Molong Expres 18 January 2024

1876 - 2024

Reporting 148 years of local news, views, & local ownership AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ADVERTISER

Ph: 0448 231 180 or 0490 734 650

THURSDAY 18 January 2024

Email: molongex@bigpond.net.au www.molongexpress.com.au

"All Aboard" Express 2024

$2.00 inc gst

Explore local, regional, Australia ... and the world Hop on board Express 2024 We're back!

To kick-start 2024 the Express team has added extra pages to fit in all of the fantastic emails, stories, interviews and news that have flooded our office since our last issue in December 2022.

In fact, each and every week the Express receives an avalanche of worthwhile newsy items to publish. Most of these readers will not find in other major newspapers! We would love to share them with our 3,000 (and growing) number of readers - but we never seem to have enough space.

This is the very reason that could see us adding extra pages to the weekly issues - or maybe putting into place an extra issue each month.

With the growth of the Express readership area we are also receiving advertising enquiries from other areas (not operating within our readership area).

However, Express policy is to keep the meaning 'local' ... 'local'.

I invite you to grab a cuppa, take a break and sit back and enjoy this week's Express.

Thank you for your support as we head together, as a community, into 2024. Let's make it a good one!

Paul Mullins

24 pages of stories, local news and more ..

NEW: Molong's NEW: 2024 Banjo NEW: Molong Australia Bank Street P.6,7,8 Poetry Brawl Sat and Multi-Cultural Day Mixed community reactions 26 January 2024 P.5 17 Feb. Next Week

Read us online at

www.issuu.com/molongexpress

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Around the traps

by Rozzi

Molong’s Social History The happy friendship of town and Fairbridge, beautiful white gowns, fabrics, dressmaking

Marlene’s service recognised

Clr Marlene Nash was recently presented with a Certificate of Service by Local Government NSW in recognition of her commitment to serving the community.

Local Government NSW presents awards to elected members in recognition of the duration of service and to celebrate the exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment by long serving councillors across the State.

Clr Marlene Nash (resident of Manildra) was elected as a Cabonne Councillor in September 2012.

Cr. Nash is a highly respected, hard working Cabonne Councillor who represents her own community and the wider Cabonne community with respect and loyalty.

Marlene is one of the many generations of good women in Manildra who have worked hard for their community and with unfailing committment. (Above Marlene with Mayor Kevin Beatty)

1962 were you there?

Sue Milne of the Molong Historical Museum sent the Express this photo of 13 Debutantes who were ‘presented’ at the Grand Masonic Cabaret Ball held at Fairbridge Farm in the Nuffield Hall on Friday 25 May 1962. . This was one of the popular venues for balls and dances for not only Fairbridgians but also for the surrounding communities who often hired the venue. Catering was offered by Fairbridge Farm with residents of the various cottages helping to prepare foods, cook and serve at the tables.

An important part of Molong’s social and cultural history were the Deb. Balls held by various groups around town and district. The opportunity for young women to dress in long white gowns and their partners in formal suits and bowties. They were huge events based on the English aristocracy version of young women ‘coming out’ to announce they were available for marriage.

Not so in Aussie land where the meaning for young women was to dress in beautiful white gowns to attend their first balls and following formal functions.

Making a Deb. Dress in Molong: Those flowing white gowns - that surely would have had Mrs Morrow in Shields Lane dressmaking Supply and lay Carpet, Vinyl, into the early mornings - and just as many mums, Vinyl planks and laminate. friends and the Debs themselves treadling their Central west area.

Singer sewing machines carefully stitching full No job too big or small. skirts. One can only imagine how many rope No charge for travel. petticoats (who remembers them) it took to hold out the yards of tulle and satin materials falling to the floor from tiny waists. No showing cleavages, legs or bare skin back then! The Western Stores (Molong) materials section staff and management must have spent months ordering in the best bolts of fabrics, beady appliques, patterns and cottons from the fabric manufacturers that were once an important part of the Australian industrial cabonnecarpets@outlook.com landscape of city suburbs and rural towns.

Locating in areas where female workforce was available - early cloth manufacturers were mighty good employers. Please let us know at the Molong Express or the Molong Museum if you can put a name to any of these lovely young women in the photo above. molongex@bigpond.net.au

47 Bank Street Molong

(02) 6364 5319 m: 0484 259 668

Check out our range of BBQ’s, Camping Gear, Yeti and more

Mon - Thu 7.30 - 5.00 Fri 7.30 - 4.00 Sat 8.00 - 12.00 We deliver to you

Ph: 5325 5040 2 Bank St MOLONG 2

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

Happy New Year - we wish the Cabonne communities, peace, love, good health and enjoyable times.

Our short holiday took us to Canberra and Wollongong to visit our families. I managed to have my long desired swim in the cool, salty sea ... a simple swim that refreshed my very spirit and soul. One of the small offerings, a small gift of life via the natural environment.

This year will be a biggie for the Express as we move ahead with our insurance company to repair the 2022 November flood damage.

It’s been a hard decision to make to return to our 150 year old railway gatekeeper’s cottage that once offered us a safe and loving place to live. Generations before also enjoyed the same safety.

Like other residents across Cabonne we face fear - a new fear -that has become a major hurdle to work through after the mental anguish of that dreadful night.

Still, we don’t have a choice but to return and to develop a more positive (and steely) mindset.

We must hold belief and trust that the NSW Government and Cabonne Council will respond to the primary role and reason they are both in place. Which is first and foremost to ensure ‘duty of care’ and to accept ‘responsibility’ for the ultimate safety and health of residents/ communities/business communities, farming families, government and privately owned infrastructure.

Are we far too trusting? Well, like others we have to be. However, at this point in time 14 months after - we are still unaware of any changes or initiatives on the ground that would protect us should the same conditions come together again.

This seems to have become how governments and authorities work together today. Slow ... and as communities we have to trust and believe that those we elect are doing their jobs - fulfilling the policies of their roles - and ensuring ‘duty of care’ to their communities.

The Express will be sending a list of questions to Cabonne Council about flood recovery grants and initiatives, $$’s spent, and outcomes achieved to date. Readers are welcome to send in their questions.

Happy days Rozzi and Paul

Please join in the Molong Australia and Multi-Cultural Day Celebration Friday 26 January 10.30 a.m.

P. 5

SALE

SALE

Opportunity for First Home Buyers 8 Cardington Street, Yeoval NSW The opportunities are endless with this 4-bedroom home situated in the heart of Yeoval. From first home buyers, investors looking to expand their portfolio or the growing family looking for extra room, this home is a must.

Entering the home, you are met with two bedrooms at the front of the house and an open living area featuring a wood fire to keep you warm on those cooler winter nights.

With a good-sized kitchen with breakfast bar, large bathroom with toilet and shower and even a second toilet in the sunroom for your convenience.

Stepping out the back, you are greeted with a secure, fully fenced backyard with rear lane access. From creating your own backyard oasis, to becoming selfsufficient with your own veggie garden, take advantage of the open space.

Opportunity Awaits in Yeoval Sale Contact Agent Open Saturday 16th December ‘23 11:00am - 11:30am Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

SALE

With three good sized bedrooms with built ins, fount lounge room featuring a fireplace and air conditioner and the opportunity to create your own workshop in the garage with already established workbenches to help complete all those DIY projects, you will enjoy everything this home has to offer.

Once you step outside, you are meet with a great sized yard for that growing family. With plenty of room to take advantage of, you have a couple of garden sheds and a chock pen already set up.

Being situated directly across the road from Yeoval Central School is just one of the of the many advantages this property has to offer.

Sale Contact Agent Open Saturday 16th December ‘23 10:30am - 11:00am Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

SALE

Captivating Duplex with Endless Potential 18-20 Riddell Street, Molong NSW This 1900's double brick duplex stands tall on immense bluestone foundations, showcasing the timeless craftsmanship of the era. Consisting of two functional 3bedroom units, this property offers the perfect blend of space and comfort.

Both units boast three well-proportioned bedrooms, ensuring comfortable accommodation for residents.

Nestled on an expansive 1,132sqm block, each unit enjoys the luxury of its own secure backyard area.

The secure off-street parking and the three-bay garage offer convenience and ample storage for vehicles.

Take advantage of the flexibility to reside in one side of the duplex while renting out the other, or capitalise on the potential for two tenancies, generating a substantial weekly return of up to $750.

7 Obley Street, Yeoval NSW

Dream Home, Quiet Village!

12 Haig Street, Cumnock NSW

Sale Contact Agent Open

By Appointment Only Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

With access to power and town sewage, this 1,183sqm block nestled in Cumnock is ideal for those seeking the quite life.

Build your dream home in this amazing little village and become part of this ever-growing community.

Located just 15 minutes from Molong, 45 minutes from Orange and access to Yeoval, Dubbo, Forbes and Parkes, your access to the Central West is endless.

Take advantage of what this little town with a big heart has to offer. From your local community store, school, swimming pool and bowling club, you will enjoy being swept up in what is on offer in Cumnock.

Whether you are looking to build that dream family home, a weekend getaway or looking for your next investment opportunity, then this land in Cumnock is ready for you.

Sale Contact Agent Open

By Appointment Only Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Molong Real Estate raywhitetre.com

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

3

Rural

Rural

Picturesque Views on 18 acres of Land

The Location is Hard to Beat, the Lifestyle is Yours to Enjoy

1864 Euchareena Road, Molong NSW

Sale $900,000 - $950,000 Open

By Appointment Only Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

This newly constructed home sits on a picturesque 18acre (approx) site overlooking the Tamburlaine Wines Vineyard.

110,000-liter rainwater tank Excellent fencing Water deed 84 sqm concrete pad, electrical and drainage ready 280 sqm under roof Small Dam 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom newly built home

88 acres - 36 Ha -18 acres of highly productive Lucerne flats.

3 bedrooms with an office space that can be converted into a fourth bedroom as well as 2 bathrooms creates a contemporary home highlighted in the idyllic country setting.

The home has a bright modern open plan living and dining with cathedral ceilings, an impressive kitchen and bathrooms, as well as large bedrooms and a spectacular undercover alfresco area to enjoy the views.

Excellent water security with 32 megalitre irrigation licence, solar equipped bore.

Rural

Rural

Rare Building Opportunity!

Build, Subdivide or Farm

3972 Mitchell Highway, Molong NSW Motivated vendors present an exceptional and versatile vacant 9.5 HA - 23 acre property featuring available power, a building opportunity and a 41 megalitre irrigation licence within close proximity to services in Molong, Orange and Wellington.

Rich, alluvial flats with natural pastures Excellent fencing and potential for an additional 10 acre crown leased parcel of land When location and potential combine, your dream property starts to become a reality.

4

“Mandagery Views” 852 Kurrajong Road, Manildra NSW

Sale $585,000 Open

By Appointment Only Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Wade Clarke 0427 668 800 Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

Sale Price Guide $1,950,000 Open

By Appointment Only Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

Lots 271, 313 & 277 Cargo Road, Canowindra NSW With ample opportunity the choice is yours, build your dream home on 18 acres of arable land or subdivide into smaller lots!

With multiple suitable building sites, the option of overlooking expansive, elevated rural views is sure to be a favorite. The opportunity to subdivide into 5 acre lots shows extraordinary value with endless opportunities.

With excellent phone coverage, power nearby and town water connection this property has it all.

With 18 acres of arable land in a convenient position just 4 hours to Sydney.

Sale $499,000 Open

By Appointment Only Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Emma Chapman 0423 658 101 Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

Molong will be celebrating the 2024 Australia Day with a new approach. Please join in the Molong Australia Multi-Cultural Day Friday 26 January 2024 @ the Molong RSL 10.30 a.m.

Bush music by Geoff Tonkin, Awards, Chicken & Champagne brunch, Molong Portrait Gallery & Molong Museum visits

AUSTRALIA DAY DAY AUSTRALIA BORENORE/ NASHDALE

10am to 11am

Nashdale Public School Official Party Attending, award presentations and morning tea provided.

CARGO

10:30am to 12pm

Cargo Village Green Award presentations and cutting of Australia Day cake followed by refreshments.

CANOWINDRA

1pm to 3pm

Canowindra Community Hall Award presentations and cutting of Australia Day Cake.

CUMNOCK

8am to 10am 12pm to 5pm

Cumnock Bowling Club & Oval Award presentations and community breakfast. Lunch and cricket.

CUDAL

12:30pm to Cudal Community Centre 1:30pm Official Party attending, award presentations,

BBQ lunch, and activities at pool and tennis and bowling club.

EUGOWRA

4pm to 8pm

Eugowra Showground Community BBQ, award presentations and kids activities.

MANILDRA

4pm to 9pm

Manildra Memorial Pool Award presentations, Pool Party, BBQ, Novelty events and Sutton Family Relay.

MOLONG

11am

Molong RSL Club Award presentation followed by lunch.

MULLION CREEK

8am

Mullion Creek Hall & Recreation Reserve Community gathering, award presentations and BBQ breakfast.

YEOVAL

6pm to 8pm

Yeoval Memorial Hall Official Party Attending, award presentations and sit-down meal.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

5

Q WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE WORKS?

FAQS

Stage 2, Phase 1: Friday, 5 January 2024 to week commencing Monday, 25 March 2024 (prior to Easter) Stage 2, Phase 2: Friday, 26 April 2024 to week commencing Monday, 22 July 2024.

Gasworks Lane: Between Easter and ANZAC Day - 2 April 2024 to 24 April 2024.

All dates are subject to weather conditions.

Q WHEN AND WHY ARE THE TREES BEING REMOVED?

Council is getting an independent arborist to provide advice on the existing trees to determine if any trees are diseased. Due to the root structure, some of these trees have caused significant damage to the road surface and will also require removal in order to not further damage essential infrastructure.

Trees that are diseased will need to be removed. Trees that need to be removed will be done at the commencement of the Stage 2 works to enable traffic movements and additional car spaces.

Q WILL THERE STILL BE PARKING AVAILABLE ON THE STREET?

The Molong Town Centre Activation works will be completed in stages to ensure traffic can still flow and pedestrians still have access to businesses and homes throughout the entire project. Parking will be available on Bank Street throughout the entire project, with parallel parking available in areas where construction is happening. There will be some parking closures during construction, however, stages have been planned around reasonable walking distance to businesses.

Council has undertaken testing to ensure that the design will meet the requirements of users (including motorists and pedestrians) and ensuring that parking is accessible for a range of vehicle types. This has been further proved through the delivery of the project in the top block of Bank St (from Gidley St to Edward St).

Once the project is complete the parking spaces will be wider than the minimum requirements, and line markings will be added to the road to assist people to adjust to the 45-degree angled parking. The removal of the existing trees will also result in additional carparks, not less.

Q WILL DELIVERIES STILL BE POSSIBLE ON BANK STREET DURING THE WORKS?

Yes, deliveries will be possible for businesses during all stages of the construction works. Delivery vehicles will be able to park either in the 45-degree angled parking, or between tree plantings in the street centre, once they are installed.

Q ISN’T THE BOTTOM END OF BANK ST (NEAR THE HWY) MORE NARROW THAN THE TOP OF BANK ST (NEAR EDWARD ST)?

There is a 100ml difference between the top of Bank Street, between Edward and Gidley Streets, and the bottom of Bank Street, at the Hwy. This width difference will have no noticeable impact on parking manoeuvrability.

GASWORKS LANE AREA

Project includes: new carparking area for long vehicles, and/or long-term parking Creates connectivity between swimming pool and oval precinct back to Gasworks carpark area.

Will include some drainage improvements at site.

Works planned for between Easter and ANZAC Day period (subject to weather conditions), but will have no impact on Bank St.

6

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

KEY

NEW TREES

council@cabonne.nsw.gov.au

WORKS AREA

PEDESTRIAN ACCESS

TRAFFIC FLOW

CONCRETE REFUGE ISLAND

(02) 6392 3200

MITCHELL HIGHWAY

MOLONG HARDWARE

17 SHADES

MCGRATH

WING HANG CHINESE

FREEMASON HOTEL

HAIRDRESSER

SIPPIN NUTRITION

BOOFUL

YBM ACCOUNTING

TOILETS

CONCRETE REFUGE ISLAND

BELLA HAIR

TRAFFIC FLOW

LIME & STONE

PEDESTRIAN ACCESS

NEWSAGENCY

IGA

CANE GIFT SHOP

WORKS AREA

ELDERS

LOCAL LAND SERVICES

MOLONG STORES

NEW TREES

PHARMACY

CABONNE CARPETS

TELEGRAPH HOTEL

DOWNTOWN FITNESS

MOLONG MEATS

VINNIES

QT BEAUTY CO

KEY

P. FISHER REAL ESTATE

RAY WHITE

OLD BAKERY

OLD MEDICAL PRACTICE

GIDLEY STREET

MITCHELL HIGHWAY

MOLONG HARDWARE

17 SHADES

MCGRATH

WING HANG CHINESE

LIME & STONE

ELDERS

LOCAL LAND SERVICES

MOLONG STORES

P. FISHER REAL ESTATE

RAY WHITE

OLD BAKERY

OLD MEDICAL PRACTICE

GIDLEY STREET

FREEMASON HOTEL

HAIRDRESSER

SIPPIN NUTRITION

BOOFUL

YBM ACCOUNTING

TOILETS

BELLA HAIR

NEWSAGENCY

IGA

CANE GIFT SHOP

PHARMACY

CABONNE CARPETS

TELEGRAPH HOTEL

DOWNTOWN FITNESS

MOLONG MEATS

VINNIES

QT BEAUTY CO

STAGE 2 UPDATE

STAGE 2, PHASE 1 WORKS Friday, 5 January 2024 - Week commencing 22 March 2024

BANK STREET

NEW GARDEN BED & REFUGE

STAGE 2, PHASE 2 WORKS Friday, 26 April 2024 - Week commencing 22 July 2024

BANK STREET

NEW GARDEN BED & REFUGE

@cabonne.council

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024 7

Talk of the town: There’s been a mixed bag of responses from both local and district residents, travellers and visitors about the Molong Town Centre Activation Project - a project of Cabonne Council with government funding.

Firstly, the Express must apologise for our inability in printing the current project, at the end of 2023. Now published in this issue on pages 6 and 7. Cabonne Council did deliver this important information/public communication to the Express in plenty of time before the works commenced (i.e. in time for what should have been our 21 December 2023 issue).

However, this was the issue which we had to cancel publishing, at the last minute, when our team went down with illness. These details have, however, been circulating within the community for some time now.

Concerns expressed relate, mainly, to the tree removals, the disruption to parking, accessibility for pedestrian/ shoppers, loss of trade, the placement of worker’s toilets, and concerns about the proposed number of trees to be planted in the centre of the road. All are relevant concerns and reasonable to voice. The main concern relates to “why weren’t we told?” The Express can say, in fairness, that there was reasonable consultation provided

by Cabonne Council through their own communication networks and through presentations by the consultants involved in the project. including community and trader

consultation provided by Cabonne Council and made available, a number of times, to the wider community.

Consultation of this kind can be difficult to achieve, anywhere, if residents do not take up invitations to attend meetings when projects are discussed starting at the ‘ideas’ stages ... during the drafting of Master Plans, and then to the implementation of the plans where final decisions are made. The major concerns being discussed within the community now, as the works commence, are unfortunately too late to make a difference.

The best advice is to make the most of what will be a project to learn to get on with - to enjoy and to make the best of.

Take a look at me now...

When the ‘which Bank’ Board voted with their feet deserting rural towns like Molong - we sat back, overwhelmed by such rejection from one we trusted and had (for decades) supported well. Whilst the community came together to fight the closure the multi-million $$$ earning CEO was not prepared to talk with us. Oh well, we decided “here we go again ... another city based decision making process in favour of board and shareholders ‘needs’ - rather than the needs of rural folk.

However, shrugging off our collective annoyance our community moved forward as we do in Molong and across Cabonne Country. What happened next is the good news.

The stunning building sited on the corner of Bank and Gidley Streets of glamorous architecture went up for sale. It sold and tradesmen started working on repairs, renovations and for the building and community ‘new beginnings’ started to emerge. Out with the old - in with the new.

The new owners have taken a sympathetic approach bringing a new business idea of today blended with an exceptional building style of yesterday (some say Spanish/Californian 1920’s) of which it is also said is one of two known styles internationally (Molong and San Francisco).

Take a look at me now ... soft heritage colours have enhanced the building

Whilst change is usually difficult to swallow - we note the silent majority - the largest group of this and other communities have remained silent throughout the formulation of this project. These voices could have made a difference to the final outcome - as we see happening in Bank Street today.

The cost? Whilst some are rightfully concerned about the cost of the project, we can also consider the question ... “Why are we not worth it?” “Why are our future generations not worthy of the cost of this kind of government investment?”

By Rozzi

which the Express has heard will be offering B&B style accommodation. The good news is that Molong needs more accommodation for the growing number of visitors and tourists wanting to come and stay. What a marvellous outcome!

Thank you to the new owners of one of Molong’s finest buildings. What a gift! .

Thank you Mid-West Signs...Hoppa and Lyn Molong is so incredibly lucky that Hoppa and Lyn travelled over from W.A. to take a look at an established signwriting business for sale in Orange.

They liked what they saw, purchased the business, and then started to look for a house to buy.

They heard about Molong - wandered out, met Kim Stojanov who showed them Ivy and Frank Barrett’s quality built home that ticked all of their boxes. Within no time ... they made the move!

They love living in Molong and have been warmly welcomed to town and become an important part of the extended town and district family.

In 2022, the couple designed colourful christmas images for shops and businesses up and down Bank Street. Hoppa felt bad that he was in W.A. at the time of the November 2022 flood - and wasn’t in town to help with the clean-up. Lyn felt the same.

“What can we do? They asked.”

Free of charge - they got to work designing and creating colourful Christmas cheer to brighten up the damaged shop windows. The best Christmas gift that helped colour and lift the spirits of the whole town.

Christmas 2023 they decided to do it again.

Somehow they fitted another special gift into their increasing workloads - again at their own cost.

On a tight timeframe, they had the town ready in time for the Molong Shopping Night. We all loved their work. Noticeably working all hours of the night and day, and weekends - they didn’t stop.

Thank you Hoppa and Lyn and Mid-West Signs from this extremely grateful town.

8

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2023

a ti C s

tr fe w H

C

Loving our sense of community:

Molong is glad to have shared time with Jackson, Eliza and the opportunity to share in the birth of baby Dusty whilst the young couple stopped over to live with us for a few months.

Photographed above is Jackson, Dusty and her nan, Jackson’s mum, new Molong resident, Anna. The young couple lived in the UK for some years before heading to Australia to spend time with Jackson’s mum.

During that time, Dusty was born, the young couple held their third wedding celebration in town at Pete Manwaring’s (above Molong Stores) with Jackson becoming a regular barman at the Telegraph Hotel.

Now living back in Byron Bay, young Dusty will no doubt be introduced (by her surfing mum) to the splendid waters of the bay.

It was great to have you all living with us in Molong - and for sharing little Dusty.

Congratulations to local Molong woman, Katelan Philpott who graduated in 2023 after completing a Bachelor of Business with Distinction from the University of Newcastle. The young achiever who attended Molong Central School for her entire schooling will now focus her studies and the next two years on completing her law degree.

Proud parents, Matt and Kaylene (Molong Post Office and Newsagency) attended the graduation ceremony. “We are very proud of Katelan’s achievements, her hard work and dedication to her studies.”

(Above) Freida (Molong Pharmacy) and Robbie (Molong Stores) judging the entries in the pharmacy’s Christmas children’s colouring competition. “It was a difficult job” said both Freida and Robbie who sorted through the huge number of anonymous colourful entries.

Winners:- Gil Dowling, Rose Basha, Matilda Gavin with the mixed hamper of gifts won by a very excited Vivan Knott.

Well done Alice and Dennis and the Molong Pharmacy team for holding the competitions and donating seriously great prizes.

Fairbridge Park revival David Hill returned to the Molong Fairbridge Park with colleague Wade Mahlo to look over the current work’s program to re-establish the park after the 2022 series of floods.

Located next to the Molong Creek on the Mitchell Highway (below the former Fairbridge Farm site)

the park has had quite a battering by floodwaters since it opened a couple of years ago. The committee representing the Old Fairbridgians are determined to see the park plan restored with improved visitor exprience features Generations of Fairbridge residents have many

happy memories of this sacred spot where they swam and fished in the cool waters.

(Above Left) David Hill, Wade Mahlo, Cr. Libby Oldham and Hugh Oldham looking over the current works program.

(Above Right) Workmen on the site.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024 9

Farewell to Warwick Doulman

At the December 2023 Council Meeting, Mayor Kevin Beatty and Cabonne Council General Manager Bradley Byrnes said thank you and farewell to Cabonne's Environmental Safety Officer, Warwick Doulman.

‘Wok’ as he is affectionately known, started with Cabonne as a Bitumen Labourer in May 1994, after working at the SRA Station at Molong, Cobar, Dubbo, Parkes, Narromine and Georges Plains.

He then became the Town Maintenance Officer in Molong in August 1995 and was appointed to Environmental Officer in May 2000.

The Environmental Officer role at the time was primarily concerned

with the maintenance of sediment control measures implemented on Council's roadwork sites. A role that evolved to include production manager roles in small mines and river clearance duties.

Over the years, numerous appreciation letters from external agencies were received praising Wok's work in the community and environment.

The born and bred Molong resident has certainly left some huge shoes to fill.

All the very best in retirement Wok, we hope you enjoy the change of scenery on the mid north coast!

You will be missed.

Do you know...

Residents can sit in and observe the monthly Cabonne Council’s full Council meetings? Meeting agendas and Council minutes are availabe online on Council’s website.

Cabonne Council place a monthly newsletter of projects, information sharing, in each local newspaper including the Molong Express, and village communications (Manildra, Cumnock, Cudal, Yeoval, Eugowra, Canowindra etc.)

Council related issues? Your ratepayer elected Councillors have their contact details listed on Council’s website. If you have a concern or issue make contact with them. Best to first gather your thoughts about the issue, what you think could be a positive solution/suggestion to the problem.

And/or send a letter to the General Manager and ask for your letter to be registered by the Council team - and responded to. Once again, write the issue, your concerns, and what you believe could be a positive solution.

Council Services: Do you know that Cabonne Council teams provide a number of great programs (other than planning, mowing, gardening, maintenance services, marketing of events) and loads more to their communities including Before & After School Hours Care Services, School holiday programs, Citizenship Ceremonies Community Transport Family Day Care Cabonne Home Support (CHS) Libraries

Youth of the Month Program (nominate someone in your town or village).

The Cabonne Collective Business Hub (register for the regular newsletter) Free Food Safety Training (for community food handling volunteers) Banking (Molong) - First Choice Credit Union services Events and Marketing, tourism, network with local, Cabonne wide, groups and services.

Contact: Council Molong Office (02) 6392 3200 Email council@cabonne.nsw.gov.au

Buying Better

Farewell to Sue Schmich!

A dedicated Cabonne Council employee Sue was farewelled at the December 2023 Council meeting.

Due to retire in early January 2024 after serving nearly 30 years at Council - Sue was originally employed by Boree Shire Council for 7 years.

Taking time off to raise her family Sue rejoined Council in May 1995 as a pay clerk and accounting officer.

Sue has remained Council’s Payroll Officer since then and has worked with all of the different payroll systems during that time.

Congratulations Sue. You have definitely earned some peace and quiet. All the best for your retirement!

B u y i n g Better is about thinking about what and how we buy, to consider the environmental impact of our purchases. By reusing, repairing, upcycling, refurbishing, sharing, borrowing, buying second hand and recycling, we are helping to keep valuable resources and materials in circulation and out of landfill.

Charity shops, tool libraries, online marketplaces and swap parties are all ways to donate, trade, borrow, buy or sell pre-loved items, and making sure that they are being used for as long as possible.

It is also important to remember that unless we’re buying items with recycled content, we’re not fully recycling!

There is a wide range of products made from recycled materials. Buying it back means that you're saving the resources and energy that go into making products from virgin materials, which reduces our consumption of water, energy, fuel and natural resources, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

For more information on recycling and other ways to rethink waste, check out the Planet Ark website, and visit the Reuse Hub and the Recycled Products Directory.

10

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

Olivia Howes - “I love competing”

(Above left) Olivia Howes, competitor 174 representing Australia enters the arena.

(Above right) Facing the black belt world champion

The achievements of a 15 year old The achievements of a 15 year old 2023 - 3rd place competing in an international event in Japan 1st place Australian Middle-Weight Champion (R) The Howes family (Paige, Olivia, Mark) sightseeing in Japan “It’s a beautiful country. The people are really lovely and welcoming”

Meeting 15 year old, Olivia Howes

for the first time I would not have picked this attractive, softly spoken young woman in the photo above competing, hard, at the 43rd Shidokan Open International Championships in Japan. Nor would I have picked her as a brown belt (almost black belt) Tae Kwon Do Australian Champion.

Sitting quietly in my office, the young Molong resident with the long auburn hair, spoke about her love of Tae-Kwon-Do and the harsh physical training and competitions (full body contact) she participates in. None of which has affected her feminity nor modesty.

Olivia is the perfect student of the karate code. She works hard, trains hard, and her strength emanates from a spirit from within. This young school student knows exactly who she is and is at peace with body, soul, spirit that feeds her strength. The power of the mind training has not been lost on Olivia. Past students of Tae Kwon Do are aware of what it takes to fully accept the teachings of the masters and to train hard in physical challenges and to develop mental stamina. Her trainers must be proud.

Olivia’s parents, Mark and Paige Howes have encouraged their young daughter’s interest in karate since Olivia became aware of the activity when she was 8 years old. “I haven’t had a lot of sporting interests” said

The power of the mind

Olivia. “I have ‘Bobby’ (her horse) and I loved pony club (Molong and Cudal) until a friend got me interested in karate classes.”

Whilst some parents might discourage their young daughters from entering such a code where training can be tough, participants are required to accept the highest of discipline - and, competition can be scary, the Howes saw that Olivia was dedicated - and supported her.

From small beginnings - competitions took the family, first up, from district to district. City to city. Then state to state.

Eventually, to international locations.

“I now compete with black belts” said Olivia. Adding, “I am about two years off being able to be tested for my black belt”. Today, Olivia is trained by Rod Horkings of R.D.H. Martial Arts in Orange.

Living out of town with her family, Olivia loves the solitude of the bush and the landscape. “I don’t get lonely.

I like reading”. In fact, hardly a book of any genre passes by Olivia who is an avid reader. School work? The Year 10 student at the Molong Central School takes her books and homework with her to the competitions. “We go away a lot - we have to - there are only so many competitions a year and to qualify for state titles competitors have to finish in the top three. And, then we have to advance to the top 5 in the state to compete in the Australian titles.

I get more excited when competing - not overly nervous

Olivia’s dad is former and popular Molong real estate agent, Mark Howes, who now owns and operates his own service business (mowing, gardening, fence building etc). There is an obvious solid style of understanding between father and daughter and mother and daughter. Both are right there with Olivia. “Wherever we go, mum and dad take me, we travel together and stay together. At the competitions, mum and dad become part of the support crew alongside the coaches and other parents.

They are a great help - nothing is too much trouble for them and I’m sure an important part of my love of Tae-Kwon-Do and competing is because of mum and dad’s positive support.

However, both parents were concerned when the family arrived, with the Australian team, at the 43rd Shidokan Open International Championships in Japan last year.

Olivia explained.

“In Australia we compete in age, weight divisions and gender. In Japan I competed in the open women’s competition. It was an all age group competition. I fought women in their late 20’s and 30’s who were all black belts.”

“I panicked a bit at first when we arrived at the competition. “But decided to have a go. “Mum and dad were both concerned and said to me that I could withdraw. “But, once I started the adrenalin kicked in and I was okay”.

Competing against the winner of the World Tournament, a black belt aged around 30 (years of age) in the first round of the competition - Olivia did well. “The Japanese are very honourable people - they fight hard, it’s pretty hard over there - very hard”.

Starting the round, Mark Howes said that Olivia competed well although her mum, Paige panicked. “The Japanese lady only got her (Olivia) in the last 30 seconds of that fight” said Mark. “Olivia can hit extremely hard - at first there was nothing between them. “The women over there see that they

are there to do a job - so they go right in it’s a very competitive sport in their country”.

Olivia can see, now, that the experience was a worthwhile one - she learnt a lot.

“Taking part in three comps - I started my first one and then the adrenalin kicked in and I was okay. Settling down, Olivia completed the next two competitions receiving recognition from the judging panel to take out 3rd place - winning a stunning trophy.

On a roll, Olivia’s year did not finish in Japan. Back in Australia - she competed at Sydney Olympic Park in the Australian Middle-Weight full contact competition.

Held indoors with no air conditioning the temperature quickly rose to a stifling 45 degrees. “Normally I fight in the lightweight competition but decided to have a go at the middle-weight. “Once I settled into the competition I didn’t feel the heat.

My instincts kicked in”. “Since Japan I had become more confident”.

Coming home after being awarded the title of 2023 Australian Middle-Weight Champion - Olivia finished her school year - proud of her amazing trophy representing 6 years of as the saying goes, ‘blood, sweat and tears’. Maybe not tears for this tough minded and focussed young woman of only 16 years of age.

My last question for Olivia related to the great fighter, Kosta Zyu who wrote in his biography about the world’s strongest computer being our brain. Yet we let our hearts take over the mind. Kosta said in his book - words along the lines that if he didn’t keep his computer, his mind focussed his body signals and the heart would take over and he would not be able to continue - he would hit the mat.

Olivia’s thoughts? Thinking seriously - the well trained 16 year old with the soft gentle voice, lovely face, and auburn hair said “it’s true. I have to block everything else out (when training and competing). The Express will be following Olivia’s journey.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

11

Kokoda adventure for Angus Angus Guyer took up the opportunity offered by his school to head to the challenges offered by the notorious challenging terrain of the Kokoda Trail. One where physical fitness and a focussed mind are top priority for survival and to achieve personal safety outcomes. The benefits of a high level of both physical ability and strong mind ensures that trekkers have an enjoyable experience in an environment that is stunningly beautiful and

18-year-old Angus Guyer has recently returned from what can only be described as the trip of a lifetime—the challenging Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea. Angus, who attended St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Molong and secondary schooling at Orange Anglican Grammar, seized the opportunity offered by his school to embark on a journey that fulfilled a long-held dream.

Balancing the demands of HSC study, a part-

incredibly harsh at the same time. That’s Kokoda ... a unique place where endurance and completion of the trek - and survival - relies on an unfaltering strong mind, fit bodies and determination. As trekkers who complete the challenge, usually with blistered, bloody feet, a new awareness of every bone and muscle in their body - unbelievable exhaustion - say - I now ‘see’ the world through different eyes. Here is Angus’ story. Enjoy!

time job, and dedicated training sessions, Angus approached the Kokoda Track with spirit and determination. The trek, incredibly steep over mountains, through rivers & jungle, allowed him to follow in the footsteps of the brave, retracing the historic trail to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of Australian soldiers in the Kokoda Campaign.

Angus' eyes light up as he recounts his most

incredible life experience. Along the track, he visited a local school, sharing moments with the children. He was able to take footballs for the kids. The trek guides, Angus notes, were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly kind, providing support and sharing the historical significance of the locations along the way.

Before undertaking the Kokoda adventure, Angus dedicated 12 months to rigorous training in his home gym and on the slopes of Mount Canobolas.

Amidst the challenging terrain, Angus witnessed remnants of wartime history—weapons pits, Australian ammunition left on the track, and at Isurava, the poignant four pillars memorial.

These pillars, inscribed with the words 'courage,' 'endurance,' 'mateship,' and 'sacrifice,' stand as a testament to the values of the Australian soldiers who fought along the Kokoda Trail. Angus describes it as the most beautiful sight he has

ever seen.

The trek concluded at Bomana War Cemetery, a sombre reminder of the sacrifices made during the Kokoda Campaign. Angus emphasises that the events at Kokoda leave a deep impact, resonating with the essence of courage, sacrifice, and mateship that define the Australian spirit.

Before undertaking the Kokoda adventure, Angus dedicated 12 months to rigorous training

in his home gym and on the slopes of Mount Canobolas. In the bitter cold of an Orange winter, this preparation provided a stark contrast to the tropical conditions of Papua New Guinea.

As an aspiring electrician, he has completed Certificate II in Electrotechnology and is gaining some practical experience working with an Orange electrical company.

The Kokoda Track serves as a defining chapter for Angus. An exploration of war history, a test of physical and mental strength. He has made his parents, David and Katrina very proud!

12 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

Molong RSL Club - Your club, Your town, Your team, Your entertainment

Enjoy delicious and affordable foods with a changing daily specials board at the Molong RSL Club's Bistro. Children's special menu. Eat in or take away Wednesday through to Sunday lunch. Dining room, verandah room, meals available at the bar, outside picnic tables (with kid's play area)

Grilled pork cutlet with roasted chat potatoes, rocket, walnut and parmesan salad finished with chefs tomato chuntey $25

Molong Australia and Multi-Cultural Day @ the Molong RSL Friday 26 January starting at 10.30 a.m.

The official function for the 2024 Molong Australia Day ceremony returns to the RSL FREE Chicken and Champagne Brunch Australia Day Awards

Bush music by Geoff Tonkin Meet and Greet New residents very welcome to come along and meet new community friends, and join in this important day.

Reacquaint with the Portrait Gallery of Ex-Servicemen and Ex-Servicewoman Annie Ingham's fabulous paintings of those who served from Molong and District.

Hear their stories.

Take a walk just a stone's throw from the RSL to the Molong Museum where volunteers will be happy to show the fabulous latest exhibition of early Molong Ph0tographers and the vast social and cultural history of the town and district.

22-24 Riddell St, 6366 8105 Monday 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM Tuesday

3:00 PM - 9:00 PM Wednesday 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM Thursday 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Friday 12:00 PM - 12:00 PM Saturday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Sunday

11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Upcoming Holidays Australia Day 26.01.2024 12:00 PM - 12:00 PM

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

13

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14

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

MED_IGA_V1_IGACN2224_170124_1

The Veg Grower's Diary January 2024

With Stephanie Hall

Navigating the 2023 What a roller coaster August I was nominated into New COVID Wave of a year it was in the theIn Central West Mummy Awards garden! for the Category 'Garden of the in Molong and Year'. The public were free to vote At the start of 2023 it was in a for a winner. Apparently my little beyond terrible state: the extreme rain and article had reached more people flooding had resulted in a loss of my

In the ongoing battle against COVID-19, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has issued important guidance, extending booster eligibility to those aged 75 and above but also to individuals eligible under 75 who have passed six months since their last COVID-19 vaccination or infection.

This broader eligibility recognizes the evolving nature of the virus and the need for reinforced immunity over time. If you fall into this category, consider scheduling your booster to ensure sustained protection. Come into the pharmacy to have a chat with Alice, Sue or one of the team to see if you are needing to update your protection.

The new XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine will be available at the Molong Pharmacy.

If you are due for a booster you can conveniently book your appointment at www. molongpharmacy. or our telephone no. below.

ATAGI's recommendation underscores the significance of combining boosters with existing preventive measures. Whether it's regular handwashing, wearing masks when experiencing symptoms, these actions, in conjunction with booster shots, create a formidable defense against the virus.

Stay informed by keeping an eye on updates from health authorities, as guidelines may evolve based on emerging data. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to come in and have a chat with one of our team.

corn crop, the contract tomato crop was looking abysmal and the onions had all rotted. By late February the temperatures had soared, strong winds had prompted fire warnings and my water tanks were almost empty. It was, quite literally, one extreme to the next.

Thankfully, I have a wonderful family and mentors in the gardening world who encouraged me forward through a lot of sweat and tears. Eventually, the hard work paid off and by Autumn I had produced almost 250g of clean tomato seed (approximately 68,000 seeds!) from four varieties that were later made available in Australia for the first time.

Prior to this, very few people knew I was a gardener and even less knew the painstaking efforts I had made to educate myself in vegetable growing. After a discussion about my tomatoes, however, Rozzi encouraged me to write a little article for The Molong Express. So, I opened up my gardening diaries and let all my secrets out. I wasn’t sure how the article would be received but as the year went on a few locals offered praise and some even asked for gardening advice. This has certainly been the encouragement I needed and meant a lot to me.

than I realised and in November I took home a trophy for 'Garden of the Year'.

Thank you to Deb Oats for her nomination for ‘Garden of the Year’, to everyone who voted and Rozzi and Paul for all their encouragement.

The original inspiration for what I grow in the garden was my kitchen.

By growing your own food you are able to harvest fruits and vegetables in a huge variety of colours, shapes and flavours that would otherwise be hard, if not impossible, to access. All of these plants have different needs and can take a few plant generations to adapt to the local environment. To have access to really good local fruit and veg we need to have access to really good local seeds. This is why my garden became a place dedicated to experimenting with plant timing, seed saving and observing the full life cycle of plants. Sometimes this means the garden looks more dead than alive. I can assure you the 'Garden of the Year' is seldom a pretty place but it is an important one. If it is the garden that starts a conversation about local seeds and local food this Christmas, or inspires one person to plant a seed, it is deserving of the title.

Combining my passion for good honest food and all things gardening,

my next articles for 2024 will be titled, 'Vegetable of the Month'. Each month I will reveal one vegetable that I think you should grow in order to get the tastiest produce from your own back yard. We'll talk growing, cooking and seed saving and even have a sneak peak at the history of each crop. How did these plants go from being wild to cultivated? Whose pockets did the seeds travel in? What wars did they survive? And, whose mortgage did they pay off? I hope these tales will inspire you into the garden just as they have for me.

Editor’s Note: Congratulations Stephanie with the announcement of your recognition in the Central West Mummy Awards for the Category ‘Garden of the Year’.

Well done!

Question: How old is the Molong Railway Station?

Answer: Officially opened on 21.12.1885, this fine old local icon is 168 years old

Note: Read this week’s story (right). Mr Standen reports that former Garra resident, Alice Wood is also a resident of Bathurst’s Riverview Nursing Home. “Alice is now 97 (years of age). Her health is good for her age. She is a lovely lady” said Gregory.

Thank you - Alice is still very missed by her many friends in Molong and District.

Peter Thomas of Molong who has already saved the Molong Railway Station once - as well as a number of heritage buildings in town.

An enormous thank-you to Mr. Gregory Standen of Bathurst’s Riverview Nursing Home who sent an email to the Express to remind us of the MRS significant birthday. Thank you Gregory.

Disappointingly, it seems that only Gregory remembered. “As you are well aware the railway has had a small part in Molong’s history” said Gregory.

“Small Part!” Huge part in fact - but largely forgotten about overlooked by the local authorities and community.

Back in the 1970’s the then NSW State Rail Authority decided to take a razor to a number of rail assets. The Molong Railway Station, Goods Shed, and worker’s cottages came under the sharp decision making at the time.

The station survived - due to the great efforts of local resident, Peter Thomas who apparently happened to notice the Goods Shed had been demolished, and the worker’s cottages (now the site of the farm supplies in Watson Street). Peter thankfully checked on the MRS. Apparently he was informed that the demolition of the station was on the planning

board by city based decision makers.

Peter took up the saving of the station buildings - took up a lease - and found tenants.

However, as time goes by - the MRS returned to an empty state under new leasing arrangements.

Today, plenty of locals have had a go at talking with the elusive ‘right people’ but nothing has happened.

The CW Library Service has moved out to the new Community Centre building at the top of town.

Other than birds, possums, rats and mice - it seems that lack of interest by locals, Cabonne Council, the managers??? might well keep going on - and on - and on - and the MRS will fall into further disrepair.

Next Week: Paul Mullins will be reporting on the history of the Molong Railway Station.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024 15

Marg Carroll - Author, Photographer, Oral Historian, Zoo Guide, Adventurer After recording and writing Australian stories for three books over a decade, Molong author/ photographer Marg Carroll OAM, began working for the National Library of Australia (NLA) to continue capturing great life stories. She has been an oral historian for the NLA since 2013 and has conducted more than 60 interviews with a wide range of people across Australia.

Having always loved animals, Marg has also been a volunteer guide at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo for the past 15 years.

In 2021 Marg submitted a successful proposal to the NLA for a project focussing on Australian wildlife conservationists. Her intention was to recognise some wonderful, dedicated conservationists and inspire hope in wildlife conservation around our country despite dire news and predictions.

Interviews usually take approximately 4-6 hours and record a person’s life story as well as their work

relating to the project itself as the material is accessed for different purposes by researchers, students and families. Marg puts much effort into sourcing possible interviewees from the internet, reading and through her various networks to find a diverse range of people and subjects working across all levels in the field. These include those working in a national and global context such as Cameron Kerr, CEO of Taronga Zoos; Rachel Lowry, Chief Conservation Officer of WWF; and Professor Richard Kingsford, Director of the Centre for Ecosystem Science at UNSW who has conducted a national waterbird survey over 41 years.

Conservationists working at a grass roots level include people such as Dr Peggy Rismiller on Kangaroo Island who is a world expert on echidnas; and Androo Kelly, owner of Trowunna Sanctuary, a specialist in Tasmanian endemic animals including the Tasmanian Devil. At the Sanctuary they have bred 500 Devils for 19 generations, the longest breeding program of any Australian native animal. (The day after the interview Androo was journeying to Denmark with 4 wombats for Princess Mary’s garden within Copenhagen Zoo!)

Arranging the interviews takes much preparation and often has its challenges. One example is the interview with Ian Hutton on Lord Howe Island which was postponed three times due to Covid and just as Marg was due to fly there she heard that he had been evacuated from the island following a medical emergency. On return to the island, despite his frail condition, he still managed a 6-hour interview spread over three mornings. Another challenge was preparing to swim with the whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef WA where Marg had to train with a snorkel so she wouldn’t sink.

The interviews, which are unedited, are available through the NLA forever. Marg also writes a summary of the interview which is available on the website for people to read as well as hear the oral history. Many of these are readily available. As an example, the interview with Ian Hutton, Lord Howe Island can be accessed on the following link. https://catalogue.nla. gov.au/catalog/8664836.

16

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

Artisans of Mandagery Creek Geoff & Colina Tonkin For the past twelve years Colina and Geoff have been running workshops in their repurposed sheds on the banks of the Mandagery Creek 10 kms from Molong. Students have travelled from as far afield as Alice Springs, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland to attend.

Workshops include: Making a Windsor chair or stool: This is a 9-day course which involves birthing your chair or stool from local green wood using traditional hand tools and techniques. Tools used during the course include a pole lathe, operated with your foot; a shave horse; drawknife; adze; spokeshave; maul; froe; and hand plane; to name a few. Keeping alive the craft of chair making first practised around the Windsor/ High Wycombe area of the UK in the 18th century, students take home a lovely, handcrafted chair and often return with an order for another one.

Dates for 2024 Chair and Stool Courses: Saturday 13th to Sunday 21st April Saturday 11th to Sunday 19th May Saturday 17th to Sunday 25th Aug Saturday 2nd to Sunday 10th Nov. We also offer a $250 discount for locals.

Making Hand Tools: This is a two-day workshop providing an introduction to the making of hand tools by recycling old sawblades

and springs. It is suitable for woodworkers, carvers, sculptors, jewellers, weavers, chair makers and artisans. Students will have the opportunity to make at least two tools of their choice using simple metalworking hand tools. Skills covered include heat treatment (annealing, hardening, and tempering) shaping, cutting, grinding, sharpening and polishing).

Dates for this workshop to be confirmed. Please register your interest on our website.

Botanical Dyeing: This one day workshop provides an introduction to the fascinating process of botanical dyeing. It covers how to prepare different fibres such as silk, cotton and wool with a mordant before dyeing them; how to extract colour from plant material such as bark, berries, leaves, flowers and vegetable matter; how to adjust and enhance the colour; and how to dye your fibre.

Workshop dates for 2024 will be advertised on the website.

played its first gig in Canowindra in 1981, 42 years ago.

The band has travelled from Armidale to Gundagai and from Sydney to Bouke in that time playing at over 600 gigs. These days they prefer the more local gigs and already have some on their books for 2024. A band for all occasions, some of their gigs include weddings, birthday parties, town centenaries, school centenaries, bicentenary celebrations, Year of the Outback, Year of Federation and Year 2000 plus many more.

Commissions Geoff and Colina would also be happy to discuss any particular requirements you would like for a bespoke piece of furniture created from the finest of timbers.

They have recently completed a commission of eight Windsor chairs for a Sydney client.

To register your interest in any of our courses please access our website www.geofftonkin.com.au Contact us: Geoff: 0427677226 or Colina 0402348035.

November Shorn Bush Band Geoff is also a founding member of the popular Central West Bush Band November Shorn which

Colina’s Botanical Dyeing classes are very popular.

Class photo November 2023.

Continuous arm Windsor

Colina demonstrating wool weaving.

Geoff and Colina milling the timber for chair makingG Wendy and Anthony Dowler joined in on last course.

They made two very fine Double Bow Windsor Chairs, all from local wood and using only hand tools. Students usually come from much further afield so it was nice to have some locals on one of our courses. These chairs brings the total number of chairs made on courses in our Brooklyn workshop in the last 12 years to 174.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

17

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been

'

I

nor-General

as

details

!

tlio]

the

Pope)

W.

.

soon

Excellencies''

their

statements

prepare

present have might amalgamation taken place

areas

two clerks

by

John

j

the

the the

HOPES HIGH FOR IMPROVING WATER SUPPLY

pre

their

accepting to

secretary II (Major

a,

will

i

the

and

in

area,

and

J.

Cup has

Orange

to

invitation,

two

the

Orange

March

on

R.

expendi

City

Mrs.

and the

and

connection

iri

and

year, which

force, two

re

Town

(Mr...

with

of meeting November,

were

rates

special

shortly.

a

basic

ON

Molong Scott)

of the. completion,

released'

councils

TO

Clerk etc...,

nearing

are

H...

dealing

ture, with

the ?

E.

Shire

Fillans),

in

holidays.

(Mr.

Amaroo

that

by

made

Clerk

the Par-,

J.

mover

Cup trophy

the

be

for

cil

General

at

to

the Governor-General. information was

cellencies

dark

out

interruption this

silos

wheat

SPECIAL REPORTS AMALGAMATION

made;.

was

This revealed Mr. of private secretary member for Calare.

Howse, In' a letter to Mr. Howse, Aide-de-camp Governor-general's the thanks of their quested that

visit into

about

occurred

by

Military

failed..

the

to

cellencies'

?

when

to

Orange

the

Sydney

Government

plunged

ascertained

particularly

instructed

was

attend

The

in

BLACKOUT

m

?

ers,

night's

Board.

the

from

been

'vita

LAST NIGHT'S

con

plans

said use

ling

use

for

established', convenient

most

It

prime

the

meeting accepted.

sented

be

Immigration

for the

where

centres

are

ports

Monday

at

Council to 'their Governor-General

j

coun

more

not

invitation

race

for

de-; the

has

the

was

An

horse

waiting

make

and

make

facilities

year.

Australian

for

firm

A

S., R. Rey Mr. Webb

Mr.

Government

handling

is

j

home

soon

at

Hospital

was

GOVERNOR-GENERAL VISIT ORANGE

|

Syd-

it

taken

of Committee

returns

matter,

of.

to

which be

inventory decided meeting in until abeyance

The matter

with

to

migrants netting

'

into

wool

the The from* meeting. seconded

by Mr. Haynes.

the

those

AT HOSPITAL

meeting

The

to

I

from

of

abolished.

was

of bags.

Glasson.

The

.

.

Webb.

a

bulk

of in

I

revealed

was

monthly

Anderson

journeyed

staff to the Minister

Molong

approved

by

man

which

motion,

Mr.

zoning

That

heads

is:

should

That

of

!

use

this

mat

additional conference

annual

District Molong been made. yet

home

her

|

time to

?

conference.

and

inventory

The cided

To Make Netting

,

the

now

son, after

Austinmer

i

Grace

netting, '(Mr. Calwell) to planned labor migrant

meeting,

absent

motion

CONFERENCE several

was

recom

the

file

for FOR

INVENTORY

.

weekend.

for

The

?

at

and

returned

and farmers. graziers a after Recently, indicated it had been

the

the

Molong'

Rolph Friday

.

.

Bert

the

making

secretary's

money

Mrs.'

wire

ness

Hospital

small

holidays

from

and

other

also

in

Associa

could

they

and

decoy

.

wool

i

A

.

John

and

Graziers'

-j

the

.

C

Sydney

at

building!

new

and

Gidley Street, Sydney.

Cassell returned George from Saturday annual in

thin to

be

this

moved

?

Coomber.

Immigrants

for

and

enjoying

Colley,

Migrants

Monday

meeting

Press

are

run, time

secr^tav^ through

Zones

to

of quantity lot be more than 1200 large of than five bales. instead more pounds Mr. moved the last this at Webb Mr. meeting, but, although Young that it should -be thought yesterday, it decided was to leave 1,000 pounds,, it the the motion as as mover stood,

that

to

way

the

if

Street.

Jack

B

inquiries in sheep

disease

transferred

?

moved this motion. nolds it. seconded ?

That, the minimum

of

agreed long

That

make

mouth

been

Haynes

?

conditions.'

best

the

submitted

full

that

present

C.S.I.R.,

inquire

any

McKell,

Hos

office

and

the

of

office

At resolutions

Mrs.

is

in the

asked

the

to

were

seconded

method

the

labor

existing

the

in

only

at

as a resolution ter RESOLUTIONS

Jen Iiyland,

Sydney

Hill

of

Marie

Mr.

fieri

dnc.i

in

spending Parramatta.

Eon

Mr.

ney

District at

Mr. Misses

spent

secretary's

directors.

E.

after

Keith

to

tion, mend

was

Mr.

.

members way

was

C.S.I.R.

thought

can

Haynes.

W.

scabby

ever

that

;

the

body

that

Association

has

out.

meeting

write

A.

of Mrs. guest Larven, for the weekend.

Molong, a The Entrance Enjoying at holiday

on

TO

room rest made some

are

Mrs.

the

That

inquiries

decoys

some

that,

under

The

Mr.

holidaying

is

.

thought

them

whether

thought

pests

through

if

A.

and

?

ask

the

the

letter

a

asking

Webb

but them.

conference.

have

best

the

was

often

disclose

recommend.

Whitehead

J.

A.

(Mr.

had

decoys,

to attract

be

by

plague Association

Goat Aet be That ? the Dog and use amended so that a landholder may his about a tres discretion destroying B. Moved passing dog.

by Messrs.

matter

make

annual

would

C.S.I.R.

the

resolution

to

to

Young

.

he

a

C.S.I.R.

already

will

to

annual! the

good

that

suggested

poisoning

Orch

daughter

Mrs.

East

.

nected

pal

not

head

with

Lakes Mrs

the

Mr.

of

tabled

f

meeting

present

The

the

Molong

Mrs.

Dick

are Petersham, grandmother, Molong.

Mrs. C. Phillips journeyed on ney Sunday night.

j.

Manildra.

hoggets xbred ewes Whiclicombe

specifications and room

are

?

and

of their

j

change,

Ltd.,

Mr.

G.

East

28,661.

were

quotable

there.

.

Jaye, mother,

at

Mr.

1

the

move

office '

were

and

Mrs.

Coolamon

Mrs.

week

holidays

come

lambs

and

xbred

43/9, 29/1

and

pital night's

purpose for the

Re

turned -will Serviceman 'sv League hold its annual in the meeting Clubrooms at 8 o'clock. tonight Important business is listed on the agenda paper, and a of big roll-up members is expected.

The monthly will meeting foljow the annual meet ing.

70

at

the

'

t.

Monday

board

a«o.

?

of

he into

Lee,

La'rras

and Kensington.

Olive Gosper

Miss

STOCK

sheep

Plains

office

at

with

they

Leadership

and

son,

Carol,

and

.

Ryde

?

without

Plans

A

men

the

of decoys

direction

president

said

of

to

this

on

the

decoys,

sent Mr.

it

jour attend

to

conducted

Mr.

a

and

that

week

branch

out was digging rabbits eradicating other Although

Barbara

Pmecliife,

on returned home Greg;, month's spent holiday

i'the

gone, had

nothing

on

a vg. aufetion.

new

ANNUAL MEETING TONIGHT —

be

TO BE SUBMITTED COUNCIL

Christina.

Murray.

Pass: Ellams,' Vera;,!

sub-branch

night's on

PLANS FOR NEW ROOMS AT HOSPITAL

;;

?

Molong

said

and

Mr

Eggleston

1.

of

avg.

son's

7.

Reynolds)

IV^r

Heather,,

Windsor.

of this

Street,

Tuggerah

at

staff.V

matter but

ago)

were

secured

com:

Beryl Anita

Iris;

the

ques

and Misses

being

holidaying .Buckley,

C.

was

44/8.

33/4,

Febru

Patricia

I-Iill,

whole

Inez

Staines

her

daughter,

.

Daveys

begin

R.

they

'W. Trim

...

Mr.

Janu

com

Stella

Edith;

will

night,

R.

J

A.

Bureau

of her

Bert

Also

.Molong

with

C.

and Edward

of

Caldwell the

Homebush

ex

rabbit

might

.

Sydney

?

Hunter

Values

bur.

Col

the

of

S.

be

in

yesterday's

at the

of

|

idea

secretary proved decoys.

any

the

the

step general

first

meeting

ing

Mrs.

are

of

from

Mrs.

N

moved time

it

FARM

Pass:

I.:

of

Mrs. '

Barraba

Mrs.

Grundy

at Monday. the board(

of

Messrs.

Offerings

Informa

and

meeting

-*1'

sec

February

Betts,

FAIRBRIDGE

(

Col

for

on

Hamilton, Mullan,

E.;

Speaking

?

also

is

.

nifer

Directors

to

which

Holidaying G Alexander, Orchard and

and

of

MANILDRA

the

on

Amos,

Pass:

II.':

Betty

must

evidence

and

Daley, Peck,

Iris

School

such

by

Helen

Miss

take

have

Mr.

into

recommend

for

'Studlea, daughters,

to Newport neyed an Agricultural

I

Board

Enrolments

begin

of

ant!

MOLONG

STAGE

Their Association's

and

?

of of

and

and

shouldn't

carried

the

decided

was

Mr.

had-

within

Classes

Judith; Eagleston, Stedman, Myra,

1]

or

the

heard-

Woodstock;

of

last

fault

we

then

was

consider

of O'Donneli.'

F.

'

I.:

the

name

as

baits.

in

necessarily but

inquiring

to

SCIENTIFIC

to combat the rabbit attempt Molong branch of the Graziers'

an

is

Editor, against

the

however,

writer's

not

Guests

here.'

overtime

motion

name

session, will

commence

classes

Results:

21.

Cole,

re

Lif

28.

courses

STAGE n

February

That

some

forms

to

monthly

application

from

office. lege the Enrolments for 1949 for cept commercial classes, mence

or

the

Bunting,

spent

t

26, of

examina

qf

33A, G.P.O., Sydney. regarding scholarships be from obtained may

tion

's

scholarships

publication Scholarship

Bursary

retary.

Box

t

the

}

?

Molong

submitted

be

results.

forma

?

of

days

to

for

?

mer

had

find

special meeting Board, of Hospital be held, on Wednesday ary tion

M

in

at

for

should

either

letter

TOWN TALK

position has been

hospital

not

meeting.

lios-

examinations

Farm,

absence

elec

with merger be welcomed

a

they

the

said Molong an ambulance haying 'we Orange, b.ut

institution motion

'fine

a

candidates 1948 the

-in .

Molong

favor

publication, faith.

get posi and

Firth

.

unate

a

FARM

list

-College

asking

a

In poisoning,

forthcoming

good

it

the

matters.

and service.

eases

'

successful

were

the

manuscript,

All bear

other

staff

that

while

?

ii

of

declared.

concerned

to

Mr

110

moved

greatly

year the

have

A

MOLONG AND F AIRBRIDGE

J

articles

address,

SPECIAL HOSPITAL DRESSMAKING MEETING TO DISCUSS OVERTIME EXAM. RESULTS

*

this

as

is

tl^e.re

the

on

If in

informed

in-

When

shortage.

be

the

years

felt

he

Firth

desires

the

hospital

will

and done

meeting,

three

was

that

family

cf

of

move.

he

nurse,

are

He

Board

held, an for

press

the

said

private

a

present

the

we

Mr.

0

Firth

of

hospital,'

.

with

was

to

.

by

POSITION'

the

'Molong

con

one

to

meeting

knowledge

He

'I

side

resignation

consultation

decided

Speaking

his been

of'

obtain

columns

expressions

will Shire, newspaper,

Amaroo

MOLONG GRAZIERS TO* APPROACH RESEARCH COUNCIL

affairs...

on

referendum, tors if they v

to

necessary

current

on

Comments

of

meeting

been

epidemic

it

.

has board into quiry Hospital)

.nd

left

in

the

the

and

was

of the Matron

be hos

?,re

tion.

present

Matron

Admission

»y

restrictions

local

'SORRY

an

November,

by

The

nurses.

Hospital

tlie

was

about

brouglit

crisis of

_

given

reason

of

place

admission.

U1.

had

it

'At

(At

bur

to

'Express'

our

for

open

form

staff.

to or

action

always opinion

?

Opinion

?

the

of that

reminded

Monday's

Commerce.

of

Readers

at

at

e

?

position

said

YOUR

Is

»

some

present

What

'

need for

meet public the reainvestigate from the resignations

for

sons

f

R.

inquiry. held to

an

the

Chamber

Molong '

an

rectify

Mr.

pital,' ii|

is

BAIT DECOY SUGGESTED FOR RABBIT WAR

Imperative

Hospital

a

the at

.

of

copies water Public that

supply

Works this

1

will

afternoon.

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page16144409

QUICK CROSSWORD

REG’S BENCH An Australian man and his wife are sitting in the living room. Bruce says: "Just so you know, Shirl, I never want to live in a vegetative state, dependent on some machine and fluids from a bottle. If that ever happens, just pull the plug."

Shirl gets up, unplugs the TV and throws out all his beer.

Bruce the Aussie builder was going through a house he had just built for the woman who owned it. She was telling him what colour to paint each room. They went into the first room and she said "I want this room to be painted a light blue."

The builder went to the front door and yelled, "GREEN SIDE UP!" When he went back into the house, she told him that the next room was to be bright red.

The builder went to the front door and yelled "GREEN SIDE UP!" When he came back, the woman said "I keep telling you colours, but you go out the front and yell 'green side up' - what is that for?" The builder said, "Don't worry about that, I've just got a couple of Kiwis laying the turf out front."

An Aussie walks into the bar the other night wearing one thong. One patron asks him "What happened mate? Did you lose a thong?" the guy replies, "Nah mate, I found one!".

Two Irish lads were working for the Dublin public works department. One would dig a hole and the other would follow behind him and fill the hole in. They

WORD SEARCH

worked up one side of the street, then down the other, then moved on to the next street, working furiously all day without rest, one man digging a hole, the other filling it in again.

An onlooker was amazed at their hard work, but couldn't understand what they were doing. So he asked the hole digger, “I'm impressed by the effort you two are putting into your work, but I don't get it – why do you dig a hole, only to have your partner follow behind and fill it up again?”

The hole digger wiped his brow and sighed, “Well, I suppose it probably looks odd because we're normally a threeperson team. But today the lad who plants the trees called in sick.'”

An Irishman walks into a railway station and presents himself at the ticket counter.

“I'd like a return ticket,” he says.

“Where to?”

“To here!” says the Irishman.

A young Irish boy said to his grandfather, “Make a frog noise for me, Grandad.”

“No, son, I don't feel like making a frog noise right now.”

“Oh please, Grandad, make a frog noise.”

“No, I don't want to.”

“Oh please, Grandad, make a frog noise.”

“Why is it so important to you that I make a frog noise?”

“Mum says when you croak we can have this house.”

Solutions page 14

ACROSS 1 Aid (10) 7 Mariners (7) 8 Suburban house (4) 10 Italy's capital (4) 11 Period of unusually hot weather (4,4) 13 Item of neckwear (6) 15 Brigand (6) 17 Emphasised (8) 18 South American country (4) 21 Grassed area (4) 22 Copy (7) 23 Constantly (3,3,4)

DOWN Down 1 Proposition assumed to be self- evident (5) 2 Blackthorn fruit (4) 3 Female relative (6) 4 German shepherd dog (8) 5 Order (7) 6 Cut off socially (9)

9 Laboratory glassware (4,5) 12 Cradle (8) 14 Letters sent by plane (3,4) 16 City of canals (6)

19 Rub out (5) 20 Flightless New Zealand bird (4)

raced around (6) 5 Bound to carry the can for racing (9) 6 Pillage with gun (5) 7 Symbol making islanders angry (7,5) 8 These athletes are European - true Slav extraction (4,8) 12 Residents suffering fatigue (9)

16 Means of weighing what's left over (7) 17 For musicians, very quick break in river (6) 19 Some could help a man to climb a tree (5) 22 A raincoat - from Birmingham, actually (3)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Robbers employed by chiropodist? (8) 6 Edge with radius one metre (3) 9 Fraternity - or red revolution! (5) 10 Cautious repairs to fur and lace (7) 11 Axle repaired by Edward has to be raised up (7) 13 Female relative heard in French resort (5) 14 Take in sailor's sphere (6) 15 Live BA, oddly, capable of existing (6) 18 Disabled, but getting a sort of medal (5) 20 Soldier in uniform (7) 21 Fast and direct, say?

(7) 22 Manuscript about writing fluid or fur coats (5) 23 He follows small female (3) 24 Frustrated Caledonian goes to church with editor (8) DOWN 2 Sea-lord arranging trials (7) 3 Rubbish going up the hill (3) 4 Shopping area one

SODUKU Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9, with no number repeated.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

19

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21

CLASSIFIEDS

PHONE: 02 0448 231 180 • Email: molongex@bigpond.net.au

PUBLIC NOTICES

MEMORIAM

DEATH & FUNERAL NOTICES

Peter John Davis

CHURCH NOTICES

UNITING CHURCH

11.11.1943 - 16.1.1923 Loved, remembered and missed every day.

1st Sunday of the month Molong 11am 3rd Sunday 9am Manildra 11am Molong 5th Sunday 10 am Molong

Janet, Greg and Tiger

63 668 218 0411 885 004 Remembering ...

Helen Luskie of Cumnock

Summer Lego Club at Molong Library Spark your imagination create your favourite summer memories with Lego!

By Central West Libraries 24 Jan 2024 11:00 am - 12 noon

Molong Australia Multi-Cultural Day Friday 26 January 2024 10.30 a.m. @ the Molong RSL

Ronnie Moore of Molong

Cherished Memories of

John Salter of Molong Helen Houghton formerly of Molong

Esther May Thomas

Wonderful people who contributed well to the building of their local communities.

23-2-1940 till 4-1-2019 We are sad with our memory Lonely are our hearts today For the one we loved so dearly Has forever gone away.

We think of her in silence No eye can see us weep But many silent tears are shed When others are asleep.

Forever in our hearts.

They will be missed - but not forgotten

Let’s celebrate as a community the positive strengths and benefits of each and all of our cultures coming day on Australia Day 2024 Enquiries: molongex@bigpond.net.au Rozzi 0490734650

Remembering Kristy Hi everyone - you may recall hearing of the tragic death of Kristy Armstrong, a local woman who was killed in June last year as a result of domestic violence in Molong. In her memory, there is an awesome event happening in Orange on 20th January called Home Base Memorial Softball Game. Please check it out and get behind it in any way you can - you can participate, donate, volunteer and/or spectate. Even just sharing it on your socials will help us spread the word.

We’re raising money for Kristy’s girls and for programs that target DV prevention. https://home-base-21k.raisely.com ...

Communion with Kids Church - If available (Cnr of Edward & Bank Sts, Molong)

St James’ Cudal 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month 3.00pm

St Luke’s Manildra 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month 10.00am

Communion with Kids Chat (Packham Dr, Manildra opposite Old Orange Rd)

St Alban’s Toogong 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month 3.00pm

Awards, Free Chicken & Champagne Brunch, Damper,

Molong Portrait Gallery OPEN Molong Museum OPEN

St John’s Molong Every Sunday 10.00am

Communion with Kids Chat (Corner of Wall & Toogong Streets, Cudal)

Sammy, Carol, John & Family

Bush Music by Geoff Tonkin

Anglican Parish of Cudal-Molong

Communion with Kids Chat (Forbes Street, Toogong - top end)

FIRST CHOICE CREDIT UNION MOLONG AGENCY

is

MONDAY - FRIDAY

9.30 - 11.30

10AM to 4PM

MOLONG COMMUNITY CHURCH

Cabonne Council Molong Office

Australian Christian Churches Contact Ps Deon Stapelberg Ph 0498 659 703 For meeting details

101 BANK STREET

Australian Credit Licence 240722

CLAIM THE DATE for 2024!

January: 26 January Australia Day Celebrations across Cabonne 26 January Molong Australia and Multicultural Day @ RSL Club 10.30 am February 17 February Banjo Paterson Molong Poetry Brawl, Freemasons Hotel Send your upcoming events to molongexpress@bigpond.net.au or phone 0490734650 or 0448231180 or pop into our office in Watson Street Tree House/Gatekeeper’s Cottage)

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MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

Sport Molong Golf Farmer Al. writes on behalf of the Ghost Walker Our regular correspondent The Ghostwalker is unfortunately on the injured list, after taking a fall and I’ve been asked to report in his place hopefully for this week only. There are two rumours going around about what happened to the Ghostwalker who I call Gerard. One is that he fell off his wallet, now a fall from that height could injure the fittest of people! The other rumour is that he had an altercation with a neighbour. Not sure about that one but he does have a neighbour who is in the Guinness book of records for the most concussions and ironically he only lives a just stones throw from Gerard’s back yard.

Seventeen players fronted up on Sunday morning to play a two person Ambrose over twelve holes. Bally even arrived ahead of one player, well done Bally! How much did you pay Mark to be late? Bell did a great job on the book taking the money and organising the field. That’s probably after organising Stubber’s playing uniform before leaving home, yeah why not wear the Manly colours for a change!!

Winners on the day were Michael Philpott and Troy Warner with 47 off the stick. Michael’s game has improved considerably in the last few months. They were one shot ahead of Scott Oates and myself, Scott did well carrying a lot of lead in the saddle.

Ged and Stubber tied their match with Quinny and Bluey then decided to play a play off hole.

Stubber carried his team to victory, but third place with 50 off the stick doesn’t cut it boys!

The course was in good shape this week many thanks to Mark Fraser and the Oates clan for the mowing. Next week we have the Monthly Mug 18 holes 7:30 for 8 o’clock tee off, or for a more casual event a 12 hole Ambrose 8:30 for 9 o’clock tee off. A bbq will follow golf then the Golf Club AGM at 2pm. Hope to see you there and don’t forget membership subs are now due.

Sunday Golf @ the Royal Molong Golf Club Bro, Stubba, Belle, Evo, Glynney, Oatsey, Oatsey and Oatsey (4), Matt, Jed, Troy, Evo (2) Gerard,etc ...OMG, how many more champion golfers (and comedians) are there at the Royal Molong? Rozzi heads out the Euchareena Road to check them out!

The Royal Molong Golf Course is one of the best kept secrets in this ‘neck of the woods’.

Picturesque, the breeding ground for ‘roos, koalas, birds of many feathers, and the most beautiful fairways, sandgreens and a range of native and deciduous tree varieties that provide shade and colour (and obstacles) every month of the year.

What is more important are the quick witted golfers who head to the Euchareena Road multi-purpose site where golfers, blend with caravaners, disc golfers, dog walkers and exercisers. Come September each year the Molong Show Society take over the sheds and the historical pavilion to run the town’s longest running event (159 years). Master Plans and major fundraising $$’s plus grants will eventually see the Molong Hockey facilities moved from the Betts Street floodplain to a ‘drier’ site at the Golf Club/Showgrounds.

Being a caring and sharing group of members (both women and men) - the current executive at RMGC are keen to have more sporting/entertainment activities colocated to support future Molong and district needs. “I think they’re right” said Rozzi “I think I’ll head on out and have a hit”. (Photo above) Happy faces of golfers after a Sunday morning run, BBQ, and plenty of ribbing each other, jokes, comedy and the odd good shot to brag about.

Tennis trivia - it’s all about bananas After the frozen chooks are presented after the morning game - and BBQ lunch and cold drinks enjoyed ... another competition starts. Something to do with a hit-off from the crowded clubhouse to ... an ... esky?? Luckily Kerrie Oates kept The ‘men of the pen’ former penner Mark Oates with current penner Gerard a close eye on the results Gorringe. Some non-golfers buy the Express every week to read the witty writing of Gerard. It’s fun.

Question: How many bananas will players consume during the 15 days of the 2024 Australian Open?

Answer: 7,800 If the bend is taken out - and bananas placed end-to-end - the distance would measure 1.56km - equivalent to three and a half laps of the MCG!

(Above) Troy Warner showing a stylish approach - difficult to achieve with the cheering crowd sitting behind him offering all kinds of ‘advice??’

Matt Phillpott (Molong Newsagency/Post Office) is a regular Sunday golfer and dedicated esky competitor!

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

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we wish you a merry christmas and a happy, safe and prosperous 2024

‘Willunga’ 548 Emu Swamp Road, Orange I Location, Production and Tranquility The property ‘Willunga’ spans over 107.5 hectares.

• Architecturally designed solar passive home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a study, and modern amenities • Energy-efficient with double-glazed windows, underfloor heating in bathrooms & laundry, and wood fire and split-system heating and cooling • Water from two 7500 gallon rainwater tanks • Steel cattle yards with a loading ramp, crush, and holding/working yards

For Sale Contact Agent Ben Redfern 0457 770 062 Adam Gambrill 0417 533 453 eldersem.com.au * Approx.

‘Bullen Basin’ 4166 Freemantle Road, Bathurst I Mixed Farming and Lifestyle Remarkable 2,226* acre property in the Central Tablelands, offering a perfect blend of mixed grazing & natural beauty. 45 mins from Bathurst & Orange, & approx 3.5 hours from Sydney, providing easy access to city while still offering an escape into nature.

• Permanent spring runs through the property • 23 paddocks, 14 dams &bhigh-capacity bore • All-weather direct road access • Excellent stock proof fencing and large livestock yards

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For Sale Contact Agent ($1,350/acre) Ben Redfern 0457 770 062 Kurt Waterford 0439 642 390 eldersem.com.au * Approx.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 18 January 2024

40 Strachan Road, Orange I A Dream Property Awaits • 10 acres* with excellent sheds, water security and modern home • 20* min from Orange CBD, 3.5* hours to Sydney CBD • Open plan design, four bedroom, two bathroom home surrounded by established gardens • Oversized heavy duty 4-bay shed - ideal & fit for purpose to operate a range of businesses. Fully enclosed sunroom, woodfire place, water, power, and a full bathroom

For Sale $1,850,000 Ben Redfern 0457 770 062 Katie Christopherson 0400 637 559 eldersem.com.au * Approx.

4 Bundella Close, Molong, NSW I Fantastic Business Opportunity Awaits 793*sqm of land complete with a 264*sqm shed with an adj. residence/office space. Large lettable floor area & office space. Key feature of this land & shed space is the fact that it is not situated in the Molong Flood Zone.

• Mezzanine level, wrapping around the shed providing extra storage or workspace.

• 3 Sep rooms/office, 1 with plumbing and A/C. • 4 off-street, car spaces at the front • 4.2-meter Electric Roller door with awning

For Sale $690.000 inc GST Ben Redfern 0457 770 062 Kurt Waterford 0439 642 390 eldersem.com.au * Approx.