OON Issue 319 - February 2010 - Wollombi Valley Online

Our Own 

News 

SE NON E VERO, E MOLTO BEN TROVATO Issue 319 - February 2010 

Preschool patter 

$2 

A new year and I can start with great news! At the end of last year, the hard work of the voluntary Management Committee of the 

mobile preschool paid off - the Department of Community Services agreed that our service’s funding was inadequate and provided a 

one off payment to cover a deficit the service had incurred (meaning the service escape closure by the hair of its chinny chin!). The 

even better news was the recognition of the ongoing requirement for more funds to run the service, with our ongoing / renewable 

funding being increased by $54 794. Much to my daughter’s horror, I shrieked loudly when the news was relayed to us in New 

Zealand! We were at the highest point of Queenstown – an apt venue to feel on top of the world! The committee has a new spring 

in its step and at our February meeting we will have discussed a new name and logo, our asset management and a longer term 

fundraising strategy. 

There is always a sense of sadness and excitement at our end of year ‘graduations’ – with Caitlan, Sam, Max, Clio and Lochee leaving 

our preschool for the next set of adventures at big school and Ebony and her wonderful family leaving our community (and 

committee) with a promise to return if they are not exceptionally happy in Queensland! All participated in school orientation 

sessions during 2009 and their school readiness was evident - attributable in part to the amazing job done by our staff. 

So onward and upward for the preschool venues of Wollombi, Mulbring, Lochinvar and Gresford! We are still awaiting a decision on a 

possible venue to service the Millfield, Paxton and Ellalong communities, so keep your fingers crossed that our arguments for 

accessible early childhood education for children in rural areas continue to find favour! 

As always, my thanks to committee members, parents and our supporters – we can all look forward to an exciting 2010! 

Robyn Blackwell, President 

Community news for Wollombi and surrounding districts 1

Sparkling Chambourcin 

$175 ($14.60 / bottle) Save $65 

Celebrate Valentine’s Day 

with a burst of purple bubbles 

– then simply continue the routine 

all thru’ Feb. 

Local’s discount on all wine. 

Open 7 days, 10 - 5pm. STONEHURST WINES, 

WOLLOMBI ROAD, CEDAR CREEK NSW 2325 

ph.4998 1576 www.cedarcreekcottages.com.au 

Diesel Refuelling – ON SITE 

West Tankers are a family owned and operated business and have been in operation in the 

Newcastle and surrounding area for the past five years. We are able to meet the requirements 

of specialised and remote customers. 

Your fuel will be delivered on-site when you need it. We arrange our schedule to suit you. 

It doesn’t matter how remote you are, we pride ourselves in supporting remote customers and 

providing diesel when you need it. 

▼ Competitive Rates – reliable & efficient service 

▼ Servicing Earthmoving, Construction, Marine and Farming Industries 

▼ 4 Tankers – 13000, 7500, 5400 & 2000 Litres 

▼ Emergency Service Available 

Contact us on: 

Phone: 4955 1620 

Fax: 4955 1729 

Or visit our web site 

www.westtankers.com.au 

3 Hyndes St, West Wallsend 2286 

Community news for Wollombi and surrounding districts 

Issue 317 - Our Own News - December 2009 

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2

AUSTRALIA DAY 

MARKET 

Tuesday 26 JANUARY 

2010 

Wollombi Saleyards, Paynes Crossing Rd 

8.00am-1.00pm 

Stalls, local produce, refreshments. 

Stall holders:$30 for 6x6 stall 

$35 for overnight camping & site fee 

Bookings not required 

No animal or bird sales 

Extra food/drink stalls only by prior negotiation 

Enquiries: Mulla Villa 4998 3254. 

Proceeds to be shared between Wollombi 

Valley Community Projects 

Under the auspices of Wollombi Valley Progress 

Association Inc. 

Nicola Hamilton 

No. 1351486 

Certified Practising Conveyancer 

Member of the Australian Institute 

of Conveyancers (NSW) 

‘Lochnei’, 406 Yango Creek Road, Wollombi 

Phone: (02) 4998 3308 

Email: nhconveyancing@bigpond.com 

Carl Hoipo 

Historian 

and Valuer 

Ph: 4998 8327 Fax: 4998 8175 

Email: hoipo@iinet.net.au 


Issue 319 - Our Own News - February 2010 

Spiritual Diary 

There is puzzlement over my assertion that Politics is a Spiritual Issue. 

Realistically, I go further and say, “Every issue is a Spiritual Issue.” 

I understand that anyone having difficulty with the existence of whom 

we believers call “God” will baulk at the notion of “Spirituality”. 

However I am reminded of a statement from an Alcoholic I once 

worked with, KC, an Atheist but a member of Alcoholics Anonymous 

(AA). The first of AA’s 12 Steps, has the statement (paraphrased) that 

Alcoholics must first put their trust and faith in a “Higher Power”. For 

most people this probably equates to God. Herein lies a major 

difficulty for Atheists and Agnostics. I have a very simple and profound 

belief about Alcoholics. Following years of experience working with 

them, I believe that they are probably the most courageous group of 

people in the World. Simultaneously, they are probably the most 

maligned. 

Back to the story. When I asked KC who was his Higher Power, he 

said, “The Bondi Bus. It can go past every Pub. I can’t.” 

You may say that this was a fairly smarty-pants response. However 

KC, once he had recognised his own powerlessness in this area and 

that there was a power greater than himself, no matter how limited it 

was, also realised that there was a world outside himself that he had 

never encountered. He became one of the greater teachers and 

counsellors of Alcoholics. 

He is still an Atheist, or maybe he has moved slightly to Agnosticism. 

However he no longer uses the “Bondi Bus” metaphor. He has 

started to use the concept of Spirituality; that somewhere outside 

himself is a world of non-physical values of meaning, even if it is 

beyond him, that is open and available to all. 

CHANGES TO “THEOLOGY IN THE PUB” 

Groups evolve their own way of doing things depending on the 

context and who is involved. “Theology In The Pub” is also changing. 

At its first 2010 meeting, we decided to make some changes. The 

concept remains the same: an open discussion with an emphasis on 

the theological and spiritual aspects of the discussion. 

Everyone is welcome. However it will now be the SECOND 

SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH. 

The next meeting is February 14, 2010 at 4pm to about 6pm. 

It will continue at the LAGUNA WINE BAR but if there is a conflicting 

event (eg a Grand Final) we may decide to move to “The Pig and 

Whistle” (the small covered area adjacent to the benches at the Wine 

Bar) or, perhaps, look for another temporary venue. 

We also decided to have a specific issue at each meeting. Any subject 

is valid. Do you have an issue that you would like discussed? There is 

no censorship. The group members will tell you if you have overstepped 

the boundaries. If you have an issue or any ideas about 

presenters, please contact Graham Jackson or Peter McCloy. (Graham 

Jackson, 4998 8343 or grahamrjackson@bigpond.com: 

Peter McCloy, 4998 3423 or pmccloy@skymesh.com.au ) 

The Topic for 14 February will be “A JUST WAR??” Opened up by 

Tony Palfreeman, a controversial character around the Valley who has 

taught International Politics at both UNSW and Macquarie University, 

finishing his career at Macquarie as the coordinator of Post-Graduate 

Studies. He is a parishioner of St Michael’s. So he’s done some 

thinking around the issue. 

To finish it off, we are setting up an email message group in order to 

let as many people as possible know what is happening. If you would 

like to receive regular information, contact Peter McCloy. 

Graham Jackson 

3

Diary & Events 

Crafty Yarns 

10am 3rd Monday monthly. Shea’s at Wollombi, Wollombi 

500 Card Group 

7pm last Monday in the month. Wollombi Tennis Clubhouse 

Garden Group 

1st Monday monthly. Contact Sandy Draper 4998 3345 

Laguna Fire Brigade 

4pm in winter: 5pm in summer 

1st Saturday even months, Laguna Fire Station 

Laguna Market Day 

9.30am-1pm. 3rd Sunday, monthly. Old Northern Trading Post, Laguna 

Laguna P&C 

2pm 1st Tuesday monthly. Laguna Public School 

Millfield Crafty Artisan’s 

3rd Thursday each month at 10am. Phone 4998 1475 Black Crow 

Meditation and spiritual development class 

1pm Wed every week. cost $5 Phone 4998 1475 Black Crow 

Playgroup (for all kids 5 and under) 

10am every Tuesday, during school term, Rec Ground, Wollombi 

Stitch ‘N Bitch 

11am 1st Saturday monthly. Wollombi Tennis Club, Wollombi 

St Johns Anglican Church Services 

10am 2nd and 4th Sundays, St Johns, Wollombi 

St Marks Anglican Church Services 

10am 1st and 3rd Sundays, St Marks, Laguna 

St Michaels Church Services 

Masses 6pm, 2nd and 4th Saturdays, St Michaels, Wollombi 

Toastmasters 

Every Monday 6.45pm - 9pm. Cessnock Supporters Club 

Contact Black Crow 4998 1475 

Theology in the Pub 

4pm second Sunday monthly. 4 - 6pm The Trading Post, Laguna 

Wollombi Cattle Sales 

1pm 2nd Saturday monthly, Wollombi Sale Yards 

Wollombi Chamber of Commerce 

6pm 2nd Monday of the month see www.wollombivalley.com for 

venue or T: 4998 3322 

Wollombi Fire Brigade 

Training: 1pm, 3rd Saturday monthly, Wollombi Fire Shed 

Meetings: 4pm, following training in even months 

Wollombi Museum 

6pm summer - 5pm winter, 1st Wednesday monthly except January, 

Wollombi Cultural Centre 

Wollombi P&C 

2.30pm last Thursday monthly. Wollombi Public School 

Wollombi Tidy Valleys 

lpm Winter, 4pm Summer, 2nd Tuesday monthly 

Wollombi Tennis Club rooms. Enquiries 49983227 

Wollombi Valley Arts Council 

2pm, 1st Sunday monthly, Wollombi Cultural Centre 

Wollombi Valley Landcare 

3rd Saturday even months 

Contact Jane Mowatt 4998 8158 

Wollombi Valley Pre-school 

9.45am-3.15pm, Wed & Thurs at Wollombi Community Cottage 

Wollombi Valley Pony Club 

Every 3 weeks contact President Simone 4998 8214 for details 

Wollombi Valley Progress Association 

10am, last Saturday monthly, Wollombi Hall 

Yoga 

Yoga will resume on Saturday 30 January 2010. Classes on Tuesdays 

6.30pm & Saturdays 8.30am. Enquiries: Lee Duncombe ph 4998 8170 



Wollombi Valley Home & Garden 

Mr Fix-It 

40 yrs experience 

Endorsed by your local real-estate 

Ph: 4998 8358 

Email: john.jackson4@bigpond.com 

Peter Udodzik 

Electrical Contractor 

Lic No. EC12504 

Ph: (02) 4998 8769 

Mob: 0407 067 567 

Fax: (02) 4998 8789 

Cedar Creek Road, Cedar Creek NSW 2325 

Are your kids 

misbehaving? 

Can't help there either! 

Should your computer misbehave 

call Charles 

Tel: 02 4998 3440 

Mob: 0418 657 476 

charles@yourpcgp.com.au 

4

Wollombi Valley Pony Club 

The Members of Wollombi Valley Pony Club are very 

excited to be starting up again this month. We are all very 

keen to get back into it & start our riding year but before 

we do there are a few checks we need to make. 

Check over all your gear to make sure that all the stitching 

etc is in good order. 

For horses/ponies that have not been ridden in awhile, take 

care when bringing them back into work & maybe give them 

a lunge before you mount. 

Older horses suffer in the heat & so start them off slowly, 

give their old bones a chance to recover in between rides & 

try not to work them during the hottest part of the day. 

Flies drive our equine friends mad during this time of year 

so if you are there to keep an eye on them, they really 

appreciate a fly veil or even a light cotton rug to keep those 

pesky little biters at bay. A daily spray of an equal amount of 

Dettol, Rid & Baby Oil in a spray bottle can also help. 

Enrolment/AGM/Working Bee Day on Saturday 6th 

February at 10.00am 

We will be having our Enrolment/AGM/Working Bee on 

Saturday 6th February at 10.00am to join up members, have 

our AGM & set up the equipment ready for our first Rally 

Day. If you would like to nominate for a position at our 

AGM please ensure that you phone Simone prior to the 

meeting on 49988214. 

Further information regarding the day will be announced in 

our Newsletter, out soon. 

Finally a huge thank you (about the same size as the massive 

photo delivered to Simone) to Peter Ferminger for his 

sensational photographs taken at our Christmas Party last 

year. The photos certainly showcased that we are in fact the 

largest Club in our Zone & that we definitely have the most 

fun. 

Rider of the Month: Saxon Zaharia 

(Grandson of locals 

Lynn Adams & Paul & 

his wife Melina Adams) 

Age: 5 

Animals at Home: 2 

bunnies – Bugs Bunny 

& Peter Rabbit, a dog - 

Zeus, a cat - Tabitha, 4 

horses - Crosby, 

Dubar, Domino, & 

Bourbon, 15 chooks – 

too many names to 

mentions 

What is your favourite event at Pony Club? What’s 

the Time Mr Wolf 

My dream horse: My Welsh Mountain Pony Bourbon 

What I Like Best About Pony Club: Playing with my 

friends 

What I Like Best About Horses: Cleaning their feet out 

& hosing them down after a ride 

Tanya Hardin 



UNDERCLIFF WINERY & GALLERY 

A Ferment of Art and Wine 

Peter and Jane will welcome you at the cellar door 

Open daily from 10 am to twilight. 

Sample our latest vintage of Sparkling Shiraz! 

Premium wine tasting 

Settlers Cottage secluded self contained accommodation 

Gallery with original oils and water colours 

Antique cabinet 

Laguna Lavender products 

Variety of gifts 

Picnickers welcome 

Cheeses, pate, soft drinks and beer available 

152 YANGO CREEK ROAD WOLLOMBI 

T/F (02) 4998 3322 

www.undercliff.com.au E:finewines@undercliff.com.au 

...elegant 

exceptional 

exciting 

Catering for all 

occasions & venues 

Contact: Sheryl Thomas 

Phone: 02 4998 8471 

Email: thebrook.wollombi 

@bigpond.com 

...dedicated to serving 

your interests 

Mimaranda Horticulture & Pool Services 

greg kelso 

landscaping horticulture ride-on mowing 

pool maintenance 

4998 8015 

info@mimaranda.com.au 

5

Santa’s alleged indiscretions 



The headline of the ‘Washington Post’ newspaper screamed for 

attention - ‘Santa’s sleigh badly damaged – Christmas deliveries 

in doubt’ Carl Bernstein, iconic Washington reporter, visited the 

North Pole to file this story. 

A disgruntled helper elf, turned whistle-blower, said that Mrs 

Claus had attacked the sleigh with a sledge hammer following 

disclosure of Santa’s infidelity with Cinderella. There are even 

suggestions that Santa may have taken advantage of Little Red 

Riding Hood. 

‘I totally reject these scurrilous claims’ Santa is reported to have 

said at an Arctic press conference. ‘This is all an Islamic extremist 

plot to discredit Christmas’. 

Now Snow White has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show to 

claim a longstanding affair with Santa. ‘Not true’ says Santa ‘I 

never had sex with that woman’. (who said that before) ‘She and 

those seven dwarfs for years have tried to wrest the Christmas 

toy-making contract from me.’ ‘I implore all men and women of 

goodwill to look behind these outrageous allegations and to see 

them for what they are’ 

Rupert Murdoch’s News Limited group declined to run this story 

as he has been a lifelong believer in Santa Claus, having received 

everything he ever wanted all his life. Time magazine will still be 

running with Santa’s photo on the cover of its end of year 

edition, saying that Santa has done more for world peace than 

Barack Obama, who got the Nobel Prize for goodness knows 

what! Unless it was for the best smile in International politics. 

The head of Volvo Sweden, a major sponsor of Santa’s, being 

close to the North Pole, is standing by Santa, and is guaranteeing 

to repair the sleigh in time for Christmas. 

From Copenhagen, Kevin Rudd, in a ten page, ambiguous and 

convoluted press release, has added cautious support for Santa. 

He asked Mrs Claus to be forgiving, like John Della Bosca’s wife. 

‘After all’, Mr Rudd said, ‘Santa was one of the first to notice that 

the polar ice-cap is receding. And from his annual global 

deliveries, he has a ‘reindeers’ eye view of the negative effects of 

climate change.’ 

Tony Abbott, in his usual earthy style, simply commented on 

Santa’s alleged dalliances that ‘Boys will be boys, and not to 

confuse the Santa issue with all this global warming stuff’ 

Hillary Clinton was approached but declined to comment. 

More information is expected to become public in the ensuing 

days, when Santa least needs this distraction. 

Carols at St John’s 

Where does the song go 

After it’s been sung 

It becomes part of the Christmas 

Of our memories 

Until next year 

When Allegra returns 

haiku 

a gift 

at Christmas 

Allegra’s carols 

Mike Burdett 

Ben obol Electrical 

Lic No. 161665C 

Domestic, Commercial & 

Industrial Installation, 

Maintenance & Breakdown Service 

Ph: 4998 1659 

Mob: 0405 121 282 

● Licenced Builder and Carpenter 

● Contract works 

● Home Owners Warranty Insurance 

● All other insurances 

Butterworth Building creates unique new 

homes to suit your personal style and 

comfort along with additions/alterations 

to existing residences, decks and alike. 

Please do not hesitate to contact this 

office for your quote. 

LAGUNA ROCKS!!! 

Check out 

www.lagunawinebar.com.au 

02 4998 8244 

We've got Accoustic Jam Fri 29 Jan 

Dennis Boys Band Fri 5 Feb (back by popular demand) 

Musos Jam Session Fri 12 feb 

Segafredo Coffee and Pastries, 

Home-made Pizza/Pasta anytime. 

6

New Year’s greetings to the community from Laguna Public 

School! All staff are back on deck and looking forward to the 

challenges and opportunities that the year will bring. In 

particular we welcome our eight new Kindergarten students 

and their families, and wish them all the best in their 

educational journey. The start of a new school year is 

exciting for all students, and I fondly remember my own 

experiences at the start of a school year – sharpening my 

coloured pencils, arranging my name into the plastic pockets 

on my pencil case, getting a haircut, polishing my shoes, 

labelling all of my clothes. Indeed, University seems like 

yesterday. 

2009 was wrapped up in style with a successful Presentation 

Night, featuring awards for academic achievement, athletic 

achievement, poetry and story writing, as well as scintillating 

dramatic and dance performances. Laguna senior class 

students achieved 4 high distinctions, 10 distinctions and 12 

credits in the University of New South Wales exams for 

English, Maths and Science, a result for the school to be 

proud of. The night was capped by a moving video 

presentation farewelling the 2009 Grade 6 students. It was 

notable that the abiding memory of our departing students 

was their first day of school, and the welcome they received. 

We wish them all the best in their future endeavours. 

Craig Howe 



Dispatch from Laguna Public School Lynn Wall (DipRM, DipCM) 

Wollombi Massage & Health Service 

CALLING FOR NOMINATIONS FOR WOLLOMBI 

VALLEY WORKING PARTY (DRAFT LEP) 

Council invites interested community members to 

nominate to participate in a review of the land use 

capability, zoning and zone boundaries proposed for the 

Wollombi Valley in the draft Local Environmental Plan 

2010. 

If you wish to nominate, or require further information, 

please contact Council’s Strategic Land Use Planning 

Officer, Sarah McMillam, on 4993 4183 or email 

sarah.mcmillam@cessnock.nsw.gov.au and a nomination 

form will be forwarded to you. Alternatively, nomination 

forms are available to download from 

www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au 

Completed nomination forms must be received by Council 

no later than 5pm on Friday 19 February 2010. 

Successful nominations will be notified by 26 February 

2010. 

PO BOX 152 

CESSNOCK 2325 

B R MORTOMORE 

GENERAL MANAGER 

Remedial Massage, Chinese Massage 

Deep Tissue Muscle & Acupressure Therapy 

Hot Stone Massage, Workcover 

Australian Bush Flower Therapy 

Petrea King Graduate 

for "Cancer Massage & More" 

Phone 02 4998 3277 Mobile 0417 651372 

Email: lynnywall@bigpond.com 

Massage details - http://www.wollombimassage.com 

M.N.B. Roofing 

Bryony's Every Dog 

Grooming 

Summer 2010 - a good 

time to treat your dog at 

Every Dog Grooming. 

Poodle clips- toy and miniature $50. 

Rinus B. Yirmibes 

02 499 88 284 

041 041 8285 

M�B.roofing@gmail.com 

rhinob25@aapt.net.au 

LIC 201955C ABN 51 571 160 646 

Licensed and insured roof plumber 

SERVICING THE LOWER HUNTER AND SURROUNDS 

Bath, dry and de-shedding 

treatments, $15 for small short 

haired dogs, $25 medium 

dogs 

Summer clips for all breeds 

and sizes, prices start from $40 

for smaller dogs. 

Bath, dry and grooming out of long haired breeds start 

from $40 

Appointments available from 5.00pm weekdays. 

Weekend appointments from 9.00am. 

Enquiries call Bryony Allan 

49983129 / 0413 673 475 

7

The Scarecrows come to town again! 

Lic.no.217793C 



It's time to start thinking up some great ideas for the 2010 Wollombi 

Valley Scarecrow Festival. This year's theme is "I'd rather be ..." but more 

about that later! 

The Festival will run from Saturday 20th March to Saturday 17th April, along the main 

road from Murrays Run to Millfield. 

Make sure to put your scarecrow either along your fence line or on your property. There will also be 

a couple of places around the valley to display scarecrows for those people that don't live right on 

the main road. 

Let's see if we can create some terrific scarecrows to get both the 

locals and visitors talking!! 

To be considered for judging and to win a terrific prize, your 

scarecrow must be on display by Saturday 20th March. Let your 

imagination run wild, but if you need a little help, use this year's 

theme and think about what you would rather be ... the possibilities 

are endless ... an astronaut, a fireman, a rock star, a mechanic, or even 

the Prime Minister! 

As well as bringing the community together, this year all funds raised 

through voting in the People's Choice Award will be donated to the 

Lower Hunter Mobile Pre-school, which operates in Wollombi every 

Wednesday and Thursday during the school term. 

For more information see the website - www.wollombiscarecrowfestival.com.au 

Ken Maurer 

on 

9413 1377 

8

Modern Australian 



The disappearing Art of Conversation. 

Conversation is the informal interchange of thoughts by spoken 

words. The art is how that interchange is conducted. 

A group of people discuss a mutually interesting subject. A speaker 

expresses their point of view then someone else takes up the 

same or a related topic. Only when the original speaker has 

completed their speech does the other begin to speak. Sadly, in 

the recent past someone dispensed with this common courtesy 

and opened a free for all. 

Side-chats are the most common and blatant example of this lack 

of art. This is where someone is talking and a listener grabs a 

point, and the attention of their neighbour, and begins their own 

story oblivious to the group discussion. This is the height of 

rudeness and destroys conversation. 

A friend just returned from New Zealand reports that Kiwi’s 

retain a politeness that results in a quieter conversation than is 

common with Australians. I suggested this was due to the sidechat, 

resulting in a raised volume level as the original speaker 

attempts to keep the attention of the majority against the 

interloper. (It may also be the Australian environment. The birds in 

NZ are quieter and more polite than ours. The tweet & chirp of 

their ground dwellers as opposed to the screeching of Cockatoos 

and raucous cackle of Kookaburras). 

I have an opinion and probably some facts on any topic you would 

care to name. Most people do (politicians don’t, until they know 

the opinion of the voters they are courting). I’m forcing myself to 

be quiet and listen. I can’t be bothered to fight my way into a 

conversation only to be ignored by someone who feels their 

thought is more interesting. 

Simply put, I want to enjoy good conversation – so please shut-up. 

Alan Glover 

KCAEP Activities at Kulnura Hall 

Tuesday 9th February weekly Belly Dance classes, 

all ages, begin again. 

Weekend March 20th, 21st Paverpol Sculpture workshops 

for adults. 

Thursday 15th April 11am, African Drums and Storytelling 

show for children. 

Enquiries ph Sue Douglas 43761350 

CLASSIFIEDS 

FOR SALE 

LG SPIT SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONER LSZ122VM 

Brand new 3.5KW air conditioner still in box. 

Retails for $1,209. 

PRICE $650 

PHONE 499 83277 

Sydney Balalaika 

Orchestra 

As featured on their ABC Classic CD 

“Old Linden Tree” Live in Concert 

See the brilliant costumes - hear the 

beautiful & exciting sounds of 

Russian classical folk music played on original 

instruments by this 23 piece Orchestra of 

instrumentalists and vocalists. Works by 

Boridin, Mussorsgi, Kulikov and many others. 

Fundraiser for Laguna Hall 

March 13, 2010 at Laguna Hall 

$25.00. Bar & Food Available. 

BLACK CROW 

WALKING 

Call MILLFIELD DETOX CENTRE 

Black Crow Walking Phone 4998 1475 

www.sacredyou.net 

blackcrowwalking@hotmail.com 

HEALING/COUNSELLING 

Healing these things can be quick and spontaneous if you are ready. 

Are you ready to do the work needed to heal, emotionally, mentally and 

physically? 

Has your mind become your enemy? 

Are you tired of repeating the same patterns of abuse and self neglect? 

Are you ready to take some powerful? 

MARRIAGE CELEBRANT 

Specialising in Weddings - traditional & unusual, Tipi - wedding venue 

available for small weddings, funerals, pet funerals, baby namings, 

commitment ceremonies - your way. 

DETOX YOUR BODY - ATTENTION 

MINERS AND ALUMINIUM WORKERS 

The Ion Detox Machine easily and painlessly pulls all the toxins out of 

the body using Ion. The toxins go into a tub of saltwater that your feet 

are in. The machine pulls out heavy metals which cause depression. It 

drains your lymphatics, pulls out candida and parasites and cleans out 

your liver, kidneys and digestive system. The machine also pulls out uric 

acid from your joints, helping relieve arthritis. 

Treatment $40 for 50 minutes 

Machine sale $450 

9

WOLLOMBI. February 13th. 1845. 

Since my last communication the weather has continued of a 

variable character, alternate wet and warmth nearly occupying 

the whole interval. An unusual rapidity of vegetation has been 

the result, and the face of nature has assumed a consequent 

verdure and luxuriance seldom witnessed at this period. From 

the transitory and heavy nature of those rains, and the westerly 

direction from whence they have visited us, I should opine they 

were of a very local nature, and that their influence upon the 

maize crop is most productive. 

Since writing the foregoing our township has been visited by 

one of the severest storms of hail which it has been our lot to 

record, many of the stones exceeding six inches in 

circumference, and assuming every shape that the most prolific 

imagination could represent. During its continuance no 

ordinary intonations of the voice were audible within our 

dwellings, and in the pitiless pelting of the storm all animal 

creation exposed to its influence ran, heedless of its native 

instinct, through our streets. The maize crop is reported to have 

sustained serious injury by this unwelcome visitant, and its 

extent in a southerly direction appears to have reached the 

Hawkesbury. 

WOLLOMBI. February 16, 1849. 

THE WEATHER, &C. - The long-continued drought is the allengrossing 

subject of conversation in this quarter. Looking at 

the naked, parched appearance of the face of the country, it 

seems wonderful indeed how the cattle of the district manage 

to support existence. At present farming operations are in a 

great measure suspended; the maize crop, we fear, is lost 

beyond recovery ; and the transit of grain from hence to 

Maitland must shortly cease, unless favoured speedily by 

Providence with rain of which we have almost daily tantalizing 

appearances of an immediate and abundant supply, which end 

invariably in disappointment. 

From The Maitland Mercury, Supplied by Steve Sullivan 



WOLLOMBI TENNIS & CROQUET CLUB’S 

WHITE ELEPHANT STALL 

TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY 

CLEAN OUT YOUR CUPBOARDS – 

HAVE A LOOK IN YOUR SHED – 

ALL DONATIONS APPRECIATED 

Please no clothes 

For collection/Drop off details: Leave on the front 

verandah of clubhouse (opposite Sale Yards) or 

phone: Mary Levy 49988585, Jan 49988276, Pat 

49988377 

Thank you for your support 

FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED 

1 September 2009 to 31 March 2010 

Who do you call? 

Your local BFB Fire Permit Officer: 

Laguna Ian Galbraith 02 4998 8317 

Wollombi Tony Hawkins 0438 492 133 

Grahame Maclean 0402 424 242 

Ian Bawden 0427 983 226 

Millfield Des Kaminsky 4998 1723 

Luke Crump 0417 067 007 

Robert Baer 02 4998 1346 

Bucketty Les Stewart 0400 113 247 

David Finnie 02 4998 8191 

If you are uncertain about which area you are in, or for other 

advice, call Cessnock Fire Control on 02 4991 1733 (ask for 

Ian Bell) to arrange an inspection and fire permit. 

WOLLOMBI 

EARTHWORKS 

PTY LTD 

Dozer, Grader, Backhoe, Tractor 

Call Scott and Nickie 

Ph/Fax 4998 3308 or 0414 722 292 

‘Lochnei’ Yango Creek Road, 

Wollombi NSW 2325 

10

✄ 

Arts Council News - Welcome to 2010 

GARRY JONES January 

Artist in Residence at the 

Wollombi Cultural Centre. 

Garry was the co-ordinator of 

the informative and very well 

attended seminar "Heritage of the 

Wollombi " in February 2009. 

which sought to explain and 

understand the significance of the 

1000's of aboriginal art sites of the 

Wollombi. 

"This January residency at the Old 

Fireshed Gallery sees me 

continuing a series of 

experimental works begun in mid 

2009. Abstract paintings on weathered board (wood with a 

history), and small scale studies on paper, concern themselves 

with highly generalised movement and landscape references via 

bands and planes, layers and rhythms, steps and passages, 

transitions and continuities. 

Mallarme once wrote of the metaphor being 'the germ cell of 

poetry', a sentiment close to my own heart and one I try to 

evoke in my own approach to the creative worlds of materials 

and surfaces, images and words. 

Feel free to call in for a chat whenever you see the front door 

open (Thursdays to Sundays) and, if you're around on Sat 23rd, 

Sun 24th or Australia Day, Tues 26th, join me for a glass of wine 

YOUR LOCAL 

FINANCE BROKER 

Richard Davies M Bus (UTS) JP 

Member Finance Brokers Association of Australia 

Member Australian Finance Group 

OON Subscription form 



I would like a 12 month subscription to OON via ❑ Email ($12) or ❑ Post ($35) 

Name Phone number 

Postal address 

P: 02 4998 8337 

M: 0418 600 245 

E: richard_w_davies@bigpond.com 

and see the culminating exhibition. On each of those days, I'll 

give a poetry reading, starting at 3pm, with selected poems of 

mine reflecting aspects of the visual works on display." 

Poetry Afternoon Sunday 28th Feb 

Calling all Poets and lovers of Poetry. Dust off those old poems 

or write a new one and share them with us at the Wollombi 

Cultural Centre around 3pm. WVAC will provide refreshments 

but if you have a nibbles speciality, it would be most welcome. 

It is also a good opportunity to renew your 2010 memberships 

(prior to the agm) to ensure you receive notification of all the 

exciting art/cultural events happening in 2010 at Wollombi's 

unique community owned and managed Cultural Centre. 

Wollombi Valley Arts Council AGM 

The Wollombi Valley Arts Council will hold its Annual General 

Meeting on Sunday March 7th 2010, at 2pm, at the Wollombi 

Cultural Centre. All positions will be declared vacant on the day 

however only financial members are entitled to vote or to be 

elected to a position on the committee. 2010 memberships are 

now due and the $10 membership fee can be paid prior or on 

the day. Please feel free to come and share a glass of wine. See 

you there! 

2010 WCC Booking Enquiries. Please phone FiFi (49983339) or 

Bronnie (49988347) or drop a line to wvac@wollombi.org 

Visit www.wollombi.org 

Next WVAC Meeting Sunday 7th February 2010, at 2pm, at the 

WCC. Bronnie Aliotti 

Wollombi Valley 

Carpentry 

02 4998 8419 / 0438 695 576 

All carpentry work 

Alterations - Extensions - Renovations 

Residential - Rural - Commercial 

Owner builders welcome 

AD & DJ Boxall – Lic. No. 195761C 

Email address 

Post this form and a cheque payable to WVPA Inc./OON to OONSubscription c/o Wollombi General Store, NSW, 2325 or 

enclose this form and cash in an envelope and pop into the OON box at the Laguna or Wollombi General Stores. 

11

A.B.N 72233181053 Lic. No. 90492C 

See our Gallery on hipages.com.au : 

search by tradesman Hunter Valley 



BORE PUMPS ● IRRIGATION SYSTEMS ● WATER TANKS ● HOUSEHOLD PRESSURE SYSTEMS 

LAWN MOWERS ● RIDE-ONS ● BRUSHCUTTERS ● BLOWERS ● CHAINSAWS ● PUMPS ● PIPES ● FITTINGS 

Your local agent for 

STIHL CHAINSAWS 

Wombat Lawncare 

Eats Grass and Leaves 

Call Glenn on 4998 8150 or 0419 195 501 

● Ride-on mowing for large areas 

● Lawnmowing 

● Brushcutting 

● Weed poisoning 

● Owner operated 

● Fully insured 

● 12 years local experience 

In and out, no mucking about! 

House Maintenance 

● Small Carpentry 

● House Repairs 

● Painting 

● Landscaping 

● No Job Too Small! 

Phone John Pateman 4998 8448 

Full design, installation and maintenance service available. 

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST DEALER ON 4373 1466 

780 Peats Ridge Road, Peats Ridge NSW 2250 Fax 4373 1467 

12

OON Issue 319 - February 2010 - Wollombi Valley Online

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