Our Own News Issue 303 - October 2008 - Wollombi Valley Online

Our Own 

News 

SE NON E VERO, E MOLTO BEN TROVATO Issue 303 - October 2008 

Getting Ready For Fire 

We have had 18 months of plentiful rain – a welcome relief after the drought. However, the grasses are high and drying 

out rapidly. Our gutters may be full and as soon as the heat comes in, the bush around our houses will start to 

generate a lot of fine fuels. This is the time to start thinking about protecting your home and family. While the weather 

is still cool, it’s an ideal time to prepare for the bush fire risk. A few simple things to think about include: 

● Having a plan for a fire emergency in the house, or fire in nearby grasslands or bush. 

● Cleaning out your gutters, with a plan to check them again in a few months time. 

Now 

$2 

● Keeping your verandahs and the surrounds of your house clear of any accumulated growth, stockpiles of timber or 

anything that might easily catch on fire from windborne cinders. 

If you need any help with planning for fire or protecting your home, you can contact the Rural Fire Service information 

Line on 1800 679 737. 

Our local volunteer Rural Fire Service brigades have also been preparing for a summer that promises less than average 

rainfall. Last month the area produced a great turnout of volunteers for training at the Laguna training ground. The 

greater Wollombi area was well represented with crewed fire vehicles from Bucketty, Laguna, Cessnock, Wollombi and 

Millfield. Everyone got up to speed practising pumping and hose techniques, working together in teams using different 

fire tenders and equipment. While it was serious work, there was a bit of fun too. The “before” and “after” photographs 

show just how effective training can be, particularly if you have had nuts and bolts for breakfast! 

Graham Kinnear 

Community news for Wollombi and surrounding districts 1

Resurfaced!! 

A pallet of ‘floody damaged labels’ – 

Chambourcin 2004 

Half price by the case = $216 now $108 

Or 30% discount single bottle = $18 now $12.60 

Delicious, easy drinking wine – raspberry, 

blackcurrant fruits with intergrated spicey oak. 

High in anti-oxicdants = low blood pressure! 

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

WOLLOMBI ROAD, CEDAR CREEK NSW 2325 

ph.4998 1576 www.cedarcreekcottages.com.au 

Vale June Allen 

June had raised a large family before she came from NZ to 

Australia and although she never forgot her roots, she became 

deeply involved with the local community. When she noticed 

someone needed help she never hesitated to offer. She was 

available to house sit when we and others went on holiday. 

OON was her invention. She realized we needed a way to 

keep each other aware of things that happened in our tight 

community. It was triggered after we discovered that the local 

council was denying the Aboriginal people their rights 

concerning several sacred sites in the district. She got 

everyone motivated and the response was great. The annual 

corroborees first started as a thank you for the community’s 

action. 

Laguna Fire Brigade certainly remembers June. She worked the 

phones during the ‘94 fires; made soups for the fireworks 

nights and catered for lots of other functions and fundraisers. 

We benefited from her energy, her eccentricity and quirky 

sense of humour. When volunteers were building the Laguna 

Hall she would provide the refreshments. 

Pencil Orchids, of which she was an early member, was her 

main relaxation, and later Stitch and Bitch. 

June loved the environment, its animals and most of all, people. 

And, though we sometimes disagreed and argued, she was the 

sister I never had and I will miss her. 

Bette Thomas 

Community news for Wollombi and surrounding districts 

Issue 303 - Our Own News - October 2008 

Note to all contributors and advertisers 

The deadline for copy and ads in OON is on the 10th day of 

each month. Contributions are only accepted in a simple Word 

file or on an email sent to our email address below. Our Own 

News will now be published on or around the 

20th of the month to give more notice of events. 

Please note that I had some file issues this month and so 

sincerely apologise if your article or ad has been 

omitted. Please email me for inclusion in the next OON. 

OON Coordinator: Sandy Thomas 

If you have not advertised in OON before but would like to, 

please email the address below for our rates & booking details. 

To submit advertisements and contributions email: 

oon_news@hotmail.com 

Our Own News is written by volunteers and published by the Wollombi 

Valley Progress Association Inc., although not to be seen as their official 

newsletter. WV Progress and the OON Coordinator accept no 

responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed, nor are 

responsible for the veracity of advertising material, be it business, 

community or private. Opinions expressed in OON are not those of the 

OON Coordinator or WV Progress, although WV Progress has the final 

word on content. All rights reserved: no part of artwork/photography 

for this publication in whole or in part may be reproduced without the 

permission of the OON Coordinator. 

2

3 years 8 months and counting. 

In January 2005, Council advised Cunneens Bridge would 

be replaced, and commissioned a heritage and design 

study by Bill Jordan & Associates. This study took 18 

months. 

In September 2006, Council decided to adopt, exhibit 

and forward to NSW Heritage Office for approval, the 

Bill Jordan report recommending a new concrete bridge, 

constructed downstream of the old bridge. On 8 March 

2007, Heritage approved this approach. 

In November 2006, Council’s General Manager agreed 

to Council staff holding meetings with the Cunneens 

Bridge Group, which had formed to pursue the present 

bridge’s repair or replication. These meetings did not 

take place for six months, and in May 2007, it was 

confirmed that timber options were cost-prohibitive – 

would add over two million dollars – and the Group 

accepted concrete, with timber railings. 

In the agenda for Council’s meeting on 1 August 2007, 

Strategic & Community Services Report No. 96/2007 

again recommended that the new bridge proceed 

downstream of the old. However, Council’s General 

Manager withdrew this report at the meeting, following 

the Cunneens Bridge Group objecting to downstream 

location. The report, including Council staff’s reasons for 

preferring downstream at that time, remains on 

Council’s website. 

Council staff then agreed to further investigate upstream 

location, and Council’s meeting on 3 October 2007 

approved a new round of research. Eleven months later, 

this research has not concluded, and after 3 years and 8 

months, there is still no decision as to where, or when, 

the new bridge will be built. 

In our community’s interest, Council should immediately 

set a deadline, say a month, for the receipt of all reports, 

and not allow this latest research to drag on any further. 

If this deadline is not met, Council should proceed with 

the downstream construction approved 18 months ago. 

Paul Flemming 



...elegant 

exceptional 

exciting 

Catering for all 

occasions & venues 

Contact: Sheryl Thomas 

Phone: 02 4323 3610 

Email: thebrook.wollombi 

@bigpond.com 

...dedicated to serving 

your interests 

Laguna P&C Art Show Wrap Up 

The art show was very successful, raising much needed 

funds which will go towards the purchase of a Smart Board 

for K-6 use and furnish and equip the new art room for 

the children to create masterpieces for next year 

The buzz on opening night was electric and when the 

curtains came back the crowd was definitely not 

disappointed as the art exhibited was varied and 

interesting, the high standard resulting in very good sales 

during the evening and through the weekend. The debut of 

the complimentary glasses and tokens was well received, 

making them a must for next year. 

Kerry Moore our gourmet cook and her team in the 

kitchen deserve a gold medal for their efforts on the night. 

The restaurant is an essential part of the art show and the 

quality was as always excellent. 

Another thank you to our local wineries who every year 

answer our call and give regular support to our bar for the 

opening night. The wine was fantastic. 

The Arty Farty Café was very popular over the weekend. 

Thank you to Robyn, Sandy and the Laguna students for all 

your hard work. 

As coordinator this year I would like to extend my 

gratitude to the help and assistance given to me by parents, 

teachers, sponsors and community members. Without this 

team of hardworking volunteers the Art Show would be 

impossible. It was said to me on the night that a village is 

not a village without a school, so we should all support the 

art show – how true! 

Deb Boxall 

3

Judy Duffy Has Died 



This is s tragic loss of an exceptional person. She has been 

fighting the pain of cancer for a long time but in the end it beat 

her, despite her determination to overcome this vile disease. For 

the past 17 years her life and home and that of her partner, 

Cody, had revolved around the well being of more than 700 

orphans. If anyone had run over or found dead on the road a 

kangaroo, wallaby and there was a baby within the pouch, this 

orphan was taken to Judy. She had pouches and nappies and the 

latest arrival was carried around in its pouch as she went about 

her daily chores. The house and yard are surrounded by a fence 

so the recovering animals wandered round comfortably with 

their two dogs. All were reassured by the tranquility that 

pervades. 

Cody goes out to work as they are not funded by any 

organisation. Judy raised funds by giving talks on caring for native 

animals – at Landcare, schools, workshops and took a joey to the 

recent Blessing of the Animals. 

Judy was born in Tasmania in 1943 but when 7 was placed in an 

orphanage with two siblings, though when old enough she left to 

start her own life in Sydney. She was briefly married and then 

divorced having had two children. Later she had a daughter to 

whom she was the perfect mother and grandmother. It was with 

her, the son from a previous earlier marriage and Cody that she 

spent the last weeks of her life before the final visit to the 

hospital. In 1991 Judy discovered Wollombi and all those within 

it. Amoung her many talents Judy was extraordinarily proficient 

at crochet work. Judy and three kangaroos were used in a 

billboard poster to advertise the Sydney Olympics and likewise 

Ansett once featured her. She was Aussie through and through 

with a heart of gold, a wicked wit and was a wonderful friend. 

Judy will be sadly missed by all who knew her and our thoughts, 

love and sympathy go out to her family. 

Anne Adams 

IT’S ST MICHAEL’S 

BINGO NIGHT!!! 

Please join us for a fun filled evening 

BINGO! GREAT PRIZES! 

BRING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS! 

When – Saturday 8 November 

Time – 7pm 

Where – Wollombi Hall 

Cost - $15 per person – kids free! 

Bring – BYO – drinks and food 

Put it in your diary and we look forward to seeing 

you all there!! 

All money raised will go to the upkeep and 

maintenance of the Church. 

WOLLOMBI SANDSTONE 

Building & Restoration Work 

Monumental Work 

Fireplaces, Sculptures etc. 

Albert Kraan Lic No. R97059 

Ph 02 4998 8340 

Fax 02 4998 8352 

Mob 0418 280 367 

www.wollombisandstone.com.au 

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! 

Check out wots on @ 

www.lagunawinebar.com.au 

Its warming up at Laguna... 

If you missed ARABESK you 

MISSED OUT BIG TIME!! 

MORE great Live music on the way... 

Home-cooked meals/PIZZAs 7 days 

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 

4

Wollombi Valley Arts Council 



EMERGING ARTISTS AWARDS - $3000 AWARD 

MONIES ON OFFER. 

The Wollombi Valley Arts Council is inviting everyone to the 

presentation of awards on Friday night 3 October 2008 at 6pm, at 

the Wollombi Cultural Centre, for drinks and nibblies. 

The Exhibition, with all works for sale, will run to 19 October, 

weekends only, 10am to 4pm. 

For more information visit our website at www.wollombi.org 

Or contact Rebecca on 0412 572 651 or email 

artscouncil@wollombi.org 

JULIA COLLINGWOOD, GRAHAM WILLIAMS and 

JOHN DAVIES will open their Combined Exhibition on Friday 

24 October, at the WCC, at 5pm, with drinks and nibblies. This 

should be a very interesting and varied exhibition by local artists 

and will run to 2 November, weekends only, from 10am to 4pm. 

Write in your calendar 7 November for the opening of an 

EXHIBITION BY ALISON GREEN, JAYNEY CARTER 

AND MAX ELLIOTT. Alison specialises in screenprinted 

textiles & wall hangings. Jayney will exhibit her silk paintings 

whereas Max combines aged wood with his insightful photographs 

of the natural world. More details next OON issue. 

The CORROBOREE, as notified in last month's OON, to take 

place on 5 October, unfortunately has been postponed, due to 

unforeseen circumstances. We'll keep you posted for the next 

time. 

WCC Booking Enquiries for 2008 to Bronnie (4998 8347) or 

Fi Fi (4998 3339). 

Next WVAC Meeting 2pm Sunday 5 October at the WCC. 

Email artscouncil@wollombi.org Go www.wollombi.org 

Bronnie Aliotti 

Sculpture in the Vineyards 2008 

YOUR LOCAL 

FINANCE BROKER 

Residential – Business – Personal 

Richard Davies M Bus (UTS) JP 

Member Finance Brokers Association of Australia 

Ph: 4998 8337 or 0418 600 245 

Email: richard_w_davies@bigpond.com 

Experienced Painter & 

Decorator, Handyman 

Locally and Rural 

Remote Areas 

Nicola Dice 

Ph 4323 3115 Mob 0458 531 801 

Exhibition opens to the public Monday 6 October and closes 18 January. 

The 6th Annual Exhibition of large outdoor sculptural works by local, regional, interstate and internationally renowned sculptors– an 

eclectic mix of wine and art, set among the picturesque vineyards of the Wollombi Valley Wine Trail in the Hunter Valley. 

Millbrook Estate, Stonehurst Cedar Creek, Undercliff Winery, Wollombi Village Vineyard, and Wollombi Wines. 

You have heard of Sculpture by the Sea – now see a great exhibition of innovative works among the Vines! 

We invite everyone to attend the exhibition opening and enjoy a wonderful evening… 

Official opening Saturday 18 October at the historic Wollombi Dance Hall. Wine and canapés 

will be served. A multi-media presentation of the vineyard sculptures will be shown by 

Harrison’s Photography. A wearable Art Fashion Show will be held in the beautiful gardens 

surrounding the Dance Hall. 

Music by ‘Lyrebird Blues Band’ playing at Wollombi Tavern after the show. 

The local cafes will have ‘street stalls’ ensuring good food is available throughout the evening. 

A true festival atmosphere to mark the occasion. 

ALSO NOT TO BE MISSED 

Large Scale Clay Sculpture Workshop 11 & 12 October with Margo Gabsi at Horse Heaven Gallery. 

Embodying Vision, Drawing with Rena 11 & 12 October with Architect Dr Rena Czaplinska-Archer at Wollombi Hall 

Fun and informative guided bus tours with behind the scenes insights and presentation by the curator and technical input and 

advice by a senior Art Gallery of NSW conservator. 

For further information see www.wollombivalley.com/sculptureinthevineyards or contact the curator, Tara Morelos on 0403 469 753. 

5

Bucketty News 



Some of you might have seen the prisoners camping at the Bucketty Fire Station. The current crew of 'modern day convicts' under 

the leadership of Scott are be commended for their excellent work, a really nice bunch of guys to work with. 

They also installed the picnic tables at the Convict Wall and gave the site a good clean up. The tables were provided by NPWS and a 

special thank-you to its ranger Robert McCullough who made sure that the tables were secured into the concrete slabs - which the 

Bucketty Community had prepared back in March. They also installed a sign provided by the NPWS directing people to the new 

parking, picnic and information site. 

The prisoners will be back in two weeks time; they will oil the tables and will also continue on with the drain work the Bucketty 

Community started at the last Clean Up Day. 

Gosford Council, Cessnock Council and the RTA are working together on the installation of the official (brown) heritage road 

signage according to a plan we developed some times ago but which now finally seems to progress, with Cessnock (again) taking a 

leadership role here. 

So I am glad to report to you that it is all coming together. Have a look at the Bucketty Wall Precinct and also drive another 5 kms 

to the St Albans Ramp and look at the quarry. 

This section of the Great North Road has been submitted for State Heritage Listing and I hope to tell you some good news on this 

within the next few weeks. This would certainly be a great recognition of all the good work the Bucketty Community, together with 

the Convict Trail Project, NPWS, RTA, and the Councils of Cessnock, Gosford and Hawkesbury, has done. 

Paul Budde 

6

September Garden Group 

It is 1840 and we have arrived by pony trap to pay our respects to 

Thomas Jurd and his wife in their new house in Yango Creek. 

“Aaaah” we exclaim in wonder as we enter their two room cottage 

with a magnificent stone fireplace dominating the sitting room. We 

are just as delighted in 2008, when we visit Lindsay and Loris Self’s 

garden on the first day of Spring. Lindsay and Loris have restored 

this beautiful old settlers hut by sandblasting the exterior walls and 

verandah, replacing the roof, rebuilding the old stone fireplace and 

furnishing it with original décor. It is a tribute to their dedication and 

hard work. Loris is now concentrating on restoring the cottage 

garden to its former glory. It already has a huge old Bay tree under 

planted with Hellebores, Violets, Snowdrops, Iris and hundreds of self 

propagated bulbs. Lavender plants, Shasta daisies, Wallflowers, Lambs 

Ears, Verbena and herbs fill the sunny spaces and provide a riot of 

colour around the old picket fence. Lots of unusual ‘creatures’ peep 

out from under bushes adding interest and character to this garden. 

The orchard, chook-house and veggie garden get reflected heat from 

the rock escarpment behind. The stone fruit trees are ready to 

explode with blossom. The Citrus trees are already laden with 

lemons, mandarins and oranges. The three remaining ‘girls’ peck 

happily amongst the ground covers of Garlic Chives, herbs, Gazanias 

and self seeded Poppies (pun not intended). 

The native garden containing Callistemons, Wattles and lots of tube 

stock, has a large rock into which previous owners have hollowed 

out rainwater pools for the birds that find sanctuary in this special 

place. Lindsay and Loris love their natural areas and have made 

tracks leading through the rock escarpment. Here they are planting 

native Orchids making it a place to sit and dream. One of the 

‘treasures’ uncovered after they moved in eight years ago was a 

fantastic rockery built below the escarpment. Many hours of hard 

work have been put in removing the Jasmine, finishing the rock work, 

installing a water feature and planting it with native shrubs, prostrate 

Grevilleas and Rosemary. It was our good fortune to see all these 

plants flowering, and what a sight they made in the sunshine. Native 

plants surround the house making a spectacular display and 

highlighting the beautiful eucalypt shading the verandah. 

We all thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon. What a wonderful way to 

celebrate the coming of Spring to Wollombi Valley. Thank you Lindsay 

and Loris. Please invite us again. 

Note for the diary. The Christmas Garden Group will be at Sandy 

Draper’s on the 1st of December. Our next meeting will be THE 

SECOND MONDAY, 13 October at 1pm at Bob and Nadine 

Connor’s house at 163 Blaxlands Arm. This is 1.63 kms from the 

electricity station on Route 33 to Sydney. It is a delightful garden so 

we will see you there. Maggie Brown 



Wollombi Museum 

The separate stories of our very old saddle and pack saddle 

are now told alongside each item which has been remounted 

on higher plinth stands. This will enable visitors to more easily 

view and for us to maintain the saddle and pack saddle. 

We are still looking to improve our Agricultural and Timber 

Industry displays and would be interested in receiving any very 

old farming, milking, sawmill or bullock team machines or 

equipment to enlarge these exhibits. As mentioned before we 

are looking to focus on our local history and any help in 

building these exhibits would be greatly appreciated. 

We have been recently donated a General Store accounting 

journal showing domestic and farm items purchased by families 

around the early 1900s. We have a number of these 

journals/ledgers used by early Wollombi General Stores and it 

is interesting to read of the purchases made by local families 

back then and the prices paid for the items purchased. A 

shilling bought a lot back then. 

Again we invite you to support and visit your local Wollombi 

Museum and we, the volunteers, look forward to restoring, 

preserving, showing, and communicating our local history the 

way it was back then. 

Lindsay Self, Wollombi Museum Convener 

WOLLOMBI 

LABOUR DAY MARKET 

Monday 6 October 

8.00am – 1.00pm 

Wollombi Sale Yards, Paynes Crossing Rd 

Over 100 stalls: local produce and crafts, 

plants, clothes, tools, bric a brac …. 

Refreshments include BBQ, Tea Shed, 

Mexican, Vegetarian, Coffee Van 

Can you bake cakes / slices for the tea shed 

or veggie slice for the BBQ? 

(please avoid peanut ingredients) 

Deliver to the food sheds before 10am. 

Want to be a stall holder? 

$30 for 6x6m stall collected on the day. 

NO BOOKING REQUIRED 

EXCEPT food / drink stalls only by prior negotiation 

Can choose your site the day before; open after 1pm 

($5 overnight booking fee) 

Bring your friends 

Proceeds support Laguna Fire Brigade & other local 

projects via Wollombi Valley Progress Association 

Contact Robyn Lamond 4998 8415 

7

Dispatch from Laguna Public School 



Congratulations to Debra Boxall and her team for organising 

a very successful Art Show over the weekend of 29 - 31 

August. The Opening Night was packed with people enjoying 

the art, company and the excellent catering from Kerry 

Moore’s team in the restaurant. This annual fund raising event 

will contribute much-needed funds to the school, which will 

be used to buy a Smartboard and to furnish the new multipurpose 

room currently under construction. The P&C 

Association wishes to thank all of the community members, 

parents and staff who cheerfully contributed substantial 

amounts of time and labour to make the show a success. 

On the evening of 4 September Laguna students performed in 

the Coalfields Rock dance extravaganza at Cessnock High 

School. The kids looked tremendous in the colourful outfits 

fashioned by parents Sarah Brown and Karen Toohey, and the 

performance was an explosion of colour and movement. It is 

no small feat to choreograph 40 children aged between 5 and 

12 in a 4-minute dance routine featuring terrifying leg speeds, 

so congratulations to Simone Smith for pulling it off with 

aplomb! 

We recently celebrated National Book Week with children coming to school dressed as a favourite book character. Our librarian 

Deanne Baker did a great job organising the day, as well as a book fair in which the school sold over $700 worth of books. We also 

celebrated National Literacy and Numeracy Week with a wonderful afternoon of favourite stories from community members, most 

of whom have grandchildren at the school and some of whom are former Laguna students themselves. 

Stick News: our transplanted Kurrajong still refuses to make its intentions known and so the tree-side vigil continues. Keep those 

positive thoughts coming. 

Craig Howe 

Lynn Wall (DipRM, DipCM) 

Wollombi Massage & Health Service 

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 

Mimaranda Horticulture & Pool Services 

greg kelso 

landscaping horticulture lawn care 

pool maintenance 

www.mimaranda.com.au 

4998 8015 info@mimaranda.com.au 

Wollombi Real Estate 

“For a Unique Lifestyle Opportunity” 

Our friendly team has been providing real 

estate services within the Wollombi Valley 

since 1986. 

Take advantage of years of experience and 

local knowledge, contact our office to discuss 

your property needs today. 

As your local Agent for Bushman’s Tanks, we 

can also provide information on monthly 

specials on water storage tanks and other farm 

products. 

At Wollombi Real Estate we pride ourselves on 

being part of the Wollombi valley 

community. 

www.wollombirealestate.com.au 

Ph: 4998 3219 

8

DIXON 

PLASTERERS 

Lic. No. 72278 

Plastering Contractors 

Ben obol Electrical 

Lic No. 161665C 

Domestic, Commercial & 

Industrial Installation, 

Maintenance & Breakdown Service 

Ph: 4998 1659 

Mob: 0405 121 282 

Ken Maurer 

on 

9413 1377 



Phone: 02 4998 8453 after 5pm 

Mobile: 0412 130 184 

Pony Club 

Wollombi Valley Pony Club News or should we change that to 

“Wet Valley” following yet another cancelled day organised 

around The Blessing of The Animals. Although enthusiasm was 

dampened, the spirit moves on with plans for a two day event 

and camp in the first week of the school holidays. 

Together with the usual instruction and emphasis on safety the 

camp will have a distinctive Australian tabloid theme with boiling 

Billies, perhaps baking damper, camp drafting that could include 

some type of cattle muster game, farm gate work and hopefully 

not too much Drizabone action plus loads more fun. 

Due to the weather and the condition of the ground, exactly 

what’s going on and when will be decided nearer the school 

holidays with riders and families notified. 

Frank McLachlan 

WOLLOMBI COTTAGE 

Sale of stock 

Starting 1 October, 

every day for two weeks 

EVERYTHING HALF-PRICE 

Including: Akubras at $47.50 (less than cost), 

Boots from $29, leather bags $22.50, All 

Thomas Cook clothing, Jacaru hats, soft toys, 

Fragrant oils $1 each, doylies, All bric-a-brac, 

and much more... plus: selected handcrafts and 

Laguna Lavender products 

Why not come in and do some 

early Christmas shopping? 

Free to a good home 

- a quantity of Dexion and other shelving. 

9

ArtScrawl - Call for Submissions for Funding 

For twelve years our local community, restaurants, wineries, 

businesses and artists have supported Art Scrawl. Now is an 

appropriate time to offer a very sincere and public thankyou to 

all who have contributed to Art Scrawl’s success. 

During this time we have seen artists of the highest rank 

contribute works in all areas of the fine arts and crafts to be 

assessed by many eminent judges. Art Scrawl has acquired a 

distinction for excellence that reaches throughout the state. 

The youth section in the exhibition has given children the 

opportunity to present works to the public at a professional 

venue and many have been encouraged to move through the 

age groups and into open competition. This has been one of the 

most rewarding and continuous outcomes of Art Scrawl. 

In all previous years Art Scrawl has donated the many 

thousands of dollars raised by the event to the ongoing 

maintenance of the Pokolbin Community Hall. It will be lucky 

for some in our thirteenth year. The committee has 

determined that in 2009 our income should be directed 

to some other charitable or not for profit group or 

organization. 

To be eligible you must be based in the Cessnock LGA and 

funding must be directed to the benefit for our community. The 

successful applicant will be able to provide a brief report of 

their previous activities, their intended use of Art Scrawl funds 

and their expected outcomes. The applicant is required to be an 

ATO registered charity or an incorporated association. 

Application forms are available at the front counters of 

Cessnock City Council Chambers and local libraries or by 

contacting Art Scrawl on (02) 49381496. Deadline for 

applications – Monday 6 October 2008. 



Bach to Beatles 

Last July the Wollombi Valley was treated to an event long to 

be remembered when “Sydney Brass” played the Laguna Hall 

and life will never be the same. 

Paul Goodchild, Michelle Perry, Andrew Evans, Duncan Spry 

and Joshua Davis gave us a unique experience, up close and 

personal that was greatly appreciated by all. 

Special mention and thanks to Rosie Glover, 

Barb & Brian Barnes and Steve & Simone. 

Every piece played was introduced and explained by Paul. For 

example, one piece they played showed how the early 

musicians experimented with surround sound and instruments 

were played amongst the audience. 

This certainly was an afternoon much enjoyed. 

Sally Sullivan 

10

What’s all the fuss about? 

Aerial view of a Coal Seam Methane Gas field in Colorado 

It would have started with one rig drilling a core hole to get 

some geological data. Then the company would have run a test 

well, as they are now planning to do in Broke, then a little while 

later they get a production lease to put in 60 gas wells, as is 

happening at Stroud. After a couple of years the company 

applies to put in another 100 wells, as they are doing in 

Camden. Later on, as the methane flow slows down, they apply 

to put in even more wells closer together so as to extract the 

very last bubbles of gas, as now happens in USA and Canada. It 

does not take much imagination to see what effect this 

incremental industrial development would have on the 

Wollombi Valley community, let alone the devastating effect on 

the environment. 

The NSW Departments of Primary Industries and Planning are 

issuing new licences will-nilly to mining companies at an 

alarming rate. Methane Gas mining is a junior player compared 

to Coal, but the attitude of these government departments and 

their Ministers is the same for both. They ignore community 

submissions, researched by scientists and academics, preferring 

to rely on the flimsy findings produced by the mining 

companies. They ignore the concerns raised by the NSW 

Department of the Environment. Mining is destroying whole 

river systems, yet they blame local agriculture. 

This NSW State Government is hell-bent on extracting 

whatever it can from the minerals lying under ground, 

regardless of the long-term cost. They are issuing licences to 

multinational mining corporations under laws that grant us 

citizens virtually no recourse whatsoever. Those laws 

concentrate power into the hands of the Minister of Primary 

Industries and the Minister of Planning. Under this Labor 

Government, those Ministers have used these laws to behave as 

if they rule a tin pot oil nation with no form of democracy, 

without any regard for damage caused to the environment and 

local communities. Until the laws are changed we remain reliant 

on legal challenges, shareholder action, publicity, civil action and, 

above all, community support. 

Support WAGE by becoming a member or making a donation. 

At the very least, make sure you know what is going on and 

find out more than what you are being told by Sydney Gas. 

Membership forms are available at the Wollombi General Store 

and Laguna Wine Bar. 

Or join up at www.wage.org.au Sean Gough 



Wollombi Valley 

EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL 

PEPPERY / MELLOW / INFUSED with BASIL, 

CHILLI, ROSEMARY or LEMON MYRTLE 

250ml 500ml 2 Litre 

HOT WINTER PRICES at local stores and markets 

4998 8415 0419 800896 talumberi@bigpond.com 

Local accommodation 

Bellbird 

Tabitha Hill Cottage 02 4990 5091 

Laguna 

Apptrak Stud 02 4998 8412 

Judsons at Laguna 02 4998 8085 

Watagan Retreat 0411 195 042 

Wombat Bottoms 02 9498 4372 

Yango Bend Cottage 02 4998 8069 

Millfield 

Bellbird Cottages 02 4998 1705 

Millbrook Estate 02 4998 1155 

Vicar’s House 02 4998 1336 

Wollombi 

Avoca House 02 4998 3233 

Capers Guesthouse 02 4998 3211 

Cedar Creek Cottages 02 4998 1576 

Cody’s Cottages 02 4998 3256 

Guesthouse Mulla Villa 02 4998 3254 

Mystwood Cabins 02 4998 3234 

The Bungalow 02 4998 3220 

Tarrawonga 02 9410 0024 

Undercliff Settlers Cottage 02 4998 3322 

Wild Edge Retreat 02 4998 3304 

Wollombi Barn Stay 02 4998 3221 

Restaurants, pubs and food stores 

Laguna 

Old Northern Trading Post 02 4998 8244 

Millfield 

Millfield General Store 02 4998 1263 

Wollombi 

The Gate Cafe 02 4998 3377 

Cafe Wollombi 02 4998 3220 

Wollombi General Store 02 4998 3230 

Wollombi Tavern 02 4998 3261 

Wollombi Tea Rooms 02 4998 3137 

11

Performance 

WOLLOMBI VALLEY SHORT FILM FESTIVAL 

Make sure you're at the Film Festival. 

Your host for the evening: Bob Philippe. 

When: 7pm Saturday 4 October, (middle of the school hols). 

Where: Laguna Community Hall. 

Food & Refreshments available. 

Adults $15, Children $7.50 

'ECLECTICA' 

Several writers: Alan Glover, Bob Philippe, Peter McDonough, 

Micaela Elphick, Eve Grey, Julie Simpson, James Whitington, 

Claude Aliotti. 

Several directors: Alan Glover, Bob Philippe, Tegan Howell- 

Newman, Micaela Elphick. 

Several cast: Alan Glover, Bob Philippe, Tegan Howell-Newman, 

Micaela Elphick, Malcolm Goudie, Ken Barnett, Ana Ringma, 

Karen Butler-Hues, Ross Fletcher, Cordelia Howell, Lincoln 

Free, Greg Major, Neville Newman. 

AUDITIONS for next April's production of 'THE RISE 

AND FALL OF LITTLE VOICE'. 

'Little Voice' is written by Jim Cartwright and will be directed 

by Janine Oliver (The Finnys & Wind in the Willows). 

An interesting story of a shy young woman who lives the life 

of a recluse listening to the records of her late father in her 

bedroom. In the process she tends to drive her loud-mouthed 

mother to distraction. One evening LV is overheard by one of 

her mother's boyfriends, who just happens to be a talent 

scout. He recognises her talent and realises this could be his 

last chance at making the big time. He organises a 

performance at the local night club. As the big night arrives 

everything is in readiness, but what about LV? 

Janine is searching for a talented singer between the ages of 

18 - 30, who is able to sing the songs of the great divas such 

as Judy Garland, Marilyn Monroe, Shirley Bassey and Nina 

Simone. Singing lessons and guidance will be provided by Valley 

Artists. Audition date: 11 October, 2008. 

If interested please contact her (02) 4998 8282 or email: 

info@valleyartists.org 

Janine Oliver 

Spring back into 

Saturday 8.30 am 

Tuesday 6.30pm 

Wollombi Community Hall 

$12 casual or $60 for 6 sessions 

No booking necessary 

Phone Lee Duncombe 4998 8170 



12

Diary & Events 

Crafty Yarns 

10am 3rd Monday monthly. Wollombi Tea Rooms, 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 

Native American Indian Trading Blanket 

1pm 28th Sept then 4th Sunday monthly. 

1367 Wollombi Rd, Millfield. Ph Black Crow 4998 1475 

Parent’s Group (for all kids 5 and under) 

10am every Tuesday. Wollombi Recreation Ground, Wollombi 

Stitch ‘N Bitch 

11am 1st Saturday monthly. Wollombi Tea Rooms, 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 7pm, 2nd and 4th Fridays, St Michaels, Wollombi 

Theology in the Pub 

4pm first Sunday monthly at Old Northern 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 

1pm Winter, 4pm Summer. 2nd Tuesday monthly. 

Wollombi School Residence. Enquiries 4998 3227. 

Wollombi Valley Arts Council 

4 pm summer - 2pm winter. 1st Sunday monthly, 

Wollombi Cultural Centre 

Wollombi Valley Landcare 

3rd Saturday even months 

Contact Jane Mowatt 4998 8158 

Wollombi Valley Pre-school 

9.30 am - 2.30pm, every Wednesday at Wollombi Hall 

Wollombi Valley Pony Club 

Every 3 weeks contact President Simone 4998 8214 or 

Secretary Tanya 4998 8319 for details 

Wollombi Valley Progress Association 

10am, last Saturday monthly, Wollombi Hall 



Ken Fletcher Isy Fletcher 

Josh Bruce 

Wollombi Stonemasonry 

Services 

All aspects of beautiful stonework 

Ph: Ken Fletcher 49 981 664 or 0418 456 245 

E: kenstone21@optusnet.com.au Licence no. 90492C 

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 

13

Circus Workshop 

In the next school holidays, October 8 & 9, Kulnura Hall, 

10 am – 3 pm. 

Learn to juggle, be an acrobat, walk the tight rope, ride the 

unicycle, etc. Taught by talented John Campbell of Circus 

Avalon. Suits children from 8 up to teens. Family discounts. 

Supported by Gosford City Council. 

To book, phone Sue Douglas 4376 1350 

presents 

'Christmas Classics' 

featuring arrangements of popular 

Christmas Carols, Opera Classics, 

Jazz and more 

Sunday 14 December at 6pm 

Laguna Hall 

Tickets $25 

Bookings at Wollombi General Store 

Plus 

'The World of Brass' 

A Special Kiddy Prom for local children 

Monday 15 December at 11am-12 noon 

Laguna Hall 

Tickets $10 at door 

The June MacQueen 

Annual Rose Competition 

Sponsored by Wollombi Tavern 

18 October 2008 

Judging commences at 11am sharp at Wollombi Tavern. 

No entries accepted after judging commences. 

See poster at Wollombi Tavern for the rules of 

competition. 

Prizes offered for: 

❁ Best overall rose 

❁ Child’s rose 

❁ Fragrant rose 

❁ Attractive rose 



M.N.B. Roofing 

Rinus B. Yirmibes 

P 02 499 88 284 

M 041 041 8285 

E MNB.roofing@gmail.com 

E rhinob25@aapt.net.au 

LIC 201955C ABN 51 571 160 646 

Licensed and insured roof plumber 

SERVICING THE LOWER HUNTER AND SURROUNDS 

Detox your body with 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 min. Machines sale $450 

Black Crow Ph. 4998 1475 

The Essential Gardeners 

Is Your Garden Looking Tired? 

We specialise in garden design & 

essential maintenance 

❁ Preservation, weeding, pruning, lawn mowing, 

maintenance and caretaking 

❁ Creating specific Garden Rooms to suit your home, 

lifestyle & environment. 

❁ We use and recommend certified organic garden 

products to improve the health of your plants and 

protect the environment from harmful chemicals. 

Call Julie on 4998 8786 

Email: julienelson1@optusnet.com.au 

All Timber Repairs & 

Building Carpentry Services 

30 years of experience 

❁ Home extensions, renovation & maintenance, 

internal and external repairs. 

Pergolas, decks, handrails, stairs 

To view some of my work please visit 

www.alltimberrepairs.com.au 

Contact Marty on 49988786 

We believe in personal service using quality products, 

materials and excellent workmanship, treating every project 

as if it was our own home and garden. 

We look forward to hearing from you! 

14

✄ 

ANNUAL BISHOP’S 

MASS 

Saturday 27 September 08 

6pm 

We invite everyone in the community to join 

us for this wonderful annual celebration. 

A very ‘down-to-earth’ gathering at 

St Michael’s, Wollombi. Bishop Michael 

Malone will say Mass and then a light supper 

outdoors will follow. 

If the weather is inclement, we will have an 

alternative spot for supper! 

St Michael’s welcomes those of all beliefs and 

creeds to come together as a community for 

this Mass. 



OON Subscription form 

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

Name Phone number 

Postal address 

FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED 

1 September 08 to 31 March 09 

Who do you call? 

Your local BFB Fire Permit Officer: 

Laguna Trevor Winn 02 4998 8381 

Wollombi Tony Hawkins 02 4998 3208 

Grahame Maclean 02 4998 3130 

Ian Bawden 02 4998 3226 

Millfield Des Kaminsky 02 4998 1723 

Bucketty Les Stewart 02 4376 1368 or 

David Finnie 02 4998 8191 

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

for other advice, call Cessnock Fire Control on 4991 

1733 to arrange an inspection and fire permit 

THINK AHEAD - a minimum of 48 hours is required to 

ensure your weekend permit is processed. 

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. 

15

Carl Hoipo 

Historian 

and Valuer 

Ph: 4998 8327 Fax: 4998 8175 

Email: hoipo@iinet.net.au 

House Painter 

& Handyman 

No job too small. 

Local and reliable with 

over 25 years experience. 

Lionel King 

02 4998 8141 



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 

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 

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

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

Now the DIXON distributor for 

the Wollombi Valley. 

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 

16

Our Own News Issue 303 - October 2008 - Wollombi Valley Online

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