Our Own News - Issue 315 - October 2009 - Wollombi Valley Online

Our Own 

News 

SE NON E VERO, E MOLTO BEN TROVATO Issue 315 - October 2009 

LEP Meetings 

I hate being short changed. By the general public reaction to the two 

‘Council Presentations’ at Wollombi Hall neither do 99% of the 

community who attended. All they really wanted was a straight 

answer to a straight question and they didn’t get it. You can’t blame 

people for getting a bit cranky. There doesn’t seem to be any 

sympathy for Owners with genuine concern that an asset they have 

probably spent most of their working lives to establish is almost 

certainly diminishing in value as a result of the change in planning 

proposed from a rural zone to a conservation zone. 

I have attended four such presentations to date. At the first, in 

Cessnock, I was the only member of the public to attend. The next 

two at Wollombi Hall; about two hundred at each meeting. The last, 

held by invitation for the benefit of the industry, presumably planning 

professionals, solicitors, agents, etc. eight people attended. I am 

aware, at another meeting at Kurri standing room only for Mulbring 

owners with similar concerns as Wollombi. That should tell you 

something. 

Then there are heritage issues for Wollombi Valley. The Draft when 

first exhibited clearly identified the present Heritage Conservation 

Area around the village. We were aware the Great North Road 

reserve from Bucketty to Gleghorns Bridge had been listed as a 

State item. Nothing else. Now and only as a result of attending the 

various meetings, we know Council proposes to increase the area of 

the present Heritage Conservation Area some three or four fold 

$2 

and add to the Great North Road reserve item a strip 50m wide 

either side for the full length of the road to Payne’s Crossing in one 

direction and to a point about 2 kms past the Cedar Creek turn-off 

in the other and your guess is as good as mine as to the number of 

owners affected. I doubt if many realise the implications. There’s 

money for Presenters, not for stamps. 

Planning and legal experts tell me ‘don’t hold your breath waiting for 

changes to the Draft, regardless of what Cessnock Council might be 

inclined to change as a result of public submissions – The Dept. of 

Planning never admit to a mistake.’ But they do have some good 

advice for those owners who feel secure in the knowledge that 

‘existing uses’ will still be permitted without consent. The Principal 

Act (E.P.& A. Act) stipulates that existing use provisions are limited 

to activities undertaken in the previous 12 months before gazettal of 

the LEP. So the tip is, if E3 becomes the new zone, notify Council by 

registered mail of each and every activity carried out on your 

property during that twelve month period, frame a copy for yourself, 

put another with your will, keep one for a Purchaser in case you 

want to sell and most importantly another with a mate who will be 

prepared to lie under oath. Council will almost certainly lose theirs 

but you’ll be covered. That is until the DoP persuades the Minister 

to change the law retrospectively. 

Good luck, you’ll need it. 

Ray Annis-Brown 

Community news for Wollombi and surrounding districts 1

Spring Special 

Light Sweet Red – 

Deliciously fruity style wine. 

Smooth, slightly sweet 

Shiraz/Chambourcin blend. 

Lovely chilled! 

$180/case (save $60). 

You’re always welcome at Stonehurst! 

Don’t forget your “local’s discount”. 

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 

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. 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

Draft LEP 2009 


Issue 315 - Our Own News - October 2009 

On Thursday evening 3rd September and Sunday afternoon 6th September, Council held information meetings for the community. 

At both of these meetings, close to two hundred people attended, with a lot of feeling and passion evident with council’s lack of 

explanations, consultation and information about issues related to the LEP. 

A few of these points of major concern that everybody should be aware of are: 

The loss of rights and entitlements (without compensation) if our current Rural 1(a) zone is changed to the proposed 

Environmental E3 zone. 

The loss of existing holding rights which will de-value many properties by rescinding the right to build a dwelling. 

The Heritage Conservation Zone that will run from Bucketty to Paynes Crossing and Cedar Creek stretching 50 meters either 

side of the Great North Road encroaching onto private property. 

The LEP will effect everybody, the whole community is urged to make a submission in writing to Council, before the 12th 

October 2009, whether you disagree or not. 

The Progress Committee will be attempting to hold a community meeting to form a course of action in the near future, all 

necessary information in this regard will be available at Wollombi & Laguna Stores. 

Steve & Sally Sullivan, Wollombi General Store. 

Wollombi Valley Pony Club 

We had a very enjoyable day welcoming our new friends from 

Cessnock Pony Club during our last Pony Club day. Our 

visitors were all very impressed with our picturesque grounds, 

the smooth running of the day & a gourmet lunch. The morning 

warm up/dressage lesson settled all horse/rider combinations, 

ensuring a safe & fun 2 hour trail ride. We would like to thank 

Cessnock Pony Club for coming out to join us for the day & 

for supporting our BBQ & Fundraising Raffle. This event was 

such a success that we now hope it will become an annual 

event. 

During the day we managed to raise $240.00 with our raffle for 

one of our members, Ziggy Rus-Hartland, who has recently not 

been well. All members of Wollombi Valley Pony Club send 

their best thoughts & wish her a speedy recovery. We look 

forward to seeing Ziggy back at Pony Club very soon. 

Rider of the Month: 

Clio Hamilton 

Age: 4 

What is your 

favourite event at 

Pony Club? 

Jumping 

What do you like 

best about horses? 

Freedom 

What is the best 

advice that you’ve 

been given? 

Any advice my 

mother gives 

My dream horse: A Showjumping horse 

Most embarrassing moment? 

Falling off while jumping barrels 

Tanya Hardin 

Taste the History as Wollombi Valley 

comes alive on the 7th and 8th of 

November with the inaugural 

Wollombi Valley Country Fair. 

A produce market featuring local fresh and preserved produce, 

arts and crafts, local wine and food stalls and family games will 

help bring together three main events. 

Saturday from 10, the annual Wollombi Tavern Woodchop – 

featuring the Wollombi round of the NSW 300mm Standing 

Block Championship and 8 other categories with presentation 

of the Nev Craft Memorial Trophy in the afternoon and food 

and entertainment into the night. 

Saturday evening, children from local schools and crafty 

community members will feature in a lantern parade displaying 

paper and cane lanterns they have created in workshops, 

culminating in the 2009 Sculpture in the Vineyards opening 

ceremony. 

On Sunday, The Wollombi Endeavour Museum will hold their 

open day and an historic machinery display from collectors 

across the region. There will be a dog fashion parade, croquet 

demonstrations, a boules tournament in memory of local artist 

and icon Bernard Gay and post & rail fencing and timber water 

trough and slab-cutting demonstrations. 

Come and Taste the History in historic Wollombi village 

from 10am Saturday 7th November through to 

4pm Sunday 8th November. 

See www.fair.wollombi.nsw.au for full details. 

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 Artisians 

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. Wollombi Recreation Ground, Wollombi 

Stitch ‘N Bitch 

11am 1st Saturday monthly. Shea’s at Wollombi, 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 Fridays, St Michaels, Wollombi 

Toastmasters 

Every Monday 6.45pm - 9pm. Cessnock Supporters Club 

Contact Black Crow 4998 1475 

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 

lpm Winter, 4pm Summer, 2nd Tuesday monthly 

Wollombi Tennis Club rooms. Enquiries 49983227 

Wollombi Valley Arts Council 

11am, 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: Wollombi Community Hall, Tuesday 6.30pm, Saturday 8.30am 

Enquiries: Lee Duncombe ph 4998 8170 



...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 

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 Arts Council News 

2009 EMERGING ARTISTS AWARDS 

The Wollombi Valley Arts Council invites you to the 

Opening and Presentation of Awards on 

Friday 2 October at 6pm - Wollombi Cultural Centre 

Our Judges for EAA 2009 are Lisa Slade, art historian, curator 

and Newcastle University lecturer and Bridget Nicholson, 

Regional Arts Development Officer at Arts Upper Hunter Inc 

The WVAC would like to thank Cessnock City Council, 

Companion Credit Union, and Eckersley's Art & Craft supplies 

for their sponsorship and support. 

The exhibition, with all works for sale, will run to 18th 

October, weekends, 10am to 4pm 

SUE LINTON & SHANE LENNARD 

Come and meet these local artists at their Opening on 

Friday 23rd October at the WCC. 

Sue Linton works in Pastel and Oils and specialises in Portraits 

of people, pets & animals.The works she will be exhibiting will 

Laguna P&C Art Exhibition - Thank you 

Laguna P&C would like to thank all the hardworking parents, 

staff, community members and students for your help in putting 

on the 18th annual Art Exhibition. In tough financial times it was 

lovely to see the community out in force to support the school 

and this annual event. All facets of the 

show were successful starting with the 

commemorative glass on entry right 

through to taking home that special piece 

of art on the Sunday afternoon. This year 

we sold over $27,000 worth of art and 

with opening night, dinners and raffle 

tickets we raised over $13,500 for the 

school. 

The money will be used to install much 

needed air-conditioning in the new Art 

Room as well as landscaping around the 

new class room. Our school only receives 

about a very small amount per child of 

funding per year to pay for everything: 

pens, text books, rates, phone electricity 

bills for the school. So the money that we 

raise makes it easier to give our children 

better facilities. I think that I will ask 

Principal Chris Davey to do a house hold 

budget for me. 

Not too many people would be aware of 

the work in the lead up week required to get the show on the 

road. The Sunday before is a working bee to clean, restore and 

paint all the flats as well as putting up all the black material and 

moving everything from the shed to the hall, requiring a large 

team of people to help, even those with other commitments 

managed to still turn up and do their part. 

Then there is the receiving of the art on the Monday & Tuesday, 

while the lights are being set up, no small feat! The entries need 

to be then formulated into a catalogue and believe me this 



be mainly local Oil landscapes and some animals. Sue has won 

many awards in Newcastle & Lower Hunter Art shows and has 

been a Winner & Finalist in the Hunter Business Excellence 

Awards 2006 and 2007 respectively. 

Shane Lennard specialises in Fine Art Photography particularly 

unique Wine Country & Hunter Valley Images. 

Award winning framed & unframed photos will be available, as 

well as a new & exciting range of local postcards. 

Subjects are as diverse as landscapes, vineyards, frogs, birds, 

insects, lizards, flowers, rustic old sheds & tractors. This 

delightful exhibition runs until Sunday 1 November, 10am to 

4pm, 

WCC Bookings - please phone FiFi (49983339) or 

Bronnie (49988347) 

Email wvac@wollombi.org Visit www.wollombi.org 

Next WVAC Meeting 2pm Sunday 11h October 2009 at WCC 

Bronnie Aliotti 

requires some very long hours to get it right, sometimes taking 

days, the computer can turn into your enemy at 2.00am after 

8hrs of trying to get the spreadsheet to look right, but I digress. 

Wednesday and Thursday consists of our wonderful Hanging 

Team who display all the art so brilliantly, 

thank you, Annie Heathcote John Pateman, 

and Julie Brown. Then there is Friday, a 

mad dash to the finish line, this year without 

the help of John Forsyth most of you 

would have needed torches to see the 

lovely dinners cooked by our hardworking 

kitchen team or to choose which delicious 

Wollombi Valley Wine Trail Wines would 

go perfectly with your meal all generously 

donated by our local wineries. 

Saturday and Sunday the hall has to be 

manned and the Arty Farty Café run, we 

have fathers doing security from 

Wednesday night to Saturday. I think they 

like to do it to get a night off maybe that’s 

why my husband offered himself twice! 

Sunday it is all over for the show but the 

treasurer still has to reconcile and send 

out all the artist payments which once 

again is a very time consuming job as well 

as again a large team of helpers come in 

and take it all down and put it away ready for next year. 

Many of my friends in Sydney are continually blown away by 

how well the Art Exhibition is supported and the funds that we 

raise, which is why in the long run living in the Laguna 

community is a wonderful choice to have made. 

Thank you to the parents, staff, students, artists, and community 

members for another successful year you all deserve a pat on 

the back. 

Debra Boxall Organiser 2009. 

5

Wollombi Valley Home & Garden 

Mr Fix-It 

40 yrs experience 

Endorsed by your local real-estate 

Ph: 4998 8358 

Email: john.jackson4@bigpond.com 

Community Art Classes 

Tutor: Amanda Davies 

Phone: 4998 8686 

Held in the new Art Room at Laguna Public School. 

Kids Class: (3:30 – 4:30pm) 

Covers basic drawing & painting 

concentrating on colour theory. 

These classes will support 

creative thinking and extend 

visual memory and problem 

solving skills. (8-12 students per 

class) 

Cost: $10 per child – includes 

equipment. 

Life Drawing Class: (5 – 7pm) 

every Wednesday, novice & 

experienced students welcome 

(any age). Class enables students 

to develop hand-eye drawing 

skills and creative sculpture using 

air dried clay. Cost $10 unwaged 

$20 employed. 

Watercolour & Sketch Group on 

Saturday mornings and a 

preschoolers art class and the 

printmakers groups offering 

drypoint, collagraph and etching 

are soon to be commenced. 

This beautiful public facility will 

encourage and develop creativity. 



FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED 

1 September 2009 to 31 March 2010 

Who do you call? 

Your local BFB Fire Permit Officer: 

Laguna Trevor Winn 02 4998 8381 

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 Village Floodplain 

Risk Management - Study and Plan 

Council is seeking the community’s input in the second phase of a 

Floodplain Risk Management Study for Wollombi Village. 

The floodplain management study is being conducted on behalf of 

Council by water and environment consultants BMT WBM. The 

study area focuses on the Wollombi Village and surrounds within a 

5km radius of the village. However, the wider catchment, including 

major tributaries such as Congewai Creek, has been included in 

investigations of flood behaviour. 

The workshop will be held at Wollombi Community Hall 

commencing at 6:00 pm Wednesday 28th October 2009. 

For more information on the Wollombi Village study contact 

Phil Miles at Council on 4993 4251, or Darren Lyons at 

BMT WBM on 4940 8882. 

The June MacQueen 

Annual Rose Competition 

Sponsored by Wollombi Tavern 

14 November 2009 

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 

6

September Garden Group 

The last time we visited Shelagh Brigg’s property Injasuti, she 

had just planted out hundreds of tubestock natives on the 

slope below her house. Now, four years later they have grown 

into giant bushes making a spectacular display of Grevillias, 

native Frangipanni, Fringe Myrtles, Banksias, Bottlebrush, 

Common Netbush etc etc etc. Shelagh is incredibly 

knowledgeable and passionate about natives, and spends a lot 

of time growing her plants from seeds and cuttings she has 

collected herself. The plants were not only named, but had 

photos showing what they looked like in full flower, Shelagh 

grows her plants not only for their beauty, but to give the 

native birds she loves and feeds safe places to build their nests 

(20 at last count) and the small animals somewhere to hide 

from predators. In fact she is loath to mow as it may destroy 

the bushrat ‘runs’ and frog habitats - I must use that as an 

excuse next summer! 

Shelagh really seems to like hard work, and has taken on the 

almost superhuman task of restoring the rainforest gully by 

removing, by hand the 

rampant Lantana, and 

replanting hundreds of 

trees, again grown 

from seeds and 

cuttings or tubestock 

from Trees In 

Newcastle (TIN). 

Although drought has 

affected many of 

these, she has had 

great success with 

Firewheel, Native 

Hibiscus, Sandpaper 

Figs, Redjacket, 

Redash, Kurrajong and 

the Kangaroo Apple. 

Her green house is 

full of tubestock 

plants and trees ready 

to ‘go’. 

The rest of the 

property is taken up 

with a Citrus orchard, veggie gardens, a vineyard (she makes 

her own wine too) and more recently an exotic garden with 

lots of Roses. Goodness knows when she has time to sleep or 

eat – we were all amazed at what she has achieved in ten 

short years. Congratulations Shelagh, we will be looking 

forward to our next visit. 

A ‘one off’ this time was a very interesting and informative talk 

on pruning by Michelle Harris. Shelagh, to her delight, gained 

four beautifully pruned Rose bushes. 

Good luck Michelle in your career of Landscaping and 

Horticulture. 

The next meeting will be the second Monday in October 

(12th) at 5 pm at Brian and Barbara Sherlock’s. 98 Edden 

Street Bellbird. Edden St starts opposite the Primary School. 

See you there 

Maggie Brown 



Dispatch from Laguna Public School 

Laguna Public School achieved a fantastic result in the recent 

Cessnock Mayoral Academic Challenge held at the Cessnock 

Performing Arts Centre. Competing against 17 other local 

primary schools, our team of Sophie Bailey, Fergus Pengelly and 

Sam Williams rode a wave of support from their senior 

classmates, parents and teachers to win through to the final, 

defeating Cessnock West in a thrilling tie-breaker and claiming 

the $3000 first prize. The excitement didn’t end there, as 

Laguna was then pitted against the winner of the high schools 

challenge, St Phillips, for a $250 prize. After a tense struggle 

early, the Laguna team came home with a wet sail to cap off a 

very exciting week for the school. Well done to our team 

members and to all of their supporters! 

Another successful P&C Art Exhibition has been held, over the 

weekend of the 28th-30th August. This event is the principal 

fundraiser for our school and relies upon the volunteer work 

of parents, staff, community members and children. It was a 

great weekend with many fantastic artworks on display. 

Our next Orientation Day for the 2010 Kindergarten intake is 

on Friday 25th September. These days have been very 

successful as the children and parents become familiar with the 

school, staff and students prior to starting school fulltime in 

2010. 

At Laguna Public School we really value the input and 

experience of our community members. Do you have a 

special skill or story that you think could benefit our students? 

If so, please contact the school. 

Craig Howe 

Mimaranda Horticulture & Pool Services 

greg kelso 

landscaping horticulture ride-on mowing 

pool maintenance 

4998 8015 

info@mimaranda.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! 

7

1080 

You are Invited to an exclusive viewing of 

POISIONING PARADISE 

Ecocide in New Zealand By The Graf Boys 

A cutting edge, confronting documentary shown for 

the first time in Australia. 

Wollombi Hall: Sunday 4th October 2 pm. 

Brought to you by ( - ADECA - ) 

Against Destruction of the Environment and Cruelty to Animals 

(A gold coin donation will be appreciated) 

“Poisoning Paradise-Ecocide in New Zealand” takes you into the 

drop-zone of aerial 1080 operations, beneath the canopy, where 

birds and animals live. For the first time, supported by scientific 

evidence and indisputable footage, this film fully exposes the truth 

about a culture that is believed will eventually see New Zealand 

left as a toxic wasteland, and an international embarrassment. 

Australia is now following closely in New Zealand’s footsteps. 

Witness the truth about this insidious poison Sodium 

Monofluroacetate 1080 

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged 

by the way its animals are treated” Gandhi. 

Most of the nation knows little or nothing about compound 1080. 

1080 is an Alias for Sodium Monofluroacetate a chemical 

originally developed as an insecticide by Nazi Chemists. The 

World Health Organization classifies 1080 as Extremely 

Dangerous. It kills everything that breaths. Even though authorities 

know how cruel and protracted death by 1080 is, and how 

extremely dangerous it is; they boast that it is ‘Cost Effective.’ It 

is a disgrace that in the 21st Century we still allow this barbaric 

poison to be used to kill living creatures, and to be allowed to 

poison our environment. 

It is banned in most countries, but is still used liberally throughout 

Australia and New Zealand. The continual baiting of our Native 

Dog the Dingo has had serious consequences throughout the 

land. The dingo has been here for 5,000 years, the imbalance 

caused by their removal has allowed for the influx of feral animals 

into what was once their domain,. Sadly our Dingo in many parts 

of the country is now considered extinct. What an unforgivable 

sin. 

Baits are either aerial dropped or ‘placed’ under a 10cm (that is 

4 inches) sod of soil. They are then covered with an enticing 

fertilizer to lure the animals to it with a smell similar to that of a 

rotting carcass. Domestic dogs and cats are especially susceptible 

to the smell. Dogs have 220 million receptors in their noses. 

They not only take the baits, they eat contaminated vomit and 

carcasses. Countless domestic dogs and working dogs die each 

year from 1080 poisoning There is no antidote. 

1080 Is Torture: Death by 1080 is protracted and cruel. The 

length of death is dependent on the rate of the animal’s 

metabolism. Animals can take days to die from it. It attacks the 

nervous system. After they have ingested it – they tear around 

banging into trees. They scream, vomit, defecate and suffer violent 

seizures. Aside from the physical pain endured over the many 

hours before death, the terror, fear and anxiety felt by these 

animals is unimaginable. CSIRO observations of animals dying 

from 1080 poison describe frantic thrashing around, shrieking in 

agony, biting and frothing at the mouth with eyes bulging, with 



severe seizers and convolutions lasting for hours. 

After an investigation into the use of 1080 the RSPCA 

condemned it utterly for is excessive cruelty. 

To be an educated and compassionate people, and to have 

empathy for the suffering of all living creatures sets us apart from 

the uncivilized parts of the world. No animal should die this way. 

The sudden removal of a large number of animals merely creates 

'spaces', and the influx of others of the same species quickly fill 

them. For 50 years 1080 has been used to kill non-native (feral) 

animals. The feral animals are still here. 

If you are environmentally and /or wildlife conscious, Please say 

NO to 1080 baiting. 

Jacqueline Hickmott 

Reiki 

Accelerates the body's 

ability to heal 

& opens the mind 

and spirit 

Treatments by appointment 

in Wollombi with Kerrie 

0413 185 666 or 4998 3438 

● 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. 

8

Wollombi Whispers 



An i-pod for Luca 

Luca Hawkins was presented with an i-pod and certificate on Wednesday. He won the NSW prize in 

the national competition for registering as a user of Cessnock Library’s Tuition service – Yourtutor.com. 

He was presented his i-pod by Mrs Allison Davey and received a certificate from the CEO of the 

company behind the tuition service. 

Regional Reanna 

Go, Reanna, Go. Reanna Ede is sending her shining light far and wide and 

representing our school to the very best of her ability. Recently Reanna attended 

a Regional Drama Festival and workshop, where she received commendations for 

both her behaviour and her acting skills. 

Within the same week, Reanna represented Wollombi School in the 100m age 

race at Zone level, where she came . Reanna will now go on to represent the 

school at the Regional carnival on the 18th September. We wish her all the best 

in her efforts. 

Book Week 

A great day was had by all at our recent Book Week celebrations. The costumes donned by 

Wollombi students and pre-schoolers were fantastic. We had fairies and bees, bears and witches and 

everything in between…. Even a bob-cat! Mrs Baker provided lots of entertainment and the children 

all enjoyed a morning tea and a run around in the grounds of the school. Thank you to everyone 

who supported us in making this a really wonderful occasion. Melinda Stoles 

Wanderlust, thank you, thank you, thank you.... 

... to all those wonderful people who rallied around us when Stanley went wondering up the mountain. Thanks so much to the' Phil 

Team' James, Thompson and Pucci who fanned out across the valley trudging through the prickly bushes and searching those 

treacherous water holes. Thanks also to Seb King who quickly scrambled a crew together, but thankfully it was not needed and 

thanks to Caroline who turned up just as Stan was found. And to Richard who returned the call so promptly. And also love to Dad 

and sister Lou who believe in the power of prayer (although very different gods). 

Stan was found after nearly three hours with his doggie companion and protector Eddie (or does he just enjoy a bloody long 

walk!?) by his frazzled Dad sitting on Chris Medlands' verandah high on the ridge top. "Chicken nuggets and chippys Dad ...come 

on..!... I’m stuck"...Cheers to all those friends who listened to the story over and over especially the great gals at Playgroup and 

thanks to NSW Police who were very reassuring on the phone (but please Police Minister sat nav or GPS in police cars would be 

helpful in these situations, as giving complicated directions when your stomach is churning and head is pounding out of pure panic 

is not easy). Anyway, we are very thankful and feel truly blessed that things worked out just fine.....thank you, THANK YOU!!! 

The Jacksons. 

Lic No. 24014169 

9

Millfield Public School 

Fireworks Night 

Congratulations to our hard working community members 

who contributed towards putting on a most successful event! 

The weather was kind and the crowd was large on Sat 15th 

Aug. The stalls and amusements were amazing and the food 

was delicious! 

Many people have commented that the fireworks display was 

the best ever! A visitor from Sydney was overawed, saying that 

he never expected such a wonderful event to be staged in a 

small town like Millfield. 

Playgroup Going Well! 

We have re-established a playgroup in the school grounds. The 

turn up each week has been fantastic! The children are 

becoming more familiar with each other and the strengthening 

relationships are great to watch. They are enjoying the use of 

the school’s facilities and the vast array of equipment available. 

Anybody, whether part of the school community or not, is 

welcome to come along. 

Each Tuesday from 9am till 11:30am. 

Mayoral Academic Challenge 

Georgia Eddy, Madeline Harrison and Alysha Noon were the 

members of our school team that took part in the Mayoral 

Academic Challenge at the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre. 

They won their heat against Kearsley and Cessnock Public 

Schools and returned the next day to take part in the semifinal. 

Leading in Round 1, the team's buzzer technique was not 

quick enough to go on with it. We went down in a tiebreaker 

which would have seen us advance to the final. 

Congratulations go to Laguna Public School who not only won 

the Primary section of the Challenge, but beat the winning high 

school as well! 

We came fourth out of 18 primary schools, which is a fantastic 

effort and one to be very proud of. It seems that the small 

schools of the Wollombi Valley are punching above their weight 

in terms of cleverness! 

Tabloid Sports Day 

Our annual Tabloid Sports Day occured on Thursday 27th 

August. We welcomed students and staff from Congewai, 

Laguna and Wollombi schools for the event. It is a time for all 

the students to socialise and network while having a great time 

taking part in sporting events such as parachutes, badminton 

and races. 

Improvements to our School Continue! 

Earlier this year, our main historic building had its exterior fully 

painted. We also received a new demountable building because 

of our growing school population. Last holidays we had the 

exterior of all our other permanent buildings painted also. We 

are part of the federal government's 3rd round of the 'Building 

the Education Revolution' funding. We will receive a permanent 

brick library, and if funds are available, a new covered outdoor 

learning area. We are also converting one of our existing 

rooms into a dedicated computer room. These are very 

exciting times! 

Jonathan Ridgway 



Dear Kelly, Re: Puppy Class 

Just a little note to say thank you for having me in your Puppy 

Class which finished last night. 

I must say I was reluctant to walk in the door of the Vet Clinic 

on the first night, having been prodded and poked there before. 

By the second night I was a little more comfortable about 

coming and my “reluctance” had morphed to mere “hesitance”. 

Come the third night, the thought of those cabanossi treats 

had me hooked and I could hardly wait to get inside. Although 

my owner complained on the way home in the car that the 

cabanossi made me “windy”! Phew! 

And then last night it was all over and now I can stay home in 

the warmth. 

Thank you again, it was fun and I know my owner got a lot out 

of it. I was embarrassed though – he asked so many questions 

about my behaviour in front of all those people. How crass of 

him to talk openly about “family” in front of strangers. “Pudding 

boy” I think he called me – I can’t help my genes. Maybe it’s my 

thyroid! 

Just puppy fat kiddo, just puppy fat. I’m glad you didn’t say 

anything different Kelly or he will cut down my food even more 

And he (i.e my owner) thinks he’s my boss and he’s got me 

under control. Hah, just wait until I let loose in a month or 

two. 

Best puppy regards, Charlie the cattle dog puppy 

PS I might not be the sleekest or the trimmest, but I gotta tell 

you, I’m loveable! Just ask that Sally, the black labrador – even 

though I’m not keen on pushy chicks, did you notice how she 

bounded up to me each night! 

LAGUNA ROCKS!!! 

Check out 

www.lagunawinebar.com.au 

02 4998 8244 

Fri September 18 - The Dennis Boys are back! 

Fri September 25 - Accoustic Jam Session 

Fri October 2 - Musos Jam Night 

Home-cooked meals & pizzas anytime 

Ben obol Electrical 

Lic No. 161665C 

Domestic, Commercial & 

Industrial Installation, 

Maintenance & Breakdown Service 

Ph: 4998 1659 

Mob: 0405 121 282 

10

News from Valley Artists 

A A Milne’s play The Ugly Duckling 

will open October 30 at Laguna Hall, 

with performances on October 31, 

and November 1, 5, 6, 7. 

Directed by Cordelia Howell, this gives some of our younger 

artists a chance to strut their stuff. All the cast are aged 16 or 

under. 

Not that this is a play just for children – well, if you think 

Winnie-the-Pooh is just for children you may think this is too. 

But this play has no bewildered bear, no bouncing tigger, no 

depressed donkey – no ducks either. It’s a play about the 

importance of physical beauty – or not! 

When David Kilpatrick produced the play in New York 

recently, he said ''It's a hilarious play, and I wanted it to have a 

life. It's really a very simple story about true love and having 

confidence.” 

Tickets will be available from Wollombi and Laguna stores, or 

you can download a booking form from www.valleyartists.org. 

Providing opportunities for aspiring actors is an important 

part of our work. A series of acting workshops held over the 

last few months by Mouse McGuire were attended by 12 

children and 6 adults – so there’s a lot of talent waiting in the 

wings! 

Bob Philippe is now casting our first 2010 production – David 

Williamson’s Money & Friends. Interested in participating? 

We’re looking for cast and crew. Call Bob on 4998 8278. 

Screening on October 3, the Wollombi Valley Short Film 

Festival. Three prominent judges this year – Michael Noyce, 

Wendy Squires and David Brown. Laguna Hall, 7pm. 

Finally – the party of the year – our annual Sponsors Dinner 

on November 14. This year promises to be bigger than Quo 

Vadis, and your opportunity to revel in a night of 

Bacchanalia… if you’re a sponsor, of course. How to become a 

sponsor? Ring Tim Williams at Laguna Store on 4998 8244. 

Lots more information on our website, where you can also 

subscribe to our regular newsletter – or email 

info@valleyartists.org, Peter McCloy 



11

Lic.no.217793C 

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 



M.N.B. Roofing 

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 

Cunneens Bridge; the way forward 

This now seems to be the situation. After many months of 

discussion and correspondence between Council, community 

groups and landholders, we could summarise the current position, 

and the reasons for these interminable delays, as follows. 

1. Much of the delay is due to Council changing the location of 

the new bridge from upstream – which was originally the 

preferred option of its engineers, and was negotiated with 

community groups – to the downstream option, providing no 

convincing reasons or evidence that would withstand scrutiny. 

2. In doing so Council failed to properly assess the implications 

of the changed site, in terms of the bridgeworks and road 

alignments, and so failed to properly consult and obtain consent 

from other public authorities, a process which is still ongoing. 

3. Only very recently has Council produced draft surveys and a 

plan of acquisition after employing two separate firms of 

surveyors. These are still not finalized or in registrable form. Thus 

Council still cannot identify the land they need to acquire, or the 

cost of acquiring it, and negotiations with the owners on 

compensation and other issues cannot be completed. 

4. As we all know, the current appalling condition of the old 

bridge is the result of the serious lack of maintenance by Council 

over many years, since the responsibility for its management was 

transferred to Council in the 1990s from the State Government. 

5. More seriously, the Federal Government’s funding to assist in 

building the new bridge, under the Auslink program, is vulnerable 

because of these ongoing delays and may now also be vulnerable 

because of the Rudd Government’s recent commitment to fund 

the F3 extension to Branxton. 

As the most affected landholders, our family is as frustrated and 

concerned as everyone in the community by these delays and by 

the dysfunctional decision making process, and we want to see a 

new bridge built as soon as possible. 

There is a way forward. It is clear that most of these problems 

have resulted from the decision to build the new bridge 

downstream. We need to ask our Councillors to urgently 

reconsider, and to revert to, building an upstream bridge It should 

be designed, in terms of height, width and structure, to accord 

with the requirements of the Wollombi Conservation Zone, to 

protect the heritage relics in the bridge precinct, and to provide 

an attractive gateway to our village. 

Tony Palfreeman 

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 

12

Lantern Parade Workshops 



A great day was had by all at the Master Lantern Making Workshop on 

Saturday 12 September. Held at Cedar Creek with thanks to the Heslops, 

the workshop was designed to train local teachers and community 

members interested in facilitating lantern making workshops for the 

community celebration of Sculpture in the Vineyards for 2009. Workshop 

attendees were provided with instructions and materials to make small 

scale lanterns and basic skills for making large scale feature lanterns. The 

lanterns will be created over the next 8 weeks in preparation for the 

Lantern Parade which will commemorate the opening of the Sculpture in 

the Vineyards for 2009 on Saturday 7 November. The workshops are 

funded by The Country Arts Support Program of Regional Arts NSW. 

Would you like to take part? 

Community Lantern Making Workshops will be held from 

10am - 3pm at Wollombi Hall on Sunday 25 October, Saturday 

31 October, Sunday 1 November, Saturday 7 November. 

What to bring: suitable clothes for workshop and ideas for large scale 

feature lanterns. You will have the opportunity to make an individual 

lantern or develop a large scale lantern. Lanterns will be stored until the 

parade – and you can take home your lantern after the parade. 

The Lantern Parade is scheduled to start after sundown on the 

7 November (approx 8pm). A wonderful community event. Everyone’s 

Welcome. For questions regarding the workshops contact 

Phillip 0412 089402 or Felicity 0417 250 866. 

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 

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 

13

The SPRING GREEN GIG! 

26th September 

Laguna Hall 6pm till 12pm 

Adults $5 / children FREE 

PLEASE JOIN US for 

GREAT FOOD (Plenty of veggie choices), 

GREAT ATMOSPHERE, 

GREAT MUSIC including: 

MARTIES SCRATCH BAND (Jazz and Soft Rock) 

UNTIDY SIDIES (Country / Blue Grass) 

AMANDA & HAYDEN (Acoustic Guitar, Vocals and Violin) 

KATE & ROB JOHNSTONE (Blues and picking) 

HANNA & ALAN GLOVER (Laughter as only 

they can produce) 

SHORT DEAF & BLIND (Reformed by popular demand) 

Mob: 0408750571 Email: cessnockgreens@yahoo.com.au 

Cessnock-Kurri Greens 



New craft group 

Millfield Crafty Artisians. It is on the 3rd thursday 

each month at 10am. The objective is to share craft skills 

that you know, or to just have a space to meet with 

people who want to learn some good old fashioned 

skills, from spinning to freeform art to carving. 

Just come and enjoy the space at Black Crow and Sallys. 

No fee just friendship. Bring a plate for lunch at1367 

Wollombi Road, Millfield. 4998 1475 

Carl Hoipo 

Historian 

and Valuer 

Ph: 4998 8327 Fax: 4998 8175 

Email: hoipo@iinet.net.au 

14

Volunteers 

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 



In light of all of the volunteering that has occurred in our Valley during the last month we thought it would be a good idea to give 

thanks to the volunteers who always manage to find the time to go that extra mile. 

So many local groups have a core number of volunteers quietly & thanklessly running the show. Groups like the P & C of our Local 

Schools, Laguna P & C Art Show, Progress, Valley Artists, Landcare, Tidy Valley, Laguna Hall, Bush Fire Brigade, Church members, 

Wollombi Fair, OON coordinators as well as our recreational activities in the Tennis Club, Cricket Club, Adult Riding Club & Pony 

Club to name but a few. Then we also have our fantastic local residents John Forsyth & Robbie Patterson volunteering not only their 

time but also their property for the use of so many others. 

We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude & silent gratitude is not much use to anyone. Activities 

undertaken by volunteers would often otherwise have to be funded by other means & volunteers don't get paid, not because they're 

worthless, but because they're priceless. It is not that volunteers necessarily have the time; they just have the heart. 

Volunteers help to build more cohesive communities, encouraging greater trust between citizens and developing solidarity and 

reciprocity that are essential to stable communities. These are the elements that make our Community special, which is often 

commented on by others. People care & have a wider vision, which they are willing to act upon. We may not always agree with their 

ideas but you have to admire their passion & effort. 

As a member of Wollombi Valley Pony Club, I know that our Club runs on the efforts of our volunteers, some of whom work 

tirelessly on a seemingly daily basis. Whether you “move one witches hat” or spend half the day moving a never ending number of 

heavy show jumps, we are grateful. Whether you make a cup of tea for a parched instructor or spend the whole day out in the sun 

instructing other people’s children, we are grateful. 

Take a moment to think about all the work done locally by volunteers & then image what it would be like without them. Not very 

pretty is it? Maybe next time you see someone doing a volunteer job, thank them. A pat on the back or a couple of lines in a 

newsletter is not really too much to ask. To quote Voltaire – “Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others 

belong to us as well”. 

“Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others. Unsuccessful people are always asking, “What’s in 

it for me?” – Brian Tracy 

Tanya Hardin 

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 

Ken Maurer 

on 

9413 1377 

15

WOLLOMBI 7 October 1853 

THE WEATHER, CROPS, &c.-The withering influence 

of the long continued drought, aided by the baneful 

effect of late frosts and parching winds, have together 

told very seriously on our wheat crops. Potatoes, young 

maize, vines and fruit trees, have been from the same 

cause more or less damaged, and as for pasturage, it has 

nearly disappeared. From the lowering appearance of the 

weather for the last few days, we have been tantalized 

with the hope, at times, of an immediate fall of rain, but 

like hopes in general, they were delusive. We have had 

another frost last night, and a cold, keen, parching wind 

is blowing strongly this morning. 

WOLLOMBI! 30 October 1882 

On Saturday evening last our little town assumed a 

rather stirring appearance, it being announced that a 

spelling bee was to take place under auspices of the 

School of Arts society, the object of it being to augment 

the funds. About eight o'clock an unusually large 

audience filled the room. Mr. Smith took the chair, and 

with a few words introduced the business of the evening. 

The first prise was open to all persons who wished to 

compete, and was consequently termed the all-comer's 

prize." Many aspiring candidates ascended the platform, 

all seemingly anxious to display their orthographical 

powers. The words, which were of a very trying 

character, were given out by Mr. J. J. Farrell. Master D. 

Kenny, after an exciting and spirited contest, succeeded 

in carrying off the palm. Next followed a similar contest 

for school children, which was very creditably won by 

Master Alfred Bourne, Miss Minnie Williams taking 

second prize. 

The remaining part of the programme consisted of songs 

rendered by the Public school ^ children, and comic 

readings, recitations, etc, delivered by Messrs. Smith, 

Cody, and Hayes, the latter eliciting vociferous applause. 

At the conclusion Mr. Smith thanked the ladies and 

gentlemen for their kind patronage, informing them that 

it was the intention of the School of Arts Committee to 

hold an entertainment of a more extensive character on a 

future occasion. The singing of the National Anthem 

then brought the proceedings to a close. 

Sickness is I am sorry to state very prevalent in our 

locality especially among the children. Death, too, has 

intruded his unwelcome presence: our respected Bank 

Manager, Mr. Claude Solomon, having lost his only son 

after a short illness. Yesterday morning an old and wellknown 

resident, Mr. William Bourne, sen, passed away. 

Excepts from the Maitland Mercury, 

supplied by Steve Sullivan. 



KEN FLETCHER FLETCHER & 

ISRAEL FLETCHER FLETCHER 

STONEMASONRY 

STONEMASONRY 

SERVICES SERVICES 

Est. 1981 

All aspects of 

structural & decorative 

stonework 

Phone: 4998 1664 

Mob: 0418 456 245 

A.B.N. 72 233 181 053 Lic.No. 90492C 

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 

16

Sunrise 

Pink silk and crimson velvet 

Entwined like passionate lust 

Floating in a sea of champagne 

Reflecting on the rippling blue 

Waiting to see who awakens 

Who will venture out from warm beds 

To begin their day with such beauty 

And who will miss this spectacular view 

A moment later they disperse 

Melting into a softer glow 

Which smiles across the horizon 

Knowing the secret it has hidden 

Fingers of morning light 

Stretching out across the sky 

Breaking through the thinning clouds 

Like a hand reaching out to touch 

Any soul who has ventured out 

To witness this daily awakening 

Appreciating such a gift 

And beginning their day with wonder. 

J S Bailey, 10.9.05 



Mountain Landscape Supplies 

988 George Downs Drive, Kulnura. 

for landscape supplies, firewood and plants. 

❁ Rotomill – the BEST for all weather road access – we can organise your complete job or just 

supply rotomill to you. 

❁ We stock sands, soils, mulches, gravels, cement products, mushie compost, cow manure and 

much more. 

❁ Our firewood is top quality, seasoned ironbark/ grey box mix. Available in bags or bulk. 

❁ We stock organic herb & veggie seedlings, fruit trees and a great range of plants in our 

nursery. Please stop, say hello & browse. 

❁ We deliver all the way to Wollombi, but if you’re going to town, drop off your box trailer, for 

as long as you need and save on delivery costs. 

Open 7 Days Phone 43761055 

Drop in & meet our friendly team – 

Terry, Wayne & Diana 

WOLLOMBI 

LABOUR DAY MARKET 

Monday 5th October 

8.00am – 1.00pm 

Wollombi Sale Yards, Paynes Crossing Rd 

Over 100 stalls, many of local produce and crafts 

Refreshments include BBQ, Tea Shed, 

Mexican, Vegetarian, fresh coffee 

Bring your friends 

Want to be a stall holder? 

$30 for 6x6m stall collected on the day. No bookings 

required. Food/drink stalls only by prior negotiation. 

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

($5 overnight booking fee) 

We need volunteers 

Please call with your offers of help on the rosters 

& making cakes and slices 

(No peanut ingredients please) 

Proceeds support Laguna Fire Brigade & other local 

projects via Wollombi Valley Progress Association 

Contact Simone Smith 02 4998 8214 

17

WILL. Part 3 

Will is growing up, too quickly I feel, and growing out of his hobbies 

and activities, which he now considers too childish. 

“A dragon lives forever, not so little boys, 

Magic things and giant wings make way for other toys”. 

A few words from Puff the Magic Dragon says it all. Nursery 

Rhymes – no way – also some songs I’ve taught him, boring, lots of 

his favourite cartoons and toys are now considered to be “old hat”. 

But he stills loves most of his books and Batman and Spiderman are 

still near the top of his list. This happy 7 year old is now into 

dinosaurs, astronomy, Ancient History and bikes. 

He is also very much into rock and roll and will insist on turning 

the volume up on his radio or toy guitar, to 50 decibels at every 

opportunity. My grandson doesn’t just live life, “but provides the 

sound track as well”. 

I’ve almost given up on teaching him my songs but I’m still optimistic 

that one day he just might start listening to some light classics.” 

Hope springs eternal”. 

Will is doing very well at school in his first year and came top of 

the class in words and spelling. He was amazed at all the written 

words in my journals and notes. Just couldn’t believe that one could 

write hundreds of pages full of words and was happy with my 

explanation of his Nana being a writer. He now keeps a notebook 

and pencil in his pocket so that he too can write important words 

down. 

It took a little while, but now he’s settled into the routine of 2 

households – Mum for the most of the time – and Dad’s for part of 

the time where he loves to do blokey things like helping with the 

horses, tractors and camping. 

Bush walking is still at the top of his list of activities, since moving to 

the edge of the National Park on the Central coast. He’ll happily 

take me on short walks to show me such wonders as a small creek, 

or a scrub turkey’s mounded nest, and best yet, a cubby house 

under a huge fig tree, with roots hanging down from branches 

magically transforming into walls for his hideout. Boxy the dog 

comes too, and sometimes my dog, Paz. Tom the cat did once, but 

now lives at Dads’ home. I miss him very much – the way he’d play 

hide and seek in the shrubs and join us when we stopped for a rest 

and then curl up asleep on my lap. 

Life for Will is still full of challenges in accepting a list of guidelines. 

1) Learning not to question and argue with authority figures eg, 

Mum and Nana. 

2) Sitting quietly at mealtimes and eating most of the food that 

adults eat. 

3) Still thinks he can get away with spinning a few whoppers, but 

learning slowly that he can’t. 

4) Loves word games like “I spy” but sometimes gets the first 

letter wrong. 

5) Ditto re easy games eg. Noughts and crosses (I sometimes let 

him win). 

6) Learning to lose more gracefully – of the above – instead of 

storming off in a rage. 

7) Gradually realizing that 7 year olds have to learn to adapt to 

the world, not visa versa. 

A small boy, all of 6 yrs old, was once asked did he still like choc 

chip cookies. His reply “No, not now. I only liked them when I was 

very young. 

To be continued. Shirley Cotto. 



House Painter 

& Handyman 

No job too small. 

Local and reliable with 

over 25 years experience. 

Lionel King 

02 4998 8141 

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 

House Maintenance 

WOLLOMBI VALLEY 

SMALL CARPENTRY 

HOUSE REPAIRS 

PAINTING 

LANDSCAPING 

NO JOB TOO SMALL! 

Phone John Pateman on 4998 8448 

18

✄ 

Convict Trail Project History Week in Wollombi 

Sunday 13 September the last day of History Week the Mayor 

Alison Davey’s launched The Pick Volume 6 in the grounds of 

Wollombi Court House guarded by a 1860s policeman to 

prevent an attack by the notorious bushranger Yellow Billy. This 

was a very appropriate mix as Wollombi was established as the 

civic centre for the area that later became Cessnock Council 

and the Court House was then the symbol of a civic centre. 

Yellow Billy played a part in Wollombi obtaining its sandstone 

Count House and lock up as he twice escaped from the old 

wooden lockup the sandstone building replaced and was one 

of the first occupants of the new lockup. Wollombi was to get 

a grand court house but the original contractors trying to 

make money out of the government all tendered much more 

than was allocated for the job so Wollombi got a much 

modified court house. These stories and others about early 

crimes in the Wollombi Valley are recorded in the Pick which is 

for sale at the Museum or can be read at Cessnock Library. 

The Pick is the journal of the Convict Trail Project. The event 

was attended by several locals with visitors from as far as 

Sydney, Gosford, Lake Macquarie, Wyong and Newcastle. 

Left to right. Paul Budde, Chairman of the Convict Trail 

Project; Elizabeth Roberts Executive Director CTP, Alison 

Davey, Mayor of Cessnock; Greg Powell, author, masquerading 

as 1860s police sergeant at the book launch outside Wollombi 

Court House. Elizabeth Roberts 

OON Subscription form 



City perils 

Sydney is a dangerous place. We all know that. A local man 

visiting Sydney recently suffered two facial puncture wounds 

in an unprovoked attack in a leafy suburban street. 

Not a terrorist, nor a mugger, not even a bag-snatcher. 

Forget African lions, Indian tigers and Canadian brown bears - 

Australia has its own dangerous wildlife. A marauding magpie 

swooped silently to skillfully deliver its stinging stabs before 

sweeping into a steep climb and alighting on a high branch to 

admire its bloody beak-work. 

No nest in sight. “Just staking its territory in spring” the 

experts say. 

A hat offers little protection. Sydney citizens ‘in the know’ are 

carrying assorted weaponry and shielding themselves with 

open umbrellas even on sunny days. Motorcycle helmets have 

sold out. House prices are falling in the affected suburbs. 

There are rumours of vigilante groups forming. The Premier 

has called for calm but is distracted by stabbing attacks of a 

different kind. Kevin Rudd is setting up a committee to tackle 

the issue but is not expected to report until after the next 

election. Malcolm Turnbull has never seen a magpie and wants 

to wait until the international community declare a position in 

Copenhagen. 

Meanwhile ‘be alert but not alarmed’ and heed the warning 

given to WWII fighter pilots to ‘beware of the hun in the sun’. 

A further wildlife risk for visitors to Sydney is cicadas, with 

their noisy chain-sawing day and night in summer. The Prime 

Minister has recalled Peter Garrett from a Midnight Oils 

concert to head off the problem. The Greens oppose the use 

of insecticides and are leaning on the Government to issue 

ear muffs made from organic material. Rudd says, whatever 

the solution, it could be funded in the Govt’s stimulus 

package, provided Barnaby Joyce, who is more concerned 

about locusts, supports the Bill in the Senate. 

Country people are well known for being more open and 

friendly than city people. Looks like it’s no different in the 

magpie fraternity. But cicadas make no concessions wherever 

they are. 

SO BE WARNED: Sydney is perilous but Canberra is 

downright scary – it’s safer to stay in the Valley! 

Mike Burdett 

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

Name Phone number 

Postal address 

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. 

19



VÉâÇàÜç Yt|Ü 

Wine tasting and food stalls, 

local produce market, 

Bernard's boules tournament, 

croquet demonstration, family games, 

arts & crafts stalls, dog fashion parade, 

post & rail fencing demonstration, 

timber slab cutting and water trough 

demonstration, historic machinery displays... 

Stall application forms available online or from 

Wollombi General Store 

Taste Taste Taste the the the History History History 

throughout Wollombi Village 

7 - 8 November 2009 

Lantern parade and 

opening ceremony 

fair.wollombi.nsw.au 

Saturday Saturday Sunday 

WOLLOMBI TAVERN 

Home of Dr Jurd's Jungle Juice 

Wollombi Tavern 

Woodchop 

TM 

Open day and 

machine display 

20

Our Own News - Issue 315 - October 2009 - Wollombi Valley Online

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?