surviving example of an inter-war Art Deco cinema in country NSW. Opened in 1930, the theatre demonstrates the importance of cinema during the first half of the 20th century before the advent of television.

It was an American visionary of the 1920s silent film era with whom the Roxy was to have the greatest affinity.

Samuel “Roxy” Rothafel contributed significantly to motion picture entertainment, with his influence and name receiving worldwide prominence.

He built the first Roxy Theatre in New York in 1927, calling the wildly extravagant building the “Cathedral of Motion Pictures”.

Costing $10 million, an exorbitant amount for that time, it boasted

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three pipe organs that were raised and lowered on elevators for up to 6000 guests, a 110-piece orchestra, a chorus line of Roxyettes and a lobby as large as an aircraft hangar.

Wild excitement surrounded the New York premiere of Warner Bros’ The Jazz Singer, the first motion picture in which spoken dialogue was heard. The moment Al Jolson launched himself into Mammy the audience went wild. And when he told them “Wait a minute . . . wait a minute . . . you ain’t heard nothin’ yet” pandemonium broke out in the theatre.

Roxy Rothafel introduced many of the familiar features we now associate with movie theatres, including a curtain to cover the movie screen, a proscenium arch, plush drapes, carpets, brightly coloured

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

screen

LEGENDS In the heart of Leeton, the heritage-listed Roxy Community Theatre is one of the oldest cinemas in Australia. Opened in the heyday of film, the iconic landmark is steeped in history, charm and ambience.

lights to grace the facade, synching orchestral music to movies (in the silent screen era) and having multiple projectors to effect seamless reel changes.

The celebrated moniker “Roxy” became the chosen name for hundreds of picture palaces established worldwide, including at least 24 in Australia. Thanks to the vision of Greek-born George Conston, Leeton is included in that statistic.

In 1930 George built his own “Palace of Dreams” on the town’s main intersection for a cost of 15,000 pounds. To complete his dream, he engaged Melbourne’s Claude Neon Light Company to erect neon lighting on the facade of the theatre. Electricians installed more than 600 feet of tubing in red, blue and green

adorning the roof line. The lights dominated the main intersection of the town, becoming an even greater attraction in years to come.

At last, with the neon lights shining out their welcome and the new permanent stage completed with music pit, the theatre was ready for the official opening on October 9, 1933. To mark the occasion, Gladys Moncrieff, Australia’s Queen of Song, was engaged to sing for five nights in what was called the country’s most perfect sound theatre.

The Roxy was the headquarters of Leeton’s social scene. It was not only the attraction of moving pictures with sound that drew the crowds, but the sense of wellbeing if offered within the luxurious new theatre. George had spared no expense with the interior decoration, and Leeton’s theatre was equal to any of the day. >

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ABOVE: The delightful Margaret Sands volunteered at the Roxy for 30 years and later wrote a book about the iconic theatre she loves.

By 1935 Leeton had a second theatre – the Roxy Gardens open-air theatre in Wade Avenue.

“On a summer evening nothing could surpass sitting under an open sky, filled with the clearest and brightest stars and sharing a deckchair with your favourite friend! In the 1930s it was the most comfortable and romantic way of viewing the sophistication of Hollywood,” says Margaret Sands, who gave voluntary service to the Roxy for more than 30 years before writing a history in her colourful book Up in Lights.

Like the New York edifice, it was demolished in the mid 1960s to make way for what is now the Town Centre Motel.

By the 1930s and 1940s film had found its voice, during a time when the world endured economic depression and a second world war. Conflict in real lives and in the political world created the best screenplays ever written.

“The vast majority of great film performers, amazing settings and costumes, the variety of topics and themes, new technology and effects came from this period, along with all those great comedies, dramas, lavish musicals, animated films, and western and gangster movies,” Margaret says.

“These were the years that Hollywood produced blockbusters – the years of Snow White, Gone with the Wind, Tarzan, Casablanca, Lassie, The Wizard of Oz and countless others. Everyone wanted to be a cowboy, dancer, fighter pilot or simply Marlene Dietrich or Cary Grant. Every couple on the dance floor were Fred and Ginger.

These were the golden years of going to the movies.”

There was also a serious side, a time of Cinesound and Movietone newsreels. For many with loved ones at war, a newsreel was the one way of seeing the latest news while giving a necessary boost to morale.

The man behind the scenes Paramount to any movie theatre is the projectionist. The Roxy has one of the best in Tim Coulter, a man who has spent 30 years bringing movies to life on the big screen.

Working quietly behind the scenes, Tim started his trade in the old film days before the switch to digital in 2014. Instead of handling reels of film, he now deals with movies that arrive in 200 gig hard drives about the size of a VHS cassette.

When he started there was no time to sit back and enjoy the latest Hollywood blockbuster. “The average film was broken into six parts of about 20 minutes duration,” he says. “Using two projectors

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it was always a battle of the wits synchronising the changeover.”

Tim is also the Roxy’s sound and lighting technician, whose skills are appreciated during the staging of the annual eisteddfod, weddings and various functions.

Like the late Norman Odewahn, whose fascination and expertise for “the art of showing pictures” spanned over 40 years at the Roxy, Tim Coulter’s name will also be remembered for his dedicated service, especially in the restoration of the famous Roxy neon lights!

RIGHT: Roxy projectionist Tim Coulter demonstrates how the old films were once loaded.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

A lifetime’s devotion Although everyone loves the Roxy, few can claim to have worked there for four decades.

Brian Aird, now 86, was one such man. He came to Leeton for three weeks’ relief work in 1958 and never left, finishing as the last offical Yanco postmaster in 1993.

His long association with the Roxy started in 1965 as a young and energetic usher. “Picture theatres were enjoying their last golden days before television took over,” he recalls.

In 1977 the theatre was purchased by generous community donations and Leeton Shire Council and Brian was appointed manager. On the same day wife Pat began her career as office secretary. For a few years the Roxy was the only hard-top theatre between here and the South Australian border but it

was going to take something other than movies to keep her going.

In the 1980s, in conjunction with the Leeton Police, Brian ran a monthly Blue Light Disco that proved immensely popular with buses transporting young people from neighbouring towns like Narrandera, Coleambally, Barellan and Whitton.

Brian worked at the Roxy for 40 years before he and Pat finally retired in mid 2005. They spent 67 years collectively at the Roxy, and the council hosted a farewell dinner in their honour, with many accolades given for their care and commitment to the theatre.

Since Pat’s passing, Brian continues to live in Leeton and is still involved in community activities.

RIGHT: Brian Aird devoted 40 years to his beloved Roxy Theatre.

DURING THE FABULOUS ’50S, BUSES TRANSPORTED PATRONS FROM NEAR AND FAR FOR A SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE ROXY. In cities, small theatrettes were constructed simply for the purpose of showing newsreels, sometimes with trailers and/ or cartoons, within a short session. During those war years the Leeton community hosted Land Army Girls to assist with farming duties and the Leeton Cannery employed seasonal workers – all needing and appreciating relaxed evenings at the Roxy.

During the Fabulous ’50s, buses transported patrons from near and far for a Saturday night at the Roxy and a snack at one of the many popular Art Deco cafes and milk bars established in Leeton during those years. Box office takings were bountiful and the movies came in Technicolor and CinemaScope.

Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell told us Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Elvis made his debut with Love Me Tender, and Julie Andrews hit a high note in The Sound of Music. Australia’s first drive-in theatre opened in Melbourne in 1954 and within two years the number had grown to 23. Alas, the good times were about to be threatened.

A rapid decline in cinema attendance occurred in the late 1950s, largely attributed to the introduction of television. By 1961, cinema attendances had dropped by an overall 52 per cent compared to admissions just five years earlier. Nevertheless, by 1965 more than 1000 cinemas across the nation were grossing around $50 million each year. Australia, on a per capita basis, was one of the leading cinema-going nations in the world.

In 1978 the Roxy became the Leeton Roxy Community Theatre and over a long period was fully restored thanks to the ongoing work of council and volunteer involvement. George Conson remained with his beloved Roxy until the changeover was complete. After residing in Leeton for 57 years he finally retired to Sydney where he remained until his passing in 1981, aged 92.

Today the Roxy is a multi-function centre featuring regular movie screenings, concerts, live theatre, entertainment and community events. With seating for about 700 people, it’s a versatile event space for weddings and the eisteddford. The Roxy is generally open for movie screenings from Friday through to Sunday, as well as other special occasions including school holidays.

Leeton remembers George Conson with gratitude for his foresight in those early years of motion pictures and his ongoing gift of entertainment to the community. Without doubt he would have been thrilled to see his beloved theatre looking so well as she approaches her 90th anniversary. CWL ABOVE: Does anybody recall when tickets to the movies cost only a few dollars?

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T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

wild & free

Staying at the Murrumbidgee Valley National Park is the ultimate bush camping experience.

Created in 2010, Murrumbidgee Valley National Park protects part of what is now known as the largest continuous tract of river red gum forest in the world.

With few facilities and infrastructure, the park allows visitors the freedom to find their own camping spot – as secluded or sociable as you like.

A huge part of the fun is exploring one of Australia’s most iconic and valuable waterways.

The Murrumbidgee River (meaning “big water” in the Wiradjuri language) is a major tributary of the Murray River within the Murray-Darling basin and is the second longest river in Australia.

The Murrumbidgee Valley reserves are separate precincts spanning the Murrumbidgee between Narrandera and Hay. This very special place is home to NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) ranger Angela Lewis, who looks after the Murrumbidgee Valley National Park and Nature Reserve.

“I previously worked as a ranger in the ACT and Victoria, so I’ve been very lucky to work in some amazing places of natural beauty across the country,” she says.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

“ Th er e’s al s o an i ncr e di b le s e n s e o f fr e e do m an d s p a ce o ut he r e.”

“I love the variety of my job as every day is different. I enjoy the face-to-face interaction with park visitors and helping them have a great experience. I also assist with keeping the park weed- and pest-free and managing any incidents that may arise.”

Checking out the wildlife brings visitors from all over the country. Visitors may spot the colourful Superb Parrot, a threatened species, which come to the forests to breed, as well as koalas, kangaroos, emus and plenty of birdlife.

“There’s also an incredible sense of freedom and space out here. The Murrumbidgee Valley reserves are a bit of a secret – you can often go out exploring and feel like you’re the only person out there.”

There are no dedicated campsites, meaning visitors can camp or park their caravan where it suits – right on the beautiful river bank, or secluded and surrounded by nature in the forest. Better still, the reserves are free, with no entrance or camping fees.

The best way to see the highlights of the area is to journey along Forest Drive – either by car, mountain bike or hiking. This 16km one-way

drive takes you through the river red gum forest, with numerous beaches and river access points along the way.

There’s an abundance of birdlife in the area, so make sure you bring your binoculars. As well as magnificent river red gums, you will find plenty of white cypress pine, yellow box and black box growing in this area.

For some family-friendly water fun, visitors can stop off at the beautiful beaches along the way, including Sandy Beach and Middle Beach, to swim, canoe, kayak or just relax on the sandy shores.

Another great day trip is to pack a picnic and head to Turkey Flat Wetland. When water is in abundance it’s an ideal location to spot wetland birds, easily done from an on-site bird hide without them seeing you.

Visitors can enjoy the natural serenity over a picnic lunch at the picnic shelter.

For those interested in visiting this special part of the state, ring the Riverina Area office on (02) 6966 8100, visit them at 200 Yambil Street, Griffith, or check out their website at www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au. CWL

“There are no dedicated campsites, meaning visitors can camp or park their caravan where it suits.”

FACING PAGE: Camping and fishing on the Murrumbidgee River is an activity for all the family.

ABOVE: There are many tracks suitable for cycling or walking; fishing and kayaking in the Murrumbidgee is always fun; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) ranger Angela Lewis; from the hides visitors can enjoy watching the birdlife.

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T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

right, said Ted The country’s largest manufacturer of heating and cooling appliances owes its very existence to a 1967 green Ford Falcon 500 once belonging to post-war Italian immigrant Ted Celi.

“Temperatures were so hot in our little one-bedroom house at the time, I decided to build my first evaporative air conditioner,’’ an impeccably dressed Ted Celi explains from his ultra-modern Leeton showroom. “With no money to my name and a baby in our midst, I was forced to sell my pride and joy (Ford Falcon) for $1000.” With the proceeds he built another eight evaporative coolers, which netted him $2400.

Feeling that he might just be on to something, Ted visited the bank, hoping for a $6000 loan to kick-start his fledgling business.

“The bank manager asked if I had any security and I looked across at my father, who agreed to act as guarantor. As I’m driving him home he was being unusually quiet. After a while he looked at me and said ‘Santo, I really hope you know what you’re doing’,” Ted recalls, nearly half a century later.

His father, Domenico, had arrived from Sicily in 1952, looking for a new life for his young family. Having spent two years locked up as a POW in a German concentration camp, the wide open spaces of the Lucky Country had certain appeal. For two years he cut sugarcane, saving enough money to bring out wife Giuseppa and children Ted, then known as Santo, and Maria.

“I remember going through the Suez Canal and seeing darkskinned people for the first time – all rather frightening for a five-year-old Italian lad who’d never ventured far from his village. Halfway through the month-long voyage, the Neptunia encountered a violent storm, Mum got terribly sea-sick and we spent the rest of the trip in the infirmary.”

Their new home was a tiny shack at Stony Point, where Domenico had secured work on an olive farm. As the only migrant child at the tiny one-teacher school, young Santo discovered the locals harboured some degree of animosity towards Italians – a legacy from the war and general uneasiness with this “weird mob” who couldn’t even speak the language.

“One day out of the blue, my teacher, Ted Dutton, decided to call me Ted. Having the same name as my teacher commanded a little more respect and over the years I learnt the lingo and developed some friendships that still endure today,” he says. “Dad said we were only going to stay 10 years, make some money and then go home to Sicily but it never turned out that way.”

As a teenager, Ted was displaying inventive skills that he’d later apply throughout his manufacturing career. Having salvaged an electric motor from a junk yard he designed a machine that could crush a seed grape without crushing the seed.

His next invention proved equally handy. One of his farm jobs was hand cultivating the ground around the fruit trees. Ted designed a blade to go on the back of the tractor’s three-point linkage, making the once mundane job much easier. A few years ago, he saw a product on TV that resembled his invention over 50 years earlier. >

“Dad said we were only going to stay 10 years, make some money and then go home to Sicily but it never turned out that way.”

FACING PAGE: Approaching his 70th birthday, Ted Celi has no plans for retirement.

ABOVE: Ted and his mother Giuseppa in the orchard during the early 1960s; Ted and Anne Celi on their wedding day, December 5, 1969; Ted Celi’s 1953 passport into Australia.

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The first 10 years of his working life involved working seven days a week, frequently till the early hours of the morning.

A year later he was hand-pruning trees, raking up the rubbish by hand. Thinking there had to be a better option, he designed a contraption pulled behind his tractor with enormous fingers that piled up the prunings in one easy sweep.

Ted left school at 16, the equivalent of Year 9. He would have left school at 13 if he could, such was his desire to get out and make a living. “I told Dad I knew maths and English – what else was there?” he smiles.

He’d always loved cars and was hoping to get an apprenticeship at one of the local garages. Ted was devastated when his efforts hit a brick wall, settling instead for an electrical apprenticeship at Letona Cannery. Years later he admits it was the best thing that ever happened to him – that was until a staff Christmas party at the Hydro a few years later.

Ted was 19 and finishing his apprenticeship when he met a young lass of Scottish heritage. Two years younger and working at a local law firm, Anne Symes was everything he wasn’t. Both families expressed doubt it could work. “My parents were hopeful I’d marry some Italian beauty while Anne’s parents probably would have preferred her to settle down with a bonafide Aussie and not some Italian with nothing to his name,” Ted laughs.

“It was definitely a yin and yang relationship,” Anne concedes.

“I’m a calm type of person whereas Ted is a born worrier, forever trying to find solutions.” Love, however, knows no boundaries and two years later they were united in a simple church ceremony followed by a reception in the backyard of Anne’s parents’ home.

There was no money to celebrate and their brief honeymoon, in their green Falcon, was cut short when Ted was summoned home to help with the apricot harvest. Secretly he was relieved, having only $5 left in his wallet.

Fresh beginnings All these things weighed heavily on Ted’s mind as he signed on the dotted line for the loan. Now there was no turning back. Failure to make his repayments meant his father would lose his orchard. It was strong incentive to pay off the loan in 11 months rather than five years – all achieved in a 60 by 30 foot shed Ted had knocked up with a few mates in Brady Way. LESSON ONE: “When you’re starting out, focus your energy on paying off your debts as quickly as possible. That meant Anne and I were living off the smell of an oily rag. Although business was growing at the phenomenal rate of 100 per cent a year, cash was always tight. Anne learnt to feed our three daughters with almost nothing in the pantry. When we had a barbecue we could only afford mince – a good steak was simply out of the budget.”

Anne remembers those early days living in a shoebox with her two young daughters. “I was always telling him to consolidate and get some money in the bank but he never listened. Ted seemed to have a sixth sense when it came to money. There was little cash to play with but he was always confident in his ability and constantly reminded me to be patient – that it would all work out in the long run.”

Ted admits there had always been a worldwide belief that Sicilians were different than real Italians and not widely known for their work ethic. He was determined to prove the critics wrong.

30 CWL LEETON

With Celi Manufacturing off and running, Ted extended the factory while producing his first evaporative coolers. The first 10 years of his working life involved working seven days a week, frequently till the early hours of the morning, sometimes till sun up.

Progress was swift. The family built the group from nothing to selling iconic brands such as Celair and Bonaire air conditioning units all over the world. The business flourished thanks to Ted’s belief, passion for innovation and unswerving commitment. He’d develop a reputation as a good judge of character, sealing many six-figure deals on the strength of a handshake, rather than toiling through hundreds of pages of contracts. Rarely was he let down.

As well as selling products nationally and internationally for residential applications, the Celi Group provided heating and cooling solutions for significant commercial projects, including the Barangaroo development in Sydney, BHP offices in Brisbane, the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and Canberra airport.

“A long time ago a friend told me the best way to expand my business was to be there when somebody wanted me there. I decided to study for a pilot’s licence and got my unrestricted licence but realised I didn’t have the time for it. It was quicker and cheaper to get a pilot, enabling me to sit in the back and work.”

He used planes for nearly 30 years with impressive results. “In 1990 I was doing business with a Sydney client who had no idea where Leeton was. I told him I would have my plane there in an hour to pick him up. He couldn’t believe it. I flew him back to Leeton and at the end of the day he said ‘I think you and I can do business’. The following week he placed an order for $2.5 million, which was almost 40 per cent of our total sales.”

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

In 2019, the Celis will celebrate 50 years of marriage.

In 2016 there were 500 workers with factories in Adelaide, Leeton and America. By then Ted was flying to business meetings all over the country in style, thanks to his $8 million Citation Jet. He was the second person in the country to own one but it was hard finding pilots for such an advanced type of plane, with each pilot having to undergo stringent safety training in America.

“Things improved dramatically once I moved into jets,” he agrees.

In 2008 he cornered 60 per cent of Melbourne’s home heating and cooling market after flying several salesmen from Melbourne to Adelaide to show them the factory. The Salisbury plant incorporated extensive engineering, research and development facilities, full logistic facilities and a spare parts warehouse for distribution.

“Once they realised I was a level above my competitors and could make things happen they signed up to multimillion-dollar deals.”

LESSON TWO: The power of having a plane and being able to make things happen is imperative to growing a national business.

The show goes on One of the company’s biggest years was 1993. The Leeton factory was working around the clock six days a week, and the lowest paid worker was grossing $1500 a week. Ted could do no wrong, even driving the truck to Adelaide or Melbourne delivering the last load.

“I was the number cruncher and it was always go, go, go. There was no such thing as no. If a customer wanted something we would work it out,” he says. Things didn’t always turn out the way he wanted. One of his worst transactions was in 1980 when he bought a machine for $250,000, borrowing at 36 per cent interest. Six years later, the cost had blown out to over $1,000,000.

“We were a serious factory producing standard parts with computerised machines. It was essential we had that machinery.

Before that we were drilling every single hole by hand. It took us to a whole new level. It was the same with forming parts. Every part was identical to the last.”

Although he’s about to turn 70, Ted has no plans for retirement.

“My mentor, an American billionaire who owns 40 banks, is still working in his 86th year. It’s not just about the money.”

He’s just had a check-up and the doctor advised him to come back in five years.

His business mind never stops. Only a few days before our interview, the Celis signed off on a multimillion-dollar transaction signalling the end of their 46-year association with air conditioners.

Now the emphasis is on the Malmet business in Leeton, with 50 staff dedicated to making specialised hospital equipment and infection control solutions.

“I don’t ever stop and think, ‘Well now I’m at this stage I don’t have to do anything’ because you will flat line and start going backwards.

Last year I spent more time overseas than in Australia, developing new markets in places like Dubai. I’m communicating with about 20 different countries and already new work is coming through.”

The following week, Ted was off to Singapore and America, where they want him to open a Malmet factory in Pennsylvania.

They have made some “too good to be true offers”. Ted cannot say no. It’s simply not in his vocabulary. > FACING PAGE: The Celis’ home in Pine Avenue; this 1989 image shows Ted’s Ferrari 308 GTS and Piper Navajo Chieftain.

ABOVE: Anne and Ted Celi with two of their great loves: the old Falcon and three generations of the family.

LEETON CWL 31

“Mentoring from my parents gave me the necessary skills to run a successful business.”

“The company is going through a huge growth spurt. The sky’s the limit. Germans and Swedish families running multibilliondollar companies are our main competitors but our products in certifications are higher ranking. Who knows the future – perhaps one day Malmet will be in the billion-dollar class,” Ted suggests matter-of-factly.

Ted still thrives on a challenge and new opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead but still makes time for fishing and golf.

He also enjoys hunting on his 75,000-acre Bundure Station, Mount Hope, about a three-hour drive on the Kidman Way towards Cobar.

All his top-ranking customers love escaping there for a few days, staying in the comfortable “hunting shack”.

The bottom line, he says, is family. “I was put on this earth and given children to do the best for them. I want to see my three daughters, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren be comfortably off when I’m gone. In the meantime, I’m looking forward to spending more time with them, teaching them good lessons in life and business.”

Although none of their offspring will carry the Celi name, Ted and Anne know their business is in safe hands, with eldest daughter Natalie Mazzon the chief financial officer and site manager of the Leeton factory.

Having worked her way up the chain, Natalie admits being a woman in a manufacturing industry comes with its challenges, especially in her younger years.

“Mentoring from my parents gave me the necessary skills to run a successful business. I couldn’t think of anywhere else I would like to work, and enjoy the challenges and rewards of being part of a family business,” Natalie says.

Second daughter Michelle Scherret worked in the business before studying hospitality in Switzerland and continuing her

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career in Australia. She later earned a degree in business and marketing before switching to teaching in Melbourne.

Their youngest, Dianna McBride, worked in the Albury store before spending six years as site manager in the Melbourne operation. When she returned to Leeton to become Ted’s personal assistant, all three girls were in the business at the same time.

Several years ago, Dianna and her family moved to Las Vegas and set up their own operation that contracts to Climate Technologies.

LESSON THREE: “With my Sicilian background I’ve always understood that family is the most important thing in the world.”

In 2019, the Celis will celebrate 50 years of marriage. No doubt they will raise a glass in honour of the old Falcon that was instrumental in starting their phenomenal success story.

Anne tracked it down to a shed where it had been gathering dust for decades. At the 2002 staff Christmas party (and the company’s 30th anniversary) it was driven out, fully restored and horn blaring, in front of all the employees and one very surprised husband who broke down in tears at the enormity of the gesture.

“What a thing to happen. Who could possibly have believed it?” he says, choking up once more at the mere thought of it all. A humble old green Falcon that scored him a life partner and a future most of us could only dream of.

That grand proved a handy investment. Since selling his favourite set of wheels almost 50 years ago, the Celi family has sold $2.3 billion worth of air conditioners all over the world. Not a bad effort for a bloke with no formal qualifications who runs his international business from an iPhone. CWL

ABOVE: Chief financial officer and site manager of the Leeton factory Natalie Mazzon.

Malmet is a leading Australian manufacturer of Washer Disinfectors, Blanket and Fluid Warming Cabinets, Drying Cabinets and Accessories.

We have been manufacturing hospital and aged care equipment since 1969, and supply hospitals and nursing homes throughout Australia and overseas through a comprehensive network of distributors and agents.

Malmet is a company belonging to the Celi Group of Companies, a privately owned and operated Australian family business.

All Malmet products are manufactured in Leeton, NSW an ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified site.

WWW.MALMET.COM.AU info@malmet.com

walk on the

wild side Altina Wildlife Park is home to all manner of creatures great and small.

The last place you’d expect to see four beautiful white lions is on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River at Darlington Point. But don’t be alarmed.

The “Kings of the Jungle” are a major drawcard at Altina Wildlife Park.

Their unusual colour is a natural occurrence in the Timbavati region in Africa, where they have been targeted by poachers for their skins and medicinal value in Asian markets. Today

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there are as few as 300 left on the planet. The dedicated team at Altina are helping to bring endangered animals like them back from the brink of extinction.

The 207-hectare park was the dream of Griffith-based couple Gino and Gloria Altin. Gino sadly died in 2017 but managing director Gloria and children Rebecca Surian, Rick Altin and Crystal Sanders are keeping the dream alive. >

FACING PAGE: Giraffes are well known for their long necks, making these gentle giants the world’s tallest land animals and a popular attraction at Altina Wildlife Park.

ABOVE: The Altin family a few years ago: Rebecca Surian, Rick, Gino and Gloria Altin and Crystal Sanders with some of the white lion cubs.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

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T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

“WE HAVE CREATED ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE, SUCCESSFUL ZOOS IN AUSTRALIA.” Inspired by their love of animals and extensive travel to game reserves and zoos in Australia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Zambia, Gino and Gloria developed an open-range zoo on their property in late 2004.

“We have created one of the most unique, successful zoos in Australia,” says Rebecca, the animal and operations manager responsible for the upkeep of 580 animals in the park. Staff know each of the more endangered exotic species by name.

36 CWL LEETON

“We are committed to providing visitors with an unforgettable, up-close and personal experience that involves them with nature and exotic animals from all over the world.”

The development of the park has occurred in well thought-out stages with re-evaluations and new goals set each year. The continued growth and breeding achievements at Altina over 14 years has resulted in a huge influx of visitors. >

FACING PAGE: Clockwise from top left: Plains zebra, slender-tailed meerkat, African tawny lion, bongo antelope, ring-tailed lemur, Himalayan tahr and freshwater crocodile.

ABOVE: Clockwise from top left: European red deer, southern white rhinoceros, African white lion, red panda and marmoset monkey.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

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T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

Over the next few years the family will introduce the yellow-footed rock wallaby, hippos, tigers, cotton top tamarins and squirrel monkeys and build the appropriate infrastructure to accommodate them.

After a tour, visitors are invited to view the park’s museum, featuring some of their magnificent animals.

“Our zoo directors preserve some animals to enable our visitors to benefit from them after death. The museum is purely for educational purposes and all animals within the museum died from natural causes,” Rebecca says.

“As a family we are all excited when our conservation goals are making positive changes to a species. When endangered animals reproduce and rear healthy, genetically diverse young we can’t help but get motivated to continue the momentum.”

Altina’s open layout allows the animals to feel as free as possible. They can see about one kilometre in every direction as well as neighbouring species next to their own enclosures. Controlled tours allow the animals to

38 CWL LEETON

remain relaxed at all times, ensuring a stress-free environment not far removed from their natural habitat. This encourages normal animal behaviour.

There are many daily issues to face, from handling red tape and paperwork – which in itself is a monumental task and capably managed by Crystal – to ensuring each animal is physically, mentally and emotionally healthy.

Then there’s the massive task of feeding. The zoo grows most of the hay for their grazing herbivores and some fruit and vegetables are sponsored by local businesses and meat by local farmers.

“Our aim is for all animals to experience natural behavioural aspects normally available to them in the wild. It’s a huge effort keeping it all together but the rewards can be seen every day on the faces of visitors, especially the children,” Rebecca smiles.

Altina Wildlife Park continues to grow and tackle more conservation challenges thanks to the support of sponsors, donors, adopters and visitors. CWL

“ALTINA’S OPEN LAYOUT ALLOWS THE ANIMALS TO FEEL AS FREE AS POSSIBLE.”

ABOVE: A huge giraffe welcomes visitors to the wildlife park; Rebecca Surian with animals in the Altina Wildlife Museum; American bison on the move.

St\VE TtiE

FRI

SUN

DATES 12-14 JULY 2019

A WINTER CELEBRATION OF

ART DECO CUL TURE IN LEETON

Leeton Shire Council is pleased to announce it will be presenting a new regional festival, the Leeton Art Deco Festival, in 2019.

To be held in the winter school holidays, this event sits perfectly within the greater Riverina regions events calendar.

Why not consider a visit to Leeton, the "Regional Art Deco Capital of Australia".

For more information about this exciting event please contact Council's Marketing and Cultural Services Coordinator Suesann Vos on (02) 6953 0922 or email suesannv@leeton.nsw.gov.au

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

YOU’RE

Refugees are finding hope and hospitality in Leeton.

welcome

Paul Maytom is nothing if not loyal, having spent 45 years with Ricegrowers and an unbroken 31 years as a shire councillor, including the past 14 as the town’s highly respected and popular mayor.

Growing up in the small community of Stroud Road, population 150, Paul attended the local primary school and Gloucester High.

After school he tried out for a few jobs until a chance meeting with a few blokes in Newcastle.

They told him about this place called Leeton where there was plenty of work to be found fruit picking and at the Letona Cannery. Although he had no idea at the time, his decision to give it a try would lead to a 50-year (and ongoing) association with his adopted town.

In 1967 he packed his bags and jumped on the train to Leeton, spending his first night at the Historic Hydro. Within a few days he was picking peaches. It was hard work but he soon figured out the faster he picked the more he earned.

Before long he secured a labouring job at Ricegrowers, working shiftwork to pick fruit during the day. Within two years he married Julie, followed by the arrival of daughters Gail, Kerri-Ann and Krystal.

“I felt Leeton was a nice place to settle down,” he says. “In 1987 I threw my hat in the ring at the local government elections, feeling it was an opportunity to give back to the community. It took a few years to learn the ropes but it’s been a wonderful and rewarding experience working with other councillors to help our town grow and make it the wonderful place it is today.”

After a number of years as deputy mayor, Paul was elected to the top job in 2004 and is still there. Throughout these years with council he continued with Ricegrowers, working his way up the ladder to a managerial position.

“It was a major blow to our community when the cannery closed its doors in 1994 but we have overcome that hurdle and now have many new industries thriving in our shire,” he says.

One of Paul’s pet projects is the assimilation of newcomers to the town from overseas destinations. Signs into town reflect this feeling: “Leeton, a caring community, welcomes refugees, migrants and new settlers”.

At the turn of the century community members established a group called Rural Australians for Refugees. In 2012 many more arrived from Afghanistan, with most securing work at JBS Riverina beef feedlot/abattoir.

The group was reformed as a multicultural group with a strong focus on refugee support. Leeton was officially proclaimed a Refugee Welcome Zone Council in 2014 with a celebration held during Refugee Week.

“It was such a great feeling to see the smiles on the faces of the refugees, knowing they were welcome in our town. We help them rebuild their lives and restore hope for a future, free from fear, persecution, violence and insecurity,” Paul says.

“Our group’s main purpose is to provide friendship and help them feel comfortable living in Leeton.”

“Our group’s main purpose is to provide friendship and help them feel comfortable living in Leeton. We get to know more refugees during Refugee Week celebrations, Harmony Day, multicultural events and regular get-togethers.”

Most of the refugees fled their countries by boat and arrived on Christmas Island in 2010/11 where they were held until they were “processed”. Most have gained permanent residency with some lucky enough to become Australian citizens.

“Unfortunately, many of the refugees are still waiting for their citizenship, some up to three years since applying,” Paul says.

“It’s a great experience conducting the citizenship ceremonies and seeing them so happy making a new life in Leeton.” > FACING PAGE: The welcome sign to Leeton.

ABOVE: Leeton Mayor Paul Maytom has led by example in welcoming new settlers, migrants and refugees to his town.

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Peace and quiet Mujahid Ali greets CWL at the door with a friendly “How yer goin’ mate!”.

Arriving from Pakistan as a young man in 1995, Mujahid spoke no English, which improved dramatically during his 12-year tenure on a Griffith chicken farm.

In 2013 he finally welcomed his wife Maliha and daughter Faima to Leeton, expanding the family with the births of Qismah and Rubab.

They left for a better lifestyle and improved wages. Working as a fork lift driver for Coprice, Mujahid now makes 20 times his former annual salary.

“It’s peaceful and quiet in Leeton – just the way we like it,” he says gently.

On Fridays he visits the mosque in Griffith and is enjoying raising his family in a happy and safe environment.

LEFT: Mujahid and Maliha Ali with their children Qismah, Faima and young Rubab.

While Leeton has recently been welcoming members of the Afghani community, the Afghans have been here a long time.

The first Afghan cameleers arrived in Melbourne in 1860 with a shipment of 24 camels for the ill-fated Burke and Wills expedition.

Although their numbers were small compared with other ethnic groups, their contribution to this country has been far greater than most people realise.

Without the Afghans much of the development of the outback would have been difficult if not impossible. With their camels they opened up inland Australia, helping with the construction of the Overland Telegraph Line and railways, acting as guides for major expeditions and supplying almost every inland mine or station with goods and services.

Fast forward 160 years and Leeton is now home to Afghan refugee Aman Hussaini, who arrived in 2011 before being joined six long years later by wife Hafiza and their children Farhad, Farzana and Nazdana.

“My home country was no longer safe for me or the family,” says Aman, a former taxi driver who now works in the bagging section of the JBS meat factory.

The Leeton Multicultural Group checks to see how they’re settling in, especially with accommodation, finding work and dealing with all the paperwork involved with becoming an Australian citizen.

“When somebody new arrives in town we organise a get-together with access to an interpreter,” Mayor Paul Maytom says. “We later help with finding doctors, settling the kids into school, finding work and filling out applications.”

There’s a strong Afghan presence in Leeton (between 30 and 40 people) who get together on

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BEAUTIFUL CONNECTION

Saturday nights in different homes to discuss any problems while dining on traditional meals.

Before settling in Leeton, Aman shared a crowded boat with 101 refugees, spending three months at the Christmas Island Detention Centre for “processing”. It was a long and painful wait before he was finally reunited with his family, who are all learning to speak English in their new homeland.

“I’ve seen photos of their lives in Afghanistan where they lived with much anxiety and uncertainty,” Paul says.

“You can see the joy in their faces - they are just so happy living without fear. We want to offer more people a glorious outcome like this one. Hopefully this humanitarian feeling can be stretched to councils all over Australia.”

“My home country was no longer safe for me or the family.”

ABOVE: Leeton Mayor Paul Maytom with Aman and Hafiza Hussaini and their children Nazdana, Farzana and Farhad.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

HOPE AND HAPPINESS We all know there’s nothing like having a cuppa with friends but this simple act takes on a whole new significance when you’re new to town and hardly speak a word of English.

A small group of friendly Leetonites are helping change the lives of about 15 of the town’s newcomers with regular social activities, the chance to swap stories and learn the local lingo.

Group coordinator and local English language teacher Susie Rowe sees it as a wonderful opportunity for women from multicultural backgrounds to cultivate new friendships.

“Some of these women don’t speak a word of English and rarely get away from the home,” she says.

“They rely on their husbands to do most of the talking so hopefully by learning some English they will learn to be more independent and spend more time in town.”

Susie wants to get the word out there that the group is there to help.

“The joy the women get from learning some basic English is very rewarding. Being able to order something from a cafe is fantastic for them, which helps them to meet others and develop friendships with other women.”

Susie is teaching English as a second language and is happy to pass on her skills for a worthy cause. Leave a message for Susie at the Leeton library on (02) 69 530 945 for more information about where and when meetings are held. CWL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: A community lunch brings cultures and food from all over the world; Uzra Akbari and son Mohammad finally got to join their husband and father Ali; some of the tucker on offer; Ramla Haider with sons Ali and Fazal, arrived from Pakistan three years ago; Farwana Alizadah, teacher Susie Rowe (with Janie, the young orphan kangaroo she is raising) and Mahalakshmi from India; Rose Seman, Philippines, with Leyya and Qhisya.

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T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

flock TACTICS Leeton nature lovers and visitors to the area have an abundance of bird and native wildlife right on their back door.

The Fivebough Wetlands contains a mosaic of ecosystems – woodland, grassland and a permanent but fluctuating shallow wetlands area long recognised as an important site for bird life.

The natural wet-dry sequence of the basin accommodates a succession of species throughout the seasons, each reaching their highest population when water depth is suitable to breed or forage.

On several occasions as many as 20,000 birds have been counted at one time, involving many glossy ibis and whiskered terns.

“The reserve supports threatened and endangered water birds from as far away as Siberia. Many migrate here to breed or feed in the local rice paddies during the summer months, some feature in international migratory bird agreements,” local naturalist Eric Whiting says.

Up to 36 waterbird species have been recorded breeding – nearly a third of them are regular visitors.

In 2002 the community trust managing the reserve was successful in its nomination to the Ramsar Convention for the acknowledgement of Fivebough (and Tuckerbil) Wetlands as internationally important due to the rare bird species that visit or inhabit the site.

The 400ha site is managed by the NSW Department of Industry – Lands & Water (Crown Lands), who help preserve its natural ecosystems. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the five kilometres of walking tracks, four bird viewing shelters and covered picnic tables to make the most of the natural environment and the beautiful creatures living there.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

The rich species abundance of the site is significant for the Wiradjuri people, who once used eggs, nestlings, yabbies, mussels and plants as a precious food source.

The cultural displays and signage throughout the Wiradjuri Walk share some of the traditional history of the landscape and honour the continued connection of the local people to the land.

A small woodland area close to the entrance has the walk meandering through a low open woodland of grey box and black box trees with a weeping myall and river cooba understorey.

“You’ll also find a diversity of native shrubs including saltbush species and goosefoot, some of which hold a spiritual and cultural significance to the indigenous people,” Eric says.

“There are story poles, each representative of the different animal totems of the clans within the Wiradjuri nation. Woodland and grassland species of birds – wrens, chats, parrots – are also found here.”

There is a good walking track around part of the wetland that allows access through areas of Cumbungi reeds to viewing platforms where birds can be observed on the water or along the shoreline. Birds of prey are often seen overhead along with moorhens and crakes among the reeds.

Badyaan Baamira Information Centre is 180 metres from the car park and has a picnic area and information boards.

Visitors come from all around the world to see the rarer species like the bitterns, brolgas, magpie geese and whiskered terns.

“The glossy ibis is one of the migrating species and are a delightful sight to watch as they fly in of a summer evening in their thousands,” Eric says.

“One evening after 8000 had settled they all took off and flew a couple of hundred metres to a preferred location – a truly magnificent sight. It’s a joy seeing the changes in vegetation and water coverage as well as observing the different birds and other wildlife as the seasons come and go.”

The wetlands are treasured within the Leeton district as a peaceful refuge, providing linkages to cultural and natural history for the benefit of all visitors.

Regular events are scheduled to give everybody the chance to learn more about the species and enhance their environment.

Keep an eye on the website for upcoming information about National Tree Day, World Wetlands Day or community planting and twitching events.

For further information about events or visiting Fivebough check out: www.fiveboughwetlands.org.au or call (02) 6960 1343. CWL FACING PAGE: The wetlands are a beautiful spot, particularly when there’s water about; spoonbills frequent the area; Eric and Rowena Whiting love their regular visits to the Fivebough Wetlands.

ABOVE: Brolgas are regular visitors; bring your binoculars and enjoy the sights and sounds; the colourful flame robin; ibis in flight; the spotless crake; a viewing platform for bird enthusiasts; there is an abundance of birdlife.

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T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

gin & tonic Farmers have long been recognised for their resourcefulness, particularly when the chips are down. But building your own cotton gin? It could only happen at Whitton, where a group of enterprising farmers put their heads together to change their financial destiny and develop new opportunities.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

It all has to do with cotton, one of Australia’s largest rural earners, generating about $1 billion per year in exports. NSW produces about two-thirds of our nation’s crop, most of it coming from northern NSW. Now the round bale picker and processing capacity have made cotton a viable crop further south. A decade ago there were only a handful of farmers growing cotton in the Murrumbidgee valley, with most of it going to Hillston to be ginned – the process of removing cotton seed from the lint.

This worked well but the potential for growth in the industry was hamstrung by the processing capacity of the Hillston and Trangie gins.

Local cotton growers Tim and Roger Commins were among a group of six men from four families sharing a vision for the Riverina cotton industry. In 2011 and coming straight out of a drought, they needed to rejuvenate their farming operations and offer a bright new hope for local farmers.

They joined forces to build the most southerly cotton gin in Australia, providing a highly profitable alternative crop for farmers.

With up to 60 local cotton growers keen to use the facility, they took up the formidable challenge to develop the site in one year.

“It wasn’t a gamble, just a huge challenge,” Tim says. “Everybody told us it was impossible but the six of us are all hands-on and built the infrastructure piece by piece and on time. During the building phase we realised we could do the hardware side of things but needed to build the business from the ground up.”

That’s when Kate O’Callaghan joined the team, responsible for putting all the systems in place. The agronomist, who runs a mixed farming enterprise at Yanco with husband Owen, thrived in her new position as Southern Cotton’s new general manager.

FACING PAGE: Cotton is taking off in the Riverina; Roger and Tim Commins were among a group of farmers who built the gin.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Southern Cotton chairman and Coleambally cotton grower Larry Walsh; Southern Cotton’s gin at Whitton; owners with the 100,000th bale: Roger Commins, Gerard and John Toscan, Tim Commins, Scott Hogan and Larry Walsh; a moon buggy in action; cotton grower Tim Commins in the field with Southern Cotton general manager Kate O’Callaghan.

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With ginning equipment imported from America and $25 million later, the gin was ready for use by 2012. In their first season they processed 166,234 bales, an Australian record for a gin’s first year of production. Now in full operation, the plant has the capacity to process 200,000 bales in 120 days.

The impact of the gin affected many farmers, keen to make the most of their water allocations.

When they started, 18,000ha was devoted to cotton in the Murrumbidgee area but within six years this figure has doubled.

On the back of their success, two new gins were built at Carrathool and Hay, allowing the industry to grow further. Cotton is now the dominant summer crop alongside rice, with over 90,000 hectares devoted to cotton in southern NSW. “Since 2011, we’ve turned over $150 million, which has benefited the local economy and our downstream suppliers,” Kate says.

With 15 full-time and 50 casual workers, Southern Cotton processed 266,000 bales in 2018, bringing their tally to well over a million bales since kicking off – equating to almost half a billion dollars at the farm gate.

Along the way the dynamic team has collected plenty of awards, including the big one in 2015: the Telstra Regional National Business of the Year award. Kate has enjoyed her own success along the way.

In 2014 she was a Telstra Business Women’s Awards finalist and recognised as one of the top 100 women in Australian agriculture.

Today it’s one of the highest capacity gins in Australia and the business is not slowing down.

Southern Cotton is leading the way in providing a logistical path for their new industry, including packing bales into containers that go direct to the port and onto ships. Developments haven’t stopped there. During the 2017 off season they built a new shed to hold an additional 50,000 bales, meaning they can now store 80,000 bales in water-tight sheds.

Today it’s one of the leading gins in the world, taking data out of the cotton picker and tracing the module number right through to the finished bale. This data includes everything about the cotton module – the farmer, property, field, date, time and latitude and longitude of the module’s production. By tracing the module number right through the process, production reports can be provided to growers on a per module basis.

Cotton is attracting plenty of young farmers to the industry.

In 2018 there were about 175 cotton growers in the MIA with many new farmers joining the cotton boom. In the past five years farmers have invested in 75 new cotton pickers in the area, costing more than a million dollars each.

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Did you know?

In an average year Australian growers produce enough cotton to clothe 500 million people. The fibre from one 227kg cotton bale can produce 215 pairs of jeans, 250 single bed sheets, 1200 t-shirts, 2100 pairs of boxer shorts, 3000 nappies, 4300 pairs of socks or 680,000 cotton balls.

“To build the industry and support new growers we’ve invested in two cotton pickers ourselves to solve the picking problem for new growers,” Kate says.

“Cotton provides an additional crop for farmers to rotate in an area growing a mix of summer and winter grain crops. Our gin provides fast, timely ginning with improved gin turnout. Being local, we also provide farmers with freight savings. With water allocations reduced, farmers are increasingly looking for crops where they can get the best use for their water. And cotton’s return per megalitre is the best of the summer crops.”

Southern Cotton shares its great success story with visitors who are given a tour of the facility and presented with a video of the industry.

“It demonstrates that we’re not the environmental vandals as portrayed in certain sections of the city media. We charge a gold coin entry. Last year those coins added up to $20,000, which all went to charity.”

In a world where we never hear enough good news story, Southern Cotton is a game changer, and not just for local cotton growers but every other agricultural sector from freight, computer logistics, machinery and fertilisers to farm labour and investment. CWL Photography: Nathan Dyer

ABOVE: Shareholders in the gin Anita and Scott Hogan; winning the 2015 Telstra Regional National Business of the Year award: Roger Commins, Scott Hogan, Kate O’Callaghan, Tim Commins, Larry Walsh and Gerard Toscan.

From dirt to shirt, the Southern Cotton growers are some of the world’s most sustainable cotton farmers.

“Southern Cotton and our growers are leading the way in agriculture innovation, sustainability, technology and water efficiencies.”

— Kate O’Callaghan, Southern Cotton General Manager

southerncotton.com.au

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TON OF

MEMORIES There will be plenty of reminiscing as the Historic Hydro gears up for its centenary celebrations in 2019.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

The Historic Hydro Motor Inn, one of Leeton’s first substantial buildings, was completed in 1919 to house senior and administrative personnel during the early days of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA).

Its upcoming centenary will see many couples return for a nostalgic evening at the Hydro – a wonderful legacy to the vision of the early pioneers depicted in colourful murals on the walls of the Freckled Duck Bar. The bar and restaurant have been a popular meeting place for a meal and relaxing drink since the hotel was expanded and licensed in 1924, when prohibition in the MIA was repealed.

While the 30 rooms have been modernised, the old-world charm remains intact. Each room comes with an en suite, electric blankets, wi-fi, crisp linen and toiletries, big-screen TV and a firm new bed.

Most importantly, the rooms have hot, high pressure showers and reverse-cycle air conditioning – perfect for Leeton’s freezing winter nights and hot summer months.

The Hydro features a commercial kitchen, multiple function rooms and large car park. It’s in a great spot – off the street, quiet and with main street shops and restaurants just around the corner.

Further afield lies some of Australia’s most productive agricultural land, worked by a generation of farmers at the top of their game.

Travellers recognise the Hydro as a place everyone must see and experience at least once in their lives. Its well-kept lawns, stained-glass windows (on the upstairs level), grand old ball rooms and famous arches represent a bygone era.

Locals love dropping in any time of the year for a catch-up and meal. Even the name conjures up long ago days when it was fashionable to be seen at the Hydro, just up the road from the equally famous Roxy Theatre.

“This grand old lady has been standing proudly here for 100 years and will probably last another 100,” Hydro owner/operator and Leeton local Anthony Boots says.

Having been the custodian for the past nine years, he knows better than most the difficulties associated with retaining the building’s oldworld charm while bringing the accommodation into the 21st century.

“My plan was always to utilise the unique building and its facilities and present the accommodation and entertainment side of things in a befitting manner to our thousands of guests that come through the doors each year,” he says. >

“This grand old lady has been standing proudly here for 100 years and will probably last another 100.”

FACING PAGE: The Historic Hydro is one of Leeton’s most recognised buildings; as it stood in the 1920s.

ABOVE: The beautiful stained glass windows on the second floor; murals of the old pioneering days adorn the walls of the Freckled Duck; the famous arches; owner Anthony Boots; a warm fire greets guests in winter.

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“I’m trying to preserve the historic features while providing rooms that have all the things modern-day travellers demand, including a continental breakfast. It’s certainly nothing like your standard four-star chain hotel.”

With no prior experience in the hospitality field, Anthony joined the Hydro team in 2010, before buying the landmark building in 2014.

“I came to the Hydro seeking further opportunities for my labour and training business and thought hospitality would be a great way to grow my business,” he says.

The hotel, however, became too big a job to maintain his outside interests and Anthony now focuses his energies specifically on the Hydro.

“Every day represents new challenges and opportunities,” he says. “The ultimate challenge was taking on a place that had been let go for some time. The Hydro is such an icon of the town it deserves to be preserved but to do so it needs to be modern and economically viable.”

Anthony admits he’s never had the funding for a complete transformation but he does what he can when funds become available.

This true Leeton landmark has survived the test of time and is part of the rich history of the MIA region.

“I’m approaching the end of my tenure and soon this place will provide an opportunity for fresh eyes to carry on and further improve the Hydro experience.” CWL

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“I’m trying to preserve the historic features while providing rooms that have all the things modernday travellers demand.”

LEFT: The stained glass windows depict farming life a century ago; the old world charm of the Hydro’s lobby hasn’t changed since the hotel opened for business 100 years ago.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

Marjory the

marvellous Leeton pioneer and community stalwart Marjory McCormack OAM turned 100 in 2018. She died soon after reaching her magic milestone, and CWL tracked down daughter Margaret Atkin to shed some light on the life of this most extraordinary woman.

From all accounts Marjory McCormack OAM lived an exemplary life, filling her 100 years with an unbridled love of family and community support.

Born to Cornish and Scottish parents, Marjory grew up on a small orchard four miles from Leeton with her three older brothers. The Great War had finally ended and new hope abounded in the recently established MIA town.

In her final year at Leeton High School, Marjory won a scholarship to Sydney Teachers College, commencing studies in 1935. Her first permanent appointment was to a one-teacher school at Green Swamp Road, near Jerilderie, where she immersed herself in the district’s social and sporting community.

In 1939, as the world braced for another world conflict, Marjory met handsome Leeton farmer Allen McCormack. As their romance flourished, she returned to Leeton, receiving a gift from

appreciative school parents, a beautiful string of pearls with the inscription “Pearls for a pearl of a teacher”.

After their marriage in 1943, they purchased “Bringa Park”, where they grew rice and wheat and bred Angus cattle and Poll Dorset lambs. Marjory was a homemaker and gave each of her five children opportunities with music, tennis lessons, pony club, rugby, singing and ballet. There were good times on the farm when wool was a “pound for a pound” and some equally hard times.

“Mother’s passion in life was to see all her children acquire a solid education,” Margaret says. She achieved that, with all her brood attending university or teachers college. > ABOVE: The late Marjory McCormack OAM celebrates her 100th birthday with Leeton Mayor Paul Maytom. Image: Leah Smith.

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Although Marjory retired from teaching soon after she married – as was customary in those days – three daughters followed in her footsteps. Philippa taught for 12 months while Gillian and Rosalind devoted their lives to the profession. Jock became a solicitor and Margaret served on the personal staff of two governors-general and enjoyed a parliamentary career in both the old and new federal Parliament House.

Always a sports lover, Marjory and a friend teamed up to conduct tennis lessons for Leeton juniors, later engaging Vic Edwards, the renowned Evonne Goolagong coach, to train school students.

“Many school friends visited on weekends, as we rode ponies and explored new places,” Margaret remembers. “School friends and neighbours produced plays and musicals for the family, who were always a willing audience. Dad built a great tennis court over the ant bed and we enjoyed many parties, playing tennis and dancing our way through the years. We always cooled off in the channel after tennis.”

Returning to teaching in 1967, Marjory was given the extra roles of editing the school magazine, Waratah, and reforming the Junior Red Cross. She later took on two choirs along with verse speaking, achieving great success in the annual eisteddfod.

“It was fortuitous that Marjory went back teaching for a further 10 years as the farm battled a severe drought. It was her professional income that kept food on the table,” Margaret says.

Forever a book worm – a gift she maintained throughout her long life – her heart was in educating young people to “climb high”.

Reading was a love she imbued in her students. She also volunteered her time and professional skills to teaching adults to read and write.

“To go through life as a non-reader must be the deepest tragedy,” she once said. She taught generations of Leeton folk.

In 1978, the Australian Red Cross awarded her the Certificate of Meritorious Service for outstanding work with the Junior Red Cross. For 60 years she worked tirelessly with Leeton Inner Wheel and in 2006 was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship, Rotary International’s highest honour.

“It was fortuitous that Marjory went back teaching for a further 10 years as the farm battled a severe drought. It was her professional income that kept food on the table.”

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

“Marjory’s leadership and generous contributions to the local community were inspirational, described as helping set up the social infrastructure of Leeton.”

Marjory’s leadership and generous contributions to the local community were inspirational, described as helping set up the social infrastructure of Leeton. Ahead of her time, she was an advocate for equality, abreast of the political scene and supportive of what was best for the local community. Her OAM came in 2014.

Allen, who died in 1991, would have been justifiably proud. He, too, lived for the community, taking on the responsibility of mayor in the 1970s.

“Mum always liked to gather friends for coffee or lunch. Such occasions afforded her the chance to dress up, have some healthy laughs or stimulate discussion about some local or international issue,” Margaret says. “Politics was often on the agenda but also striving to make the world a more equal place for men and women.

She wrote and agitated for euthanasia rights.”

Marjory wrote her autobiography, A Love Affair with Leeton, with fascinating chapters like the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932 and her various world trips. She also loved her bridge and played with the Leeton Bridge Club, where she was a life member, until failing eyesight forced her to give the game away two years before her centenary.

In later years Marjory moved from golf to bowls. After her Wade Club team won the District Championship Fours they headed for the Australian Championships in Adelaide. On the final day and before an enormous crowd, they lost in a tight match but Leeton was on the bowls map.

Marjory lived independently in her townhouse until she was 96, when she moved into Leeton Assumption Villa, embracing her fellow residents and wonderful staff while advocating for more icecream and musical shows.

Towards the end of her time, reaching the elusive ton was her primary goal, which she did in spectacular style on March 9, 2018.

The highly anticipated event was held at the Hydro where 100 family and friends gathered for a formal lunch. Bagpipers heralded her arrival, bringing back memories of her ancestry.

Marjory made her own speech, off the cuff and straight from the heart. Her advice was simple: “Have a family – family is everything.” She was certainly gifted in that department, with 14 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, who all affectionately called her “Narnie”.

Letters of congratulations were received from dignitaries including the Queen, Prime Minister and Governor-General.

Three months later Marjory started going downhill after a fall.

The much-loved Leeton resident took her final breath on June 1, 2018 with Father Robert Murphy conducting a beautiful service at St Peter’s Anglican Church. All family members wore a Buchanan tartan ribbon.

Leeton Mayor Paul Maytom paid tribute to a community stalwart he was proud to call a friend. “Marjory was a wonderful lady who loved Leeton. It’s very sad to think she’s passed but I think we can take comfort in the fact she lived a full and wonderful life. So many people knew and loved her and she loved them all back.”

For Margaret the grieving continues. “She was not just an amazing and inspirational mother and our dear family matriarch, she was also my best friend,” she says quietly.

Few people in Leeton could match Marjory’s enormous contribution to the community. Her memory will shine on for years to come. CWL

FACING PAGE: As a young child Marjory loved to read; Marjory as a young woman; Marjory’s wedding day with local farmer Allen McCormack; Margaret and her sister Gillian were both competent riders; Margaret Atkin with her beloved mother’s medals and citation for her OAM. In the background is a portrait of Marjory painted in 2014 by local artist Ann Rayment, simply titled The Legend.

ABOVE: Marjory McCormack OAM was a well-known and much-loved community stalwart; a message of congratulations from Queen Elizabeth; Marjory always held her family close. This small sign hanging in her kitchen ensured she never forgot them.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

GET CRACKING Leeton has long been known for its irrigation, rice, citrus and cotton but the walnut is now sharing centre stage.

With more than a million trees planted over 3000ha in Leeton, Griffith and Swansea, Tasmania, walnut industry pioneer Webster is well and truly making its mark.

The company is the largest single producer of walnuts in the southern hemisphere, producing over 10,000 tonnes each year – about 90 per cent of Australia’s annual walnut crop.

All walnuts are processed in their state-of-theart walnut cracking and processing facility at Leeton, enabling the company to further expand its strong domestic and international markets.

The facility provides the flexibility to meet customers’ requirements for both in-shell walnuts and walnut kernels for a range of markets, retail, bakery and wholesale.

The walnut division employs over 200 staff, with about half based at the Leeton farm and factory.

Some 240,000 trees were planted nearly a decade ago on the 760ha Leeton walnut farm. The company also grows its own trees, for development of new orchards in the company portfolio.

Walnuts are harvested from year four but mature at year eight. The six-week harvest begins in March, when the trees are shaken and the walnuts are swept into rows on the orchard floor to be picked up by a mechanical harvester.

Once the hull is removed, the nuts in-shell go into an on-farm, gas-fired drying bin for up to 36 hours to reduce moisture to a stable level.

“The walnut operation has complete vertical integration beginning with nursery production, developing our own trees for planting, continuing with management of the orchards and growing the nuts with harvesting and drying capabilities,” sales manager Nick Downes says.

The next step is processing and marketing, and products (in-shell and kernels) are sold directly from the farm. Customers in Australia, Europe, the Middle East and Asia source Webster walnuts for their high quality, food safety credentials and reliability of supply.

“The Italians are major trading partners, followed by countries including Germany, Spain, Turkey, China, Japan and Hong Kong,” Nick says. “We pride ourselves on being able to supply direct to end users and major retailers to provide the freshness and traceability they demand.”

Walnuts are one of the biggest tree nuts in the world with plenty of health benefits, especially for the heart.

“Global demand is growing on the back of the healthy role nuts play in people’s diets,” Nick says.

Webster is a leading Australian agribusiness with a rich, diverse history spanning over 180 years. In that time, Webster has been involved in a diverse range of activities with a strong connection to the land, moving into the Riverina in 2004.

Since establishing its first walnut orchard on the east coast of Tasmania in 1996, the walnut business has exploded. Although Australia produces only about one percent of global supply it is enough to change the face of farming in the Riverina.

“We’re passionate about our business and products and, most importantly, the natural resources that are fundamental to what we do and how we do it, every day,” Nick says.

“That passion is reflected in the dedication and expertise of our people at Webster and also our reputation for the quality and integrity of their products.” CWL

WALNUTS ARE ONE OF THE BIGGEST TREE NUTS IN THE WORLD WITH PLENTY OF HEALTH BENEFITS, ESPECIALLY FOR THE HEART.

ABOVE: The Webster team walking through the orchard; walnuts in hull just before harvest.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Aerial view of the Leeton orchard; Webster assistant farm manager Neil Geltch, technical officer Cherie Sharp and farm manager Carl Rademeyer; walnuts being processed for in-shell market in the state-of-the-art walnut cracking and processing facility at Leeton; a split walnut hull very close to harvest; Webster employs almost 100 people in the Leeton farm and factory.

LEETON CWL 57

the shape of

water The Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA) is one of Australia’s largest private irrigation areas, serving more than 3300 landholdings and owned by more than 2500 customers within 670,000 hectares.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

The MIA was established in 1912 following the commissioning of Burrinjuck Dam in the Snowy Mountains.

Conceived by the government of the day as a purpose-built scheme, the MIA was designed to feed and provide employment opportunities for a growing nation.

The original vision for the MIA is as important today as it was a century ago. In 1999 the NSW government relinquished ownership of the MIA (and districts) to operate as an unlisted public company (limited by shares) and owned by the irrigators.

Water NSW controls water released from Burrinjuck and Blowering Dams into the Murrumbidgee River. Murrumbidgee Irrigation is licensed by the NSW Government to divert water from the river system and deliver it to customers.

The irrigation water and drainage services have helped create a diverse and highly productive agricultural region.

The vibrant communities of the MIA offer a range of education, arts, entertainment, sports and recreational activities. The MIA is home to more than 50,000 people with the majority of jobs tied inextricably to the water supplied to farms and industry.

“I consider myself very fortunate to be working for such an important company and its customers in such an exciting period in its evolution,” general manager asset delivery Jody Rudd says.

“Water as a resource is becoming increasingly valuable and our customers are leading the way in irrigation efficiency and productivity.”

Murrumbidgee Irrigation is in the middle of a process to modernise its water delivery system to integrate with on-farm technologies.

“My role enables me to be part of this process that will modernise a system that has been relatively unchanged for the last 100 years and to help set up the MIA for the next 100 years.” CWL

PICTURED: Irrigation canals are the lifeblood of Leeton and district.

LEETON CWL 59

SOLID AS A ROCK Hard work and family solidarity have given Peter Woods that winning edge.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

There are many great success stories to be found in Leeton but none quite like that of Peter Woods, a self-made entrepreneur who along with his sons Christopher and Brett turned a fledgling quarry business into a multimilliondollar empire.

Beside him every step of the way has been wife Beverley, whom Peter met on the dance floor back in 1956 when he was an apprentice plumber. Despite their age – Peter was just 18 and Beverley two years younger – there was magic in the air. It would be the beginning of a long and successful partnership.

From their beautiful new home tucked behind Leeton’s CBD, three generations of the Woods clan have assembled for morning smoko and to reflect on their rags-to-riches story. The family are intensely private about their business dealings but with Peter about to celebrate two major milestones – his 80th birthday and 60th wedding anniversary – they felt it was the right time to finally tell their story.

As a young man Peter would have liked to become a plasterer/builder like his father but was coerced into becoming a plumber. After a few years working in Young it was time to step out of town and make a name for himself.

In 1964 he piled his young family into an old Austin A40 ute and set off for Leeton, several hundred kilometres away. Beverley was nursing Brett in the front seat while young Christopher was curled up in a small cargo shelf behind them.

Daughter Tammy Werner was still a twinkle in her parents’ eyes.

They were still paying off the ute and had barely 12 pounds to their name but at least Peter had a plumbing job with the Murrumbidgee County Council. One of the first things he noticed was how the Italian farmers stuck together and built their future by working together. It was a lesson he’d never forget.

Over time Peter started contracting his plumbing services, working in new schools and hospitals throughout NSW. After a decade, work started drying up and Christopher and Brett, who had both undergone plumbing apprenticeships with their father, wanted to remain closer to Leeton to be with their own young families.

It was time to regroup. With a knack for sensing new opportunities, the family invested in a $250,000 transportable crushing plant from Queensland and started working for local shires, mainly for road works.

“We saw a huge increase in the demand for blue metal, which had previously been trucked in from several hundred kilometres away,” Peter explains.

“We took a huge gamble in those early days and worked long and hard together to make it work.”

Before long there was a steady stream of inquiries from Victoria, Queensland and as far as the Northern Territory. With demand for their quarry products booming, the only way forward was by implementing a massive expansion program, starting in the late 1990s.

Today it’s a multimillion-dollar business with 10 mobile plants and four fixed blue metal quarries. The family control half a dozen companies, including Milbrae Quarries, with about 140 workers employed on their burgeoning farm, quarry and concreting businesses.

Each year the business crushes in excess of three million tons of materials, mainly road base and blue metal for roads, constructions and mining contracts. During the 2010-16 mining boom, six crushing plants worked around the clock seven days a week.

The business outgrew the family and nowadays they rely on their skilled management team, headed by Michael Pygram and office manager Tracey Cotter. Meanwhile, three generations of Woods men have been working on every aspect of the operation from driving loaders, drilling and blasting, to maintenance and administration. >

“WE TOOK A HUGE GAMBLE IN THOSE EARLY DAYS AND WORKED LONG AND HARD TOGETHER TO MAKE IT WORK.”

FACING PAGE: Beverley and Peter Woods are about to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary.

ABOVE: The Woods family have demonstrated how a family can work together: Beverley and Peter surrounded by Christopher, and son Nathan, Brett and Tammy; the Woods family are major players in the quarry business.

LEETON CWL 61

An extensive transport fleet includes B-doubles, side-tippers, road trains, concrete trucks, cement tankers and an earthmoving plant. There’s even an aviation section operating a Pilatus PC12, which flies the crushing crews in and out of remote and difficult locations like their crushing and ready-mix concrete business in Mount Isa. “Our family motto is to work together and continue to grow the family business,” Peter says.

While he is enormously proud of his family achievements, Peter is also a passionate supporter of the Leeton community. He was elected to council in 1993 just as the cannery was being wound up after 80 years. Peter and his colleagues fought tenaciously to save the cannery business but it wasn’t to be. He later served as mayor and chairman of Murrumbidgee County Council, which was later to become Southern Energy.

In recent years the family have invested in NSW development and real estate along with ready-mix concrete plants in Leeton, Griffith, Narrandera, Hillston and Hay, supplying their own materials from the quarries.

RETIREMENT YEARS

In 2017 Peter and Beverley moved into their new home to be close to other family members. It’s been a long time since any of the Woods men have been in the plumbing game but Peter still has his tools out the back in case of an emergency. He’s been battling prostate cancer and recently had open heart surgery but is on the mend.

One pastime that’s not always good for his ticker is horse racing. The family have a stable of eight or nine horses with their best galloper, Jacquinot Bay, storming home to win the 2014 Canberra Cup and collecting a cool $1.3 million in prize money.

“We were all there and nearly tore the grandstand down in our celebrations,” Brett says with a grin. “It’s something we love to do as a family,” his father adds. Their horses, trained by David Hayes, frequently race in Sydney and Melbourne.

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Out of their nine grandchildren, only Christopher and Maria’s son Nathan continues in the family business. Nathan, 29, a fitter by trade, looks after part of the mobile crushing fleet. He and wife Madi are the proud parents of sons Corbin and Brady, while Nathan’s sister Bianca and husband Mitchell Bolte are in the farming business at West Wyalong.

Brett and wife Christine’s four sons have also done well. Ben and Mitchell have graduated as medical practitioners while Liam and Jordan are trainees in the Stock Exchange business. Peter and Beverley’s daughter Tammy and husband Paul Werner have three school age children, Josie, Julian and Christian. Paul is head science teacher at St Francis De Sales Regional College while Tammy is employed at St Joseph’s Presbytery.

Beverley has lived through plenty of highs and lows in the business but somehow manages to keep her boys grounded and with a positive can-do attitude. “Mum has always kept the home fires burning,” Christopher says. “She’s the glue that sticks us all together. We’ve always loved her simple philosophies in life.”

The quietly spoken family matriarch, who has let the menfolk do most of the talking, nods in agreement. “There was always a solution no matter how tough things got,” she responds.

“When you get knocked down, you get back up and keep on going.” CWL

“THE FAMILY HAVE A STABLE OF EIGHT OR NINE HORSES WITH THEIR BEST GALLOPER, JACQUINOT BAY, STORMING HOME TO WIN THE 2014 CANBERRA CUP.”

ABOVE: Peter and Beverley love their horse racing and are pictured with a shot of their thoroughbred Jacqinot Bay at the finishing post.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

GO WITH THE flow

Think Water managing director Pat Currie founded his business on the guiding principle that water is the elixir of life, without which all else fails.

As a member of a leading network of independently owned water services businesses, Pat Currie is passionate about designing and implementing efficient irrigation and water management for clients.

Making the best use of every drop of water is essential, he says, especially in times of prolonged drought.

Based in Leeton, Pat and his team work in a large region, from West Wyalong, Temora, Hillston, Coleambally and Griffith to areas of Victoria.

The business specialises in agricultural, commercial and domestic projects including community water schemes, pipelines, pumping systems, water main extensions for local government and school and sporting ground irrigation.

Delivering a high level of service is at the heart of the business, and as leaders in water efficiency and innovation Think Water Leeton is constantly asked to fix problems and provide solutions.

Pat and his team designed and supplied all the irrigation for the Lindsay Park horse racing facility near Euroa in Victoria, and were called on to set up a linear move irrigation system at Coleambally, described as the largest in the southern hemisphere.

The linear system is 552 metres long and walks 5.4 kilometres down one side of a channel before spinning around to walk back.

When State Water ran into difficulties with a diversion project along the Murrumbidgee River, Pat’s team came up with the idea of using siphons to move water from one side of a weir to the other, saving many thousands of dollars in fuel.

Think Water Leeton stocks everything from tapware, filtration systems and popup sprinkler gear, to wood fires and pool products as well as irrigation and plumbing pipe and fittings.

In August, Pat attended a conference in Fiji and took part in an aid project at the Ratu Ilaisa and Nadroumai primary schools.

“The schools were in need of maintenance and had inconsistent water supplies,” he says.

“We took over hundreds of books for the school libraries, fixed their rainwater tanks, put up guttering, installed pumps and laid new flooring in a dormitory.

“The work was very rewarding. The local people greatly appreciated what we did.” CWL Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Pat Currie, Brendon Townsend and Linda Boardman, Think Water Leeton.

photo courtesy of The Irrigator

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LEETON CWL 63

ODE TO HENRY One of Australia’s best-known poets, Henry Lawson, enjoyed a strong connection with Leeton that still shines today.

Bush bard Henry Lawson, who found fame writing for The Bulletin magazine, was born in Grenfell in 1867 during one of the most exciting times in Australian history. The prospect of fabulous wealth from gold had gripped the public’s imagination.

A young Lawson was brought up with the works of Charles Dickens and poems of Edgar Allan Poe, which helped him forget his tough and unhappy childhood. He lived through the end of the gold rush era, the last days of Cobb & Co and the great economic depression of the early 1890s.

Throughout his career he wrote about ordinary Australians he grew up with in the bush, his work showing great empathy for those struggling to survive.

Although most of his adult life was spent in the city, Lawson is best known for his poems and short stories based in the country – vivid and realistic descriptions of rural life.

Through his writing he helped shape many of the images, values and attitudes that are ingrained into our national psyche.

His tales of toiling miners, farmers, shearers, drovers and swaggies, of mateship, campfires and life on the track all became part of his legend.

64 CWL LEETON

Many of his yarns were drawn from his nine months in Bourke when he was 25, gaining first-hand experience of the hardships faced by swaggies looking for work and handouts, and the difficulties of trying to keep a farm going during a drought.

In early 1893 he penned a letter to an aunt outlining the horrific conditions. “You can have no idea of the horrors of the country out here. Men tramp and beg and live like dogs.”

He walked from Hungerford, across the Queensland border, back to Bourke and somehow returned to Sydney “never to face the bush again”.

The trip left a lasting impression on Lawson, bringing a new energy and toughness to his writing. It also provided him with the characters and inspiration for some of his finest work. But he wasn’t quite finished with the bush.

Concerned about Lawson’s ongoing problems with depression and the bottle, and sensing an opportunity to promote a promising new farming area, the NSW premier assigned him a job as publicist for the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA).

The popular wordsmith was promised two guineas a week and a cottage to live in in return for magazine articles promoting the area.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

In January 1916 Lawson and his housekeeper friend, Mrs Byers, caught the overnight mail train from Sydney to Yanco, where they stayed a few nights as their cottage in Daalbata Road was made ready for their arrival.

Lawson spent the summer days writing, taking strolls and calling on friends during the cool of the evening. He tried to remain healthy in mind and body to complete his work.

During this time Leeton was subject to prohibition laws banning alcohol within its boundaries. This rule, however, never stopped him taking the express train to Whitton or Narrandera to enjoy a few cold ones.

He enjoyed the bustling town despite the crippling summer heat.

He wrote to a friend claiming it was so hot in February “that you could wash your pants, hang them on the line, then run around the house and take them off dry”.

He also described his new town. “The growing impression of Leeton is as the most cosmopolitan place I have ever been in, and perhaps the most naturally intellectual and democratic. The townspeople all seem extremely kind and cheerful.”

His 20-month sojourn was both positive and productive. It was to be the last significant creative period in his life, penning 30 poems and 10 prose sketches including Leeton Town and A Letter from Leeton, the latter published in a book distributed to Australian soldiers in the Great War. It was later credited by a government report as having “inestimable value” in attracting new settlers to the MIA. Lawson stayed in the cottage until late 1917 after resigning his commission and returning to Sydney, where he died five years later.

In his last years he was a sad alcoholic, shunned by many of his former supporters. Despite this, his lavish state funeral was the largest Sydney had ever witnessed with the likes of Prime Minister Billy Hughes in attendance.

A lasting legacy Many years later, the old two-bedroom cottage where he once briefly lived was experiencing its own problems. Built in 1912, it’s one of the earliest surviving examples of the dwellings provided by the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Trust.

In 1983 the National Trust classified the cottage as heritage significant. Its owner, realising its historic value, offered the cottage for sale to the community. Public apathy almost led to its demolition until former mayor Peter Woods stepped in and purchased the block to buy time.

The NSW Heritage Council pledged a dollar-for-dollar grant to help Leeton Shire Council purchase and restore the cottage using council and voluntary labour.

One of the major driving forces behind the restoration was Henry Lawson enthusiast and Deputy Mayor George Weston who was determined to keep the poet’s association with the town alive.

The restored Henry Lawson Cottage was officially opened in 2010 with the unveiling of a statue recreated from a photo taken 100 years earlier of Lawson standing in the front yard.

It encapsulates the man just as he was in his later years, with his trademark hat, walking stick and pipe.

The man known for his habit of greeting people with a salute later had his face splashed on our original $10 note. Now his memory is kept alive through a simple cottage in a quiet little back street of Leeton. CWL ABOVE: The cottage that Henry Lawson lived in for a brief period has been carefully restored. The statue is reminiscent of the photograph taken over a century ago (see opposite).

FACING PAGE: The famous bard, Henry Lawson; the poet in front of the cottage in 1917; Leeton Deputy Mayor George Weston, fought long and hard to save the historic cottage.

LEETON CWL 65

LEADER

OF THE PACK Pacific Fresh fruit is something out of the box.

66 CWL LEETON

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

Pacific Fresh, the biggest citrus packing house in the MIA, packs 20,000 tonnes of citrus for worldwide markets annually.

Shareholder and current chairman Frank Mercuri says the industry has improved dramatically since 1962 when his father Vince first set foot in Leeton. Six months later he was joined by wife Concetta and three-year-old Frank, leasing a few acres to grow vegetables for roadside stores and tomatoes for the Leeton Cannery.

Like most Italian immigrants, life revolved around long hours of back-breaking work and living modestly as they forged a new life in the country of sunshine and opportunity.

Within six years the family bought a 54-acre orchard growing mainly stone fruits. They were difficult years – with no forklifts, fruit was packed manually into 20kg boxes and loaded onto trucks – but they were building a future for their family and others that would surely follow.

There were a few Italian boys in Frank’s class at school but learning the new lingo and adapting to the new way of life had its moments. After Year 10 he returned to the farm to help his father full time.

In 1988 as the country celebrated the Bicentenary, Vince quietly passed the farm down to his sons Frank and Domenic, who promptly added a further 50 acres to their holdings. After the closure of the cannery the brothers swung their operation into citrus production.

In 1993 a group of eight savvy Italian citrus growers formed Pacific Fresh. Over the following years each of the shareholders, mostly thirdgeneration farmers, shut down their individual packing houses and moved into one central location on the edge of Leeton.

“The industry has certainly come a long way from 30 to 40 years ago,” concedes Frank, as he shows CWL through the state-of-the-art $15 million packing shed, home to about 60 casual workers, on top of the dozen or so permanent staff.

In 2005 the Mercuri brothers invested in a further 300 acres of barren dirt, which they named “Villa Rosa” after the Italian village their parents grew up on. They were soon pouring their energies into irrigated oranges, mandarins, grapefruit and lemon trees.

“About six or seven years ago the citrus industry was in troubled times with a high exchange rate and stiff competition from South Africa and Chile,” Frank says. “Then along came China, which changed our industry. The Chinese demand high quality fruit and are prepared to pay for it. Almost 40 per cent of our export market now goes to China.”

The past 12 months have been the best ever.

Severe frosts, however, can cause havoc to the trees and fruit. To reduce their severity, Frank installed two $60,000 gigantic frost fans, which help the more delicate lemon trees.

The trees live for about 50 years, taking five years to become productive. In winter they irrigate every three weeks but during the hot summer months they water up to three times a week.

In 2001 the business brought in a Japanese variety of mandarin, the Dekopon, which is marketed around the world under the Sumo brand. In Japan it’s worth up to $10 a piece but Pacific Fresh gets about $5/kg from Woolworths.

The Brown Navel is another interesting variety, better known as Dolci Navel. Starting with a single branch from one tree, there are now 20,000 trees with the fruit proving immensely popular both here and in China.

“People are still getting used to their unusual colour but once they try it they always want more,” he says.

Oranges are big business but family is equally important. Frank and wife Rosetta have three daughters in the teaching profession while his two sisters are involved in the family business.

Frank still speaks in his native tongue when conversing with family members, including his parents, now retired on the farm. With a nephew Luke shaping up well, there’s a good chance the Mercuri name will be around for a while yet. CWL

“Then along came China, which changed our industry.”

FACING PAGE: Pacific Fresh chairman Frank Mercuri has been growing oranges all his life; the delicious-tasting Dekopon is marketed around the world under the Sumo brand; oranges on the new farm “Villa Rosa”.

ABOVE: Frank with one of his gigantic frost fans, which help protect the trees; Frank’s parents Vince and Concetta Mercuri started the business in the 1960s and are now retired in Leeton; nearly half the oranges are bound for China; thousands of oranges are sorted before going to market.

LEETON CWL 67

more than a one-trick

PONY Equestrian vaulting is best described as gymnastics on horseback, similar to the equestrian acts you might find in a circus.

Equestrian vaulting enthusiasts are typically concentrated in Europe but the sport is also catching on in Leeton, home to the Riverina Equiste Vaulting team.

From her small farm on the edge of town, NSW State Pony Club dressage coach Sarah Venamore puts her 10 vaulters through their paces, including eight-year-old son Sebastian.

Her dressage horse, Game On, is popular with the children for vaulting and not just because of the gelding’s whopping size (17.2 hands).

Never far away is showjumper, professional “legger-upper” and club president Jeff Julian.

His daughters love horses – Tynisha, 12, enjoys the vaulting while Shayla, 11, prefers the showjumping.

“We don’t use helmets because our students do frequent rolls and cartwheels and the helmet ruins their centre of gravity and the straps can catch on the handles,” he says.

The vaulters compete as individuals, pairs and in teams. Beginners compete at the walk or trot while experienced vaulters compete at the canter.

Game On moves in a 17-metre circle and is directed by Sarah, who lunges the giant beast from the centre.

In competitive vaulting the rider, horse and lunger are all judged on a scale from one to 10, based on technique, performance, form, difficulty and balance.

A typical routine for the group involves variations on simple kneels and planks, utilising a surcingle with special handles and leather loops on top of a thick back pad.

Riverina Equiste Vaulters are a fun progressive team who enjoy challenging tasks and improving their strength and flexibility while working with various horses.

“Our vaulters build up their confidence and improve skills working in a team situation,” Sarah says. “We focus on the individual progressing their artistic talent to music as well as their partnership with other team members.”

During the term, the team vaults in Toorak Road every Tuesday from 4pm to 6pm and competes several times each year at special events throughout the country.

Children love it because they don’t have to own or maintain a horse to enjoy their sport.

New sponsors and interested teenagers are welcome to drop in.

Visit www.revclub.net. CWL CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Instructor Sarah Venamore and Jeff Julian (right) with group members Rose Hogan, Matthew Ellis, Jackie Hulland, Tynisha Walsh, Sebastian Bennett and Elliane Bolton.

Front row: Jack and Issabelle Villa; Sarah and Jeff love seeing young children work on their fitness in an equine environment; Elliane Bolton, Rose Hogan and Issabelle Villa (on top) put their faith in each other and their mount; Matthew Ellis, 12, is a competent vaulter able to perform gymnastics on the trot and canter.

68 CWL LEETON

PACIFIC FRESH GROWS AND PACKS MANY CITRUS VARIETIES FOR BOTH AUSTRALIA, AND ALL OVER THE WORLD. PFP Pty Ltd, trading as Pacific Fresh, was formed in 1993 by a group of individual citrus growers in the Riverina.

In 1996 the shareholders decided to merge their operations together, thereby shutting down their individual packing houses and moving all their operations into one central and updated location halfway between Yanco and Leeton.

This has helped Pacific Fresh to ensure that they can maintain a high standard of quality to all their customers.

Yanco Road, Leeton NSW 2705 Phone: (02) 6955 7117 www.pacificfresh.com.au

70 CWL LEETON

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

make yourself right at

HOME

Working in the hospitality sector is a perfect fit for Wayne and Mia Bond, who provide a home away from home for visitors to Leeton.

Wayne and Mia Bond took over the Heritage Motor Inn and Charley’s licensed restaurant in February 2017 and immediately set about upgrading the four-star complex.

Set well back from the road on spacious grounds in an ideal location close to central business district amenities and sporting facilities, the Heritage Motor Inn offers 32 well-appointed rooms with modern conveniences, ranging from Foxtel to free, secure, unlimited Wi-Fi access.

Guest amenities include a saltwater pool, barbecue, meeting and conference facilities and a transfer service to Leeton airport.

Cooked or continental breakfasts are delivered to rooms seven days a week and popular Charley’s restaurant is open to the public and motel guests for dinner from Monday to Thursday. Room service meals are available for guests from Monday to Thursday nights.

Two chefs prepare modern Australian a la carte fare showcasing local wines and quality Riverina produce. The “home style” menu has weekly specials.

The restaurant doubles as a function space for large corporate, community and family events. The adjoining bar area caters for smaller gatherings. Bookings are accepted for breakfast, lunch and dinner functions.

Wayne and Mia thrive on all that’s involved in running a motel and thoroughly enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life.

“The motel industry has been our focus for 12 years now and we really enjoy the lifestyle,” Wayne says.

“Being in a motel is go, go, go, seven days a week from early in the morning to late at night. We are kept very busy but like helping and caring for people.

“In country motels guests are often looking to have a yarn, many share their life stories or talk about why they are visiting the area.

“We act as an unofficial tourist and community information bureau and help advise on what to see locally and where to go for the best food, coffee, shopping or services.

“The Riverina region attracts a wide variety of people and we look forward to seeing our regular customers, including business travellers and families with children attending local boarding schools.

“The beginning and end of the school term are always busy and that’s when our family rooms are heavily booked.”

Accommodation options at the Heritage Motor Inn comprise king spa, standard and executive queen rooms, as well as twin rooms with queen and single beds. Two rooms offer fully compliant disabled access.

Wayne and Mia worked with the Salvation Army in Sydney for many years before venturing into the motel industry.

“The motel industry has been our focus for 12 years now and we really enjoy the lifestyle.”

“Our first motel was at Toowoomba after we moved to Queensland to be closer to family,” Wayne says.

“The opportunity to come to Leeton arose at a time when we were ready for a new challenge.

“Leeton is a very welcoming community and we enjoy living and working here.

“We started out with 26 rooms and added six new rooms to cater for growing demand for accommodation in the area. All the existing mattresses, curtains and bedspreads have been replaced as part of an overall upgrade of facilities.” CWL Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

FACING PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Heritage Motor Inn owners Mia and Wayne Bond love making your stay memorable; the bar area; chef Brad Stanley; desserts to delight; the family friendly Charley’s Restaurant; the Executive Suite exudes comfort and convenience.

LEETON CWL 71

A FRUITFUL

ENTERPRISE It’s hard imagining seven sons establishing a multimillion-dollar supermarket and award-winning winery in the space of one generation. That they spoke little English and started with nothing but hope and a prayer in a foreign country is testament to the legacy of one man – Pasquale Fiumara.

It all started when proud Italian fisherman Pasquale Fiumara travelled to Australia in 1950, spending five years on the railways and local farms until he’d saved enough to return to Italy and bring back wife Angela and their five young sons.

In those back-breaking days the family sold fresh fruit and vegetables to the Leeton Cannery. Carting water from the channels was one of Angela’s daily chores in a sun-up to midnight working day – that and feeding countless seasonal workers who joined the family dinner table for meals.

Within a few years the family had grown to seven sons – Dominic (Mick), Angelo, Tony, Fred, Frank, Robert and Sam, who all toiled alongside their parents.

Angela later set up a cart to sell their fresh produce to passing motorists on the corner of Yanco and Lillypilly roads. With no knowledge of retail, the boys followed their father’s strict advice when it came to weighing fruit on the scales, always giving a little more if they were unsure. It was a simple philosophy that would serve the family well in the coming years.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

Later, an opportunity arose to purchase an existing general roadside store and petrol pump on the opposite side of the road.

The larger site allowed the stall to develop into a fruit shop and milk bar and over many years, and with nine extensions, it is now the town’s biggest independent supermarket – the Golden Apple super store.

Today the IGA supermarket employs about 100 people and plays a strong role within the Leeton community. Generations of loyal workers and their families continue to support the Fiumaras as they’ve done since 1960.

With so much manpower in the family, it was only a matter of time before the brothers diversified. The family, with the support of the wider community, fought hard to obtain a liquor licence and were ultimately successful. Eldest son Mick, who was running his own barber shop at the time, decided to join the family business in the new drive-through liquor store.

Mick was interested in winemaking and in the early 1970s suggested the family establish their own vineyard, which they named Lillypilly. It was Mick’s interest and enthusiasm that inspired younger brother Robert to become involved with this new branch of the business.

Pasquale, now known as Pat, planted the first vines in 1972 as Robert began learning the business at Orlando. Later he become the first in his family to acquire a tertiary education, studying at the Riverina College of Advanced Education before gaining further experience at Yalumba.

After Robert became the family winemaker in 1982, the Fiumaras tasted success with their first vintage, a unique blend of Traminer and Semillon, named Tramillon®. It was awarded the inaugural State Bank trophy at the Royal Easter Show and has been a popular drop ever since. >

ABOVE: Lillypilly wine maker Robert Fiumara checks on family vines.

FACING PAGE: The Fiumaras’ passion for wine has enabled them to capture the Riverina region’s unique climate and flavours in a bottle.

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“OUR PARENTS DID EVERYTHING FOR US BOYS AND NEVER WORRIED ABOUT THEMSELVES.”

“One sweet dessert wine, a 2002 Noble Blend, made 26 trophies and 30 gold medals and really put us on the map,” Robert says.

“Winning so many accolades from one wine is phenomenal. There wouldn’t be too many single wines in this country that have won that many awards.”

Over a lifetime Robert has developed a wide range of table, fortified and dessert wines. Red Velvet®, a light red wine, and Lillypilly Noble Blend, a rich dessert wine, are the mainstays.

“The semi-arid climate that prevails in the Riverina softens towards the end of autumn with cool nights and mornings made damp by fog and dew,” he explains. “These are perfect conditions for the development of botrytis fungus (noble rot) on the grapes and the production of sweet white botrytis wines.”

Only processing their own grapes, Lillypilly is designed to handle 200 tonnes of grapes each year for fermenting and bottling.

The family have been exporting wines for 20 years, with about half the produce going to America and Canada.

With two of the brothers passed (Mick in 1987 and Frank in 2009), the five remaining brothers contribute to the family business, just as they’ve done for six decades.

“Our parents did everything for us boys and never worried about themselves,” Angelo says. “Mum knew the Bible inside out and was

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forever working and praying. Our parents were the bricks and we were the mortar. When Dad got off the boat and took his first steps in Australia, he reckoned he was the happiest man in the world.”

The post-war gamble of the tenacious Italian seeking a new life in the “lucky country” clearly paid off with 22 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren forever indebted to those early years of sacrifice.

Today his wines travel the world. Next time you fly first class with Qantas, KLM or American Airlines you might well be sipping on a fine Lillypilly wine made from his initial plantings.

Pasquale, the enterprising Italian fisherman with seven sons, not only became a heavyweight in Leeton business circles but, more importantly, kept his growing family together. It’s safe to bet he would have died (in 2004, aged 85) a happy and contented man. CWL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Pasquale and Angela Fiumara built a dynasty with their seven sons; Angelo Fiumara in the vegie section of the IGA supermarket; Tony Fiumara’s son-in-law, Trent Pearse, and Fred Fiumara’s son, Pat, help Tony Fiumara (centre) make salami before it is hung up and cured for six to eight weeks; the huge IGA store employs about 100 Leeton locals; the family gather for a wedding in 1966.

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WWW.LILLYPILLY.COM LEETON CWL 75

ON THE RIGHT First settled in 1850, Whitton is the oldest town in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, developed on one of the main teamster routes moving people and goods into the state’s south west.

The railway reached Whitton in 1881 when the settlement was known as Hulong. Two years later it was renamed Whitton after John Whitton, who was brought to NSW in 1856 as chief railways engineer after a distinguished career in England.

At that stage the colony’s only railway ran from Redfern to Penrith. During the 1860s he surveyed the brooding mountains and gorges, trying to find a route across the Blue Mountains for his beloved steam trains, thought at the time to be an impossibility.

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track

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

But the engineer persisted and by blasting 5000 tonnes of rock out of his way succeeded in cutting through the first leg of the famous Zig Zag railway line.

When he began work, there were four locomotives, 12 passenger carriages and 40 goods wagons in the colony. By his retirement in 1890 there were 2182 miles of track, 429 locomotives, 1277 carriages and 9304 wagons, plus a rail route to Bathurst completed in 1876, Albury in 1881 and Queensland in 1888.

At one stage the town boasted four hotels with business houses that flourished. Today Whitton is a sleepy rural village of about 400 people with one major tourist attraction, namely the old Whitton Courthouse and Gaol. Built in 1890 and last used as a Court of Petty Sessions in 1975, it was developed into a museum in 1988.

An old steam-driven traction engine sits out the front while the restored railway station, station master’s house and butcher’s shop have all been faithfully restored. Visitors will find early farming and irrigation equipment, countless old photographs and memorabilia depicting the local history.

Museum volunteer Tony Reardon is as fascinating as the history he proudly shows off. The colourful 72-year-old has called Whitton home for the past 50 years. His early education in Hay was short-lived, leaving school at 13 to start work on a dairy farm washing milk bottles.

One of 10 children, Tony never learnt to read or write, something that never stopped him working on stations and shearing sheds in his early years followed by 30 years with the Water Commission.

One of the 15 museum volunteers, Tony lives with wife Gloria in the village, surrounded by generations of family members. Looking after the museum lawns and greeting visitors, he says, gives him something to do in his retirement years.

Strangely enough, he once owned the butcher’s shop, living in the humble dwelling for a decade in the 1970s. The family rented it for $5 a week before buying it and eventually donating it to the museum.

Over the years Tony has witnessed all the major upgrades at the museum and is familiar with all the old machinery. He still drives a 1948 Case tractor on his son’s farm and has a thousand yarns up his sleeve.

The museum is open on the first weekend of each month from 10am to 2pm with morning and afternoon tea available for bus tours. It’s also available for private functions, including weddings.

Phone 0403 984 482 or visit Tracy Catlin at the Post Office for more information or to make a booking. CWL

FACING PAGE: The historic Whitton Courthouse; the historic railway station was moved to the museum and serves as a major attraction.

ABOVE: Museum volunteer Tony Reardon is a natural story teller; distinguished railway engineer John Whitton (bottom left) and various displays make the Whitton Museum a must-see experience for all the family.

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in the

PICTURE

Warwick Deane’s painting of the charge of Beersheba is epic in every respect.

Just over 101 years ago on October 31, 1917, more than 800 horsemen from the 4th and 12th Regiments of the Australian Light Horse galloped into Australian folklore.

The biggest body of horsemen within a century to line up in a cavalry-style charge was a daring plan by General Harry Chauvel to capture Beersheba’s precious water wells.

Carried by their trusty horses, the Light Horsemen swept across the plain with a single driving purpose. Through Turkish machine gun and rifle fire, waves of horsemen surged over trench positions before claiming victory.

In 2014 the RSL Leeton sub-branch commissioned Leeton artist Warwick Deane to create a large painting commemorating the famous charge.

“Measuring a massive 4.2 x 2.6 metres, it was of an epic scale that engaged me completely,” he says. “The work demanded a commitment to researching historical data and exploring new and evocative ways to truly capture the subject.”

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For Warwick it became a deeply personal journey of discovery.

His great uncle won a Distinguished Service Order (DSO) during his time with the Light Horse. An oil painting of him in uniform guided him during the drawn-out painting sessions.

The artwork was finally unveiled on the 99th anniversary of the charge in 2016 and is now on public display in a purpose-built display case at the RSL Club.

This artwork is engaging, not just because of its sheer size but the attention to detail, drawing you into the charging horsemen.

It pays homage to the bravery and determination of the troopers involved and to the faithfulness of the horses that carried them forward to a pivotal victory.

The artwork is a must see for visitors to Leeton and represents a wonderful chance to learn more about this iconic moment in Australian history.

“It was a great honour to be asked by the RSL to create this image,” Warwick says. “As an artist with a passion for realism and

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

Our early pioneers and the special relationship between man and horse are recurring themes in artist Warwick Deane’s artwork.

It might have something to do with his strong family links to Leeton, his grandfather being one of the original soldier settlers in the new agricultural heartland.

Throughout the past decade Warwick has specialised in wildlife, depicting animals within their own environment.

Working mainly in oil or charcoal, he spends as much time as possible sketching and researching his subjects in the field.

His attention to detail and lifelike imagery have led to numerous awardwinning artworks.

“I have always been a realist and ever since I picked up a brush have been striving to capture the quality of light on my subject,” he says.

Art has always played a significant role in his life. By the age of 15 he was taking private art lessons with renowned realist artist Lance McNeill and knew he’d found his calling in life. His parents fostered his love of art and always found a way to pay for classes, even in lean times. Ongoing support from family and community has never gone unnoticed.

After finishing at Leeton High in 1981 a bust of a head was selected for the NSW Year 12 travelling exhibition. His future wife, Caroline Guernier, was in the year below and remembers the two of them passing each other in school corridors.

In 2004 their paths crossed during Warwick’s unveiling of the cannery statue at Leeton’s Information Centre. Caroline was inside, having been crowned the SunRice Festival Ambassador.

ABOVE: Gifted artist Warwick Deane specialises in wildlife.

His portfolio includes lifelike paintings of a man working the plough, tiger, platypus and gorilla.

“I went out in my bright red sash to say hello to the local artist that was the talk of the town,” she laughs.

They met up again a decade later after a timely birthday greeting on Facebook.

Warwick was still in Melbourne, spending 17 years focused on his wildlife art, while Caroline continued her role as a customer service manager from her Dee Why home.

Eventually Warwick moved to the beachside suburb to join her but the pair have always called Leeton home.

“All our parents have passed and we found ourselves staying with friends

exploring the relationship of horse and man through imagery, I embraced this subject with unfaltering passion.”

Warwick was fortunate to access a range of Australian and Turkish equipment that proved invaluable in adding the right level of authenticity to the painting.

“My goal was to create an image that embraced the viewer and communicated the visual energy and emotion of the charge,” he says.

Capturing the scene proved a moving experience, with Warwick living and breathing its creation in the studio for over two years.

“While painting it I believed everything I’d ever learnt as an artist was culminating in the creation of this artwork.”

An exclusive centenary edition print has been reproduced from this epic artwork and limited to 100 hand-signed and numbered editions by the artist. For more information visit: www.legendsworkshop.com.au. CWL

or in a motel during our many visits. It made us feel homeless in our own town,” he says.

They later bought a two-storey home near the town’s wetlands, which made a great backdrop for their 2014 garden wedding. Although they’re still moving between their beach house and country retreat, it won’t be forever, with plans already under way for a wetlands gallery.

“We love the ocean and sailing in our yacht but the canal water is in our blood and we can’t wait to finally come home for good,” Warwick says with a grin. CWL

Statue of industry In 2004 Warwick completed a life-size bronze statue of a female cannery worker from the 1930s. It was commissioned to commemorate the many women working at the Letona Cannery and the valuable contribution they made over the course of its 80-year history.

It is one of Leeton’s significant public monuments and features prominently in the gardens of the Tourist Information Centre.

Since then Warwick has included sculpture as one of his favoured mediums and continues to develop his sculptural techniques and images.

ABOVE: Warwick and Caroline Deane with the Letona statue.

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BRAD MEANS

BUSINESS

With four businesses under his belt and more frequent flyer points than an airline pilot, Brad Booth is the quintessential country boy done good.

Brad Booth boasts relentless drive and boundless enthusiasm.

The likeable Leeton entrepreneur sleeps only five hours a night in his quest to stimulate business growth in the bush.

Starting with a single clothing shop in Leeton, Brad forged a career that’s taken him to dizzying heights. “Fortune favours the brave” and “Life is for living” are two mottos firmly ingrained in his head. Now that he’s about to sell the business he started 17 years ago, Brad feels it’s time to reveal what he’s been up to and what motivates him to work seven days a week.

“How lucky I was moving to Leeton,” he declares from his Leeton home above Worklocker. “I’m absolutely convinced I couldn’t have picked a better place to raise a family, run a business and be part of such a strong and endearing community.”

Brad speaks highly of the caring and close-knit town he’s been part of since moving there as a young bloke at the turn of the century. Raised in the small town of Henty, where his late father Graham and mother Yvonne Booth OAM ran a clothing store, he fully grasps the value of a “connected” community.

“My parents helped me out in those early days with a loan to buy Lloyd Pilkington’s Mensland, which I changed to Brad’s. I haven’t looked back from day one, thanks to the mentoring of my late father and best mate,” he says.

“It’s in my breeding to support my local town, and it seems the vast majority of Leetonites feel the same way. We have some extraordinary citizens, incredible sporting facilities and terrific schools. Our local council does as good a job as any I’ve seen in the way they support our local businesses and present our parks and gardens.”

Brad loves reading the inspiring stories of self-made men like Kerwin Rae, Tony Robbins and Richard Branson but credits business and life partner Janine Norman as the motivating force behind his punishing work/life schedule. “With all the travelling I do, it would be impossible to achieve our combined dreams without us being on the same page.”

Their combined five children are spread from Pennsylvania, Wagga Wagga, Leeton and Melbourne. “Running four businesses and trying to keep up with the kids is very challenging but extremely rewarding at the same time. The sheep dog, sheep, horses, cats and guinea pigs just add to the organised chaos!”

Brad is referring to the new home they’ve purchased on the outskirts of Wagga Wagga. It’s the base from where he flies to country towns all over the country. He also makes trips to China and Hong Kong. And Brad is further spreading his wings, preparing future trips to Germany and Italy for research and development and to keep abreast of world trends.

He says the word “success” is a very loose term and is adamant any success he’s enjoyed is attributed to Brad’s and the continual support of the Leeton community. “I will always be indebted to this town, as it was here I had my foray into my business life,” he says.

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“Being born and bred in the fashion industry, I guess it’s in my blood. From my early days sweeping the verandah each morning, chatting to regulars and fitting new generations into their first pair of shoes and school uniform to making their debut and the excitement of decking them out in a dapper suit for their wedding. It’s been a huge privilege playing a small role in so many families’ lives.”

Brad has employed many staff over the years and regards them as the foundation blocks of his various enterprises. “You’re only ever as good as your staff and I’ve been very fortunate in that department,” he says.

Aside from his children, Brad believes Independent Workwear Specialists (IWS) is the most valuable and worthwhile achievement he’s ever been part of. “It’s becoming increasingly difficult for retailers to exist in an ever-increasingly competitive world, with rising costs, snowballing red tape, diminishing main streets and the emergence of internet shopping.” > ABOVE: Brad Booth harbours a strong vision for small business in the country.

FACING PAGE: Brad Booth and Janine Norman enjoy a stroll with their dog, Willow in the Leeton citrus orchard owned by Mick and Anna Mallamace.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

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Since teaming up with four like-minded retailers five years ago and forming IWS Australia, the group has expanded to 120 stores nationally. By working together, they’ve become the largest workwear buying group in Australia. They’re still growing at a rapid rate, teaming up with some of the country’s largest suppliers including Steel Blue, FXD, Bisley, King Gee, Yakka and Blundstone.

“I take a lot of pride in knowing I’ve helped many small businesses to stay competitive in this aggressive and often cutthroat industry,” he says. “The main thing concerning me about the future of country towns is that the large national corporate companies, generally speaking, don’t support local communities nor the vast majority of the faceless internet companies.

“I see too many shrinking towns all over the country. In saying that, I feel we are fortunate here in Leeton to have so many strong businesses and exceptionally strong leaders. It is crucial that small independents remain competitive and relevant in the market place.”

Brad’s passion is supporting independently owned businesses, as he regularly travels to each state and territory. “IWS Workwear stores buy as well as anyone in our industry. Our strength is we know our market, we know our customers and we know our products. So, if you have an IWS store in your town, or nearby, give them a go if you haven’t already.”

The success of IWS enabled Brad to build a brand-new premises in Leeton’s main street and open a fully fledged workwear store.

Worklocker Leeton is one of six pilot stores in NSW, Victoria and Queensland. It has recently been opened up to the other members and Brad envisages he and his team will have 30 stores over the next four years.

What you may not expect is that Brad and his team are not only supplying much of the town but deliver large contracts interstate and even overseas. Brad recalls his first order to Dubai for 3500 pairs of Levi’s. When he couldn’t acquire these numbers from Levi’s Australia, he imported them from the USA – meaning the jeans were made in China, sent to America, then Australia and finally Dubai before finding their way to customers in Africa!

“We don’t just supply workwear either – we’ve supplied things like deep sea diving recovery suits, steel depth finders worth over $100,000, 80 portable toilets for a mine in the middle of Queensland and pallets of hand wash for African diamond mines.”

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“I TAKE A LOT OF PRIDE IN KNOWING I’VE HELPED MANY SMALL BUSINESSES TO STAY COMPETITIVE IN THIS AGGRESSIVE AND OFTEN CUT-THROAT INDUSTRY.” For something totally different, Brad and Janine purchased the old Commercial Bank of Australia in Wagga Wagga for their new luxury day spa. “After seeing the magnificent and grand building of Circa 1936 in Corowa on the Murray River, we thought about doing something similar. After a few meetings with the proprietors we joined forces to achieve the similar high standards,” Brad says.

With Janine sharing Brad’s career-focused flair and satisfaction in making someone’s day, the new business Circa 1929 offers facials, massage, body treatments, bath soaks, cosmetic injectables and all aspects of beauty plus alternative therapies such as reiki and chakra balancing.

Then there are the Bali retreats – one an all-female yoga retreat and the other a fast-moving, full-on fitness retreat – both in luxury accommodation in keeping with the Circa standards.

“What I feel I get most out of my relationship with Janine is that she is as determined as I am,” he says with a grin. “It would be impossible to do what I do without her dedicated and committed support. We both push ourselves to get the most out of each other.

I think I won the lotto with this girl. We both share the passion and love we have for our children, customers and each other.”

Now that Brad’s is on the market, it’s time for somebody new to create their own memories from a successful business that’s been part of the main street landscape for over 60 years.

“To succeed in the business world you need loads of energy and great contacts but the biggest thing, I feel, is having solid family support. With Janine by my side, I’m not slowing down until I’ve fulfilled all my dreams.” CWL

ABOVE: A winning team: Brad Booth and partner Janine Norman in their new business, Circa 1929.

Supplying all the latest trends for the past 18 years

84 Pine Ave, Leeton

P. (02) 6953 2654

BUSINESS FOR SALE

bradsleeton.com.au

Enquiries: brad@iwsaustralia.net

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FULL OF character Robert Bruno is setting his own standards of excellence at Toorak Wines, making a range of wines that maintain the individual characteristics of each grape variety.

With 10 permanent staff, the Bruno family produces about 200,000 cases each year, with half bound for selected cafes and restaurants throughout the Riverina and Victoria and the rest exported to Asia and the Pacific Islands.

With a reputation for integrity and consistency, Robert’s vision is to make affordable wine for all tastes. He works with local chefs to design food and winematching menus to showcase the great combinations of flavours that enhance the dining experience.

“Our philosophy is all about drawing from the grape the best possible characters from all we grow and harvest,” he says.

Establishing the winery makes for a great yarn. Robert’s uncle, Gaspare Bruno, had been conscripted into the Italian forces during WW2, captured in Tobruk and ended up thousands of miles from home at the Yanco Institute as a POW. Jim, as he was known, took advantage of the ideal climate to grow crops with other internees and spoke to his brother Francesco Bruno (Frank Snr) of the vast fertile land and great agricultural potential in the MIA. In 1950 Frank emigrated to Australia, leaving behind his pregnant wife Maria and three children, and leased a 50-acre block planted with peaches, apricots, oranges and grapes.

In 1952 Jim bought his own farm while Frank continued the lease until he’d saved enough to purchase the property at 279 Toorak Road. A year later he sent for his family, which soon grew to six children, and planted his first 20 acres of grapes – with those original vines still producing nearly seven decades later.

Wine has always been part of the Bruno family culture. Making the transition from growing grapes to making wine was a natural progression, especially for sons Frank Jnr and Vincenzo (Vince).

In 1965 the men employed their first winemaker, with the small yield of a 30-tonne crush launching Toorak Winery into their first commercial vintage. Nearly 5000 gallons of Shiraz, Black Muscats, Trebbiano and Semillion grapes produced the Toorak range.

A few years later the brothers expanded their portfolio into new styles such as

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Spumante and Burgundy and started producing more table wines. With some Cabernet Sauvignon cuttings given to them by the McWilliams family of Griffith, Toorak landed their first Gold Medal at the 1974 Brisbane Wine Show.

Hard work and determination have seen the winery grow to 100ha of plantations and a crush capacity of 5000 tonnes. Frank Jnr’s only son Robert is Toorak’s winemaker, introducing up-to-date technology while drawing upon the experience of his forebears to achieve quality and value-formoney wines.

After gaining a Wine Science degree at Charles Sturt University, the third-generation viticulturist gained valuable hands-on experience in the Barossa Valley, Hunter Valley and Mornington Peninsula, topped off with an unforgettable season in France.

Since 1997 Robert has fine-tuned the family business, bringing a new era of growth to the business started by his grandfather nearly 70 years earlier. Durif Red is their signature

wine, a new variety that suits the region. The Frank Senior port is a unique, barrel-aged tawny still as popular today as it was back in the early days.

Robert is married to fellow Italian Rosanna with two sons and a daughter. His parents are retired in Leeton but it’s on the cards that at least one of their grandchildren will become a fourth-generation winemaker.

“Winemaking has always been my passion. There’s a strong emotional attachment to the place. Dad built the winery from nothing and I’m very proud to be carrying on the fine tradition. We are rebranding everything and going back to the Toorak name after being known as Willandra for many years. It tells the story of why we are here and serves as a daily reminder of where we started.” CWL

ABOVE: Third-generation winemaker Robert Bruno is proud of his rich Italian heritage.

BOLD &

beautiful Leeton has grand plans for a festival to celebrate all that is Art Deco.

Leeton is an Art Deco town. Many of the town’s buildings were constructed or renovated during the wars, leading to a wealth of Art Deco features.

Along Pine Avenue the hallmarks of Art Deco styling are everywhere, with rounded corners and stepped rooflines on building facades, often punctuated by vertical fins, zigzags, chevrons and parallel lines.

The Mediterranean (or Spanish Mission style) was also popular during the period. The Historic Hydro (1919) and the Roxy Theatre (1930) are prime examples.

To celebrate the stunning Art Deco architecture, Leeton Shire Council has announced a regional festival focusing on the culture of the interwar period. A winter celebration of Art Deco culture and art will be held from July 12 to 14, 2019, providing a grand opportunity to break out the faux furs and get into costume!

The Australian Art Deco Festival will pay homage to the culture of the 1920s and ’30s and the abundance of this particular architectural style in many of the town’s buildings.

With support from the Art Deco and Modernism Society of Australia, crowds from all over NSW and the ACT

are expected to visit the region for an unforgettable experience.

Art Deco Festival experiences will include a Gatsby ball, prohibition dinner, art installations, Murder Mystery at the Juice Joint, travelling exhibitions and Art Deco guided tours.

A volunteer coordinating committee has plans for a mix of ticketed and free events, ghost tours, a film festival, a weekend full of jazz, swing, street performers and market stalls celebrating all things from the 1920s through to the ’40s.

One of Leeton’s iconic Art Deco event venues, the Roxy Theatre, will be looking splendid after a planned repaint of its façade and the Historic Hydro will be holding a special event to celebrate its centenary.

Whether you channel the Great Gatsby era, are a history buff or just looking for fun things to do with your kids in the winter school holidays, make sure you pencil this cultural event in your calendar.

Tickets go on sale in March 2019. Visit artdecofestival.com.au for more information and subscribe to e-news about the event. For those interested in helping plan this event or wanting to volunteer on the day, join the Planning Leeton Art Deco Festival Facebook group.

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art with

heart

The biggest thrill for Leeton artist Ann Rayment is seeing her artwork hung on somebody else’s wall – the ultimate compliment for an artist who discovered her true passion later in life.

While Ann Rayment’s inherent love of art has taken her to exotic locations around the world, it’s at home in her gallery and studio on Leeton’s lower main street that she finds the ultimate sense of fulfilment.

“I am very diverse with my style as I love it all,” she declares proudly as she shows CWL around her colourful space. There’s a positive energy in the air and Ann is revelling in her own environment.

“I love colour and texture, and challenge myself to find new ways to include this in my work,” she says. “Over the years I attended many workshops and short courses, enjoying the company of likeminded people and learning many tricks and techniques, which makes my work rather eclectic.”

Ann admits her biggest dilemma as an artist was deciding which style to pursue, painting everything from portraits to abstract.

“While I use a variety of materials and processes in each work, the tools I most enjoy using are the palette knife and my hands, giving me a real freedom, which comes through in my work.”

The well-known artist has never stopped spreading her artistic wings. “Portraiture is intriguing but landscape, still life and abstracts are my most recent passions,” she says. “I enjoy all mediums but acrylic/mixed media is my favourite.”

In 2017 Ann visited Portugal for a workshop followed by a tour through Spain. On her return she painted a series of Gaudi-inspired works and Spanish/Portuguese abstracts. Her overseas travels and visits to historic places like Hill End provide further inspiration.

Being back in Leeton sits very comfortably with Ann, who was born in the town and attended local schools. Like her mother, she was taught by the late Marjory McCormack before moving to Wagga in 1976 for teacher training at the Riverina College of Advanced Education.

For the next 18 years she lived and taught in Griffith, where her three children were born, before taking up a teaching position in Hobart in 1998.

The natural beauty of the Apple Isle inspired Ann to pick up a paintbrush for the first time, embarking on an Adult Education course under the guidance of renowned artist Terrence Gough.

When she returned home in 2006 it was difficult transitioning from the lush and rugged Tasmanian landscape to the flat vastness of Leeton. Her rice-farming partner, Milton Hoysted, was struggling with drought and it was a challenging time.

Painting on a regular basis proved a healthy distraction as Ann discovered a different kind of beauty in the surrounding landscape.

Her inspiration now came from the earthy tones of the dry land, the grasses, rocks, eucalypts and wildflowers.

She continued to paint while teaching education courses at the local TAFE and conducting art classes at the multi-purpose centre. By 2011

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there was enough work to stage her first exhibition with 26 paintings finding new homes. Encouraged by this result, Ann began entering and winning awards at various NSW and Victorian art shows.

“It got to the point where I was thinking about the next painting while at work and realised I needed to be doing this full time,” she explains. An opportunity arose to open her own gallery and studio space in the former local framing shop, becoming an agent for Lilly Lane picture framing along the way.

By this stage she was having a crack at finally making a living from her art. Fresh and always up for a challenge, Ann threw herself into mixed media and acrylic creations while running three art classes each week.

These classes have become social events where everyone is encouraged to pick up a paintbrush and try something new. An exhibition of student works at the end of each year is always a keenly anticipated event.

“It’s been wonderful being part of the journey of over 100 students in the past four years. I’ve got dozens of emerging artists, including a sprinkling of men, who are now selling their own works,” she says proudly.

Ann is a firm believer in trying out new things and says painting is an art that should be tried by more people.

“I’m about to start Paint, Sip & Create parties in the gallery. A few wines can be rather beneficial in the loosening-up process and I’m sure these fun events will become a great alternative to the more traditional office, hens and birthday parties.”

Ann describes her work as continually evolving. “Life in a small town can at times be challenging but when I’m painting I immerse myself in my own little world, challenging myself to materialise the visions I carry with me every day.”

The secret, she says, is to never consider yourself too old to embark on a new adventure that can lead to new friendships and skills. “I am living my dream and it just gets better each day,” Ann smiles as she tackles her next masterpiece.

Visit Ann’s website at annrayment.com. CWL

CL AI M T H E DAT E Opening night for the Penny Paniz Acquisitive Art Competition is Thursday, April 18, with the theme Art Deco in Leeton. The exhibition is open from Good Friday to Easter Monday. Contact Leeton Art Society president Jacqui Herrmann for further information: leetonartsociety@gmail.com.

FACING PAGE: Leeton artist Ann Rayment has found her calling.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

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wedded bliss

Couples seeking a unique country wedding experience need look no further than “Billenbah”, a historic property 20km from Leeton on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.

After staging a wedding for their daughter, “Billenbah” custodians Garry and Jenny Morton were flooded with offers from other prospective brides. They put their heads together and built an amazing reception centre in the former shearing shed that ticks all the boxes.

The rustic setting comes complete with bar, toilet facilities, ramp for disabled guests and lots of room for mingling and dancing under the stars. There are so many options that the Mortons leave it all up to the bride to decide on her own style for the day.

The former Coleambally irrigation farmers sold up at the height of the last drought after falling in love with “Billenbah” quite by accident.

They had previously taken their three daughters water skiing on the river, unaware the 36ha property even existed.

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“It just so happened that one of the girls fell off her skis and we looked up and there was the magnificent old homestead,” Garry says. “A short time later we saw it advertised for sale and figured it was meant to be. The girls weren’t interested in our old place and we either had to buy more land or get out while we were ahead.”

The drought and all the associated problems helped make the decision easier. Having just lost a relative in a tragic motorbike accident, they figured life was too short to not take a chance.

Once they settled in they learnt more about their property’s rich and colourful past. During the riverboat trade in the 19th century, when more than 200 steamboats moved timber, wool and other goods up and down the river, one man stands out in our story.

“It just so happened that one of the girls fell off her skis and we looked up and there was the magnificent old homestead.”

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

Captain James Warby was the owner and master of the river steamer JHP and had numerous opportunities to observe the country along the river during his many trips. In 1873 he selected 3000 acres at the highest point on the river and named it “Billenbah” after the Aboriginal term for man paddling boat across water.

Ageing yellow plans show it was Captain Warby’s intention to build on a grand scale but his ambitious plans were slowed down with the expansion of the rail line to nearby Whitton.

Nevertheless, he built an imposing doublebrick homestead with a number of outbuildings including brick stables. As one of the earliest homesteads along the river, the imposing “Billenbah” homestead featured a paved courtyard surrounded by various rooms, complete with high ceilings and seven marble fireplaces.

The Warby family, which had grown to include four sons and three daughters, endured a senseless double murder in 1911, which rocked the district to its very core. Sarah Warby and daughter Amy were gunned down at Billenbah Station by station hands William Millar and Reginald Clare, aged just 16 and 17. When rounded up, a book dealing with Australian bushranging was found among their possessions.

Melbourne’s Argus newspaper claimed the murders had been well planned and that the youthful culprits played cards in order to allot their parts of the tragedy.

Over the following years things hardly improved. After the Great War only one son remained. He returned home injured to linger and die in a Sydney hospital, leaving the station to the nurses – much to the chagrin of his remaining sisters, whom he left penniless.

As it turned out, the hospital didn’t want the property, which was auctioned off to the Coughlan family who sold it two years later to the Beattie family of Gibson Park Hereford stud fame. They held the reins for the next 55 years before selling to the Kingham family.

In 1979 the Watson family took over, undertaking a massive restoration project.

A major feat was transforming the courtyard into a huge family room in the centre of the house, while retaining the old underground cellar in one corner. A stunning wide verandah on two sides of the home offers a perfect alternative for wedding guests to gather before the wedding, especially in wet times.

The homestead was built strong and functional for the era. The gardens are similar to a beautiful old book – each day is a new page from the past, always with something blooming. Huge jacarandas and palm trees line the road along the homestead, with a windmill and old timber sheds in the distance.

A “Billenbah on the Bidgee” wedding is one you’ll never forget. From the lush lawns and enchanting gardens overlooking the river to the magnificent 140-year-old homestead, this onestop wedding venue is sure to delight. CWL Wedding images: www.bumpdraftphotography.com

ABOVE: The homestead’s magnificent verandah; a happy couple on their big day; the unique wedding venue comes with many options, including a marquee.

FACING PAGE: Garry and Jenny Morton have ploughed their energies into making a “Billenbah on the Bidgee” wedding a truly unique experience; the homestead has been extensively renovated; views of the Murrumbidgee River are all part of the package; the homestead gardens come alive in spring.

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T O W N F E A T U R E Leeton

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

A HEALTHY

distraction Rocking horses hold a very special place in the heart of Murrami farmer Libby Bailey.

Libby Bailey’s fascination with rocking horses started quite by accident in 2002, when her 250-hectare property “Craigie Lea” ran out of water. It was the first time since 1926 that a rice crop hadn’t been planted.

“The place was a dustbowl. Our lambs were on agistment and the farm had come to a grinding halt. We were living off the smell of an oily rag,” the bubbly 68-year-old says.

Like today, there was a genuine concern for the wellbeing of local farmers.

“After a few years of no income and no hope I started suffering depression. A health worker advised me to do something I enjoyed for at least 30 minutes every day. At that stage I wasn’t enjoying much at all. Looking at the bare paddocks day after day was slowly driving me mad.”

The farm has been in the family since 1922, when Libby’s grandfather Stuart Anderson became one of the early pioneers of the rice industry.

The former Scottish dairy farmer had served as a baker with the Gordon Highlanders on the Western Front during WW1 before being recruited by the NSW government to work alongside returned soldiers, many who had little or no farming experience.

“Craigie Lea” was passed down to his son Stuart Jnr and then onto Libby, who has lived there nearly all her life with Brian Bailey, her husband of almost 50 years.

During the last drought she was thinking about her health worker’s advice when she stumbled upon a dilapidated rocking horse in a Wagga Wagga second-hand shop.

Nothing in the world captures the imagination like a rocking horse, especially for a competent hacking and dressage rider used to competing at FEI level.

“Its poor head was almost falling off and I thought it better come home with me. I had made a horse from scratch in 1993 for my grandson, so I knew I could restore it, thinking it would be a oneoff,” she laughs.

How wrong she was! Libby enjoyed the distraction from her farming woes and was soon on the hunt for more, buying from the internet and developing new friendships throughout the world.

Nearly 16 years later she has no idea how many she owns but her purpose-built shed is chock-a-block full of English and Australian rocking horses of all shapes and sizes, some dating from the 1880s.

If that’s not enough there’s a selection of home-made quilts, antique sewing machines and collectables of all shapes and sizes.

Since Brian’s stroke in 2012 the pair have left the farming work to contractors. Libby has stopped her restorations to concentrate on his health and the growing number of tourists who stop in for a bite and a visit.

These days, instead of mending broken rocking horses, Libby turns to Reinhold Niebuhr’s famous prayer to help her through difficult times: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference.

If you’d like to visit Libby’s rocking horse collection, call her on (02) 69 552 235. CWL FACING PAGE: Libby is passionate about all kinds of rocking horses.

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VOCAL

hero Singer Jack Martin is making a name for himself on the stage, and his proud dad is following in his footsteps.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

John Martin loved his son’s singing so much that he got in on the act himself.

During the day John runs a cleaning and restoration business but at night live music wafts from the back shed of his Leeton home as he rehearses new songs.

His only child Jack is home on holidays from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), Perth, where he’s almost finished the first of a three-year course focused on performance.

“Only 10 male students get accepted into WAAPA out of 2000 applicants from across Australia and New Zealand. In this year’s intake Jack was the only lad from a country town,” he says proudly. “He learnt of his placement while in Canberra and the following day was helping me scrub floors in a school classroom.”

When Jack is home he loves nothing better than belting out a few tunes with his old man.

The classically trained singer is in fine voice, having worked as a singing waiter during Perth functions, often bringing the house down with his cheeky smile and demeanour.

Megan is mother and wife to the two minstrels, and is their biggest fan. Not to be left out, the local school teacher keeps them both organised and assists in the costume department at local shows. She has seen her boy sparkle on stage since he first auditioned for a local production of Oliver Twist.

“The producers were worried my voice might break – which turned out to be the case – and I was relegated to a minor role in Fagan’s gang,” Jack laughs.

No matter, the seed had been sown. In Year 10 Jack moved to a new school in nearby Griffith, Marian Catholic College, to gain further experience.

He loved being involved with the high school production of Grease, playing the lead role of Danny, before branching into community productions Beauty and the Beast (playing Le Fou, for which he won a prestigious CAT award from the Canberra Area Theatre) followed by a leading role in Wicked.

With him was his nervous father, who wasn’t simply watching from the sidelines. He’d taken up singing lessons after watching a Sydney performance of Les Miserables and was sharing the spotlight with his son on stage.

The musical director at each of the Griffith shows and Jack’s teacher at Marian, Donny Hillam, was instrumental in the on-stage development of father and son, while accredited singing teacher John Sloan was the core developer of their vocal ability.

With renewed confidence John joined the men’s choir, the church choir and Carols in the Park before investing in some PA gear and performing solo gigs at the Leeton Soldiers Club, private functions and funerals.

Jack, meanwhile, was throwing himself into singing, piano and dance classes, with school

holidays spent honing his skills at workshops in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra.

These days the singers are doing what they love and living the dream. Jack looks for inspiration from Billy Joel, Hugh Jackman and Gene Kelly, while John has to look no further than his own son.

The pair have performed a few gigs together and are now looking for a guitar player. The Martin family have always been close but their singing has become a mutual love that keeps them together.

“Music has changed my life,” John says with a big smile. “If someone had said ‘Johnno, you’ll be singing in five years’ time’ I’d have said they had rocks in their head.”

While John has unearthed a new passion, he believes his son has the potential to go all the way in showbiz. “I might be slightly biased but I firmly believe my boy is one day going to be a big star.” CWL

“When Jack is home he loves nothing better than belting out a few tunes with his old man.”

FACING PAGE: Jack Martin is a natural-born entertainer.

ABOVE: Megan, Jack and John Martin are a close-knit team; father and son belt out a tune in the back shed of their home.

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FRENCH CONNECTION Collaboration has been the key to success for an award-winning French restaurant in the heart of Leeton.

Pages on Pine was established in 2003 and quickly gained accolades for its internationally inspired menu matched with quality local wines from Leeton and across the Riverina.

Listed in eight editions of the prestigious Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide and victorious in coveted regional and state tourism restaurant of the year awards, chef Eric Pages and his wife Vanessa have achieved their goal of making Leeton a dining experience destination.

Eric was born in Beziers in the south of France and after training as a chef worked and travelled

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around Europe for a time before settling in the United Kingdom for 10 years.

He came to Australia in 1998, working as chef de cuisine at the Hyatt Hotel in Canberra and playing a leading role in the establishment of a restaurant at Versace on the Gold Coast.

In 2001 he headed to Griffith to open a French restaurant for the Nugan Group.

Vanessa was working in real estate and as a favour to a friend agreed to find Eric somewhere to live.

A string of dinner invitations ensued.

PAGES ON PINE HAS BEEN LISTED IN EIGHT EDITIONS OF THE PRESTIGIOUS SYDNEY MORNING HERALD GOOD FOOD GUIDE.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

“Eric asked me out seven days in a row,” Vanessa says.

“We got to know each other while Eric checked out the various restaurants in the town.”

The couple married 18 months later and after five months in France returned to Australia to open their own business.

Divine intervention led them to Leeton and a perfect location in Pine Avenue across the road from the landmark Roxy Theatre.

Eric and Vanessa describe Leeton as a beautiful community, especially to raise a family, and they owe their success to their valued clients.

Pages on Pine trades for dinner Wednesday to Saturday and offers lunch on Fridays.

“We work hard to provide different dining experiences and teamed with local producers Lillypilly Estate and Toorak Wines to present Experience Leeton food and wine dinners,” Vanessa says.

“We stage a range of special events throughout the year, and the highlight is always our annual Bastille Day celebration, offering traditional French fare and live entertainment. The night always ends with everyone singing La Marseillaise.

“Local Hero and Farmer and Chef dinners showcase the wonderful produce coming out of the Riverina, which is widely known as a food bowl of Australia.

“We have utilised the Roxy Theatre for private screenings of French-inspired films with guests enjoying a relaxing dinner in the restaurant after walking across the road from the movie.

“Each October a pink dinner is held to raise money for our local breast cancer support and Can Assist.

“Our latest special venture is a safari package involving accommodation at the Leeton Heritage Inn, dinner at our restaurant and a visit to the Altina Wildlife Park at nearby Darlington Point.”

The menu at Pages on Pine starts with tapas plates to share and entrees including warm melted brie.

Main courses include confit duck leg with pork belly, free range chicken breast wrapped in bacon with a leek and blue cheese sauce. Off the

“WE STAGE A RANGE OF SPECIAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, AND THE HIGHLIGHT IS ALWAYS OUR ANNUAL BASTILLE DAY CELEBRATION.”

grill selections feature beef scotch fillet, chorizo sausages, salmon or barramundi served with Eric’s signature mashed potatoes, garlic baby spinach and roasted tomato.

Vanilla crème brulee and warm Belgian dark chocolate cake with fudge sauce are popular desserts, although many diners prefer the option of ending their meal with a sweet tasting plate.

Everything is made in house including Eric’s famous demi glaze. Food specials change weekly and are posted on the Pages on Pine Facebook page. CWL Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

FACING PAGE: Vanessa and Eric Pages enjoy providing memorable dining experiences for their guests.

ABOVE: Beautifully presented cuisine at Pages on Pine.

Pagès on Pine restaurant & grill Open for dinner Wednesday – Saturday from 6pm Lunch on Friday from 12pm | Fully licensed 119 Pine Ave LEETON NSW (02) 6953 7300 www.pagesonpine.com.au

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CROP STARS Rice is a specialty crop requiring good clay soil, lots of sunshine and plenty of water – three attributes Leeton has in abundance.

Today there are about 700 rice growers in the Riverina, down from nearly 3000 a decade ago.

“It looks like a huge drop in numbers but it’s largely due to many growers amalgamating with neighbouring farmers,” fourthgeneration rice farmer Barry Kirkup explains.

Rice growing has been in his family since the 1930s when Barry’s great grandfather arrived in the district from Ariah Park soon after the MIA was established. Barry and wife Gillian moved onto the property in 1996 following the retirement of Barry’s father.

When water is available, about a third of their 1600-acre cropping area is planted to rice.

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“Water is liquid gold, the lifeline of the MIA. Like all farmers we can only produce according to our annual water allocation,” Gillian says. “Essentially we are irrigation farmers with rice grown in rotation with winter cereals and legumes like soya beans to reduce the need for fertiliser and chemicals.”

The residual soil moisture left over from the summer cropping program goes into winter crops like malt barley, used for beer-making in Germany or seed oats that end up in Goondiwindi for northern growers.

The Kirkups produce about 2500 tonnes of rice, which all goes to SunRice, a company that prides itself on having worldwide markets for their carefully branded products.

SunRice takes it from the paddock, stores and mills it, with a finished product in high demand in New Guinea, the Middle East and more recently Japan.

Water is the biggest cost input but having modern machinery is equally important. The family recently invested $350,000 in a new John Deere tractor, used to pull Barry’s home-styled multitiller, which breaks up and conditions the soil.

Early days

After school Barry tried out as a professional footballer with the newly formed Canberra Raiders. He spent two years in reserves before realising farming was probably a more viable and less painful option.

He returned to Leeton as an engineer with the Leeton Shire Council, again lacing up the boots for the local club, the Greens, and helping with his father’s rice enterprise when time permitted.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

His next big thing was taking to the skies. An old photograph taken in 1913, depicting his great grandfather’s pioneering exploits in a Caudron biplane, hangs proudly on the kitchen wall. Barry looks at it every day, eternally grateful that aviation has radically improved since those early flying days.

By the time he was 30 Barry was a crop-duster with a business in Griffith. Gillian, meanwhile, was on a Rotary group study exchange to Sweden and needed a partner at the Rotary dinner.

Barry volunteered and they’re still going strong 27 years later with two children – Peter, who works with business entrepreneur Ted Celi, and Renee, a Brisbane nurse.

Gillian spent 18 years as a computer programmer before moving out to the farm and becoming involved with fellow rice growers. At one stage she was chairman of Murrumbidgee Irrigation and has 13 years’ experience as a SunRice director, the only woman alongside 10 men.

The Kirkups make a formidable team. Barry is president of the Leeton Aviators Club, involved with Rotary and on the Agrifutures Rice Research Advisory Committee.

With all his experience in irrigating and rice farming systems, he conducts farm tours, while hosting school and university students. Overseas dignitaries frequently drop in to see how it all works, Leeton style.

There’s always something going on. Having just returned from an American overseas business trip, where they visited the SunRice mill in Sacramento, California, and attended the millers conference, they are convinced they’re heading in the right direction.

“We walked away knowing that our water issues, environmental impact and water usage is up there with the best in the world,” Barry says.

“While the rice industry faces stiff competition with other crops for water (think citrus, cotton, nuts and grapes) we continue to operate as a leading food producer.” CWL ABOVE: Barry Kirkup up to his neck in rice on the family farm; an old picture of his ancestor in a Caudron biplane in 1913 sparked Barry’s love of aviation.

FACING PAGE: Barry and Gillian Kirkup are established rice growers in the MIA; flying and farming are two pursuits that Barry Kirkup can’t get enough of; Barry with his new John Deere tractor; the farm runs adjacent to a canal, providing the water for their rice crops.

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RICE &

REVELRY Held biennially during the rice harvest at Easter, the Leeton SunRice Festival represents a bold cultural celebration, recognising the important role the rice industry plays in the region.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

A tradition dating back to 1959, the SunRice Festival attracts up to 10,000 visitors who enjoy an impressive five-day program of events.

The family-friendly, foodie bonanza offers plenty to delight just about every interest from an Italian al fresco long lunch to vintage cars, a community harvest street parade, open gardens, a skate competition and twilight markets.

The festival attracts a huge number of hot air balloons that adorn the skies above Leeton for a fun, leisurely long weekend of flying. Balloons fly morning and afternoon over the weekend, drawing crowds of people to watch the launches.

Commercial balloon flights are also available to purchase for those wishing to experience the magic of hot air ballooning over the Leeton area.

The weekend’s festivities kick off on the Thursday evening with the official opening night. Featuring a unique dress theme each festival, the ambassadors and guests are dressed to impress to take part in a great night of live entertainment and dancing.

The highly anticipated street parade takes place on the Saturday, featuring a spectacle of vintage cars and communitymade floats, which travel down Leeton’s main street.

Following on from the street parade, the Festival on Mountford features live performances by local artists, mouth-watering food, a wide range of amusements and the announcement of the winning Leeton SunRice Festival Ambassadors.

A program favourite each festival year is Leeton’s Longest Lunch, which recognises the Italian heritage of the region. Ever popular for its authentic Italian food, the event delivers a threecourse menu featuring Riverina-grown produce served to more than 200 guests at Mountford Park.

The Balloon Glow and Twilight Market event lights up the sky, with a fantastic display of glowing balloons on dusk. A twilight market, children’s entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display are all part of the package.

After a busy weekend you need to relax and smell the roses! Leeton Open Gardens features a beautiful selection of Leeton’s autumn gardens on display.

If it’s action you are looking for, you can head to the Riverina Skate Championships at the state-of-the-art Leeton Regional Skate Park.

Be sure to mark your calendar for Easter 2020 to join in the fun! CWL

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Bruce and Sandra Dalgliesh, Coleambally.

Sue Gavel, “Wellness” Leeton.

11-year-old Matthew and mum Sharlene Oxenbridge.

Pat Petrulli and Jacinta Rizzeri, Roy’s Bread Griffith.

goods galore Leeton Farmers Market is held in Mountford Park, which has wide paths and is surrounded by jacaranda trees. Walking through the market is a joyful experience. The first market was held in May 2014, and it continues to grow stronger every year. The Leeton Farmers Market offers consumers the opportunity to purchase quality home grown and homemade products directly from the maker and producer. It is held on the first Saturday of every month between 9am and 1pm. CWL

Local band Mostly Blues entertaining the crowd at the Farmers Market.

Maria Lawrence and Caterina Mandaglio, Lil Rea’s Cake Creations.

Vanessa Jennings, secretary of the Leeton Show Society.

Retired school teachers Helen Welsh and Jude McGrath.

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Roz Thompson, Geoff Beecher, Dan Cotter and Bass Bhaskaran, Rotary Club Leeton.

Tony Sergi and Danny Marando, The Vinegar Factory, Yenda.

Robert and Betina Walker, Barellan.

Samantha O’Leary, Lowing Designs Leeton.

Crystal O’Brien, Crystal Creations.

Peaches Coffee at the Farmers Market.

Donna and Phil O’Bryan, Cootamundra.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

the perfect

BLEND

A Stir Espresso dining experience is one with Italian flavours, home-style recipes and fresh seasonal produce.

Michael and Tina Nardi took over a family-owned citrus property near Leeton when they were newly married 30 years ago.

Inspired by a rich Italian heritage and a passion for using fresh, seasonal, authentic home-grown local produce, they have now developed an abundance of signature dishes including a family lasagne recipe, spinach and ricotta cannelloni, soups and Michael’s home-style patties, since they purchased Stir Espresso café in Leeton earlier this year.

The menu has been created from the “ground up” with several of the summer vegetables sourced from the Nardis’ own garden – capsicums, tomatoes, eggplants and zucchinis.

“We grow as much as we can ourselves or source locally, I buy citrus from my brothers, grown on their farms, and squeeze our own juice, and we make our own marinated eggplant for sale in jars.”

After several challenging farm seasons, it was more than 20 years ago that Michael and Tina first had a dream to establish an eatery, so they travelled to Melbourne’s popular restaurant strip in Lygon Street for inspiration, and while they opened a cafe and delicatessen for a short time, until the sale of their citrus farms a couple of years ago, they continued farming and raised their family.

Now that their children Diana and twin boys Anthony and Michael are no longer at home, and with Tina still managing her home-based massage business, the decision was made to purchase the café. Michael has put his own personality into the furnishings, décor and the menu.

Michael loves a chat, and he and the staff are always striking up conversations with their customers, ranging from local kids having a milkshake, to family and friendship groups sitting down for coffee and cake.

Michael is also passionate about his coffee, and this is another specialty at Stir Espresso. Organic coffee beans are roasted and blended at Art of Espresso at Young, ready for one of the talented baristas at the café to make coffee selections off the menu. And Michael and Tina have introduced the Skip system, making it possible to conveniently order your takeaway via an app on your phone.

“Today, coffee making is a real science. You’ve really got to have the grind to suit the pour of the machine, otherwise it will end up too bitter,” Michael says.

“I like a piccolo latte and my coffee has always got to be served in a glass. Tina likes more variety, from chai latte to teas.” CWL Words: Rosie O’Keeffe Images: Zenio Lapka

Skip the queue with ‘Skip App’ to order your coffee

‘Art of Espresso’ coffee Wholesome home-style cooking All day breakfasts Homemade cakes & daily specials

ABOVE: The friendly team at Stir Espresso, Michael and Tina Nardi with Olivia Winnel, Katie McGregor, Cathy Whitlock and Kylie Smith; lovingly prepared marinated eggplant is for sale.

Catering for functions up to 50 people 121 Pine Avenue, Leeton

(02) 6953 4528

fb.com/stirespresso

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LEAGUE LEGEND True grit and determination saw Leeton’s Jody Rudd fulfil his dream of playing in the NRL.

Rugby league runs deep in Jody Rudd’s veins. His father, Don, now retired in Leeton with wife Patty, laced up the boots for the Leeton Greens in the late 1970s and early ’80s, including a stint as captain coach of the Barellan Rams.

Jody’s only brother, Anthony, was a handy junior player with the Canberra Raiders and part of the Under 19s Jersey Flegg team until a serious leg injury curtailed any future ambitions.

As a little tacker, Jody could always be found wandering near the dressing sheds, watching his father run around the paddock. By the time he was eight, he was kicking a footy at Leeton Public School.

“I was always sports mad. Whatever was on TV I’d have a crack at,” he says from the home he shares with wife Tracey and

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their proudest achievements – Harrison, 16, and Charlotte, 14.

In summer Jody lived for his cricket and softball. When it was hot, family and friends went water skiing on the Murrumbidgee.

Winter was devoted to footy and for a while, soccer.

His first grand final experience was in the Greens’ under 16s.

The team had a convincing win but he remembers nothing, having been knocked out and waking up in hospital a day later.

In 1991 Jody was selected for the Riverina Combined High Schools team to play against the South Coast, where he was picked for the Southern NSW team. After the game he was approached by a scout from the now defunct Illawarra Steelers, who negotiated a $7500 season deal with his father.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

It was enough to commence a Bachelor of Science degree at Wollongong University. Jody played his first eight games in the under 21s but was always on the bench for the reserves and sometimes even first grade. In the second last game of the 1992 season against the Penrith Panthers, Jody, the club’s top try scorer and only 19, finally made his first-grade debut.

It was only for a few minutes but the excitement was palpable.

“I was so chuffed to be tackled by the legendary Brad Fittler,” he remembers with a laugh.

Over the following two years social activities took precedence over his footy. Jody dropped out of university midway through the course “by mutual consent” with his tutors and tried selling cars before training horses with legendary harness trainer Brian Hancock.

With too many long nights and zero motivation, Jody was at his rugby league crossroads. Should he go home or get serious?

Flatmate and teammate Andrew Pauls wasn’t renewing his contract. Jody told him about the warm welcome he’d get back home at the Greens, and he’s still there 25 years later.

Jody decided to give the footy one last crack and took on a rigorous training regime, working on his fitness and core strength long after his teammates had gone home. He was called up towards the end of the season to play alongside the likes of Paul McGregor (now the St George Illawarra coach) and Australian rep Rod Wishart.

“While it was exciting to be finally playing against so many idols I grew up watching on TV, I struggled with my confidence,” he concedes. At least he had unequivocal support from his parents, who often made the long drive to Sydney to watch him play. His mother even kept scrapbooks of his achievements.

After three years, the Steelers offered him another two-year contract but North Sydney countered with an irresistible new offer.

Jody started from scratch in a new environment and squad. The Bears in 1995 were a wealthy club with great depth.

“Moving to the Big Smoke was both good and bad. It was the first time I was fully professional, even though I was playing in reserves.

It was my career and I didn’t have to find outside work to get me through,” he says.

“In those days you’d play golf in the morning and do a couple of hours’ training in the arvo and that was it. Footballers had a lot of time on their hands, which wasn’t always a good thing. Many took to gambling and drinking. It’s a very different story today where they have gym, video, recovery and education sessions.”

In 1996 he was made captain of the reserves but was far from happy.

He switched to the Balmain Tigers, a working-class club with only one professional player in the ranks. With no sign-on fee, he worked as a landscaper/concreter, while playing reserves under coach Dan Staines, who moved him from the centres into the second row.

He thrived in the new position, playing in front of 50,000 spectators in the grand final against the Parramatta Eels at the Sydney Football Stadium. Despite losing, it was the highlight of his career. He was named best and fairest for the year.

In his last year of competitive football, Jody played five firstgrade games alongside legends Paul Sironen and Tim Brasher until the unthinkable happened. Like his brother, Jody suffered serious nerve damage to his leg in a sickening tackle, was stretchered off and never played again.

In a brace for eight months, he ended up helping coach the reserves for the rest of the season. In 1999 the club became West Tigers and Jody was appointed the inaugural Cub Squad coach, a job that unearthed future champions like Robbie Farah and Benji Marshall over the next three years.

Meanwhile, Jody married his pharmacist girlfriend Tracey in Wollongong and was living in a “shoebox” they’d bought in Petersham. In 2004 they moved to Leeton and started building their dream home.

In his last year of competitive football, Jody played five first-grade games alongside legends Paul Sironen and Tim Brasher.

But his Sydney ties hadn’t been completely severed. West Tigers offered him a six-figure full-time coaching job with Tim Sheens and Royce Simmons. By then Tracey was pregnant with their second child and they uprooted once again to Wollongong to be near her family.

The long daily commute to Concord Oval was made worthwhile after winning the 2005 grand final. The party went on for weeks but for Jody it was more of a “quiet satisfaction”. He farewelled Sydney for the last time and returned with his young family to the half-finished house in Leeton.

He coached the Greens for three years, reaching two grand finals with a win in 2007. He’s now been back 13 years and his footy days are but a distant memory as he works as Murrumbidgee Irrigation’s general manager asset delivery.

“These days I’m a water runner for the under 13 league tag girls – a bit overqualified I suppose but it’s great watching my daughter Charlotte and her mates have a run,” he says with a grin. Harrison, 16, has just signed a three-year scholarship with the Canterbury Bulldogs and will be flown down a couple of times each year for coaching camps.

Jody hopes he’s doing it because he genuinely wants to and not just following in his old man’s footsteps. If the third-generation footballer is anything like the rest of his family, he’s already a champion. CWL ABOVE: Jody Rudd in his playing days for Balmain.

FACING PAGE: Jody Rudd in his stunning new home with wife Tracey and children Harrison and Charlotte.

LEETON CWL 105

whistle while you The Leeton Men’s Shed is a hive of productivity and camaraderie, giving members the opportunity to contribute, converse and hone their handyman skills.

WORK

The Leeton Men’s Shed gives members a place to work on meaningful projects at their own pace, in their own time and in the good company of others.

“Becoming a member offers men a safe and busy environment to spend time,” explains former industrial arts teacher and shed secretary Don Graham.

“It’s really all about old-fashioned mateship. And, most importantly, there’s no pressure – you can just come and have a yarn and a cuppa if that’s all you’re looking for.”

Leeton’s members come from all walks of life and different nationalities. They are united by a common bond of having time on their hands and wanting to do something meaningful with that time.

“Some blokes retire to play bowls and travel. Others walk up the street to buy a paper, perform a few chores for the wife and then plonk themselves in front of a television all day,” he continues.

“It doesn’t have to be like that. At the Men’s Shed they can socialise, use their hands to make and repair things, enjoy a cuppa and simply talk about their day with other like-minded blokes.”

Over the years the menfolk have tackled some great jobs but one of their favourites was restoring the old Harrison’s Bakery bread cart.

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Tom Knagge recalls the cart doing its rounds through the streets of Leeton as a boy back in the 1940s. Don remembers when the local footy club, the Greens, won a premiership in the 1960s and hauled it around town for a week during celebrations.

The Men’s Shed celebrated its ninth birthday in July 2018. The shed was built exactly one year and one day after a public meeting first proposed the idea.

Today there are about 50 members in the team with a fresh crop needed to join the ranks. A few years ago there were over 100 members but some have since died. A plaque commemorates fallen shed members – gone but never forgotten.

Various members have always taken tremendous pride in growing fresh vegetables in 10 big beds out the back. Here you will find, at different times of the year, Italian parsley, kale, silver beet, radish, beetroot, onions, garlic, shallots, broad beans, asparagus and peas.

Don Melville grew up on orchards in Griffith and spent most of his career as an agricultural adviser. He and his mate Dom Pirrottina, who once grew tomatoes for the Letona Cannery, are a force to be reckoned with in the vegie patch.

Tom Knagge sums it up best. “Coming here keeps us away from the pub and out of the nursing home,” he laughs. CWL

“Over the years the menfolk have tackled some great jobs but one of their favourites was restoring the old Harrison’s Bakery bread cart.”

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Eric Wardman hard at work; restoring the Harrison’s Bakery bread cart was a major project; Dom Pirrottina and Don Melville are both handy gardeners; David Carn is a retired painter who loves restoring furniture; Tom Knagge loves the camaraderie at the Men’s Shed.

FACING PAGE: Enjoying a chinwag and a cuppa. Back row: Clyde Kefford, Dave Carn, Don Melville, Don Graham and Dom Pirrottina. Front row: Tom Knagge, Eric Wardman, Jock Hamilton and Terry Organ.

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the crate

ESCAPE

Crate CafĂŠ boasts rustic chic, an industrial vibe and a fresh, seasonal menu.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

Stepping into the Crate Café in Leeton is like being whimsically immersed in a little piece of the region’s heritage.

Black and white photographs of the township in the early 1900s, upcycled retro light shades made from the bases of barbecues from the 1970s, tables crafted from wood planks that originally formed floor boards of the Letona Cannery cafeteria, and an impressive wooden chair chandelier, all contribute to the “Alice in Wonderland” fairytale ambience.

Standing behind the counter constructed from recycled ash, owner Michele White reminisces about her family’s passion for the Leeton district and her grandfather, father and mother’s working life at the Letona Cannery, before it was relocated to the Victorian township of Shepparton in the 1990s.

Her father’s first job was to pack away all the lug boxes in the cannery warehouse. Michele has fond childhood memories of constructing cubbies with these lug boxes, and such experiences inspired her and husband Denis to create their urban/industrial-style café.

“We wanted to use pallets and wooden boxes as the base of the project, so the name Crate Café was a good fit. We love to talk about the history of the décor and being able to restore antiques and use old wares that many people would just discard,” Michele says.

“Our vision was to create a café where visitors could indulge in the ambience and reconnect with themselves.”

Michele’s grandfather was once affectionately referred to as a cabbage king in one season and watermelon king the next for his locally grown produce, and the menu at Crate Café has a strong emphasis on using fresh and local ingredients.

The menu features specialty breakfasts, burgers, salads, cakes and slices. Michele says the secret to their signature dishes is in the sauces and spices developed by their chef, who has a passion for fine foods.

The Avalanche is a twist on a smashed avocado dish. The burgers, ranging from spiced pumpkin to Moroccan-style flavours, prove popular, as do the salads, gourmet hot dogs, sandwiches and focaccias.

The café has just been extended to the adjoining shopfront to accommodate a function space called The Garden Room, which is adorned with recycled antique furniture, historic maps, newspaper clippings and the original Leeton Post Office serving counter. CWL

“Our vision was to create a café where visitors could indulge in the ambience and reconnect with themselves.”

FACING PAGE: Michele and Denis White take great pride in the unique space and the culinary creations at the Crate Café.

ABOVE: Dane and Michele White with staff members Kat Houghton and Sophie Lyons; Jessica Beard mans the busy Coffee Window.

crate café Indulge in the ambience

Fine Fusion Cafe Food and Dimatina Coffee 108 Pine Ave, Leeton (02) 6953 7798 Open: Monday-Friday 6am-4pm

Saturday 7am-2pm

Words: Rosie O’Keeffe Images: Zenio Lapka

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YOUTH

& enthusiasm Elijah Ingram has the world at his feet.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

Elijah Andrew Xavier Ingram is an inspiration to everybody he meets.

Weighing in at a healthy 125kg, the 19-year-old school student could easily have been a powerhouse in any rugby league team. In his early years he preferred soccer, even becoming a referee but now that he’s almost finished school Elijah is preparing to take his place in the world.

The fourth in a family of six to William and Annmaree Ingram, Elijah participated in a life-changing Rotary Youth Exchange to Belgium when he was 16. It snowed on the first day of his arrival, signalling a fresh new start for the young man who thrives on new challenges. Two days later he was in school studying maths, science, geography and chemistry – all in French! At least he excelled in his English classes.

There was plenty to do. Watching a game in the European Cup, firing a crossbow, visiting the Budweiser factory and various cultural and historical sites including the spot where Europe’s fate was decided in 1815, the famous Battle of Waterloo.

He also made time to visit a school for disabled children and establish a program he dubbed the “Smiles Project”. The school insisted it be changed to “Elijah’s Dream”.

“We secured heaps of old tyres and turned them into flower beds and built a garden. Back in Leeton the United Football Club donated two full sets of team jerseys, which were sent back to the school.”

His parents were naturally concerned for their son’s welfare so far away. “Without Skype and Messenger I doubt we’d have let him go,” Annmaree says.

By the time he was back in Leeton, Elijah spoke fluent French with a solid grasp of Belgian military history, including significant battles like Ypres on the western front and the Battle of the Bulge a generation later.

“It was a game changer and put things into perspective,” he says in a strong, commanding voice belying his years. “You really learn not to judge a book by its cover, particularly when you’re an outsider looking in.”

With classmates from all over Europe, there was bound to be some interest in the lad from Down Under. None had met an Aboriginal before and he was forever telling new friends the history and culture of the Wiradjuri people.

Elijah’s great grandmother (on his mother’s side) was born on the war mission at Darlington Point.

“Stories have been passed down from generations before me.

Dad was the second eldest of 10 kids and I’ve spoken of the past with many relatives,” he says.

“When we study Aboriginal history at school it’s only the broad spectrum like Invasion Day and Mabo – turning points for the recognition of Aboriginal rights. I’ve only heard about local history and places like Murdering Island near Narrandera and Poison Water Hole Creek (both sites of atrocities for the Aboriginal people) through my relatives.”

With his unbridled passion it was only natural that Elijah was voted Belgium’s best exchange student from the southern hemisphere.

Since his return Elijah has been flat out with community engagements. He’s compered the “Proud and Deadly Awards” for the past few years and his voice was used in the 20-minute doco Leeton from the Edge, which won a Gillies award.

He’s been the MC at the Rotary District Conference in Leeton and was a keynote speaker at the 2017 Anzac Day services, where he spoke of sites in Belgium and France where diggers had fought and fallen.

“Whenever I talk at public functions I talk on my own behalf and not on behalf of the Wiradjuri people. I do this because I’m making my own way in the world and have different views to even that of my parents,” he says.

“I’m making my own way in the world and have different views to even that of my parents.”

“I’ve done a few workshops with Bangara Dance Company, which was enjoyable. It’s very special learning the traditional and contemporary dance of my people.”

Recently Elijah visited France to attend the centenary anniversary of the Battle of Amiens – a black day for the German army only 100 days before the end of WW2 – after applying for the role through the town’s cadet corps, where he is a senior Cadet Under Officer.

Three weeks later, the Leeton High prefect was back to face his HSC trials, having already reached the Double Gold level (the highest level for a student) for all-round excellence and contribution to school and community.

Like many school leavers, Elijah is unsure as to what he will do with his life. It changes daily but he likes the sound of studying linguistics and becoming an Australian ambassador.

He can introduce himself in five languages and would love to learn Arabic. His father, William, who has spent 37 years as a gardener with the local council, admits to being disappointed his son doesn’t speak the native Wiradjuri tongue.

Annmaree has the same dream for Elijah as for all her brood.

“I hope all our children are happy and healthy and lead good, productive lives,” she says.

For Elijah it’s all ahead of him but if the past is any indication, we’ll be hearing a lot more from this likeable young man in the years to come. CWL FACING PAGE: Elijah Ingram with his parents Annmaree and William in the meeting room of the Leeton District Local Aboriginal Land Council.

ABOVE: Elijah Ingram is proud of his past and excited about the future.

LEETON CWL 111

DYNAMIC duo To say John and Sue Gavel are community-minded is an understatement.

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

In 2013 well-known sporting identity John Gavel made history when he was bestowed with the title of Leeton Citizen of the Year.

Sue, his wife of almost 50 years, had been honoured with the same distinction a few years earlier.

This rare achievement reflects their enormous contribution to the Leeton community over the past few decades.

Always known to put in a 100 per cent effort, John never seeks recognition or glory for the tireless energy he pours into community programs. He is the quintessential quiet achiever, happy to work in the background and selflessly take on any role asked of him.

His forebears were among Leeton’s original settlers in 1912. John grew up with his three siblings on a Whitton rice farm, taken up by his father in the 1940s.

He always dreamt of becoming a jockey but when size got the better of him he became an electrician, a trade he plied for 45 years with Murrumbidgee County Council (now Essential Energy) in the town he loves.

Since retiring in 2010, John’s been involved with many organisations and is the current treasurer of both his beloved Leeton Jockey Club and the local branch of MS Australia.

His better half moved to Leeton from Jugiong as a teenager after her father secured work at the local steel works. While living in Yanco, Sue learnt typing from the nuns after school. Leaving at the end of Year 10, she walked into Richards department store (now Centrepoint Arcade) to see if there were any jobs going and left with an office job, starting the following Monday.

A few years later she met her future husband at the infamous Cha Cha ride at the Leeton Show. Sue always hated heights but the young and charismatic local sporting identity volunteered to help her out. They married on John’s 22nd birthday.

Sue remained at Richards for eight years until children Melissa and Chris came along. While the children were growing up, the Gavels became involved with various school and sporting activities.

“I’ve always been creative and good with my hands, so while our children were at high school I had this crazy notion to concentrate on making crafts and clothing at home, which we sold at the Griffith markets on weekends,” Sue says.

When all this became too much, she opened a shop in the main street, selling craft supplies and conducting evening craft classes, all the while sewing an array of ladies’ and children’s appliqué clothing.

“The sewing machine never stopped and we had to clear a small portion of the table every night to eat the evening meal. But my family rarely complained – they had grown accustomed to my strange ways,” she laughs.

It was during this time Sue became involved with the Main Street Program. In 1993 Leeton lost the Letona Cannery and there was a lot of doom and gloom about the town’s survival before some forward-thinking community members won a grant to revitalise the main street.

Sue got the job as co-ordinator, closed her business and threw herself into Leeton On the Move. It was a custom-made job for her and she excelled at promoting her town and bringing everyone together for a worthwhile cause.

After their children had left school, the Gavels threw themselves into local activities, believing that those living in a community should give something back to that community.

John would get involved in something and Sue would tag along or vice-versa. “As a couple we’ve always worked together. We share common interests and both enjoy helping out with the community wherever possible. Our local community is quite unique in that we are all happy to roll up our sleeves and contribute to others less fortunate.”

One example was the House that JumpStart Built, raising money for local people with illness or those who had suffered tragic circumstances.

“As a couple we’ve always worked together. We share common interests and both enjoy helping out with the community wherever possible.”

“Everything was donated and the townsfolk volunteered their time and expertise. The house was eventually sold in 2012 and we were able to fill the coffers with a few hundred thousand dollars. It was a massive project involving countless individuals and businesses,” explains John, the Leeton JumpStart Fund chairperson at the time.

“We found it was a more efficient manner to raise large sums without reverting to traditional fund-raising methods. That fund is still supporting those in need, both today and in the future.”

Over the years John enjoyed a distinguished sporting career playing tennis, cricket and Aussie Rules as well as coaching various junior sporting teams as his children were growing up. He has since been honoured with Life Membership of the Leeton District Cricket Association and Leeton Whitton Crows Australian Football Club.

“Leeton is a strong sporting town. The fact that we have four football codes is indicative of how much the locals enjoy running around a paddock chasing a leather ball,” he laughs.

John says that with volunteering you get back a lot more than what you give. “Our involvement with many organisations has enabled us to meet some extraordinary people and many have become like family. I like to think that when we leave this world we’ve left it in a better shape.”

Sue has always maintained the younger generation are our future. “There is nothing more rewarding than investing our time and mentoring the young ones because one day they will be tomorrow’s leaders. Some lack confidence or feelings of self worth and it’s imperative we have the fortitude and belief to guide them to a better future.”

In 2014 Sue was recognised as a Paul Harris Fellow for her service to Rotary and the Leeton community.

The Gavels are proud to call Leeton home. It’s where they’ve raised their children – both public servants in the Canberra region – and where their hearts belong.

“I wouldn’t be able to commit so much time if I didn’t have such a dedicated and supportive husband,” Sue says. “He props me up when I stumble and is very understanding. We are a team and enjoy working on various committees together.”

Since discovering doTERRA essential oils, this delightful couple share these beautiful gifts from the earth to help improve and support people’s lives naturally.

They now enjoy spending their time with their six awesome grandchildren and family while spreading the doTERRA message.

“I hope by sharing our story I can encourage others to volunteer or join a committee in our amazing community,” she says with a grin. “I can promise you will reap the benefits. Together we can achieve more. Let’s make a difference!” CWL FACING PAGE: John and Sue Gavel love giving back to the community.

LEETON CWL 113

RECIPE FOR

success

From traditional cakes and bakes, to award-winning pies and antipasto platters, Mick’s Bakehouse caters and delivers.

The humble meat pie is an Australian icon, and Mick’s Bakehouse has put Leeton on the map with its signature pie varieties.

Michael DiSalvatore first developed his award-winning pie recipes when he and his brother Rocci were working in their family-owned supermarket. Mick took it a step further 20 years ago and opened the shop as it stands today.

Rocci and his wife Maria worked in the bakehouse with Michael for five years before they officially took over the business, and Michael expanded his wholesale range from servicing the local region, to the Sydney metropolitan area.

Under Rocci and Maria’s ownership, the Leeton bakery has flourished, not only offering Mick’s pie range in their retail store, but also supplying to outlying areas including Griffith, Barellan, Narrandera and Harden.

Mick’s Bakehouse LEETON, NSW

• Award winning pies & fresh baked bread • Continental cakes & biscuits • Sandwiches, wraps & salads • Fantastic coffees & fresh juice bar • Eat in or takeaway, friendly service • Catering available 56 Pine Avenue, Leeton (02) 6953 2212 OPEN 7 DAYS!

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“We have over 18 varieties of pies now and we still make them all by hand in individual pie frames, so there’s a lot of love that goes into each one,” Maria says. “The classic meat pie is still a really popular pie, but the curry pie sells really well in winter too.

“A lot of our recipes have been handed down through the family. Our vanilla slice is our most popular item and our lamingtons are always well received because we use a butter cake recipe rather than a sponge, and our Italian lines like cannoli sell well too.”

Maria says lunchtimes are filled with locals purchasing lasagnes, a serve of their delicious tuna bake, sandwiches and focaccia breads, or from a range of salads.

“Rocci’s sisters Michaelina, Domenica and Amelia are still working within the business and bake a lot of the traditional family recipes.”

Having been raised in Leeton and raising their own children in the township, community involvement is important to the DiSalvatore family. The business sponsors various sporting clubs and organisations, and supplies to several schools and the local boarding school house.

Mick’s Bakehouse can create special-occasion gourmet cakes, whether it be a celebration cake for a milestone birthday or an elaborate croquembouche.

The bakery stocks an extensive range of pre-packaged cakes and biscuits, almond bread and crostoli, T2 teas, and the Long Track Pantry range of condiments from Jugiong.

There’s a large meeting room upstairs to cater for small functions and conferences, and a range of antipasto, sandwich and dessert platters available for on- or off-site luncheons. CWL Words: Rosie O’Keeffe Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Staff at Mick’s Bakehouse Grace Kelly, Tess Macauley, Anita Salafia, Michela Salafia with owner Maria Di Salvatore; a wide selection of pies to choose from; tempting bakery treats to savour and enjoy.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

A MAGIC

TOUCH

Leeton toy shop owner Rhonda McCormick is the biggest kid on the block.

Rhonda has always stocked a vintage and retro toy range and there are now 12 different types of traditional jack in the boxes in her shop.

“Even though we are moving away from gender specifics now, I still find boys like their trucks and girls love their dolls. Technology is changing the products, but it’s still the simple things that kids love the best. There are always crazes like loom bands and fidget spinners, and all toys have a place through the different stages of developmental learning, but I still believe kids need to work out the basics of learning and problem solving, and imagination play is important too.” CWL Words: Rosie O’Keeffe Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Owner of Jack in the Box Rhonda McCormick has a treasure trove of toys for children; popular and unique toys abound; an inviting shopfront.

Rhonda McCormick’s bag is always full of tricks.

The toy store owner, who local children have affectionately nicknamed Mrs Magorium (after the movie character), chuckles as she admits to possibly being the biggest child in the store, always dressing up, performing magic tricks and playing games.

“There is just nothing better than a child’s face lighting up when they see a toy they love. They are so happy and grateful. I even think back to my own childhood and my favourite toys like my dolls and Barbie. For kids, playing with their treasured toys forms such nice memories.”

Rhonda opened Leeton’s Jack in the Box shop nine years ago after her mother died and she had a re-evaluation of life and decided to pursue her dream of owning her own business.

“I had always worked in customer service roles, and I read an article that suggested that people can be more successful when they are doing something they love, so I wrote down fun, children and helping people, and with Leeton without a toy shop for some time, it was the perfect opportunity,” Rhonda says.

Her two grown-up daughters and son have been involved in the store, and her husband is always assembling larger toys like trampolines, swing sets, bikes and doll houses, and she says having seen some children grow from babies to almost teenagers, her customers have become like family.

“Delivery, gift wrapping and assembly is another part of our service and knowing our products and offering advice on toys to suit all ages. When children see a toy in the box they just don’t get as excited as if they can just jump straight in and play with it,” Rhonda says. “We are the only store in town that is just for kids, so I want it to be a nice experience and for them to come in and have a real play experience in store too and let them touch and feel things.”

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fine figures Tobias Bennett is a metal worker with a difference.

When your backyard is teeming with century-old metal scraps it’s easy to get excited – that’s if you are a creative sculptor like Tobias Bennett.

Tobias and wife Sarah Venamore, an equestrian coach, lived in Armidale for several years before the opportunity of a lifetime presented itself in Leeton. After selling their half-acre block in Armidale, they bought a 50-acre farm just minutes from Leeton’s town centre where they could both indulge in their respective businesses.

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A horticulturalist by trade, Tobias got into sculpting quite by accident. He started making topiary frames to train plants into animal shapes and enjoyed it so much he taught himself to weld, which led to his working with sculpture.

Ten years later, Tobias’s wild creations line his driveway and are becoming the talk of the town. For the past three years he has been self-employed, no longer having to work at a collection of weird and wonderful jobs to subsidise his fledgling artistic enterprise.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

When CWL arrived, Tobias was busy in the old farm shed creating his next masterpiece.

“In summer the shed gets uncomfortably hot but on the bright side we only get a few frosts in winter – nothing like growing up in the Southern Highlands,” he laughs.

Many years he ago he stopped counting the hours he poured into each work. “It was starting to mess with my head and has nothing to do with the value of my art. You try and be yourself while making a piece and the cost in time is irrelevant.”

These days Tobias no longer sells small works at markets, preferring to concentrate on specialised sculpture shows in towns like Batemans Bay, Mudgee, Jindabyne and Yass as well as producing private commissions throughout the year.

“I go wherever my artistic inspiration takes me,” he says casually as he pulls out an angle grinder to work on a new piece of steel. He’s not averse to using any traditional or modern processes to achieve the desired result.

“There’s 100 years of scrap metal lying around the farm,” he says with a grin, pointing to the mountains of farming material collected over several lifetimes.

In recent years he has sold pieces throughout NSW, Queensland and Victoria. His life-size Clydesdale pulling an old hay mower is one of his biggest and most extravagant pieces, taking three months to construct, piece by piece.

“Knives and forks belonging to my grandmother were used in his feet and mane,” he says. “It weighed close to a tonne and the crane on my truck was working overtime to deliver it intact.” A private collector paid $18,000 for the magnificent piece, now on show in a Crookwell front yard.

Certain works stand out. The rocking horse for his eight-year-old son Sebastian, he concedes, was forged with love. Tobias says he is open to commissions but it needs to be something that fires his imagination.

“There is a satisfaction in doing a job well and being happy with the end result,” he says. “Every piece is my favourite until I start the next one.” CWL

ABOVE: Clockwise from top left: Sculptor Tobias Bennett with his son Sebastian; part of the Wild Brumbies exhibit, now installed on the Monaro Highway at the entrance to the Snowy Monaro region; Tobias at work in the farm shed; a prehistoric dragonfly with a 7.6-metre wingspan; various sculptures line the driveway; the fish that didn’t get away; one of a few globes Tobias has sculpted in recent years.

FACING PAGE: One of his finest works is the magnificent sculpture of a Clydesdale pulling an old hay mower.

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all together

NOW The Leeton Community Op Shop is offering new hope to disadvantaged locals while building relationships and wellbeing within the community.

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The Leeton Community Op Shop has come a long way in the past few years. After a similar shop in town suddenly closed its doors three years ago, the staff and 58 volunteers felt like there was a death in the family. They held morning teas daily to support each other during the “crisis� period.

The then Chamber of Commerce president, Graham Heffer, and former store manager Jodie Ridge decided the only way forward was to resurrect the business but this time with strong community involvement.

They held a meeting and formed a board, the Leeton Community Care Inc (LCCD), while the community rallied together to make it happen, holding raffles and selling baked goods at markets. Local businesses were generous with donations as were tradesmen and community groups.

The doors reopened in May 2016 in the same building as before, with the same staff and volunteers but bigger and better ideas.

In August 2017 the shop moved into the heart of the main street and underwent further renovations. Offices were built and a cafe area developed with a community kitchen, enabling the growth of welfare/social inclusion services.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E Volunteers, who range in age from 14 to 85, help sort and sell clothing, books, bric-a-brac, furniture and electrical items. All proceeds are used to employ management staff, while the left-over funds are ploughed back into the community.

“The social programs and welfare services are why we are here, along with our love of the Leeton community,” social inclusion manager Narelle Weymouth says.

Since opening, the op shop has staged many community events including the annual Community Op Shop Ball with chairperson Kim Doss at the helm. The first was held in 2017 with 13 debutante couples from Garlee School and community members who never imagined they could participate in such an event.

After a lengthy courtship Buster Ryan (reigning Leeton Citizen of the Year for all his community work) and Sue Parker took the opportunity to marry at the 2017 ball. A third ball is already being planned for 2019.

Shop front windows are used to promote local events and community groups such as the Girl Guides, Relay for life, Narrandera/Leeton Air league, Leeton Men’s Shed and many more.

“Today our op shop offers great mentoring opportunities, through volunteering, going through life together and sharing life experiences,” Narelle says.

“We conduct art and workshops for youth during school holidays, Men’s Cave for men to chat about all things male while using a rag cutter, a work for the dole program (WFD) along with Work and Development Orders (WDO) where you can volunteer and have your fines paid off. Local disability groups also come and lend a hand.”

The community kitchen and tea house is forging ahead, providing meals for those struggling without a chance to enjoy a typical cafe experience. The op shop provides one hot meal a day with a great cappuccino and a home-cooked cake or slice, with a pay it forward program, where you can pay for someone else to have a hot meal.

“If community members would like to find out about what we do and who we are, we are happy to show individuals and groups our fabulous space,” Narelle says.

“At the end of the day the singer Birdy says it best: we are just people helping people.”

The truck service picks up donated goods for free in the local area. Please call (02) 6953 5664. CWL

ABOVE: The Leeton Community Op Shop has something for everyone; secretary Tom Thompson with the op shop truck that picks up goods from throughout the town; Jim Kidman and Daniel Barraclough help out in the Man Cave.

FACING PAGE: Narelle Weymouth, Tom Thompson and Jodie Ridge in the shop; Leeton Community Op Shop social inclusion manager Narelle Weymouth and store manager Jodie Ridge conduct regular smokos for their volunteers.

OPEN Tuesday - Friday 9:00am - 6:00pm Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm (Closed Sun/Mon)

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BEHIND THE NEWS

A strong community vibe was what brought Matt and Bobbi Curry back to the town of their upbringing, and it’s this same sense of belonging and camaraderie that is fostered and relished in their Leeton Newsagency.

It’s 5am and the region’s newspapers have already been delivered to Leeton Newsagency. Even before the sun rises, Matt Curry greets the first of his customers as they eagerly skim the headlines, becoming engrossed in the front pages.

“There are always a couple of people waiting for me in the morning on their way to work, or before getting kids ready. I’m often the first person someone will chat to for the day,” Matt says.

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He and his wife Bobbi were born and raised in Leeton and even after living and working in Sydney, they always hoped the opportunity would present for them to bring their young family back to the town. Then, late last year while they had been managing a tobacco and DVD rental shop in West Wyalong for five years, this Leeton business Matt describes as “the hub” of the country town became available.

“Growing up, whether you’re playing sport, or part of the community in other ways, you’re fond of where you’ve come from, and we wanted the kids to grow up with the same bush upbringing as us,” Matt, who now juggles businesses between the two townships, says.

“I have really fond memories of going into the newsagency as a child, friends of our grandparents owned it then, the McGregors, who were always well respected and well known in the community.

“We get such diversity in our customers.

It might just be a birthday card, but there’s always a story behind each one, and the purchases can be real conversation starters, like their son is getting married, or a child is graduating university, a friend is turning 100, someone has had a new baby. When I lived in the city I remember it was more about a quick transaction. Because our staff have more than 30 years’ combined experience, they know most of the people coming in.”

Matt, who has always been communityminded and involved in various sporting clubs including football and cricket, is in the shop every day of the week from around 5am, despite official trade starting at 8am.

The newsagency boasts an extensive range of local and metropolitan newspapers, magazines, cards and stationery, office and school supplies, cigarettes, phone recharge facilities, and confectionery, and Matt and Bobbi have plans to extend the range of toys, books and giftware.

The newsagency is also a NSW Lotteries agent and while Matt hopes to change someone’s life and add to a history of lucky winners who have purchased tickets for various draws from the outlet, for now perhaps he’s the lucky one, living in his and Bobbi’s ideal country town and giving his children Jack, 9, Grace, 7, and Ethan, 5, the rural upbringing they too once enjoyed. CWL Words: Rosie O’Keeffe Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Bobbi and Matt Curry of the Leeton Newsagency value their strong connections with the Leeton community.

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

in the name of

PROGRESS

Yanco Agricultural Institute is purposefully bringing about positive change.

The work undertaken at Yanco Agricultural Institute has a huge impact on the development of Australian agriculture.

“With 85 staff, we are invested in research and development for cereal cropping and horticulture,” says office supervisor Leonie Napier, who has worked there with her agronomist husband Tony for the past 22 years.

The institute has a rich history. Land was purchased by the Department of Agriculture in 1908 from Sir Samuel McCaughey with the vision of developing sound agricultural production methods. Research and training was conducted in irrigated crops, horticulture and dairying.

From 1928 to 1942 it was known as the Riverina Welfare Farm, operated by the Child Welfare Department and used as a training institution for up to 130 boys, mostly first offenders who were often homeless or orphans.

The first superintendent, Major Parsonage, ran it along military lines with severe punishment for misdemeanours. In later years it was transformed from an institution of fear and punishment to one providing education and life skills to the inmates.

In 1942 the boys were transferred to the Gosford Boys’ Home and the farm became a POW and internment camp. The new occupants were easily recognisable by their army uniforms, dyed a bright red with a matching red beret. The prisoners provided labour for one of the largest vegetable production units in Australia with large quantities of canned and dried vegetables produced for the Letona Cannery.

They were once housed in tents but as the number of inmates increased, accommodation was expanded with a new compound, initially surrounded by barbed wire. Roll calls were conducted four times a day with inspection of tools and prisoners leaving and returning on work contingents.

By the end of the war, 1000 acres of the farm were under irrigation with 11 cottages, 32 barracks housing 960 men, administrative offices for 200, kitchen and dining room, electric lights and power.

In 1948 the property was handed back to the Department of Agriculture and it again became the Yanco Experiment Farm, with the new aim of conducting scientific research in horticultural and field crops, especially rice.

Yanco has provided a unique training facility for farmers and departmental trainees from the early days but a new era began with the opening of Yanco Agricultural College in 1963, after nearly 20 years of lobbying. It was the first residential ag college in the Commonwealth.

Centenary celebrations took place in 2008, recognising the contributions made in wide-ranging research and education.

“The history here is precious and valuable. Every moment and every experience is linked to a person and their story,” Leonie says.

“We have a history of vision, commitment and endurance that needs to be documented, remembered and valued.

“From my perspective it has invoked a desire to showcase Yanco Agricultural Institute and our surrounding community. It supports the idea of building positive change from a variety of perspectives and cultural influences.”

Leonie says the work carried out on the farm has provided working opportunities for countless individuals.

“Developing a museum full of the stories of our people in a presentation of murals, photos and memorabilia will be an invaluable cultural resource for our community.” CWL ABOVE: Leonie Napier is keen to showcase the institute’s rich history; the early days of the POW camp; the original Art Deco hall and dining room; the entrance to Yanco Experiment Farm 100 years ago.

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LIFE LESSONS Students at Yanco Agricultural High School are reaping the benefits of a well-rounded education.

Yanco Agricultural High School is a co-educational school covering 280ha, with more than half devoted to intensive irrigation and dry land agriculture along with 60ha of natural bushland bordering the Murrumbidgee River.

School principal Gary Hunt, who has 32 years’ experience in the teaching profession, says most of his 300 students come from rural backgrounds and are committed to careers in agriculture.

Now celebrating its 25th year of co-education, the school has equal numbers of girls and boys, with Gary and some of the 34 teachers on call 24/7.

“You can get a call any time, day or night, to fix a problem,” he says. “The school runs for 30 hours a week but there’s an additional 138 hours in the week to be accounted for. It’s the involvement with the students on a personal basis that makes my job particularly satisfying.”

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Living in the “White House”, built in 1928 specifically for the principal, Gary says it’s a far cry from the early days when the principal lived upstairs in McCaughey Hall with a bedroom and sitting room.

With state-of-the-art resources, farm and hostel, the school provides an all-round education for students in a stimulating and caring environment. Students immerse themselves in farm and stud enterprises including Yanco Shorthorns, McCaughey Limousins and Yanco White Suffolk sheep. The highly successful show teams prepare and exhibit cattle at regional and state shows. Students also gain experience with poultry and in the school’s piggery.

In recent years the equestrian program has gained traction.

Students participating in equine and horse management courses can keep a horse at school, depending on stable availability. With access to a world-class arena, jumps paddock and riding areas, the equestrian team competes at various equine events throughout the state.

Students have access to tennis courts, a gymnasium, swimming pool, 10ha of sporting ovals, library and resource centre within the school grounds.

The school is on land formerly owned by pastoralist Sir Samuel McCaughey. Leeton, barely a decade old, had limited education facilities in the early 1920s. A group of concerned citizens approached the state government hoping to transform the farm into a high school to train future farmers.

The plan was successful. with the land transferred from the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission to the NSW Department of Education for the state’s second agricultural high school (after Hurlstone).

The school opened in 1922 with 70 residential and 12 day students in the first intake. The historic homestead provided accommodation, a kitchen and dining room. The shearers’ quarters, some distance from the homestead, were converted into classrooms. During the first months, hurricane lamps provided light while meals were cooked on an open fire in the yard. As farm equipment was limited, students cultivated the fields with spades and hoes.

The depression of the 1930s saw a fall in enrolments as parents chose to keep their sons at home on farms. Prosperity slowly returned and the school’s size was increased with the introduction of senior students in 1934. A sporting house system was introduced and an annual Beach Carnival (still going today) by teacher and former surf lifesaver Jack Woods.

With state-of-the-art resources, farm and hostel, the school provides an all-round education for students in a stimulating and caring environment.

The outbreak of war in 1939 led to further difficulties. Teaching and farm staff numbers were significantly reduced as the armed forces sought recruits.

Nearly 100 years after it was established, Yanco continues to provide a fully academic and practical public education with a strong emphasis on agriculture. The old homestead is used as administrative offices and the school is already preparing for its centenary in 2022. CWL FACING PAGE: An aerial shot depicts McCaughey homestead and the size of Yanco.

ABOVE: Yanco’s 300 students line up in front of the McCaughey mansion; students parade their charges; cooking classes; equestrian events are held regularly; Yanco principal Gary Hunt with 2018 girl vice-captain Hayley Dowling, captain Georgina Hughes, boy captain Lindsay Brown and vice-captain Joel Jenkins.

LEETON CWL 123

SIR SAMUEL LEAVES

lasting legacy Leeton and Yanco owe their very existence to pastoralist, inventor and philanthropist Sir Samuel McCaughey.

Known as the “Father of Irrigation” and once considered the wealthiest sheep and land owner in Australia, visionary Irishman Sir Samuel McCaughey (pronounced Mac-cak-ey) was instrumental in creating one of the greatest agricultural success stories in the colony.

At great personal cost, he constructed water channels on his 16,000ha property “North Yanco,” near Leeton. The success of his ambitious plans encouraged the NSW government to proceed with the dam at Burrinjuck.

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The government resumed the property as part of the scheme to become the foundation of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation System.

It wasn’t long before the flat dry Riverina plains were transformed into a green oasis.

Sir Samuel’s vision and zealous drive created one of the most diverse and productive regions in Australia, operated by energetic families recruited from a worldwide campaign.

He could never have envisioned such a bold undertaking during his formative years in Northern Ireland, where he learnt

Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

accounting and office management in his father’s linen business.

Strongly influenced by his strict Presbyterian upbringing, he was persuaded by an uncle to try his luck in the colonies, arriving in Melbourne in 1856.

To save money the plucky 21-year-old walked several hundred kilometres to his uncle’s property near Horsham. Starting as a jackeroo but soon elevated to overseer, his genial Irish humour and kindness helped bring out the best from his men.

In 1860 relatives backed his purchase of a third share of “Coonong”, east of Jerilderie and through hard work he became the sole owner four years later. He watered the large property by deepening Yanco Creek and building dams.

Within a decade he’d amassed over 55,000 hectares, founding his own stud in 1860 with old Widegewa ewes descended from Tasmanian pure Saxon Merinos. From 1873-75 he bought over 3000 rams from Havilah, Ercildoune, and other well-known studs. To improve quality he spared no expense in fencing and subdividing his paddocks.

By 1883 his Coonong stud was one of the best in the Riverina.

In that year, anxious to increase the weight of his wool, he bought 10 Californian Merinos and was so satisfied with the results that he visited America in 1886, securing 120 ewes and 92 of the finest rams in the state of Vermont. >

ABOVE: The magnificent homestead built on “North Yanco” serves as Yanco Agricultural High School.

FACING PAGE: The McCaughey family motto and crest on the front door with the inscription “Vici” – a Latin word meaning “I conquer”; the magnificent stairwell in the old homestead; Yanco Agricultural High School principal Gary Hunt stands in front of Frederick McCubbin’s imposing portrait of Sir Samuel McCaughey.

LEETON CWL 125

The weight of the wool increased dramatically and for years the greasy, wrinkled Vermont sheep were invincible in shows. In 1879 only one of his stud rams cut 16 pounds of wool but by 1891, 200 of them averaged 30 pounds. After severe losses in the 1902 drought, McCaughey returned to Peppin blood from Wanganella.

The Irishman had a flair for mechanical appliances. Although he employed several blacksmiths, he did much of the experimental work himself and was responsible for the design and improvement of many farm implements, particularly heavy machinery for ploughing and soil excavation.

One of the first to see the advantages of widespread irrigation and the value of immigrants to Australia, he assisted large numbers of men, mostly Irish labourers who didn’t mind working in the wet and boggy conditions, to come to NSW. These men included experienced farmers, stockmen and engineers who found positions on his stations.

At the turn of the 20th century he purchased “North Yanco”, constructing a complex and costly irrigation system with over 300km of channels, using two steam engines to pump water from the Murrumbidgee. He also built a magnificent double-storey brick mansion, ideal for entertaining visiting dignitaries in style.

Charity was not overlooked by the big-hearted bachelor. He didn’t wait for the end before devoting large sums for the service of the poor and needy, including £10,000 to a fund for sending a bushmen’s contingent to the Boer War. After being knighted in 1905 for his charitable gifts and significant contributions to NSW, he returned to Europe, visiting Louis Pasteur in the futile hope of finding a way to exterminate rabbits.

He was always a man with an abiding interest in the success of the country and a huge believer in education, recognising it as the path to the highest power and worthiest ideals. Without education, he once lamented, men could seldom reach their full potential.

After the federal Land Tax Act was passed in 1910 Sir Samuel started to dispose of his properties. After his death from heart failure in 1919 he was buried in Narrandera, leaving the bulk of his huge £1.6 million fortune to further education and agricultural research in Australia, having provided handsomely for relatives in his lifetime.

The grand homestead was resumed by the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission before being offered to the NSW Education Department to become the basis for the Yanco Agricultural High School.

The mansion is now used as school administration offices.

Everybody who walks in through the foyer passes Frederick McCubbin’s painting of the great irrigation pioneer.

Sir Samuel McCaughey was a man who well and truly lived up to his family motto – “Vici”, a Latin word meaning “I conquer”. CWL ABOVE: The statue of Sir Samuel McCaughey, known as the “Father of irrigation”, was unveiled in Yanco on April 6, 2013, to celebrate 100 years of the turning on of the water.

LEFT: The foyer has greeted students and staff for generations; Sir Samuel McCaughey.

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Yanco Agricultural High School Yanco Agricultural High School is a co-educational Residential High School specialising in Agriculture from Years 7 to 12 fulltime and weekly boarding.

This unique educational institution provides a broad, well balanced education.

The school has 280 hectares, including 180ha of intensive irrigation and dry land agriculture, as well as 60ha of natural bushland boarded by the Murrumbidgee River.

The school has a White Suffolk Sheep Stud and Shorthorn and Limousin Cattle Studs, which focus on breeding high-performing, commercially relevant animals and utilise technologies such as Electronic Identification, Genomics and Artificial Insemination to educate students on Sheep and Cattle Production and Marketing.

For further information or to arrange a school tour please contact Yanco Agricultural High School Euroley Road YANCO NSW 2703 P: 02 6951 1500 E: yancoag-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au W: www.yancoag-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

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Leeton T O W N F E A T U R E

THE WAY

we were

The Yanco Powerhouse Museum paints an intriguing picture of yesteryear.

The Yanco Powerhouse Museum is located in the old power station, which supplied power for the developing Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area.

Built of concrete in 1913 and close to the rail line for easy access to coal and water, the five-storey building was the scene of bustling activity until it was decommissioned in 1957 after the introduction of hydro-electric power from the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

Three decades later the eerie-looking building was turned into a museum. President Ian Peacock built a home next door and is always on hand to receive visitors by appointment. You simply press a button on the fence that connects to his home and Ian mysteriously appears!

Having been in the telecommunications industry all his life, Ian is the go-to man when it comes to talking about the museum’s history and extensive collection of old photos and machinery from bygone farming and industry days.

He spent his working life with the old PMG, Telecom and Telstra, so there’s nothing he doesn’t know about the collection of old telephones. Ian has been a museum member since 2001 and enjoys meeting visitors from all walks of life.

The Powerhouse Museum also boasts a miniature railway line that has been running for 21 years.

President of the Museum Miniature Railway Club Terry Ward established the 485 metres of track and takes great delight in sharing a rail experience with the visitors.

“We estimate we’ve carted about 25,000 children in that time. The kids get a real buzz out of it. All the blokes in the club are retired diesel engineers and it gives us all something positive to do,” he says.

“There are four diesel electric engines going at the moment all built by members and very similar to the big boys. In the past we had some steam locomotives but they’ve gone as people moved on. Fortunately, there are plans afoot to build new ones.”

The Powerhouse Museum is open on the last Sunday of the month from 10am to 2pm or call Ian on 0484 761 576 to make an appointment. CWL

RIGHT: The miniature railway is popular with all ages; president of the Museum Miniature Railway Club Terry Ward loves his trains.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The historic Yanco powerhouse is now home to a museum; various displays depict life from bygone eras; Powerhouse Museum president Ian Peacock with a linotype machine.

LEETON CWL 129

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BUSHRANGER SERIES - part 6

TALES OF

INTRIGUE

Although no major bushranging incidents took place in Cowra, the interesting town can be used as a base to explore surrounding bushranger sites.

Once again, the exploits of Ben Hall and his gang feature strongly in the area.

By 1864, only Ben Hall and John Gilbert remained of the original gang of the wild days of 1863.

Hall and Gilbert took on two new members as the new year began. These were James Dunleavy and James Gordon (alias Mount). They worked together and sometimes Hall worked alone.

When Ben Hall, aided by Gilbert and Gordon, bailed up the Bang Bang Hotel at Koorawatha, they didn’t count on the bravery of two plain-clothes policemen.

A running gun battle developed and the bushrangers were forced to retire.

At that time, the police had not attracted very much credit, and this act of bravery achieved a lot towards raising the morale of the overworked force.

Koorawatha is located down the Olympic Way from Cowra. Turn off beside the current hotel and the location is four streets down on the left. Edgar Penzig and his Wild Colonial Days Society recorded many bushranger sites in the 1960s, at a time when some people could still remember the bushranging days. The sign at the site of the Bang Bang Hotel is a replica of the 1964 original and was installed recently by Young historian Mark Thurtell.

A bushranger’s grave is always of interest to travellers, and the cemetery in the village of Woodstock, north east of Cowra, contains LEFT: A police trooper of the 1860s-70s. Troopers were sometimes successful, as at Koorawatha, and sometimes not, as at Binnie Creek.

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Krasovski Dmitri/Mongione/Shutterstock.com

The Central West has a rich and fascinating heritage and no more colourful history can be found than in the stories of our bushrangers and the police who pursued them.

Author and bushranger historian Gregory Powell continues to guide us in the tracks of the bushrangers so that readers can gain an appreciation for the spirit of the times and perhaps be inspired to get out and explore the haunts of those wild lawbreakers of our past.

Cherry Creek Gorge in Conimbla National Park.

The grave at Young

Cherry Creek in Conimbla National Park.

Along the track in Conimbla National Park.

Gregory Powell is the author of Bushranger Tracks, published in 2016 by New Holland.

Bushranger Tracks – Beyond the Legends, is due out at the end of 2018.

Read about the Ned Kelly gang, Captain Starlight, Ben Hall and many other bushrangers of our colonial past.

With a keen imagination, the historic locations can transport the modern explorer back to the wild days of the early settlement when gold glittered, guns blazed, and men and women struggled.

Bushranger Tracks is the result of Gregory Powell’s continuing passion for Australian history and, in particular, the bushranger era. This is possibly the most extensive book detailing bushranger sites ever published. www.newhollandpublishers.com

History / Travel

Gregory Powell combines his interests in bushwalking and history to explore historical and scenic regions on foot. He is the author of books exploring the Snowy Mountains, the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley and has published four bushranger locality books.

Greg was a founding member of Hunter Bushrangers (formerly Rovent Historical Re-enactments), a living history group formed in 1969 which performed at public events all over the state until 2009.

Broken Hill

Gregory Powell

As he prepared to dismount to question the suspects, one of the villains stepped from the hut and shot him dead. The bushrangers took the sergeant’s horse, saddle and bridle and rode off. The Cowra police were notified and a wide search was undertaken with extra troopers from Carcoar, Bathurst and Orange taking part in the hunt. A pair of stirrups was found but the police parties failed to find any trace of the murderers.

The fatal bullet had ended a career that began in 1863 when Ben Hall and Dan Morgan stalked the west. It is probable that Sutherland also took part in the search for the Clarke gang, as he had served in the south-eastern district prior to his transfer to Cowra.

He left a wife but no children. An impressive monument stands above his grave in Young Cemetery near the Olympic Highway fence.

A memorial plaque has also been recently installed at Cowra Police Station.

Bushranger TRACKS

the reputed site of John Vane’s grave. Vane was a member of Ben Hall’s original gang but he surrendered in 1863 and served a long gaol sentence. He died in 1906 and has the distinction of being one of the very few Australian bushrangers to die naturally in old age.

The grave site near the roadway was marked with a sign by the late Vern Reid of Woodstock with author/ historian Barry Ledger in 1989.

Not all bushrangers achieved enough fame or infamy to be recorded in our heritage. Dozens of unknown criminals roamed the bush, committing minor or major crimes and then disappearing from history. An example of such an incident occurred north of Cowra in 1872.

Sergeant Andrew Sutherland was returning to his station at Cowra from the Bathurst Court when he noticed two suspected bushrangers, George Grey and William Bristow, at Horam’s hut on Binnie Creek.

Vane died in Cowra Hospital.

It is difficult for us today to imagine what the countryside would have looked like in the time of the bushrangers. Most of the area is now under rich agricultural production. A few areas still retain the natural features and these are mostly protected in National Parks. It is in these places that we can get a feel for the spirit of the bushranging times.

A short distance north west of Cowra is the Kangarooby Range and Conimbla National Park. The range would certainly have provided a safe and secluded route for bushrangers to travel between the districts of Canowindra, Cowra, Forbes and Young.

It is claimed that historic Croote Cottage on the road to Gooloogong was visited by the Hall gang.

The main access to the park is Barryrennie Road, which leaves the Mid Western Highway west of Cowra.

This is a through road to Gooloogong and mostly unsealed. At the top of the range is the Ironbark Picnic Area and a short distance in the gully beyond is the Wallaby Picnic Area with limited camping space.

Ironbark is a secluded nook just off the road where two walking tracks begin. The track to Cherry Creek Gorge takes less than two hours return of flat walking. The first part is a foot track to the lookout and the final stage follows a management trail back to the carpark.

The view from the fenced rocky lookout into Cherry Creek Gorge is quite spectacular and unexpected. It is possible to descend to the valley by following a steep, rough track to the left of the lookout.

There are natural picnic and paddle spots by the creek down there, where it is easy to imagine bushrangers camped by an open fire in relative safety.

The Wallaby Track heads down to the little camping area by the road. The walk takes about an hour return and passes through some varied vegetation types. The camping area is grassy, small and basic with picnic tables and a pit toilet across the road.

An alternative is to use the pleasant free RV area behind the rest park in Gooloogong.

There is a small amenities block in the park and two powered sites. CWL

Bonshaw

Enngonia

Tenterfield

Bushranger Moree

Collarenebri

Millie

Walgett

Brewarrina

Bourke

g rlin Da

Inverell

Namo i

Gundabooka National Park

Newton Boyd

Ollera

Narrabri

Boggabri

Quambone

Gunnedah

Manila

Carroll

Nyngan

Tamworth

Quirindi

Breelong

Murrurundi

Coffs Harbour

Armidale Uralla

Bendemeer

Blandford

Port Macquarie

TRACKS Narromine

Merriwa Ulan Gulgong

Dubbo

Wellington

N E W

S O U T H

Forbes

Eugowra Canowindra

Scone

Barrington Tops

Wingham Gloucester

Dungog Stroud Mudgee Singleton Paterson Rylstone Maitland

Kandos

Parkes

Mossgiel

Orange

Wollombi

Newcastle

Bathurst Blayney Hartley Cowra Carcoar Blaxland Jenolan Caves SYDNEY Bigga Abercrombie Caves Bringelly Binda Thalaba Bargo Narrawa Wollongong Goulburn Mittagong Wingello Yass Gunning Wantabadgery Collector Gundaroo

Mt Wheogo

Lach

Grabine W A L E S Grenfell Koorawatha

la n

Griffith

Discover the historic sites of our wild colon ial past

M ur ra y

Jerilderie

Deniliquin

Wombat

Temora

Leeton

Narrandera Junee Wagga Wagga Lockhart

Walla Walla

Inglewood

Bendigo

Castlemaine Ballarat

Heathcote

Bungendore

Kyeamba

Henty

Peechelba Wangaratta

Buninyong

Young

Wallendbeen

Wooragee Beechworth Glenrowan Benalla Greta Euroa Whitfield Avenel Stringybark Creek Mansfield

A.C.T.

Tumbarumba

Braidwood Majors Creek Mudmelong Batemans Bay Krawarree Jinden Nerrigundah Cooma

Mt Kosciuszko

V I C T O R I A Wallan

Egerton

Hurstbridge MELBOURNE

Bairnsdale

Geelong Cape Schanck

Gregory Powell

CWL 133

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local heroes S U M M E R

TOTALLY

DEVOTED

The love they have for each other, their family and the community is obvious when you meet Ritchie and Maureen McKay, an inspiring couple who have been an integral part of the fabric of Dubbo for more than half a century.

Warm-hearted and dedicated, the respected retired dentist and his well-known wife have both been named Paul Harris Fellows in recognition of significant long-term contributions to a range of causes and organisations.

Ritchie has provided outstanding service to Dubbo through Rotary and Lions, Dubbo and District Preschool, Orana Early Intervention and the junior cricket association.

He held executive roles in the Australian Dental Association of NSW and after gaining his pilot’s licence represented Dubbo during two aviation races, flying from Perth to Sydney and Sydney, Coffs Harbour and Dubbo.

Maureen was named Dubbo Citizen of the Year in 2001 and honoured with a Dubbo Day Award in

1999. More recently, Meals on Wheels dedicated the Maureen McKay Room at its Mountbatten Drive headquarters to the board member and Catholic community group volunteer who has helped the iconic not-for-profit organisation for more than 55 years.

Maureen’s other involvements include 20 years as a guide at National Trust property Dundullimal, assisting St Brigid’s Parish, co-ordinating visits to Bracken House aged care facility, and acting as a guide and ambassador at the Western Plains Cultural Centre since the days when Dubbo’s first art gallery was established next to the council chambers.

Ritchie and Maureen are unswervingly modest about their involvements and have never sought personal accolades. >

ABOVE: The McKay family comprising daughter Elizabeth Miller, sons Christopher, William and David, with parents Maureen and Ritchie (front).

FACING PAGE: Dedicated to family and community, Maureen and Ritchie McKay.

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“BEING INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY HAS ALWAYS BEEN VERY IMPORTANT TO US.” ABOVE: Maureen supports Ritchie’s love of fitness.

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“Everything we have ever done has been part of a team,” they say.

“Being involved in the community has always been very important to us. We were raised in families that instilled the importance of service.”

Proud of his Scottish heritage, Ritchie was raised in the Sydney suburb of Normanhurst and became a dentist on the recommendation of family friends.

After graduating from Sydney University, he spent 12 months on the salaried staff of Sydney Dental Hospital before travelling to England.

“In the immediate post-war period a lot of ex-military personnel were encouraged to train in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science,” Ritchie says.

“Sydney had an oversupply of dentists and opportunities beckoned overseas.”

Young, single and looking for adventure,

Ritchie arrived in London at age 23 and worked as a dentistry assistant on wages.

After two years he was asked to join the British army as a dentist. That idea was shelved during a trip to Sydney to see family.

“I realised Australia was the place I wanted to be,” he says.

“I worked for a dentist at Northbridge before venturing to Dubbo in 1958.”

Ritchie met pretty Maureen Dwyer at a Legacy dance at Toongi Hall, south-east of Dubbo, and proposed two weeks later on the way to a tennis tournament.

Maureen grew up in the Parkes district on “Derrymore”, a property neighbouring the CSIRO radio telescope.

Her father died when she was six, leaving her mother to raise eight children.

Maureen has wonderful childhood memories of tennis days, singing around the piano and getting to know the Italian prisoners of war who came to work the land when local men enlisted in the war.

“On Sundays the prisoners would go to church before walking back to our farm, where my mother would serve a baked lunch around a big table,” she says.

“I can still see the men in their maroon uniforms and hobnail boots.

“After finishing school, I went to Sydney to work in the office at David Jones. Twelve months later my mother moved to Dubbo so I came back to the country and applied for a position in the office at Dubbo Base Hospital.

“During the interview Matron Roche encouraged me to train as a nurse. I was thrilled because I had always wanted to be a nurse. Dubbo offered wonderful general training and I loved it.

“When Ritchie arrived on the scene I was planning to go overseas with two other girls.

He said if I married him he would take me to England.

“I laughed and said if he really knew me he wouldn’t ask! I came from a big, wonderful, close family where everyone talked at once.

Ritchie was so much quieter, had one brother, and came from a beautiful, organised family.

“We married in February 1961 and have been very happy in a complementary way, always agreeing to disagree without any argument.”

The couple are proud of their five children, Elizabeth Miller, a doctor in private practice at St Ives in Sydney; Christopher, a chartered accountant living in England; Andrew, a chemical engineer and chartered accountant in Dubbo; David, a consulting civil engineer in Sydney; and William, a doctor based in Orange.

“The children are all hard working and community minded and have rewarded us with their achievements,” Ritchie and Maureen say.

“We feel fortunate to have nine beautiful grandchildren, appreciate our retired years and value everything Dubbo and district has to offer.” CWL Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

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meet Dave Everyone knows Dave Pankhurst, the genial businessman who could write a book about his life in Dubbo.

Best known these days as an independent book seller, in his earlier years Dave Pankhurst had a successful career with Dalgety stock and station agents and played a pivotal role in the establishment of an agricultural machinery factory at Dubbo that employed 120 people during the height of its operations.

Born to school teacher parents, Dave was educated at Grafton and developed an aptitude for music, maths and mechanics.

A gifted pianist, he completed the Associate in Music, Australia (AMusA) theory diploma at a young age but baulked at sitting the practical examination.

“I suppose you could say it was teenage rebellion,” he recalls.

“While I was still at school I worked for a wrecking firm called The Car Bone Yard, pulling apart Fords and Packards from the 1920s and ’30s.

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“I was always mechanically minded and loved the job. These days, the idea of smashing up those old vehicles would be regarded as sacrilege.”

Dave took up full-time employment with Dalgety at the age of 15, with his sharp mind and mental acuity perfectly suited to a role at the Grafton saleyards as a penciller.

By 1959 he had transferred to Lake Cargelligo to look after merchandise for Dalgety. The move coincided with a time of major land clearing for the expansion of farming.

Sales of farm machinery took off and the volume of business put Lake Cargelligo at the top of the Dalgety NSW sales list.

Life was good for Dave, particularly when he met an attractive young woman named Nancy who was working as a school teacher at Tullibigeal.

inspiration S U M M E R

“Nancy’s family had been farming in the locality of Weja for three generations and I was a newcomer to the district,’’ Dave says.

“Nancy had lots of other offers but I am happy to say she chose me. We were married at Ungarie 57 years ago.”

The couple moved to Dubbo in 1964 when Dave took over the management of merchandise and machinery sales at Dalgety’s main street location.

He couldn’t see the sense of running an agricultural business from the CBD and persuaded the company to build new premises on 40 hectares opposite the Dubbo saleyards.

The new high-profile position was good for business and when Dave again reached the top of the Dalgety NSW sales list he was promoted to merchandise manager in Sydney.

After a trip to Western Australia to examine equipment being manufactured by Australian Agricultural Machinery, Dave convinced Dalgety to become the NSW agents for Allbulk and Jetstream.

He returned to Dubbo in 1969 to oversee the establishment of an Allbulk manufacturing enterprise on a portion of land separated from the main Dalgety site.

“In quite an unusual situation I remained on the Dalgety payroll with the dual roles of managing Dalgety sales and ensuring the smooth operation of the Allbulk factory,” he says.

“Bulkhandling, crop spraying and livestock feeding were the three principal streams of the business at a time when broadacre farming was taking off in the region.

“When the introduction of wheat quotas limited the amount of crop farmers could plant, a lot of people diversified into livestock feeding.

“Allbulk became effective in Victoria and Queensland and factories were built at Swan Hill and Dalby.”

When Dalgety decided to withdraw from machinery activity, Dave remained with Allbulk, became a director of the parent company, and travelled to America to introduce the farm equipment to new markets.

He became a director of an American firm based in Portland and travelled to the US two or three times each year for a month to six weeks at a time.

“Nancy was able to travel with me on a number of occasions but frequent business trips in Australia and America meant I was away from home quite a lot,” Dave says.

“I missed spending time with Nancy and our sons, Len and Tim, and decided it would be a good idea to run our own business.”

In 1983 Dave and Nancy purchased the Angus & Robertson book franchise operated

by Val and Harry Coggan at Dubbo City Centre.

Dave garnered new ideas during a tour to America organised by shopping mall owner Lendlease and realised a long future in book retailing would require moving out of a shopping complex location and away from a franchise agreement.

When Dubbo identity Bill Hornage wanted to sell his mail order book business, Dave and Nancy set up a company and purchased The Book Connection.

After premises were obtained at 178 Macquarie Street, the retail and mail order enterprises merged as Dave Pankhurst’s Book Connection.

Len and Tim were substantially involved over much of that time.

The store carries more than 50,000 new and used titles and was the third book retailer in Australia to introduce computer technology for stock management and sales.

“We have had wonderful support from longtime staff with a tremendous sense of books,” Dave says.

“They include Rae Craft, 18 years, and Shirley Hunt, 16 years.

“Books are a great source of information and data and provide comfort, incentive and outstanding social involvement.”

At age 80, Dave is officially retired from the business but still goes into work 6.5 days a week.

“I tell everyone I have been promoted to odd job man,” he says.

“I have never tired of books and love interacting with customers. Nancy has been a wonderful support over the years and we have always worked well together.

“We are very proud of Len, who is a builder, and Tim, whose interest in the media led him to establish Dubbo Photo News.

“Nancy and I live next door to Tim and his family and love receiving visits from the grandchildren regularly.”

Dave has continued his passion for music and plays the pipe organ for church services. CWL Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

“I have never tired of books and love interacting with customers.

Nancy has been a wonderful support over the years and we have always worked well together.”

ABOVE: Dave Pankhurst and his wife Nancy amid their stocks of 50,000 books.

FACING PAGE: Dave Pankhurst displays one of his popular titles; Dave and Nancy on their wedding day 57 years ago.

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BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN OUR

children “Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

Evgeny Bakharev/Shutterstock.com

– Albert Einstein

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education S U M M E R Parents underestimate how important they can be in the academic development of their own children. In my experience, most children are capable of the high levels of performance that are generally associated with exceptional learners. However, unless parents play their part and help their children learn the habits of high performers, they are far less likely to get there. Parents who actively work together to grow the intellectual capacity and thinking capabilities of their children are not required to be Einstein.

BEING POSITIVE ABOUT LEARNING AND ABOUT SCHOOL GENERALLY It is very important that parents model good learning behaviours.

This can be done by being lifelong learners themselves – enrolling in short courses, attending workshops and conferences, reading often and role modelling this to their children. Parents can show children that learning is fun, and learning doesn’t stop at the school gate or on graduation from school. Parents who share their own learning can inspire and motivate their own children.

Within each child, there is an inner genius, inner passion and an ability and desire that parents and educators can reveal and nurture.

FOSTERING THE ABILITY TO THINK When a child gets stuck on something, parents should not immediately respond by trying to resolve the issue for them. Instead, children should be asked good questions like “How could you do this?”, “Have you done anything similar before?”, “What did you do last time?”. Assisting them to problem-solve helps them develop their own thinking and learning ideas, making them far less likely to say they can’t do things. Children should be encouraged to think about the big ideas. “What if” type questions work well. “What would happen if the sun did not go down in the afternoon? What if the Macquarie River ran dry?” A key quality of exceptional students is their ability to see how learning connects to the wider world. Parents can help children make these connections by asking key questions.

BUILDING INTELLECTUAL SKILLS Parents can build the intellectual confidence of children by promoting a can-do approach to learning, even when something is perceived to be hard. If a child says they are not good at something, parents need to flip their child’s thinking by supporting them with statements such as “I know you can learn how to do this, if you work at it.”

Parents should encourage their children to be open-minded and open to new ideas; this is the hallmark of an exceptional learner.

Parents should start by being open-minded themselves so that they model what it is like to be receptive to new ideas that differ from their own. Children should be encouraged to be curious.

When children’s questions are taken seriously, and quality answers to their questions are given, they will ask more questions and will become even more curious. The more curious children are, the better they do at school and life in general. Children should be encouraged to be creative by finding time in the day/week for projects, artworks and collections and should spend less time on their iPads, devices and computer games.

DEVELOPING ORGANISATIONAL AND DECISION-MAKING SKILLS Parents can encourage children to plan well and to be organised.

Parents can monitor their child’s progress by knowing what they’re doing at school, how they are progressing and, for example, if they are on track with their homework. Knowing they need to put more effort into improving certain things is very important to high performers. Building resilience is a key to academic success.

Children who do well are not put off by a challenge; they keep trying until they get better. The job of parents is to make sure their children believe in themselves and keep going. Statements of encouragement can be used such as “I know it’s hard now, but you can do this if you keep trying”, as this will motivate children. Remembering to accept their child’s mistakes when they are trying new things is important because making mistakes is the way we learn.

READING, READING AND MORE READING I cannot overstate how important reading is for children and young adults. Parents should read with their children and read to them. Spending time reading together can produce impressive results. Even when children are older and more capable readers, by occasionally sharing a story with them, reading out aloud something interesting from a magazine, a blog, or reciting a poem or singing and learning the words of a song will show them that learning is something we all do. Nothing beats a good book! Despite the popular myths associated with social media and all things digital, children still love a good book. Even for the reluctant readers, a positive experience with one good book can make a world of difference. To increase the chances of a child turning on to reading, parents can read to children, and read with them; share the joy of reading.

AND FINALLY, LET THEM KNOW HOW INCREDIBLE THEY ARE It is so important for parents to appreciate that being exceptional is not restricted to a few children in any classroom. Within each child, there is an inner genius, inner passion and an ability and desire that parents and educators can reveal and nurture. Parents and grandparents should know that it is much more important to focus on drawing out the potential in their children and focus less on current performance. From my experience and observations as a principal, highly successful people will say they had someone in their life who believed in them when they were a child. Surely this is a parent’s primary role? And when I ask successful people how they managed to achieve something extraordinary, they often pause, reflect and then say that no one ever told them they couldn’t do it. CWL Words: Paul Teys

Paul Teys is the Principal of Hunter Valley Grammar, a position he has held since 2008. He has over 17 years’ experience as a principal and a 35-year career in independent schools. He is a Director on the Board of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools, Australia; Chair of the Association of Independent Schools NSW Chief Executive’s Advisory Council; and Chair of the Board of the NSW Combined Independent Schools Sports Council; and he holds a number of other significant executive positions with various educational associations.

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DRIVING

force Prominent Dubbo businessman David Hayes has taken on the challenge of leading Australia’s National Toyota Dealer Association (NTDA).

For the past five years the dealer principal and managing director of Dubbo City Toyota has been the peak industry body’s NSW rural representative.

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Stepping up to the role of national chairman involves extensive travel and consultation on every nuance of Toyota dealership business, from product and customer feedback to service, parts and marketing.

“The NTDA plays an important role and is like a dealer council,” David says.

Dealer principal and managing director of Dubbo City Toyota David Hayes has taken on a role of national significance.

ABOVE: David Hayes thrives on his numerous leadership roles with Toyota.

FACING PAGE: Impressive displays of Toyota stock at Dubbo City Toyota.

business achiever S U M M E R

“It is an exciting time to be part of Toyota and I am pleased to be able to give something back to a franchise that has been so good to me and my family.”

David grew up in Dalby in the Darling Downs area of Queensland and worked in the Commonwealth Bank after finishing school.

He joined his family’s dry-cleaning business and built up and sold a landscaping and nursery company before moving into the motor industry.

“I went through the management ranks at Black Toyota in Dalby and when the Black group purchased Dubbo City Toyota and Bathurst Toyota in 2007 I came to Dubbo as general manager,” David says.

Three years later the Dubbo business was purchased by David and wife Brenda in partnership with a company called Servco.

“The Gilgandra Toyota dealership was obtained from Buzz Noonan in 2011,” David says.

“We have a total of 73 staff between the two dealerships and pride ourselves on being very family orientated.

“Traditional values like courtesy, honesty and respect are at the heart of our business and our mission is to deliver quality cars, superb service and great customer experience.”

David and Brenda enjoy living in Dubbo and appreciate the wide range of facilities on offer, the welcoming country atmosphere and lack of congestion.

“Our family roots are definitely in Dalby but we now regard Dubbo as home,” David says.

“The regional city has been a great place to raise our daughters. Amy and Annabelle work in the dealership and Emily is based in Brisbane.

“Being part of the community is important to us and we provide support for local organisations and events, including country shows, junior sport, Dubbo Roos rugby union, Dubbo Golf Club, National Tree Day, the Dubbo Stampede running festival and Pink Up Dubbo breast cancer fundraising.

“The Dubbo City Toyota Gold Cup is a major event and we also sponsor country racing across western NSW. “Our customer base extends throughout the western region and covers every demographic, from the LandCruiser to the little Yaris.

The Lexus franchise caters for the luxury end of the market. Good quality used cars are also an important part of our business.”

Dubbo City Toyota is pleased to provide employment and career development and takes on new mechanical apprentices and sales and administration trainees each year.

“Programs are in place to ensure all employees are engaged and enabled,” David says.

“We are focused on ensuring people are happy because they spend a lot of time at work. Our business procedures are easy to use and everyone is empowered with the role of trying to exceed customer expectations.”

David maintains an active lifestyle, enjoys gardening, playing golf and is a member of the Dubbo Cycle Club and Dubbo Mountain Bike Club.

He regularly heads off for a 6am ride and always feels more productive after engaging in physical activity.

David has a particular interest in personal mobility research and development projects undertaken by Toyota.

“Engineers have created wheelchairs able to climb and descend stairs and continue to work on mechanical prosthesis equipment,” he says.

“The new robotics developments are quite exciting.”

Words: Heather Crosby Images: Amy Allen

“We have a total of 73 staff between the two dealerships and pride ourselves on being very family orientated.”

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something old SOMETHING NEW Kate and Ross Plasto thoroughly enjoy their rural lifestyle at “Keston” near Wellington NSW. Their intuition to wait and observe their new property’s garden for more than a year before making changes has resulted in a wonderfully harmonious blend of old and new.

The Plasto family had lived in the town of Wellington for 18 years. Kate and Ross had grown up on rural properties and longed for a more open rural setting. Four kilometers out of town they were enchanted by ‘“Keston”. In 2012 they purchased the historic house on the hill among 93 hectares (230 acres) of farming land with fantastic views over the surrounding countryside.

The long entrance driveway leading into “Keston” features 88 mature Kurrajong trees

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(Brachychiton populneus) lining either side like sentinels. The drive culminates in a gravel turning circle in front of a gorgeous old home that sits proudly on the hilltop forming the centerpiece of this lovely country property.

To preserve the historical aspects of the 1897 Victorian Italianate home, with consideration to contemporary living, sympathetic renovations comprise a new kitchen wing and restoration of the basalt stone outbuildings including a barn and workman’s cottage. >

FACING PAGE: clockwise from top left, a magnificent avenue of Kurrajong trees lines the entry drive; the old stone barn has been restored and vigorous climbing vines tamed; this pear sculpture is positioned well to be viewed from different aspects; purple flowered Salvia nemorosa.

ABOVE: The decorative façade of the Victorian Italianate home is enhanced by lovely plantings.

story gardens name S U M M E R

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Outdoors, the large overgrown garden seemed almost overwhelming. During their first six months of ownership some mature trees fell after a big storm, and Kate and Ross began to question their decision to take on a large garden restoration project. Wisely, the couple did not rush into changes to the overgrown garden and took time to assess which remnant plantings fitted their needs and which areas required redeveloping. Their controlled approach unearthed some garden treasures along the way.

Kate and Ross were conscious of maintaining harmony with the historic nature of the property.

A fussy, high-maintenance garden was not on the agenda for this working couple. Ross runs Stock and Station Agency Plasto & Company in Wellington, travelling frequently to Dubbo for stock sales, and Kate is a child and family health nurse in Dubbo. Together they have created a garden that has a relaxed feel, has open spaces to maximise the views of the countryside and is also relatively easy to maintain.

Generations of previous families left behind a legacy of many mature trees. A huge peppercorn tree (Schinus molle) with a gargantuan trunk provides a focal point and fantastic summer shade. The garden around the peppercorn was enhanced by underplanting using hardy flowering shrubs including Abelia, Strelitzia and Plumbago, strappy leaf Clivia and ground cover blue bugle flower Ajuga. In the outer yard a big Kurrajong tree was fondly named the “swing tree”

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by their children. Golden-foliaged honey locust trees (Gleditsia ‘Sunburst’) spread their arching branches to provide shade and wind protection in summer.

Between the barn and the new kitchen wing, an arched stone and brick entry way was smothered in rambling roses. Forged iron gates and welltrained climbing pink ‘Pierre De Ronsard’ roses now make a welcoming entrance. Brick paving, in a fan-like pattern, is a wonderful transition between the house, courtyard and garden areas.

In the courtyard, striking sculptural cacti (Cereus peruvianus), which stand like giant candelabras next to the barn, were planted in the 1960s. Their silvery grey stems contrast beautifully against the dark basalt stone walls of the barn and blue sky above.

Potted cumquats flank the doorway to the stone barn. Rich red geraniums and an archway of ornamental grape vine honour the home’s Italianate history and enjoy the sundrenched courtyard next to the fine restored building.

Existing shrub plantings were judiciously pruned and thinned to reduce size, maintain more compact shape and promote flowering.

Tough drought-tolerant shrubs include Viburnum, Murraya and pink-flowering oleander (Nerium) bloom for months, extending the floral display from spring until late autumn.

“I used to really dislike oleander. Now I am in love with them – they are really tough and withstand anything!” Kate says. >

Kate and Ross were conscious of maintaining harmony with the historic nature of the property.

FACING PAGE: clockwise from top left, stunning candelabra cactus thrives close to the stone wall; garden owners Kate and Ross with their dog Lily; the ‘urn garden’ features silver foliage plantings; the gnarled trunk of the peppercorn tree is under-planted with foliage and flowering shrubs.

ABOVE: ‘Pierre de Ronsard’ roses against a stone wall; the mature peppercorn tree creates dappled shade; pink oleander (Nerium); shady vine covered verandah outside the new wing.

story name S U M M E R

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To fill gaps between existing shrubs, and provide a pretty cottage garden look that appeals to Kate, are combinations of French lavender, iris, snow-in-summer (Cerastium), agapanthus, flowering salvias and culinary herbs like sage and thyme. Alongside the house, the colour palette in the “urn garden” is more subdued with silvery lamb’s ears, white-flowering salvias and lavender.

In front of the house, to complement the iron lace-trimmed verandah and original corner stones, the garden has more formal touches, including standard ‘Iceberg’ roses, Camellia, a pretty flowering yesterday-today-tomorrow (Brunfelsia), spires of oyster plant (Acanthus mollis). A rich purple carpet of tough drought-tolerant Salvia nemorosa and banks of agapanthus add colour.

An ornamental grape vine has been trained along the verandah in a cool-green swathe of foliage.

The grape vine across the pergola area outside the kitchen wing ties the historic and new areas together seamlessly.

Flanking the circular drive at the front of the house, mature trees including peppercorns, white cedar and an elegant Deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara) among the lawns create a park-like landscape.

To the side of the house, citrus trees enjoy shelter from the wind and burgundy-leaf prunus (Prunus cerasifera ‘Nigra’) contrast among the greens.

Claret ash trees colour reliably in autumn, and Kate has begun adding more ornamental trees to the landscape including Manchurian pears, scarlet oaks, crab apples and summer-flowering crepe myrtles.

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Within the garden, hidden by an arbour smothered with old roses, they revealed a threeholed “long drop”, which over time would have serviced generations of nine different families who have called “Keston” (or “Bella Vista” as it was also known) home. This is being restored by Kate’s father Bill, who enjoys helping the family garden.

Plants here need to withstand hot dry conditions without much additional watering. There’s a basic irrigation system in the flower garden beds, and newer plantings are watered by a hand-held hose until established. Mulching with straw helps retain soil moisture and gradually breaks down, adding valuable organics to the soil. During spring and autumn an application of pelletised poultry manure fertiliser boosts nutrients to keep plants healthy.

Listening to Kate and Ross talk about taking on an older historic home and garden, it is clear they have gained confidence as gardeners and have a great passion and love for the property’s history and its future.

Ross’s favourite aspect is the view from the kitchen to the north towards to Wuuluman Hills, and he says arriving home to drive up between the rows of Kurrajong trees is pretty special.

Kate says: “We love the rural lifestyle here.

The move to “Keston” has been of great benefit to our whole family. We find it so very peaceful and relaxing. Though we are located only a few minutes from town we feel like we are miles away.

We intend to be here for many years to come!” CWL Words: Elizabeth Swane Images: Robert Bruce

Plants here need to withstand hot dry conditions without much additional watering.

ABOVE: A picturesque blend of old and new; an archway smothered in climbing honeysuckle requires regular trimming; this stone outbuilding is being restored to provide overflow accommodation; showy red geraniums in the sundrenched courtyard.

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SURVIVE &

THRIVE Ian and Jill Graham have called Dubbo home for decades, and over the past 12 years they have transformed their 4400-square-metre site on the outskirts of town from bare dirt into a lush green oasis.

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gardens S U M M E R

Inspired by ideas gathered from garden visits within Australia and overseas, Ian and Jill Graham have built and planted a garden of beauty on their Dubbo property, of just over an acre, named “Beauly”, in memory of Ian’s family home.

A touch of formality, curves and water all come together to create a really lovely country garden. Attention to detail is evident in this immaculately maintained space.

On arrival, dense screen plantings including Chinese Elm trees, shiny foliaged Xylosma, red-tipped Photinia, and tall Gleditsia ‘Sunburst’ provide privacy, buffer road noise and create a lush and welcoming entry.

“The country suffered through seven years of drought before we arrived,” Ian says. “The back garden was bare dirt.

“There was some existing garden and we have added a whole lot more over the past 12 years.”

Starting out, the couple developed screen plantings, hedges and lawns, then laid out the hose to create curved beds and created a very beautiful garden.

This perfectly maintained garden is brimming with health, and thriving in spite of harsh climatic conditions. Ian avoids plants labelled as “light frost tolerant”, saying there’s no such thing in his book! This climate is challenging for gardeners, with severe frosts in minus temperatures and soaring summer temperatures of up to 45 degrees. >

ABOVE: Clockwise from top left, potted topiary plants and collectables enhance the garden beds; rounded Westringea shrubs form a ball garden in this sundrenched spot; a bench nestled under the trees is flanked by rusty wire garden sculptures; owners Jill and Ian with their faithful blue cattle dog Warwick.

FACING PAGE: A sinuous hedge of ‘Falkner’ box creates visual interest dividing the space between the gardens and open lawn areas.

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Rather than battle against the elements, Ian’s learned advice is to select the right plants for the climate that are known to tolerate heat, drought and frosty conditions. Following his “live and learn” approach, Ian’s top five recommendations for Dubbo gardens include: 1. Any form of Buxus, English or Japanese. Both do well.

2. Coastal rosemary (Westringea spp.) thrives in heat.

3. Roses perform well, blooming from spring to autumn.

4. Euonymus, golden form, is great for training as topiary and hedging.

5. X ylosma (pronounced Zy-los-ma) is a hardy evergreen screen plant or large hedging shrub.

Also high on the top-performers list are deciduous trees that survive harsh conditions by losing leaves and becoming dormant in winter. Manchurian pear trees (Pyrus ussuriensis) colour well in autumn and flower in spring with white blossoms. Chinese elm trees (Ulmus parvifolia) have elegant weeping foliage, a broad spreading habit and attractive patterned bark that develops with age. Crepe myrtles (Lagerstroemia spp.) bloom for many months over summer and the leaves display good autumn colour.

Maples, including Japanese (Acer japonica spp.), Trident (Acer buergerianum), and Box Elder (Acer negundo) feature throughout the garden. Despite the delicate appearance of the lacy foliage, maples are terrific, and a wide variety of foliage forms and plant habits including upright and weeping forms suit a variety of garden situations. > ABOVE: Clockwise from top left, the sound of running water adds to the ambience in the courtyard; neatly edged curves and contrasts of surface materials combine with artful placement of garden features such as this spilling pot of succulents (Echeveria); a café setting within the rock garden; this sunny northern aspect features low mounded plantings; memorial rose beds are planted with ‘Gold Bunny’ (yellow) and white ‘Iceberg’ roses.

FACING PAGE: Clockwise from top left, a canopy of lacy foliaged golden honey locust tree (Gleditsia ‘Sunburst’) and well positioned plants form a visual tapestry in this lovely garden; an archway of ‘Pierre de Ronsard’ roses; spiral topiary in a generous sized pot.

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gardens S U M M E R

R ATHER THAN BATTLE AGAINST THE ELEMENTS, IAN’S LEARNED ADVICE IS TO SELECT THE RIGHT PLANTS FOR THE CLIMATE.

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WATER IS A BONUS FOR THE MYRIAD BIRDS AND WILDLIFE THAT FREQUENT THE GARDEN.

Smaller foliaged, autumn-flowering Camellia sasanqua is a pretty and hardy selection for evergreen hedging. Other reliable evergreen screen and hedge plants include Escallonia and lavender.

Influenced by garden visits and the work of Australian garden designer Paul Bangay, the couple enjoy sculptural forms and neat lines of topiary plants and trimmed hedges. There are many examples throughout the garden, used as focal points in garden beds, as feature plants and potted specimens. Dwarf Japanese box (Buxus microphylla ‘Faulkner’) was bought from a plant sale as a tiny tube stock. After more than a decade and many cuttings propagated, 170 plants form a sinuous deep green hedge. The dark green glossy foliage and dense habit make it well suited to topiary, and trimming as low hedging to around 60cm high.

On the northern side, mass-planted grey-leafed coast rosemary (Westringea) are trimmed into rounded topiary shapes, forming a sculptural “ball” garden. The front gardens have a more formal style, combining foliage textures and colours in low hedging and topiary. Neatly clipped plants including handsome glossy foliaged Euonymus ‘Tom Thumb’ and pure white-flowered Escallonia ‘Iveyi’ edged with borders of mondo grass create timeless elegance.

The house is designed as a U shape around a central courtyard, which faces west towards the back gardens. Within the courtyard two mature Golden honey locust trees (Gleditsia ‘Sunburst’) cast welcome summer shade, along with an arbour swathed by lush ornamental grape vine. There’s the crunch of pea gravel underfoot and the gentle sound of water tinkling down over the rocks. Bubble gum-scented port wine magnolia (Michelia figo) adds spring fragrance, especially noticeable in the evenings.

Working as a plumber for 44 years, it isn’t surprising to learn Ian likes the sound and look of water in the garden. There’s lots of it too, in ponds, rills and fountains. Recently installed, strategically located pumps create a flowing natural-looking creek over rocks and a small waterfall in the garden. Water is a bonus for the myriad birds and wildlife that frequent the garden, indulging blue wrens, double-barred finches, magpies, pied currawongs, kookaburras and blue-tongue lizards.

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Ian is also pretty handy with metal, forging several ornamental gates, and he made the feature hemispherical sundial using flat iron, a ceiling fan and copper pipe. The aged patina was cleverly created using copper paint. The couple’s handiwork can also be seen throughout the garden in artful placement of garden ornamentation.

Buffalo lawn is used close to the house, for its dark green neat appearance, and kikuyu was chosen for the larger-sized lawns out the back. A mulching mower returns grass clippings directly to the lawn to help improve the organic content and aid water-holding capacity of soils.

Jill maintains the lovely roses in two large memorial rose beds, planted in honour of family members. White roses (‘Iceberg’) for Ian’s father Harold and bright yellow roses (‘Friesia’), which Jill’s father Trevor loved, are planted as a mirror image in adjoining garden beds. Rich red ‘Gallipoli Centenary Roses’ are in memory of Ian’s grandfather Alfred.

The soil here is red loam with some clay. When wet it’s “like digging butter” says Ian, “and like rock when dry”. With many deciduous trees on the block, there are plentiful fallen leaves that are piled up then mixed with soil to make valuable mulch, which is returned to the garden beds.

Regular applications of liquid fertiliser maintain peak plant health in the garden beds, and the lawns are fed in spring and autumn with alternate applications of organic-based and complete lawn food. The property has access to town water.

Ian, who lists his passions as music, old cars and bikes and gardens, says “although heat waves and frosts can get you down, I’ve certainly got the gardening bug”. Enjoying a visit to this lovely garden, we’d say that’s the kind of bug to be encouraged!

Ian and Jill opened their garden for charity to aid Can Assist in April 2018. Together, the four open gardens raised more than $25,000. CWL Words: Elizabeth Swane Images: Robert Bruce

ABOVE: Gentle beginnings for this cleverly placed water feature – just one of several included within the garden; this archway entwined with Chinese star jasmine leads to the shaded courtyard; a product of Ian’s handiwork – a forged hemispherical sundial – sits proudly on a Hebel stone plinth.

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Molly’s Place

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Servicing Dubbo and the Western area.

Or call in and visit our showroom and friendly sales team.

62 Hawthorn St, Dubbo | Tel: 02 6882 8911 www.cramptonscarpets.com.au CWL 161

TURNING ON THE

CHARM On the edge of town, just past one of Young’s famous cherry orchards and almost completely hidden from view, is beautiful “Lynnlee”.

“Lynnlee” is a warm home of personality, colour and character that’s as charming inside as it is out. It’s the stuff of Australian country daydreams and is home to a mother and daughter duo, Margaret and Melissa (aka Shorty), two young men. Gus and Ollie, and a little dog called “Snag” – a Dachshund of course.

But to know “Lynnlee” now, you must consider it back when it was just 100 acres of cherry orchard known by the same name. It was bought in 1909 by an Irishman who was orphaned on his journey down to Australia. He built the original eight-room

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home of brick, with lofty 13-foot ceilings and wide verandahs perfect for shelter from the hot dry climate. Although his name seems to have been lost to time, we do know that while he called “Lynnlee” home, he filled it with one wife, and then another, and 15 children between the two.

Nine years ago, Melissa and her mother Margaret became the latest custodians of this historic home. It was then that a client of Melissa’s from Gusollios Hair and Spa, her local business named for her sons, mentioned they were going to be selling the property. >

ABOVE: The front view of this circa 1909 Federation homestead; delicate and lace like ironwork frames the verandah.

FACING PAGE: Black and white design elements flow from the traditional yet bold floors in the main hallway to the decorative accents around the open fireplace in the front sitting room out to a peaceful nook on the side verandah.

home & style S U M M E R

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“We made arrangements to inspect and we immediately fell in love with the house and garden!” Margaret recalls.

Despite having recently taken on the project of bringing the building that houses Gusollios back to life after years of neglect, Melissa didn’t shy away from another project. Her creative vision crosses boundaries. Just as she can picture the end result of a cut and colour makeover, she can remember quickly formulating a plan for the old house.

“When we visited ‘Lynnlee’ for the first time, I knew exactly what I wanted to create. The home had amazing bones and our furnishings would look perfect once we made some cosmetic changes.”

Thanks is due to locally renowned Dr Alan Oxenham for saving “Lynnlee” from demolition 56 years ago. During his 25 years at the property, he completed major renovations to the home.

He expanded the home’s size, making it perfect for three generations living under one roof – six bedrooms, three bathrooms, three sitting rooms and one perfectly placed private abode for Nanny Margaret. Just a short hallway at the rear of the house separates her sanctuary from the rest of the home – close enough to be an ever-present force in the life of her grandsons, yet separate enough to safely display her beloved collections of china, crystal and silver, which she has been collecting steadfastly since the ’60s.

It is clear from the moment you walk in the door that collectors live here. Nearly every surface in every room holds at least a treasure or two. It is an absolute feast for the eyes. You can’t help but be curious what the next room will hold.

Over the years, collecting has become a shared passion between mother and daughter. Since they know each other’s taste, it is not uncommon for one to come home after a trip to an op shop or antique store with an impromptu gift for the other. Cockatoos and Dachshunds are the animals most likely to make an appearance in the house. They can be found in many forms both inside and out. You can’t help but admire the way objects are casually, yet cleverly, grouped to form vignettes throughout the home. Objects on tables and mantels effortlessly connect with art and mirrors on the walls.

Over the past nine years mother and daughter have completed a full decorative overhaul of the property. No room has been spared the colourful and curated aesthetic that seems to be the hallmark of Shorty’s design style. Although she has been known to freshen up rooms from time to time with a few new cushions (one can never have too many after all), she is anchored by the idea that knowing and owning one’s style as well as investing in classic pieces will create a home sure to stand the test of time.

Pops of colour weave in and out of spaces throughout the home. One room pulls you into the next with a palette of varied yet complementary colour and texture. When asked for the secret to her expert colour mixing, Melissa credits her art collection. >

ABOVE: Clockwise from top, Margaret and Melissa with Ollie, Gus and Snag in the front hall; a pretty scene in Nanny Marg’s abode complete with a painting in gilded frame and delicate china saucers hung as art; one half of Gus and Ollie’s bedroom. Colourful cushions, B&W photographic prints and a unique motor oil tin lamp create boyish fun.

FACING PAGE: Groupings of trinkets and treasures on display throughout the home along with Melissa’s expert colour mixing. Pieces from her extensive art collection adorn the walls. The perfectly suited vintage ‘Hairdresser’ sign (top right) was found at Dirty Jane’s in Bowral.

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“I guess it’s knowing your taste and being confident enough to mix them together. I can see a room finished before I’ve even started and I’m game enough to give it a go.”

Yellow, green, orange, red and blue can be seen mingling beautifully in more than one room.

Game enough indeed!

If Melissa’s pet project is the interior, then Margaret’s is the exterior. They inherited 1.5 acres of beautiful gardens, the result of hard work by Mr and Mrs John Hall. The Halls called “Lynnlee” home for 23 years, and the gardens are complete with multiple lawns and flower beds, climbing roses, wisteria and a whole host of flowering trees.

Two weeping lime trees (Tilia petiolaris) standing in a humble location near the shed are very rare to Australian gardens. Another standout specimen is a quartet of Ioensis plena, a stunning crab apple tree that blooms in large pink double flowers during the spring.

Margaret’s encyclopedic knowledge of every specimen in the garden and her internal calendar of when each flower and tree in her garden will bloom, down to the exact date, is impressive to say the least. A real sense of pride and responsibility can be seen in her – keeping the garden in tip top shape for future generations is a priority. The wide verandah wraps around the entire house, leaving plenty of little nooks that appear perfect for a late afternoon escape with a cup of tea or glass of wine. Black and white cushions keep the look classic yet comfortable.

It is no doubt a perfect spot to sit back and watch the garden grow, and something new is always bound to be blooming.

“Lynnlee has been an amazing family home to live in and we have loved every minute of it, although I adore a project and can’t wait to do another home again!” Melissa enthuses.

The charming property, which is now for sale, is a special sanctuary within town limits. It seems to have been well-loved for generations, with each family who has called it home leaving their own mark, and what a vivacious and vibrant mark Margaret and Melissa’s has been. They may very well come home to find me on their verandah one summer evening. CWL Words & images: Jennifer Harden

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ABOVE: Clockwise from top, Lush gardens surround the quaint shingled cubby house; a custom-built outdoor fire place is a favourite spot during the cooler months; Snag asking for some love and attention from Margaret in the cosy central lounge room; the garden is full of wonderful surprises, horticultural and otherwise.

At Choices Flooring we know that good interior decorating starts

from the floor up

Choices Flooring by Brights 61 George Street, Bathurst (next to Dan Murphy’s) 6331 4866 choicesflooring.com.au

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S U M M E R home & style

Handy Household Hints WITH HAYLEY MAUDSLEY

It’s the time of year when many of us go on our annual summer holiday. Leaving a capful of vinegar in each room of the house will ensure that your home smells fresh on your return, even if it’s been locked up for weeks!

FRESH AS A DAISY

It’s time to shine To make your cutlery sparkle, soak the cutlery in a bowl of boiling water along with three to four tablespoons of white vinegar. Dry with a linen tea towel.

just take the first step.”

- Martin Luther King Jr

SAVING FACE If you have accidentally placed your watch in water and it has condensation on the face, place it in a cup of dry white rice, covering it completely, overnight and then let sit for the following day on a window sill or somewhere safe in full sun.

The rice absorbs moisture and the sun also helps. If you are able to carefully take the face off, you can also dry it off with a hairdryer.

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Rub-a-dub-dub, doona in the tub Now that the cooler weather has left us, it may very well be time to clean all our woollens and feather down items.

The most difficult thing about washing your doona is its size. Anything bigger than a single doona will probably not fit in your regular washing machine or dryer. Check on the care label first but most of the time a machine wash will be fine, if it fits. Follow the same directions for cleaning as I have listed below. If your washing machine does not fit your doona in it, perhaps you have a bath tub. If you have enough water and a bath, this is an excellent way to wash your doona.

• Wash it by hand with your choice of washing powder, using the regular amount you would in the washing machine.

• Let it soak for a short period by placing some towels on top of the doona to prevent it from rising above the water.

• Use cold water for a regular wash but if your doona is slightly stained or in need of extra attention, use warm water.

• After washing by hand, pop your doona in the dryer, if it fits, with a few tennis balls to even out the feathers.

Bed/Akasha/Shutterstock.com

“You don’t need to see the whole staircase,

DUBBO The Grapevine Cafe has great coffee and great food.

We offer an indoor or outdoor dining experience with full table service.

Situated in a beautiful heritage listed building with a spacious courtyard.

144 Brisbane Street Dubbo NSW 2830 Phone: (02) 6884 7354 www.grapevinecafe.com.au OPEN 7 DAYS CWL 169

SPOILT

FOR CHOICE

A one-stop shop for anything from giftwares and decorator items to clothing, jewellery and lollies, Arcadia Crookwell is a business with a difference.

Owned and operated by Christine Seaman and her brother-in-law David Johnson, Arcadia Crookwell has a variety of pop-up shops.

Attractively laid out in a beautiful old building that features a magnificent interior space, Arcadia Crookwell allows small businesses to rent space to sell their goods.

“We have 24 tenants renting floor space. Not all tenants require the same space so we tailor the area to suit their needs. Some smaller operators who produce handmade items may require only a shelf space while a larger operator may require more space for their stock,” David says.

Arcadia is allowing small businesses to have a shop without the hassle of finding a space or paying rent for a spot in the main street.

“We saw a need to provide Crookwell with a greater retail market, but in doing so we have also given our visitors a place to wander and discover the variety of businesses under one roof,” Christine says.

A plumber by trade, David spends his Sundays in Arcadia meeting people who might be passing through Crookwell or coming to their hobby farm from Sydney.

Christine is a retired school teacher, and David says without her the business wouldn’t be possible.

“Running a small business is never easy. It’s a bit like being a school teacher as there are hours each week outside of trading time spent taking care of paperwork and making sure our tenants and customers are happy,” Christine says.

And with Arcadia being an ideal place for small businesses to have a physical presence, David says there’s always room for more people.

“In terms of space, we can always fit someone else in. We have our main tenants, and we have people come and go, so there’s always ways for us to make room,” David says.

David has considered branching out into other towns, but says this particular style of business is unique to Crookwell. CWL Words: Annabelle Amos Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Arcadia Crookwell is a treasure trove for shoppers.

LEFT: David Johnson with local resident and customer Elaine White; a selection of beautiful gift lines and unique clothing.

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plate CLASS

Exquisite hand-crafted Italian ceramics are easy to come by in Crookwell.

A passion for travelling and an unexpected love for Italian ceramics has turned into a business venture for Marg Anderson, Jan Pont and investors Mike and Marguerite Walsh from Crookwell.

After visiting the Italian town of Deruta in 2006, Jan and Marg started buying a few pieces of ceramics for the house.

“We’ve had several trips now, and over time we have collected many items. We have a whole dinner set, which we use as least once a week,” Marg says.

On their sixth visit to the region, Jan and Marg brought Mike and Marguerite, who also fell in love with the beautiful, handcrafted ceramics.

“They approached us after the trip, and said they’d love to import the ceramics if Jan and I would sell them. So we returned to Italy last year and began buying from five different suppliers,” Marg says.

“THE CERAMICS ARE ALL HAND-CRAFTED, MADE FROM THE HIGHEST QUALITY PRODUCTS FROM DERUTA.” After visiting different shops and factories, the dynamic duo returned to Australia, where they launched the business based out of Arcadia in Crookwell in December 2017. Following the December launch, Paradiso Ceramics went online in April 2018.

The ceramics are all hand-crafted, made from the highest quality products from Deruta. It’s a part of Italy Jan and Marg are keen on supporting.

“The people in Deruta have gone through some tough times. After the GFC, Americans stopped going to Deruta and they suffered badly. We just want to bless Deruta, and bless Australians with the ceramics,” Jan says.

The Paradiso Ceramics come in several different designs, and some things can be made to order.

“Because we deal with the factory directly, we can ask if they can make something for us. Having that relationship with the artists and the factory is part of the key that works for us. Customers also know it’s a genuine Italian-made product,” Marg says.

Some of the patterns, like the Ricco design, are more than 500 years old, and are distinct to Deruta.

All the items are dishwasher safe, and are as durable as regular kitchenware.

Paradiso Ceramics can be found at Arcadia Crookwell or online at paradisoceramics.com.au. CWL Words: Annabelle Amos Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Marg Anderson, Jan Pont, Mike and Marguerite Walsh. Paradiso Ceramics, Crookwell; stunning hand-crafted pieces.

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pastures NEW Crookwell’s Top Paddock is outstanding in the field when it comes to quality clothing and gifts.

Since opening nearly four years ago, sisters Jess Boardman and Megan Skelly’s shop Top Paddock in Crookwell has come a long way.

Looking back on the shop’s opening, the girls say they now stock more items than ever before, and are always looking for unique items to grow their shop further.

“We definitely have more stock, and that’s basically what you have to do, you have to start somewhere. I wouldn’t say our style has changed a lot in that time,” Megan says.

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Top Paddock stocks jewellery, clothing, children’s clothing, children’s toys, candles and beautiful homewares, gifts and accessories.

“We do like to support other small businesses when it comes to sourcing stock.

Being a small business ourselves, it’s kind of nice to support other small businesses,” Jess says.

The girls hope that customers can see the value in quality products, saying it can be difficult to compete with large retail stores.

Megan is a mum of three, lives in Crookwell and works in the shop three days a week. She also does the books for her husband’s mechanic business.

Jess is a mum of two, and while she’s based in Orange, she still manages to attend annual trade shows to source eclectic new items for the store.

“It’s a juggling act, that’s for sure. But we wouldn’t be able to do it without our amazing staff,” Megan says.

“Our husbands think we’re crazy, especially when we talk on the phone at least three times a day!” Jess adds.

The idea of starting Top Paddock was born at a family Christmas, where everyone was encouraging the girls to open a shop after a similar business had closed down.

“It was certainly a busy period. By February we went to our first trade show, and even though we still didn’t have an actual shop front for our business,” Jess says.

Top Paddock was up and running by April that same year, and the girls haven’t looked back. CWL Words: Annabelle Amos Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Sisters Jess Boardman and Megan Skelly enjoy being business partners; some of the unique, quality products available at Top Paddock.

ARCADIA CROOKWELL Our unique business brings to you multiple shops all contained in a beautifully restored building in the centre of Crookwell

Antiques and collectables, ladies clothing and jewellery, baby clothing, alpaca products, handmade candles, soaps and chocolates, organic teas, Italian ceramics, giftwares & homewares.

77 Goulburn St Crookwell 2583 Open: Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri: 10am-4pm Sat, Sun: 10am-3pm 0407 254 954 • arcadia.crookwell@yahoo.com.au

Hand-crafted earthenware from Deruta, the home of beautiful Italian ceramics

Beautiful, genuine Italian ceramics to enhance your home or gift to someone special Online store: www.paradisoceramics.com.au Shop: Arcadia, 77 Goulburn Street, Crookwell, NSW CWL 173

Specialising in: IPL (Intense Pulse Light) • Microdermabrasion • LED Light Therapy Lash Extension/Lash Lifting • Gel & Shellac Manicures/Pedicures • Waxing • Massage Spa Treatment • Make-Up • Ear & Nose Piercing • Holistic Health Coaching Performance-Based Facials using ASAP Skincare Products

159 Maitland St, arrabri NSW 2390

1/159 Maitland St, NarrabriPhone: 02 6792 2663 nuyudayspaandbeauty13@hotmail.com Ph: 02 6792 2663 www.nuyudayspaandbeauty.com.au

d 1

Find us on Facebook: NuYu Day Spa and Beauty

www.nuyudayspaandbeauty.com.au

7/08/13 2:30 PM

Our qualified staff offer professional and friendly health advice. We have a wide range of in-store services and products including: • • • • • •

Sleep apnoea equipment • Gorgeous giftware Home medication review • Makeup & skincare brands Meds checks including Revlon, Natio, Flu vaccination service Nude by Nature, Sukin, French fragrance Dr LeWinn’s, Kora Organics Leather wallets & handbags • The Beauty Room 127 Maitland Street, Narrabri NSW 2390 P: 02 6792 2105 karencarterchemist.com.au

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Explore our emporium in Narrabri, full of beautiful things...

GIFTS & HOMEWARES LADIES CLOTHING & SHOES JEWELLERY & ACCESSORIES FURNITURE GIFTS FOR HIM CHILDREN’S CLOTHING, SHOES, GIFTS, TOYS, BOOKS & CRAFTS

Stocking brands including Najo Sterling Silver Jewellery, YAYA & Very Very Ladies Clothing, Love Henry, Seedling Kids’ Craft, B Box, Alimrose Designs, NanaHuchy, Toshi, Crabtree & Evelyn, Ted Baker, ECOYA Candles, and many more.

85 MAITLAND STREET, NARRABRI 02 6792 1363

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maternal

INSTINCT Combining motherhood with business has been a pathway to success for Dubbo’s Larrissa Kek.

With a background in retail and hospitality, Royal Bubs n Tots proprietor Larrissa Kek started selling beanies, headbands, soft toys and sunhats at market days and small events when her eldest child was an infant.

As demand grew, a shopfront was opened in Talbragar Street, followed by a move across the road to larger premises.

Royal Bubs n Tots has a solid customer base in Dubbo and the Central West and attracts travellers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane who regularly call into the shop while visiting the region.

“With more than 80 brands under one roof, we really are a one-stop shop for infants and children,” Larrissa says.

“People love what we have to offer and follow us on social media. Internet sales are strong and we post Australia wide. We also offer a pick up in store option, which is convenient for a lot of people.”

As a busy mother of three, Larrissa knows how time-consuming shopping can be, especially when trying to track down quality products that are special and distinctive.

“Every child is unique and I believe it is important to encourage individuality,” she says.

“Life would be pretty boring if we all wore and used the same things.”

Larrissa hand selects everything that goes into the store, attends trade fairs and utilises agencies to source quality products that are original, comfortable, safe and fun.

Everything in the Royal Bubs n Tots range is tried and tested, from clothing, shoes, linen and gift lines to change tables, cots, prams, baby carriers and monitors.

Well-known brands include Bebe, Rock Your Baby, Wilson and Frenchy, Toshi, Bugaboo, Steelcraft, Britax Safe n Sound, Maxi-Cosi and Boori.

Swaddle Up – with a convenient two-way zipper – is probably the most popular product as it saves the need to hand wrap babies.

Larrissa stocks a range of lactation biscuits, crackers and muesli to help breastfeeding mothers with maintaining milk supply.

The delicious and nourishing products provide mother and baby with vitamins, minerals and good fats.

Royal Bubs n Tots is open from Monday to Saturday. Sunday is family day for Larrissa, her husband Anthony, and their children Dana, 7, Athena, 5, and Valentino, 2.

“We make a point of doing something together as a family and spend a lot of time at Taronga Western Plains Zoo and Shoyoen Japanese Gardens,” Larrissa says.

“We are fortunate to have the zoo on our doorstep and have been long-time Zoo Friends. Our children like to be out and we all enjoy heading off with a picnic lunch.” CWL Words: Heather Crosby Images: Zenio Lapka

LEFT: Larrissa enjoys sourcing unique products for infants and children; a small sample of the many delights on offer at Royal Bubs n Tots.

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Handmade colourful canvas swings for little ones.

For 6 months – 18kgs

T: 0408 254 325

www.sleepyjays.com.au

69 Goulburn Street Crookwell, NSW (02) 4832 2319

Unique country style gifts, homewares, accessories & clothing

STOCKIST FOR Clothing: Authur Ave, Country Designs, Eb & Ive, Elm, Imagine, Isle of Mine, LTB Jeans, The Eighth Letter, Wish.

Handbags & Wallets: Black Caviar, Dusky Robin, Henkberg.

Accessories & Gifts: Mertle & Moss, Oozoo Watches, Random Harvest, TH Luxury Scented Candles, Vetroemetallo & Zoda Jewellery.

STOCKIST FOR Homewares: Coast to Coast, Clothing: Betty Basics, Elm, Fate, LTB Jeans, Sass, Wish. Billie Shoes. Handbags & Wallets: Black Caviar, Journie, Pratten, Status Anxiety, 00Z00 watches.

Perfect Pieces.

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meet the maker

Margaret Seymour Patience, love and gratitude are stitched into every one of Margaret Seymour’s exquisite quilts.

When and how did your love of quilting begin?

My sisters and I were blessed to have a very patient mother who was also a talented sewer, making all of our clothes, so there were always scraps of material trimmings and buttons on hand for us to be creative with. We were encouraged and taught to sew

by Mum and she had us making articles on her treadle sewing machine at an early age.

I remember the very first thing I bought after I started work was an electric sewing machine and I continued making most of my clothes and soft furnishings, then later clothes for our children.

My love of patchwork came much later and over the years I have made countless patchwork quilts and other patchwork items.

Tell us about the process of quilting Many nights have been spent making quilts in my mind instead of sleeping, which is not uncommon for patch workers as this seems to be when your inspirations happen.

Preparation can be tedious and repetitive at times. For example, it may involve cutting out 1400 2x4 inch rectangles but accuracy is essential for best results. It teaches you to be patient and the end results are exhilarating.

There is usually a story related to each quilt as they have been made from a variety of fabrics. I have used pony club ribbons, old neck ties, denim jeans, silks, dress remnants as well as the conventional patchwork fabrics.

How has your craft benefitted the wider community?

Most of my quilts have found their way into many homes as birthday, wedding and baby gifts to family and friends along with bushfire and flood victims and donated to local community organisations and schools as successful money raisers.

Perhaps two of the quilts I have made with a difference were one for my brother and the other for a local school.

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“My mum has been my mentor and inspiration.

My sisters and I were very privileged to be able to make a patchwork quilt together for her 100th birthday six years ago.”

My brother, John Fox AM, an ex Geelong AFL football player, became president of the Melbourne Royal Agricultural Show Society and requested his desire to have his sisters enter a piece of needlework in the show.

I chose to honour him with a quilt featuring the Geelong Football Club as they had won the premiership after a 40-year gap when he played. I imaged the players plus my brother and his grandchildren onto this quilt and presented it to him with both love and enjoyment.

The second quilt was made as a fundraiser for the primary school my grandchildren were attending at the time. My daughter-inlaw, Sharn, who is very artistic and creative, organised each student to paint a farmrelated picture onto a calico square. Each square was then incorporated into a quilt, which was auctioned at the school fete with a great result.

What is your message to others?

Sewing is relaxing and a switch off for me as when I become engrossed in the creating and construction I forget about anything else and the time just flies by.

I would encourage those who love sewing to share their talent with others as the pleasure I get when I gift one of my creations is overwhelming. I find it so much easier to give than to receive and to have someone appreciate the time and thought I have put into my work gives me just the best feeling of satisfaction. CWL Images: Barbara Seymour

ABOVE: Margaret Seymour is a true devotee of quilting.

FACING PAGE: An impressive array of Margaret’s hand-crafted quilts; tools of trade; John Fox AM proudly displaying his sister Margaret’s quilt, featuring the Geelong Football Club.

story name S U M M E R

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DELICIOUSLY Fancy a restaurant quality meal but don’t want to go out?

Here are three courses that are sure to tickle the taste buds.

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Built in 1881 and originally the old Wallerawang School, today’s Black Gold Motel is one of the highlights of the Blue Mountains, currently ranked number one for travellers’ choice on TripAdvisor.

Bought in 1994 by Wallerawang locals Robert and Linda Cluff, the Black Gold Motel has undergone serious renovations to boast motel, cabin and heritage villa style accommodation.

However, they don’t stop at accommodation.

121 Main Street, Wallerawang, also presents their on-site Crib Room Restaurant, Lamp Room Lounge and Conference Centre, amounting to the perfect venue for a quiet dinner, workplace training or milestone celebrations.

With management and staff passionate about their hometown and surrounds, the guests of Black Gold Motel are in for a treat.

Chicken breast stuffed with ricotta, spinach and pine nuts and a creamy garlic sauce Serves four 4 chicken breasts 140g baby spinach 180g ricotta cheese 20g pine nuts ½ cup grated cheese Salt and pepper Zest of a lemon 1 pinch nutmeg 1. Blanch (immerse) spinach in boiling water then drain and cool under running water.

2. Squeeze out excess water and chop roughly.

Mix with other ingredients in a separate bowl.

Images: Zenio Lapka

GARLIC CREAM SAUCE 1 tbsp minced garlic 50ml white wine 1 cup cream 1. Gently fry garlic, add wine and let it reduce by half.

2. Add cream and simmer until thickened.

3. To stuff the chicken, take a whole unfilleted chicken breast and make a deep incision lengthways (with the grain), being careful not to make any holes on the exterior and gently pipe the filling until full.

4. Seal the chicken in a pan and bake in a moderate oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a core temperature of 61 degrees is reached.

Mushroom, spinach & goat’s cheese pasta Serves one

1 tsp minced garlic 130g mixed mushrooms (Button, Oyster, Enoki, Swiss Brown) 140g cooked pasta 40g baby spinach 50g goat’s cheese Shaved Parmesan Parsley, basil or minced basil – for garnish 50ml white wine Olive oil Knob of butter

1. Heat oil and butter in a frypan on medium to high heat. Sauté garlic and mushrooms then add white wine and season with salt and pepper.

2. Allow wine to reduce a little, and then add pasta and spinach.

3. When spinach has started to wilt, crumble goat’s cheese through and toss gently.

4. Garnish with Parmesan and herbs, then drizzle with olive oil and serve.

Talented chef Shane Murphy.

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S U M M E R recipes

Coconut panna cotta with mango and a raspberry sorbet Serves four

PANNA COTTA 200ml cream 125ml milk 175ml coconut milk 85g sugar 2 tsp gelatine powder 2 tbsp water 1. Combine gelatine and water and allow to stand for five minutes to bloom.

2. Meanwhile, gently heat other ingredients until just under boiling, then add gelatine and stir until dissolved.

3. Pour into dariole moulds and allow to set in fridge.

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MANGO PUREE 1 fresh mango 15ml Galliano 1. Blitz mango and Galliano with blender until smooth.

RASPBERRY SORBET 3 cups frozen raspberries â…“ cup sugar â…“ cup water Juice of one lime 40ml Cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) 1. Place sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Simmer for five minutes then allow to cool completely.

2. Meanwhile, blend raspberries in a food processor, add cooled sugar syrup, Cassis and lime juice.

3. Place in an ice-cream churner and churn until frozen. Place in a container and allow to freeze further in the freezer.

TO PLATE 1. Chop some roasted macadamia nuts and dice some fresh mango (if in season) or canned mango cheeks.

2. Place mango puree on a plate. Turn out panna cotta.

3. Add diced mango, chopped nuts and sorbet.

4. Garnish with lime zest and micro mint or mint leaves.

Images: Zenio Lapka

fish river roasters Roasters of premium coffee from around the world.

grass-fed, pasture-raised lamb, delivered direct to you Stoneridge71 lamb boxes are a convenient and easy way to enjoy premium, natural lamb, grown locally in the Young region

by Richard and Bernadette Page.

We believe that knowing where your food comes from is a vital part of eating right.

Our lambs are all born and raised on chemical-free pastures with a focus on their health and well-being.

Order online at www.stoneridge71.com.au P 0429 692 051 E info@stoneridge71.com.au Please check our website for areas where we offer delivery.

We roast in small batches so we can deliver to you fresh and fast. Same day dispatch for online orders received before 3pm.

Our philosophy is simple: Source the best coffee beans and roast each variety to bring out their best flavours and aroma.

Our coffee has won 22 awards since 2010, including at the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show and the National Golden Bean Competition.

Fish River Roasters provides speciality coffee from around the world to cafes and restaurants in the Central West, Blue Mountains and around Australia. Our award winning coffee is supported by barista training and espresso machine repairs and maintenance. We would like to thank the cafes and restaurants that stock our coffee and the coffee drinkers of the region for their support.

67 corporation avenue bathurst nsw 2795 02 6331 7171

order online: www.fishriverroasters.com.au

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BEYOND

expectations Parkes News & Gifts is somewhat of a success story thanks to hard work and diversification.

Owned by Greg and Christene Nash, Parkes News & Gifts is more than just newspapers and magazines. It’s a newsagency with a difference.

“Even though we are a newsagency, we have diversified. We still have your staples like newspapers, magazines and lotteries. But the area we have branched out into is giftware,” Greg says.

The Nash family has been in the business for 10 years, when the newsagency was split across two locations.

After buying the first store in 2008, Greg and Christene purchased the other newsagency the following year.

“It was always our goal to amalgamate them into one store.

The opportunity came up to buy the shop next door to the original newsagent we bought and so we purchased that and expanded,” Greg says.

That’s when they expanded the shop, offering beautiful gifts and homewares in an attractive store. It’s now more popular than ever.

“I suppose I didn’t know where it was going to lead, but there hasn’t been any moment where we thought we had done the wrong thing,” Greg says.

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The store is now celebrating its 10th year, and to mark the occasion, it has been promoting giveaways on social media.

It’s an aspect of the business that Greg says is astonishing and far-reaching, and it means more people are now able to see what the town has to offer (other than Elvis!).

Greg says one of the biggest changes he has seen over the years is a move away from newspapers and magazines.

“They’re still a major part of the business, and we still offer a large selection. But if either of those fell over tomorrow, we still have another revenue stream with the giftware.”

Parkes News & Gifts is open from 5am weekdays. CWL Words: Annabelle Amos Images: Zenio Lapka

ABOVE: Greg and Christene Nash enjoy providing a wonderful service to their many customers; an impressive array of gifts and homewares can always be found at Parkes News & Gifts.

XERO Gold Partner

Unit 12/36 Darling Street Dubbo, NSW 2830 Phone: 02 6885 5594 E: admin@peacockeaccountants.com.au www.peacockeaccountants.com.au

Combining the knowledge of your business with our expertise – growing your small business or farming operation is our passion.

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S U M M E R travel

TAHITI LOOKS NICE French Polynesia has all the trappings of paradise.

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Jacked backwards up the elbow of a hairpin bend on a Tahitian mountainside, the 4WD has earned every inch gained over every loose stone that has slipped under its tyres.

Our thighs ache from being splayed against the side of the Jeep, our white-knuckled fingers afire from being curled desperately around the aluminium frame, our jaws locked in a futile attempt to stop the little truck from hurtling over the side.

The steady staccato of “Oh! Oh! Oh!’’ utterances from a nervous German travelling companion suddenly changes tone.

“Ooh! Ooh! Ooh!’’ she coos, clasping her hands to her breast.

“Beautiful. Where the dinosaurs live.’’

The wheels of the 4WD are barely touching terra firma while mist puffs against our faces like the draught from giant pterodactyl wings.

Our terror turns to wonder as we absorb the scene around us.

Against a dimpled thunderous sky, majestic peaks fence an enormous volcano crater.

The hollow gouged from the earth’s almighty belch is now covered in a moist plush-pile carpet of vegetation in myriad shades of green, a stark contrast to the jagged cliff lines and glowing escarpments of our Great Dividing Range.

By now we have discovered so much more to Tahiti than syrupy waters, exquisite bruised cloudscapes, hibiscus flowers and the legend of Moana. > FACING PAGE: Overwater bungalows on the island of Mo’orea.

ABOVE: A lazy day on the island of Mo’orea; Tahiti high country; the towering Vaimahutu Falls in Tahiti; safari jeeps stop for travellers to capture a spectacular group of waterfalls that feed the lush interior of Tahiti.

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S U M M E R travel story name

“F r om t he b ucke t l i s t ove r w at e r b u n g a low s t ay, s w i m m i n g w i t h sh a rk s a nd s t i n g r ay s a nd r om a nt ic s u n s e t b e a ch s t r ol l s , t he slo sh a nd r i p ple of w at e r s o a k s i nt o t he s o u l i n ex t r e me s .�

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story name S U M M E R We have traipsed through the bustling markets of Papeete on the main island of Tahiti, discovered street art everywhere we looked, coveted trinkets at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum and walked among the heady fragrance of tropical flowers at Bougainville Park.

And tour guide William gave us an overview of Tahitian geography and culture as we made our way around the 120km circumference of the largest island in French Polynesia.

Tahitians, of which there are 189,000, are “very happy people’’, a “chop suey, fruit salad’’ population of cultural diversity, William says.

And speaking of food, there are 10 varieties of mango, 30 of breadfruit, there are bananas, pineapples and vanilla plantations and more than 700 varieties of fish.

Tahiti has also been featured on the silver screen. Marlon Brando’s 1960s film Mutiny on the Bounty was filmed on the island and the Disney animation Moana (which, William assures us, is completely correct) is set there.

While hire vehicles are available for solo adventurers to explore the Tahitian hinterland on their own, joining a guided tour takes the panic out of an often-treacherous journey through a rugged landscape.

The Papeete Inner Island Full-Day Jeep Safari (from $AUD132) is but one that wends its way through dense rainforest into the interior.

The tour outline says we “Go off the beaten path’’.

Beaten alright. Potholes, sharp hairpin bends, sliding gravel, unstable water crossings and dank tunnels are an adventure worth taking to reach the former 19th century French fortress Mount Marau, the lush cascades of the Faarumai Valley near Tahiti’s north coast and rainforest-clad Punaruu Valley overlooked by impressive peaks Orohena, Aorai, Tetufera and Teamaa.

Pausing for lunch at the Relais de la Maroto restaurant high in the mountains above the Papenoo River is a welcome reward for hours spent muscle clenching along a deep pitted road.

The food is good and reasonably priced but secondary to the view.

Peace envelopes us as we each find a spot on the verandah from which to surrender our worries to the majesty of the landscape in a yawning silence broken only by the distant “shh’’ of more than 1000 waterfalls sliding down the mountainside.

Water is an ever-present element to any island getaway, and the Society Islands are no different.

From the bucket list overwater bungalow stay, swimming with sharks and stingrays and romantic sunset beach strolls, the slosh and ripple of water soaks into the soul in extremes.

The Arahoho Blowhole, an unmarked roadside attraction created over aeons when battering surf undercut the basalt shoreline and eroded a tunnel-like passageway, makes an aggressive watery show when it sends a geyser-like plume of seawater shooting into the air, spraying onlookers.

Meanwhile, Vaimahutu Falls plunging 30m into a clear pool below is a tranquil oasis bounded by rainforest.

Best known for its romance island of Bora Bora, Tahiti is not a budget destination.

However, there are less expensive options.

With a teenage son in tow, an overwater bungalow stay at Hotel Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea on the Island of Moorea within sight of Tahiti is a better, more affordable family option with flexible sleeping arrangements and activities such as kayaks and jet skis.

Cafes and restaurants in the villages around the island, such as the Manuia Grill opposite Hotel Manava where local Mahi Mahi fish and salad are served with Tahitian beer at simple trestle tables under a pergola, are great alternatives to hotel restaurants.

Or mingle with the locals at a supermarket and prepare stocks in self-contained accommodation such as at the Hotel Manava Suite Resort Tahiti on the main island.

Australians can also slash costs by travelling in the off season, which, in the tropics, is the wet season. Bear in mind though that you do dice with the weather, although we only experienced one full day of rain and a couple of light showers.

where is it?

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia, the South Pacific archipelago, population 189,000.

Sister island Moorea lies within sight.

how to get there

Several airlines have regular flights from Sydney to Auckland, from which Air Tahiti Nui has daily flights to Tahiti. All flights arrive at Faa’a International Airport near the city of Papeete on the main island of Tahiti.

what to eat

Poisson Cru (the national dish) – raw red tuna marinated in a delicious aromatic lime juice and coconut milk. Also, plenty of other seafood, a Hima’a (an underground oven feast) is a must and loads of tropical fruits like coconut, banana, pineapple, yams and breadfruit.

what to do

Swim with stingrays and sharks, surf the legendary Teahupo’o reef break, indulge in a traditional Polynesian pamper experience, take a 4WD tour into the mountains and snack from food trucks.

Travelling between November and May also avoided hordes of America tourists, having to use the stronger Greenback currency (the French Pacific Franc is used in the off season) and higher premiums.

Our trip to the land of Moana ended in a dream, watching the passing parade under a scarlet-flared sky while munching cheap eats from one of the colourful food vans (Les Roulottes), which line the Papeete waterfront, and grinning at the thought of William the Tahitian tour guide.

“Do you have snakes in Tahiti?’’ a German tourist had asked.

“No,’’ William answered. “No snakes, no alligators, no lions in Paradise. You don’t need to die – you’re already in Paradise.’’ CWL Words: Ellen Hill Images: David Hill

ABOVE: Wild ginger grows among palms and waterfalls.

FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Sunset over the island of Mo’orea; Polynesian dancers perform for guests at the Hotel Manava Beach Resort and Spa; overwater bungalows on the island of Mo’orea; the mountains of Moua Puta, “Queen of Mo’orea’’, gazes heavenward with her head thrown back (peaks on left representing her nose and chin) with her hands clasped in prayer (peak on lower right).

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TURKISH delight A burning desire to teach abroad has led Suzanne Houston to start her Turkish Treasures Tours, catering for people of all ages.

When teacher Suzanne Houston was looking for employment opportunities, some friends suggested she go to Turkey to teach English.

In 2011, Suzanne packed up and went to Istanbul on a year-long working holiday, proving to be an enlightening experience.

“I was teaching students as young as three and a half. No other teachers, except two, could speak English, so there was sometimes a bit of a language barrier,” she says.

Nevertheless, Suzanne persevered, and as a result, fell in love with the country.

“Turkey encompasses everything – its people, food, culture, history and lifestyle is inspiring,” she says.

Her year in Turkey came to an end, and before she knew it, she was back home in Australia, with a desire to share her love of Turkey and its culture with others.

Suzanne started her Turkish Treasures Tours – a boutique experience tour that caters to everyone.

Turkish Treasures takes groups of up to 10 people on personalised and intimate tours around some of Turkey’s most iconic locations, including Cappadocia, Gallipoli, Ephesus and Istanbul.

“The Turkish Treasures Tours are intimate and we see and experience things many tourists don’t

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see. We go to places that big tour operators don’t. We visit people’s homes where they cook us dinner, we watch carpet weaving and take felt-making classes.”

Now Suzanne has returned to Turkey, teaching in one of the country’s largest schools.

She plans to live in Turkey for another two years and is more excited than ever to have more people join her on her Turkish Treasures Tours.

“I have returned to Turkey a number of times since leaving, and I am passionate about creating wonderful cultural experiences for travellers to share,” she says.

Suzanne hopes to take her next group on a tour in April 2019, and again around early July.

With everything from flights, to accommodation, tour guides, transport and most meals included, a 21-day tour will cost about $10,000 per person.

People of all ages are invited to take part in the experience of a lifetime – with local guides and their knowledge giving travellers a genuine insight into the Turkish way of life.

To book a tour with Suzanne, you can visit her Turkish Treasures website: www.turkishtreasures.com.au. CWL Words: Annabelle Amos Image: Zenio Lapka

“The Turkish Treasures Tours are intimate and we see and experience things many tourists don’t see.”

ABOVE: Suzanne Houston enjoys running her boutique experience tours, Turkish Treasures.

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S U M M E R health & wellness

easing the

PAIN Keeping our joints healthy is crucial to our daily lives, especially as we age.

Almost four million Australians suffer joint arthritis, and experts say this figure is likely to double in the next two decades due to our ageing population and obesity rates.

Arthritis is a degeneration of our joints and a major cause of joint pain. Most joints in our body are made up of bones lined with a smooth, shiny layer of “polish” known as cartilage, which allows for a smooth movement to occur between two articulating bones. Wear and tear caused by ageing among other factors, and accelerated by obesity, high impact sports and injuries etc., leads to erosion in this cartilage, resulting in pain, swelling and stiffness of the joints.

This is particularly true of larger weight-bearing joints such as our hips and knees that are more commonly affected by arthritis. Arthritis causes pain and affects mobility.

Arthritis can be managed with some simple lifestyle changes that will hopefully slow down the progression of degeneration and improve symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

The most useful of these is weight control and avoidance of impact activities, such as running, jogging, jumping.

As the disease progresses, symptoms worsen too. General treatment varies according to how troublesome the symptoms are. Physiotherapy is helpful in keeping the muscle envelope strong and joints mobile.

Prescribed medications are important ways of helping sufferers alleviate arthritic symptoms.

These must always be taken under the guidance of your family doctor.

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There are also various injections that can help.

The most common are steroids, colloquially known as cortisone. These are anti-inflammatories delivered at the site of the problem – the joint. They can be very helpful at times of an exacerbation.

Other injections include hyaluronic acid (jelly) and platelet rich plasma (PRP), and stem cell therapy may also have a role in managing symptoms.

Finally, when simpler non-operative measures are no longer effective, joint replacement surgery is the definitive treatment, and patients generally experience remarkable results after successful surgery. Advances in biomaterials have led to improvements in longevity while newer, minimally invasive techniques have significantly improved functional recovery and down time after surgery.

In fact, joint replacement surgery is among some of the most successful medical developments of the 21st century, positively transforming lives.

Patients who 20 years ago may have been severely debilitated or even restricted to a wheelchair may in today’s world lead near normal and active lives thanks to modern joint replacements. Short-term functional recovery, such as day-to-day activities and return to work, is expected within weeks for hip replacements and a couple of months for knee replacements. But, joint replacement is only recommended when a patient’s symptoms are intrusive in their daily lives and simpler, nonoperative measures are no longer effective.

The key to any successful outcome is the right treatment for the right problem at the right time.

We must “treat the man, not the scan”. CWL Words: Sol Qurashi

Arthritis can be managed with some simple lifestyle changes that will hopefully slow down the progression of degeneration and improve symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

Dr Sol Qurashi, Hip and Knee Surgeon, Sydney, Australia

Australian Brain Coaching Personal training for your brain Re-train your brain to help overcome: Anxieties, stresses, fears, phobias, and improve confidence and sporting & business performance.

Helen Dugdale | 0417 064 507 helen@australianbraincoaching.com.au www.australianbraincoaching.com.au

32 years of teaching experience CLASSES IN: BALLET • TAP • JAZZ CONTEMPORARY • HIGHLAND • GYMNASTICS Students prepared for tap exams, eisteddfods, local performances and end of year concerts.

Studios in Cootamundra, Young and Temora.

The Pilates Studio – Cootamundra & Young Fully qualified pilates teacher with Polestar Pilates, a nationally recognised, government accredited and internationally renowned pilates method.

Contact Christine on 0427 782 954 | Find us on Facebook: Christine Wishart Dance Studios or The Pilates Studio Cootamundra & Young

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Modern Australian Menu Great steaks, Club classics, functions available Coffee shop open all day Quality, barista made coffee Locally roasted beans from “Art of Espresso” Cakes, slices, housemade scones Embellish also caters outside of the Club for weddings and celebrations

OPENING HOURS Coffee Shop

9:30am – 9:30pm

Club Lunches

12:00pm – 2:00pm

Dinner

5:30pm – 9:00pm

Gundagai District Services Club 254 Sheridan St, Gundagai NSW 2722 Phone: 6944 1719 | 0419 478 508 Email: events@embellishcatering.com.au www.gundagaiservicesclub.com.au

– BUTCHER ROBERTS – Established in 1946, we offer an eclectic mix of garden products, plants and pots, BBQs and outdoor settings, giftware and homewares, plus a unique collection of 19th Century photographs from the Gabriel gallery.

MONDAY – FRIDAY 9:00am – 5:00pm

SATURDAY

9:00am – 12:00pm

177 Sheridan Street, Gundagai (02) 6944 1722 www.butcherrobertsgundagai.com.au

@butcherroberts

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Clothing & Accessories

Providing a personal and enjoyable fashion experience through great range and service, at affordable prices.

132 SHERIDAN ST, GUNDAGAI Ph: (02) 6944 4002 Mon-Fri: 10am-5:30pm Sat: 9:30am-12:30pm

RE I

US G

D AN N LA

CARCASE WITHOUT COMPROMISE

SPRING BULL SALE & ELITE REGISTERED COW SALE FRIDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2018 Autumn Bull Sale - April 2019 • Private Treaty Bull Sale - May 2019

Reiland Angus Beef Genetics was established in 1972 with the view of supplying the beef industry with cattle that thrive in all environments.

Conversion of pasture to quality beef is the targeted outcome whilst maintaining a breeding cow economically and profitably through her productive life.

THE LUCAS FAMILY, GUNDAGAI NSW Mark: 0428 693 585 E: info@reilandangus.com.au

Jeremy Pearce, Gundagai E: jeremy@arcscape.com.au

www.arcscape.com.au

Servicing your outdoor living needs

REILANDANGUS.COM.AU

Offering the full range of residential and commercial landscape services – paving, turfing, planting, irrigation, retaining wall and deck construction, and garden maintenance.

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CWL SPRING 2018 LAUNCH Gundagai

Back: Publishers of Central West Lifestyle Alex and Elizabeth Tickle, Mason Crane, Miriam Crane Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council, Mark Nicholson, Gundagai Newsagency, Marianne McInerney Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council, Mayor Cr Abb McAlister, Pip McAlister, Mayor Coolamon Council, Cr John Seymour OAM, Margaret Seymour, Frances Palmer, Deputy Mayor Cr Dennis Palmer, Mayor Snowy Valleys Council Cr James Hayes Front: Cr Penny Nicholson, Aunty Sonia Piper, Linda Wiles, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council.

Chilly August weather and intermittent rain did not deter the jubilant spirits of the locals at the launch of the Central West Lifestyle Spring 2018 edition, held at St Patrick’s Hall in Gundagai.

Beautiful, freshly flowering wattle took pride of place at the venue where almost 90 guests from nearby Cootamundra and Gundagai celebrated the uniqueness and beauty of their region, showcased across 109 pages of the glossy lifestyle publication.

The MC for this special occasion was Marianne McInerney from the Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council. Speakers during the evening included Aunty Sonia Piper, who extended the Welcome to Country, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Mayor Cr Abb McAlister, Deputy Mayor Cr Dennis Palmer, and CWL Publisher and Editor Elizabeth Tickle. Margaret Seymour, wife of Coolamon Mayor Cr John Seymour OAM, delivered a speech from CWL features writer and photographer Jake Lindsay in his absence.

Guests thoroughly enjoyed delicious canapes provided by Belinda Hindmarsh (Embellish Catering, Gundagai) and her staff as well as wines from Shaw Wines, Murrumbateman.

Sales of the Spring 2018 edition have been phenomenal with over 800 copies sold at Cootamundra and Gundagai in the first two weeks. Many restocks have taken place across the state to keep up with the very strong demand for this edition. CWL Words: Elizabeth Tickle Images: Sue Meikle

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Ian Young, Sue Newman, Robert Newman and Lyndon Newman.

Richard and Rose De Belin, Planted, Cootamundra, with Phil and Jan Davies, ‘Milton’ Cootamundra and Barb and Tim Beveridge, Cootamundra Country Club.

events S U M M E R

Principal Cootamundra High School Dale Rands and Karen Rands with Sue and Peter Mills, Daisy’s Decor.

Gladys Reardon with son Mark Reardon and daughter Cathy Snowdon.

John Worldon, Tamworth, with Deputy Mayor of Tamworth Council Cr Helen Tickle.

Elizabeth Tickle, Christine Wishart, Christine Wishart Dance Studios, with John Stephens.

Clare Chalmers and Jamie-Lee Webb, both from Beyond Bank, Gundagai.

Jeremy and Oliver Litchfield, Cootamundra, with Marie Cooke and Judy Smith, both from Smith and Rinkin Funeral Directors, Cootamundra.

Mayor of Snowy Valleys Council Cr James Hayes with Susan Chisholm and Peter Batey.

Renee Lindley, Bella Nova, Gundagai, and Jeremy Pearce, Arcscape Landscape Design, Gundagai.

Jim and Cathy Hamilton, “Bongalong”, Muttama, with Mark and Anna Lucas, Reiland Angus, Gundagai.

Peter and Belinda Hindmarsh, Embellish Catering.

Maria Connell and Mick Mineham, Coota Concrete, with Sandy and Kathy Tait.

Bill Teale, Roy Cleveland and Clarrie Moore, all from Cootamundra.

Kate and Jock Graham, Wi-Sky, Gundagai.

Margaret Seymour, Mayor of Coolamon Cr John Seymour OAM with Arthur Ward.

Mayor of Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Cr Abb McAlister with Pip McAlister, Principal Gundagai South Public School.

Bruce Dennis and Gladys Reardon.

Kim and Ian Mawhood, Mawhoods IGA Cootamundra, with Mason and Miriam Crane, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council.

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Wholesome food from the heart...for the heart... at the heart of our community.

Planted Cootamundra is a wholefoods cafe specialising in local, organic and seasonal food. We value the health and well-being of our customers. All our products and meals are house-made using the freshest ingredients we can source.

Locals love to gather at our feasting dinners. Diners are seated around our long table and served three set courses paired with amazing local wines. Over our beautiful share platters, friendships are formed. Feasting dinners are by booking on 6942 4744.

Why not call in for a specialty coffee, a wonderful meal or even just a chat. We look forward to welcoming you to our place.

Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm Saturday: 8am - 2pm 29 Wallendoon Street www.plantedcootamundra.com

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GRAZING DOWN THE LACHLAN Forbes Hundreds of food enthusiasts headed to Forbes over the weekend of September 22 for the Central West’s hottest new foodie adventure, Grazing Down the Lachlan.

With tickets selling out in just four days and glorious spring weather, the event was held beneath breathtaking river gums, alongside a tranquil river and within a stock route that is synonymous with songlines and drovers.

Under the creative direction of Australia’s leading Indigenous chef, Mark “Black” Olive, guests experienced a fusion of Wiradjuri and European cultures. The degustation menu was prepared and delivered by local caterers with seven dishes and matched beverages showcasing local produce, both farmed and native.

Bookended by the “Meet Your Makers” Q&A on Friday, September 21, and a huge community breakfast plus interactive Wiradjuri workshops on Sunday, September 23, Grazing was a celebration of the best of the Central West. CWL Words: Wendy Muffett Images: Zenio Lapka

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events S U M M E R

Peter Cusack, Geoff and Sally Green with Sam Cusack.

Emma Ridley, Lauren McClintock, Stephanie King, Lee Desmitt and Jessica Symonds.

Gugamin.

Rick and Geraldine Colless.

Carmel Laing, Tristin Nicholls, Nicole Westwood and Kristy Smith.

Penny Anderson and Jessica Carr.

Jake Ridley, Anna McLennan and Caroline Ridley.

Tracey Schneiders and Jenny Young.

Farah Celijo, Mark Olive, Peter Bourne and Gareth Davidson.

Orange Food Week vice president Hugh Rasmussen and president James Sweetapple.

Steve Loane, Lisa Schiff, Graeme and Maureen Miller with Monica and Kenneth Wren.

Guests enjoying the relaxed atmosphere near the Lachlan River.

Evolution Mining General Manager Craig Fawcett with Tamar Pinero.

Phil and Nadia Donato with Mark Olive (centre).

Jenny and Tim Webb.

Nishita Dayal, Rachael and Jacqui Hayes.

David Cummings, Matt Teale and Brendan Hayes.

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Plainsman Motel 22 Sheriff Street, Forbes NSW 2871 Ph 02 6852 2466 | Fax 02 6852 3237 comforbes@exemail.com.au Reception Hours: Mon to Fri 7am - 9pm | Sat to Sun 8am - 9pm

• Free Wi-Fi available • Room From $ 108 • Two Bedroom Flat $ 180 • Disable Room Available

RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday: Breakfast 7am – 9am | Saturday and Sunday: Breakfast 8am – 9am

COURTHOUSE COTTAGE B&B

Courthouse Cottage is one of a kind as it is the only Federation Home accommodation offering luxury bed and breakfast in the heart of Temora

158 DeBoos St Temora P: 02 6978 1911 courthousecottagebandb@gmail.com

www.courthousecottage.com.au 202 CWL

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S U M M E R events

COONAMBLE SHOW Coonamble Coonamble Show was held on May 15 and 16, drawing a massive crowd to experience and explore the agricultural show movement.

The Coonamble community was granted a public holiday for the Wednesday of the show, allowing more and more community members to become involved. The main entertainment, Rooftop Express, stunned the crowd with their incredible performance, and the lawn mower races were a crowd pleaser. There was a fabulous line-up of showgirls and the 2018 patrons were badged

Malcolm Lampe, “Nebea South”, Coonamble, with Kevin Keady, “North Woodside”, Coonamble.

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Words: Emily Ryan, 2017/18 Show Secretary Images: Elizabeth Tickle

Jamie Searle, “Tombeura”, Coonamble, with Lucy Horseman, Sydney, and Neil Kennedy, “Yuma”, Coonamble.

Gerard Barrett, “Willaga”, Coonamble, Chief Wool Steward Richie Markey and Marg Markey, “Yarranville”, Coonamble, Leonie and Jamie Goldsmith, “Compton”, Coonamble.

Ben Markey, “Bowra”, Coonamble, with Coonamble baker Noel Murran.

in front of their community, recognising the efforts they have put into the community. Although the weather was dry, the cattle and sheep sections were full of enthusiasts, while the horse section was packed with riders. The Coonamble Show Pavilion looked incredible. Thanks must go to the hardworking committee and stewards for organising the show and we look forward to seeing everyone at the 136th Annual Show on May 28 and 29, 2019. CWL

Jo and Jim O’Brien, “Glenanaar”, Quambone.

Pip Goldsmith and Ben Keen with sons Charlie and Clancy.

Grants and Events Officer Veronica Chandler, Cr Bill Fisher, “Coorawong”, Coonamble, Director of Community Services Robyn Ryan, Community Development Officer Sandra Haycock.

Junior Judging Overjudge and Champion Parader in the Stud Cattle Section Sam Parish, Dubbo, with Nano Moody, “Mandalay”, Narromine.

Show Secretary and 2018 Coonamble Showgirl Emily Ryan.

Barkala Farm - Home of Pilliga Pottery & Blue Wren Cafe.

Family friendly farm stay, pottery art gallery & workshop, with camping available

Open 7 days ph:02 6842 2239 /PilligaPottery, pottery@tpg.com.au Coonabarabran, 23km north, turn off Newell Hwy www.barkalafarmstay.com.au

GILGANDRA SHIRE

Stop for a coffee or stay for the night.

LIVE.

Gilgandra Shire is a friendly, vibrant and welcoming community, filled with friendly locals proud of its history and positive about its future.

ENJOY.

The Southern gateway to the Warrumbungle National Park, Gilgandra boasts the Speedway, country races, iconic pubs and the Coo-ee Heritage Centre.

GROW.

Gilgandra, a charming country town, has speciality shops, bakeries, IGA, Target Country and a plaza where you can sit down and take it all in.

ire

draSh n a g il G y M #

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S U M M E R events

GUIDING THE WAY Dubbo The Pink and White Committee for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT held a successful 60 Years of Guide Dogs Celebration Lunch on Sunday, July 1, at the beautiful timber showroom of Heather and Max Ramien, Cobbora Road, Dubbo.

Some 120 guests enjoyed a delicious retro-inspired lunch to also celebrate 40 years of the Dubbo support group, which started in 1978. There are a few current committee members whose mothers were past members of the committee.

Heather and Max Ramien.

Sue Lister, Dubbo, and Gai Lister, Nyngan.

Approximately $11,000 was raised on the day, which included a raffle and silent auction. The fundraising will go towards the $35,000 needed to breed, raise and train one guide dog. Guide Dogs NSW/ ACT receives less than 3 per cent funding from the government and there is no cost for the services that guide dogs provide.

The committee thanks its loyal supporters over the years and looks forward to continuing support from the Dubbo community. CWL Words: Louise Simpson, Publicity Officer Images: Zenio Lapka

Kathy and Brian McAneney.

Mike Anderson and Joanna Barton.

Mike Sutherland and Don Chad.

Rowena Spink, Jen White and Jen Cowley.

Penny Meers, Jacqui Rodgers, Kimberley Kerr, Sue Clark, Judy Morse, Cathy Anderson, Ellen Mortimore, Jen White, Wendy English, Louise Simpson, Liz Cochrane and Ann Perry.

Margaret Donoghue, Elizabeth Powell, Meryl Usbek and Christine Bray.

Joan Scott, founder committee member, and Kimberley Kerr, current president.

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Paul and Jenelle Reid with Suzanne Prince, Cobar.

Elizabeth Powell and Deb Ball.

Jack Rodgers, Simon Haire and Nathan Bates.

Annette Ferguson and Jessica Richards with Carly.

Alison Dawes, Vicki Vivers, Armidale, and David Robson.

Beverley Allen, Cooma, Jo and Max Michell with Kylie Sutherand.

Beau Robinson with Dell Gibbons.

Pam Sharkey and Lois Head.

Sally Francis, Dunedoo, and Robbie Barrett.

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A SEASON IN THE

country

WHAT TO SEE AND DO THIS SUMMER

IN COUNTRY NSW

A Traditional Night Before Christmas 1 DECEMBER

Miss Traill’s House & Garden 321 Russell Street, Bathurst www.nationaltrust.org.au

Oberon Community and Farmers Market 1 DECEMBER

Showgrounds, Ross Street, Oberon marketsoberon@gmail.com

Mudgee Makers Christmas Market 1 DECEMBER

Corner Church & Market streets, Mudgee 0412 222 442 farmersmarket@mudgeefinefoods.com.au Facebook: Mudgee Fine Foods

Spirit of the Planet Festival 1 – 2 DECEMBER

Various venues, Dubbo Lewis Burns 0418 987 095 info@thespiritoftheplanetdubboaustralia.com www.thespiritoftheplanetdubboaustralia.com

Woolworths National Cherry Festival 1 – 2 DECEMBER

Young CBD Melanie Ford (02) 6382 3394 vic@hilltops.nsw.gov.au www.nationalcherryfestival.com.au

Cherry Festival Art Competition 1 – 2 DECEMBER

Young Town Hall Heather Ruhl (02) 6382 3394 heather_ruhl@bigpond.com www.visithilltopsregion.com.au

Young Camera Club Photographic Exhibition 1 – 2 DECEMBER

1 – 2 December, The Spirit of The Planet Festival, Dubbo.

Immerse yourself in a world of Indigenous art, dance, songs, stories and culture.

A Day in the Garden 2 DECEMBER

Miramar Wines, Henry Lawson Drive, Mudgee Black & White Committee for Vision Australia Annie Johnston (02) 6373 1441

Venetian Carnival Community Christmas Party 6 DECEMBER

Dundas Park, Narromine Narromine Shire Council (02) 6889 9999 mail@narromine.nsw.gov.au www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/events

St John’s Anglican Church, Young Rodney Clancy 0408 488 749 vic@hilltops.new.gov.au www.visithilltopsregion.com.au

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Cowra Community Markets 15 DEBEMBER, 16 FEBRUARY

Cowra Showground Pavilion, Grenfell Road, Cowra Kaye Chapman 0473 346 046 Facebook: Cowra Community Markets

Trangie Showground Charlotte Rae 0408 847 453 www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/events

“Aladdin” Pantomime 9 DECEMBER

Christmas Pop-Up Markets

2 DECEMBER

West Wyalong Main Street Jill Funnell (02) 6972 2305 jillf53@bigpond.com.au Facebook: Business West Wyalong

Mudgee Racecourse Colleen (02) 6372 6035 colleen@hwy.com.au www.mudgeeraceclubinc.com

Advent Art Exhibition, Film Show and Labyrinth

Hark, Hilltops, Halleluiah

14 DECEMBER

Macquarie Picnic Races

7 DECEMBER

Southern Cross Cinema, Young Young Theatre Company (02) 63 821000 visithilltopsregion.com.au www.visithilltopsregion.com.au

St John’s Anglican Hall & grounds, Young (02) 63 821811 stjyoung@bigpond.com www.ydam.com.au

Business West Wyalong Christmas Carnival

Robert Oatley Vineyards Mudgee Cup

Millards Centre, Young John Van Rijswijk 0438 824 126 youngcameraclub890@gmail.com www.visithilltopsregion.com.au

1 – 2, 8 – 9 DECEMBER

2 December, Hark, Hilltops, Halleluiah, Young.

Secular and sacred, jazz and classical, accompanied and acapella. Local choirs from the region perform their own program at St John’s Anglican Church.

9 DECEMBER

Lazy River Estate, Dubbo Melissa Dunkerley (02) 6882 2111 events@lazyriverestate.com.au www.lazyriverestate.com.au

Bathurst Carols By Candlelight 40th Anniversary 9 DECEMBER

Machattie Park, Bathurst Lauren Hagney 0408 376 532 publicity@mitchellconservatorium.edu.au www.mitchellconservatorium.edu.au

29 DECEMBER

Gulgong Folk Festival 29 – 31 DECEMBER

Various locations in Gulgong (02) 6373 5266 Gulgongfolkfest@gmail.com Facebook: Gulgong Folk Festival

Dubbo NYE Fireworks 31 DECEMBER

Apex Oval, Dubbo Peter Judd 0437 847 263 dubbofireworks@gmail.com www.dubbofireworks.com.au

Exclusive Private Garden Tour 31 DECEMBER

Mayfield Garden, Oberon (02) 6336 3131 www.mayfieldgarden.com.au

New Year’s Eve Family Celebration 31 DECEMBER

Temora railway precinct rhonda_casey@hotmail.com www.temora.com/events

events S U M M E R

Pink Pigeon Race Day 5 JANUARY

Dundas Park, Narromine Shane Dolton (02) 6888 7554 www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/events

Parkes Elvis Festival 9 – 13 JANUARY

Range of events in Parkes www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au Facebook: Parkes Elvis Festival

Music In Between Festival 14 – 16 JANUARY

Various venues, Wellington Wellington Arts 0439 259 522 wellingtonarts1@gmail.com www.wellingtonarts.org.au

Dean Wood Jam Night 19 JANUARY

West Wyalong S&C Club Facebook: Dean Wood Jam Night

The Beatlez Go Bush 19 JANUARY

Dubbo City Turf Club (02) 6882 1044 events@dubboturfclub.com.au www.dubboturfclub.com.au

NSW State Gliding Championships 19 – 26 JANUARY

Narromine Aerodrome Narromine Gliding Club (02) 6889 5338 www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/events

Narromine Australia Day 26 JANUARY

Dundas Park, Narromine Narromine Shire Council (02) 6889 9999 mail@narromine.nsw.gov.au www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/events

9 – 13 January, Parkes Elvis Festival

Get All Shook Up with thousands of fans in Parkes and celebrate the King.

Trangie Australia Day 26 JANUARY

Trangie Bowling Club, 35 Dandaloo Street, Trangie (02) 6888 7055 www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/events

Australia Day Celebrations in the Bland Shire 26 JANUARY

Barnardo Park, West Wyalong in the morning, Ungarie Community brunch, Barmedman mineral pool community BBQ Craig Sutton (02) 6972 2266 csutton@blandshire.nsw.gov.au

Australia Day Celebrations 26 JANUARY

Carrington Park, Young Melanie Ford (02) 63 823394 melanie.ford@hilltops.nsw.gov.au www.visithilltopsregion.com.au

Australia Day Celebrations 26 JANUARY

Anzac Park, Gulgong Mid-Western Regional Council (02) 6378 2850 events@midwestern.nsw.gov.au www.midwestern.nsw.gov.au 16 February, Gulgong Show.

Find a great vantage point and enjoy all the action at the Gulgong Show.

2019 Kandos Street Machine & Hot Rod Show 26 – 27 JANUARY

Simpkins Park Sporting Complex, Kandos (02) 6379 4066 kandosstreetmachine@hotmail.com Facebook: Kandos Street Machine

Taralga Rodeo 26 – 27 JANUARY

Gulgong Show Image: Julie Gilliam

Taralga Showground, Walsh Street, Taralga Lara Miller 0413 994 239 lara1267@bigpond.com www.taralgarodeo.com.au 19– 26 January, NSW State Gliding Championships, Narromine

Watch the pilots soar above Narromine in their quest to win a championship trophy.

Running of the RAMS Triathlon 2 FEBRUARY

Lake Centenary, Temora temoraatri@gmail.com www.temoratri.com

Australian National 20 Metre Gliding Championships 9 – 16 FEBRUARY

Narromine Aerodrome Narromine Gliding Club (02) 6889 5338 www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/events

Newbridge Swap Meet and Market Day 10 FEBRUARY

Newbridge Sportsgound jan.dickie47@yahoo.com.au

Wedding Open Day 10 FEBRUARY

Lazy River Estate, Dubbo Melissa Dunkerley (02) 6882 2111 events@lazyriverestate.com.au www.lazyriverestate.com.au

Gulgong Show 16 FEBRUARY

Gulgong Showground 0497 742 689 info@gulgongshow.org.au www.gulgongshow.org.au

Rylstone Kandos Show 23 FEBRUARY

Rylstone Showground Show Secretary Nancy Keck (02) 6379 1250 rylkanss@bigpond.com www.rylstonekandosshowsociety.com

West Wyalong Rugby League Knockout 22 – 23 FEBRUARY

Ron Crowe Oval West Wyalong Rugby League “Mallee Men” Facebook: Malleemen Sporting Pulse

Sofala District Agricultural & Horticulture Show 27 FEBRUARY

Sofala Showground 0429 377 191 www.sofalashow.com Facebook: Sofala Show

Do you have an event that you would like included in our magazine?

EMAIL: events@centralwestmagazine.com.au Compiled by Heather Crosby

All events are subject to change and we recommend contacting the organisers to confirm details.

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Miller’s Pharmacy

Miller’s Pharmacy Yass is a family owned and operated independent pharmacy with a strong local focus.

Our highly experienced team provides an innovative and comprehensive range of pharmacy and health services, which includes a sleep apnoea clinic, compression garment service, diabetes and asthma management, wound care and much more.

We also carry a beautiful range of giftware.

FREE HOME DELIVERY

112-114 Comur Street, Yass (02) 6226 1264

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ME

P U R V E Y O R O F W O R L D LY G O O D S

LL

TC HAN AMPBE RC

Comur House

homewares, fashion & gifts to inspire....

116 Comur Street, Yass NSW 2582 Ph: 02 6226 1411

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GEM OF A DESTINATION Make Walgett Shire your next short break destination and you will find a place where life is easy and where the fresh air, vast open spaces and starry night skies are hard to beat.

Gamilaraay Country, where the Barwon and Namoi rivers meet, is where Frederick Wolseley of Euroka Station invented the first mechanical shearing hand piece in 1885.

The area is one of the biggest producers of chickpeas in the southern hemisphere, and home to some of the highly sought-after Hot Artesian Bore Baths.

Famous for magnificent opals, Lightning Ridge is also home to the unique black opal, a rare and luminous gem. The best way to learn more about Lightning Ridge’s heritage and its people is to check out the cinematic celebration that is SPARK! John Murray’s Art Gallery is another must see – the colour and humour of life in the bush jumps out of the work with the whimsy and realism that sets John Murray’s artwork apart from the pack.

Chambers of the Black Hand is a unique gallery of over 350 sandstone carvings and murals and offers a miner’s knowledge of geology and the formation of opal, and insight

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into how the drives and shafts were hand dug by the old timers over the past 100 years.

The Australian Opal Centre houses the world’s leading collection of opalised fossils and is building a magnificent collection of precious opals, cultural artefacts, artworks, photographs, archival and research materials.

Follow the car door signs (which replace street names) for self-drive tours of the area.

The stark beauty of the area attracts many artists and photographers. The old church on the yellow car door tour was erected for the movie The Goddess of 1967. Amigo’s Castle was hand-built by one man over 25 years, and is a work in progress. Hop on a tour of the Grawin Opal Fields, chat with the miners at the Grawin Club in the Scrub and have a drink at the Glengarry Hilton.

No hustle. No traffic. No parking problems!

Leave with your own out-of-the-ordinary experience that will stay with you and bring you back to the region again and again. CWL Image: Paul Aracic

WHAT’S ON IN 2019

WALGETT March

Collarenebri Mud Trials

April

Lightning Ridge Easter Festival

June

Rowena Cracker Night

July

Lightning Ridge Opal Festival

August

Walgett Bulldust to Bitumen Festival

September

Come By Chance Picnic Races

October

Let’s Dance Carinda – David Bowie Tribute Festival Macquarie Marshes Nature Reserve Open Day For a full list of events in the Walgett Shire head to www.walgett.nsw.gov.au.

WARENDA SANTA GERTRUDIS STUD 35 Years of Breeding Quality Cattle

TOP BULLS SELL ANNUALLY AT

SANTA CENTRAL SALE

Nobby, QLD • 18th September 2018 Paddock bulls also available.

CONTACT: SYLVIA KIRKBY “Spring Vale”, Narrabri P. 02 6793 5262 M. 0428 922 099 E. warendasg@gmail.com

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S U M M E R weddings

WEBB + DAVIS Kelsie Webb and Mitchell Davis were married at Kelsie’s family property “Monwonga”, Forbes, on October 1, 2017.

The ceremony was held in the garden on a deck overlooking the Lachlan River, with the banksia rose and wisterias in full bloom. The couple continued celebrating with family and friends at their reception on the tennis court under the stars and fairy lights.

Kelsie wore a Made with Love gown, while the bridesmaids wore Shona Joy dresses and created their own bouquets.

The couple enjoyed an extended honeymoon, travelling throughout Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Chile. Mitchell and Kelsie have since settled into their newly built home.

Photographer: Alana Taylor Photography

ABOVE: Stacey Webb, Jake Grace, Joelene Grace, Andrew Cowhan, Kelsie and Mitchell Davis, Casey Dumbrell, Thomas Webb, Ashleigh Messner and Lou Goodwin.

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Paleface Arcade, 242 Hoskins St Temora, New South Wales (02) 6977 4122 info@debsjewellery.com

www.debsjewellery.com

Farm to Floral specialises in beautiful flowers for weddings and events.

Visit us online to find out more. @farmtofloral

www.farmtofloraldesign.com

farmtofloral@gmail.com

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S U M M E R weddings

KNIGHT + TILLEY Eliza Knight and Mathew Tilley were married in front of their closest friends and family in the chapel of The Old Convent, Borenore, on November 11, 2017.

The intimate ceremony was followed by a reception in the nearby garden where they drank local wines from Swinging Bridge and Philip Shaw and indulged in a menu by Josie Chapman.

Eliza wore a custom-made Jan Marie von Giebelhausen dress and Mathew’s suit was by Zink & Sons. The flowers on the day were from Jardine Botanic Floral Styling.

The couple enjoyed honeymooning in the Maldives and have settled back into their home in Rose Bay. Photographer: Clancy Job Photography

LEFT: Matthew Slowman, Liam Stewart, Darren Moses, Emelia Riechert, Noah Riechert (front), Eliza and Mathew Tilley, Adam Hayes, Jared Tilley, Tessy Bussell, Annabel Knight and Hannah McGlynn.

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S U M M E R weddings

LAWLER + EVANS Tahnee Lawler and Todd Evans were married at Augustine Mudgee on October 28, 2017.

The laid-back ceremony and reception were held at the vineyard in front of 85 close family and friends.

Todd had mates Jarad Berthon, Sam Cooke and Rohan Carver as groomsmen while Tahnee had friends Annie Robinson, Janee Madigan and Tara Cameronne as bridesmaids. Annie also designed and made the bridesmaids’ skirts.

Local suppliers Natural Beauty and Little Hair Boutique helped the girls get ready for the big day, while the flowers were supplied by Willow & Fern. The venue was styled by Darling Days, with Bottlebrush Films catching the day on film.

Todd and Tahnee enjoyed their honeymoon in Thailand and have settled back into their new home on their Mudgee property.

Photographer: Keelan Christopher Photography

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ABOVE: Janee Madigan, Annie Robinson, Tara Cameronne, Tahnee and Todd Evans, Jarad Berthon, Sam Cooke and Rohan Carver.

Autumn issue SPRING 2015

SNOWY VALLEYS Available March 2019

Subscribe to experience the magazine in print or online: www.centralwestmagazine.com.au

FLOWER SUBSCRIPTIONS • SILK FLOWERS HAND-CRAFTED CHOCOLATES • VASES DECORATIONS & GARLANDS

ALL OF YOUR FLOWER NEEDS FOR WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAYS, SPECIAL OCCASIONS & CORPORATE EVENTS.

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SPECIAL OFFER FOR CENTRAL WEST LIFESTYLE READERS Book two nights during December, January or February and receive a complimentary bottle of champagne.

Bookings by phone only.

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Guests adore Bishop’s Court for its ambience, dining, service and attention to detail ... whether it be for business or leisure.

226 Seymour Street Bathurst NSW Ph: 0422 303 311 www.bishopscourtestate.com.au CWL 219

S U M M E R weddings

VAUGHAN + HANSEN Lucy Vaughan and Timothy Hansen were married at Rawsonville on April 21, 2018.

The ceremony and reception were held at the picturesque Rawsonville Memorial Hall, with 95 close friends and family sharing in the day.

The unique hall was brought to life for a night of celebration under the stars and plenty of dancing on the old timber floorboards. Local suppliers included AuRevoir Vintage Van, Adors Party Hire, Bespoke Country Weddings,

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Taylormade Weddings & Events, Harry’s for Menswear and Kings Hall Jewellers.

The couple enjoyed a honeymoon in Hawaii and have made their home in Cowra.

Photographer: Bens Adams Photography

ABOVE: Katie Rush, Lucy and Timothy Hansen and Barry Byrom.

KINGS HALL JEWELLERS

180 MACQUARIE STREET, DUBBO

PH: (02) 6885 3500

WWW.KINGSHALL.COM.AU

Corner of Brisbane and Wingewarra Streets Dubbo NSW 2830 Phone: 02 6882 4411 Fax: 026881 8062

/DubboRSL

COSMETIC

LASER

CLINIC

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Our Advertisers SUMMER 2018 We encourage our readers to support our advertisers.

The magazine could not exist without them, and their loyalty shows their commitment to the communities of the Central West.

2 FAT LADIES

Lucknow, Molong & Crookwell 6365 5437 2fatladies.com.au

ALTINA WILDLIFE PARK

Darlington Point, 0412 060 342 altinawildlife.com

ANGULLONG WINES Panuara, 6366 4300 angullong.com.au

ARCADIA CROOKWELL Crookwell, 0407 254 954

ARCSCAPE LANDSCAPE SERVICES

CHOICES FLOORING

BY BRIGHTS

Bathurst, 6331 4866 choicesflooring.com.au/ store/bathurst

CHRISTINE WISHART’S DANCE STUDIO

Cootamundra, 0427 782 954

CHURCH HOUSE B&B Gundagai, 6944 1455 churchhouse.com.au

CLEARVIEW COACHING

Murrumbateman, 0431 552 640 clearviewcoaching.com.au

Gundagai, 0417 699 418 arcscape.com.au

COMUR HOUSE

AUSTRALIAN ALPACA YARN

COOTAMUNDRAGUNDAGAI REGIONAL COUNCIL

Bowning, 0429 783 575 australianalpacayarn.com.au

AUSTRALIAN BRAIN COACHING

Narrabri, 0417 064 507 australianbraincoaching.com.au

BARKALA FARM PILLIGA POTTERY & BLUE WREN CAFE

Yass, 6226 1411

Cootamundra, 1300 459 689 cgrc.nsw.gov.au

COOTAMUNDRA HERITAGE MOTEL

Cootamundra, 1300 130 172 cootamundraheritagemotel.com.au

COUNTRY HOUSE SPA

FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL Forbes, 6852 4155 forbes.nsw.gov.au

FRANK SMITH WORK CLOTHING & SHOE REPAIRS Bathurst, 6331 7544 franksmithworkclothing.com.au

GANMAIN BAKERY

Ganmain, 6927 6401

GARIAN WHOLESALERS Dubbo, 6884 1166

GILGANDRA SHIRE COUNCIL Gilgandra, 6817 8800 gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

GRAPEVINE CAFE

Dubbo, 6884 7354 grapevinecafe.com.au

Narrabri, 6792 5255 harrigdesigns.com.au

HARRY HOWARD FINE FURNITURE

COUNTRYMAN MOTOR INN Dubbo, 6882 7422 countrymandubbo.com.au

JEMALONG WOOL

Dubbo, 6881 8544

BILLABONG COTTAGE

Oberon, 6336 5144 bluemts.com.au/billabongcottage

BILLENBAH ON THE BIDGEE Euroley, 6959 6279

BISHOP’S COURT ESTATE Bathurst, 6332 4447 bishopscourtestate.com.au

BLACK GOLD MOTEL

Wallerawang, 6355 7305 blackgoldmotel.com.au

BLAYNEY SHIRE COUNCIL Blayney, 6368 3534 visitblayney.com.au

BLOOMS ON MAITLAND Narrabri, 6792 2755

BOB BERRY REAL ESTATE Dubbo, 6882 6822 bobberry.com.au

BRAD’S LEETON & WORKLOCKER

Leeton, 6953 2654 bradsleeton.com.au

BUDDENS B&B

Rockley, 6337 9279 buddens.com.au

BUDGERIE BRAFORD STUD Gulargambone, 0428 438 253

BUTCHER ROBERTS

Gundagai, 6944 1722 butcherrobertsgundagai.com.au

CAFE DOLCETTO Yass, 6226 1277

CASCADES MOTOR INN & BELLOTTI’S ITALIAN DINING Dubbo, 6882 3888 cascadesmotorinn.com.au

CATHOLIC EDUCATION DIOCESE OF BATHURST

CRAMPTON’S CARPETS Dubbo, 6882 8911 cramptonscarpets.com.au

CRATE CAFE

KAFFEINE 2582 Yass, 6226 1263

KINGS HALL JEWELLERS Dubbo, 6885 3500 kingshall.com.au

KLR MARKETING

Bathurst, 0428 953 925 klrmarketing.com.au

DAISY’S DECOR

LA BELLA NOVA

DASH & ALBERT

Bowral, 4861 3389 dashandalbert.com.au

DEB’S JEWELLERY

Gundagai, 6944 4002

LEETON HERITAGE MOTOR INN

Leeton, 6953 4100 leetonheritage.com.au

Temora, 6977 4122 debsjewellery.com

LEETON NEWSAGENCY

DUBBO PRINTING WORKS

LEETON SHIRE COUNCIL

Dubbo, 6882 1233 printingworks.com

DUBBO RSL CLUB Dubbo, 6882 4411 dubborsl.com.au

DUNK INSURANCE

Young, 1800 219 496 dunkinsurance.com.au

EARTH PLANT HIRE

Dubbo & Molong, 0497 327 847 earthplanthire.com.au

ELDERS GUNDAGAI Gundagai, 6944 1155 eldersrural.com.au

ELM & WREN

Cootamundra, 0405 346 818 elmwren.com.au

EMBELLISH @ THE CLUB

Gundagai, 0419 478 508 gundagaiservicesclub.com.au

FARM TO FLORAL

Girilambone, 0407 780 720 farmtofloraldesign.com

FARMER’S BAKEHOUSE Dubbo, 6882 0199 farmersbakehouse.com.au

Bathurst, 6338 3000 bth.catholic.edu.au

FISH RIVER ROASTERS

CHILL-RITE

FLOWERS HERE

Dubbo, 6885 2254 & Orange, 6361 4442 chill-rite.com.au

Forbes, 6851 4000 jemalongwool.com.au

Leeton, 6953 7798 Gundagai, 0414 911 790

Bathurst, 6331 7171

Wellington & Dubbo, 0410 363 429 flowershere.com.au

REILAND ANGUS

THINK WATER

Yass, 6226 1264

MOLLY’S PLACE Dubbo, 6884 8991

NAMOI HOTEL

Narrabri, 6792 2147 namoihotel.com.au

NARELLAN POOLS WESTERN PLAINS Dubbo, 6884 3117

NARRABRI PHARMACY

Narrabri, 6792 2105 karencarterchemist.com.au

NORTH WEST MARQUEES & EVENTS

BATHURST HERITAGE MOTOR INN

BETTAFRAME AND TRUSS

MILLER’S PHARMACY

HARRI G DESIGNS

Cootamundra, 6942 4619

Temora, 6978 1911 courthousecottage.com.au

THE SCOTS SCHOOL

NARRABRI SHIRE COUNCIL

Gundaroo, 6236 8777 grazing.com.au

Coonabarabran, 6842 2239 barkalafarmstay.com.au

COURTHOUSE COTTAGE B&B

REGIONAL INSURANCE BROKERS

Leeton & Griffith, 6953 4401 milbrae.com.au

GRAZING AT GUNDAROO

Bathurst, 0439 731 889 harryhoward.com.au

Bathurst, 6334 3433 heritagemotorinn.com.au

MILBRAE QUARRIES & CONCRETE

Leeton, 6953 2191

Leeton, 6953 6481 leetontourism.com.au

LEETON SOLDIERS CLUB Leeton, 6953 3444 leetonsoldiers.com.au

LEETON’S JACK IN THE BOX Leeton, 6953 3500 leetonsjackinthebox.com.au

LILLYPILLY WINES Leeton, 6953 4069 lillypilly.com

LITTLE FOX KIDS SHOES Sydney, 1300 043 000 littlefoxkidsshoes.com.au

LUCKNOW SKIN SHOP & BOOT BARN Lucknow, 6365 5330 lucknowskinshop.com.au

MALMET (THE CELI GROUP) Leeton, 6953 7677 malmet.com.au

MAWHOOD’S SUPA IGA COOTAMUNDRA Cootamundra, 6942 1131

MAX ASTRI OPTOMETRISTS Dubbo, Wellington & Cobar, 6884 4077 maxastrioptometrists.com

MERCHANT CAMPBELL Yass, 6226 1240

MICK’S BAKEHOUSE Leeton, 6953 2212

Narrabri, 1800 659 931 visitnarrabri.com.au

Dubbo, 0429 909 399 regionalinsurancebrokers.com.au Gundagai, 0428 693 585 reilandangus.com.au

Leeton, 6953 5500

RIVWEST FINANCE LIMITED

West Wyalong, 6972 0393 tdhww.com.au

Dubbo, 0497 737 847 rivwest.com

RON LOITERTON REAL ESTATE

Cootamundra, 6942 2344 ronloiterton.com.au

ROSIE’S HONEY MUSTARD Warren, 6824 2055 rosies.net.au

ROYAL BUBS N TOTS Dubbo, 6882 9565 rbnt.com.au

ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE

Narrabri, 6792 5355 northwestevents.com.au

South Eastern Section, 9941 8850 woolforwings.com.au

NUYU DAY SPA & BEAUTY

RUBY MAINE

Narrabri, 6792 2663 nuyudayspaandbeauty.com.au

OAKTREE RETIREMENT VILLAGES

Central West, 1300 367 155 oaktreegroup.com.au

OLDFIELD POLL HEREFORDS

Gunnedah, 0427 431 521 oldfield.com.au

OUTSCAPE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS Grenfell, 6343 8288 outscape.net.au

PACIFIC FRESH

Leeton, 6955 7117 pacificfresh.com.au

PAGES ON PINE

Leeton, 6953 7300 pagesonpine.com.au

Bathurst, 6333 4702 scots.edu.au

Dubbo, 6882 5362 rubymaine.com.au

SHAW VINEYARD ESTATE

Murrumbateman, 6227 5827 shawvineyards.com.au

SLEEPY JAYS BABY SWINGS

THOM, DICK AND HARRY’S

THUNDERBIRD MOTEL Yass, 6226 1158 thunderbirdmotel.com.au

THYME TO TASTE Yass, 0403 999 899

TOORAK WINES Leeton, 6953 2333 toorakwines.com.au

TOOTSIE ART & DESIGN Yass, 0447 225 524 tootsienotagallery.com.au

TOP PADDOCK Crookwell, 4832 2319

TOWN & COUNTRY RURAL SUPPLIES Bathurst, 6332 4044 townandcountrybathurst.com.au

TOYOTA CENTRAL WEST GROUP

Gulargambone, 0408 254 325 sleepyjays.com.au

Central West, 6882 1511 toyota.com.au

SMITH & RINKIN FUNERAL DIRECTORS

TURKISH TREASURES

Cootamundra, 6942 1028

SOUTHERN COTTON Whitton, 6955 2755 southerncotton.com.au

Dubbo, 0412 095 328 turkishtreasures.com.au

WALGETT SHIRE COUNCIL

SOUTHWELL LAND & WATER

Walgett, 6829 1670 walgett.nsw.gov.au

STONERIDGE71

WARENDA SANTA GERTRUDIS STUD

Narrabri & Sydney, 0419 269 328 southwellrural.com.au Monteagle, 0429 692 051 stoneridge71.com.au

Narrabri, 6793 5262

Crookwell, 0414 860 034 paradisoceramics.com.au

STIR ESPRESSO

PARKES NEWS & GIFTS

SUNNYPOINT BEEF

Canowindra, 0427 936 054 wallingtonwines.com.au

PARADISO CERAMICS

Parkes, 6862 2296 parkesnewsagency.com.au

PARKES SHIRE COUNCIL Parkes, 6862 6000 parkes.nsw.gov.au

PEACOCKE ACCOUNTANTS Dubbo, 6882 3933 peacockeaccountants.com.au

PLAINSMAN MOTEL

Forbes, 6852 2466 plainsmanmotel.com.au

PLANTED COOTAMUNDRA Cootamundra, 0419 877 307 plantedcootamundra.com

PLC ARMIDALE

Armidale, 6770 1700 plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

PRESS

Leeton, 6953 4528 Oberon, 6336 1101

TATTYKEEL

Oberon, 6335 8116 tattykeel.com.au

TEMORA EX-SERVICES CLUB, GOLDTERA MOTOR INN & KOREELA PARK MOTOR INN Temora, 6977 2433 temoraexservices.com.au

THE BOOK CONNECTION Dubbo, 6882 3311 bookconnection.com.au

THE COFFEE CLUB ORANA MALL Dubbo, 6882 0347 coffeeclub.com.au

THE GRAYHOUND Narrabri, 6792 1363

Dubbo, 6885 0621 pressdubbo.com.au

THE HUB

PRESSED TIN PANELS

THE HYDRO HOTEL & FUNCTION CENTRE

Bathurst, 6332 1738 pressedtinpanels.com

PROFESSIONAL SKIN SOLUTIONS

Bathurst, 6332 9880 professionalskinsolutions.com.au

QUALITY INN DUBBO INTERNATIONAL

Dubbo, 6882 4777 qualityinndubbo.com.au

Bathurst, 6332 1565

Leeton, 6953 4555 thehydro.com.au

THE LION’S PRIDE

Dubbo, 6884 3333 thelionspride.com.au

THE NEST AT GUNDAROO

Gundaroo, 6236 8460 thenestgundaroo.com.au

WALLINGTON WINES

WARRUMBUNGLE SHIRE COUNCIL Coonabarabran, 6849 2000 warrumbungle.nsw.gov.au

WEBSTER LIMITED Leeton, 6951 3017 websterltd.com.au

WEST ORANGE MOTORS Orange, 6361 1000 mbwestorangemotors.com.au

WESTERN PLAINS WINDOWS & GLASS Dubbo, 6884 8818 wpwg.com.au

WILLOW & FLI Gunnedah, 6742 6820 willowandfli.com

WRAPPED COOTAMUNDRA Cootamundra, 6942 6336 wrappedcootamundra.com.au

YANCO AGRICULTURAL HIGH SCHOOL Yanco, 6951 1500 yancoag-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

YASS LITTLE LEARNERS Yass, 6226 2982 yasslittlelearners.com.au

Will ‘ewe‘ help?

Join local graziers and donate your ‘buts’ and pieces to help provide vital healthcare services to communities in remote and rural Australia.

Find out more www.woolforwings.com.au

Featuring 50 iconic stories, hand-selected from editions 1-18 of Central West Lifestyle.

A premium coffee table book of 212 pages, great value at $14.95.

AVAILABLE NOW From CWL stockists and online: www.centralwestmagazine.com.au

CWL 223

S U M M E R the last word

FORGING

AHEAD

“If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.”

Jim Rohn Never give up on your dreams. Dave Walker certainly didn’t. He went to university at age 60, set up a new business just a few years shy of his 70th birthday, and today plies a trade nearly as old as mankind itself.

With an abiding love of horses, tight little communities and making things with his hands, Dave Walker has earned a reputation as the village blacksmith in the sleepy hamlet of Cargo.

Named after an early pastoral station before the 1860s gold boom, Cargo once boasted three hotels, a bank, three churches, two schools, a flour mill, hall, racecourse and sporting grounds for tennis, cricket and football.

Today there’s the store, the pub and a cafe for the 300 or so residents who enjoy the quieter pace of life. The Cobb & Co coaches that ran daily from Orange to Canowindra and the alluvial gold have long gone but the mystique remains.

It’s where Dave and scientist wife Robyn moved a decade ago after time in Tamworth and Inverell.

Dave Walker enjoys making things with steel.

Proving that age is no barrier to learning, Dave attended university when he was almost 60, graduating in 2010 as a social worker.

After a few years he returned to his great love of blacksmithing when his daughter and son-in-law bought a patch of land opposite the historic pub.

Dave learnt the trade as a 16-year-old lad in the 1960s, helping restore and build horse-drawn carriages before venturing into the electrical trade. He still has a few horses and five beautiful carriages including a Hansom cab and Abbot buggy.

They often crop up in conversations when visitors drop into his rather unusual “office”. Since setting up shop three years ago, the bearded one has met hundreds of curious onlookers, especially in winter when the forge can warm even the coldest of hearts.

When it comes to knife sharpening, Dave is the sharpest tool on the block. He also tidies up crosscut saws, scissors, circular saw blades and chainsaws and takes on commissions.

Always old school, he even makes his own charcoal to fire the forge, where temperatures can reach 2400 degrees Celsius – hot enough to burn steel for the forge and welding.

“Generally, I love working on my own and letting my creative streak run wild, without having to put up with the nonsense of others,” he laughs.

The blacksmithing tradition will continue. Dave’s apprentice is his four-year-old granddaughter, who already has her own anvil. As for advice in life, he says “don’t ever fight with horses or a red-hot piece of steel”. CWL Words and images: Shot by Jake

224 CWL

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